Beverage dispensing head and associated beverage dispensing machine

Abstract

This beverage dispensing head (18) comprises a receiving housing (26) for a milk frothing device (28), the beverage dispensing head (18) comprising a system for holding the milk frothing device (28) in the receiving housing (26). According to the invention, the holding system comprises a holding lever (130) pivotally mounted relative to the receiving housing (26) and capable of being moved between an open position for access to the receiving housing (26) and a closed position in which the holding lever (130) is capable of cooperating with the milk frothing device (28) to hold it in the receiving housing (26). Figure for abstract: Fig. 3

Description

Title of the invention: Beverage dispensing head and associated beverage dispensing machine Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of beverage dispensing machines and in particular coffee machines, preferably automatic. More particularly, the present invention relates to the field of beverage dispensing heads intended to receive milk frothing devices. Such beverage dispensing heads make it possible in particular to produce beverages based on coffee and milk froth. State of the art

[0002] Document DE102008042276 B4 discloses a beverage dispensing head comprising a hot water / steam dispensing outlet and a housing for receiving a milk frothing device provided with a hot water / steam inlet suitable for being connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet. In DE 102008042276 B4 the dispensing head comprises a door for closing / opening the receiving housing which is movable in translation. The door makes it possible to close the receiving housing or to allow access to it in order to connect or access the milk frothing device.

[0003] However, the beverage dispensing head according to DE102008042276 B4 does not ensure optimized positioning and holding of the milk frothing device in the receiving housing. Also, there is a risk of misuse of the frothing device and the safety of use of the milk frothing device needs to be improved. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks.

[0005] The technical problem underlying the invention consists of proposing a beverage dispensing head capable of receiving a milk frothing device and making it possible to ensure optimized safety and frothing performance.

[0006] For this purpose, the invention relates to a beverage dispensing head comprising a hot water / steam dispensing outlet and a housing for receiving a milk frothing device provided with a hot water / steam inlet orifice suitable for being fluidically connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet, the beverage dispensing head comprising a system for holding the milk frothing device in the receiving housing. According to the invention, the holding system comprises a holding lever pivotally mounted relative to the receiving housing and suitable for being moved between an open position for access to the receiving housing and a closed position in which the holding lever is suitable for cooperating with the milk frothing device to hold it in the receiving housing.

[0007] Thanks to the invention, the holding and positioning of the milk frothing device are improved because the holding lever ensures optimized positioning and holding of the milk frothing device for improved performance and safety. In addition, the holding lever is easy to handle and allows the user to easily: - access the milk frothing device to disconnect and clean it, and / or - maintain the milk frothing device in the receiving housing in a position ensuring optimal frothing performance and avoiding any risk of unwanted disconnection of the hot water / steam inlet port from the hot water / steam dispensing outlet, which could pose a risk to the user.

[0008] According to advantageous but not mandatory aspects of the invention, such a beverage dispensing head may incorporate one or more of the following features, taken in any technically admissible combination.

[0009] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the holding lever is pivotally mounted along a longitudinal axis of the beverage dispensing head, the open position corresponding to a high position and the closed position to a low position.

[0010] Such an arrangement makes it possible to simplify the manipulation of the holding lever and therefore the operations of inserting the milk frothing device into the receiving housing and removing the milk frothing device from the receiving housing.

[0011] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the holding lever comprises at least one axial projection capable of coming to bear against the milk frothing device, preferably two axial projections capable of coming to bear against the milk frothing device, when moving the holding lever from the open position to the closed position while the milk frothing device is positioned in the receiving housing.

[0012] Such an arrangement makes it easier to fix the milk frothing device in the beverage dispensing head and ensures good positioning of the milk frothing device in said beverage dispensing head.

[0013] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, each axial projection is capable, when the milk frothing device is incorrectly positioned in the receiving housing, of cooperating with a corresponding keying element positioned on the milk frothing device to prevent the movement of the holding lever in the closed position.

[0014] Such an arrangement makes it possible to guarantee the correct positioning of the device. milk frothing in the receiving housing and to signal to the user an incorrect positioning of the milk frothing device so that the user does not make a milk foam-based beverage when the milk frothing device is incorrectly positioned. The operational safety of the milk frothing device is thus improved.

[0015] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, each axial projection is capable, when the milk frothing device is correctly positioned in the receiving housing, of applying an axial force to a corresponding lug positioned on the milk frothing device, when moving the holding lever in the closed position, to guarantee the correct position and the holding of the milk frothing device in the receiving housing.

[0016] Such an arrangement makes it possible to ensure the maintenance and correct positioning of the milk frothing device in the receiving housing via a simple movement of the holding lever.

[0017] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the holding lever comprises two axial projections positioned on either side of a central axis of the dispensing head.

[0018] Such an arrangement makes it possible to optimize the manipulation of the holding lever and the interaction of the axial projections with the milk frothing device.

[0019] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, each axial projection extends in a substantially vertical plane when the holding lever is in the closed position and is attached to an upper wall of the holding lever.

[0020] Such an arrangement makes it possible to simplify the interaction between the axial projections and the milk frothing device.

[0021] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the holding lever comprises a front face provided with a gripping area for a user to manipulate the holding lever between its open and closed positions.

[0022] Such an arrangement makes it easier to manipulate the holding lever.

[0023] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the receiving housing comprises at least one guide element of the milk frothing device capable of cooperating with a corresponding guide element located on the frothing device.

[0024] Such an arrangement makes it easier to insert and position the milk frothing device into the beverage dispensing head.

