Capsule puncture device and coffee machine

Abstract

This application provides a capsule piercing device and a coffee machine. The capsule piercing device includes: a piercing head having a water inlet channel, an air inlet channel, and a water outlet channel; a positioning frame movably mounted on the piercing head; a capsule fixing frame for fixing the capsule and mounted on the positioning frame. When the capsule fixing frame is pressed towards the positioning frame, the capsule fixing frame moves the capsule and pushes the positioning frame relative to the piercing head, so that the piercing head pierces the capsule. The water inlet channel, air inlet channel, and water outlet channel inside the piercing head are all connected to the capsule; and a control component for controlling the water and air paths to supply water and air to the water inlet channel and air inlet channel, respectively, when the piercing head pierces the capsule. The capsule piercing device of this application simultaneously supplies gas and water into the capsule when it is pierced, blending with the beverage powder to generate a beverage with fine foam and a smooth taste. Moreover, it has a simple structure, is easy to operate, and is highly practical.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of beverage preparation technology, and in particular relates to a capsule puncture device and a coffee machine. Background Technology

[0002] As people's living standards improve, their demands for the taste of beverages are also increasing. Mixing nitrogen into beverages can not only produce fine foam and a smooth texture, but also, in appropriate amounts, nitrogen can support the respiration process, maintain air pressure balance, form amino acids, transport metabolites, and help cell repair.

[0003] Currently, the puncture devices in existing capsule coffee machines do not support the combination of puncture and nitrogen, and their structure and function are limited. For example, Chinese patent application CN106580107A discloses an air pressure coffee capsule maker, which uses a pressure generator below the puncture head to replace the existing capsule coffee pump and boiler self-pressurized water supply method, but it cannot achieve the mixing of nitrogen into the beverage. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above-mentioned problems existing in the prior art, the purpose of this application is to provide a capsule puncture device and a coffee machine that can mix gas (e.g., nitrogen) into a beverage.

[0005] The technical solution adopted in this application embodiment is a capsule puncture device, comprising:

[0006] Pierce the head; it contains a water inlet channel, an air inlet channel, and a drainage channel.

[0007] A positioning frame, which is movably mounted on the puncture head;

[0008] A capsule holder is used to hold the capsule and is disposed on the positioning frame. When the capsule holder is pressed toward the positioning frame, the capsule holder moves the capsule and pushes the positioning frame to move relative to the piercing head, so that the piercing head pierces the capsule. The water inlet channel, air inlet channel and water outlet channel inside the piercing head are all connected to the capsule.

[0009] A control component is used to control the water passage and air passage, which are respectively connected to the water inlet passage and the air inlet passage, to supply water and air to the water inlet passage and the air inlet passage when the piercing head pierces the capsule.

[0010] In an optional embodiment, the piercing head includes a body and a flange circumferentially disposed around the outer periphery of the body, wherein a first end of the body forms a piercing portion for piercing the capsule;

[0011] The positioning frame has a through hole, and is sleeved onto the body of the puncture head through the through hole, located between the first end of the body and the flange. An elastic component is provided between the positioning frame and the flange of the puncture head, and this elastic component applies a force to the positioning frame, causing it to move towards the capsule fixing frame. The structural design of the puncture head and positioning frame is reasonable, facilitating the movable positioning frame on the puncture head.

[0012] In an optional embodiment, the first end of the main body of the piercing head is recessed inward to form a cavity, and the periphery of the cavity opening forms the piercing portion;

[0013] The bottom of the concave cavity is provided with a water outlet communicating with the water inlet channel, an air outlet communicating with the air inlet channel, and a first drain outlet communicating with the drain channel. When the piercing head punctures the capsule, the water outlet, air outlet, and first drain outlet communicate with the inside of the capsule.

[0014] In an optional embodiment, a second drain outlet communicating with the drain channel is provided on the peripheral wall of the main body near its first end;

[0015] The positioning frame is recessed downwards at one end facing the capsule holder to form an annular cavity surrounding the through hole, and a sealing gasket is provided inside the annular cavity. When the capsule holder is pressed towards the positioning frame, the outer periphery of the capsule opening fits tightly against the sealing gasket and forms a chamber. The first end of the main body extends out of the positioning frame and lifts the capsule cap, allowing the second drain outlet to enter the chamber. By providing the second drain outlet, the beverage can be discharged quickly and smoothly.

