A capsule coffee machine

Abstract

The utility model discloses a capsule coffee machine, including coffee machine, be equipped with capsule storehouse in the coffee machine, be equipped with first cabin on the capsule storehouse, first cabin with capsule storehouse is connected, be equipped with flexible clamp in first cabin, be equipped with puncture subassembly on the capsule storehouse, the second cabin is slidably connected on the capsule storehouse, puncture subassembly all with first cabin with second cabin is connected, be equipped with liquid outlet pipe on the capsule storehouse, liquid outlet pipe with second cabin intercommunication, liquid outlet pipe is located in coffee machine, be equipped with sealing plate on the capsule storehouse, sealing plate with second cabin is connected, sealing plate compares with the capsule storehouse sliding, be equipped with sealing washer between second cabin with first cabin, sealing washer still be located between second cabin with capsule storehouse. The utility model has solved the problem of lower positioning accuracy of the capsule coffee machine in the prior art when puncturing the coffee capsule.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Capsule coffee machines are a type of coffee machine that makes coffee extraction simpler and more convenient. When operating the machine, a coffee capsule is placed in the capsule compartment, and coffee is extracted with a single touch. Coffee capsules are typically sealed in aluminum foil. In the extraction process of the capsule coffee machine described above, a piercing needle is used to puncture the foil packaging, and then hot water is injected into the capsule, allowing the hot water to mix with the coffee and finally extracting the coffee liquid. Currently, most capsule coffee machines use a capsule compartment to load and position the coffee capsule, and then a two-way piercing system punctures the capsule packaging to inject hot water into the capsule, allowing the extracted coffee liquid to flow out.

[0003] During the above process, due to the gap between the capsule chamber and the coffee capsule, there is a problem of inaccurate positioning. When the piercing force of the puncture needle is applied to the aluminum foil packaging, the aluminum foil packaging is relatively soft and easily deformed, which can easily cause the coffee capsule to shift and then cause the puncture needle to deviate. In severe cases, the puncture needle may be exposed outside the aluminum foil shell, causing the capsule chamber to be filled with hot water, which will not only affect the extraction effect but also damage the equipment. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to solve the problem of low positioning accuracy when puncturing coffee capsules in existing capsule coffee machines.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: A capsule coffee machine includes a coffee machine with a capsule compartment inside. A first chamber is mounted on the capsule compartment and connected to it. A flexible clamp is located inside the first chamber. A puncture assembly is mounted on the capsule compartment. A second chamber is slidably connected to the capsule compartment. The puncture assembly is connected to both the first and second chambers. A liquid outlet tube is mounted on the capsule compartment and communicates with the second chamber. The liquid outlet tube is located inside the coffee machine. A sealing plate is mounted on the capsule compartment and connected to the second chamber. The sealing plate slides relative to the capsule compartment. A sealing ring is located between the second chamber and the first chamber, and the sealing ring is also located between the second chamber and the capsule compartment.

[0006] Preferably, the flexible clamp is an airbag, the airbag is provided with a plurality of air valves, the air valves are located on the first chamber, the coffee machine is provided with an air pump, and an air pipe for communication is provided between the air pump and the air valves.

[0007] Preferably, the coffee machine is further provided with a water tank assembly, which includes a water storage tank, a water pump on the water storage tank, a heating chamber on the output end of the water storage tank, an electric heating tube on the heating chamber, and a water pipe connected to the heating chamber, which connects the heating chamber to the puncture assembly. The water pump and the electric heating tube are both electrically connected to an external power source.

[0008] Preferably, the puncture assembly includes a first puncture needle, a filter plate, and a plurality of second puncture needles. The first puncture needle is located on the first chamber and is connected to the water pipe. The filter plate is sleeved on the second chamber, and the plurality of second puncture needles are evenly distributed on the filter plate.

[0009] Preferably, the first puncture needle also has a plurality of water outlet holes arranged in a circular array, and the water outlet holes are connected to the water pipe.

[0010] Preferably, the coffee machine is equipped with a controller, which is signal-connected to the electric heating element. The controller is also signal-connected to a temperature sensor, which is located inside the heating chamber. Both the controller and the temperature sensor are electrically connected to an external power source.

[0011] Preferably, the controllers are also signal-connected to the air pump and the water pump.

