Beverage machine

Abstract

The application provides a beverage machine, comprising: a main body, a target cleaning chamber is arranged in the main body; a feeding device is used for feeding solid cleaning agent to the target cleaning chamber; the feeding device comprises: a first feeding channel comprising a first feeding port and a first discharging port, the first feeding channel is used for conveying solid cleaning agent in a first form, and the solid cleaning agent in the first form enters the target cleaning chamber through the first discharging port; a second feeding channel comprising a second feeding port and a second discharging port, the second feeding channel is used for conveying solid cleaning agent in a second form, and the solid cleaning agent in the second form enters the target cleaning chamber through the second discharging port; wherein the first form is different from the second form. The application can feed solid cleaning agent in different forms by using the feeding device, thereby improving the flexibility and practicability of the beverage machine.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In recent years, with the improvement of living standards, beverage machines have become increasingly widely used in homes and commercial establishments. As a device that can automatically prepare beverages such as coffee and tea, beverage machines greatly facilitate people's daily lives. During the use of beverage machines, cleaning and maintenance are crucial to ensuring beverage quality and the machine's lifespan. To effectively clean the internal components of the beverage machine, especially the brewing unit, it is usually necessary to clean it regularly with solid cleaning agents. These solid cleaning agents can remove limescale, coffee oils, and other residues, ensuring the pure taste of the beverage and the normal operation of the machine. To enhance the user experience, beverage machines are usually equipped with a dispensing device for adding solid cleaning agents to the machine's internal components (such as the brewing unit).

[0003] Solid cleaning agents on the market come in various forms, mainly including spherical and flake forms. However, existing dispensing devices are often only suitable for specific forms of solid cleaning agents, resulting in poor versatility. Using solid cleaning agents with incompatible forms can easily lead to jamming. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a beverage machine that solves the technical problem of existing dispensing devices being compatible with only one type of solid cleaning agent.

[0005] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, the present invention provides a beverage machine, comprising:

[0006] The main body is used to generate beverages, and a target cleaning chamber is provided inside the main body;

[0007] A dispensing device for dispensing solid cleaning agent into the target cleanroom;

[0008] The dispensing device includes:

[0009] The first dispensing channel includes a first inlet and a first outlet. The first dispensing channel is used to deliver a first form of solid cleaning agent, which enters the target cleaning chamber through the first outlet.

[0010] The second dispensing channel includes a second inlet and a second outlet. The second dispensing channel is used to deliver a second form of solid cleaning agent. The second form of solid cleaning agent enters the target cleaning chamber through the second outlet.

[0011] The first form is different from the second form.

[0012] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the first form of solid detergent is spherical; the second form of solid detergent is flake-shaped.

[0013] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional shape of the first dispensing channel is adapted to the solid cleaning agent of the first form, and the cross-sectional shape of the second dispensing channel is adapted to the solid cleaning agent of the second form.

[0014] The cross-sectional shape of the first delivery channel is different from that of the second delivery channel.

[0015] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device further includes a third dispensing channel, the third dispensing channel including a third inlet and a third outlet, the third dispensing channel being used to convey the first form of solid cleaning agent, the first form of solid cleaning agent entering the target cleaning chamber through the third outlet; the third dispensing channel is arranged in parallel with the first dispensing channel.

[0016] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device further includes a movable dispensing member, in which a second dispensing channel is formed; the movable dispensing member is detachably disposed within the third dispensing channel.

[0017] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device further includes a housing, on which the first dispensing channel and the third dispensing channel are formed;

[0018] The movable dispensing component is slidably and detachably connected to the housing, and the movable dispensing component can slide into the third dispensing channel.

[0019] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the beverage machine satisfies at least one of the following features:

[0020] The cross-sectional shape of the third dispensing channel is adapted to the solid cleaning agent of the first form;

[0021] The opening size of the second inlet is smaller than that of the third inlet, and the opening size of the second outlet is smaller than that of the third outlet.

[0022] The active delivery component is slidably positioned within the third delivery channel;

[0023] The second discharge port corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber. The solid cleaning agent is put into the second feeding channel from the second inlet and falls into the target cleaning chamber through the second discharge port.

[0024] The third discharge port corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber. The solid cleaning agent, which is put into the third feeding channel from the third inlet, falls into the target cleaning chamber through the third discharge port.

[0025] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device further includes:

[0026] The feeding component has at least one receiving position and a discharging position. When the feeding component is in the receiving position, the receiving position corresponds to the first discharge port position, and the solid cleaning agent in the first dispensing channel can be conveyed from the first discharge port to the receiving position. When the feeding component is in the discharging position, the receiving position is offset from the first discharge port position, and the solid cleaning agent stored in the receiving position falls into the target cleaning chamber.

[0027] A driving mechanism is connected to the feeding component for driving the feeding component to reciprocate or rotate a full circle, so that the feeding component moves to the receiving position or the dropping position.

[0028] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device further includes a housing, on which the first dispensing channel and the second dispensing channel are formed, and the first dispensing channel and the second dispensing channel are arranged side by side.

