Mechanically operated valve

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a beverage preparation device comprising: a first fluid delivery line (2); a second fluid transfer line (4); a fluid outlet nozzle (440) movable between a stowed position and an operative position and configured to receive fluid from at least the second delivery line (4) when in the operative position; and a valve arrangement (1) having a valve member (6) which can be moved between a first position, in which the first fluid transfer line (2) is open and the second fluid transfer line (4) is cut off, and a second position, in which the first fluid transfer line (2) is cut off and the second fluid transfer line (4) is open, wherein the valve member (6) is mechanically coupled to a fluid outlet nozzle (440) such that moving the fluid outlet nozzle (440) between the stowed position and the operative position displaces the valve member (6) between a first position and a second position, and returning the fluid outlet nozzle (440) to the stowed position displaces the valve member (6) from the second position to the first position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mechanically operated valve for a beverage preparation device. In particular, the valve may be a pinch valve. Background Art

[0002] Beverage preparation devices for preparing and dispensing beverages are well known in the art. Such machines typically include one or more valves for shutting off various types of fluid delivery lines to control the flow of fluid between internal components and / or external components such as an outlet nozzle from which the prepared beverage can be provided.

[0003] A common type of valve used in beverage preparation devices is the so-called pinch valve, which relies on compression of the fluid conveying line for shut-off.

[0004] US8839711 discloses a beverage preparation machine having a pinch valve configured to alternately cut off each of two fluid passage lines according to a control function to provide a switching valve. The valve includes a driver having a stepper motor, which is disclosed to actuate a linear or rotary clamping mechanism.

[0005] US3517859 discloses a beverage preparation device having a manually operated switching pinch valve, which is configured to alternately supply hot water from different kettles. The valve includes a crank that can be operated by a user to alternately swing a roller from one fluid delivery line in a pair of lines to the other fluid delivery line to select which kettle provides hot water for brewing.

[0006] The present invention seeks to provide an improved valve arrangement. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present invention provides a beverage dispensing device and a valve arrangement according to the accompanying claims.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a valve device operable to selectively and alternately open and close at least a first fluid delivery line and a second fluid delivery line.

[0009] The valve device may include a valve member movable between a first position in which the first fluid delivery line is open and the second fluid delivery line is shut off and a second position in which the first fluid delivery line is shut off and the second fluid delivery line is open.

[0010] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, the valve device may be used in a beverage preparation device. The beverage preparation device may include a first fluid delivery line and a second fluid delivery line. The device may also include one or more fluid outlet nozzles.

[0011] The valve member may be mechanically coupled to the fluid outlet nozzle such that moving the fluid outlet nozzle between the stowed position and the operative position shifts the valve member between the first position and the second position, and returning the fluid outlet nozzle to the stowed position shifts the valve member from the second position to the first position.

[0012] The fluid outlet nozzle may include a steam outlet (which may be referred to as a steam wand), a hot water outlet nozzle or a beverage outlet nozzle. The beverage outlet nozzle may include, for example, a coffee or hot chocolate or hot water outlet nozzle. The beverage outlet nozzle may be multi-purpose and dispense a variety of different fluids. The deployment of the fluid outlet nozzle between the stowed position and the operating position may be linear, rotational or pivotable.

[0013] The valve device may be a pinch valve. The valve member of the pinch valve may be configured to compress the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line to cut off the line at the corresponding first position and the second position. The valve member may include one or more compression parts, which abut against the outer surface of the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line to close them. The valve member may include a valve body that can rotate around the valve member rotation axis. The compression part of the valve member may be arranged on opposite sides of the rotation axis. The compression part may be diametrically opposite. The valve body may include an actuation point, from which a coupling member such as a rod is attached to provide a driving rotation force. The valve member may include a biasing member attachment point (which may be referred to as a biasing point) on opposite sides of the actuation point. The biasing point may be diametrically opposite to the actuation point. Rotating the valve member at the actuation point or at the biasing point may cause the compression part to contact the corresponding fluid delivery line.

[0014] Each of the first and second delivery lines may include a compressible portion comprising a material that is easily compressed by the valve member. The material of the compressible portion may include an elastic material and is preferably made of silicone. The diameter of the delivery line may be between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, and the wall thickness may be between 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0015] The first and second fluid delivery lines may be disposed on opposite sides of the valve member. The valve member may be configured to shift laterally between a first position and a second position to compress the respective first and second delivery lines. Thus, the first and second fluid delivery lines (at least compressible portions thereof) and the valve member may be disposed in a common plane in which the valve member transitions.

[0016] The valve device may include a valve sleeve. The valve sleeve may include one or more channels in which the first fluid delivery conduit and the second fluid delivery conduit are located. The first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line may be located on either side of a central region of the valve sleeve. The valve member may be located within the central region. The valve sleeve may include a first portion and a second portion that are assembled together after the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line are inserted. The first portion and the second portion may be attached to each other using a suitable fixing member.

[0017] The valve sleeve may include a first side and a second side. An edge of the sleeve (which may be referred to as a top edge) may extend between the first side and the second side. The first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line may be configured to leave opposite sides of the valve sleeve. The first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line may leave the valve sleeve through the first side and the second side, respectively. The rod of the actuating valve member may enter the sleeve via the top edge between the first side and the second side. The first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line may extend vertically away from the first side and the second side. It should be understood that the use of the terms first side and the second side and the top edge is arbitrary and non-restrictive.