[0012] The beneficial effects proposed by this utility model are as follows: After the operator places the coffee capsule into the capsule compartment, they apply a pushing force to the sealing plate. The sealing plate moves the second compartment synchronously, and the second compartment pushes the coffee capsule within the capsule compartment, gradually moving it into the first compartment. When the sealing plate completely closes the capsule compartment, the second and first compartments work together to secure the coffee capsule. During this process, the flexible clamp clamps onto the bottom of the coffee capsule, working in conjunction with the first and second compartments to hold and secure it. Subsequently, the piercing assembly is activated, puncturing the coffee capsule and injecting hot water, causing coffee extract to be produced inside the capsule. The coffee extract is then discharged outside the coffee machine through the outlet tube. When piercing the aluminum foil packaging of the coffee capsule, the flexible clamp generates resistance against the impact force of the piercing assembly, reducing the risk of the coffee capsule shifting during the piercing process. Furthermore, after the aluminum foil shell of the coffee capsule deforms, the flexible clamp can adapt to the shape of the aluminum foil shell, so that the coffee capsule can still accurately maintain the optimal puncture position. This reduces the problem that the puncture component has difficulty puncturing the aluminum foil shell after deformation, and reduces the risk of liquid inside the coffee capsule spilling into the capsule chamber and causing equipment damage due to the above problems.

[0013] It should be noted that, since liquid flows through both the first and second compartments during operation, the sealing ring reduces the risk of liquid overflow into the capsule compartment. This minimizes liquid leakage between the first and second compartments, and between the second compartment and the capsule compartment. This protects the coffee machine and extends its lifespan. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a capsule coffee machine according to the present invention; Figure 2 This is a half-sectional view of a capsule coffee machine proposed in this utility model; Figure 3 This is a partially enlarged view A of a half-sectional view of a capsule coffee machine proposed in this utility model; Figure 4 This is a half-sectional view of the capsule compartment of a capsule coffee machine according to the present invention; Figure 5 This is a half-sectional view of the first puncture needle of a capsule coffee machine according to the present invention. Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating the operation of a water tank assembly for a capsule coffee machine according to this utility model; Figure 7 This is a working logic diagram of the controller for a capsule coffee machine proposed in this utility model.

[0015] In the diagram: 1. Coffee machine; 2. Capsule compartment; 3. First compartment; 4. Second compartment; 5. Dispensing pipe; 6. Sealing plate; 7. Sealing ring; 8. Airbag; 9. Air valve; 10. Air pipe; 11. Air pump; 12. First puncture needle; 13. Filter plate; 14. Second puncture needle; 15. Water outlet; 16. Water tank; 17. Water pump; 18. Heating chamber; 19. Electric heating element; 20. Water pipe; 21. Controller; 22. Temperature sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present utility model. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments.

[0017] Reference Figures 1 to 7A capsule coffee machine includes a coffee machine 1, a capsule compartment 2 inside the coffee machine 1, a first chamber 3 on the capsule compartment 2 connected to the capsule compartment 2, a flexible clamp inside the first chamber 3, a puncture assembly on the capsule compartment 2, a second chamber 4 slidably connected to the capsule compartment 2, the puncture assembly being connected to both the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4, a liquid outlet pipe 5 on the capsule compartment 2 communicating with the second chamber 4 and located inside the coffee machine 1, a sealing plate 6 on the capsule compartment 2 connected to the second chamber 4 and slidable relative to the capsule compartment 2, and a sealing ring 7 between the second chamber 4 and the first chamber 3, the sealing ring 7 also being located between the second chamber 4 and the capsule compartment 2. Specifically, after the operator places the coffee capsule into the capsule compartment 2, a pushing force is applied to the sealing plate 6. The sealing plate 6 drives the second chamber 4 to move synchronously, and the second chamber 4 pushes the coffee capsule to move within the capsule compartment 2 and gradually enter the first chamber 3. When the sealing plate 6 completely closes the capsule compartment 2, the second chamber 4 and the first chamber 3 work together to fix the coffee capsule. During this process, the flexible clamp will clamp towards the bottom of the coffee capsule. The flexible clamp, together with the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4, clamps and fixes the capsule. Then, the piercing component is activated, piercing the coffee capsule and injecting hot water, causing coffee extract to be produced inside the capsule. The coffee extract is then discharged to the outside of the coffee machine 1 through the outlet pipe 5. When piercing the aluminum foil packaging of the coffee capsule, the flexible clamp generates resistance to the impact force of the piercing component, reducing the risk of the coffee capsule shifting position during the piercing process. Furthermore, after the aluminum foil shell of the coffee capsule deforms, the flexible clamp can adapt to the shape of the aluminum foil shell, so that the coffee capsule can still accurately maintain the optimal puncture position. This reduces the problem that the puncture component has difficulty puncturing the aluminum foil shell after deformation, and reduces the risk of liquid inside the coffee capsule spilling into the capsule chamber 2 and causing equipment damage due to the above problems.

