Milk frothing device and associated beverage dispensing machine

Abstract

This milk frothing device (28) comprises a mixing element (42) including 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 liquid inlet (74); a closing portion (96) movable between a closed position of an access opening (80) of the mixing portion and the main flow conduit (48) and an open position allowing cleaning of the mixing portion (44) and the main conduit (48); and a milk supply conduit (90) connected to the main flow conduit. According to the invention, the closing portion (96) is configured to be articulated with the mixing element (42) via a hinge defining a substantially horizontal axis of rotation. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 7

Description

Title of the invention: Milk foaming device and associated beverage dispensing machine technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of beverage dispensing machines, and in particular to automatic coffee machines. More specifically, the present invention relates to the field of milk frothing devices intended to be used with beverage dispensing machines such as coffee machines. Such frothing devices, when used with a coffee machine, allow for the preparation of coffee-based drinks with milk foam. State of the art

[0002] WO2005 / 063093 is known to possess a milk foaming device comprising: - a mixing element comprising: + a mixing portion defining a liquid inlet opening, a liquid outlet opening and an access opening; + a hot water / steam inlet port and a main drain line connecting the hot water / steam inlet port to the liquid inlet opening; - a movable closing part relative to the mixing element between a closed position in which the closing part closes the access opening and the main flow conduit, and an open position in which the access opening and the main flow conduit are open and accessible to allow cleaning of the mixing part and the main conduit; and - a milk supply line connected to the main flow line.

[0003] The particular configuration of the milk frothing device described in document WO2005 / 063093, and more particularly of the mixing part and the closing part, allows for easy cleaning of the milk frothing device.

[0004] However, the operation of the foaming device according to WO2005 / 063093 remains complex, and its connection / operation with the coffee machine remains difficult to implement. Furthermore, the performance of this foaming device still needs improvement. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks.

[0006] The technical problem underlying the invention consists of proposing a foaming device whose handling and connection / cooperation with a beverage distribution machine are facilitated and for which the milk foaming performance is improved.

[0007] To this end, the invention relates to a milk frothing device intended to cooperate with a beverage dispensing machine, the milk frothing device comprising: - a mixing element comprising: + a mixing portion defining a liquid inlet opening, a liquid outlet opening and an access opening; + a hot water / steam inlet port and a main drain line connecting the hot water / steam inlet port to the liquid inlet opening; - a movable closing part relative to the mixing element between a closed position in which the closing part closes the access opening and the main flow conduit, and an open position in which the access opening and the main flow conduit are open and accessible to allow cleaning of the mixing part and the main conduit; and - a milk supply line connected to the main flow line.

[0008] According to the invention, the closing part is configured to be articulated with the mixing element via a hinge defining a substantially horizontal axis of rotation.

[0009] Thanks to the invention, the handling of the milk frothing device, and in particular the closing part, is improved. Indeed, the articulation of the closing part on the mixing element allows the closing part to remain attached to the mixing element regardless of its position and to be easily moved to the open or closed position depending on whether the user wishes to clean or use the frothing device. Furthermore, connecting the frothing device to a beverage dispensing machine is easy. Finally, the frothing performance is improved because cleaning is facilitated and because the closing part ensures a good seal between the access opening and the main flow channel.

[0010] According to advantageous but not mandatory aspects of the invention, such a foaming device may incorporate one or more of the following features, taken in any technically permissible combination.

[0011] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the milk frothing device is suitable for integration into a beverage dispensing head of a beverage dispensing machine comprising a hot water / steam dispensing outlet, the hot water / steam inlet orifice being suitable for fluidly connecting to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet.

[0012] Such an arrangement makes it easier to fix and integrate the foaming device into the beverage dispensing machine.

[0013] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the milk supply conduit is adapted to be connected to a remote milk reservoir separate from the foaming device. of milk.

[0014] Such an arrangement simplifies the handling of the foaming device and clearly separates the milk storage and milk foaming functions. In particular, it allows a milk carton or bottle to be used as a milk reservoir and to be returned to the refrigerator after use.

