Beverage dispensing device equipped with a self-cleaning system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a beverage production apparatus (35) comprising: - a beverage dispensing device (17) comprising: o a liquid introduction port (27) o an air introduction port o a water and / or steam introduction port (51) o a mixing section o a cleaning port (61) - a water tank (48) - a fluid distribution system (68) arranged between the water tank (48) and the beverage dispensing device (17) and comprising a flow regulator (49) adapted to control the water and / or steam supply to the ports (51, 61) and configured to be selectively in: o a first position in which the flow regulator (49) prevents the flow of fluid to the cleaning port (61) and allows the flow of fluid to the water and / or steam introduction port (51), and o a second position in which the flow regulator (49) performs the opposite action.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a beverage dispensing apparatus in which liquid is delivered to the apparatus through a removable conduit inserted into an inlet port of the apparatus. This disclosure is particularly applicable to coffee dispensing apparatuses integrated with a milk dispensing system, wherein the removable conduit is a milk supply conduit. Background Technology

[0002] Known beverage dispensers include a dispensing device equipped with a liquid inlet port into which a liquid supply pipe can be inserted. The dispensing device may also include a steam or hot water inlet port. For example, in a milk frothing dispenser, the milk inlet port (in which a milk inlet pipe can be inserted) allows milk to be injected, and then the milk is mixed with steam and / or hot water, as well as air, in a frothing chamber to produce milk foam. Finally, the dispensing device allows the milk foam to be dispensed into a container through a dispensing nozzle configured for this purpose.

[0003] Beverage inlet ports typically require regular cleaning, more or less. The same applies to the liquid inlet tubing, which is fluidly connected to the liquid inlet port and is used to deliver liquid to it. In cases where the liquid inlet port is specifically for introducing milk, neglecting this regular cleaning can lead to milk protein residue buildup, producing an unpleasant odor over time. Therefore, it is essential for users to separate the tubing and the liquid inlet port and clean both individually. However, rinsing requires special attention, as users often rinse improperly or even forget to rinse at all. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a device that allows for proper cleaning of the liquid inlet port and liquid inlet pipe, which is more efficient and simpler than existing beverage dispensing devices.

[0005] Therefore, a beverage production equipment is proposed, comprising: - Beverage dispensing device, including: o A liquid inlet port, configured to receive a liquid inlet conduit, the liquid inlet port being configured to supply liquid to the liquid inlet channel. o Air inlet port, o Water and / or steam inlet port, The mixing section, including the liquid inlet port, air inlet port, and water and / or steam inlet port, is fluidly connected to the mixing section. o Cleaning port, which includes a first end that opens on the inner surface of the liquid inlet channel, - Water tank, - A fluid distribution system disposed between a water tank and a beverage dispensing device, the fluid distribution system comprising: o A flow regulator adapted to control the supply of water and / or steam to a cleaning port and to a water and / or steam inlet port, the flow regulator being configured to selectively be in the following positions: • In the first position, the flow regulator prevents fluid from flowing to the clean port and allows fluid to flow to the water and / or steam inlet port, and • Second position, in which the flow regulator prevents fluid from flowing to the water and / or steam inlet port and allows fluid to flow to the cleaning port.

[0006] The presence of a separate cleaning port, open within the liquid inlet channel and distinct from the other ports of the device, allows cleaning fluid to be delivered to the liquid inlet port. The presence of a flow regulator ensures that no fluid flows into the hot water and / or steam inlet ports during liquid inlet port flushing, which could otherwise alter the pressure of the fluid flowing in the liquid inlet port and compromise the cleaning quality.

[0007] According to certain implementation variations, the beverage production equipment also includes a shut-off valve arranged upstream of the flow regulator according to the normal flow direction of the fluid in the fluid distribution system. The shut-off valve is configured to be selectively in an open position (in which the shut-off valve allows fluid to flow to the flow regulator) or a closed position (in which the shut-off valve prevents fluid from flowing to the flow regulator).

[0008] According to certain implementation variations, the shut-off valve is configured to be in the closed position if the fluid pressure applied to the shut-off valve is below a predetermined threshold.

[0009] According to certain implementation variations, the beverage production equipment also includes a selection member for selecting the air flow rate through the air inlet port, which is located on the dispensing device and can be manually operated.

[0010] According to certain implementation variations, the hybrid portion includes: o A main flow conduit, fluidly connected to a water and / or steam inlet port and including a cross-sectional contraction, a first conduit portion of the main flow conduit located upstream of and extending to the cross-sectional contraction, a second conduit portion of the main flow conduit located downstream of and extending from the cross-sectional contraction, the second conduit portion forming a processing chamber, and o A mixing chamber, located downstream of the processing chamber, is provided with a beverage outlet port.

[0011] According to certain implementation variations, the processing chamber is a foaming chamber, and the beverage is a foamed beverage.

[0012] According to certain implementation variations, the hybrid portion includes: o A water / steam inlet channel extending between the water and / or steam inlet port and the first pipe section. o Liquid inlet channel, which extends between the liquid inlet port and the main flow channel, and o Air inlet channel, which extends between the air inlet port and the main flow duct.

[0013] According to certain implementation variations, the air inlet channel and the liquid inlet channel connect to the main flow channel at the section contraction, preferably directly downstream of the section contraction and upstream of the second pipe section.

[0014] According to certain implementation variations, the fluid distribution system includes, upstream of the flow regulator, components following the normal flow direction of the liquid originating from the tank: - Pumps, and - Heating element, which is configured to heat the fluid.

[0015] According to certain implementation variations, the beverage production equipment also includes a hot beverage inlet port and a hot beverage dispensing nozzle, with the hot beverage inlet port being fluidly connected to the hot beverage dispensing nozzle.

