Beverage preparation machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a beverage preparation machine for preparing a beverage from a capsule of beverage ingredients, said machine comprising:-an extraction device comprising an upstream capsule enclosing part and a downstream capsule enclosing part (1, 2) which are relatively movable; -a liquid supply system; -a motor (10) for actuating the movement of at least one of the upstream and downstream container enclosing parts (1, 2) wherein the liquid supply system comprises a first peristaltic valve (741) capable of supplying water to the common connector from the cold pipe or the hot pipe and a second peristaltic valve (742) capable of supplying water to the common connector from the cold pipe or the hot pipe. And a second peristaltic valve capable of supplying water to the first tube or the second tube, and wherein the machine comprises a mechanical trigger attached to at least one of the movable capsule encapsulation members, the trigger is designed and positioned so as to close or open the water path and the capsule path in the tubes (751, 752, 771, 772) in accordance with the movement of at least one of the upstream and downstream capsule encapsulating members (1, 2) during a sequence of preparing a beverage from the capsule.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a machine for preparing beverages from single-dose containers. Background Art

[0002] WO2020089404 describes a beverage preparation machine for preparing a beverage when an ingredient provided in a capsule interacts with a liquid supplied to the capsule. The machine comprises an extraction device comprising a first encapsulating member and a second cooperating encapsulating member designed to move relative to each other. The first encapsulating member is provided with a capsule opening and an injection mechanism for opening a first inlet face of the capsule and injecting liquid into the capsule. The first encapsulating member and the second encapsulating member are designed to enter at least a first capsule insertion position, the first capsule insertion position allowing the capsule to be inserted between the encapsulating members, in the second capsule encapsulating position, the opening and the injection mechanism engage the liquid inlet face of the capsule. The movement of the first encapsulating member and the second encapsulating member can be controlled by an electric motor.

[0003] In this type of machine, the liquid injected into the capsule is supplied by a liquid supply system. Typically, the system comprises a liquid supply source, a pump and a heater. Depending on the type of beverage provided by the machine, the liquid supply system may comprise additional valves, such as a first valve for providing hot or cold liquid and a second valve for dispensing the fluid to the first enclosing member of the extraction device or directly to a drinking cup for the final dilution of the beverage to be extracted, such as Americano. These two valves are typically electrically controlled valves, which significantly increases the overall cost of the machine.

[0004] Therefore, fully automated beverage machines that prepare beverages from motorized capsule extraction devices and are able to provide hot or cold liquid preparations and dispense the liquids into the extraction device are particularly expensive due to the need for several motors.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to solve the above mentioned drawbacks and to provide a low cost machine which provides all automatic functions with only one motor. Summary of the invention

[0006] A beverage preparation machine for preparing a beverage from a beverage ingredient capsule is provided, the machine comprising:

[0007] - an extraction device for extracting beverage ingredients by supplying an extraction liquid, such as hot water, into the capsule, said extraction device comprising:

[0008] an upstream capsule-closing member and a downstream capsule-closing member, which are relatively movable between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting the capsule and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber enclosing the capsule during extraction,

[0009] The upstream component defines the cage and carries:

[0010] an upstream piercing arrangement for opening the bottom wall of the capsule, and

[0011] Liquid injector,

[0012] the downstream component comprises a downstream planar piercing arrangement for opening the cover of the pad and a beverage outlet for dispensing the extracted beverage,

[0013] - a liquid supply system connected to the upstream enclosure component, said liquid supply system comprising:

[0014] Liquid supply source,

[0015] a pumping mechanism for driving liquid from a liquid supply,

[0016] a heating mechanism for adjusting the temperature of the liquid,

[0017] a motor and a control system for actuating movement of at least one of the upstream container enclosure member and the downstream container enclosure member between an open position and a closed position, preferably by translation of the upstream enclosure member towards a stationary downstream enclosure member,

[0018] The control system is configured to control actuation of the motor,

[0019] The liquid supply system includes:

[0020] - a cold pipe supplied with cold water or ambient pumped water from a pumping mechanism and a hot pipe supplied with hot pumped water from a heating mechanism, said cold pipe and said hot pipe supplying water to a common connector,

[0021] a first tube and a second tube, the first tube supplying water to the liquid injector and the second tube supplying water to the beverage dispensing area in the cup, a common connector supplying water to the first tube and the second tube,

[0022] a first peristaltic valve making it possible to supply the common connector with water either from the cold pipe or from the hot pipe,

[0023] a second peristaltic valve making it possible to supply the first or second pipe with water dispensed through the common connector,

[0024] And wherein the machine comprises a mechanical trigger attached to at least one of the movable capsule sealing parts, the trigger being designed and positioned so as to close or open the water path in the tube and the capsule path in the extraction device according to the movement of at least one of the upstream capsule sealing parts and the downstream capsule sealing parts during the sequence of preparing a beverage from the capsule (identification, sealing and piercing, injection of hot water, ejection of the capsule).

[0025] The extraction device of the system is typically included in a beverage preparation machine configured to receive a capsule. Preferably, the beverage preparation machine is a coffee machine, although the machine can be designed to prepare, for example, tea, chocolate or soup, depending on the ingredient enclosed in the capsule. In particular, the machine is arranged for preparing a beverage in an extraction chamber by passing water or other liquid through a capsule containing the ingredient of the beverage to be prepared, preferably roasted and ground coffee, or eventually tea leaves, or instant coffee, or instant tea, or chocolate, or cocoa, or milk powder, or dehydrated soup. In a preferred embodiment, the beverage ingredient is roasted and ground coffee.

[0026] The device is configured for extracting beverage ingredients contained in a capsule by supplying an extraction liquid, such as water, into the capsule. The device comprises an upstream capsule enclosing part and a downstream capsule enclosing part, which are relatively movable between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting such a capsule and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber enclosing the capsule during the extraction of the beverage ingredients.

[0027] Typically, the capsule can be inserted into the extraction device from above under the effect of gravity. The ejection or removal of the capsule when the enclosing part is reopened can also be driven by gravity.

[0028] The upstream capsule enclosing part and the downstream capsule enclosing part are relatively movable between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting the capsule and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber enclosing the capsule during extraction. In a preferred embodiment, the upstream capsule enclosing part and the downstream capsule enclosing part are relatively movable along a longitudinal axis (XX').

[0029] The upstream part or injection part comprises an upstream piercing arrangement in the form of one or more perforators for piercing the bottom wall of the pad body of an inserted pad and at least one liquid injector for supplying liquid through the pierced first wall of the pad.