[0025] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, each guide element of the receiving housing is capable of maintaining a closing part of the milk frothing device in contact with a mixing element of the frothing device when the milk frothing device is inserted into the receiving housing.

[0026] Such an arrangement makes it possible to ensure the closing and holding in position of closing, i.e. in contact with the mixing element, of the closing part when the milk frothing device is integrated into the beverage dispensing head. Advantageously, each guide element of the milk frothing device is capable of cooperating with each corresponding guide element located in the beverage dispensing head, to ensure the closing and maintaining in the closed position of the closing part when the milk frothing device is inserted into the receiving housing.

[0027] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the beverage dispensing head comprises an upper front provided with an orifice for the passage of a member for adjusting the air flow in the milk frothing device.

[0028] Such an arrangement makes it easier to integrate the milk frothing device into the receiving housing and allows the user access to the air flow adjustment member in the milk frothing device.

[0029] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the beverage dispensing head comprises an upper wall provided with a viewing area of a mixing part of the milk frothing device.

[0030] Such an arrangement allows the user to view the milk frothing device through the viewing area and thus to check its correct positioning but also its correct operation. In addition, by observing the milk frothing device the user can observe whether it has already been used and whether a cleaning operation is necessary.

[0031] According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, the beverage dispensing head comprises a rear zone receiving a beverage dispensing member and a front zone defining the housing for receiving the milk frothing device.

[0032] Such an arrangement makes it possible to improve the compactness of the beverage dispensing head while integrating the milk frothing device therein.

[0033] Advantageously, the holding lever comprises a solid front face suitable for covering the receiving housing and in particular a front face of the milk frothing device when it is received in the receiving housing.

[0034] Advantageously, the milk frothing device is removable relative to the receiving housing between an assembled position in which it is received in the housing and the hot water / steam inlet is fluidly connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet and a disassembled position in which it is separated from the receiving housing and the hot water / steam inlet is no longer fluidly connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet.

[0035] The invention also relates to a beverage dispensing machine comprising a beverage dispensing head. According to the invention, the beverage dispensing head is as described above. Brief description of the figures

[0036] The aims, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the description given below of a particular embodiment of the invention presented by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0037] [Fig. 1] is a front view of a beverage dispensing machine comprising a beverage dispensing head receiving a milk frothing device according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0038] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of the beverage dispensing head of the [Fig.l] on which a support / holding device associated with the beverage dispensing head is in the closed position;

[0039] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of the beverage dispensing head of the [Fig.l] on which a support / holding device associated with the beverage dispensing head is in the open position;

[0040] [Fig.4] is a view similar to [Fig.3] in which a guide element of the milk frothing device in the beverage dispensing head is omitted;

[0041] [Fig. 5] is a side view in section along the vertical section plane along the line VV of the beverage dispensing head of [Fig.2];

[0042] [Fig. 6] is a perspective view of the milk frothing device of Figures 1 to 5 comprising a closing portion in the closed position;

[0043] [Fig.7] is a view similar to [Fig.6] in which the closing part is in opening position;

[0044] [Fig.8] is an exploded view of the foaming device of [Fig.7];

[0045] [Fig.9] is a perspective view of a foaming device according to a second embodiment of the invention in which a closing portion is in the closing position;

[0046] [Fig. 10] is a perspective view of the foaming device of [Fig.9] in which the closing part is in the open position.

[0047] Only the elements necessary for understanding the invention have been shown. To facilitate reading of the drawings, the same elements bear the same references from one figure to another. Detailed description of the invention

[0048] In the remainder of the description, foam or foaming means obtaining a foam from a liquid, whether it is only foam from this liquid (i.e. milk foam) or a mixture of this liquid and foam from this liquid (i.e. a mixture of milk and milk foam).

[0049] It should be noted that in this document, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “lower”, “upper”, “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “rear”, “longitudinal”, “transverse”, used to describe the beverage dispensing machine and the elements associated therewith refer to the beverage dispensing machine and the associated elements in use, when the machine is lying flat on a work surface.

[0050] Furthermore, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” or “inlet” and “outlet” are defined according to a direction of circulation of the beverage or steam in the beverage dispensing machine and in the milk frothing device.

[0051] The terms "external" and "internal" as well as the terms "exterior" and "interior" are defined relative to a central axis of the beverage dispensing machine or milk frothing device. Thus an internal / interior portion / part will be closer to the central axis than an external / exterior portion / part.

[0052] The beverage dispensing machine shown in [Fig.l] is a coffee machine 10. Alternatively, the beverage dispensing machine is a hot water or tea dispensing machine.

[0053] The coffee machine 10 is advantageously an automatic coffee machine.

[0054] The coffee machine 10 comprises a frame 12 and a receiving area 16 for a container or container on which a container / receptacle, not shown, is suitable for being placed.

[0055] The coffee machine 10 also comprises a beverage dispensing head 18.

[0056] The coffee machine 10 advantageously comprises a human-machine interface, not visible in the figures, via which a user is able to select a type of beverage to be dispensed and advantageously to enter adjustment parameters of the coffee machine 10.

[0057] The coffee machine 10 also comprises a beverage preparation unit, not shown, integrated into the frame 12.

[0058] The preparation unit comprises a control circuit for managing the preparation of a beverage based on instructions given by the user. The preparation unit also comprises a boiler producing hot water and / or steam and a tank forming a cold water reserve. The tank is used to supply the boiler to produce hot water and / or steam.

