Capsule dispenser, system and beverage preparation machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a capsule dispenser (101) for accommodating and dispensing substantially rotationally symmetrical capsules (8) in an operating position, comprising an accommodating element (3) and a movable element (2). The receiving element (3) defines a receiving area (31) for the capsule (8). The capsule dispenser (101) has an output region (4) for dispensing capsules (8). A relative movement between the receiving element (3) and the movable element (2) enables the capsule (8) to be moved into the output region (4) and to be discharged from the output region (4). At least the movement of the capsule (8) into the output region (4) or the delivery of the capsule (8) from the output region (4) comprises a rotation of the capsule (8) about one of its axes of symmetry.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a capsule dispenser, a system comprising a capsule dispenser and a beverage preparation machine comprising a capsule dispenser. Background Art

[0002] The use of capsules to prepare beverages offers many benefits to consumers. Capsules filled with beverage substances can provide users with a method of preparing beverages that is quick, requires little preparation and requires less cleaning. Furthermore, the use of capsules to prepare beverages requires no prior knowledge and the quality and quantity of the beverage is constant for the consumer.

[0003] In the present context, the term "beverage" particularly includes coffee, tea, milk, hot or cold chocolate drinks, soups and / or liquid foods.

[0004] Various devices for feeding capsules into beverage preparation machines are known in the prior art, for example, WO 2019 / 219523 Al shows a beverage dispenser with a dispensing belt for accommodating a beverage precursor portion. However, this design is complicated, requires a predetermined orientation of the capsule, and can only function by an active translational movement of the capsule through the dispensing belt.

[0005] EP2617333A1 discloses a capsule feeding device for producing brewed beverages. However, the capsule feeding device is based on a complex construction, a predefined capsule orientation, and a design of the capsule in a translational manner.

[0006] The supply of capsules in the prior art is usually complicated and prone to failure. In addition, there is often a lack of simple, intuitive and fast methods of use when feeding the capsules into the beverage preparation machine. It also usually requires a lot of force to send out the capsules.

[0007] Furthermore, filling and / or dispensing a large number of capsules, in particular rotationally symmetrical capsules, from a capsule dispenser is often complicated and user-unfriendly. In particular, the capsules often need to be oriented so as to maintain a certain spatial orientation in the capsule dispenser. Summary of the invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to overcome these and other disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to achieve a simple and economical dispensing of capsules.

[0009] This object is solved by the device defined in the independent claim. Further embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

[0010] The capsule dispenser according to the invention, which is used to accommodate and dispense substantially rotationally symmetrical capsules in an operating position, comprises a receiving element and a movable element. The receiving element defines a receiving area for the capsules. The capsule dispenser also has an output area for dispensing the capsules. By relative movement between the receiving element and the movable element, the capsule can be moved from the receiving area into the output area and can be delivered from the output area. At least the movement of the capsule into the output area or the delivery of the capsule from the output area comprises a rotation of the capsule around one of its axes of symmetry.

[0011] The operating position of the capsule dispenser is determined by its position in intended use.Preferably, the capsule dispenser is arranged on a substantially horizontal resting surface, in particular a connection area of ​​a beverage preparation machine.

[0012] The term capsule includes capsules having an at least partially rotationally symmetrical geometry, in particular conical, cylindrical, ellipsoidal and especially spherical.

[0013] The term capsule also includes various forms of pre-made beverage materials or beverage ingredients. Capsules can also include oxygen-tight and aroma-tight packaging, which wraps the beverage materials and beverage ingredients before use, especially protective layers and / or packaging made of plastics, organic polymers (especially polyolefins or polyethylene), biodegradable organic polymers and / or metals (such as aluminum).

[0014] The substantially rotationally symmetrical and rotatable capsules offer the advantage of optimizing the filling volume on a minimal surface, particularly for spherical capsules. It is also simple to deliver the capsules by rolling.

[0015] The capsule is substantially rotationally symmetrical about at least one axis, preferably two different axes. A fully rotationally symmetrical capsule is advantageous because the capsule does not have to be spatially aligned in the capsule dispenser. The complexity and size of the capsule dispenser can thus be optimized.

[0016] The term containing area is defined by the area used to contain the capsules, such as a closed chamber, a tray or a rail system.

[0017] The receiving element and / or the movable element may comprise at least one contact element, preferably a partition, which contacts the at least one capsule during the relative movement. Due to the relative movement and the rotational movement about at least one axis of symmetry of the capsule, the contact element can move the at least one capsule into or out of the output area.

[0018] The receiving element or the movable element may be configured such that at least one capsule is held in the receiving area or optionally in the delivery area by the shape of the receiving element or the movable element.

[0019] The output area may include an opening mechanism including a closed state for holding the capsule in the output area and an open state for delivering the capsule from the output area. This provides the advantage that a desired capsule can be selected by repeated relative movements, while the capsule can only be delivered from the output area by activation of the opening mechanism.

[0020] Preferably, the relative movement does not have to overcome the gravity acting on the capsule. The force used for the relative movement can therefore be further reduced.

[0021] When the capsule itself is located in the output area, the capsule can preferably be moved solely by gravity without further relative movement or drive.

[0022] By the relative movement of the particularly specified distance, preferably the capsule can be accurately sent out. Therefore, the capsule just can be sent out successively through the output area through the specified distance respectively by repeated relative movement.

[0023] In the operating position of the capsule dispenser, the receiving area is at least partially or completely inclined to the horizontal.

[0024] In an operating position transverse to the relative movement direction, at least in a partial region of the receiving element, the receiving area can have a bottom surface inclined to the horizontal plane. This has the advantage that the capsule itself can be arranged by gravity in a certain region of the receiving area.

[0025] In the operating position, the receiving area can optionally be tilted completely in the direction of the discharge area. The forces required for the relative movement can thus be further reduced.

[0026] The receiving element may be configured so that, in the operating position, it can receive a plurality of capsules in a plane that is inclined relative to the horizontal. This inclination is advantageous in that, if a capsule is not retained, it is automatically conveyed to the output area. At least one capsule may be retained by the receiving element, optionally by the movable element or the receiving element. Advantageously, when the receiving element is removed, the capsules may be automatically conveyed to the output area by gravity, preferably in a predetermined order.

[0027] The receiving element is configured so that it can receive a large number of capsules in a substantially horizontal plane in the operating position. This design enables a compact shape of the capsule dispenser and can stably store the capsules in the receiving area.

[0028] The delivery area may be at least partially inclined, preferably transversely to the relative movement direction in the operating position. The inclination of the delivery area is preferably sufficient to deliver the capsule out of the delivery area solely by gravity. Such an delivery area offers the advantage that no additional dispensing mechanism is required and the capsule dispenser is therefore simpler and cheaper to manufacture.

[0029] The inclination of the receiving area and / or the dispensing area in the operating position relative to the horizontal can be at least 1.5°, in particular at least 3°, preferably at least 10°. Small inclination angles are advantageous in terms of production technology, but are also suitable for at least partially rotationally symmetrical capsule dispensing.

[0030] The outlet area can be greater or less inclined than the receiving area. The inclination can be used to optimize the delivery of the capsules by gravity.