[0029] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device further includes a feeding component, which is provided with at least one receiving position. The feeding component can be controlled to make the receiving position correspond to the position of the first discharge port or to the position of the target cleaning chamber. The solid cleaning agent is dispensed from the first inlet into the first dispensing channel and then dispensed into the target cleaning chamber through the feeding component.

[0030] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the second discharge port corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber, and the second dispensing channel is used to dispense solid cleaning agent into the second dispensing channel through the second inlet, and then dispensing it into the target cleaning chamber through the second discharge port.

[0031] As a further improvement to one embodiment of the present invention, it also includes:

[0032] A first sensor is used to detect whether the solid cleaning agent is stored in the receiving position;

[0033] The control module is used to acquire the position information of the feeding component, and when it is acquired that the receiving position corresponds to the position of the first discharge port, it controls the first sensor to perform detection.

[0034] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, a prompting module is also included, which is used to issue prompting information;

[0035] The control module is also used to control the prompting module to issue the prompting information when the first sensor detects that no solid cleaning agent is stored in the receiving position.

[0036] As a further improvement to one embodiment of the present invention, the beverage machine further includes:

[0037] The second sensor is located at the entrance of the target cleaning chamber, which allows the solid cleaning agent to enter. The detection area of ​​the second sensor is located on a first movement path of the solid cleaning agent entering the target cleaning chamber from the first dispensing channel, and also on a second movement path of the solid cleaning agent entering the target cleaning chamber from the second dispensing channel. The second sensor is used to detect whether the solid cleaning agent has fallen into the target cleaning chamber.

[0038] The control module is used to control the beverage machine to execute a cleaning program when it detects that the solid cleaning agent has fallen into the target cleaning chamber.

[0039] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: by setting up a first dispensing channel and a second dispensing channel, which are used to deliver solid cleaning agents in different forms respectively, the device's adaptability to common solid cleaning agents on the market is enhanced, the flexibility and practicality of the beverage machine are improved, the risk of solid cleaning agents getting stuck is effectively reduced, and the reliability of the cleaning process and user experience are greatly improved. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the dispensing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the dispensing device with the movable dispensing component in a disassembled state.

[0042] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the feeding component of the dispensing device in the receiving position.

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the feeding component of the dispensing device in the dropping position.

[0044] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic of the dispensing device after the movable dispensing component has been removed.

[0045] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the dispensing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 The diagram shows the feeding component of the dispensing device in the receiving position.

[0047] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 The diagram shows the feeding component of the dispensing device in the dropping position. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present invention, and any structural, methodological, or functional modifications made by those skilled in the art based on these embodiments are included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0049] It should be understood that terms such as “above,” “over,” “below,” and “under” used herein to indicate spatial relative position are for illustrative purposes to describe the relationship of one unit or feature relative to another unit or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings. The terms “spatial relative position” may be intended to include different orientations of the equipment in use or operation other than those shown in the figures.

[0050] This invention provides a beverage machine. The beverage machine can be a coffee machine or a tea extractor, etc.

[0051] In one embodiment of the present invention, the beverage machine includes a main body. The main body is used to generate beverages, such as coffee, tea, or other drinks.

[0052] The main unit contains a target cleaning chamber. This chamber can be a brewer that requires regular cleaning or a dedicated cleaning area. Alternatively, the target cleaning chamber can be a separate cleaning water tank, which can be connected to components such as the brewer inside the main unit via piping to clean the main unit.

[0053] The beverage machine also includes a dispensing device 1, which is used to dispense solid cleaning agent into the target clean room.

[0054] In this embodiment, the solid cleaning agent can dissolve in water to form a cleaning solution.

[0055] The beverage machine can be equipped with a cleaning program. When the beverage machine needs cleaning, solid cleaning agent can be added to the target cleaning chamber through the dispensing device 1. After the solid cleaning agent is added to the target cleaning chamber, the cleaning program can be started to automatically clean the inside of the main unit.

[0056] See Figures 1 to 5 This is the dispensing device 1 provided in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] In this embodiment, the dispensing device 1 includes a first dispensing channel 20. The first dispensing channel 20 includes a first inlet 21 and a first outlet 22. The first dispensing channel 20 is used to convey a first form of solid cleaning agent, which enters the target cleaning chamber through the first outlet 22.

[0058] Users can deposit solid cleaning agent in its first form into the first dispensing channel 20 through the first inlet 21. The solid cleaning agent can move along the first dispensing channel 20 under its own gravity and be discharged from the first outlet 22. After being discharged from the first outlet 22, the solid cleaning agent can either slide directly into the target cleaning chamber or be conveyed to the target cleaning chamber via other conveying components.

[0059] To ensure that the first form of solid cleaning agent can smoothly and accurately enter the target cleaning chamber, the design of the first dispensing channel 20 needs to take into account the shape and size of the first form of solid cleaning agent, as well as the relative position between the dispensing device and the target cleaning chamber. For example, the inner wall of the first dispensing channel 20 can be made of a smooth material to reduce the resistance of the first form of solid cleaning agent during transportation. In addition, the cross-sectional dimensions of the first dispensing channel 20 also need to match the shape of the first form of solid cleaning agent to ensure that the solid cleaning agent can pass through smoothly.

