Waterway system and flow path switching valve

Abstract

The application discloses a waterway system and a flow path switching valve. The waterway system comprises a brewing device having a first opening and a second opening communicating with a brewing chamber; a water supply pipeline selectively communicating with the first opening and the second opening; a beverage outlet for outputting liquid generated from the brewing chamber; a beverage output pipeline connected between the second opening and the beverage outlet; and a flow path switching valve having a first conveying channel connected to the second opening, a second conveying channel connected to the beverage outlet, and a third conveying channel leading to a water storage tray. The flow path switching valve is operable to switch a communication mode based on a water supply direction, and the communication mode comprises a first mode in which the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening, the first and second conveying channels are communicated, and the first and third conveying channels are blocked; and a second mode in which the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening, the first and third conveying channels are communicated, and the first and second conveying channels are blocked. The flow path switching valve can realize more functions of the waterway system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of beverage preparation technology, and in particular to a water system and a flow path switching valve. Background Technology

[0002] In existing beverage machine (such as coffee machine, tea machine, etc.) water circuit systems, the brewer's water circuit design typically requires multiple independent valves to control the water flow direction to achieve functions such as water supply, brewing, and drainage. For example, traditional systems may use multiple solenoid valves to control the inlet, outlet, and drain pipes separately, resulting in complex structure, high cost, and increased risk of failure. Furthermore, due to the high requirements for valve switching timing and coordination, the reliability of system control may be affected.

[0003] Related technologies attempt to simplify the structure by optimizing the waterway layout, but the following problems still exist:

[0004] Low efficiency of water circuit switching: There may be delays in the coordinated control of multiple valves, which affects the smoothness of the brewing process.

[0005] Complex structure and difficult maintenance: Multi-valve systems occupy a large space and require inspection of multiple components during maintenance, which increases maintenance costs.

[0006] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a beverage machine water circuit system that is simple in structure, reliable in control, and capable of efficiently switching water circuits. Utility Model Content

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a waterway system with a simple structure that can efficiently switch between different connection modes.

[0008] Another objective of this invention is to provide a flow path switching valve with a simple structure and different connection modes.

[0009] To achieve one of the above-mentioned objectives, this utility model provides a water system, comprising:

[0010] A brewing device, comprising a brewing cylinder, an upper piston, and a lower piston, wherein the upper piston and the lower piston are respectively engaged with both ends of the brewing cylinder to form a brewing chamber; the brewing device has a first opening and a second opening communicating with the brewing chamber, wherein the first opening and the second opening are respectively located at opposite ends of the brewing chamber;

[0011] The water supply pipeline can selectively connect the first opening and the second opening to supply water to the brewing chamber;

[0012] A beverage outlet for discharging liquid produced from the brewing chamber;

[0013] A beverage outlet pipe is connected between the second opening and the beverage outlet;

[0014] It also includes a flow path switching valve, which comprises a first conveying channel, a second conveying channel, and a third conveying channel. The first conveying channel is connected to the second opening, the second conveying channel is connected to the beverage outlet, and the third conveying channel leads to a water storage pan. The flow path switching valve is operable to switch connection modes based on the water supply flow direction. The connection modes include: a first mode, in which the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening, the first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are connected, and the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are disconnected; and a second mode, in which the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening, the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are connected, and the first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are disconnected.

[0015] Compared with existing technologies, the advantages of this invention are as follows: The above-mentioned water system replaces multiple independent solenoid valves (such as inlet valves, drain valves, and outlet valves) with a single flow path switching valve, significantly reducing the number of valves and pipeline connection points, and lowering system complexity and manufacturing costs. By switching the flow path switching valve according to the water supply direction, different connection modes are achieved without additional control logic or delays, resulting in faster response and smoother rinsing and cleaning processes.

[0016] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this utility model, the flow path switching valve can controllably throttle the first conveying channel.

[0017] When the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the second opening for backwashing, the first delivery channel is throttled to ensure the smooth progress of backwashing.

[0018] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the connection mode also includes a third mode, wherein the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the second opening, and the second delivery channel and the third delivery channel are connected.

[0019] As a further improvement of one embodiment of this utility model, the first opening is disposed on the lower piston, and the second opening is disposed on the upper piston; a water supply pipeline is provided with a water circuit switching component, and a first water supply branch and a second water supply branch are connected between the water circuit switching component and the brewing chamber; the first water supply branch is connected to the lower piston and supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening; the beverage output pipeline is connected to the upper piston and outputs liquid generated from the brewing chamber through the second opening; the second water supply branch is connected to the second opening and supplies water to the brewing chamber through the second opening; in the first mode and the second mode, the water circuit switching component controllably connects the first water supply branch and the brewing chamber; in the third mode, the water circuit switching component controllably connects the second water supply branch and the brewing chamber.