[0016] In an optional embodiment, an annular groove is provided on the outer peripheral wall between the first end of the piercing head body and the flange. An O-ring is provided in the annular groove, and the O-ring is used to seal the wall of the through hole and the outer wall of the body. By cooperating with the sealing gasket, the beverage inside the capsule is sealed, so that it can only be discharged through the first drain and the second drain.

[0017] In an optional embodiment, the air intake channel extends along the direction from the first end to the second end of the main body, with the first end of the air intake channel penetrating to the first end of the main body and forming an air outlet; a control valve is provided in the air intake channel. When the piercing head pierces the capsule and the control component controls the air path to supply air to the air intake channel, the control valve opens the air outlet under the action of the gas to allow gas to enter the capsule. When the air path stops supplying gas, the control valve closes the air outlet.

[0018] In an optional embodiment, the second end of the air intake channel is located near the second end of the main body, and the side of the main body near the second end is provided with an air intake port communicating with the air intake channel;

[0019] The control valve includes a first push rod, a first reset member, and a first sealing ring. The first end of the first push rod corresponds to the air outlet. The first sealing ring is sleeved on the first push rod near its second end and away from the first end of the first push rod relative to the air inlet. When gas is introduced into the air inlet channel, the first push rod can move in a direction away from the air outlet to open the air outlet at its first end. The first reset member acts on the first push rod to apply a force to the first push rod to move its first end in a direction closer to the air outlet to block the air outlet.

[0020] In an optional embodiment, the control component includes a second push rod, a micro switch, and a second reset member. The micro switch is fixed to the puncture head, and the second push rod is movably disposed on the puncture head and can move relative to the micro switch to trigger or de-trigger the micro switch. When the capsule holder is pressed toward the positioning frame, the positioning frame pushes the second push rod to move and triggers the micro switch. When the pressing of the capsule holder is removed, the second push rod moves in the opposite direction of the pressing under the action of the second reset member and de-triggers the micro switch. When the micro switch is triggered, the water circuit and the air circuit are activated to supply water and air to the water inlet channel and the air inlet channel, respectively.

[0021] In an optional embodiment, the capsule puncture device further includes a two-way valve and a three-way valve. The first port of the two-way valve is connected to the outlet of the drain channel, and the second port of the two-way valve is connected to the first port of the three-way valve. After the puncturing head punctures the capsule for a first preset time, the two-way valve opens, and the first port of the three-way valve is connected to its second port, while the first port of the three-way valve is disconnected from its third port. The beverage containing gas inside the capsule is discharged through the second port of the three-way valve. After the beverage is discharged, the first port of the three-way valve is disconnected from its second port, while the first port of the three-way valve is connected to its third port. Residual water and residual gas inside the puncturing head are discharged through the third port of the three-way valve, ensuring the capsule puncture device remains clean.

[0022] A coffee machine including the capsule puncturing device of any of the above embodiments.

[0023] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the embodiments of this application are as follows: the capsule puncture device of the embodiments of this application can mix gas (e.g., nitrogen) into beverages (e.g., coffee liquid), and has a simple structure, is easy to operate, and is highly practical.

[0024] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative only, and are not intended to limit this application.

[0025] The overview of various implementations or examples of the technology described in this application is not a full disclosure of the entire scope or all features of the disclosed technology. Attached Figure Description

[0026] In drawings that are not necessarily drawn to scale, the same reference numerals may describe similar parts in different views. The drawings generally illustrate various embodiments by way of example rather than limitation and, together with the description and claims, serve to illustrate the claimed embodiments. Where appropriate, the same reference numerals are used in all drawings to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0027] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of the capsule puncture device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 2 and Figure 3 These are cross-sectional views of the capsule puncture device according to embodiments of this application from different perspectives.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the piercing head according to an embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the capsule assembly in the capsule holder according to an embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the capsule puncture device according to an embodiment of this application in the unpunctured state of the capsule.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the capsule puncture device according to an embodiment of this application in the unpunctured state of the capsule.

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the capsule puncture device according to an embodiment of this application in the capsule puncture state.

[0034] Figures 9 to 11 These are cross-sectional views of the capsule puncture device according to an embodiment of this application from different perspectives in the capsule puncture state.

