Beverage preparation machine and powder supply device

Abstract

The invention provides a beverage preparation machine and a powder feeding device.The beverage preparation machine comprises a preparation machine body and a powder box located above the preparation machine body, and the preparation machine body is provided with a first side provided with a beverage distributor and a second side opposite to the first side in the first direction; the powder box is provided with a first powder cavity, a second powder cavity, a first feeding port corresponding to the first powder cavity and a second feeding port corresponding to the second powder cavity, and the first feeding port and the second feeding port are arranged in the first direction. After the first feeding opening and the second feeding opening of the powder box are arranged in the direction from the first side to the second side, the space can be used for increasing the opening size of the first feeding opening and the opening size of the second feeding opening at least on the premise that the space used for arranging the powder box originally is not enlarged. And the situation that the material powder is sprayed outwards when the material powder is added is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of beverage machines, and in particular to a beverage preparation machine and a powder supply device. Background Art

[0002] A beverage preparation machine is a device that makes beverages by mixing powder with water. To enrich the types of beverages, the beverage preparation machine usually has two or more powder boxes, which are respectively used to store different powder materials. In the prior art, the structural shape of the powder box applicable to the beverage preparation machine is set as a long and narrow shape along one direction (such as the front-back direction) of the beverage preparation machine, and each long and narrow powder box is arranged on the beverage preparation machine along the front-back direction. At the same time, multiple such powder boxes are arranged along another direction (such as the left-right direction). The powder boxes with this shape structure and position arrangement can make full use of and adapt to the space of the existing beverage preparation machine. However, the long and narrow powder box will result in a narrow width of the feeding port, and when the user adds powder to each powder box, it is easy to cause the powder to spill out. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a beverage preparation machine and a powder supply device that can avoid powder spilling when adding powder.

[0004] To achieve one of the above-mentioned invention purposes, an embodiment of the present invention provides a beverage preparation machine, including a preparation machine body and a powder box located above the preparation machine body. The preparation machine body has a first side where a beverage dispenser is provided and a second side opposite to the first side along a first direction. The powder box has a first powder chamber, a second powder chamber, a first feeding port corresponding to the first powder chamber, and a second feeding port corresponding to the second powder chamber. The first feeding port and the second feeding port are arranged along the first direction.

[0005] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the powder box further has a first discharge port corresponding to the first powder chamber, and the first discharge port is located below the second feeding port.

[0006] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the beverage preparation machine further includes a discharge mechanism provided at the bottom of the powder box. The discharge mechanism includes a first pushing screw at least partially located in the first powder chamber and a second pushing screw at least partially located in the second powder chamber. The first pushing screw extends along the first direction, the second pushing screw extends along the first direction, the first pushing screw and the second pushing screw are arranged along a second direction, and the second direction forms a certain angle with the first direction.

[0007] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the powder cartridge has a first discharge port communicating with the first powder chamber and a second discharge port communicating with the second powder chamber. The discharging mechanism further includes a first driving motor drivingly connected to the first pushing screw and a second driving motor drivingly connected to the second pushing screw. The first discharge port and the second discharge port are arranged in the area of the first side, and the first driving motor and the second driving motor are arranged in the area of the second side.

[0008] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the first powder chamber includes a first accommodation chamber and a second accommodation chamber communicating with each other. The first accommodation chamber and the second powder chamber are arranged along a second direction, the second accommodation chamber and the second powder chamber are arranged along the first direction, and the second direction forms a certain angle with the first direction.

[0009] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the powder cartridge includes a cartridge body and a first partition connected to the cartridge body. The first partition divides the space inside the cartridge body into a first space and a second space along the first direction. The second powder chamber and the first accommodation chamber are located in the first space, and the second accommodation chamber is located in the second space.

[0010] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the powder cartridge includes a cartridge body and a second partition connected to the cartridge body. The first accommodation chamber and the second powder chamber are oppositely arranged on both sides of the second partition along the second direction, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0011] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the powder cartridge further includes a second partition. The second partition divides the first space into two space parts, and the second powder chamber and the first accommodation chamber are respectively located on both sides of the second partition.

[0012] To achieve the object of the above invention, the present invention further provides a powder supply device, which includes a powder box and a discharging mechanism arranged at the bottom of the powder box. The powder box has a first powder chamber and a second powder chamber which are separated from each other. The discharging mechanism includes a first pushing screw at least partially located in the first powder chamber and a second pushing screw at least partially located in the second powder chamber. The powder box has a first feeding port communicating with the first powder chamber and a second feeding port communicating with the second powder chamber. The first feeding port and the second feeding port are arranged along a first direction. The first pushing screw extends along the first direction and is used to convey the powder in the first powder chamber along the first direction. The second pushing screw extends along the first direction and is used to convey the powder in the second powder chamber along the first direction. The first pushing screw and the second pushing screw are arranged at intervals along a second direction which forms a certain angle with the first direction.

[0013] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the projections of the first powder chamber and the second powder chamber in the second direction partially overlap.

[0014] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the powder box includes a box body and a first partition connecting the box body. The first partition divides the space inside the box body into a first space and a second space along the first direction. A part of the first powder chamber and the second powder chamber are located in the first space, and another part of the first powder chamber is located in the second space.

[0015] As a further improvement of an embodiment of the present invention, the first powder chamber includes a first accommodating chamber and a second accommodating chamber which are communicated with each other. The powder box also has a first discharging port communicating with the first accommodating chamber and a second discharging port communicating with the second powder chamber. The first discharging port and the second discharging port are located on the same side of the powder box along the first direction.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, in the embodiment of the present invention, after the first feeding port and the second feeding port of the powder box are arranged along the direction from the first side to the second side, at least without expanding the original space for arranging the powder box, this part of the space can be used to increase the opening sizes of the first feeding port and the second feeding port, avoiding the situation of powder spilling when adding powder. Description of the Drawings

[0017] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a beverage preparation machine in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a powder supply device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 is Figure 2 The sectional view taken along line A-A in

[0020] Figure 4 is Figure 2 The sectional view taken along line B-B in

[0021] Figure 5 is Figure 2 The exploded view of the powder supply device in

[0022] Figure 6 is Figure 2 One embodiment of the sectional view taken along line C-C in

[0023] Figure 7 is Figure 2 Another embodiment of the sectional view taken along line C-C in

[0024] Figure 8 is Figure 6 The enlarged view at D in

[0025] Figure 9 is Figure 4 The enlarged view at E in

[0026] Figure 10 is Figure 2 The exploded partial view from one perspective;

[0027] Figure 11 is Figure 2 The exploded partial view from another perspective. Detailed Embodiments

[0028] The present invention will be described in detail below in conjunction with the specific embodiments shown in the drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present invention, and any structural, method, or functional transformation made by those of ordinary skill in the art based on these embodiments is included within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0029] It should be understood that terms such as "having", "comprising", and "including" as used herein do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other elements or their combinations.

[0030] The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or other orientations), and the spatially related descriptive terms used herein can be interpreted accordingly. As in the present invention, for ease of description, referring to Figure 1 the direction coordinates in, when the beverage preparation machine is in normal use, the direction towards the ground is downward, and the direction away from the ground is upward; the direction parallel to the ground is the horizontal direction, and the direction perpendicular to the ground is the vertical direction; the side closer to the user is the front side, and the side farther from the user is the rear side.

[0031] In the description of the present invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installation", "connection", and "coupling" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0032] As used herein, the terms "axially", "radially", and "circumferentially" are used with reference to the generally circular and cylindrical shape of the shown pusher screw. In this sense, "axially" refers to the direction generally along or parallel to the central axis of the circular and cylindrical shape, "radially" refers to the direction generally along or parallel to the imaginary radius of the circular and cylindrical shape, and "circumferentially" refers to the direction generally along or in a direction similar to the imaginary circumference of the circular and cylindrical shape.

[0033] Referring to Figure 1 As shown, a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a beverage preparation machine for making beverages such as coffee, soy milk, etc.

[0034] Specifically, a beverage preparation machine includes a preparation machine body 80 and a powder box 10 located above the preparation machine body 80. In this embodiment, the powder box 10 is used to store powder, and is arranged on the upper side of the preparation machine body 80, so as to facilitate the user to add powder.

[0035] Specifically, the preparation machine body 80 has a first side where a beverage dispenser 81 is provided and a second side opposite to the first side along a first direction. In this embodiment, the user takes beverages through the beverage dispenser 81. As Figure 1 , usually the beverage dispenser 81 is located on the front side of the preparation machine body 80. Thus, the first side is preferably the front side, the second side is preferably the rear side, and the first direction is preferably the front-rear direction to adapt to the working conditions of the preparation machine body 80 (i.e., the scenario used by the user).