[0020] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the delivery mode also includes a fourth mode, wherein the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening, and the first delivery channel, the second delivery channel and the third delivery channel are interconnected.

[0021] This utility model also provides a flow path switching valve, including:

[0022] Valve seat;

[0023] A valve core is disposed within the valve seat, the valve seat including a valve core channel and a cavity selectively communicating with the valve core channel;

[0024] The cavity is equipped with a sealing element that connects to the valve core. The valve seat is provided with a first conveying channel, a second conveying channel, and a third conveying channel. The first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are respectively connected to the cavity, and the third conveying channel is connected to the valve core channel. The valve core can operably drive the sealing element to close the second conveying channel or the valve core channel. When the sealing element closes the second conveying channel, the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are connected. When the sealing element closes the valve core channel, the first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are connected.

[0025] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the sealing element includes a first sealing surface and a second sealing surface arranged opposite to each other. The first sealing surface and the second sealing surface are connected by a side wall surface. There is a gap between the side wall surface and the cavity wall of the cavity. The first sealing surface is used to close the second conveying channel, and the second sealing surface is used to close the valve core channel.

[0026] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the valve core can operably drive the sealing element so that the side wall surface corresponds to the first conveying channel, so as to throttle the first conveying channel.

[0027] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the valve core can operably drive the sealing element to make the first conveying channel, the second conveying channel and the third conveying channel interconnected. When the first conveying channel, the second conveying channel and the third conveying channel are interconnected, the side wall surface is offset from the first conveying channel, the first sealing surface is spaced apart from the second conveying channel, the second sealing surface is spaced apart from the valve core channel, and the first conveying channel, the second conveying channel and the third conveying channel are connected through the gap.

[0028] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the second conveying channel and the valve core channel are coaxially arranged with respect to the central axis of the valve seat, and the valve core drives the sealing element to move along a straight line between two extreme positions; at the two extreme positions, the sealing element respectively closes the second conveying channel and the valve core channel.

[0029] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, a motor is provided at one end of the valve core channel away from the sealing element, and the motor drives the valve core to move; the valve core channel and the cavity are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the motor, and the inner diameter of the cavity is larger than the inner diameter of the valve core channel; the sealing element includes a first sealing surface and a second sealing surface arranged opposite to each other, and at the two extreme positions, the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface respectively abut against the two opposite end faces of the cavity.

[0030] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are respectively arranged at an angle relative to the central axis of the valve seat, and the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart; the valve seat includes a main body and an end cover that are sealed to each other, the valve core channel is disposed in the main body, and the first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are disposed in the end cover.

[0031] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the cavity wall is provided with a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the first protrusion surrounds the first conveying channel, and the second protrusion surrounds the second conveying channel; the valve core includes a disc-shaped end extending into the cavity, and the sealing member is constructed as a flexible sleeve that wraps around the disc-shaped end; when the sealing member closes the second conveying channel, the first protrusion is embedded in the flexible sleeve; when the sealing member closes the valve core channel, the second protrusion is embedded in the flexible sleeve.

[0032] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the valve seat is provided with a groove that radially penetrates the valve core channel, the valve core channel is provided with a stepped portion, a sealing ring and a retaining ring are sequentially fitted on the valve core along the direction from the stepped portion to the groove, an opening clamp is connected in the groove, the opening clamp is clamped on the valve core, the sealing ring abuts against the stepped portion, and the opening clamp limits the retaining ring through the groove. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a water system according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the flow path switching valve is in the first connection mode.

[0034] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the water system, in which the flow path switching valve is in the second connection mode.

[0035] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the water system, in which the flow path switching valve is in the third connection mode.

[0036] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the water system, in which the flow path switching valve is in the fourth connection mode.

[0037] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a flow path switching valve according to one embodiment of the utility model.

[0038] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the flow path switching valve, wherein the first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are connected.

[0039] Figure 7 yes Figure 7 A three-dimensional schematic diagram of the flow path switching valve from another perspective.

[0040] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the flow path switching valve, in which the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are connected.

[0041] Figure 9 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the flow path switching valve, in which the first delivery channel is throttled.