[0031] The receiving area can have a continuous base area or a plurality of interconnected subareas. Additional material can be saved by a plurality of interconnected subareas, by constructing a grid or a receiving area with recesses. These subareas can also prevent unwanted movement of the capsule, for example they receive the capsule between two subareas of the receiving area.

[0032] The receiving area for receiving the capsule can be designed to complement the shape of the capsule, in particular the shape of a plurality of capsules. The complementary design can extend in the direction of movement of the relative movement. Such a complementary design, such as a groove, can allow the capsule to rotate in one direction around its axis of symmetry. The forces required for the relative movement can thus be additionally reduced, since the force losses caused by the non-directional movement of the capsule and / or friction are minimized.

[0033] The capsules are preferably arranged sequentially in the receiving area, so that the capsules can be conveyed out of the output area one after the other in a specified sequence by a continuous relative movement.

[0034] The receiving area may have a discharge mechanism, which is configured to discharge the capsule by relative movement of the receiving element and the movable element in the conveying area. The discharge mechanism may be configured to lift the capsule at least partially against gravity by the discharge mechanism and the relative movement.

[0035] Such a discharge mechanism enables the capsule to be discharged reliably from the discharge region, in particular by the discharge mechanism interacting with the capsule only in the discharge region.

[0036] The discharge mechanism may comprise at least one protrusion. The protrusion at least partially protrudes vertically from the bottom surface of the receiving element in the discharge area in order to lift the capsule against gravity during the relative movement. This makes it possible that the capsule can be moved to the discharge area and only be lifted from the rest position in the discharge area for discharge.

[0037] The movable element and the receiving element may be connected or connectable to each other. Preferably, all capsules can be moved simultaneously by relative movement. All capsules can be moved relative to the output area by relative movement. This arrangement has the advantage that after one capsule has been delivered by relative movement, other capsules can be delivered to the vicinity of the output area. By continuous relative movement, a plurality of capsules can thus be delivered sequentially to the output area.

[0038] The movable element can perform a relative movement with the receiving element. The receiving element can be arranged fixedly. A fixed arrangement of the receiving device has the advantage that the capsule dispenser can be stably positioned, in particular can be stably arranged on the beverage preparation machine.

[0039] The capsule may be moved relative to the delivery area by a relative movement without rotating about its axis of symmetry outside the delivery area. The movable element may have at least one capsule holding portion for accommodating at least one capsule. The capsule holding portion may be configured so that the capsule only contacts the capsule holding portion.

[0040] This allows the capsule to move in a stationary position, enabling frictionless movement of the capsule without the capsule itself rotating, thereby minimizing the torque acting on the capsule and ensuring a smoother, seamless movement of the movable element relative to the containing element.

[0041] The capsule holding portion of the ejection mechanism and the movable element in the ejection area may be configured such that when the capsule holding portion moves to the ejection area, the relative movement lifts the capsule from the capsule holding portion by rotating the capsule and ejects the capsule from the dispensing portion.

[0042] The relative movement may be a rotational movement so that the individual capsules can be delivered successively from the delivery area. The rotational movement has the advantage that the capsule dispenser can be positioned in one position without a translational movement for delivering the capsules. Furthermore, the capsule dispenser in an initial orientation can also be restored to its original position by a plurality of rotational movements in the same orientation, preferably in the same orientation. The rotational movement also enables space saving and optimization of the size of the capsule dispenser.

[0043] The rotational movement is preferably a rotational movement in a constant rotational direction. A constant rotational direction is advantageous because it makes it easier for the user to use.

[0044] The rotational movement can optionally deliver the capsule to the output area in two rotational directions. This provides the advantage that the user can use different types of capsules in one capsule dispenser. A first type of capsule can be delivered to the output area by a rotational movement in a first direction and a second type of capsule can be delivered to the output area by a rotational movement in another direction.

[0045] The output area may comprise a channel for delivering capsules from the capsule dispenser.

[0046] The rotation axis of the rotational movement may extend substantially through a central area, in particular through the center of gravity of the capsule dispenser. The rotation axis may extend through a central area of ​​the movable element and / or the receiving element. Such a rotation axis provides the advantage that the capsule dispenser can be designed to save space and material.

[0047] The rotation axis may extend vertically through the capsule dispenser in the operating position.The vertical rotation axis enables operation and arrangement of the capsule dispenser.

[0048] However, the axis of rotation may also extend through the capsule dispenser horizontally or at any angle in the operating position.

[0049] The capsule dispenser can comprise a plurality of segments, preferably segments of a capsule holder, particularly preferably segments of a capsule holder in a horizontal plane in the operating position. The segments can each define, with two partition elements, preferably partition walls, a preferably at least partially prismatic area for accommodating a capsule. In the case of a horizontal axis of rotation, the segments are arranged in a vertical plane.

[0050] These sections make it possible to simplify the packing of the capsules and to define a clearly recognizable sequence of the capsules.

[0051] The segments may be formed by the movable element, the receiving element or both.

[0052] The containing element and / or the movable element may engage after a relative movement of a specified distance, preferably along the capsule holding portion of the segment. By engaging, an at least slightly increased resistance to a new relative movement may be generated. This engagement gives the user tactile feedback when the relative movement reaches the specified distance to deliver just one capsule.

[0053] The support element and / or the movable element may have recesses and / or protrusions for engagement. The recesses and protrusions of the support element and the movable element may be designed to be complementary.

[0054] All capsule holders of each section may have a uniform size. A uniform size has the advantage that capsules having generally a uniform size can be uniformly accommodated in the capsule holder.

[0055] The capsule dispenser may comprise a side wall element which is oriented substantially vertically in the operating position. Thus, the capsule can be placed in the receiving area in a particularly stable manner and the capsule can also be protected from being interfered with or soiled.

[0056] Optionally, the side wall element can be connected or connectable to the receiving element.Such a side wall element enables a compact design.

[0057] The side wall element may comprise a partial region of the discharge area, in particular a channel in the discharge area. Such a side wall element has the advantage that capsules can be discharged from the capsule dispenser via the side wall element transversely to the direction of relative movement. Furthermore, the channel arranged transversely to the direction of relative movement also protects the capsule dispenser against moisture penetration from a beverage preparation machine which may be arranged below the capsule dispenser.

[0058] The receiving element may comprise a channel in the output region. The channel in the receiving element enables a compact capsule dispenser structure, making it easier to deliver the capsules.

[0059] The passage can be adapted to the three-dimensional shape of the capsule. The capsule can only be sent out through the passage in a specified orientation of its three-dimensional shape. This provides the advantage that the capsule can only be sent out in the correct orientation and will otherwise be retained.

[0060] In the operating position, the output area may generally comprise a horizontal channel or a vertical channel.

[0061] The horizontal channel can be arranged in the center of the operating position in the capsule dispenser. This arrangement provides the advantage that the capsules can be easily and reliably sent out from the output area.

[0062] The side wall element can be a continuous wall, in particular a closed wall in the circumferential direction, apart from the optional passages.

[0063] The side wall elements can block the movement of the capsule transversely to the delivery area. Thus, the receiving area is limited and the capsule can also be stably stored.

[0064] The capsule dispenser may comprise a cover member which is connected or connectable to the movable element or the receiving element such that a relative movement of the cover member results in a relative movement of the movable element or the receiving element.

