Beverage extraction appliance and beverage making equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of beverage making equipment, and provides a beverage extraction appliance and beverage making equipment. The beverage extraction appliance comprises a pressure-bearing container used for containing raw materials to be extracted; the pressure-bearing container is provided with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, and the fluid outlet is provided with a valve; the appliance body is connected with the pressure-bearing container; under the condition that the valve is closed, the fluid inlet is used for introducing gas into the pressure-bearing container so as to adjust the internal pressure of the pressure-bearing container; and under the condition that the valve is opened, the liquid in the pressure-bearing container flows out from the fluid outlet, so that the extraction liquid containing gas is obtained. Gas is injected into the pressure-bearing container through the fluid inlet, rich micro-nano bubbles are generated in the extraction liquid by controlling the pressure of the injected gas, meanwhile, rapid pressure relief of the extraction liquid is achieved through the valve, surrounding air is driven to be mixed into the extraction liquid in the pressure relief process, and the taste of the beverage is enriched.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of beverage preparation equipment technology, and more particularly to beverage extraction apparatus and beverage preparation equipment. Background Technology

[0002] As people's living standards continue to improve, beverages such as coffee and herbal health teas are gradually becoming popular in China. At the same time, compared to simply brewing instant coffee, people have new demands for the taste of coffee, and compared to extracting nutrients from herbs by boiling them, people have new demands for the efficiency of nutrient extraction from food ingredients. Therefore, most current methods rely on beverage extraction equipment. Common beverage extraction equipment only considers high-temperature, high-pressure methods or extending steeping time to improve extraction efficiency, without any function to improve taste. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in related technologies. To this end, the present invention proposes a beverage extraction apparatus that can incorporate a large number of fine bubbles into the beverage, thereby enhancing the smoothness and delicacy of the beverage.

[0004] The present invention also proposes a beverage preparation device.

[0005] A beverage extraction apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: A pressure vessel for holding raw materials to be extracted; the pressure vessel has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, and the fluid outlet is equipped with a valve. The appliance body is connected to the pressure vessel; With the valve closed, the fluid inlet is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel to regulate the internal pressure of the pressure vessel; When the valve is open, the liquid in the pressure vessel flows out from the fluid outlet, resulting in an extract containing gas.

[0006] The beverage extraction apparatus provided by this invention injects gas into a pressurized container through a fluid inlet. By controlling the injected gas pressure, abundant micro-nano bubbles are generated in the extract. Simultaneously, a valve enables rapid depressurization of the extract, incorporating surrounding air into the extract during the depressurization process, thus enriching the beverage's flavor. Furthermore, this beverage extraction apparatus can rapidly release the aroma of coffee and other beverages, enhancing their fragrance, while also reducing bitterness and increasing sweetness, resulting in a smoother, more delicate flavor and a novel taste experience.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when the valve is open, the fluid inlet is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel to clean the pressure vessel.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fluid inlet is used to introduce an extraction solvent into the pressure vessel, the extraction solvent flowing through at least a portion of the raw material to be extracted.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the pressure vessel has a bottom wall, the projected area of ​​the bottom wall on the radial section of the pressure vessel is a first area, and the projected area of ​​the fluid outlet on the radial section of the pressure vessel is a second area, the second area being 0.05%-10% of the first area.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the inner diameter of the fluid outlet does not exceed 1 / 3 of the inner diameter of the pressure vessel.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fluid inlet is at least one and is located at the top and / or bottom of the pressure vessel.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when the fluid inlet is located at the top of the pressure vessel, after the fluid inlet is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel, it further includes: introducing an extraction solvent into the pressure vessel; Alternatively, if the fluid inlet is located at the bottom of the pressure vessel, before the fluid inlet is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel, the process further includes: the raw material to be extracted comprising a fluid, or the introduction of an extraction solvent into the pressure vessel.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a filter element is further included, which is installed in the pressure vessel for holding the raw material to be extracted; The filter element includes multiple through holes to allow liquid to flow through the filter element and out through the through holes.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the pressure vessel is provided with a support portion, and the filter element overlaps the support portion.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it further includes an inlet bucket, which is installed in the pressure vessel, and the outlet end of the inlet bucket is submerged below the liquid surface in the pressure vessel.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the inlet bucket has a bottom for placing the raw material to be extracted, and the inlet bucket includes a plurality of inlet holes to allow liquid to flow through the raw material to be extracted and out through the inlet holes; or, It also includes a filter element, which is installed in the pressure vessel and located below the inlet hopper.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the pressure vessel and the appliance body are an integral structure.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the device body has a mounting through hole; A pressure vessel, one end of which is flush with the end face of the vessel body, and the other end of which extends out of the appliance body through the mounting hole.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the pressure vessel is equipped with a bubbler, and at least a portion of the liquid flows out from the fluid outlet through the bubbler structure.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the bubbler is a venturi tube.

[0021] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a beverage preparation apparatus includes a body and a beverage extraction apparatus as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0022] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or related technologies, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a traditional beverage extraction device.

[0025] Figure 2 It is a diameter distribution diagram of ordinary water molecules, food ingredients, and micro-nano bubbles.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a comparison image showing the penetration of ordinary water molecules and micro-nano bubbles through the microporous layer of food.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the beverage extraction apparatus provided in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 An exploded view of the beverage extraction apparatus shown.

