Milk frothing device and associated beverage dispenser

Abstract

The milk frothing device (28) comprises a mixing element (42) comprising a mixing portion (44), a hot water / steam inlet aperture (46) and a main flow conduit (48) connecting the hot water / steam inlet aperture (46) to a liquid inlet aperture (74); a closing portion (96) movable between a closed position of the mixing portion and an access opening (80) of the main flow duct (48) and an open position allowing cleaning of the mixing portion (44) and the main duct (48); and a milk supply conduit (90) connected to the main flow conduit. According to the invention, the closing portion (96) is configured to be hinged to the mixing element (42) by means of a hinge defining a substantially horizontal axis of rotation.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of beverage dispensing machines, and more particularly to preferably automatic coffee machines. More specifically, the present invention relates to the field of milk frothing devices for use in conjunction with beverage dispensing machines (such as coffee machines). Such frothing devices particularly allow the production of beverages based on coffee and milk foam when they are combined with coffee machines. Background Art

[0002] A milk frothing device is known from WO2005 / 063093, which comprises:

[0003] - A mixing element, comprising:

[0004] + A mixing portion defining a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet and an access opening;

[0005] + A hot water / steam inlet hole and a main flow pipe connecting the hot water / steam inlet hole to the liquid inlet;

[0006] - A closing portion which is movable relative to said mixing element between a closed position and an open position, in which closed position the closing portion closes the access opening and the main flow pipe, and in which open position the access opening and the main flow pipe are open and accessible to allow cleaning of the mixing portion and the main pipe; and

[0007] - A milk supply pipe connected to the main flow pipe.

[0008] The specific construction of the milk frothing device described in document WO2005 / 063093, more specifically the specific construction of the mixing portion and the closing portion, allows easy cleaning of the milk frothing device.

[0009] However, the operation of the frothing device according to WO2005 / 063093 is still complex, and its connection / cooperation with a coffee machine is still difficult to implement. In addition, the performance of this frothing device still needs to be improved. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The present invention aims to overcome these drawbacks.

[0011] The technical problem on which the present invention is based is to provide a frothing device which is easier to operate and to connect / cooperate with a beverage dispensing machine, and which has improved milk frothing performance.

[0012] To this end, the present invention relates to a milk frothing device for use in conjunction with a beverage dispensing machine, the milk frothing device comprising:

[0013] - A mixing element, comprising:

[0014] +A mixing section defining a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, and an access opening;

[0015] +A hot water / steam inlet hole and a main flow pipe connecting the hot water / steam inlet hole to the liquid inlet;

[0016] - A closing section movable relative to the mixing element between a closed position and an open position, in which the closing section closes the access opening and the main flow pipe in the closed position, and the access opening and the main flow pipe are open and accessible in the open position to allow cleaning of the mixing section and the main pipe; and

[0017] - A milk supply pipe connected to the main flow pipe.

[0018] According to the present invention, the closing section is configured to be hinged to the mixing element by a hinge defining a substantially horizontal axis of rotation.

[0019] Thanks to the present invention, the operation of the milk foaming device is improved, particularly that of the closing section. In fact, the hinging of the closing section on the mixing element allows the closing section to remain connected to the mixing element regardless of its position, and allows easy movement of the closing section to the next open or closed position if the user wishes to clean or use the foaming device. In addition, the association of the foaming device with a beverage dispenser is made easier. Finally, the foaming performance is improved because cleaning is easier and because the closing section allows ensuring a good seal of the access opening and the main flow pipe.

[0020] According to an advantageous but non - mandatory aspect of the present invention, in any technically allowable combination, such a foaming device may incorporate one or more of the following features.

[0021] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the milk foaming device is adapted to be integrated into a beverage dispensing head of a beverage dispenser including a hot water / steam dispensing outlet, and the hot water / steam inlet hole is adapted to be fluidly connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet.

[0022] This arrangement allows for easy fixing and integration of the foaming device into the beverage dispenser.

[0023] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the milk supply pipe is adapted to be connected to a remote milk reservoir separate from the milk foaming device.

[0024] This arrangement allows for simplification of the operation of the foaming device and a good separation of the milk storage and milk foaming functions. This allows the use of milk cartons or milk bottles as milk reservoirs and the ability to put them back in the refrigerator after use.

[0025] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the milk foaming device comprises a seal arranged in the engagement area between the mixing element and the closing part and extending peripherally on the mixing part and the main flow pipe, and the closing part is adapted to be supported on the seal when the closing part is in the closed position.

[0026] This arrangement allows for ensuring an optimal seal between the mixing element and the closing part, thus guaranteeing optimal foaming performance.

[0027] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the closing part comprises an air supply pipe adapted to be connected to the main flow pipe when the closing part is in the closed position, and an air flow regulating device configured to regulate the air flow flowing in the air supply pipe.

[0028] This arrangement allows for regulating the texture of the foam, especially the amount of air mixed with the milk.

[0029] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the milk foaming device comprises two side walls, each side wall defining a gripping area of the foaming device.

[0030] This arrangement allows for easier gripping and manipulation of the foaming device.

[0031] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the milk foaming device comprises two side walls, each side wall being equipped with a retaining lug for holding the foaming device in a beverage dispensing head, and the lug is adapted to cooperate with a retaining device for holding the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head.

[0032] This arrangement allows for facilitating the positioning of the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head and ensuring good fixation of the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head to ensure the safety of the user and optimal foaming performance.

[0033] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the foaming device comprises two side walls, each side wall being equipped with a guiding element adapted to cooperate with a corresponding guiding element located in a beverage dispensing head for receiving the foaming device.

[0034] This arrangement allows for facilitating the insertion and positioning of the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head.

[0035] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, when the closing part is in the closed position, the guiding element is formed by the side wall of the closing part and the side wall of the mixing element.

