Feeding module for capsule coffee machine and coffee machine

Abstract

The utility model discloses a feeding module for a capsule coffee machine and the coffee machine, the feeding module comprises a guide seat and a fixed seat arranged at the bottom of the guide seat, the guide seat is provided with a containing cavity, and the fixed seat is provided with a first channel communicated with an extraction module; the containing cavity can move between a first position and a second position in a reciprocating mode along with rotation of the guide base. By means of the reciprocating rotation mechanism of the guide seat and the design of the containing cavity, the problem that capsules are conveyed instably in an existing capsule coffee machine is solved. The core is that the containing cavity can be switched between a first position and a second position, the containing cavity receives capsules released from the goods channel at the first position, and when the containing cavity rotates to the second position, the capsules are released to the first channel communicated with the extraction module. The rotary conveying mode replaces a traditional direct pushing-in mode, the postures of the capsules can be naturally adjusted in the conveying process, and the problem of clamping stagnation or inclination caused by the incorrect postures of the capsules is effectively solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of coffee machine technology, and in particular to a feeding module for a capsule coffee machine and a coffee machine. Background Technology

[0002] In existing capsule coffee machines, after the capsule is released from the feed channel, it is typically pushed directly into the extraction module using a feeding module. However, this direct pushing process often results in the capsule failing to enter the extraction module or failing to extract accurately once inside, due to incorrect capsule orientation. This is because capsules are usually truncated cone-shaped; if their orientation is incorrect, problems such as jamming or tilting can occur during the feeding process.

[0003] Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a feeding module that can stably deliver capsules. Utility Model Content

[0004] The main purpose of this utility model is to provide a feeding module and a coffee machine for capsule coffee machines to solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] The objective of this utility model can be achieved by adopting the following technical solution:

[0006] A feeding module for a capsule coffee machine includes: a guide seat and a fixed seat disposed at the bottom of the guide seat. The guide seat has a cavity, and the fixed seat has a first channel communicating with an extraction module. The cavity is capable of reciprocating between a first position and a second position as the guide seat rotates. In the first position, the cavity is used to receive a capsule released from the feeding channel, and when rotated to the second position, it releases the capsule into the first channel.

[0007] The cavity has through holes on opposite sides. The feeding module further includes: a first through-beam sensor, which is located at the first position and is used to detect whether a capsule is present in the cavity through the through hole; and a second through-beam sensor, which is located at the second position and is used to detect whether the capsule has been released into the first channel through the through hole.

[0008] It also includes a drive mechanism, which controls the guide seat to reciprocate between the first position and the second position based on the detection signals of the first through-beam sensor and the second through-beam sensor.

[0009] The driving mechanism includes a drive motor, and the output shaft of the drive motor is connected to the guide seat through a gear set.

[0010] The gear set includes a driving gear and a driven gear. The driving gear is connected to the output shaft of the drive motor, and the driven gear is fixedly connected to the guide seat.

[0011] It also includes: support side plates disposed on opposite sides of the fixed base, wherein the first through-beam sensor and the second through-beam sensor are mounted on the support side plates.

[0012] The guide seat is provided with a detection unit, and the supporting side plates on opposite sides are respectively provided with an in-situ sensor and an end position sensor. When the cavity is in the first position, the detection unit is located in the detection area of ​​the in-situ sensor, and when the cavity is in the second position, the detection unit is located in the detection area of ​​the end position sensor.

[0013] The contours of both the cavity and the first channel are frustum-shaped.

[0014] A coffee machine includes: an extraction module and a feeding module as described above, wherein the extraction module is disposed at the bottom of the feeding module.

[0015] The extraction module includes a boiler and an extraction seat; the extraction seat is connected to the boiler, and the top of the extraction seat is provided with a second channel connected to the first channel. The extraction seat is used to accommodate the capsule and extract the capsule; the extraction seat and the boiler are designed as an integral unit.

