Autonomous processing method and device

Abstract

An autonomous processing method for a beverage preparation machine and a beverage preparation machine are provided that automatically triggers the beverage preparation machine to enter a processing mode according to at least one usage parameter or schedule, the at least one fluid collection tank is caused to deploy relative to the at least one fluid distribution outlet to clean the machine and the at least one fluid distribution outlet.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of beverage preparation machines, and more specifically to an autonomous treatment method and apparatus for a beverage machine. BACKGROUND

[0002] Cleaning apparatuses and methods are known in the field of beverage preparation machines.

[0003] An example is provided in international patent publication no. WO2018208156, which describes an apparatus for preparing a beverage, the apparatus comprising at least one beverage outlet nozzle for discharging a beverage into a beverage receptacle, characterized in that the apparatus comprises a cleaning structure for cleaning an outer surface of the beverage outlet nozzle. With such a cleaning structure, residues and ingredients of the beverage can be removed from the outer surface of the beverage outlet nozzle.

[0004] The document describes an apparatus that cleans the exterior of a beverage dispensing nozzle by positioning the nozzle in a housing and by discharging a cleaning fluid through the nozzle such that the cleaning fluid is directed over the sides of the nozzle and exits the housing in an overflow configuration. The cleaning structure is connected to a cantilever via a first connecting arm and a second connecting arm, the first connecting arm being proximate to a proximal end of the cantilever upper portion pivotally connected to the cantilever upper portion via an upper pivot point and proximate to a distal end of the first connecting arm pivotally connected to a proximal end of the cleaning structure via a proximal pivot point, and the second connecting arm being proximate to a proximal end of the cantilever lower portion pivotally connected to the cantilever lower portion via a lower pivot point and proximate to a distal end of the second connecting arm pivotally connected to a distal end of the cleaning structure via a distal pivot point.

[0005] International patent publication no. WO2018208157 describes a hot beverage dispensing device with a cleaning module and a method for cleaning a hot beverage dispensing device. The method for cleaning a hot beverage dispensing device comprises a sequence of at least a first flushing step, a treatment step and a second flushing step. The first flushing step comprises flushing at least a portion of the beverage preparation module and the beverage outlet with a flushing fluid having a first flushing fluid temperature. The treatment step comprises treating at least a portion of the beverage preparation module and the beverage outlet with a treatment fluid. The treatment fluid has a temperature higher than the first flushing fluid temperature. The second flushing step comprises flushing at least a portion of the beverage preparation module and the beverage outlet with a flushing fluid having a second flushing fluid temperature. In addition to the above-mentioned water inlet, hot beverage preparation module and beverage outlet for delivering a prepared beverage to a receptacle in a first mode of operation of the device, the improved hot beverage device comprises a cleaning module. In a second mode of operation of the device, the cleaning module subsequently performs the first flushing step, the treatment step and the second flushing step as specified above.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for a less time consuming and effective cleaning system for a beverage preparation machine, which allows an external cleaning of the parts of the machine in contact with food products.

[0007] In the prior art devices and methods, the operator of the beverage preparation machine needs to be trained in order to perform the cleaning method and needs to check the machine periodically. This can result in a high workload and high labor costs for the operator, in addition, this can cause inconvenience to the consumer, since the machine is not available during the cleaning cycle.

[0008] The existing design solutions on the market today do not meet the above requirements and the following new design solves all the current problems. SUMMARY

[0009] According to one broad aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an autonomous treatment method for a beverage preparation machine, the autonomous treatment method comprising the steps of:

[0010] a. automatically triggering the beverage preparation machine to enter a treatment mode, the treatment mode implementing a treatment method comprising the sub-steps of:

[0011] i. deploying at least one fluid collection tank from a beverage dispensing position, in which the at least one fluid collection tank is separated from at least one fluid dispensing outlet of the beverage preparation machine, to a treatment position, in which the at least one fluid collection tank is below the at least one fluid dispensing outlet of the beverage preparation machine;

[0012] ii. flushing the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and at least one mixing chamber of the beverage preparation machine with a flushing fluid;

[0013] iii. retracting the at least one fluid collection tank from the treatment position to the beverage dispensing position;

[0014] and

[0015] b. returning the beverage preparation machine to a dispensing mode.

[0016] The autonomous treatment method can further comprise the steps of:

[0017] treating at least one fluid containing portion in the beverage preparation machine with a treatment fluid in a treatment step after the flushing step (ii); and

[0018] second flushing the at least one fluid containing portion with a flushing fluid in a second flushing step after the treatment step and before the retracting step (iii).

[0019] According to another aspect of the application, there is provided a beverage preparation machine for an autonomous treatment method, the beverage preparation machine comprising at least one fluid dispensing outlet and at least one fluid collection tank positioned relative to the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and movable between a dispensing position, in which the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is separated from the at least one fluid collection tank, and a treatment position, below the at least one outlet, in which, when in the treatment position, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is positioned within the at least one fluid collection tank to clean an outer surface of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet.

[0020] According to yet another aspect of the application, there is provided an autonomous treatment beverage preparation machine, the beverage preparation machine comprising at least one fluid dispensing outlet and at least one fluid collection tank positioned relative to the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and movable between a dispensing position, in which the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is separated from the at least one fluid collection tank, and a treatment position, below the at least one outlet, in which, when in the treatment position, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is positioned within the at least one fluid collection tank to clean an outer surface of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet, thereby automatically triggering a treatment mode, in which the at least one fluid collection tank is deployed from the dispensing position, in which the at least one fluid collection tank is separated from the at least one fluid dispensing outlet of the beverage preparation machine, to the treatment position, below the at least one fluid dispensing outlet of the beverage preparation machine, to flush the outlet and the mixing chamber of the beverage preparation machine with a flushing fluid, the at least one fluid collection tank is retracted from the treatment position to the dispensing position, and the beverage preparation machine is returned to the dispensing mode.

[0021] The autonomous treatment beverage preparation machine can treat at least one fluid containing portion in the beverage preparation machine with a treatment fluid after the flushing step. The at least one fluid containing portion can be flushed with a flushing fluid after treatment with the treatment fluid and before the at least one fluid collection tank is retracted from the treatment position.

[0022] Providing an autonomous cleaning method for a beverage preparation machine and a beverage preparation machine for an autonomous treatment method as described above means that treatment can be initiated without human interaction and based on the frequency of use of the machine. Providing the at least one fluid collection tank ensures that the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is positioned within the at least one fluid collection tank to clean an outer surface of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet, but the fluid collection tank does not otherwise impede operation of the beverage preparation machine.

[0023] In this specification, the term "treatment" is intended to encompass cleaning and / or descaling, although different components of the beverage preparation machine can be flushed, cleaned and / or descaled.