[0036] This arrangement allows for ensuring the closing of the closing part and its retention in the closed position when the guiding element of the foaming device cooperates with the corresponding guiding element located in the beverage dispensing head, i.e., when the foaming device is integrated in the beverage dispensing head.

[0037] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the closing part includes an observation window which, when the closing part is in the closed position, will face the mixing part.

[0038] This arrangement allows the user to observe the mixing part, so as to identify whether the foaming device has been used and needs to be cleaned, and also to observe the good operation of the foaming device during its operation by observing the texture of the milk foam in the mixing part through the observation window. The observation window also allows the user to change the position of the air flow regulating device according to the foam texture observed through the observation window.

[0039] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the closing part forms a substantially flat cover adapted to cover the access opening and the main flow duct.

[0040] This arrangement allows for a foaming device with an optimized structure and volume.

[0041] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the milk foaming device includes a foamed milk dispensing element which is adapted to be reversibly connected to the mixing element and is fluidly connected to the liquid outlet when connected to the mixing element, and the foamed milk dispensing element advantageously includes an inlet channel and two foamed milk outlet channels.

[0042] This arrangement allows for an optimized distribution of the foamed milk. This also allows for the preparation of a dual recipe, thus allowing the simultaneous preparation of two milk-based beverages.

[0043] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the closing part includes a first substantially horizontal part and a substantially vertical part. The first substantially horizontal part forms a cover which is adapted to close the access opening and the main flow duct when the closing part is in the closed position. When the closing part is in the closed position, the substantially vertical part forms a mixing chamber with the mixing element and advantageously forms a foamed milk dispensing element.

[0044] This arrangement allows for easy cleaning of the foaming device and provides optimized access to the interior of the foaming device.

[0045] According to an advantageous feature of the present invention, the milk foaming device is adapted to be fixed to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet of a beverage dispenser, and the hot water / steam inlet hole is adapted to be fluidly connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet.

[0046] This arrangement allows for easy fixing of the foaming device to the beverage dispenser and the supply of hot water / steam to the foaming device.

[0047] Advantageously, the foaming device is removable between an assembled position and a disassembled position relative to a beverage dispensing head of an accommodation chamber including the foaming device. In the assembled position, it is received in the chamber and the hot water / steam inlet hole is fluidly connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet. In the disassembled position, it is separated from the accommodation chamber and the hot water / steam inlet hole is no longer fluidly connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet.

[0048] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the main flow conduit extends along a substantially horizontal plane and includes an upper opening, also referred to as an open upper end, over at least 50% of its length, preferably over at least 70% of its length, which is adapted to be closed when the closing part is in the closed position.

[0049] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the closing part is configured to cover the upper surface of the upper wall of the mixing element. The closing part forms a substantially flat cover that is adapted to cover the upper surface of the upper wall, in particular the mixing part and the main flow conduit.

[0050] The invention also relates to a beverage dispensing machine including a hot water / steam distribution outlet and a milk foaming device. According to the invention, the milk foaming device is as described above and the hot water / steam inlet hole is adapted to be fluidly connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet.

[0051] This arrangement allows for obtaining a milk-based foamed beverage with optimized texture and quality from the beverage dispensing machine.

[0052] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the beverage dispensing machine includes a beverage dispensing head that includes a hot water / steam distribution outlet and an accommodation chamber for the milk foaming device.

[0053] This arrangement allows for improving user safety and facilitating the integration of the foaming device into the beverage dispensing machine. This particularly allows for positioning the milk distribution outlet of the foaming device near the beverage (e.g., coffee) distribution outlet of the beverage dispensing machine. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] The objects, aspects, and advantages of the invention will be better understood from the following description of specific embodiments of the invention given by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0055] Figure 1 is a front view of a beverage dispensing machine including a beverage dispensing head that receives a milk foaming device according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0056] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a perspective view of the beverage dispensing head of

[0057] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a perspective view of a beverage dispensing head, in which the support / holding means associated with the beverage dispensing head is in the open position;

[0058] Figure 4 is similar to Figure 3 the view in which the guide element of the milk foaming device in the beverage dispensing head is omitted;

[0059] Figure 5 is a sectional side view along the vertical section along line V-V of the beverage dispensing head of Figure 2 ;

[0060] Figure 6 is Figures 1 to 5 a perspective view of the milk foaming device of, including a closing part in the closed position;

[0061] Figure 7 is similar to Figure 6 the view in which the closing part is in the open position;

[0062] Figure 8 is Figure 7 an exploded view of the foaming device of;

[0063] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the foaming device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, in which the closing part is in the closed position;

[0064] Figure 10 is Figure 9 a perspective view of the foaming device of, in which the closing part is in the open position.

[0065] Only the elements necessary for understanding the present invention are shown. For ease of reading the drawings, the same elements carry the same reference numerals from one figure to another. Detailed Description

[0066] In the remainder of this specification, foam or foaming refers to obtaining foam from a liquid, whether it is only the foam of the liquid (i.e., milk foam) or a mixture of the liquid and the foam of the liquid (i.e., a mixture of milk and milk foam).

[0067] It should be noted that herein, the terms "horizontal", "vertical", "lower", "upper", "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", "longitudinal", "lateral" used to describe the beverage dispensing machine and its associated elements refer to the beverage dispensing machine and its associated elements when the machine is placed flat on a workbench in the use situation.

[0068] Furthermore, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" or "inlet" and "outlet" are defined according to the flow direction of the beverage or steam in the beverage dispensing machine and in the milk foaming device.

[0069] The terms "outer" and "inner" and the terms "external" and "internal" are defined relative to the central axis of the beverage dispenser or milk frothing device. Thus, the inner / inner part will be closer to the central axis than the outer / external part.

[0070] Figure 1 The beverage dispenser shown is a coffee machine 10. As a variant, the beverage dispenser is a hot water or tea dispenser.

[0071] The coffee machine 10 is advantageously an automatic coffee machine.