[0016] The beneficial technical effects of this invention are as follows: This invention solves the problem of unstable capsule delivery in existing capsule coffee machines through the reciprocating rotation mechanism of the guide seat and the cavity design. Its core lies in the cavity's ability to switch between a first position and a second position: in the first position, it receives capsules released from the delivery channel; when rotating to the second position, it releases the capsules into the first channel connected to the extraction module. This rotary delivery method replaces the traditional direct-push method, allowing the capsules to naturally adjust their posture during transport, effectively avoiding jamming or tilting caused by incorrect capsule posture. Simultaneously, this design fully utilizes gravity to achieve the natural descent of the capsules, eliminating the need for an additional pushing mechanism, simplifying the structure while improving reliability, ensuring that the capsules enter the extraction module stably with the correct posture, thereby achieving precise extraction. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of a feeding module for a capsule coffee machine provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0019] Figure 2 Another perspective perspective view of the feeding module for a capsule coffee machine provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0020] Figure 3 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the extraction seat in the feeding module of a capsule coffee machine provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the material storage module in a coffee machine provided in an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0022] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0023] In the diagram: 10-guide seat, 11-cavity, 12-through hole, 13-detection unit, 20-fixed seat, 21-first channel, 31-first through-beam sensor, 311-first beam, 32-second through-beam sensor, 321-second beam, 41-drive motor, 42-drive gear, 43-driven gear, 50-support side plate, 51-horizontal plate, 52-vertical plate, 53-support column, 61-in-situ sensor, 62-end sensor, 100-storage module, 110-cargo channel, 120-capsule, 200-extraction module, 210-boiler, 220-extraction seat, 221-second channel, 300-water supply module. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0025] It should be understood that, when used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms "comprising" and "including" indicate the presence of the described features, integrals, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components and / or collections thereof.

[0026] It should also be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0027] It should also be further understood that the term "and / or" as used in this specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0028] like Figures 1-4 As shown in the figure, an embodiment of the present invention provides a feeding module for a capsule coffee machine, including a guide seat 10 and a fixed seat 20 disposed at the bottom of the guide seat 10. The guide seat 10 is provided with a cavity 11, and the fixed seat 20 is provided with a first channel 21 communicating with the extraction module 200. The cavity 11 can reciprocate between a first position and a second position as the guide seat 10 rotates, wherein the cavity 11 is used to receive capsules 120 released from the feeding channel 110 in the first position, and releases capsules 120 into the first channel 21 when rotated to the second position.

[0029] In this embodiment, the guide seat 10 achieves the reciprocating movement of the cavity 11 between the first and second positions through rotational motion, thereby completing the receiving, conveying, and releasing process of the capsule 120. The fixed seat 20 is connected to the extraction module 200 below through the first channel 21, providing a path for the capsule 120 to fall.

[0030] Specifically, the shape of the cavity 11 is adapted to the shape of the capsule 120 so as to temporarily store and restrain the capsule 120 when it falls directly. This adaptation design eliminates the need for additional secondary adjustments to the posture of the capsule 120 during its fall, simplifying the feeding process.

[0031] The first channel 21 provided on the fixing seat 20 provides an effective passage for the capsule 120 to enter the extraction module 200 after being released from the cavity 11. The connection between the first channel 21 and the extraction module 200 is designed to be a smooth transition, ensuring that the capsule 120 can smoothly enter the interior of the extraction module 200.

[0032] The cavity 11 is positioned in a first position corresponding to the channel 110 in the storage module 100. When the capsule 120 is released from the channel 110, it falls directly into the cavity 11 in the first position. Subsequently, the guide seat 10 rotates the cavity 11 to a second position, at which point the cavity 11 is aligned with the first channel 21. Under the influence of gravity, the capsule 120 falls from the cavity 11 into the first channel 21 and finally enters the extraction module 200. The entire process utilizes gravity to achieve the natural descent of the capsule 120, eliminating the need for an additional pushing mechanism, resulting in a simple and reliable structure.

[0033] During the rotational transfer of capsule 120 from the first position to the second position, since capsule 120 is truncated cone in shape, its posture needs to be adjusted to ensure it can smoothly enter the extraction module 200 through the first channel 21. A rotary feeding method allows the rotation of the cavity 11 to naturally adjust the posture of capsule 120. Specifically, as the cavity 11 rotates from the first position to the second position, capsule 120 gradually adjusts its posture under the limiting action of the cavity 11, ultimately allowing it to enter the first channel 21 in a suitable direction and posture, thus ensuring that capsule 120 can smoothly enter the extraction module 200 and achieve extraction.