[0018] The valve sleeve may be a cubic shape having a length, a width and a thickness. In some embodiments, the length may be between 40 mm and 70 mm, the width may be between 30 mm and 45 mm, and the thickness may be between 12 mm and 20 mm.

[0019] The valve may include a biasing member to bias the valve member against the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line when in the respective first position or second position. The biasing member may be configured to provide a bistable switching operation, wherein the valve member is resiliently urged into each of the first position and the second position. The biasing member may provide a compressive force that resists switching of the valve member from the first position to the second position, and vice versa. The compressive force may be provided only to a portion of the stroke of the valve member. The biasing member may be configured to flip from a first position compressive force to a second position compressive force, and vice versa, when the valve member switches between the first position and the second position.

[0020] The biasing member may be configured to provide a compressive force for closing the first and second fluid delivery lines when in the second and first positions, respectively. Thus, the biasing member may be configured to forcibly drive the compression portion of the valve member into the first and second fluid delivery lines.

[0021] The biasing member may include any suitable biasing member. In some embodiments, the biasing member may include a coil spring. In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of biasing members.

[0022] Various options and features of the biasing member and configuration of the valve arrangement are provided with respect to the second aspect below.

[0023] The lateral displacement of the valve member may include rotation of the valve member about an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation may be defined by a pivot. The pivot may include an axis on which the valve member is mounted. The rotation of the axis may be arranged vertically relative to the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line.

[0024] The valve member may include a biasing point against which the biasing member urges the valve member into the first position or the second position. The biasing point may include an attachment point for the biasing member, or a point against which a force vector of the biasing member acts to bias the valve member to the fluid delivery line.

[0025] The valve member may include a first compression portion for compressing the first fluid delivery pipeline and a second compression portion for compressing the second fluid delivery pipeline. The first compression portion and the second compression portion may be located on opposite sides of a line extending between the rotation axis and the offset point. The first compression point and the second compression point may be disposed on a peripheral edge of the valve member. The offset point may be disposed on a portion of the peripheral edge between the first compression portion and the second compression portion. The radial distance between the rotation axis and the compression portion may be the same. The radial distance between the rotation axis and the offset point may be equal to, less than, or greater than the radial spacing between the compression point and the rotation axis.

[0026] The biasing member may extend between an anchor and a biasing point located on the valve sleeve. When the valve member is disposed at a central position between the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line, the rotation axis, the biasing point and the anchor may be located along an axis (straight line). The axis may provide a centerline for the valve device. When the valve member is located at the center between the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line, the spacing between the biasing point and the anchor may be minimal.

[0027] The sleeve may include an enclosure in which the valve member and the first and second fluid delivery lines are located. The first and second fluid delivery lines may be laterally positioned relative to a central region in which the valve member is located. The first and second fluid delivery lines may be located within a passage provided by the valve sleeve. The biasing member anchor may be located in the central region.

[0028] The valve sleeve may include a first end and a second end, and the side extends between the first end and the second end. The first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line may be located within the side. The valve member may be positioned toward the first end. The anchor may be positioned toward the second end.

[0029] The coupling member may be attached to the valve member. The coupling member may include a rod. The coupling member may protrude outwardly from the first end of the valve sleeve. The coupling member may be configured to move laterally between the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line to affect lateral movement of the valve member between the first shut-off position and the second shut-off position.

[0030] The first and second compression portions of the valve member may be configured to compress the first and second fluid lines in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the first or second fluid delivery line.

[0031] Although the first aspect is mainly related to the use of a fluid outlet nozzle to actuate the valve member, this is not a limitation of the present disclosure, and any user-actuated element required for preparing a beverage may be used to actuate the valve member. The fluid outlet nozzle includes a steam outlet nozzle (which may be referred to as a steam wand), a hot water outlet, or a beverage dispensing nozzle.

[0032] The valve device may further comprise a rod coupling the valve member to the fluid outlet nozzle. The rod may be operable to switch the valve member between the first position and the second position when the fluid outlet nozzle moves between the stowed position and the operative position. The rod may be an integral part of the valve member, or a separate part received by or attached to the valve member during assembly of the beverage preparation device. The rod may be an elongated member extending between the valve sleeve and the nozzle outlet mechanism, which determines and / or controls the movement of the fluid outlet nozzle.

[0033] The rod may engage with a track on the fluid outlet nozzle mechanism. The track may provide a running-in surface against which the rod may be slidably guided during movement of the fluid outlet nozzle mechanism. Sliding movement of the rod on the slideway may cause movement of the rod relative to the valve sleeve and cause actuation of the valve member.

[0034] The fluid outlet nozzle mechanism may include at least one member. The member may be an arm. The member may be attached to the beverage preparation device (or its fixed structure) via a rotatable connection. Thus, when the fluid outlet nozzle is moved from the stowed position to the deployed position, the member may rotate about the axis of rotation.

[0035] The track may include at least one slide slot that is eccentrically arranged relative to the rotational axis of the member so that rotating the member displaces the valve member from a first position to a second position (or vice versa). The eccentrically arranged slide slot may include a surface that is separated from the rotational axis by a first distance when in the first rotational position and a second distance that is less than the first distance when in the second position. The measurement of the distance may be a radial distance along the line along which the rod moves, i.e., a common angular position relative to the rotational axis of the member.

