Modular unit for automated preparation of a beverage in a vehicle and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model relates to a modular unit (1) for automatically preparing beverage in a vehicle, which is characterized in that the modular unit (1) is configured to be mounted in an upper space in a trunk (2) of the vehicle, and the modular unit (1) comprises a beverage outlet positioned in a rear seat (3). According to the modularized unit (1) provided by the utility model, freshly made fresh beverages can be provided for vehicle passengers, the vehicle structure is not greatly influenced, and the operation of the vehicle passengers is facilitated. In addition, the utility model relates to a vehicle comprising the modularized unit provided by the utility model.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a modular unit for automatically preparing beverages in a vehicle, and a vehicle including said modular unit. Background Technology

[0002] Several existing devices can provide beverages in vehicles. However, these devices either merely provide storage space for bottled beverages and for refrigerating and / or heating them, or require modifications to the vehicle structure, such as altering the armrest box or glove box, to prepare beverages. The former approach, due to the use of bottled beverages, cannot match the freshness and taste of freshly made drinks and requires vehicle occupants to refill them themselves, often considered tedious and inconvenient. The latter approach not only renders parts of the vehicle structure unusable and occupies valuable space in the vehicle's cabin, but also, due to space limitations, makes it difficult to deploy automated mechanisms and significantly limits the liquid storage capacity, thus forcing vehicle occupants to perform cumbersome manual operations for a limited number of beverages.

[0003] Given the various disadvantages of existing technologies, there is an urgent need for an optimized solution for preparing beverages in vehicles. Utility Model Content

[0004] The objective of this invention is to provide a modular unit for automatically preparing beverages in a vehicle and a vehicle including the modular unit, which can provide freshly prepared beverages to vehicle occupants without significantly affecting the vehicle structure and is convenient for vehicle occupants to operate.

[0005] A first aspect of this invention relates to a modular unit for automatically preparing beverages in a vehicle, wherein the modular unit is configured for installation in an upper space in the vehicle's trunk, and the modular unit includes a beverage outlet located in the rear seat.

[0006] This invention proposes a modular unit for beverage preparation equipment. Firstly, this modular unit automates the beverage preparation process, ensuring the beverage's fresh flavor and unique taste, enhancing travel comfort, and providing a new driving and riding experience. Secondly, the modular design allows for flexible and free installation in different vehicle models without significantly impacting the vehicle structure, offering broad compatibility while enabling personalized vehicle customization. This modular unit can be added as an optional feature, better meeting consumers' individual needs and increasing satisfaction; for vehicle manufacturers, it significantly enhances vehicle added value and market competitiveness, attracting more consumers and increasing sales. Thirdly, according to this invention, the modular unit is constructed for installation in the upper space of the vehicle's trunk. Here, the upper space in the trunk can be understood as the upper layer of the trunk space enclosed by the rear seats, tailgate, rear side panels, and trunk floor. This means that the modular unit is located above the trunk floor or spare tire cover at a distance. This design allows for the ingenious installation of modular units and makes use of the often-unutilized upper space in the trunk, improving vehicle space utilization while largely not obstructing the placement of items on the trunk floor. Furthermore, the modular unit includes beverage outlets located in the rear seats. This allows vehicle occupants to conveniently and comfortably obtain freshly made beverages within the cabin during journeys or leisure time, eliminating the need for cumbersome back-and-forth movement between the cabin and trunk. This not only enhances travel comfort but also enriches in-car life, allowing occupants to comfortably enjoy freshly made beverages while seated, providing refreshment, cooling relief, warmth, or improved circulation. In summary, the modular unit for automatically preparing beverages in a vehicle according to this invention provides vehicle occupants with freshly made beverages, has minimal impact on the vehicle structure, and facilitates occupant operation.