[0042] Figure 10 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the flow path switching valve, in which the first conveying channel, the second conveying channel and the third conveying channel are interconnected. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, these embodiments do not limit the present invention, and any structural, methodological, or functional modifications made by those skilled in the art based on these embodiments are included within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0044] It should be understood that terms such as “above,” “over,” “below,” and “under” used herein to indicate spatial relative position are for illustrative purposes to describe the relationship of one unit or feature relative to another unit or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings. The terms “spatial relative position” may be intended to include different orientations of the equipment in use or operation other than those shown in the figures.

[0045] This application relates to water circuit control technology, and in particular to a water circuit system 100 for a beverage machine, specifically a water circuit system 100 capable of accurately switching between multiple water circuit modes and a matching flow path switching valve 10. The following description uses a coffee machine as a specific embodiment.

[0046] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 Coffee machines are typically equipped with a brewer 20, which includes a brewing cylinder, an upper piston 21, and a lower piston 22. The brewing cylinder, together with the upper piston 21 and lower piston 22, forms a brewing chamber, and water is supplied to the brewing chamber through a water supply pipe 31 for coffee brewing. After brewing, the liquid is discharged through the outlet of the brewer 20 and guided to the beverage outlet 35 through the beverage outlet pipe 32. Cleaning the brewer 20 of a coffee machine is generally a forward rinse, that is, water is supplied from the inlet of the brewer 20 and discharged from the outlet. This application embodiment provides an improved water system 100, which includes a flow path switching valve 10. Based on the water flow direction, the water system 100 can switch between multiple connection modes.

[0047] Specifically, the water system 100 includes a brewer 20, which includes a brewing cylinder, an upper piston 21, and a lower piston 22. The upper piston 21 and the lower piston 22 are respectively engaged with both ends of the brewing cylinder to form a brewing chamber. The brewer 20 is provided with a first opening 221 and a second opening 212 communicating with the brewing chamber. The first opening 221 and the second opening 212 are located at opposite ends of the brewing chamber.

[0048] The water system 100 also includes a water supply pipe 31, which can selectively connect to the first opening 221 and the second opening 212 to supply water to the brewing chamber from different directions. Additionally, a beverage outlet 35 and a beverage output pipe 32 are provided. The beverage outlet 35 is used to output liquid produced from the brewing chamber, and the beverage output pipe 32 connects the second opening 212 and the beverage outlet 35.

[0049] This application specifically includes a flow path switching valve 10, which connects the second opening 212 and the beverage outlet 35. The flow path switching valve 10 includes a first conveying channel 11, a second conveying channel 12, and a third conveying channel 13. The first conveying channel 11 connects to the second opening 212, the second conveying channel 12 connects to the beverage outlet 35, and the third conveying channel 13 leads to the water storage pan 36. The flow path switching valve 10 can controllably switch different connection modes based on the water supply flow direction to achieve precise switching of the water system 100. In this embodiment, the specific connection modes include: a first mode, in which the water supply pipe 31 supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening 221, the first conveying channel 11 and the second conveying channel 12 are connected, and the first conveying channel 11 and the third conveying channel 13 are disconnected, and the brewed beverage can be normally discharged to the beverage outlet 35 through the second opening 212 and the beverage output pipe 32; a second mode, in which the water supply pipe 31 supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening 221, the first conveying channel 11 and the third conveying channel 13 are connected, and the first conveying channel 11 and the second conveying channel 12 are disconnected, and the wastewater generated by cleaning the brewer 20 can be smoothly discharged into the water storage pan 36 for subsequent cleaning and maintenance.

[0050] When the water supply pipeline 31 supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening 221, the connected delivery channels are selected differently in different modes. The flow path switching valve 10 can reliably switch to realize the beverage output and cleaning water discharge of the brewer 20. There is no need to set up complicated pipelines, thereby reducing the cost and volume of the water system 100.

[0051] The aforementioned water system replaces multiple independent solenoid valves (such as inlet valves, drain valves, and outlet valves) with a single flow path switching valve 10, significantly reducing the number of valves and pipe connection points, thus lowering system complexity and manufacturing costs. By switching the flow path switching valve according to the water supply direction, different connection modes are achieved without additional control logic or delays, resulting in faster response and smoother rinsing and cleaning processes.

[0052] The water supplied from the water supply pipe 31 to the brewer 20 can be hot water from a self-supply water source heated by the heater 33. The water source can be, for example, the water tank 30 of the beverage machine, filtered tap water, or bottled water. The heater 33 can be a boiler or an instant heater (e.g., an electric heating plate). In this embodiment, the heater 33 is constructed as a boiler.