[0036] The at least one chute may include a first chute configured to move the valve member from a first position to a second switching position, and a second chute configured to move the valve member from the second switching position to the first switching position. The second chute may be arranged eccentrically relative to the rotation axis of the member so that the rotating member shifts the valve member from the second position to the first position. The eccentrically arranged chute may include a surface that is separated from the rotation axis by a third distance when in the second rotation position, and a fourth distance that is less than the first distance when in the first rotation position. The measurement result of the distance may be a radial distance along the line along which the rod moves, that is, a common angular position relative to the rotation axis of the member.

[0037] The lever may be configured to move between the first slide slot and the second slide slot under the influence of a biasing member.

[0038] The beverage preparation device may further comprise a fluid source connected to a first fluid delivery line and optionally to a second fluid delivery line. The first fluid delivery line may be connected to a fluid outlet nozzle, and optionally, wherein the second fluid delivery line is connected to the fluid outlet nozzle. The fluid may be a liquid or a gas, for example including steam.

[0039] In a second aspect, the present disclosure may provide a bistable valve device for closing a first fluid delivery line and a second fluid delivery line. The valve device may include a valve member that can move between a first position and a second position, in which the first fluid delivery line is open and the second fluid delivery line is cut off, and in which the first fluid delivery line is cut off and the second fluid delivery line is open.

[0040] The valve device may further include a biasing member configured to force the valve member against the second delivery line when in the first position and to force the valve member against the first delivery line when in the second position. The biasing member may be sufficient to cut off the first delivery line and the second delivery line.

[0041] The valve member may move through a bias threshold when moving from the first position to the second position, and move from the second position to the first position. The bias member may be configured to resist movement of the valve member when moving away from either the first delivery line or the second delivery line before moving through the bias threshold. The bias member may be configured to urge the valve member away from the bias threshold toward the other of the first fluid delivery line or the second fluid delivery line once the bias threshold is passed.

[0042] The extent of movement of the valve member between the first position and the second position (or vice versa) may be referred to as the projection distance of the valve member. The bias threshold may be provided at the midpoint of the projection distance. Thus, the bias member may provide a resisting force acting against the actuation direction in the first half of the projection distance and a driving force acting in the actuation direction in the second half of the projection distance.

[0043] The valve member may be configured to move laterally between a first position and a second position. Thus, the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line may be on opposite sides of the valve member. The valve member is rotatable about an axis of rotation.

[0044] The biasing member can be configured to push the valve member about the rotational axis when not in the bias threshold. The spring force vector of the biasing member can be tangential to the rotational axis of the valve member on either side of the bias threshold. When in the first position or the second position, the spring force vector can point to the first fluid delivery line or the second fluid delivery line.

[0045] The valve member may comprise a biasing point against which the biasing member urges the valve member into the first position or the second position.The biasing point may be radially offset from the axis of rotation of the valve member.

[0046] The bias point may include an attachment point for a biasing member. The bias point may be provided by a pin, stud or other protruding feature around which a compression spring may be mounted. Alternatively, the biasing member may be located in a socket or otherwise attached to the valve member.

[0047] The biasing member may extend between an anchor point and a biasing point located on the valve sleeve. The anchor point may be radially separated from the valve member and the axis of rotation. For example, the valve member may be positioned toward a central region of the valve sleeve, with the anchor point disposed at an end of the valve sleeve or toward a side of the valve sleeve so as to be appropriately separated from the axis of rotation of the valve member and the biasing point.

[0048] When the valve member is arranged at a central position between the first position and the second position, the rotation axis, the bias point and the anchor point may be positioned along the axis. The valve device may include a centerline, an anchor point and a rotation axis arranged along the centerline. When the valve member is positioned at an intermediate position between the first position and the second position, the compression points of the valve member against the corresponding first and second delivery lines may be symmetrically located on either side of the centerline. The bias member may be arranged at a midpoint between the compression points of the valve member. When the valve member is arranged in an intermediate position, the bias point may be located on the centerline.

[0049] The bias threshold may correspond to the centerline and may represent a position of the valve member where the force vector of the biasing member is located along the centerline between the anchor points and through the bias points and the axis of rotation.

[0050] The biasing member may be configured to move away from the centerline as the valve member transitions between the first position and the second position.The valve sleeve may include one or more chamber walls to limit lateral movement of the biasing member when the biasing member is in the first position and the second position.

[0051] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, except for mutually exclusive situations, the features described in relation to any one of the aspects, embodiments or examples described herein may be applied to any other aspects, embodiments or examples mutatis mutandis. Furthermore, except for mutually exclusive situations, any features described herein may be applied to any aspect and / or combined with any other features described herein.

[0052] Thus, for example, any feature of the first aspect may be incorporated into the valve device of the second aspect, and any feature of the valve device of the second aspect may be incorporated into the beverage preparation device of the first aspect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] In order that the present invention may be more clearly understood, one or more embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0054] Figure 1a and 1b The internal structure of the valve according to the present invention in the first position and the second position are respectively shown;

[0055] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1a and 1b External view of the valve;

[0056] Figure 3 shows a schematic layout of a beverage preparation device including a valve of the present disclosure;

[0057] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a steam wand that may be used to actuate the valve of the present disclosure; and,

[0058] Figure 5a and Figure 5b The steam wand is shown in a stowed position and in a deployed position, respectively. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Reference Figure 1a , Figure 1b and Figure 2, shows a valve device 1 according to the present disclosure. The valve 1 is configured to alternately cut off a first fluid conveying line 2 and a second fluid conveying line 4 to prevent fluid from flowing therethrough.