[0036] With reference to Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, specifically, a powder supply device includes a powder box 10, and the powder box 10 has a first powder chamber 101 and a second powder chamber 102 that are separated from each other. In this embodiment, the first powder chamber 101 and the second powder chamber 102 can be used to store the same or different powders, such as one or more of coffee powder, soy milk powder, milk powder, and chocolate powder. The two powder chambers are separated from each other to maintain the independence of the powders in the two powder chambers.

[0037] With reference to Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown in the figure, specifically, the powder cartridge 10 has a first feeding port 104 corresponding to the first powder chamber 101 and a second feeding port 105 corresponding to the second powder chamber 102. In this embodiment, the first powder chamber 101 is filled with powder through the first feeding port 104, and the second powder chamber 102 is filled with powder through the second feeding port 105.

[0038] Furthermore, the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 are arranged along the first direction. In this embodiment, the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 are arranged along the front-rear direction. This can, at least without expanding the original space for arranging the powder cartridge (i.e., the space in the left-right direction), use this part of the space to increase the opening size (i.e., the width of the feeding port) of the first feeding port and the second feeding port, avoiding the situation of powder spilling during powder feeding and reducing powder waste.

[0039] Furthermore, the beverage preparation machine further includes a discharging mechanism 20 disposed at the bottom of the powder cartridge 10. The discharging mechanism 20 includes a pushing screw that cooperates with the powder cartridge 10, and the pushing screw extends along the first direction. In this embodiment, the discharging mechanism 20 is used to output the powder in the powder cartridge 10 to prepare the corresponding beverage. Usually, the discharging mechanism 20 is provided with a corresponding number of pushing screws according to the number of powder chambers. Extending at least one pushing screw along the first direction (i.e., the arrangement direction of the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105, which is also the front-rear direction) can ensure that other components in the discharging mechanism 20 that cooperate with the pushing screw (such as the driving motor connected to the end of the pushing screw) do not occupy the space in the left-right direction, thereby using this part of the space to increase the opening size of the first feeding port and the second feeding port.

[0040] Furthermore, the powder cartridge 10 also has a first discharging port 103 corresponding to the first powder chamber 101, and the first discharging port 103 is located below the second feeding port 105. In this embodiment, the powder in the first powder chamber 101 is discharged through the first discharging port 103. Since the first feeding port 104 is located at the rear side of the powder cartridge, the second feeding port 105 is located at the front side of the powder cartridge 10, and the first discharging port 103 is located below the second feeding port 105, the first discharging port 103 is also located at the front side of the powder cartridge 10, which is convenient for docking with the beverage dispenser 81 on the front side of the preparation machine body 80. At this time, a part of the first powder chamber 101 is located below the second powder chamber 102, so that a part of the first powder chamber 101 located at the rear side of the second powder chamber 102 can discharge powder from the front side, that is, discharge powder through the first discharging port 103 on the front side, saving space in the left-right direction.

[0041] Furthermore, the beverage preparation machine further includes a discharging mechanism 20 disposed at the bottom of the powder box 10. The discharging mechanism 20 includes a first pushing screw 201 at least partially located in the first powder chamber 101 and a second pushing screw 202 at least partially located in the second powder chamber 102. The first pushing screw 201 extends along a first direction, and the second pushing screw 202 extends along the first direction. In this embodiment, the first pushing screw 201 is used to convey the powder in the first powder chamber 101 along the first direction, and the second pushing screw 202 is used to convey the powder in the second powder chamber 102 along the first direction.

[0042] Furthermore, the first pushing screw 201 and the second pushing screw 202 are arranged along a second direction. The second direction forms an angle with the first direction. In this embodiment, the second direction is preferably the left-right direction. Both the first pushing screw 201 and the second pushing screw 202 extend along the front-back direction and are preferably arranged at intervals along the left-right direction, which can increase the left-right width of the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105. Compared with the scheme of arranging a single pushing screw in a single powder box and then arranging them along the left-right direction, this scheme can expand the left-right width of the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 to the width after the two pushing screws are arranged side by side. Moreover, without changing the occupied space of the powder box 10, the arrangement gap between adjacent powder boxes can be eliminated.

[0043] Furthermore, the powder box 10 has a first discharge port 103 communicating with the first powder chamber 101 and a second discharge port 113 communicating with the second powder chamber 102. In this embodiment, the powder in the second powder chamber 102 is discharged through the second discharge port 113.

[0044] Furthermore, the discharging mechanism 20 further includes a first driving motor drivingly connected to the first pushing screw 201 and a second driving motor drivingly connected to the second pushing screw 202. The first discharge port 103 and the second discharge port 113 are disposed in the area on the first side, and the first driving motor and the second driving motor are located in the area on the second side where the powder box 10 is disposed. In this embodiment, the first discharge port 103 and the second discharge port 113 are located at the front side of the powder box 10, and the first driving motor and the second driving motor are located at the rear side of the powder box 10. On the one hand, it can avoid the two discharge ports and the two driving motors occupying the space of the powder box 10 in the left-right direction, which is convenient for increasing the opening size of the two feeding ports in the left-right direction or arranging more powder boxes 10; on the other hand, the two feeding ports are closer to the beverage dispenser at the front side, which is convenient for docking with the beverage dispenser and reducing the impact of the noise generated by the driving motor on the user.

[0045] Further, the projection of the first powder chamber 101 and the second powder chamber 102 in the second direction partially overlaps. In this embodiment, the first powder chamber 101 and the second powder chamber 102 are arranged staggeredly in the left - right direction, that is, there is a part of overlap between the first powder chamber 101 and the second powder chamber 102 in the left - right direction. Compared with the way that the first powder chamber 101 and the second powder chamber 102 are directly arranged along the front - back direction, it can increase the width of the first powder chamber 101 and the second powder chamber 102 in the left - right direction, thereby increasing the width of the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 in the left - right direction.

[0046] Further, the first powder chamber 101 includes a first accommodating chamber 1011 and a second accommodating chamber 1012 that communicate with each other. In this embodiment, the powder box 10 further has a communication port 1071 that communicates the first accommodating chamber 1011 and the second accommodating chamber 1012, and the powder in the second accommodating chamber 1012 can enter the first accommodating chamber 1011 through the communication port 1071.

[0047] Specifically, the powder box 10 further has a first discharge port 103 that communicates with the first accommodating chamber 1011, a first feeding port 104 that communicates with the second accommodating chamber 1012, and a second feeding port 105 that communicates with the second powder chamber 102. In this embodiment, the powder to be added first enters the second accommodating chamber 1012 through the first feeding port 104. After the powder in the second accommodating chamber 1012 enters the first accommodating chamber 1011, it is discharged from the first discharge port 103 of the first accommodating chamber 1011. The powder to be added enters the second powder chamber 102 through the second feeding port 105.

[0048] Further, the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 are arranged along the first direction. For the convenience of adding powder, the feeding ports are exposed upward, and the powder can be poured from above the feeding ports. In this embodiment, the arrangement direction between the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 can be any horizontal direction, such as Figure 2 the front - back direction or the left - right direction in []. Of course, it can also be a direction at a certain angle relative to the horizontal direction.

[0049] In this embodiment, the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 are arranged along the front - back direction. Compared with the way that the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 are arranged along the left - right direction in the prior art, in the case of the same occupied space and without changing the driving concept of the pushing screw, this solution can enlarge the diameter of each feeding port, effectively avoiding the phenomenon of easy powder spilling during the process of adding powder by users in the prior art.

[0050] Further, the first accommodation cavity 1011 and the second powder cavity 102 are arranged along the second direction, the second accommodation cavity 1012 and the second powder cavity 102 are arranged along the first direction, and the second direction forms a certain angle with the first direction. In this embodiment, the first accommodation cavity 1011 and at least a part of the second powder cavity 102 are oppositely arranged relative to the second accommodation cavity 1012 along the front-rear direction. That is, a part of the first powder cavity (i.e., the first accommodation cavity 1011) and at least a part of the second powder cavity 102 are located at the front of the powder box 10, and another part of the first powder cavity (i.e., the second accommodation cavity 1012) is located at the rear of the powder box 10. Compared with the way of arranging the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 along the front-rear direction, and directly arranging the first powder cavity 101 and the second powder cavity 102 along the front-rear direction, the width of the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 along the left-right direction can be increased, so as to facilitate the feeding operation of the user and prevent the powder from spilling due to the too narrow width of the feeding port in the left-right direction.

[0051] Specifically, the powder box 10 includes a box body 106 and a first partition 107 connecting the box body 106. The first partition 107 divides the space in the box body 106 into a first space 1061 and a second space 1062 along the first direction. In this embodiment, the first partition 107 is located inside the box body 106 and extends along the left-right direction, so that the first space 1061 and the second space 1062 are oppositely arranged on both sides of the first partition 107 along the front-rear direction. A communication port 1071 is formed on the first partition 107.

[0052] Preferably, the plane where the first partition 107 is located is parallel to the vertical plane, which is convenient for the processing and manufacturing of the powder box 10. The first partition 107 and the box body 106 are integrally formed.

