CARTRIDGE SYSTEM; BEVERAGE PREPARATION MACHINE AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A CARTRIDGE SYSTEM

Description

State of the art

[0001] The present invention is based on a cartridge system for producing a beverage, wherein the cartridge system can be used in a beverage preparation machine, wherein the cartridge system comprises a cartridge comprising a reservoir filled with a beverage substance and a cartridge receptacle, wherein the cartridge receptacle has a mixing chamber which can be brought into fluid connection with the reservoir and a fluid supply opening into the mixing chamber.

[0002] Such systems are known from the prior art, for example from the publications WO 2017 / 121 802 A1, WO 2017 / 121 801 A1, WO 2017 / 121 801 A1, WO 2017 / 121 799 A1, WO 2017 / 121 798 A1, WO 2017 / 121 797 A1, WO 2017 / 121 796 A1, and WO 2019 / 002 293 A1, and in particular from EP 2 017 221, and are used to produce beverages from pre-portioned cartridges. Producing beverages with such systems is extremely convenient for the user, as they simply insert a cartridge and press a start button. The beverage preparation machine then takes over the fully automated production process. This means, in particular, that the beverage substance is mixed with a predetermined amount of liquid, especially cold and carbonated water, and then poured into a drinking vessel. This makes mixed drinks, in particular, much easier, faster, and less effort for the user.The user can choose from a variety of different cartridges so that he can produce different drinks according to his taste.

[0003] Storing the beverage substance safely and securely in the cartridge, especially before using the cartridge system in the beverage preparation machine, is a challenge. It is important to maintain the freshness and quality of the beverage substance. At the same time, the cartridge system should enable a reliable and reproducible beverage production process. Disclosure of the invention

[0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a cartridge system for producing a beverage that can be used in a beverage preparation machine, with which an advantageous storage of the beverage substance and a high-quality beverage preparation are possible, wherein the cartridge system can preferably be produced particularly cost-efficiently.

[0005] This object is achieved by a cartridge system according to claim 1.

[0006] The cartridge system according to the invention has the advantage over the prior art that the cartridge system can be constructed cost-effectively and with advantageous leak-tightness using the intermediate cap. In particular, the production of the cartridge system can be improved because the intermediate cap enables the use of particularly cost-effective and resource-saving sealing elements to seal the cartridge opening. Such sealing elements preferably ensure that the beverage substance remains within the reservoir before the start of the beverage production process and is hermetically sealed there for a long shelf life and a consistent aroma. For example, according to the invention, particularly thin sealing elements, such as films, can advantageously be used to seal the cartridge.At the same time, according to the invention, it is still possible to achieve a tight and stable connection between the sealing element and the cartridge, in particular through the use of the intermediate cap. It is a particular advantage that the intermediate cap can be used to position and fix the sealing element, in particular before the sealing element is connected to the cartridge. Thus, the attachment of the sealing element to the cartridge can be advantageously prepared and improved with the help of the intermediate cap. A further advantage of the cartridge system according to the invention is that the reservoir can be emptied at a comparatively high pressure during the beverage production process without undesirable leaks occurring, for example in the attachment area of ​​the sealing element to the cartridge. This makes it possible to reduce the dispensing time without risking any impairment of the taste of the beverage being produced.A further advantage of the present invention is that the relative orientation and alignment of the cartridge and the cartridge receptacle can be particularly advantageously determined using the intermediate cap. This allows a definable orientation of the cartridge in the beverage preparation machine to be achieved, which is advantageous, for example, for reading an information element attached to the cartridge system, such as a QR code or a barcode, when the cartridge system is inserted into the beverage preparation machine.

[0007] The intermediate cap allows the sealing element to be attached to the cartridge with high-quality tightness. This makes it possible to achieve a seal in the cartridge reservoir that will not leak, for example, in the event of vibrations during transport or storage of the cartridge system, and thus prevent gases or liquids from escaping from the cartridge. It is conceivable to store liquid beverage substances with a higher carbon dioxide content in the reservoir. The higher carbon dioxide content can have a positive effect on both the taste of the beverage being produced and the cartridge's best-before date. Some beverage substances require high internal pressure in the cartridge reservoir to maintain their freshness and quality, which is often achieved through pre-carbonation. Other beverage substances require only a slight overpressure or no overpressure at all.

[0008] It is preferably possible for the cartridge and the cartridge receptacle to be connected to each other by means of the intermediate cap. It is particularly conceivable for the cartridge and the cartridge receptacle to be permanently or reversibly connected by the intermediate cap.

[0009] The cartridge may be made of glass, but according to the invention it is made entirely or partially of plastic.

[0010] Alternatively, it is conceivable for the cartridge to have a main body made of aluminum, which in its typical wall area preferably has a wall thickness between 0.01 and 0.5 millimeters, preferably between 0.01 and 0.2 millimeters, particularly preferably between 0.03 and 0.1 millimeters, and most preferably essentially 0.05 millimeters, in particular with a maximum error tolerance of 15%. A main body made of aluminum can be manufactured, for example, by deep drawing or extrusion.

[0011] The cartridge can be designed such that it can withstand an internal pressure of up to 12 bar, preferably up to 10 bar, more preferably up to 8 bar, and most preferably up to 6 bar without bursting (at a temperature of 20°C and an external pressure of 1 bar). The reservoir preferably has a volume of between 10 and 500 milliliters, more preferably between 30 and 90 milliliters, and most preferably substantially 60 milliliters. The cartridge system comprises, in particular, a liquid beverage substance, which is preferably carbonated. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the liquid beverage substance to be non-carbonated. More preferably, the liquid beverage substance comprises a beverage concentrate, in particular a syrup.

[0012] Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims and the description with reference to the drawings.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge system comprises a sealing element, wherein an opening in the cartridge, in particular in an initial state of the cartridge system, is closed by the sealing element. The opening is in particular an opening in the main body of the cartridge, so that in the initial state of the cartridge system, the main body is closed by the sealing element on its side opposite the cartridge base. The initial state of the cartridge system refers to the state before beverage preparation, in which the cartridge system is preferably already fully manufactured. The sealing element is provided for closing the opening of the cartridge and can for this purpose be attached to the cartridge, in particular to a cartridge wall of the cartridge.Advantageously, the sealing element ensures that the beverage substance remains within the reservoir before the start of the beverage production process and is hermetically sealed there for a long shelf life and a consistent aroma.

[0014] It is conceivable that the cartridge opening is circular. It is possible for the opening to have a diameter between 10 and 50 mm, particularly preferably between 15 and 30 mm, and even more particularly preferably, for example, at least 18 mm (in particular with an error tolerance of a maximum of 15%).

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first counter-connecting means is connected to the first connecting means in a form-fitting, force-fitting, and / or material-fitting manner. It is preferably conceivable for the first connecting means to be formed circumferentially around the cartridge, in particular circumferentially around the cartridge wall of the cartridge. It is preferably conceivable for the first connecting means to be formed circumferentially on an outer side of the cartridge wall of the cartridge. It is preferably conceivable for the first counter-connecting means to be formed completely around the intermediate cap, in particular on an inner side of the intermediate cap.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the first connecting means comprises an external thread, wherein the first counter-connecting means comprises an internal thread, wherein the cartridge and the intermediate cap are connected to one another in particular by the external thread of the cartridge and the internal thread of the intermediate cap. Due to the external thread and the internal thread, the intermediate cap can be screwed onto the cartridge with particularly high precision. This enables particularly advantageous positioning of the sealing element for attaching the sealing element to the cartridge. As a result, a tight connection between the sealing element and the cartridge can be formed with particularly high reliability. The intermediate cap is preferably designed as a screw cap.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the first connecting means for connection to the first counter-connecting means comprises one or more locking beads, and / or one or more locking bulges, and / or one or more undercuts, wherein the first counter-connecting means preferably comprises one or more locking beads, and / or one or more locking bulges, and / or one or more undercuts.

[0018] It can be provided that the cartridge has a first anti-rotation means and / or that the intermediate cap has a further first anti-rotation means, wherein a relative orientation between the cartridge and the intermediate cap is determined by means of the first anti-rotation means and / or the further first anti-rotation means. By means of the first anti-rotation means and / or the further first anti-rotation means, a relative orientation or alignment of the cartridge and the intermediate cap can thus advantageously be determined when the cartridge and the intermediate cap are connected. Furthermore, the first anti-rotation means and / or the further first anti-rotation means can advantageously prevent undesired detachment of the intermediate cap from the cartridge.In particular, the first anti-rotation means and / or the further first anti-rotation means are designed in such a way that screwing on with subsequent locking is possible, so that the locking prevents subsequent unscrewing and / or a fixed relative orientation of the intermediate cap to the cartridge can be achieved.