[0016] According to certain implementation variations, the fluid dispensing system includes a control component for a flow regulator adapted to alternately, preferably repeatedly, between a first position and a second position in a clean mode of the beverage dispensing device.

[0017] According to certain implementation variations, the beverage dispensing device is removably arranged in the dispensing head of the beverage production equipment, the dispensing head including two water and / or steam outlets, a water and / or steam inlet port and a cleaning port adapted to be connected to the two water and / or steam outlets respectively, and the beverage production equipment including two water and / or steam circulation channels connected to a flow regulator on one side and to the water and / or steam outlets on the other side.

[0018] Depending on certain implementation variations, the liquid introduction channel includes: - The first part, which is basically vertically arranged in the location of the beverage production equipment, and - The second part, which is arranged horizontally in the location of the beverage production equipment and connected to the liquid inlet port, flows into the first part.

[0019] According to certain implementation variations, the inner surface of the liquid inlet channel includes a discharge hole fluidly connected to a discharge nozzle. The discharge hole is disposed through the inner surface of the liquid inlet channel to allow liquid to drain from the liquid inlet channel under gravity when the liquid inlet pipe is not inserted into the liquid inlet port. The discharge hole is configured to be closed by the liquid inlet pipe when the liquid inlet pipe is inserted into the liquid inlet port.

[0020] Depending on certain implementation variations, when the shut-off valve is in its closed position, it also prevents any fluid from passing through it.

[0021] Depending on certain implementation variations, the hot water and / or steam inlet ports are positioned above the cleaning ports in the equipment's usage configuration.

[0022] According to certain implementation variations, hot water and / or steam inlet ports and cleaning ports are introduced into the rear surface of the beverage dispensing device, and preferably protrude from the rear surface.

[0023] According to certain implementation variations, the liquid inlet port enters into the side surface of the foamed beverage dispensing device and preferably protrudes from that side surface.

[0024] In some implementation variations, the airflow selection component is arranged on the upper surface of the beverage dispensing device.

[0025] According to certain implementation variations, the beverage production equipment also includes a tray for receiving containers, the tray including a liquid receiving portion configured to receive the end of a liquid inlet pipe not connected to the liquid inlet port during cleaning of the liquid inlet port via a cleaning port.

[0026] According to certain implementation variations, the liquid inlet port is configured to receive a milk inlet pipe, which is preferably removable relative to the liquid inlet port.

[0027] Depending on certain implementation variations, the hot beverage inlet port and the hot beverage dispensing nozzle are separate from the dispensing device.

[0028] Depending on certain implementation variations, the air inlet port and the cleaning port are separate.

[0029] Depending on certain implementation variations, the flow regulator is a fluid distribution valve.

[0030] In certain implementation variations, the cleaning port is a port dedicated to cleaning the beverage dispensing device with water and / or steam. This cleaning port has no other function, particularly no function to supply air to the liquid and / or the beverage dispensing device.

[0031] According to certain implementation variations, the beverage dispensing device includes a body that forms an assembly suitable for being gripped by the user as a whole, and integrates a cleaning port, a liquid inlet port, an air inlet port and a water and / or steam inlet port, as well as a mixing section.

[0032] According to certain implementation variations, the cleaning port, liquid inlet port, and liquid inlet channel are configured such that the cleaning water supplied to the cleaning port flows through the liquid inlet channel to the mixing section on the one hand and preferably to the mixing section, and on the other hand to the liquid inlet pipe and preferably through the liquid inlet pipe (when the liquid inlet pipe is connected to the liquid inlet port).

[0033] According to another aspect, this disclosure relates to a method for cleaning the liquid inlet channel of a beverage dispensing device associated with beverage production equipment, the beverage dispensing device comprising: • A liquid inlet port configured to receive a liquid inlet conduit, the liquid inlet port being configured to supply liquid to the liquid inlet channel. • Air inlet port • Water and / or steam inlet port, and • The mixing section, including the liquid inlet port, air inlet port, and water and / or steam inlet port, is fluidly connected to the mixing section. • A cleaning port, which includes a first end that opens on the inner surface of the liquid inlet channel. The method includes the following sequential steps: a. Switching the flow regulator of the fluid distribution system of the beverage production equipment from a first position to a second position, wherein in the first position the flow regulator prevents fluid from flowing to the cleaning port and allows fluid to flow to the water and / or steam inlet port, and in the second position the flow regulator prevents fluid from flowing to the water and / or steam inlet port and allows fluid to flow to the cleaning port, and b. Allow the fluid from the water tank to pass through the fluid distribution system and through the cleaning port of the beverage dispensing device. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Other features, purposes, and advantages will become apparent from the following description, which is purely illustrative and not restrictive, and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 The illustration shows beverage production equipment.

[0035] Figure 2a The illustration schematically shows a beverage dispensing device that can be used in a beverage production apparatus, positioned within the dispensing head of the beverage production apparatus.

[0036] Figure 2b Schematic illustration Figure 2a Beverage dispensing device.

[0037] Figure 2c The alternative view is schematically shown. Figure 2a A beverage dispensing device, which is inserted into the dispensing head.

[0038] Figure 2dThe alternative view is schematically shown. Figure 2a A beverage dispensing device, which is inserted into the dispensing head.

[0039] Figure 3a The arrangement of a fluid distribution system in a beverage production apparatus is schematically shown according to the first embodiment.

[0040] Figure 3b The arrangement of a fluid distribution system in a beverage production facility is schematically shown according to the second embodiment.

