Beverage machine

By aligning the transmission connection in a specific direction, the beverage machine's brewing device can be easily disassembled and assembled, solving the problems of inconvenient disassembly and assembly and misoperation in the existing technology, and improving the convenience and safety of maintenance.

CN121606170APending Publication Date: 2026-03-06KALERM TECH (SUZHOU) CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511990605.4
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-12-26
Publication Date
2026-03-06

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing beverage machine brewing device is cumbersome and inconvenient to disassemble and assemble, and is prone to damage to parts due to misoperation, affecting the convenience and safety of maintenance.

Method used

A beverage machine was designed that allows for the assembly and disassembly of the brewing device by aligning the first and second transmission connection parts in a specific direction, ensuring the stability and safety of the transmission connection. The directional assembly and disassembly method enhances the ease of maintenance.

Benefits of technology

It enables convenient assembly and disassembly of the brewing device, preventing assembly errors or component damage caused by misoperation, and improving the ease of maintenance and safety of the beverage machine.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a beverage machine, which comprises a main machine body, a driving device and a driving device, the brewing device is installed in the containing space and comprises a driving shaft, and the driving shaft is in transmission connection with the motor so as to conduct brewing operation; the brewing device is detachably installed in the containing space in the first direction, and the first direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the driving shaft; a first transmission part is arranged on the main machine body and is driven by a motor; the brewing device comprises a second transmission part, the first transmission part is provided with a first transmission connecting part, the second transmission part is provided with a second transmission connecting part, and the first transmission connecting part and the second transmission connecting part are both aligned with the first direction so as to allow the brewing device to be disassembled and assembled in the first direction; at least one of the first transmission connecting part and the second transmission connecting part is staggered with the first direction in the circumferential direction of the driving shaft so as to limit disassembly and assembly of the brewing device in the first direction. And through directional assembly and disassembly, the maintenance convenience and safety of the beverage machine are enhanced.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of beverage preparation technology, and more particularly to a beverage machine. Background Technology

[0002] Existing fully automatic or semi-automatic beverage machines, such as coffee machines and tea machines, typically have a brewing device for extracting beverage ingredients. To ensure hygiene and ease of maintenance, this brewing device is often designed to be detachable from the main unit. However, the disassembly and assembly process of existing brewing devices is relatively cumbersome and inconvenient. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One object of this application is to provide a beverage machine with an easy-to-disassemble brewing device.

[0004] To achieve the aforementioned objectives, one aspect of this application provides a beverage machine, comprising: The main body has a defined accommodating space, and the main body is equipped with a motor; A brewing device is installed in the receiving space. The brewing device includes a drive shaft, which is connected to the motor for brewing operations. The brewing device is detachably mounted in the receiving space along a first direction, which is perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft; The main body is provided with a first transmission component, which is driven by the motor; the brewing device includes a second transmission component, which is connected to the drive shaft. The first transmission component drives the drive shaft to rotate through the second transmission component. The first transmission component has a first transmission connection portion, and the second transmission component has a second transmission connection portion. Both the first transmission connection portion and the second transmission connection portion are aligned with the first direction to allow the brewing device to be disassembled and assembled along the first direction. Along the circumference of the drive shaft, at least one of the first transmission connection portion and the second transmission connection portion is misaligned with the first direction to restrict the disassembly and assembly of the brewing device along the first direction.

[0005] Compared with existing technologies, the advantages of this application are as follows: the installation and disassembly of the brewing device can be achieved by moving it in a specific direction. It is only necessary to ensure that the first and second transmission connection parts are accurately aligned with the first direction to achieve the assembly and disassembly of the brewing device and the transmission connection between the brewing device and the motor. This design effectively prevents assembly errors or component damage caused by misoperation. Targeted assembly and disassembly enhance the ease of maintenance and safety of the beverage machine. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a beverage machine according to one embodiment of this application.

[0007] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A diagram showing the disassembly and assembly of the brewing device in a beverage machine.

[0008] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the brewing device of a beverage machine in one of its states.

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the brewing device of a beverage machine in another state.

[0010] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the first transmission component of the beverage machine and the second transmission component and drive shaft of the brewing device.

[0011] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the beverage machine along line AA.

[0012] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the beverage machine along line BB.

[0013] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the brewing device of a beverage machine. Detailed Implementation

[0014] The present application will now be described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present application, and any structural, methodological, or functional modifications made by those skilled in the art based on these embodiments are included within the scope of protection of this application.