[0007] According to one embodiment of this invention, the modular unit can be configured for detachable support on the rear side panel of a vehicle and adjacent to the rear seats. Here, the rear side panel surrounding the trunk can serve as a load-bearing member for the modular unit according to this invention, allowing the modular unit to be suspended entirely within the upper space of the trunk. Preferably, the modular unit can be connected (e.g., screwed or riveted) to a reinforcing rib on the rear side panel, particularly behind the C-pillar of the vehicle. Furthermore, the modular unit is generally adjacent to the rear seats, meaning that the modular unit is compactly mounted at the upper front end of the trunk, thus minimizing interference with placing and / or retrieving items from the trunk.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this utility model, the modular unit can be located below the rear window sill or integrated with the rear window sill. Here, the rear window sill refers to the panel connecting the rear seat back to the rear window in the vehicle cabin, also known as the rear upper cover. This embodiment shows that the modular unit does not occupy the vehicle cabin and does not obstruct the driver's rear view. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the rear window sill can be configured with an opening for adding liquids and / or ingredients to the modular unit.

[0009] According to one embodiment of this utility model, the modular unit may include at least one or more liquid storage tanks, one or more ingredient tanks, and a brewing assembly connected to the liquid storage tanks and the ingredient tanks. In the simplest exemplary embodiment, the modular unit may consist of a liquid storage tank (especially a water storage tank), an ingredient tank (e.g., for storing solid ingredients, especially fruit juice powder, tea, milk powder, or cocoa powder, etc.), and a brewing assembly, wherein the ingredients from the ingredient tank can be brewed using liquid from the liquid storage tank, especially water, in the brewing assembly, and the brewed beverage can flow out from a beverage outlet located in the rear seat. Not limited to this, it is also possible to construct multiple liquid storage tanks (such as water storage tanks and milk storage tanks, the milk storage tanks being particularly equipped with refrigeration devices) and / or multiple ingredient tanks (e.g., for storing at least two of fruit juice powder, tea, milk powder, and cocoa powder respectively) in the modular unit, thereby enriching the beverage options and increasing the functionality of the modular unit. Particularly preferably, the liquid storage tank may be constructed with baffles or a honeycomb structure to reduce the impact of the liquid during operation and ensure the stability of the storage tank. For hygiene purposes, a sterilization device, such as an ultraviolet lamp, may also be installed in the storage tank. Furthermore, the liquid storage tank and / or the ingredient tank may be configured to be detachably installed in a modular unit for easy installation and cleaning. It is also possible that an installation opening is provided on the top of the liquid storage tank and / or the ingredient tank.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this utility model, the liquid storage tank, the ingredient tank, and the brewing assembly can be housed within a single housing or supported by a single tray. To further optimize manufacturing, logistics, and installation efficiency, it is particularly advantageous to house the various components of the modular unit together within the same housing or to support them together on the same tray. In particular, the modular unit can be installed by connecting the housing or tray to a rear panel.

[0011] According to one embodiment of this invention, in order to remove liquid from the storage tank, the brewing assembly may include a liquid pump for pumping liquid, particularly a liquid pump for pumping liquid from the storage tank. In the case of multiple storage tanks, for example, a separate liquid pump may be provided for each storage tank, or the same liquid pump may be connected to several storage tanks via a distribution valve.

[0012] According to one embodiment of this invention, the brewing assembly may include a valve for controlling fluid flow; and the brewing assembly may include: a boiler for heating liquid to generate hot liquid and / or steam; and / or a chiller for cooling water. Here, the valve for controlling fluid flow can particularly be configured as a solenoid valve, which can control the opening and closing of the corresponding pipe and preferably meter the flowing liquid or steam to achieve the introduction and exit of liquid according to the beverage preparation sequence. Furthermore, for preparing hot and / or cold beverages, the brewing assembly may be equipped with a boiler and / or a chiller, particularly a semiconductor chiller, thereby utilizing the hot liquid and / or steam generated by the boiler to brew ingredients such as coffee powder, tea, cocoa powder, etc., and / or utilizing the cold liquid flowing through the chiller to brew ingredients such as fruit juice powder or other liquids, such as concentrate from a separate storage tank, etc. Particularly advantageously, the boiler and / or the chiller are equipped with temperature sensors and temperature control devices to adjust to a suitable temperature for brewing the beverage.