[0019] The first anti-rotation means of the cartridge can comprise a particularly vertical rib and / or a particularly vertical groove, and / or the further first anti-rotation means of the intermediate cap can comprise a particularly vertical rib and / or a particularly vertical groove. An undercut, particularly in the circumferential direction, or a resilient tongue are also conceivable as an alternative or additional first anti-rotation means and / or as a further first anti-rotation means. The vertical grooves and / or ribs particularly preferably extend parallel to an axial direction of the cartridge.

[0020] The first anti-rotation means can be formed as part of the external thread of the cartridge and / or adjacent to the external thread of the cartridge, and / or the further first anti-rotation means can be formed as part of the internal thread of the intermediate cap and / or adjacent to the internal thread of the intermediate cap. It is thus particularly advantageous for a relative position of the cartridge and the intermediate cap to be fixed by the first anti-rotation means and / or the further first anti-rotation means in a state in which the intermediate cap is screwed onto the cartridge. This makes it possible to fix both the rotational orientation between the cartridge and the intermediate cap, as well as a distance or spacing between a base region of the intermediate cap and an edge and / or an end face of the cartridge wall.This precise determination of the distance between the base area of ​​the intermediate cap and the edge and / or the end face of the cartridge wall offers particular advantages when attaching the sealing element to the cartridge wall. For example, a sealing element designed as a sealing film can be precisely positioned on an end face of the cartridge wall with comparatively close tolerance using the intermediate cap for the connection process of the sealing element to the cartridge wall. This precise arrangement then enables advantageous inductive welding and / or bonding of the sealing element to the end face of the cartridge wall. Conductive welding of the sealing element to the end face of the cartridge wall is also conceivable as an alternative.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the intermediate cap has a base region and an intermediate cap wall, wherein the intermediate cap wall extends in particular perpendicularly from the base region and circumferentially around the base region, wherein the intermediate cap is preferably cup-shaped. To connect the sealing element to the cartridge, it is particularly advantageous for the sealing element to be arranged in the cup shape of the intermediate cap and preferably to be fastened to the intermediate cap, for example using a plastic or wax. It is particularly preferably conceivable for the sealing element to be fastened to the base region of the intermediate cap. With the sealing element arranged in the intermediate cap in this way, the intermediate cap can then be connected to the cartridge, in particular by screwing.As a result, the sealing element is arranged such that it can be tightly connected to the cartridge wall, in particular to the end face of the cartridge wall, in particular by inductive welding or gluing. The intermediate cap particularly preferably remains connected to the cartridge, in particular by screwing, even after the sealing element has been attached to the cartridge. Thus, after being attached to the cartridge, the sealing element is arranged in the axial direction between the cartridge wall and the base area of ​​the intermediate cap.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base region of the intermediate cap has a through-opening, in particular for passing a piercing spike through the through-opening of the base region. During beverage preparation, the piercing spike can advantageously be guided through the through-opening of the intermediate cap and pierce and / or perforate the sealing element. Therefore, the intermediate cap does not need to be removed from the cartridge after the sealing element has been attached to the cartridge. It is conceivable for the through-opening to constitute a major portion of the base region of the intermediate cap, so that the base region is, for example, merely annular around the through-opening.

[0023] It is conceivable that the through-opening of the base area of ​​the intermediate cap has a diameter that is larger than an outer diameter of the piercing mandrel.

[0024] It is conceivable that the through-opening of the base region of the intermediate cap has a diameter of at least 7 mm, preferably of at least 8 mm.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sealing element is arranged between an edge of a cartridge wall and the bottom region of the intermediate cap. In particular, a peripheral edge region of the sealing element is arranged between the edge of the cartridge wall and the bottom region of the intermediate cap.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sealing element comprises a sealing film. In particular, a peripheral edge region of the sealing film is arranged between the edge of the cartridge wall and the base region of the intermediate cap. It is possible for the sealing element to be designed entirely as a sealing film or for only part of the sealing element to be designed as a sealing film. In the initial state of the cartridge system, the reservoir of the cartridge is preferably hermetically sealed by the sealing film, wherein during the beverage production process the sealing film can be easily perforated by a piercing mandrel of the cartridge receptacle in order to transfer the beverage substance from the reservoir into the mixing chamber of the cartridge receptacle as quickly as possible.

[0027] A possible sealing film could be a plastic film, an aluminum foil, or a multilayer film made of plastic and / or aluminum. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the sealing film to comprise a foam, paper, and / or other materials. A combination of plastic, aluminum, paper, foam, and / or other materials is also conceivable. Configuring the sealing element as a sealing film is particularly preferred for beverage substances that are enclosed in the reservoir without or with a comparatively low overpressure. The sealing film enables particularly cost-effective sealing.

[0028] The sealing element, in particular the sealing film, could be glued, sealed and / or welded to the cartridge, in particular to the cartridge wall. The sealing element is thus attached to the cartridge wall and seals an interior of the cartridge and thus the reservoir of the cartridge. Preferably, the sealing film is at least substantially flat when attached to the cartridge. The sealing film is preferably connected to an end face of the edge of the cartridge wall. Alternatively, it is also conceivable, for example, for the sealing element to be crimped onto the cartridge wall, wherein the sealing element in particular comprises a crimp cap. It is conceivable that a cartridge with different sealing elements and attachment methods for the sealing elements on the cartridge can be combined without any structural modifications to the cartridge being necessary. This increases the possible uses of the cartridge.of the cartridge system and scalability in a particularly cost-efficient manner.

[0029] For example, the sealing film could be attached to the edge of the cartridge wall, in particular to an end face of the cartridge wall, by inductive welding. This enables a particularly tight attachment of the sealing film to the cartridge, which can also be carried out cost-effectively. With the help of inductive welding, a advantageous connection can be formed between the sealing film and the cartridge, even in the presence of typical unevenness on the end face of the cartridge. It is particularly conceivable that the cartridge, in particular the glass cartridge, is formed using hot-end coating or cold-end coating. It is conceivable that a sealing wax is used for the inductive welding of the sealing film to the cartridge, which melts during inductive welding to form a connection between the cartridge and the sealing film. This allows a particularly advantageous, tight, and cost-effective seal to be achieved.Alternatively, it is conceivable that the sealing film is attached to the end face of the cartridge wall by means of adhesive.

[0030] It is conceivable for the sealing element to comprise a plastic cap or to be designed as a plastic cap. The plastic cap preferably comprises a bore or punched hole with a sealing film that is applied, sealed, or welded inside or outside. According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is conceivable for the plastic cap of the sealing element to be formed using injection molding. The plastic cap is therefore preferably an injection-molded part. It is conceivable for the plastic cap to be designed as a crimp cap, snap-in cap, or screw cap. It is conceivable for the plastic cap to have a weakened portion to allow the piercing mandrel to pass through. The weakened portion is preferably an area of ​​the plastic cap with a reduced wall thickness. The weakened portion is preferably designed such that the sealing element can be opened and / or penetrated by the piercing mandrel in the area of ​​this weakened portion.It is conceivable that this weakening is created during the formation of the plastic cap, in particular during injection molding, as a thinned region of the plastic cap. Thus, the weakening is particularly preferably created during injection molding of the plastic cap, whereby no further post-treatment of the plastic cap is necessary to create the weakening. According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is conceivable that the weakening is formed as a full-surface, in particular circular, weakening in the plastic cap. Alternatively, other geometries for the weakening are also conceivable. For example, it is conceivable that the weakening is annular or formed as a circular line.

[0031] It is conceivable for the intermediate cap to comprise a plastic cap or to be designed as a plastic cap. According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is conceivable for the plastic cap of the intermediate cap to be formed by injection molding. The plastic cap is therefore preferably an injection-molded part. It is conceivable for the plastic cap to be designed as a crimp cap, snap-in cap, or screw cap. It is conceivable for the plastic cap to have a through-opening, punching, and / or weakening for the piercing spike to pass through. The weakening is preferably an area of ​​the plastic cap with a reduced wall thickness. The weakening is preferably designed such that the intermediate cap can be opened and / or penetrated by the piercing spike in the area of ​​this weakening.It is conceivable that this weakening is created during the formation of the plastic cap, in particular during injection molding, as a thinned region of the plastic cap. Thus, the weakening is particularly preferably created during injection molding of the plastic cap, whereby no further post-treatment of the plastic cap is necessary to create the weakening. According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is conceivable that the weakening is formed as a full-surface, in particular circular, weakening in the plastic cap. Alternatively, other geometries for the weakening are also conceivable. For example, it is conceivable that the weakening is annular or formed as a circular line.

