Puncture pin, cylindrical container, system for making beverages, method for making beverages, and uses of puncture pin.

Abstract

A puncture needle (1) for use in a cartridge container (20) to produce a beverage by means of a cartridge (30) connectable to the cartridge container (20), the cartridge including a storage portion (31) filled with a beverage substance, wherein the storage portion (31) is closed by a sealing element (32), particularly a film element, wherein the puncture needle (1) is configured to puncture the sealing element (32), wherein the puncture needle (1) is substantially of the shape of a truncated cone, wherein the puncture needle (1) has a compressed air conduit (11) extending at least segmentally along its longitudinal axis (L), wherein the top surface has a substantially flat first surface region (3) and a second surface region (4) adjacent to the first surface region (3), wherein the second surface region (4) has a bend.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention is based on a puncture needle for use in a cartridge container to produce beverages by means of a cartridge connectable to the cartridge container, the cartridge including a storage portion filled with a beverage substance, wherein the storage portion is sealed by a sealing element, particularly a membrane element, wherein the puncture needle is configured to puncture the sealing element, wherein the puncture needle is substantially of the shape of a truncated cone, and wherein the puncture needle has a compressed air conduit, particularly centrally arranged, extending at least segmentally along its longitudinal axis. Background Technology

[0002] A system comprising a puncture needle and a container, together with the container, forms a system that can be inserted into a beverage preparation machine to make beverages, especially cold drinks. This type of system is largely known in the prior art and is used to make beverages from pre-divided containers. Making beverages using this system is extremely convenient for the user, as the user only needs to insert the container and press the start button. The beverage preparation machine then automatically handles the production of the beverage, specifically mixing the beverage substance with a predetermined amount of liquid, especially cold and / or carbonated water, while forming the beverage, and pouring it into a drinking container. In this way, especially for mixed beverages, preparation is significantly simpler, faster, and less costly for the user. Here, the user can choose from a variety of different containers, allowing the user to make different beverages according to their preferences.

[0003] During beverage preparation, the beverage preparation machine triggers the displacement of the puncture pin from a retracted position (in which the puncture pin is spaced apart from the sealing element of the cylinder) to an extended position (in which the puncture pin pierces the sealing element). Subsequently, the beverage substance contained in the cylinder's storage compartment flows through the puncture pin into the mixing chamber. This can be assisted by introducing compressed air via a compressed air line through the puncture pin, which expels the beverage substance from the storage compartment.

[0004] The problem with known systems is that controlled outflow of beverage material from the opening created by the puncture needle is nearly impossible. However, this is necessary to produce a high-quality beverage along with a controlled supply of liquid. What may occur in known systems is that the sealing element at least partially obstructs the flow path at the puncture needle, and / or the sealing element tears uncontrollably after the initial puncture, thus causing the outflow of beverage material to proceed uncontrollably as well. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a puncture needle, a cylinder housing having such a puncture needle, a system for making beverages including a cylinder housing and a cylinder, and a method for making beverages, in which the puncture of the sealing element is performed in a controlled manner, and in particular in a reproducible controlled manner. Thus, the puncture needle should enable simple, reliable, and reproducible opening of a cylinder previously sealed by means of a sealing element, particularly a flavor seal.

[0006] This task is accomplished using the puncture needle as described in claim 1.

[0007] Compared with the prior art, the puncture needle according to the present invention has the advantages of requiring less force to puncture the sealing element and achieving clean, controlled and reproducible puncture of the membrane. Through the curvature of the second surface region, the punctured sealing element can adhere tightly to the puncture needle, especially the top surface, when the puncture needle enters the storage compartment, and therefore will not tear uncontrollably.

[0008] The following description uses relative positional terms such as "upper" and "lower". Those skilled in the art will understand that these descriptions refer to a cone or truncated cone that stands vertically on its base. A truncated cone (which a puncture needle essentially has) includes a base, a conical circumferential surface, and a top surface that is opposite to the base and is substantially oval or elliptical in the case of a truncated cone.

[0009] Here, the puncture needle may deviate from the shape of a truncated cone in detail, but in general, the puncture needle can be described as an obliquely cut truncated cone. Therefore, the puncture needle may, for example, have multiple segments along a longitudinal axis (which extends centrally through the puncture needle), particularly segments separated from each other by surrounding edges. For example, a substantially cylindrical region may be provided adjacent to or near the bottom surface. Now, another deviation from the shape of the obliquely cut truncated cone is the top surface, which has a curved region, a second surface region. The first surface region here substantially corresponds to an inclined surface, as this surface would be produced by a corresponding oblique cone section.

[0010] Advantageous designs and improvements of the invention can be derived from the dependent claims and the description with reference to the accompanying drawings. Here, the embodiments explained with respect to the puncture needle according to the invention are also applicable to other subjects of the invention, and vice versa.