[0018] It should be noted that, since liquid flows through both the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 during operation, the sealing ring 7 is used to reduce the risk of liquid overflowing into the capsule chamber 2. This reduces liquid leakage between the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4, and between the second chamber 4 and the capsule chamber 2. This protects the coffee machine 1 and extends its service life.

[0019] Specifically, the flexible clamp is an airbag 8, which has several air valves 9 located on the first chamber 3. The coffee machine 1 contains an air pump 11, and an air pipe 10 connects the air pump 11 to the air valves 9. The air pump 11 is electrically connected to an external power source. When not activated, the airbag 8 maintains a low pressure, which facilitates the smooth entry of the coffee capsule into the first chamber 3. Subsequently, the air pump 11 activates and outputs high-pressure gas. This high-pressure gas passes through the air pipe 10 and the air valves 9 into the airbag 8, causing it to gradually inflate and clamp the coffee capsule. Because the airbag 8 is arranged in a ring within the first chamber 3, it clamps the coffee capsule precisely on the puncture area aligned with the puncture component, thereby improving puncture accuracy. Furthermore, the airbag 8 can also adaptively adapt to the shape of the coffee capsule, enabling it to clamp and position coffee capsules of different sizes or those that have undergone deformation.

[0020] Specifically, the coffee machine 1 also includes a water tank assembly, which comprises a water storage tank 16, a water pump 17 mounted on the water storage tank 16, a heating chamber 18 mounted on the output end of the water storage tank 16, an electric heating element 19 mounted on the heating chamber 18, and a water pipe 20 connected to the heating chamber 18, connecting the heating chamber 18 to the puncture assembly. Both the water pump 17 and the electric heating element 19 are electrically connected to an external power source. After the puncture assembly is in place, the water pump 17 is powered on and starts, drawing water from the water storage tank 16 into the heating chamber 18. Subsequently, the electric heating element 19 is also powered on and starts generating heat, heating the water in the heating chamber 18 to form hot water. The hot water is then injected into the coffee capsule through the water pipe 20 and the puncture assembly. This method enables the coffee machine 1 to extract coffee from the capsule by water injection.

[0021] Specifically, the puncture assembly includes a first puncture needle 12, a filter plate 13, and several second puncture needles 14. The first puncture needle 12 is located on the first chamber 3 and is connected to the water pipe 20. The filter plate 13 is sleeved on the second chamber 4, and the several second puncture needles 14 are evenly distributed on the filter plate 13. During the operation of the puncture assembly, since the first chamber 3 is in a fixed state, the first puncture needle 12 is also in a fixed state along with the first chamber 3. As the second chamber 4 drives the coffee capsule to move into the first chamber 3, the filter plate 13 and the second puncture needles 14 come into contact with the coffee capsule, but the second puncture needles 14 do not pierce the coffee capsule. When the coffee capsule comes into contact with the first puncture needle 12 and continues to advance, it will be subjected to the piercing force of the first puncture needle 12. Under the continuous thrust of the filter plate 13, the first puncture needle 12 and the second puncture needles 14 together pierce the aluminum foil shell of the coffee capsule. Simultaneously, after the first puncture needle 12 pierces the aluminum foil outer shell and is placed inside the coffee capsule, hot water in the water pipe 20 is injected into the coffee capsule through the first puncture needle 12 for heating and extraction. Similarly, after the second puncture needle 14 pierces the aluminum foil outer shell, the coffee extract overflows from the coffee capsule and is filtered by the filter plate 13, separating the coffee residue from the extract. The extract is then discharged through the second chamber 4 via the outlet pipe 5. This method achieves simultaneous water injection and extraction after puncturing the coffee capsule.