[0032] It could be provided that the intermediate cap is connected to the cartridge receptacle. In particular, the intermediate cap can be inserted into the cartridge receptacle and connected to it. It is conceivable that the cartridge receptacle is permanently or reversibly connected to the intermediate cap.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the intermediate cap comprises a second connecting means, and / or the cartridge receptacle comprises a second mating connecting means, wherein the second mating connecting means is preferably connected to the second connecting means in a form-fitting, force-fitting, and / or material-fitting manner. It is conceivable that the second mating connecting means is a connecting means complementary to the second connecting means. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the intermediate cap is connected to the cartridge receptacle by crimping, gluing, sealing, and / or welding.

[0034] Under these circumstances, it would be conceivable for the second connecting means to comprise one or more locking beads, and / or one or more locking bulges, and / or one or more undercuts, and / or an external thread, wherein the second mating connecting means comprises one or more locking beads, and / or one or more locking bulges, and / or one or more undercuts, and / or an internal thread. The undercut(s) are preferably undercuts in the circumferential direction. It is particularly preferably conceivable, for example, for the second connecting means of the intermediate cap to comprise a locking bead which interacts with a locking bulge of the second mating connecting means of the cartridge receptacle to establish a locking connection. It is preferably conceivable for the second connecting means to be formed circumferentially around the intermediate cap, in particular on an outer side of the intermediate cap.It is preferably conceivable that the second counter-connecting means is formed completely around the cartridge receptacle, in particular on an inner side of the cartridge receptacle.

[0035] Here, in turn, it would be conceivable for the intermediate cap to have a second anti-twist means and / or for the cartridge receptacle to have a further second anti-twist means, wherein a relative orientation between the intermediate cap and the cartridge receptacle is determined by means of the second anti-twist means and / or the further second anti-twist means. The second anti-twist means and / or the further second anti-twist means determine a relative positioning and orientation between the intermediate cap and the cartridge receptacle when the cartridge receptacle and the intermediate cap are connected. It is also advantageously possible for the second anti-twist means and / or the further second anti-twist means to prevent the cartridge receptacle and the intermediate cap from accidentally becoming detached from one another.It is particularly advantageously possible for the second connecting means to comprise the second anti-rotation means and / or for the second mating connecting means to comprise the further second anti-rotation means. It is particularly advantageously possible for the second connecting means to comprise a locking means, in particular a locking bead or a locking bead, which has a flattened region in the circumferential direction. It is particularly advantageously possible for the second mating connecting means to comprise a complementary locking means, in particular a locking bead or a locking bead, which likewise has a flattened region in the circumferential direction. With the aid of the flattened regions, an anti-rotation device for the intermediate cap and the cartridge receptacle is formed.

[0036] It is conceivable to design the cartridge, the intermediate cap, and / or the cartridge receptacle with or without a flattened portion. For example, it is possible to design the cartridge, the intermediate cap, and / or the cartridge receptacle with a flattened portion on their circumference, in particular in the circumferential direction, so that a relative orientation of the cartridge, intermediate cap, and / or cartridge receptacle is predetermined by the flattened portion. In this way, for example, an anti-twist device can be achieved. Alternatively, the cartridge, the intermediate cap, and / or the cartridge receptacle can also be designed without a flattened portion in the circumferential direction, in particular round.

[0037] A seal could be created between the cartridge and the intermediate cap using a sealing agent.

[0038] It is particularly conceivable for the sealing means to be arranged partially or completely between an upper side of the sealing element facing away from the cartridge and the intermediate cap, in particular a bottom region of the intermediate cap, such that the sealing means seals the transition between the intermediate cap and the cartridge, in particular in the region of its sealing element. In addition to or alternatively to its function as a seal, the sealing means advantageously serves to compensate for manufacturing tolerances of the cartridge, the sealing element and / or the intermediate cap. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the sealing means is formed as part of the sealing element and / or that the sealing means is an element separate from the sealing element, which is arranged in particular between the cartridge and the intermediate cap.The sealing means can thus be formed integrally with the sealing element or as a separate component. Various suitable materials can be used for the sealing means, for example, various . rubber -Types and / or plastics or other materials are possible.

[0039] The sealing means could comprise a sealing ring, a full-surface sealing means with a bore, and / or a foam.

[0040] It is conceivable for the sealing means to be designed as an insertable element. It is possible for the insertable element (for example a sealing ring) to be arranged between the cartridge, in particular the end face of the cartridge pointing in the direction of the base region of the intermediate cap, and the intermediate cap. It is particularly conceivable for the sealing means to be designed as an O-ring. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the sealing means to be designed over its entire surface with a bore / recess for the piercing mandrel. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the sealing means to be designed as part of the sealing element and / or connected to the sealing element, in particular on an upper side of the sealing element facing away from the cartridge. It is particularly conceivable for the sealing means to be a foam (orfoamed region) of the sealing element, which is arranged on the upper side of the sealing element, in particular in a peripheral outer region of the sealing element.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the sealing means, for example an O-ring and / or foam, to be arranged and / or formed in the region of the first connecting means and / or counter-connecting means between the cartridge and the intermediate cap. Alternatively or additionally, the additional sealing between the cartridge and the intermediate cap can be achieved, for example, by constructing the intermediate cap using a multi-component plastic, in particular a two-component plastic.

[0042] Under these circumstances, it is conceivable for the sealing means to be formed as part of the intermediate cap, in particular by means of multi-component plastic injection molding, preferably two-component plastic injection molding. It is thus conceivable for the sealing means to be formed integrally with the intermediate cap or a part of the intermediate cap (i.e. as a component of the intermediate cap). In this case, it is particularly possible for the intermediate cap (or at least a part of the intermediate cap) and the sealing means to be produced together by means of two-component injection molding. It is preferably possible for the region of the sealing means to be made from a different plastic than the remaining part of the intermediate cap. For example, it is conceivable for the region of the sealing means to be made from a plastic that is softer than the remaining intermediate cap.It is conceivable that the sealing means (in particular as a component of the intermediate cap) is designed as a region of the intermediate cap facing the end face of the cartridge wall, in particular as a region of the intermediate cap that borders the end face of the cartridge wall and / or the sealing element. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the sealing means (in particular as a component of the intermediate cap or as a separate insert) is arranged laterally / radially on the cartridge wall and / or against a chamfer and / or a radius between the end face of the cartridge wall and the circumference.

[0043] It could be provided that a seal is formed between the intermediate cap and the cartridge receptacle with the aid of a further sealing means. It is particularly conceivable that the further sealing means is arranged partially or completely between the intermediate cap and the cartridge receptacle, such that the further sealing means seals the transition between the intermediate cap and the cartridge receptacle. In addition to or alternatively to its function as a seal, the further sealing means advantageously serves to compensate for manufacturing tolerances of the intermediate cap and / or the cartridge receptacle. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the further sealing means has a sealing ring, in particular an O-ring.

[0044] It could be provided that the further sealing means is arranged in the region of the second connecting means of the intermediate cap and / or in the region of the second mating connecting means of the cartridge receptacle. It is particularly conceivable that the further sealing means is arranged partially or completely between the second connecting means and the second mating connecting means. For example, it is possible for the second connecting means to comprise a locking bead, a locking bulge, an undercut, and / or an external thread and / or for the second mating connecting means to comprise a locking bead, a locking bulge, an undercut, and / or an internal thread, wherein the connection between the intermediate cap and the cartridge receptacle formed with the aid of the second connecting means and the second mating connecting means is sealed by the further sealing means.

[0045] It would be conceivable for the cartridge to comprise a particularly cup-shaped main body, wherein the main body is formed by means of the cartridge wall, which is closed on one side by a cartridge base, wherein the main body in particular comprises the reservoir. The cartridge wall and the cartridge base are in particular formed in one piece. It is preferably conceivable for the cartridge wall to be cylindrical, at least in a main region of the cartridge wall. The cartridge wall and the cartridge base can preferably be formed by a glass bottle. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the cartridge wall and the cartridge base to be formed by a plastic or a metal.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge holder has a base structure that is made at least partially, and in particular entirely, of plastic. This advantageously allows for cost-effective production.