[0072] The coffee machine 10 includes a frame 12 and a receiving area 16 for a utensil or container, the utensil / container (not shown) being adapted to be placed on the receiving area.

[0073] The coffee machine 10 further includes a beverage dispensing head 18.

[0074] The coffee machine 10 advantageously includes a human-machine interface not visible in the figure, through which the user can select the type of beverage to be dispensed and advantageously enter the adjustment parameters of the coffee machine 10.

[0075] The coffee machine 10 further includes a beverage preparation unit (not shown) integrated into the frame 12.

[0076] The preparation unit includes a control circuit for managing the production of beverages according to instructions given by the user. The preparation unit also includes a boiler for generating hot water and / or steam and a reservoir for forming a cold water reserve. The reservoir allows water to be supplied to the boiler to generate hot water and / or steam.

[0077] The preparation unit also advantageously includes, in a known manner not shown, a coffee bean reservoir, an automatic coffee bean grinder, and a brewing chamber adapted to receive ground coffee beans and be supplied with hot water by the boiler. The brewing chamber is fluidly connected to the beverage dispensing head 18 such that the coffee machine 10 is adapted to dispense coffee-based beverages via the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0078] The coffee machine 10 further includes a hot water / steam outlet end piece (not shown in the figure) adapted to be supplied with hot water and / or steam by the boiler. The hot water / steam outlet end piece opens near the beverage dispensing head 18 to supply hot water / steam thereto.

[0079] In Figures 1 to 5 In the embodiment of, the beverage dispensing head 18 includes a hot water / steam distribution outlet 20, visible in Figure 5 which is fluidly connected to the hot water / steam outlet end piece.

[0080] The hot water / steam outlet end piece is formed, for example, by a pipe adapted to be connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0081] The beverage dispensing head 18 further includes a beverage dispensing member 22 that is adapted to be fluidly connected to the brewing chamber and dispense a coffee-based beverage.

[0082] The beverage dispensing member 22 advantageously includes two beverage dispensing outlets, only one of which 36 is Figure 5 visible, such that it is adapted to simultaneously deliver a coffee-based beverage into two cups.

[0083] As Figure 5 shown, the beverage dispensing head 18 includes an area 24 for receiving the beverage dispensing member 22, preferably a rear area, and an area defining a receiving compartment 26 for the milk foaming device 28, preferably a front area.

[0084] The beverage dispensing head 18 is advantageously height adjustable.

[0085] The beverage dispensing head 18 further includes a milk supply inlet 29 for the milk foaming device 28.

[0086] Advantageously, as Figure 3 shown, the supply inlet 29 opens onto the side of the beverage dispensing head 18. The supply inlet 29 is adapted to receive a milk supply tube that is fluidly connected to a milk container, which is preferably remote from the coffee machine 10.

[0087] As Figures 2 to 4 shown, the beverage dispensing head 18 includes a body 30 that defines a receiving compartment 26 for the milk foaming device 28 and a receiving area 24 for the beverage dispensing member 22.

[0088] The body 30 includes an open front end 32 for accessing the receiving compartment 26.

[0089] The beverage dispensing head 18 further includes a closure body 34 at the front end 32.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the closure body 34 is pivotally mounted on the body 30. The closure body 34 is adapted to move between an open position in which the receiving compartment 26 for the milk foaming device 28 is accessible and a closed position in which the closure body at least partially closes the receiving compartment 26, particularly the front end 32 of the body 30.

[0091] The closure body 34 is rotatably hinged to the body 30 along a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis X. The hinge is located, for example, between an upper wall 38 of the body 30 and an upper wall 40 of the closure body 34.

[0092] In Figures 1 to 8 the example, the milk foaming device 28 is removable relative to the beverage dispensing head 18, particularly relative to the receiving compartment 26. In other words, the foaming device is adapted to be integrated into the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0093] As Figure 7 shown, the milk foaming device 28 includes a mixing element 42 which includes a mixing portion 44, a hot water / steam inlet hole 46 and a main flow pipe 48 connecting the hot water / steam inlet hole 46 to the mixing portion 44.

[0094] The milk foaming device 28 and in particular the mixing element 42 further includes a connecting member 50 for connecting the foaming device to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0095] The connecting member 50 leads to the rear surface 52 of the milk foaming device 28, in particular the mixing element 42.

[0096] When the foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving compartment 26, the connecting member 50 is adapted to be connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 so as to be supplied with hot water / steam.

[0097] The hot water / steam inlet hole 46 is fluidly connected to the connecting member 50 so as to receive the hot water / steam conveyed by the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 when the connecting member 50 is connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0098] As a variant, the hot water / steam inlet hole 46 is adapted to be directly connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 when the milk foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving compartment 26.

[0099] Generally, the hot water / steam inlet hole 46 is adapted to be fluidly connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 when the milk foaming device 28 is received in the beverage dispensing head 18. This connection is reversible since the connecting member 50 is adapted to connect / disconnect from the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0100] The mixing element 42 includes an upper wall 54.

[0101] The milk foaming device 28 and in particular the mixing element 42 includes two side walls 56, 58.

[0102] The side walls 56, 58 each define a gripping area 56A, 58A by which a user grips the milk foaming device 28. The user of the milk foaming device 28 can manipulate the milk foaming device 28 and position it in the receiving compartment 26 by manipulating the milk foaming device with fingers at the gripping areas 56A, 58A.

[0103] The side walls 56, 58 are each provided with retaining / locating lugs 62, 64 for retaining / locating the milk foaming device 28 in the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0104] The lugs 62, 64 are adapted to cooperate with the closing body 34 which forms a holding means for holding the milk frothing device 28 in the beverage dispensing head 18, as will be explained in the following detailed description of the closing body 34 and its interaction with the milk frothing device 28.

[0105] The side walls 56, 58 are also each provided with guide elements 66, 68 which are adapted to cooperate with corresponding guide elements 70, 72 located in the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0106] The guide elements 66, 68 are formed, for example, by ribs arranged at the side walls 56, 58.