[0015] It should be understood that terms such as “above,” “over,” “below,” and “under,” used herein to indicate spatial relative position, are for illustrative purposes to describe the relationship of one unit or feature relative to another, as shown in the accompanying drawings. The terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” as used herein, are interchangeable to distinguish one component from another, and these terms are not intended to indicate the location or importance of individual components.

[0016] In existing technologies, especially in beverage machines used in commercial settings such as fully automatic coffee machines, the brewing units are generally large and heavy to ensure stable coffee brewing and a high number of servings. During installation, users or maintenance personnel need to align the brewing unit with the structure on the main unit and then slide it upwards to install it. Due to its size and weight, this sliding method of disassembly and installation is inconvenient and requires considerable effort. Furthermore, when the brewing unit is disassembled, reinstallation often fails because the alignment between the brewing unit and the main unit cannot be visualized, requiring repeated attempts by users or maintenance personnel, impacting the user experience, and potentially damaging components due to forced installation.

[0017] In order to meet the parameter requirements of brewing devices in commercial scenarios, this application provides a beverage machine with a brewing device that is easier to disassemble and install.

[0018] This application provides a beverage machine 100, with reference to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The beverage machine 100 includes a main body 20 and a brewing device 30. The main body 20 defines a receiving space 21, and the brewing device 30 is installed in the receiving space 21. The main body 20 is provided with a motor 22, and the brewing device 30 includes a drive shaft 32, which is connected to the motor 22 for brewing operations.

[0019] The brewing device 30 includes a housing 301, and both ends of the drive shaft 32 can be supported on the housing 301. The housing 301 serves as a frame supporting the functional components, and its structural form is not limited. The transmission connection between the drive shaft 32 and the motor 22 can include any mechanical structure capable of power transmission, such as a gear set, coupling, or magnetic coupling device, to ensure that the drive shaft 32 rotates stably under the drive of the motor 22, thereby driving the brewing device 30 to complete the brewing action.

[0020] The drive shaft 32 can be optionally a screw. The brewing device 30 includes a brewing cylinder 311, a brewing piston 312, and a lower piston 313. The brewing piston 312 and the lower piston 313 are respectively engaged with the brewing cylinder 311 to form a brewing chamber. The brewing cylinder 311 is threadedly driven by the screw. When the motor 22 drives the screw to rotate, the brewing cylinder 311 moves along the screw axis, realizing the relative position adjustment with the brewing piston 312, thereby completing the compaction of the beverage ingredients and the separation of the brewing piston 312 from the brewing cylinder 311.

[0021] In this embodiment, the motor 22, acting as a rotational power source, works in conjunction with the screw to drive the brewing cylinder 311 to move relative to the brewing piston 312 to complete the powder pressing action. It can also drive the brewing cylinder 311 to move relative to the lower piston 313 to complete the slag topping action, or drive the brewing cylinder 311 to rotate around the screw to achieve the powder receiving action, among other automated brewing actions. The motor 22 is the sole power source for the brewing operation. Through the cooperation of the screw and the brewing cylinder 311, a series of automated brewing actions can be completed simply by driving the brewing cylinder 311 to move linearly. This simplifies control, creates a compact structure, and helps reduce the overall size of the machine.

[0022] Specifically, the axis of the drive shaft 32 is set vertically, and the vertical direction can be considered to be perpendicular to the support surface of the main body 20. The brewing piston 312 is located on one side of the radial direction of the drive shaft 32, and the lower piston 313 can move together with the brewing cylinder 311 or move relative to it to achieve powder receiving, powder pressing and slag removal.

[0023] Reference Figure 1 The brewing tank 311 is located at the powder receiving position, and the opening of the brewing tank 311 corresponds to the powder receiving channel 302, which facilitates the falling of beverage ingredients into the brewing tank 311. The powder receiving channel 302 is pivotally connected to the housing 301 and can be held in a position corresponding to the opening of the brewing tank 311 under the action of elastic force.

[0024] Reference Figure 2 and 3 The brewing cylinder 311 moves upward along the drive shaft 32 to cooperate with the brewing piston 312 to form a sealed brewing chamber, thereby completing the subsequent pressing of powder and brewing of beverage. During the upward movement of the brewing cylinder 311, the brewing cylinder 311 drives the lower piston 313 to move synchronously. Among them, a scraper 303 is pivotally connected to the brewing cylinder 311. The scraper 303 is provided with a pushing part 3031, and the powder receiving channel 302 is provided with a receiving arm 3021. During the upward movement of the brewing cylinder 311, the pushing part 3031 on the scraper 303 abuts against the receiving arm 3021 of the powder receiving channel 302. The pushing part 3031 and the receiving arm 3021 are guided by an inclined surface. Under the push of the pushing part 3031, the powder receiving channel 302 overcomes the elastic force and rotates to one side of the brewing cylinder 311, thereby making room for the upward movement of the brewing cylinder 311.