[0059] The preparation unit also advantageously comprises, in a known manner and not shown, a coffee bean reservoir, an automatic bean grinder and an infusion chamber suitable for receiving the ground coffee beans and for being supplied with hot water by the boiler. The infusion chamber is fluidically connected to the beverage dispensing head 18, so that the coffee machine 10 is suitable for dispensing a coffee-based beverage via the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0060] The coffee machine 10 also comprises a hot water / steam outlet nozzle, not visible in the figures, suitable for being supplied with hot water and / or steam by the boiler. The hot water / steam outlet nozzle opens near the beverage dispensing head 18 to supply it with hot water / steam.

[0061] In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 5, the beverage dispensing head 18 comprises a hot water / steam dispensing outlet 20, visible in [Fig.5], fluidly connected to the hot water / steam outlet nozzle.

[0062] The hot water / steam outlet nozzle is for example formed by a tube suitable for being connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0063] The beverage dispensing head 18 also comprises a beverage dispensing member 22 capable of being fluidly connected to the infusion chamber and dispensing the coffee-based beverage.

[0064] The beverage dispensing member 22 advantageously comprises two beverage dispensing outlets, only one of which 36 is visible in [Fig. 5], so that it is capable of dispensing the coffee-based beverage into two cups simultaneously.

[0065] As visible in [Fig. 5], the beverage dispensing head 18 comprises a zone 24, preferably rear, receiving the beverage dispensing member 22 and a zone, preferably front, defining a housing 26 for receiving a milk frothing device 28.

[0066] The beverage dispensing head 18 is advantageously adjustable in height.

[0067] The beverage dispensing head 18 also includes a feed inlet 29 in milk from the frothing device 28.

[0068] Advantageously, and as shown in [Fig. 3], the supply inlet 29 opens onto a lateral side of the beverage dispensing head 18. The supply inlet 29 is suitable for receiving a milk supply tube fluidly connected to a milk container preferably offset from the coffee machine 10.

[0069] As visible in Figures 2 to 4, the beverage dispensing head 18 comprises a main body 30 defining the housing 26 for receiving the foaming device 28 and the zone 24 for receiving the beverage dispensing member 22.

[0070] The main body 30 comprises an open front end 32 for access to the receiving housing 26.

[0071] The beverage dispensing head 18 also comprises a closure body 34 of the front end 32.

[0072] In the embodiment shown, the closure body 34 is pivotally mounted on the main body 30. The closure body 34 is capable of being moved between an open position for access to the receiving housing 26 of the foaming device 28 and a closed position in which it at least partially closes the receiving housing 26, in particular the front end 32 of the main body 30.

[0073] The closing body 34 is articulated in rotation on the main body 30 according to a longitudinal axis X substantially horizontal. The articulation is for example located between an upper wall 38 of the main body 30 and an upper wall 40 of the closing body 34.

[0074] In the example of figures 1 to 8, the foaming device 28 is removable relative to the beverage dispensing head 18 and in particular to the receiving housing 26. In other words, the foaming device is suitable for being integrated into the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0075] As seen in [Fig.7], the foaming device 28 comprises a mixing element 42 comprising a mixing portion 44, a hot water / steam inlet 46 and a main flow conduit 48 connecting the hot water / steam inlet 46 to the mixing portion 44.

[0076] The foaming device 28 and in particular the mixing element 42 also comprises a connection member 50 of the foaming device to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0077] The connection member 50 opens onto a rear face 52 of the foaming device 28 and in particular of the mixing element 42.

[0078] When positioning the foaming device 28 in the receiving housing 26, the connection member 50 is suitable for being connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 so as to be supplied with hot water / steam.

[0079] The hot water / steam inlet 46 is fluidly connected to the connection member 50 so as to receive hot water / steam delivered from the hot water / steam dispensing outlet 20 when the connection member 50 is connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet 20.

[0080] Alternatively, the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46 is suitable for being connected directly to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 when positioning the foaming device 28 in the receiving housing 26.

[0081] Generally, the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46 is suitable for being fluidically connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet 20 when the foaming device 28 is received in the beverage dispensing head 18. This connection is reversible because the connection member 50 is suitable for being connected / disconnected from the hot water / steam dispensing outlet 20.

[0082] The mixing element 42 comprises an upper wall 54.

[0083] The foaming device 28 and in particular the mixing element 42 comprise two side walls 56, 58.

[0084] The side walls 56, 58 each define a gripping zone 56A, 58A of the foaming device 28 by a user. A user of the foaming device 28 is able to manipulate the foaming device 28 and to position it in the receiving housing 26 by manipulating it with the fingers at the gripping zones. grip 56A, 5 8A.

[0085] The side walls 56, 58 are each provided with a lug 62, 64 for holding / positioning the foaming device 28 in the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0086] The lugs 62, 64 are suitable for cooperating with the closure body 34 which forms a device for holding the foaming device 28 in the beverage dispensing head 18 as will be explained later in the detailed description of the closure body 34 and its interaction with the foaming device 28.

[0087] The side walls 56, 58 are also each provided with a guide element 66, 68 capable of cooperating with a corresponding guide element 70, 72 located in the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0088] The guide elements 66, 68 are for example formed by ribs arranged at the level of the side walls 56, 58.

[0089] The guide elements 70, 72 are for example grooves suitable for receiving the ribs corresponding to the guide elements 66, 68 and form a sliding connection with said ribs.

[0090] The guide elements 70, 72 are arranged in an upper part of the receiving housing 26.