[0013] According to one embodiment of this utility model, the brewing assembly may include a brewing chamber for brewing ingredients and a feeding mechanism for transferring ingredients from the ingredient tank to the brewing chamber. Here, the brewing chamber generally refers to a cavity for mixing ingredients and liquids, filtering ingredients using liquid, extracting ingredients using steam, and / or fusing steam with other liquids (such as milk) used as ingredients. To achieve this process, ingredients may first be dispensed into the brewing chamber or other liquids (such as concentrate, milk) used as ingredients may be introduced into the brewing chamber, and then liquid (especially cold or hot water) or steam may be introduced into the brewing chamber to achieve the above-mentioned brewing process. Therefore, the brewing assembly includes a feeding mechanism for transferring ingredients from the ingredient tank to the brewing chamber, which may be exemplarily constructed as a distributor or a screw feeder. Not limited to this, it is also possible to not perform a brewing process in the brewing chamber, but simply allow room temperature liquid, heated liquid, or cooled liquid to flow through the brewing chamber to directly provide the corresponding liquid.

[0014] According to one embodiment of this utility model, the feeding mechanism may be configured as or include a grinder for grinding the ingredients; the brewing chamber is configured to be rotatably supported between a vertical receiving position and an inclined brewing position; and a reciprocating piston is constructed in the brewing chamber. For the preparation of coffee or soy milk, it is particularly advisable to grind the corresponding bean ingredients using a grinder. Simultaneously, the brewing chamber may be configured to be rotatably supported to receive the ground bean powder falling after grinding at the vertical receiving position, and then the brewing chamber can be rotated to the inclined brewing position to introduce hot water and / or steam heated by a boiler. In order to remove insoluble residue from the brewing chamber after brewing, it is particularly advantageous to construct a reciprocating piston in the brewing chamber. This piston can retract between the powder receiving position and the brewing position to create brewing space in the brewing chamber, which is configured as a sleeve. During the residue removal process after brewing, the piston can extend to be flush with or above the top of the brewing chamber in order to push the residue out of the brewing chamber.

[0015] According to one embodiment of this invention, the brewing assembly may include a retractable compactor that extends into the brewing chamber to compact ground ingredients. The compactor is particularly advantageous for improving the extraction efficiency of ground, relatively loose ingredients, allowing the loose ingredients to be compacted into a powder cake. For brewing, a flow hole may be provided at the front end of the compactor to allow liquid (especially hot or cold liquid) and / or steam to enter the brewing chamber to brew the ingredients within.

[0016] According to one embodiment of this utility model, the modular unit may include a waste liquid tank for collecting waste liquid and / or a waste material tank for collecting waste. A waste liquid tank can be provided to collect waste liquid during the brewing process, after brewing, and / or during rinsing. Here, after brewing, the waste liquid can be pumped back from the brewing chamber into the waste liquid tank using a liquid pump. Furthermore, a waste material tank can be provided for collecting insoluble waste residue. Preferably, a scraper can be provided for the brewing chamber and its piston to scrape off waste residue from the piston surface. In addition, the waste liquid tank and / or the waste material tank can be configured to be detachably installed in the modular unit to discard the waste liquid and / or waste and to clean the tank body. It is also possible that a discharge opening is constructed at the bottom of the waste liquid tank and / or the waste material tank.

[0017] According to one embodiment of this utility model, the beverage outlet can be constructed within the armrest back panel of the rear seat, and the beverage outlet can be equipped with a lift-up door, a pop-out cup holder, and an extendable beverage dispensing pipe. To avoid obstructing the use of the rear center seat, the beverage outlet can be constructed within the armrest back panel. Thus, the beverage outlet can be concealed when the rear seat armrest is folded down. When preparing a beverage, vehicle occupants only need to fold down the rear seat armrest. To ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of the modular unit, the beverage outlet can specifically be equipped with a lift-up door, a pop-out cup holder, and an extendable beverage dispensing pipe. Such a beverage outlet design also enhances the perceived mechanization and intelligence of the modular unit, beautifies the cabin space, and increases the perceived value of the vehicle.