[0011] Preferably, the thin-film element comprises a multilayer thin film, which is, for example, sealed to the flange of a cylinder. The thin film may include multiple layers, and preferably, at least one of these layers is a barrier layer.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the first surface region forms the upper end of the puncture pin. This means that the first surface region and, in particular, its subordinate outer contour, first contact the sealing element. Therefore, puncture of the sealing element occurs primarily through the interaction between the first surface region or its outer contour and the sealing element. Here, puncture is specifically a cut or incision.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the top surface is a cut surface, wherein the outer edge of the top surface, particularly the first surface region, is at least partially a cut edge for piercing the sealing element. Thus, the first surface region is advantageously provided with a continuously curved and inclined cut edge relative to the sealing element through a conical bevel. This cut edge pierces or cuts through the sealing element or perforates it. The continuous arcuate shape facilitates continuous tearing of the sealing element. In this way, a flap resembling a valve is preferably created in the sealing element, particularly with a smooth cut edge. As the piercing pin moves further into the reservoir, the flap folds inward toward the reservoir. According to the invention, advantageously, this now does not occur along a substantially straight fold line (which could lead to uncontrolled tearing), but rather gradually by the flap adhering to the curved second surface region. The inventors have surprisingly discovered that this shape of the piercing pin enables reproducible and controlled piercing of the sealing element.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the transition from the first surface region to the second surface region extends along a straight line, wherein this straight line preferably intersects the longitudinal axis. In other words, the first surface region is therefore preferably substantially corresponding to a semi-oval or semi-elliptical shape. This is advantageous because the controlled cutting of the sealing element occurs first, before further tearing is controlled by the sealing element abutting against the second surface region.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the curvature of the second surface region is a continuous curvature, particularly a curvature with a constant radius of curvature. In other words, the second surface region becomes increasingly steep with increasing distance from the first surface region. This allows for advantageous and targeted control of further opening of the sealing element. Particularly preferably, the second surface region is configured to have a radius of curvature between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably 3 mm to 6 mm, and particularly about 3.4 mm. This type of radius of curvature has proven particularly advantageous in experiments.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the curved portion of the second surface region is configured such that the second surface region transitions seamlessly into the circumferential surface of the puncture needle. In this way, it is advantageously ensured that no uncontrolled tearing occurs even when the puncture needle has completely passed through the opening created in the sealing element, because the flaps generated during puncture are guided throughout the movement.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the second surface region is configured such that no point is located above the first surface region. Therefore, the curved portion of the second surface region extends, in particular, from the first surface region toward the bottom surface of the puncture needle (or the truncated cone shape approaching the puncture needle).

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the top surface is arranged such that its extension along the longitudinal axis is between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably 3 mm to 6 mm, and especially about 3.8 mm. This specifically refers to the vertical extension (i.e., the extension parallel to the longitudinal axis) from the lowest point of the second surface region to the highest point of the first surface region, meaning that the distance between the points on the top surface that are furthest apart from each other parallel to the longitudinal axis is between 1 mm and 10 mm.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the puncture needle is configured to have at least one side channel extending parallel to the longitudinal axis in its circumferential surface, particularly below the first and / or second surface regions. Through this side channel, the beverage substance can be advantageously and controllably flowed from the storage section into the mixing chamber. This further improves the quality of beverage preparation in an advantageous manner. Particularly preferably, the puncture needle is configured to have multiple side channels, preferably at least three, four, or five. The volumetric flow rate of the beverage substance can be advantageously and specifically controlled by the size, length, position, and number of the side channels. For example, it is conceivable that the cross-section and / or number of side channels are adapted to the viscosity of the beverage substance, thereby controlling or restricting the flow of the beverage substance toward the mixing chamber. In the case of high viscosity, multiple side channels and / or side channels with larger cross-sections are preferably used, while in the case of lower viscosity, fewer side channels and / or side channels with smaller cross-sections are provided. Therefore, a suitable puncture needle can be provided for each cartridge or each beverage substance.

[0020] According to another preferred embodiment, at least one side channel is configured as a one-sided open groove introduced into the circumferential surface of the puncture pin. Advantageously, this groove guides the flow of beverage substance from the storage section into the mixing chamber in a controlled manner. The beverage substance can enter the open groove at any point, be guided through the groove in the narrowed flow cross-section between the puncture pin and the sealing element, and flow out of the groove in the mixing chamber.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, at least one side channel is configured such that it does not intersect the outer contour of the first surface region and / or the second surface region. In other words, the side channel does not extend all the way to the top surface. Therefore, the side channel does not open upwards, but only in the radial direction, i.e., laterally. This is particularly advantageous because, in this way, when the sealing element is pierced, a contour corresponding to the cross-section between the outer contours of the first surface region and / or the second surface region is not punched out from the sealing element. This punched-out channel of the sealing element can at least partially close the opening of the side channel, so that beverage substances cannot flow through the side channel unimpeded. Since the side channel does not extend all the way upwards to the top surface, the sealing element is punched or cut out with respect to the outer contour of the first surface region.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the first surface region is configured such that it has at least one protrusion, particularly a sharp edge, in its outer contour, wherein the at least one protrusion is preferably arranged offset from at least one side channel in the circumferential direction. Thus, advantageously, the protrusion of the outer contour additionally provides sharp edges and corners that aid in piercing the sealing element. If the piercing pin includes side channels, the offset arrangement ensures that the side channels are not blocked.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the first surface region is configured in a stepped manner at least segment by segment, wherein the steps are preferably configured such that the first surface region is toothed at least segment by segment along its outer contour. This type of stepped portion can be introduced into the first surface region in a relatively simple manner, and in particular, the resulting toothed outer contour advantageously improves the cutting / perforation / puncture resistance of the sealing element.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the puncture needle is configured with at least one anti-torsion device, which takes the form of a tab that projects radially from the circumferential surface, particularly in the lower region of the puncture needle. This advantageously prevents the puncture needle from twisting during its transition from a retracted position to an extended position. Preferably, the cartridge containment includes corresponding complementary components in which the anti-torsion device is guided. Furthermore, a side channel is arranged on the side of the puncture needle opposite the beverage outlet of the mixing chamber, and particularly facing the fluid supply section. In this way, improved mixing of the beverage substance with the fluid is achieved within the mixing chamber. Additionally, this advantageously ensures that the compressed air inlet of the puncture needle is correctly positioned relative to the compressed air inlet of the cartridge containment.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the puncture needle is preferably configured to have a compressed air port in its lower region on its circumferential surface for establishing a compressed air connection with a compressed air port of the cylinder housing, wherein a compressed air conduit leads into the compressed air port. Therefore, the compressed air port is located on one side of the puncture needle and is fluidly connected thereto to the compressed air port of the cylinder housing. Particularly preferably, the compressed air port is arranged below the anti-torsion device. This advantageously ensures that the compressed air port is correctly positioned within the cylinder housing.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the compressed air line is configured to have an opening in the top surface, particularly a central opening. This advantageously allows compressed air to be directly introduced into the storage compartment after the sealing element is punctured, thereby expelling the beverage substance from the storage compartment. Thus, beverage preparation is advantageously accelerated, and it ensures that the beverage substance is introduced from the container into the mixing chamber without residue.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment, the puncture needle is constructed of a plastic part, particularly a plastic injection-molded part. This achieves cost-effective manufacturing. However, in principle, it is also conceivable alternatively that the puncture needle be constructed of a metal part.

