Beverage machine

Abstract

The application provides a beverage machine, comprising: a water supply source; a brewing device; a dispenser; further comprising: a communication component, the communication component comprising a first opening, a second opening and a third opening, the first opening being connected with an outlet of the brewing device, the second opening being connected with the water supply source to form a second water supply pipeline, the third opening being connected with the dispenser to form an output pipeline, the communication component allowing the output pipeline to communicate with the outlet of the brewing device and the second water supply pipeline; a fluid valve, the fluid valve being arranged at the outlet of the brewing device or between the outlet of the brewing device and the first opening, the fluid valve allowing liquid to flow from the brewing device to the communication component and preventing liquid from flowing from the communication component to the brewing device. The application has the beneficial effect that the residual liquid in the output pipeline can be discharged or the output pipeline can be cleaned without additionally arranging an emptying pump or the like.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of beverage preparation technology, and in particular to a beverage machine. Background Technology

[0002] Beverage machines typically include a brewer and a dispenser. The brewer extracts and prepares the beverage. An output line connects the brewer and dispenser, through which the extracted liquid, such as coffee, is delivered to the dispenser for the user. However, after the beverage is prepared, residual liquid may remain in the output line. If not cleaned promptly, this can easily lead to bacterial growth and affect the taste and hygiene of subsequent drinks. Installing a separate drain pump would increase equipment costs and require more installation space. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a beverage machine that facilitates cleaning and emptying of the output pipe between the brewer and the dispenser.

[0004] To achieve one of the above-mentioned objectives, this utility model provides a beverage machine, comprising: Water supply source; A brewing device, the inlet of which is connected to the water supply source to form a first water supply pipeline; Distributor, used to dispense liquid; Also includes: A connecting element includes a first opening, a second opening, and a third opening. The first opening is connected to the outlet of the brewer, the second opening is connected to the water supply source to form a second water supply line, and the third opening is connected to the distributor to form an output line. The connecting element connects the output line to the outlet of the brewer and the second water supply line to deliver liquid from the second water supply line and / or the brewer to the distributor. A fluid valve is disposed at the outlet of the brewer or between the outlet of the brewer and the first opening. The fluid valve allows liquid to flow from the brewer to the connecting member and prevents liquid from flowing from the connecting member to the brewer.

[0005] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, a reversing valve is also provided on the output pipeline. The reversing valve includes a fluid inlet, a first fluid outlet and a second fluid outlet. A connecting pipeline is formed between the fluid inlet and the third opening. The first fluid outlet is connected to the distributor and the second fluid outlet leads to the water storage pan. The reversing valve has a first open state and a second open state; in the first open state, the fluid inlet is connected to the first fluid outlet to deliver liquid from the second water supply line and / or the brewer to the distributor; in the second open state, the fluid inlet is connected to the second fluid outlet to discharge the liquid in the connecting line to the water storage pan.

[0006] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the length of the pipe between the outlet of the brewer and the first opening is less than the length of the connecting pipe, or the connecting member is disposed at the outlet of the brewer.

[0007] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the length of the pipeline between the first fluid outlet and the distributor is less than the length of the connecting pipeline, or the reversing valve is located at the distributor.

[0008] As a further improvement to one embodiment of this utility model, it also includes: A water pump is installed between the water source and the second water supply pipeline; The controller, which is electrically connected to the water pump and the reversing valve, is used to receive a beverage preparation completion signal and generate a cleaning connection pipeline control signal. The water pump is used to switch to the start state according to the control signal of the cleaning connection pipeline. In the start state, the water source can supply water to the second water supply pipeline. The reversing valve is used to switch to the second open state according to the control signal of the cleaning connection pipeline, and the water from the water supply source enters the connection pipeline through the second water supply pipeline to clean the connection pipeline.

[0009] As a further improvement to one embodiment of this utility model, it also includes: A water pump is installed between the water source and the first water supply pipeline and between the water source and the second water supply pipeline; The controller, electrically connected to the water pump and the reversing valve, is used to receive beverage preparation signals and reversing signals. The water pump is used to switch to the start state according to the beverage preparation signal. In the start state, the water source can supply water to the first water supply pipeline and / or the second water supply pipeline. The reversing valve is used to switch to the second open state according to the beverage preparation signal, so as to discharge the liquid in the connecting pipeline into the water storage pan; the reversing valve is also used to switch to the first open state according to the reversing signal, so as to deliver liquid to the dispenser.

[0010] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present utility model, a first flow meter is provided downstream of the water supply source to detect the water supply volume. When the water supply volume of the water supply source reaches a preset value, the reversing signal is generated. Alternatively, the controller may include a timing module to detect the water supply duration, and generate the reversing signal when the water supply duration reaches a preset time.

[0011] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the beverage machine includes a first beverage mode, wherein the second water supply pipeline supplies water to the connecting member, and the brewer supplies brewing liquid to the connecting member, so that the brewing liquid and water are simultaneously or sequentially transported through the connecting member and the output pipeline to the dispenser.