[0022] Specifically, the first puncture needle 12 is also provided with a plurality of water outlet holes 15 arranged in a circular array, and the water outlet holes 15 are connected to the water pipe 20. The water outlet holes 15 are arranged in a circular array on the first puncture needle 12, which facilitates the uniformity of hot water wetting inside the coffee capsule, increases the contact area between hot water and coffee, and helps to improve the extraction effect.

[0023] Specifically, the coffee machine 1 is equipped with a controller 21, which is connected to the electric heating tube 19 by a signal. The controller 21 is also connected to a temperature sensor 22 by a signal. The temperature sensor 22 is located inside the heating chamber 18. Both the controller 21 and the temperature sensor 22 are electrically connected to an external power source. Different water temperatures are required for different types of coffee. Therefore, the controller 21 can send a control signal to the electric heating element 19, which is located inside the heating chamber 18. The electric heating element 19 is controlled by the control signal from the controller 21 to be powered on or off. During this process, the temperature sensor 22 can detect the temperature of the water in the heating chamber 18. The temperature sensor 22 generates an electrical signal from the detected data and sends it to the controller 21. The controller 21 then sends a control signal to the electric heating element 19. By controlling the heating time of the electric heating element 19, i.e., the duration of water heating by the electric heating element 19, and combining this with the real-time monitoring of the water temperature by the temperature sensor 22, the water temperature can be controlled. This allows for the matching of different water temperatures when extracting different types of coffee.

[0024] Specifically, the controller 21 is also signal-connected to both the air pump 11 and the water pump 17. Both the air pump 11 and the water pump 17 are controlled by electrical signals from the controller 21, and the operator can start and stop the air pump 11 and the water pump 17 by using the control signals issued by the controller 21.

[0025] It should be noted that the controller 21 can be a Siemens S7-200 series PLC or a chip control circuit disclosed in Chinese Utility Model Publication No. CH201135367Y, entitled "An Electronic Control Device for a Fully Automatic Coffee Machine".

[0026] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model, but the protection scope of the present utility model is not limited thereto. Any equivalent substitutions or changes made by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present utility model, based on the technical solution and the inventive concept of the present utility model, should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A capsule coffee machine, comprising a coffee machine, characterized in that: The coffee machine has a capsule compartment, a first chamber on the capsule compartment, and the first chamber is connected to the capsule compartment. The first chamber has a flexible clamp inside, and the capsule compartment has a puncture component. A second chamber is slidably connected to the capsule compartment, and the puncture component is connected to both the first and second chambers. The capsule compartment has a liquid outlet tube that communicates with the second chamber and is located inside the coffee machine. The capsule compartment has a sealing plate that is connected to the second chamber and slides relative to the capsule compartment. A sealing ring is provided between the second chamber and the first chamber, and the sealing ring is also located between the second chamber and the capsule compartment.

2. The capsule coffee machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flexible clamp is an airbag, and the airbag is equipped with several air valves. The air valves are located on the first chamber. The coffee machine is equipped with an air pump, and an air pipe is provided between the air pump and the air valves for communication.

3. The capsule coffee machine according to claim 2, characterized in that: The coffee machine is also equipped with a water tank assembly, which includes a water storage tank, a water pump on the water storage tank, a heating chamber on the output end of the water storage tank, an electric heating tube on the heating chamber, and a water pipe connected to the heating chamber, which connects the heating chamber to the puncture assembly. Both the water pump and the electric heating tube are electrically connected to an external power source.

4. The capsule coffee machine according to claim 3, characterized in that: The puncture assembly includes a first puncture needle, a filter plate, and several second puncture needles. The first puncture needle is located on the first chamber and is connected to the water pipe. The filter plate is sleeved on the second chamber, and several second puncture needles are evenly distributed on the filter plate.

5. The capsule coffee machine according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first puncture needle also has a plurality of water outlet holes arranged in a circular array, and the water outlet holes are connected to the water pipe.

6. A capsule coffee machine according to claim 5, characterized in that: The coffee machine is equipped with a controller, which is signal-connected to the electric heating element. The controller is also signal-connected to a temperature sensor, which is located inside the heating chamber. Both the controller and the temperature sensor are electrically connected to an external power source.

7. A capsule coffee machine according to claim 6, characterized in that: The controllers are also signal-connected to the air pump and the water pump.

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