[0060] The valve device 1 may include a valve member 6 having a first position (eg Figure 1a shown) and the second position ( Figure 1b ), in the first position, the first fluid delivery line 2 is open and the second fluid delivery line 4 is cut off, and in the second position, the first fluid delivery line 2 is closed and the second fluid delivery line 4 is open. Therefore, in use, the valve device 1 is operable to allow a fluid flow path through either the first delivery line 2 and the second delivery line 4, but not both. In this way, the valve device 1 can be configured to operate as a two-way valve, a switching valve, or a selection valve (among other configurations).

[0061] The valve member 6 can rotate around the rotation axis 8 so as to move laterally between the first position and the second position. The valve member 6 may include a body 9 and a first compression portion and a second compression portion 10 for advancing the corresponding first fluid delivery pipeline and the second fluid delivery pipeline to cut off. The compression portion 10 may be in the form of a protruding feature, such as a short column, which extends laterally from the body 9 of the valve member 6 and contacts the wall of the corresponding delivery pipeline 2, 4. The relative positioning of the first delivery pipeline and the second delivery pipeline and the movement of the valve member can be arranged to provide vertical clamping of the corresponding delivery pipeline when in the corresponding cut-off position, as shown in the figure. The corresponding valve seat compression portion 12 can be located on opposite sides of the delivery pipeline 2, 4 to provide a clamp structure between which the pipelines 2, 4 can be compressed and cut off more effectively.

[0062] The rotation axis 8 may be defined by a pivot 16 on which the valve member 6 is mounted. The delivery lines 2, 4 may be disposed laterally on opposite sides of and equidistant from the rotation axis 8. The rotation axis 8 may be disposed on or define a centerline 18 of the valve 1 .

[0063] To activate the valve device 1, in particular the valve member 6, the outlet nozzle 440 (eg Figure 4 4) may be mechanically coupled to the valve member 6 such that moving the fluid outlet nozzle 440 causes the valve member 6 to switch from the first position to the second position or vice versa.

[0064] Linking actuation of the valve member 6 to movement of the outlet nozzle 440 is advantageous because it allows switching of the fluid supply utilized by the fluid outlet nozzle 440 when the fluid outlet nozzle 440 is moved to the use position. Additionally or alternatively, actuation of the valve member 6 may disconnect one or more lines that are not required during use of the nozzle 440, thereby providing a convenient way of switching between lines and functions of the beverage preparation device, with a single user initiating action.

[0065] The valve device 1 may be a mechanical valve, as it does not require electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic power to operate it. Furthermore, the mechanical valve may be directly operated via a user's action. Thus, the arrangement may provide a simple, inexpensive way to implement a switching valve for a beverage preparation device.

[0066] The movement of the valve member 6 may be achieved by an elongated member (which may be referred to as a valve stem 21) protruding from the valve housing 20. The stem 21 may be operated directly by the user, or via a fluid delivery nozzle actuated by the user of the beverage preparation device. Figure 4 , Figure 5a and Figure 5b As shown and as described in further detail below, the valve device 1 may be operated in conjunction with the movement of a fluid outlet nozzle 440, for example in the form of a steam wand, a hot water nozzle or another fluid outlet nozzle for preparing beverages.

[0067] The fluid outlet nozzle 440 can be moved from a stowed position (e.g., a non-use position) ( Figure 5a ) to the expanded or operational position ( Figure 5b ), in this deployed or operational position, the nozzle 440 can be used for its primary purpose, i.e., for the injection of a fluid for the purpose of preparing a beverage. For example, in the case of a steam wand, the nozzle 440 can be stowed in or adjacent to the sleeve of the beverage preparation device and moved to a working area away from the device sleeve when needed.

[0068] The valve member 6 can be configured to be switchable between a first position and a second position in a bistable manner, so that once switched and positioned against the corresponding delivery line 2, 4 in the first position or the second position, additional force is required to disengage the valve member 6 and move it to the other delivery line 2, 4. In addition, the valve member 6 can be biased so that it is moved beyond the bias threshold point between the first position and the second position, resulting in the valve member 6 being pushed into the appropriate position by the biasing member. In doing so, it is ensured that once the bias threshold has been exceeded, the valve member 6 is firmly positioned in the appropriate position independent of the user's action. In addition, the biasing action can be configured to provide a force suitable for providing an audible "click" sound to indicate that the valve device 1 has been successfully actuated.

[0069] To achieve bistable operation, the embodiment of FIG. 1 includes a biasing member 22 in the form of a helical compression spring extending between a biasing point 22a on the valve member 6 to an anchoring point 22b on the valve sleeve 20. The rotation axis 8 and the anchoring point 22b define a centerline 18 of the valve device 1 that passes equidistantly between the first delivery line 2 and the second delivery line 4 at the constriction of each of these delivery lines. Thus, if the valve member 6 is positioned at an intermediate projection distance between the first delivery line 2 and the second delivery line 4, such that neither delivery line is closed, the rotation axis 8, the biasing point 22a and the anchoring point 22b will be positioned along the centerline 18.