[0030] The upstream piercing arrangement may include a piercer in the form of a blade. The blades may be designed and positioned to pierce the bottom wall of the pad body when the upstream pad enclosure and the downstream pad enclosure are placed in the closed position. The liquid injector, such as a sprayer located at the upstream part of the holder, may introduce the extraction liquid through the pre-pierced opening.

[0031] In an alternative embodiment, the upstream piercing arrangement structure may include at least one hollow needle, which is configured to pierce the wall of the bottom of the capsule body, and the hollow needle may include an internal axial channel for guiding the extraction liquid in the chamber of the capsule.

[0032] The downstream part or dispensing part defines a downstream piercing arrangement for opening the cover wall of the capsule when the extraction liquid is introduced into the capsule interior. Typically, the downstream planar piercing arrangement is designed to open the cover by relative engagement with the cover under the effect of the increased pressure of the injection liquid in the chamber of the capsule and the expansion of the cover against the piercing arrangement. In a preferred embodiment, the downstream planar piercing arrangement comprises a plate, which is preferably rigid and which comprises opening elements (like a plurality of protrusions) and recessed elements (such as spikes), which opening elements may present a cone or pyramid shape on its surface turned toward the second wall.

[0033] Furthermore, the plate comprises perforations for draining the beverage dispensed from the opened closure to a tube or nozzle that collects the beverage and dispenses it into a drinking cup.

[0034] Typically, the shape of the upstream part and the enclosing part of the extraction device is defined according to the shape of the pad it is configured to extract from.

[0035] Generally speaking, the extraction device may include an insertion section for inserting the capsule into the device. Generally speaking, the section is positioned above the upstream capsule enclosing part and the downstream capsule enclosing part, so that the capsule is inserted between these two parts by gravity. Depending on the shape of the capsule, the insertion section may be designed so as to encourage the user to position the capsule with its cover facing the downstream piercing arrangement.

[0036] The beverage machine comprises a liquid supply system connected to an upstream encapsulation component. The liquid supply system may comprise:

[0037] - a liquid supply source, such as a liquid tank, which typically stores liquid at an ambient temperature, which is also defined as cold by contrast to a hot temperature,

[0038] - a pumping mechanism for driving liquid from the liquid supply source to the extraction device,

[0039] - Heating means which, if necessary, adapt the temperature of the liquid before it is introduced into the interior of the pad.

[0040] The liquid is typically water.

[0041] In one embodiment, the machine may include an additional cooling mechanism to cool the temperature of the liquid.

[0042] The machine comprises a motor for actuating the movement of at least one of the upstream container enclosure component and the downstream container enclosure component. It is preferably an electric motor. The motor is usually connected to at least one of the capsule enclosure components via an intermediate actuator (such as a crankshaft). The connection usually comprises a gear mechanism between the shaft of the motor and the intermediate actuator.

[0043] The machine comprises a control system configured to control the actuation of the motor and correspondingly the relative positions of the upstream and downstream pad-enclosing members during beverage preparation.

[0044] Typically, the control system is configured to also control the pumps and heaters of the liquid supply system.

[0045] In addition, the liquid supply system of the machine comprises a first peristaltic valve to enable the supply of hot pumped water from the heater or cold pumped water from the pump (or cold pumped water from a cooling mechanism if the machine is provided with it). The outlet of the heater is connected to a flexible hot pipe and the outlet of the pump is also connected to a flexible cold pipe. Both the cold pipe and the hot pipe are connected to a common connector provided with two fluid inlets and two fluid outlets. On its downstream side, the connector is configured to distribute the pumped liquid to the extraction device or to the in-cup beverage dispensing area of ​​the machine.

[0046] The two tubes can be clamped or released by the first peristaltic valve so that the common connector can be supplied with water either from the cold tube or from the hot tube.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, by default (i.e. when the valve is in its rest position), the peristaltic valve is configured to release the hot pipe (meaning not clamping the hot pipe) and squeeze the cold pipe. Therefore, there is less risk that the properties of the material of the flexible pipe will be affected by heating, and the pipe can hardly open when no longer squeezed.

[0048] Furthermore, the liquid supply system of the machine comprises a second peristaltic valve to enable the supply liquid to flow through the connector to the extraction device or to the dispensing area of ​​the machine.

[0049] One outlet of the connector is connected to a liquid injector of an upstream pad enclosure member via a first flexible tube, and another outlet of the connector is connected to an in-cup beverage dispensing area via a second flexible tube.

[0050] The two tubes can be clamped or released by the second peristaltic valve so that the liquid flowing in the common connector can be supplied to the first tube or the second tube.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, by default (i.e., when the valve is in its inoperative position), the peristaltic valve is configured to semi-clamp the first and second tubes. The effect of the semi-clamping valve is the same as a check valve that opens when the liquid reaches a certain threshold pressure (e.g., above 1 bar); no liquid flows through the semi-clamped tubes because the pump is activated only when one of the tubes is no longer clamped.

[0052] Compared with electric valves (such as solenoid valves), the use of two peristaltic valves reduces the manufacturing and use costs of the machine.

[0053] The machine comprises a mechanical trigger to actuate the peristaltic valve and control the movement of the pad relative to the two enclosing members.

[0054] A trigger for the peristaltic valve is attached to at least one of the movable capsule enclosing parts, such that movement of the corresponding enclosing part simultaneously drives movement of the trigger.Preferably, the trigger is attached to the enclosing part in a fixed manner.

[0055] The trigger for the pad is designed and positioned to close or open the pad's paths, depending on the position of the movable pad-closing member. These paths are essentially paths into and out of the extraction chamber.

[0056] Different triggers are also designed and positioned to close or open the water path and the pad path in the tube according to the beverage preparation sequence. Typically, the beverage preparation sequence includes at least the following steps (particularly for the preparation of hot coffee):

[0057] - inserting the capsule between the enclosing parts,

[0058] - Encapsulate and pierce the capsule,

[0059] -Inject hot liquid, or inject cold liquid,

[0060] -Eject the capsule.

[0061] Depending on the machine capabilities, at least one of the following additional steps may be performed:

[0062] - Identify the capsule before insertion,

[0063] - Introducing hot or cold water into the beverage dispensed from the extracted capsule.

[0064] The position of the trigger relative to the movable pad-closing part and the controlled position of the movable closing part during beverage preparation enable the opening and closing of the paths to be coordinated to obtain a desired sequence.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment,

[0066] - the downstream bladder enclosure is fixed, and

[0067] - the upstream pad-enclosing member is capable of translation along the longitudinal axis (XX') between a completely open position and a closed position, and

[0068] The control system of the motor is configured to position the upstream pad-enclosing member in at least one intermediate position between the fully open position and the closed position.

[0069] The translation of only one of the two enclosing parts provides a simple architecture of the extraction device and also reduces the manufacturing costs.