[0018] According to one embodiment of this utility model, the modular unit may include a controller, which may have an interface for connecting to the vehicle's infotainment system, a panel in the rear seat armrest, and / or a mobile terminal to receive control commands from the infotainment system, the panel in the rear seat armrest, and / or the mobile terminal. Here, the controller may be signal-connected to various components of the modular unit to control the operation of each component. To receive commands from vehicle occupants, the modular unit may also be configured with wired or wireless interfaces for receiving control commands for beverage preparation from the vehicle's infotainment system, the panel in the rear seat armrest, and / or the vehicle occupants' mobile terminals. For this purpose, a corresponding interactive interface may be displayed on the vehicle's central control screen, rear screen, and / or the vehicle occupants' mobile terminals, through which control commands can be input, particularly for selecting beverages and / or personalizing the beverage preparation process. Alternatively or additionally, a panel for the modular unit may be provided in the rear seat armrest, on which corresponding buttons or touch areas may be provided.

[0019] According to one embodiment of this invention, the beverage can be at least one of coffee, tea, soy milk, fruit juice, hot chocolate, water, milk, and soup. The modular units of this invention are particularly customizable as a platform, meaning that different combinations of the aforementioned components can be used to personalize and assemble the beverage for the selected type, providing the possibility of preparing one or more beverages.

[0020] The second aspect of this utility model relates to a vehicle, characterized in that the vehicle includes the aforementioned modular unit for automatically preparing beverages within the vehicle.

[0021] It should be noted that the features, functions, effects, and advantages of one aspect of this utility model can also be referred to the above description of other aspects of this utility model. Furthermore, the various aspects described in this utility model can be combined with each other in various ways.

[0022] Other features of this invention are derived from the accompanying drawings and the detailed description. All the features and combinations thereof mentioned above in the specification, as well as the features and combinations thereof mentioned below in the detailed description and / or shown separately in the drawings, can be used not only in the combinations given therefor, but also in other combinations, or in their individual states. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a modular unit installed in a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0024] Figure 2 Another schematic diagram shows a modular unit installed in a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 Another schematic diagram shows a modular unit installed in a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the main components of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a first state is shown;

[0027] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the main components of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a second state is shown;

[0028] Figure 6 A portion of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0029] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the main components of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a third state is shown;

[0030] Figure 8 A portion of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0031] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the main components of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a fourth state is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a modular unit installed in a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Figure 1 In order to clearly represent the modular unit, the rear window sill 8 located above it is removed, and the vehicle body is shown as a semi-transparent structure. For example... Figure 1As shown, a modular unit 1 for automatically preparing beverages in a vehicle is configured to be installed in the upper space of the vehicle's trunk 2, the modular unit 1 including a beverage outlet (not shown) located in the rear seat 3.

[0033] Here, the upper space in the trunk 2 can be understood as the upper space or upper layer of the trunk space enclosed by the rear seats 3, the tailgate (not shown), the rear side panel 5, and the trunk floor 4. As can be seen from the figure, the modular unit 1 is located above the trunk floor 4 at a distance from it.

[0034] The modular unit 1 according to this invention not only automates the beverage preparation process, ensuring the delicious flavor and unique taste of the prepared beverage, but also, thanks to its modular design, allows for flexible compatibility with different vehicle models, and can be added as an optional feature. This modular unit 1 can utilize the often unused upper space in the trunk, having only a minor impact on trunk storage. Simultaneously, the beverage outlet located in the rear seat 3 allows vehicle occupants to conveniently and comfortably access freshly prepared beverages within the cabin during journeys or leisure time. Therefore, the modular unit 1 provides vehicle occupants with freshly prepared beverages without significantly impacting the vehicle structure and facilitating occupant operation.