[0035] Figure label:

[0036] 1-Piercing head; 11-Main body; 111-Cavity; 112-Piercing part; 12-Flange; 13-Annular groove; 131-O-ring; 14-Water inlet channel; 141-Water outlet; 142-Water inlet; 15-Air inlet channel; 151-Air outlet; 152-Air inlet; 16-Drainage channel; 161-First drain outlet; 162-Second drain outlet; 163-Water outlet; 17-Extension channel; 18-Upper mounting bracket; 19-Lower mounting bracket;

[0037] 2-Positioning frame; 21-Sealing gasket; 22-Protrusion; 23-Cavity;

[0038] 3-Elastic components;

[0039] 4-Capsule holder; 41-Capsule receiving cavity; 42-Support leg; 43-Capsule; 431-Capsule cap;

[0040] 5-Control valve; 51-First push rod; 52-First reset element; 53-First sealing ring;

[0041] 6-Control component; 61-Second push rod; 62-Micro switch; 63-Second reset component; 64-Trigger component;

[0042] 7-Two-way valve; 8-Three-way valve; 81-Third port. Detailed Implementation

[0043] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the described embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0044] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this application shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this application do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Terms such as "comprising" or "including" mean that the element or object preceding the word encompasses the elements or objects listed following the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. Terms such as "connected" or "linked" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. Terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are used only to indicate relative positional relationships; when the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0045] To keep the following description of the embodiments of this application clear and concise, detailed descriptions of known functions and known components are omitted.

[0046] This application provides a capsule puncture device. For example... Figures 1 to 10 As shown, the capsule puncture device includes a puncture head 1, a positioning frame 2, a capsule fixing frame 4, and a control component 6.

[0047] The piercing head 1 has a water inlet channel 14, an air inlet channel 15, and a drain channel 16. A positioning frame 2 is movably mounted on the piercing head 1. When the positioning frame 2 moves relative to the piercing head 1, the piercing portion 112 of the piercing head 1 can extend out of the positioning frame 2 or retract into it. A capsule fixing frame 4 is used to fix the capsule 43 and is mounted on the positioning frame 2. When the capsule fixing frame 4 is pressed towards the positioning frame 2, the capsule fixing frame 4 causes the capsule 43 to move and pushes the positioning frame 2 relative to the piercing head 1, so that the piercing portion 112 of the piercing head 1 extends out of the positioning frame 2 and pierces the capsule 43. After the capsule 43 is pierced, the water inlet channel 14, the air inlet channel 15, and the drain channel 16 inside the piercing head 1 are all connected to the capsule 43. The control component 6 is used to control the water and air passages (the water and air passages can be the equipment used in the capsule piercing device, such as the water and air passages of a coffee machine) to supply water and air to the water inlet channel 14 and the air inlet channel 15 respectively when the piercing head 1 pierces the capsule 43. The water and air supplied into the water inlet channel 14 and the air inlet channel 15 then enter the capsule 43 respectively, and melt with the beverage powder in the capsule 43 to generate a beverage containing gas, which is discharged through the drain channel 16 for the user to drink.

[0048] The capsule puncturing device of this application embodiment can simultaneously supply gas and water into the capsule 43 when the capsule 43 is punctured, so that it can be mixed with beverage powder to generate a beverage with fine foam and smooth taste.

[0049] It is understood that the gas can be, for example, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, oxygen or air; this application uses nitrogen as an example for illustration.

[0050] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4As shown, the piercing head 1 includes a main body 11 and a flange 12 circumferentially disposed around the outer periphery of the main body 11. The first end of the main body 11 forms a piercing portion 112 for piercing the capsule 43. The positioning frame 2 has a through hole (not shown because it is obscured by the main body 11 of the piercing head 1). The positioning frame 2 is sleeved on the main body 11 of the piercing head 1 through the through hole and is located between the first end of the main body 11 and the flange 12. An elastic member 3 is provided between the positioning frame 2 and the flange 12 of the piercing head 1. The elastic member 3 is used to apply a force to the positioning frame 2 to move it toward the capsule fixing frame 4. The structural design of the piercing head 1 and the positioning frame 2 is reasonable, making it easy for the positioning frame 2 to be movably mounted on the piercing head 1.