[0034] This feeding module design not only simplifies the capsule 120 conveying structure but also effectively avoids extraction problems caused by capsule 120 jamming or incorrect posture. Compared to the direct pushing method used in traditional coffee machines, the feeding module in this embodiment guides the movement of the capsule 120 more effectively through rotational motion, ensuring that it enters the extraction module 200 in the correct posture, thus improving the reliability of the coffee machine.

[0035] In one embodiment, through holes 12 are provided on opposite sides of the cavity 11, and the feeding module further includes: a first through-beam sensor 31 and a second through-beam sensor 32. The first through-beam sensor 31 is disposed at a first position and is used to detect whether there is a capsule 120 in the cavity 11 through the through hole 12; the second through-beam sensor 32 is disposed at a second position and is used to detect whether the capsule 120 has been released into the first channel 21 through the through hole 12.

[0036] In this embodiment, through holes 12 on opposite sides of the cavity 11 penetrate the sidewalls of the cavity 11, forming an optical path channel. The diameter and position of the through holes 12 are designed to allow the light signal from the through-beam sensor to pass through, while not affecting the limiting and supporting functions of the capsule 120. The through holes 12 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the cavity 11 to ensure that the light signal can pass through the cavity 11 in a straight line.

[0037] The first through-beam sensor 31 includes a transmitter and a receiver, which are respectively installed on both sides of the cavity 11 when it is in the first position. When the cavity 11 is rotated to the first position, the first through-beam sensor 31 can transmit and receive light signals through the through holes 12 on both sides of the cavity 11, thereby detecting whether the capsule 120 is in the cavity 11. Specifically, when the capsule 120 successfully falls into the cavity 11, it will block the transmission of light signals. At this time, the receiver of the first through-beam sensor 31 will not be able to receive the light signal emitted by the transmitter, thereby outputting a detection signal indicating that the capsule 120 has entered the cavity 11.

[0038] Similarly, the second through-beam sensor 32 also includes a transmitter and a receiver, which are respectively installed on both sides of the cavity 11 when it is in the second position. When the cavity 11 is rotated to the second position, the second through-beam sensor 32 can detect whether the capsule 120 has been released from the cavity 11 and entered the first channel 21 through the through holes 12 on both sides of the cavity 11. If the capsule 120 has been successfully released, the light signal can pass through the through holes 12 of the cavity 11 and be received by the receiver of the second through-beam sensor 32, indicating that there is no capsule 120 in the cavity 11; if the capsule 120 is still in the cavity 11, it will continue to block the transmission of the light signal.

[0039] This detection method, employing through-beam sensors, can monitor the status of the capsule 120 in real time during the feeding process, providing a basis for subsequent control actions. For example, the guide seat 10 will only be triggered to rotate the cavity 11 after the first through-beam sensor 31 detects that the capsule 120 has successfully entered the cavity 11; and the guide seat 10 will only be triggered to return the cavity 11 to its initial position (first position) after the second through-beam sensor 32 detects that the capsule 120 has been successfully released. This effectively avoids abnormal situations such as material jamming caused by the capsule 120 not being in place or not being released.

[0040] Compared to traditional coffee machines, this real-time monitoring based on through-beam sensors improves the reliability and stability of the feeding process. Utilizing photoelectric detection, it features fast response and high reliability, accurately reflecting the real-time status of the capsule 120 during transport, thus ensuring the stability and reliability of the entire feeding process.

[0041] In practical applications, the first through-beam sensor 31 and the second through-beam sensor 32 can be infrared through-beam sensors, with the first beam 311 and the second beam 321 used to detect the presence and release states of the capsule 120 in the cavity 11, respectively.

[0042] In this embodiment, the first position refers to the initial position or receiving position of the cavity 11 during the rotation of the guide seat 10. When the cavity 11 is in the first position, it has the following characteristics:

[0043] 1. The cavity 11 is aligned with the target cargo channel 110 in the upper storage module 100, and the two form a straight passage in the vertical direction.