[0012] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present utility model, the second water supply pipeline is a hot water supply pipeline, and a heater is provided on the hot water supply pipeline. The second water supply pipeline is used to supply hot water to the connecting member. Alternatively, the second water supply pipeline is a cold water supply pipeline, which is used to supply cold water to the connecting member; Alternatively, the second water supply pipeline includes a cold water supply branch, a hot water supply branch, and a control valve connecting the cold water supply branch and the hot water supply branch. A heater is provided on the hot water supply branch. The outlet of the control valve is connected to the second opening. The control valve can selectively supply hot water or cold water, or a mixture of hot and cold water, to the connecting member.

[0013] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, the fluid valve is disposed inside the brewer, and the fluid valve is constructed as a one-way accumulator valve.

[0014] As a further improvement of one embodiment of the present invention, a second flow meter is provided on the first water supply pipeline. The second flow meter is located before the inlet of the brewer to detect the amount of water entering the brewer.

[0015] The beverage machine provided by this utility model connects the brewer, the second water supply pipe and the output pipe by setting a connecting part. The brewer and the second water supply pipe share the output pipe. The water in the second water supply pipe can be used to directly clean the output pipe. The pipe can be cleaned without the need for an additional drain pump. This effectively avoids the growth of bacteria from residual liquid and ensures the hygiene of the beverage. The overall structure is simple and the cost is low. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a water system according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein a reversing valve connects the fluid inlet and the first fluid outlet.

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the water system, in which a reversing valve connects the fluid inlet and the second fluid outlet.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Another schematic diagram of the water system shows a reversing valve connecting the fluid inlet and the second fluid outlet.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a medium-sized brewer. Detailed Implementation

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] This application provides a beverage machine. The beverage machine can be a coffee machine or other types of beverage preparation equipment.

[0023] See Figures 1 to 3 This is a schematic diagram of the water system of a beverage machine. The beverage machine may include a water supply source 1. The water supply source 1 can be a built-in water tank or an external municipal water supply. The water supply source 1 is used to supply water to the downstream pipeline for making beverages or for cleaning the downstream pipeline.

[0024] The beverage machine may be equipped with a water pump 11, which can pump water from the water source 1 to the downstream pipeline for use.

[0025] The beverage machine also includes a brewer 2. Brewing device 2 is used to brew or extract the powder to be brewed to form a brewing liquid.

[0026] When the beverage machine is a coffee machine, the powder to be brewed can be coffee powder, and the brewer 2 can be used to make coffee liquid.

[0027] The brewer 2 includes an inlet 21. The inlet 21 of the brewer 2 is connected to a water supply source 1 to form a first water supply line 81. The water supply source 1 can supply water to the brewer 2 through the first water supply line 81.

[0028] In one embodiment, the brewing device 2 includes a brewing cylinder 25, an upper piston 23, and a lower piston 24. The upper piston 23 and the lower piston 24 can extend into the brewing cylinder 25 to form a brewing chamber. The brewing device 2 includes an inlet 21 and an outlet 22 communicating with the brewing chamber, and the inlet 21 and the outlet 22 are located at opposite ends of the brewing chamber.

[0029] The beverage machine also includes a feeding device. When using the brewer 2, the powder to be brewed, such as coffee powder, can be supplied to the brewing cylinder 25 through the feeding device. Then, the upper piston 23 and the lower piston 24 are controlled to engage with the brewing cylinder 25 to form a sealed brewing chamber. The water source 1 supplies water to the brewing chamber through the first water supply pipe 81. The water in the first water supply pipe 81 enters the brewing chamber through the inlet 21, extracting the powder to be brewed in the brewing chamber to form brewing liquid, which is then discharged through the outlet 22.

[0030] The beverage machine also includes a dispenser 3. The dispenser 3 is used to dispense liquid. The dispenser 3 can be connected to the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 through a pipe. The dispenser 3 can receive the brewing liquid from the brewer 2, and the user can use the dispenser 3 to take the brewing liquid.

[0031] In this embodiment, the beverage machine also includes a connecting member 4. The connecting member 4 is disposed between the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 and the dispenser 3.

[0032] The connecting member 4 includes a first opening 41, a second opening 42, and a third opening 43. The first opening 41 is connected to the outlet 22 of the brewer 2, the second opening 42 is connected to the water supply source 1 to form a second water supply line 82, and the third opening 43 is connected to the distributor 3 to form an output line 8. The connecting member 4 connects the output line 8 to the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 and the second water supply line 82 to deliver liquid from the second water supply line 82 and / or the brewer 2 to the distributor 3.

[0033] In this embodiment, the connecting member 4 can be F-shaped to facilitate the connection of pipelines.

[0034] See Figure 1 During the use of the beverage machine, the water supply source 1 can supply water through the second water supply pipe 82. The water in the second water supply pipe 82 can flow to the output pipe 8 through the second opening 42 and the third opening 43 of the connecting piece 4, and can be transported to the distributor 3 through the output pipe 8 and then output through the distributor 3.

[0035] During the use of the beverage machine, the water supply source 1 can also be controlled to supply water to the brewer 2 through the first water supply pipe 81, and the brewer 2 can be controlled to run, extracting the powder to be brewed in the brewer 2 to form brewing liquid. The brewing liquid is discharged through the outlet 22, and enters the output pipe 8 through the first opening 41 and the third opening 43 of the connecting member 4 in sequence, and can be delivered to the distributor 3 for output through the output pipe 8.