[0060] The dispensing device 1 also includes a second dispensing channel 30. The second dispensing channel 30 includes a second inlet 31 and a second outlet 32. The second dispensing channel 30 is used to convey a second form of solid cleaning agent, which enters the target cleaning chamber through the second outlet 32.

[0061] Users can dispense solid cleaning agent in a second form into the second dispensing channel 30 through the second inlet 31. The solid cleaning agent moves along the second dispensing channel 30 under its own weight and is discharged from the second outlet 32. After being discharged from the second outlet 32, the solid cleaning agent can either slide directly into the target cleaning chamber or be conveyed to the target cleaning chamber via other conveying components.

[0062] To ensure the smooth and accurate entry of the second-form solid cleaning agent into the target cleaning chamber, the design of the second dispensing channel 30 needs to consider the shape and size of the second-form solid cleaning agent, as well as the relative position between the dispensing device and the target cleaning chamber. For example, the inner wall of the second dispensing channel 30 can be made of a smooth material to reduce resistance during the transport of the second-form solid cleaning agent. Furthermore, the cross-sectional dimensions of the second dispensing channel 30 also need to match the shape of the second-form solid cleaning agent to ensure its smooth passage.

[0063] If the form of solid cleaning agents does not match the dispensing channel, dispensing problems may occur, or even the solid cleaning agents may get stuck in the dispensing channel. Matching the form of solid cleaning agents to the dispensing channel ensures that each type of solid cleaning agent can pass smoothly through its corresponding channel, avoiding dispensing difficulties and jamming problems caused by form mismatch.

[0064] The first form differs from the second form. Thus, users can use the dispensing device 1 to dispense various forms of solid cleaning agents, which not only improves the versatility of the dispensing device 1 but also overcomes the limitation of existing technologies that can only dispense a single form of solid cleaning agent.

[0065] Meanwhile, the technical solution provided in this embodiment, by setting up two independent dispensing channels—the first dispensing channel 20 and the second dispensing channel 30—for dispensing different forms of solid cleaning agents respectively, can effectively prevent users from dispensing different forms of solid cleaning agents into the same dispensing channel, thereby preventing solid cleaning agents from getting stuck and ensuring the normal use of the equipment.

[0066] By designing multiple dispensing channels that match different forms of solid cleaning agents, the problems of unsuccessful dispensing and jamming during the solid cleaning agent dispensing process are effectively solved, improving the reliability and efficiency of the equipment.

[0067] In one embodiment, the first form of solid cleaning agent is spherical. The second form of solid cleaning agent is flake-shaped. Specifically, the second form of solid cleaning agent is in the shape of round flakes. Thus, the beverage machine is compatible with both spherical and flake-shaped solid cleaning agents commonly found on the market.

[0068] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional shape of the first dispensing channel 20 is adapted to the solid detergent of the first form. The cross-sectional shape of the second dispensing channel 30 is adapted to the solid detergent of the second form. The cross-sectional shapes of the first dispensing channel 20 and the second dispensing channel 30 are different.

[0069] In one embodiment, when the solid detergent in the first form is spherical, the first dispensing channel 20 can accommodate one or more rows of spherical solid detergent. The cross-section of the first dispensing channel 20 may be square.

[0070] Specifically, when the first dispensing channel 20 is designed to accommodate a row of spherical solid detergents, the width and length of the square cross-section can be slightly larger than the diameter of the spherical solid detergents.

[0071] When the first dispensing channel 20 is designed to accommodate two rows of spherical solid detergents, the width of the square cross-section can be slightly larger than the diameter of the spherical solid detergent, and the length of the square cross-section can be slightly larger than twice the diameter of the spherical solid detergent.

[0072] Thus, multiple spherical solid cleaning agents can be arranged in one or more rows in an orderly manner within the first dispensing channel 20. Furthermore, the spherical solid cleaning agents can slide smoothly within the first dispensing channel 20.

[0073] When the second form of solid detergent is in flake form, the second dispensing channel 30 can accommodate one or more rows of flake-shaped solid detergent. The cross-section of the second dispensing channel 30 can be rectangular.

[0074] Specifically, when the second dispensing channel 30 is designed to accommodate a row of sheet-like solid detergents, the width of the cross-section of the second dispensing channel 30 can be slightly greater than the thickness of the sheet-like solid detergents, and the length of the cross-section of the second dispensing channel 30 can be slightly greater than the diameter of the sheet-like solid detergents. This allows the sheet-like solid detergents to be arranged orderly within the second dispensing channel 30 and to pass through smoothly.

[0075] In this embodiment, the width of the cross-section of the first feeding channel 20 is greater than the width of the cross-section of the second feeding channel 30. The opening size of the first inlet 21 may be greater than the opening size of the second inlet 31. The opening size of the first outlet 22 may be greater than the opening size of the second outlet 32.

[0076] In this way, users can determine the appropriate solid cleaning agent for the first dispensing channel 20 and the second dispensing channel 30 by checking the opening size of the first inlet 21 and the second inlet 31, thus avoiding incorrect dispensing that could cause the solid cleaning agent to get stuck in the dispensing channel.