[0041] In all the accompanying drawings, the same or similar elements are indicated by the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Figure 1 The beverage production apparatus 35, shown by way of example, includes a dispensing head 37. The dispensing head 37 is configured to receive a beverage dispensing device 17 within a receiving cavity configured for this purpose, which is particularly shown in… Figures 2a to 2d Preferably, the dispensing device 17 is removably housed in the dispensing head 37.

[0043] Production equipment 35 is, in particular, coffee production equipment. In this embodiment, the dispensing head 37 includes at least one nozzle for dispensing coffee into a container.

[0044] The production equipment 35 also includes a first water / steam distribution outlet 47, which advantageously leads into the distribution head 37.

[0045] Advantageously, the production equipment 35 also includes a second water / steam distribution outlet 46, which also advantageously leads into the distribution head 37.

[0046] As a variation, the first water and / or steam distribution outlet 47 and the second water / steam distribution outlet 46 are introduced into the front surface of the production equipment, away from the distribution head 37.

[0047] The beverage dispensing device 17 includes a main body 62.

[0048] The beverage dispensing device includes a beverage outlet configured to deliver the beverage from an outlet orifice of a mixing chamber 66 (in which the beverage is mixed) to a dispensing insert 1. The mixing chamber 66 itself is preferably fluidly connected to a processing chamber 16, which is designed to allow the processing of untreated liquids to obtain a beverage.

[0049] The processing chamber 16 is located directly upstream of the mixing chamber 66 according to the normal flow direction of the liquid. Both the mixing chamber 66 and the processing chamber 16 belong to the mixing section of the beverage dispensing device 17.

[0050] The dispensing insert 1 is fixed to the beverage outlet of the beverage dispensing device 17, preferably in a removable manner so that the dispensing insert 1 and the dispensing device 17 can be cleaned independently. However, according to some embodiments, the dispensing insert 1 and the dispensing device 17 are integrated.

[0051] The axis X defines the height direction of the beverage dispensing device 17, and more generally the beverage production equipment 35 and the dispensing insert 1, and is arranged vertically in the normal use position of the beverage dispensing device 17.

[0052] According to some embodiments, the processing chamber 16 may be a foaming chamber in which unfoamed liquid is foamed, then enters the mixing chamber 66 to be mixed and thus homogenized, and then flows through the beverage outlet as a foamed beverage. The liquid then flows into the dispensing insert 1 for dispensing into a container placed below the dispensing head 37.

[0053] The processing chamber 16 is supplied with liquid by a liquid inlet channel 74, which itself is supplied with liquid by a liquid inlet port 27 of the beverage dispensing device 17. The liquid inlet channel 74 opens at an outlet on the main surface 60 of the body 62 of the dispenser 17.

[0054] The processing chamber 16 also has an opening on the main surface 60.

[0055] The processing chamber 16 is also supplied with liquid by a water / steam inlet channel, which is supplied with liquid by a water and / or steam inlet port 51 of the dispensing device 17. The water and / or steam inlet port 51 is preferably a steam or hot water inlet port, and alternatively, a steam or hot water or cold water inlet port.

[0056] The dispensing device 17 is fixed to the beverage production equipment 35, at least in part, by fixing / connecting the water and / or steam inlet port 51 to the first water and / or steam outlet 47 of the production equipment 35. The liquid inlet channel 74 has an inner surface 25.

[0057] According to some embodiments, the liquid inlet channel 74 includes a first portion 54 that is substantially vertical when the dispensing device 17 is in its normal operating position. The first portion 54 is in fluid connection with the mixing portion of the dispensing device 17. A second portion 55 of the liquid inlet channel (which is substantially horizontal in the normal operating position of the dispensing device 17) is connected to the liquid inlet port 27 at its first end and to the first portion 54 at its second end.

[0058] The liquid inlet port 27 itself can be connected via a liquid inlet conduit 22 to a reservoir 36 configured to hold unfoamed liquids, such as milk or even coffee, which are intended to be foamed in the processing chamber 16. The dispensing head 37 includes a channel opening 44 for allowing the liquid inlet conduit 22 to pass through the dispensing head 37 so as to be able to connect to the liquid inlet port 27 of the liquid dispensing device 17.

[0059] Preferably, the liquid inlet conduit 22 can be removed relative to the liquid inlet port 27.

[0060] The dispensing device 17 also includes an air inlet port that supplies liquid to an air inlet channel that opens at an outlet 31 upstream of the processing chamber 16.

[0061] In the case that the processing chamber 16 is a foaming chamber, the water and / or steam inlet channel supplies liquid to the main flow channel, which includes a cross-sectional contraction 67. The outlet 31 of the air inlet channel and the outlet of the liquid inlet channel both open directly downstream of the cross-sectional contraction 67 at the upstream end of the second pipe section forming the processing chamber 16.

[0062] Specifically, the main flow conduit includes a first conduit section 70 located upstream of the cross-sectional contraction 67 according to the normal flow direction of water and / or steam, and a second conduit section located downstream of the cross-sectional contraction 67. The second conduit section thereby defines a processing chamber 16 in which hot water / steam, liquid, and air are mixed before entering a mixing chamber 66.

[0063] For example, in the position of use of the dispensing device 17, the outlet 31 of the air inlet port is laterally connected to the main flow pipe, while the liquid inlet channel is vertically connected to the main flow pipe from below downstream of the cross-sectional contraction 67.

[0064] The section contraction 67 enables the suction of liquid and air to allow them to mix with water and / or steam in the processing chamber 16, thereby producing a foaming liquid.

[0065] Then, the output channel 69 of the processing chamber 16 is introduced into the mixing chamber 66 along a tangential trajectory so that the foaming liquid can be further mixed, thereby homogenizing it in the mixing chamber 66.