[0051] For example, continue to combine Figure 4 The main body 11 of the piercing head 1 is roughly cylindrical, with a flange 12 located near the middle of the main body 11. The elastic component 3 can be a spring, which is sleeved on the outside of the main body 11. The lower end of the spring (in this embodiment, "upper" and "lower" are based on the orientation shown in the figure, i.e., the downward-facing end of each component in the figure is defined as its lower end, and the upward-facing end is defined as its upper end) abuts against the flange 12, and the upper end of the spring abuts against the lower end of the positioning frame 2, which is used to apply an upward force to the positioning frame 2. When the capsule fixing frame 4 is pressed down, the positioning frame 2 moves downward at the same time and compresses the spring. Since the piercing head 1 is fixed, the upper end of the piercing head 1 (i.e., the first end of the main body 11, i.e., the piercing part 112) extends out of the positioning frame 2 and contacts the capsule 43 to pierce the capsule 43. When the pressed capsule holder 4 is released, the positioning frame 2 pushes the capsule holder 4 upward together under the action of the spring and resets, and the piercing part 112 of the piercing head 1 retracts into the positioning frame 2 and disengages from the capsule 43.

[0052] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the first end of the main body 11 of the piercing head 1 is recessed inward to form a cavity 111, and a piercing part 112 is formed around the opening of the cavity 111. The bottom of the cavity 111 is provided with a water outlet 141 communicating with the water inlet channel 14, an air outlet 151 communicating with the air inlet channel 15, and a first drain outlet 161 communicating with the drain channel 16. Thus, when the piercing head 1 pierces the capsule 43, the water outlet 141, the air outlet 151, and the first drain outlet 161 are respectively connected to the inside of the capsule 43, so that nitrogen gas and water can be injected into the capsule 43 through the water outlet 141 and the air outlet 151 respectively, and the beverage mixed with nitrogen gas in the capsule 43 can be sent into the drain channel 16 through the first drain outlet 161.

[0053] Furthermore, continue to combine Figure 4A second drain outlet 162, which communicates with the drain channel 16, is provided on the peripheral wall of the main body 11 near its first end. By setting the second drain outlet 162, beverages can be discharged quickly and smoothly, increasing the discharge speed and reducing the user's waiting time.

[0054] In some embodiments, the positioning frame 2 is recessed downwards at one end (i.e., the upper end of the positioning frame 2) facing the capsule holder 4 to form an annular cavity surrounding the through hole (the annular cavity is not shown in the figure because it is filled with a sealing gasket 21), and the sealing gasket 21 is provided inside the annular cavity. When the capsule holder 4 is pressed towards the positioning frame 2, the outer periphery of the opening of the capsule 43 fits tightly with the sealing gasket 21 and forms a chamber 23. The first end of the main body 11 extends out of the positioning frame 2 and pushes up the cap 431 for sealing the opening of the capsule 43. At the same time, the second drain outlet 162 enters the chamber 23. See [reference needed]. Figure 2 By setting a sealing gasket 21 on the positioning frame 2, not only can the beverage discharged from the mouth of the capsule 43 be sealed to prevent leakage, but a chamber 23 communicating with the capsule 43 can also be formed, allowing the beverage inside the capsule 43 to be discharged through the second drain outlet 162.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, an annular groove 13 is provided on the outer peripheral wall between the first end of the main body 11 of the piercing head 1 and the flange 12. An O-ring 131 is provided in the annular groove 13. The O-ring 131 is used to seal the wall of the through hole and the outer wall of the main body 11. Through the cooperation of the O-ring 131 and the sealing gasket 21, the beverage in the capsule 43 is sealed, so that it can only be discharged through the first drain 161 and the second drain 162, thereby preventing the beverage from leaking between the main body 11 of the piercing head 1 and the positioning frame 2.

[0056] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the capsule holder 4 has a capsule receiving cavity 41, and the side of the capsule holder 4 has an opening communicating with the capsule receiving cavity 41. The capsule 43 can be loaded and unloaded from the capsule receiving cavity 41 through the opening. When the capsule 43 is loaded into the capsule receiving cavity 41, it can be fixed inside it, as... Figure 5 As shown.

[0057] Continue to combine Figure 1 and Figure 5 The capsule holder 4 has four protruding legs 42 facing the positioning frame 2. The outer peripheral wall of the positioning frame 2 has four protrusions 22 with holes, and the four legs 42 of the capsule holder 4 are inserted into the holes of the four protrusions 22 of the positioning frame 2 in a corresponding manner. In this way, when the capsule holder 4 is pressed, the positioning frame 2 can be pressed down at the same time, so that it moves relative to the piercing head 1.