[0015] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the milk foaming device includes a sealing gasket arranged in a junction area between the mixing element and the closing part and extending over the periphery of the mixing part and the main flow conduit, the closing part being adapted to ensure support on the sealing gasket when the closing part is in the closed position.

[0016] Such an arrangement makes it possible to guarantee optimal sealing between the mixing element and the closing part and therefore optimal foaming performance.

[0017] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the closing part includes an air supply duct suitable for being connected to the main flow duct when the closing part is in the closed position, and an air flow control device configured to regulate an air flow rate in the air supply duct.

[0018] Such an arrangement allows adjustment of the texture of the foam and in particular of the amount of air mixed with the milk.

[0019] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the milk foaming device comprises two lateral walls, each defining a gripping area for the foaming device.

[0020] Such an arrangement makes it easier to grasp and manipulate the foaming device.

[0021] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the milk foaming device comprises two side walls, each provided with a lug for retaining the foaming device in a beverage dispensing head, the lugs being adapted to cooperate with a device for retaining the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head.

[0022] Such an arrangement makes it easier to position the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head and to ensure that the foaming device is properly fixed in said beverage dispensing head to ensure user safety and optimal foaming performance.

[0023] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the foaming device comprises two side walls, each provided with a guide element adapted to cooperate with a corresponding guide element located in a beverage distribution head intended to receive the foaming device.

[0024] Such an arrangement makes it easier to insert and position the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head.

[0025] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the guiding elements are formed by side walls of the closing part and side walls of the mixing element when the closing part is in the closed position.

[0026] Such an arrangement makes it possible to ensure the closure and maintenance in the closed position of the closing part when the guiding elements of the foaming device cooperate with the corresponding guiding elements located in the beverage distribution head, i.e. when the foaming device is integrated into the beverage distribution head.

[0027] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the closing part includes a viewing window intended to be opposite the mixing part when the closing part is in the closed position.

[0028] Such an arrangement allows the user to view the mixing section and thus identify whether the foaming device has already been used and needs cleaning, but also to observe the proper functioning of the foaming device during operation by observing the texture of the milk foam in the mixing section through the viewing window. The viewing window also allows the user to adjust the position of the airflow control device according to the foam texture observed through the viewing window.

[0029] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the closing part forms a substantially flat cover suitable for covering the access opening and the main flow conduit.

[0030] Such an arrangement allows for an optimized structure and size foaming device.

[0031] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the milk frothing device includes a frothed milk distribution element adapted to be reversibly connected to the mixing element and to be fluidly connected to the liquid outlet opening when connected to the mixing element, and the frothed milk distribution element advantageously includes an inlet channel and two frothed milk outlet channels.

[0032] Such an arrangement allows for optimized distribution of the frothed milk. It also allows for the preparation of double recipes and thus for making milk-based drinks in two cups simultaneously.

[0033] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the closing part comprises a first substantially horizontal portion forming a cover adapted to close the access opening and the main flow conduit when the closing part is in the closed position, and a substantially vertical portion forming with the mixing element, when the closing part is in the closed position, a mixing chamber and advantageously a frothed milk distribution element.

[0034] Such an arrangement makes it easier to clean the foaming device and offers optimized access to the inside of the foaming device.

[0035] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the milk frothing device is suitable for being attached to a hot water / steam distribution outlet of a beverage distribution machine, the hot water / steam inlet orifice being suitable for being fluidly connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet.

[0036] Such an arrangement makes it easier to attach the foaming device to the beverage distribution machine and to supply the foaming device with hot water / steam.

[0037] Advantageously, the foaming device is removable, relative to a beverage dispensing head comprising a housing for receiving the foaming device, between an assembled position in which it is received in the housing and the hot water / steam inlet orifice 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 orifice is no longer fluidly connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet.

[0038] The invention also relates to a beverage dispensing machine comprising a hot water / steam dispensing outlet and a milk frothing device. According to the invention, the milk frothing device is as described above, and the hot water / steam inlet orifice is adapted to be fluidly connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet.

[0039] Such an arrangement makes it possible to obtain, from the beverage distribution machine, beverages based on frothed milk whose texture and quality are optimized.