[0066] Processing chamber 16 may be, without limitation, a foaming chamber for milk and cocoa, milk and chocolate powder, milk and syrup, or coffee and cocoa.

[0067] The liquid inlet port 27 may open on a side surface of the beverage dispensing device 17. Preferably, it opens on a surface separate from the beverage dispensing device 17, referred to as the "rear" surface 72, which forms another side surface of the dispensing device in its normal use position. When the dispensing device 17 is installed in the dispensing head, the rear side surface 72 is located on one side of the dispensing device 17, while the surface referred to as the "front" surface is located in contact with the front surface 73 of the dispensing head 37, which is configured to face the user when the user uses the beverage dispensing equipment 35.

[0068] The liquid inlet port 27 preferably protrudes from the side surface of the dispensing device 17, which is separate from the rear surface 72.

[0069] The outlet of the liquid inlet channel is preferably located in a vertical position higher than the inlet 30 of the liquid inlet port 27 in the normal use position of the beverage dispensing device 17, so that gravity will prevent the liquid from accidentally flowing through the liquid inlet channel 74 and then into the main flow channel in the absence of negative pressure caused by the arrival of water and / or steam from the water and / or steam inlet port 51.

[0070] According to certain variations, the beverage production apparatus 35 also includes a hot beverage inlet port 3 through which a dispensing head 37 is introduced, and allows additional beverage to be delivered independently of the beverage flowing out of the mixing chamber 66 to a dispensing nozzle that dispenses the beverage flowing out of the mixing chamber 66.

[0071] For example, the hot beverage inlet port 3 and the dispensing nozzle connected thereto are independent of the beverage dispensing device 17.

[0072] The hot beverage inlet port 3 is specifically configured to receive coffee.

[0073] Cleaning ports and fluid distribution systems like Figure 2c As exemplarily shown, the beverage dispensing device 17 includes a cleaning port 61, which has an end that opens onto the inner surface 25 of the liquid inlet channel 74. The cleaning port 61 is configured to allow cleaning fluid (especially hot water) to enter the liquid inlet channel 74 to allow for effective cleaning of the liquid inlet channel 74 and the liquid inlet port 27.

[0074] The cleaning port 61 is configured to be fixedly / connected to the second water and / or steam outlet 46 of the production equipment 35.

[0075] The cleaning port 61 and the water and / or steam inlet port 51 are configured to, when connected to the second water and / or steam outlet 46 and the first water and / or steam outlet 47 respectively, [interact with / avoid / exchange / etc.]. Figure 3a and Figure 3b The fluid distribution system 68 shown in particular has a fluid connection.

[0076] The cleaning port 61 and the water and / or steam inlet port 51 together allow for cleaning of all ports and passages of the dispensing device 17: the water and / or steam inlet port 51 allows for cleaning of the main flow pipe as well as the processing chamber 16 and the mixing chamber 66, while water through the cleaning port 61 allows for cleaning of the liquid inlet port 27 and may clean the liquid inlet pipe 22 (when the pipe is connected to the liquid inlet port 27).

[0077] The fluid distribution system 68 includes a flow regulator 49, which is fluidly and independently connected on one side to a first water and / or steam outlet 47, and fluidly and independently connected on the other side to a second water and / or steam outlet 46. The flow regulator is configured to be movable between the two positions. - In a first position, the flow regulator 49 prevents fluid from flowing to the second water and / or steam outlet 46 and thus to the cleaning port 61, and in the same first position, the flow regulator 49 allows fluid to flow to the first water and / or steam outlet 47 and thus to the water and / or steam inlet port 51. - Second position, in which the flow regulator allows fluid to flow to the second water and / or steam outlet 46 and thus to the cleaning port 61, and prevents fluid from flowing to the first water and / or steam outlet 47 and thus to the water and / or steam inlet port 51.

[0078] Flow regulators 49, especially valves, such as solenoid valves.

[0079] To allow fluid to be supplied, the fluid distribution system 68 is fluidly connected to the fluid tank 48, which is located upstream of the fluid distribution system 68, according to the normal flow direction S of the fluid flowing through the second water and / or steam outlet 46 and the cleaning port 61 to the liquid inlet port 27, or through the first water and / or steam outlet 47 to the hot water and / or steam inlet port 51, depending on the location of the flow regulator 49.

[0080] Advantageously, tank 48 is the water tank of beverage production equipment 35, which is also used to supply water to equipment 35 for making coffee.

[0081] The fluid distribution system 68, more specifically the flow regulator 49, allows for efficient cleaning of the liquid inlet channel without the need for a separate fluid source from the fluid source used to supply hot water and / or steam inlet port 51, and in particular, eliminates the need for the user to connect the tank to the liquid inlet port 27 when cleaning the liquid inlet channel is anticipated. Furthermore, the liquid inlet channel can be cleaned periodically without disassembling the distribution device 17.

[0082] Specifically, in embodiments where the liquid inlet port 27 is configured to receive milk, the flow regulator 49 advantageously allows cleaning of all portions of the dispensing device 17 that have come into contact with milk, thus preventing these portions from becoming clogged or at least partially clogged due to the presence of dry milk. In fact, in its first position, the flow regulator 49 allows cleaning of the mixing portion, including the processing chamber 16 and the mixing chamber 66—both of which come into contact with milk—through the first water and / or steam outlet 47 and the hot water and / or steam inlet port 51. In its second position, the flow regulator 49 also allows cleaning of the liquid inlet port 27 and the liquid inlet channel 74 through the second water and / or steam outlet 46 and the cleaning port 61, which may also become clogged with dry milk if not cleaned regularly.

