Coffee machines and beverage production methods

Abstract

This invention provides a coffee machine and a beverage production method thereof. The coffee machine includes: a water supply source; an outlet component for discharging fluid; a brewer connected between the water supply source and the outlet component; a first heater connected between the water supply source and the outlet component for discharging hot water; a second heater connected between the water supply source and the outlet component for discharging steam; a first hot water delivery pipeline with its input end connected to the first heater, and one of the brewer and the outlet component connected to the output end of the first hot water delivery pipeline; a steam delivery pipeline connected to the output end of the second heater; and further includes a cold water delivery pipeline and a second hot water delivery pipeline, the cold water delivery pipeline being connected to the output end of the water supply source, the cold water delivery pipeline and the steam delivery pipeline having an output connection point; the other of the outlet component and the brewer being connected to the output end of the second hot water delivery pipeline, and the input end of the second hot water delivery pipeline being connected to the downstream end of the output connection point.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of beverage preparation technology, and more particularly to a coffee machine and a method for producing beverages from it. Background Technology

[0002] In a coffee-making device, an internal or external water supply source can be used to provide the water needed to produce coffee. The coffee machine is equipped with a brewing unit, in which hot water is supplied to the brewing unit, where hot water passes through coffee grounds to brew coffee liquid.

[0003] Currently, most coffee machines on the market separate the hot water dispensing function from the coffee brewing function. For example, when making an Americano, hot water and coffee are brewed in separate stages, with hot water being dispensed only after the coffee has finished. This results in a longer brewing time, impacting the user experience. Some machines on the market use multiple solenoid valves to split the hot water flow into two paths, allowing hot water and coffee to be dispensed simultaneously. However, this requires multiple solenoid valves for control, increasing costs and complicating water flow control. Furthermore, the hot water temperature cannot be guaranteed during continuous dispensing, also negatively impacting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One object of the present invention is to provide a coffee machine that is low in cost and can improve the user experience.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to provide a beverage production method for a coffee machine that can improve the efficiency of beverage extraction.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned objective, the present invention provides a coffee machine, comprising:

[0007] Water supply source;

[0008] The outlet component is used to discharge fluid;

[0009] The infuser is connected between the water supply source and the outlet component;

[0010] A first heater is connected between the water supply source and the outlet component for outputting hot water;

[0011] The second heater is connected between the water supply source and the outlet assembly for outputting steam;

[0012] A first hot water delivery pipeline, the input end of which is connected to the first heater, and one of the brewer and the outlet assembly is connected to the output end of the first hot water delivery pipeline;

[0013] A steam delivery pipeline is connected to the output end of the second heater;

[0014] It also includes a cold water delivery pipeline and a second hot water delivery pipeline, the cold water delivery pipeline being connected to the output end of the water supply source, and the cold water delivery pipeline and the steam delivery pipeline having an output connection point; the outlet assembly and the other of the brewer are connected to the output end of the second hot water delivery pipeline, and the input end of the second hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the downstream end of the output connection point.

[0015] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the first heater is configured as a boiler, the output end of the first hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the brewer, and the output end of the second hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the outlet assembly.

[0016] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the first heater is configured as a first boiler, the second heater is configured as a second boiler, the second hot water delivery pipeline is connected to a first multi-way valve, the first multi-way valve includes a first hot water inlet and a first hot water outlet, the first hot water delivery pipeline is connected to a hot water bypass pipeline, the hot water bypass pipeline is connected to the first hot water inlet, and the first hot water outlet is connected to the water inlet of the second boiler.

[0017] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the first multi-way valve also includes a second hot water inlet and a second hot water outlet, the second hot water inlet being connected downstream of the output connection point, and the second hot water outlet being connected to the second hot water delivery pipeline.

[0018] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the output connection point is constructed as a mixing valve, the steam delivery pipeline is connected to the first inlet of the mixing valve, the cold water pipeline is connected to the second inlet of the mixing valve, and the outlet of the mixing valve is connected to the outlet assembly.

[0019] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the mixing valve can operably adjust the opening area of ​​the second inlet to control the cold water flow rate.

[0020] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the outlet component includes a beverage outlet and a milk frother, the second hot water delivery pipeline includes a first mixing output pipeline and a second mixing output pipeline, the first mixing output pipeline is connected to a first multi-way valve, the second mixing output pipeline is connected to a second multi-way valve, the first multi-way valve includes a first hot water inlet, a first hot water outlet and a third hot water outlet, the second multi-way valve includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the first hot water inlet is connected to the outlet of the mixing valve, the first hot water outlet is connected to the beverage outlet through the first mixing output pipeline, the third hot water outlet is connected to the fluid inlet through the second mixing output pipeline, and the fluid outlet is connected to the steam inlet of the milk frother through a steam supply pipeline.

[0021] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the outlet component includes a milk frother, the second hot water delivery pipeline is connected to a second multi-way valve, the second multi-way valve includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the output connection point is located upstream of the fluid inlet or downstream of the fluid outlet, and the second hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the steam inlet of the milk frother.

[0022] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the first hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the hot water cleaning pipeline, and the hot water cleaning pipeline is connected to the air inlet pipeline of the milk frother.

[0023] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the output end of the first hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the outlet assembly, and the output end of the second hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the brewer.