[0065] The cover thus enables simple handling of the capsule dispenser and at the same time ensures protection against dust.

[0066] The cover of the capsule dispenser is removable to fill the capsule dispenser from above with at least one, preferably a plurality of capsules in the operating position. This cover enables a more convenient filling of the capsule dispenser.

[0067] The cover may comprise a plurality of segment dividing elements. The dividing elements may thus be removed together with the cover so that the segments can be filled without the dividing elements. After filling, the cover may be reattached so that the capsule is divided into different segments by the dividing elements.

[0068] The receiving area can be designed to arrange the capsules at substantially equal distances, in particular in the area of ​​the receiving element transverse to the relative movement direction. This provides the advantage that the capsules can be separated from each other more easily and the capsules can also be sent out more easily in sequence.

[0069] The receiving element, in particular the bottom surface of the receiving element or the bottom surface of the movable element, may be at least partially or completely polygonal, elliptical or circular. The bottom surface may be circular.

[0070] The three-dimensional shape of the capsule dispenser can at least partially have a cylindrical, oval or prismatic shape, in particular a regular prismatic shape. This three-dimensional shape has the advantage that the capsule dispenser can be manufactured compactly and cost-effectively.

[0071] The capsule dispenser can comprise an operating element, preferably with an operating mechanism, for triggering the relative movement.

[0072] Such an operating element may facilitate and / or indicate to the user the operation of the capsule dispenser.

[0073] The operating element can be a manual operating element manually driven by a user. The manual operating element can have a manual operating mechanism, in particular a manual operating mechanism with a handle, a lever or a rubber surface.

[0074] The manual operating element can be directly connected or at least connectable to the movable element and / or the receiving element. Therefore, the drive of the operating element can directly lead to relative movement.

[0075] Alternatively, the manual operating mechanism can include a transmission device. Through the transmission device, the drive of the operating element can cause a smaller or larger relative movement.

[0076] The operating element can be of a mechanical nature. A mechanical operating element is therefore in particular a button, a switch, or a sensor, in particular a capacitive sensor.

[0077] At least a portion of the capsule dispenser, preferably the entire capsule dispenser, may be transparent or translucent.

[0078] A transparent or translucent capsule dispenser or a part of the capsule dispenser can enable a user to quickly view the filling state of the capsule dispenser with the capsule. In addition, the user can also identify the type of beverage that can be prepared with the capsule by the shape, color or mark of the capsule.

[0079] The receiving element can have at least one connecting element for a rotationally fixed connection to a movable element of a further, second capsule dispenser and / or to a connecting region of a beverage preparation machine.

[0080] The term anti-rotation means that the connected element cannot rotate relative to the receiving element when the capsule dispenser is in normal use.

[0081] In the operating position, the connecting element can be arranged on the bottom side of the receiving element. Thus, the capsule dispenser can be particularly attached. It is particularly advantageous that the connection of the connecting element can be additionally reinforced or supported by gravity in the operating position.

[0082] The movable element and / or the connecting region of the beverage preparation machine may have a complementary connecting element for receiving the connecting element of the receiving element.

[0083] The complementary connecting element can be arranged on the upper side of the movable element and / or the connecting region in the operating position.

[0084] The connecting element can include a protruding and / or lowered locking mechanism, in particular a blocking element. It can also be a laterally protruding and / or recessed locking element.

[0085] The complementary connection element of the movable element can be formed by a ribbed handle. If the ribbed handle does not form a connection, the ribbed handle can be used as an operating element. Thus, the ribbed handle of the movable element can be used both as a connection element and as an operating element.

[0086] The locking means of the connecting element and the locking means of the complementary connecting element may preferably interlock with one another in a form-fitting manner.

[0087] The connecting element, the complementary connecting element and / or the further connecting element may comprise a partially or completely conical, cylindrical, prismatic or elliptical cylindrical lowering or protruding area.

[0088] Another aspect of the invention relates to a system comprising a capsule dispenser as described above and a plurality of capsules, wherein the capsules are arranged in a receiving area of ​​the capsule dispenser. The capsules are preferably substantially rotationally symmetrical about at least one axis, preferably two different axes. Thus, a user can quickly and easily replace an empty capsule dispenser and / or avoid refilling individual capsules. For example, the already filled capsule dispenser can be sold on the market.

[0089] Such a system can be preferably attached in the operating position in or on the connection area of ​​the beverage preparation machine. This provides the advantage that the capsule can preferably be sent directly from the capsule dispenser to the beverage preparation machine and minimizes the operating effort.

[0090] Another aspect of the invention relates to a system comprising at least two capsule dispensers as described above. The system has at least two, optionally three, four, five or more capsule dispensers arranged vertically one above the other in an operating position, which are preferably detachably connected to each other by at least one connecting element. Such a modular system provides the advantage that a plurality of capsule dispensers can be operated in parallel. Thus, the capsule capacity can be increased. Furthermore, the capsule dispenser can also provide several different types of beverages to the user at the same time.

[0091] The movement of the side wall element and / or the receiving element of the upper capsule dispenser in the operating position may be coupled to the relative movement of the lower movable element by the connecting element.

[0092] Therefore, the rotation of the upper side wall element and / or the upper receiving element of the upper capsule dispenser can cause a rotational movement of the lower movable element. Therefore, the upper capsule dispenser can also be moved by the movement of the lower movable element.

[0093] The rotation of the upper movable element is preferably not coupled to the bottom components of the system via the connecting element. Therefore, the upper movable element can be moved independently.

[0094] Another aspect of the invention relates to a beverage preparation machine comprising at least one capsule dispenser as described above. The beverage preparation machine has a connection area, in particular a recess, for connecting the capsule dispenser, in particular for accommodating at least a part of a receiving element of the capsule dispenser.

[0095] The connecting region is designed such that the receiving element of the capsule dispenser is connected in a rotationally fixed manner.

[0096] The receiving element and / or the connecting region can be secured against rotation by corresponding locking mechanisms.

[0097] The corresponding locking mechanism may comprise at least one protruding stub or recess which prevents a rotation of the capsule dispenser in the circumferential direction.

[0098] Alternatively or additionally, the receiving element can also be lowered into the depression of the connecting region in a form-fitting manner, in particular in a rotationally and / or non-slip manner.

[0099] The receiving element can be detachably connected to the connecting region via a magnetic connecting element, in particular can be connected in a rotationally and / or anti-slip manner. The capsule dispenser can also include a recess and / or a magnetic connecting element.

[0100] The receiving element may in the operating position be attached to the beverage preparation machine in or on the connecting region in a substantially vertical orientation.

[0101] The beverage preparation machine can have an input area for inputting capsules for preparing the beverage.

[0102] The output area of ​​the capsule dispenser may correspond to an input area of ​​the beverage preparation machine.The output area may correspond to the input area such that a capsule dispensed through the output area may be directly received by the input area of ​​the beverage preparation machine without user interaction.

[0103] Hence, the term "corresponding" refers to a mutual alignment and / or distance between an output area of ​​the capsule dispenser and an input area of ​​the beverage preparation machine.

[0104] The output areas of the plurality of capsule dispensers may be arranged one above the other or may be arranged one above the other.