[0035] according to Figure 1 In the advantageous embodiment shown, the modular unit 1 is preferably configured for detachable support on the rear side panel 5 of the vehicle. Here, the modular unit 1 can be connected to the rear side panel 5, specifically to the reinforcing rib 6 behind the C-pillar of the vehicle, via screws 7. Simultaneously, the modular unit 1 can be located adjacent to the rear seat 3. Thus, the modular unit is compactly mounted at the front end of the trunk 2, thereby minimizing interference with the placement and / or retrieval of items in the trunk 2.

[0036] To achieve automated beverage preparation, the modular unit 1 may include at least a storage tank 13, an ingredient tank 12, and a brewing assembly 14 connected to the storage tank 13 and the ingredient tank 12. It is particularly advantageous that the storage tank 13 and / or the ingredient tank 12 have a capacity capable of brewing more than 100 cups of beverage. Although in Figure 1Only one liquid storage tank 13 and one ingredient tank 12 are shown, but there can be multiple liquid storage tanks 13 and ingredient tanks 12. For example, a modular unit 1 can simultaneously provide a water storage tank and a milk storage tank, the milk storage tank being particularly equipped with a refrigeration device. For hygiene of the liquid storage tank, a sterilization device, such as an ultraviolet lamp, can also be installed in the liquid storage tank 13. Furthermore, a partition or honeycomb structure can also be constructed in the liquid storage tank 13 to reduce the front-to-back impact of the liquid during transport and ensure the stability of the liquid storage tank. Similarly, a modular unit 1 can simultaneously provide a first ingredient tank and a second ingredient tank for storing fruit juice powder and tea leaves respectively, for use in the preparation of different beverages.

[0037] Advantageously, the liquid storage tank 13, the ingredient tank 12, and the brewing assembly 14 are housed within a single housing 11. Furthermore, considering the installation and cleaning of the liquid storage tank 13 and the ingredient tank 12, a support plate can be used to support them, facilitating their assembly and disassembly through an open structure.

[0038] exist Figure 1 It is also specifically shown that the modular unit 1 may optionally include a waste liquid tank 15 for collecting waste liquid during brewing, after brewing and / or during rinsing.

[0039] Figure 2 Another schematic diagram shows a modular unit installed in a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 In the middle, the rear window sill 8 is located in its installation position.

[0040] exist Figure 2 In a preferred embodiment, the modular unit 1 can be located below the rear window sill 8. However, it is not limited to this; the modular unit 1 can also be integrated with the rear window sill 8. Figure 2 It can be seen that the modular unit 1 does not occupy the vehicle cabin and does not obstruct the driver's rear view. Furthermore, the rear window sill 8 can be equipped with a filling port 10 for adding liquid to the liquid reservoir 13 of the modular unit 1 and a filling port 9 for adding ingredients to the mixing tank 12.

[0041] from Figure 2 As can be seen, the modular unit 1 of this utility model is cleverly suspended above the trunk floor 4. This not only makes use of the upper space in the trunk that is often not effectively occupied, but also does not significantly encroach on the trunk space, thus not hindering the placement of items on the trunk floor 4. In addition, the modular unit 1 can be designed in a way that does not obstruct the folding down of the rear seats, thereby ensuring the original vehicle seat functions.

[0042] Figure 3This is yet another schematic diagram showing a modular unit installed in a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 Modular unit 1 is shown from below. The figure shows the waste liquid tank 15 and the waste container 17 for collecting waste, particularly insoluble waste residue, of modular unit 1. At the bottom of waste liquid tank 15 and waste container 17, a drain port 16 and a slag discharge port 18 are respectively constructed on the housing 11. However, it is also possible that waste liquid tank 15 and / or waste container 17 can be configured to be detachably disposed within the housing 11 of modular unit 1.

[0043] Below, in Figures 4 to 9 The operation of the main components of the modular unit is described exemplarily using a preferred embodiment of the present invention as an example. Here, the modular unit 1 is preferably configured for preparing coffee, particularly espresso. Alternatively or additionally, the modular unit 1 can also prepare other beverages, such as hot water, cold water, tea, soy milk, fruit juice, hot cocoa, water, milk, and / or soup.