[0053] In one embodiment, the flow path switching valve 10 can be configured as a three-way solenoid valve. A three-way solenoid valve is an automated valve that uses electromagnetic force to control the on / off state or flow direction of fluid. It has three ports (typically one inlet and two outlets, or two inlets and one outlet). The valve core is driven by energizing / de-energizing an electromagnetic coil to achieve fluid switching, distribution, or mixing. The valve core is the key component of the three-way solenoid valve; it can move within the valve body, thereby changing the flow direction of the fluid. When the valve core is in different positions, it connects or disconnects different outlets. For example, the inlet may be connected to one outlet while the other outlet is disconnected; or the inlet may be connected to another outlet while the previously connected outlet is blocked by the valve core.

[0054] In another embodiment, the flow path switching valve 10 can be configured as a flow control valve. The flow control valve is used to precisely regulate the flow rate of the fluid. An actuator (such as a hydraulic cylinder, hydraulic motor, stepper motor, etc.) drives the valve core to different positions, changing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel, thereby limiting the flow rate, that is, adjusting the flow rate by changing the valve opening or the flow channel resistance.

[0055] When the brewer 20 requires backwashing, the water supply is reversed compared to the coffee brewing process, where water is supplied from the second opening 212 and discharged from the first opening 221. Water flows out of the beverage outlet along the beverage output pipe 32. Therefore, the water flow often cannot be accurately delivered to the brewing chamber; instead, it tends to flow along the beverage output pipe 32 to the beverage outlet 35, failing to reach the correct outlet. Consequently, the water flow cannot effectively achieve backwashing, thus affecting the cleaning effect of the equipment.

[0056] To solve the above problems, refer to Figure 3 In the water system 100 of this application, the flow path switching valve 10 can controllably throttle the first delivery channel 11. When the water supply pipeline 31 supplies water to the brewing chamber through the second opening 212 for backwashing, the throttling of the first delivery channel 11 ensures the smooth progress of backwashing. The brewer 20 is connected to a three-way pressure relief valve 37. The cleaning water after backwashing flows out from the first opening 221 and is then discharged into the water storage pan 36 through the three-way pressure relief valve 37.

[0057] Furthermore, the aforementioned connection mode also includes a third mode. In this mode, the water supply pipe 31 supplies water to the brewing chamber through the second opening 212. That is, the direction of water flow supplying water to the brewer 20 is opposite to that of the first and second modes. In this case, the second delivery channel 12 is connected to the third delivery channel 13. With the second delivery channel 12 and the third delivery channel 13 connected, even if there is a very small amount of water flowing towards the beverage output pipe 32, it can flow to the beverage outlet 35 or the water storage pan 36 through the second delivery channel 12 or the third delivery channel 13, and will not remain in the flow path switching valve 10.

[0058] The so-called throttling refers to adjusting the effective flow cross-sectional area of ​​the first delivery channel 11 to precisely control the water flow rate. The throttling flow range includes the effective flow cross-sectional area of ​​the first delivery channel 11 being (basically) 0 until the effective flow cross-sectional area of ​​the first delivery channel 11 is the maximum flow area designed for it. In the third mode, the water supply pipe 31 supplies water to the brewing chamber through the second opening 212. The second delivery channel 12 is connected to the third delivery channel 13, and the effective flow cross-sectional area of ​​the first delivery channel 11 is controlled to be basically 0 through throttling. During backwashing, the first delivery channel 11 is throttled, essentially cut off. The brewing chamber in the water system 100 is connected to the water storage pan 36 via the pressure relief three-way valve 37, thus connecting the brewing chamber to the atmosphere. Because the first delivery channel 11 is essentially cut off, the pressure in the beverage output pipe 32 will be greater than atmospheric pressure. Therefore, driven by the pressure difference, the water flow in the water supply pipe 31 will naturally enter the brewer 20 through the second opening 212 for backwashing. Very little water will flow towards the beverage output pipe 32, resulting in residual water in the beverage output pipe 32. In this way, the water flow basically enters the brewer 20 through the second opening 212, ensuring that the rinsing water volume is consistent with the preset value, resulting in a good rinsing effect.

[0059] The above-described embodiments can prevent water from accidentally entering the beverage outlet 35 along the first conveying channel 11 during backwashing, effectively ensuring the effectiveness of backwashing.

[0060] By implementing the above technical solutions, this application significantly improves the cleaning performance of beverage machines, especially by optimizing and perfecting the reverse rinsing mode, effectively avoiding the problem of water misflow, and improving the overall reliability and convenience of the beverage machine's operation.