[0044] 2. The first position is located at the starting point of the rotation trajectory of the guide seat 10, and this position is detected and confirmed by the in-situ sensor 61. Specifically, when the cavity 11 rotates to the first position, the detection part 13 provided on the guide seat 10 will be detected by the in-situ sensor 61, thereby confirming that the cavity 11 has accurately reached the first position.

[0045] 3. In the first position, the first through-beam sensor 31 emits and receives light signals through the through holes 12 on both sides of the cavity 11 to detect whether the capsule 120 has successfully entered the cavity 11. When the capsule 120 falls into the cavity 11, it will block the transmission of light signals, and the first through-beam sensor 31 will generate a detection signal indicating that the capsule 120 has arrived in position.

[0046] 4. Once it is confirmed that the capsule 120 has entered the cavity 11, the drive mechanism will trigger the rotation of the guide seat 10, causing the cavity 11 to start rotating from the first position.

[0047] In this embodiment, the second position refers to the termination or release position of the cavity 11 during the rotation of the guide seat 10. When the cavity 11 is in the second position, it has the following characteristics:

[0048] 1. The cavity 11 is aligned with the first channel 21 on the lower fixed seat 20, and the two form a straight passage in the vertical direction, so that the capsule 120 can fall smoothly from the cavity 11 into the first channel 21.

[0049] 2. The second position is located at the end of the rotation trajectory of the guide seat 10, forming a rotation angle of approximately 90 degrees (half a rotation) with the first position. This position is detected and confirmed by the end position sensor 62. When the cavity 11 rotates to the second position, the detection part 13 provided on the guide seat 10 will be detected by the end position sensor 62, thereby confirming that the cavity 11 has accurately reached the second position.

[0050] 3. The second position is the working position of the cavity 11 for releasing the capsule 120. When the cavity 11 rotates to the second position, the capsule 120 falls from the cavity 11 into the first channel 21 under the action of gravity, and finally enters the extraction module 200 for extraction.

[0051] 4. In the second position, the second through-beam sensor 32 emits and receives light signals through the through holes 12 on both sides of the cavity 11 to detect whether the capsule 120 has been released from the cavity 11 and entered the first channel 21. When the capsule 120 is successfully released, the light signal can pass through the through holes 12 of the cavity 11 and be received by the second through-beam sensor 32, indicating that there is no capsule 120 in the cavity 11.

[0052] 5. Once it is confirmed that capsule 120 has been successfully released, the drive mechanism will drive guide seat 10 to rotate in the opposite direction, so that cavity 11 returns from the second position to the first position, ready to receive the next capsule 120.

[0053] In one embodiment, the feeding module further includes a drive mechanism for controlling the guide seat 10 to reciprocate between a first position and a second position based on detection signals from the first through-beam sensor 31 and the second through-beam sensor 32. The drive mechanism includes a drive motor 41. The output shaft of the drive motor 41 is connected to the guide seat 10 via a gear set.

[0054] In this embodiment, the rotation of the drive motor 41 can drive the guide seat 10 to rotate, thereby realizing the reciprocating motion of the cavity 11 between the first position and the second position.

[0055] Specifically, the drive motor 41 controls the rotation of the guide seat 10 based on the detection signals from the first through-beam sensor 31 and the second through-beam sensor 32. The specific control logic is as follows:

[0056] 1. After capsule 120 falls from conveyor 110, the first through-beam sensor 31 can detect that capsule 120 has entered cavity 11. At this time, the detection signal generated by the first through-beam sensor 31 is transmitted to the control unit (not shown in the figure). After receiving the signal, the control unit sends a start command to drive motor 41.

[0057] 2. After receiving the start command, the drive motor 41 starts to operate, driving the guide seat 10 to rotate through the gear set, causing the cavity 11 to rotate from the first position to the second position. During the rotation, the posture of the capsule 120 will be gradually adjusted under the guidance of the cavity 11 so that it can pass smoothly through the first channel 21.

[0058] 3. When the cavity 11 reaches the second position, the capsule 120 falls from the cavity 11 into the first channel 21 under the action of gravity. At this time, the second through-beam sensor 32 detects that the capsule 120 has left the cavity 11 (that is, the light signal can pass through the through hole of the cavity 11), and the detection signal generated by the second through-beam sensor 32 is transmitted to the control unit.