[0036] Of course, water source 1 can also supply water to the bubbling device 2 and the connecting piece 4 simultaneously through the first water supply pipe 81 and the second water supply pipe 82.

[0037] Specifically, the water supply path can be controlled according to the current operating mode of the beverage machine. For example, in the beverage making mode, the water source 1 can be controlled to supply water to the first water supply pipe 81 or the second water supply pipe 82 separately, or to supply water to the first water supply pipe 81 and the second water supply pipe 82 at the same time, so that different types of beverages can be output from the dispenser 3.

[0038] In cleaning mode, water supply source 1 can be controlled to supply water through the second water supply pipe 82. The water in the second water supply pipe 82 can clean the output pipe 8 and be discharged from the outlet of the distributor 3. Of course, in order to avoid causing trouble for users and to prevent cleaning wastewater from contaminating the distributor 3 or entering the beverage cup, an additional discharge pipe 89 connected to the output pipe 8 can be set up to discharge cleaning wastewater.

[0039] See Figure 4 In this embodiment, the beverage machine also includes a fluid valve 5. The fluid valve 5 is disposed at the outlet 22 of the brewer 2. Of course, the fluid valve 5 can also be disposed between the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 and the first opening 41. The fluid valve 5 allows liquid to flow from the brewer 2 to the connecting member 4 and prevents liquid from flowing from the connecting member 4 to the brewer 2.

[0040] It is understandable that the fluid valve 5 can be located inside or outside the brewer 2, as long as it can achieve one-way flow. During the operation of the beverage machine, the fluid valve 5 can prevent liquid from flowing back into the brewer 2. In particular, when the water supply source 1 supplies water through the second water supply pipe 82, it can prevent liquid from entering the brewer 2 through the connecting piece 4.

[0041] See Figure 4 In a specific embodiment, the fluid valve 5 is disposed inside the brewer 2, and the fluid valve 5 is constructed as a one-way accumulator valve. When the pressure inside the brewing chamber exceeds a certain value (e.g., above 6 bar), the fluid valve 5 opens, thereby allowing the liquid inside the brewer 2 to flow out through the outlet 22. When the beverage machine is a coffee machine, coffee powder can be extracted into espresso liquid with crema under pressure.

[0042] In this embodiment, by providing the connecting member 4, water can be supplied to the connecting member 4 through the second water supply pipe 82 before and after making the beverage, especially after each beverage making, to clean the connecting member 4 and the output pipe 8. This avoids residual liquid from remaining in the output pipe 8, reduces pollution and odor, and improves the hygiene level and ease of use of the beverage machine.

[0043] Furthermore, because a fluid valve 5 is installed at the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 or between the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 and the first opening 41, water from the second water supply pipe 82 will not flow into the brewer 2 when only water is supplied through the second water supply pipe 82. In particular, when the second water supply pipe 82 is used to clean the output pipe 8, water can be ensured to enter the output pipe 8 to complete the cleaning, without entering the brewer 2, thus not affecting the subsequent beverage preparation.

[0044] The technical solution provided in this embodiment allows the second water supply pipe 82 to share the output pipe 8 with the brewer 2. The second water supply pipe 82 can be used for both beverage preparation and cleaning of the output pipe 8, preventing brewing liquid residue from remaining in the output pipe 8 and causing contamination. The cleaning process does not require an additional drain pump and can be completed solely through the existing connecting piece 4 and the second water supply pipe 8, simplifying the system structure.

[0045] Further details can be found by referring to [link / reference]. Figures 1 to 3 In one embodiment of this utility model, a reversing valve 6 is also provided on the output pipeline 8. The reversing valve 6 includes a fluid inlet 61, a first fluid outlet 62, and a second fluid outlet 63. A connecting pipeline 84 is formed between the fluid inlet 61 and the third opening 43, the first fluid outlet 62 is connected to the distributor 3, and the second fluid outlet 63 leads to the water storage pan 7.

[0046] The directional control valve 6 has a first open state and a second open state. The directional control valve 6 can be selectively switched to the first open state or the second open state.

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the reversing valve 6 is in the first open state. In the first open state, the fluid inlet 61 is connected to the first fluid outlet 62 to deliver liquid from the second water supply line 82 and / or the brewer 2 to the distributor 3.

[0048] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the reversing valve 6 is in the second open state. In the second open state, the fluid inlet 61 is connected to the second fluid outlet 63 to discharge the liquid in the connecting pipe 84 to the water storage pan 7.

[0049] In this embodiment, the water storage tray 7 is detachably installed inside the beverage machine for easy cleaning and maintenance by the user. The second fluid outlet 63 of the reversing valve 6 can be connected to a discharge pipe 89, which extends to the water storage tray 7. When the reversing valve 6 is in the second open state, the fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 63 are connected, and the liquid in the connecting pipe 84 can be discharged into the water storage tray 7 through the discharge pipe 89.