[0091] The guide elements 66, 68 are for example located in front of the gripping zones along a direction of insertion of the foaming device 28 into the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0092] Advantageously and as shown in the figures, the guide elements 66, 68 are formed by a portion of the corresponding side wall 56, 58 forming the rib.

[0093] The lugs 62, 64 advantageously project along the longitudinal axis X relative to the guide elements 66, 68 and more generally relative to the other elements forming the side walls 56, 58. In other words, they extend towards the outside of the foaming device 28 beyond the guide elements 66, 68 along the longitudinal axis X.

[0094] As seen from Figures 5 and 7, the mixing portion 44 includes a liquid inlet opening 74, a liquid outlet opening 76, and a mixing chamber 78 extending between the liquid inlet opening 74 and the liquid outlet opening 76.

[0095] The mixing chamber 78 extends along a vertical axis Z.

[0096] The mixing chamber 78 includes an open upper end 80. The open upper end 80 forms an access opening to the mixing chamber 78.

[0097] The mixing chamber 78 opens into an upper face of the upper wall 54 of the mixing element 42.

[0098] The mixing chamber 78 has a substantially circular section perpendicular to the vertical axis Z.

[0099] The liquid inlet opening 74 opens into an upper part of the mixing chamber 78, and for example into a high point of the mixing chamber 78 and the liquid outlet opening 76 is located in a lower part of the mixing chamber 78, and is for example located at a low point of the mixing chamber 78.

[0100] The open upper end 80 is arranged on an upper face of the mixing element 42 and therefore of the upper wall 54.

[0101] The liquid outlet opening 76 is arranged on a lower face of the mixing element 42.

[0102] The main flow conduit 48 is provided in the upper face of the upper wall 54 and opens into the mixing chamber 78 at the level of the liquid inlet opening 74.

[0103] The main flow conduit 48 opens substantially tangentially into the mixing chamber 78 so that the mixing chamber 78 is of the cyclonic type. Thus, the liquid opening into the mixing chamber 78 from the main flow conduit 48 passes through the mixing chamber, swirling along the walls of the mixing chamber 78.

[0104] As visible in [Fig.7], the main flow duct 48 comprises a section restriction 84 located for example in a central portion of the main flow duct 48. The main flow duct 48 comprises in particular a first duct portion 48.1 which is located upstream of the section restriction 84 and which extends to the section restriction, and a second duct portion 48.2 which is located downstream of the section restriction 84 and which extends from the section restriction 84 and to the mixing chamber 78. Advantageously, the first duct portion 48.1 has a passage section which decreases in the direction of the section restriction 84 and the second duct portion 48.2 has a passage section which increases in the direction of the mixing chamber 78.

[0105] The hot water / steam inlet orifice 46 opens into the first portion of conduit 48.1 and more particularly opposite the mixing chamber 78. The main flow conduit 48 is thus configured to fluidically connect the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46 to the mixing chamber 78, and to allow a flow of hot water / steam into the main flow conduit 48 and to the mixing chamber 78.

[0106] The frothing device 28 comprises a milk supply conduit 90 connected to the main flow conduit 48. The milk supply conduit 90 extends between the main flow conduit 48 and the milk supply inlet 29 when the frothing device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26.

[0107] The milk supply conduit 90 is suitable for being fluidically connected to a remote milk reservoir separate from the milk frothing device 28.

[0108] The milk supply conduit 90 is fluidically connected to the main flow conduit 48, and therefore configured to be fluidically connected to the mixing chamber 78 via the main flow conduit 48. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the mixing element 42 comprises the milk supply conduit 90, and more particularly the mixing element and the milk supply conduit 90 are made in one piece.

[0109] The milk supply conduit 90 comprises a substantially vertical portion which extends, preferably from the vicinity of a lower face of the mixing element 42, and opens into the main flow conduit 48 at the section restriction 84. A lower end of the vertical portion is suitable for being fluidically connected to the milk supply inlet 29 when the foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26.

[0110] In the figures only the part of the milk supply conduit 90 which opens into the main flow conduit 48 is visible.

[0111] The foaming device 28 also comprises an air intake channel 92 in the main flow duct 48. According to the embodiment shown, the mixing element 42 comprises the air intake channel 92.

[0112] Advantageously, the air intake channel 92 is provided in the upper face of the upper wall 54 of the mixing element 42.

[0113] The air intake channel 92 opens into the main flow duct 48 at the section restriction 84. The air intake channel 92 is thus configured to be fluidically connected to the mixing chamber 78 via the main flow duct 48.

[0114] The section restriction 84, described previously, induces an increase in the speed of the steam flowing in the main flow conduit 48, which generates a depression in the milk supply conduit 90 and in the air intake channel 92. The section restriction 84 is therefore more particularly configured to form a milk and air suction system based on the venturi effect. The main flow duct 48 is thus configured such that a flow of hot water / steam in the main flow duct 48 from the hot water / steam inlet 46 and to the mixing chamber 78 generates a vacuum in the milk supply duct 90 and a vacuum in the air inlet channel 92 and consequently causes a suction of milk and air into the main flow duct 48 and a flow of the sucked milk and air to the mixing chamber 78.

[0115] In addition, the second portion of conduit 48.2, which has a passage section which increases in the direction of the mixing chamber 78, promotes a first mixing of the steam, the milk and the air coming respectively from the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46, the milk supply conduit 90 and the air intake channel 92, before their arrival in the mixing chamber 78.