[0029] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 The shown is a cross-sectional view of the beverage extraction apparatus in a disassembled state.

[0030] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the beverage extraction apparatus provided in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An exploded view of the beverage extraction apparatus shown.

[0032] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the beverage extraction apparatus provided in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The shown is a cross-sectional view of the beverage extraction apparatus in its decomposed state.

[0034] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the beverage extraction apparatus provided in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the beverage extraction apparatus provided in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the beverage making equipment provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A partial sectional view of the beverage preparation equipment shown.

[0038] Figure label: 11', Filter holder; 12', Handle; 20', Filter; 30', Coffee powder pouch; 100. Beverage extraction equipment; 10. Equipment body; 11. Mounting through hole; 12. Handle; 13. Support; 20. Pressure vessel; 21. Fluid inlet; 22. Fluid outlet; 30. Valve; 40. Filter element; 50. Inlet hopper; 60. Aerator; 110. Machine body. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0040] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0041] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0042] In embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0043] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0044] Beverage extraction equipment can include coffee extractors, tea extractors, and other similar devices. Taking a coffee extractor as an example... Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the beverage extraction device in an existing coffee machine. A traditional beverage extraction device includes a filter 20', a filter holder 11', and a handle 12'. The handle 12' is fixedly connected to the filter holder 11', and the filter 20' overlaps or is fixed to the filter holder 11'. In use, coffee grounds are evenly distributed on the filter 20' and tamped into a coffee pouch 30'. The filter 20' is pressed firmly against the coffee machine body 110 by the filter holder 11'. The coffee machine injects high-temperature, high-pressure liquid above the filter 20'. The liquid passes through the coffee pouch, extracting the coffee. Subsequently, the coffee falls into the coffee container below (not shown) under gravity. This type of coffee, extracted under pressure above 9 bar, is called espresso. Espresso extracts the oils from the coffee, resulting in a rich and full-bodied flavor. Italian coffee has a strong bitter taste, and only coffee lovers and people who like bitterness will like it. People who are not familiar with coffee find it hard to accept, and most of them add milk or sweeteners to the coffee to improve the taste.

[0045] Therefore, this invention provides a new beverage extraction device 100, which uses a method of first injecting extraction and then introducing gas to impact the liquid, and then quickly releasing pressure through valve 30 to mix a large number of fine bubbles into the beverage, thereby improving the smoothness and delicacy of the beverage.

[0046] Before introducing the beverage extraction apparatus 100 provided by this invention, the principle of micro-nano bubble generation during the extraction process is explained as follows: Micro-nano bubbles generally refer to small bubbles with a diameter of less than 100 μm. A large number of micro-nano bubble molecules can be generated throughout the extraction process by pressurizing the liquid with air and rapidly releasing the pressure. Extraction pressure is a key factor in the generation of micro-nano bubbles. Generally, micro-nano bubbles begin to form when the extraction pressure reaches 1-2 bar. The higher the pressure, the smaller the diameter of the generated micro-nano bubbles, and the stronger their stability. When extracting nutrients from ingredients such as ginseng, micro-nano bubbles can accelerate the rapid dissolution of nutrients. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the diameter of ordinary water molecules is 200-400 μm, while the pore size of the microporous layer on the surface of food is 60-80 μm. It is evident that ordinary water molecules have difficulty penetrating food. However, the water molecules in micro-nano bubbles are less than 50 μm in diameter, allowing them to penetrate food more quickly for extraction.

[0047] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 4 to 12 The present invention describes a beverage extraction apparatus 100.

[0048] This invention provides a beverage extraction device 100, such as... Figures 4 to 12 As shown, it includes an apparatus body 10 and a pressure vessel 20 connected to the apparatus body 10. The pressure vessel 20 is used to hold the raw material to be extracted. The pressure vessel 20 has a fluid inlet 21 and a fluid outlet 22, and a valve 30 is installed at the fluid outlet 22.

[0049] With valve 30 closed, fluid inlet 21 is used to introduce gas into pressure vessel 20 to regulate the internal pressure of pressure vessel 20. With valve 30 open, liquid in pressure vessel 20 flows out from fluid outlet 22 to obtain an extract containing gas.

[0050] The appliance body 10 can be locked to the body 110 of the beverage preparation equipment. Specifically, the appliance body 10 has a latch on its exterior, which is connected to a pre-installed connection structure on the beverage preparation equipment. When the valve 30 is closed and gas is introduced into the pressure container 20, a sealed cavity is formed between the interior of the pressure container 20 and the body 110. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the appliance body 10 includes a handle 12 and a support 13 disposed at one end of the handle 12. The handle 12 and the support 13 are integrally formed or detachably connected. For example, the end of the handle 12 away from the gripping part has a screw hole, and the support 13 has a screw rod, which is screwed into the screw hole to achieve a fixed connection between the handle 12 and the support 13. Alternatively, the end of the handle 12 away from the gripping part has a slot, and the outer wall of the support 13 has a protruding connector, which is inserted and fixed in the slot to fix the handle 12 and the support 13 together. Or, the handle 12 and the support 13 are an integral structure. The support 13 is a hollow column, and its internal hollow hole serves as a mounting through hole 11 for the pressure vessel 20 to pass through.