[0050] The reversing valve 6 can be a solenoid valve, which can switch the flow channel state inside the valve body by controlling the on and off state of the reversing valve 6, that is, switch the open state of the reversing valve 6. When the reversing valve 6 is energized, the fluid inlet 61 is connected to the first fluid outlet 62, the reversing valve 6 is in the first open state, and the liquid flows to the distributor 3; when the reversing valve 6 is de-energized, the fluid inlet 61 is connected to the second fluid outlet 63, the reversing valve 6 is in the second open state, and the liquid is discharged into the water storage pan 7.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, in a specific embodiment, when a beverage is made by the beverage machine, the reversing valve 6 is in the first open state, and the fluid inlet 61 is connected to the first fluid outlet 62. This allows the brewing liquid from the brewer 2 or the liquid from the second water supply line 82 to sequentially pass through the connecting member 4, the connecting pipe 84, the fluid inlet 61 of the reversing valve 6, and the first fluid outlet 62, ultimately being delivered to the dispenser 3 for the user to use. The connecting pipe 84 between the third opening 43 of the connecting member 4 and the fluid inlet 61 of the reversing valve 6, and the pipe between the first fluid outlet 62 and the dispenser 3 together constitute the output pipe 8.

[0052] See Figure 2 , Figure 3 When it is necessary to clean or drain the connecting part 4 and the output pipeline 8, the reversing valve 6 switches to the second open state, and the fluid inlet 61 is connected to the second fluid outlet 63, so that the liquid in the connecting pipeline 84 flows through the fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 63 of the reversing valve 6, and is discharged to the water storage pan 7 through the discharge pipeline 89.

[0053] For details, see Figure 2 After each beverage preparation, the system can control the water supply source 1 to supply water to the second water supply pipe 82. The water in the second water supply pipe 82 flows into the connecting pipe 84 through the connecting member 4, and then flows to the second fluid outlet 63 through the fluid inlet 61 of the reversing valve 6, and finally flows into the water storage pan 7 through the discharge pipe 89. This allows for automatic cleaning of the connecting member 4 and the connecting pipe 84, preventing brewing liquid residue from remaining in the connecting member 4 and the connecting pipe 84 during beverage preparation, which could cause pipe contamination or affect the taste of the next beverage.

[0054] In addition, see Figure 3 Each time a beverage is prepared, the reversing valve 6 can first switch to the second open state, connecting the fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 63, allowing liquid remaining in the connecting pipe 84 to be discharged into the water storage tray 7 through the discharge pipe 89. Then it can switch back to the first open state, connecting the fluid inlet 61 and the first fluid outlet 62, to deliver the beverage to the dispenser 3. This prevents liquid remaining in the connecting pipe 84 from being directly dispensed into the user's beverage cup, thus avoiding any impact on the taste and hygiene of the beverage.

[0055] In this embodiment, by setting up a reversing valve 6 and a water storage pan 7, cleaning wastewater and residual liquid in the pipeline can be discharged through an independent discharge pipe 89, effectively avoiding the risk of residual liquid contaminating subsequent beverages. Cleaning wastewater and residual liquid in the pipeline will not be discharged from the outlet of the dispenser 3, ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of the beverage outlet and preventing unnecessary inconvenience or health hazards to users.

[0056] Furthermore, in one embodiment of this application, the length of the pipe between the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 and the first opening 41 is less than the length of the connecting pipe 84, or the connecting member 4 is disposed at the outlet 22 of the brewer 2.

[0057] In this embodiment, the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 is connected to the first opening 41 of the connector 4 by a pipe, but the length of the pipe is relatively short, thereby the length of the connecting pipe 84 can be increased accordingly.

[0058] Alternatively, instead of an additional pipe between the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 and the connecting member 4, the connecting member 4 can be directly installed at the outlet 22 of the brewer 2. In this way, the brewing liquid flowing out of the brewer 2 directly enters the connecting pipe 84 through the connecting member 4 during the output process.

[0059] During the beverage preparation process using brewer 2, brewing liquid from brewer 2 may remain in the entire downstream output pipe 8. When cleaning the pipe using water from the second water supply pipe 82, only the connecting member 4 and the connecting pipe 84 can be cleaned.

[0060] Therefore, in this embodiment, the length of the pipe between the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 and the connecting member 4 is shortened as much as possible, or the connecting member 4 is directly set at the outlet 22 of the brewer 2, increasing the length of the connecting pipe 84. This can reduce the length of the pipe that cannot be cleaned, thereby reducing the possibility of liquid residue remaining in the output pipe 8 and improving the cleaning effect.

[0061] Furthermore, in one embodiment of this application, the length of the pipeline between the first fluid outlet 62 and the distributor 3 is less than the length of the connecting pipeline 84, or the reversing valve 6 is located at the distributor 3.

[0062] It is understood that in this embodiment, the reversing valve 6 and the distributor 3 can be connected by a pipeline, but the pipeline is relatively short, so as to increase the length of the connecting pipeline 84 as much as possible, so as to increase the area of ​​the output pipeline 8 that can be cleaned or drained.

[0063] Alternatively, the reversing valve 6 can be directly installed at the distributor 3, without any additional piping between the reversing valve 6 and the distributor 3.

[0064] In this embodiment, when water from the second water supply line 82 is used to clean the pipeline, the area to be cleaned includes the connector 4 and the connecting line 84. Because the reversing valve 6 connects the fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 63 during the cleaning process, the water used for cleaning will not flow through the pipeline between the reversing valve 6 and the distributor 3, thus preventing the cleaning of the pipeline between the reversing valve 6 and the distributor 3.