[0083] In some embodiments, the hot water and / or steam inlet port 51 is positioned above the cleaning port 61 in the usage location of the dispensing device 17. This reduces the risk that, under gravity, fluid flowing through the cleaning port 61 may accidentally enter the water and / or steam inlet channel and / or other pipes fluidly connected to it during cleaning of the liquid inlet channel via the cleaning port 61. Cleaning performed through the cleaning port 61 is therefore kept as close as possible to the liquid inlet port 27 and the liquid inlet channel 74.

[0084] The cleaning port 61 and the hot water and / or steam inlet port 51 can both be connected to the rear surface 72 of the distribution device 17.

[0085] Preferably, both the cleaning port 61 and the hot water and / or steam inlet port 51 protrude from the rear surface 72.

[0086] Preferably, the fluid contained in tank 48 is water. The fluid distribution system 68 includes a heating element 50 located between tank 48 and flow regulator 49, the heating element 50 being configured to heat the water from tank 48 before it reaches flow regulator 49.

[0087] The presence of the flow regulator 49 is advantageous in this context: without it, cleaning of the mixing section could be performed via the hot water and / or steam inlet port 51. However, once this cleaning is complete, steam generated by the heating element 50 heating water from the tank 48 and transmitted by the fluid distribution system 68 through the hot water and / or steam inlet port 51 could cause the mixing section to start unexpectedly. Conversely, the flow regulator 49 allows water flow to be redirected to the cleaning port 61 after such cleaning and prevents any steam flow to the water and / or steam inlet port 51, thus preventing any unexpected restart of the mixing section.

[0088] Furthermore, as will be seen below, the user may be required to place the end of the liquid inlet pipe 22 opposite to the end connected to the liquid inlet port 27 in a container to allow cleaning fluid to drain when cleaning the liquid inlet passage. In this case, the flow regulator 49 prevents the liquid from undesirably rising through the liquid inlet port 27 in the dispensing device 17, which, without the flow regulator 49, could occur by suction when residual steam flows through the water and / or steam inlet passages.

[0089] The beverage production equipment 35 includes two hot water and / or steam circulation channels 71, each of which is located downstream of the flow regulator 49 according to the normal flow direction S in the fluid distribution system 68, and each circulation channel 71 is fluidly connected to the flow regulator 49. One of the two circulation channels 71 is connected downstream to the hot water and / or steam inlet port 51 via a first water and / or steam outlet 47, while the other of the two channels 71 is connected downstream to the cleaning port 61 via a second water and / or steam outlet 46.

[0090] According to certain variations, the fluid distribution system 68 also includes a pump 52, which is capable of forcing fluid from tank 48 to heating element 50 and to flow regulator 49.

[0091] according to Figure 3b In a particular embodiment shown, the fluid distribution system 68 includes a shut-off valve 53 upstream of the flow regulator 49 according to the normal circulation direction S. This shut-off valve is adapted to selectively allow or block (at least partially, or even completely) the flow of fluid from the tank 48 to the flow regulator 49. The shut-off valve 53 is, in particular, a solenoid valve.

[0092] The shut-off valve 53 allows for the selective closure of any fluid connection between the fluid distribution system 68 and the distribution device 17.

[0093] For example, shut-off valve 53 can be configured to allow fluid from tank 48 to flow to flow regulator 49 when the fluid pressure is greater than a threshold, and to prevent fluid from tank 48 from flowing to flow regulator 49 when the fluid pressure is less than a threshold. Therefore, the fluid connection between fluid distribution system 68 and distribution device 17 is ensured only when the fluid pressure is sufficient to ensure proper operation of distribution device 17, thereby ensuring sufficient quality of the beverage produced by mixing chamber 66—without shut-off valve 53, the beverage might indeed continue to flow from the distribution outlet of device 17, but the flow rate of water / hot water or steam would be too low to ensure optimal treatment in the processing and mixing sections.

[0094] In addition, the presence of the shut-off valve 53 also allows water to be prevented from accidentally flowing to the water and / or steam inlet port 51 between multiple consecutive uses of the dispensing device 17.

[0095] According to certain variations, the dispensing device 17 includes a selection member 45 for selecting the airflow rate through the air inlet port. This allows the user to freely change the texture of the beverage flowing from the mixing section of the dispensing device 17.

[0096] The use of selection element 45 is possible under favorable conditions in fluid distribution system 68. Indeed, some prior art devices utilize the air passage of the device to allow cleaning fluid to pass through. However, the device proposed herein overcomes this limitation due to cleaning port 61 and flow regulator 49—thus allowing the user to change the airflow through the air inlet port without the risk of obstructing the passage of cleaning fluid, since the air inlet port is not intended for such fluid passage.

[0097] The selection member 45 may take the form of a button arranged on the outer wall of the dispensing device 17, such as a manually operable button. In particular, the selection member 45 may be a rotary selector type button that allows selection of an airflow rate between the minimum flow rate corresponding to a first extreme position of the selection member 45 and the maximum flow rate corresponding to a second extreme position of the selection member 45.

[0098] Selective component 45 is arranged, in particular, on the upper surface of the beverage dispensing device 17.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the beverage production equipment 35 is adapted to be placed in a cleaning mode of the dispensing device, in which the control unit of the flow regulator 49 alternately switches the flow regulator 49 between its first position and a second position.

