Waterway system and coffee machine

Abstract

The utility model relates to a waterway system and a coffee machine, and belongs to the technical field of waterway systems. A water inlet of the water pump is communicated with the water tank; a water inlet of the first heater is communicated with a water outlet of the water pump; a water inlet of the three-way electromagnetic valve is communicated with a water outlet of the first heater, and a water outlet of the three-way electromagnetic valve is controlled to be communicated with a first water outlet end of the coffee machine; the water inlet of the first one-way valve is communicated with the long-pass water outlet of the three-way electromagnetic valve, and the water outlet of the first one-way valve is communicated with the second water outlet end of the coffee machine. According to the waterway system and the coffee machine, the use problem that the structure of a waterway and a control circuit is complicated due to the fact that an existing coffee machine is provided with two electromagnetic valves to control hot water output of two water outlet ends respectively in order to achieve the two functions of direct hot water output and coffee making and coffee extraction can be solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of water system, and in particular to a water system and a coffee machine. Background Technology

[0002] Coffee machines, common household appliances in modern life, provide users with a convenient coffee brewing experience through their sophisticated water system design. They typically include a water tank, heating element, pump, and a series of control components to heat and distribute hot water. However, in today's pursuit of multifunctionality, many coffee machines, in order to simultaneously meet the different needs of direct hot water dispensing for coffee brewing and coffee extraction, often incorporate two solenoid valves to control the water flow separately. While this design enhances the functionality of the coffee machine to some extent, it also introduces complex wiring and water system structures, increasing the difficulty of manufacturing and maintenance, and potentially creating more points of failure due to the increased number of solenoid valves. Utility Model Content

[0003] In order to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology, this utility model proposes a water circuit system and a coffee machine, which can solve the problem of the current coffee machine having two solenoid valves to realize the two functions of directly dispensing hot water to brew coffee and coffee extraction, resulting in complicated circuit and water circuit structure.

[0004] To achieve this objective, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0005] This utility model provides a water system, comprising:

[0006] Water tank;

[0007] A water pump, the inlet of which is connected to a water tank;

[0008] The first heater has its inlet connected to the outlet of the water pump;

[0009] The three-way solenoid valve has its inlet connected to the outlet of the first heater and its control outlet connected to the first outlet of the coffee machine; the first one-way valve has its inlet connected to the continuous outlet of the three-way solenoid valve and its outlet connected to the second outlet of the coffee machine.

[0010] A preferred embodiment of this invention further includes a second one-way valve, which is disposed in the pipeline between the control outlet of the three-way solenoid valve and the first outlet of the coffee machine. The resistance of the first one-way valve is greater than that of the second one-way valve.

[0011] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the resistance of the first one-way valve is at least 1.5 Bar greater than the resistance of the second one-way valve.

[0012] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the resistance of the first one-way valve is 8.3-8.8 Bar.

[0013] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the resistance of the second one-way valve is 6.3-6.8 Bar.

[0014] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that it further includes a first three-way valve and a pressure gauge, the inlet of the first three-way valve is connected to the long-through outlet of the three-way solenoid valve, the first outlet of the first three-way valve is connected to the inlet of the first one-way valve, and the second outlet of the first three-way valve is connected to the detection inlet of the pressure gauge.

[0015] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that it further includes a safety valve, the inlet of which is connected to the outlet of the water pump, the first outlet of which is connected to the inlet of the first heater, and the first outlet of which is connected to the water tank.

[0016] A preferred embodiment of this invention is that a flow meter is also installed in the pipeline between the water tank and the water pump.

[0017] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that it further includes a second three-way valve, a second heater, and a steam switch. The inlet of the second three-way valve is connected to the outlet of the first heater, the first outlet of the second three-way valve is connected to the inlet of the three-way solenoid valve, the second outlet of the second three-way valve is connected to the inlet of the second heater, the outlet of the second heater is connected to the inlet of the steam switch, and the outlet of the steam switch is connected to the steam end of the coffee machine.

[0018] The preferred technical solution of this utility model is that the first one-way valve includes an inlet and an outlet, and a valve body and a back pressure spring for blocking the channel are provided in the channel between the inlet and the outlet. One end of the back pressure spring abuts against the valve body, and the other end of the back pressure spring abuts against the second water outlet of the coffee machine.

