Beverage preparation machine and method of preparing a beverage product using such a beverage preparation machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a beverage preparation machine (1) comprising: - a chamber for receiving a capsule (101) carrying a beverage ingredient, - a beverage preparation device (4) having: • a delivery device (23) for delivering a fluid to the chamber, • a first and a second injection element (16) that can be selectively fluidically connected to the delivery device (23) for injecting a fluid into the chamber, • a discharge device having a discharge element (20) for discharging the delivered fluid from the chamber, the first injection element (14) protruding further into the chamber than the second injection element (16). The first injection element (14) protrudes further into the chamber than the discharge element (20). The area in which the second injection element (16) protrudes into the chamber is positioned higher than the area in which the discharge element (20) protrudes into the chamber.

Description

1. Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a beverage preparation machine for preparing beverage products such as coffee, tea, and soup. The invention also relates to a method for preparing beverage products using this beverage preparation machine. 2. Background Technology

[0002] Known beverage preparation machines may have i) an injector for delivering liquid into a capsule inserted in a brewing chamber, and ii) a discharge element, such as a needle, for discharging the resulting beverage product from the capsule.

[0003] However, after the first capsule is expelled, traces of the beverage product remain on and around the expulsion element. These traces can then mix with beverage products prepared using subsequent capsules, thus altering the characteristics of the beverage product, such as its taste or color, especially when the subsequent capsules differ from the first capsule.

[0004] In addition, when users remove the capsules from the beverage preparation device, some beverage product may remain in the used capsules and leak out, which may cause inconvenience to users. 3. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to provide a beverage preparation machine and method that enables the preparation of continuous beverage products while mitigating or avoiding the problem of trace mixing between two beverage products subsequently prepared in the beverage preparation machine.

[0006] According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a beverage preparation machine comprising:

[0007] - A chamber, which is used to receive capsules carrying beverage components.

[0008] - A beverage preparation apparatus, which has:

[0009] ● Delivery device, used to deliver fluid into the chamber.

[0010] ● A first injection element and a second injection element, which are selectively fluidly connected to a liquid delivery device to inject liquid into a chamber.

[0011] • A discharge device having a discharge element for discharging the delivered fluid from the chamber.

[0012] The first injection element protrudes further into the chamber than the second injection element, and the first injection element protrudes further into the chamber than the discharge element.

[0013] The area where the second injection element protrudes into the chamber is positioned higher than the area where the emission element protrudes into the chamber.

[0014] Therefore, the outlet of the second injection element can be positioned higher than the discharge element. Thus, when the second injection element dispenses cleaning liquid (e.g., water), the cleaning liquid can flow on and / or around the discharge element, particularly after or at the end of the preparation of the previous beverage product and before the preparation of the next beverage product. Therefore, the cleaning liquid can completely or partially remove traces of the previous beverage product from the discharge element and / or its surroundings, and then the cleaning liquid can be discharged from the brewing chamber via the discharge element and the liquid discharge device.

[0015] Furthermore, since all delivered fluids and cleaning fluids can be discharged from the capsule, the beverage preparation machine allows for limiting or preventing biodegradable capsules from degrading too quickly and ending up in a chamber inside the machine. Additionally, this helps reduce environmental impact because the energy returned is higher due to the absence of water inside the capsule.

[0016] In addition, the beverage preparation machine can therefore ensure that all beverage components are actually delivered from the capsule to the user, which is preferred for some specific products.

[0017] In this application, the term "above" and its derivatives such as "upper," "uppermost," "lower," and "lowest" can refer to the height difference measured when the beverage preparation machine is in its service configuration or operating orientation, thus ready to receive capsules and prepare beverage products. When the beverage preparation machine is in this configuration or orientation, the statement "the area of ​​the second injection element protruding into the chamber is positioned above the area of ​​the discharge element protruding into the chamber" can imply that the cleaning liquid dispensed by the second injection element flows toward the discharge element under gravity.

[0018] In some embodiments, the second injection element may be configured to spray or spray cleaning liquid toward the discharge element. Therefore, the second injection element or its outlet opening may be configured such that liquid injected into the chamber through the outlet opening of the second injection element can be sprayed or sprayed onto the discharge element. Thus, the discharge element can be cleaned efficiently because the jet of cleaning liquid sprayed or sprayed by the second injection element can clean the surfaces located on and / or around the discharge element.

[0019] In this application, the term "capsule" can refer to any container that encapsulates dry, liquid, solid (e.g., powder, paste), and / or other forms of beverage components. For example, a capsule may have a rigid or flexible body and / or membrane. The body and membrane (encapsulation) can generally be made of the same or different materials. The body and membrane (encapsulation) can generally have the same or different shapes. Capsules can be airtight or partially or fully porous. The term "capsule" may also refer to a single-use container, pouch, or sachet.

[0020] In this application, the term "beverage product" may refer to a drinkable liquid or an edible or palatable liquid, such as soup. In this application, the term "beverage preparation" and its derivatives may refer to any kind of interaction between a liquid and a product contained in a capsule, such as mixing, dissolving, filling, or extracting with or without fluid (such as water or steam) pressure.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the second injection element may include an outlet opening oriented toward the emission element.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the area where the first injection element protrudes into the chamber is positioned above the area where the discharge element protrudes into the chamber, preferably at the same height as the area where the second injection element protrudes into the chamber.