[0025] Reference Figure 4Once the beverage is brewed, the brewing cylinder 311 moves downward along the drive shaft 32. The brewing cylinder 311 and the lower piston 313 move relative to each other, causing the lower piston 313 to gradually move to the edge of the opening of the brewing cylinder 311 to push out the powder residue cake. The pushed-out powder residue cake can be collected in the residue box 203 on one side of the brewing device 30. The bottom of the housing 301 has an upwardly protruding pusher block 304. During the downward movement of the brewing cylinder 311, the scraper 303 abuts against the pusher block 304. The pivot point of the scraper 303 and the contact point of the pusher block 304 form a lever structure. Under the pushing action of the pusher block 304, the scraper 303 rotates around the pivot point, causing its scraper to sweep across the upper edge of the brewing cylinder 311, pushing the powder residue cake pushed out by the lower piston 313 into the residue box 203 on one side.

[0026] Then, the brewing cylinder 311 moves upward along the drive shaft 32, and the brewing cylinder 311 and the lower piston 313 generate relative motion. The lower piston 313 gradually moves to the bottom of the brewing cylinder 311, and the scraper 303 disengages from the pusher block 304 and resets, and the brewing cylinder 311 returns to its original position. Figure 1 The powder receiving position is shown.

[0027] In other feasible methods, the brewing piston 312 can be threadedly engaged with a screw, and the screw rotation can drive the brewing piston 312 to move up and down to compact the beverage ingredients.

[0028] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 5 The brewing device 30 is detachably mounted in the receiving space 21 along a first direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft 32. A first transmission member 23 is provided on the main body 20, and the first transmission member 23 is driven by a motor 22. The brewing device 30 includes a second transmission member 33 connected to the drive shaft 32, and the first transmission member 23 drives the drive shaft 32 to rotate via the second transmission member 33. The first transmission member 23 has a first transmission connection portion 231, and the second transmission member 33 has a second transmission connection portion 331. Both the first transmission connection portion 231 and the second transmission connection portion 331 are aligned with the first direction to allow the brewing device 30 to be disassembled and assembled along the first direction. Along the circumference of the drive shaft 32, at least one of the first transmission connection portion 231 and the second transmission connection portion 331 is misaligned with the first direction to restrict the disassembly and assembly of the brewing device 30 along the first direction. Figure 2 The X direction indicates the first direction, the Y direction indicates the second direction, and the Z direction indicates the vertical direction.

[0029] Only when the first transmission member 23 and the second transmission member 33 are located in a first direction that allows for detachment and assembly, the first transmission connection portion 231 and the second transmission connection portion 331 are aligned in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft 32. In this case, the brewing device 30 can be installed into or removed from the receiving space 21 along the first direction. If the first transmission connection portion 231 and the second transmission connection portion 331 are misaligned from the first direction in the circumferential direction of the drive shaft 32, the brewing device 30 cannot be installed or disassembled.

[0030] The brewing device 30 can be installed and disassembled by moving it in a specific direction. Simply ensure that the first transmission connection 231 and the second transmission connection 331 are accurately aligned in the first direction to establish the transmission connection between the brewing device 30 and the motor 22. This design effectively prevents assembly errors or component damage caused by misoperation. Targeted assembly and disassembly enhance the ease of maintenance and safety of the beverage machine 100.

[0031] In one embodiment, the brewing cylinder 311 has an opening, and the brewing piston 312 can selectively close the opening to form a brewing chamber. The axis of the brewing piston 312 is parallel to the axis of the drive shaft 32 and arranged along a second direction. The first direction is parallel to the support surface of the main body 20, and the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction.

[0032] The first direction is parallel to the supporting surface of the main body 20, and can be considered horizontal. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction, so that the disassembly direction of the brewing device 30 is perpendicular to the second direction. This allows users to see the overall shape of the brewing device 30 more intuitively during installation and disassembly, and facilitates the application of force, avoiding installation difficulties caused by angular deviations. At the same time, the horizontal disassembly path reduces the operating space requirement and adapts to more scenarios.