[0100] Optionally, the control unit is configured to repeatedly alternate the position of the flow regulator 49 between a first position and a second position. Thus, cleaning is performed at regular intervals—when the flow regulator 49 is in its second position—between the stages of the beverage production equipment 35 being prepared for dispensing beverages—when the flow regulator 49 is in its first position.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the drain hole 24 is opened on the inner surface 25 of the liquid inlet channel 74. The drain hole 24 is also opened in a second portion 55 of the liquid inlet channel 74 configured to receive the liquid inlet conduit 22, such that when the liquid inlet conduit 22 is inserted into the liquid inlet port 27, the drain hole 24 is closed by the outer surface of the liquid inlet conduit 22 and does not interfere with the passage of liquid in the liquid inlet port 27.

[0102] Preferably, the discharge hole 24 is opened on the lower half of the inner surface 25 in the normal operating position of the dispensing device 17 so that liquid can flow into the discharge hole 24 under the action of gravity.

[0103] Conversely, when the liquid inlet conduit 22 is not contained within the liquid inlet port 27, the drain hole 24 is free. When liquid flows in the liquid inlet channel in a direction opposite to its normal flow direction within the liquid inlet channel, the drain hole 24 allows the liquid to drain out of the liquid inlet channel before reaching the liquid inlet port 27. In fact, without the drain hole 24, such liquid might flow out of the liquid inlet port 27 and splash onto the workbench where the dispensing device 35 is placed, or onto the user's hands.

[0104] Specifically, this liquid flows in the opposite direction to the normal circulation direction in the liquid inlet channel during the cleaning of the liquid inlet channel by water and / or steam delivered through cleaning port 61.

[0105] The drain hole 24 is arranged to allow liquid flowing in the liquid inlet channel 74 to be discharged through the drain nozzle. The drain hole 24 is thus fluidly connected to the drain nozzle. "Fluid connection" refers to any connection that allows liquid to be delivered from the inlet of the drain hole 24 to the drain nozzle. Specifically, such a fluid connection includes connections via continuous piping, but also includes discontinuous connections, i.e., a fluid connection can be ensured by an assembly consisting of a pipe adapted to supply liquid through the drain hole 24 and a receiving channel 21 opening directly below the pipe and supplying the drain nozzle, wherein the receiving channel 21 is not continuous with the piping.

[0106] During the cleaning of the liquid inlet channel through the cleaning port 61, it may be advantageous to place the end of the liquid inlet pipe 22 that is not connected to the liquid inlet port 27—while keeping the other end connected to the liquid inlet port 27—in an empty container to allow the cleaning fluid to drain from the liquid inlet port 27.

[0107] For this purpose, beverage production equipment 35 may include a tray for holding containers of beverages to be produced, the tray including a liquid-containing portion forming such empty containers for holding cleaning fluid.

[0108] Hinge cover The beverage dispensing device 17 is equipped with a lid 56, which is hinged relative to the body 62 via a hinge 59.

[0109] The cover is configured to be in a so-called "closed" position, in which it contacts the main surface 60, thus preventing entry into the main flow channel, thereby preventing entry into the processing chamber 16 and the mixing chamber 66.

[0110] Cover 56 is also configured to be in a so-called "open" position (e.g., shown in...). Figure 2b In this position, it is separated from the main surface 60 and allows access to the main flow channel, thereby entering the processing chamber 16 and the mixing chamber 66.

[0111] Preferably, the hinge 59 allows the cover 56 to open up to about 180° relative to the main surface 60, so that the user can easily access different channels accessible from the main surface 60 with their fingers, for example for manually cleaning the main surface 60.

[0112] To prevent liquid, hot water, or steam from overflowing from the distribution device 17 when the cover 56 is closed, a seal 57 surrounds at least some of the openings arranged in the main surface 60. The seal 57 is carried by the cover 56 or by the main surface 60.

[0113] Specifically, both the mixing chamber 66 and the main flow conduit can have openings on the main surface 60, and the opening 63 of the mixing chamber 66 on the main surface 60 is in direct communication with the processing chamber 16 (which also has an opening on the main surface 60) via the output channel 69 of the processing chamber 16. In this case, the seal 57 can surround the entire structure formed by the openings of the main flow conduit (including the opening of the processing chamber 16) and the opening 63 of the mixing chamber 66.

[0114] A reset element is provided in the dispensing device 17, configured to return the lid 56 to its open position without external force. In this way, when the dispensing device 17 is removed from the dispensing head, particularly for cleaning the dispensing device 17, and preferably when the dispensing device 17 (or only its body 62) is placed in a dishwasher, the lid 56 remains away from the main surface 60 and does not impede optimal cleaning of any openings present on the main surface. This cleaning allows for the removal of dried milk from the different channels and pipes of the dispensing device 17, especially when the dispensing device 17 has been previously used to prepare milk-based products. This maintains the optimal performance of the dispensing device 17 over time.

[0115] In some implementations, the reset element takes the form of a spring.

[0116] In particular, it may be a compression spring, which is fixed to one of the main surface 60 or the cover 56 and abuts against the other of the main surface 60 or the cover 56 as the cover 56 moves to its closed position.

[0117] The reset element can be a torsion spring, whose main axis is the main axis of hinge 59.

[0118] The reset element can also be a plastic sheet, which, in its resting position, lies in a plane intersecting the main surface 60.

[0119] The reset element can also be a ball screw.

[0120] According to certain implementations, and as Figure 2bAs shown, the reset element is formed by the reset section 58 of the seal 57. Specifically, the reset section 58 is formed at the end of the seal 57. During the manufacture of the seal 57, the reset section 58 is shaped, particularly when the seal 57 is formed of an elastomeric material, such that the reset section 58 extends away from the plane in its resting position from the rest of the seal 57. In this way, when the seal 57 is placed in a recess provided for this purpose in the cover 56 or the main surface 60, the seal protrudes from the cover 56 or the main surface 60.