[0023] Therefore, during the preparation of the beverage product, the first injection element does not receive any or a large amount of trace of the beverage product flowing toward and through the discharge element. In other words, traces of the beverage product mainly appear on and / or around the discharge element.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the second injection element and preferably the first injection element may protrude into the chamber at the upper or uppermost region of the chamber, and / or the discharge element may protrude into the chamber at the lower or lowermost region of the chamber.

[0025] Therefore, this arrangement of the second injection element and preferably the first injection element can minimize or even avoid traces of beverage product on and / or around the second injection element and possibly the first injection element.

[0026] According to one implementation, the first injection element, the second injection element, and the discharge element can all protrude from the same side of the beverage preparation device into the chamber.

[0027] Therefore, this arrangement of the first injection element, the second injection element, and the discharge element helps to simplify the design of beverage preparation machines, especially the design of their brewing chambers.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the beverage preparation machine may further include a capsule retainer for holding the capsule, the capsule retainer preferably being movable relative to the beverage preparation apparatus and / or being selectively connected to the beverage preparation apparatus to define a chamber.

[0029] Therefore, a capsule retainer helps to receive and hold the capsule in the correct position within the chamber. In some embodiments, the capsule retainer is selectively movable relative to the beverage preparation apparatus between the following configurations:

[0030] i) A receiving configuration in which the capsule holder is located away from the beverage preparation device, such that the chamber is open to receive at least one capsule, and

[0031] ii) Connection configuration in which the capsule holder is close to the beverage preparation device so as to reduce or close the chamber.

[0032] As an alternative to a removable capsule holder that can be removed from a beverage preparation machine, the beverage preparation machine may include a non-removable component defining a brewing chamber for receiving and processing capsules.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the delivery device may include a liquid delivery device for delivering liquid into a chamber, wherein, preferably, the liquid delivery device is selectively fluid-connected via a conduit to a first injection element and a second injection element, and

[0034] Preferably, a valve is provided, which may preferably be disposed in the conduit, to selectively deliver liquid to at least one of the first injection element and the second injection element.

[0035] Therefore, the first injection element and / or the second injection element can supply liquid into the chamber, such as a cleaning liquid or a drinkable liquid for interacting with beverage components.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the delivery device may further include a gas delivery device for delivering a gas (such as air) into the chamber, the gas delivery device preferably being selectively fluidly connected via a conduit to a first injection element and a second injection element.

[0037] Preferably, a valve is provided, which may preferably be disposed in the conduit, to selectively deliver gas to at least one of the first injection element and the second injection element.

[0038] Therefore, the first injection element and / or the second injection element can inject gas into the chamber to facilitate the expulsion of beverage product and / or cleaning liquid from the capsule and the chamber. The delivered gas can be used to manufacture emulsions in the beverage product.

[0039] In some embodiments, the gas delivery device may be configured to deliver at least one gas selected from compressed air, CO2 (carbon dioxide), and N2 (nitrogen), provided that the gas is food-grade vapor.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the valve may include:

[0041] - A first valve, used to selectively connect a first injection element to a gas delivery device or a liquid delivery device, and

[0042] - A second valve, which is used to selectively connect a second injection element to a gas delivery device or a liquid delivery device.

[0043] Therefore, the first and second valves can be shared for both the gas delivery circuit and the liquid delivery circuit. This arrangement can help simplify the design of beverage preparation machines.

[0044] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for preparing a beverage, comprising:

[0045] - Provides a beverage preparation machine according to any one of the preceding claims,

[0046] - Provides a capsule carrying beverage components, the capsule having: i) a body defining a cavity having an opening, ii) a membrane attached to the body to cover the opening and close the cavity, said body comprising: i) a beverage space containing the beverage components, ii) a top space extending between the beverage space and the membrane, and iii) a separating element separating the beverage space and the top space, the separating element preferably comprising a filter element.

[0047] - Receive the capsule in the chamber.

[0048] - Insert the first injection element through the membrane and into the beverage space.

[0049] - Insert the second injection element through the membrane and into the top space.

[0050] - Insert the emission element through the membrane and into the top space.

[0051] - Fluid (preferably at least liquid) is delivered into the beverage space via a first injection element, such that the delivered liquid can interact with the beverage components to prepare the beverage product.

[0052] - The beverage product is expelled from the capsule via an emission element, and

[0053] - After the beverage product has been discharged, fluid (preferably at least liquid and / or steam) is injected into the headspace via a second injection element to clean the discharge element.

[0054] Therefore, when the second injection element dispenses the cleaning liquid (e.g., water), the cleaning liquid can flow on and / or around the discharge element, especially after or at the end of the preparation of the previous beverage product and before the preparation of the next beverage product.

[0055] In cases where the fluid is or includes steam, the steam may condense after a certain period of time, thus allowing delivery of the beverage product. Steam can be used to heat-treat capsules prior to extraction of the beverage product, such as sterilizing or preheating the beverage components, particularly during the pre-wetting stage.

[0056] According to one embodiment, after the beverage product has been discharged, the step of injecting fluid into the headspace via a second injection element includes injecting fluid into the headspace via the second injection element in such a way that the injected fluid is sprayed or sprayed onto and / or around the discharge element, preferably at least onto the discharge opening of the discharge element.