[0024] The autonomous cleaning method for a beverage preparation machine and the beverage preparation machine for use in the autonomous cleaning method as described herein can be used in a beverage preparation machine using liquid ingredients such as liquid coffee, milk and / or chocolate, but can also be used in a beverage preparation machine using one or more instant ingredients, capsules / pads and / or roast and / or ground coffee. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the underlying proposition of the autonomous cleaning method described herein is that it can be used with any ingredient spout / outlet that requires or desires cleaning or other treatment.

[0025] The beverage preparation machine can preferably prepare and dispense beverages. The machine can dispense various types of beverages, typically characterized according to the component ingredients. For example, the beverage preparation machine can prepare water-based beverages, milk-based beverages, and can also use different types of milk. The beverage preparation machine can prepare water-based beverages, to which milk is then added. Further, different beverages can be prepared and dispensed, for example, such as soups.

[0026] The beverage preparation machine can utilize liquid ingredients and / or powder ingredients.

[0027] The beverage preparation machine will preferably include various components provided as part of one or more beverage preparation and dispensing circuits provided within the machine. For example, the machine can be a hot beverage preparation and dispensing circuit and / or a cold or chilled beverage preparation and dispensing circuit. In some embodiments, the hot circuit and the cold circuit can interact with each other.

[0028] The beverage preparation machine can include a boiler to provide heated fluid. The beverage preparation machine can include a cold or chilled processing component or subsystem to produce a frozen or chilled beverage or beverage component.

[0029] The beverage preparation machine can include one or more mixing chambers to mix beverage ingredients to produce a beverage to be dispensed. The one or more mixing chambers can include a stirring or agitating device or system to stir or agitate the ingredients once they have been provided into the mixing chamber.

[0030] The beverage preparation machine can include one or more refrigeration units in which one or more ingredients can be stored.

[0031] The autonomous treatment method can be triggered based on at least one parameter relating to the use of the beverage preparation machine. The beverage preparation machine can monitor at least one use parameter while in dispensing mode. The autonomous treatment method can be triggered as a function of the use of one or more ingredients. For example, if the beverage preparation machine is configured to use milk as an ingredient, any beverage preparation circuit that utilizes milk as an ingredient can need to be treated more frequently than a beverage preparation circuit that utilizes only water, for example, once per day, while a beverage preparation circuit that utilizes only water can only need to be treated once per week. Furthermore, any circuit that prepares and dispenses cold or chilled beverages can need to be treated more frequently than a circuit that only provides hot beverages. For example, a cold or chilled beverage circuit can need to be treated once per day, while a hot circuit can only need to be treated once every few days or once per week.

[0032] The beverage preparation machine can be triggered into treatment mode based on a level of use. For example, more intensive use by the beverage preparation machine that produces a high material throughput can trigger the treatment mode more frequently.

[0033] The treatment mode can be triggered based on at least one use parameter in combination with at least one other parameter that can affect the operational efficiency of the beverage preparation machine. For example, water hardness can affect operational efficiency, and thus, a machine used in combination with harder water can need to be descaled more frequently than a machine used in combination with softer water, where the machines are used at the same level of throughput.

[0034] The beverage preparation machine will preferably be provided with a controller associated with one or more sensors to sense the flow or use of ingredients in order to measure the use of ingredients and / or any other parameter related to the ingredients, such as, for example, water hardness.

[0035] In one embodiment, where the beverage preparation machine, and in particular, any controller provided to control the autonomous cleaning method, is provided with a defined use threshold to trigger the autonomous method.

[0036] The autonomous cleaning method can be triggered based on time as a use parameter. In one form, the autonomous cleaning method can be triggered according to a default time period if a defined use threshold is not reached. For example, the beverage preparation machine can be triggered into treatment mode based on a schedule.

[0037] In one embodiment, the processing mode can be triggered based on at least one usage parameter of the beverage preparation machine and also based on a time-based processing schedule. The processing based on at least one usage parameter of the beverage preparation machine can take precedence over the time-based processing schedule, where the time-based processing schedule is a default backup. For example, the beverage preparation machine can have a default processing schedule that triggers the processing mode based on operating hours (e.g., the processing mode can be triggered at night) or whether the beverage preparation machine is idle for a period of time (which can be based in part on the ingredient used, as milk can require more frequent cleaning / rinsing than water). In addition, the beverage preparation machine can be triggered into the processing mode based on time, such as once an hour of use.

[0038] More frequent processing can be triggered based on ingredient usage as a parameter, but where a time-based processing schedule is the underlying or backup processing schedule. The time-based processing schedule can occur regardless of the primary usage parameter, such as ingredient usage. Alternatively, the time-based processing schedule can be used only if a defined usage threshold is not reached between time-scheduled processes.

[0039] The method for processing the beverage preparation machine can include a sequence of at least one rinsing step. The rinsing step preferably includes rinsing at least a portion of the beverage preparation machine or component and beverage outlet with a rinsing fluid. The beverage preparation machine can be rinsed and then returned to a dispensing mode.

[0040] The method for processing the beverage preparation machine can include a sequence of at least a first rinsing step, a processing step, and a second rinsing step. The first rinsing step preferably includes rinsing at least a portion of the beverage preparation machine or component and beverage outlet with a rinsing fluid.

[0041] The processing step preferably includes processing at least a portion of the beverage preparation machine or component and beverage outlet with a processing fluid. The processing fluid can have a temperature that is higher or lower than the rinsing fluid temperature.

[0042] The second rinsing step can include rinsing at least a portion of the beverage preparation machine or component and beverage outlet with a rinsing fluid.

[0043] In a preferred form, at least one controller associated with the beverage preparation machine will monitor usage and trigger a change in mode. A warning can be given. For example, a warning with a "time remaining until processing" can be provided. Alternatively, the warning can be or include the number of beverages that can be dispensed before the processing mode is triggered.

[0044] Once the treatment mode is triggered, the at least one fluid collection trough is preferably deployed from a beverage dispensing position to a treatment position. In the beverage dispensing position, the at least one fluid connection trough is preferably located in the vicinity of, but separate from, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet of the beverage preparation machine. Prior to any treatment commencing, the at least one fluid collection trough is preferably deployed to the treatment position in order to capture any flushing / treatment fluid from the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and / or any residual material from the beverage preparation circuit.

[0045] Deployment of the at least one fluid collection trough can cause movement of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet. The at least one fluid dispensing outlet can be mounted to move relative to a mounting portion of the beverage preparation machine. In many embodiments, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet will be oriented substantially vertically. The at least one fluid dispensing outlet can be moved between a lowered dispensing position and a raised position. Deployment of the at least one fluid collection trough can cause the at least one fluid dispensing outlet to be raised and then lowered again once the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is positioned above the at least one fluid collection trough.