[0070] With this architecture, the upstream bladder enclosure component can be translated and positioned in different locations, including:

[0071] - a closed position, in which the two enclosing parts form an extraction chamber,

[0072] - a fully open position, in which the upstream capsule enclosing member is in the position farthest away from the downstream enclosing member,

[0073] - an intermediate position between the two preceding positions, so that the trigger can open or close the liquid path and the pad path.

[0074] The machine may comprise a pad trigger attached to the upstream pad closing member, said pad trigger being designed and positioned relative to the first closing member and the second closing member so as to:

[0075] - receiving and holding the pad above the pad-sealing member when the upstream pad-sealing member is positioned in the pad-holding intermediate position, and

[0076] - When the upstream pad closing member is moved to the fully open position, the pad is released.

[0077] In one embodiment, the machine may include an identification device configured to identify a capsule by contact of the identification device with a surface of the capsule, and the machine may include a trigger for identification, which is attached to an upstream capsule sealing component and is designed and positioned to push the capsule toward the identification device when the upstream capsule sealing component is positioned in an intermediate position for capsule identification.

[0078] Typically, the machine comprises a pad holder which is attached to a downstream pad enclosing member and which is movable between:

[0079] a receiving position for receiving and holding the capsule in front of the downstream planar piercing arrangement when the capsule is inserted, and

[0080] a retracted position, which is located at a lateral side of the downstream planar piercing arrangement when the capsule is ejected, and

[0081] The machine comprises a trigger for the pad holder, the trigger for the pad holder being attached to the upstream pad closing component and being designed and positioned to release the pad holder from the retracted position to the receiving position when the upstream pad closing component is positioned in the pad holder releasing intermediate position.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the trigger for the bladder holder and the trigger for the bladder can be formed in the same piece of material. The piece of material is designed to perform both functions. The piece of material may include at least two protrusions extending longitudinally from the downstream side of the upstream encapsulating component. Depending on the position of the upstream encapsulating component, these protrusions:

[0083] - the pad can be supported in an intermediate pad-holding position of the upstream enclosing member, or

[0084] The capsule holder can be released in an intermediate capsule holder release position of the upstream enclosing member.

[0085] Preferably, the machine comprises a trigger for the second peristaltic valve, said trigger being attached to the upstream capsule-sealing part and said trigger being designed and positioned relative to the upstream capsule-sealing part and the second peristaltic valve such that:

[0086] - opening the first duct in order to supply water to the liquid injector when the upstream pad-enclosing member is positioned in the closed position,

[0087] - When the upstream pad-sealing member is positioned in the mid-Americano position, the second tube is opened to supply water to the in-cup beverage dispensing area.

[0088] Preferably, in a further intermediate position of the upstream pad-enclosing member, the trigger is configured to close the first valve and the second duct.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the trigger for the second peristaltic valve can be a cam member attached to the upstream encapsulation component, the cam member having a profile having a plurality of protrusions and / or cavities arranged to: move the clamping element of the second peristaltic valve so as to clamp at least one of the first tube and the second tube or release one of the first tube or the second tube.

[0090] Preferably, the trigger for the second peristaltic valve is designed so as to open the first tube to supply water to the liquid injector when the upstream pad-enclosing part moves from the pad-holding position to the downstream position.

[0091] This design of the trigger enables rapid opening and subsequent clamping of the first tube during the continuous movement of the upstream capsule enclosing member. As a result, any overpressure in the fluid system, due to the prolonged heating inside the heating mechanism, enables the discharge of a small amount of liquid in the extraction cage. In order not to send this small amount of liquid to the capsule, this step is provided to take place before the capsule is introduced between the two enclosing members.

[0092] Preferably, the first peristaltic valve of the machine comprises an actuator movable between at least two positions, wherein in one cold position of the actuator water is supplied from a cold pipe and in another hot position of the actuator water is supplied from a hot pipe. The peristaltic valve may be the valve described in WO 2008 / 138820.

[0093] With this first peristaltic valve, the machine comprises a trigger for the actuator of the first peristaltic valve, said trigger being attached to the upstream capsule enclosure part and said trigger being designed and positioned relative to the second enclosure part and the actuator so as to:

[0094] - moving said actuator to a hot position when the upstream pad-enclosing member moves downstream from the fully open position,

[0095] - when the upstream capsule enclosing member moves upstream from the starting position to the fully open position,

[0096] Move the actuator to its cold position.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment,

[0098] - the upstream pad closing member is driven by a motor, preferably via a gear mechanism, and

[0099] - the machine comprises a rotary encoder cooperating with the shaft of the motor, and

[0100] - The control system controls the motor according to the signal provided by the rotary encoder.

[0101] By means of this preferred embodiment, the rotary encoder can be initialized when the upstream enclosure reaches the fully open position. This fully open position can be detected by measuring the current of the motor. In fact, in this position, the current of the motor increases sharply, since the upstream enclosure cannot bypass this position.

[0102] In this application:

[0103] - The term "capsule" is used broadly to denote any kind of single-dose container suitable for preparing a beverage or other edible product, such as a capsule, box, portion pack or individual pack, without being limited to the shape of the container, in particular the shape of the body, or the type of piercing mechanism required to extract the beverage therefrom.

[0104] - The term "peristaltic" valve is equivalent to a "pinch" valve, which is a valve configured to clamp or release a flexible hose or tube.

[0105] The above aspects of the present invention may be combined in any suitable combination. In addition, various features herein may be combined with one or more of the above aspects to provide combinations other than those specifically illustrated and described. Additional objects and advantageous features of the present invention will be apparent from the claims, specific embodiments, and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0106] Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be further described by way of example with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0107] - Figure 1A and Figure 1B are a side view and a top view of a part of an extraction device and a fluid system of a beverage preparation machine according to the invention in an open position;

[0108] - Figure 2A and Figure 2B are a side view and a top view of a part of an extraction device and a fluid system of a beverage preparation machine according to the invention in a closed position;

[0109] - Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a fluid system of a beverage preparation machine and its cooperation with a trigger moved by an extraction device;

[0110] - Figure 4A and Figure 4B are top and front views of a trigger for a second peristaltic valve;

[0111] - Figure 5A and Figure 5B are top and perspective views of a trigger for a first peristaltic valve;

[0112] - Fig. 6A and Figure 6B yes Figure 1A , Figure 2A A side view of the separation of the upstream capsule encapsulation part 1 and the downstream capsule encapsulation part 2 of the extraction device;

[0113] - Fig. 7A and Figure 7B They are Fig. 6A and Figure 6B An isolated perspective view of the downstream bladder encapsulation component 2;

[0114] - Figure 7C yes Fig. 7A and Figure 7B An isolated view of the downstream plate piercing arrangement and its surrounding area;