[0033] Reference Figure 5 The first transmission component 23 is configured as a rotary joint, and the second transmission component 33 is configured as a gear adapted to the rotary joint and the drive shaft. One side of the gear meshes with the drive shaft 32, and the rotary joint cooperates with the other side of the gear to achieve power transmission. The transmission connection and separation of the rotary joint and the gear can only be achieved when the first transmission connection part 231 and the second transmission connection part 331 are correctly aligned in the first direction, thereby ensuring that the drive shaft 32 stably transmits power.

[0034] The drive shaft 32 is configured as a screw, which can be a hollow structure with threads on its outer circumference and transmission teeth on its inner circumference. A gear, at least partially inserted into the screw, meshes with the transmission teeth to achieve power input. The gear includes a radially spaced inner ring 332 and an outer ring 333. The teeth are located on the inner ring 332, which extends into the screw and meshes with the transmission teeth. The outer ring 333 is fitted around the outer circumference of the screw. The end of the screw can directly abut against the end faces between the inner and outer rings 332, forming axial positioning and ensuring stable and reliable meshing between the gear and the screw during transmission.

[0035] Along the axial direction of the drive shaft 32, the inner ring 332 is longer than the outer ring 333 to ensure sufficient meshing depth between the inner ring 332 and the transmission gear, thereby improving transmission accuracy and load-bearing capacity. The outer ring 333 serves as a guide and radial support, reducing gear wobble during rotation and further enhancing transmission stability.

[0036] A groove 334 is provided between the inner ring 332 and the outer ring 333 of the gear, and a hook 324 is provided on the screw. The hook 324 extends into the groove 334 and engages with the edge of the groove 334, thereby achieving a locking engagement between the hook 324 and the groove 334, and further fixing the relative position of the gear and the screw in the axial and circumferential directions. A second transmission connection part 331 is provided on the side of the gear facing away from the outer ring 333. The second transmission connection part 331 cooperates with the first transmission connection part 231 to realize the stable transmission of power from the motor 22 to the brewing device 30.

[0037] In the above embodiments, the second transmission component 33 and the drive shaft 32 are two separately connected parts. Optionally, the second transmission component 33 and the drive shaft 32 can also be configured as an integrally formed structure to further improve assembly efficiency and overall structural strength. This integral design uses precision machining to integrate the gear and screw coaxially, reducing fit tolerances, enhancing the response speed and stability of power transmission, and reducing the risk of wear during long-term use.

[0038] In one embodiment, one of the first transmission connection portion 231 and the second transmission connection portion 331 is configured as a recess, and the other of the first transmission connection portion 231 and the second transmission connection portion 331 is configured as a convex portion. The recess and the convex portion are engaged along the axial direction of the drive shaft 32, and the recess and the convex portion are inserted along a first direction. When the convex portion and the recess are inserted in the first direction, the convex portion is embedded in the recess, and the convex portion and the recess are circumferentially engaged along the drive shaft 32 to ensure the stability of power transmission and the reliability of connection. During disassembly, the brewing device 30 is simply pulled out along the first direction, and the convex portion and the recess are disengaged, achieving quick separation.

[0039] Optionally, the recess includes a straight groove, a V-shaped groove, or a U-shaped groove; the protrusion includes a straight protrusion, a V-shaped protrusion, or a U-shaped protrusion.

[0040] When the straight groove and straight protrusion mate, insertion along the first direction achieves circumferential limiting and axial positioning. This simple structure requires lower machining precision and is suitable for high-frequency disassembly and assembly scenarios. V-shaped or U-shaped convex-concave mating further improves alignment performance while transmitting torque, reducing wear and loosening caused by connection gaps. This directional connection method effectively avoids the risk of rotational misalignment, ensuring that each installation is in the correct transmission position, thereby improving the stability and safety of the beverage machine's 100% brewing process.

[0041] In this embodiment, the first transmission connection part 231 is configured as a protrusion, and the second transmission connection part 331 is configured as a recess. The protrusion is a straight protrusion, and the recess is a matching straight groove. The two are inserted and fitted radially along the drive shaft 32. When the brewing device 30 is pushed into place along the first direction, the straight protrusion is completely embedded in the straight groove, forming a stable circumferential limit and ensuring reliable power transmission.