[0116] Furthermore, due to the positioning of the main flow conduit 48 relative to the mixing chamber 78, the first mixture of steam, milk and air undergoes a cyclonic movement upon arrival from the mixing chamber and swirls along the walls of the mixing chamber 78, which further promotes mixing and the obtaining of milk foam of optimal consistency. Thus, the mixing chamber 78 allows the homogenization of the aforementioned first mixture and makes it possible to finalize the mixing which began in the second portion of conduit 48.2.

[0117] The main flow duct 48, as well as the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46, as well as the air intake channel 92 and the mixing chamber 78 advantageously comprise an open upper end. In other words, they form liquid circulation channels open to the outside in their upper part.

[0118] The foaming device 28 comprises a closure portion 96 movable relative to the mixing element 42 between a closed position in which the closure portion 96 closes the mixing portion 44 and the main flow conduit 48 and an open position in which the mixing portion 44 and the main flow conduit 48 are open and accessible to allow cleaning of the mixing portion 44 and the main flow conduit 48.

[0119] In the closed position, the closing portion 96 closes, in particular, the open upper end of the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46, the main flow conduit 48 and the mixing chamber 78.

[0120] Advantageously, in the closed position, the closing portion 96 also at least partially closes the air intake channel 92 and in particular the open upper end of the air intake channel.

[0121] Advantageously, the main flow conduit 48 extends along a substantially horizontal plane and comprises over at least 50% of its length, preferably over at least 70% of its length, an upper opening also called an open upper end, suitable for being closed when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0122] The closure portion 96 is configured to cover the upper face of the upper wall 54 of the mixing element 42. The closure portion 96 forms a substantially planar cover suitable for covering the upper face of the upper wall 54 and in particular the mixing part 44 and the main flow conduit 48.

[0123] The closing part 96 is configured to be articulated with the mixing element 42 via a hinge defining a substantially horizontal rotation axis Y. The rotation axis Y is advantageously perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X when the foaming device is positioned in the receiving housing 26. In a variant not shown, the rotation axis Y is parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0124] The hinge makes it possible to simplify the handling of the foaming device by ensuring that the closing part 96 is held on the mixing element 42 regardless of the position of the closing part. In addition, the hinge makes it possible to easily move the closing part into the open or closed position depending on whether the user wishes to clean or use the foaming device.

[0125] Advantageously, the side walls 56, 58 of the foaming device, comprising side walls of the closure part 96 and the side walls of the mixing element 42, form, when the closure part 96 is in the closed position, the guide elements 66, 68. Such an arrangement makes it possible to ensure the closure of the foaming device 28, i.e. of the closure part 96, during the insertion of the foaming device 28 into the receiving housing 26 and the interaction of the guide elements 66, 68 with the corresponding guide elements 70, 72.Furthermore, such an arrangement makes it possible to ensure that the closure portion 96 is kept in the closed position when the foaming device 28 is received in the receiving housing 26 since the guide elements 70, 72 extend on either side of the corresponding guide elements 66, 68 in a substantially vertical direction and ensure that the side walls of the closure portion 96 remain in contact / adjacent to the side walls of the mixing element 42.

[0126] In other words, each guide element 70, 72 is capable of holding the closing part 96 of the foaming device in the closed position, i.e. in contact with the mixing element 42 when the foaming device 28 is inserted into the receiving housing 26.

[0127] In a variant not shown, the foaming device 28 comprises a holding system not shown configured to hold the closure portion 96 in the closed position. The holding system is for example formed by a locking member such as a locking clip secured to the closure portion and capable of being held by shape cooperation in a corresponding groove formed on the mixing element 42 and in particular its upper wall / face 54 when the closure portion is in the closed position. The holding system is capable of being moved between a locking position of the closure portion 96 in the closed position and an unlocking position.

[0128] The closing part 96 comprises a viewing window 97, visible on the [Fig.6], intended to be opposite the mixing part 44 and in particular the mixing chamber 78 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0129] The viewing window 97 is intended to be opposite the open upper end 80 when the closing portion 96 is in the closed position.

[0130] The viewing window 97 is for example formed by a portion of the closing part made of a transparent material so that the user can view the interior of the mixing chamber 78 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0131] The viewing window 97 allows the user to see whether the frothing device 28 has already been used and whether it needs to be cleaned before making a drink. In fact, the user can observe the interior of the mixing chamber 78 via this window. In addition, the user can check the proper functioning of the frothing device 28 through the viewing window by visually checking whether the milk passes through the mixing chamber 78 and has a cyclonic movement along the walls of the chamber 78.

[0132] The closing portion 96 also comprises an air supply duct 98, visible in [Fig.7], suitable for being fluidically connected to the main flow duct 48 when the closing portion 96 is in the closed position and an air flow adjustment device 99 configured to adjust a flow of air flowing in the air supply duct 98 to the main flow duct 48. The air supply duct 98 is advantageously connected to the air intake channel 92 when the closing portion 96 is in the closed position so as to be fluidically connected to the main flow duct 48.

[0133] The air supply duct 98 is for example an orifice passing through the closing part 96 along the vertical axis Z when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0134] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, and as more clearly visible in [Fig. 5], the air flow adjustment device 99 comprises a support part 100 fixed to the closure part 96 and projecting from an upper face of the closure part 96. The air flow adjustment device 99 also comprises an air flow adjustment member 102, such as a flow adjustment knob, supported by the support part 100 and mounted movably, and for example mounted movably in a helical movement, relative to the support part 100 in a direction of movement D2 which may for example be substantially vertical.

[0135] The flow adjustment member 102 is configured to occupy a plurality of adjustment positions offset from each other in the direction of movement D2.