[0040] According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the beverage dispensing machine comprises a beverage dispensing head including the hot water / steam dispensing outlet and a receiving housing for the milk frothing device.

[0041] Such an arrangement improves user safety and facilitates the integration of the foaming device into the beverage dispensing machine. In particular, it allows a milk dispensing outlet of the foaming device to be positioned close to beverage dispensing outlets, for example, coffee outlets, of the beverage dispensing machine. Brief description of the figures

[0042] The aims, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from The following description describes a particular embodiment of the invention, presented by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0043] 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.

[0044] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the beverage dispensing head of Fig. 1 on which a support / holding device associated with the beverage dispensing head is in the closed position;

[0045] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the beverage dispensing head of Fig. 1 on which a support / holding device associated with the beverage dispensing head is in the open position;

[0046] [Fig.4] is a view analogous to [Fig.3] in which a guiding element of the milk frothing device in the beverage dispensing head is omitted;

[0047] The [Fig.5] is a side view in section along the vertical section plane along the line VV of the beverage distribution head of the [Fig.2];

[0048] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the milk frothing device of figures 1 to 5 comprising a closing part in the closed position;

[0049] [Fig.7] is a view analogous to [Fig.6] in which the closing part is in the open position;

[0050] Fig. 8 is an exploded view of the foaming device of Fig. 7;

[0051] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a foaming device according to a second embodiment of the invention in which a closing part is in the closed position;

[0052] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the foaming device of Fig. 9 in which the closing part is in the open position.

[0053] Only the elements necessary for understanding the invention have been shown. To facilitate reading the drawings, the same elements bear the same reference numerals from one figure to another. Detailed description of the invention

[0054] In the following description, foam or foaming means obtaining foam from a liquid, whether it is only foam from that liquid (i.e., milk foam) or a mixture of that liquid and foam from that liquid (i.e., a mixture of milk and milk foam).

[0055] 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 associated elements These refer to the beverage dispensing machine and associated components in a usage situation, when the machine is lying flat on a work surface.

[0056] Furthermore, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" or "inlet" and "outlet" are defined according to a direction of flow of the beverage or steam in the beverage distribution machine and in the milk frothing device.

[0057] The terms "external" and "internal," as well as the terms "outside" and "inside," are defined with respect to a central axis of the beverage dispensing machine or milk frothing device. Thus, an internal portion / part will be closer to the central axis than an external portion / part.

[0058] The beverage dispensing machine shown in [Fig.1] is a coffee machine 10. Alternatively, the beverage dispensing machine is a hot water or tea dispensing machine.

[0059] The coffee machine 10 is advantageously an automatic coffee machine.

[0060] 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 to be placed.

[0061] The coffee machine 10 also includes a beverage dispensing head 18.

[0062] The coffee machine 10 advantageously includes a human-machine interface, not visible in the figures, through which a user can select a type of beverage to be dispensed and advantageously enter settings for the coffee machine 10.

[0063] The coffee machine 10 also includes a beverage preparation unit, not shown, integrated into the frame 12.

[0064] The preparation unit includes a control circuit for managing the preparation of a beverage according to instructions given by the user. The preparation unit also includes a boiler producing hot water and / or steam and a reservoir forming a cold water reserve. The reservoir supplies the boiler to produce hot water and / or steam.

[0065] The brewing unit also advantageously comprises, in a known but not shown manner, a coffee bean hopper, an automatic bean grinder, and a brewing chamber suitable for receiving the ground coffee beans and being supplied with hot water by the boiler. The brewing chamber is fluidly 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.

[0066] The coffee machine 10 also includes a hot water / steam outlet nozzle, not visible in the figures, designed to be 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.

[0067] In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 5, the beverage dispensing head 18 includes a hot water / steam dispensing outlet 20, visible in [Fig.5], fluidly connected to the hot water / steam outlet nozzle.

[0068] 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.

[0069] The beverage distribution head 18 also includes a beverage distribution element 22 adapted to be fluidly connected to the infusion chamber and to distribute the coffee-based beverage.