[0065] Furthermore, when the output pipeline 8 is emptied, the liquid in the pipeline between the reversing valve 6 and the distributor 3 is difficult to be discharged through the discharge pipeline 89.

[0066] Therefore, minimizing the pipeline length between the reversing valve 6 and the distributor 3, or placing the reversing valve 6 directly at the distributor 3, can effectively reduce the area of ​​pipeline that has not been cleaned or drained, thereby reducing the possibility of residual liquid retention and improving overall cleanliness.

[0067] Furthermore, in one embodiment of this application, the beverage machine also includes a water pump 11. The water pump 11 is disposed between the water supply source 1 and the second water supply pipeline 82. When the water pump 11 is in the start state, it can pump water from the water supply source 1 to the downstream pipeline.

[0068] The beverage machine also includes a controller. The controller is electrically connected to the water pump 11 and the reversing valve 6, and is used to receive the beverage preparation completion signal and generate a control signal for cleaning the connection pipeline.

[0069] In this embodiment, when the controller receives a signal indicating that the beverage preparation is complete, it automatically generates a control signal to clean the connection pipeline.

[0070] The controller can control the working status of the water pump 11, the brewer 2 and the reversing valve 6 according to the received signals.

[0071] See Figure 2 In this embodiment, the water pump 11 is used to switch to the start state according to the cleaning connection pipeline control signal. In the start state, the water supply source 1 can supply water to the second water supply pipeline 82. The reversing valve 6 is used to switch to the second open state according to the cleaning connection pipeline control signal. Water from the water supply source 1 enters the connection pipeline 84 through the second water supply pipeline 82 to clean the connection pipeline 84.

[0072] In this embodiment, the beverage machine may have a control panel, through which the user can select the beverage type or operating mode, and the controller executes the corresponding control logic according to the user's selection.

[0073] After the user selects a beverage type, the controller can control the beverage machine to operate according to the selected beverage type, make the beverage, and distribute it through dispenser 3.

[0074] After the beverage is made, especially after using brewer 2, the brewing liquid will remain in the downstream pipe of brewer 2, causing contamination of the pipe. If it is not cleaned in time, the residual liquid can easily breed bacteria and produce odors, affecting the quality of subsequent beverages and the hygiene of the equipment.

[0075] In this embodiment, after receiving the beverage preparation completion signal, the controller generates a cleaning control signal for the connecting pipe. Water is supplied to the second water supply pipe 82 through the water supply source 1, allowing water to enter the connecting pipe 84 downstream of the connecting member 4, thereby cleaning the connecting pipe 84, draining any liquid remaining in the connecting pipe 84, and keeping the inside of the pipe clean.

[0076] Meanwhile, the reversing valve 6 connects the fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 63, allowing the cleaned wastewater to be discharged directly through the discharge pipe 89 without contaminating the distributor 3 or affecting the user's normal experience.

[0077] Furthermore, in combination Figure 1 and Figure 3 In one embodiment of this application, a water pump 11 is also installed between the water supply source 1 and the first water supply pipeline 81. There may be one or two water pumps 11. The water pump 11 can pump water from the water supply source 1 to the first water supply pipeline 81 and / or the second water supply pipeline 82.

[0078] In this embodiment, the controller is also used to receive beverage preparation signals and commutation signals.

[0079] The water pump is used to switch to the start state according to the beverage preparation signal. In the start state, the water supply source 1 can supply water to the first water supply pipeline 81 and / or the second water supply pipeline 82.

[0080] Water supply valves can be installed on the first water supply pipeline 81 and the second water supply pipeline 82. The water supply valves can open or close the first water supply pipeline 81 and the second water supply pipeline 82.

[0081] The reversing valve 6 is also used to switch to a second open state according to the beverage preparation signal, so as to discharge the liquid in the connecting pipe 84 into the water storage pan 7. The reversing valve 6 is also used to switch to a first open state according to the reversing signal, so as to deliver liquid to the dispenser 3. In this embodiment, when the beverage machine starts making a beverage, there is often some liquid remaining in the output pipe 8, such as the liquid that was not completely drained when rinsing with water in the second water supply pipe 82 after the last beverage preparation. This residual liquid will affect the taste and quality of the newly made beverage, so it needs to be drained before the new beverage preparation begins.

[0082] When the controller receives a beverage preparation signal, it can select different water supply paths based on the beverage preparation type, supplying water through at least one of the first water supply line 81 and the second water supply line 82 to prepare the beverage. At this time, the reversing valve 6 first switches to the second open state, connecting the fluid inlet 61 and the second fluid outlet 63, and the liquid in the connecting line 84 will first be discharged into the water storage pan 7 through the discharge line 89. After the residual liquid in the connecting line 84 is drained, the reversing valve 6 switches back to the first open state, connecting the fluid inlet 61 and the first fluid outlet 62, allowing the beverage to flow through the connecting line 84 and be delivered to the dispenser 3, ensuring the purity and quality of the output beverage.

[0083] The technical solution of this embodiment can effectively drain the residual liquid in the connecting pipe 84, and the overall structure is simple, so that the residual liquid can be drained without the need to add additional cleaning components and drain pumps.