[0105] The beverage preparation machine or the capsule dispenser may comprise a guide mechanism. The guide mechanism may be arranged between the output area and the input area or may be arrangeable between the output area and the input area. The guide mechanism may in particular be at least partially inclined to a horizontal plane in the operating position of the beverage preparation machine so that a capsule delivered from the output area can be delivered to the input area completely by its own weight.

[0106] The operating position of the beverage preparation machine is defined by attaching the beverage preparation machine to a substantially horizontal surface so that the capsule can be fed from the capsule dispenser into the input area, preferably only by the capsule's own weight.

[0107] The guide mechanism may include a guide rail or a guide structure.

[0108] The guide means can be at least partially, optionally completely, funnel-shaped.

[0109] A brewing device, in particular comprising a brewing chamber, can be arranged below the input region of the beverage preparation machine. Thus, the capsule can be fed into the brewing device of the beverage preparation machine by directly sending out from the capsule dispenser.

[0110] The input area of ​​the beverage preparation machine may have a capsule inlet which is not blocked by the capsule dispenser in the operating position.

[0111] Thus, alternatively or additionally, a user may also manually introduce capsules into the input region even if at least one capsule dispenser is attached in or on the connecting region.

[0112] The horizontal channel of the output area in the operating position of the capsule dispenser can also be arranged vertically in the upper receiving area of ​​the beverage preparation machine input area. Therefore, capsules can be reliably fed from the output area into the input area of ​​the beverage preparation machine and a space-saving arrangement can be achieved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0113] The invention will now be described with reference to certain embodiments and the accompanying drawings, which are shown below:

[0114] Figure 1 : A perspective exploded view of a capsule dispenser with capsules on a coffee machine,

[0115] Figures 2A to 2C : A top view of the movable element viewed from above, an axonometric view viewed from below, and a top view viewed from below,

[0116] Figure 3A and 3B : A top view from above and an axonometric view from below of the receiving element,

[0117] Figure 4A and 4B: a perspective view of a system comprising two capsule dispensers arranged one above the other and a cross-sectional view of the system,

[0118] Figure 5 : Perspective view of the coffee machine with the connection area but without the capsule dispenser,

[0119] Figure 6 : A perspective view of a system comprising capsule dispensers arranged one above the other on a coffee machine,

[0120] Figure 7 : Cross section of the system and coffee machine with capsules in the delivery area,

[0121] Fig. 8A and 8B : perspective views of a first alternative embodiment and a second alternative embodiment of a movable element,

[0122] Figures 9A to 9C : a top view from above, an axonometric view from below and a top view from above of a first alternative embodiment of a housing element,

[0123] Fig. 10A and 10B : A perspective view from above of a second alternative embodiment of a receiving element and a side view of a capsule dispenser comprising a capsule dispenser according to Fig. 10A The accommodating elements and according to Figure 8B The movable element,

[0124] Fig.11 : A perspective view of a system comprising two capsule dispensers arranged side by side on a coffee machine,

[0125] Figures 12A to 12C :according to Fig. 9C A perspective view of a receiving element with legs, including a Fig. 12A The accommodating elements and according to Figure 8B A side view and a cross-sectional side view of a capsule dispenser with a movable element,

[0126] Figures 13A-13C : A perspective view of a cover, a movable element and a receiving element of an embodiment of a capsule dispenser,

[0127] Fig.14A and 14B :according to Figures 13A-13C A cross-sectional view of a capsule dispenser with a spherical capsule which is held by a movable element and is sent out of an output area by a protrusion of a receiving element. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0128] Figure 1An exploded view of a capsule dispenser 101 filled with capsules 8, which is mounted to a coffee machine 201, is shown. The capsule dispenser 101 is mounted to the coffee machine 201 in an operating position 10 at a connection area 9 of the coffee machine 201. The capsule dispenser 101 is oriented in the operating position 10 so that all capsules 8 are located in one horizontal plane. The upper part of the capsule dispenser 101 is constituted by a movable element 2, and the lower part of the capsule dispenser 101 is constituted by a bowl-shaped receiving element 3. The movable element 2 is shown in a raised state. In the operating position 10, the movable element 2 can be connected to the receiving element 3 so that the movable element 2 is rotatable relative to the receiving element 3 in two rotational directions. The receiving element 3 surrounds a receiving area 31 in the circumferential direction with a side wall element 6, so that capsules 8 can be placed in the receiving area 31. The side wall element 6 is oriented substantially vertically in the operating position.

[0129] The movable element 2 of the capsule dispenser 101 is materially bonded to the cover 7, which has a ribbed handle 28 which also serves as a connecting element. The movable element 2 is lowered vertically around the handle 28 in a substantially annular region 29. The movable element 2 thus has a plurality of sections, each of which has two partition walls 23 which, together with the side wall elements 6, enclose a prismatic region 22 for accommodating a capsule 8. In the operating position 10, the capsule 8 is arranged substantially in a horizontal plane in a radially outer region of the capsule dispenser 101. The prismatic region 22 is designed to accommodate exactly one capsule 8.

[0130] The side wall element 6 has a channel 41 which is sized just to deliver the capsule 8 located in the delivery area 4. The delivery area 4 of the capsule dispenser 101 is arranged so that the delivered capsule 8 can be delivered directly through the funnel 51 into the input area 5 of the coffee machine 201. Furthermore, the delivery area 4 has an inclination relative to the input area 5 of the coffee machine 201 so that the capsule 8 can be delivered from the delivery area 4 only by gravity.

[0131] By rotating the ribbed handle 28 by the user, the movable element 2 can be rotated relative to the receiving element 3 rigidly fixed to the coffee machine 201. Therefore, the ribbed handle 28 can be used as an operating member 13 for the user to perform relative movements. By rotating the movable element 2, all capsules 8 of the capsule dispenser 101 roll in the circumferential direction of the capsule dispenser 101. The relative movement refers to the distance that the movable element 2 rotates relative to the receiving element 3 in the circumferential direction by the length of one section. The axis of rotation 12 extends vertically through the center of gravity 121 of the movable element 2. Therefore, by rolling the capsule to the output area, a single capsule 8 can be transported to the output area by each relative movement. The capsule 8 in the present embodiment is spherical, so the capsule 8 is completely rotationally symmetrical. However, it is also conceivable to have a substantially prismatic, cylindrical or annular capsule 8, which can be rolled to the output area 4 by relative movement.

[0132] Figures 2A to 2C An isometric top view from above, an isometric bottom view from below, and a bottom view from below of the movable element 2 are shown. Figure 2A The handle 28 with ribs of the middle cover 7 can be used as an operating element 13 or as a connecting element that can be detachably connected to the upper portion of the receiving element 3 (see Figure 4A and 4B ). The ribs of the handle 28 can serve as a locking piece that matches the connecting element of the accommodating element 3. When the accommodating element 3 is connected to the movable element 2 via the handle 28, the movable element 2 and the accommodating element 3 can only be rotated together. The cover 7 of the movable element 2 has a recess 29 extending in the circumferential direction in the central radial area. Therefore, the upper side of the movable element 2 forms a bowl shape with a middle raised portion, which configures the ribbed handle 28. Compared with the edge area of ​​the movable element 2, the ribbed handle 28 is only slightly raised vertically so that the movable element 2 can be easily stacked (see Figure 1 ), and a compact design of the capsule dispenser 101 can be achieved. In addition, the connection arranged above the receiving element 3 is also ensured by the raised portion. In addition, in order to save material, the capsule dispenser 101 only needs to be slightly higher than the spherical capsule 8. The partition walls 23 of the segments of the movable element 2 extend straightly radially outward in a vertical plane, passing through the center of gravity 121 of the movable element 2. Two partition walls 23 respectively surround the area 22 of a segment.