[0061] In one embodiment, a first opening 221 is disposed on the lower piston 22, and a second opening 212 is disposed on the upper piston 21. This structural layout effectively accommodates the normal brewing and backwashing requirements of the water flow, ensuring a clear and easily controllable water flow path. Water flows back into the brewing chamber through the second opening 212 to clean the filter screen of the upper piston 21. The cleaned water can be discharged from the first opening 221 into the water storage pan 36, thereby efficiently removing residues generated during the brewing process and ensuring thorough cleaning and excellent hygiene of the equipment.

[0062] In this embodiment, a water supply switching component 34 is specially provided in the water supply pipeline 31. The water supply switching component 34 is connected to the brewing chamber by a first water supply branch 311 and a second water supply branch 312. Specifically, the first water supply branch 311 is connected to the lower piston 22 and supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening 221 on the lower piston 22; the beverage output pipeline 32 is connected to the upper piston 21 and outputs the liquid generated from the brewing chamber through the second opening 212; the second water supply branch 312 is connected to the second opening 212 and, through the second opening 212, reverse water supply to the brewing chamber is realized, thereby forming a reverse rinsing path that is completely different from the first water supply branch 311.

[0063] During normal brewing, water flows from the first opening 221 to the second opening 212, penetrating the coffee grounds. The upper piston 21 is under pressure, and coffee oils and powders are easily embedded in the gaps and dead corners of the upper piston 21. During reverse rinsing, water flows in the opposite direction from the second opening 212, forming a water flow at a 180° angle to the brewing direction. This reverse water flow is opposite to the direction of residue accumulation, directly impacting the adhesion surface and using the water flow to peel the embedded coffee oils and powders from the upper piston 21.

[0064] The first water supply branch 311 is equipped with a three-way pressure relief valve 37, through which the cleaning water flowing out from the first opening 221 can be discharged into the water storage pan 36.

[0065] To further enhance the functional flexibility and control precision of the water system 100, selective connectivity of water flow between different channels can be achieved through the action control of the valve core 15 within the flow path switching valve 10. Specifically, refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 In both the first and second modes, the water circuit switching component 34 controllably connects the first water supply branch 311 and the brewing chamber to ensure that, under normal brewing conditions, the beverage flowing from the second opening 212 of the brewing chamber is smoothly guided to the beverage outlet 35 for discharge. Under forward rinsing conditions, wastewater or rinsing water after brewing is smoothly guided from the second opening 212 of the brewing chamber to the water storage pan 36 to maintain the cleanliness of the brewing chamber and pipelines. (Refer to...) Figure 3 In the third mode, the water circuit switching component 34 controllably connects the second water supply branch 312 and the brewing chamber. The second water supply pipeline 31 supplies water to the brewing chamber in reverse through the second opening 212. At the same time, the second conveying channel 12 is connected to the third conveying channel 13 and the first conveying channel 11 is throttled.

[0066] Furthermore, a fourth mode is provided in one embodiment, as shown in reference. Figure 4Water supply pipe 31 supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening 221. At this time, the three conveying channels, namely the first conveying channel 11, the second conveying channel 12, and the third conveying channel 13, are interconnected, forming a special three-way interconnected state. Water for rinsing the brewing chamber can be discharged simultaneously from the second conveying channel 12 and the third conveying channel 13, which can be used for rapid system emptying or comprehensive cleaning and maintenance, further improving the system's operational flexibility and maintenance convenience. When the first conveying channel 11, the second conveying channel 12, and the third conveying channel 13 are interconnected, it is possible to quickly discharge rinsing water from multiple outlets when rapid rinsing is required (e.g., time priority).

[0067] This embodiment effectively solves the technical problem of misdirection caused by reverse rinsing in traditional coffee machines by optimizing the opening layout of the brewer 20, precisely switching the water path switching component 34, and flexibly controlling the flow path switching valve 10 in multiple modes. It significantly improves the cleaning performance and operational reliability of the coffee machine, meeting users' needs for high-quality beverages and convenient maintenance.

[0068] Reference Figures 5 to 8 This application also provides a flow path switching valve 10 with a compact structure, reliable sealing performance, and the ability to accurately switch between multiple flow path modes, which is particularly suitable for water circuit control of coffee machines or similar equipment. Existing flow path control devices have complex structures, often requiring multiple independent valve bodies and complex pipeline connections to achieve flow path switching between different modes, resulting in a non-compact system layout, numerous sealing points, and insufficient reliability, making it difficult to meet the needs of equipment miniaturization and high-precision control.