[0053] Specifically, the second powder cavity 102 and the first accommodation cavity 1011 are located in the first space 1061, and the second accommodation cavity 1012 is located in the second space 1062. In this embodiment, as Figure 4 , preferably, all of the second powder cavity 102 and the first accommodation cavity 1011 are jointly located on one side (i.e., the front side) of the first partition 107, and the second accommodation cavity 1012 is located on the opposite side (i.e., the rear side) of the first partition 107. On the one hand, the structure of the second accommodation cavity 1012 is simplified, which is convenient for the manufacturing of the powder box 10; on the other hand, compared with the scheme of extending a part of the second powder cavity 102 to the rear side of the first partition 107, it is convenient to clean the inside of the second powder cavity 102.

[0054] Of course, in some embodiments not shown, a part of the second powder chamber 102 may be located on the front side of the first partition 107, and another part of the second powder chamber 102 may be located on the rear side of the first partition 107, so as to make full use of the internal space of the cartridge body 106.

[0055] Furthermore, the powder cartridge 10 includes a cartridge body 106 and a second partition 108 connecting the cartridge body 106. In this embodiment, the second partition 108 is preferably designed separately from the cartridge body 106. For example, the second partition 108 is detachably connected to the cartridge body 106, which is convenient for the processing and manufacturing of the powder cartridge 10.

[0056] Furthermore, the first accommodating chamber 1011 and the second powder chamber 102 are oppositely arranged on both sides of the second partition 108 along a second direction, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. In this embodiment, the second direction is preferably the left-right direction. Most of the second powder chamber 102 is oppositely arranged to the first accommodating chamber 1011 along the left-right direction, and a part of the second powder chamber 102 is located on the top of the first accommodating chamber 1011. Thus, it can be said that the first accommodating chamber 1011 and the second powder chamber 102 are generally oppositely arranged along the left-right direction, or the first accommodating chamber 1011 and the second powder chamber 102 are oppositely arranged with respect to a direction at a certain angle to the left-right direction. The second powder chamber 102 and the first accommodating chamber 1011 both extend along the first direction (i.e., the front-rear direction), that is, the second powder chamber 102 and the first accommodating chamber 1011 are in a straight channel shape in the front-rear direction, and the situation of powder diversion will not occur, which can reduce the resistance of the powder flowing in the second powder chamber 102 and the first accommodating chamber 1011.

[0057] Moreover, the lengths of the second powder chamber 102 and the first accommodating chamber 1011 along the first direction are preferably the same. On the one hand, it can increase the length of the first accommodating chamber 1011 in the front-rear direction, that is, increase the length of the first powder chamber 101 in the front-rear direction; on the other hand, the two ends of the second powder chamber 102 and the first accommodating chamber 1011 along the front-rear direction are flush with each other, making full use of the internal space of the powder cartridge 10, making the structure of the powder cartridge 10 more compact, and also making the external contour (such as the front end) of the powder cartridge 10 flatter.

[0058] Further, the powder cartridge 10 further includes a second partition 108. The second partition 108 divides the first space (1061) into two space portions, and the second powder chamber 102 and the first accommodation chamber 1011 are respectively located on both sides of the second partition (108). In this embodiment, at least part of the first accommodation chamber 1011 is located in the first space 1061. Preferably, all of the first accommodation chambers 1011 are located in the first space 1061. At this time, the second partition 108 divides the first space 1061 into two space portions (i.e., separated into the second powder chamber 102 and the first accommodation chamber 1011). Thus, the structure of the powder cartridge 10 is simplified, facilitating the processing and manufacturing of the powder cartridge 10. Moreover, the internal space of the powder cartridge 10 is fully utilized, making the structure of the powder cartridge 10 more compact, and also making the outer contour (such as the left and right ends) of the powder cartridge 10 flatter. The outer contour of the powder cartridge 10 is in the shape of a flat cuboid structure.

[0059] Moreover, at this time, the first accommodation chamber 1011 and a part of the second accommodation chamber 1012 are oppositely arranged along the front-rear direction on both sides of the first partition 107. At this time, when the powder in the second accommodation chamber 1012 flows into the first accommodation chamber 1011, the situation of the powder flow direction changing will not occur, and the resistance suffered by the powder when flowing in the first powder chamber 101 can be reduced.

[0060] Of course, in some embodiments not shown, it may also be that part of the first accommodation chambers 1011 are located in the first space 1061, and another part of the first accommodation chambers 1011 are located outside the first space 1061.

[0061] Specifically, the second feeding port 105 is formed on the upper edge of the box body 106 and exposes the first space 1061 upward. In this embodiment, the box body 106 is in the shape of a dish with an open top. The top opening of the box body 106 is surrounded by the upper edge of the box body 106. After the upper edge of the box body 106 is separated by the first partition 107, the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 are respectively formed. And, the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 are preferably in the same horizontal plane. The first feeding port 104 exposes the second space 1062 upward, specifically referring to that the internal space of the second space 1062 is exposed or bared upward through the first feeding port 104. It can also be considered that the first feeding port 104 is the top opening of the second space 1062. Similarly, the second feeding port 105 exposes the first space 1061 upward, specifically referring to that the internal space of the first space 1061 is exposed or bared upward through the second feeding port 105. It can also be considered that the second feeding port 105 is the top opening of the first space 1061.

[0062] Specifically, the powder cartridge 10 further includes a cover connected to the cartridge body 106. The cover includes a first cover 1141 that shields the first feeding port 104 and a second cover 1142 that shields the second feeding port 105. The first cover 1141 and the second cover 1142 can be separately opened or closed to correspond to the feeding ports.

[0063] Furthermore, the powder cartridge 10 further includes a second partition 108, and the second partition 108 is located in the first space 1061. In this embodiment, since the second partition 108 is completely located in the first space 1061, the second partition 108 does not block the top opening of the first space 1061 (i.e., the second feeding port 105), that is, it does not block the powder falling into the first space 1061 from the second feeding port 105, effectively increasing the opening area of the second feeding port 105 and reducing the situation of powder spilling during the powder adding process.

[0064] In some embodiments not shown, it may also be that a part of the second partition 108 is located in the first space 1061 and another part of the second partition 108 is located outside the first space 1061, as long as it is ensured that the second partition 108 does not interfere with the feeding of the second feeding port 105.

[0065] Furthermore, the second partition 108 shields the top of the first accommodation cavity 1011. In this embodiment, since the second partition 108 shields the top of the first accommodation cavity 1011, the second feeding port 105 at this time only serves as the feeding port of the second powder cavity 102, so that the powder falling into the first space 1061 from the second feeding port 105 does not fall into the first accommodation cavity 1011, avoiding the situation of powder mixing between the first powder cavity 101 and the second accommodation cavity 102. Thus, it is ensured that all the powder falling from the second feeding port 105 falls into the second powder cavity 102.

[0066] Preferably, the second partition 108 is connected to the side wall of the second space 1061 (such as the right side wall of the cartridge body 106). Compared with the scheme where the second partition 108 is only connected to the bottom wall of the second space 1061, it is beneficial for the powder in the second powder cavity 102 to accumulate in the same place, thus facilitating the discharge of the powder in the second powder cavity 102.

[0067] Moreover, since the second feeding port 105 also serves as the feeding port (or the top opening) of the second powder cavity 102, the second feeding port 105 simultaneously serves as the top opening of both the first space 1061 and the second powder cavity 102. At this time, the second partition 108 does not block the powder falling into the second powder cavity 102 from the second feeding port 105, effectively increasing the opening area of the second feeding port 105 and reducing the situation of powder spilling during the powder adding process, facilitating the powder adding operation to the second powder cavity 102 from the second feeding port 105.

[0068] Furthermore, the second partition 108 has a first guide portion 1081, and the distance between the first guide portion 1081 and the connected side wall of the box body 106 gradually increases from top to bottom. In this embodiment, if Figure 3 , the first material guide portion 1081 is preferably a flat plate structure. The top of the first material guide portion 1081 is preferably connected to a side wall of the box body 106 (for example, the right side wall of the box body 106), and the distance between the first material guide portion 1081 and the right side wall of the box body 106 gradually increases from top to bottom. The first material guide portion 1081 is inclined at a certain angle compared to the vertical plane, that is, the first material guide portion 1081 is inclined to the left and downward from the end connected to the right side wall of the box body 106, so as to facilitate the powder on the second partition 108 to slide down, and reduce the situation of powder hanging on the second partition 108. Therefore, when the powder falling into the second powder cavity 102 from the second feeding port 105 falls on the second partition 108, or when the second powder cavity 102 is outputting powder, the powder in the second powder cavity 102 slides down smoothly.

[0069] In some embodiments not shown, the top of the first guide portion 1081 can also be connected to multiple side walls of the box body 106 (such as the right side wall and the front side wall of the box body 106) at the same time, as long as the distance between the first guide portion 1081 and the connected side wall of the box body 106 gradually increases from top to bottom.