[0115] - Figure 8 yes FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B An isolated perspective view of the upstream capsule encapsulation component 2;

[0116] - Fig. 9 A capsule 3 is shown which can be used in the beverage preparation machine of the present invention;

[0117] - Fig.10 Different positions of the upstream enclosing member 2 are shown during extraction of a hot beverage with the beverage machine shown;

[0118] - Fig.11 shows different positions of the upstream enclosing member 2 during extraction of a cold beverage with the beverage machine shown;

[0119] - Fig.12 is a view of the encoder of the machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0120] Figure 1A and Figure 1B are side and top views of a portion of an extraction device and a fluid system of a beverage preparation machine according to the invention. The extraction device comprises an upstream capsule enclosing member 2 and a downstream capsule enclosing member 1 that are relatively movable in translation along a longitudinal axis XX'. Preferably, this axis XX' is substantially horizontal. Figure 1A to Figure 1B In the embodiment shown, the capsule enclosing parts 1 , 2 are positioned in a fully open position of the extraction device, wherein the enclosing parts are in a position farthest away from each other.

[0121] The capsule can be introduced via the insertion section 4 positioned above the two enclosing parts 1, 2, and can be dropped by gravity from the insertion section into the capsule holder between the two enclosing parts 1, 2. After extraction, when the two enclosing parts 1, 2 are moved away from each other, the capsule can fall again by gravity below the two enclosing parts. Arrow F shows the movement of the capsule from insertion into the interior of the extraction device.

[0122] The two capsule encapsulating parts 1, 2 are held between two lateral and longitudinal sheets (not shown) and between two transverse axes 6 and can be moved between them. At least one of these parts can be translated between the two sheets and the two axes in order to assess different relative and functional positions. In the preferred embodiment shown, the downstream encapsulating part 1 is fixed and only the upstream encapsulating part 2 can be moved along the longitudinal axis XX'. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The fully open position of Figure 2A and Figure 2B The closure moves back and forth between the closed positions shown in FIG. Figure 2A and Figure 2BIn the embodiment of the invention, the two parts are in a closed position and form an extraction chamber which is configured to enclose the capsule during extraction.

[0123] The upstream enveloping member is moved by an actuator 103 comprising a knee lever cooperating at one end with the upstream enveloping member and at the other end with one of the transverse axes 6. The knee lever is actuated by a motor 10 through a gear mechanism (not shown).

[0124] Preferably, the insertion section 4 may include identification means 9 to identify or label the capsule introduced into the interior of the extraction device. The identification means may include:

[0125] a temporary blocking mechanism for blocking the pad in the identification position,

[0126] as well as

[0127] - Recognition means, such as a camera, for recognizing the capsule blocked in the temporary recognition position.

[0128] The control system may be configured such that the blocking mechanism enables the pad to fall to the pad holder of the extraction device when the pad has been identified.

[0129] Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 2A , Figure 2B Shown is a flexible pipe as part of the liquid supply system of a machine:

[0130] - cold pipe 752 supplies cold pumped water to connector 76,

[0131] - Heat pipe 751 supplies heat pump water to this same connector 76 .

[0132] - a first pipe 771 supplies water from the connector 76 to the upstream enclosure part 2,

[0133] - The second tube 772 supplies water from the connector to the cup 81 at the in-cup beverage dispensing area 8 ( Figure 1A ).

[0134] The passage of water through these tubes is controlled by two peristaltic valves positioned in series on the upstream and downstream sides of connector 76 .

[0135] The first peristaltic valve 741 enables the common connector 76 to be supplied with water either from the cold pipe 752 or from the hot pipe 751 .

[0136] The second peristaltic valve 742 enables the water distributed through the common connector 76 to be supplied to the first tube 771 or the second tube 772 .

[0137] The peristaltic valve comprises a clamping device, for each tube, which is configured to clamp or release the flexible tube according to the position of the clamping device. In the clamping position, the liquid is prevented from flowing, while in the releasing position, the liquid can flow if pumped.

[0138] The mechanical trigger is attached to the movable upstream pad-enclosing part 2 and is configured to move together with this part 2 during beverage preparation.

[0139] Some triggers 28, 29 are configured to control the position of the clamping means of the peristaltic valve and enable hot or cold water to be directed to an upstream enclosure or dispensing area.

[0140] The other triggers 26a, 27 are configured to control the movement of the pad from the standby position above the extraction device to the identification position and to the extraction position.

[0141] These different triggers are designed and positioned to achieve these effects by movement of the upstream capsule enclosing component during the sequence of preparing a beverage from the capsule. In the illustrated embodiment, the sequence includes an identification operation, a capsule loading operation, an extraction position (which may include a piercing operation and a watering operation) and an ejection operation.

[0142] Depending on the configuration of the beverage machine, the machine may be simpler and some operations may not be implemented, such as the identification operation. Or the machine may be even more complex and may perform additional operations, such as a cleaning sequence, a descaling sequence for different tubes, or a combination of different beverage preparations. For example, the machine may include a module for preparing a milk component (such as dissolving milk with hot or cold water, or frothing milk with hot water), and the control system of the machine may be configured to distribute hot or cold water through a second tube that supplies water to the milk module.

[0143] In the corresponding extraction operation Figure 2A , Figure 2B It can be observed that Figure 1A , Figure 1B Compared to the capsule loading operation shown in , the triggers 28 , 29 assume different positions relative to the peristaltic valves 741 , 742 .

[0144] Figure 3 The cooperation between the fluid system of the beverage preparation machine and the trigger moved by the extraction device is shown.

[0145] The fluid system typically includes a tank 71 of fluid (usually water), a pump 72 that pumps the fluid from the tank. The outlet of the pump is connected to two pipes:

[0146] - a device connected to adapt the temperature of the fluid, preferably a heater 32,

[0147] - Another passes through the device and supplies fluid at cold or ambient temperature.

[0148] The pipe 751 for supplying hot water and the pipe 752 for supplying cold water are flexible and cooperate with a common clamping valve 741. By default, the valve is configured to clamp the two pipes and prevent liquid leakage. The valve can be moved to two different positions: in one position, the valve releases the hot pipe, and in another position, the valve releases the cold pipe. WO 2008 / 138820 describes a valve of this type. During the movement of the second bag enclosing part 2 as shown by the arrow A, the valve 741 is moved to different positions by the trigger 29.

[0149] Downstream of the first valve 741, two flexible tubes supply liquid to a common connector 76. This connector 76 supplies the liquid dispensed by the first valve 741 to two flexible tubes 771, 772. The first tube 771 is connected to the liquid injector of the upstream capsule enclosure part 2 and the second tube 772 dispenses the liquid in the dispensing area 8 of the machine in order to provide hot or cold water in a drinking cup for diluting the beverage prepared in the extraction device and dispensed into the cup.