[0077] The technical solution provided in this embodiment effectively avoids the problem of solid detergents getting stuck during transportation due to mismatch between their shape and the dispensing channel, and significantly improves the compatibility and dispensing efficiency of solid detergents in different forms.

[0078] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device 1 further includes a third dispensing channel 60. The third dispensing channel 60 includes a third inlet 61 and a third outlet 62.

[0079] The third dispensing channel 60 is used to convey the first form of solid cleaning agent, which enters the target cleaning chamber through the third discharge port 62. The third dispensing channel 60 is arranged in parallel with the first dispensing channel 20.

[0080] In this embodiment, the third delivery channel 60 and the first delivery channel 20 are two independent delivery channels.

[0081] By setting up parallel first dispensing channel 20 and third dispensing channel 60, the reliability, flexibility, and fault tolerance of the beverage machine are improved. Even if one of the first dispensing channel 20 or the third dispensing channel 60 is unusable for any reason, such as running out of solid detergent or getting stuck, the user can still dispense solid detergent through the other parallel dispensing channel, thus ensuring the normal use of the beverage machine and the smooth progress of the cleaning process.

[0082] In this embodiment, the design principle of the third dispensing channel 60 is similar to that of the first dispensing channel 20. The cross-sectional shape of the third dispensing channel 60 is adapted to the solid detergent of the first form to ensure that the solid detergent of the first form can pass through smoothly. At the same time, the cross-sectional width and length of the third dispensing channel 60, the opening size of the third inlet 61, and the opening size of the third outlet 62 are also matched with the solid detergent of the first form to avoid incorrect dispensing by the user.

[0083] In this embodiment, the dispensing device 1 further includes a movable dispensing member 11. A second dispensing channel 30 is formed within the movable dispensing member 11. The movable dispensing member 11 is detachably disposed within the third dispensing channel 60.

[0084] When the user needs to dispense the first form of solid cleaning agent, the movable dispensing component 11 can be removed. At this time, both the first dispensing channel 20 and the third dispensing channel 60 of the dispensing device 1 can be used. The user can choose to use either the first dispensing channel 20 or the third dispensing channel 60 to dispense the first form of solid cleaning agent into the target cleaning chamber.

[0085] When a user wants to dispense the second form of solid cleaning agent, or needs to alternate between dispensing the first and second forms of solid cleaning agent, the active dispensing unit 11 can be installed in the third dispensing channel 60.

[0086] At this time, the first dispensing channel 20 and the second dispensing channel 30 of the dispensing device 1 are arranged side by side. Users can selectively use the first dispensing channel 20 to dispense the first form of solid cleaning agent or use the second dispensing channel 30 to dispense the second form of solid cleaning agent according to their own needs.

[0087] In this way, the dispensing device 1 can be adapted to different forms of solid cleaning agents, and users can flexibly choose different dispensing channels to dispense different forms of solid cleaning agents.

[0088] In this embodiment, the second dispensing channel 30 can be disposed inside the third dispensing channel 60, thus the second dispensing channel 30 is narrower than the third dispensing channel 60. The movable dispensing component 11 is detachably installed inside the third dispensing channel 60, which also facilitates the user to remove the movable dispensing component 11 for cleaning when solid cleaning agent is stuck in the second dispensing channel 30.

[0089] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device 1 includes a housing 10. A first dispensing channel 20 is formed on the housing 10. Specifically, a cavity is directly formed inside the housing 10 to form the first dispensing channel 20.

[0090] In one embodiment, a third delivery channel 60 is also formed on the housing 10. Similarly, a cavity is directly formed inside the housing 10 to form the third delivery channel 60.

[0091] The first feeding channel 20 and the third feeding channel 60 can be two independent channels arranged in parallel. The first inlet 21 and the third inlet 61 are arranged in parallel.

[0092] Both the first dispensing channel 20 and the second dispensing channel 30 are inclined channels arranged relative to the horizontal plane. The first dispensing channel 20 can hold at least one row of solid detergent in a first form. The second dispensing channel 30 can hold at least one row of solid detergent in a second form.

[0093] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The first dispensing channel 20 can store and accommodate a single row of solid cleaning agent in the first form, and the second dispensing channel 30 can allow a single row of solid cleaning agent in the second form to pass through.

[0094] When solid cleaning agent is added from the first inlet 21 into the first dispensing channel 20, it slides along the first dispensing channel 20 under the influence of gravity and can be discharged directly from the first outlet 22. Similarly, when solid cleaning agent is added from the second inlet 31 into the second dispensing channel 30, it slides along the second dispensing channel 30 under the influence of gravity and can be discharged directly from the second outlet 32.

[0095] The movable dispensing component 11 is slidably disposed within the third dispensing channel 60. Specifically, the movable dispensing component 11 is slidably and detachably connected to the housing 10, and the movable dispensing component 11 can slide into the third dispensing channel 60.

[0096] Optionally, the movable dispensing component 11 and the housing 10 can be fixed by a structure such as a latch to achieve quick installation and disassembly. This application does not limit the detachable connection method between the movable dispensing component 11 and the housing 10.

[0097] In this embodiment, the second delivery channel 30 may also be an inclined channel that is tilted relative to the horizontal plane.