[0107] The guide elements 70, 72 are, for example, grooves adapted to receive ribs corresponding to the guide elements 66, 68 and to form a sliding connection with said ribs.

[0108] The guide elements 70, 72 are arranged in the upper part of the receiving compartment 26.

[0109] The guide elements 66, 68 are, for example, located in front of the gripping area in the direction in which the milk frothing device 28 is inserted into the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0110] Advantageously, as shown, the guide elements 66, 68 are formed by a part of the corresponding side walls 56, 58 forming the ribs.

[0111] The lugs 62, 64 advantageously project relative to the guide elements 66, 68 along the longitudinal axis X and more generally relative to other elements forming the side walls 56, 58. In other words, they extend beyond the guide elements 66, 68 along the longitudinal axis X towards the outside of the milk frothing device 28.

[0112] As Figure 5 and Figure 7 can be seen, the mixing part 44 includes a liquid inlet 74, a liquid outlet 76 and a mixing chamber 78 extending between the liquid inlet 74 and the liquid outlet 76.

[0113] The mixing chamber 78 extends along the vertical axis Z.

[0114] The mixing chamber 78 includes an open upper end 80. The open upper end 80 forms an access opening for accessing the mixing chamber 78.

[0115] The mixing chamber 78 opens into the upper surface of the upper wall 54 of the mixing element 42.

[0116] The mixing chamber 78 has a substantially circular cross-section perpendicular to the vertical axis Z.

[0117] The liquid inlet 74 leads into the upper part of the mixing chamber 78, for example into the high point of the mixing chamber 78, and the liquid outlet 76 is located in the lower part of the mixing chamber 78 and, for example, at the low point of the mixing chamber 78.

[0118] The open upper end 80 is arranged on the upper surface of the mixing element 42 and thus on the upper surface of the upper wall 54.

[0119] The liquid outlet 76 is arranged on the lower surface of the mixing element 42.

[0120] The main flow conduit 48 is arranged in the upper surface of the upper wall 54 and leads into the mixing chamber 78 at the liquid inlet 74.

[0121] The main flow conduit 48 leads substantially tangentially into the mixing chamber 78 such that the mixing chamber 78 is of the cyclone type. Thus, the liquid leading from the main flow conduit 48 into the mixing chamber 78 passes through the mixing chamber by swirling along the walls of the mixing chamber 78.

[0122] As Figure 7 shown, the main flow conduit 48 includes, for example, a cross-section restriction 84 located in the central part of the main flow conduit 48. The main flow conduit 48 particularly includes a first conduit part 48.1 located upstream of the cross-section restriction 84 and extending to the cross-section restriction and a second conduit part 48.2 located downstream of the cross-section restriction 84 and extending from the cross-section restriction 84 to the mixing chamber 78. Advantageously, the first conduit part 48.1 has a passage cross-section that decreases in the direction of the cross-section restriction 84 and the second conduit part 48.2 has a passage cross-section that increases in the direction of the mixing chamber 78.

[0123] The hot water / steam inlet hole 46 leads into the first conduit part 48.1 and is more specifically opposite the mixing chamber 78. Thus, the main flow conduit 48 is configured to fluidly connect the hot water / steam inlet hole 46 to the mixing chamber 78 and to allow hot water / steam to flow in the main flow conduit 48 to the mixing chamber 78.

[0124] The milk foaming device 28 includes a milk supply conduit 90 connected to the main flow conduit 48. When the milk foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving bay 26, the milk supply conduit 90 extends between the main flow conduit 48 and the milk supply inlet 29.

[0125] The milk supply conduit 90 is adapted to be fluidly connected to a remote milk reservoir that is separate from the milk foaming device 28.

[0126] The milk supply conduit 90 is fluidly connected to the main flow conduit 48 and is thus configured to be fluidly connected to the mixing chamber 78 via the main flow conduit 48. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the mixing element 42 includes the milk supply conduit 90 and, more specifically, the mixing element and the milk supply conduit are made in one piece.

[0127] The milk supply conduit 90 includes a substantially vertical portion which preferably extends from near the lower surface of the mixing element 42 and leads into the main flow conduit 48 at the cross-sectional restriction 84. When the milk foaming device 28 is positioned within the receiving bay 26, the lower end of the vertical portion is adapted to be fluidly connected to the milk supply inlet 29.

[0128] In the figure, only the portion of the milk supply conduit 90 that leads into the main flow conduit 48 can be seen.

[0129] The milk foaming device 28 further includes an air introduction passage 92 for introducing air into the main flow conduit 48. According to the illustrated embodiment, the mixing element 42 includes the air introduction passage 92.

[0130] Advantageously, the air introduction passage 92 is provided in the upper surface of the upper wall 54 of the mixing element 42.

[0131] The air introduction passage 92 leads into the main flow conduit 48 at the cross-sectional restriction 84. Thus, the air introduction passage 92 is configured to be fluidly connected to the mixing chamber 78 via the main flow conduit 48.

[0132] As previously mentioned, the cross-sectional restriction 84 causes an increase in the velocity of the steam flowing in the main flow conduit 48, which creates a negative pressure in the milk supply conduit 90 and the air introduction passage 92. Thus, the cross-sectional restriction 84 is more particularly configured to form a milk and air suction system based on the Venturi effect. Thus, the main flow conduit 48 is configured such that the hot water / steam flow in the main flow conduit from the hot water / steam inlet hole 46 to the mixing chamber 78 creates a negative pressure in the milk supply conduit 90 and a negative pressure in the air introduction passage 92, and thus causes milk and air to be drawn into the main flow conduit 48, and the drawn milk and air flow to the mixing chamber 78.

[0133] In addition, the second conduit portion 48.2 has an increasing passage cross-section in the direction towards the mixing chamber 78, which promotes a first mixing of the steam, milk, and air respectively from the hot water / steam inlet hole 46, the milk supply conduit 90, and the air introduction passage 92 before reaching the mixing chamber 78.