[0028] According to another preferred embodiment, the puncture pin is configured on its underside to correspond to the triggering element of the beverage preparation machine. Specifically, the underside of the puncture pin is configured such that the puncture pin at least partially accommodates the triggering element in a form-fit and / or force-fit manner. This ensures a reliable function in beverage preparation.

[0029] This task is also solved by the cylindrical container as described in claim 20.

[0030] The embodiments explained regarding the cylindrical container according to the invention also apply to the rest of the subject matter of the invention, and vice versa.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the guide portion has a guide member with an internal guide channel for receiving a puncture needle. The guide channel is substantially cylindrical or truncated conical in shape, and a surrounding stop is provided at the end of the guide member facing the cylinder. This stop restricts movement of the puncture needle toward the storage portion, and the stop particularly includes a region with a decreasing diameter. Therefore, it is advantageous to reliably guide the puncture needle when moving from a retracted position to an extended position. Preferably, a groove corresponding to an anti-twist device, particularly a tab-shaped anti-twist device, is provided within the wall of the guide channel as an anti-twist device, thereby preventing accidental twisting of the puncture needle. The guide member is preferably arranged in the mixing chamber and protrudes from the bottom of the mixing chamber toward the cylinder.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, when the container is placed into the beverage preparation machine, the piercing pin can be moved from a retracted position to an extended position by a trigger element of the beverage preparation machine. Particularly preferably, the trigger element can be activated automatically and / or manually. Quite particularly preferably, the trigger element is configured to be movable by a drive mechanism, particularly a motor-driven drive mechanism.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber is configured to have a beverage outlet through which a beverage, formed by mixing beverage substances with a fluid, is output. The container is preferably constructed such that the beverage can be directly introduced from the beverage outlet into a portable container. This advantageously eliminates cross-contamination within the beverage preparation machine.

[0034] According to another preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber is provided with a mixing structure. This mixing structure advantageously ensures improved mixing of the beverage substance with the fluid. For this purpose, the mixing structure is specifically constructed such that the fluid flowing into the mixing chamber is vortexed. It is conceivable that the mixing structure includes one or more mixing tabs arranged at the bottom of the mixing chamber in the region of the fluid supply section and extending substantially perpendicular to the direction of fluid inflow. Thus, the mixing tabs act as a barrier for the fluid, thereby agitating the fluid and achieving better mixing with the beverage substance.

[0035] Furthermore, this task is also solved by the system for making beverages as described in claim 23.

[0036] The implementation of the system according to the invention also applies to the rest of the subject matter of the invention, and vice versa.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment, the cylinder container is releasably connected to the cylinder via a snap-lock connection. Preferably, the cylinder container is reversibly fastened to the cylinder, particularly preferably via a snap-lock connection. For example, it is conceivable that the cylinder includes a neck with a cylinder opening, the neck having a surrounding retaining flange, and the cylinder container is snapped onto the neck. Here, in particular, a resilient snap-locking element, such as a retaining arm, grips the retaining flange from the rear. The cylinder is particularly intended as a single-use container for beverage substances, especially recyclable ones. Advantageously, the cylinder container can be reused multiple times, in that it can be fastened to different cylinders. Furthermore, the manufacture of the cylinder system is simplified because the cylinder and the cylinder container can be manufactured separately, and the cylinder container is only subsequently snapped onto the cylinder. The cylinder particularly includes polygonal, round, or rounded bottles. The cylinder is particularly made of plastic by blow molding, injection molding, or other molding methods. However, deep drawing methods for manufacturing cylinders are also conceivable in principle. Of course, it is also conceivable that the cylinder is reusable. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the tube includes a glass bottle, while only the tube container is made of plastic.

[0038] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge has a cartridge opening in fluid communication with a storage section, wherein the cartridge opening is initially closed by a sealing element, wherein the sealing element comprises, in particular, a thin-film element, such as a sealing membrane, which is applied to the edge of the cartridge opening and preferably sealed. Thus, advantageously, the storage section is sealed in a sealed and flavor-sealed manner. For this purpose, the sealing element is constructed, in particular, to be largely airtight and liquid-tight. To manufacture the cartridge system, a cartridge with a cartridge opening is first produced, then the cartridge is filled with beverage material through the cartridge opening, then the cartridge opening is closed by the sealing element, and finally a cartridge container is applied, for example, snapped onto the cartridge in the area of ​​the closed cartridge opening. Before, during, or after the system is placed in a beverage preparation machine, the sealing element is opened in the area of ​​the cartridge opening, particularly by piercing with a piercing pin, so that the beverage material can be transferred from the storage section to the mixing chamber by the introduction of compressed air.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the can and / or can container has a product identification code, and the beverage preparation machine and / or can container has an identification detector for identifying the product identification code. Preferably, the product identification code is embedded in a barcode, RFID code, QR code, data matrix code, color code, holographic code, etc. Thus, automatic reading of the product identification code is advantageously achieved. The identification detector particularly includes an optical sensor, such as a CCD camera, which automatically reads the barcode, QR code, or data matrix code when the can is placed in the beverage preparation machine. Alternatively, the identification detector includes transmitting and receiving antennas for automatically reading RFID codes. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the product identification code is also embedded in other automatically readable computer chips. The term "QR code" in the sense of this invention specifically includes any data matrix code. For this purpose, the terms "QR code" and "data matrix code" are used synonymously. Alternatively or additionally, product identification codes can also be conceivable, including barcodes, dot matrix codes, binary codes, Morse code, Braille codes (Braille characters), etc. Here, the code can also be embedded in a three-dimensional structure, such as embossing. Product identification codes specifically include so-called product identification numbers, particularly Universal Product Code (UPC), European Commodity Number (EAN), GS1 code, Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), etc. In this way, it is not necessary to introduce a new coding system. In particular, the product identification code operates under the GS1 standard.