[0098] The external shape of the movable dispensing component 11 is adapted to the shape of the third dispensing channel 60, allowing the movable dispensing component 11 to slide smoothly within the third dispensing channel 60. Furthermore, once the movable dispensing component 11 is inserted into the third dispensing channel 60, it achieves a secure installation. This allows users to quickly install and remove the movable dispensing component 11.

[0099] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional shape of the third dispensing channel 60 is adapted to the solid cleaning agent of the first form. Thus, the solid cleaning agent of the first form can smoothly slide through the third dispensing channel 60, preventing it from getting stuck within the third dispensing channel 60.

[0100] In one embodiment, the opening size of the second inlet 31 is smaller than the opening size of the third inlet 61. The opening size of the second outlet 32 ​​is smaller than the opening size of the third outlet 62.

[0101] In a specific embodiment, the first form of solid detergent is spherical, and the second form of solid detergent is flake-shaped. Specifically, the first dispensing channel 20 and the third dispensing channel 60 can be used to convey spherical solid detergent, while the second dispensing channel 30 is used to convey flake-shaped solid detergent. The cross-section of the third dispensing channel 60 is wider than the cross-section of the second dispensing channel 30.

[0102] The second inlet 31 allows the passage of solid cleaning agent in the second form, but not in the first form. Similarly, the second outlet 32 ​​allows the passage of solid cleaning agent in the second form, but not in the first form, thereby preventing users from dispensing solid cleaning agent into an incompatible dispensing channel, which could cause the solid cleaning agent to get stuck in the dispensing channel.

[0103] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second discharge port 32 corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber. Solid cleaning agent is put into the second delivery channel 30 from the second inlet port 31 and falls into the target cleaning chamber through the second discharge port 32.

[0104] The third discharge port 62 corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber. Solid cleaning agent is put into the third delivery channel 60 from the third inlet port 61 and falls into the target cleaning chamber through the third discharge port 62.

[0105] In this embodiment, both the second dispensing channel 30 and the third dispensing channel 60 are manually operated. The second discharge port 32 corresponds to the target cleaning chamber, and the solid cleaning agent in the second form can fall directly into the target cleaning chamber from the second discharge port 32 under its own gravity without the need for a feeding component.

[0106] Similarly, the third discharge port 62 corresponds to the target cleaning chamber. The solid cleaning agent in its first form can fall directly into the target cleaning chamber from the third discharge port 62 under its own gravity, without the need for a feeding component. Regardless of whether the movable dispensing component 11 is used, the solid cleaning agent can accurately fall directly into the target cleaning chamber. Users can flexibly choose whether to install the movable dispensing component 11 according to the form of the solid cleaning agent they need to dispense.

[0107] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the dispensing device 1 further includes a feeding member 40. The feeding member 40 is provided with at least one receiving position 41, and the feeding member 40 has a receiving position and a dispensing position.

[0108] When the feeding component 40 is in the receiving position, the receiving position 41 corresponds to the position of the first discharge port 22, and the solid cleaning agent in the first dispensing channel 20 can be conveyed from the first discharge port 22 to the receiving position 41. When the feeding component 40 is in the dropping position, the receiving position 41 is offset from the position of the first discharge port 22, and the solid cleaning agent stored in the receiving position 41 falls into the target cleaning chamber.

[0109] The dispensing device 1 also includes a drive mechanism 50. The drive mechanism 50 is connected to the feeding component 40 for driving the feeding component 40 to reciprocate or rotate a full circle, so that the feeding component 40 moves to the receiving position or the dropping position.

[0110] In this embodiment, the feeding component 40 is rotatably mounted inside the housing 10. The housing 10 may also be provided with a discharge port 13. The discharge port 13 may correspond to the position of the target cleaning chamber and be arranged side by side with the second discharge port 32 or the third discharge port 62. When the feeding component 40 moves to the discharge position, the solid cleaning agent can be discharged from the receiving position 41 and enter the target cleaning chamber through the discharge port 13 under its own gravity.

[0111] The feeding component 40 may have only one receiving position 41. When the feeding component 40 is in the receiving position, the solid cleaning agent in the first dispensing channel 20 slides directly from the first outlet 22 into the receiving position 41. When the feeding component 40 is in the discharging position, the solid cleaning agent in the receiving position 41 can slide directly into the target cleaning chamber under the action of gravity.

[0112] The shape of the feeding component 40 is not limited, as long as it can meet the functions of receiving and discharging materials. For example, the feeding component 40 can be set as a disc shape, and the receiving position 41 can be set as a groove on it. Alternatively, the feeding component 40 can also be set as a fan shape, and the receiving position 41 can be set as a groove on it.

[0113] Of course, the feeding component 40 may also have multiple receiving positions 41. Specifically, the multiple receiving positions 41 may be arranged at intervals along the circumference of the feeding component 40. When the feeding component 40 is in the receiving position, one of the multiple receiving positions 41 corresponds to the position of the first discharge port 22 to receive the solid cleaning agent sliding down from the first dispensing channel 20. The drive mechanism 50 can drive the feeding component 40 to rotate a full circumference.