[0134] In addition, due to the positioning of the main flow conduit 48 relative to the mixing chamber 78, the first mixture of steam, milk, and air undergoes a swirling motion when reaching the mixing chamber and swirls along the walls of the mixing chamber 78, which further promotes mixing and results in milk foam of optimal consistency. Thus, the mixing chamber 78 allows for the homogenization of the aforementioned first mixture and completes the mixing that begins in the second conduit portion 48.2.

[0135] The main flow conduit 48, as well as the hot water / steam inlet aperture 46, and the air introduction passage 92 and the mixing chamber 78 advantageously include open upper ends. In other words, they form liquid flow channels that open outwards at their upper portions.

[0136] The milk foaming device 28 includes a closing part 96 that is movable relative to the mixing element 42 between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the closing part 96 closes the mixing part 44 and the main flow conduit 48. In the open position, the mixing part 44 and the main flow conduit 48 are open and accessible to allow cleaning of the mixing part 44 and the main flow conduit 48.

[0137] In the closed position, the closing part 96 particularly closes the hot water / steam inlet aperture 46, the open upper end of the main flow conduit 48, and the mixing chamber 78.

[0138] Advantageously, in the closed position, the closing part 96 also at least partially closes the air introduction passage 92, particularly the open upper end of the air introduction passage.

[0139] Advantageously, the main flow conduit 48 extends along a substantially horizontal plane and includes an upper opening, also referred to as an open upper end, over at least 50% of its length, preferably over at least 70% of its length, which is adapted to be closed when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0140] The closing part 96 is configured to cover the upper surface of the upper wall 54 of the mixing element 42. The closing part 96 forms a substantially flat cover that is adapted to cover the upper surface of the upper wall 54, particularly the mixing part 44 and the main flow conduit 48.

[0141] The closing part 96 is configured to be hinged to the mixing element 42 via a hinge defining a substantially horizontal axis of rotation Y. The axis of rotation Y is advantageously perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X when the foaming device is positioned in the receiving compartment 26. In a variant not shown, the axis of rotation Y is parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0142] By holding the closing part 96 on the mixing element 42 regardless of the position of the closing part 96, the hinge allows for simplified operation of the foaming device. Additionally, if the user wishes to clean or use the foaming device, the hinge allows for easy movement of the closing part 96 to the next open or closed position.

[0143] Advantageously, side walls 56, 58 of the foaming device including the side wall of the closing part 96 and the side wall of the mixing element 42 form guiding elements 66, 68 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position. This arrangement allows, when the milk foaming device 28 is inserted into the receiving compartment 26 and the guiding elements 66, 68 interact with the corresponding guiding elements 70, 72, to ensure the closing of the milk foaming device 28, i.e., the closing of the closing part 96. Furthermore, this arrangement allows to ensure that the closing part 96 remains in the closed position when the milk foaming device 28 is received in the receiving compartment 26, since the guiding elements 70, 72 extend along a substantially vertical direction on either side of the corresponding guiding elements 66, 68 and ensure that the side wall of the closing part 96 remains in contact / adjacent to the side wall of the mixing element 42.

[0144] In other words, each guiding element 70, 72 is adapted to hold the closing part 96 of the foaming device in the closed position, i.e., in contact with the mixing element 42 when the milk foaming device 28 is inserted into the receiving compartment 26.

[0145] In a variant (not shown), the milk foaming device 28 includes a holding system (not shown) configured to hold the closing part 96 in the closed position. The holding system is formed, for example, by a locking member, such as a locking clip integral with the closing part, and is adapted to be held in a corresponding groove formed in the mixing element 42, in particular in its wall / upper surface 54, by form fit when the closing part is in the closed position. The holding system is adapted to move between a locked position and an unlocked position of the closing part 96 in the closed position.

[0146] The closing part 96 includes an observation window 97, as Figure 6 shown, when the closing part 96 is in the closed position, the observation window 97 faces the mixing part 44, in particular the mixing chamber 78.

[0147] When the closing part 96 is in the closed position, the observation window 97 faces the open upper end 80.

[0148] The observation window 97 is formed, for example, by a part of the closing part made of a transparent material such that when the closing part 96 is in the closed position, the user can observe the interior of the mixing chamber 78.

[0149] The observation window 97 allows the user to observe whether the milk foaming device 28 has been used and whether it needs to be cleaned before making a drink. In fact, the user can observe the interior of the mixing chamber 78 through this window. Furthermore, the user can check the correct operation of the milk foaming device 28 by visually inspecting whether the milk passes through the mixing chamber 78 and indeed has a swirling motion along the walls of the chamber 78, through the observation window.

[0150] The closing part 96 further includes an air supply duct 98, as Figure 7As shown, the air supply duct 98 is adapted to be fluidly connected to the main flow duct 48 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position, and an air flow regulating device 99 configured to regulate the air flow flowing into the main flow duct 48 in the air supply duct 98. When the closing part 96 is in the closed position, the air supply duct 98 is advantageously connected to the air introduction passage 92 so as to be fluidly connected to the main flow duct 48.

[0151] The air supply duct 98 is, for example, a hole passing through the closing part 96 along the vertical axis Z when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0152] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, and as Figure 5 more clearly visible in, the air flow regulating device 99 includes a support part 100 fixed to the closing part 96 and protruding from the upper surface of the closing part 96. The air flow regulating device 99 further includes an air flow regulating member 102, such as a flow regulating button, which is supported by the support part 100 and movably mounted, and is, for example, movably mounted relative to the support part 100 along the movement direction D2 in a helical motion, and the movement direction D2 can be, for example, substantially vertical.

[0153] The air flow regulating member 102 is configured to occupy a plurality of regulating positions offset from each other along the movement direction D2.