[0040] Product identification codes are specifically used to identify the beverage substance located in the container. The product identification code is read using an identification detector during or before the beverage preparation process begins. Therefore, the type of container placed into the beverage preparation machine is known at the beverage preparation machine side. It is conceivable that the evaluation and control unit of the beverage preparation machine has multiple pre-stored beverage preparation programs, which are set up to prepare different beverages and differ from each other, for example, in terms of the flow rate of the supplied fluid, the delivery time, the delivery pause, the temperature, the degree of carbonation, and / or the pressure. It is also conceivable that different compressed air supplies (e.g., different pressures) are used in different beverage preparation programs. Each beverage preparation program is associated with one or more product identification codes. When the container is placed into the beverage preparation machine, the product identification code on the container is read using an identification detector and subsequently compared with pre-stored data. Therefore, a beverage preparation program is selected from the multiple pre-stored beverage preparation programs based on the product identification code, and the beverage preparation process is then started using the selected beverage preparation program. Parameters (such as the flow rate of the supplied fluid, the delivery time, the delivery pause, the temperature, the degree of carbonization, and / or the pressure) are preset or controlled by the selected beverage making program to achieve the best results for the beverage to be made using the corresponding beverage substances.

[0041] It is conceivable that if the product identification code cannot be recognized, or if the recognized product identification code does not match any pre-stored beverage preparation program, the beverage preparation process will not be initiated. In this way, the use of non-original containers, which are uncertified for operation in the beverage preparation machine and therefore pose a risk of damaging the beverage preparation machine or endangering the user, for example, due to container cracking (if the container is set to operate at lower pressures).

[0042] The product identification code is preferably printed or affixed to the wall of the container or to the sealing element. In particular, the product identification code is positioned on the container such that it is within the detection range of the identification detector of the beverage preparation machine when the container is placed inside. Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable that the product identification code is located on the outer wall of the container housing.

[0043] Furthermore, this task is solved by the method for making a beverage as described in claim 24.

[0044] The embodiments explained in relation to the method according to the invention also apply to the rest of the subject matter of the invention, and vice versa.

[0045] The method steps according to the invention should not be considered as a mandatory temporal sequence, but may be performed simultaneously or in other orders. Preferably, for example, the puncture of the sealing element and / or the transfer of beverage material into the mixing chamber are performed in parallel with the supply of fluid.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the fluid is cooled and / or carbonized before being supplied to the mixing chamber. The fluid or liquid is preferably water.

[0047] Preferably, the fluid is supplied separately to the mixing chamber. Preferably, the fluid is introduced into the mixing chamber under pressure. The fluid is supplied, in particular, by a beverage preparation machine. It is conceivable that once the canister system is placed into the beverage preparation machine, the fluid source is directly connected to the fluid supply section of the canister housing. Here, the fluid interface is fluidly connected to the mixing chamber via a fluid line. This has the advantage of effectively preventing backflow towards the beverage preparation machine, because the fluid interface is immediately under pressure upon placement into the canister system, and thus prevents beverage substances from migrating towards the fluid line, and especially towards the fluid source of the beverage preparation machine. Therefore, the beverage substances and beverage can only move towards the beverage outlet from the mixing chamber.

[0048] According to another preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the puncture needle is moved from the retracted position to the extended position by a triggering element of the beverage preparation machine.

[0049] Another subject of the invention is the use of the puncture needle according to the invention in a cylindrical container according to the invention, particularly in the system according to the invention and / or in the production of beverages using the method according to the invention.

[0050] The embodiments described regarding the use of the puncture needle according to the invention also apply to the rest of the subject matter of the invention, and vice versa. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Further details, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings herein illustrate only exemplary embodiments of the invention and do not limit the core ideas of the invention.

[0052] in: Figure 1 A puncture needle according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 2a and Figure 2b Different perspective views of a puncture needle according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention are shown; Figure 3 A detailed view of a puncture needle according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 4 A schematic side view of a portion of a puncture needle according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 5a and Figure 5b An embodiment not based on the invention is shown. Figure 5a ) and the exemplary second embodiment according to the present invention ( Figure 5b A top view comparison of the puncture needles; Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of a tube housing without a puncture needle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 7a and Figure 7b A perspective view of a cylinder and a system including the cylinder and a cylinder receiving member connected to the cylinder, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 8a and Figure 8b The system comprising a cylinder and a cylinder receiver connected to the cylinder, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is shown in the retracted position of the puncture needle. Figure 8a ) and the position of the puncture needle extension ( Figure 8b The sectional view in ) Figure 9a and Figure 9b The system comprising a cylinder and a cylinder receiver connected to the cylinder, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is shown in the retracted position of the puncture needle. Figure 9a ) and the position of the puncture needle extension ( Figure 9b Detailed sectional view in ) Figure 10a and Figure 10b The system comprising a cylinder and a cylinder receiver connected to the cylinder, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, is shown in the retracted position of the puncture needle. Figure 10a ) and the position of the puncture needle extension ( Figure 10b The perspective section view in ). Detailed Implementation

[0053] In different drawings, the same parts are always given the same reference numerals, and therefore are usually named or mentioned only once each.

[0054] Whenever directional instructions are used, such as "up" or "down," these instructions pertain to the orientation of the puncture needle, for example, in... Figure 2a and Figure 2b As shown in the diagram.

[0055] exist Figure 1 The diagram shows a puncture needle 1 according to an exemplary first embodiment of the invention. The puncture needle 1 is inserted into a cartridge 20, which is connected to a cartridge 30, which contains a beverage substance disposed in a storage compartment 31, wherein the storage compartment 31 is sealed in a flavor-sealed manner by a sealing element, for example, configured as a thin film element 32.

[0056] Now, the puncture needle 1 is movably disposed in the cylinder housing 20, especially guided by the guide portion 22, so that the puncture needle 1 can move from the retracted position (in which the puncture needle 1 is spaced apart from the sealing element) to the extended position, wherein the puncture needle 1 pierces the sealing element and extends into the storage portion 31.