[0058] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3As shown, the air intake channel 15 extends from the first end to the second end of the main body 11. The first end of the air intake channel 15 penetrates to the first end of the main body 11 and forms an air outlet 151. A control valve 5 is provided inside the air intake channel 15. When the piercing head 1 pierces the capsule 43 and the control component 6 controls the gas path to supply nitrogen to the air intake channel 15, the control valve 5 opens the air outlet 151 under the action of the nitrogen in the air intake channel 15, so that nitrogen can enter the capsule 43. When the gas path stops supplying gas, the control valve 5 closes the air outlet 151. By setting a control valve 5 controlled by the control component 6 inside the air intake channel 15, the start time of air intake can be precisely controlled according to the beverage preparation process, ensuring the air intake volume and effect, and preparing a smooth and delicate nitrogen beverage, increasing the flavor profile of the beverage.

[0059] Continue to combine Figure 3 and Figure 4 The second end of the air intake passage 15 is located near its second end on the main body 11, and the side of the main body 11 near its second end is provided with an air intake port 152 that communicates with the air intake passage 15. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the control valve 5 includes a first push rod 51, a first reset member 52, and a first sealing ring 53. The first end (upper end) of the first push rod 51 corresponds to the air outlet 151. The first sealing ring 53 is fitted onto the first push rod 51 near its second end (lower end) and is located away from the first end of the first push rod 51 relative to the air inlet 152. That is, the first sealing ring 53 is located below the air inlet 152, dividing the air intake channel 15 into two relatively independent and non-communicating parts: a first part (air inlet 152) and a second part (air outlet 151). The air inlet 152 and the air outlet 151 are respectively connected to the first part but not to the second part. (See [reference]). Figure 7 and Figure 9 In fact, the first push rod 51, the first sealing ring 53, and the air intake channel 15 cooperate to form a piston-like structure, with the first sealing ring 53 acting as the piston and the first push rod 51 acting as the piston rod. The first reset member 52 acts on the first push rod 51 to apply a force to the first push rod 51, causing its first end to move towards the air outlet 151 to block the air outlet 151.

[0060] When the air inlet 152 is opened, gas enters the first part of the air intake channel 15, increasing the air pressure and pushing the first push rod 51 towards the second part of the air intake channel 15 (i.e., downward movement), so that the first end of the first push rod 51 moves away from and opens the air outlet 151. When the air intake stops, the gas in the first part of the air intake channel 15 continues to be discharged from the air outlet 151, and the air pressure gradually decreases. When the force of the first reset member 52 acting on the first push rod 51 can overcome the pressure of the gas acting on the first push rod 51, the first push rod 51 moves towards the air outlet 151 under the action of the first reset member 52, blocking the air outlet 151 and no longer supplying air to the capsule 43 through the air outlet 151, thus completing the air intake operation.

[0061] To facilitate demolding of the piercing head 1 during manufacturing, the second end of the air inlet channel 15 extends towards the second end of the body 11 of the piercing head 1 to form an extension channel 17. The inner diameter of the extension channel 17 is smaller than that of the air inlet channel 15, creating a stepped portion between them. One end of the first reset member 52 abuts against the stepped portion, and the other end abuts against a protrusion provided on the peripheral wall of the first push rod 51. The first sealing ring 53 is located in the portion of the air inlet channel 15 near the extension channel 17, and is used to seal the space between the first push rod 51 and the inner wall of the air inlet channel 15. The first sealing ring 53 not only divides the air inlet channel 15 into two non-communicating parts, but also prevents gas from leaking out through the extension channel 17.

[0062] Furthermore, in order to ensure that the first push rod 51 rises and falls smoothly under the action of gas and the first reset member 52, so as to block or open the air outlet 151, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first push rod 51 is provided with a plurality of protrusions extending along its axial direction. The plurality of protrusions are arranged around the outer peripheral wall of the first push rod 51. The side of the protrusions that is away from the first push rod 51 and parallel to the axial direction of the first push rod 51 is close to the inner wall of the air intake channel 15. In this way, the shaking of the first push rod 51 in the air intake channel 15 can be reduced.