[0019] This utility model also provides a coffee machine that includes the water system described above.

[0020] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0021] This utility model proposes a water circuit system and a coffee machine. By incorporating a three-way solenoid valve and a first one-way valve into the water circuit system, when water is needed from the second outlet, the water pump and the first heater of the water circuit system operate. Hot water flows through the long-pass pipe of the three-way solenoid valve and then through the first one-way valve to the second outlet. When water is needed from the first outlet, the water pump, the first heater, and the three-way solenoid valve operate. Because the pipe leading to the second outlet has a higher resistance (the first one-way valve), water flows through the pipe with lower resistance leading to the first outlet, and no water flows from the second outlet. Through this water circuit system and operating method, control of two different outlet functions is achieved, simplifying the water circuit structure, reducing the number of solenoid valves, and thus reducing the complexity of the control circuit. This optimizes the overall system design while maintaining comprehensive functionality, improving the reliability and ease of maintenance of the equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the water system of a coffee machine according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the first one-way valve in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a top view of the first one-way valve in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0026] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along the AA direction;

[0027] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the first check valve in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0028] In the picture:

[0029] 1-Water tank; 2-Water pump; 31-First heater; 32-Second heater; 4-Three-way solenoid valve; 51-First check valve; 511-Inlet; 512-Outlet; 513-Valve body; 514-Back pressure spring; 52-Second check valve; 61-First three-way valve; 62-Second three-way valve; 7-Pressure gauge; 8-Safety valve; 9-Steam switch; 101-First outlet; 102-Second outlet. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The technical solution of this utility model will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0031] Example 1

[0032] like Figure 1-5 As shown in this embodiment, a coffee machine includes a water system as described below. This water system includes a water tank 1; a water pump 2, whose inlet is connected to the water tank 1; a first heater 31, whose inlet is connected to the outlet of the water pump 2; a three-way solenoid valve 4, whose inlet is connected to the outlet of the first heater 31, and whose control outlet is connected to the first outlet 101 of the coffee machine; and a first one-way valve 51, whose inlet is connected to the continuous outlet of the three-way solenoid valve 4, and whose outlet is connected to the second outlet 102 of the coffee machine. The first outlet is for dispensing hot water, and the second outlet is for extraction. The hot water outlet is mainly used for directly dispensing hot water to brew Americano coffee, while the extraction outlet is used for brewing espresso extracted from pressed coffee powder. The coffee machine and its water system work as follows: When the user wants to brew espresso, pressing the extraction button activates the machine's control circuit, which drives the water pump and the first heater. Water from the tank flows through the pipes to the pump and heater, forming hot water. The temperature of the water heated by the first heater is maintained at approximately 90 degrees Celsius. At this time, the three-way solenoid valve is closed, and water flows only through the continuous outlet and then through the one-way valve into the extraction end. When the user wants to brew Americano, pressing the hot water dispensing button activates the control circuit, which drives the water pump, the first heater, and the three-way solenoid valve. However, because the pipe leading to the extraction end has a resistance-resistant one-way valve, water flows through the less resistant pipe leading to the hot water dispensing end, and no water comes out of the extraction end. When not in use, the pump is not operating, and due to the resistance of the first one-way valve, water cannot flow through it. Through the above method, the water system of this embodiment can control the functions of two different water outlets with only one three-way solenoid valve, which simplifies the water system structure and reduces the number of solenoid valves, thereby reducing the complexity of the control circuit. It achieves the optimization of the overall system design while maintaining full functionality, and improves the reliability and ease of maintenance of the equipment.

[0033] Preferably, the system also includes a second one-way valve 52, which is disposed in the pipeline between the control outlet of the three-way solenoid valve 4 and the first water outlet 101 of the coffee machine. The resistance of the first one-way valve 51 is greater than that of the second one-way valve 52. Based on the original water system technical solution, the introduction of a second one-way valve in the pipeline between the control outlet of the three-way solenoid valve and the first water outlet of the coffee machine not only enhances the stability and functionality of the system but also demonstrates a high degree of innovation. The addition of the second one-way valve ensures that when the first water outlet (such as a nozzle for directly dispensing hot water) is in a non-working or closed state, even if the internal pressure of the coffee machine changes, the heated water will not flow back to the three-way solenoid valve or the upstream water pipeline, effectively preventing water contamination and potential damage. After multiple tests by the inventors, the installation of a second one-way valve in the pipeline makes the water flow from the first water outlet smoother, resulting in a better user experience.