[0024] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, a first multi-way valve is provided on the second hot water delivery pipeline. The first multi-way valve includes a first hot water inlet and a first hot water outlet. The output connection point is constructed as a mixing valve. The steam delivery pipeline is connected to the first inlet of the mixing valve. The cold water pipeline is connected to the second inlet of the mixing valve. The outlet of the mixing valve is connected to the first hot water inlet of the first multi-way valve. The first hot water outlet is connected to the brewer or outlet assembly.

[0025] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the first heater is configured as a first boiler, the second heater is configured as a second boiler, the mixing valve further includes a third inlet, the first multi-way valve further includes a second hot water outlet, the outlet of the first boiler is connected to the third inlet, and the second hot water outlet is connected to the inlet of the second boiler.

[0026] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the outlet component includes a milk frother, a second multi-way valve is provided on the second hot water delivery pipeline, the second multi-way valve includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the first multi-way valve further includes a third hot water outlet, the fluid inlet is connected to the third hot water outlet, and the fluid outlet is connected to the inlet of the milk frother.

[0027] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the outlet component includes a beverage outlet and a milk frother, and the second hot water delivery line is connected between the steam delivery line and the steam inlet of the milk frother.

[0028] This invention also provides a beverage production method for a beverage machine, comprising the following steps:

[0029] Received beverage preparation signal;

[0030] The beverage mode corresponding to the beverage preparation signal is determined to be a beverage mode representing two-way hot water output;

[0031] Open the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline to deliver hot water from the first heater to one of the brewer and outlet components;

[0032] Open the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline, start the cold water pump, so that the steam from the second heater and the cold water from the water supply source are mixed at the output connection point and output through the second hot water delivery pipeline to the other of the brewer and outlet components.

[0033] As a further improvement to one embodiment of the present invention, it also includes:

[0034] The beverage mode corresponding to the beverage preparation signal is determined to be a beverage mode that simultaneously outputs hot water and steam;

[0035] Open the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline to deliver hot water from the first heater to the brewer;

[0036] Open the steam control valve on the steam delivery line to deliver steam from the second heater to the milk frother.

[0037] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the beverage mode representing the two hot water outputs includes a first beverage mode;

[0038] In the first beverage mode, the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline is opened, allowing hot water from the first heater to be delivered to the brewer;

[0039] The mixture of steam and cold water is delivered to the outlet component through the second hot water delivery pipeline.

[0040] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, in the first beverage mode, a milk frother rinsing step is first performed, and then steam from the second heater is mixed with cold water from the water supply source at the output connection point and output to the milk frother of the outlet component through the second hot water delivery pipeline; the milk frother rinsing step includes closing the milk volume regulating valve, allowing hot water from the first hot water delivery pipeline or the second hot water delivery pipeline to enter the milk frother for rinsing, disconnecting the hot water entering the milk frother after rinsing, and opening the steam outlet and air outlet of the control valve to complete the milk frother rinsing.

[0041] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the temperature of the mixed water passing through the output connection point is detected. When the temperature is greater than a preset temperature, the motor is started to control the opening area of ​​the cold water inlet of the output connection point to increase the cold water flow rate; when the temperature is less than the preset temperature, the motor is started to control the opening area of ​​the cold water inlet of the output connection point to decrease the cold water flow rate.

[0042] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the beverage mode representing the two hot water outputs also includes a second beverage mode.

[0043] In the second beverage mode, the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline is opened, allowing hot water from the first heater to be delivered to the brewer.

[0044] Open the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline, start the cold water pump, so that the steam from the second heater and the cold water from the water supply source are mixed at the output connection point and output to the milk frother through the second hot water delivery pipeline. Then turn off the cold water pump, open the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline, so that the steam from the second heater is delivered to the milk frother.

[0045] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, a milk frother rinsing step is also included, the milk frother rinsing step comprising:

[0046] Open the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline to deliver hot water from the first heater to the milk frother, or open the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline to start the cold water pump so that the steam from the second heater mixes with the cold water from the water supply source at the output connection point and is output to the milk frother of the outlet component through the second hot water delivery pipeline.

[0047] Disconnect the hot water supply to the milk frother and open the steam and air outlets of the control valves until cleaning is complete.

[0048] The coffee machine and beverage production method provided in this invention provides independent hot water to the brewer and outlet assembly through a water circuit system including two heaters. When the beverage machine needs hot water for brewing coffee and hot water for output, it can simultaneously output the hot water, reducing beverage preparation time and improving user experience. The dual-hot water system in this invention does not require complex solenoid valves for switching heating functions, achieving a reliable and stable supply of hot water from two sources. This simplifies control and reduces cost. Attached Figure Description

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the water system structure of the coffee machine in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the water system structure of the coffee machine in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the water system structure of the coffee machine in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the water system structure of the coffee machine according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the water system structure of the coffee machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the water system structure of the coffee machine according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the water system structure of the coffee machine according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the water system structure of the coffee machine according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the water system structure of the coffee machine according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart of the beverage production method of the coffee machine of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0059] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present invention, and any structural, methodological, or functional modifications made by those skilled in the art based on these embodiments are included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0060] It should be understood that terms such as “up,” “above,” “below,” “under,” “horizontal,” and “vertical,” used herein to indicate spatial relative positions, are for illustrative purposes to describe the relationship of one unit or feature relative to another unit or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings. The terms for spatial relative positions may be intended to include different orientations of the equipment in use or operation other than those shown in the figures. The terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” as used herein, are interchangeable to distinguish one component from another, and these terms are not intended to indicate the location or importance of individual components. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative direction of fluid flow in a fluid passage. For example, “upstream” refers to the direction from which the fluid flow originates, while “downstream” refers to the direction from which the fluid flow terminates.