[0070] The rotation axis 8 and the anchor point 22b are fixed relative to each other, the sleeve 20, and the first and second delivery lines 2 and 4. As the valve member 6 rotates, the bias point 22a can move away from the centerline 18 toward the first or second delivery line 2 and 4. When the valve member 6 is located at an intermediate projection distance between the first position and the second position, the bias point 22a can be located on the centerline. At this point, the force vector of the biasing member is aligned along the centerline and toward the rotation axis 8. This position provides a bias threshold so that movement to either side of the centerline 18 will cause the biasing member 22 to drive the valve member 6 toward the first or second position.

[0071] More specifically, the arrangement of the rotation axis 8, the bias point 22a, the anchor point 22b, the biasing member 22 and the valve member 6 is such that when the valve member 6 rotates away from the centerline 18, the spring force vector of the biasing member 22 moves laterally away from the rotation axis 8 to drive the valve member 6 toward and into the rotation of the delivery lines 2, 4 caused by the closure. In other words, the biasing member 22 pushes the valve member 6 into contact with the delivery lines 2, 4 and provides a compressive force for closing the delivery lines 2, 4.

[0072] When the valve 1 is switched, the valve member 6 is rotated by the user, which results in compression of the biasing member 22 until the moment when the biasing point 22a passes the centerline 18 and the bias threshold, at which moment the biasing member 22 pushes the valve member 6 in the direction in which it is moved into and against the second delivery conduit 2. In this way, the centerline 18 can provide a bias threshold that marks the transition between the biasing member 22 acting against the movement of the valve member 6 and one in which it pushes the valve member 6 in the actuation direction. As will be appreciated, this biasing bistable action provides clear feedback to the user about the switching action and ensures that the respective delivery conduits 2, 4 remain fully closed until such a moment that the user provides a positive forced switching action.

[0073] It will be appreciated that the position and relative spacing of the rotational axis 8, bias point 22a and anchor point 22b may be adjusted to vary the force provided by the biasing member 22. It will be appreciated that increasing the spring force of the biasing member 22 may provide an improved tactile feel or feedback to the user and may be used to provide improved isolation characteristics for the valve 1.

[0074] The biasing member 22 may be any suitable biasing member capable of driving the valve member 6 to rotate into the respective delivery conduits 2, 4. The use of a helical spring as shown in FIG1 is particularly advantageous due to the low cost and range of available sizes and spring forces, but other forms of biasing member 22 are possible.

[0075] The valve member body 8 and the sleeve 20 may include any suitable form that allows the biasing member 22 to be attached at the biasing point 22a and the anchoring point 22b. In the illustrated embodiment, each valve member 6 and the sleeve include a short stub that is configured to be located within the inner hole of the biasing member 22, however, other structures are also possible. However, other arrangements are also possible. For example, either or both of the sleeve 20 or the valve member 6 may include a socket into which the biasing member 22 can be inserted.

[0076] set

[0077] The valve device 1 may include a sleeve 20 that provides structural support for the first and second delivery lines 2 , 4 and the valve member 6 .

[0078] The valve sleeve 20 may be any suitable size or shape, and may be of any type of configuration, necessary to achieve the valve function described herein. Figure 2 The sleeve 20 shown is generally planar, having a top 20t, a bottom 20b, minor sides 20c, 20d, and major sides 20e, 20f. The outer wall of the sleeve 20 is single-layered and shaped to correspond to the various channels and chambers defined therein for accommodating the delivery lines 2, 4, the biasing member 22, and the valve member 6. The sleeve 20 can be constructed of two or more parts that are connected together by suitable fixing means such as screws or bolts.

[0079] In the secondary side 20c, 20d or outer wall, holes of suitable size may be provided for the rod 21 and the first and second delivery lines 2, 4. The holes for the delivery lines 2, 4 may correspond closely to the outer diameter of the lines 2, 4, while the hole for the rod 21 may be elongated in order to allow actuation movement of the rod 21 during switching. Anchor points 22b may be provided on the inner surface of the bottom wall 20b.

[0080] The first delivery line 2 and the second delivery line 4 may be received within appropriately sized channels defined by the inner wall of the sleeve 20. The channels 2', 4' may be sized to snugly receive the delivery lines 2, 4 so that they are securely clamped in place during use and do not deform when cut, particularly at the pinch point of the valve member 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the delivery lines 2, 4 follow respective tortuous paths extending from first ends 21, 25 at the lower end of the sleeve 20 on either side of the anchor point 22b to second ends 23, 26 on the side of the sleeve 20 above the valve member 6.

[0081] The lateral exit points of the delivery pipelines 2 and 4 are Figure 1a and Figure 1b The embodiment shown is convenient because it ensures that the pipeline does not hinder the movement of the rod 21 during switching. However, it should be understood that the inlet and outlet points of the first delivery pipeline 2 and the second delivery pipeline 4 can be located at different positions than those shown, and in some embodiments, the arrangement may not be symmetrical. The first and second ends of the first delivery pipeline 2 and the second delivery pipeline 4 are arbitrarily selected and do not necessarily relate to the flow direction of the fluid pipeline in use.