[0136] The air flow adjustment device 99 further comprises a sealing element 104 which is attached to the flow adjustment member 102 and which is configured to delimit with the support part 100 an air flow passage having a passage section which varies depending on the position occupied by the flow adjustment member 102.

[0137] The flow rate adjustment member 102 is more particularly movable between a maximum adjustment position in which the passage section of the air flow passage is maximum, and a minimum adjustment position in which the passage section of the air flow passage is minimum, and for example zero or substantially zero.

[0138] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the support part 100 comprises an insertion hole 106, which may for example have a diameter greater than one millimeter and preferably greater than 1.5 millimeters, oriented substantially parallel to the direction of movement D2, and the air flow adjustment device 99 comprises a passage restriction member not visible in the figures, such as a pin or a needle of generally cylindrical shape, having a lower end portion which is housed in the insertion hole 106. The passage restriction member is integral in movement with the flow adjustment member 102, and is therefore mounted movably in the insertion hole 106 in the direction of movement D2. The insertion hole 106 and the passage restriction member more particularly delimit a calibrated air passage fluidly connected to the air supply duct 98.

[0139] The air flow adjustment device 99 makes it possible to adjust the flow of air injected into the main flow duct 48 and therefore the size of the air bubbles contained in the milk foam leaving the frothing device 28. By changing the size of the air bubbles, the volume of milk foam changes.

[0140] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the mixing element 42 could be devoid of the air intake channel 92, and the air supply duct 98 could be connected directly to the main flow duct 48 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0141] The milk frothing device 28 comprises a seal 110, visible in [Fig.7], arranged at a junction area between the mixing element 42 and the closure portion 96. The seal 110 extends around the periphery of the mixing portion 44 and the main flow conduit 48.

[0142] The closing portion 96 is suitable for providing support on the sealing gasket 110 when the closing portion 96 is in the closed position.

[0143] As shown more particularly in [Fig. 7], the seal 110 extends around the mixing chamber 78 and in particular the open upper end 80, the main flow conduit 48, the air intake channel 92 and the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46. For this purpose, the mixing element 42 comprises a receiving groove 112 formed in the upper face of the upper wall 54 in which the sealing gasket 110 is housed.

[0144] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the seal 110 comprises a seal body housed entirely in the receiving groove 112, and a sealing lip extending along the seal body and projecting out of the receiving groove 112. Advantageously, the seal 110 is continuous and may for example have a constant section.

[0145] The closing part 96, together with the seal 110, ensures a seal at the upper wall 54, the main flow duct 48, as well as the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46, the air intake channel 92 and the mixing chamber 78. Optimized performance of the foaming device 28 is thus guaranteed.

[0146] The milk frothing device 28 also comprises a frothed milk dispensing element 114 adapted to be reversibly connected to the mixing element 42 as is more clearly visible in [Fig.8].

[0147] The frothed milk dispensing element 114 advantageously comprises an inlet channel 116 and two outlet channels 118, 120 for frothed milk.

[0148] The frothed milk dispensing element 114 and in particular the inlet channel 116 is suitable for being fluidically connected to the liquid outlet opening 76 when it is connected to the mixing element 42.

[0149] The frothed milk dispensing element 114 is capable of delivering the frothed milk into two cups simultaneously via the two outlet channels 118, 120.

[0150] In the embodiment shown, the closure body 34 forms a device for holding the foaming device 28 in the receiving housing 26.

[0151] The holding device takes the form of a holding lever 130 movable between the open position for access to the receiving housing and the closed position in which the holding lever 130 is capable of cooperating with the milk frothing device 28 to hold it in the receiving housing 26.

[0152] When the holding lever 130 is in the open position, a user can access the receiving housing 26 and in particular the foaming device 28 to remove it from the receiving housing 26 and, for example, carry out a cleaning operation on the foaming device.

[0153] When the holding lever 130 is in the closed position and the frothing device 28 is received in the receiving housing 26, the holding lever 130 is able to cooperate with the milk frothing device 28 to hold it in the receiving housing 26.

[0154] The holding lever 130 is pivotally mounted relative to the receiving housing along the longitudinal axis X.

[0155] As seen in the figures, the open position of the holding lever 130 corresponds to a high position and the closed position to a low position.

[0156] The holding lever 130 comprises in particular axial projections 132, 134 capable of coming to bear against the foaming device 28, when the holding lever 130 is moved from the open position to the closed position while the foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26.

[0157] The axial projections 132, 134 extend from a lower face of the upper wall 40.

[0158] The axial projections 132, 134 extend in a substantially vertical plane.

[0159] Each axial projection 132, 134 is suitable, when the foaming device 28 is incorrectly positioned in the receiving housing 26, for cooperating with a corresponding lug 62, 64 to prevent the movement of the holding lever in the closed position. The lugs 62, 64 form keying elements making it possible to guarantee correct positioning of the foaming device 28 in the receiving housing 26.

[0160] Advantageously, each axial projection 132, 134 comprises a relief, for example in the form of a hook, suitable for cooperating with the corresponding lug 62, 64.

[0161] Indeed, in the case where the foaming device 28 is poorly positioned and in particular not completely inserted into the receiving housing 26 in the insertion direction, the lugs are suitable for cooperating with the axial projections and advantageously the reliefs, so as to prevent movement of the holding lever 130 in the closed position. Thus, the user realizes that the foaming device 28 is not completely inserted into the receiving housing 26 and can correct its positioning.