[0121] Therefore, in the absence of external action, the reset section 58 tends to restore its shape as it was formed (especially molded) and reset the cover 56 to its open position.

[0122] Using the reset section 58 of the seal 57 to form the reset element advantageously eliminates the need for a separate reset element from the seal 57. This reduces the manufacturing cost of the dispensing device 17. It also reduces the complexity of the dispensing device 17, thereby reducing its vulnerability.

[0123] Preferably, in the open position of the cover 56, the reset section 58 protrudes vertically relative to the main surface 60 or the cover 56 in the normal use position of the dispensing device 17.

[0124] Preferably, when the seal 57 is received in the main surface 60, the reset section 58 is flush with the main surface 60 and / or with the remainder of the seal 57 in the closed position of the cover 56.

[0125] When the seal 57 is received in the main surface 60, according to some embodiments, the seal 57 includes a portion that at least partially surrounds the opening 63 of the mixing chamber 66. In this case, the reset segment 58 optionally extends from said portion of the seal 57.

[0126] In particular, the reset section 58 extends substantially parallel to the main direction of the processing chamber 16.

[0127] The reset section 58 is located, for example, near the hinge 59, particularly closer to the hinge 59 than the processing chamber 16. This allows the cover 56 to open at a greater angle in the open position than if the reset section 58 were located further away from the hinge 59—specifically, the distance from the hinge 59 is greater than the distance between the hinge 59 and the processing chamber 16.

[0128] According to some embodiments, the main surface 60 or the cover 56 includes a receiving cavity 64 for accommodating a reset element, allowing the reset element to be fully accommodated when the cover 56 is in its closed position. The receiving cavity 64 thus ensures that the cover 56 can contact the main surface 60 in its closed position without being blocked by the reset element.

[0129] When the reset element is formed by the reset section 68 of the seal 57, the receiving cavity 64 is provided to receive the reset section 68.

[0130] The thickness of the receiving cavity 64—defined here as a dimension perpendicular to the main surface 60 (or, when the seal 57 is received in the cover, a dimension perpendicular to the cover 56)—is greater than the thickness of the groove that receives the rest of the seal 57.

[0131] According to some embodiments, the dispensing device 17 is connected to the dispensing head 37 by inserting the dispensing device 17 into the guide rail 65 of the dispensing head 37. The guide rail 65 is configured to allow the dispensing device 17 to be inserted only when the cover 56 is in its closed position.

[0132] The guide rail 65 can limit the insertion limit position of the dispensing device 17 in the dispensing head 37, at which it is impossible to insert the dispensing device 17 further into the dispensing head 37.

[0133] Specifically, the guide rail 65 includes a sliding surface 75, which is configured to be positioned below the shoulder 76 of the body 62 in the normal operating position of the beverage production equipment 35. The guide rail 65 also includes a retaining surface 77, which is configured to prevent the cap 56 from moving to its open position when the dispensing device 17 is inserted into the guide rail 65.

[0134] The guide rail 65 prevents the cover 56 from opening when the dispensing device 17 is inserted into the dispensing head 37.

[0135] Preferably, the dispensing head 37 includes two guide rails 65 configured to receive two separate side surfaces of the body 62.

[0136] According to some embodiments, the dispensing head includes a hinged rod capable of holding the dispensing device 17 in its insertion limit position within the dispensing head 37. The hinged rod allows cooperation with the guide rail 65 to ensure the retention of the dispensing device 17.

[0137] In the described embodiment, the cleaning port 61 is a port dedicated to cleaning the beverage dispensing device 17 with water and / or steam. The cleaning port 61 has no other function, in particular, it does not supply air to the liquid and / or beverage dispensing device.

[0138] In the described embodiment, the main body 62 of the beverage dispensing device 17 is formed into an assembly suitable for being gripped by the user as a whole, and integrates a cleaning port 61, a liquid inlet port 27, an air inlet port and a water and / or steam inlet port 51, as well as a mixing section.

[0139] Advantageously, the cleaning port 61, liquid inlet port 27, and liquid inlet channel 74 are configured such that cleaning water supplied to the cleaning port 61 flows through the liquid inlet channel 74 to the mixing section on one hand and preferably to the mixing section, and on the other hand to the liquid inlet pipe 22 and preferably through the liquid inlet pipe (when the pipe is connected to the liquid inlet port 74). In other words, the relative arrangement of the cleaning port 61, liquid inlet port 27, and liquid inlet channel 74 ensures that the cleaning water supplied to the cleaning port 61 flows simultaneously to the mixing section side, and through the liquid inlet pipe 22 when connected to the liquid inlet port 27 to clean the liquid inlet pipe 22, the liquid inlet port 27, and the liquid inlet channel 74, and advantageously at least partially cleans the mixing section.

[0140] This disclosure also relates to a method for cleaning a liquid inlet channel 74 via a fluid distribution system 68, wherein a flow regulator 49 switches from its first position to its second position to allow fluid from a tank 68 to be supplied to the liquid inlet channel 74, the fluid being delivered from the tank 68 to the liquid inlet channel 74 via the fluid distribution system 68 and a cleaning port 61.