[0070] The beverage distribution unit 22 advantageously comprises two beverage distribution outlets, only one of which 36 is visible in [Fig.5], so that it is suitable for delivering the coffee-based beverage into two cups simultaneously.

[0071] As seen in [Fig.5], the beverage distribution head 18 includes a zone 24, preferably rear, receiving the beverage distribution member 22 and a zone, preferably front, defining a housing 26 for receiving a milk foaming device 28.

[0072] The beverage dispensing head 18 is advantageously height-adjustable.

[0073] The beverage dispensing head 18 also includes a power inlet 29 in milk from the milk frothing device 28.

[0074] Advantageously, and as shown in [Fig.3], the supply inlet 29 opens onto a lateral side of the beverage distribution head 18. The supply inlet 29 is suitable for receiving a milk supply tube fluidly connected to a milk container preferably located away from the coffee machine 10.

[0075] As seen in figures 2 to 4, the beverage distribution head 18 comprises a main body 30 defining the housing 26 for receiving the milk foaming device 28 and the receiving area 24 for the beverage distribution member 22.

[0076] The main body 30 includes an open front end 32 providing access to the receiving housing 26.

[0077] The beverage dispensing head 18 also includes a closing body 34 of the front end 32.

[0078] In the embodiment shown, the closure body 34 is pivotally mounted on the main body 30. The closure body 34 is able to be moved between an open position providing access to the receiving housing 26 of the milk 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.

[0079] The closure body 34 is rotationally articulated on the main body 30 about a substantially horizontal longitudinal axis X. The articulation is, for example, located between an upper wall 38 of the main body 30 and an upper wall 40 of the body of closure 34.

[0080] In the example of figures 1 to 8, the milk frothing device 28 is removable from the beverage dispensing head 18 and in particular from the receiving housing 26. In other words, the frothing device is suitable for integration into the beverage dispensing head 18.

[0081] As seen in [Fig.7], the milk foaming device 28 comprises a mixing element 42 including a mixing part 44, a hot water / steam inlet orifice 46 and a main flow conduit 48 connecting the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46 to the mixing part 44.

[0082] The milk foaming device 28 and in particular the mixing element 42 also includes a connection member 50 of the foaming device to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0083] The connecting member 50 opens onto a rear face 52 of the milk foaming device 28 and in particular of the mixing element 42.

[0084] When positioning the foaming device 28 in the receiving housing 26, the connecting member 50 is suitable for being connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 so as to be supplied with hot water / steam.

[0085] The hot water / steam inlet 46 is fluidly connected to the connecting member 50 so as to receive hot water / steam delivered by the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 when the connecting member 50 is connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0086] Alternatively, the hot water / steam inlet port 46 is suitable for being connected directly to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 when positioning the milk frothing device 28 in the receiving housing 26.

[0087] Generally, the hot water / steam inlet 46 is suitable for being fluidly connected to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 when the milk frothing device 28 is received in the beverage dispensing head 18. This connection is reversible because the connecting member 50 is suitable for being connected / disconnected from the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0088] The mixing element 42 comprises an upper wall 54.

[0089] The milk foaming device 28 and in particular the mixing element 42 comprise two side walls 56, 58.

[0090] The side walls 56, 58 each define a user-friendly gripping zone 56A, 58A for the milk frothing device 28. A user of the milk frothing device 28 is able to manipulate the milk frothing device 28 and position it in the receiving compartment 26 by manipulating it with their fingers at the gripping zones 56A, 58A.

[0091] The side walls 56, 58 are each provided with a retaining lug 62, 64 / positioning of the milk frothing device 28 in the beverage distribution head 18.

[0092] The lugs 62, 64 are adapted to cooperate with the closure body 34 which forms a device for retaining the milk foaming device 28 in the beverage distribution head 18 as will be explained later in the detailed description of the closure body 34 and its interaction with the milk foaming device 28.

[0093] The side walls 56, 58 are also each provided with a guide element 66, 68 suitable for cooperating with a corresponding guide element 70, 72 located in the beverage distribution head 18.