[0046] The at least one fluid dispensing outlet can be biased to the lowered dispensing position and movement of the at least one fluid collection trough can force the at least one fluid dispensing outlet upwards against the bias and then the bias can preferably return the at least one fluid dispensing outlet to the lowered position. In the dispensing position, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is preferably in the lowered position but outside of the at least one fluid collection trough. In the treatment position, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is preferably in the lowered position but inside of the at least one fluid collection trough. Deployment of the at least one fluid collection trough can cause the at least one fluid dispensing outlet to be raised and then lowered to the treatment position and retraction of the at least one fluid collection trough can cause the at least one fluid dispensing outlet to be raised and then lowered to the fluid dispensing position.

[0047] In one configuration, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet can have a tapered lower end. In a preferred form, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet can have a V-shaped tapered end portion with a downwardly angled end portion on a side facing the at least one fluid collection trough and an upwardly angled end portion on a side facing away from the at least one fluid collection trough. Providing an angled end portion on the at least one fluid dispensing outlet can cause the at least one fluid dispensing outlet to be raised against a bias by movement of the at least one fluid collection trough.

[0048] The at least one fluid collection trough can have a tapered outer end. In a preferred form, the at least one fluid collection trough can have an inverted V-shaped tapered end portion having an outer wall or portion angled upwardly and away from the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and an inner wall or portion angled downwardly and away from the at least one fluid dispensing outlet.

[0049] One or more outlets can be provided to move together. In one embodiment, a dual (or more) outlet assembly can be provided with a pair (or more) of outlets arranged side-by-side but as part of one assembly, so the outlets move together rather than individually.

[0050] In another embodiment, an abutment tab can be provided on an outer or front wall of the fluid collection trough. The abutment tab can be provided on its outer side and face the outlet / outlet assembly and extend away from the fluid collection trough. The abutment tab can have a forward abutment portion. The abutment tab can have any shape. For example, the abutment tab can have an angled wall angled upwardly away from the outer wall of the fluid collection trough and having a forward abutment apex. Alternatively, a rounded abutment tab can be provided.

[0051] The outlet assembly can include a corresponding abutment tab. The abutment tab on the outlet assembly can be positioned to face the abutment tab on the fluid collection trough. The abutment tab on the outlet assembly can have a pair of opposing angled surfaces, an inner angled surface and an outer angled surface. The inner angled surface preferably faces the fluid collection trough and is aligned with the abutment tab on the fluid collection trough.

[0052] In use and when the fluid collection trough is driven outwardly from the dispensing position to the disposal position, the abutment tab can abut the inner angled surface and as the outward deployment continues, the abutment tab preferably slides over the inner angled surface which in turn forces the outlet / outlet assembly upwardly, allowing the front or outer wall of the fluid collection trough to pass underneath the preferably biased outlet / outlet assembly. Once the front or outer wall of the fluid collection trough has passed underneath the outlet / outlet assembly, the abutment can be lost and the bias forces the preferably biased outlet / outlet assembly downwardly to be located within the fluid collection trough for disposal.

[0053] Upon moving the configured fluid collection trough from the dispensing position to the disposal position, the reverse preferably occurs, wherein the inner side of the front or outer wall of the fluid collection trough abuts the outer inclined surface of the abutment tab on the preferably biased outlet / outlet assembly and as the inner side of the front or outer wall of the fluid collection trough continues to move inward, the inner side of the front or outer wall of the fluid collection trough slides over the outer inclined surface which in turn forces the preferably biased outlet / outlet assembly allowing the front or outer wall of the fluid collection trough to pass underneath the preferably biased outlet / outlet assembly. Once the front or outer wall of the fluid collection trough has passed underneath the preferably biased outlet / outlet assembly, the abutment is lost and the bias forces the preferably biased outlet / outlet assembly downward to again be in the disposal position wherein the fluid collection trough is stored spaced apart from the preferably biased outlet / outlet assembly.

[0054] In one form, the at least one fluid collection trough will move laterally in a horizontal direction. Preferably, the movement of the at least one fluid collection trough will be reciprocating between a beverage dispensing position and a disposal position. Any type of drive mechanism can be used to move the at least one fluid collection trough.

[0055] In an alternative embodiment, the at least one fluid collection trough can move about the at least one dispensing outlet. The at least one fluid dispensing outlet can be fixed in place. The at least one fluid collection trough can move laterally underneath the at least one dispensing outlet and then move upward to a disposal position and then downward and away from the at least one dispensing outlet to clear the outlet for the dispensing position.

[0056] As mentioned above, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet can be biased downward. Any biasing mechanism can be used, such as one or more springs, plungers or piston and cylinder arrangements.

[0057] The at least one fluid collection trough can be provided with a tab or similar formation to abut a portion of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet or assembly to force the at least one fluid dispensing outlet upward as the at least one fluid collection trough passes underneath the at least one fluid dispensing outlet between the beverage dispensing position and the disposal position and vice versa.

[0058] According to a preferred embodiment, after deploying the at least one fluid collection trough, a flushing step can occur wherein the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and the at least one mixing chamber of the beverage preparation machine are flushed with a flushing fluid. The initial flushing step can occur after deployment and before disposal. The initial flushing step can flush any residual or remaining fluid from one or more beverage dispensing circuits of the beverage dispensing machine before disposal occurs.

[0059] At least one of the fluid dispensing outlets is flushed. Preferably, at least one of the mixing chambers is also flushed. In the case of flushing at least one of the mixing chambers, preferably the flushing is carried out until at least one of the mixing chambers overflows, in order to ensure that the flushing reaches at least up to the normal use level of at least one of the mixing chambers.

[0060] Once the initial flushing step has been completed, if the process to be carried out is a cleaning step, then preferably any outlet valve from at least one of the mixing chambers is closed, in order to allow at least one of the mixing chambers to fill with cleaning fluid, which can then be introduced into at least one of the mixing chambers. The cleaning fluid can be or include a cleaning agent and / or water. In the case of using a mixture, preferably an amount of cleaning agent is dosed into an amount of water which is introduced into at least one of the mixing chambers. The cleaning agent will preferably be dosed into the water inlet of at least one of the mixing chambers via a needle valve, in order to prevent the cleaning agent being drawn out during normal beverage dispensing operations by the Venturi effect.

[0061] A dosing pump can be used to dose the cleaning agent into at least one of the mixing chambers. In a preferred form, the cleaning agent is dosed into the water inlet. In a preferred form, the dosing pump can be run in the opposite direction for a period of time at the end of the dosing step, in order to prevent cleaning agent being drawn into the water inlet during normal beverage dispensing operations.

[0062] Preferably, sufficient cleaning fluid is provided to fill at least one of the mixing chambers. In a preferred embodiment, sufficient cleaning fluid is used to overflow at least one of the mixing chambers, in order to ensure that the cleaning fluid fills at least one of the mixing chambers above the normal use level.

[0063] The process step can include a soak step, in which the cleaning fluid is left in at least one of the mixing chambers. Preferably, in any soak step, the cleaning fluid will be left in at least one of the mixing chambers for a period of time before being drained.