[0063] To facilitate the connection of the puncture head 1 with the air and water circuits, such as Figure 4 As shown, not only are the air inlet 152 and water inlet 142 respectively located on the side of the piercing head 1, but they also extend outward to form a tube. The water outlet 163 of the drain channel 16 is located at the bottom of the piercing head 1 (that is, the end of the piercing head 1 away from the capsule 43), and extends downward to form a tube to facilitate the dispensing of coffee liquid.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 6As shown, the control component 6 includes a second push rod 61, a micro switch 62, and a second reset member 63. The micro switch 62 is fixed to the puncture head 1, and the second push rod 61 is movably mounted on the puncture head 1 and can move relative to the micro switch 62 to trigger or deactivate the micro switch 62. When the capsule holder 4 is pressed towards the positioning frame 2, the capsule holder 4 drives the positioning frame 2 to move relative to the puncture head 1. The positioning frame 2 simultaneously pushes the second push rod 61, causing the second push rod 61 to trigger the micro switch 62. When the pressure on the capsule holder 4 is released, the second push rod 61 moves in the opposite direction of the press under the action of the second reset member 63, deactivating the micro switch 62. When the micro switch 62 is triggered, the water and air circuits are activated to supply water and air to the water inlet channel 14 and air inlet channel 15, respectively. When the micro switch 62 is deactivated, both the water and air circuits are closed, stopping the supply of water and air.

[0065] Continue to combine Figure 1 and Figure 6 The portion of the piercing head 1 located below the flange 12 is provided with an upper mounting bracket 18 and a lower mounting bracket 19. The upper mounting bracket 18 and the lower mounting bracket 19 are arranged opposite each other and are respectively provided with corresponding mounting holes (not shown in the figure). The two ends of the second push rod 61 pass through the mounting holes on the upper mounting bracket 18 and the lower mounting bracket 19, respectively, and the upper end of the second push rod 61 is located below the positioning bracket 2. The second push rod 61 is provided with a triggering component 64 protruding from its outer peripheral wall. The second reset component 63 can be a spring and is sleeved on the second push rod 61. The two ends of the second reset component 63 abut against the triggering component 64 and the lower mounting bracket 19, respectively. When the positioning frame 2 moves downward under the pressure of the capsule fixing frame 4, the lower end of the positioning frame 2 (the end of the positioning frame 2 away from the capsule fixing frame 4) pushes the second push rod 61 downward, causing the second push rod 61 to move downward. The triggering component 64 on the second push rod 61 moves accordingly and triggers the micro switch 62 after moving a preset distance, opening the water and air passages and supplying water and air to the capsule 43 through the water inlet channel 14 and the air inlet channel 15. At the same time, the second reset component 63 is compressed and continues to retain elastic potential energy. When the air and water supply is completed, the pressure on the capsule fixing frame 4 is released, the second reset component 63 releases its elastic potential energy, and the second push rod 61 moves upward and resets under the action of the second reset component 63. At the same time, the triggering component 64 moves upward with the second push rod 61, releasing the triggering of the micro switch 62, closing the air and water passages, and stopping the supply of air and water to the capsule 43.

[0066] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1 to 3As shown, the capsule puncture device also includes a two-way valve 7 and a three-way valve 8. The first port of the two-way valve 7 is connected to the outlet 163 of the drain channel 16, and the second port of the two-way valve 7 is connected to the first port of the three-way valve 8. After the puncturing head 1 punctures the capsule 43 for a first preset time, the two-way valve 7 opens, and the first port of the three-way valve 8 is connected to its second port, while the first port of the three-way valve 8 is disconnected from its third port 81. The beverage containing gas inside the capsule 43 is discharged through the second port of the three-way valve 8. After the beverage is discharged, the first port of the three-way valve 8 is disconnected from its second port, while the first port of the three-way valve 8 is connected to its third port 81, and the residual water and residual gas inside the puncturing head 1 are discharged through the third port 81 of the three-way valve 8.

[0067] Understandably, the two-way valve 7 acts as a switch valve and is normally closed. During the puncture of capsule 43 and the supply of gas and water, the two-way valve 7 remains closed. After the puncturing head 1 punctures capsule 43 and a first preset time has elapsed, allowing the supplied nitrogen and water to mix with the coffee powder inside capsule 43 for a period of time until fully integrated, the two-way valve 7 opens, allowing the coffee liquid mixed with nitrogen inside capsule 43 to drain through the second port of the three-way valve 8. After the coffee liquid has drained, the three-way valve 8 is switched on, disconnecting its first port from its second port and connecting its first port to its third port 81. The third port 81 is used to drain residual water and gas, ensuring the puncture device is clean and improving hygiene and safety.