[0114] Specifically, the feeding component 40 can be configured as a disc, and the receiving position 41 can be configured as multiple grooves arranged at intervals along the circumference of the disc.

[0115] In a specific embodiment provided by the present invention, the driving mechanism 50 may include a motor 51 and a transmission mechanism. The motor 51 may be a linear stepper motor 51. The transmission mechanism includes a push rod 52 driven by the motor 51, and the push rod 52 is connected to the motor 51. The push rod 52 is provided with a first tooth 53. The feeding member 40 is provided with a second tooth 42, which may be arc-shaped. The first tooth 53 and the second tooth 42 mesh. The driving mechanism 50 can drive the feeding member 40 to reciprocate between the receiving position and the dropping position.

[0116] By using a stepper motor 51 to drive the feeding component 40, the position of the feeding component 40 can be precisely controlled by controlling the number of steps or the state of the stepper motor 51, and the position information of the feeding component 40 can be obtained. There is no need for an additional position detection sensor to detect the position of the feeding component 40, thus simplifying the hardware structure and software control logic.

[0117] In this embodiment, the automatic dispensing of solid cleaning agent is achieved through the cooperation of the feeding component 40 and the driving mechanism 50, which reduces the labor intensity of manual dispensing by users and improves the accuracy and efficiency of dispensing.

[0118] In this embodiment, a certain amount of solid cleaning agent in the first dispensing channel 20 can also be stored. When the feeding component 40 is in the receiving position, one of the solid cleaning agents stored in the first dispensing channel 20 can automatically fall into the receiving position 41.

[0119] In this way, a certain amount of solid cleaning agent in the first form can be stored in the first dispensing channel 20, and the solid cleaning agent in the first form can be automatically dispensed by the dispensing device 1.

[0120] The technical solution provided in this embodiment is compatible with both automatic and manual dispensing functions, and can dispense two different forms of solid cleaning agents. Users can selectively use different methods and dispensing different forms of solid cleaning agents according to their own needs, solving the problem of incompatibility between the dispensing device 1 and solid cleaning agents in the prior art. At the same time, it can effectively deal with problems such as automatic dispensing malfunctions.

[0121] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the dispensing device 1 further includes a first sensor 12. The first sensor 12 may be a through-beam optocoupler or a single-sided optocoupler. The first sensor 12 is used to detect whether solid cleaning agent is stored in the receiving position 41.

[0122] The beverage machine also includes a control module. The control module is used to acquire the position information of the feeding component 40, and when it is acquired that the receiving position 41 corresponds to the position of the first discharge port 22, it controls the first sensor 12 to perform detection.

[0123] In this embodiment, when motor 51 is a stepper motor 51, the control module can obtain the position information of the feeder 40 through the operating status of the stepper motor 51. Of course, an additional position sensor can also be used to detect the position information of the feeder 40.

[0124] When the receiving position 41 corresponds to the first discharge port 22, the solid cleaning agent in the first dispensing channel 20 can enter the receiving position 41. When the receiving position 41 corresponds to the first discharge port 22, the first sensor 12 is triggered to perform detection, which avoids the power consumption and potential interference caused by continuous detection, and also improves the accuracy of detection.

[0125] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the beverage machine may further include a prompting module. The prompting module is used to issue prompting information. The prompting module can be an audio prompting module, an optical prompting module, etc., for example, the prompting module can issue voice information or an alarm sound. The prompting module can also be a light-emitting element installed in the beverage machine, which can issue prompting information by lighting up or flashing.

[0126] The control module is also used to issue a prompt message when the first sensor 12 detects that there is no solid cleaning agent stored in the receiving position 41. For example, it prompts the user to add solid cleaning agent to the first dispensing channel 20, or prompts the user to check whether there is any solid cleaning agent stuck in the first dispensing channel 20, or prompts the user to switch to a manual dispensing channel, such as the second dispensing channel 30 or the third dispensing channel 60.

[0127] When the first sensor 12 detects that there is no solid cleaning agent stored in the receiving position 41, it indicates that the solid cleaning agent stored in the first dispensing channel 20 has been used up, or that the solid cleaning agent is stuck in the first dispensing channel.

[0128] The prompt module issues a message indicating that there is no solid cleaning agent stored in the receiving position 41. If the drive mechanism 50 is running at this time, it will drive the feeding component 40 to move towards the dropping position, and the solid cleaning agent cannot be successfully dispensed into the target cleaning chamber. To ensure the normal operation of subsequent cleaning procedures, the user can manually dispense solid cleaning agent through the second dispensing channel 30 or the third dispensing channel 60.

[0129] Of course, at this time, the user can also check whether the solid cleaning agent stored in the first dispensing channel 20 is used up, or whether there is solid cleaning agent stuck in the first dispensing channel 20. The user can replenish the solid cleaning agent in the first dispensing channel 20 or clear the stuck solid cleaning agent, and then continue to automatically dispense solid cleaning agent into the target cleaning chamber through the first dispensing channel 20 and the feeding component 40.

[0130] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the beverage machine also includes a second sensor. The second sensor can be a through-beam optocoupler or a single-sided optocoupler.