[0064] The agitator or agitation device associated with at least one of the mixing chambers can be operated during the cleaning step / soak step, in order to provide agitation or turbulence in the cleaning fluid within at least one of the mixing chambers. When operated during the cleaning step / soak step, the agitator or agitation device can be operated at a low speed.

[0065] Once the cleaning step and / or soak step has been completed, preferably the outlet valve from at least one of the mixing chambers is opened to drain at least one of the mixing chambers. During the draining of at least one of the mixing chambers, the agitator or agitation device associated with at least one of the mixing chambers can be operated. Preferably, during the draining of at least one of the mixing chambers, the agitator or agitation device can be operated at a medium speed.

[0066] Once at least one of the mixing chambers has been drained of cleaning fluid, the outlet valve is preferably closed.

[0067] After the outlet valve is closed, the at least one mixing chamber can undergo a flushing step in which the at least one mixing valve is flushed with a flushing fluid. This can be a second flush to flush any remaining cleaning fluid from the at least one mixing chamber. Preferably, a second flushing step can occur to overflow the at least one mixing chamber to ensure that the mixing chamber is fully flushed.

[0068] The cleaning / soaking step can occur more than once in any cleaning cycle, for example, the cleaning / soaking step can occur more than once for beverages comprising milk, but can only be performed once for water-based beverages such as tea or coffee.

[0069] Once the second flushing step is complete, the at least one fluid collection tank can be moved or retracted from the treatment position to the beverage dispensing position and the beverage preparation machine returns to normal dispensing mode.

[0070] In alternatives to the cleaning method described above, one or more other treatment methods can be performed. For example, the autonomous treatment method can be a descaling method, rather than a cleaning method or a descaling method and a cleaning method.

[0071] In a preferred descaling method, the at least one fluid collection tank is deployed. The at least one fluid dispensing outlet and the at least one mixing chamber of the beverage preparation machine can then be flushed with a flushing fluid.

[0072] During the treatment step, when the beverage preparation machine is descaled, a descaling fluid can be introduced into the water system of the beverage preparation machine. The descaling fluid can be or comprise a descaling agent. The descaling agent can be dosed into a carrier such as water. A dosing pump can be used to dose the descaling agent into the carrier.

[0073] The water system of the beverage preparation machine can comprise one or more process components such as a boiler, an air break tank, other reservoirs or one or more valves, and connected fluid conduits which can require descaling.

[0074] The water system or one or more process components thereof can be filled with the descaling fluid. In a preferred form, a reservoir within the water system is filled, such as a boiler, an air break tank or other reservoir. The filling can occur to overflow so as to ensure that the descaling fluid reaches the normal operating or fill level of the reservoir.

[0075] During any descaling method, the temperature of the water in the boiler can be changed, for example, reduced.

[0076] The descaling method can comprise a soaking step in which the descaling fluid is held in the reservoir for a period of time.

[0077] During the descaling method, one or more outlet valves from the reservoir can be opened during the descaling method. Preferably, at least one outlet valve from the reservoir can be opened and then closed one or more times during the descaling method to descale any valves associated with the reservoir. If this occurs, additional descaling agent and / or water can be added to the reservoir to maintain the level of descaling fluid within the reservoir.

[0078] At the end of the descaling method, the descaling fluid in the reservoir is preferably drained.

[0079] The reservoir and any other part or all of the water system can be flushed with a flushing fluid. Once flushed, the water system can be filled with replacement water to be heated.

[0080] The at least one mixing chamber can also be flushed. The at least one mixing chamber can be flushed to overflow.

[0081] The descaling method can be repeated one or more times. Once descaling and flushing is complete, the at least one fluid collection tank can be retracted from the treatment position to the beverage dispensing position and the beverage preparation machine is reset to the dispensing mode.

[0082] The steps in the method can be carried out at any temperature. For example, the first flush can be carried out with inlet water at delivery temperature. Any treatment steps can be carried out with heated fluid. The second flush can be carried out with inlet water at delivery temperature. Hot and / or cold water can be used as required.

[0083] As a further refinement of the effectiveness of the treatment steps, the treatment fluid can be provided with active ingredients, such as detergents, antibacterial agents and / or descaling substances.

[0084] Depending on the nature of the treatment steps, the temperature of the treatment fluid is at least 50°C, preferably at least 60°C. Even higher temperatures can be set for the descaling steps, such as at least 80°C, preferably at least 90°C.

[0085] In one embodiment of the application, cold or warm water is used to carry out at least one of the steps comprising the first flush step and the second flush step. The use of cold or preferably warm water in the first flush step is effective to remove at least a substantial amount of residue in the flushed parts of the machine or components, while avoiding solidification of proteins. The use of cold or warm water in the second flush step cools the flushed parts of the machine. The use of cold flushing water can achieve relatively rapid cooling, however, warm water is alternatively used, for example to mitigate the risk of any thermal shock, for example after a high temperature descaling treatment. If a detergent or other treatment agent is used during the treatment steps, the second flush step can further remove any residue of these.

[0086] The at least one fluid collection tank can have any shape. The at least one fluid collection tank can have any size, but will preferably be large enough to accommodate the at least one fluid dispensing outlet therein and will at least partially submerge the at least one fluid dispensing outlet in the treatment fluid. The at least partial submersion of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet in the treatment fluid will preferably occur in all treatment modes, whether the treatment mode is a rinse only treatment mode or a cleaning or descaling treatment mode, to ensure that the outer surface of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is treated.

[0087] The at least one fluid collection tank can be deployable relative to the one or more outlets. A fluid collection tank can be provided for a single outlet, but preferably a single tank will be provided for all of the outlets that require treatment. A water only outlet can not be provided relative to the at least one fluid collection tank.

[0088] The at least one fluid collection tank can be provided with one or more dividers, particularly if more than one fluid dispensing outlet is to be treated simultaneously. For example, the at least one fluid collection tank can be provided with one or more dividers to define a compartment therein for each of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet. The at least one fluid dispensing outlet is preferably configured to ensure that the at least one fluid collection tank is filled to a level that treats the outer surface of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet. If this occurs, at least a portion of the inner surface of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet will also be treated.

[0089] Preferably, the at least one fluid collection tank will not be filled to overflow.

[0090] One or more valves can be provided at the outlet of the mixer between the outlet and the mixing chamber. The one or more valves can be controlled to ensure that the at least one fluid collection tank is filled to a desired level.

[0091] Preferably, one or more drain valves are provided as outlets for the at least one fluid collection tank. The one or more drain valves can be controlled to ensure that the at least one fluid collection tank is filled to a desired level.

[0092] The one or more drain valves can be sized relative to the at least one fluid dispensing outlet to ensure that the at least one fluid collection tank is filled to a desired level.

[0093] The at least one fluid collection tank can be shaped internally to ensure treatment of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet.