[0150] Tube 771 and tube 752 are flexible and cooperate with a common clamping valve 742. By default, the valve is configured to clamp the two tubes and prevent liquid leakage. The valve can be moved to two different positions: in one position, the valve releases the first tube, and in another position, the valve releases the second tube. During the movement of the second bladder enclosing part 2 as shown by arrow B, the valve 742 is moved to different positions by the trigger 28.

[0151] Figure 4A , Figure 4B is an isolated view of the second valve 742 and the trigger 28 for the second valve.

[0152] The end piece of the trigger is fixedly attached to the movable capsule-enclosing part 2, for example to the infrastructure of said movable capsule-enclosing part 2. Thus, the trigger 28 moves and follows the same movement as the capsule-enclosing part 2, namely a forward and backward translation in the embodiment shown. The trigger 28 is a cam member with a profile configured to interact with a second peristaltic valve 742, which is fixedly attached to the infrastructure of the extraction device or another fixed part of the machine.

[0153] The second peristaltic valve 742 comprises two clamping elements, each of which is configured to clamp a corresponding tube: tube 771 to the bladder or tube 772. Both clamping elements are spring-loaded. The cam member of the trigger cooperates with the valve to release the pressure exerted by the spring on one or the other tube.

[0154] As described above, by default (i.e. when the valve is in its inoperative position), the peristaltic valve can be configured to semi-clamp the first and second tubes. The effect of the semi-clamping valve is the same as a check valve that opens when the liquid reaches a certain threshold pressure (e.g. above 1 bar); no liquid flows through the semi-clamped tubes because the pump is actuated only when one of the tubes is no longer clamped.

[0155] In the particular valve 742 of the illustrated embodiment, the cam member comprises:

[0156] - two protrusions 281a and 281b to release the tube 771 to the pad at two different positions of the upstream enclosing member 2, and

[0157] - a projection 281c to release the tube 772 to the dispensing area in a third different position of the upstream enclosure member 2 .

[0158] Figure 4A The upstream enclosing member 2 is shown in the fully open position (see Figure 1A , Figure 1B ) and the relative positions of the cam member 28 and the second peristaltic valve 742 when the two tubes 771, 772 are half-clamped.

[0159] When the upstream enclosing member 2 moves from the fully open position to Figure 2A , Figure 2B In the closed position shown, the cam member translates relative to the fixed second valve 742 according to arrow D. During this movement, the cam member can open the tube in three specific positions:

[0160] - firstly, the protrusion 281a is configured to release the first tube 771 to the pad by moving the clamping elements of said first tube apart, and then

[0161] - In the so-called "American coffee" position, the projection 281c is configured to release the second tube 772 to the dispensing area by separating the clamping elements of the second tube, and then

[0162] In the closed position, the protrusion 281 b is configured to release the first tube 771 to the pad by moving the clamping elements of said first tube apart.

[0163] Typically, when preparing a beverage from a capsule, the movement of the upstream enclosing part 2 is configured to consist in a translation from a fully open position to a closed position, without any stops between these two positions. Therefore, during this movement, the cam member temporarily opens the first duct 771 leading to the capsule as it passes along the valve: this short opening enables any overpressure that may have risen inside the heater to be evacuated before preparing the beverage. This short overpressure generates some liquid that can be discharged through the holder of the upstream enclosing part. Since this upstream enclosing part 2 is in a position for extracting a capsule that is not yet closed and not yet retained, this liquid can be discharged under the chamber and collected in a compartment provided for receiving the ejected capsule.

[0164] On the contrary, in the closed position and the "American coffee" position, the upstream enclosing part 2 is configured to stop and hold this position long enough to enable the first tube 771 and the second tube 772 to be opened respectively. Water can then be injected into the pad for extraction or for dispensing at the dispensing area.

[0165] Figure 5A , Figure 5B is an isolated view of the first valve 741 and the trigger 29 for the second valve.

[0166] The end piece 292 of the trigger is attached in a fixed manner to the movable capsule-enclosing part 2, for example to the basic structure of said movable capsule-enclosing part 2. Therefore, the trigger 29 moves and follows the same movement as the capsule-enclosing part 2, namely a translation in the upstream direction or downstream direction in the embodiment shown.

[0167] The trigger 29 supports a pin 291 configured to interact with an actuator 7411 of the first peristaltic valve. The actuator 7411 cooperates with the clamping elements 7412a and 7412b of the valve, which clamp the hot pipe 751 and the cold pipe 752, respectively. The actuator is configured to position the clamping elements 7412a, 7412b in three different positions:

[0168] a cold tube clamping position in which, during the movement of the trigger 29, only the cold tube 752 is clamped by the clamping element 7412b, while the other clamping element 7412a releases the hot tube 751 further to the position of the actuator 7411 in the hot position;

[0169] a hot pipe clamping position in which, during the movement of the trigger 29, only the hot pipe 751 is clamped by the clamping element 7412a, while the other clamping element 7412b releases the cold pipe 752 further to the position of the actuator 7411 in the cold position;

[0170] - Optionally, an intermediate position in which both the cold and hot pipes are clamped and correspond to Figure 5A , Figure 5B .

[0171] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B are in different relative and functional positions Figure 1A , Figure 2A 1 and 2. The position of the capsule 3 is schematically indicated by a dotted line.

[0172] exist Fig. 6A In the embodiment, the upstream capsule enclosing part 1 and the downstream capsule enclosing part 2 are positioned in an open position for inserting a capsule from the upper side. In front of the downstream capsule enclosing part 1, a capsule holder 11 can be seen in a receiving position for receiving and holding a capsule 3, as described below with reference to Figure 4A Further described.

[0173] exist Figure 6B In the embodiment, the upstream capsule enclosing part 1 and the downstream capsule enclosing part 2 are positioned in a closed position and form an extraction chamber enclosing the capsule during extraction. In this position, the capsule support 11 is in a retracted position.

[0174] Fig. 7A yes Fig. 6A detached perspective view of the downstream bag encapsulation part 2 of the bag. The downstream part 1 defines a plate perpendicular (i.e. transverse) to the longitudinal axis XX'. The plate includes a central downstream plane piercing arrangement 12, which is used to open the cover 32 of the bag when the extraction liquid is introduced into the bag interior and expands the cover. The opening occurs by the relative engagement of the nail-like member and the cover under the action of the increased pressure of the injected liquid in the bag body chamber. The downstream plane piercing arrangement may include a rigid plate, which includes opening elements 121 such as nail-like members on its surface turned towards the cover, and these opening elements may have the shape of a cone or pyramid that is optionally truncated at its ends. In addition, the plate includes perforations for discharging the beverage dispensed from the opened cover to a tube or nozzle that collects the beverage and dispenses it into a drinking cup.