[0057] Therefore, the cleaning fluid can remove all or part of the traces of the previous beverage product from the discharge element and / or surrounding it, and then the cleaning fluid can be discharged from the brewing chamber via the discharge element and discharge device.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the method may further include: i) injecting gas into the top space via a second injection element while delivering fluid (preferably liquid) into the beverage space via a first injection element, and / or ii) injecting the beverage product into the top space via a second injection element while discharging the beverage product via a discharge element.

[0059] Therefore, the injected gas prevents or reduces the diffusion of beverage products into the headspace, which enhances its cleanliness.

[0060] According to one embodiment, delivering fluid (preferably liquid) into the beverage space via a first injection element may include: pre-wetting the beverage components before producing the beverage product, and optionally venting gas from the capsule via at least one of a second injection element and an exhaust element.

[0061] Therefore, pre-wetting beverage components can help enhance some properties of the beverage product. Steam can be used for pre-wetting or for rinsing.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the method may further include: i) injecting a fluid (preferably liquid) into the beverage space after the fluid (preferably liquid) has been injected into the beverage space, and ii) at least partially simultaneously during the discharge of the beverage product, and / or iii) at least partially during the delivery of the fluid (preferably liquid and / or vapor) into the top space, injecting a gas into the beverage space.

[0063] Therefore, the injected gas helps to expel the beverage product from the beverage space and into the discharge element.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the method may further include injecting gas into the headspace via a second injection element after injecting fluid (preferably liquid and / or vapor) into the headspace.

[0065] Therefore, the injected gas helps to expel the beverage product from the top space and into the exhaust element.

[0066] This cleaning and rinsing of the capsules (by removing the remaining water) avoids soaking and initial composting of the capsules inside the beverage preparation machine's chamber and will further improve the level of energy released during capsule degradation.

[0067] In some embodiments, the discharged beverage product can be delivered to a dispensing unit arranged downstream of the discharge element and configured to dispense the beverage product. Thus, the dispensing unit can dispense the beverage product further downstream, preferably into a user's cup. 4. Description of the attached drawings

[0068] Further features, details, and advantages of the invention will now be described with reference to embodiments of the accompanying drawings.

[0069] Figure 1 A portion of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment including a capsule retainer is shown along... Figure 2 A schematic exterior view of arrow I in the diagram.

[0070] Figure 2 It shows along Figure 1 A schematic half-section perspective side view cut by line II-II, with a capsule suitable for it.

[0071] Figure 3 It shows along Figure 1 A schematic half-section perspective side view cut by line III-III, containing a capsule.

[0072] Figure 4 It shows along Figure 1 A schematic half-section perspective side view of the line IV-IV section, which contains a capsule.

[0073] Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 A magnified view of the details in V.

[0074] Figure 6 It shows a capsule Figure 1 A schematic perspective view of the capsule retainer.

[0075] Figure 7 It shows having Figures 7 to 8 capsules Figures 1 to 6 The chamber of the beverage preparation machine is roughly along Figure 4 A schematic enlarged cross section of line VII-VII in the diagram.

[0076] Figure 8 As shown Figures 1 to 5 A schematic exploded perspective view of the capsule shown.

[0077] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8A schematic perspective view of a capsule without its membrane.

[0078] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating a method according to one implementation scheme is shown.

[0079] Figure 11 It shows Figures 1 to 7 A schematic diagram of the fluid flow of a portion of a beverage preparation machine, in which the capsule is in a standby state with no liquid or gas flowing.

[0080] Figure 12 It shows something similar to Figure 11 A view of a liquid in a flowable state.

[0081] Figure 13 It shows something similar to Figure 11 A view of a gas in a flowable state.

[0082] Figure 14 It shows something similar to Figure 11 A view showing the beverage components in a pre-wetted state.

[0083] Figure 15 It shows something similar to Figure 11 The view shows the liquid in a pouring state, where the liquid can interact with the beverage components without any liquid or gas flow.

[0084] Figure 16 It shows something similar to Figure 11 A view showing the state in which gas can eject beverage products from the capsule.

[0085] Figure 17 It shows something similar to Figure 11 A view showing parts of the beverage product that are contaminated with liquid and can be washed away.

[0086] Figure 18 It shows something similar to Figure 11 The combination Figure 16 and Figure 17 The view showing the status of the functions.

[0087] Figure 19 It shows Figure 6 A schematic cross-section of the capsule, showing detailed liquid flow.

[0088] Figure 20 It shows something similar to Figure 11 Simultaneous realization Figure 12 and Figure 13 The view showing the status of the functions.

[0089] Figure 21 It shows something similar to Figure 19The view shows detailed liquid and gas flow. 5. Detailed Implementation

[0090] Figures 1 to 6 An embodiment of a beverage preparation machine 1 for preparing beverage products is shown, along with its specific details and components. Figures 1 to 6 A beverage preparation machine 1, including a chamber 2 and a beverage preparation device 4, is shown.

[0091] Chamber 2 is configured to receive a capsule 101 carrying beverage components 102. Chamber 2 may be formed between the capsule holder 6 and the cap 8 of the beverage preparation machine 1. Chamber 2 may have a volume similar in shape to capsule 101.

[0092] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen in the middle and as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown in detail, capsule 101 may have a body 104 and a membrane 106. Membrane 106 may be attached directly or indirectly to body 104. Membrane 106 may generally have a circular shape. Membrane 106 may be relatively flexible and may comprise a stack containing plastic foil and / or aluminum foil.