[0042] To facilitate assembly and disassembly, guide bevels 335 are provided at the entrance and exit of the straight groove to form an flared opening, allowing the straight protrusion to slide smoothly into or out of the groove. During insertion, the guide bevels 335 guide the straight protrusion to slide smoothly in, reducing the accuracy requirements for alignment and improving assembly efficiency. During disassembly, the guide bevels 335 also help with smooth removal, preventing jamming. The inclination angle of the guide bevels 335 is designed between 10° and 45°, ensuring effective guidance while preventing a decrease in structural strength due to excessive inclination.

[0043] In addition, the second transmission part includes a first flange 336 and a second flange 337, with two of each. The first flange 336 extends axially from the outer ring 333, and the second flanges 337 are spaced apart inside the first flange 336. The straight groove is located between the two second flanges 337. The first flange 336 smoothly connects to the second flange 337 at the entrance and exit of the straight groove, forming a smooth guide channel for the straight groove. The guide slope 335 can be formed by a portion of the first flange 336 and the second flange 337, ensuring that the straight protrusion remains within the guide range during insertion and removal, effectively preventing deviation or jamming. The protrusion height of the first flange 336 is less than that of the second flange 337 to ensure the mating depth of the I-shaped protrusion and the I-shaped groove, providing sufficient contact area for the transmission connection and enhancing structural stability. At the same time, the first flange 336 supports and strengthens the second flange 337, ensuring the strength of the second flange 337 and preventing deformation or breakage due to stress concentration.

[0044] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5To facilitate the disassembly of the brewing device 30, a detection element 24 is provided on the main body 20, and a triggering part 234 is provided on the first transmission member 23. The triggering part 234 is configured to trigger the detection element 24 at a position where the first transmission connection part 231 is aligned with the first direction, thereby indicating that the brewing device 30 can be disassembled or assembled along the first direction. When the detection element 24 is triggered, the control system determines that the first transmission connection part 231 and the second transmission connection part 331 are aligned with the first direction, thereby controlling the motor 22 to stop driving the first transmission member 23, keeping the first transmission connection part 231 and the second transmission connection part 331 in this aligned state, facilitating the user's disassembly of the brewing device 30. At this time, the control system can lock the position of the motor 22 to prevent accidental start or rotation, ensuring a safe and reliable disassembly or assembly process.

[0045] Optionally, the detection element 24 is configured as a micro switch, and the trigger part 234 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the first transmission member 23. When the brewing device 30 is pushed into place, the trigger part 234 moves synchronously with the first transmission member 23 and can trigger the micro switch. The trigger part 234 is constructed as a groove, the contour of which is adapted to the trigger end of the micro switch. The micro switch is triggered once per revolution of the first transmission member 23. When the groove rotates with the first transmission member 23 to the position corresponding to the trigger end of the micro switch, the trigger end is embedded in the groove to complete the triggering action, thereby ensuring the installation and removal of the brewing device in only one direction.

[0046] In other feasible solutions, the detection element 24 can also be a Hall sensor, and the trigger part 234 is correspondingly configured as a magnetic element. The magnetic element is embedded in a specific circumferential position of the first transmission member 23. When the magnetic element rotates with the first transmission member 23 to the sensing area of ​​the Hall sensor, it generates an electrical signal to confirm the alignment status.

[0047] The arrangement of the magnetic components ensures that only one valid signal is generated per rotation, avoiding false alarms. When the Hall sensor is used in conjunction with the magnetic components, it offers advantages such as non-contact operation, long lifespan, and fast response. Upon receiving the alignment signal, the control system automatically enters the disassembly / assembly mode, the user interface prompts the user with the operating direction, and indicator lights provide status feedback.

[0048] Of course, position detection can also be achieved by combining a photoelectric sensor with a light-shielding plate. Alternatively, a proximity switch can be used in conjunction with a metal sensing element to achieve position detection.

[0049] Optionally, the trigger portion 234 can also be disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the second transmission member 33, such as on the outer ring 333 or the first flange 336. The detection element 24 is disposed on the main body 20 at a position corresponding to the trigger portion 234. The trigger portion 234 is configured to trigger the detection element 24 at a position where the second transmission connection portion 331 is aligned with the first direction. The second transmission member 33 rotates synchronously with the first transmission member 23, so when the trigger portion 234 is disposed on the second transmission member 33, it can still accurately reflect the alignment state of the first transmission connection portion 231 and the second transmission connection portion 331.

[0050] During operation, in order to avoid frequent triggering of the detection element 24 due to the rotation of the first transmission component 23, the control system controls the signal acquisition of the detection element 24 only in specific states. For example, the detection function of the detection element 24 is enabled only in specific states, or the control system powers on the detection element 24 only in specific states, or the control system controls the detection element 24 to move to the detection position only in specific states, etc.