[0094] The outlet can be provided in an upper portion of the at least one fluid collection tank. Any upper outlet can be provided at a level above at least a portion of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet. More than one outlet can be provided in the at least one fluid collection tank, for example at least one lower outlet and at least one upper outlet.

[0095] The at least one fluid collection tank can be provided with a liquid level sensor to determine the level of fluid within the at least one fluid collection tank to ensure that the at least one fluid collection tank does not overflow.

[0096] The at least one fluid collection tank is preferably driven between a beverage dispensing position and a disposal position. Any mechanism can be used. The at least one fluid collection tank can be at least partially disposed within a housing. When in the beverage dispensing position, the housing can fully enclose the at least one fluid collection tank. Alternatively, a rear end of the at least one fluid collection tank can be received in the housing and an outer end extends outside the housing through a shaped receiving opening to guide movement of the at least one fluid collection tank and support the at least one fluid collection tank in the disposal position.

[0097] In a preferred form, the at least one fluid collection tank is disposed at a level that is substantially coplanar with the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and is driven horizontally reciprocally between the beverage dispensing position and the disposal position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0098] So that the application can be more clearly understood, one or more embodiments of the application will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0099] Figure 1 is a flow chart of a method according to an embodiment of an autonomous disposal apparatus for a beverage preparation machine.

[0100] Figure 2 is an isometric view from above of a biased outlet in a dispensing position according to an embodiment.

[0101] Figure 3 is Figure 2 is an isometric view from above of a biased outlet in a partially deployed position according to an embodiment.

[0102] Figure 4 is an isometric view from above of a biased outlet in a disposal position according to an embodiment.

[0103] Figure 5 is Figure 4 is an isometric view from above of a biased outlet in a partially deployed position according to an embodiment.

[0104] Figure 6 is an isometric view from above of a biased outlet in a disposal position according to an embodiment.

[0105] Figure 7 is Figure 6 is an isometric view from above of a biased outlet in a partially deployed position according to an embodiment.

[0106] Figure 8 is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment.

[0107] Figure 9 is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment.

[0108] Figure 10 is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment. Figure 9 is a side view of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment.

[0109] Figure 11 is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment. Figure 9 is a bottom view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment.

[0110] Figure 12 is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment. Figure 11 is a detailed view of the portion labeled "A" in

[0111] Figure 13 is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment. Figure 9 is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment.

[0112] is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment. Figure 1 is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment.

[0113] is a front view in perspective of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment.

[0114] The hot / cold water outlet 13 is selectively connectable to the chiller unit 14 or to the open boiler 15 by operation of valves V31 and V32.

[0115] The milk outlet 12 is associated with a mixer 16. The mixer is selectively connectable to the chiller unit 14 or to the open boiler 15 by operation of valves V21 and V22, and is also connected to a milk source D21 stored in a refrigerator 17.

[0116] The coffee outlet 11 is associated with a mixer 18. The mixer is selectively connectable to the chiller unit 14 or to the open boiler 15 by operation of valves V11 and V12, and is also connected to a coffee source D11 stored in a refrigerator 17.

[0117] Both the chiller unit 14 and the open boiler 15 are fed from a water inlet. Operation of the respective valves can adjust the temperature of the water in either circuit, and direct the fluid through the required circuit. As shown, a detergent reservoir 19 is associated with each mixer 16, 18 via a pump P11.

[0118] The fluid collection tank 20 (identified in Figure 1 as "docking for cleaning") is positioned relative to the fluid dispensing outlets 11 and 12 and can be moved between a dispensing position, as Figure 3 shown, separate from the coffee dispensing outlet 11 and the milk dispensing outlet 12, and a treatment position, as Figure 7 shown, below the coffee dispensing outlet 11 and the milk dispensing outlet 12. When in the treatment position, the coffee dispensing outlet 11 and the milk dispensing outlet 12 are positioned within the fluid collection tank 20 to clean the outer surfaces of the coffee dispensing outlet 11 and the milk dispensing outlet 12. Figure 7

[0119] The drain 21 is provided to be connected at least to the tank 20 and to the boiler overflow outlet.

[0120] The beverage preparation machine 10, as shown, implements an autonomous treatment method comprising the following steps:

[0121] a. monitoring at least one usage parameter of the beverage preparation machine 10 in a dispensing mode;

[0122] b. automatically triggering the beverage preparation machine 10 to enter a treatment mode according to the at least one usage parameter, the treatment mode implementing a treatment method comprising the following sub-steps:

[0123] i. deploying the fluid collection tank 20 from the beverage dispensing position, as Figure 3 shown, to the treatment position, as Figure 7 shown, below the coffee dispensing outlet 11 and the milk dispensing outlet 12;

[0124] ii. rinsing the coffee dispensing outlet 11 and the milk dispensing outlet 12 and at least one mixing chamber 16, 18 with a rinsing fluid;

[0125] iii. treating at least one fluid containing portion in the beverage preparation machine with a treatment fluid (either one of the mixer or the boiler, as explained below);

[0126] iv. rinsing the at least one fluid containing portion with a rinsing fluid;

[0127] v. retracting the fluid collection tank from the treatment position to the beverage dispensing position; and

[0128] c. returning the beverage preparation machine to the dispensing mode.

[0129] Although not shown, each mixing chamber 16, 18 will preferably comprise a stirring or whisking device to stir or whisk the ingredients when they have been provided into the mixing chamber 16, 18.

[0130] ​The autonomous treatment method can be triggered based on at least one parameter related to the use of the beverage preparation machine 10.

[0131] The autonomous treatment method can be triggered depending on the use of one or more ingredients. For example, if the beverage preparation machine is configured to use milk as an ingredient, any beverage preparation circuit that utilizes milk as an ingredient can require more frequent treatment than a beverage preparation circuit that utilizes only water, for example, treatment once a day, whereas a beverage preparation circuit that utilizes only water can only require treatment once a week. Furthermore, any circuit that prepares and dispenses cold or chilled beverages can require more frequent treatment than a circuit that only provides hot beverages. For example, a cold or chilled beverage circuit can require treatment once a day, whereas a hot circuit can only require treatment once every few days or once a week.

[0132] The beverage preparation machine can be triggered into a treatment mode based on the level of use. For example, more intensive use by the beverage preparation machine producing a high material throughput can trigger the treatment mode more frequently.

[0133] The treatment mode can be triggered based on at least one use parameter in combination with at least one other parameter that can affect the operational efficiency of the beverage preparation machine. For example, water hardness can affect operational efficiency and, therefore, a machine used in combination with harder water can require more frequent descaling than a machine used in combination with softer water, where the machines are used at the same level of throughput. Preferably, the boiler and any hot water circuit will be descaled.

[0134] The beverage preparation machine will preferably be provided with a controller (not shown) associated with one or more sensors to sense the flow or use of ingredients in order to measure the use of ingredients and / or any other parameter related to the ingredients, such as, for example, water hardness.