[0047] It could be provided that the basic structure has a cup-shaped design whose open side is oriented towards the cartridge, wherein a beverage outlet opening and an outwardly open mandrel guide are formed on a bottom side opposite the cartridge, and wherein a fluid supply is formed on the bottom side or a side wall of the basic structure. This cartridge receptacle has the advantage that the fluid supply does not open into the reservoir of the cartridge, but rather into the mixing chamber separated from the reservoir. This prevents recontamination of the beverage preparation machine by the fluid supply during the beverage production process. For this purpose, the reservoir is not flushed with the fluid, but rather the beverage substance and the fluid enter the mixing chamber of the cartridge receptacle separately from one another.The fluid is directed directly into the mixing chamber, while the beverage substance is transferred into the mixing chamber independently of the fluid. For this purpose, a displaceably mounted piercing mandrel is arranged within the mandrel guide. The piercing mandrel can be moved between a retracted position, in which the piercing mandrel is spaced from the sealing element and, in particular, the sealing film, and an extended position, in which the piercing mandrel pierces the sealing element and, in particular, the sealing film and extends into the reservoir. In the extended position, the piercing mandrel is also guided, in particular, through the through-opening in the base area of ​​the intermediate cap.In the initial state of the cartridge system, the piercing mandrel is in the retracted position, so that the reservoir is hermetically sealed by the sealing element and in particular the sealing film, and can be moved from the retracted position to the extended position to open the sealing element of the cartridge. In the extended position, the sealing element is perforated by the piercing mandrel or a pre-punched opening is torn open, so that the beverage substance passes through, in particular, at least one side channel on the piercing mandrel past the sealing element into the mixing chamber. This enables simple and reliable opening of a previously aroma-tight cartridge in a beverage preparation machine. Furthermore, it has been shown that recontamination of the beverage preparation machine is prevented, particularly since no overpressure is generated in the reservoir that directly affects the fluid supply.The design of the mixing chamber in the cartridge holder, which can be reversibly inserted into the beverage preparation machine, advantageously ensures that the mixing chamber is part of the replaceable cartridge system. This effectively prevents contamination of the beverage preparation machine by the beverage substance, because only parts of the replaceable disposable or reusable cartridge system come into contact with the beverage substance.

[0048] It could be provided that the piercing mandrel comprises a cylindrical or frustoconical base part and a piercing part extending in the direction of the reservoir, wherein the piercing part is designed in the form of an obliquely cut truncated cone. Preferably, the piercing part is further designed such that an oblique cut surface of the obliquely cut truncated cone faces substantially towards the reservoir, wherein the oval circumference of the cut surface at least partially represents a cutting edge for perforating the sealing element. It has been shown that the cutting surface created by an oblique cut through the truncated cone, on the one hand, cuts the sealing element easily and with sufficiently little effort, and on the other hand, does not separate any chips or loose pieces from the sealing element, which would otherwise unintentionally contaminate the beverage.The sealing element perforation is advantageously designed such that on that side of the piercing mandrel on which the cutting edge projecting maximally in the direction of the reservoir is formed, the material of the sealing element is severed with a smooth cut, while in the region of the cutting surface of the piercing part, the cut-off material of the sealing element is still connected to the remaining sealing element and is preferably rolled up or folded together.

[0049] The piercing mandrel preferably comprises an intermediate part arranged between the base part and the piercing part, which is truncated cone-shaped, wherein a circumferential shoulder is formed between the base part and the intermediate part and wherein a circumferential edge is formed between the piercing part and the intermediate part. Advantageously, a stable piercing mandrel is thus formed. The design of the edge has the advantage that the side channels, if they extend over the edge, have an enlarged inlet on the reservoir side, thus facilitating the transfer of the beverage substance towards the mixing chamber. The shoulder serves to strike against a stop on the mandrel guide when the piercing mandrel is in the extended position, so that the extension movement of the piercing mandrel towards the cartridge is limited.

[0050] It could be provided that the cartridge receptacle has a plurality of side channels, each side channel extending parallel to the piercing mandrel in the region of the piercing part and in the region of the intermediate part. The side channels are each designed, in particular, in the form of a groove open on one side introduced into the outer surface of the piercing mandrel. Preferably, the side channels are formed at least partially in a circumferential region of the piercing mandrel rearward of the cutting surface. This has the advantage that the side channels are arranged on the side of the sealing element perforation on which a cut was made in the material, and not on the opposite side on which the cut-off material is still connected to the remaining sealing element. The beverage substance can thus flow into the side channels relatively unhindered.

[0051] It is conceivable that the cross-section of the side channels and / or the number of side channels is adapted to the viscosity of the beverage substance, so that the side channels control or limit the flow of the beverage substance toward the mixing chamber. For high viscosity, multiple side channels or side channels with a larger cross-section are used, while for lower viscosity, fewer side channels or side channels with a smaller cross-section are provided. Thus, there is a suitable cartridge holder for every cartridge.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the piercing mandrel has an integrated compressed air line, which is the cartridge unloading device, wherein the compressed air line extends along the piercing mandrel, in particular from a first end of the piercing mandrel to a second end of the piercing mandrel. Advantageously, three functions are thus integrated into the piercing mandrel: 1. The piercing mandrel comprises the piercing part for perforating the sealing element and thus opening the cartridge 2. The piercing mandrel comprises the side channels to enable the beverage substance to be transferred into the mixing chamber 3. The piercing mandrel comprises the integrated compressed air line for blowing compressed air into the reservoir, whereby the beverage substance is pressed under pressure into the mixing chamber.

[0053] Preferably, a compressed air connection for connection to a compressed air source is formed at the second end, and a compressed air outlet for blowing compressed air into the reservoir is formed at the first end. The cartridge unloading device integrated into the cartridge receptacle, within the meaning of the present invention, therefore initially comprises only a compressed air line through which compressed air can be introduced into the reservoir from outside. The cartridge receptacle is designed such that the compressed air forces the beverage substance from the reservoir into the mixing chamber. The compressed air is provided, in particular, by the beverage preparation machine. It is conceivable that a compressed air source is coupled directly to the compressed air connection as soon as the cartridge system is inserted into the beverage preparation machine.This has the advantage of effectively preventing backcontamination toward the beverage preparation machine, because the cartridge unloading device is pressurized, especially immediately upon insertion of the cartridge system, thus preventing beverage substance from migrating toward the compressed air line and, in particular, toward the compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine. The beverage substance can thus only move from the reservoir toward the mixing chamber.

[0054] The compressed air connection is designed, in particular, as an opening in the base part, with the base part being arranged in the cartridge receptacle in such a way that the compressed air connection is accessible from outside the cartridge receptacle. This facilitates the connection of the compressed air line to the compressed air source.

[0055] It can be provided that the mixing chamber has a beverage outlet through which the beverage formed from a mixture of the beverage substance with the fluid is dispensed, wherein the cartridge system is preferably designed such that the beverage can be introduced from the beverage outlet directly into a portable container. Advantageously, neither the beverage substance nor the produced beverage comes into contact with any part of the beverage preparation machine, so that almost any (re-)contamination of the beverage preparation machine is prevented. The fluid is fed separately to the mixing chamber. Preferably, the fluid is introduced into the mixing chamber under pressure. The fluid is provided in particular by the beverage preparation machine. It is conceivable that a fluid source is coupled directly to a corresponding fluid connection of the cartridge receptacle as soon as the cartridge system is inserted into the beverage preparation machine.The fluid connection is fluidly connected to the mixing chamber via a fluid line. This has the advantage of effectively preventing backcontamination toward the beverage preparation machine, because the fluid connection is pressurized, particularly immediately upon insertion of the cartridge system, thus preventing beverage substance from migrating toward the fluid line and, in particular, toward the fluid source of the beverage preparation machine. The beverage substance and the beverage can thus only move from the mixing chamber toward the beverage outlet. The fluid comprises, in particular, water, preferably pressurized, chilled, and / or carbonated drinking water.

[0056] The mixing chamber can also be provided with mixing structures. These mixing structures advantageously ensure improved mixing of the beverage substance and the fluid. For this purpose, the mixing structures are particularly designed to swirl the fluid flowing into the mixing chamber. It is conceivable for the mixing structure to comprise one or more mixing ribs arranged in the area of ​​the fluid supply at the bottom of the mixing chamber and extending substantially perpendicular to the fluid inflow direction. The mixing ribs thus act as barriers for the fluid, swirling the fluid and achieving better mixing with the beverage substance.

[0057] It can be provided that the fluid supply is fed with fluid cooled by a cooling unit, wherein the cooling unit is part of the beverage preparation machine or a separate refrigerator operatively connected to the beverage preparation machine. This advantageously allows cold beverages to be produced even if the cartridge is not cooled and is, for example, at room temperature. Integrating the system into an existing refrigerator has the advantage that the refrigerator's existing cooling unit can be easily and efficiently used for the beverage preparation machine. Particularly in so-called "side-by-side" refrigerators (often referred to as American refrigerators), there is sufficient space in the front to integrate the system. It is conceivable that the beverage preparation machine is a retrofit kit for such a refrigerator.The cooling unit preferably comprises a compressor cooling unit, an absorption cooling unit or a thermoelectric cooler.

[0058] It can be provided that the fluid supply is fed with fluid that is carbonated by a carbonator. It is conceivable that the carbonator is part of the beverage preparation machine and that the carbonator has a receptacle for a CO2 cartridge and a feed device for adding CO2 from the CO2 cartridge to the fluid. Advantageously, the system can thus also be used to produce carbonated soft drinks. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the carbonator to have an external CO2 connection.