[0069] To address the aforementioned technical problems, the flow path switching valve 10 of this embodiment includes a valve seat 14 and a valve core 15 disposed within the valve seat 14. The valve seat 14 includes a valve core 15 channel and a cavity 102 selectively connected to the valve core 15 channel. The valve seat 14 is provided with three conveying channels, including a first conveying channel 11, a second conveying channel 12, and a third conveying channel 13, wherein the first conveying channel 11 and the second conveying channel 12 are respectively connected to the cavity 102, and the third conveying channel 13 is connected to the valve core 15 channel. The valve core 15 is connected to a sealing element 16 disposed within the cavity 102. The valve core 15 operably drives the sealing element 16 to close the second conveying channel 12 or the valve core 15 channel, thereby achieving switching between different communication modes between the conveying channels. When the sealing element 16 closes the second conveying channel 12, the first conveying channel 11 is connected to the third conveying channel 13; when the sealing element 16 closes the valve core 15 channel, the first conveying channel 11 is connected to the second conveying channel 12.

[0070] The flow path switching valve 10 in this embodiment has a simple and compact structure, enabling rapid and precise switching between normal delivery mode and drainage mode. Through precise control of the seal 16 and valve core 15, the accuracy and reliability of flow path switching are significantly improved, and the risk of leakage is reduced, making it particularly suitable for small devices such as coffee machines in space-constrained environments.

[0071] Specifically, the sealing element 16 includes a first sealing surface 161 and a second sealing surface 162 positioned opposite each other. The first sealing surface 161 and the second sealing surface 162 are connected by a side wall surface 163, and a precisely controlled gap is reserved between the side wall surface 163 and the cavity wall of the cavity 102. The side wall surface 163 can be cylindrical. The first sealing surface 161 is used to close the second conveying channel 12, and the second sealing surface 162 is used to close the valve core 15 channel. This structure ensures that the sealing element 16 can precisely and selectively close the channel during movement, preventing leakage.

[0072] Reference Figure 9 In order to achieve precise throttling control, the valve core 15 in this embodiment can also be stopped at a specific intermediate position so that the side wall surface 163 of the seal 16 corresponds to the first conveying channel 11, thereby forming a throttling effect on the first conveying channel 11 and precisely controlling the fluid flow rate through the channel.

[0073] Reference Figure 10 In one embodiment, the valve core 15 operably drives the sealing element 16 to make the first conveying channel 11, the second conveying channel 12 and the third conveying channel 13 interconnected. When the first conveying channel 11, the second conveying channel 12 and the third conveying channel 13 are interconnected, the side wall surface 163 is offset from the first conveying channel 11, the first sealing surface 161 is spaced apart from the second conveying channel 12, the second sealing surface 162 is spaced apart from the valve core 15 channel, and the first conveying channel 11, the second conveying channel 12 and the third conveying channel 13 are connected through gaps.

[0074] In order to achieve the three-way interconnection mode, when the valve core 15 drives the seal 16 to move to the position between the first conveying channel 11 and the two sealing surfaces, the three conveying channels are interconnected through the gap between the side wall surface 163 and the cavity wall of the cavity 102, thereby realizing the special mode of three-way interconnection. This mode facilitates the rapid emptying of the equipment and the comprehensive internal cleaning and maintenance.

[0075] When the three channels are interconnected, along the extension direction of the first conveying channel 11, the side wall surface 163 of the seal 16 overlaps with the projected portion of the first conveying channel 11, which can reduce the overall volume of the valve seat 14. Moreover, during reverse flushing, because the cross-sectional area of ​​the first conveying channel 11 becomes smaller, the water pressure and flow rate entering the cavity 102 increase, making it easier to clean the cavity 102 and downstream pipelines, and preventing beverage residue from being left in the cavity 102 during reverse flushing.

[0076] In one embodiment, the third conveying channel 13 and the valve core 15 channel are coaxially arranged relative to the central axis of the valve seat 14, facilitating precise sealing of the valve core 15 through linear movement. The valve core 15 drives the sealing element 16 to move along a straight line between two extreme positions. At the two extreme positions, the sealing element 16 respectively seals the third conveying channel 13 and the valve core 15 channel to achieve switching between different conveying modes.

[0077] Additionally, a motor 17 is provided at the end of the valve core 15 channel away from the seal 16, and the motor 17 drives the valve core 15 to move. Precise position control is achieved by driving the valve core 15 through the motor 17, which can be a stepper motor 17, and can reliably drive the valve core 15 to move precisely between two extreme positions.