[0133] Figure 2B 2 shows a connecting element 27, which can be observed to be mounted on the bottom of the movable element 2. This hollow cylindrical connecting element 27 is detachably connectable to the upper side of the receiving element so that the movable element 2 can rotate relative to the receiving element (see FIG. Figure 4A and 4B ). The connecting element 27 is arranged in the central area of ​​the movable element 2 so that the individual segments with their respective areas 22 are arranged in a horizontal plane around the connecting element 27. As can be seen in FIG. 2C, the individual segments 21 of the movable element 2 are separated by two partitions 23. In addition, the partitions 23 have small protrusions 232 in the radially outermost area, which are designed to complement the recesses 321 of the receiving element 3 (see FIG. Figure 3A ). In the relative movement of the movable element 2 in the form of rotation, these protrusions 232 engage with the recesses 321 of the receiving element 3 so that the resistance for the relative movement again increases. Figure 2C It is further shown that all segments 21 have identical capsule holders 211 , so that each area 22 can accommodate exactly one capsule. Figure 2C It is shown that the region 22 widens radially outwards with increasing distance from the center of gravity 121 of the moving part 2 in the vertical direction.

[0134] Figure 3A and 3B The accommodating element 3 is shown in an axonometric view from above and in an axonometric view from below. The accommodating element 3 has a circular bottom surface 35 and, together with the side wall 6, cylindrically encloses an accommodating area 31 for the capsule. The bottom surface 35 slopes vertically downward radially outward from the center of the accommodating element 3 (see FIG. Figure 4B The connecting element 38 is located to realize a rotatable connection with the movable element 2 (see Figure 1 ) on the upper side of the receiving element 3. The connecting element 38 forms a cylindrical raised portion with a protruding area 371 in the center of the section 31. Figure 3B It can be seen that the cylindrical raised portion is hollow in order to save material. The protrusion 371 is arranged in a capsule holding portion of the output area 4 so that the user can easily align the output area 4 with the channel 41. The recess 321 is also arranged on the upper edge of the side wall 6, keeping a certain distance from the adjacent parts. The recess 321 can form a slight resistance with the protrusion 232 of the movable element 2 (see Figure 2A and 2B ) is used for the movable element 2 to form a relative movement after a certain distance in each section. Therefore, the user can recognize whether it has rotated around the capsule holding part 211 through tactile feedback (see Figure 2C ) and whether the capsule operation has been performed. Figure 3B 3, a cylindrically recessed connecting element 37 with a locking portion formed by a latching element is arranged in the center of the bottom side of the receiving element 3. The connecting element 37 can detachably connect the bottom side of the receiving element 3 to a complementary connecting element on the top side of the movable element 2. In addition, the receiving element 3 has three recesses 322 in the radially outer region of the bottom surface 35. The recesses 322 are used for a non-rotatable connection with a connecting element of the coffee machine (see Figure 7 ). The connection region may have complementary connection elements for this purpose.

[0135] Figure 4A and 4B Shown is an axonometric view of a system 401 formed by two capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 stacked one above the other and a cross-sectional view of the system 401. Also visible is a system 301 consisting of a single capsule dispenser 1012 and an exemplary capsule 8 indicated by dashed lines to indicate that it is placed within the capsule dispenser 1012. Figure 4AThe containing element 3 and the movable element 2 of the capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 are made of polymethyl methacrylat so that they are substantially transparent and thus easily visible to the user. In another embodiment of the system 301 having the capsule dispenser 1012, the capsule dispenser 1012 is already filled with capsules 8 at the factory, and inexpensive materials such as cardboard or thin-walled plastic can be used. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of the system 301 can be particularly low. The upper capsule dispenser 1011 and the lower capsule dispenser 1012 form a cylindrical system 401. The side walls 61, 62 of the cylindrical system 401 form a continuous cylindrical outer surface. The structures of the capsule dispensers 1011 and 1012 are identical and can therefore be easily connected to each other and combined into a modular system. The capsules 8 are arranged in the containing area 31 (see Figure 1 3 ), and is surrounded by partition walls 23 and side walls 61, 62. The prismatic area 22 is marked with a dotted line to indicate that it is arranged inside the capsule dispenser 1012 below the side wall 62. In this embodiment, the accommodating area can accommodate nine capsules 8 in a horizontal plane respectively. The capsules 8 in the output area 4 of the capsule dispenser 101 will not be retained, but will be sent out of the output area 4. Therefore, this capsule dispenser 101 can place each capsule 8 in a separate area 22, and the capsule dispenser 101 can be lifted and / or moved without the capsule 8 falling out. Figure 4B 1012, the capsule dispenser 1012 is arranged in a radially outer region of the capsule dispenser 1012. The vertical rotation axis 12 extends through the center of gravity 121 of the individual elements 2, 3, 1011, 1012. In the operating position 10 of the capsule dispenser 1011, 1012, the inclination angle 311 of these sections relative to the horizontal line 11 is 15°. However, the capsule 8 is blocked by the side walls 61, 62 of the channels 411, 412 outside the output area 4 and cannot be delivered from the capsule dispenser 1012. The receiving element 3 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012 can be connected to the connection area 9 of the coffee machine in a rotationally fixed or anti-slip manner by means of three recesses 322 (see Figure 5 The movable element 2 is rotatably connected to the cylindrical connecting element 38 on the upper side of the accommodating element 3 via the hollow cylindrical connecting element 27 on the lower side. The ribbed handle 28 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012 is rotatably connected to the connecting element 37 on the bottom side of the accommodating element 3 of the upper capsule dispenser 1011 (see FIG. Figure 2A and 3B ). The ribbed handle 28 is surrounded by a vertically descending region 29 of the movable element 2. The receiving element 3 of the upper capsule dispenser 1011 is in turn rotatably connected to the movable element 2 of the upper capsule dispenser 1011.

[0136] As a first operating element 131, the ribbed handle 28 of the upper capsule dispenser 1011 can be rotated by the user so that the upper movable element 2 is rotated relative to the rest of the system 401 about the vertical rotation axis 12. In addition, the upper movable element 2 can also be removed using the ribbed handle 28, which acts as a kind of cover 7 to prevent the ingress of dust. Thus, the section of the upper capsule dispenser 1011 can be easily filled with new capsules 8. By the relative rotation of the upper movable element 2, the capsules 8 in the upper capsule dispenser 1011 can thus be simultaneously moved relative to the output area 4 and fed into the output area 4. Due to its circular rotationally symmetrical shape, the capsules 8 roll very smoothly through the relative rotation of the movable element 2.