[0061] The coffee machine described in this invention is an automatic coffee machine. An automatic coffee machine generally includes a water source for brewing coffee, a brewer for mixing water and coffee grounds, and a heater for heating the supplied brewing water to extract the coffee beverage. It may also include a milk frother, which receives steam from the heater. The steam and milk mix to form hot milk, or steam, air, and milk mix to form hot milk foam. The liquid flow path from the water source to the user's extraction of various beverages can be considered the water system of the automatic coffee machine. The following embodiments will describe the water system in detail.

[0062] Reference Figure 1 As shown, the coffee machine includes a water system 100, which includes a water supply source 20, a brewer 61, and an outlet component 62. The outlet component 62 is used to output fluid, such as the generated beverage or water. The brewer 61 is connected between the water supply source 20 and the outlet component 62, and the coffee liquid extracted by the brewer 61 can be discharged from the outlet component 62. The water supply source 20 can be a water tank detachably connected to the main body of the automatic coffee machine. The user can add water to the water tank manually or an external water purifier can automatically add water to the water tank. Of course, the water supply source 20 can also be directly set as an external water purifier, that is, there is no need to set a water tank in the main body of the automatic coffee machine, thereby reducing the size of the automatic coffee machine. Of course, the user can also fill the water tank with other liquids, such as beverages, carbonated water, etc. In the embodiments of this application, potable water is used for illustration.

[0063] The water system 100 also includes a first heater 31 and a second heater 32, both connected between the water supply source and the outlet component 62. The first heater 31 outputs hot water, and the second heater 32 outputs steam. The first heater 31 and the second heater 32 can be continuous heaters or instantaneous heaters, such as boilers or electric heating plates. In this embodiment, both the first heater 31 and the second heater 32 are constructed as boilers, providing a more stable supply of hot water and steam. Alternatively, the first heater can be constructed as an electric heating plate, the second heater as a boiler, or both heaters as electric heating plates. When both the first heater 31 and the second heater 32 are constructed as boilers, water can be supplied to both boilers via a first water pump 301, or water can be supplied to the two boilers separately via two separate water pumps.

[0064] The water system 100 further includes a first hot water delivery pipeline 41. The input end of the first hot water delivery pipeline 41 is connected to a first heater 31. One of the brewer 61 and the outlet component 62 is connected to the output end of the first hot water delivery pipeline 41. Water heated by the first heater 31 can be delivered through the first hot water delivery pipeline 41 to one of the brewer 61 and the outlet component 62. The output end of the second heater 32 is connected to a steam delivery pipeline 51. The output end of the water supply source 20 is connected to a cold water delivery pipeline 52. The cold water delivery pipeline 52 and the steam delivery pipeline 51 have an output connection point 54. The output connection point 54 is a structure where the cold water delivery pipeline 52 and the steam delivery pipeline 51 intersect and connect. The water system 100 also includes a second hot water delivery pipeline 42. The other of the outlet component 62 and the brewer 61 is connected to the output end of the second hot water delivery pipeline 42. The input end of the second hot water delivery pipeline 42 is connected to the downstream end of the output connection point 54.

[0065] The two heaters provide independent hot water to the brewer 61 and the outlet assembly 62, respectively. When the beverage machine needs hot water for brewing coffee and for dispensing hot water, it can simultaneously output hot water, reducing beverage preparation time and thus improving the user experience. Moreover, the heaters do not need to switch heating functions, ensuring a reliable and stable supply of hot water from two sources. This eliminates the need for complex solenoid valve control, simplifying the control process and reducing costs.

[0066] In this embodiment, the first heater 31 is configured as a first boiler, the output end of the first hot water supply line 41 is connected to the brewer 61, and the output end of the second hot water supply line 42 is connected to the outlet assembly 62. The water directly heated by the first boiler 31 provides hot water to the brewer 61, ensuring extraction pressure and hot water temperature. The second hot water supply line 42, connected to the outlet assembly 62, provides hot water to the outlet assembly 62 to mix with the coffee liquid output from the brewer 61, thereby making Americano coffee. Alternatively, the second hot water supply line 42 can mix with the coffee liquid output from the brewer 61 before the outlet assembly 62, thus directly outputting the mixed coffee liquid at the outlet. Alternatively, the outlet assembly 62 can have an independent hot water outlet connected to the second hot water supply line 42, with the hot water and coffee liquid independently output from the outlet assembly 62 and mixed in the cup; both methods can achieve the making of Americano coffee.

[0067] In addition, the cold water line 52 can also be supplied with water through its independent cold water pump 302. A steam supply line 48 is also connected between the steam delivery line 51 and the outlet assembly 62 to provide steam to the outlet assembly 62, for example, to the milk frother 622 of the outlet assembly 62 for making hot milk or hot milk foam.

[0068] In the following embodiments, components or features with the same reference numerals have the same or similar structure and function, and will not be described again here.