[0093] The body 104 may define a cavity 104.0 and generally has a truncated conical shape. The body 104 may have sidewalls 104.1, endwalls 104.2, and an annular edge 104.4 surrounding an opening 104.5 on one side of the cavity 104.0. The sidewalls 104.1 may be integral with the endwalls 104.2, for example, as a single piece. The membrane 106 may be glued or welded to the annular edge 104.4. The body 104 may be relatively rigid. The body 104 may be made of aluminum. The body 104 may also be made of bio-based plastics or fiber-based materials. Preferably, the material of the body 104 will be recyclable, compostable, and / or biodegradable.

[0094] In addition, the main body 104 may include a partition component 105 configured to divide the cavity 104.0 into:

[0095] i) Beverage space 108, which contains beverage components 102, such as coffee powder, and

[0096] ii) The top space 110 extending between the beverage space 108 and the membrane 106.

[0097] The separator 105 separates the beverage space 108 from the top space 110. The separator 105 preferably includes a filter element.

[0098] In the example shown, the central region of the separator 105 may be flat or slightly raised. The separator 105 may include a filter element and be formed of woven or nonwoven materials, such as PA, PET, PP, paper, etc.

[0099] Exemplary shape and dimensions: Capsule 101 may have a generally circular shape with a maximum diameter of about 50mm-55mm. Beverage space 108 may have a height of about 9mm and top space may have a height of about 7.5mm, which can be measured parallel to the axis of symmetry of capsule 101.

[0100] The capsule holder 6 can be configured to hold the capsule 101, particularly its body 104, so that the capsule 101 is received in the correct position within the chamber 2. The capsule holder 6 can be selectively connected to the beverage preparation apparatus 4 to define the chamber 2. Figures 1 to 6 In one embodiment, the capsule holder 6 may be selectively translational relative to the cap 8 and the beverage preparation device 4 along axis X. Therefore, the capsule holder 6 can move between the following configurations:

[0101] i) Receiving configuration (not shown), in which the capsule holder 6 is located away from the beverage preparation device 4 and the cap 8, such that the chamber 2 is open to receive the capsule 101, and

[0102] ii) Connection configuration ( Figures 1 to 6 In this configuration, the capsule holder 6 is close to, or even in contact with, the beverage preparation device 4 and the cap 8 in order to seal the chamber 2 and prepare the beverage product.

[0103] The beverage preparation machine 1 may also include an insertion conduit (not shown) configured to allow insertion of a capsule 101 into the chamber 2. The inserted capsule 1 can reach the chamber 2 under the influence of gravity.

[0104] In addition, the beverage preparation apparatus 4 has a delivery device 23, a first injection element 14, a second injection element 16 and a discharge device 18.

[0105] Delivery device 23 is configured to deliver at least one fluid into chamber 2. The fluid may be, for example, hot water, cold water, steam, milk (e.g., dairy products or plant-based milk), coffee, etc. Figures 1 to 6 In this embodiment, the liquid can be hot water or steam at a temperature between 1°C and 120°C (steam), preferably between 40°C and 100°C. The fluid is adapted to interact with the beverage components 102 in the capsule 101 to produce a beverage product. Examples of operating the beverage preparation machine 1, particularly the delivery device 23, are described below. Figures 12 to 21 The fluid diagram is described in detail.

[0106] The first injection element 14 can be selectively fluidly connected to the delivery device 23 for injecting fluid into the chamber 2. Similarly, the second injection element 16 can be selectively fluidly connected to the delivery device 23 for injecting fluid into the chamber 2.

[0107] For example, especially in Figure 7 As can be seen, the first injection element 14 and the second injection element 16 may have a substantially linear shape. The first injection element 14 and the second injection element 16 may include corresponding hollow needles or cannulas. The needles of the first injection element 14 and the second injection element 16 may, for example, be approximately 11 mm long and 7 mm long, respectively, and both have an inner diameter of approximately 1 mm. The cantilevered ends of the needles of the first injection element 14 and the second injection element 16 may, for example, have bevel angles of approximately 30 degrees and -30 degrees, respectively, which facilitates piercing the membrane 106 and the separator assembly 105.

[0108] like Figure 7 As can be seen, the first injection element 14 may include an outlet opening 14.1 oriented toward the beverage component 102 located within the beverage space 108 of the capsule 101 for delivering hot water (e.g.) to the beverage component 102. The second injection element 16 may include an outlet opening 16.1 oriented toward the discharge element 20. The second injection element 16 may be configured to spray or spray cleaning fluid toward the discharge element 20. Thus, the second injection element 16 or its outlet opening 16.1 may be configured such that fluid injected into the chamber 2 via the second injection element 16 (i.e., via its outlet opening 16.1) may be sprayed or sprayed onto the discharge element 20.

[0109] The dispensing device 18 has a dispensing element 20 for discharging the delivered fluid from the chamber 2. The dispensing element 20 may be substantially linear in shape. The dispensing element 20 may include a hollow needle or cannula, which may be, for example, 7 mm long and have an inner diameter of about 2.5 mm. The cantilever end of the needle of the dispensing element 20 may, for example, have an angle of about 170 degrees to enhance proper fluid dispensing by gravity. In addition, the dispensing device 18 may have a dispensing conduit 22, which may be arranged downstream of the dispensing element 20 and guide the dispensed beverage product to a container (not shown), such as a user's cup 51.