[0051] In some embodiments, the pressure container 20 and the appliance body 10 can be separately configured and detachably connected, or they can be an integral structure. The raw material to be extracted, supported by the pressure container 20, can be liquid, powder, or root, stem, and leaf materials such as traditional Chinese medicine. For example, the raw material to be extracted can be tea infusion, coffee powder, or tea and ginseng slices. Taking liquid raw materials as an example, the pressure container 20 contains liquid raw materials to be extracted, and gas can be directly introduced into the pressure container 20 through the fluid inlet 21. Taking powder or root, stem, and leaf raw materials as an example, the pressure container 20 contains powder or root, stem, and leaf raw materials to be extracted, and extraction solvent and gas can be introduced into the pressure container 20 through the fluid inlet 21. Of course, the extraction solvent can also be directly placed in the pressure container 20 without the need for the fluid inlet 21. In one embodiment, the pressure container 20 is barrel-shaped, with one end open and the other end having a bottom wall. The open end of the pressure vessel 20 serves as the fluid inlet 21, and the fluid outlet 22 is located on the bottom wall.

[0052] In some embodiments, valve 30 is a manual valve or an electric valve. For example, valve 30 is a solenoid valve, which is automatically controlled by a controller. When the beverage extraction device 100 is installed on the body 110, the open end of the pressure vessel 20 is connected to the liquid inlet inside the body 110. Closing valve 30 creates a closed state at the bottom wall of the pressure vessel 20. Gas is injected into the pressure vessel 20 through the fluid inlet 21 to further increase the internal pressure of the pressure vessel 20, so that the gas dissolves in the extract to form fine micro-nano bubbles, thereby obtaining the gas-containing extract from the fluid outlet.

[0053] Specifically, gas is introduced into the pressure vessel 20 through the fluid inlet 21, resulting in compressed high-pressure gas above the surface of the extract in the pressure vessel 20. When the valve 30 is opened, the pressure of the extract in the pressure vessel 20 suddenly decreases and is rapidly released from the fluid outlet 22. At the same time, the high-speed outflowing extract carries surrounding air into the extract. The combined effect of these two factors generates a large number of tiny bubbles in the extract, resulting in a very smooth texture.

[0054] In use, coffee powder, tea leaves, or other extraction ingredients are placed in the pressure container 20. The entire beverage extraction device 100 is then installed onto the body 110 of the beverage making equipment. Valve 30 is closed, creating a sealed cavity inside the pressure container 20. Gas is introduced into the pressure container 20 through the fluid inlet 21 to regulate the internal pressure of the sealed cavity until it reaches the preset pressure value. After extraction, valve 30 is opened, and the extracted liquid is quickly discharged from the fluid outlet 22.

[0055] The beverage extraction apparatus 100 provided in this embodiment of the invention, when the internal pressure of the pressure vessel 20 is greater than 3 bar, exhibits microbubble size and stability that meet the expected requirements, achieving a good beverage extraction effect. Optionally, the internal pressure of the pressure vessel 20 is 4-6 bar to control pressurization costs and the pressure vessel 20's safety. When extracting coffee using the beverage extraction apparatus 100 provided in this embodiment of the invention, the microbubbles in the extract can generate "sweet foam" similar to those in molecular gastronomy. The bursting of the sweet foam on the tongue triggers a sweet sensation in the brain, achieving a natural sweetness even without added sugar, thus creating an innovative, smooth, and sweet coffee flavor. When preparing cold brew tea using the beverage extraction apparatus 100 provided in this embodiment of the invention, the bursting of microbubbles generated during the extraction process significantly enhances the release of tea aroma. When using the beverage extraction apparatus 100 provided in this embodiment of the invention to extract ginseng water, the high pressure state during the extraction process can significantly accelerate the dissolution of effective substances in ginseng. At the same time, the unique micro-nano bubble molecules generated during the extraction process can quickly penetrate the dense cell wall structure on the surface of ginseng, thereby quickly obtaining concentrated ginseng water.

[0056] The beverage extraction apparatus 100 provided by this invention, with valve 30 closed, introduces gas into the pressure vessel 20 through fluid inlet 21 to regulate the internal pressure of the pressure vessel 20, thereby generating abundant micro-nano bubbles in the extract. Simultaneously, opening valve 30 rapidly depressurizes the extract, incorporating surrounding air into the extract and enriching the beverage's flavor. Furthermore, this beverage extraction apparatus 100 can quickly release the aroma of coffee and other beverages, enhancing their fragrance, reducing bitterness and increasing sweetness, resulting in a smoother, more delicate flavor and a new taste experience.

[0057] With valve 30 open, fluid inlet 21 is used to introduce gas into pressure vessel 20 to clean it.