[0057] The puncture needle 1 is basically truncated cone-shaped, with an oblique cut surface as the top surface 2. For example... Figure 1 As can be seen, the puncture needle 1 here has a small deviation from the shape of the truncated cone. For example, the puncture needle 1 here includes a disc-shaped widening at its lower end, which can serve, for example, as a stop in the guide 22, and / or the widening is configured on the underside such that it interacts with the trigger element of the beverage preparation machine (not shown) in a shape-fitting and / or force-fitting manner to be moved from the retracted position to the extended position. In addition, the puncture needle here includes a surrounding shoulder approximately at the center, as well as other elements explained in detail below.

[0058] When the puncture needle 1 punctures the sealing element, especially the thin film element 32, the tip of the puncture needle extends into the storage section 32. Figure 1As can be clearly seen, the puncture needle 1 has an opening at its lower end, which serves as a compressed air interface 9. This opening is connected to a compressed air conduit 11 extending along the longitudinal axis L of the puncture needle from this opening. The compressed air conduit 11 is arranged centrally within the puncture needle 1 and terminates in an opening 8 in the top surface 2 on the upper side. Compressed air can be drawn from the compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine through this compressed air conduit 11 and thus introduced into the storage section 31 in the extended position. This compressed air and gravity ensure that the beverage substance flows from the storage section 31 of the cylinder 30 into the mixing chamber of the cylinder container 20, which will be explained in detail further, through the opening formed by means of the puncture needle 1. There, the beverage substance is mixed with the fluid or liquid, especially cooled and / or carbonized water, which is also introduced into the mixing chamber in the case of beverage formation.

[0059] To precisely control the mixing ratio and preparation time, it is crucial that the opening in the sealing element is made in a controlled and reproducible manner. If the opening is, for example, torn open uncontrollably, too much beverage material may flow into the mixing chamber per unit time. The risk is that the beverage material will not mix adequately with the liquid. Conversely, incomplete puncture or an opening that is too small in the sealing element may result in too small a volumetric flow rate of beverage material into the mixing chamber, which also leads to poor beverage quality.

[0060] To address this problem, the puncture needle 1 according to the invention proposes a top surface having a substantially flat first surface region 3 and a second surface region 4 adjacent to the first surface region, the second surface region having a curved portion. This curved portion will be better seen in subsequent figures. According to the embodiment shown herein, the boundary between the first surface region 3 and the second surface region 4 is linear. In particular, the boundary between region 3 and region 4 is a straight line intersecting the central longitudinal axis L.

[0061] exist Figure 1 The embodiment shown also has several other features that improve beverage preparation. The outer contour of the first surface region 3 first contacts the sealing element because the top surface extends obliquely through the truncated cone. Therefore, the outer edge acts as a cutting edge. To further improve puncture performance, a plurality of, in this case, four protrusions 6 are provided in the outer contour of the first surface region 3. These protrusions roughly correspond to the imprinted portions of the ball segments (with relatively small radii) in the outer edges. In this way, two sharp angles are created in each protrusion 6, at which the arcuate curve in the plane of the first surface region intersects with the arcuate curve in the circumferential surface 12 of the truncated cone-shaped puncture needle 1. This improves the cutting action of the outer edge, thereby achieving simpler and more controlled puncture of the sealing element. The protrusions 6 preferably have substantially the same size and / or are arranged substantially equidistant from each other along the circumferential direction.

[0062] Furthermore, the circumferential surface 12 of the puncture needle 1 includes side channels 5 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis L in the upper third. Specifically, this comprises three side channels 5 in the circumferential surface 12 below the first surface region 3 and two side channels 5 in the circumferential surface 12 within the second surface region 4. The last two side channels 5 are... Figure 1 It is only shown in the diagram, and it is in Figure 2b This is more clearly seen in the text.

[0063] If the puncture needle 1 punctures the sealing element, it partially extends into the storage compartment 31. The punctured area of ​​the sealing element is thus separated in the region of the first surface area 1, but remains connected to the rest of the sealing element in the region of the second surface area 4. Therefore, the sealing element forms a flap of material similar to a valve. This flap may partially obstruct the flow path of the beverage substance. To ensure controlled flow of the beverage substance from the storage compartment 31, the puncture needle 1 includes the side channel 5 described above.

[0064] Preferably, the side channel 5 is constructed as an elongated groove opening to the outside, having a main extending direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L. Beverage material can enter the side channel 5 in the storage section 31, be guided through the opening via the side channel, and exit again in the mixing chamber 21. Preferably, as shown here, the protrusion 6 and the side channel are arranged staggered from each other in the circumferential direction. Preferably, the side channel 5 below the first surface region 3 does not intersect the outer contour of the first surface region. Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, on the other side, namely in the second surface region 4 of the top surface 2, the side passage 5 intersects with the outer contour of the second surface region.

[0065] Furthermore, the puncture needle 1 here includes an optional anti-torsion device 10 in the form of a tab projecting radially from the circumferential surface 12. Here, the anti-torsion device 10 is substantially wedge-shaped, meaning the tab narrows towards the tip of the puncture needle 1. The anti-torsion device 10 preferably works in conjunction with a correspondingly constructed guide in the cartridge housing 20, so that the puncture needle 1 can only be inserted into the cartridge housing 20 in a predetermined orientation, and maintains this orientation during movement from the retracted position to the extended position. In this way, in particular, it is ensured that the compressed air port 9 of the puncture needle is aligned with the compressed air port 25 of the cartridge housing 20 in the extended position.

[0066] exist Figure 2a and Figure 2bDifferent perspective views of the puncture needle 1 according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention are shown. Here, the second embodiment substantially corresponds to the first embodiment, and therefore reference is made to the corresponding description. The difference between the embodiments is particularly that the outer contour of the first surface region 3 does not have a protrusion 6. Instead, the highest region of the first surface region 3 is provided with a certain number of stepped structures, especially straight ones. These stepped portions 7 are preferably not planar, but inclined, such as... Figure 3 As can be seen more clearly in the text.