[0137] In addition, the side wall 61 of the upper capsule dispenser 1011 can also be used as the second operating element 132. By confirmation by the user, the side wall element 61 can perform a relative rotation of the receiving element 3 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012. The side wall element 61 is a material connection part of the upper receiving element 3. The side wall element 61 is also connected to the movable element 2 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012 in a non-rotatable manner via the connecting elements 28, 27. Therefore, the rotation of the side wall element 61 leads to a rotation of the component 401 of the system relative to the receiving element 3 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012. Therefore, the second operating element 132 that drives the side wall 61 can lead to a relative rotation of the movable element 2 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012. By this relative rotation, which is also a rotation about the rotation axis 12, the capsule 8 can be sent from the section of the lower capsule dispenser 1011 into the output area 4. Due to the inclination of the output area 4, once the capsule 8 rolls to the output area 4, the capsule 8 is sent out of the channel 412 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012 only by gravity. The upper side wall element 61 can also be lifted together with the lower movable element 2 and the upper capsule dispenser 1011 so that new capsules 8 can be fed into the receiving area 31 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012. Of course, it is also possible to lift the upper capsule dispenser 1011 and the lower movable element 2 separately. The movable elements 2 of the upper capsule dispenser 1011 and the lower capsule dispenser 1012 can rotate in two rotational directions around the rotation axis 12. Thus, for example, different types of capsules can be arranged on the respective sides, and one type of capsule 8 can be fed out of the capsule dispenser 1011, 1012 in one rotational direction, while another type of capsule 8 can be fed out in another rotational direction.

[0138] Figure 5An axonometric view of a coffee machine 201 is shown. The coffee machine 201 is arranged with a connection area 9 for accommodating a capsule dispenser or at least a system comprising a capsule dispenser. The connection area 9 has three connection elements 91 in the form of protruding pins to ensure that the capsule dispenser cannot rotate. The coffee machine 201 has an input area 5 surrounded by a funnel 51. The funnel 51 can feed capsules, in particular substantially round capsules, from the capsule dispenser or manually into a brewing device inside the coffee machine 201. The coffee machine 201 further has a plurality of buttons 133 which can be used to operate the coffee machine 201 and / or the capsule dispenser. The buttons 133 can in particular be arranged to control the relative movement of the capsule dispenser.

[0139] Figure 6 The isometric view of the system 401 is shown, which consists of two capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 stacked one above the other on the coffee machine 201. The lower capsule dispenser 1012 is loaded with capsules 8 as the system 301. For the structural features and functions described, please refer to Figure 4A , Figure 4B , FIG. 4C , FIG. 4D and FIG. 4E . In the operating position 10 of the system 401 , the channel 412 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012 and the channel 411 of the upper capsule dispenser 1011 are arranged substantially vertically up and down. The capsules 8 located in the lower output area 42 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012 roll into the funnel 51 of the input area 5 of the coffee machine 201 due to the inclination of the output area. The capsules 8 flowing out of the upper output area 43 of the upper capsule dispenser 1011 fall into the funnel 51 and are also fed into the input area 5 of the coffee machine 201 . In the operating position of the capsule dispensers 1011 and 1012 , the input area 5 of the coffee machine is arranged vertically below the channels 412 and 411 of the side wall elements 61 and 62 so that the capsules 8 can be fed in only by gravity. The distance and inclination of the output area 43 are coordinated with the position of the input area 5 so that the capsules 8 can be reliably fed into the input area 5 by the relative rotation of the movable element 2 and the receiving element 3 (see Figure 3A and 3B The receiving element 3 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012 is connected to the connecting element 91 of the connecting area 9 (see Figure 5 ) and the recess 322 of the receiving element 3 (see Figure 3A and Figure 3B ) are connected together in a non-rotatable manner.

[0140] This arrangement allows the capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 to freely enter the input area 5 without being blocked by the capsule dispensers 1011, 1012. Therefore, the user can directly manually feed in other types of capsules 8. In addition, the user can continue to operate the coffee machine 201 when the capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 are empty without refilling or replacing the capsule dispensers 1011, 1012. The relative movement of the capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 can be automatically controlled by an operating element in the form of a button 133 of the coffee machine 201 through an internal motor with a transmission. Alternatively, the cover 7 can also serve as an operating element 131 manually operated by the user (see Figure 4A and Figure 4B ).

[0141] Figure 7 4 shows a cross section of a system 401 comprising two capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 each having a capsule 8 in an output area 42, 43 in an operating position 10 on a coffee machine 201. For the structural features and functions described, please refer to Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5 and Figure 6 By the relative rotation of the upper movable element 2 and the lower movable element 2, the capsule 8 rolls into the output areas 42 and 43 along the circumferential direction of the capsule dispensers 1011 and 1012. The receiving element 3 of the lower capsule dispenser 1012 is non-rotatably connected to the connecting area 9. However, the receiving element 3 of the upper capsule dispenser 1011 can be realized by rotating the side walls 61 and 62 of the non-rotatable connecting elements 27 and 38 (see Figure 4A and Figure 4B ). The relative movement can be driven by the ribbed handle 28 as the first operating element 131, the upper side wall 61 or the button 133 as the second operating element 132. By tilting the receiving area 31 of the capsule dispensers 1011 and 1012 radially outward, the capsule 8 can roll through the channels 411 and 412 in the side walls 61 and 62 and be sent to the input area 5 through the funnel 51.

[0142] Fig. 8A and 8B A perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of a movable element 2 and a second alternative embodiment of a movable element 2 is shown. Fig. 8A and 8B The movable element 2 in the embodiment constitutes a cover 7 for accommodating the element 3 (see Figures 9A to 9C ). The bottom side 24 of the movable element 2 is designed to be substantially flat and has a cylindrical upwardly directed protrusion 13 in the center of its center of gravity 121. In addition, Fig. 8A The bottom side 24 in the embodiment has a contact element 14 in the form of an arc-shaped partition wall. Figure 8BThe bottom surface of the container has two contact elements arranged opposite to each other, namely two arc-shaped partition walls 141 and 142. The arc shape of the partition walls 14, 141, 142 is to increase the contact surface with the capsule so that the capsule can be guided more reliably. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The partition walls 14, 141, 142 are used as capsules 8 (see Figure 1 A) When fixed in the receiving element, it is moved to the output area by rotating the movable element 2. Figure 8B The capsule can be moved from two different areas (see FIG. 1 ) by contacting the partition walls 141 and 142 according to the rotation direction of the movable element 2. Fig. 10A and Fig. 12A , 151 and 152) are transported to the output area.

[0143] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The projection 13 in the embodiment forms the operating element 13 on the side 25 facing away from the observer (see Fig. 10B ), the operating element 13 is materially bonded to a protruding arm 251, which radially extends from the operating element to the edge 241 of the movable element 2. The edge 241 has a raised portion 242 along the circumferential direction of the movable element 2, which can engage with the side wall of the receiving element, thereby rotatably fixing the movable element 2 to the receiving element. The raised portion 242 thus forms a connection area 27 that is paired with the receiving element. Fig.9A and Fig. 12A The upper edge of the central receiving element and the receiving portion of the connecting region 27 are complementary in shape.