[0051] In one embodiment, the main body 20 is provided with a controller (not shown), and the motor 22 and the detection element 24 are electrically connected to the controller respectively; the controller is configured to control the motor 22 to drive the first transmission member 23 to rotate according to the state switching command of the beverage machine 100, until the detection element 24 is triggered by the triggering part 234 and the motor 22 stops.

[0052] The state switching command is either a power-off command for the beverage machine 100 or a maintenance command for the brewing device 30. The brewing device 30 is detachable only when the beverage machine 100 is off or when maintenance is required; it cannot be detached when the beverage machine 100 is on or in normal use. Each time the beverage machine 100 is off or maintenance is required for the brewing device 30, the controller controls the motor 22 to rotate the first transmission component 23. When the microswitch triggers the groove of the first transmission component 23, the controller stops the motor 22. Thus, the user can choose to detach the brewing device 30 after the beverage machine 100 is off or when maintenance is required.

[0053] The control of the motor 22 to the stop position is only activated upon receiving a shutdown or maintenance command, avoiding unnecessary frequent starts and stops that could affect the equipment's lifespan and normal operation. This ensures that the brewing device 30 is driven to a detachable position when the user needs to disassemble it. This controller effectively reduces energy consumption and prevents the mechanism from idling due to misoperation, improving overall machine safety and responsiveness.

[0054] After the brewing device 30 is disassembled, in order to prevent the beverage machine 100 from being accidentally triggered, the controller is also configured to mark the status of the beverage machine 100 as a disassembly-allowed state after the control motor 22 stops, and restrict the motor 22 from starting in the disassembly-allowed state.

[0055] The beverage machine 100 uses status flags to prevent the motor 22 from responding to other start commands, thus preventing users from accidentally triggering the start-up program during disassembly or maintenance and ensuring operational safety. Simultaneously, it ensures that the position of the first transmission component 23 driven by the motor 22 remains unchanged, allowing for smooth disassembly and installation of the brewing device 30. The control system continuously monitors the disassembly status until it detects that the brewing device 30 has been reinstalled and locked, automatically clearing the disassembly permission status and restoring the motor 22's normal control authority.

[0056] In one embodiment, the controller is further configured to, upon receiving a state switching command, energize the detection element 24, or control the detection element 24 to perform detection, or control the detection element 24 to move to a detection position.

[0057] By controlling the detection element 24 to be activated or enter a detectable state only after receiving a state switching command, the system ensures that it only enters the disassembly preparation state when needed, avoiding unnecessary detection during normal operation of the beverage machine, and further reducing power consumption and component wear. The controlled opening and closing of the detection element 24, in coordination with the drive of the motor 22, improves the accuracy of position determination.

[0058] If the user accidentally rotates the second transmission component 33 after the brewing device 30 is disassembled, the brewing device 30 will not be able to be installed on the main body 20 the next time it is installed because the groove on the second transmission component 33 is not aligned with the protrusion on the first transmission component 23.

[0059] To prevent the user from accidentally rotating the second transmission component 33 after the brewing device 30 is disassembled, the brewing device 30 also includes a self-locking mechanism 35, and an unlocking part 25 is provided in the receiving space 21. Figure 2 The unlocking part 25 abuts against the self-locking mechanism 35 to allow the second transmission member 33 to rotate; the self-locking mechanism 35 separates from the unlocking part 25, and the self-locking mechanism 35 restricts the rotation of the second transmission member 33.

[0060] Reference Figures 6 to 8The unlocking part 25 is located inside the main body 20. When the brewing device 30 is installed into the main body 20, the unlocking part 25 abuts against the self-locking mechanism 35 and releases the lock on the second transmission member 33, allowing the second transmission member 33 to rotate synchronously with the first transmission member 23. The second transmission member 33 is automatically unlocked during the installation of the brewing device 30 without the need for additional operation by the user, thus facilitating the installation of the brewing device 30. An elastic member 355 connects the self-locking mechanism 35 to the housing 301. When the brewing device 30 is detached from the main body 20, the self-locking mechanism 35 automatically resets and locks the second transmission member 33 under the action of the elastic member 355, restricting the rotation of the second transmission member 33 and ensuring that the straight groove maintains its initial position, that is, the position of the straight groove when the brewing device 20 is detached.