[0044] Figure 4 This diagram shows the main components of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a first state. Here, the main components of the modular unit 1 are shown as follows: a beverage outlet 19, a dispensing tank 12, a liquid storage tank 13 (in this embodiment, a water storage tank), a brewing assembly 14, and a waste liquid tank 15, all located in the rear seat 3. The first state shown can be understood as the standby state or the dispensing state of the modular unit 1.

[0045] According to this preferred embodiment, the beverage outlet 19 is formed in the armrest back panel 20 of the rear seat 3. The armrest back panel 20 can be covered when the rear seat armrest is folded up, thus not interfering with the use of the rear center seat. To prepare a beverage, the rear seat armrest can be folded down manually or automatically. The beverage outlet 19 is particularly advantageously equipped with a lift door 21, a pop-out cup holder 22, and an extendable beverage outlet tube 23. In the first state shown, the lift door 21 is raised, the cup holder 22 is retracted, and the beverage outlet tube 23 is retracted, thereby allowing the rear seat armrest to be folded up and rest against the seat back panel 20 while ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of the modular unit 1.

[0046] exist Figure 4The image details one possible configuration of the brewing assembly 14. First, the brewing assembly 14 includes a liquid pump 24 for pumping liquid from the reservoir 13. This liquid pump 24 is connected to the bottom of the reservoir 13 via piping (not shown in detail) to draw liquid, particularly water, from the reservoir 13. Downstream of the liquid pump 24 is a valve 25, particularly a solenoid valve, for controlling the flow of fluid. This valve controls the opening and closing of the corresponding piping and preferably meteres the liquid flowing through it, allowing for the introduction and removal of liquid according to the beverage preparation sequence. Furthermore, after brewing, waste liquid can be pumped back from the brewing chamber to a waste liquid tank 15 using the liquid pump 24.

[0047] The liquid flowing through valve 25 then enters the boiler 30 of the brewing assembly 14. The boiler 30 heats the liquid to generate hot liquid and / or steam, which can then be used to brew ingredients such as coffee powder used in the current embodiment. Alternatively or additionally, a cooler, particularly a thermoelectric cooler, can be considered in the brewing assembly 14. This allows the use of cold liquid flowing through the cooler to brew ingredients such as fruit juice powder or other liquids, such as concentrate from a separate storage tank as an ingredient. The boiler 30 and / or cooler may also be equipped with temperature sensors and temperature control devices to adjust the temperature for brewing the beverage. Figure 4 In this embodiment, the boiler 30 is supported at an angle downward in the bracket 26 so that liquid flows downward into the brewing chamber of the brewing assembly 14.

[0048] The brewing chamber is configured to brew ingredients using liquid and / or steam. Here, "brewing chamber" broadly refers to a chamber used for mixing ingredients and liquids, filtering ingredients using liquid, extracting ingredients using steam, and / or fusing steam with other liquids used as ingredients (such as milk). To this end, the ingredients must first be dispensed into the brewing chamber or other liquids used as ingredients (such as concentrate, milk) must be introduced into the brewing chamber, and then liquid (especially cold or hot water) or steam must be introduced into the brewing chamber to achieve the above brewing process. For clarity, in... Figures 4 to 9 The brewing chamber is not shown; instead, only the piston 27, which reciprocates within it, is shown. In the current first state, the piston 27 can retract in the powder-collecting position shown to create a powder-collecting space within the brewing chamber, which is configured as a sleeve.

[0049] To transfer ingredients from the ingredient container 12 to the brewing chamber, the brewing assembly 14 also includes a feeding mechanism. The feeding mechanism can be exemplarily configured as a dispenser or screw feeder to deliver solid, particularly powdered, ingredients into the brewing chamber. In the present preferred embodiment, the feeding mechanism can be configured as a grinder 28 for grinding the ingredients in order to grind the coffee beans. This grinder 28 is positioned below the ingredient container 12, and the bottom of the ingredient container 12 is configured as a funnel shape or other sloping shape to allow the coffee beans, as ingredients, to automatically slide into the grinder 28. The brewing chamber is located below the ingredient container 12. Figure 4 The first state shown, that is, the standby state or the receiving state, is in a vertical receiving position. Thus, the coffee bean powder ground by the grinder 28 can fall into the brewing chamber under the action of gravity.