[0034] Preferably, the resistance of the first one-way valve 51 is at least 1.5 Bar greater than the resistance of the second one-way valve 52. This design difference ensures the precise water pressure required for the coffee extraction process. Coffee extraction typically requires high water pressure to fully extract flavor compounds from the coffee grounds, and the first one-way valve, in conjunction with the three-way solenoid valve, maintains this high-pressure water flow. In contrast, functions such as directly dispensing hot water for coffee brewing do not require such high water pressure; otherwise, the water temperature might be too high or the water flow too strong, affecting the user experience.

[0035] Preferably, the resistance of the first one-way valve 51 is 8.3-8.8 Bar. This precise selection of technical parameters is an optimized solution derived from in-depth research on water flow dynamics and pressure during coffee extraction, reflecting a high degree of technical creativity and practicality. In coffee extraction, appropriate water pressure is crucial for evenly wetting the coffee grounds and fully releasing the coffee flavor. The first one-way valve plays a vital role in this process, not only preventing backflow but also ensuring a stable and suitable water pressure during extraction. Setting the resistance within the 8.3-8.8 Bar range ensures smooth water flow without excessive pressure that could lead to over-compaction of the coffee grounds, affecting extraction efficiency and coffee quality. This design not only improves the stability and consistency of coffee extraction but also, through precise control of water pressure, results in a fuller, more layered coffee flavor, greatly satisfying the demanding requirements of coffee enthusiasts and professionals. Therefore, this selection of technical parameters represents not only precise control of the coffee extraction process but also a significant innovation and optimization of the existing water system. Furthermore, the resistance of the second one-way valve 52 is 6.3-6.8 Bar. This resistance setting ensures that water does not easily flow out of the pipe when the hot water outlet is not in use.

[0036] Furthermore, the first one-way valve 51 includes an inlet 511 and an outlet 512. A valve body 513 and a back pressure spring 514 for blocking the passage are provided in the channel between the inlet 511 and the outlet 512. One end of the back pressure spring 514 abuts against the valve body 513, and the other end abuts against the second water outlet 102 of the coffee machine. Specifically, the first one-way valve includes an inlet and an outlet, with the valve body and back pressure spring cleverly arranged in the channel between them. As a key component directly acting on the channel, the valve body's design and material selection have been rigorously considered to ensure stable and reliable opening and closing of the channel under the action of water flow. When water flows from the inlet to the outlet, the valve body opens under the thrust of the water flow, allowing the water to flow smoothly; when the water flow direction is reversed, the valve body tightly adheres to the channel wall under the action of the back pressure spring, effectively preventing backflow and protecting the internal components of the system from damage. The design of the back pressure spring is a major highlight of this one-way valve. One end of the spring abuts against the valve body, while the other end abuts against the second water outlet of the coffee machine. This layout not only ensures that the spring can always provide a stable back pressure to the valve body, but also allows the spring force to be adjusted according to the specific needs of the coffee machine and the working environment. The back pressure setting is beneficial for filtering the low-pressure water at the extraction end, resulting in coffee with a richer oil extraction. In the above technical solution, the valve body adopts a hemispherical and cylindrical structure design. After utility model testing, this unique shape has a significant advantage in brewing coffee with a relatively thick foam layer when high-pressure water flows through the valve body and then through the compacted coffee grounds. The hemispherical design helps guide the high-pressure water flow to form a more uniform and concentrated jet. When the water flows through the hemispherical structure, its streamlined outer surface reduces water flow resistance while maintaining a high speed and pressure as the water flows through the valve body. The cylindrical part stabilizes the water flow, ensuring that the water flows smoothly to the compacted coffee grounds layer after leaving the valve body. This design avoids turbulence or flow disturbances as the water passes through the valve body, ensuring the stability and uniformity of the water flow. Due to minimal pressure loss, the impact force remains strong even after the high-pressure water flows through the valve body. This enhanced impact force helps the water more effectively penetrate the compacted coffee grounds, extracting more coffee essence. Simultaneously, the speed and pressure are better maintained as the water flows smoothly towards the coffee grounds. This allows the water to penetrate the compacted coffee grounds more effectively, generating more uniform and finer bubbles as it penetrates. These bubbles intertwine and merge as they rise, ultimately forming a relatively thick foam layer. This thicker foam layer not only enhances the visual appeal of the coffee but also improves its taste and aroma. The tiny bubbles in the foam layer carry a large amount of coffee essence and oils, making the coffee richer and smoother.Experimental testing revealed that a ratio of 3:(3.5-4.5) between the diameter d1 of the hemispherical cross-section and the diameter d2 of the outlet 512 cross-section, and a ratio of 1:(1.8-2.5) between the diameter d3 of the cylindrical cross-section and the diameter d2 of the outlet 512 cross-section, are suitable for producing a thicker foam layer and enhancing the taste and aroma of the coffee. Furthermore, by optimizing the water flow pattern and impact force, the water system, while maintaining comprehensive functionality, can employ a simpler and more direct waterway layout, reducing unnecessary pipe connections and branches, lowering the complexity and failure rate of the water system, and thus improving the overall stability and reliability of the system.