[0175] The downstream component 1 comprises a pad support 11 attached to the peripheral area.

[0176] When attached, the bladder holder can be moved between two positions. Fig. 7A In the embodiment, the capsule holder 11 is in a first position for receiving a capsule and holding the capsule cover in front of the downstream planar piercing arrangement.

[0177] The bag support 11 includes a pair of arms 11a, 11b. Fig. 7ADuring shown first receiving position, this pair of arms keeps and positions the pad.In this position of the pad support, these arms vertically keep the pad, that is to say, they stop the pad to vertically fall from the insertion position.

[0178] The pair of retaining elements 11a, 11b are movable from the receiving position to a second retracted position located at a lateral side of the downstream planar piercing arrangement, such as Figure 7B As illustrated, the accompanying drawing is Figure 6B 2. In this case, the pair of retaining and positioning elements 11a, 11b have been pushed by the upstream enclosing part 2 from the receiving position to the retracted position when the upstream enclosing part 2 is longitudinally translated from the fully open position to the closed position.

[0179] Preferably, each of the arms 11a, 11b of the pad holder can be locked in a retracted position during extraction of the pad and during expulsion of the pad, in order to prevent any malfunction during ejection.

[0180] Figure 7C The manner in which the locking elements 135a, 135b of the arms 11a, 11b can be configured is shown. In this illustration, a portion of the downstream bag enveloping part holding the locking element is made transparent. Obviously, the arm 11a is locked by the locking element 135a which is a spring-loaded bolt (spring 132a); during the movement of the arm 11b to the retracted position, the locking element can be moved downwards through the arm and thereafter the locking element can cooperate with the locking surface of the arm (not shown) so that the retaining and positioning element cannot freely move back to the upstream direction, as shown in FIG. Figure 7C shown.

[0181] In this specific embodiment, the locking piece 135a is designed so as to extend to the upper side of the peripheral area 134 and to form a pin 136b rising upward at the upper side. By exerting pressure on the pin against the force of the spring, the locking piece 135a can be displaced downward and stop locking the released arm 11a. The other arm 11b is locked in a similar manner.

[0182] Each of the pins 136a, 136b has an inclined surface so that when the upstream capsule enclosing part 2 moves to the downstream enclosing part 1, the surface can cooperate with a portion of the upstream capsule enclosing part 2 so that the pin is pushed downward, thereby enabling the capsule catcher to move from the retracted position to the released position. This portion of the upstream capsule enclosing part 2 is designed to be thin enough to slide in the small space defined above the pins 136a, 136b.

[0183] Figure 8 yes FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B An isolated perspective view of the upstream capsule encapsulation component 2.

[0184] The upstream part defines a hollow holder or cavity 21 for enclosing the pad body.

[0185] The upstream wall of the holder carries an upstream piercing arrangement 22 for opening the bottom wall 313 of the pad body. The upstream wall comprises at least one liquid injector 25 for supplying liquid into the pad through a hole opened in the bottom wall of the pad.

[0186] The upstream piercing arrangement may include piercers in the form of blades. These blades may be designed and positioned so that when the upstream capsule enclosing member and the downstream capsule enclosing member are placed in a manner such as Figure 6B The liquid injector 25, such as a sprayer located at the upstream wall of the retainer, can introduce the extraction liquid into the closed chamber interior and the capsule interior through the pre-pierced opening.

[0187] Preferably, pads 2 of different sizes can be introduced and extracted, and the bottom of the holder 21 can be made movable to adapt the internal volume of the holder according to the pad, for example as described in WO 2020 / 089404.

[0188] Furthermore, the upstream enclosing member 2 holds several mechanical triggers having different functions.

[0189] The upstream enclosing part 2 comprises two longitudinal protrusions 26a, 26b extending at the downstream face of the upstream bladder enclosing part. These protrusions are bladder triggers which are configured as follows:

[0190] - When the upstream capsule enclosing part 2 is positioned in the capsule holding or starting intermediate position, the capsule is received and held above the capsule enclosing part. In this intermediate position, the capsule is positioned inside the machine, but can still be removed by the user before it is introduced between the two capsule enclosing parts.

[0191] and

[0192] - When the upstream pad-closing member 2 is moved to the fully open position, the pad is released from its intermediate position to the pad catcher.

[0193] The design of these protrusions, in particular their longitudinal length l, and their position on the downstream side of the upstream enclosing member can be set by taking into account the dimensions of the pad and the travel length of the upstream enclosing member.

[0194] Furthermore, the upstream closing part 2 comprises another trigger 27 for identification, which is designed and positioned to push the pad 2 towards the identification means 9 when the pad is present in the pad holding or starting intermediate position and the upstream pad closing part 2 is moving to a pad identification intermediate position upstream of the starting intermediate position.

[0195] In addition, the upstream enclosing part 2 comprises other triggers 260a, 260b for releasing the bag holder 11. These triggers for the bag holder are designed and positioned to release the bag holder 11 from its retracted position to its receiving position when the upstream bag enclosing part moves to the bag holder release intermediate position. They are positioned at the ends of the bag triggers 26a, 26b.

[0196] The illustrated capsule holder triggers 260a, 260b are specifically designed to be used by pushing Figure 7C The locking members 136a, 136b described in the above are used to release the arms 11a, 11b of the bag support. In this operation, the upstream encapsulation part 2 moves to Figure 3 A and Figure 3 The intermediate bag support release position between the open position and the closed position of B. In this position, the longitudinal protrusions 260a, 260b can slide in the space above the spring-loaded pins 136a, 136b ( Figure 7C ) and push them downwards so that they release the bag holder 11.

[0197] Fig. 9 A capsule 3 is shown which can be used in the beverage preparation machine of the present invention.

[0198] The capsule 3 comprises a capsule body 31 having a side wall 311 extending axially from a bottom wall 313 toward the top. The side wall 311 extends toward the top opening. At the top opening 312, the body comprises a circumferential annular flange 314 extending radially outward from the side wall 311 along the circumference of the opening.

[0199] The flange includes a top surface facing the top and a bottom surface.

[0200] Generally speaking, any transverse cross-section of the body is circular from bottom to top, and the flange is also circular.

[0201] The body defines a chamber for containing beverage ingredients.

[0202] The beverage ingredient that is packaged is preferably an ingredient that can be extracted like roast and ground coffee.