[0067] In addition, Figure 2b One of the two side passages 5 in region 4 of the second surface can be seen more clearly. This side passage 5 opens upwards, but approximately at the same level as... Figure 1 It begins at the same height as the side passage 5 visible in the middle. Furthermore, in Figure 2b As can be seen, an additional connecting piece is also provided, which preferably also functions as the anti-torsion device 10. This connecting piece is arranged about the longitudinal axis L at the joint. Figure 1 On the opposite side of the anti-torsion device 10 as explained.

[0068] In addition, Figure 2b The curvature of the second surface region 4 is clearly visible. The second surface region 4 slopes down steeply with increasing distance from the center of the puncture needle, and almost transitions into the circumferential surface 12 at its end. This ensures that the area of ​​the sealing element that has been cut and bent into the storage portion 31 is slowly and continuously raised by the movement of the puncture needle 1. In this way, uncontrolled tearing can be advantageously prevented.

[0069] exist Figure 3 The diagram shows a detailed view of a puncture needle 1 according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention. Here, the curvature of the second surface region 4 is again clearly visible. Furthermore, the stepped portion 7 in the first surface region 3 is well visible. The stepped portion, especially the inclined stepped portion 7, creates a serrated profile along the outer contour. This advantageously improves the puncturing or cutting action of the puncture needle.

[0070] Attached to or alternatively attached to the stepped portion 7, the puncture needle may also have a protrusion 6 along the outer contour according to the first embodiment.

[0071] exist Figure 4The diagram shows a schematic side view of a portion of the puncture needle 1 according to an exemplary second embodiment of the invention. It can be clearly seen that the first surface region 3 comprises an inclined flat surface. It can also be clearly seen that the second surface region 4 is curved. The curved portion of the second surface region 4 preferably has a radius of curvature R of approximately 3.4 mm. Furthermore, the height of the entire top surface 2 extending thereon is illustrated here. That is, the maximum distance along the longitudinal axis L between the highest point of the first surface region 3 and the lowest point of the second surface region 4 is, for example, approximately 3.8 mm. The radial extension of the stepped portion 7, that is, the area in which the stepped portion is introduced, has a width of approximately 1.4 mm.

[0072] exist Figure 5a and Figure 5b The figure shows an embodiment that is not based on the invention. Figure 5a ) and the exemplary second embodiment according to the present invention ( Figure 5b A top view comparison of the puncture needle 1. Figure 5a A puncture needle 1 is shown, constructed essentially in the same frustoconical shape but with a horizontally oriented top surface 2. Thus, the frustocone is created here by a horizontal cut. This embodiment also includes side channels 5 in the circumferential surface 12. However, all side channels 5 intersect the outer contour of the top surface 2. In other words, the side channels 5 are not only radially outward but also open upward. This results in correspondingly rounded cutting edges. If the puncture needle 1 now cuts through the film element 32, an area of ​​the film element 32 is cut out, corresponding to the shape of the cutting edge, and therefore also having protrusions extending into the side channels 5. If the puncture needle 1 now moves further into the storage section 31, these protrusions of the film element 32 block the side channels and thus hinder the targeted dispensing of beverage substances.

[0073] Therefore, according to the present invention, the side channel 5—at least on the side that first contacts the thin film element 32, that is, on the side of the first surface region 3—is constructed not to be open upwards. The upper end of the side channel 5 is located below the outer contour of the top surface 2.

[0074] exist Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of a tube receiver 20 for a non-puncture needle 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Here, the tube receiver 20 is shown in its preferred orientation after being placed into a subordinate beverage preparation machine. At its upper end, the tube receiver 20 includes a large opening through which the tube receiver can be connected to the tube 30—preferably reversibly.

[0075] A guide portion 22 is provided in the right-hand region, into which the puncture needle 1 according to the invention is preferably precisely fitted. The guide portion 22 particularly preferably has a guide device (not shown here) corresponding to the anti-torsion device 10, by means of which the correct orientation of the puncture needle 1 within the guide portion 22 is ensured. For better visibility, the puncture needle 1 is not shown here, but it corresponds, for example, to one of the embodiments shown in the figures explained above. The puncture needle 1 is arranged vertically movable in the guide portion 22. In particular, the puncture needle 1 can be moved from a retracted position to an extended position by a triggering element of the beverage preparation machine, in which the puncture needle 1 pierces a sealing element, such as a film element 32, and extends into the storage portion 31 of the cylinder 30.

[0076] The fluid supply unit 23 is also shown on the right side of the figure. When the cartridge container 20 is placed into the beverage preparation machine, this fluid supply unit can be connected to a fluid source, so that fluid, such as cooled and / or carbonized water, can be introduced into the cartridge container 20 through the fluid supply unit 23. Here, the fluid or liquid enters the mixing chamber 21 of the cartridge container 20. When the piercing needle 1 pierces the film element 32 and the compressed air interface 9 is aligned with the compressed air interface 25 of the cartridge container 20 (which is preferably connected to the compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine) in the extended position, compressed air can be guided through the compressed air line 11 of the piercing needle 1, especially in parallel with the liquid supply, so that the compressed air exits in the storage section 31 through the opening 8 in the top surface 2. In this way, the beverage substance can be transferred by gravity and with the aid of compressed air blown into the storage section 31 through an opening in the film element 32, and especially at least partially through the side channel 5, into the mixing chamber 21, where the beverage substance is mixed with an introduced fluid, such as cooled and carbonized water, in the formation of the beverage. The beverage can then exit from the cartridge container 20 through the beverage outlet 24 and preferably flow directly into a container arranged below it.

[0077] exist Figure 7a and Figure 7b The figure shows a perspective view of a cylinder 30 and a system including the cylinder 30 and a cylinder receiving member 20 connected to the cylinder, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] exist Figure 7aIn this design, the cylinder 30 is constructed similarly to a bottle, having a storage section 31 and a neck including a flange, to which the cylinder receiver 20 can snap onto. The opening of the cylinder 30 is sealed by a thin-film element 32, particularly for flavor sealing. The cylinder 30 shown here is generally rectangular in shape, but in principle, it can have any shape, such as a cylinder. The only limitation is that the cylinder 30 must be able to fit into a corresponding holder in the beverage preparation machine, and the cylinder 30 must include a suitable area with a sealing element through which the cylinder receiver 20 can be connected.