[0131] In this embodiment, the target cleaning chamber includes a cleaning chamber entrance that allows solid cleaning agents to enter. A second sensor is disposed at the cleaning chamber entrance. The detection area of ​​the second sensor is disposed on the first movement path of the solid cleaning agent entering the target cleaning chamber from the first dispensing channel 20, and on the second movement path of the solid cleaning agent entering the target cleaning chamber from the second dispensing channel 30.

[0132] It is understandable that the detection area of ​​the second sensor is also set on the third movement path of the solid cleaning agent entering the target cleaning chamber from the third dispensing channel 60. The third movement path basically overlaps with the second movement path.

[0133] The second sensor can accurately detect whether the dispensing device 1 dispenses solid cleaning agent into the target cleaning chamber. It is understood that the second sensor can detect solid cleaning agent entering the target cleaning chamber from any of the first dispensing channel 20, the second dispensing channel 30, and the third dispensing channel 60.

[0134] The control module is used to control the beverage machine to execute a cleaning program when solid cleaning agent is detected falling into the target cleaning chamber.

[0135] By incorporating a second sensor, solid cleaning agents can be detected upon arrival at the target cleaning chamber, regardless of which dispensing channel they are delivered through. The control module only initiates the cleaning program after confirming the presence of solid cleaning agents within the target chamber, significantly improving the reliability of the cleaning operation and preventing ineffective cleaning due to insufficient solid cleaning agent.

[0136] Through the coordinated operation of the aforementioned sensors and control modules, the beverage machine of the present invention, while being compatible with the dispensing of various forms of solid cleaning agents and providing automatic and manual selection, significantly improves the monitorability, intelligence, and overall cleaning efficiency of the dispensing process.

[0137] See Figures 6-8 This is the dispensing device 1 provided in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] The main difference between the dispensing device 1 provided in this embodiment and the dispensing device 1 provided in the first embodiment lies in the setting of the second dispensing channel 30.

[0139] In this embodiment, the same or similar technical features as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same technical designation, and will not be described again here.

[0140] In this embodiment, the dispensing device 1 includes a housing 10, on which a first dispensing channel 20 and a second dispensing channel 30 are formed, and the first dispensing channel 20 and the second dispensing channel 30 are arranged side by side.

[0141] The first feeding channel 20 has a first inlet 21 and a first outlet 22. The second feeding channel 30 has a second inlet 31 and a second outlet 32. The first inlet 21 and the second inlet 31 are arranged side by side.

[0142] In this embodiment, both the first dispensing channel 20 and the second dispensing channel 30 are directly formed from the housing 10. The first dispensing channel 20 is used to dispense a first form of solid cleaning agent, such as spherical solid cleaning agent. The second dispensing channel 30 is used to dispense a second form of solid cleaning agent, such as flake solid cleaning agent. Users can choose either form of solid cleaning agent according to their needs.

[0143] The technical solution provided in this embodiment has a more compact overall structure, occupies less space, and can also solve the problem of universal dispensing of both forms of solid cleaning agents.

[0144] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the dispensing device 1 further includes a feeding member 40. The feeding member 40 is provided with at least one receiving position 41, which can be controlled to correspond to the position of the first discharge port 22 or the position of the target cleaning chamber. Solid cleaning agent dispensed from the first inlet 21 into the first dispensing channel 20 is dispensed into the target cleaning chamber via the feeding member 40.

[0145] In this embodiment, the feeding component 40 is used to automatically deliver the solid cleaning agent in the first dispensing channel 20 to the target cleaning chamber.

[0146] In this embodiment, the feeding component 40 is provided with a receiving position 41. When the receiving position 41 corresponds to the position of the first discharge port 22, the solid cleaning agent in the first dispensing channel 20 can slide down into the receiving position 41 through the first discharge port 22.

[0147] The dispensing device 1 may also include a drive mechanism 50, which can be connected to the feeding component 40 to drive the feeding component 40 to move. When the feeding component 40 moves to the receiving position 41 corresponding to the target cleaning chamber, the solid cleaning agent in the receiving position 41 can automatically slide into the target cleaning chamber.

[0148] Therefore, the solid cleaning agent that is put into the first delivery channel 20 from the first inlet 21 can be automatically delivered into the target cleaning chamber via the feeding component 40.

[0149] The structure of the feeding component 40 and the driving mechanism 50 in this embodiment can be found in the first embodiment, and will not be described again here.

[0150] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the second discharge port 32 corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber, and the second dispensing channel 30 is used to deliver the solid cleaning agent that is dispensed into the second dispensing channel 30 through the second inlet 31 to the target cleaning chamber through the second discharge port 32.

[0151] In this embodiment, the second discharge port 32 corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber. The solid cleaning agent discharged through the second discharge port 32 can fall directly into the target cleaning chamber under its own gravity without being conveyed by the feeding component 40.

[0152] It is understood that in this embodiment, the second dispensing channel 30 is used to manually dispense the second form of solid cleaning agent, and the first dispensing channel 20 is used to automatically dispense the first form of solid cleaning agent.

[0153] This design, which combines parallel channels and direct automatic and manual operation, further reduces structural complexity and manufacturing costs while ensuring functionality.