[0203] In a less preferred manner, the beverage ingredient may be tea leaves or a water-soluble powdered ingredient such as instant coffee powder, milk powder, cream powder, instant tea powder, cocoa powder, soup powder, fruit powder or a mixture of said powders, or even a soluble liquid ingredient or a beverage concentrate such as a syrup or milk concentrate. The powder may be agglomerated or fired.

[0204] The capsule comprises a cover 32 which is fixed, sealed or attached to at least a portion of the top surface of the peripheral flange and thus covers and closes the top opening 312 .

[0205] The bottom wall 313 is adapted to be pierced so that liquid can be injected into the pad through the pierced opening.

[0206] The cover 32 is adapted to open during injection of liquid by relative engagement with the piercing arrangement under the effect of the increased liquid pressure inside the pad.

[0207] The pad shape is symmetrical relative to a central axial axis ZZ' extending from the bottom wall to the cover, and the pad shape is asymmetrical relative to the planes of the cover and the flange.

[0208] Fig.10 The movement of the upstream enclosing member 2 during extraction of a hot beverage from a pad using the beverage machine described above is shown. This movement is the result of the actuation of the motor by the control system of the machine.

[0209] When not in operation, the upstream enclosing member 2 is positioned in the initial intermediate position. When preparing a hot beverage, the following steps are performed:

[0210] - In step 1, the user introduces the pad inside the machine: the triggers 26a, 26b block the pad above the upstream enclosing member. The user then activates the beverage preparation through the user interface of the machine.

[0211] - The motor drives the upstream encapsulating member 2 to the identification intermediate position. The trigger 27 pushes the capsule towards the identification means to achieve the identification. In step 2, the capsule is identified and the prepared recipe is read by the control system.

[0212] - The motor drives the upstream closing member 2 to the fully open position, in which the pad triggers 26a, 26b no longer support the pad. In step 3, the pad falls into the pad support.

[0213] - The motor drives the upstream enclosure member 2 into the closed position. During this movement:

[0214] The trigger 29 moves the actuator of the first peristaltic valve to its hot position,

[0215] By passing the protrusion 281a over the second peristaltic valve, the trigger 28 vents the overpressure from the heater if there is overpressure,

[0216] Once the closed position is reached, the protrusion 281a is positioned above the second peristaltic valve and the first tube 771 is opened to enable hot water to be supplied to the liquid injector 25. In step 4, extraction of the pad can take place.

[0217] - At the end of extraction, the motor drives the upstream enclosing member 2 to the fully open position. The extracted capsule is ejected during this movement to step 6.

[0218] If the recipe is Americano, the motor stops the upstream enclosing part 2 once in an Americano intermediate position where the protrusion 281 c is positioned above the second peristaltic valve and the second duct 772 is open to enable the supply of hot water to the cup 81 .

[0219] - At step 6, using FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C The bag support described in the embodiment of the present invention is still in the retracted position on the lateral side of the downstream enclosing component and needs to be released. The motor drives the upstream enclosing component 2 to the bag support release intermediate position, so that the trigger 260a, 260b releases the locking members 136a, 136b in step 7, and then immediately moves the upstream enclosing component 2 back to the starting position.

[0220] If cold water or ambient water is required to extract the beverage from the capsule, the motor comprises additional steps 3' and 3", so as to move the actuator 7411 of the first peristaltic member to the position as shown in FIG. Fig.11 Cold position shown.

[0221] Since in the embodiment specifically shown, the actuator 7411 is configured to switch from the hot position to the cold position by the upstream displacement of the trigger 29, it is necessary for the upstream bag enclosing part 2 to move downstream to an intermediate position referred to as the switching intermediate position before moving upstream to the cold intermediate position. In the switching intermediate position, the actuator 7411 of the valve is positioned in an intermediate position, enabling it to move to the cold position or the hot position depending on whether the movement of the trigger 29 is upstream or downstream.

[0222] During these preparations, the movement of the upstream encapsulation components is actuated by a motor and a gear mechanism connecting them together. The machine includes a rotary encoder 102 located close to the shaft 104 of the motor, and the control system is based on the following Fig.12 The motor is controlled using the signal of the rotary encoder shown. The rotary encoder can be a slotted disc attached to the end of the drive shaft of the electric motor. It is connected to the control system to input the number of pulses provided by the encoder to the system.

[0223] In order to enable the control system to initialize the rotary encoder at a defined position, the fully open position is set as the defined position. In fact, the fully open position can be clearly identified based on the measurement of the current supplied to the motor, which rises sharply when the position is reached.

[0224] Starting from this defined position, each of the specific intermediate positions of the downstream encapsulating member 2 corresponds to a specific corresponding number of pulses or signals of the rotary encoder. These numbers are stored in the electronic memory of the control system. The correspondence between each specific intermediate position and each number of pulses or signals is given in Fig.10 It shows:

[0225] -Fully open position initialization

[0226] - Starting middle position P1

[0227] -Pouch holder release position P2

[0228] - Identify location P3

[0229] - American coffee position P4

[0230] - Closed position P5

[0231] Typically, the processing control unit of the beverage machine is configured to control the pump 33, the heater 32 and optionally the identification means or the user interface or display, if present.

[0232] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the above illustrated embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed is not in any way limited to these illustrated embodiments.

[0233] Various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. In addition, where known equivalents exist for specific features, such equivalents shall be incorporated as if explicitly mentioned in this specification.

[0234] As used in this specification, the words "include", "comprises" and similar words should not be understood as having exclusive or exhaustive meanings. In other words, these words are intended to mean "including but not limited to".

[0235] List of references in the accompanying drawings :

[0236] Downstream encapsulation component 1

[0237] Bag bracket 11

[0238] Arms 11a, 11b

[0239] Downstream plate piercing arrangement 12

[0240] Nail 121

[0241] Springs 132a, 132b

[0242] Surrounding area 134

[0243] Packet support locking pieces 135a, 135b

[0244] Pins 136a, 136b upstream encapsulation component 2

[0245] Cage 21

[0246] Upstream piercing arrangement 22

[0247] Liquid injector 25

[0248] Capsule triggers 26a, 26b

[0249] Recessed portions 260a, 260b

[0250] Trigger for identification 27

[0251] Trigger 28 for the second peristaltic valve

[0252] The protrusions 281a, 281b, 281c are used for the trigger 29 of the first peristaltic valve.