[0070] Furthermore, the second partition 108 has a second material guide portion 1082, which is located at one end of the second partition 108 close to the connecting port 1071. The second material guide portion 1082 is located at the top of the first accommodating chamber 1011 to avoid material powder falling into the first accommodating chamber 1011 from the connecting port 1071. In this embodiment, after the powder enters the second accommodating chamber 1012 through the first feeding port 104, it will accumulate in the second accommodating chamber 1012 to form an angle of repose inclined relative to the horizontal plane. The powder that continues to be added will fall into the first accommodating chamber 1011 along the inclined direction of the angle of repose through the connecting port, and finally be discharged from the first accommodating chamber 1011 to the first powder material chamber 101. Since the second partition 108 is provided with a second guide portion 1082 at one end close to the connecting port 1071, and the yielding portion 1082 is at the top of the first accommodating chamber 1011, it is avoided to block the powder that falls into the first accommodating chamber 1011 through the connecting port 1071, and facilitates the flow of powder in the first powder material chamber 101. It should be noted that the second guide portion 1082 is located at the top of the first accommodating chamber 1011, which specifically means that the second guide portion 1082 covers part or all of the top of the first accommodating chamber 1011.

[0071] The distance between the second material guide portion 1082 and the connected first partition 107 gradually increases from top to bottom. In this embodiment, the top of the second material guide portion 1082 is connected to the first partition 107, and the second material guide portion 1082 is inclined forward and downward from the end connected to the first partition 107. On the one hand, it is convenient for the powder on the second partition 108 to slide down, reduce the situation of powder hanging on the wall of the second partition 108, and facilitate the powder in the second powder cavity 102 to fall and be discharged; on the other hand, when adding powder from the first feeding port 104 to the first powder cavity 101, the powder will first accumulate in the second accommodating cavity 1012, and the powder will form a repose angle after accumulation. The inclined second material guide portion 1082 can avoid the repose angle of the powder, facilitate the powder in the second accommodating cavity 1012 to enter the first accommodating cavity 1011, and reduce the influence of the second partition 108 on the accumulation of powder in the second accommodating cavity 1012.

[0072] Preferably, the second partition 108 is composed of a first material guide portion 1081 and a second material guide portion 1082, and the first material guide portion 1081 is connected to the side of the second material guide portion 1082 away from the second partition 107. In order to make the angle formed by the direct connection between the first material guide portion 1081 and the second material guide portion 1082 easy to clean, a curved surface structure (similar to a chamfered structure) can be connected between the first material guide portion 1081 and the second material guide portion 1082 for transition, or the second material guide portion 1082 can be set as a curved surface structure with a certain curvature. This method also facilitates the powder on the second partition 108 to slide down, reduces the situation where the powder hangs on the wall of the second partition 108, and facilitates the powder in the second powder cavity 102 to fall and be discharged.

[0073] In addition, when the second partition 108 is composed of the first material guide portion 1081 and the second material guide portion 1082, compared with the solution in which the second partition 108 is composed only of the first material guide portion 1081, the opening area of ​​the communication port 1071 can be increased, thereby accelerating the flow of powder in the second accommodating chamber 1012 into the first accommodating chamber 1011.

[0074] In some embodiments not shown, the second partition 108 may also be composed only of the first material guide portion 1081, that is, the rear end of the first material guide portion 1081 is directly connected to the first partition 107, thereby simplifying the structure of the second partition 108 and facilitating the processing and manufacturing of the powder box 10.

[0075] In some embodiments not shown, the second partition 108 can also be composed of only the second material guide portion 1082. In this case, the second material guide portion 1082 can adopt a flat plate structure, thereby simplifying the structure of the second partition 108 and facilitating the processing and manufacturing of the powder box 10, as long as the distance between the second material guide portion 1082 and the connected first partition 107 gradually increases from top to bottom.

[0076] Further, the second partition 108 further has a first material guiding portion 1081. The tops of the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081 are both attached to the inner wall of the cavity of the second powder chamber 102. In this embodiment, since both the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081 adopt an inclined surface structure that slopes downward from the top, attaching their tops to the inner wall of the cavity of the second powder chamber 102 (i.e., the top of the first material guiding portion 1081 is attached to the side wall of the box body 106, and the top of the second material guiding portion 1082 is attached to the first partition 107), when the powder falls on the second partition 108 through the inner wall of the cavity of the second powder chamber 102, it can directly slide down from the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081 to the bottom of the second powder chamber 102, avoiding the powder from staying between the inner wall of the cavity of the second powder chamber 102 and the second material guiding portion 1082, or staying between the inner wall of the cavity of the second powder chamber 102 and the first material guiding portion 1081.

[0077] Further, the top of the second material guiding portion 1082 is flush with the top of the first material guiding portion 1081. In this embodiment, the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081 can be butted in a directly connected manner. Since both the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081 adopt an inclined surface structure that slopes downward from the top, and the upper edges of the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081 are at the same horizontal height, the second partition 108 forms a closed upper edge contour. At this time, the second partition 108 is funnel-shaped from top to bottom. This method can enable the powder to slide down to the bottom of the second powder chamber 102 more quickly when it falls on the second partition 108, avoiding the situation of the powder hanging on the second partition 108.

[0078] Further, the first material guiding portion 1081 and the second material guiding portion 1082 are respectively connected to different inner walls of the cavity of the second powder chamber 102. In this embodiment, the first material guiding portion 1081 and the second material guiding portion 1082 are respectively connected to adjacent inner walls of the cavity of the second powder chamber 102, that is, the top of the first material guiding portion 1081 is connected to the right side wall of the box body 106, and the top of the second material guiding portion 1082 is connected to the first partition 107.

[0079] Further, a smooth chamfer is formed between the first material guiding portion 1081 and the second material guiding portion 1082. In this embodiment, the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081 are indirectly connected for docking, that is, they are docked through a smooth chamfer. The smooth chamfer adopts an arc surface structure, making the docking part between the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081 smoother. Compared with the way of directly docking the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081, it avoids the retention of powder or difficult cleaning at the docking angle formed between the second material guiding portion 1082 and the first material guiding portion 1081, so that the powder can smoothly slide from the second partition 108 to the bottom of the second powder cavity 102.

[0080] Specifically, the top of the smooth chamfer fits against the inner wall of the cavity of the second powder cavity 102, and the top of the smooth chamfer is flush with the top of the second material guiding portion 1082 and / or the top of the first material guiding portion 1081. In this embodiment, similarly, the top of the smooth chamfer fits against the inner wall of the cavity of the second powder cavity 102, which can avoid the retention of powder between the inner wall of the cavity of the second powder cavity 102 and the smooth chamfer. Preferably, the top of the smooth chamfer, the top of the second material guiding portion 1082, and the top of the first material guiding portion 1081 are flush with each other, so that the second partition 108 forms a closed upper edge contour. At this time, the second partition 108 is funnel-shaped from top to bottom, and the inner wall of this funnel-shaped structure is smoother.

[0081] With reference to Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, further, the powder box 10 further includes a connection structure 109 for limiting and cooperating the box body 106 with the second partition 108 and a limiting structure for positioning and cooperating the box body 106 with the second partition 108. The connection structure 109 includes a first docking hole 1091 provided on the box body 106, a second docking hole 1092 provided on the second partition 108, and a fixing member matching the first docking hole 1091. The fixing member is coaxially arranged with the first docking hole 1091 and the second docking hole 1092. In this embodiment, the box body 106 has a first fixing seat 1063 forming the first docking hole 1091, and the second partition 108 has a second fixing seat 1085 forming the second docking hole 1092. The fixing member is preferably a screw.

[0082] In some embodiments not shown, the fixing member can also be a pin, and the first docking hole 1091 and the second docking hole 1092 are configured as pin holes with an interference fit with the pin.

[0083] Specifically, as Figure 6As shown, the present invention provides a first embodiment of the connection structure 109. In this embodiment, the first docking hole 1091 is configured as a through hole (such as a counterbore) matching the screw, and the second docking hole 1092 is configured as a threaded hole matching the screw. After the fixing member passes through the first docking hole 1091, it is docked with the second docking hole 1092, so that the structure of the connection structure 109 is simple and the manufacturing cost of the powder cartridge 10 is low.

[0084] Specifically, as Figure 7 shown, the present invention provides a second embodiment of the connection structure 109. In this embodiment, the connection structure 109 further includes a nut 70 that cooperates with the second docking hole 1092 (such as an interference fit). The first docking hole 1091 is configured as a through hole (such as a counterbore) matching the screw, and the nut 70 is configured with a threaded hole matching the screw. After the fixing member passes through the first docking hole 1091, it is docked with the nut 70 in the second docking hole 1092, improving the durability of the connection structure 109 and extending the service life of the powder cartridge 10.