[0135] In one embodiment, wherein the beverage preparation machine, and in particular, any controller provided to control the autonomous cleaning method, is provided with a defined use threshold to trigger the autonomous method, if the defined use threshold is not reached, the autonomous cleaning method can be triggered according to a default time period.

[0136] Once the treatment mode is triggered, the fluid collection tank 20 is deployed from the beverage dispensing position to the treatment position, as shown in Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 . Prior to any treatment commencing, the fluid collection tank 20 is preferably deployed to the treatment position as shown in Figure 7 in order to capture any flush / treatment fluid from the outlets 11, 12 and / or any remaining material from the beverage preparation circuit.

[0137] As shown in Figures 2 to 7As shown, the deployment of the fluid collection trough 20 can cause movement in the dispensing outlets 11, 12.

[0138] The dispensing outlets 11, 12 of the illustrated embodiment are mounted for movement relative to the mounting portion of the beverage preparation machine 10. In many embodiments, the dispensing outlets 11, 12 are oriented substantially vertically. The illustrated dispensing outlets 11, 12 can be moved between a lowered dispensing position (in which Figure 3 the beverage dispensing position and Figure 7 the handling position) and a raised position Figure 5 to allow the trough 20 to pass underneath the dispensing outlets 11, 12.

[0139] As shown in Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 , the dispensing outlets 11, 12 are biased to the lowered dispensing position, and movement of the fluid collection trough 20 forces the dispensing outlets 11, 12 upward against the bias, and then the bias returns the dispensing outlets 11, 12 to the lowered position.

[0140] As shown in Figure 3 , in the dispensing position, the dispensing outlets 11, 12 are in the lowered position but outside of the fluid collection trough 20. In the handling position, shown in Figure 7 , the dispensing outlets 11, 12 are in the lowered position but inside of the fluid collection trough 20.

[0141] In the illustrated configuration, the dispensing outlets 11, 12 have a V-shaped tapered lower end with a downwardly angled end portion on the side facing the fluid collection trough 20 and an upwardly angled end portion on the side facing away from the fluid collection trough 20. The provision of the angled end portions on the dispensing outlets 11, 12 causes the dispensing outlets 11, 12 to rise against the bias as the dispensing outlets 11, 12 are moved between positions.

[0142] In the illustrated form, the fluid collection trough 20 moves laterally in a horizontal direction. Preferably, the movement of the fluid collection trough 20 is reciprocating between the beverage dispensing position and the handling position.

[0143] The illustrated fluid collection trough 20 is large enough to accommodate the dispensing outlets 11, 12 therein, and at least partially submerges the dispensing outlets 11, 12 in the process fluid.

[0144] The dispensing outlets 11, 12 and / or the trough 20 are configured to ensure that the fluid collection trough 20 fills to the level of the outer surface of the dispensing outlets 11, 12. If this occurs, at least a portion of the inner surface of the dispensing outlets 11, 12 will also be processed.

[0145] Preferably, the fluid collection tank 20 will not be filled and overflow.

[0146] One or more drain valves are preferably provided as outlets of the fluid collection tank 20. One or more drain valves can be controlled to ensure that at least one fluid collection tank is filled to the desired level.

[0147] In use, the fluid collection tank 20 is driven between the beverage dispensing position and the processing position. Any mechanism can be used. At least one fluid collection tank may be at least partially housed within the housing 25. When in a position such as Figure 3 When the beverage dispensing position is shown, the housing 25 can completely enclose the fluid collection tank 25. The rear end of the fluid collection tank 20 remains received within the housing 25, and the outer end extends to the outside of the housing 25 through a shaped receiving opening to guide the movement of the fluid collection tank 20 and support the fluid collection tank. Figure 7 The processing position is shown. This will also minimize the deflection of the fluid collection tank 25 during movement, which in turn forces the dispensing outlets 11, 12 upward against the bias.

[0148] The fluid collection tank 20 is positioned at a level substantially coplanar with the dispensing outlets 11 and 12, and is horizontally reciprocated between the beverage dispensing position and the processing position.

[0149] In the illustrated embodiment, dispensing outlets 11 and 12 are housed within a single body 27, which is separated by a central wall 28 mounted within a housing 26. A supply line 29 is provided for outlet 11, and a second supply line 30 is provided for outlet 12. As described above, dispensing outlets 11 and 12 are downwardly biased. Any biasing mechanism can be used. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of springs 31 mounted around an upright post are used to downwardly bias the body 27.

[0150] Figure 4 This illustrates that as the slot 20 moves past the lower ends of the dispensing outlets 11 and 12, the pair of springs 31 are compressed, thereby forcing the body 27 upward to allow the slot 20 to pass beneath the temporarily raised dispensing outlets 11 and 12, as shown. Figure 5 As shown.

[0151] exist Figure 6 In the middle, the main body 27 has returned to Figure 3 As shown, the slot 20 is now positioned below the lower ends of the dispensing outlets 11, 12, which are located within the slot 20 for processing and are supported by the housing 25.

[0152] According to a preferred embodiment, after the deployment of the fluid collection trough 20, a flushing step occurs in which the dispensing outlets 11, 12 and the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18 are flushed with a flushing fluid. The initial flushing step can occur after deployment and before processing. The initial flushing step can flush any residual or remaining fluid from one or more beverage dispensing circuits of the beverage dispensing machine before processing occurs.

[0153] In the case of flushing the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18, the flushing is preferably carried out until the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18 overflows, in order to ensure that the flushing reaches at least up to the normal use level of the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18.

[0154] Once the initial flushing step is complete, if the processing to be carried out is a cleaning step, any outlet valve from the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18 is closed in order to allow the mixing chamber 16, 18 to fill with cleaning fluid. The cleaning fluid is then introduced into the mixing chamber 16, 18. The cleaning fluid can be or include a cleaning agent and / or water. In the case of using a mixture, an amount of cleaning agent or detergent is dosed into an amount of water that enters into the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18. As shown, the detergent can be dosed into the water inlet 35 of the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18 via a needle valve 36 that is supplied from a detergent reservoir 19 using a supply conduit 37, in order to prevent the cleaning agent from being drawn out during normal beverage dispensing operations due to a Venturi effect. Figure 8

[0155] In a preferred form, the respective dosing pump P11 can be run in the opposite direction for a period of time at the end of the dosing step, in order to prevent cleaning agent from being drawn into the water inlet 35 during normal beverage dispensing operations.

[0156] Preferably, sufficient cleaning fluid is provided to fill the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18. In a preferred embodiment, sufficient cleaning fluid is used to overflow the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18, in order to ensure that the cleaning fluid fills the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18 above the normal use level.

[0157] The processing step can include a soaking step in which the cleaning fluid is left in the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18 for a period of time before being emptied.