[0037] Preferably, the system also includes a first three-way valve 61 and a pressure gauge 7; the inlet of the first three-way valve 61 is connected to the long-connected outlet of the three-way solenoid valve 4, the first outlet of the first three-way valve 61 is connected to the inlet of the first one-way valve 51, and the second outlet of the first three-way valve 61 is connected to the detection inlet of the pressure gauge 7. The combination of the first three-way valve and the pressure gauge in the water system is introduced to facilitate users in adjusting the extraction pressure of the coffee water. Coffee extracted under different pressures produces coffee with different flavors, allowing users to choose the appropriate pressure for their preferred coffee.

[0038] Preferably, the system also includes a safety valve 8. The inlet of the safety valve 8 is connected to the outlet of the water pump 2, the first outlet of the safety valve 8 is connected to the inlet of the first heater 31, and the first outlet of the safety valve 8 is connected to the water tank 1. The addition of the safety valve is another important guarantee for system safety. Its inlet is directly connected to the water pump outlet, ensuring that when the water pump output pressure rises abnormally, the safety valve can respond quickly, directing excess water flow to the inlet of the first heater or the water tank, effectively preventing system damage or explosion risks caused by overpressure. This design not only reflects a deep consideration for system safety but also cleverly utilizes internal system resources, such as directing excess water flow to the heater, which alleviates pressure problems and improves water heating efficiency. At the same time, the connection between the safety valve and the water tank provides an additional water flow buffer for the system, further enhancing the system's stability and fault tolerance.

[0039] To further enrich the coffee machine's functionality and provide milk frothing capabilities, it preferably includes a second three-way valve 62, a second heater 32, and a steam switch 9. The inlet of the second three-way valve 62 is connected to the outlet of the first heater 31; the first outlet of the second three-way valve 62 is connected to the inlet of the three-way solenoid valve 4; the second outlet of the second three-way valve 62 is connected to the inlet of the second heater 32; the outlet of the second heater 32 is connected to the inlet of the steam switch 9; and the outlet of the steam switch 9 is connected to the steam end of the coffee machine. Through secondary heating, the water temperature can be further increased, providing more sufficient energy for steam generation. Simultaneously, the close cooperation between the second heater and the steam switch allows the system to precisely control steam generation and output based on the state of the steam switch. This design not only improves steam generation efficiency but also makes steam output more stable and continuous, providing strong support for the steam end of the coffee machine.

[0040] In addition, a flow meter is installed on the pipeline between the water tank and the water pump, and is electrically connected to the control circuit for monitoring. The flow meter can accurately measure and record the water flow rate entering the pump, providing valuable data support for the system. By monitoring the flow data, operators can understand the system's operating status in a timely manner, thereby taking appropriate maintenance measures to ensure the normal operation of the system.

[0041] To further optimize the coffee machine's intelligent functions, it features a built-in intelligent water distribution system. Based on the user-defined water outlet (first or second outlet) and preset water parameters (such as temperature and flow rate), the system automatically adjusts the power of the water pump, the three-way solenoid valve, and the first heater to ensure precise water flow to the target outlet. Furthermore, the first heater employs intelligent temperature control technology, quickly adjusting its heating power according to the user-set water temperature to ensure accurate temperature control within the preset range, while reducing energy waste. In standby or low-flow mode, the system automatically reduces the power of the first heater, entering energy-saving mode. When the system detects that the user is about to use the coffee machine, it quickly resumes normal operation, reducing energy consumption and improving response speed.