[0059] Another subject of the present invention is a beverage preparation machine comprising a cartridge system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cartridge system can be inserted into the beverage preparation machine. When the cartridge system is inserted into the beverage preparation machine, the beverage can be prepared. After preparation, the cartridge system can be removed from the beverage preparation machine.

[0060] Another object of the present invention is a method for producing a cartridge system according to an embodiment of the present invention, -- wherein in a first method step the cartridge and the intermediate cap are provided, -- wherein in a second method step, after the first method step, the cartridge and the intermediate cap are connected to one another by the first connecting means of the cartridge and the first counter-connecting means of the intermediate cap.

[0061] The advantages and configurations that have already been described in connection with the cartridge system according to the invention or in connection with an embodiment of the cartridge system according to the invention can be applied to the method according to the invention for producing a cartridge system and the beverage preparation machine according to the invention. The advantages and configurations that have already been described in connection with the beverage preparation machine according to the invention or in connection with an embodiment of the beverage preparation machine according to the invention can be applied to the cartridge system according to the invention and the method according to the invention for producing a cartridge system.The advantages and embodiments that have already been described in connection with the method according to the invention for producing a cartridge system or in connection with an embodiment of the method according to the invention for producing a cartridge system can be applied to the cartridge system according to the invention and the beverage preparation machine according to the invention.

[0062] Further details, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the drawings and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings merely illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention, which do not limit the essential inventive concept. Short description of the drawings

[0063] Figure 1 shows a schematic sectional view of a part of a cartridge system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 shows a schematic sectional view of an intermediate cap according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a mouth region of a cartridge according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a part of a cartridge system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figures 5a, 5b and 5c show a perspective illustration, a schematic sectional view and the general functional principle of a cartridge system according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 shows a schematic sectional view of a part of a cartridge system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Figure 7 shows a schematic sectional view of a portion of a cartridge system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 shows a schematic perspective view of a sectioned sealing element according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 shows a schematic perspective view of a sectioned intermediate cap according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Embodiments of the invention

[0064] In the various figures, identical parts are always provided with the same reference symbols and are therefore usually named or mentioned only once.

[0065] In Figure 1A schematic sectional view of a portion of a cartridge system 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The cartridge 2 comprises a cup-shaped hollow main body 2', with the aid of which a reservoir 6 for a beverage substance 7 is formed. Cup-shaped design here means that the main body 2' has a cartridge base 2‴ (cf. Figure 5b ) and a cartridge wall 2" protruding from the cartridge base 2‴ at right angles, in particular in the direction of the cartridge receptacle 10. The cartridge wall 2" is at least partially cylindrical and circumferential, while the cartridge base 2‴ in this example has a circular design. The main body 2' of the cartridge 2 or the cartridge 2 itself is preferably formed by or at least with the aid of a glass bottle. The reservoir 6 of the cartridge 2 can be filled with a beverage substance 7.

[0066] On a side opposite the cartridge base 2‴ in the axial direction, the cartridge 2 has an opening 90 which is closed with a sealing element 18 designed as a sealing film 18". It is conceivable, for example, that a diameter of the opening 90 is adapted to the dimensions of a piercing mandrel 73. However, the opening 90 can also be larger than the piercing mandrel 73. The opening 90 is enclosed by an edge 2ʺʺ of the cartridge wall 2". In this mouth region of the cartridge 2, an intermediate cap 60 is attached around the cartridge 2. The intermediate cap 60 comprises a base region 61 and an intermediate cap wall 62 which projects at right angles from the base region 61 of the intermediate cap 60. As a result, the intermediate cap 60 is cup-shaped. The intermediate cap wall 62 has a larger radius than the edge 2ʺʺ of the cartridge wall 2", so that the intermediate cap wall 62 is arranged radially outwardly around the cartridge wall 2".The base region 61 comprises a through-opening 63 provided for the passage of a piercing mandrel 73. In this way, the piercing mandrel 73 can penetrate the intermediate cap 60 and thus reach the sealing element 18, where it can be perforated, pierced, and / or opened. The cartridge 2 has a first connecting means 20, which is designed as an external thread 20' around the cartridge wall 2", thus forming a threaded opening for the cartridge 2. The intermediate cap 60 comprises a first mating connecting means 21, which is designed as an internal thread 21'. The intermediate cap 60 is screwed onto the external thread 20' of the cartridge 2 via its internal thread 21'. An advantage of the intermediate cap 60 is that a sealing film 18" can be particularly advantageously attached to the cartridge 2 using the intermediate cap 60. For this purpose, the sealing foil 18" is attached to the intermediate cap 60 before screwing the intermediate cap 60 onto the cartridge 2.In particular, the sealing film 18" is glued to the base region 61 inside the intermediate cap 60 using wax and / or a plastic (and / or another suitable material). The sealing film 18" thus connected to the intermediate cap 60 is then positioned and / or fixed over the opening 90 of the cartridge 2 and to an end face 5 of the cartridge wall 2" at the edge 2ʺʺ of the cartridge wall 2" when the intermediate cap 60 is screwed onto the cartridge 2. The sealing film 18" is then preferably connected to the end face 5 of the cartridge wall 2" by inductive joining or welding. Alternatively, gluing the sealing element 18 to the end face 5 is also conceivable. The reservoir 6 of the cartridge 2 is thus sealed by the sealing element 18.

[0067] The intermediate cap 60 is thus designed as a screw cap and particularly advantageously fulfills the function of fixing the sealing film 18" to the cartridge 2, so that the sealing film 18" can be inductively sealed to the cartridge 2 after the screw cap has been screwed onto the cartridge 2. The cartridge 2 is preferably a glass bottle. However, a plastic cartridge, for example a PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottle, can also be used as the cartridge 2.

[0068] The intermediate cap 60 connected to the cartridge 2 is further connected to the cartridge receptacle 10. The connection is formed by means of a second connecting means 22 of the intermediate cap 60 and by means of a second mating connecting means 23 of the cartridge receptacle 10, complementary to the second connecting means 60. For this purpose, the second connecting means 22 comprises a locking pin 22', which interacts with a locking bead 23' of the second mating connecting means 23, so that the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10 are locked together. The locking bead 22' is formed on the radially outer side of the intermediate cap wall 62 and the locking bead on the radially inner side of the side wall 10‴ of the basic structure 10' of the cartridge receptacle 10. Furthermore, the intermediate cap 60 optionally comprises a radially outwardly projecting edge region 64 which overlaps with the side wall 10‴ of the basic structure 10' of the cartridge receptacle 10.The protruding edge region 64 can serve to additionally fix the intermediate cap 60 to the cartridge receptacle 10 and / or for sealing. For example, it is also conceivable for the edge region 64 to be formed by crimping. Alternatively or in addition to the edge region 64, many other geometries are conceivable for connecting the cartridge receptacle 10 to the intermediate cap 60.

[0069] Furthermore, the cartridge 2 comprises a first anti-rotation means 25 and / or the intermediate cap 60 comprises a further first anti-rotation means 26. The first and / or further first anti-rotation means 25, 26 determine the relative orientation between the cartridge 2 and the intermediate cap 60—when the intermediate cap 60 is screwed onto the cartridge 2. This enables, on the one hand, particularly precise and reproducible positioning and fixing of the sealing film 18" to the cartridge 2 for subsequent connection of the sealing film 18" to the cartridge 2. On the other hand, the fixed orientation between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge 2 advantageously makes it possible for the cartridge 2 to always be inserted into the beverage preparation machine with the same orientation.Thus, for example, an information element attached to the cartridge system 1, in particular to the cartridge 2, such as a QR code, can advantageously be read when the cartridge system 1 is inserted into the beverage machine. Furthermore, the first and / or further first anti-rotation means 25, 26 preferably prevent the intermediate cap 60 from unintentionally detaching from the cartridge 2. The first anti-rotation means 25 of the cartridge 2 comprises, in particular, a vertical rib and / or a vertical groove. It is conceivable that the further first anti-rotation means 26 of the intermediate cap 60 comprises a complementary vertical rib and / or a complementary vertical groove. Other first and further first anti-rotation means, such as, for example, an undercut or a resilient tongue, are also conceivable alternatively or additionally.A schematic example of a first anti-rotation means 25 of a cartridge 2 is shown in . Figure 3 shown.

[0070] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the intermediate cap 60 comprises a second anti-rotation means and / or that the cartridge receptacle 10 comprises a further second anti-rotation means. By means of the second anti-rotation means and / or the further second anti-rotation means, a relative orientation between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10 is determined in the connected state of the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10. The second anti-rotation means is formed by means of the locking bead 22' of the second connecting means 22 and the further second anti-rotation means is formed by means of the locking bead 23' of the second mating connecting means 23, as can be seen from Figure 2 shown.