[0158] The agitator or agitating device associated with the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18 can be operated during the cleaning step / soaking step to provide agitation or turbulence in the cleaning fluid within the at least one mixing chamber 16, 18. When operated during the cleaning step / soaking step, the agitator or agitating device can be operated at a low speed.

[0159] ​Once the cleaning step and / or the soaking step is complete, the outlet valve from the mixing chamber 16, 18 is preferably opened to empty the mixing chamber 16, 18. During emptying of the mixing chamber, the agitator or agitation device associated with the mixing chamber 16, 18 can be operated. Preferably, the agitator or agitation device can be operated at a medium speed during emptying of the mixing chamber 16, 18.

[0160] Once the mixing chamber 16, 18 has been emptied of cleaning fluid, the outlet valve is preferably closed.

[0161] After the outlet valve is closed, the mixing chamber 16, 18 can undergo a flushing step in which the mixing chamber 16, 18 is flushed with a flushing fluid. This can be a second flushing to flush any remaining cleaning fluid from the mixing chamber 16, 18. Preferably, a second flushing step can occur to overflow the mixing chamber 16, 18 to ensure that the mixing chamber is fully flushed.

[0162] In any cleaning cycle, the cleaning / soaking step can occur more than once. For example, for beverages including milk, the cleaning / soaking step can occur more than once, but for water-based beverages such as tea or coffee, it can only be performed once.

[0163] Once the second flushing step is complete, the fluid collection tank 20 is moved or retracted from the treatment position to the beverage dispensing position and the beverage preparation machine returns to normal dispensing mode.

[0164] The autonomous treatment method can be a descaling method, rather than a cleaning method or a descaling method and a cleaning method.

[0165] In a preferred descaling method, the fluid collection tank 20 is deployed. The fluid dispensing outlets 11, 12 and mixing chambers 16, 18 of the beverage preparation machine can then be flushed with a flushing fluid.

[0166] In the treatment step, when the beverage preparation machine is descaled, a descaling fluid can be introduced into the boiler 15 of the beverage preparation machine. The descaling fluid can be or include a descaling agent. The descaling agent can be dosed into a carrier such as water. A dosing pump can be used to dose the descaling agent into the carrier.

[0167] The boiler 15 can be filled with the descaling fluid to overflow in order to ensure that the descaling fluid reaches the normal operating or fill level of the boiler 15.

[0168] During any descaling method, the temperature of the water in the boiler 15 can be changed, for example, reduced.

[0169] The descaling method can include a soaking step in which the descaling fluid is held in the boiler 15 for a period of time.

[0170] During the descaling method, one or more outlet valves from the boiler 15 can be opened and closed. Preferably, at least one outlet valve from the boiler 15 can be opened and then closed one or more times during the descaling method to descale any valves associated with the boiler 15. If this occurs, additional descaling agent and / or water can be added to the boiler 15 to maintain the level of descaling fluid within the boiler.

[0171] At the end of the descaling method, the descaling fluid in the boiler 15 is preferably drained.

[0172] The boiler 15 can be flushed with a flushing fluid. The flushing fluid can fill the boiler 15 to overflow, ensuring flushing to at least a normal operating level. Once flushed, the boiler 15 can be filled with replacement water to be heated.

[0173] At least one mixing chamber 16, 18 can also be flushed. The mixing chamber 16, 18 can be flushed to overflow.

[0174] The descaling method can be repeated one or more times. Once descaling and flushing are complete, the fluid collection tank 20 can be retracted from the treatment position to the beverage dispensing position and the beverage preparation machine resets to the dispensing mode.

[0175] The steps in the method can be performed at any temperature. For example, the first flush can be performed with inlet water at delivery temperature. Any treatment steps can be performed with heated fluid. The second flush can be performed with inlet water at delivery temperature. Hot and / or cold water can be used as required.

[0176] Figures 9 to 13 An embodiment of the beverage preparation machine 10 is shown.

[0177] In Figures 9 to 11 , the outlet assembly 50 and the fluid collection tank 20 are each shown in an overall position on the front side of the beverage preparation machine 10. In Figure 12 , the outlet assembly 50 and the fluid collection tank 20 are shown in more detail.

[0178] As Figure 12 shown, the fluid collection tank 20 is shown with a front or outer wall having an abutment tab 51 disposed on the outer side thereof and facing the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12. The abutment tab has an angled wall angled upwardly away from the outer wall of the fluid collection tank 20 and having a forward abutment apex 53.

[0179] The outlet assembly 50 comprises a biased dual outlet comprising a coffee outlet 11 and a milk outlet 12. Disposed between the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12 is an abutment tab 54. The abutment tab 54 has a pair of opposing angled surfaces, namely an inner angled surface 55 and an outer angled surface 56. The inner angled surface 55 faces the fluid collection tray 20 and is aligned with the abutment tab 51 disposed on the outer side of the front wall of the fluid collection tray 20.

[0180] In use and when the fluid collection tray is driven outwardly from the dispensing position to the disposal position, the forward abutment apex 53 of the abutment tab 51 abuts the inner angled surface and as the outward deployment continues, the forward abutment apex 53 of the abutment tab 51 slides over the inner angled surface 55 which in turn forces the dual outlet upwardly, allowing the front or outer wall of the fluid collection tray 20 to pass underneath the biased dual outlet comprising the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12. Once the front or outer wall of the fluid collection tray 20 has passed underneath the biased dual outlet comprising the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12, the abutment is lost and the bias forces the biased dual outlet comprising the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12 downwardly to be located within the fluid collection tray 20 for disposal.

[0181] In use and when the fluid collection tray is driven outwardly from the dispensing position to the disposal position, the forward abutment apex 53 of the abutment tab 51 abuts the inner angled surface and as the outward deployment continues, the forward abutment apex 53 of the abutment tab 51 slides over the inner angled surface 55 which in turn forces the dual outlet upwardly, allowing the front or outer wall of the fluid collection tray 20 to pass underneath the biased dual outlet comprising the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12. Once the front or outer wall of the fluid collection tray 20 has passed underneath the biased dual outlet comprising the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12, the abutment is lost and the bias forces the biased dual outlet comprising the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12 downwardly to be located within the fluid collection tray 20 for disposal. Figure 10 The reverse occurs when moving the fluid collection tray 20 from the disposal position to the dispensing position, where the inner side of the front or outer wall of the fluid collection tray 20 abuts the outer angled surface 56 of the abutment tab 54 and as the inward movement continues, the inner side of the front or outer wall of the fluid collection tray 20 slides over the outer angled surface 56 which in turn forces the dual outlet upwardly, allowing the front or outer wall of the fluid collection tray 20 to pass underneath the biased dual outlet comprising the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12. Once the front or outer wall of the fluid collection tray 20 has passed underneath the biased dual outlet comprising the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12, the abutment is lost and the bias forces the biased dual outlet comprising the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12 downwardly again to be located in the dispensing position where the fluid collection tray 20 is stored spaced apart from the coffee outlet 11 and the milk outlet 12

[0182] It should be noted that Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 the embodiments of the fluid collection tray 20 shown in Figure 12 have a circular abutment tab and the dual outlet has an abutment tab which together have the same technical effect as the angled abutment tab 51 and the abutment tab 54 shown in

[0183] Figure 13 A mechanism is shown which can be used to drive the fluid collection tray 20 to move, namely a motor 57 disposed on the fluid collection tray 20 and a reversible rotation of a drive gear 58 to move the fluid collection tray 20.Figure 13 Also shown in the middle is an enlarged rear discharge section 59 that spans the width of the rear end of the fluid collection trough 20, which connects to a smaller lower discharge section conduit 60 to receive fluid from the rear end of the fluid collection trough 20.