[0144] 9A to 9C A perspective view and a top view from above and from below as well as from above of a first alternative embodiment of a receiving element 3 are shown. The receiving element 3 has an edge 38 as a connecting element of a movable element in the upper region of the cylindrical side wall 6 of the upper side 34. The bottom surface 35 of the receiving element 3 extends orthogonally to the side wall 6 and has a channel 41 in the middle, through which the capsule can be sent out by the relative movement of the movable element and the receiving element 3. In addition, the bottom surface 35 has a guide rail 351 extending in part in the circumferential direction and leading to the channel 41. In the initial area and the end area, the guide rail 351 has a raised part 352 and 353 respectively to support the capsule. Therefore, the width 355 of the guide rail 351 is smaller than the size of the capsule, so that the capsule is supported in the guide rail 351 and cannot move transversely to the guide rail 351. The height of the guide rail 351 is significantly smaller than the size of the capsule, so that the capsule can be guided along the guide rail 351 in a material-saving manner. In addition, the receiving element 3 has a guide area 354. The guide area 354 is used to guide the capsule through the partition walls 14, 141 and 142 (see FIG. Fig. 8A and8B ), and reaches the channel 41. Therefore, the capsule is pushed through the partition of the movable element and rolls along the guide rail 351 (see Fig. 8A and Figure 8B ).

[0145] The bottom side 33 of the receiving element 3 is of flat construction and has in the middle a channel 41 for delivering the capsule. Furthermore, the channel 41 is surrounded by a cylindrical protruding area which is formed as an element 37 for connection with the coffee machine.

[0146] Fig. 10A and 10B A perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of the housing element 3 is shown, as well as a side view of a capsule dispenser 101 comprising a capsule according to Fig. 10A The receiving element 3 and the Figure 8B The movable element 2 is shown.

[0147] Fig. 10A The receiving element 3 in the embodiment has two curved guide rails 3511, 3512 which are recessed 356 on the bottom surface 35. In the present embodiment, the guide rails 3511, 3512 have bottoms so that the bottom surface 35 of the receiving element is closed except for the middle passage 41.

[0148] In another embodiment, the recess 356 of the guide rails 3511, 3512 may also form a continuous opening from the top side to the bottom side in addition to the channel 41 for sending out the capsule in the center of the accommodating element 3. However, in this embodiment, the width 357 of the recess 356 is smaller than the size of the capsule so that the capsule can only be supported on the guide rail 351.

[0149] In the initial and final regions, the two guide rails 3511, 3512 have transition regions 352, 353 to the bottom surface 35, respectively, to hold the capsule. Fig. 10A The receiving element 3 in the embodiment has a protruding isolation area 354 so that the capsules of the adjacent guides 3511, 3512 are not exchanged between the guides 3511, 3512, nor are they fed into the channel 41 in a movement transverse to the guides 3511, 3512. In the radially outward direction of the receiving element 3, the capsules are retained by the side walls 6 of the receiving element 3. This arrangement enables the capsule dispenser 101 to be transported without exchanging or feeding out the capsules of the guides 3511 and 3512. Fig. 10A , the contact elements 14, 141 and 142 of the movable element 2 (see Fig. 8A and 8B ) is arranged in the isolation area 354 between the guide rails 3511 and 3512. The relative movement of the movable element and the receiving element 3 can be performed by manually driving the operating element 13 by rotating the protruding arm 251 of the movable element 2.

[0150] By the counterclockwise relative movement in the circumferential direction 15, the capsule can pass through the first contact member 141 (see Figure 8B ) contacts, rolls out from the first guide rail 3511 to the channel 41 and is sent out. Through the clockwise relative movement of the accommodating element 2 along the circumferential direction 15, the capsule can pass through the second contact element 142 (see Figure 8B ) contact, roll out from the second guide rail 3512 to reach the channel 41 and be sent out. Through this accommodating element 3, two different types of capsules can be used simultaneously by the user of the capsule dispenser.

[0151] Fig.11 A perspective view of a system 301 is shown, which comprises two capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 arranged adjacent to each other on a coffee machine 201. The capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 are fixed to the connection areas 92, 93 of the coffee machine 201, respectively, and the capsule dispensers have a plurality of Figure 8B The movable element 2 and according to Fig. 10A The movable element 2 has operating elements 131, 132, respectively, so that the capsule can be fed from the passage of the capsule dispenser into the input area ( Fig.11 ). Then, the button 133 of the coffee machine 201 can be activated to prepare a hot beverage. At least one additional capsule dispenser 1011, 1012 can be stored, or alternatively a plurality of capsule dispensers 1011, 1012 can be stored one above the other in the additional connection area 94.

[0152] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B System 12A to Fig. 12C Another embodiment of a capsule dispenser is shown in the system of FIG.

[0153] Fig. 12A Shown according to Fig. 10A The same reference numerals denote the same Fig. 10A The receiving element 3 further has spacers, for example three supporting legs 358, to raise the channel 41. The supporting legs 358 may be suitable for placing the receiving element 3 on the surface or connection area 92, 93 of the coffee machine (see Fig.11 Such a support leg 358 has the advantage that moisture from the coffee machine input area does not directly enter the capsule dispenser.

[0154] Figures 12B to 12C Shown according to Fig. 12A A side view of the movable element 2, a cross-sectional side view of the capsule dispenser 101, the side view including the Fig. 12A The receiving element 3 and the Fig. 12C The movable element 2.

[0155] The movable element 2 is attached to the receiving element 3 via the raised portion 242 on the edge 241 of the movable element 2 so that it is rotatable in the circumferential direction. The capsule can be stored in the guide rails 3511 and 3512 of the receiving area 31 of the receiving element 3 surrounded by the side wall 6 of the receiving element 3 (see Fig. 12A ). By driving the cylindrical protruding operating element 13 with the arm 251 of the movable element, the movable element 2 can be rotated relative to the receiving element 3. Therefore, the capsule can roll along the guide rails 3511 and 3512 with the recesses 356 to the channel 41 by contacting with the contact elements 141 and 142. Therefore, the capsule can be sent out from the capsule dispenser 101 through the isolation area 354 of the receiving element 3.

[0156] Figures 13A-13C A perspective view of the cover 7 , the movable element 2 and the containing element 3 of one embodiment of a capsule dispenser 101 is shown.

[0157] Fig.13A Cover 7 Fig.13A The cover 7 in the embodiment has a ribbed handle 28 formed by an annular area on the upper side. A lowered annular toothed connection area is attached to the lower side of the cover 7 so that the cover 7 can be connected to the toothed connection area on the toothed annular area of ​​the movable element 2. When the cover 7 and the movable element 2 are connected to each other, the cover 7 and the movable element 2 can be rotated together in the circumferential direction through the toothed connection area. This connection between the cover 7 and the movable element 2 can easily realize the removal of the cover 7 from the movable element 2, so that the capsule can be easily filled.

[0158] Fig. 13B The movable element 2 in the embodiment also has a plurality of capsule holding portions 211 configured to hold capsules. Each capsule holding portion 211 can hold one capsule so that the capsule only contacts the capsule holding portion 211.