[0058] For example, after the extract is discharged from the fluid outlet 22, gas is introduced into the pressure vessel 20 through the fluid inlet 21 to blow away any residual extract adhering to it. Alternatively, after the pressure vessel 20 is washed with water and installed on the machine body 110, valve 30 is opened, and gas is introduced into the pressure vessel 20 through the fluid inlet 21 to dry any remaining moisture, achieving rapid drying. Furthermore, before using the pressure vessel 20 to hold the raw material to be extracted, the pressure vessel 20 is installed on the machine body 110, valve 30 is opened, and gas is introduced into the pressure vessel 20 through the fluid inlet 21, thereby cleaning the pressure vessel 20 with the help of gas and removing impurities accumulated during storage.

[0059] In one embodiment, the extraction solvent can be pre-placed in the pressure vessel 20, and then the pressure vessel 20 containing the raw material to be extracted and the extraction solvent is installed on the machine body 110. In another embodiment, the fluid inlet 21 is used to introduce the extraction solvent into the pressure vessel 20, and the extraction solvent flows through at least part of the raw material to be extracted, thereby allowing both gas and extraction solvent to be introduced into the pressure vessel 20 via the fluid inlet 21. The order in which gas and extraction solvent are introduced via the fluid inlet 21 is not specifically limited. For example, the extraction solvent can be introduced into the pressure vessel 20 first via the fluid inlet 21, followed by gas to regulate the pressure; or, the extraction solvent and gas can be introduced into the pressure vessel 20 simultaneously via the fluid inlet 21; or, gas can be introduced into the pressure vessel 20 via the fluid inlet 21 to regulate the pressure before introducing the extraction solvent. Taking powdered or root / leaf-based raw materials as an example, the extraction solvent can be introduced into the pressure vessel 20 through the fluid inlet 21 first, followed by the introduction of gas to regulate the pressure; or, the extraction solvent and gas can be introduced into the pressure vessel 20 simultaneously through the fluid inlet 21; or, gas can be introduced into the pressure vessel 20 through the fluid inlet 21 first to press the coffee powder raw material to be extracted, and then the extraction solvent can be introduced, which prevents powder splashing and residue, makes cleaning easier, and improves the utilization rate of the extracted raw material.

[0060] Choose the appropriate extraction solvent based on the type of beverage. For example, for cold brew beverages, the extraction solvent can be a low-temperature, high-pressure liquid; for hot brew beverages, the extraction solvent can be a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid. Taking a fully automatic coffee machine as an example, after the extraction solvent is injected, gas is introduced into the pressure vessel 20 through the fluid inlet 21, so that the gas pressure in the pressure vessel 20 reaches the preset pressure value to obtain micro-nano bubbles, enriching the flavor and taste of the extract.

[0061] The pressure vessel 20 has a bottom wall at the bottom. The projected area of ​​the bottom wall on the radial section of the pressure vessel 20 is the first area. The projected area of ​​the fluid outlet 22 on the radial section of the pressure vessel 20 is the second area. The second area is 0.05%-10% of the first area.

[0062] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the pressure vessel 20 is barrel-shaped with a fluid outlet 22 at its bottom. The radial direction of the pressure vessel 20 refers to the direction perpendicular to its depth; that is, with the depth direction of the pressure vessel 20 as its axis, the radial section is the section perpendicular to its axis. The projected areas of the bottom wall and the fluid outlet 22 on the same radial section of the pressure vessel 20 are different. The projected area of ​​the bottom wall on this radial section is the first area, and the projected area of ​​the fluid outlet 22 on this radial section is the second area, which is 0.05%-10% of the first area. For example, the second area is 0.05% of the first area, or 3%, 5%, 6%, or 10% of the first area, etc. When the valve 30 is opened, the interior of the pressure vessel 20 is connected to the external atmosphere, the pressure of the extract suddenly decreases, and it is rapidly discharged from the smaller diameter fluid outlet 22, carrying surrounding air into the extract and generating a large number of fine bubbles, thus giving the beverage a smooth texture.

[0063] Preferably, the second area is 0.05%-2% of the first area. For example, the second area is 0.05%, 0.8%, 1%, 1.2%, 1.5%, or 2% of the first area. Alternatively, the ratio of the second area to the first area can be any other value between 0.05% and 2%.

[0064] Based on the above embodiments, the inner diameter of the fluid outlet 22 does not exceed 1 / 3 of the inner diameter of the pressure vessel 20. Specifically, the inner diameter of the fluid outlet 22 is less than 1 / 3 of the inner diameter of the pressure vessel 20, or the inner diameter of the fluid outlet 22 is equal to 1 / 3 of the inner diameter of the pressure vessel 20. Wherein, the inner diameter of the fluid outlet 22 is the maximum length on the radial cross-section of the fluid outlet 22, and the inner diameter of the pressure vessel 20 is the maximum length on the radial cross-section of the pressure vessel 20.

[0065] Preferably, the fluid outlet 22 is a circular orifice with an inner diameter (or aperture) of R1, and the pressure vessel 20 is cylindrical with an inner diameter of R0. The aperture R1 of the fluid outlet 22 does not exceed 1 / 3 of the inner diameter R0 of the pressure vessel 20. Alternatively, the fluid outlet 22 is a square orifice, and the pressure vessel 20 is cylindrical or rectangular. The aperture of the fluid outlet 22 along its length is R11, and the aperture along its width is R12. The aperture of the pressure vessel 20 along the length of the fluid outlet 22 is R01, and the aperture along the width of the fluid outlet 22 is R02. R11 does not exceed 1 / 3 of R01, and R12 does not exceed 1 / 3 of R02.