[0068] The working process of the capsule puncture device according to an embodiment of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0069] like Figure 6 As shown, when the capsule puncture device is not working and the capsule holder 4 is not pressed, the lower end of the positioning frame 2 is not in contact with the upper end of the second push rod 61, and there is a certain distance between them. At this time, the micro switch 62 is not triggered, the air circuit and water circuit are both closed and not opened, and the second reset member 63 is not compressed and remains in a natural state. Moreover, the upper end of the first push rod 51 blocks the air outlet 151, and the first reset member 52 is not compressed and remains in a natural state. See [reference needed]. Figure 7 .

[0070] When coffee needs to be prepared, press down on the capsule holder 4, causing the positioning frame 2 to move downwards and press against the upper end of the second push rod 61. Continue pressing on the capsule holder 4, and the positioning frame 2 will push the second push rod 61 downwards. The triggering component 64 on the second push rod 61 will move accordingly and trigger the micro switch 62. At the same time, the second reset component 63 will be compressed. See below. Figure 8When microswitch 62 is triggered, the water and air circuits are opened, allowing water and air to flow into the water inlet channel 14 and air inlet channel 15, respectively. Water enters the capsule 43 directly through the water inlet channel 14, brewing the coffee powder inside and forming concentrated coffee. Meanwhile, the air entering the air inlet channel 15 pushes the first push rod 51 downwards, opening the air outlet 151. (See [link]). Figure 9 and Figure 10 This allows gas to enter capsule 43 and blend into the coffee concentrate, forming a coffee liquid mixed with gas. Among these, Figure 9 and Figure 10 The dashed arrow indicates the direction of gas entry, and the dotted arrow indicates the direction of water entry. After mixing for a period of time, open the two-way valve 7 and ensure that the three-way valve 8 is in a state where its first and second ports are open. The coffee liquid mixed with gas in capsule 43 is discharged through the second port of the two-way valve 7 and the third-way valve 8 for the user to drink. See [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 11 .in, Figure 11 The downward-pointing straight arrow indicates the direction in which the coffee liquid flows out.

[0071] This application also provides a coffee machine, which includes a body and a water circuit, an air circuit, and a control system disposed on the body. The coffee machine also includes the capsule piercing device from any of the above embodiments. The air inlet 152 of the air inlet channel 15 of the piercing head 1 of the capsule piercing device is connected to the air circuit, and the water inlet 142 of the water inlet channel 14 of the piercing head 1 is connected to the water circuit. The control system can receive the signal sent when the micro switch 62 is triggered, and control the opening and closing of the water circuit and the air circuit based on the received signal.

[0072] It is understood that both the two-way valve 7 and the three-way valve 8 can be solenoid valves and connected to the control system of the coffee machine. The opening and closing of the solenoid valves are also controlled by the control program of the control system. The control principle of this part is the same as that of the prior art, and this application will not describe it in detail.

[0073] The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art can make variations, modifications, substitutions, and alterations to the above embodiments within the scope of this disclosure. Moreover, the above examples (or one or more of them) can be used in combination with each other, and these embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or arrangements.

Claims

1. A capsule puncture device, characterized in that, include: The piercing head (1) has a water inlet channel (14), an air inlet channel (15) and a drain channel (16), and the air inlet channel (15) is equipped with a control valve (5); Positioning frame (2), which is movably mounted on the piercing head (1); A capsule holder (4) is used to fix the capsule (43) and is provided on the positioning frame (2). When the capsule holder (4) is pressed toward the positioning frame (2), the capsule holder (4) drives the capsule (43) to move and pushes the positioning frame (2) to move relative to the piercing head (1) so that the piercing head (1) pierces the capsule (43). The water inlet channel (14), air inlet channel (15) and water outlet channel (16) in the piercing head (1) are all connected to the capsule (43). The control component (6) is used to control the water passage and the air passage connected to the water inlet passage (14) and the air inlet passage (15) respectively to supply water and air to the water inlet passage (14) and the air inlet passage (15) when the piercing head (1) pierces the capsule (43). When the air is supplied, the control valve (5) opens the air inlet passage (15) under the action of the gas so that the gas enters the capsule (43). When the air passage stops supplying gas, the control valve (5) closes the air inlet passage (15). The control component (6) includes a second push rod (61), a micro switch (62), and a second reset component (63). The micro switch (62) is fixed to the puncture head (1), and the second push rod (61) is movably mounted on the puncture head (1) and can move relative to the micro switch (62) to trigger or de-trigger the micro switch (62). When the capsule holder (4) is pressed toward the positioning frame (2), the... The positioning frame (2) pushes the second push rod (61) to move and triggers the micro switch (62). When the pressure on the capsule fixing frame (4) is released, the second push rod (61) moves in the opposite direction of the pressure under the action of the second reset member (63) and releases the triggering of the micro switch (62). When the micro switch (62) is triggered, the water circuit and the air circuit are activated to supply water and air to the water inlet channel (14) and the air inlet channel (15) respectively.