[0084] In one embodiment, the switching signal generation condition for the reversing valve 6 includes: the water supply volume of the water source 1 reaches a preset value. That is, when the water supply volume of the water source 1 reaches the preset value, the switching signal of the reversing valve 6 is generated.

[0085] In this embodiment, a first flow meter 85 is installed downstream of the water source 1 to detect the water supply volume of the water source 1.

[0086] The first water supply pipe 81 and the second water supply pipe 82 can be connected to the same water source 1. During the beverage making process, regardless of the type of beverage, it is necessary to control the water supply from water source 1.

[0087] Water flowing from water source 1 can be transported through the second water supply pipeline 82 and then directly enter the connecting pipeline 84 through the connecting member 4. Alternatively, it can be transported through the first water supply pipeline 81 to the brewer 2 to form a brewing solution before entering the connecting pipeline 84. It can be understood that water from water source 1 will enter the connecting pipeline 84.

[0088] Therefore, by using the first flow meter 85 to detect the water supply from the water source 1, it can be determined whether the residual liquid in the connecting pipe 84 has been completely discharged. When the water supply reaches a preset value, it is determined that the residual liquid in the connecting pipe 84 has been discharged. At this time, the reversing valve 6 switches to the first open state according to the reversing signal, that is, connecting the fluid inlet 61 and the first fluid outlet 62, allowing the liquid to flow into the distributor 3. This ensures that the residual liquid in the connecting pipe 84 is discharged into the wastewater pan 7, and the produced beverage is not wasted.

[0089] In one embodiment, a second flow meter 86 is also provided on the first water supply pipeline 81. The second flow meter 86 is located before the inlet 21 of the brewer 2 to detect the amount of water entering the brewer 2.

[0090] By setting up an independent second flow meter 86, the amount of water entering the brewer 2 can be precisely controlled, thereby ensuring the concentration and quality of the beverage.

[0091] This application, by setting up multiple flow meters, can independently monitor and control the water volume of different water supply paths, thereby improving the control accuracy and flexibility of the water system, ensuring precise control of water volume in each mode, meeting the specific water volume requirements of different beverages, and improving the taste of beverages.

[0092] In another embodiment of this utility model, the switching signal generation condition for the reversing valve 6 includes: the water supply duration of the water supply source 1 reaches a preset time. That is, when the water supply duration of the water supply source 1 reaches the preset time, the switching signal of the reversing valve 6 is generated.

[0093] In this embodiment, the controller includes a timing module to detect the water supply duration. When the water supply duration of water source 1 reaches a preset time, it can be considered that the liquid remaining in the connecting pipe 84 has been drained. At this time, the reversing valve 6 switches to the first open state according to the reversing signal, so that the fluid inlet 61 is connected to the first fluid outlet 62, thereby delivering new beverage liquid to the dispenser 3 through the connecting pipe 84, ensuring the purity and quality of the beverage.

[0094] The technical solution provided in this embodiment does not require setting up a complex control program or additional complex sensing and detection elements. The emptying judgment of residual liquid can be realized by simply using a timing method, which reduces the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the equipment.

[0095] Furthermore, in one embodiment of this application, the beverage machine includes multiple beverage modes, and users can select different beverage modes.

[0096] See Figure 1 In one embodiment, the beverage machine includes a first beverage mode. The first beverage mode is as follows: the second water supply pipe 82 supplies water to the connecting member 4, the brewer 2 supplies brewing liquid to the connecting member 4, so that the brewing liquid and water are mixed simultaneously through the connecting member 4 to form a beverage, and the output pipe 8 is used to deliver the beverage to the dispenser 3.

[0097] In this embodiment, during the first beverage mode, water source 1 supplies water simultaneously through the first water supply pipe 81 and the second water supply pipe 82. Water in the first water supply pipe 81 enters the brewer 2 from the inlet 21, extracts the powder to be brewed, and forms a brewing liquid. The brewing liquid flows out from the outlet 22 of the brewer 2 and enters the connecting member 4. Water from the second water supply pipe 82 also enters the connecting member 4. In the connecting member 4, the brewing liquid mixes with water to form a beverage, which then flows into the output pipe 8 downstream of the connecting member 4 and is delivered to the dispenser 3 for output.

[0098] When a reversing valve 6 is installed on the output pipeline 8, the output pipeline 8 includes a connecting pipeline 84 and a pipeline between the first fluid outlet 62 of the reversing valve 6 and the distributor 3. That is, the beverage mixed in the connecting member 4 is sequentially transported to the distributor 3 through the connecting pipeline 84, the fluid inlet 61 of the reversing valve 6, and the first fluid outlet 62, so as to be output to the user.

[0099] This application also provides other alternative implementation methods. In this implementation, the first beverage mode is as follows: the brewer 2 first supplies brewing liquid to the connecting member 4, and then the second water supply line 82 supplies water to the connecting member 4; or, the second water supply line 82 first supplies water to the connecting member 4, and then the brewer 2 supplies brewing liquid to the connecting member 4, so that the brewing liquid and water are sequentially transported to the distributor 3 through the connecting member 4 and the output line 8.