[0066] By controlling the inner diameter of the fluid outlet 22 to not exceed 1 / 3 of the inner diameter of the pressure vessel 20, the ratio of the projected area of ​​the fluid outlet 22 and the bottom wall on the same radial cross section of the pressure vessel 20 is ensured. At the same time, setting a smaller fluid outlet 22 also helps to control the internal sealing of the pressure vessel 20.

[0067] like Figures 4 to 11 As shown, there is at least one fluid inlet 21, located at the top and / or bottom of the pressure vessel 20. It should be noted that the fluid inlet 21 may also be located on the portion of the pressure vessel 20 extending beyond the mounting through-hole 11.

[0068] In one embodiment, only one fluid inlet 21 is provided, which can be located at the top or bottom of the pressure vessel 20. Gas is introduced through this single fluid inlet 21, which is suitable for situations where the raw material to be extracted is liquid, the extraction solvent is directly contained within the pressure vessel 20 without the need for inlet transport, and where the liquid inlet and gas inlet are shared. For example, gas and extraction solvent flow into the pressure vessel 20 through a three-way pipe from the same fluid inlet 21, thus allowing the liquid and gas pipelines to share a common channel before entering the pressure vessel 20, simplifying the channel layout in the beverage preparation equipment. Figures 4 to 10 as well as Figure 12 As shown, there is only one fluid inlet 21, located at the top of the pressure vessel 20. In use, only gas, or both gas and extraction solvent, enters the pressure vessel 20 from the top of the beverage extraction device 100. After entering the pressure vessel 20, the gas first contacts the air inside the pressure vessel 20, and then slowly permeates into the extraction liquid. (The text repeats itself here.) Figure 11As shown, the fluid inlet 21 is located at the bottom of the pressure vessel 20, specifically below the surface of the extractant contained within the pressure vessel 20. During use, the extraction solvent and gas enter the pressure vessel 20 from the bottom of the beverage extraction device 100. Upon entry, the gas directly impacts the extractant inside the pressure vessel 20, generating bubbles. During this process, the gas and extractant are in full contact, resulting in more uniform and abundant bubble formation. Furthermore, the fluid inlet directly and at high frequency introduces a large amount of gas into the raw material to be extracted, dissolved in the extraction solvent. This creates a fluid vortex within the extraction solvent, centered on the fluid inlet. This vortex can entrain and dissolve more bubbles, while simultaneously improving the fusion degree and extraction rate between the extraction solvent and the raw material. The fluid dynamics created by the vortex further enhance the extraction effect, resulting in the precipitation of more solutes such as caffeine and tea polyphenols dissolved in the extractant. It should be noted that when the inlet is located at the bottom of the pressure vessel 20, the gas source can be located outside the device 110.

[0069] In another embodiment, two fluid inlets 21 are provided. The extraction solvent enters the pressure vessel 20 through one fluid inlet 21, and the gas enters the pressure vessel 20 through the other fluid inlet 21. This is suitable for situations where liquids and gases need to be delivered into the pressure vessel 20, such as when the raw material to be extracted is a root vegetable or powder. It is also suitable for situations where liquid raw materials to be extracted are delivered through the fluid inlets 21. Thus, the liquid inlet and the gas inlet are separated, allowing gas to enter through the gas inlet and the extraction solvent to enter through the liquid inlet. Correspondingly, the gas pipeline and the liquid pipeline in the beverage preparation equipment are set up separately and do not interfere with each other.

[0070] Specifically, one of the two fluid inlets 21 is located at the top of the pressure vessel 20, and the other is located at the bottom of the pressure vessel 20. Alternatively, both fluid inlets 21 may be located at the top or both at the bottom of the pressure vessel 20.

[0071] When the fluid inlet 21 is located at the top of the pressure vessel 20, after the fluid inlet 21 is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel 20, it also includes introducing an extraction solvent into the pressure vessel 20. Thus, by first introducing gas to suppress the powder using the fluid inlet 21 located at the top, and then introducing the extraction solvent for extraction, the extraction efficiency of the powder is improved. This prevents powder from splashing onto the top of the pressure vessel 20 during gas introduction, causing it to adhere to the walls and become difficult to clean. Simultaneously, by using the method of first suppressing with gas and then introducing the extraction solvent, the powder-like raw material to be extracted is fully immersed in the extraction solvent, avoiding incomplete immersion and contact that would lead to a decrease in the extraction utilization rate of the powder-like raw material.

[0072] When the fluid inlet 21 is located at the bottom of the pressure vessel 20, before the fluid inlet 21 is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel 20, it further includes: the raw material to be extracted including a fluid, or the extraction solvent being introduced into the pressure vessel 20.