[0110] The first injection element 14, the second injection element 16, and the discharge element 20 are arranged horizontally and longitudinally relative to the chamber 2. Figure 7 It is shown in a larger size. Figures 1 to 7 In the diagram, axis X represents the horizontal and longitudinal directions, axis Y represents the horizontal and transverse directions, and axis Z represents the vertical direction (opposite to gravity) when the beverage preparation machine 1 is in its service configuration or operating orientation.

[0111] The first injection element 14 protrudes further into chamber 2 than the second injection element 16. This can be measured along the longitudinal direction X. The first injection element 14 also protrudes further into chamber 2 than the discharge element 20. This can also be measured along the longitudinal direction X.

[0112] The first injection element 14, the second injection element 16, and the discharge element 20 can all be emitted from the same side of the beverage preparation device 4 (i.e., Figure 3 (The right side of the middle) protrudes into chamber 2.

[0113] Figures 2 to 4 The diagram shows the vertical arrangement of the first injection element 14, the second injection element 16, and the discharge element 20 relative to the chamber 2. Specifically, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, the region 16.2 of the second injection element 16 protruding into the chamber 2 is positioned higher than the region 20.2 of the discharge element 20 protruding into the chamber 2. This can be measured along the vertical direction Z.

[0114] Similarly, the region 14.2 of the first injection element 14 protruding into the chamber 2 can be positioned higher than the region 20.2 of the discharge element 20 protruding into the chamber 2. Preferably, the second injection element 16 and the first injection element 14 can protrude substantially at the same height in the chamber 2.

[0115] exist Figures 1 to 6 In one embodiment, the second injection element 16 and the first injection element 14 may be located in the upper region of the chamber 2 (i.e., in...). Figure 4 The discharge element 20 protrudes into the chamber in regions 16.2 and 14.2. The discharge element 20 may be located in the lowest region of chamber 2 (i.e., Figure 4 The protrusion extends into the chamber at area 20.2.

[0116] Figures 11 to 18 and Figure 20 Fluid diagrams illustrating a particular embodiment of a hydraulic and / or pneumatic circuit are shown. However, the beverage preparation machine and method according to the invention are not limited to these fluid diagrams, as they can be implemented using various configurations or fluid diagrams.

[0117] like Figures 11 to 18 and Figure 20 As shown in the fluid diagram, delivery device 23 may include liquid delivery device 24. Figure 3 ) and gas delivery device 26 ( Figure 2 Liquid delivery device 24 may include a pump or booster pump unit (BPU) to deliver liquids, such as water, which facilitates the preparation of beverage products. Gas delivery device 26 may include a pump or booster pump unit (BPU) to deliver gases, such as air, which facilitates the preparation of beverage products, cleaning and / or rinsing capsules.

[0118] Liquid delivery device 24 may be able to deliver liquid via Figure 11 The illustrated conduit is selectively fluidly connected to the first injection element 14 and the second injection element 16. Similarly, the gas delivery device 26 may be able to... Figure 11 The catheter shown is selectively fluidly connected to the first injection element 14 and the second injection element 16.

[0119] To form these hydraulic and pneumatic connections, the beverage preparation apparatus 4 may also include, for example: Figure 11 The conduit and valve are shown. The valves are respectively disposed in the conduit to selectively deliver liquid and / or gas to the first injection element 14 and / or the second injection element 16. The valves may include:

[0120] - A first valve 30 is configured to selectively connect the first injection element 14 to the delivery device 23, and thus to either the gas delivery device 26 or the liquid delivery device 24.

[0121] - A second valve 32 is configured to selectively connect the second injection element 16 to the delivery device 23, and thus to either the gas delivery device 26 or the liquid delivery device 24.

[0122] - A third valve 34, configured to selectively connect the second injection element 16 to the gas discharge port 35, and

[0123] - Fourth valve 36, which is configured to selectively connect discharge element 20 to distribution conduit or liquid discharge port 37-out.

[0124] exist Figures 11 to 18 and Figure 20 In the example, the first valve 30, the second valve 32, the third valve 34, and the fourth valve 36 may be formed by three-way valves. However, according to the design of the fluid diagram, the first valve 30, the second valve 32, the third valve 34, and the fourth valve 36 may have one or more inlet ports and one or more outlet ports, as well as a motor for selectively connecting the inlet ports and the outlet ports.

[0125] Because in Figures 11 to 18 and Figure 20 The individual arrangement of conduits and valves is accurately depicted in the original text, and therefore is not described here.

[0126] Figure 11 A check valve or non-return valve is also shown, which can be arranged in the beverage preparation apparatus 4 to direct the liquid and gas flow away from the delivery device 23, and thus away from the liquid delivery device 24 and the gas delivery device 26. Figure 11 The main water source 38 is also shown, which may include a pump.

[0127] An electronic control unit (ECU) 40 may be included in the beverage preparation machine 1. The ECU 40 may be configured to control the opening and closing of the chamber 12 by controlling the movement of the capsule holder 6 toward and away from the cap 8. The ECU 40 may also be configured to selectively control the opening and closing of the first valve 30, the second valve 32, the third valve 34, and the fourth valve 36.