[0162] Advantageously, each axial projection 132, 134 and advantageously each relief is capable of cooperating with the corresponding lug 62, 64 when the foaming device 28 is correctly positioned in the receiving housing 26 and the holding lever 130 is moved into the closed position. More precisely, each relief is capable of applying an axial force to the corresponding lug 62, 64 when the foaming device 28 is correctly positioned in the receiving housing 26 and the holding lever 130 is moved into the closed position.

[0163] The axial force is exerted in the direction of insertion of the foaming device 28 into the receiving housing 26 in order to guarantee the correct positioning of the foaming device 28 in the beverage dispensing head 18 and to ensure the connection of the connection member 50 to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet 20.

[0164] The axial projections 132, 134 make it possible to ensure via the axial force that the connection member 50 cooperates with the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 and that the milk supply conduit 90 is connected to the milk supply inlet 29 so that the proper functioning of the frothing device 28 is ensured.

[0165] The axial projections 132, 134 are arranged on either side of a central axis of the beverage dispensing head 18. The central axis is a vertical axis.

[0166] Alternatively, the holding lever 130 comprises a single axial projection.

[0167] The holding lever 130 also comprises a front face provided with a gripping area 135 by the user to manipulate the holding lever 130 between its open and closed positions.

[0168] Advantageously, the beverage dispensing head 18 comprises an upper facade provided with a passage orifice 136 for the air flow adjustment member 102. Advantageously, the passage orifice 136 is formed through the upper wall 38 of the main body 30.

[0169] Advantageously, the beverage dispensing head 18 comprises an upper facade, such as the upper wall 40, provided with a viewing area 138 of a mixing part 44 of the foaming device 28. The viewing area 138 is for example formed by an orifice provided through the upper wall 40 of the closure body 34. As a variant, the viewing area 138 is a transparent area provided in the upper wall 40.

[0170] The viewing area 138 is arranged to be opposite the viewing window 97 when the holding lever 130 and / or the closing body 34 is in the closed position and the frothing device 28 is received in the receiving housing 26. The viewing area 138 makes it possible to view the mixing chamber 78 through the viewing window 97. Thus, the user is able to observe the mixing chamber 78 and the frothed milk circulating through the frothing chamber. This allows the user to visually check whether it is necessary to clean the frothing device 28, as well as the proper functioning of the frothing device 28 by checking the cyclonic movement of the milk and advantageously the texture of the milk.

[0171] The closure body 34 also forms a support device on the closure part 96 of the foaming device 28.

[0172] The support device is suitable when the foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26, for exerting a support force on the closing part 96 to ensure a seal between the mixing element 42 and the closing part 96.

[0173] The support device also makes it possible to maintain a constant distance between the closure portion 96 and the upper wall 54 when the closure portion 96 is in the closed position. Thus, the dimensions of the main flow duct 48, as well as of the air intake channel 92 when using the foaming device 28, are maintained over time and the foaming performance is optimized and guaranteed over time. The support device makes it possible to ensure good pressing of the closure portion 96 on the mixing element 42, to ensure the dimensions of the conduit 48 and channel 92 and avoid possible deformation of the closing part 96.

[0174] The support device is formed by the holding lever 130 pivotally mounted relative to the receiving housing 26 and capable of being moved between the open position for access to the receiving housing 26 and the closed position in which the support device exerts the support force on the closing part 96 to ensure support of the closing part 96 against the mixing element 42. The holding lever 130 is in particular capable of pressing the closing part 96 against the seal 110.

[0175] The support force extends in particular in a substantially vertical direction.

[0176] The holding lever 130 comprises in particular an upper rib 140, preferably two 140, 142, arranged on the lower face of the upper wall 40.

[0177] The ribs 140, 142 extend from a lower face of the upper wall 40.

[0178] The ribs 140, 142 are suitable for coming into contact with the foaming device. 28, when moving the holding lever 130 from the open position to the closed position while the foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26.

[0179] The ribs 140, 142 are suitable for exerting the bearing force on the closing part 96 so as to guarantee good sealing between the mixing element 42 and the closing part 96.

[0180] Advantageously, the holding lever also comprises two additional ribs 144, 146, also called front ribs, positioned on an inner wall of a front facade of the lever 130. The additional ribs 144, 146 preferably extend along the longitudinal axis X. The additional ribs 144, 146 are capable of coming to bear against the frothed milk dispensing element 114, when the holding lever 130 is moved from the open position to the closed position while the frothing device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26. Such a configuration is particularly advantageous in the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10 as will be explained below.

[0181] Alternatively, the closure body is a front cover for covering the beverage dispensing head suitable for closing the receiving housing 26, in particular the front end 32 of the main body 30. In this alternative, the beverage dispensing head 18 comprises a holding lever 130 articulated on the main body 30 and distinct from the closure body. The holding lever 130 is movable between the open position for access to the receiving housing and the closed position in which it partially closes the receiving housing. In this alternative, the holding lever is positioned between the main body 30 and the closure body and has characteristics that are generally similar to the embodiment shown in the figures, except that it does not act as a cover for covering the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0182] In the following, the second embodiment of the invention will be described using figures 9 and 10. Only the elements that are different between the first and second embodiments will be described, the similar elements not being described again and bearing references identical to the first embodiment.

[0183] In Figures 9 and 10 a foaming device 228 according to the second embodiment of the invention is shown.

[0184] The frothing device 228 comprises a first body 230 forming a mixing element 232 generally similar to the first embodiment and comprising the hot water / steam inlet 46, the main flow conduit 48, the milk supply conduit 90 and the air intake channel 92.