[0059] 4. After receiving the detection signal from the second through-beam sensor 32, the control unit sends a reverse rotation command to the drive motor 41. Upon receiving the reverse rotation command, the drive motor 41 begins to rotate in reverse, driving the guide seat 10 to rotate in reverse through the gear set, so that the cavity 11 returns from the second position to the first position, ready to receive the next capsule 120.

[0060] This automatic control method, based on signals detected by a through-beam sensor, enables automated control of the feeding module, ensuring the stability and reliability of the capsule 120 conveying process. The coffee machine can control the rotation of the guide seat 10 according to the actual position of the capsule 120, avoiding abnormal situations such as jamming caused by the capsule 120 not being in place or not being released.

[0061] In one embodiment, the drive mechanism of the feeding module includes a gear set, which includes a driving gear 42 and a driven gear 43. The driving gear 42 is fixedly connected to the output shaft of the drive motor 41, and the driven gear 43 is fixedly connected to the bottom surface of the guide seat 10.

[0062] In this embodiment, the guide seat 10 and the fixed seat 20 are rotatably connected. This rotatable connection can be achieved through bearings, allowing the guide seat 10 to rotate freely relative to the fixed seat 20 while maintaining a stable relative position between them. The fixed seat 20, as the basic component of the feeding module, remains stationary, while the guide seat 10 rotates around its central axis under the drive of the drive motor 41.

[0063] The driving gear 42 is directly connected to the output shaft of the drive motor 41. When the drive motor 41 rotates, the driving gear 42 rotates synchronously with the output shaft. The driven gear 43 is fixed to the bottom surface of the guide seat 10 and meshes with the driving gear 42. When the driving gear 42 rotates, its power is transmitted to the driven gear 43 through gear meshing, thereby driving the guide seat 10 to rotate. The installation position of the driven gear 43 is coaxial with the rotation center of the guide seat 10, ensuring that the guide seat 10 can rotate smoothly.

[0064] In actual operation, when the drive motor 41 starts and rotates according to the detection signal of the first through-beam sensor 31, the rotational motion of the motor is transmitted to the driven gear 43 through the driving gear 42, thereby driving the guide seat 10 to rotate and causing the cavity 11 to move from the first position to the second position; when the drive motor 41 rotates in the opposite direction according to the detection signal of the second through-beam sensor 32, the reverse rotational motion of the motor is also transmitted through the gear set, driving the guide seat 10 to rotate and causing the cavity 11 to return from the second position to the first position.

[0065] This gear-driven design not only enables precise control of rotational motion, but also features a simple structure and stable transmission.

[0066] In one specific embodiment, the number of teeth of the driven gear 43 is greater than that of the driving gear 42. This transmission ratio design can reduce the rotational speed of the guide seat 10, increase the rotational torque, and make the rotational motion of the guide seat 10 more stable and controllable.

[0067] In one embodiment, the feeding module further includes support side plates 50 disposed on opposite sides of the fixed base 20, and the first through-beam sensor 31 and the second through-beam sensor 32 are mounted on these support side plates 50.

[0068] In this embodiment, the support side plate 50 is a plate-shaped structure that is fixed relative to the fixed base 20, and is respectively arranged on the left and right sides of the fixed base 20.

[0069] The first through-beam sensor 31 is mounted on the support side plate 50, and its mounting position corresponds to the through hole 12 of the cavity 11 in the first position. Specifically, its transmitting end is mounted on the left support side plate 50, and its receiving end is mounted on the right support side plate 50.

[0070] Similarly, the second through-beam sensor 32 is also mounted on the support side plate 50, and its mounting position corresponds to the through hole 12 of the cavity 11 in the second position. Specifically, its transmitting end is mounted on the left support side plate 50, and its receiving end is mounted on the right support side plate 50. This completes the installation of the aforementioned sensors.

[0071] In one specific embodiment, the support side plate 50 is L-shaped and includes a horizontal plate 51 and a vertical plate 52 connected to each other. The horizontal plate 51 is fixedly connected to the extraction module 200, and a support column 53 is fixedly connected between the horizontal plate 51 and the fixing base 20. The vertical plate 52 is used to support the aforementioned sensor.