[0154] The air flow regulating device 99 further includes a sealing element 104, which is fixed to the air flow regulating member 102 and configured to define an air flow passage with the support part 100, and the air flow passage has a passage cross-section that varies according to the position occupied by the air flow regulating member 102.

[0155] The air flow regulating member 102 is more particularly movable between a maximum regulating position where the passage cross-section of the air flow passage is the largest and a minimum regulating position (e.g., zero or substantially zero) where the passage cross-section of the air flow passage is the smallest.

[0156] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the support part 100 includes an insertion hole 106, which can, for example, have a diameter greater than 1 mm and preferably greater than 1.5 mm, is oriented substantially parallel to the movement direction D2, and the air flow regulating device 99 includes a passage restricting member (not visible in the figure), such as a generally cylindrical pin or needle having a lower end portion received in the insertion hole 106. The passage restricting member is integrally movable with the air flow regulating member 102 and is thus mounted to be movable in the insertion hole 106 along the movement direction D2. The insertion hole 106 and the passage restricting member more specifically define a calibrated air passage fluidly connected to the air supply duct 98.

[0157] The air flow regulating device 99 allows the regulation of the air flow injected into the main flow conduit 48, thereby regulating the size of the bubbles contained in the milk foam at the outlet of the milk foaming device 28. By varying the size of the bubbles, the volume of the milk foam is changed.

[0158] According to a variant embodiment of the invention, the mixing element 42 may not have an air introduction channel 92, and when the closing part 96 is in the closed position, the air supply conduit 98 may be directly connected to the main flow conduit 48.

[0159] The milk foaming device 28 includes a seal 110, as Figure 7 shown, which is arranged in the joint area between the mixing element 42 and the closing part 96. The seal 110 extends around the mixing section 44 and the periphery of the main flow conduit 48.

[0160] The closing part 96 is adapted to ensure support on the seal 110 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0161] As Figure 7 more specifically shown in, the seal 110 extends around the mixing chamber 78, in particular around the open upper end 80, the main flow conduit 48, the air introduction channel 92 and the hot water / steam inlet hole 46. For this purpose, the mixing element 42 includes a receiving groove 112 provided in the upper surface of the upper wall 54, and the seal 110 is received in the receiving groove 112.

[0162] According to the embodiment shown in the figure, the seal 110 includes a sealing body integrally received in the receiving groove 112, and a sealing lip extending along the sealing body and protruding from the receiving groove 112. Advantageously, the seal 110 is continuous and may have, for example, a constant cross-section.

[0163] The closing part 96 allows the seal 110 to ensure sealing at the upper wall 54, the main flow conduit 48, and the hot water / steam inlet hole 46, the air introduction channel 92 and the mixing chamber 78. Thus, the optimized performance of the milk foaming device 28 is ensured.

[0164] The milk foaming device 28 further includes a foamed milk dispensing element 114 adapted to be reversibly connected to the mixing element 42, as Figure 8 more clearly seen in.

[0165] The foamed milk dispensing element 114 advantageously includes an inlet channel 116 for foamed milk and two outlet channels 118, 120.

[0166] The foamed milk dispensing element 114, in particular the inlet channel 116, is adapted to be fluidly connected to the liquid outlet 76 when connected to the mixing element 42.

[0167] The foam milk dispensing element 114 is adapted to simultaneously deliver foam milk to two cups via two outlet channels 118, 120.

[0168] In the illustrated embodiment, the closing body 34 forms a holding device for holding the milk foaming device 28 in the receiving compartment 26.

[0169] The holding device takes the form of a holding lever 130 that is movable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the receiving compartment is accessible, and in the closed position, the holding lever 130 is adapted to cooperate with the milk foaming device 28 to hold it in the receiving compartment 26.

[0170] When the holding lever 130 is in the open position, the user can access the compartment 26, in particular the milk foaming device 28, in order to remove it from the compartment 26 and perform operations such as cleaning the foaming device.

[0171] When the holding lever 130 is in the closed position and the milk foaming device 28 is received in the compartment 26, the holding lever 130 is adapted to cooperate with the milk foaming device 28 to hold it in the receiving compartment 26.

[0172] The holding lever 130 is mounted to pivot relative to the receiving compartment along a longitudinal axis X.

[0173] As shown, the open position of the holding lever 130 corresponds to a high position and the closed position corresponds to a low position.

[0174] The holding lever 130 particularly includes axial protrusions 132, 134 that are adapted to bear against the milk foaming device 28 when the milk foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving compartment 26 as the holding lever 130 moves from the open position to the closed position.

[0175] The axial protrusions 132, 134 extend from the lower surface of the upper wall 40.

[0176] The axial protrusions 132, 134 extend in a substantially vertical plane.

[0177] Each axial protrusion 132, 134 is adapted to cooperate with a respective lug 62, 64 when the milk foaming device 28 is improperly positioned in the receiving compartment 26 to prevent the holding lever from moving to the closed position. The lugs 62, 64 form anti-misalignment elements that allow ensuring the correct positioning of the milk foaming device 28 in the receiving compartment 26.

[0178] Advantageously, each axial protrusion 132, 134 includes a boss, such as a hook-shaped boss, adapted to cooperate with the respective lug 62, 64.

[0179] In fact, if the milk frothing device 28 is misaligned, especially not fully inserted into the receiving chamber 26 along the insertion direction, the lugs are adapted to cooperate with the axial projections and advantageously with the embossments to prevent the retaining lever 130 from moving to the closed position. Thus, the user realizes that the milk frothing device 28 is not fully inserted into the receiving chamber 26 and can correct its positioning.

[0180] Advantageously, each axial projection 132, 134 and advantageously each embossment is adapted to cooperate with the corresponding lugs 62, 64 when the milk frothing device 28 is correctly positioned in the receiving chamber 26 and the retaining lever 130 is moved to the closed position. More precisely, each embossment is adapted to exert an axial force on the corresponding lugs 62, 64 when the milk frothing device 28 is correctly positioned in the receiving chamber 26 and the retaining lever 130 is moved to the closed position.