[0100] In this embodiment, during the first beverage mode, water source 1 supplies water sequentially through the first water supply pipe 81 and the second water supply pipe 82. First, water is supplied through the first water supply pipe 81, entering the brewer 2 through the inlet 21, extracting the powder to be brewed to form a brewing liquid. The brewing liquid flows out from the outlet 22 of the brewer 2, sequentially entering the connecting member 4 and the output pipe 8, and is then delivered to the dispenser 3 for output. Next, water is supplied through the second water supply pipe 82, which also sequentially enters the connecting member 4 and the output pipe 8, and is then delivered to the dispenser 3 for output. The brewing liquid and water mix in the beverage cup to form a beverage. Alternatively, water is supplied first through the second water supply pipe 82, which sequentially enters the connecting member 4 and the output pipe 8, and is then delivered to the dispenser 3 for output. Water is then supplied through the first water supply pipe 81. The water in the first water supply pipe 81 enters the brewer 2 through the inlet 21, extracts the powder to be brewed, and forms the brewing liquid. The brewing liquid flows out from the outlet 22 of the brewer 2, sequentially enters the connecting member 4 and the output pipe 8, and is then delivered to the dispenser 3 for output. The brewing liquid and water are mixed in the beverage cup to form the beverage.

[0101] In this embodiment, the beverage machine may also include a second beverage mode. The second beverage mode is as follows: the water source 1 supplies water to the brewer 2 through the first water supply pipe 81 to form a brewing liquid, which directly forms a beverage and is delivered to the dispenser 3 through the output pipe 8.

[0102] In the second beverage mode, water source 1 supplies water to brewer 2 only through the first water supply pipe 81. Brewer 2 extracts the powder to be brewed, and the resulting brewed liquid is directly used as a beverage and delivered to dispenser 3 via output pipe 8. In this mode, the second water supply pipe 82 is not required.

[0103] The beverage machine may also include a third beverage mode, in which water source 1 supplies water to connector 4 through second water supply pipe 82, and the water in second water supply pipe 82 is directly distributed through distributor 3.

[0104] In the third beverage mode, water source 1 supplies water to connector 4 only through the second water supply line 82, and does not supply water to brewer 2 through the first water supply line 81. That is, in the third beverage mode, water is directly distributed through dispenser 3.

[0105] When the beverage machine is a coffee machine, the first beverage mode can be used to make Americano, the second beverage mode can be used to make Italian coffee, and the third beverage mode directly dispenses water.

[0106] In this embodiment, whether it is the first beverage mode or the second beverage mode, the brewing liquid obtained by the brewer 2 after completing the beverage extraction will flow through the connecting member 4 and the connecting pipe 84.

[0107] By connecting the second water supply line 82 to the connecting member 4, it is convenient to mix the brewing liquid with water to form a beverage in the first beverage mode, and it is also convenient to supply water to the connecting member 4 through the second water supply line 82 after each use of the brewer 2 to clean the output line 8, especially the connecting line 84.

[0108] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the second water supply pipeline 82 includes a cold water supply branch 821, a hot water supply branch 822, and a control valve 823 connecting the cold water supply branch 821 and the hot water supply branch 822. A heater 9 is provided on the hot water supply branch 822, thereby supplying hot water.

[0109] The outlet of control valve 823 is connected to the second opening 42. Control valve 823 can selectively supply hot water or cold water, or a mixture of hot and cold water, to the connecting member 4.

[0110] In this embodiment, the control valve 823 can be a three-way valve, which switches the water flow direction by adjusting the position of the valve core. The control valve 823 includes a first inlet connected to the cold water supply branch 821, a second inlet connected to the hot water supply branch 822, and an outlet connected to the second opening 42. By adjusting the position of the valve core of the control valve 823, cold water, hot water, or a mixture of cold and hot water can be selectively delivered to the connecting member 4.

[0111] For example, when a user selects to make an iced Americano, the control valve 823 opens the cold water supply branch 821, and the cold water enters the connector 4 to mix with the brewing liquid, thereby quickly lowering the temperature of the beverage while preserving the rich flavor of the coffee.

[0112] If the user selects to make a hot Americano, control valve 823 switches to the hot water supply branch 822, supplying hot water to connector 4. The hot water enters connector 4 and mixes with the brewing liquid to form a hot Americano.

[0113] If users wish to adjust the temperature or concentration of their beverages, they can adjust the ratio of hot and cold water using control valve 823 to achieve personalized customization.

[0114] Of course, water can also be supplied directly from the second water supply line 82 instead of the first water supply line 81. In this case, cold water can be supplied directly to the user via the cold water supply branch 821, or hot water can be supplied via the hot water supply branch 822, or the ratio of cold and hot water can be adjusted via the control valve 823 to provide drinking water at a suitable temperature. This flexible water supply method not only improves the taste and quality of beverages but also significantly enhances the versatility and ease of use of the equipment.

[0115] In another embodiment of this application, the second water supply pipe 82 is a hot water supply pipe. A heater 9 is provided on the hot water supply pipe, and the second water supply pipe 82 is used to supply hot water to the connecting member 4.

[0116] In this embodiment, a heater 9 may also be provided on the first water supply pipe 81 to heat the water entering the brewer 2.

[0117] The first water supply pipeline 81 and the second water supply pipeline 82 can also share the same heater 9. That is, the water supplied by the water source 1 can selectively enter the first water supply pipeline 81 and / or the second water supply pipeline 82 after passing through the heater 9.