Claims

1. A beverage production apparatus (35), comprising: The beverage dispensing device (17) includes: - A liquid inlet port (27) configured to receive a liquid inlet conduit (22), the liquid inlet port (27) being configured to supply liquid to a liquid inlet channel (74). - Air inlet port, - Water and / or steam inlet port (51). - A mixing section, wherein the liquid inlet port (27), the air inlet port, and the water and / or steam inlet port (51) are fluidly connected to the mixing section, and - A cleaning port (61) comprising a first end opening on the inner surface (25) of a liquid inlet channel (74), Water tank (48) A fluid distribution system (68), disposed between a water tank (48) and a beverage dispensing device (17), includes a flow regulator (49) adapted to control the supply of water and / or steam to a cleaning port (61) and a water and / or steam inlet port (51), the flow regulator (49) being configured to selectively be in the following positions: - In the first position, the flow regulator (49) prevents fluid from flowing to the cleaning port (61) and allows fluid to flow to the water and / or steam inlet port (51), and - Second position, in which the flow regulator (49) prevents fluid from flowing to the water and / or steam inlet port (51) and allows fluid to flow to the cleaning port (61).

2. The beverage production equipment (35) according to claim 1 further includes a shut-off valve (53) arranged upstream of the flow regulator (49) according to the normal flow direction of the fluid in the fluid distribution system (68), the shut-off valve (53) being configured to be selectively in an open position or a closed position; in the open position, the shut-off valve (53) allows fluid to flow to the flow regulator (49); in the closed position, the shut-off valve (53) prevents fluid from flowing to the flow regulator (49).

3. The beverage production equipment (35) according to claim 2, wherein, The shut-off valve (53) is configured to be in the closed position if the fluid pressure on the shut-off valve (53) is lower than a predetermined threshold.

4. The beverage production apparatus (35) according to any one of claims 1 to 3 further includes a selection member (45) for selecting the air flow rate through the air inlet port, the selection member (45) being located on the dispensing device (17) and being manually operable.

5. The beverage production equipment (35) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The mixing component includes: - A main flow conduit, fluidly connected to a water and / or steam inlet port (51) and including a cross-sectional area contraction (67), a first conduit portion (70) of the main flow conduit located upstream of and extending to the cross-sectional area contraction (67), and a second conduit portion of the main flow conduit located downstream of and extending from the cross-sectional area contraction (67), the second conduit portion forming a processing chamber (16), and - A mixing chamber (66) located downstream of the processing chamber (16), the mixing chamber (66) being equipped with a beverage outlet port.

6. The beverage production equipment (35) according to the preceding claim, wherein, The processing chamber (16) is a foaming chamber, and the beverage is a foamed beverage.

7. The beverage production equipment (35) according to any one of claims 5 and 6, wherein, The mixing component includes: - A water / steam inlet channel extending between the water and / or steam inlet port (51) and the first pipe section (70), - A liquid inlet channel (74) extending between the liquid inlet port (27) and the main flow channel, and - Air inlet channel, which extends between the air inlet port and the main flow duct.

8. The beverage production equipment (35) according to the preceding claim, wherein, The air inlet channel and the liquid inlet channel (74) are connected to the main flow channel at the cross-sectional contraction (67), preferably directly downstream of the cross-sectional contraction (67) and upstream of the second pipe section.

9. The beverage production equipment (35) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The fluid distribution system (68) includes, upstream of the flow regulator (49), the following components based on the normal liquid flow direction (S) starting from the water tank (48): - Pump (52), and - Heating element (50), which is configured to heat the fluid.

10. The beverage production equipment (35) according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a hot beverage inlet port (3) and a hot beverage dispensing nozzle, wherein the hot beverage inlet port (3) is fluidly connected to the hot beverage dispensing nozzle.

11. The beverage production equipment (35) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The fluid dispensing system (68) includes a control component for a flow regulator (49) adapted to alternately, preferably repeatedly, between a first position and a second position in a clean mode of the beverage dispensing device (17).

12. The beverage production equipment (35) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The beverage dispensing device (17) is arranged to be removable from the dispensing head (37) of the beverage production equipment (35), the dispensing head (37) including two water and / or steam outlets, a water and / or steam inlet port (51) and a cleaning port (61) adapted to be connected to the two water and / or steam outlets respectively, and the beverage production equipment (35) including two water and / or steam circulation channels (71), which are connected to a flow regulator (49) on one side and to the water and / or steam outlets on the other side.

13. The beverage production equipment (35) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The liquid introduction channel (74) includes: - The first part (54), which is arranged substantially vertically in the position of use of the beverage production equipment (35), and - The second part (55), which is arranged substantially horizontally in the use position of the beverage production equipment (35) and connected to the liquid inlet port (27), the second part (55) leads into the first part (54).

14. The beverage production equipment (35) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cleaning port is a port specifically designed for cleaning the beverage dispensing device with water and / or steam.

15. A method for cleaning the liquid inlet channel (74) of a beverage dispensing device (17) associated with beverage production equipment, the beverage dispensing device (17) comprising: - A liquid inlet port (27) configured to receive a liquid inlet conduit (22), the liquid inlet port (27) being configured to supply liquid to a liquid inlet channel (74). - Air inlet port, - Water and / or steam inlet port (51), and - A mixing section, wherein the liquid inlet port (27), the air inlet port, and the water and / or steam inlet port (51) are fluidly connected to the mixing section. - A cleaning port (61) comprising a first end opening on the inner surface (25) of a liquid inlet channel (74), The method comprises the following sequential steps: a. Switching the flow regulator (49) of the fluid distribution system (68) of the beverage production equipment from a first position to a second position, wherein in the first position the flow regulator (49) prevents fluid from flowing to the clean port (61) and allows fluid to flow to the water and / or steam inlet port (51), and in the second position the flow regulator (49) prevents fluid from flowing to the water and / or steam inlet port (51) and allows fluid to flow to the clean port (61), and b. Allow the fluid from the water tank (48) to pass through the fluid distribution system (68) and through the cleaning port (61) of the beverage dispensing device (17).

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