[0079] exist Figure 7b The text shows examples including... Figure 7a The system shown includes the cylinder 30 and the cylinder housing 20 connected to the cylinder. Here, the system is shown in a preferred orientation in which it is placed into the beverage preparation machine.

[0080] exist Figure 8a and Figure 8b The figure shows a system including a cylinder 30 and a cylinder receiving member 20 connected to the cylinder in the retracted position of the puncture needle 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8a ) and the protrusion position of the puncture needle 1 ( Figure 8b The sectional view in ).

[0081] The embodiments shown herein are substantially the same as those explained herein, with reference to the foregoing description.

[0082] exist Figure 8a As can be clearly seen, the puncture needle 1 is in the retracted position. In this position, the puncture needle 1 is spaced apart from the diaphragm element 32, and the diaphragm element 32 therefore does not yet have an opening. Furthermore, the compressed air inlet 9 of the puncture needle 1 and the compressed air inlet 25 of the cylinder housing 20 are misaligned. Therefore, compressed air cannot enter the compressed air line 11.

[0083] Furthermore, it can be seen that the puncture needle 1 is shaped and arranged in the guide portion 22 of the cylinder container 20. The cylinder container has a fluid supply portion 23 below the compressed air interface 25. It is also shown how the cylinder container 20 is snapped into the flange of the cylinder 30.

[0084] The cylinder 30 is preferably filled with a pre-portioned amount of beverage substance, which is necessary to produce a targeted serving size, such as the desired cup size of the beverage. In particular, several different systems are provided, whose cylinders 30 or storage units 31 are filled with different beverage substances to produce different beverages. When the user of the system wants to drink a specific beverage, the user only needs to select from the several different systems the system containing the corresponding beverage substance for producing the desired beverage, place it in the holding unit of the beverage preparation machine, and, if the beverage preparation machine does not start automatically, for example, after recognizing the product identification code arranged on the cylinder 30 and / or cylinder container 20, then the beverage preparation process can be started at the beverage preparation machine if necessary.

[0085] Beverage substances preferably include liquid premixed ingredients for soft drinks (such as caffeinated, carbonated, fruit and / or sugary soft drinks and juices), beer (mixed) beverages or other alcoholic or non-alcoholic (mixed) beverages.

[0086] Before, during, or after activation, preferably the puncture needle 1 is moved from its retracted position to a position by means of a trigger element applied by the beverage preparation machine to the puncture needle 1. Figure 8b In the extended position shown, during this movement, the piercing needle 1 pierces the film element 32, particularly with the outer contour of the first surface region 3 which acts as a cutting edge, and gradually flips the cut area into the storage section 31 by abutting against the curved second surface region 4. In the extended position, the compressed air port of the piercing needle 1 is now aligned with the compressed air port 25 of the cartridge container 20, and compressed air can exit from the opening 8 in the top surface 2 through the compressed air line 11, expelling the beverage substance from the storage section 31 of the cartridge.

[0087] An additional passage 26 is provided in the intermediate space between the guide section 22 and the beverage outlet 24. However, this passage 26 is preferably closed, so that the beverage can only exit through the beverage outlet 24. Particularly preferably, the passage 26 is closed at the end facing the cap 32, especially by means of an end face that is integrally constructed with the cartridge container and particularly preferably with the passage 26 and / or oriented parallel to the cap 32. This is particularly advantageous because in this way, liquid cannot enter the passage 26, thereby preventing suboptimal mixing.

[0088] exist Figure 9a and Figure 9b The figure shows a system including a cylinder 30 and a cylinder receiving member 20 connected to the cylinder in the retracted position of the puncture needle 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9a ) and the protrusion position of the puncture needle 1 ( Figure 9b ) sectional detail drawing.

[0089] In addition, Figure 10a and Figure 10b The figure shows a system including a cylinder 30 and a cylinder receiving member 20 connected to the cylinder in the retracted position of the puncture needle 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10a ) and the protrusion position of the puncture needle 1 ( Figure 10b The perspective section view in ).

[0090] Here, Figure 9a , Figure 9b , Figure 10a and Figure 10b The embodiments shown are substantially corresponding to the combination Figure 8a and Figure 8b The implementation method is explained, and reference is made to the related description.

[0091] exist Figure 9b As can be clearly seen here, the anti-torsion device 10 can also be used as a stop to limit the extension position of the puncture needle 1.

[0092] The common feature of all the system implementations described above is that the cylinder container 20 can be reused by releasing it from a used and emptied cylinder 30 and snapping it onto a new cylinder 30. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the cylinder container 20 may be irreversibly connected to the cylinder 30, for example for hygiene reasons.

[0093] List of reference numerals 1. Puncture pin 2 Top surface 3 First area 4. Second area 5 side passages 6. Protrusion 7-step section 8. Openings in compressed air pipelines 9 Compressed air interface 10 Anti-torsion device 11 Compressed air pipeline 12 weeks 20 cylindrical containers 21 Mixing Chamber 22 Guidance Department 23 Fluid Supply Department 24 Beverage Exports 25 Compressed air interface 26 Through the Department 30 tubes 31 Storage Department 32 Thin Film Elements L longitudinal axis R is the radius of curvature.

Claims

1. A puncture needle (1) for use in a cartridge container (20) to prepare a beverage by means of a cartridge (30) connectable to said cartridge container (20), said cartridge including a storage section (31) filled with a beverage substance, wherein, The storage section (31) is sealed by a sealing element, particularly a thin film element (32), wherein the puncture needle (1) is provided for puncturing the sealing element, wherein the puncture needle (1) is substantially in the shape of a truncated cone, wherein the puncture needle (1) has a compressed air conduit (11) arranged particularly centrally and extending at least segmentally along its longitudinal axis (L), characterized in that the top surface (2) has a substantially flat first surface region (3) and a second surface region (4) adjacent to the first surface region (3), wherein the second surface region (4) has a bend.