[0085] Furthermore, the limiting structure includes a first limiting opening 1101 provided on the box body 106 and a second limiting opening 1102 provided on the second partition 108. The first limiting opening 1101 and the second limiting opening 1102 cooperate with each other along the axial direction of the fixing member. In this embodiment, after the first limiting opening 1101 and the second limiting opening 1102 cooperate with each other, it can limit the second partition 108 from shifting leftward and downward within the box body 106 (i.e., within the first space 1061). As Figure 3 shown, the cross-sections of the first limiting opening 1101 and the second limiting opening 1102 adopt an "L" shape, that is, a stepped surface structure, and then are misaligned and matched with each other, facilitating the positioning of the installation between the second partition 108 and the box body 106. And, since the second limiting opening 1102 is located at the bottom of the second partition 108, after the first limiting opening 1101 and the second limiting opening 1102 are in contact with each other, it can remind the user that the second partition 108 is installed in place and avoid excessive downward insertion of the second partition 108.

[0086] Furthermore, the powder cartridge 10 further includes a snap structure 111 that makes the first partition 107 and the second partition 108 snap-fit. The snap structure 111 and the connection structure 109 are arranged opposite to each other along the first direction. In this embodiment, the setting of the snap structure 111 can increase the limiting strength between the second partition 108 and the box body 106, and increase the limiting strength between the second partition 108 and the first partition 107. As Figure 6 shown, the snap structure 111 and the connection structure 109 are arranged opposite to each other, making the second partition 108 more stably limited within the first space 1061 and not easily prone to the situation of force deviation.

[0087] With reference toFigure 8 As shown, specifically, the buckle structure 111 includes a first buckle 1111 disposed on the first partition 107 and a second buckle 1112 disposed on the second partition 108, and the first buckle 1111 and the second buckle 1112 cooperate with each other along the axial direction of the fixing member. In this embodiment, after the second partition 108 is inserted downward into the first space 1061, the first buckle 1111 and the second buckle 1112 abut against each other, thereby limiting the second partition 108 from deflecting upward in the first space 1061.

[0088] Preferably, such as Figure 6 , the buckle structure 111 is combined with the first embodiment of the connecting structure 109.

[0089] Furthermore, the powder box 10 also includes a sealing strip 112 that cooperates with the second partition 108. In this embodiment, the sealing strip 112 abuts between the second partition 108 and the box body 106 and between the second partition 108 and the first partition 107. The setting of the sealing strip 112 prevents the powder from mixing between the first accommodating chamber 1011 and the second powder chamber 102. In addition, the second partition 108 is smoothly inserted into the first space 1061.

[0090] Specifically, the sealing strip 112 has a deformation portion 1121 and a sealing portion 1122 connected to each other, and the second partition 108 has a clearance opening 1083 opposite to the deformation portion 1121. In this embodiment, the sealing strip 112 also has a mounting portion 1123 connected to the deformation portion 1121, and the second partition 108 has a mounting groove 1084 that matches (for example, interference fit) with the mounting portion 1123. By embedding the mounting portion 1123 in the mounting groove 1084, the sealing strip 112 is connected to the second partition 108. The mounting groove 1084 and the clearance opening 1083 are both located on the edge end surface of the second partition 108, and the two are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0091] Furthermore, the sealing portion 1122 is located on the side of the deformation portion 1121 away from the clearance opening 1083. In this embodiment, combined with Figure 6 and Figure 8 , taking the sealing strip 112 at the edge end surface of the second partition 108 facing the first partition 107 as an example, when the second partition 108 extends downward into the first space 1061, the sealing portion 1122 protruding from the edge end surface of the second partition 108 receives the reaction force of the first partition 107, driving part of the deformed portion 1121 to move toward the opening 1083, thereby preventing the sealing strip 112 from interfering with the installation of the second partition 108. When the second partition 108 is installed in place, the deformed portion 1121 receives its own rebound force, elastically holding the sealing portion 1122 against the first partition 107, thereby ensuring the sealing between the second partition 108 and the first partition 107.

[0092] Further, the discharging mechanism 20 includes a first pushing screw 201 that is at least partially exposed in the first powder chamber 101. In this embodiment, the first pushing screw 201 extends into the first accommodating chamber 1011 and / or the second accommodating chamber 1012, so as to discharge the powder in the first powder chamber 101. Preferably, the first pushing screw 201 extends into both the first accommodating chamber 1011 and the second accommodating chamber 1012 at the same time, which is convenient for discharging the powder in the entire first powder chamber 101.

[0093] Further, the axis of the first pushing screw 201 extends along the first direction. In this embodiment, considering the slender structure of the first pushing screw 201, the extending direction of the axis of the first pushing screw 201 is set to be the same as the arrangement direction of the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105, so as to increase the width of the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 in the front-rear direction, which is convenient for the user to perform the powder adding operation.

[0094] In some embodiments not shown, the extending direction of the axis of the first pushing screw 201 can also be set to be different from the arrangement direction of the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105. For example, the axis of the first pushing screw 201 extends along a direction at a certain angle to the first direction.

[0095] Further, the discharging mechanism 20 further includes a second pushing screw 202 that is at least partially exposed in the second powder chamber 102, and the axis of the second pushing screw 202 is parallel to the axis of the first pushing screw 201. In this embodiment, the second pushing screw 202 is used to discharge the powder in the second powder chamber 102. The first pushing screw 201 and the second pushing screw 202 extend along the same direction, and preferably, the first pushing screw 201 and the second pushing screw 202 are arranged along the left-right direction, so as to increase the width of the first feeding port 104 and the second feeding port 105 in the left-right direction, which is convenient for the user to perform the powder adding operation, and can also save the occupied space of the powder supply device in the vertical direction.

[0096] In addition, compared with the way of directly arranging the two powder boxes along the left-right direction, the omitted gap between adjacent powder boxes is used to increase the left-right width of the feeding port. Thus, without increasing the distance between the two screws and the left-right width of the powder supply device, the left-right width of the feeding port is increased, and the risk of powder spillage caused by the too narrow left-right width of the feeding port is avoided.

[0097] In some embodiments not shown, the first pushing screw 201 and the second pushing screw 202 can also extend along different directions. For example, the axis of the first pushing screw 201 and the axis of the second pushing screw 202 are arranged at a certain angle.

[0098] Specifically, the discharging mechanism 20 further includes a first paddle wheel 203 rotatably disposed in the first accommodating chamber 101, a second paddle wheel 204 rotatably disposed in the second powder material chamber 102, and a third paddle wheel 205 rotatably disposed in the second accommodating chamber 1012, and each paddle wheel is provided with a paddle spring 206. The first paddle wheel 203 and the third paddle wheel 205 cooperate with the first push screw 201 in a transmission manner, so that the first paddle wheel 203 and the third paddle wheel 205 rotate together with the first push screw 201. When the first paddle wheel 203 and the third paddle wheel 205 drive their respective paddle springs 206 to rotate in the first powder material chamber 101, the paddle spring 206 can loosen the powder in the first powder material chamber 101 to prevent the powder from agglomerating, so as to facilitate the discharge of the powder in the powder material chamber 101. Similarly, the second material paddle wheel 204 and the material paddle spring 206 on the second material paddle wheel 204 can also play a role in loosening the powder in the second powder cavity 102.

[0099] Specifically, the powder box 10 also has a second discharge port 113 connected to the second powder cavity 102. In this embodiment, the powder in the second powder cavity 102 is discharged through the second discharge port 113 for the user to take.

[0100] Furthermore, the first discharge port 103 and the second discharge port 113 are located on the same side of the powder box 10. In this embodiment, the first discharge port 103 and the second discharge port 113 are both located on the front side of the powder box 10, and the first accommodating chamber 101 and the second powder chamber 101 are in the shape of a strip along the front-to-back direction, which is the same as the pushing direction of the pushing screw. After the powder enters the powder chamber from the feeding port, it is discharged from the discharge port along the first direction.

[0101] Specifically, the powder box 10 also includes a first guide member 115 connected to the first discharge port 103 and a second guide member 116 connected to the second discharge port 113. The first guide member 115 and the second guide member 116 are located on the same side (i.e., the front side) of the powder box 10, so that the powder output from the first powder cavity 101 and the second powder cavity 102 falls into a mixing chamber and is mixed with water in the mixing chamber. At least part of the first push screw 201 extends into the first guide member 115, so that the rotation of the first push screw 201 is more stable, and at least part of the second push screw 202 extends into the second guide member 116, so that the rotation of the second push screw 202 is more stable. A powder detection member is set in the first guide member 115 and / or the second guide member 116 to detect whether there is powder in the corresponding powder cavity.

[0102] Specifically, the discharging mechanism 20 further includes a first transmission gear 207 connected to the first pushing screw 201 and a second transmission gear 208 connected to the second pushing screw 202. The first transmission gear 207 transmits the torque generated by the first driving motor to the first pushing screw 201 to achieve the rotation of the first pushing screw 201. The second transmission gear 208 transmits the torque generated by the second driving motor to the second pushing screw 202 to achieve the rotation of the second pushing screw 202. Both the first transmission gear 207 and the second transmission gear 208 are located on the same side (e.g., the rear side) of the material distribution box 10, that is, on the opposite side of the two discharging ports.