[0094] The guiding elements 66, 68 are for example formed by ribs arranged at the level of the side walls 56, 58.

[0095] The guide elements 70, 72 are for example grooves designed to receive the ribs corresponding to the guide elements 66, 68 and form a sliding connection with said ribs.

[0096] The guide elements 70, 72 are arranged in an upper part of the receiving housing 26.

[0097] The guide elements 66, 68 are for example located in front of the gripping areas following a direction of insertion of the milk foaming device 28 into the beverage distribution head 18.

[0098] 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.

[0099] The lugs 62, 64 are advantageously projecting 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 outwards from the milk foaming device 28 beyond the guide elements 66, 68 along the longitudinal axis X.

[0100] As can be seen from Figures 5 and 7, the mixing part 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.

[0101] The mixing chamber 78 extends along a vertical axis Z.

[0102] The mixing chamber 78 includes an open upper end 80. The open upper end 80 forms an access opening to the mixing chamber 78.

[0103] The mixing chamber 78 opens into an upper face of the upper wall 54 of the mixing element 42.

[0104] The mixing chamber 78 has a substantially circular cross-section perpendicular- related to the vertical Z axis.

[0105] 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 in a low point of the mixing chamber 78.

[0106] The open upper end 80 is disposed on an upper face of the mixing element 42 and therefore of the upper wall 54.

[0107] The liquid outlet opening 76 is arranged on a lower face of the mixing element 42.

[0108] The main flow channel 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.

[0109] 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 entering the mixing chamber 78 from the main flow conduit 48 flows through the mixing chamber, swirling along the walls of the mixing chamber 78.

[0110] As shown in [Fig. 7], the main flow conduit 48 has a cross-sectional restriction 84 located, for example, in a central portion of the main flow conduit 48. The main flow conduit 48 includes, in particular, a first conduit portion 48.1 located upstream of the cross-sectional restriction 84 and extending to the cross-sectional restriction, and a second conduit portion 48.2 located downstream of the cross-sectional restriction 84 and extending from the cross-sectional restriction 84 to the mixing chamber 78. Advantageously, the first conduit portion 48.1 has a cross-sectional area that decreases towards the cross-sectional restriction 84, and the second conduit portion 48.2 has a cross-sectional area that increases towards the mixing chamber 78.

[0111] The hot water / steam inlet port 46 opens into the first portion of the conduit 48.1 and more particularly opposite the mixing chamber 78. The main flow conduit 48 is thus configured to fluidly connect the hot water / steam inlet port 46 to the mixing chamber 78, and to allow hot water / steam to flow in the main flow conduit 48 and to the mixing chamber 78.

[0112] The milk foaming device 28 includes 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 feed inlet 29 when the milk frothing device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26.

[0113] The milk supply conduit 90 is suitable for being fluidly connected to a remote milk reservoir separate from the milk foaming device 28.

[0114] The milk supply conduit 90 is fluidly connected to the main flow conduit 48, and thus configured to be fluidly 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.

[0115] The milk supply conduit 90 includes 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 adapted to be fluidly connected to the milk supply inlet 29 when the milk foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26.

[0116] In the figures only the part of the milk supply conduit 90 which opens into the main flow conduit 48 is visible.

[0117] The milk foaming device 28 also includes an air inlet channel 92 in the main flow duct 48. According to the embodiment shown, the mixing element 42 includes the air inlet channel 92.

[0118] Advantageously, the air intake channel 92 is provided in the upper face of the upper wall 54 of the mixing element 42.

[0119] 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 fluidly connected to the mixing chamber 78 via the main flow duct 48.

[0120] The section restriction 84, described previously, induces an increase in the velocity of the vapor flowing in the main flow duct 48, which generates a depression in the milk supply duct 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 port 46 to the mixing chamber 78 generates a vacuum in the milk supply duct 90 and a vacuum in the air intake channel 92 and consequently causes milk and air to be drawn into the main flow duct 48 and the milk and air drawn into the mixing chamber 78 to flow.