[0072] In one embodiment, a detection unit 13 is provided on the guide seat 10, and an in-situ sensor 61 and an end position sensor 62 are respectively provided on the support side plates 50 on opposite sides. When the cavity 11 is in the first position, the detection unit 13 is located in the detection area of ​​the in-situ sensor 61, and when the cavity 11 is in the second position, the detection unit 13 is located in the detection area of ​​the end position sensor 62.

[0073] In this embodiment, the detection unit 13 on the guide seat 10 can be a sensing plate, used in conjunction with the in-situ sensor 61 and the end position sensor 62 to detect the position of the cavity 11. The detection unit 13 is located at the edge of the guide seat 10 and can be detected by the corresponding sensor. In practical applications, the detection unit 13 is made of a material that can be effectively recognized by photoelectric sensors.

[0074] The in-situ sensor 61 and the end position sensor 62 are a pair of position detection devices mounted on the support side plate 50, used to detect whether the cavity 11 has reached the first position (in-situ) and the second position (end position), respectively. These two sensors can be photoelectric sensors or other types of position sensors.

[0075] The in-situ sensor 61 is mounted on the support side plate 50 corresponding to the first position, i.e., the left support side plate 50. When the cavity 11 rotates to the first position, the detection part 13 on the guide seat 10 enters the detection area of ​​the in-situ sensor 61, triggering the in-situ sensor 61 to generate a detection signal. This signal indicates that the cavity 11 has accurately reached the first position and can receive the capsule 120 released from the cargo channel 110.

[0076] The end position sensor 62 is mounted on the support side plate 50 corresponding to the second position, i.e., the right-side support side plate 50. When the cavity 11 rotates to the second position, the detection part 13 on the guide seat 10 enters the detection area of ​​the end position sensor 62, triggering the end position sensor 62 to generate a detection signal. This signal indicates that the cavity 11 has accurately reached the second position, and the capsule 120 can be released into the first channel 21.

[0077] The signals from the in-situ sensor 61 and the end-position sensor 62 are connected to the control unit (not shown in the figure) of the aforementioned embodiment, and work in conjunction with the drive mechanism to control the rotation of the guide seat 10. When the in-situ sensor 61 detects that the cavity 11 has reached the first position, the control unit will stop the operation of the drive motor 41 to ensure that the cavity 11 is stable in the first position; when the end-position sensor 62 detects that the cavity 11 has reached the second position, the control unit will pause the operation of the drive motor 41 until the second through-beam sensor 32 confirms that the capsule 120 has been fully released.

[0078] The in-situ sensor 61 and the end position sensor 62 effectively solve the problem of position detection of the cavity 11, ensuring that the cavity 11 can accurately stop at the first and second positions, which is crucial for the accurate reception and release of the capsule 120. Without these two sensors, the cavity 11 may fail to accurately align with the delivery channel 110 or the first channel 21 due to mechanical errors or inaccurate control, causing the capsule 120 to fail to enter the cavity 11 correctly or to be released smoothly into the first channel 21.

[0079] In actual operation, after capsule 120 is released from conveyor 110 into cavity 11, the first through-beam sensor 31 detects that capsule 120 has entered cavity 11. The control unit starts drive motor 41, causing cavity 11 to rotate from the first position to the second position. When cavity 11 rotates to the second position, end position sensor 62 detects detection part 13 on guide seat 10 and sends a signal to control unit, which stops drive motor 41. At this time, capsule 120 falls from cavity 11 into first channel 21. The second through-beam sensor 32 detects that capsule 120 has been released. The control unit starts drive motor 41 to rotate in the reverse direction, causing cavity 11 to return from the second position to the first position. When cavity 11 returns to the first position, in-situ sensor 61 detects detection part 13 on guide seat 10 and sends a signal to control unit, which stops drive motor 41, completing a full feeding cycle.

[0080] In this embodiment, the in-situ sensor 61 and the end position sensor 62 detect the physical position of the guide seat 10 / cavity 11 (i.e., whether the mechanical component has reached the designated position). The through-beam sensor detects the presence state of the capsule 120 within the cavity 11 (i.e., whether the capsule 120 is within the cavity 11).