[0042] Furthermore, the coffee machine is equipped with an intelligent sensing system. When a user places a cup under any water outlet, the system automatically recognizes and initiates the corresponding water flow. Based on advanced sensor technology and an intelligent control system, when a user places a cup under any water outlet, the intelligent sensing system immediately detects the cup's presence and automatically initiates the corresponding water flow to prepare for dispensing water. This function further simplifies the coffee machine's buttons, improving user convenience and ensuring the machine's response speed and dispensing accuracy. In specific implementations, infrared sensors or weight sensors are typically used. Infrared sensors detect the presence of a cup by emitting infrared light and receiving the reflected light; weight sensors determine the presence of a cup by detecting changes in weight under the water outlet. The sensors in the intelligent sensing system immediately detect the cup's presence and send a signal to the signal processor. Based on the signal processor's analysis, the intelligent control system makes corresponding decisions, such as initiating the water flow, adjusting the water temperature, and controlling the water flow rate. When the preset dispensing conditions are met (such as reaching the set temperature or flow rate), the coffee machine automatically stops dispensing water, completing the entire intelligent start-up process.

[0043] This utility model has been described through preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that various changes or equivalent substitutions can be made to these features and embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model. This utility model is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein; other embodiments falling within the scope of the claims of this application are all within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A waterway system characterized by, It comprises: a water tank (1); a water pump (2) with its inlet connected to the water tank (1); a first heater (31) with its inlet connected to the outlet of the water pump (2); a three-way electromagnetic valve (4) with its inlet connected to the outlet of the first heater (31) and its control outlet connected to the first water outlet (101) of the coffee machine; a first check valve (51) with its inlet connected to the long outlet of the three-way electromagnetic valve (4) and its outlet connected to the second water outlet (102) of the coffee machine.

2. The water system according to claim 1, further comprising a second check valve (52) arranged in the pipeline between the control outlet of the three-way electromagnetic valve (4) and the first water outlet (101) of the coffee machine, wherein the resistance of the first check valve (51) is greater than that of the second check valve (52).

3. The water system according to claim 1, wherein the resistance of the first check valve (51) is at least 1.5 Bar greater than that of the second check valve (52).

4. The water system according to claim 2, wherein the resistance of the first check valve (51) is 8.3-8.8 Bar.

5. The water system according to claim 2, wherein the resistance of the second check valve (52) is 6.3-6.8 Bar.

6. The water system according to claim 1, further comprising a first tee (61) and a pressure gauge (7), wherein the inlet of the first tee (61) is connected to the long outlet of the three-way electromagnetic valve (4), the first outlet of the first tee (61) is connected to the inlet of the first check valve (51), and the second outlet of the first tee (61) is connected to the detection inlet of the pressure gauge (7).

7. The water system according to claim 1, further comprising a safety valve (8) with its inlet connected to the outlet of the water pump (2), its first outlet connected to the inlet of the first heater (31), and its second outlet connected to the water tank (1).

8. The water system according to claim 1, further comprising a second tee (62), a second heater (32), and a steam switch (9), wherein the inlet of the second tee (62) is connected to the outlet of the first heater (31), the first outlet of the second tee (62) is connected to the inlet of the three-way electromagnetic valve (4), the second outlet of the second tee (62) is connected to the inlet of the second heater (32), the outlet of the second heater (32) is connected to the inlet of the steam switch (9), and the outlet of the steam switch (9) is connected to the steam end of the coffee machine.

9. The water system according to claim 1, ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The first one-way valve (51) comprises an inlet (511) and an outlet (512), a valve body (513) and a back pressure spring (514) are arranged in the channel between the inlet (511) and the outlet (512) to block the channel, one end of the back pressure spring (514) abuts against the valve body (513), and the other end of the back pressure spring (514) abuts against the second water outlet end (102) of the coffee machine.

10. A coffee machine, characterized in that: The coffee machine comprises the water path system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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