[0073] For example, if the raw material to be extracted includes fluids such as milk, the extraction solvent is placed in the pressure container 20 as the raw material to be extracted before gas is introduced into the pressure container 20 through the fluid inlet 21. Thus, only gas needs to be introduced through the fluid inlet 21, eliminating the need to transport the extraction solvent through this inlet. Alternatively, the extraction solvent can be introduced into the pressure container 20 before gas is introduced through the fluid inlet 21. The gas then enters the extraction solvent through the fluid inlet 21 located at the bottom of the pressure container 20, promoting mixing and enhancing the foaming effect. Furthermore, compared to existing methods of using steam to froth milk, prolonged agitation of milk with high-temperature steam can easily denature proteins and other nutrients in the milk, resulting in the loss of most of its nutritional components. The beverage extraction apparatus 100 provided by this invention introduces ambient temperature air into the raw material to be extracted, thus avoiding the influence of high-temperature steam on the extraction and agitation effect, and is not limited by the duration of agitation. This prevents the high temperature from damaging the nutritional structure of heat-sensitive solutes, further improving the extraction and mixing effect.

[0074] The beverage extraction apparatus 100 provided in this embodiment of the invention can adjust the way high-pressure gas enters the pressure vessel 20 by adjusting the setting position and number of fluid inlets 21, so that the gas can directly contact the extraction liquid or slowly seep into the extraction liquid from above the liquid surface, thereby obtaining different foaming effects.

[0075] The beverage extraction apparatus 100 also includes a filter element 40, which is installed in the pressure vessel 20 for holding the raw material to be extracted. The filter element 40 includes multiple through holes to allow liquid to flow out through the through holes as it passes through the filter element.

[0076] Optionally, the filter element 40 can be a filter screen or a mesh plate. The filter element 40 can be installed separately from the pressure vessel 20 or integrated with the pressure vessel 20. Installing the filter element 40 can prevent non-liquid raw materials to be extracted from entering the extract liquid, improving the appearance and ease of drinking of the beverage.

[0077] Specifically, the filter element 40 can be installed at the inlet end or inside the pressure vessel 20. For example, Figures 4 to 6 as well as Figures 9 to 11 As shown, when the filter element 40 is installed at the inlet end of the pressure vessel 20, the liquid first passes through the raw material to be extracted on the filter element 40 and then gradually fills the internal space of the pressure vessel 20. The filter element 40 is always located above the liquid surface inside the pressure vessel 20. When the extraction solvent enters from the fluid inlet 21 located at the top, it flows through the raw material to be extracted on the filter element 40.

[0078] like Figure 7 and Figure 12As shown, when the filter element 40 is installed inside the pressure vessel 20, the filter element 40 and the ingredients on it are immersed in the extraction solvent. Therefore, by adjusting the installation position of the filter element 40, the contact method between the extraction solvent and the raw materials to be extracted on the filter element 40 within the pressure vessel 20 can be changed, resulting in different beverage textures. Specifically, depending on the desired texture, the filter element 40 can be placed at the inlet end of the pressure vessel 20, allowing the extraction solvent to pass through the filter element 40 before filling the interior of the pressure vessel 20; or, the filter element 40 can be placed inside the pressure vessel 20, immersing itself in the extraction solvent.

[0079] The pressure vessel 20 is provided with a support portion, and the filter element 40 overlaps the support portion. The support portion is a receiving groove provided at the port of the pressure vessel 20 or a boss protruding from the inner wall of the pressure vessel 20. The filter element 40 overlaps the support portion, so that the filter element 40 and the pressure vessel 20 can be detachably connected.

[0080] In one embodiment, such as Figures 4 to 11 As shown, the filter element 40 is barrel-shaped, with a connecting edge at one end. The pressure vessel 20 has a receiving groove at its port, and the connecting edge rests within this groove, allowing the barrel-shaped filter element 40 to overlap with the pressure vessel 20. The thickness of the connecting edge matches the size of the receiving groove, ensuring that the inlet end face of the filter element 40 is flush with the inlet end face of the pressure vessel 20 after the connecting edge is placed within the groove. When the beverage extraction device 100 is installed on the body 110, the inlet end of the pressure vessel 20 abuts against the body 110, achieving a sealed connection. This also seals the filter element 40 with both the body 110 and the pressure vessel 20. Alternatively, the barrel-shaped filter element 40 can be integrally formed with the pressure vessel 20. For example... Figures 4 to 6 as well as Figures 9 to 11 As shown, filter element 40 is located above the liquid surface; as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the filter element 40 has a relatively large depth and is partially submerged in the liquid.

[0081] In yet another embodiment, such as Figure 12 As shown, the filter element 40 is plate-shaped and disposed inside the pressure vessel 20, below the liquid level within the pressure vessel 20. Specifically, the pressure vessel 20 has a boss inside, and the filter element 40 overlaps the boss. Alternatively, the filter element 40 is integrally formed with the pressure vessel 20.

[0082] The beverage extraction apparatus 100 also includes an inlet hopper 50, which is installed in the pressure vessel 20. The outlet end of the inlet hopper 50 can be submerged below the liquid surface inside the pressure vessel 20.