[0081] This dual detection mechanism (position detection + capsule 120 status detection) improves the reliability of the coffee machine and avoids malfunctions that may be caused by a single detection. For example, even if the cavity 11 has reached the first position, the coffee machine will not continue to the next step if the capsule 120 fails to enter the cavity 11; similarly, even if the cavity 11 has reached the second position, the coffee machine will not allow the cavity 11 to return if the capsule 120 fails to release.

[0082] In one embodiment, both the cavity 11 and the first channel 21 have a frustum shape.

[0083] In this embodiment, the internal contour of the cavity 11 is frustum-shaped, and its size and shape match the shape of the capsule 120. The diameter of the larger end of the frustum is slightly larger than the maximum diameter of the capsule 120 (the opening end of the capsule), and the diameter of the smaller end is slightly larger than the minimum diameter of the capsule 120 (the bottom end of the capsule). This design allows the capsule 120 to sit stably within the cavity 11 without wobbling or tilting.

[0084] Meanwhile, the frustum-shaped internal contour also provides a natural guiding effect for the capsule 120. When the capsule 120 is released from the conveyor 110 and falls into the cavity 11, the frustum-shaped inner wall can automatically guide the capsule 120 to adjust to a position aligned with the axis of the cavity 11, without the need for additional positioning devices. This natural guiding effect reduces the instability of the capsule 120's posture during the transfer process.

[0085] The first channel 21 also adopts a frustum-shaped design, and its outline matches the shape of the outlet part of the cavity 11 and the capsule 120, ensuring that the capsule 120 can smoothly transition from the cavity 11 to the first channel 21. In addition, the shape of the inlet (second channel 221) of the extraction module 200 also matches the shape of the capsule 120, ensuring that the capsule 120 can smoothly enter the extraction module 200.

[0086] In practical applications, since the capsule 120 itself is truncated cone-shaped, when it passes through the first truncated cone-shaped channel 21, it will naturally adjust to the most suitable posture for passage under the combined action of gravity and the side wall of the channel.

[0087] Both the cavity 11 and the first channel 21 adopt a frustum-shaped design, which has significant advantages over other shapes (such as cylindrical or rectangular): First, the frustum-shaped structure can automatically position the capsule 120 to the center of the channel, reducing the risk of jamming; second, the frustum-shaped channel can guide the capsule 120 to automatically adjust to the ideal posture, ensuring that it can pass smoothly through the entire conveying path; finally, the frustum-shaped design has a high tolerance for the size and shape of the capsule 120, and it can pass smoothly even if there are slight differences in the size of the capsule 120.

[0088] Corresponding to the above-mentioned feeding module for a capsule coffee machine, this utility model embodiment also provides a coffee machine, which includes an extraction module 200 and a feeding module as described in the foregoing embodiment, wherein the extraction module 200 is disposed at the bottom of the feeding module.

[0089] In this embodiment, the extraction module 200 is positioned directly below the feeding module, forming a vertical alignment. This arrangement allows the capsule 120 to fall directly into the extraction module 200 from the first channel 21 of the feeding module under the influence of gravity. This vertical arrangement simplifies the transport path of the capsule 120, eliminating the need for an additional conveying mechanism and improving the simplicity and reliability of the structure.

[0090] The first channel 21 at the bottom of the fixing seat 20 of the feeding module is aligned with the second channel 221 at the top of the extraction module 200 to form a continuous transmission channel, enabling the capsule 120 to smoothly transition from the feeding module to the extraction module 200.

[0091] During coffee preparation, the target capsule 120 falls into the cavity 11 of the feeding module. The guide seat 10 of the feeding module rotates the cavity 11 to a second position, causing the capsule 120 to fall from the cavity 11 into the first channel 21 and finally into the extraction module 200. After receiving the capsule 120, the extraction module 200 performs a puncture operation and then extracts the coffee powder inside the capsule 120 using hot water.

[0092] Compared to traditional coffee machines, the coffee machine in this embodiment optimizes the positional relationship between the feeding module and the extraction module 200, making the entire capsule 120 transfer process more natural and smooth. The rotary design of the feeding module can automatically adjust the posture of the capsule 120 during the transfer process, ensuring that the capsule 120 enters the extraction module 200 in the correct direction, thus improving the reliability of the coffee machine.