[0078] In one embodiment, the valve core 15 channels and the cavity 102 are interconnected and arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the motor 17, wherein the inner diameter of the cavity 102 is larger than the inner diameter of the valve core 15 channels to accommodate the end structure of the valve core 15 and achieve precise control of different channels. At two extreme positions, the first sealing surface 161 and the second sealing surface 162 abut against the two opposite end faces of the cavity 102, respectively. The two opposite end faces of the cavity 102 can simultaneously limit the movement of the seal 16, ensuring more reliable flow path switching.

[0079] The valve seat 14 is composed of a main body 141 and an end cap 142 that are sealed together. A valve core 15 channel is provided inside the main body 141, and a cavity 102 is provided inside the end cap 142. The first conveying channel 11 and the second conveying channel 12 are respectively located inside the end cap 142 and are connected to the cavity 102. The third conveying channel 13 is located inside the main body 141 and is connected to the valve core 15 channel. The first conveying channel 11 and the third conveying channel 13 are arranged at a certain angle relative to the central axis of the valve seat 14 and are arranged parallel to each other to make the overall structure more compact and facilitate installation and maintenance.

[0080] Furthermore, to enhance the sealing effect, a first boss and a second boss are respectively provided around the first conveying channel 11 and the second conveying channel 12 on the cavity wall of the cavity 102. The valve core 15 includes a disc-shaped end 151 extending into the cavity 102, and the sealing member 16 is specifically constructed as a flexible sleeve that wraps around the disc-shaped end 151. When the sealing member 16 closes the second conveying channel 12, the first boss is embedded in the flexible sleeve to form a reliable sealing contact; and when the sealing member 16 closes the valve core 15 channel, the second boss is correspondingly embedded in the flexible sleeve.

[0081] The engagement of the boss and the flexible sleeve greatly improves the stability and reliability of the sealing contact, further reducing the risk of seal failure.

[0082] Meanwhile, this embodiment also provides a reliable valve core 15 limiting and positioning structure. A groove 144 is provided on the valve seat 14 radially penetrating the valve core 15 channel. A step portion 145 is provided inside the valve core 15 channel. A sealing ring 181 and a retaining ring 182 are sequentially fitted on the valve core 15 along the direction from the step portion 145 to the groove 144. An open clamp is installed in the groove 144. The open clamp is engaged with the valve core 15, so that the sealing ring 181 abuts against the step portion 145. The reliable limiting and positioning of the valve core 15 is achieved through the cooperation of the retaining ring 182 and the open clamp, preventing the valve core 15 from shifting or loosening during operation, and further enhancing the stability and accuracy of the flow path switching valve 10.

[0083] In summary, this embodiment achieves precise switching and multi-mode control between conveying channels through a compact and reasonable structural design of the valve core 15 and valve seat 14. It has significant advantages such as simple structure, precise action, reliable sealing, and convenient maintenance, and is particularly suitable for equipment such as coffee machines that have high requirements for compact space and precise control.

[0084] Of course, the water system 100 and flow path switching valve 10 are not limited to applications in coffee machines, but can also be used in other beverage brewing devices, such as tea machines or other beverage brewing devices.

[0085] It should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0086] The detailed descriptions listed above are merely specific descriptions of feasible implementations of this utility model, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this utility model. All equivalent implementations or modifications made without departing from the spirit of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A waterway system, comprising: A brewing device, comprising a brewing cylinder, an upper piston, and a lower piston, wherein the upper piston and the lower piston are respectively engaged with both ends of the brewing cylinder to form a brewing chamber; The brewing device has a first opening and a second opening communicating with the brewing chamber, and the first opening and the second opening are located at opposite ends of the brewing chamber, respectively. The water supply pipeline can selectively connect the first opening and the second opening to supply water to the brewing chamber; A beverage outlet for discharging liquid produced from the brewing chamber; A beverage outlet pipe is connected between the second opening and the beverage outlet; The feature is that it further includes a flow path switching valve, which includes a first conveying channel, a second conveying channel, and a third conveying channel. The first conveying channel is connected to the second opening, the second conveying channel is connected to the beverage outlet, and the third conveying channel leads to a water storage tray. The flow path switching valve is operable to switch the connection mode based on the water supply flow direction. The connection mode includes: a first mode, in which the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening, the first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are connected, and the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are disconnected; and a second mode, in which the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening, the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are connected, and the first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are disconnected.