[0050] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the main components of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in a second state. This second state can be understood as a compacted state. (Relative to...) Figure 4 In the first state shown, the brewing chamber, along with its piston 27, changes from a vertical receiving position to an inclined brewing position. For this purpose, the brewing chamber, along with its piston 27, is rotatably supported on its support 29, and the brewing chamber and piston 27 can rotate about an axis in the support 29 to make the position change.

[0051] Before brewing, to ensure optimal extraction of the coffee beans, the ground, relatively loose ingredients need to be compacted. For this purpose, the brewing assembly 14 may include a retractable compactor 32. During compaction, the compactor 32 extends from its designated guide portion 31 into the brewing chamber. The ground, relatively loose ingredients are compacted into a cake between the compactor 32 and the piston 27.

[0052] Figure 6 A portion of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 6 The brewing assembly 14 is shown from the rear. In the current embodiment, the compactor 32 and the boiler 30 can be integrally formed or fixedly connected. This means that the compactor 32 and the boiler 30 can move back and forth together between the support 26 and the guide 31. To drive the telescopic movement of the compactor 32 and the boiler 30, a first gear 33 is constructed in the support 26. This first gear meshes with a rack (not shown) provided on the boiler 30 to cause the compactor 32 and the boiler 30 to telescopically move when the first gear 33 rotates.

[0053] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates the main components of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a third state. This third state can be understood as a draining state. (Relative to...) Figure 5In the second state shown, the only structural difference is in the beverage outlet 19. In this third state, the lift gate of the beverage outlet 19 is lowered, the cup holder 22 pops out, and the beverage outlet pipe 23 extends out from the lift gate 21.

[0054] In this third state, the beverage is brewed. For this purpose, an orifice is provided at the front end of the compactor 32 to allow liquid (especially hot or cold liquid) and / or steam to enter the brewing chamber to brew the ingredients within. At this time, the piston 27 in the brewing chamber, which is configured as a sleeve, is also in the retracted position to create brewing space within the chamber. The brewed beverage enters the beverage outlet pipe 23 via a flexible tube connecting the brewing chamber and the beverage outlet pipe 23. In the current example, the beverage outlet pipe 23 extends downwards at an angle. Thus, under the influence of gravity, the prepared beverage finally flows from the end of the beverage outlet pipe 23, which extends out of the lifting gate 21, into the cup held by the cup holder 22.

[0055] Figure 8 A partial view of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown. Here, the beverage outlet 19 and the armrest back panel 20 are shown from the rear. It can be seen that racks are respectively provided on the lifting door 21 and the beverage outlet pipe 23 of the beverage outlet 19. These racks mesh with the same second gear 34 to simultaneously drive the lowering movement of the lifting door 21 and the extending movement of the beverage outlet pipe 23 when the second gear 34 rotates. Similarly, after the beverage preparation is completed, the rotation of the second gear 34 can drive the lifting door 21 to rise and the beverage outlet pipe 23 to retract.

[0056] Figure 9 This diagram illustrates the main components of a modular unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a fourth state. This fourth state can be understood as a waste disposal state. (Relative to...) Figure 6 In the third state shown, the change is that the compactor 32 is withdrawn from the brewing chamber, and the reciprocating piston 27 extends to be flush with or above the top of the brewing chamber, so as to push the waste out of the brewing chamber. It is particularly advantageous to use the upper edge of the guide portion 31 as a scraper for the piston 27 to scrape the waste off the surface of the piston 27 and make it fall into the waste bin 17 (not shown) located below.