[0154] As shown in the first embodiment, this embodiment may also include a first sensor 12, a second sensor, a control module, and a prompting module. For details, please refer to the first embodiment, which will not be repeated here.

[0155] It should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0156] The detailed descriptions listed above are merely specific descriptions of feasible embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent embodiments or modifications made without departing from the spirit of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A beverage machine, characterized in that, include: The main body is used to generate beverages, and a target cleaning chamber is provided inside the main body; A dispensing device for dispensing solid cleaning agent into the target cleanroom; The dispensing device includes: The first dispensing channel includes a first inlet and a first outlet. The first dispensing channel is used to deliver a first form of solid cleaning agent, which enters the target cleaning chamber through the first outlet. The second dispensing channel includes a second inlet and a second outlet. The second dispensing channel is used to deliver a second form of solid cleaning agent. The second form of solid cleaning agent enters the target cleaning chamber through the second outlet. The first form is different from the second form.

2. The beverage machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first form of solid cleaner is in spherical form; the second form of solid cleaner is in flake form.

3. The beverage machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cross-sectional shape of the first dispensing channel is adapted to the solid detergent of the first form, and the cross-sectional shape of the second dispensing channel is adapted to the solid detergent of the second form. The cross-sectional shape of the first delivery channel is different from that of the second delivery channel.

4. The beverage machine according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The dispensing device further includes a third dispensing channel, which includes a third inlet and a third outlet. The third dispensing channel is used to convey the first form of solid cleaning agent, and the first form of solid cleaning agent enters the target cleaning chamber through the third outlet. The third dispensing channel is arranged in parallel with the first dispensing channel.

5. The beverage machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The dispensing device further includes a movable dispensing component, in which a second dispensing channel is formed; the movable dispensing component is detachably disposed within the third dispensing channel.

6. The beverage machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The dispensing device further includes a housing, on which the first dispensing channel and the third dispensing channel are formed; The movable dispensing component is slidably and detachably connected to the housing, and the movable dispensing component can slide into the third dispensing channel.

7. The beverage machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The beverage machine satisfies at least one of the following characteristics: The cross-sectional shape of the third dispensing channel is adapted to the solid cleaning agent of the first form; The opening size of the second inlet is smaller than that of the third inlet, and the opening size of the second outlet is smaller than that of the third outlet. The active delivery component is slidably positioned within the third delivery channel; The second discharge port corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber. The solid cleaning agent is put into the second feeding channel from the second inlet and falls into the target cleaning chamber through the second discharge port. The third discharge port corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber. The solid cleaning agent is put into the third delivery channel from the third inlet and falls into the target cleaning chamber through the third discharge port.

8. The beverage machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, The dispensing device further includes: The feeding component has at least one receiving position and a discharging position. When the feeding component is in the receiving position, the receiving position corresponds to the first discharge port position, and the solid cleaning agent in the first dispensing channel can be conveyed from the first discharge port to the receiving position. When the feeding component is in the discharging position, the receiving position is offset from the first discharge port position, and the solid cleaning agent stored in the receiving position falls into the target cleaning chamber. A driving mechanism is connected to the feeding component for driving the feeding component to reciprocate or rotate a full circle, so that the feeding component moves to the receiving position or the dropping position.

9. The beverage machine according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The dispensing device further includes a housing, on which a first dispensing channel and a second dispensing channel are formed, the first dispensing channel and the second dispensing channel being arranged side by side.

10. The beverage machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The dispensing device further includes a feeding component, which is provided with at least one receiving position. The feeding component can be controlled to align the receiving position with the first discharge port or with the target cleaning chamber. The solid cleaning agent, which is dispensed from the first inlet into the first dispensing channel, is then dispensed into the target cleaning chamber via the feeding component.

11. The beverage machine according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second discharge port corresponds to the position of the target cleaning chamber, and the second dispensing channel is used to dispense solid cleaning agent into the second dispensing channel through the second inlet and then deliver it into the target cleaning chamber through the second discharge port.

12. The beverage machine according to claim 8 or 10, characterized in that, Also includes: A first sensor is used to detect whether the solid cleaning agent is stored in the receiving position; The control module is used to acquire the position information of the feeding component, and when it is acquired that the receiving position corresponds to the position of the first discharge port, it controls the first sensor to perform detection.

13. The beverage machine according to claim 12, characterized in that, It also includes a notification module for issuing notification messages; The control module is also used to control the prompting module to issue the prompting information when the first sensor detects that no solid cleaning agent is stored in the receiving position.

14. The beverage machine according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The beverage machine also includes: The second sensor is located at the entrance of the target cleaning chamber, which allows the solid cleaning agent to enter. The detection area of ​​the second sensor is located on a first movement path of the solid cleaning agent entering the target cleaning chamber from the first dispensing channel, and also on a second movement path of the solid cleaning agent entering the target cleaning chamber from the second dispensing channel. The second sensor is used to detect whether the solid cleaning agent has fallen into the target cleaning chamber. The control module is used to control the beverage machine to execute a cleaning program when it detects that the solid cleaning agent has fallen into the target cleaning chamber.

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