[0071] In Figure 2A schematic sectional view of an intermediate cap 60 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. In particular, the second connecting means 22 of the intermediate cap 60 is shown, which interacts with the second mating connecting means 23 of the cartridge receptacle 10. The second connecting means 22 comprises a locking bead 22', which completely surrounds the intermediate cap 60. The radial extent of the locking bead 22", i.e. the depth of the locking bead 22', is, however, preferably not constant around the circumference of the intermediate cap 60. In particular, the radial extent of the locking bead 22' is greater on one side of the intermediate cap 60 (right side in Figure 2) than on the opposite side (left side in Figure 2). The locking bead 22' is thus deeper on one side of the intermediate cap 60 than on the opposite side of the intermediate cap 60. As a result, the second connecting means 22 is simultaneously designed as a second anti-twist means. Due to the varying radial extent (i.e. depth) of the locking bead 22', there is a fixed orientation for the locking bead 22' when interacting with the locking bead 23' of the cartridge receptacle 10. For this purpose, the locking bead 23' also has a radial extent that changes complementarily to the radial extent of the locking bead 22' (not shown). The locking means 22', 23' thus each comprise at least one flattened area in the circumferential direction. The flattened areas provide an anti-twist lock for the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10.When the intermediate cap 60 is connected to the cartridge receptacle 10, a fixed relative orientation between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10 is thus advantageously set.

[0072] In Figure 3A schematic perspective view of a mouth region of a cartridge 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The cartridge 2 comprises a first connecting means 20 formed as an external thread 20'. The external thread 20' has a first anti-rotation means 25, which in particular comprises one or more vertical grooves 25' and / or ribs 25". A complementary further first anti-rotation means 26, for example complementary ribs and / or grooves, is provided on the internal thread 21' of the intermediate cap 60. When the intermediate cap 60 is connected to the cartridge 2, a fixed relative orientation is thus advantageously formed between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge 2. Furthermore, the first and / or further first anti-rotation means 25, 26 advantageously prevent the intermediate cap 60 from unscrewing unintentionally from the cartridge 2.

[0073] In Figure 4is a schematic sectional view of a portion of a cartridge system 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 4 Only the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge holder 10 are shown, with the cartridge 2 not being shown. In contrast to the Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the intermediate cap 60 does not comprise an edge region 64. In contrast, the cartridge receptacle 10 comprises an edge region 14 projecting radially inward from the side wall 10‴ of the base structure 10'. The edge region 14 extends below the intermediate cap wall 62 and overlaps with the intermediate cap wall 62. The edge region 14 is preferably provided for fixing the intermediate cap 60 to the cartridge receptacle 10 and / or for sealing. It is also conceivable, for example, for the edge region 14 to be formed by crimping.

[0074] In Figures 5a, 5b and 5ca perspective view, a schematic sectional view and the general functional principle of a cartridge system 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0075] The illustrated cartridge system 1 is intended to be inserted into a beverage preparation machine (not shown) to prepare a beverage 70. For this purpose, the cartridge system 1 comprises the cartridge 2, which is filled with a beverage substance 7, and a cartridge receptacle 10 connected to the cartridge 2, in particular via an intermediate cap 60. Within the beverage preparation machine, a corresponding beverage 70 is produced with the aid of the beverage substance 7 and an additional water source, hereinafter referred to as fluid source 41. The cartridge 2 is preferably filled with a pre-portioned amount of beverage substance 7, which is necessary to produce a specific drinking portion, for example, a drinking glass full of the desired beverage 70. The beverage substance 7 is, in particular, a liquid and carbonated beverage concentrate in the form of syrup.

[0076] In principle, a plurality of different cartridge systems 1 are available, the cartridges 2 or reservoirs 6 of which are filled with different beverage substances 7 for producing various beverages 70. If the user of the system 1 wishes to drink a specific beverage 70, he or she merely needs to select the cartridge system 1 from the plurality of different cartridge systems 1 which contains the corresponding beverage substance 7 for producing the desired beverage 70, insert it into a holding unit of the beverage preparation machine, and start the beverage production process on the beverage preparation machine, for example by pressing a start button, touching a touch-sensitive display, by gesture or voice control, or by means of a suitable application on a mobile phone.It is also conceivable for the beverage production process to start automatically when the insertion of a new cartridge system 1 into the holding unit is detected. In each of the aforementioned cases, the desired beverage 70 is then automatically produced, dispensed into a drinking vessel, and thus made available to the user. The used cartridge system 1 is then removed and disposed of. The beverage preparation machine is now ready to be refilled with any new cartridge system 1 to produce another beverage 70.

[0077] The beverage substance 7 preferably comprises liquid pre-mix ingredients for soft drinks, such as caffeine-, carbonated-, fruit- and / or sugar-containing lemonades and juices, beer (mixed) drinks or other alcoholic or non-alcoholic (mixed) drinks.

[0078] The cartridge 2 is connected, preferably screwed, to the intermediate cap 60 via a preferably circumferential first connecting means 20 of the cartridge 2 and a preferably circumferential first mating connecting means 21 of the intermediate cap 60. The intermediate cap 60, in turn, is connected to the cartridge receptacle 10. The cartridge receptacle 10 is connected to the cartridge 2 and / or the intermediate cap 60 in particular after the main body 2' has been produced, after the cartridge 2 has been filled with the beverage substance 7, and after and / or during and / or before the reservoir 6 has been closed by applying the sealing element 18. The first connecting means 20 and / or the first mating connecting means 21 preferably comprise a first anti-rotation means and / or a further first anti-rotation means, by means of which an anti-rotation device for the cartridge 2 and the intermediate cap 60 is formed.It is conceivable that the 2" cartridge wall and the 60" intermediate cap are additionally glued, welded and / or pressed together.

[0079] The cartridge receptacle 10 preferably has a second mating connection means 23, which is connected to a complementary second connection means 22 of the intermediate cap 60. The second mating connection means 23 and the second connection means 22 can be, for example, complementary locking beads and locking ridges, but also, for example, threads. Additionally, an anti-twist device is formed with the aid of the second mating connection means 23 and / or the second connection means 22 and / or with the aid of further elements to secure and fix the relative orientation between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10.

[0080] The cartridge 2 is preferably designed such that it can withstand an internal pressure of up to 12 bar, preferably up to 10 bar, more preferably up to 8 bar, and most preferably up to 6 bar without bursting (at a temperature of 20°C and an external pressure of 1 bar). The reservoir 6 preferably comprises a volume of between 10 and 500 milliliters, more preferably between 30 and 90 milliliters, and most preferably substantially 60 milliliters.

[0081] The cartridge receptacle 10 has a mixing chamber 8, which is in fluid communication with the reservoir 6 during the beverage production process, so that the beverage substance 7 can be at least partially transferred from the reservoir 6 into the mixing chamber 8 by means of a cartridge unloading device of the cartridge receptacle 10. For this purpose, the cartridge unloading device comprises a compressed air line 40. One end of the compressed air line 40 is connected to a compressed air connection 42, which can be connected to a compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine in order to introduce compressed air into the compressed air line 40, while the other end opens into a compressed air outlet, which is open towards the reservoir 6 and introduces compressed air into the reservoir 6. The introduction of the compressed air causes the beverage substance 7 to be pressed into the mixing chamber 8.It is conceivable that the compressed air line 40 extends inside the piercing mandrel 73 from the outer compressed air connection 42 for connection to a compressed air source to a compressed air outlet 43 in the region of a tip of the piercing mandrel.

[0082] A fluid supply 12 of the cartridge receptacle 10, which is fed by a fluid source of the beverage preparation machine, also opens into the mixing chamber 8. It is conceivable that the fluid supply has a quick-action coupling with which the fluid supply 12 can be connected to the fluid source of the beverage preparation machine. The quick-action coupling can, for example, be designed such that when the cartridge system 1 is inserted into the holding unit, a fluid connection is automatically established between the fluid source and the mixing chamber 8 via the fluid supply 12. During the beverage production process, fluid, in particular chilled and carbonated drinking water, flows from the fluid supply 12 into the mixing chamber 8 via this fluid connection. Furthermore, during the beverage production process, beverage substance 7 flows from the reservoir 6 into the mixing chamber 8, as described above.By mixing the beverage substance 7 with the fluid in the mixing chamber 8, the beverage 70 is formed, which then leaves the mixing chamber 8 through a beverage outlet 11.

[0083] The cartridge holder 10 has the beverage outlet 11, through which the beverage 70 produced within the mixing chamber 8 leaves the mixing chamber 8 and is directed, in particular, directly into the drinking vessel (not shown), i.e., without any parts of the beverage preparation machine coming into contact with the beverage 70. This prevents backcontamination of the beverage preparation machine. The drinking vessel is arranged, in particular, directly below the beverage outlet 11.