[0069] Reference Figure 2 In the preferred second embodiment of the water system 200, the first heater 31 is configured as a first boiler, the second heater 32 is configured as a second boiler, and the second hot water delivery pipeline 42 is connected to a first multi-way valve 45. The first multi-way valve 45 includes a first hot water inlet 451 and a first hot water outlet 452. The first hot water delivery pipeline 41 is connected to a hot water bypass pipeline 44, which is connected to the first hot water inlet 451, and the first hot water outlet 452 is connected to the water inlet of the second boiler. Thus, hot water from the first boiler can be directly supplied to the second boiler, improving steam generation efficiency. During the coffee extraction stage in the brewer 61, the supply of water from the first boiler to the second boiler can be restricted to ensure the stability of the system extraction pressure and prevent insufficient coffee extraction pressure.

[0070] Preferably, a first water pump 301 is installed between the water supply source 20 and the first heater 31. Starting the first water pump 301 can be used solely to replenish water to the first boiler, or it can allow hot water from the first boiler to enter the second boiler through the hot water bypass pipeline 44 and the first multi-way valve 45, replenishing both the first and second boilers simultaneously. This achieves water replenishment for both boilers with a single pump, reducing water circuit costs while improving the heating efficiency of the second boiler. Of course, the first and second boilers can also be replenished using their own independent water pumps.

[0071] Furthermore, the first multi-way valve 45 also includes a second hot water inlet 453 and a second hot water outlet 454. The second hot water inlet 453 is connected downstream of the output connection point 54, and the second hot water outlet 454 is connected to the second hot water delivery pipeline 42. In this way, the output connection point 54 delivers hot water to the outlet assembly 62 through the second hot water inlet 453 and the second hot water outlet 454. The second hot water delivery and the first hot water supply to the second boiler are realized through the same multi-way valve, effectively reducing the number of valves and thus reducing the cost of the water system.

[0072] Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the output connection point 54 is configured as a mixing valve. A steam delivery line 51 is connected to the first inlet 541 of the mixing valve, a cold water line 52 is connected to the second inlet 542 of the mixing valve, and the outlet 543 of the mixing valve is connected to the outlet assembly 62. The mixing valve allows for more convenient control of the mixing of steam and cold water.

[0073] The mixing valve operably adjusts the opening area of ​​the second inlet 542 to control the cold water flow rate. The mixing valve includes a stepper motor 544 that controls the size of the opening area of ​​the second inlet 542. When making an Americano, the stepper motor 544 is activated, and cold water enters through the second inlet 542. The number of steps of the stepper motor 544 is controlled by a program to control the insertion depth of the valve core at the front end of the stepper motor 544, thereby controlling the cold water flow rate. Steam enters through the first inlet 541, and the steam and cold water mix inside the mixing valve. The cold water is heated by the steam to become hot water, which flows out through the outlet 543 of the mixing valve. This control method, which adjusts the output hot water temperature by controlling the cold water flow rate, is not only simple to control but also makes adjusting the hot water temperature more convenient. Furthermore, the second hot water inlet 453 is connected to the water outlet 543 of the mixing valve, which simplifies the water circuit setup.

[0074] To accurately control the temperature of the hot water output from the second hot water delivery pipeline 42, a temperature sensor can be installed at the outlet 543 of the mixing valve. The insertion depth of the valve core at the front end of the stepper motor 544 is controlled based on the temperature detected by the sensor, ensuring that the temperature of the hot water output from the mixing valve meets the requirements for beverage preparation. Alternatively, a temperature sensor can be installed at the water supply source or the cold water delivery pipeline to detect the water temperature at the supply source or the temperature of the water output to the cold water delivery pipeline. The cold water flow rate is adjusted based on the cold water temperature, thereby controlling the final temperature of the hot water output from the mixing valve 54.

[0075] Reference Figure 3 In the water system 300 of the third preferred embodiment, the types of the two heaters and the two hot water outputs to the brewer 61 or the outlet assembly 62 are not limited. A first multi-way valve 45a is provided on the second hot water delivery pipeline 42. The first multi-way valve 45a includes a first hot water inlet 451a and a first hot water outlet 452a. The output connection point 54 is configured as a mixing valve. The steam delivery pipeline 51 is connected to the first inlet 541 of the mixing valve, the cold water pipeline 52 is connected to the second inlet 542 of the mixing valve, the outlet 543 of the mixing valve is connected to the first hot water inlet 451a of the first multi-way valve 45, and the first hot water outlet 452a is connected to either the brewer 61 or the outlet assembly 62. Preferably, the first hot water outlet 452a is connected to the outlet assembly 62. By setting up the multi-way valve and the mixing valve, the mixing of steam and cold water can be achieved more reliably, resulting in a stable output of mixed hot water.

[0076] Furthermore, the first heater 31 is configured as a first boiler, and the second heater 32 is configured as a second boiler. The mixing valve also includes a third inlet 545, and the first multi-way valve 45 also includes a second hot water outlet 453a. The outlet of the first boiler is connected to the third inlet 545, and the second hot water outlet 453a is connected to the inlet of the second boiler. In this way, hot water from the first boiler can be used to replenish water for the second boiler, reducing the heating time of the second boiler and ensuring continuous and reliable steam output.

[0077] In this embodiment, the outlet component 62 includes a milk frother 622, and the second hot water delivery pipeline 42 is also connected to a second multi-way valve 46. The second multi-way valve 46 includes a fluid inlet 462 and a fluid outlet 463. The first multi-way valve 45a also includes a third hot water outlet 455. The fluid inlet 462 is connected to the third hot water outlet 455, and the fluid outlet 463 is connected to the inlet of the milk frother. The second multi-way valve 46 can enable conventional steam input to the milk frother, and can also enable hot water to be introduced into the milk frother for cleaning.