[0118] When the second water supply line 82 supplies hot water to the connector 4, the brewing liquid and hot water can mix within the connector 4 to form a hot beverage, such as a hot Americano. Alternatively, hot water can be directly supplied to the dispenser 3 for user convenience.

[0119] This application also provides an alternative implementation. In this implementation, the second water supply pipe 82 is a cold water supply pipe, which is used to supply cold water to the connecting member 4.

[0120] The second water supply pipe 82 is directly connected to the water source and supplies water directly to the connecting member 4 without passing through the heater 9. Thus, the brewing liquid and cold water can be mixed within the connecting member 4 to form a beverage. Alternatively, cold water can be directly supplied to the dispenser 3 for user convenience.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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 beverage machine, comprising: Water supply source; A brewing device, the inlet of which is connected to the water supply source to form a first water supply pipeline; Distributor, used to dispense liquid; Its characteristic is that it further includes: A connecting element includes a first opening, a second opening, and a third opening. The first opening is connected to the outlet of the brewer, the second opening is connected to the water supply source to form a second water supply line, and the third opening is connected to the distributor to form an output line. The connecting element connects the output line to the outlet of the brewer and the second water supply line to deliver liquid from the second water supply line and / or the brewer to the distributor. A fluid valve is disposed at the outlet of the brewer or between the outlet of the brewer and the first opening. The fluid valve allows liquid to flow from the brewer to the connecting member and prevents liquid from flowing from the connecting member to the brewer.

2. The beverage machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The output pipeline is also equipped with a reversing valve, which includes a fluid inlet, a first fluid outlet and a second fluid outlet. A connecting pipeline is formed between the fluid inlet and the third opening. The first fluid outlet is connected to the distributor and the second fluid outlet leads to the water storage pan. The reversing valve has a first open state and a second open state; in the first open state, the fluid inlet is connected to the first fluid outlet to deliver liquid from the second water supply line and / or the brewer to the distributor; In the second open state, the fluid inlet and the second fluid outlet are connected to discharge the liquid in the connecting pipe into the water storage pan.

3. The beverage machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The length of the pipe between the outlet of the brewer and the first opening is less than the length of the connecting pipe, or the connecting member is located at the outlet of the brewer.

4. The beverage machine as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The length of the pipeline between the first fluid outlet and the distributor is less than the length of the connecting pipeline, or the reversing valve is located at the distributor.

5. The beverage machine as described in any one of claims 2-4, characterized in that, Also includes: A water pump is installed between the water source and the second water supply pipeline; The controller, which is electrically connected to the water pump and the reversing valve, is used to receive a beverage preparation completion signal and generate a cleaning connection pipeline control signal. The water pump is used to switch to the start state according to the control signal of the cleaning connection pipeline. In the start state, the water source can supply water to the second water supply pipeline. The reversing valve is used to switch to the second open state according to the control signal of the cleaning connection pipeline, and the water from the water supply source enters the connection pipeline through the second water supply pipeline to clean the connection pipeline.

6. The beverage machine as described in any one of claims 2-4, characterized in that, Also includes: A water pump is disposed between the water supply source and the first water supply pipeline and between the water supply source and the second water supply pipeline; The controller, electrically connected to the water pump and the reversing valve, is used to receive beverage preparation signals and reversing signals. The water pump is used to switch to the start state according to the beverage preparation signal. In the start state, the water source can supply water to the first water supply pipeline and / or the second water supply pipeline. The reversing valve is used to switch to the second open state according to the beverage preparation signal, so as to discharge the liquid in the connecting pipeline into the water storage pan; the reversing valve is also used to switch to the first open state according to the reversing signal, so as to deliver liquid to the dispenser.

7. The beverage machine as described in claim 6, characterized in that, A first flow meter is installed downstream of the water source to detect the water supply volume of the water source. When the water supply volume of the water source reaches a preset value, the reversing signal is generated. Alternatively, the controller may include a timing module to detect the water supply duration, and generate the reversing signal when the water supply duration reaches a preset time.

8. The beverage machine as described in any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The beverage machine includes a first beverage mode, in which the second water supply pipe supplies water to the connecting member, and the brewer supplies brewing liquid to the connecting member, so that the brewing liquid and water are simultaneously or sequentially delivered to the distributor through the connecting member and the output pipe.

9. The beverage machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second water supply pipeline is a hot water supply pipeline, and a heater is installed on the hot water supply pipeline. The second water supply pipeline is used to supply hot water to the connecting member. Alternatively, the second water supply pipeline is a cold water supply pipeline, which is used to supply cold water to the connecting member; Alternatively, the second water supply pipeline includes a cold water supply branch, a hot water supply branch, and a control valve connecting the cold water supply branch and the hot water supply branch. A heater is provided on the hot water supply branch. The outlet of the control valve is connected to the second opening. The control valve can selectively supply hot water or cold water, or a mixture of hot and cold water, to the connecting member.

10. The beverage machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The fluid valve is located inside the brewer and is configured as a one-way accumulator valve.

11. The beverage machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, A second flow meter is installed on the first water supply pipeline. The second flow meter is located before the inlet of the brewer to detect the amount of water entering the brewer.

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