[0084] After the beverage production process is completed, the cartridge system 1 is removed from the holding unit so that the beverage production machine can be equipped with a new and unused cartridge system 1. The cartridge holder 10 can optionally be reused by separating it from the used cartridge 2 and the intermediate cap 60 by releasing the snap-in connection and clipping it onto a new cartridge 2 and / or intermediate cap 60. It is conceivable that the cartridge 2 can also be reused. In particular, it is conceivable that the cartridge 2 can be filled with a new beverage substance 7 and sealed with a sealing element 18. It is further conceivable that the intermediate cap 60 can be reused, in particular to attach a new sealing film 18" to a new cartridge 2 using the intermediate cap 60.

[0085] To establish the fluid connection between the reservoir 6 and the mixing chamber 8, the cartridge receptacle 10 has a mandrel guide 80 in which a piercing mandrel 73 is displaceably mounted. The sealing element 18 is moved by transferring the displaceable piercing mandrel 73 between a retracted position, in which the piercing mandrel 73 is spaced from the sealing element 18 (see Figure 5b ), and an extended position in which the piercing mandrel 73 pierces the sealing element 18 (cf. Figure 5c ) and extends into the reservoir 6. When transferred from the retracted position to the extended position, the piercing mandrel 73 passes through the through opening 63 of the intermediate cap 60 before the piercing mandrel 73 pierces the sealing element 18.

[0086] The outer wall of the piercing mandrel 73 is provided with a plurality of side channels 71 for guiding the beverage substance 7 from the reservoir 6 toward the mixing chamber 8 when the sealing element 18 is pierced. The side channels 71 are designed as grooves running parallel to one another and open on one side. After the sealing element 18 is pierced, the side channels 71 come into fluid communication with the reservoir 6, so that the beverage substance 7 can flow around the edges of the pierced sealing element 18 toward the mixing chamber 8.

[0087] The cross-section of the side channels 71 and / or the number of side channels 71 is preferably adapted to the viscosity of the beverage substance 7, so that the side channels 71 control or limit the flow of the beverage substance 7 toward the mixing chamber 8. At a high viscosity, several side channels 71 and / or side channels 71 with a larger cross-section are used, while at a lower viscosity, fewer side channels 71 and / or side channels 71 with a smaller cross-section are provided.

[0088] The compressed air line 40, which functions as a cartridge unloading device, is also integrated into the piercing mandrel 73. The compressed air line 40 opens into the reservoir 6 at the end of the piercing mandrel 73 when the piercing mandrel 73 is in the extended position.

[0089] The compressed air connection 42 is formed on a side of the piercing mandrel 73 which is particularly remote from the reservoir 6 and is thus accessible from outside the cartridge holder 10 and can be connected to the compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine.

[0090] Preferably, the piercing mandrel 73 is moved from the retracted position to the extended position during or after the cartridge system 10 is inserted into the beverage preparation machine or after the beverage production process has started, preferably by a fixed trigger element of the holding unit against which the piercing mandrel 73 is pressed. The piercing mandrel 71 is preferably formed as a plastic part and particularly preferably as a plastic injection-molded part.

[0091] It is preferably conceivable that both the fluid source and the compressed air source are coupled directly to the fluid supply 12 or the compressed air connection 42 as soon as the cartridge system 1 is inserted into the beverage preparation machine or a beverage production process is started and in particular before the sealing element 18 is pierced. In this way, recontamination in the direction of the beverage preparation machine is effectively avoided because the fluid supply 12 and the cartridge unloading device are under overpressure, in particular immediately upon insertion of the cartridge system 1, thus preventing beverage substance 7 from migrating towards the fluid source or compressed air source. The beverage substance 7 can thus move from the reservoir 6 only in the direction of the mixing chamber 8 (see Figure 5c ) as soon as the sealing element 18 is opened.

[0092] The cartridge receptacle 10 comprises a base structure 10' with a cup-shaped configuration. The open side of this cup-shaped configuration faces toward the cartridge 2 and at least partially accommodates the cartridge 2 and the intermediate cap 60. On an opposite bottom side 10", the base structure 10' has the beverage outlet opening 11 and the outwardly open mandrel guide 80. The fluid supply 12 is formed on a side wall 10‴ of the base structure 10'. The base structure 10' is designed in particular as a plastic part and particularly preferably as a plastic injection-molded part.

[0093] In Figure 6A schematic sectional view of part of a cartridge system 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The cartridge 2 comprises a reservoir 6 for a beverage substance 7. The main body 2' of the cartridge 2, or the cartridge 2 itself, is made in particular from or with the aid of glass. An intermediate cap 60 is attached to the cartridge 2 in the mouth region of the cartridge 2. The intermediate cap 60 comprises a base region 61 and an intermediate cap wall 62, which extends from the base region 61 and surrounds the cartridge wall in the mouth region of the cartridge 2. The base region 61 comprises a through-opening 63, which is provided for the passage of a piercing spike 73. The through-opening 63 can have different sizes and / or shapes. For example, a circular through-opening 63 or a square or oval through-opening 63 are conceivable.It is possible for the through-opening 63 to be adapted to the dimensions of the piercing mandrel 73 and / or to enclose it when the piercing mandrel 73 is inserted. The piercing mandrel 73 can be guided through the through-opening 63 and thus penetrate to the sealing element 18 and perforate, pierce and / or open it. The sealing element 18 is designed in particular as a sealing film 18". Figure 6In the illustration shown, the piercing mandrel 73 is in an extended position in which the piercing mandrel 73 has pierced the sealing element 18 and projects into the reservoir 6. The cartridge 2 has a first connecting means 20, which is designed as an external thread 20' on the cartridge wall 2". The intermediate cap 60 comprises a first counter-connecting means 21, which is designed as an internal thread 21'. The intermediate cap 60 is screwed onto the external thread 20' of the cartridge 2 via its internal thread 21'. The intermediate cap 60 is thus designed as a screw cap. A sealing means 16 in the form of a circumferential sealing ring 16' is formed between the base region 61 of the intermediate cap 60 and the end face 5 of the cartridge 2. The sealing ring 16' seals the transition between the cartridge 2 and the intermediate cap 60, so that no liquid escapes from the cartridge system 1 through this transition.Furthermore, the sealing ring 16' advantageously serves to compensate for manufacturing tolerances of the cartridge 2 and / or the intermediate cap 60. A further sealing means 17 is arranged between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10 and seals the transition between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10, so that no liquid can escape from the cartridge system 1 through this transition between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10. Furthermore, the further sealing means 17 preferably serves as an anti-twist device (friction) between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10, in particular in the event that both the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10 are rotationally symmetrical and / or do not have a flattened portion to prevent twisting.It is also optionally conceivable to form a toothing between the hard components (i.e. in particular the intermediate cap and / or the cartridge receptacle) and the soft components (i.e. in particular the further sealing means 17) in order to achieve particularly advantageous protection against undesired rotation of the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10 relative to one another. The further sealing means 17 can, for example, be injection-molded as a two-component plastic injection-molded part or manually inserted as an additional part and can, in particular, be arranged at any desired location in the groove. In the embodiment shown, the further sealing means 17 is designed as a circumferential sealing ring 17'. The further sealing means 17 is arranged in particular in the region of the second connecting means 22 and the second counter-connecting means 23.The second connecting means 22 can be designed, for example, as a locking bead 22' and the second mating connecting means 23 as a locking bead 23'. Alternatively, the second connecting means 22 can be designed, for example, as a locking bead and the second mating connecting means 23 as a locking bead. The intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10 are fastened to one another via the second connecting means 22 and the second mating connecting means 23.

[0094] In Figure 7 is a schematic sectional view of a part of a cartridge system 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment according to the Figure 7 is similar to that in the Figure 6illustrated embodiment. The sealing element 18 is designed as a sealing film 18" and the cartridge 2 is preferably made partly or completely of glass. A sealing means 16 designed as a sealing ring 16' is arranged between the end face 5 of the cartridge 2 and the bottom region 61 of the intermediate cap 60. Furthermore, a further sealing means 17 designed as a sealing ring 17' is arranged between the second connecting means 22 and the second counter-connecting means 23 for sealing the transition between the intermediate cap 60 and the cartridge receptacle 10. The second connecting means 22 is designed as a locking bead 22' in the intermediate cap 60 and the second counter-connecting means 23 is designed as a locking bead 23' of the cartridge receptacle 10. In contrast to the Figure 6In the embodiment shown, the intermediate cap 60 is latched and / or snapped onto the cartridge 2 by means of its first mating connection means 21 and, in particular, is not screwed. For this purpose, the cartridge 2 has, for example, a first connection means 20, which is designed as a flange area at the cartridge mouth or as a locking bead. For the sealing means 16 and the further sealing means 17, the configurations, functions, and advantages already described in connection with the Figure 6 have been described.