[0057] Immediately following Figure 9 As shown, the brewing chamber, along with piston 27, will continue to rotate back to the vertical receiving position, and piston 27 can retract into the brewing chamber to create receiving space for the next feeding. Simultaneously, the lifting door 21 rises, the beverage outlet pipe 23 retracts, and the cup holder 22 retracts. Through this movement, modular unit 1 returns to its first state, ready for the next beverage preparation.

[0058] To facilitate control of modular unit 1, modular unit 1 may also include a controller (not shown), which has an interface for connecting to the vehicle's infotainment system, a panel in the rear seat armrest, and / or a mobile terminal to receive control commands from the infotainment system, the panel in the rear seat armrest, and / or the mobile terminal.

[0059] This invention is not limited to the embodiments shown, but includes or extends to all technical equivalents that fall within the scope of the appended claims. The positional descriptions chosen in the specification, such as, for example, top, bottom, left, right, etc., refer to the direct description and the accompanying drawings, and can be adapted to new positions according to their meaning when the positions change.

[0060] The features disclosed in this application are important for the implementation of embodiments in different design aspects, not only individually but also in any combination.

[0061] Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make possible changes and modifications to the technical solution of the present invention by utilizing the methods and techniques disclosed above without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the content of the technical solution of the present invention shall fall within the protection scope of the technical solution of the present invention.

Claims

1. A modular unit (1) for automatically preparing beverages in a vehicle, characterized in that, The modular unit (1) is configured for installation in the upper space of the vehicle's trunk (2), and the modular unit (1) includes a beverage outlet located in the rear seat (3).

2. The modular unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The modular unit (1) is configured to be detachably supported on the rear side panel (5) of the vehicle and adjacent to the rear seats (3).

3. The modular unit according to claim 2, characterized in that, The modular unit (1) is located below the rear window sill (8) or integrated with the rear window sill (8).

4. The modular unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The modular unit (1) includes at least one or more liquid storage tanks (13), one or more ingredient tanks (12), and a brewing assembly (14) connected to the liquid storage tanks (13) and the ingredient tanks (12).

5. The modular unit according to claim 4, characterized in that, The liquid storage tank (13), the ingredient tank (12), and the brewing assembly (14) are housed in a housing (11) or supported by a tray.

6. The modular unit according to claim 5, characterized in that, The brewing assembly (14) includes a liquid pump (24) for pumping liquid from the reservoir (13).

7. The modular unit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The brewing assembly (14) includes a valve (25) for controlling fluid flow; and the brewing assembly (14) includes: Boiler (30) for heating liquids to generate hot liquid and / or steam; and / or A chiller used for cooling water.

8. The modular unit according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The brewing assembly (14) includes a brewing chamber for brewing the ingredients and a feeding mechanism for transferring the ingredients from the ingredient tank (12) to the brewing chamber.

9. The modular unit according to claim 8, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism is configured to include or include a grinder (28) for grinding the ingredients; the brewing chamber is configured to be rotatably supported between a vertical receiving position and an inclined brewing position; and a piston (27) capable of reciprocating motion is constructed in the brewing chamber.

10. The modular unit according to claim 9, characterized in that, The brewing assembly (14) includes a retractable compactor (32) that extends into the brewing chamber to compact the ground ingredients.

11. The modular unit according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The modular unit (1) includes a waste liquid tank (15) for collecting waste liquid and / or a waste material tank (17) for collecting waste materials.

12. The modular unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The beverage outlet (19) is formed in the armrest back panel (20) of the rear seat (3), and the beverage outlet (19) is equipped with a lift door (21), a pop-out cup holder (22) and an extendable beverage outlet pipe (23).

13. The modular unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The modular unit includes a controller having an interface for connecting to the vehicle's infotainment system, a panel in the rear seat armrest, and / or a mobile terminal to receive control commands from the infotainment system, the panel in the rear seat armrest, and / or the mobile terminal.

14. The modular unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The beverage is at least one of coffee, tea, soy milk, fruit juice, hot cocoa, water, milk, and soup.

15. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a modular unit for automatically preparing beverages in the vehicle as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

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