[0184] One or more embodiments are described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the protection provided by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An autonomous processing method for a beverage preparation machine, the autonomous processing method comprising the following steps: a. The beverage preparation machine is automatically triggered to enter the processing mode, which implements a processing method including the following sub-steps: i. Deploy at least one fluid collection tank from a beverage dispensing position separate from at least one fluid dispensing outlet of the beverage preparation machine to a processing position below the at least one fluid dispensing outlet of the beverage preparation machine; ii. Rinse the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and at least one mixing chamber of the beverage preparation machine with rinsing fluid; iii. Retract the at least one fluid collection tank from the processing position to the beverage dispensing position; as well as b. Return the beverage preparation machine to the dispensing mode.

2. The autonomous processing method according to claim 1, further comprising the following steps: In the processing step following the rinsing step (ii), at least one fluid container in the beverage preparation machine is treated with a processing fluid; as well as In a second flushing step, which follows the processing step and precedes the retraction step (iii), the at least one fluid reservoir is flushed a second time with flushing fluid.

3. The autonomous processing method according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The autonomous processing method is triggered based on at least one usage parameter and includes a step of monitoring at least one usage parameter when in allocation mode.

4. The autonomous processing method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The autonomous processing method is triggered according to a schedule.

5. The autonomous processing method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Expanding the at least one fluid collection tank causes movement in the at least one fluid distribution outlet.

6. The autonomous processing method according to claim 5, wherein, The at least one fluid dispensing outlet is biased to a lowered dispensing position, and movement of the at least one fluid collection tank forces the at least one fluid dispensing outlet upward against the bias, and then the bias causes the at least one fluid dispensing outlet to return to the lowered position within the at least one fluid collection tank.

7. The autonomous processing method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, During the rinsing of the at least one mixing chamber, the rinsing continues until the at least one mixing chamber overflows.

8. The autonomous processing method according to any one of claims 3 to 7, when subordinate to claim 2, wherein, The processing step is a cleaning step, after which the outlet valve from the at least one mixing chamber is closed, and the at least one mixing chamber is filled with cleaning fluid.

9. The autonomous processing method according to claim 8, wherein, The cleaning agent is dispensed into the water inlet of the at least one mixing chamber via a needle valve.

10. The autonomous processing method according to claim 9, wherein, A dispensing pump is used to dispense the cleaning agent into the water inlet, and at the end of the dispensing step, the dispensing pump runs in the opposite direction for a period of time.

11. The autonomous processing method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, Cleaning fluid is provided to fill the at least one mixing chamber to cause the at least one mixing chamber to overflow.

12. The autonomous processing method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, further comprising an immersion step after the at least one mixing chamber is filled, wherein, The cleaning fluid is left in at least one of the mixing chambers.

13. The autonomous processing method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, Once the cleaning step is completed, the outlet valve from the at least one mixing chamber is opened to empty the at least one mixing chamber.

14. The autonomous processing method according to any one of claims 8 to 13, the autonomous processing method further comprising the step of operating a stirrer or stirring device associated with the at least one mixing chamber.

15. The autonomous processing method according to any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein, The second rinsing step occurs to cause the at least one mixing chamber to overflow.

16. The autonomous processing method according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein, when subordinate to claim 2, The processing step is a descaling method, wherein a descaling fluid is introduced into the water system of the beverage preparation machine.

17. The autonomous processing method according to claim 16, wherein, The water system or one or more of its process components are filled with descaling fluid.

18. The autonomous processing method according to claim 16 or claim 17, wherein, In the second flushing step, the water system or one or more process components are flushed with flushing fluid.

19. A beverage preparation machine for an autonomous processing method, the beverage preparation machine comprising at least one fluid dispensing outlet and at least one fluid collection tank, the at least one fluid collection tank being positioned relative to the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and movable between a dispensing position separate from the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and a processing position below the at least one outlet, wherein, When in the processing position, the at least one fluid distribution outlet is positioned within the at least one fluid collection tank to clean the outer surface of the at least one fluid distribution outlet.

20. An autonomous beverage preparation machine, the beverage preparation machine comprising at least one fluid dispensing outlet and at least one fluid collection tank, the at least one fluid collection tank being positioned relative to the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and movable between a dispensing position separate from the at least one fluid dispensing outlet and a processing position below the at least one outlet, wherein, When in the processing position, the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is positioned within the at least one fluid collecting tank to clean the outer surface of the at least one fluid dispensing outlet, thereby automatically triggering a processing mode in which the at least one fluid collecting tank extends from a dispensing position separated from the at least one fluid dispensing outlet of the beverage preparation machine to a processing position below the at least one fluid dispensing outlet of the beverage preparation machine, flushes the outlet and mixing chamber of the beverage preparation machine with rinsing fluid, the at least one fluid collecting tank retracts from the processing position to the dispensing position, and the beverage preparation machine returns to the dispensing mode.

21. The autonomous beverage preparation machine according to claim 20, wherein, The autonomous beverage preparation machine treats at least one fluid container in the beverage preparation machine with a treatment fluid after the rinsing step, and rinses the at least one container with a rinsing fluid after treatment with the treatment fluid and before the at least one fluid collection tank retracts from the treatment position.

22. The beverage preparation machine according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein, The at least one fluid dispensing outlet is biased to a lowered position, wherein the at least one fluid collection tank contains the at least one fluid dispensing outlet therein, and the at least one fluid dispensing outlet is at least partially immersed in the processing fluid, and the at least one fluid collection tank forces the at least one fluid dispensing outlet to rise against the bias by movement of the at least one fluid collection tank.

23. The beverage preparation machine according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein, The at least one fluid dispensing outlet has a tapered lower end to be adjacent to a portion of the at least one fluid collection tank when the at least one fluid collection tank moves between the dispensing position and the processing position and returns.

24. The beverage preparation machine according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein, The at least one fluid collection tank is installed for lateral reciprocating movement in the horizontal direction.

25. A beverage preparation machine, said beverage preparation machine implementing the autonomous processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

Images