[0103] Continuing to refer to Figure 5 As shown, further, the beverage preparation machine further includes a first mounting structure for restricting any pushing screw from shifting relative to the powder box 10. In this embodiment, the beverage preparation machine includes a first mounting structure for restricting the first pushing screw 201 from shifting relative to the powder box 10. Alternatively, the beverage preparation machine includes a first mounting structure for restricting the second pushing screw 202 from shifting relative to the powder box 10. Or, the beverage preparation machine includes a first mounting structure for restricting the first pushing screw 201 from shifting relative to the powder box 10 and a first mounting structure for restricting the second pushing screw 202 from shifting relative to the powder box 10, and the two first mounting structures have the same structure.

[0104] Preferably, both the first pushing screw 201 and the second pushing screw 202 are cooperated with the powder box 10 through the same first mounting structure. For the convenience of description, the following will take the way of the cooperation between the first pushing screw 201 and the powder box 10 as an example for description. As for the way of the cooperation between the second pushing screw 202 and the powder box 10, it is the same as that of the first pushing screw 201, and will not be elaborated here.

[0105] Referring to Figure 4 and Figure 9 As shown, specifically, the beverage preparation machine further includes a first mounting structure for restricting the first pushing screw 201 from shifting relative to the powder box 10 along the axial direction and / or the radial direction of the first pushing screw 201. In this embodiment, the setting of the first mounting structure enables the first pushing screw 201 to rotate stably relative to the powder box 10. At this time, the first pushing screw 201 can rotate approximately around its own axis. In addition, the first mounting structure can also restrict the first pushing screw 201 from shifting relative to the powder box 10 along the axial direction of the first pushing screw 201. Among them, when the first mounting structure restricts the first pushing screw 201 from shifting relative to the powder box 10, there is a certain clearance for movement, and relative shifting is not completely avoided.

[0106] Preferably, the first mounting structure can restrict the first pushing screw 201 from shifting relative to the powder box 10 along the axial direction and the radial direction of the first pushing screw 201.

[0107] Specifically, the first installation structure includes a fixing cap 302 that cooperates with the first pushing screw 201 and a connecting member 301 that connects the fixing cap 302 to the powder box 10. In this embodiment, a clearance fit is preferably adopted between the first pushing screw 201 and the fixing cap 302, so that the first pushing screw 201 can rotate relative to the fixing cap 302. For example, the fixing cap 302 is sleeved on the first pushing screw 201. Thus, after the fixing cap 302 is connected to the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) through the connecting member 301, the first pushing screw 201 can rotate relative to the powder box 10. The fixing cap 302 is connected to the powder box 10 through the connecting member 301, so that after the fixing cap 302 receives an external force from the first pushing screw 201, the external force is directly applied to the connecting member 301, reducing the damage to the powder box 10.

[0108] Specifically, the fixing cap 302 and the connecting member 301 are butt-jointed along the axial direction of the first pushing screw 201, and the fixing cap 302 and the connecting member 301 are detachably connected, such as by threaded connection, snap connection, or interference fit.

[0109] Furthermore, the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 are separately provided. In this embodiment, after the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 are separately provided, the maintenance and replacement frequency of the powder box 10 can also be reduced by replacing the connecting member. Compared with the technical solution of directly replacing the powder box 10, the use cost of the beverage preparation machine is saved.

[0110] Specifically, the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 are detachably connected. In this embodiment, a bolt connection is preferably adopted between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10, so as to facilitate the installation and disassembly between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10, with a simple structure and low manufacturing cost.

[0111] In some embodiments not shown, the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 can also be connected in a non-detachable manner, such as by adhesive fixation, ultrasonic welding fixation, etc., as long as it is ensured that the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 are separately provided.

[0112] Specifically, the wear resistance and / or structural strength of the connecting member 301 is greater than that of the powder box 10. In this embodiment, it is preferably that the wear resistance of the connecting member 301 is greater than the wear resistance of the powder box 10, and the structural strength of the connecting member 301 is greater than the structural strength of the powder box 10. Among them, the wear resistance can refer to the wear resistance performance of the material, and the structural strength can refer to the ability of the structure to resist being damaged by external forces. Thus, it is ensured that the connecting member 301 has a longer service life than the powder box 10, improving the service life of the entire powder discharging device.

[0113] Specifically, the connecting member 301 is made of a different material from the powder box 10. In this embodiment, the connecting member 301 can be selected to have a different material from the powder box 10 according to the usage requirements. For example, parameters such as the structural strength and wear resistance of the material selected for the connecting member are higher than those of the material selected for the powder box 10, thereby increasing the service life of the connecting member 301, eliminating the need for frequent replacement and repair, and saving the usage cost of the powder discharging device.

[0114] In some embodiments not shown, the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 may also be made of the same material.

[0115] Purely as a non-limiting example, it is preferred that the fixing cap 302 is threadedly connected to the connecting member 301. In this embodiment, the fixing cap 302 and the connecting member 301 are docked with each other by means of a threaded connection, which improves the connection strength between the fixing cap 302 and the connecting member 301, such that the fixing cap 302 is not easily loosened when the first pushing screw 201 rotates.

[0116] Moreover, considering that the threaded structure will be worn and deformed after long-term use, the threaded structure is formed on the connecting member 301, and the fixing cap 302 is connected to the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) through the connecting member 301. By replacing the connecting member 301, the threaded structure can be replaced. Compared with the method of directly forming the threaded structure on the powder box 10 and replacing the entire powder box 10, this solution reduces the usage cost of the beverage preparation machine.

[0117] In addition, forming the threaded structure on the connecting member 301 is also convenient for the processing of the threaded structure compared with the method of directly forming the threaded structure on the powder box 10. For example, it provides more operating space for the mold for forming the threaded structure, such as in the case where the first pushing screw 201 and the second pushing screw 202 are arranged along the left-right direction as described above.

[0118] With reference to Figure 10 and Figure 11 shown, further, the beverage preparation machine further includes at least a second mounting structure that restricts the relative axial offset of any pushing screw and the powder box 10. In this embodiment, the beverage preparation machine includes at least a second mounting structure that restricts the relative axial offset of the first pushing screw 201 and the powder box 10. Alternatively, the beverage preparation machine includes at least a second mounting structure that restricts the relative axial offset of the second pushing screw 202 and the powder box 10. Or, the beverage preparation machine includes at least a second mounting structure that restricts the relative axial offset of the first pushing screw 201 and the powder box 10 and at least a second mounting structure that restricts the relative axial offset of the second pushing screw 202 and the powder box 10, and the two second mounting structures have the same structure.

[0119] Preferably, both the first feeding screw 201 and the second feeding screw 202 are cooperated with the powder box 10 through the same second installation structure. For the convenience of description, hereinafter, the cooperation mode between the first feeding screw 201 and the powder box 10 will continue to be taken as an example for description. The cooperation mode between the second feeding screw 202 and the powder box 10 is the same as that of the first feeding screw 201, and will not be elaborated here.

[0120] Specifically, the beverage preparation machine further includes a second installation structure that at least restricts the axial offset of the first feeding screw 201 relative to the powder box 10 along the axis of the first feeding screw 201. In this embodiment, the setting of the second installation structure enables the first feeding screw 201 to rotate while the distance between the first feeding screw 201 and the powder box 10 along the axis of the first feeding screw 201 (such as Figure 2 the front-back direction in ) remains substantially unchanged. In addition, the second installation structure can also restrict the radial offset of the first feeding screw 201 relative to the powder box 10 along the first feeding screw 201. When the second installation structure restricts the offset of the first feeding screw 201 relative to the powder box 10, there is a certain clearance, and relative offset is not completely avoided.

[0121] Specifically, the second installation structure includes a limiting member 401 connecting the first feeding screw 201, a first limiting block 402 connecting one of the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) and the fixing cap 302, and a second limiting block 403 connecting the other of the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) and the fixing cap 302. In this embodiment, the limiting member 401 is located on the side of the first feeding screw 201 close to the first transmission gear 207. The first limiting block 402 and the second limiting block 403 can adopt the same or different structures and sizes. Since the structures of the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) and the fixing cap 302 are different, it is preferred that the first limiting block 402 and the second limiting block 403 adopt different structures and sizes, so as to set different limiting blocks according to the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) and the fixing cap 302 with different structural sizes, which is convenient for the processing and manufacturing of the first limiting block 402 and the second limiting block 403.