[0082] The delivery lines 2, 4 are arranged in the sleeve 20 so that the constricted portion compressed by the valve member 6 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the compressive force provided by the valve member 6 and the biasing member 22, thereby helping to ensure that the delivery line flow paths are properly cut off. In this way, the first delivery line 2 and the second delivery line 4 can be inclined toward each other at the constricted portion before bending outward to leave the sides 20c, 20d of the sleeve 20.

[0083] The biasing member 22 may be located in a central portion of the sleeve 20 between the first wire 2 and the second wire 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member chamber 22' is provided by the inner wall of the sleeve 20. The biasing member chamber 22' may be shaped to have lateral edges that generally correspond to the shape of the biasing member 22 when the valve member 6 is in the first switching position and the second switching position. In doing so, the lateral edges of the biasing member 22 may be supported to prevent unwanted lateral deflection and to help direct the force vector of the biasing member 22 toward the pinch point.

[0084] In the embodiment shown, the delivery lines 2, 4 curve around the biasing member chamber 22' and are slightly recessed away from the base 20b of the sleeve from the corner region accommodating the fixing point.

[0085] A rod 21 operatively connected to the valve member 6 extends from the upper surface 20t of the sleeve 20 so that it can be engaged by hand or through the outlet nozzle described above. The rod 21 is received in a slot to allow the range of motion required to rotate the valve member and can be enclosed from the inside by opposing walls, as shown.

[0086] It should be noted that references to the top and bottom surfaces on the package 20 are arbitrary, and these may be referred to as a first side or surface or a second side or surface, etc., as necessary.

[0087] Delivery pipeline

[0088] The delivery lines 2, 4 may be any suitable delivery lines known in the art. Typically, a delivery line for a pinch valve will include a portion of a compressible wall that can be clamped by the valve member 6 to cut off a flow path within the line. Typical materials for the delivery line may include an elastomeric material, and preferably silicone. The delivery line may have a diameter between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, and a wall thickness between 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0089] The valve device 1 of the present invention can be used in any suitable application in which a pair of fluid delivery lines 2, 4 need to be switched alternately at the same time. The delivery lines 2, 4 can be completely independent of each other, or can originate from a common source or leave a common outlet nozzle. Thus, for example, a beverage preparation device can include a first fluid source that can be delivered to a first outlet and a second outlet, or a first fluid source and a second fluid source that can be delivered to a single outlet, or a first fluid source and a second fluid source that can be delivered to independent first and second outlets.

[0090] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, a storage chamber 328 is shown upstream of the valve device 1. A main delivery line 330 extends between the chamber 328 and the valve device 1 (via a pump 332). The main line 330 bifurcates to provide a first delivery line 2 and a second delivery line 4 upstream of the valve 1. Downstream of the valve device 1, the first delivery line 2 may terminate at a steam wand 334, while the second delivery line 4 may extend to a brewing chamber 336. Since the steam wand 334 and the brewing chamber 336 are both used independently of each other during use of the device, the chamber 328 may be shared between the two. Furthermore, configuring the valve device 1 so that it can be operated with the movement of the steam wand 334 or an outlet nozzle in fluid communication with the brewing chamber 336 means that switching between the lines 2, 4 can be simplified.

[0091] As mentioned above, the valve device 1 can be a fully mechanical valve and can be actuated by a user action or by a motorized or electronic actuation system, however manual (user) action is preferred. The user action can be the action of moving the outlet nozzle of the beverage preparation device from, for example, a stowed position to an operating position. The outlet nozzle can be, for example, a steam wand, a beverage dispensing nozzle or a hot water nozzle. However, the valve device 1 can be applied to other types of nozzles in different embodiments, and the valve device 1 can also be used for user-operated devices other than nozzles. For example, the valve device 1 can be used with a milk stick for sucking milk into the device. Other examples can exist.

[0092] Figure 4 , Figure 5a and Figure 5b An example of an outlet nozzle 440 is shown in the form of a steam wand 442 that is moveable between a stowed position and an operative position via an outlet nozzle actuation mechanism 441 (which may be referred to as a steam wand mechanism). Figure 4 and Figure 5a The steam wand 442 is shown in a stowed position. Figure 5b The operating position is shown.

[0093] The specific arrangement of the steam wand mechanism 441 guiding travel between the stowed position and the operating position may differ in embodiments. However, the outlet nozzle will typically be coupled to the valve arrangement 1 to switch when the outlet nozzle moves a predetermined amount between the first and second positions.

[0094] As mentioned above, the valve device 1 may include a valve member 6 which may be switched using a lever 21. Thus, the lever 21 may be coupled to a steam wand mechanism 441 such that moving the steam wand 442 causes movement of the lever 21 and switching of the valve device 1. The connection between the lever 21 and the steam wand mechanism 441 may be direct, such as Figure 4 As shown, or may be for example via one or more gears or interconnected rods or shafts. In addition, the rod 21 may form part of the mechanism 441 and be distinct from the independent valve device 1.

[0095] Specific reference Figure 4 , Figure 5a and Figure 5b , a steam wand mechanism 441 is shown including a steam wand 442 that can be moved between a stowed position and an operating position in a generally vertical and forward direction away from a housing (not shown) of the device, as indicated by arrow 445. The steam wand 441 includes an internal passage for delivering steam from one of the delivery conduits 2, 4 to one or more outlets positioned toward a free end 442o of the wand 440. Figure 4The steam wand mechanism 441 shown comprises a first swing arm 443 and a second swing arm 444 that guide the movement of the steam wand 442. The first arm 443 and the second arm 444 are each connected to a suitable anchor point of the device via respective pivot connections 443p, 444p at their first ends. The second ends of the arms 443, 444 are connected to the steam wand 442 via respective pivot connections (not shown).