[0181] The axial force is exerted along the direction in which the milk frothing device 28 is inserted into the receiving chamber 26 to ensure the correct positioning of the milk frothing device 28 in the beverage dispensing head 18 and to ensure that the connecting member 50 is connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet 20.

[0182] The axial projections 132, 134 allow the connecting member 50 to be engaged with the hot water / steam dispensing outlet 20 and the milk supply pipe 90 to be connected to the milk supply inlet 29 by means of an axial force, thus ensuring the correct operation of the milk frothing device 28.

[0183] The axial projections 132, 134 are arranged on either side of the central axis of the beverage dispensing head 18. The central axis is a vertical axis.

[0184] As a variant, the retaining lever 130 includes a single axial projection.

[0185] The retaining lever 130 further includes a front surface which is provided with a gripping area 135 for gripping by the user to manipulate the retaining lever 130 between its open and closed positions.

[0186] Advantageously, the beverage dispensing head 18 includes an upper facade which is provided with a through-hole 136 for the air flow regulating member 102. Advantageously, the through-hole 136 is formed through the upper wall 38 of the body 30.

[0187] Advantageously, the beverage dispensing head 18 includes an upper facade, such as an upper wall 40, which is provided with an observation area 138 for the mixing portion 44 of the milk frothing device 28. The observation area 138 is formed, for example, by a hole provided through the upper wall 40 of the closing body 34. As a variant, the observation area 138 is a transparent area provided in the upper wall 40.

[0188] The observation area 138 is arranged to face the observation window 97 when the holding rod 130 and / or the closing body 34 are in the closed position and the milk foaming device 28 is received in the receiving compartment 26. The observation area 138 allows the mixing chamber 78 to be observed through the observation window 97. Thus, the user can observe the mixing chamber 78 and the foamed milk flowing through the foaming chamber. This allows the user to visually inspect whether the milk foaming device 28 needs to be cleaned and the proper operation of the milk foaming device 28 by checking the swirling motion of the milk and advantageously checking the texture of the milk.

[0189] The closing body 34 also forms a support means on the closing part 96 of the milk foaming device 28.

[0190] The support means is adapted to exert a support force on the closing part 96 when the milk foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving compartment 26 to ensure a seal between the mixing element 42 and the closing part 96.

[0191] The support means also allows a constant distance to be maintained between the closing part 96 and the upper wall 54 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position. Thus, when the milk foaming device 28 is in use, the dimensions of the main flow pipe 48 and the air introduction channel 92 are maintained over time, and the foaming performance is optimized and ensured over time. The support means ensures that the closing part 96 is well pressed against the mixing element 42 to ensure the dimensions of the pipe 48 and the channel 92 and to avoid possible deformation of the closing part 96.

[0192] The support means is formed by the holding rod 130 which is pivotally mounted relative to the receiving compartment 26 and is adapted to move between an open position and a closed position, in the open position the receiving compartment 26 is accessible, and in the closed position the support means exerts a support force on the closing part 96 to ensure that the closing part 96 abuts against the mixing element 42. The holding rod 130 is particularly adapted to press the closing part 96 against the seal 110.

[0193] The support force particularly extends along a substantially vertical direction.

[0194] The holding rod 130 particularly includes upper ribs 140 arranged on the lower surface of the upper wall 40, preferably two upper ribs 140, 142.

[0195] The ribs 140, 142 extend from the lower surface of the upper wall 40.

[0196] The ribs 140, 142 are adapted to abut against the milk foaming device 28 when the holding rod 130 moves from the open position to the closed position while the milk foaming device 28 is located in the receiving compartment 26.

[0197] The ribs 140, 142 are adapted to exert a support force on the closing part 96 to ensure a good seal between the mixing element 42 and the closing part 96.

[0198] Advantageously, the retaining rod further includes two additional ribs 144, 146, also known as front ribs, which are located on the inner wall of the front facade of the rod 130. The additional ribs 144, 146 preferably extend along the longitudinal axis X. The additional ribs 144, 146 are adapted to abut against the foamed milk dispensing element 114 when the retaining rod 130 moves from the open position to the closed position while the milk foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving chamber 26. This configuration is particularly advantageous in the embodiments of Figure 9 and Figure 10 which will be explained hereinafter.

[0199] As a variant, the closing body is the front covering cap of the beverage dispensing head, which is adapted to close the receiving chamber 26, in particular the front end 32 of the body 30. In this variant, the beverage dispensing head 18 includes a retaining rod 130 hinged to the body 30 and separated from the closing body. The retaining rod 130 is movable between an open position accessible to the receiving chamber and a closed position in which the receiving chamber is partially closed. In this variant, the retaining rod is positioned between the body 30 and the closing body and has substantially similar features to the embodiment shown in the figures, except that it does not act as the covering cap of the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0200] Hereinafter, with the aid of Figure 9 and Figure 10 a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Only the different elements between the first and second embodiments will be described, and similar elements will not be described again and have the same reference numerals as the first embodiment.

[0201] Figure 9 and Figure 10 show a foaming device 228 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0202] The foaming device 228 includes a first body 230 forming a mixing element 232, which is generally similar to the first embodiment and includes a hot water / steam inlet hole 46, a main flow pipe 48, a milk inlet pipe 90 and an air introduction channel 92.

[0203] The mixing element 232 is different from the mixing element 42 in that it forms a partial contour of the mixing chamber 78 instead of the entire mixing chamber 78.

[0204] The foaming device 228 further includes a second body 234 movable relative to the first body 230. The second body 234 is hinged to the first body 230 via a hinge defining a substantially horizontal transverse rotation axis. When the foaming device 228 is positioned in the receiving chamber 26, the rotation axis is advantageously perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The hinge is positioned along the rear edge of the upper surface of the first body 230.