[0159] The cover 7 and the movable element 2 can be inserted together Fig. 13C The cover 7 and the movable element 2 are arranged in the receiving element 3 so that the cover 7 and the movable element 2 can rotate together relative to the movable element 2. Therefore, the capsule in the capsule holding portion 211 can be delivered to the output area 4 of the receiving element 3. The output area 4 also has a delivery mechanism, which is composed of a protrusion 311 in the output area 4 of the receiving element 3. The protrusion 311 extends vertically from the bottom surface 35 of the receiving element 3 and is convex.

[0160] The movable element 2 has an outer receiving area 212 so that the capsule can be received in the capsule holding portion 211. When the movable element 2 is inserted into the receiving element 3, the capsule does not contact the receiving element 3. Therefore, during the rotational movement of the movable element 2, the capsule can move with the movable element 2 in a stationary position without rotating.

[0161] When the capsule holder 211 moves into the output area 4 by relative movement, only the protrusion 311 of the receiving element 3 in the output area 4 is configured to lift the capsule against gravity. By lifting the capsule from the static position, the capsule can rotate around its own axis through the channel 412 in the side wall of the receiving element 3 and be sent out of the output area 4 (see Figure 14B).

[0162] Fig.14A and 14B Shown according to Figures 13A-13C 1 is a cross-sectional view of a capsule dispenser 101 having a spherical capsule which is held by the movable element 2 and is sent out of the output area 4 by the protrusion 311 of the receiving element 3. Fig.14A and 14B The capsule dispenser 101 is shown in an operating position, in which the cover element 7 is connected to the movable element 2 in a rotationally fixed manner and the cover element 7 and the movable element 2 can be rotated together relative to the receiving element 3 .

[0163] Fig.14A It is shown that the capsule 8 is located in the capsule holding part 211 so that the capsule 8 only contacts the movable element 2. Therefore, the capsule 8 in the capsule holding part 211 can move with the movable element 2 in the static position by relative movement without additional friction of the containing element 3.

[0164] Fig.14A and 14B The movable element 2 in the embodiment of the present invention contacts the accommodating element 3 only through the conical connection in the center and contacts the outer bearing area 212. The capsule holding portion 211 is elevated relative to the bottom surface of the accommodating element 3.

[0165] The protrusion 311 and the movable element 3 are configured so that during the relative movement of the movable element 3 in the circumferential direction, the protrusion 311 is located below the capsule holding portion 211 and does not contact the movable element 3 during the relative movement. When the capsule holding portion 211 moves to the output area 4 through the relative movement, the capsule 8 can be lifted from the capsule holding portion 211 against gravity during the relative movement.

[0166] The convex shape of the protrusion 311 enables the capsule 8 to be lifted continuously by relative movement without any rigid resistance against the relative movement.

Claims

1. A capsule dispenser (101) for receiving and dispensing substantially rotationally symmetrical capsules (8) in an operating position (10), comprising a receiving element (3) and a movable element (2), wherein The receiving element (3) defines a receiving area (31) for the capsule (8), wherein The capsule dispenser (101) has a dispensing area (4) for dispensing capsules (8), characterized in that: The capsule (8) can be driven to the output area (4) by relative movement between the containing element (3) and the movable element (2), and the capsule (8) can be sent out from the output area (4), wherein at least driving the capsule (8) to the output area (4) or sending the capsule (8) out of the output area (4) comprises rotating the capsule (8) around one of its axes of symmetry.

2. The capsule dispenser (101) according to claim 1, wherein the receiving area (31) is inclined relative to the horizontal plane at least in a partial area or in the entire area of ​​the operating position (10) of the capsule dispenser (101), and / or has a delivery mechanism (311), which is configured to deliver the capsule (8) by relative movement between the receiving element (2) and the movable element (2) in the output area (4), in particular, the capsule (8) is lifted at least partially against gravity by the delivery mechanism (311) and the relative movement.

3. The capsule dispenser (101) according to claim 1, wherein the movable element (2) and the receiving element (3) are connected to each other or can be connected to each other, wherein the relative movement preferably enables all capsules (8) to be moved relative to the output area, in particular without rotating the capsules (8) around one of their symmetry axes except in the output area (4), preferably the movable element (2) has at least one capsule holding portion (211) for at least receiving the capsule (8), so that the capsule (8) only contacts the capsule holding portion (211).

4. The capsule dispenser (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The relative movement is a rotational movement, preferably a rotational movement with a constant direction of rotation, so that the individual capsules (8) can be removed from the discharge area (4) one after the other.

5. The capsule dispenser (101) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the capsule dispenser (101) comprises a plurality of segments (21), preferably a plurality of segments (21) of angular regions (211), in particular preferably a plurality of segments (21) of angular regions (211) in a horizontal plane in the operating position (10), in, Each segment (21) delimits, by means of two separating elements, preferably separating walls (23), an area (231), preferably an at least partially prismatic area (231) for accommodating exactly one capsule (8).

6. Capsule dispenser (101) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the capsule dispenser (101) comprises a side wall element (6) which is oriented substantially vertically in the operating position (10) and is optionally connected or connectable to the receiving element (3), wherein the side wall element (6) preferably comprises a partial area of ​​the output area (4).

7. The capsule dispenser (101) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the capsule dispenser (101) comprises a cover (7) which is connected or connectable to the movable element (2) or the receiving element (3) such that a relative movement of the cover (7) results in a relative movement.

8. The capsule dispenser (101) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the capsule dispenser (101) comprises an operating element (13), preferably with an operating mechanism for triggering the relative movement.

9. The capsule dispenser (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a part of the capsule dispenser (101), preferably the entire capsule dispenser (101), is transparent or translucent.

10. Capsule dispenser (101) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving element (3) comprises at least one connecting element (38) for non-rotatably connecting to a movable element (2) of another, second capsule dispenser (101) and / or to a connecting region (9) of a beverage preparation machine (201).

11. A system (301) comprising a capsule dispenser (101) according to any of the preceding claims and a plurality of capsules (8), wherein the capsules (8) are arranged in a receiving area (31) of the capsule dispenser (101) and are substantially rotationally symmetrical about at least one, preferably two different axes.

12. A system (401) comprising at least two capsule dispensers (101) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the system (401) in the operating position (10) has at least two vertically stacked capsule dispensers (101), which are preferably detachably connected to each other by at least one connecting element (37).

13. A beverage preparation machine (201) comprising at least one capsule dispenser (101) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the beverage preparation machine (201) has a connection area (9), in particular having a recess for connecting the capsule dispenser (101) and / or a magnetic connection element, in particular at least a part of a receiving element (3) for receiving the capsule dispenser (101).

14. A beverage preparation machine (201) according to claim 13, wherein the beverage preparation machine (201) comprises an input area (5) for inputting capsules (8) for preparing beverages, wherein the output area (4) of the capsule dispenser (101) corresponds to the input area (5) of the beverage preparation machine (201).

15. The beverage preparation machine (201) according to claim 13 to 14, wherein the beverage preparation machine (201) or the capsule dispenser (101) comprises a guide mechanism (51), and the guide mechanism (51) is arranged or can be arranged between the output area (4) and the input area (5), in The guide mechanism (51) is at least partially inclined relative to the horizontal plane in the operating position of the beverage preparation machine (201) so that the capsule (8) emitted from the output area (4) can be fed into the input area (5) only by its own gravity.

Images