[0096] The valve device 1 including the sleeve 20 and the first and second delivery lines 2 and 4 is shown to the right of the steam wand mechanism 441 and rotated 90 degrees relative to the orientation shown in the previous figures. As previously mentioned, the delivery lines 2, 4 can be connected to the same or different inputs and outputs, however, in Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, at least one of the delivery lines 2, 4 is connected to the steam wand channel. For clarity, the connection of the delivery lines 2, 4 is not shown, but generally includes one of the fluid delivery lines 2, 4 extending through the central channel of the upper arm before descending toward the outlet end 442o of the rod 442.

[0097] It can be seen that the rod 21 extends from the end of the sleeve 20. The other elements of the valve device 1 can be assumed to be the same as those described above. Figure 1a and Figure 1b The same as those described in .

[0098] The lever 21 engages with an actuation track 447 provided by the steam wand mechanism 441 so that movement of the steam wand 442 causes actuation of the lever 21 and switching of the valve member 6. In the embodiment shown, the track 447 is provided by the second lower arm 444, but this is not limiting and the connection between the mechanism 441 and the valve member 6 may be provided by any suitable component, including for example an upper arm or some other element of the lever itself or the outlet nozzle, which may be convenient.

[0099] The track 447 may include an upper slide 447U and a lower slide 447L. The upper slide 447U and the lower slide 447L may be configured to move the rod 21 when the steam wand 442 moves and the lower arm 444 rotates. This may be achieved by providing an upper slide 447U and a lower slide 447L having surfaces arranged eccentrically relative to the rotation of the arm 444, so that the rotating arm 444 pushes the rod 21 downward or upward as required.

[0100] The exact shape of the chutes 447U, 447L may vary between embodiments, and they may be curved and / or straight. The radius of curvature may not be constant around the chute surface, such that the curvature varies along the length, and there may be one or more straight sections.

[0101] During the movement of the arm 444, the deflection of the rod 21 provided by the slideways 447U and 447L is sufficient to move the rod 21 by an amount that causes the valve member to switch from one delivery line 2, 4 to the other delivery line. Figure 1a , Figure 1b In the described embodiment, the movement of the rod 21 needs to be sufficient to overcome the bias threshold so that the biasing member 22 can move from a compressed state in the first part of the projection distance to an expanded state in the second part of the projection distance, in which it drives the valve member 6 into the delivery line 2, 4 to be cut off.

[0102] like Figure 5a As best shown in FIG. 4 , when the steam wand 442 is in the stowed position, the rod 21 is located on or adjacent to the lower slide 44L. When the steam wand 442 is in the operating position, as shown in FIG. Figure 5b As shown, the rod 21 is located on or very close to the upper slide 447U, where it resides until the steam wand 442 is moved back to the stowed position.

[0103] like Figure 5a As shown, the lower slide 447L is configured so that as the arm 444 moves from the storage position to the operating position, the radial spacing between the slide 447L and the rotation axis 444a / pivot 444b of the arm 444 at the position of the lever 21 decreases. Therefore, with reference to the position of the lever 21, the spacing between the lower slide 447L and the pivot 444p is a first distance 448 in the stowed position and a second distance 449 in the operating position, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance. It should be understood that by "position of the lever", it is meant the angular position, not the radial position. Therefore, when the arm 444 moves, the slide 447L slides under the lever 21 and causes it to move vertically upward toward the pivot 444p.

[0104] Conversely, the upper slide 447U is configured such that the radial spacing between the slide slot 447U and the pivot 444p increases when the arm 444 moves from the operating position to the stowed position. Figure 5a The size 450 is larger than Figure 5b The corresponding dimension in is 451.

[0105] The upper and lower slide grooves 447U and 447L may have terminal ends whose radius of curvature is concentric with the rotation axis 444a of the arm 444. Thus, the arm 444 may be configured to allow a small amount of movement of the steam wand 442 without displacing the rod 21 and inadvertently opening or closing the valve.

[0106] The upper slide groove 447U and the lower slide groove 447L can be improved into one or more inclined structures 452, and the rod 21 is placed on the inclined structure. Figure 5a447L, wherein the corner area of ​​the lower slide slot 447L is rounded. The radius of the rounded corner can increase along its length so that the rounded corner becomes larger toward the terminal end of the slide slot 447L associated with the end of the travel range of the swing arm 444.

[0107] As described above, the biasing member 22 can be configured to push the valve member 6 over the second half of the projection distance once the biasing threshold has been overcome. When this occurs, the rod 21 can move away from the drive slides 447U, 447L under the influence of the biasing member 22. To allow this, the slides 447U, 447L can be separated by a gap that is significantly larger than the width of the rod 21 to allow space for the rod 21 to move under the influence of the biasing member 22.

[0108] Actuation of the valve arrangement 1 under the influence of the biasing member 22 may be configured such that contact with the opposing slideway results in an audible click to indicate to the user that the valve has been operated.