2. The capsule puncture device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The piercing head (1) includes a body (11) and a flange (12) circumferentially disposed around the outer periphery of the body (11), wherein the first end of the body (11) forms a piercing portion (112) for piercing the capsule (43); The positioning frame (2) has a through hole, and the positioning frame (2) is sleeved on the body (11) of the piercing head (1) through the through hole and is located between the first end of the body (11) and the flange (12); an elastic member (3) is provided between the positioning frame (2) and the flange (12) of the piercing head (1), and the elastic member (3) is used to apply a force to the positioning frame (2) to make it move toward the capsule fixing frame (4).

3. The capsule puncture device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first end of the main body (11) of the piercing head (1) is recessed inward to form a cavity (111), and the periphery of the cavity opening (111) forms the piercing part (112); The bottom of the cavity (111) is provided with a water outlet (141) communicating with the water inlet channel (14), an air outlet (151) communicating with the air inlet channel (15), and a first drain outlet (161) communicating with the drain channel (16).

4. The capsule puncture device according to claim 3, characterized in that, A second drain outlet (162) communicating with the drain channel (16) is opened on the peripheral wall near its first end of the main body (11); The positioning frame (2) is recessed downwards at one end facing the capsule fixing frame (4) to form an annular cavity surrounding the through hole. A sealing gasket (21) is provided in the annular cavity. When the capsule fixing frame (4) is pressed towards the positioning frame (2), the outer periphery of the mouth of the capsule (43) is tightly attached to the sealing gasket (21) and forms a chamber (23). The first end of the main body (11) extends out of the positioning frame (2) and lifts the cap (431) of the capsule (43). The second drain (162) enters the chamber (23).

5. The capsule puncture device according to claim 4, characterized in that, An annular groove (13) is provided on the outer peripheral wall between the first end of the main body (11) of the piercing head (1) and the flange (12). An O-ring (131) is provided in the annular groove (13) and the O-ring (131) is used to seal the hole wall of the through hole and the outer wall of the main body (11).

6. The capsule puncture device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The air intake channel (15) extends from the first end to the second end of the main body (11). The first end of the air intake channel (15) penetrates to the first end of the main body (11) and forms an air outlet (151). When the piercing head (1) pierces the capsule (43), the control component (6) controls the air path to supply air to the air intake channel (15). Under the action of the gas, the control valve (5) opens the air outlet (151) to allow gas to enter the capsule (43). When the air path stops supplying gas, the control valve (5) closes the air outlet (151).

7. The capsule puncture device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second end of the air intake channel (15) is located near the second end of the main body (11), and the side of the main body (11) near its second end is provided with an air intake (152) that communicates with the air intake channel (15). The control valve (5) includes a first push rod (51), a first reset member (52), and a first sealing ring (53). The first end of the first push rod (51) corresponds to the air outlet (151). The first sealing ring (53) is sleeved on the first push rod (51) near its second end and is away from the first end of the first push rod (51) relative to the air inlet (152). When gas is introduced into the air inlet channel (15), the first push rod (51) can move in a direction away from the air outlet (151) so that its first end opens the air outlet (151). The first reset member (52) acts on the first push rod (51) to apply a force to the first push rod (51) so that its first end moves in a direction close to the air outlet (151) to block the air outlet (151).

8. The capsule puncture device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The capsule puncture device further includes a two-way valve (7) and a three-way valve (8). The first port of the two-way valve (7) is connected to the outlet (163) of the drain channel (16), and the second port of the two-way valve (7) is connected to the first port of the three-way valve (8). After the puncturing head (1) punctures the capsule (43) for a first preset time, the two-way valve (7) opens, and the first port of the three-way valve (8) is connected to its second port. The beverage containing gas in the capsule (43) is discharged through the second port of the three-way valve (8) after the beverage is discharged. After the beverage is discharged, the first port of the three-way valve (8) is disconnected from the second port of the three-way valve (8), and the first port of the three-way valve (8) is connected to the third port (81) of the three-way valve (8), through which the residual water and residual gas in the puncture head (1) are discharged.

9. A coffee machine, characterized in that, The capsule puncture device includes any one of claims 1 to 8.

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