[0122] Specifically, the first limit block 402 is arranged relative to at least part of the limit member 401 along the axial direction of the first push screw 201, and the second limit block 403 is arranged relative to at least part of the limit member 401 along the axial direction of the first push screw 201. In this embodiment, the first limit block 402 is arranged relative to at least part of the limit member 401 along the axial direction of the first push screw 201 toward the side of the powder box 10 (i.e., the front side of at least part of the limit member 401), thereby limiting the first push screw 201 and the powder box 10 from moving toward each other along the axial direction of the first push screw 201, that is, limiting the first push screw 201 from moving forward relative to the powder box 10. The second limiting block 403 is relatively arranged on the side of at least part of the limiting member 401 away from the powder box 10 along the axial direction of the first pushing screw 201 (i.e., the rear side of at least part of the limiting member 401), thereby limiting the first pushing screw 201 and the powder box 10 from moving in the opposite direction along the axial direction of the first pushing screw 201, that is, limiting the first pushing screw 201 from moving backward relative to the powder box 10.

[0123] Specifically, the limiting member 401 has a first limiting boss 4011 and a second limiting boss 4012. The outer diameter of the first limiting boss 4011 matches the inner diameter of the first limiting block 402. At least part of the second limiting boss 4012 is arranged relative to the first limiting block 402 along the axial direction of the first push screw 201. In this embodiment, the first limiting boss 4011 and the second limiting boss 4012 both protrude from the circumferential end surface of the first push screw 201 along the radial direction of the first push screw 201. At least part of the first limiting boss 4011 extends into the first limiting block 402, and a clearance fit is adopted between them, thereby limiting the radial displacement of the first push screw 201 relative to the powder box 10 along the first push screw 201, so that the second mounting structure can more stably support the rotation of the first push screw 201. The limiting member 401 is arranged relative to the first limiting block 402 by the second limiting boss 4012, thereby limiting the forward movement of the first pushing screw 201 relative to the powder box 10.

[0124] Specifically, the second mounting structure further includes a first limiting hole 404 that matches the outer diameter of the second limiting boss 4012. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the second limiting boss 4012 extends into the first limiting hole 404, and a clearance fit is adopted between the two, thereby limiting the radial displacement of the first pushing screw 201 relative to the powder box 10 along the first pushing screw 201, so that the second mounting structure can more stably support the rotation of the first pushing screw 201.

[0125] Specifically, the first limiting boss 4011 and the second limiting boss 4012 are coaxially arranged, and the outer diameter of the first limiting boss 4011 is smaller than that of the second limiting boss 4012. In this embodiment, the axes of the first limiting boss 4011 and the second limiting boss 4012 are collinear with each other, which is convenient for the processing of the limiting member 401. The first limiting boss 4011 and the second limiting boss 4012 adopt a stepped surface with a certain difference in outer diameter size, which can position the assembly between the first pushing screw 201 and the powder box 10, and make the first pushing screw 201 not prone to skew relative to its own axis during rotation.

[0126] Specifically, the limiting member 401 has a third limiting boss 4013, and a part of the third limiting boss 4013 is arranged opposite to the second limiting block 403 along the axial direction of the first pushing screw 201. In this embodiment, the limiting member 401 uses the third limiting boss 4013 to be arranged opposite to the second limiting block 403, thereby restricting the backward movement of the first pushing screw 201 relative to the powder box 10.

[0127] Specifically, the second mounting structure further includes a second limiting hole 405 that matches the outer diameter of the third limiting boss 4013. In this embodiment, at least a part of the third limiting boss 4013 extends into the second limiting hole 405, and a clearance fit is adopted between them, thereby restricting the radial offset of the first pushing screw 201 relative to the powder box 10 along the radial direction of the first pushing screw 201, so that the second mounting structure can more stably support the rotation of the first pushing screw 201.

[0128] Specifically, the second limiting hole 405 is formed on the connecting member 301 or the fixing cap 302. In this embodiment, an external thread is formed on the connecting member 301, and an internal thread is formed on the fixing cap 302. Preferably, the second limiting hole 405 is formed on the connecting member 301, so that when the fixing cap 302 is docked with the connecting member 301, the first pushing screw 201 is stably abutted against the connecting member 301, making the first pushing screw 201 not prone to shaking.

[0129] In some embodiments not shown, the second limiting hole 405 can also be formed on the fixing cap 302, for example, when an internal thread is formed on the connecting member 301 and an external thread is formed on the fixing cap 302.

[0130] Specifically, the second mounting structure further includes a first limiting hole 404 provided in the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106), and the first limiting block 402 is connected to the inner wall of the hole of the first limiting hole 404. In this embodiment, the first limiting block 402 is connected to the inner wall of the hole of the first limiting hole 404, thereby jointly forming a stepped hole with different inner diameter sizes, which has a simple structure and low manufacturing difficulty. Thus, preferably, the first limiting block 402 is provided on the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106), which can reduce the manufacturing difficulty of the powder box 10, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0131] Specifically, the second limiting block 403 is formed on the fixing cap 302. In this embodiment, the second limiting block 403 adopts an annular tubular structure. Thus, preferably, the second limiting block 403 is provided on the fixing cap 302, which is more suitable for the overall circular ring structure of the fixing cap 302 and is convenient for processing and manufacturing. Moreover, after the second limiting block 403 is sleeved on the first pushing screw 201, it can limit the first pushing screw 201 from deflecting radially, thereby supporting the first pushing screw 201 to rotate more stably.

[0132] Specifically, the fixing cap 302 has a mating portion 3021 sleeved on the first pushing screw 201, and the inner diameter size of the second limiting block 403 is not less than the inner diameter size of the mating portion 3021. In this embodiment, preferably, the inner diameter size of the second limiting block 403 is equal to the inner diameter size of the mating portion 3021, so that the fixing cap 302 can more stably limit the first pushing screw 201 from deflecting radially and support the first pushing screw 201 to rotate more stably, avoiding the deflection of the first pushing screw 201 relative to the axis when rotating.

[0133] Specifically, the second limiting boss 4012 is connected to the circumferential end face of the first limiting boss 4011. In this embodiment, the first limiting boss 4011 and the second limiting boss 4012 are preferably directly connected, and the second limiting boss 4012 protrudes radially along the first pushing screw 201 from the circumferential end face of the first limiting boss 4011, thereby reducing the axial distance between the first limiting boss 4011 and the second limiting boss 4012 along the first pushing screw 201. Subsequently, the axial distance between the first limiting block 402 and the first limiting hole 404 that match them along the first pushing screw 201 can be reduced, which is convenient for the processing and manufacturing of the powder box 10.

[0134] Specifically, the limiting member 401 further has a third limiting boss 4013, and the third limiting boss 4013 and the first limiting boss 4011 are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the first pushing screw 201. In this embodiment, the first limiting boss 4011 and the third limiting boss 4013 are preferably arranged at intervals, which can reduce the contact area between the limiting member 401 and the connecting member 301 when the first pushing screw 201, the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 are installed and disassembled, so as to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the first pushing screw 201. Moreover, this method can also increase the distance between the first limiting boss 4011 and the third limiting boss 4013, so that the distance of the limiting member 401 along the axial direction of the first pushing screw 201 increases, so that when the second installation structure supports the rotation of the first pushing screw 201, the first pushing screw 201 can be prevented from deflecting relative to its own axis.

[0135] Furthermore, the first installation structure further includes a positioning boss 303 provided on one of the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) and the connecting member 301 and a positioning groove 304 provided on the other of the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) and the connecting member 301. In this embodiment, the positioning boss 303 protrudes axially along the first pushing screw 201 from the end face of the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) or the connecting member 301, and the positioning groove 304 is recessed axially along the first pushing screw 201 from the end face of the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) or the connecting member 301.

[0136] Specifically, at least a part of the positioning boss 303 extends axially into the positioning groove 304 to limit the relative rotation between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 and limit the offset along the radial direction of the first pushing screw 201. In this embodiment, the positioning boss 303 extends into the positioning groove 304, and preferably the positioning boss 303 abuts against the groove side wall of the positioning groove 304. Thus, it plays a positioning role when the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 are assembled. And after the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 are assembled, it limits the relative rotation between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10, and limits the offset along the radial direction of the first pushing screw 201 between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10, ensuring the connection strength between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10, and making the first installation structure more stably support the rotation of the first pushing screw 201.

[0137] In addition, preferably, the entire positioning boss 303 extends into the positioning groove 304. At this time, the positioning boss 303 and the positioning groove 304 between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) will not be exposed, avoiding dirt accumulation at the positioning boss 303 and the positioning groove 304, and at the same time enhancing the aesthetic feeling of the beverage preparation machine.

[0138] Further, the first mounting structure further includes a first connection hole 305 provided on the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106), a second connection hole 306 provided on the connecting member 301, and a fastener that matches the first connection hole 305 and the second connection hole 306. The fastener is coaxially arranged with the first connection hole 306 and the second connection hole 306. In this embodiment, the fastener is preferably a screw, the first connection hole 305 is configured as a threaded hole that matches the screw, and the second connection hole 306 is configured as a through hole (such as a counterbore) that matches the screw. The fastener passes through the second connection hole 306 and then docks with the first connection hole 305, thereby improving the connection strength between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10.