[0093] In one embodiment, the extraction module 200 includes: a boiler 210; and an extraction seat 220, which is connected to the boiler 210. The top of the extraction seat 220 is provided with a second channel 221 that is connected to the first channel 21. The extraction seat 220 is used to accommodate the capsule 120 and extract the capsule 120. The extraction seat 220 and the boiler 210 are designed as an integral unit.

[0094] In this embodiment, the boiler 210 is connected to the extraction seat 220 to provide the hot water required for the extraction process; the top of the extraction seat 220 is provided with a second channel 221 that is connected to the first channel 21 of the feeding module to receive the capsule 120 falling from the first channel 21.

[0095] Specifically, boiler 210 includes an inlet and an outlet (not shown in the attached diagram). The inlet receives water from the water supply module 300, and the outlet is connected to the extraction base 220. Boiler 210 heats the water entering it to a preset temperature (e.g., 60-95°C), providing suitable temperature conditions for coffee extraction. To improve heating efficiency and reduce heat loss, boiler 210 and extraction base 220 are designed as a single unit, meaning boiler 210 is directly connected to extraction base 220. This shortens the hot water delivery path and reduces heat loss.

[0096] The extraction chamber 220 has a cavity (not shown in the attached diagram) for accommodating the capsule 120, and a second channel 221 at its top guides the capsule 120 to fall accurately into the cavity. The cavity is equipped with a puncture structure for puncturing the capsule 120.

[0097] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this utility model, but the protection scope of this utility model is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this utility model, and these modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the protection scope of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A feeding module for a capsule coffee machine, characterized in that, The feeder module comprises: a guide seat and a fixing seat arranged at the bottom of the guide seat, wherein a cavity is arranged on the guide seat, and a first channel communicating with an extraction module is arranged on the fixing seat; the cavity can reciprocate between a first position and a second position with the rotation of the guide seat, wherein the cavity is used for receiving a capsule released from a goods channel at the first position, and the capsule is released to the first channel when the cavity rotates to the second position.

2. The feeder module of claim 1, wherein, opposite sides of the cavity are provided with through holes, and the feeder module further comprises: a first pair of photoelectric sensors arranged at the first position for detecting whether there is a capsule in the cavity through the through holes; and a second pair of photoelectric sensors arranged at the second position for detecting whether the capsule has been released to the first channel through the through holes.

3. The feeder module of claim 2, wherein, The feeder module further comprises: a driving mechanism for controlling the reciprocating rotation of the guide seat between the first position and the second position according to the detection signals of the first pair of photoelectric sensors and the second pair of photoelectric sensors.

4. The feeder module of claim 3, wherein, The driving mechanism comprises a driving motor, and an output shaft of the driving motor is connected with the guide seat through a gear set.

5. The feeder module of claim 4, wherein, The gear set comprises a driving gear and a driven gear, the driving gear is connected with the output shaft of the driving motor, and the driven gear is fixedly connected with the guide seat.

6. The feeder module of claim 3, wherein, The feeder module further comprises: support side plates arranged on opposite sides of the fixing seat, and the first pair of photoelectric sensors and the second pair of photoelectric sensors are mounted on the support side plates.

7. The feeder module of claim 6, wherein, A detection part is arranged on the guide seat, and the support side plates on the opposite sides are respectively provided with a home sensor and an end sensor, wherein the detection part is located in the detection area of the home sensor when the cavity is at the first position, and the detection part is located in the detection area of the end sensor when the cavity is at the second position.

8. The feeder module according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that The cavity and the first channel are both in the shape of a circular truncated cone.

9. A coffee maker, characterized in that The feeder module comprises: an extraction module and the feeder module according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the extraction module is arranged at the bottom of the feeder module.

10. The coffee maker of claim 9, wherein, The extraction module comprises a boiler and an extraction seat, the extraction seat communicates with the boiler, a second channel communicating with the first channel is arranged at the top of the extraction seat, the extraction seat is used for accommodating the capsule and extracting the capsule, and the extraction seat and the boiler are designed in an integrated manner.

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