[0128] ECU 40 may also be configured to control delivery device 23, and thus control liquid delivery device 24 and gas delivery device 26 as appropriate, preferably for setting the pressure and / or temperature of the liquid and gas respectively. In particular, ECU 40 may receive information about the specific formulation of a given capsule and set these pressures and / or temperatures accordingly, such information being encoded on capsule 101, for example.

[0129] Figure 10 A method 201 for preparing a beverage product is shown. Method 201 may include the following steps:

[0130] - In the first step 202, a beverage preparation machine 1 is provided.

[0131] - In the second step 204, capsule 101 is provided by the user, for example.

[0132] - In the third step 206, capsule 101 is inserted into capsule holder 6 and / or insertion catheter (not shown), and then capsule 101 is received in chamber 2, where capsule can be held by capsule holder 6.

[0133] - In the fourth step 208, the first injection element 14 is inserted through the membrane 106 and into the beverage space 108.

[0134] - In the fifth step 210, the second injection element 16 is inserted through the membrane 106 and into the top space 110. The fifth step 210 can occur simultaneously with the fourth step 208 when the capsule holder 6 and the cap 8 are connected to each other, i.e. when the chamber 2 is closed.

[0135] - In the sixth step 212, the discharge element 20 is inserted through the membrane 106 and into the top space 110. The sixth step 212 may occur simultaneously with the fourth step 208 and / or the fifth step 210 when the capsule holder 6 and the cap 8 are connected to each other, i.e. when the chamber 2 is closed.

[0136] - In the seventh step 214, a fluid (such as hot water and / or steam) is delivered into the beverage space 108 via the first injection element 14, such that the delivered liquid can interact with the beverage components 102 to prepare a beverage product. This interaction can occur through methods such as infusion, extraction, dissolution, etc., to prepare beverage products such as coffee, tea, soup, etc.

[0137] - In step 216, the beverage product is discharged from capsule 101 via discharge element 20. The beverage product can be guided through the dispensing unit for dispensing into the user's cup 51.

[0138] - In the ninth step 218, after the beverage product has been discharged, the beverage preparation device 4 may inject liquid (e.g., water) into the headspace 108 via the second injection element 16 in order to clean the discharge element 20.

[0139] - In step 10 220, chamber 2 can be opened to allow the used capsule 101 to be discharged from chamber 2.

[0140] After the beverage product has been discharged in step 218, the step of injecting fluid into the headspace 110 via the second injection element 16 includes injecting fluid into the headspace 110 via the second injection element 16 in such a way that the injected fluid is sprayed or sprayed onto and / or around the discharge element 20, preferably at least onto the discharge opening 20.1 of the discharge element 20. Figure 7 )superior.

[0141] Some steps of method 201 are shown in Figures 11 to 18 and Figure 20 In the text, the following symbols are used:

[0142] - Thin and thick lines represent conduits;

[0143] - Arrows indicate the direction in which fluid (liquid, steam, or gas) can flow;

[0144] -Thick lines indicate the flow of fluid (liquid, steam, or gas) in a conduit;

[0145] - The first valve 30, the second valve 32, the third valve 34 and the fourth valve 36 have black open ports and white closed and blocked ports.

[0146] Tables 1 and 2 below show how ECU 40 can control beverage preparation device 4 to achieve the following: Figures 11 to 18 and Figure 20 Examples of various basic functions are shown below, labeled as "Wait," "Water On," "Air On," "Pre-wetting," "Infuse," "Air Rinse," "Water Rinse," "Air / Water Rinse," and "Water / Air On." These labels are in the first row of Tables 1 and 2, and in... Figures 11 to 18 and Figure 20 As shown in the image.

[0147] Table 1 :

[0148]

[0149] Table 2 :

[0150]

[0151] In the first column of Table 1 and Table 2:

[0152] - The term "EV A-water valve" indicates the first valve 30;

[0153] - The term "EV B-air valve" refers to the second valve 32;

[0154] - The term "EV C-discharge valve" refers to the third valve 34;

[0155] - The term "motor position" refers to the fourth valve 36, which can be positioned as follows:

[0156] • "Clamped" indicates that the fourth valve 36 is closed.

[0157] "Middle" indicates that the fourth valve 36 dispenses the beverage product into the user's cup 51, and

[0158] • "Cleaning" indicates that the fourth valve 36 allows liquid to be discharged towards the liquid discharge port 37;

[0159] - The term "water pump (BPU)" refers to a liquid delivery device 24;

[0160] - The term "air pump" refers to a gas delivery device 26;

[0161] - The term "boiler temperature" refers to the temperature at which a fluid (preferably liquid and / or steam) can be heated, such as 90°C, 100°C, or 120°C;

[0162] - The term "main water pump" refers to the main water source 38;

[0163] - The number "1" indicates that fluid is flowing into or out of the corresponding valve or device; and

[0164] The symbol "-" indicates that no fluid is flowing into or out of the corresponding valve or device.

[0165] Method 201 may also include step 222: i) during the delivery of fluid (preferably liquid) into beverage space 108 via first injection element 14, and / or ii) during the discharge of beverage product via discharge element 20, injecting gas into headspace 110 via second injection element 16.

[0166] Step 222, which delivers a fluid (preferably a liquid) into the beverage space 108, may include pre-wetting the beverage components 102 with a fluid, liquid, and / or steam prior to producing the beverage product. Figure 7 , Figure 8 Step 224. In addition, optional step 226 may involve discharging gas from capsule 101 via at least one of second injection element 16 and discharge element 20.