[0139] In some embodiments not shown, the fastener can also be a dowel pin, and the second connection hole 306 and the first connection hole 305 are configured as pin holes that are interference-fitted with the dowel pin.

[0140] Specifically, the positioning boss 303 is provided on the connecting member 301. In this embodiment, preferably, the positioning boss 303 is provided on the connecting member 301, and the positioning groove 304 is provided on the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106). Compared with the scheme of providing the positioning boss 303 on the powder box 10, this method can reduce the manufacturing difficulty of the powder box 10, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0141] Specifically, the positioning boss 303 is coaxially arranged with the second connection hole 306. In this embodiment, the positioning boss 303 is configured as a "C"-shaped boss with a sector-shaped cross-section. When the positioning boss 303 abuts against the side wall of the positioning groove 304, it can more stably limit the relative rotation between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10.

[0142] Specifically, the first mounting structure includes a plurality of second connection holes 306 and a plurality of positioning bosses 303 corresponding to the number of the second connection holes 306. The connecting member 301 has a docking portion 3011 that forms the second connection holes 306, and the plurality of second connection holes 306 are located at different corners of the docking portion 3011. In this embodiment, the first mounting structure preferably includes four second connection holes 306 and four positioning bosses 303. The docking portion 3011 adopts a rectangular structure, and the four second connection holes 306 and the four positioning bosses 303 are located at the corners of the rectangular structure, so that the connection strength between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 is greater, and thus the fixing cap 302 can be more stably supported and fixed.

[0143] Specifically, the connecting member 301 has a docking portion 3011 and a connecting portion 3012 connected to the fixing cap 302. In this embodiment, an external thread that is threadedly engaged with the fixing cap 302 is formed on the circumferential outer end surface of the connecting portion 3012, and the second limiting hole 405 is formed on the circumferential inner end surface of the connecting portion 3012.

[0144] Further, the beverage preparation machine further includes a first seal 50 connected to the docking portion 3011 and a second seal 60 cooperating with the fixing cap 302. In this embodiment, the first seal 50 is configured as a sealing ring, and the second seal 60 is configured as a felt. A sealing groove 3013 is provided on the docking portion 3011, and the first seal 50 is embedded in the sealing groove 3013 to realize the connection between the first seal 50 and the docking portion 3011. The second seal 60 is preferably in interference fit with the fixing cap 302, so that after the second seal 60 is connected to the fixing cap 302, the second seal 60 can be docked with the connecting member 301 together with the fixing cap 302, such as a screw fit.

[0145] Specifically, the first seal 50 abuts against the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106), and at least part of the second seal 60 is located in the connecting portion 3012. In this embodiment, the first seal 50 abuts against the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106) to ensure the sealing between the connecting member 301 and the powder box 10 (i.e., the box body 106), and prevent external dust or moisture from entering the powder chamber 101 through the first limiting hole 404. After the second seal 60 is docked with the connecting member 301, preferably all of the second seal 60 is located in the connecting portion 3012, avoiding the second seal 60 from being affected or polluted by the external environment and extending the service life of the second seal 60.

[0146] Specifically, the fixing cap 302 has a second limiting block 403 matching the inner diameter size of the second seal 60, and the connecting portion 3012 has a second limiting hole 405 matching the outer diameter size of the second seal 60. The second seal 60, the second limiting block 403, and the second limiting hole 405 are coaxially arranged. In this embodiment, the second seal 60 is sleeved on the second limiting block 403 and extends into the second limiting hole 405, thereby eliminating the gap between the second limiting block 403 and the second limiting hole 405 and reducing the amount of powder in the powder chamber 101 leaking from between the second limiting hole 405 and the second limiting block 403.

[0147] Specifically, the powder discharging device of the beverage machine further includes a limiting member 401 connecting the first pushing screw 201, and the second seal 60 and at least part of the limiting member 401 are arranged opposite to each other along the axial direction of the first pushing screw 201. In this embodiment, the second seal 60 and at least part of the third limiting boss 4013 are arranged opposite to each other along the axial direction of the first pushing screw 201. One end of the second seal 60 abuts against the axial end face of the third limiting boss 4013, and the opposite end of the second seal 60 along the axial direction abuts against the inner wall of the fixing cap 302, thereby eliminating the gap between the third limiting boss 4013 and the inner wall of the fixing cap 302 and reducing the amount of powder in the powder chamber 101 leaking from between the third limiting boss 4013 and the inner wall of the fixing cap 302.

[0148] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a powder supply device, which is applicable to but not limited to a beverage preparation machine according to the present invention. The same reference numerals in the present invention represent the same elements with similar functions and will not be described in detail hereinafter.

[0149] Specifically, as Figure 2 , the powder supply device includes a powder box 10 and a discharging mechanism 20 connected to the powder box 10. The structures and arrangement manners of the powder box 10 and the discharging mechanism 20 are as described above and will not be elaborated herein.

[0150] It should be understood that although this specification is described according to embodiments, not every embodiment only contains an independent technical solution. This narrative manner of the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0151] The series of detailed descriptions listed above are only specific descriptions of the feasible embodiments of the present invention, and they are not intended to limit the protection scope of the present invention. Any equivalent embodiments or modifications made without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention should be included in the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A beverage preparation machine, comprising a preparation machine body and a powder box located above the preparation machine body, wherein the preparation machine body has a first side on which a beverage dispenser is arranged and a second side opposite to the first side along a first direction, characterized in that: The powder box has a first powder cavity, a second powder cavity, a first feeding port corresponding to the first powder cavity, and a second feeding port corresponding to the second powder cavity, and the first feeding port and the second feeding port are arranged along the first direction.

2. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The powder box also has a first discharge port corresponding to the first powder cavity, and the first discharge port is located below the second feeding port.

3. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The beverage preparation machine also includes a discharging mechanism arranged at the bottom of the powder box, the discharging mechanism includes a first pushing screw at least partially located in the first powder chamber and a second pushing screw at least partially located in the second powder chamber, the first pushing screw extends along a first direction, the second pushing screw extends along the first direction, the first pushing screw and the second pushing screw are arranged along the second direction, and the second direction forms a certain angle with the first direction.

4. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 3, characterized in that The powder box has a first discharge port connected to the first powder chamber and a second discharge port connected to the second powder chamber. The discharge mechanism also includes a first drive motor connected to the first pushing screw and a second drive motor connected to the second pushing screw. The first discharge port and the second discharge port are arranged in the area of ​​the first side, and the first drive motor and the second drive motor are arranged in the area of ​​the second side.

5. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The first powder cavity includes a first accommodating cavity and a second accommodating cavity which are interconnected. The first accommodating cavity and the second powder cavity are arranged along a second direction. The second accommodating cavity and the second powder cavity are arranged along the first direction. The second direction forms a certain angle with the first direction.

6. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 5, characterized in that The powder box includes a box body and a first partition connected to the box body, the first partition divides the space in the box body into a first space and a second space along the first direction, the second powder chamber and the first accommodating chamber are located in the first space, and the second accommodating chamber is located in the second space.

7. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 5, characterized in that The powder box includes a box body and a second partition connected to the box body, the first accommodating cavity and the second powder cavity are arranged on both sides of the second partition along the second direction, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

8. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 6, characterized in that The powder box further includes a second partition, which divides the first space into two space parts, and the second powder cavity and the first accommodating cavity are respectively located on two sides of the second partition.

9. A powder material supply device, comprising a powder material box and a discharging mechanism disposed at the bottom of the powder material box, wherein the powder material box has a first powder material chamber and a second powder material chamber separated from each other, and the discharging mechanism comprises a first pushing screw at least partially located in the first powder material chamber and a second pushing screw at least partially located in the second powder material chamber, characterized in that: The powder box has a first feeding port connected to the first powder chamber and a second feeding port connected to the second powder chamber, the first feeding port and the second feeding port are arranged along a first direction, the first pushing screw extends along the first direction and is used to transport the powder in the first powder chamber along the first direction, the second pushing screw extends along the first direction and is used to transport the powder in the second powder chamber along the first direction, and the first pushing screw and the second pushing screw are spaced apart along a second direction that is at a certain angle to the first direction.

10. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 9, characterized in that The projections of the first powder cavity and the second powder cavity in the second direction partially overlap.

11. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 9, characterized in that The powder box includes a box body and a first partition connected to the box body, the first partition divides the space inside the box body into a first space and a second space along the first direction, a part of the first powder cavity and the second powder cavity are located in the first space, and another part of the first powder cavity is located in the second space.

12. The beverage preparation machine according to claim 9, characterized in that The first powder cavity includes a first accommodating cavity and a second accommodating cavity connected to each other. The powder box also has a first discharge port connected to the first accommodating cavity and a second discharge port connected to the second powder cavity. The first discharge port and the second discharge port are located on the same side of the powder box along the first direction.

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