[0205] The second body 234 forms a closing part and is movable between an open position and a closed position.

[0206] The second body 234 includes a first part 236 and a part 238. The first part 236 is substantially horizontal when the foaming device 228 is in use, forming a cover that is adapted to close the access opening 80 of the mixing chamber 78 and the main flow pipe 48 when the second body 234 is in the closed position. The part 238 is substantially vertical when the foaming device 228 is in use. When the second body 234 is in the closed position, it forms the mixing chamber 78 with the first body 230 and advantageously forms the foamed milk dispensing element 114.

[0207] In this second embodiment, when the second body 234 is in the closed position, the mixing chamber 78 and the foamed milk dispensing element 114 are formed by assembling the first body 230 and the second body 234.

[0208] Therefore, when the second body moves to the open position, the mixing chamber 78 and the foamed milk dispensing element 114 are opened, making them easier to clean.

[0209] The additional ribs 144, 146 are adapted to apply supporting forces to the mixing chamber 78 and the foamed milk dispensing element 114 respectively. The supporting forces are applied to the second body 234 along a substantially horizontal direction. The additional ribs 144, 146 are particularly useful for the foaming device 228 according to the second embodiment to ensure the sealing of the mixing chamber 78 and the foamed milk dispensing element 114.

[0210] In this second embodiment, the gripping area of the foaming device 228 is formed on the side wall of the foamed milk dispensing element 114.

[0211] Of course, the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiments described and shown, which are given only by way of example. Modifications are still possible without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention, especially from the perspective of the constitution of various elements or by the replacement of technical equivalents.

Claims

1. A milk foaming device (28, 228) cooperating with a beverage dispenser (10), the milk foaming device (28, 228) comprising: - A mixing element (42, 232), which includes: + A mixing portion (44) that defines a liquid inlet (74), a liquid outlet (76), and an access opening (80); + A hot water / steam inlet hole (46) and a main flow pipe (48) connecting the hot water / steam inlet hole (46) to the liquid inlet (74); - A closing portion (96, 234) that is movable relative to the mixing element (42, 232) between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the closing portion (96, 234) closes the access opening (80) and the main flow pipe (48). In the open position, the access opening (80) and the main flow pipe (48) are open and accessible to allow cleaning of the mixing portion (44) and the main pipe (48); and - A milk supply pipe (90) connected to the main flow pipe, characterized in that the closing portion (96, 234) is configured to be hinged to the mixing element (42) by a hinge defining a substantially horizontal axis of rotation.

2. The milk foaming device (28, 228) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The milk foaming device is adapted to be integrated into a beverage dispensing head (18) of a beverage dispenser (10), the beverage dispenser including a hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20), and the hot water / steam inlet hole (46) is adapted to be fluidly connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20).

3. The milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The milk supply pipe (90) is adapted to be connected to a remote milk reservoir separated from the milk foaming device.

4. The milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The milk foaming device (28, 228) includes a seal (110) disposed in a joint area between the mixing element (42, 232) and the closing portion (96, 234) and extending around the periphery of the mixing portion (44) and the main flow pipe (48), and the closing portion (96, 234) is adapted to provide support for the seal (110) when the closing portion (96, 234) is in the closed position.

5. The milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The closing portion (96, 234) includes an air supply pipe (98) adapted to be connected to the main flow pipe (48) when the closing portion (96, 234) is in the closed position, and an air flow regulating device (99) configured to regulate the air flow flowing in the air supply pipe (98).

6. The milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The milk foaming device (28, 228) includes two side walls (56, 58), each side wall defining a gripping area (56A, 58A) of the foaming device.

7. The milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The milk foaming device (28, 228) includes two side walls (56, 58), each side wall being equipped with retaining lugs (62, 64) for holding the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head (18), and the lugs (62, 64) are adapted to cooperate with retaining means (130) for holding the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head.

8. The milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The foaming device (28, 228) includes two side walls (56, 58), each side wall being equipped with a guiding element (66, 68), the guiding element being adapted to cooperate with a corresponding guiding element (70, 72) located in the beverage dispensing head (18), the beverage dispensing head being for receiving the foaming device (28, 228).

9. The milk foaming device (28, 228) according to the previous claim, characterized in that, When the closing part (96, 234) is in the closed position, the guiding elements (66, 68) are formed by the side walls of the closing part and the side walls of the mixing element (42, 232).

10. The milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The closing part (96, 234) includes an observation window (97), and when the closing part (96, 234) is in the closed position, the observation window faces the mixing part (44).

11. The milk foaming device (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The closing part (96) forms a substantially flat cover adapted to cover the access opening (80) and the main flow pipe (48).

12. The milk foaming device (28) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The milk foaming device (28) includes a foamed milk dispensing element (114), the foamed milk dispensing element being adapted to be reversibly connected to the mixing element (42), and when the liquid outlet (76) is connected to the mixing element, being fluidly connected to the liquid outlet (76), and the foamed milk dispensing element (114) advantageously includes an inlet channel (116) for foamed milk and two outlet channels (118, 120).

13. The milk foaming device (228) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The closing part (234) includes a substantially horizontal first part (236) and a substantially vertical part (238), the first part forming a cover adapted to close the access opening (80) and the main flow pipe (48) when the closing part (234) is in the closed position, and when the closing part (234) is in the closed position, the substantially vertical part forms a mixing chamber (78) with the mixing element (232) and advantageously forms a foamed milk dispensing element (114).

14. A beverage dispenser (10) comprising a hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20) and a milk frothing device (28, 228), characterized in that, The milk foaming device is as described in any one of the preceding claims, and the hot water / steam inlet hole (46) is adapted to be fluidly connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet (20).

15. The beverage dispenser (10) according to the previous claim, characterized in that, The beverage dispenser (10) includes a beverage dispensing head (18), the beverage dispensing head including a hot water / steam distribution outlet (20) and a receiving compartment for the milk foaming device (28, 228).

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