[0095] In Figure 8a schematic perspective sectional view of a sealing element 18 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The sealing element 18 is designed as a plastic cap and comprises one or more plastics. The plastic cap can be formed, for example, by injection molding. It is conceivable for the plastic cap to be designed as a crimp cap, snap-in cap, or screw cap, i.e., for example, it can be crimped, snapped, or screwed onto a cartridge. The sealing element 18, in particular the plastic cap, has a weakened portion 18ʺʺ for the passage of the piercing mandrel 73. The weakened portion 18ʺʺ is, in particular, a region of the plastic cap that has a reduced thickness compared to the adjacent regions of the plastic cap.The 18" weakening is preferably created during the formation of the plastic cap, for example, during injection molding, as a thinned area of ​​the plastic cap, so that no further post-treatment of the plastic cap is necessary to create the weakening. The in . Figure 8 The plastic cap shown can be combined as a sealing element 18, for example, with the previously described different embodiments of intermediate caps 60. The Figure 8The plastic cap shown can be combined as a sealing element 18, for example, with the previously described different embodiments of sealing means 16 and further sealing means 17. For example, an application together with an annular or full-surface sealing means 16 is conceivable, which is designed as a separate insert or with the aid of a two-component injection molding as part of the sealing element 18 or as part of the intermediate cap 60. For example, an application together with a further sealing means 17 is conceivable, which is designed as a separate insert or with the aid of a two-component injection molding as part of the intermediate cap 60 or as part of the cartridge receptacle 10.

[0096] In Figure 9A schematic perspective sectional view of an intermediate cap 60 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. The intermediate cap 60 is designed in particular as a plastic cap with a weakening 60' and / or pre-punching. In this case, it is possible for the intermediate cap 60 to be in the Figure 9 illustrated initial state of the intermediate cap 60 has no through-opening 63. The through-opening 63 is created by the piercing mandrel 73 opening the bottom region 61 of the intermediate cap 60 in the region of the weakening 60'. The through-opening 63 is accordingly created by the movement of the piercing mandrel 73, which pierces and / or penetrates the intermediate cap 60 in the region of its weakening 60', in particular before the piercing mandrel 73 opens the sealing element 18. Figure 9The plastic cap shown can be combined as an intermediate cap 60, for example, with the previously described different embodiments of cartridge systems 1. The Figure 9 The plastic cap shown can be combined as an intermediate cap 60, for example, with the previously described different embodiments of sealing means 16 and further sealing means 17. For example, an application together with an annular or full-surface sealing means 16 is conceivable, which is designed as a separate insert or with the aid of a two-component injection molding as part of the sealing element 18 or as part of the intermediate cap 60. For example, an application together with a further sealing means 17 is conceivable, which is designed as a separate insert or with the aid of a two-component injection molding as part of the intermediate cap 60 or as part of the cartridge receptacle 10. List of reference symbols

[0097] 1Cartridge system 2Cartridge 2'Main body 2"Cartridge wall 2"Cartridge base 2'Edge of the cartridge wall 5End face 6Reservoir 7Beverage substance 8Mixing chamber 10Cartridge receptacle 10'Basic structure 10"Bottom side 10'Side wall of the basic structure 11Beverage outlet 12Fluid supply 14Edge area of ​​the side wall of the basic structure 16Sealing agent 16'Sealing ring 17Additional sealing agent 17'Sealing ring 18Sealing element 18"Sealing film 18'Weakening of the sealing element 20First connecting element 20'External thread 21First mating connecting element 21'Internal thread 22Second connecting element 22'Locking bead 23Second mating connecting element 23'Locking bead 25First anti-twist device 25'Groove 25"Rib 26Further first anti-twist device 40Compressed air line 42Compressed air connection 43Compressed air outlet 60Intermediate cap 60'Weakening of the intermediate cap 61Bottom area of ​​the intermediate cap 62Intermediate cap wall 63Through opening 64Edge area of ​​the intermediate cap 70Beverage 71Side channel 73Piercing spike80 mandrel guide 90 opening

Claims

1. Cartridge system (1) for making a beverage (70), wherein the cartridge system (1) can be inserted into a beverage preparation machine, wherein the cartridge system (1) comprises a cartridge (2), which comprises a reservoir (6) filled with a beverage substance (7), and a cartridge receptacle (10), wherein the cartridge receptacle (10) has a mixing chamber (8), which can be brought into fluidic connection with the reservoir (6), and a fluid feed (12) opening into the mixing chamber (8), characterized in that the cartridge system comprises an intermediate cap (60), wherein the cartridge (2) has a first connecting means (20), wherein the intermediate cap (60) has a first mating connecting means (21) complementary to the first connecting means (20), wherein the first mating connecting means (21) is connected to the first connecting means (20).

2. Cartridge system (1) according to Claim 1, wherein the cartridge system (1) comprises a sealing element (18), wherein an opening (90) of the cartridge (2) is closed by the sealing element (18), in particular in an initial state of the cartridge system (1).

3. Cartridge system (1) according to either of the preceding claims, wherein the first connecting means (20) comprises an external thread (20'), wherein the first mating connecting means (21) comprises an internal thread (21'), wherein the cartridge (2) and the intermediate cap (60) are connected to one another in particular by the external thread (20`) of the cartridge (2) and the internal thread (21`) of the intermediate cap (2).

4. Cartridge system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cartridge (2) has a first twist prevention means (25), an, in particular vertical, rib (25") and / or an, in particular vertical, groove (25`), and / or wherein the intermediate cap (60) has a further first twist prevention means (26), an, in particular vertical, rib and / or an, in particular vertical, groove, wherein a relative orientation between the cartridge (2) and the intermediate cap (60) is defined with the aid of the first twist prevention means (25) and / or the further first twist prevention means (26) .

5. Cartridge system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate cap (60) has a base region (61) and an intermediate cap wall (62), wherein the intermediate cap wall (62) extends in particular perpendicularly from the base region (61) and circumferentially around the base region (61), wherein the intermediate cap (60) is preferably of cup-shaped design.

6. Cartridge system (1) according to Claim 5, wherein the base region (61) of the intermediate cap (60) has a through-opening (63), in particular for passing a piercing spike (73) through the through-opening (63) of the base region (61).

7. Cartridge system (1) according to any of Claims 2 to 6, wherein the sealing element (18) is arranged between an edge (2ʺʺ) of a cartridge wall (2") of the cartridge (2) and the base region (61) of the intermediate cap (60).

8. Cartridge system (1) according to any of Claims 2 to 7, wherein the sealing element (18) comprises a sealing film (18").

9. Cartridge system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate cap (60) is connected to the cartridge receptacle (10).

10. Cartridge system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate cap (60) has a second connecting means (22), and / or wherein the cartridge receptacle (10) has a second mating connecting means (23), wherein the second mating connecting means (23) is preferably connected to the second connecting means (22) positively, nonpositively and / or materially.

11. Cartridge system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cartridge receptacle (10) has a basic structure (10') which is produced at least partially and, in particular, completely from plastic, wherein the basic structure (10') has a cup-shaped configuration, the open side of which is oriented in the direction of the cartridge (2), wherein a beverage outlet opening (11) and an outwardly open spike guide (80) are formed on a bottom side (10"), which is situated opposite the cartridge (2), and wherein a fluid feed (12) is formed on the bottom side (10") or a side wall (10‴) of the basic structure (10').

12. Cartridge system (1) according to Claim 11, wherein a displaceably mounted piercing spike (73) is arranged within the spike guide (80), wherein the piercing spike (73) is displaceable between a retracted position, in which the piercing spike (73) is away from the sealing element (18), and an extended position, in which the piercing spike (73) pierces the sealing element (18) and projects into the reservoir (6), wherein in particular an outer wall of the piercing spike (73) has at least one lateral channel (71) for conveying the beverage substance (7) in the direction of the mixing chamber (8) when the sealing element (18) has been pierced.

13. Cartridge system (1) according to Claim 12, wherein the piercing spike (73) has an integrated compressed-air line (40), wherein the compressed-air line (40) extends in the interior of the piercing spike (73) from an outer compressed-air connection (42) for connection to a compressed-air source to a compressed-air outlet (43) in the region of a tip of the piercing spike and is designed for blowing compressed air into the reservoir (6).

14. Beverage preparation machine, comprising a cartridge system (1) according to any of the preceding claims.

15. Process for manufacturing a cartridge system (1) according to any of Claims 1 to 14, -- wherein the cartridge (2) and the intermediate cap (60) are provided in a first process step, -- wherein, in a second process step, after the first process step, the cartridge (2) and the intermediate cap (60) are connected to one another by the first connecting means (20) of the cartridge (2) and the first mating connecting means (21) of the intermediate cap (60).