[0167] Method 201 may also include step 228: i) injecting fluid (preferably liquid) into beverage space 108 after the fluid (preferably liquid) is injected into the beverage space 108, and ii) at least partially simultaneously during the discharge of beverage product, and / or iii) at least partially during the delivery of fluid (preferably liquid) into top space 110, injecting gas into beverage space 108.

[0168] Method 201 may also include step 230 of injecting gas into the headspace 110 via a second injection element 16 after injecting fluid (preferably liquid) into the headspace 110.

[0169] In another step 232, the discharged beverage product may be delivered to a dispensing unit 51, which is arranged downstream of the discharge element 20 and configured to dispense the beverage product into, for example, a user's cup 51.

[0170] Turning Figures 11 to 21 Fluid diagram. Figure 11 The "waiting" function is shown. Steps 208, 210, and 212 have been performed, in which the first injection element 14, the second injection element 16, and the discharge element 20 are inserted through the membrane 106. No fluid, liquid, vapor, or gas can flow in the circuit or through the valve.

[0171] Figure 12 The “water on” function is shown. Fluid (e.g., water) can flow from delivery device 23 (here from liquid delivery device 24) into beverage space 108 via first injection element 14. Beverage components 102 can be humidified, and some beverage products can be discharged via discharge element 20 and valve 36 and then dispensed into the user’s cup 51.

[0172] Figure 13 The "air open" function is shown. Air can flow from delivery device 23 (here, gas delivery device 26) into top space 110 via second injection element 16. This allows beverage product remaining in the capsule to be expelled, and some beverage product can still be discharged via discharge element 20 and then dispensed into the user's cup 51.

[0173] Specifically, a gas (e.g., air) can be delivered at a pressure selected to keep the capsule tightly sealed relative to its environment (e.g., chamber 2). For example, with chamber 2 at ambient pressure, the air pressure can be slightly higher than ambient pressure, and therefore minimal.

[0174] Therefore, the capsule 101 can remain tightly packed, particularly around the needles, through the complementary shape of the delivered gas and the needle plate carrying the needles forming the first injection element 14, the second injection element 16, and the discharge element 20. After beverage preparation, the delivered gas can be discharged from the capsule 101 via the fourth valve 36 and the gas discharge port 35. To discharge the gas, the valve and pump can be gently actuated to avoid hammering effects that could compromise the tightness of the capsule 101.

[0175] Figure 14 The "pre-wetting" function is illustrated. When the fourth valve 36 is closed, fluid, liquid, and / or vapor can flow from the delivery device 23 into the beverage space 108 of the capsule 101 via the first injection element 14 and remain therein. Air can be discharged via the second valve 34 to the gas discharge port 35. The beverage component 102 can be wetted. If the fluid is or includes vapor, the vapor may condense around the beverage component 102 after a certain period of time, thus allowing the delivery of the beverage product.

[0176] Figure 15 The function of "infusion" is illustrated. While water and / or steam have been delivered and are in contact with beverage component 102, no fluid, liquid, steam, and / or gas can flow in the circuit or through the valve. Beverage component 102 can interact with water to produce a beverage product, and delivery of the beverage product is not permitted.

[0177] Figure 16 The "air rinsing" function is illustrated. Air can flow from the gas delivery device 26 via the first injection element 14 to rinse the beverage product out of the beverage compartment 108. When the fourth valve 36 is open, the beverage product can be discharged via the discharge element 20 and dispensed into the user's cup 51.

[0178] Figure 17 The "water flushing" function is illustrated. Fluid, liquid, and / or steam can flow from delivery device 23 via second injection element 16 to clean the top space 110. In particular, fluid can be sprayed or sprayed onto and around discharge element 20, such as... Figure 19 As indicated by the vertical arrow in the diagram. When the fourth valve 36 is in the "cleaning" position, cleaning fluid (e.g., water) can be discharged via the discharge element 20 and the liquid discharge port 37. Alternatively, when the cleaning fluid has the same characteristics as the beverage product, the cleaning fluid can be delivered as part of the beverage product.

[0179] Figure 18 The "air / water flushing" function is shown, which combines features as described above. Figure 16 and Figure 17The described "air flushing" and "water flushing" functions differ in that all fluids (e.g., liquids) can be discharged via the discharge element 20 and the liquid discharge port 37 because the fourth valve 36 is in the "cleaning" position. Specifically, water can be sprayed or sprayed onto and around the discharge element 20, such as... Figure 21 As indicated by the vertical arrow on the left, and as indicated by the arrow on the right, air can clean the cleaning fluid (preferably liquid and / or steam) out of the capsule.

[0180] Figure 20 The "Water / Air On" function is shown, which simultaneously performs the functions described above. Figure 12 and Figure 13 The "water open" and "air open" functions are described above. The "water / air open" function is an alternative to performing the "water open" and "air open" functions sequentially. Specifically, water can flow within the beverage space 108, while air can push fluid (preferably liquid and / or steam) from the beverage space 108 out of the capsule through the separating element 105.