2. The puncture needle (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first surface region (3) forms the upper end of the puncture needle (1).

3. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The top surface (2) is a cut surface, wherein the outer edge of the top surface (2), especially the first surface region (3), is at least partially a cut edge for piercing the sealing element.

4. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The transition from the first surface region (3) to the second surface region (4) extends along a straight line, wherein the straight line preferably intersects the longitudinal axis (L).

5. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The curved portion of the second surface region (4) is a continuous curved portion, especially a curved portion with a constant radius of curvature (R).

6. The puncture needle (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second surface region (4) has a radius of curvature (R) between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably 3 mm to 6 mm, and especially about 3.4 mm.

7. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The curved portion of the second surface region (4) is constructed such that the second surface region (4) transitions into the circumferential surface (12) of the puncture needle (1) without transition.

8. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, No point of the second surface region (4) is arranged above the first surface region (3).

9. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The top surface (2) extends along the longitudinal axis (L) between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably 3 mm to 6 mm, and especially about 3.8 mm.

10. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The puncture needle (1) has at least one side channel (5) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (L) in its circumferential surface (12), particularly below the first surface region (3) and / or the second surface region (4).

11. The puncture needle (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The puncture needle (1) has multiple side channels (5), preferably at least three, four or five side channels (5).

12. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that, The at least one side channel (5) is configured as a one-sided open groove introduced into the circumferential surface (12) of the puncture needle (1).

13. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that, The at least one side channel (5) does not intersect with the outer contour of the first surface region (3) and / or the second surface region (4).

14. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first surface region (3) has at least one protrusion (6) in its outer contour, particularly a sharp edge, wherein the at least one protrusion (6) is preferably arranged offset from the at least one side channel (5) in the circumferential direction.

15. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first surface region (3) is constructed in a stepped manner at least segment by segment, wherein the stepped portion (7) is preferably arranged such that the first surface region (3) is constructed in a toothed manner at least segment by segment along its outer contour.

16. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The puncture needle (1) has at least one anti-torsion device (10), which is in the form of a tab that protrudes radially from the circumferential surface (12), particularly in the lower region of the puncture needle (1).

17. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The puncture needle (1) preferably has a compressed air interface (9) in the lower region of the circumferential surface (12) for establishing a compressed air connection with the compressed air interface (25) of the cylindrical container (20), wherein the compressed air pipeline (11) is introduced into the compressed air interface (9).

18. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The compressed air line (11) has an opening in the top surface (2), particularly a central opening (8).

19. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The puncture needle (1) is made of plastic, especially as a plastic injection molded part.

20. A container (20) for making a beverage by means of a container (30), said container comprising a storage section (31) filled with a beverage substance, wherein, The storage section (31) is sealed by a sealing element, particularly a film element (32), wherein the cylinder container (20) is connectable to the cylinder (30), wherein the cylinder container (20) is insertable into a beverage preparation machine, wherein the cylinder container (20) has a mixing chamber (21) fluidly connected to the storage section (31) and a fluid supply section (23) for supplying fluid through the beverage preparation machine into the mixing chamber (21), wherein the cylinder container (20) has a guide section (22) and a puncture needle (1) movably supported within the guide section (22), wherein the puncture needle (1) is... The device moves between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the puncture needle (1) is spaced apart from the sealing element of the cylinder (30), and in the extended position, the puncture needle (1) pierces the sealing element and extends into the storage portion (31), wherein, in the extended position, the compressed air line (11) of the puncture needle (1) can be accessed from outside the cylinder housing (20) via a compressed air port (9) of the puncture needle (1) connected to the compressed air port (25) of the cylinder housing (20), characterized in that the puncture needle (1) is constructed according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The cylindrical container (20) according to claim 20, characterized in that, When the cylindrical container (20) is placed into the beverage preparation machine, the puncture pin (1) can be moved from the retracted position to the extended position by the triggering element of the beverage preparation machine.

22. The cylindrical container (20) according to any one of claims 20 or 21, characterized in that, The mixing chamber (21) has a beverage outlet (24) through which a beverage formed by mixing the beverage substance with the fluid is output, wherein the cylindrical container (20) is preferably constructed such that the beverage can be directly introduced from the beverage outlet (24) into a portable container.

23. A system for making beverages, wherein, The system includes: a cylinder (30) comprising a storage compartment (31) filled with a beverage substance, the storage compartment being sealed by a sealing element, particularly a film element (32); and a cylinder accommodating member (20) according to any one of claims 20 to 22 connected to the cylinder (30), wherein the system can be placed in a beverage preparation machine to prepare a beverage.

24. A method for producing a beverage using the system according to claim 23, comprising the following steps: - Place the system into the holding unit of the beverage preparation machine. - Establish a fluid connection between the fluid source of the beverage preparation machine and the fluid supply section (23) of the container (20). - Establish a compressed air connection between the compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine and the compressed air interface (25) of the cylinder container (20). - The sealing element is pierced by moving the puncture pin (1) from the retracted position to the extended position. - The beverage substance is transferred from the storage container (31) to the mixing chamber (21) by supplying compressed air to the storage container (31). - Fluid is supplied to the mixing chamber (21) via the fluid supply unit (23), and - The beverage produced by mixing the beverage substance with the fluid in the mixing chamber (21) is discharged through the beverage outlet (24).

25. The method according to claim 24, wherein, The fluid is cooled and / or carbonized before being supplied to the mixing chamber (21).

26. The method according to any one of claims 24 or 25, wherein, The puncture needle (1) is moved from the retracted position to the extended position by the triggering element of the beverage preparation machine.

27. The puncture needle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 19 for use in the cylinder container (20) according to any one of claims 20 to 22, especially in the system according to claim 23 and / or in the production of beverages using the method according to any one of claims 24 to 26.

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