[0185] The mixing element 232 differs from the mixing element 42 in that it forms a partial outline of the mixing chamber 78 and not the entirety of the mixing chamber 78.

[0186] The foaming device 228 also comprises a second body 234 movable relative to the first body 230. The second body 234 is articulated relative to the first body 230 via a hinge defining a substantially horizontal transverse axis of rotation. The axis of rotation is advantageously perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X when the foaming device 228 is positioned in the receiving housing 26. The articulation is positioned along a rear edge of an upper face of the first body 230.

[0187] The second body 234 forms the closing portion and is movable between the open position and the closed position.

[0188] The second body 234 comprises a first portion 236, substantially horizontal when the foaming device 228 is in use, forming a cover suitable for closing the access opening 80 of the mixing chamber 78 and the main flow conduit 48 when the second body 234 is in the closed position, and a portion 238, substantially vertical when the foaming device 228 is in use, forming with the first body 230, when the second body 234 is in the closed position, the mixing chamber 78 and advantageously the foamed milk dispensing element 114.

[0189] In this second embodiment, the mixing chamber 78 and the frothed milk dispensing element 114 are formed by the assembly of the first body 230 and the second body 234 when the second body 234 is in the closed position.

[0190] Thus, when moving the second body into the open position, the mixing chamber 78 and the frothed milk dispensing element 114 are open so that their cleaning is facilitated.

[0191] The additional ribs 144, 146 are suitable for exerting a bearing force respectively against the mixing chamber 78 and the frothed milk distribution element. 114. The bearing force is exerted on the second body 234 in a substantially horizontal direction. The additional ribs 144, 146 are particularly useful with the foaming device 228 according to the second embodiment to ensure the sealing of the mixing chamber 78 and the foamed milk dispensing element 114.

[0192] In this second embodiment, the gripping zones of the foaming device 228 are formed on side walls of the foamed milk dispensing element 114.

[0193] Of course, the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiment described and illustrated which has been given only as an example. Modifications remain possible, in particular from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

Claims

1. Beverage dispensing head (18) comprising a hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20) and a receiving housing (26) for a milk frothing device (28, 228) provided with a hot water / steam inlet orifice (46) suitable for being fluidically connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20), the beverage dispensing head (18) comprising a system for holding the milk frothing device (28, 228) in the receiving housing (26), characterized in that the holding system comprises a holding lever (130) pivotally mounted relative to the receiving housing (26) and suitable for being moved between an open position for access to the receiving housing (26) and a closed position in which the holding lever (130) is suitable for cooperating with the milk frothing device (28, 228) to hold it in the receiving housing (26). reception (26).

2. Beverage dispensing head according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding lever (130) is pivotally mounted along a longitudinal axis (X) of the beverage dispensing head (18), the open position corresponding to a high position and the closed position to a low position.

3. Beverage dispensing head (18) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding lever (130) comprises at least one axial projection (132, 134) capable of bearing against the milk frothing device (28, 228), preferably two axial projections (132, 134) capable of bearing against the milk frothing device, when moving the holding lever (130) from the open position to the closed position while the milk frothing device (28, 228) is positioned in the receiving housing (26).

4. Beverage dispensing head (18) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each axial projection (132, 134) is suitable, when the milk frothing device (28, 228) is incorrectly positioned in the receiving housing (26), for cooperating with a corresponding anti-fogging element (62, 64) positioned on the milk frothing device to prevent the holding lever (130) from moving into the closed position.

5. Beverage dispensing head (18) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that each axial projection (132, 134) is clean, when the milk frothing device (28, 228) is correctly positioned in the receiving housing (26), to apply an axial force on a corresponding lug (62, 64) positioned on the milk frothing device (28, 228), when moving the holding lever (130) in the closed position, to ensure the correct position and the holding of the milk frothing device (28, 228) in the receiving housing (26).

6. Beverage dispensing head (18) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the holding lever (130) comprises two axial projections (132, 134) positioned on either side of a central axis of the dispensing head.

7. Beverage dispensing head according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that each axial projection (132, 134) extends in a substantially vertical plane when the holding lever is in the closed position and is attached to an upper wall (40) of the holding lever (130).

8. A beverage dispensing head (18) according to any preceding claim, characterized in that the holding lever (130) comprises a front face provided with a gripping area (135) by a user for manipulating the holding lever (130) between its open and closed positions.

9. Beverage dispensing head (18) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving housing (26) comprises at least one guide element (70, 72) of the milk frothing device (28, 228) capable of cooperating with a corresponding guide element (66, 68) located on the frothing device.

10. Beverage dispensing head (18) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each guide element (70, 72) of the receiving housing is capable of maintaining a closing part (96, 234) of the milk frothing device in contact with a mixing element (42, 232) of the frothing device when the milk frothing device (28, 228) is inserted into the receiving housing (26).

11. Beverage dispensing head (18) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage dispensing head (18) comprises an upper front provided with a passage orifice (136) for an air flow adjustment member (102) in the milk frothing device.

12. Beverage dispensing head (18) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage dispensing head beverage (18) comprises an upper wall provided with a viewing area (138) of a mixing portion (44) of the milk frothing device (28, 228).

13. Beverage dispensing head (18) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage dispensing head (18) comprises a rear zone (24) receiving a beverage dispensing member (22) and a front zone defining the receiving housing (26) of the milk frothing device (28, 228).

14. A beverage dispensing machine (10) comprising a beverage dispensing head (18), characterized in that the beverage dispensing head (18) is according to any one of the preceding claims.

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