[0253] Pin 291

[0254] End piece 292

[0255] Bag 3

[0256] Body 31

[0257] Side wall 311

[0258] Bottom wall 313

[0259] Cap 32

[0260] Insertion section 4

[0261] Extraction chamber 5

[0262] Axis 6

[0263] Fluid System 7

[0264] Tank 71

[0265] Pump 72

[0266] Heater 73

[0267] The first peristaltic valve 741

[0268] Actuator 7411

[0269] Clamping elements 7412a, 7412b

[0270] Second peristaltic valve 742

[0271] Heat pipe 751

[0272] Cold pipe 752

[0273] Connector 76

[0274] First tube (to the bladder) 771

[0275] Second pipe (to distribution area) 772

[0276] Flow meter 78

[0277] Assignment area 8

[0278] Drinking cup 81

[0279] Identification device 9

[0280] Motor 10

[0281] Gear Mechanisms 101

[0282] Encoder 102

[0283] Actuator 103

[0284] Axis 104

[0285] Control system 20

Claims

1. A beverage preparation machine for preparing a beverage from a beverage ingredient capsule, the machine comprising: - an extraction device for extracting beverage ingredients by supplying an extraction liquid, such as hot water, into the capsule, the extraction device comprising: upstream and downstream capsule-closing members (1, 2) which are relatively movable between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting the capsule (3) and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber (5) enclosing the capsule during extraction, The upstream component (2) defines a cage (21) and carries: an upstream piercing arrangement (22) for opening the bottom wall (313) of the capsule, and Liquid injector (25), the downstream part (1) comprising a downstream piercing arrangement (12) for opening the cover (32) of the pad and a beverage outlet for dispensing the extracted beverage, a liquid supply system connected to the upstream enclosing part, the system comprising: a liquid supply source (71), a pumping mechanism (72) for driving liquid from the liquid supply, a heating mechanism (73) for adjusting the temperature of the liquid, a motor (10) and a control system (20), the motor being used to actuate the movement of at least one of the upstream bag-enclosing part and the downstream bag-enclosing part (1, 2) between the open position and the closed position, preferably by translation of the upstream bag-enclosing part towards the fixed downstream bag-enclosing part, the control system being configured to control the actuation of the motor, Wherein the liquid supply system comprises: a cold pipe (752) for supplying cold pumped water from the pump and a hot pipe (751) for supplying hot pumped water from the heating mechanism, the cold pipe and the hot pipe supplying water to a common connector (76), a first peristaltic valve (741) enabling the common connector to be supplied with water from the cold pipe or from the hot pipe, a first tube (771) supplying water to the liquid injector (25) and a second tube (772) supplying water to the in-cup beverage dispensing area (8), The common connector supplies water to the first pipe and the second pipe, a second peristaltic valve (742) enabling the supply of water dispensed through the common connector to the first or second tube, And wherein the machine comprises a mechanical trigger attached to at least one of the movable capsule sealing parts, the trigger being designed and positioned so as to close or open the water path in the tube (751, 752, 771, 772) and the capsule path in the extraction device according to the movement of at least one of the upstream capsule sealing part and the downstream capsule sealing part (1, 2) during the sequence of preparing a beverage from the capsule.

2. A beverage preparation machine according to claim 1, wherein: - the downstream capsule enclosing member (1) is fixed, and - said upstream pad-enclosing member (2) is capable of translation along the longitudinal axis (XX') between a completely open position and a closed position, and The control system of the motor is configured to position the upstream pad-enclosing member (2) in at least one intermediate position between the fully open position and the closed position.

3. A beverage preparation machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the machine comprises a capsule trigger (26a, 26b) attached to the upstream capsule enclosing part (2), the capsule trigger being designed and positioned relative to the first enclosing part and the second enclosing part such that: - when the upstream pad sealing member (2) is positioned in the pad holding intermediate position, receiving and holding the pad above the pad enclosure, - releasing the pad when the upstream pad-closing part (2) is positioned in the fully open position.

4. A beverage preparation machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the machine comprises recognition means (9) configured to recognize the pad by contact of the recognition means with a surface of the pad, and The machine comprises a trigger (27) for identification attached to the upstream capsule wrapping part (2), and the trigger for identification is designed and positioned to push the capsule towards the identification device when the upstream capsule wrapping part (2) is positioned in the capsule identification intermediate position.

5. Beverage preparation machine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the machine comprises a pad holder (11) which is attached to the downstream pad enclosing part (1) and which is movable between the following positions: a receiving position for receiving and holding the capsule in front of the downstream planar piercing arrangement (12) when the capsule is inserted, and a retracted position, which, when the capsule is ejected, is located at a lateral side of the downstream planar piercing arrangement (12), and The machine comprises a trigger (260a, 260b) for the bag holder, the trigger for the bag holder being attached to the upstream bag sealing component (2) and being designed and positioned to release the bag holder from the retracted position to the receiving position when the upstream bag sealing component (2) moves to the bag holder release intermediate position.

6. Beverage preparation machine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the machine comprises a trigger (28) for the second peristaltic valve, the trigger being attached to the upstream capsule enclosing part (2) and being designed and positioned relative to the second enclosing part and the second peristaltic valve such that: - when the upstream pad-enclosing member (2) is positioned in the closed position, opening the first tube (771) to supply water to the liquid injector (25), - when the upstream pad-sealing member (2) is positioned in the intermediate Americano position, the second duct (772) is opened to supply water to the in-cup beverage dispensing area (8).

7. A beverage preparation machine according to the preceding claim, wherein the trigger (28) for the second peristaltic valve is designed to open the first tube (771) to supply water to the liquid injector (25) when the upstream bag sealing part (2) moves from the first bag holding position to the downstream position.

8. A beverage preparation machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - the first peristaltic valve (741) comprises an actuator (7411) movable between at least two positions, wherein in one cold position of the actuator water is supplied from the cold pipe (752) and in another hot position of the actuator water is supplied from the hot pipe (751), and - the machine comprises a trigger (29) for the actuator (1411) of the first peristaltic valve, the trigger being attached to the upstream capsule enclosure part (2) and being designed and positioned relative to the second enclosure part and the actuator in such a way that: when the upstream bladder enclosing member (2) moves downstream from the fully open position, moving the actuator to the hot position, When the upstream pad-enclosing part (2) moves upstream from the starting position to the fully open position, the actuator is moved to its cold position.

9. A beverage preparation machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - said upstream capsule-closing member (2) is driven by said motor (10), preferably via a gear mechanism (101), and - the machine comprises a rotary encoder (102) cooperating with a shaft (104) of the motor, and - The control system controls the motor (10) according to the signal provided by the rotary encoder (102).

10. Beverage preparation machine according to the preceding claim, wherein - initializing the rotary encoder (102) when the upstream enclosing member (2) reaches the fully open position, and - The fully open position is detected by measuring the current of the motor.

11. A beverage preparation machine according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: When not working: - the first peristaltic valve (741) is positioned so that the heat pipe (751) is not clamped, and - the second peristaltic valve (742) is positioned so that each of the first tube and the second tube is half-clamped.

Images