[0061] Reference Figure 7 The self-locking mechanism 35 is rotatably connected to the housing 301. It includes a locking hook 351 and a locking rod 352. Along the rotation axis of the self-locking mechanism 35, the locking hook 351 is offset relative to the locking rod 352. The peripheral wall of the second transmission member 33 is provided with a locking groove 338. When the self-locking mechanism 35 is separated from the unlocking part 25, the locking hook 351 is inserted into the locking groove 338 under the elastic force of the elastic member 355 to restrict the rotation of the second transmission member 33. When the unlocking part 25 abuts against the self-locking mechanism 35, the unlocking part 25 is used to press against the locking rod 352 to drive the locking hook 351 out of the locking groove 338. The offset design of the locking hook 351 and the locking rod 352 allows the locking rod 352 to be arranged in a larger space between the second transmission member 33 and the housing 301, which can ensure stable and reliable locking and unlocking actions without increasing the volume of the brewing device 30.

[0062] Continue to refer to Figure 7 The unlocking part 25 is provided with a guide surface 251, which is inclined upward along the first direction from the side closer to the self-locking mechanism 35 to the side farther away from the self-locking mechanism 35. The guide surface 251 is provided so that when the unlocking part 25 comes into contact with the self-locking mechanism 35 during the installation of the brewing device 30, the inclined surface can guide the locking rod 352 to rotate smoothly, thereby smoothly realizing the pressing and unlocking of the locking rod 352 by the unlocking part 25, and avoiding damage to parts or improper installation due to hard collision.

[0063] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In one embodiment, a guide portion 37 is provided on the upper part of the housing 301, and a guide rail 27 is provided on the main body 20. The guide portion 37 and the guide rail 27 slide in a first direction to guide the disassembly and assembly path of the brewing device 30. A latching structure 36 is connected to the bottom of the housing 301, and the latching structure 36 locks the brewing device 30 to the main body 20.

[0064] The layout of guiding from above and locking from below allows the guide part 37 and the latch structure 36 to be spatially distributed at the upper and lower ends of the brewing device 30, ensuring balanced force during assembly and disassembly and avoiding jamming or tilting caused by force on one side, making it more reliable for users to install and disassemble the brewing device 30.

[0065] The latch structure 36 can be located within the projection range of the guide portion 37 along the drive shaft 32, making the overall structure more compact, saving lateral space, and ensuring the stability and ease of operation of the locking action.

[0066] In one embodiment, to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the brewing device 30, the brewing device 30 further includes a handle 38, which includes a first end 381 and a second end 382 that are opposite each other in the vertical direction, with the first end 381 located above the second end 382; the second end 382 of the handle 38 is pivotally connected to the housing 301, and the pivot axis of the handle 38 is orthogonal to the first direction, and the latching structure 36 releases the lock on the brewing device 30 in response to the pivoting of the handle 38.

[0067] When the user pulls the first end 381 of the handle 38 outwards towards the receiving space 21, the handle 38 rotates outwards around its pivot axis, causing the latch structure 36 to disengage from the locked position of the main body 20, thereby releasing the brewing device 30 and allowing it to slide and disassemble in the first direction. Conversely, when the user pushes the brewing device 30 into the main body 20 along the guide rail 27, the guide portion 37 on the housing 301 automatically aligns with the guide rail 27, and the latch structure 36 re-locks with the main body 20 under the action of the reset spring force, achieving automatic locking.

[0068] The ergonomic design of the handle 38, with its pivot point located below the point of force application, makes operation effortless and convenient. Users can complete the disassembly and assembly actions with just one hand, enhancing the user experience.

[0069] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 The latching structure 36 includes an actuator 361 and a locking block 362. The actuator 361 and the locking block 362 are linked together. The actuator 361 is pivotally connected to the bottom of the housing 301. The locking block 362 is locked to the locking plate 28 of the main body 20 under the action of elastic force. The actuator 361 can be driven by the second end 382 of the handle 38 to drive the locking block 362 to move. The locking block 362 disengages from the locking plate 28 of the main body 20, thereby unlocking the brewing device 30 from the main body 20.

[0070] In this embodiment of the application, by linking the position of the brewing device 30 with the control of the motor 22, it is ensured that the brewing device 30 is in a safe and controllable position when disassembled, thereby facilitating the user to disassemble and assemble the brewing device 30.