[0078] Continue to refer to Figure 3 The outlet component 62 includes a beverage outlet 621 and a milk frother 622. The second hot water delivery line 42a includes a first mixing output line 421 and a second mixing output line 422. The first mixing output line 421 is connected to a first multi-way valve 45a, and the second mixing output line 422 is connected to a second multi-way valve 46. The first multi-way valve 45a includes a first hot water inlet 451a, a first hot water outlet 452a, and a third hot water outlet 455. The second multi-way valve 46 includes a fluid inlet 462 and a fluid outlet 463. The first hot water inlet 451a is connected to the outlet 543 of the mixing valve. The first hot water outlet 452a is connected to the beverage outlet 621 through the first mixing output line 421. The third hot water outlet 455 is connected to the fluid inlet 462 through the second mixing line 422. The fluid outlet 463 is connected to the steam inlet of the milk frother 622 through the steam supply line 48.

[0079] The machine is equipped with two multi-way valves. The first multi-way valve can supply hot water for making drinks to the beverage outlet, while the second multi-way valve can supply hot water for cleaning to the milk frother. This allows two different functions to be achieved with a single hot water source, eliminating the need for an additional heater to generate hot water for cleaning and thus reducing the overall size and cost of the coffee machine.

[0080] Reference Figure 4In the fourth preferred embodiment of the water system 400, the outlet component 62 includes a beverage outlet 621 and a milk frother 622. A second hot water supply line 42b is connected between the steam supply line 51 and the steam inlet of the milk frother 622. The second hot water supply line 42b is connected to the downstream end of the output connection point 54. Thus, the second hot water supply line 42b can output both hot water and steam. The output of the second hot water supply line 42b can occur simultaneously with the output of the first hot water supply line 41. The hot water output from the first hot water supply line 41 is used for coffee extraction via the brewer, while the steam output from the second hot water supply line 42b is used to make hot milk or hot milk foam via the milk frother 622. The outlet component 62 simultaneously outputs the extracted coffee liquid and hot milk / hot milk foam, achieving highly efficient milk coffee preparation. When the milk frother 622 needs cleaning, the second hot water supply line 42b outputs hot water to the milk frother. Furthermore, the milk frother 622 can also output a second stream of hot water, i.e., the hot water needed to make the beverage, thereby enabling the preparation of Americano coffee.

[0081] Specifically, a steam bypass line 511 is connected to the steam delivery line 51. A second multi-way valve 46 is located between the steam bypass line 511 and the steam inlet of the milk frother 622. The steam bypass line 511 is connected to the fluid inlet 462 of the second multi-way valve 46, and the downstream of the output connection point 54 is connected to the steam bypass line 511. Mixed hot water or steam can be output to the second multi-way valve 46 via the steam bypass line 511. The second multi-way valve 46 can deliver steam to the steam inlet of the milk frother 622, or optionally deliver mixed hot water to the steam inlet of the milk frother 622.

[0082] Reference Figure 5 As shown, in the water system 500 of the preferred fifth embodiment of this application, the outlet component 62 includes a milk frother 622, and the second hot water delivery pipeline 42c is connected to a second multi-way valve 46. The second multi-way valve 46 includes a fluid inlet 462 and a fluid outlet 463. The output connection point 54a is located upstream of the fluid inlet 462, and the second hot water delivery pipeline 42c is connected to the steam inlet of the milk frother 622. By placing the output connection point 54a upstream of the fluid inlet 462 of the second multi-way valve 46, the second hot water delivery pipeline 42c and the steam supply pipeline of the milk frother 622 can share a pipeline, simplifying the water system design. The flow rate of cold water can be controlled by a pump that delivers cold water, and the temperature control of the mixed hot water can also be achieved.

[0083] Reference Figure 6As shown, in the water system 600 of the preferred sixth embodiment of this application, the output connection point 54a is located downstream of the fluid outlet 463, and the second hot water delivery pipeline 42c is connected to the steam inlet of the milk frother 622. By placing the output connection point 54a downstream of the fluid outlet 463 of the second multi-way valve 46, the second hot water delivery pipeline 42c can share a pipeline with the steam supply pipeline of the milk frother 622, simplifying the water system design. Alternatively, a hot water cleaning pipeline 413 can be provided between the first multi-way valve 45a and the second multi-way valve 46 to supply hot water to the milk frother 62.

[0084] Reference Figure 7 In the water system 700 of the seventh embodiment of this application, the first hot water delivery pipeline 41 is connected to the hot water cleaning pipeline 413, which can be connected to the air inlet pipeline 415 of the milk frother. Thus, the hot water cleaning pipeline 413 can supply cleaning hot water to the milk frother, and the second hot water delivery pipeline 42c can supply steam to the milk frother. Alternatively, the second hot water delivery pipeline 42c can supply both cleaning hot water and hot water needed for beverage preparation to the milk frother, thereby achieving simultaneous output from two hot water lines.

[0085] Specifically, a first multi-way valve 45a is connected between the hot water cleaning pipeline 413 and the first hot water delivery pipeline 41. The first multi-way valve 45a includes a third hot water outlet 455a, and the hot water cleaning pipeline 413 is connected to the third hot water outlet 455a. The first hot water inlet 451a and the first hot water outlet 452a of the first multi-way valve 45a are used for the water supply path from the first boiler to the second boiler.