[0181] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, as long as they are covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A beverage preparation machine (1), the beverage preparation machine comprising: - Chamber (2), the chamber being used to receive a capsule (101) carrying beverage components (102), - Beverage preparation apparatus (4), the beverage preparation apparatus having: Delivery device (23), the delivery device being used to deliver fluid into the chamber (2), A first injection element (14) and a second injection element (16), the first injection element and the second injection element being selectively fluidly connected to the delivery device (23) to inject fluid into the chamber (2), respectively. A discharge device (18) having a discharge element (20) for discharging the delivered fluid from the chamber (2). The first injection element (14) protrudes further into the chamber (2) than the second injection element (16), and the first injection element (14) protrudes further into the chamber (2) than the discharge element (20). The area where the second injection element (16) protrudes into the chamber (2) is positioned higher than the area where the discharge element (20) protrudes into the chamber (2).

2. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The second injection element (16) includes an outlet opening (16.1) oriented toward the discharge element (20).

3. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The area of ​​the first injection element (14) protruding into the chamber (2) is positioned higher than the area of ​​the discharge element (20) protruding into the chamber (2).

4. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The second injection element (16) protrudes into the chamber at the upper or uppermost region (14.2) of the chamber (2), and / or the discharge element (20) protrudes into the chamber at the lower or lowermost region (20.2) of the chamber (2).

5. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first injection element (14), the second injection element (16) and the discharge element (20) all protrude from the same side of the beverage preparation device (4) into the chamber (2).

6. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, the beverage preparation machine further comprising a capsule holder (6) for holding the capsule (101).

7. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The delivery device (23) includes a liquid delivery device (24) for delivering liquid to the chamber (2), wherein the liquid delivery device (24) is selectively fluidly connected via a conduit to the first injection element (14) and the second injection element (16), and is provided with a valve.

8. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 7, wherein, The delivery device (23) includes a gas delivery device (26) for delivering gas to the chamber (2), the gas delivery device (26) being selectively fluidly connected via a conduit to the first injection element (14) and the second injection element (16).

9. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 8, wherein, The valve includes: - A first valve (30) for selectively connecting the first injection element (14) to the gas delivery device (26) or the liquid delivery device (24), and - A second valve (32) is used to selectively connect the second injection element (16) to the gas delivery device (26) or the liquid delivery device (24).

10. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 9, wherein, The valve includes: - A third valve (34), configured to selectively connect the second injection element (16) to a gas discharge port (35-out), and - Fourth valve (36), which is configured to selectively connect the discharge element (20) to a distribution conduit or a liquid discharge port (37-out).

11. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The area where the first injection element (14) protrudes into the chamber (2) is positioned at the same height as the area where the second injection element (16) protrudes into the chamber (2).

12. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 4, wherein, The first injection element (14) protrudes into the chamber (2) at the upper or uppermost region (14.2).

13. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 6, wherein, The capsule holder (6) is movable relative to the beverage preparation device (4) and / or can be selectively connected to the beverage preparation device (4) to define the chamber (2).

14. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 7, wherein, The valve is disposed in the conduit to selectively deliver the liquid to at least one of the first injection element (14) and the second injection element (16).

15. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 8, wherein, The valve is disposed in the conduit to selectively deliver the gas to at least one of the first injection element (14) and the second injection element (16).

16. A method for preparing a beverage product, the method comprising: - Provides a beverage preparation machine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, - Provides a capsule (101) carrying a beverage component (102), the capsule (101) having: i) a body (104) defining a cavity (104.0) having an opening (104.5) on one side, and ii) a membrane (106) attached to the body (104) to cover the opening (104.5) and close the cavity (104.0), the body (104) including: i) a beverage space (108) containing the beverage component (102), ii) a top space (110) extending between the beverage space (108) and the membrane (106), and iii) a separating element (105) separating the beverage space (108) from the top space (110). - The capsule (101) is received in the chamber (2). - Insert the first injection element (14) through the membrane (106) and into the beverage space (108), The second injection element (16) is inserted through the membrane (106) and into the top space (110). - Insert the emission element (20) through the membrane (106) and into the top space (110), - Fluid is delivered into the beverage space (108) via the first injection element (14), such that the delivered fluid can interact with the beverage components (102) to prepare a beverage product. - The beverage product is discharged from the capsule (101) via the discharge element (20), and - After the beverage product has been discharged, fluid is injected into the top space (110) via the second injection element (16) to clean the discharge element (20).

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, After the beverage product has been discharged, the step of injecting fluid into the headspace (110) via the second injection element (16) includes injecting fluid into the headspace (110) via the second injection element (16) in such a way that the injected fluid is sprayed or sprayed onto and / or around the discharge element (20).

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising: i) During the delivery of fluid into the beverage space (108) via the first injection element (14), and / or ii) during the discharge of the beverage product via the discharge element (20), gas is injected into the top space (110) via the second injection element (16).

19. The method of claim 16 or 17, wherein delivering fluid into the beverage space (108) via the first injection element (14) comprises: Before producing the beverage product, the beverage components (102) are pre-wetted, and gas is expelled from the capsule (101) via at least one of the second injection element (16) and the discharge element (20).

20. The method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising: i) after the fluid is injected into the beverage space (108), and ii) at least partially simultaneously during the discharge of the beverage product, and / or iii) at least partially during the delivery of the fluid into the top space (110), the gas is injected into the beverage space (108).

21. The method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising: After the fluid is injected into the top space (110), gas is injected into the top space (110) via the second injection element (16).

22. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The separating element (105) includes a filter element.

23. The method according to claim 17, wherein, The injected fluid is sprayed or sprayed onto the discharge opening (20.1) of the discharge element (20).

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