[0109] The present disclosure provides a valve device that can be used to switch fluid delivery lines. In some embodiments, the valve device can advantageously be fully mechanical and operated by a user action. The user action can be an action required to prepare a beverage, such as moving a fluid outlet nozzle between a stowed position or an operating position. The valve can be bistable in that it is pushed into a corresponding delivery line by a biasing member.

[0110] One or more embodiments have been described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection provided in the following claims.

Claims

1. A beverage preparation device, comprising: a first fluid delivery pipeline; a second fluid delivery pipeline; a fluid outlet nozzle movable between a stowed position and an operative position and configured to receive fluid from at least the second delivery line when in the operative position; as well as, A valve device having a valve member, the valve member being movable between a first position in which the first fluid delivery line is open and the second fluid delivery line is cut off, and a second position in which the first fluid delivery line is cut off and the second fluid delivery line is open, wherein the valve member is mechanically coupled to the fluid outlet nozzle such that moving the fluid outlet nozzle between the stowed position and the operating position shifts the valve member between the first position and the second position, and returning the fluid outlet nozzle to the stowed position shifts the valve member from the second position to the first position.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line include compressible portions that are compressed by the valve member when shut off.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line are disposed on opposite sides of the valve member, wherein the valve member is configured to be laterally displaceable between a first position and a second position to compress the respective first delivery line and the second delivery line.

4. The apparatus of claim 2 or 3, wherein the valve further comprises a biasing member to bias the valve member against the first and second fluid delivery lines when in the respective first or second positions.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the biasing member provides a compressive force for shutting off the first and second fluid delivery lines when in the second and first positions, respectively.

6. Apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the biasing member comprises a coil spring.

7. Apparatus according to claims 4 to 6, wherein the lateral displacement comprises a rotation of the valve member about an axis of rotation.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the valve member includes a biasing point against which the biasing member abuts to cause the valve member to be urged into the first position or the second position, wherein the valve member comprises a first compression portion for compressing the first fluid delivery pipeline and a second compression portion for compressing the second fluid delivery pipeline, Wherein the first compression portion and the second compression portion are located on opposite sides of a line extending between the rotation axis and the bias point.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the biasing member extends between an anchor point on the valve sleeve and the biasing point.

10. The apparatus of claims 7 to 9, wherein the rotation axis, the bias point and the anchor point are located along an axis when the valve member is disposed in a central position between the first position and the second position and between the first fluid delivery line and the second fluid delivery line.

11. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the fluid outlet nozzle comprises a steam outlet, a hot water outlet or a beverage dispensing nozzle.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising a lever coupling the valve member and the fluid outlet nozzle, the lever being operable to transition the valve member between the first position and the second position when the fluid outlet nozzle moves between the stowed position and the operative position.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the rod engages a track on the fluid outlet nozzle mechanism.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the fluid outlet nozzle mechanism comprises at least one member that rotates about an axis of rotation of the member when the fluid outlet nozzle is moved from the stowed position to the deployed position, and The track comprises at least one slideway which is arranged eccentrically with respect to the axis of rotation of the member such that rotating the member displaces the valve member from the first position to the second position or vice versa.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one slide comprises a first slide configured to move the valve member from the first position to the second switching position, and a second slide configured to move the valve member from the second switching position to the first switching position.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the rod moves between the first and second slides under the influence of the biasing member.

17. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a fluid source connected to the first fluid delivery line and optionally to the second fluid delivery line.

18. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the first fluid delivery line is connected to the fluid outlet nozzle, and optionally wherein the second fluid delivery line is connected to the fluid outlet nozzle.

19. A bistable valve device for cutting off a first fluid delivery pipeline and a second fluid delivery pipeline, the valve device comprising: a rotary valve member movable between a first position in which the first fluid delivery line is open and the second fluid delivery line is shut off and a second position in which the first fluid delivery line is shut off and the second fluid delivery line is open; as well as, A biasing member is configured to rotatably urge the valve member against the second delivery line when in the first position and to rotatably urge the valve member against the first delivery line when in the second position.

20. The valve device of claim 19, wherein the valve member moves across a bias threshold when moving from the first position to the second position and from the second position to the first position, wherein the biasing member is configured to resist rotation of the valve member when moving away from either the first delivery line or the second delivery line and before moving across the biasing threshold, and after passing the biasing threshold, is configured to rotationally urge the valve member toward the other of the first fluid delivery line or the second fluid delivery line away from the biasing threshold.

21. A valve device according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the valve member includes compression portions on opposite sides of the rotation axis of the valve member, and the compression portions are configured to contact and compress the first delivery line and the second delivery line in the respective first position and the second position.

22. A valve according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the valve member comprises a biasing point from which the biasing member urges the valve member into the first position or the second position, wherein the biasing point is radially offset from the rotational axis.

23. The valve device of claim 22, wherein the biasing member extends between an anchor point on the valve sleeve and the biasing point.

24. The valve device of claim 23, wherein when the valve member is disposed at a central position between the first position and the second position and the compression portion is disposed on opposite sides of the rotation axis, the rotation axis, the bias point and the anchor point are positioned along a central axis.

25. A valve device according to any one of claims 19 to 24, wherein the biasing member is disposed within a chamber, wherein one or more side walls of the chamber restrict the movement of the biasing member when in the first and second positions.

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