[0086] The above Figures 3 to 6 In the illustrated embodiment, hot water flows out from the milk frother 622. If there is residual milk in the milk frother 622, it will contaminate non-dairy coffee drinks (such as Americano). Therefore, the milk frother 622 can be rinsed before making Americano. The fluid outlet 463 of the second multi-way valve 46 is opened, and hot water is supplied from the hot water cleaning line 413 or the second hot water delivery lines 42, 42a, 42b, 42c to the milk frother 622 for rinsing. After rinsing, the hot water supply from the hot water cleaning line 413 or the second hot water delivery lines 42, 42a, 42b, 42c is cut off, thus achieving hot water cleaning of the milk frother. Furthermore, after the milk frother is cleaned with hot water, the fluid outlet 463 and air outlet 464 of the second multi-way valve 46 can be opened until the cleaning is complete. The water remaining in the pipes during the rinsing of the milk frother 622 is sucked away using the Venturi principle, thus completing the function of draining the residual liquid in the milk frother 622 and related water circuits, thereby achieving a deeper cleaning of the milk frother.

[0087] Reference Figure 8In the preferred eighth embodiment of the water system 800, the output end of the first hot water delivery line 41b is connected to the outlet assembly 62, and the output end of the second hot water delivery line 42d is connected to the brewer 62. That is, a mixture of steam and cold water is delivered to the brewer for coffee extraction, and hot water heated by the first heater 31 is delivered to the outlet assembly 62 for mixing with coffee liquid to produce Americano. In this way, the water input to the brewer 61 can be selected at different temperatures to meet the diverse tastes of users.

[0088] The first multi-way valve 45 is connected between the first boiler and the second hot water supply pipeline 42d. The first multi-way valve 45 includes a first hot water inlet 451, a first hot water outlet 452, a second hot water inlet 453, and a second hot water outlet 454. The first hot water inlet 451 is connected to the outlet of the first boiler, the first hot water outlet 452 is connected to the inlet of the second boiler, the second hot water inlet 453 is connected to the outlet 543 of the mixing valve, and the second hot water outlet 454 is connected to the brewer 61. The first water pump 301 can be used to supply water to the first boiler, or it can supply water to the second boiler through the first boiler and the first multi-way valve 45. The cold water pump 302 is used to supply water to the cold water supply pipeline 52.

[0089] Reference Figure 9 In the preferred ninth embodiment of the water system 900, the above-mentioned Figure 8 The implementation method differs from that in the previous one, where the cold water pump 302 is used both to supply water to the cold water delivery pipeline 52 and to replenish water to the second boiler.

[0090] The above Figures 2 to 7 In this embodiment, the cold water pump 302 can selectively supply water to the cold water delivery pipeline 52 or to replenish water to the second boiler. Of course, two pumps can be installed between the water source and the first boiler. These two pumps can be used simultaneously to replenish water to the first boiler, or they can simultaneously replenish water to the second boiler through the first boiler, thereby improving boiler replenishment efficiency. One of the pumps can also be used to supply water to the cold water delivery pipeline, making the water system more compact.

[0091] In the above embodiments, various control valves, such as safety valves and check valves, can be installed at the outlet of the heater. Multi-way valves can be disc-type directional valves, three-way valves, four-way valves, etc., with the valve type determined by the number of inputs and outputs. Each delivery pipeline is also equipped with a control valve to control the on / off state of the corresponding water path. Two pipelines can be connected via three-way connectors, four-way connectors, etc. Installing two multi-way valves allows for greater flexibility in water path design, such as enabling a more compact water path layout based on the internal space of the coffee machine.

[0092] Based on the beverage machine described in the above embodiments, referring to... Figure 10As shown in the illustration, this application also provides a beverage production method for a beverage machine, comprising the following steps:

[0093] Received beverage preparation signal;

[0094] The beverage mode corresponding to the beverage preparation signal is determined to be the beverage mode representing the output of hot water from both channels;

[0095] Open the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline to deliver hot water from the first heater to one of the brewer and outlet components;

[0096] Open the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline, start the cold water pump, so that the steam from the second heater and the cold water from the water supply source are mixed at the output connection point and output through the second hot water delivery pipeline to the outlet component and the other of the brewer.

[0097] This embodiment uses a coffee machine as an example, and the water system of the coffee machine is referred to... Figures 1 to 9 As shown, the beverage mode representing dual hot water output can be a user-inputted command for Americano, or other commands requiring simultaneous output of hot water from both sources. The input method for beverage mode commands also includes wireless remote input. By controlling the simultaneous output of hot water, steam, and cold water, dual hot water supply can be provided, improving beverage preparation efficiency.

[0098] Furthermore, the above method also includes: determining that the beverage mode corresponding to the beverage preparation signal is a beverage mode that represents the simultaneous output of hot water and steam; opening the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline to deliver hot water from the first heater to the brewer; and opening the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline to deliver steam from the second heater to the milk frother.

[0099] By controlling the simultaneous output of hot water and steam, milk extraction / foam formation and coffee preparation can be achieved simultaneously in milk-based coffee drinks, improving efficiency and reducing preparation time.

[0100] The beverage mode representing the dual hot water output includes a first beverage mode, which can be used to make Americano. In the first beverage mode, the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery line is opened, allowing hot water from the first heater to be delivered to the brewer. The mixture of steam and cold water is then output to the outlet component through the second hot water delivery line. The hot water from the first heater is delivered to the brewer to ensure the hot water temperature for coffee extraction. In Americano, coffee liquid and hot water are made simultaneously, improving Americano efficiency and shortening Americano preparation time.