[0083] The inlet bucket 50 is a one-piece structure. For example... Figure 12As shown, the inlet hopper 50 is mounted on the open end of the pressure vessel 20. Specifically, the inlet hopper 50 includes a hopper body and a guide pipe, with the guide pipe installed at the small-diameter end of the hopper body. The hopper body is truncated cone-shaped, with an outwardly extending connecting lug at its large-diameter end; a first groove is correspondingly provided at the open end of the pressure vessel 20, and the connecting lug is accommodated within the first groove, allowing the hopper body to overlap the open end of the pressure vessel 20. Alternatively, an outer edge is provided along the large-diameter end of the hopper body, and a second groove is provided at the open end of the hopper body. The second groove is circumferentially arranged, with the outer edge accommodated within the second groove, allowing the hopper body to overlap the open end of the pressure vessel 20. The guide pipe is a slender tube, located at the small-diameter end of the hopper body.

[0084] To improve the sealing of the connection, the inlet hopper 50 overlaps with the pressure vessel 20, with the inlet end face of the inlet hopper 50 flush with the inlet end face of the pressure vessel 20. When the beverage extraction device 100 is installed on the body 110 of the beverage making equipment, the pressure vessel 20 and the body 110 are sealed together, thereby sealing the inlet hopper 50 with both the pressure vessel 20 and the body 110, ensuring the sealing of the pressure vessel 20. During the extraction process, the end of the guide tube is inserted below the liquid surface of the pressure vessel 20, allowing gas to directly enter the extraction liquid along the inlet hopper 50 and quickly integrate into it, resulting in richer micro-nano foam. Especially when processing milk to obtain milk foam, it can produce layered milk foam that is dense and long-lasting, with an ultra-long foam duration of 300s-600s or more, and can also sweeten the milk, increasing its sweetness by more than 20%.

[0085] The structure of the beverage extraction device 100 varies depending on the type of beverage. For example, for milk or other pure liquid raw materials to be extracted, which do not require filtration, the beverage extraction device 100 does not need to be equipped with a filter element 40.

[0086] If the beverage is coffee, tea, or other beverages, the raw material to be extracted is a non-liquid material such as coffee powder, ginseng slices, or tea leaves. In this case, in an optional embodiment, the beverage extraction device 100 further includes a filter element 40, which is installed in the pressure container 20 and located below the inlet hopper 50. The filter element 40 is positioned below the inlet hopper 50 and is immersed in the extraction liquid in the pressure container 20. When the extraction liquid is discharged from the fluid outlet 22, the filter element 40 can prevent tea leaves, fruit residue, etc., from flowing out, thereby improving the drinking taste of the extraction liquid. In yet another optional embodiment, the inlet hopper 50 has a bottom, and the raw material to be extracted is placed at the bottom of the inlet hopper 50. The inlet hopper 50 is provided with multiple inlet holes to allow liquid to flow through the inlet hopper 50 and out through the inlet holes, thus the inlet hopper 50 can function as a filter screen.

[0087] The pressure vessel 20 and the appliance body 10 can be separate or integrated. In one specific embodiment, when the appliance body 10 and the pressure vessel 20 are separate, the inner diameter of the pressure vessel 20 can reach a maximum of 56-57 mm. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the pressure container 20 and the vessel body 10 are an integral structure. Without changing the overall size, the maximum inner diameter of the pressure container 20 can reach 60mm. Therefore, compared with a separate design, the integrated design of the pressure container 20 and the vessel body 10 allows the internal capacity of the pressure container 20 to be made larger, enabling the preparation of larger cups of beverages.

[0088] In another specific embodiment, the appliance body 10 has a mounting through hole 11. One end of the pressure container 20 is flush with the end face of the appliance body 10, and the other end of the pressure container 20 extends out of the appliance body 10 through the mounting through hole 11. It should be noted that "one end of the pressure container 20 is flush with the end face of the appliance body 10" means that after the pressure container 20 is installed on the appliance body 10, one end face of the pressure container 20 is at the same height as or slightly lower than the end face of the appliance body 10, so that one end face of the pressure container 20 does not protrude beyond the end face of the appliance body 10. Specifically, the mounting through hole 11 is located in the support member 13, and the pressure container 20 is inserted into the mounting through hole 11. Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, the inlet end of the pressure vessel 20 is provided with a flange, and the mounting through hole 11 is stepped. The flange overlaps the stepped surface of the mounting through hole 11, thereby connecting the pressure vessel 20 to the appliance body 10. Specifically, as shown... Figure 4 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, after the folded edge is placed on the support 13, the end face of the pressure container 20 is flush with or slightly lower than the end face of the appliance body 10, ensuring that the end face of the beverage extraction appliance 100 can fit snugly against the appliance body 110 after it is installed on the machine body 110, forming a good seal. Compared with traditional extraction appliances, in this embodiment of the invention, the pressure container 20 extends outward from the appliance body 10 after passing through the mounting hole 11, providing a larger accommodating space, allowing air to pass through in addition to accommodating the extraction solvent.

[0089] In an optional embodiment, an aerator 60 is installed inside the pressure vessel 20, through which at least a portion of the liquid flows out from the fluid outlet 22. The aerator 60 is either separate from or integrated with the valve 30.