[0071] It should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0072] The detailed descriptions listed above are merely specific descriptions of feasible implementation methods of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. All equivalent implementation methods or modifications made without departing from the spirit of the art of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A beverage machine comprising: a main body defining a receiving space, the main body being provided with a motor; a brewing device mounted in the receiving space, the brewing device comprising a drive shaft, the drive shaft being in driving connection with the motor for brewing operation; characterized in that the brewing device is detachably mounted in the receiving space along a first direction, the first direction being perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft; the main body is provided with a first transmission member, the first transmission member being driven by the motor; the brewing device comprises a second transmission member, the second transmission member being connected with the drive shaft, the first transmission member driving the drive shaft to rotate through the second transmission member, the first transmission member having a first transmission connecting portion, the second transmission member having a second transmission connecting portion, the first transmission connecting portion and the second transmission connecting portion being aligned with the first direction to allow the brewing device to be detached along the first direction; at least one of the first transmission connecting portion and the second transmission connecting portion being misaligned with the first direction along a circumferential direction of the drive shaft to restrict the brewing device from being detached along the first direction.

2. The beverage maker of claim 1, wherein, the brewing device comprises a brewing cylinder and a brewing piston, the brewing cylinder having an opening, the brewing piston selectively closing the opening; an axis of the brewing piston is parallel to the axial direction of the drive shaft and arranged along a second direction; the first direction is parallel to a support surface of the main body, and the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction.

3. A drinks machine as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterised in that, the main body is provided with a detection element, the first transmission member or the second transmission member is provided with a triggering portion, the triggering portion being configured to trigger the detection element at a position where the first transmission connecting portion or the second transmission connecting portion is aligned with the first direction, to indicate that the brewing device is allowed to be detached along the first direction.

4. The beverage maker of claim 3, wherein, the main body is provided with a controller, the motor and the detection element being electrically connected with the controller respectively; the controller is configured to: according to a state switching instruction of the beverage machine, control the motor to drive the first transmission member to rotate, until the detection element is triggered by the triggering portion, and then stop the motor.

5. The beverage maker of claim 4, wherein, the controller is further configured to, after the motor is stopped, mark a state of the beverage machine as a detachable state, and restrict the motor from being started in the detachable state; the state switching instruction is one of the following instructions: a shutdown instruction of the beverage machine; a maintenance instruction of the brewing device.

6. The beverage maker of claim 4, wherein, the controller is further configured to, after receiving the state switching instruction, energize the detection element; or, control the detection element to detect; or, control the detection element to move to a detection position.

7. The drinks machine of claim 1 or 2, wherein, one of the first transmission connecting portion and the second transmission connecting portion is configured as a recess, the other of the first transmission connecting portion and the second transmission connecting portion is configured as a protrusion, the recess and the protrusion are in concave-convex cooperation along the axial direction of the drive shaft, and the recess and the protrusion are inserted along the first direction.

8. The beverage maker of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The brewing device further comprises a self-locking mechanism, the accommodating space is provided with an unlocking portion, the unlocking portion abuts against the self-locking mechanism to allow the second transmission member to rotate; the self-locking mechanism is separated from the unlocking portion, and the self-locking mechanism limits rotation of the second transmission member.

9. The drinks machine of claim 8, wherein, The brewing device further comprises a housing, the self-locking mechanism is rotationally connected to the housing, the self-locking mechanism comprises a locking hook and a locking rod, and the locking hook is biased relative to the locking rod along the rotation axis direction of the self-locking mechanism; a circumferential wall of the second transmission member is provided with a locking groove, when the self-locking mechanism is separated from the unlocking portion, the locking hook is inserted into the locking groove under the action of elastic force to limit rotation of the second transmission member; when the unlocking portion abuts against the self-locking mechanism, the unlocking portion is used to press the locking rod to drive the locking hook to be separated from the locking groove.

10. The beverage maker of claim 8, wherein, The unlocking portion is provided with a guide surface, and the guide surface is upwardly inclined from a side close to the self-locking mechanism to a side away from the self-locking mechanism along the first direction.

11. The beverage maker of claim 1, wherein, The brewing device further comprises a housing, the housing is provided with a guide portion above, the main body is provided with a guide rail, the guide portion and the guide rail are slidably connected along the first direction to guide the disassembly and assembly path of the brewing device; the bottom of the housing is connected with a latch structure, and the latch structure can lock the brewing device to the main body.

12. The beverage maker of claim 11, wherein, The brewing device further comprises a handle, the handle comprises a first end and a second end opposite along a vertical direction, the first end is located above the second end; the second end of the handle is pivotally connected to the housing, a pivot axis of the handle is orthogonal to the first direction, and the latch structure is released from locking the brewing device in response to pivoting of the handle.