2. The water system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow path switching valve can controllably throttle the first conveying channel.

3. The water system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connection mode also includes a third mode, in which the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the second opening, and the second delivery channel and the third delivery channel are connected.

4. The water system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first opening is located on the lower piston, and the second opening is located on the upper piston. A water supply switching assembly is provided on the water supply pipeline, and a first water supply branch and a second water supply branch are connected between the water supply switching assembly and the brewing chamber. The first water supply branch is connected to the lower piston and supplies water to the brewing chamber via the first opening. The beverage output pipeline is connected to the upper piston and outputs liquid generated from the brewing chamber via the second opening. The second water supply branch is connected to the second opening and supplies water to the brewing chamber via the second opening. In the first mode and the second mode, the water supply switching assembly controllably connects the first water supply branch and the brewing chamber. In the third mode, the water circuit switching component controllably connects the second water supply branch and the brewing chamber.

5. The water system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The delivery mode also includes a fourth mode, in which the water supply pipeline supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first opening, and the first delivery channel, the second delivery channel and the third delivery channel are interconnected.

6. A flow path switching valve, comprising: Valve seat; A valve core is disposed within the valve seat, the valve seat including a valve core channel and a cavity selectively communicating with the valve core channel; The feature is that a sealing element connecting the valve core is provided inside the cavity, and the valve seat is provided with a first conveying channel, a second conveying channel, and a third conveying channel. The first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are respectively connected to the cavity, and the third conveying channel is connected to the valve core channel. The valve core can operably drive the sealing element to close the second conveying channel or the valve core channel. When the sealing element closes the second conveying channel, the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are connected. When the sealing element closes the valve core channel, the first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are connected.

7. The flow path switching valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, The sealing element includes a first sealing surface and a second sealing surface arranged opposite to each other. The first sealing surface and the second sealing surface are connected by a side wall surface. There is a gap between the side wall surface and the cavity wall. The first sealing surface is used to close the second conveying channel, and the second sealing surface is used to close the valve core channel.

8. The flow path switching valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The valve core operably drives the seal to align the sidewall surface with the first conveying channel, thereby throttling the first conveying channel.

9. The flow path switching valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The valve core can operably drive the sealing element to make the first conveying channel, the second conveying channel and the third conveying channel interconnected. When the first conveying channel, the second conveying channel and the third conveying channel are interconnected, the side wall surface is offset from the first conveying channel, the first sealing surface is spaced apart from the second conveying channel, the second sealing surface is spaced apart from the valve core channel, and the first conveying channel, the second conveying channel and the third conveying channel are connected through the gap.

10. The flow path switching valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second conveying channel and the valve core channel are coaxially arranged with respect to the central axis of the valve seat. The valve core drives the sealing element to move along a straight line between two extreme positions. At the two extreme positions, the sealing element respectively closes the second conveying channel and the valve core channel.

11. The flow path switching valve according to claim 10, characterized in that, A motor is provided at one end of the valve core channel away from the seal, and the motor drives the valve core to move; the valve core channel and the cavity are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the motor, and the inner diameter of the cavity is larger than the inner diameter of the valve core channel; the seal includes a first sealing surface and a second sealing surface arranged opposite to each other, and at the two extreme positions, the first sealing surface and the second sealing surface respectively abut against the two opposite end faces of the cavity.

12. The flow path switching valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are respectively angled relative to the central axis of the valve seat, and the first conveying channel and the third conveying channel are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart; the valve seat includes a main body and an end cover that are sealed to each other, the valve core channel is disposed in the main body, and the first conveying channel and the second conveying channel are disposed in the end cover.

13. The flow path switching valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, The cavity wall is provided with a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the first protrusion surrounds the first conveying channel, and the second protrusion surrounds the second conveying channel; the valve core includes a disc-shaped end extending into the cavity, and the sealing element is constructed as a flexible sleeve that wraps around the disc-shaped end. When the sealing element closes the second conveying channel, the first protrusion is embedded in the flexible sleeve; when the sealing element closes the valve core channel, the second protrusion is embedded in the flexible sleeve.

14. The flow path switching valve according to claim 6, characterized in that, The valve seat is provided with a groove that radially penetrates the valve core channel. The valve core channel is provided with a stepped portion. A sealing ring and a retaining ring are sequentially fitted on the valve core along the direction from the stepped portion to the groove. An opening clamp is connected in the groove. The opening clamp is clamped on the valve core. The sealing ring abuts against the stepped portion. The opening clamp limits the retaining ring through the groove.

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