[0090] like Figure 4 , Figure 7 , Figure 9, Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, along the flow direction of the fluid, the aerator 60 is located in front of the valve 30. The fluid passes through the aerator 60 to aerate before flowing out of the valve 30. Compared to a system without an aerator 60, adding an aerator 60 creates denser bubbles, improving the fineness of the extract and allowing for a slow release of the extract during discharge, reducing splashing. Alternatively, the aerator 60 can also be located behind the valve 30, meaning the fluid flows out of the valve 30 and then passes through the aerator 60.

[0091] In one embodiment, the bubbler 60 is a Venturi bubbler tube. For example, multiple Venturi bubbler tubes are connected in series before valve 30. A large number of bubbles are generated as the fluid flows along the Venturi tubes. In another embodiment, the bubbler 60 is a multi-layered plate with multiple through holes on each plate. The through holes on the multi-layered plate are staggered to form fluid channels. As the fluid flows along the fluid channels, the staggered arrangement of the through holes creates a change in pore size, thereby further improving the fineness of the extract.

[0092] This invention also provides a beverage preparation device, such as... Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, it includes a body 110 and a beverage extraction device 100 as described above.

[0093] The beverage preparation equipment is for making coffee, milk tea, fruit tea, flower tea, and herbal health tea. In the beverage extraction device 100, the main body of the device is equipped with a lock, which engages with a pre-installed connection structure on the machine body 110 to lock the main body of the device onto the machine body 110. At this time, the pressure vessel 20 is sealed to the machine body 110, and closing the valve 30 creates a sealed cavity inside the pressure vessel 20.

[0094] In one optional embodiment, the body 110 has a high-pressure air source connected to the fluid inlet 21. Gas is injected into the pressure vessel 20 using the high-pressure air source to regulate the air pressure inside the pressure vessel 20. In yet another optional embodiment, the body 110 is equipped with a pressure boosting device, the outlet of which is connected to the fluid inlet 21. In use, external air is pressurized by the pressure boosting device and injected into the pressure vessel 20, thus eliminating the need for a high-pressure air source, resulting in lower cost and a simpler structure.

[0095] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only for illustrating the present invention and not for limiting the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of the present invention do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the present invention and should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A beverage extraction apparatus (100), characterized in that, include: Pressure vessel (20) is used to hold the raw material to be extracted; The appliance body (10) is connected to the pressure vessel (20); The pressure vessel (20) has a fluid inlet (21) and a fluid outlet (22), and the fluid outlet (22) is provided with a valve (30). When the valve (30) is closed, the fluid inlet (21) is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel (20) to regulate the internal pressure of the pressure vessel (20); When the valve (30) is open, the liquid in the pressure vessel (20) flows out from the fluid outlet (22) to obtain an extract containing gas.

2. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the valve (30) is open, the fluid inlet (21) is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel (20) to clean the pressure vessel (20).

3. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Also includes: The fluid inlet (21) is used to introduce an extraction solvent into the pressure vessel (20), the extraction solvent flowing through at least a portion of the raw material to be extracted.

4. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pressure vessel (20) has a bottom wall at the bottom, the projected area of ​​the bottom wall on the radial section of the pressure vessel (20) is a first area, and the projected area of ​​the fluid outlet (22) on the radial section of the pressure vessel (20) is a second area, the second area being 0.05%-10% of the first area.

5. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 4, characterized in that, The inner diameter of the fluid outlet (22) does not exceed 1 / 3 of the inner diameter of the pressure vessel (20).

6. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The fluid inlet (21) is at least one and is located at the top and / or bottom of the pressure vessel (20).

7. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the fluid inlet (21) is located at the top of the pressure vessel (20), after the fluid inlet (21) is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel (20), it also includes: introducing an extraction solvent into the pressure vessel (20); Alternatively, if the fluid inlet (21) is located at the bottom of the pressure vessel (20), before the fluid inlet (21) is used to introduce gas into the pressure vessel (20), the process further includes: the raw material to be extracted comprising a fluid, or the introduction of an extraction solvent into the pressure vessel (20).

8. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a filter element (40), which is installed in the pressure vessel (20) for holding the raw material to be extracted; The filter element (40) includes a plurality of through holes to allow liquid to flow through the filter element and out through the through holes.

9. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The pressure vessel (20) is provided with a support portion, and the filter element (40) overlaps the support portion.

10. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an inlet bucket (50), which is installed on the pressure vessel (20), and the outlet end of the inlet bucket (50) can be submerged below the liquid surface in the pressure vessel (20).

11. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The inlet hopper (50) has a bottom for placing the raw material to be extracted, and the inlet hopper (50) includes a plurality of inlet holes to allow liquid to flow through the inlet hopper (50) and out of the inlet holes; or, It also includes a filter element (40), which is installed in the pressure vessel (20) and located below the inlet hopper (50).

12. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pressure vessel (20) and the appliance body (10) are an integral structure.

13. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The appliance body (10) has a mounting through hole (11); A pressure vessel (20) has one end flush with the end face of the appliance body (10) and the other end of the pressure vessel (20) extends out of the appliance body (10) through the mounting hole (11).

14. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pressure vessel (20) is equipped with an aerator (60), through which at least a portion of the liquid flows from the fluid outlet (22).

15. The beverage extraction apparatus (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The bubbler (60) is a venturi tube.

16. A beverage preparation device, characterized in that, Includes the body (110) and the beverage extraction apparatus (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

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