[0101] In the first beverage mode, when hot water needs to be output from the milk frother, a milk frother rinsing step is first performed. Then, steam from the second heater is mixed with cold water from the water supply source at the output connection point and output to the milk frother of the outlet component through the second hot water delivery pipeline. The milk frother rinsing step includes closing the milk volume regulating valve to allow hot water from either the first or second hot water delivery pipeline to enter the milk frother for rinsing. Preferably, after the hot water rinsing is completed, the hot water entering the milk frother is disconnected, and the steam outlet and air outlet of the control valve are opened until the rinsing is complete. The water remaining in the pipeline during the milk frother rinsing is sucked away using the Venturi principle to complete the function of draining residual liquid from the milk frother pipeline.

[0102] In addition, the temperature of the mixed water output through the output connection point can be detected. When the temperature is higher than the preset temperature, the motor is activated to increase the opening area of ​​the cold water inlet at the output connection point, thereby increasing the cold water flow rate. When the temperature is lower than the preset temperature, the motor is activated to decrease the opening area of ​​the cold water inlet at the output connection point, thereby decreasing the cold water flow rate. By controlling the opening area of ​​the cold water inlet, the flow rate of the cold water can be adjusted, thus enabling the mixed water to reach the required hot water temperature.

[0103] The aforementioned beverage mode representing the dual hot water output also includes a second beverage mode, which can be a mode for making milk coffee. Preferably, the milk frother can be cleaned before making hot milk or hot milk foam. In the second beverage mode, the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery line is opened, allowing hot water from the first heater to be delivered to the brewer; the steam control valve on the steam delivery line is opened, and the cold water pump is started, allowing steam from the second heater to mix with cold water from the water supply source at the output connection point and be output to the milk frother through the second hot water delivery line. Then, the cold water pump is turned off, and the steam control valve on the steam delivery line is opened, allowing steam from the second heater to be delivered to the milk frother. This method of cleaning the milk frother can also be used in the first beverage mode or other beverage modes, allowing the milk frother to be cleaned while making the beverage.

[0104] The coffee machine and beverage production method in the above embodiments, by simultaneously outputting hot water from two sources, can reduce beverage preparation time, thereby improving beverage preparation efficiency and enhancing user experience. It can simultaneously prepare coffee liquid and hot water for Americano, and simultaneously prepare milk and coffee liquid for milk-based coffee drinks, improving the efficiency of Americano and milk-based coffee drinks and shortening their preparation time. A multi-channel valve controls the water flow, achieving multiple pathways, and a mixing valve controls the cold water inflow to control the output hot water temperature, ultimately outputting the desired beverage temperature.

[0105] It should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0106] The detailed descriptions listed above are merely specific descriptions of feasible embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent embodiments or modifications made without departing from the spirit of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A coffee machine, comprising: Water supply source; The outlet component is used to discharge fluid; The infuser is connected between the water supply source and the outlet component; A first heater is connected between the water supply source and the outlet component for outputting hot water; The second heater is connected between the water supply source and the outlet component for outputting steam; the first hot water delivery pipeline has its input end connected to the first heater, and the brewer is connected to the output end of the first hot water delivery pipeline; A steam delivery pipeline is connected to the output end of the second heater; The coffee machine is characterized in that the outlet component includes a beverage outlet and a milk frother; a steam supply line is also connected between the steam delivery line and the outlet component, the steam supply line being used to provide steam to the milk frother; the coffee machine further includes a cold water delivery line and a second hot water delivery line, the cold water delivery line being connected to the output end of the water supply source, and the cold water delivery line and the steam delivery line having an output connection point; the outlet component is connected to the output end of the second hot water delivery line, the input end of the second hot water delivery line being connected to the downstream end of the output connection point; the water output by the second hot water delivery line is a mixture of steam and cold water; the water output by the second hot water delivery line is mixed with the coffee liquid output by the brewer before the outlet component is exited, so as to exit the mixed coffee liquid at the outlet; or, the water output by the second hot water delivery line and the coffee liquid output by the brewer are each exited independently from the outlet component.

2. The coffee machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heater is constructed as a boiler.

3. The coffee machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first heater is configured as a first boiler, the second heater is configured as a second boiler, the second hot water delivery pipeline is connected to a first multi-way valve, the first multi-way valve includes a first hot water inlet and a first hot water outlet, the first hot water delivery pipeline is connected to a hot water bypass pipeline, the hot water bypass pipeline is connected to the first hot water inlet, and the first hot water outlet is connected to the water inlet of the second boiler.

4. The coffee machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first multi-way valve also includes a second hot water inlet and a second hot water outlet. The second hot water inlet is connected downstream of the output connection point, and the second hot water outlet is connected to the second hot water delivery pipeline.

5. The coffee machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The output connection point is configured as a mixing valve, the steam delivery pipeline is connected to the first inlet of the mixing valve, the cold water pipeline is connected to the second inlet of the mixing valve, and the outlet of the mixing valve is connected to the outlet assembly.

6. The coffee machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The mixing valve is operable to adjust the opening area of ​​the second inlet to control the cold water flow rate.

7. The coffee machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second hot water delivery pipeline includes a first mixing output pipeline and a second mixing output pipeline. The first mixing output pipeline is connected to a first multi-way valve, and the second mixing output pipeline is connected to a second multi-way valve. The first multi-way valve includes a first hot water inlet, a first hot water outlet, and a third hot water outlet. The second multi-way valve includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The first hot water inlet is connected to the outlet of the mixing valve. The first hot water outlet is connected to the beverage outlet through the first mixing output pipeline. The third hot water outlet is connected to the fluid inlet through the second mixing output pipeline. The fluid outlet is connected to the steam inlet of the milk frother through a steam supply pipeline.

8. The coffee machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the second multi-way valve, which includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The output connection point is located upstream of the fluid inlet or downstream of the fluid outlet. The second hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the steam inlet of the milk frother.

9. The coffee machine according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first hot water delivery pipeline is connected to the hot water cleaning pipeline, and the hot water cleaning pipeline is connected to the air inlet pipeline of the milk frother.

10. The coffee machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second hot water delivery pipeline is equipped with a first multi-way valve, which includes a first hot water inlet and a first hot water outlet. The output connection point is constructed as a mixing valve. The steam delivery pipeline is connected to the first inlet of the mixing valve, the cold water pipeline is connected to the second inlet of the mixing valve, the outlet of the mixing valve is connected to the first hot water inlet of the first multi-way valve, and the first hot water outlet is connected to the outlet assembly.

11. The coffee machine according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first heater is configured as a first boiler, the second heater is configured as a second boiler, the mixing valve further includes a third inlet, the first multi-way valve further includes a second hot water outlet, the outlet of the first boiler is connected to the third inlet, and the second hot water outlet is connected to the inlet of the second boiler.

12. The coffee machine according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second hot water delivery pipeline is equipped with a second multi-way valve, which includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The first multi-way valve also includes a third hot water outlet. The fluid inlet is connected to the third hot water outlet, and the fluid outlet is connected to the inlet of the milk frother.

13. The coffee machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second hot water delivery pipeline is connected between the steam delivery pipeline and the steam inlet of the milk frother.

14. A method for producing beverages using a beverage machine, comprising the following steps: Received beverage preparation signal; The beverage mode corresponding to the beverage preparation signal is determined to be a beverage mode representing two-way hot water output; Open the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline to deliver hot water from the first heater to the brewer; Open the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline, start the cold water pump, so that the steam from the second heater and the cold water from the water supply source are mixed at the output connection point and output to the outlet component through the second hot water delivery pipeline; the second hot water delivery pipeline outputs water mixed with steam and cold water; the steam from the second heater can also provide steam to the milk frother through the steam supply pipeline between the steam delivery pipeline and the outlet component; The beverage mode representing the two hot water outputs includes a first beverage mode; In the first beverage mode, the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline is opened, allowing hot water from the first heater to be delivered to the brewer; The mixture of steam and cold water is output to the outlet assembly through a second hot water delivery line. The water output from the second hot water delivery line is mixed with the coffee liquid output from the brewer before the outlet assembly, so that the mixed coffee liquid is output at the outlet. Alternatively, the water output from the second hot water delivery line and the coffee liquid output from the brewer are each output independently from the outlet assembly.

15. The beverage production method according to claim 14, characterized in that, Also includes: The beverage mode corresponding to the beverage preparation signal is determined to be a beverage mode that simultaneously outputs hot water and steam. Open the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline to deliver hot water from the first heater to the brewer; Open the steam control valve on the steam delivery line to deliver steam from the second heater to the milk frother.

16. The beverage production method according to claim 14, characterized in that, In the first beverage mode, the milk frother is first rinsed, and then the steam from the second heater is mixed with the cold water from the water supply source at the output connection point and output to the milk frother of the outlet component through the second hot water delivery pipeline. The milk frother rinsing step includes closing the milk volume regulating valve, allowing hot water from the first hot water delivery pipeline or the second hot water delivery pipeline to enter the milk frother for rinsing, disconnecting the hot water entering the milk frother after rinsing, and opening the steam outlet and air outlet of the control valve to complete the milk frother rinsing.

17. The beverage production method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The temperature of the mixed water passing through the output connection point is detected. When the temperature is greater than the preset temperature, the motor is started to control the opening area of ​​the cold water inlet of the output connection point to increase the cold water flow rate. When the temperature is less than the preset temperature, the motor is started to control the opening area of ​​the cold water inlet of the output connection point to decrease the cold water flow rate.

18. The beverage production method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The beverage mode that represents the dual hot water output also includes a second beverage mode; In the second beverage mode, the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline is opened, allowing hot water from the first heater to be delivered to the brewer; Open the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline, start the cold water pump, so that the steam from the second heater and the cold water from the water supply source are mixed at the output connection point and output to the milk frother of the outlet component through the second hot water delivery pipeline. Then turn off the cold water pump, open the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline, so that the steam from the second heater is delivered to the milk frother.

19. The beverage production method according to claim 14, characterized in that, It also includes a milk frother rinsing step, which includes: Open the hot water control valve on the first hot water delivery pipeline to deliver hot water from the first heater to the milk frother, or open the steam control valve on the steam delivery pipeline to start the cold water pump so that the steam from the second heater mixes with the cold water from the water supply source at the output connection point and is output to the milk frother of the outlet component through the second hot water delivery pipeline. Disconnect the hot water supply to the milk frother and open the steam and air outlets of the control valves until cleaning is complete.

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