[0121] In addition, the second portion of the conduit 48.2, which has a passage cross-section that increases towards the mixing chamber 78, promotes a first mixing of the steam, milk and 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.

[0122] Furthermore, due to the positioning of the main flow duct 48 relative to the mixing chamber 78, the initial mixture of steam, milk, and air undergoes cyclonic motion upon entering the mixing chamber and swirls along the walls of the mixing chamber 78, further enhancing mixing and the production of milk foam with optimal consistency. Thus, the mixing chamber 78 homogenizes the aforementioned initial mixture and completes the mixing process that began in the second portion of the duct 48.2.

[0123] The main flow conduit 48, as well as the hot water / steam inlet 46, the air intake channel 92, and the mixing chamber 78, advantageously comprise an open upper end. In other words, they form liquid circulation channels that are open to the outside in their upper part.

[0124] The milk foaming device 28 includes a closing part 96 movable relative to the mixing element 42 between a closed position in which the closing part 96 closes the mixing part 44 and the main flow conduit 48 and an open position in which the mixing part 44 and the main flow conduit 48 are open and accessible to allow cleaning of the mixing part 44 and the main flow conduit 48.

[0125] In the closed position, the closing part 96 closes, in particular, the open upper end of the hot water / steam inlet 46, the main flow conduit 48 and the mixing chamber 78.

[0126] Advantageously, in the closed position, the closing part 96 also at least partially closes the air intake channel 92 and in particular the open upper end of the air intake channel.

[0127] Advantageously, the main flow conduit 48 extends along a substantially horizontal plane and includes, over at least 50% of its length, preferably over at least 70% of its length, a top opening also called the open top end, suitable for being closed when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0128] The closing part 96 is configured to cover the upper face of the upper wall 54 of the mixing element 42. The closing part 96 forms a substantially flat 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.

[0129] The closing portion 96 is configured to be articulated with the mixing element 42 via a hinge defining a substantially horizontal Y axis of rotation. The Y axis of rotation is advantageously perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X when the foaming device is positioned in the receiving housing 26. In an alternative not shown, the Y axis of rotation is parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0130] The hinge simplifies the handling of the foaming device by ensuring that the closing part 96 remains attached to the mixing element 42 regardless of the position of the closing part 96. In addition, the hinge allows the closing part 96 to be easily moved to the open or closed position depending on whether the user wishes to clean or use the foaming device.

[0131] Advantageously, the side walls 56, 58 of the foaming device, comprising side walls of the closing part 96 and the side walls of the mixing element 42, form, when the closing part 96 is in the closed position, the guide elements 66, 68. Such an arrangement makes it possible to ensure the closure of the milk foaming device 28, i.e. of the closing part 96, when the milk foaming device 28 is inserted 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 ensures that the closing part 96 remains in the closed position when the milk 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 closing part 96 remain in contact / adjacent with the side walls of the mixing element 42.

[0132] In other words, each guide element 70, 72 is suitable for maintaining the closing part 96 of the foaming device in the closed position, i.e. in contact with the mixing element 42 when the milk foaming device 28 is inserted into the receiving housing 26.

[0133] In an alternative not shown, the milk foaming device 28 includes a retaining system not shown configured to hold the closing part 96 in the closed position. The retaining system is, for example, formed by a locking member such as a locking clip integral with the closing part and adapted to be held by its shape in a corresponding groove formed on the mixing element 42, and in particular its upper wall / face 54, when the closing part is in the closed position. The retaining system is adapted to be moved between a locked position of the closing part 96 in the closed position and an unlocked position.

[0134] The closing part 96 includes 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.

[0135] The viewing window 97 is intended to be opposite the open upper end 80 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0136] 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 inside of the mixing chamber 78 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0137] The viewing window 97 allows the user to see whether the milk frothing device 28 has already been used and whether it needs to be cleaned before preparing a beverage. The user can observe the inside of the mixing chamber 78 through this window. Furthermore, the user can verify the proper functioning of the milk frothing device 28 through the viewing window by visually checking whether the milk passes through the mixing chamber 78 and moves in a cyclonic fashion along the walls of the chamber 78.

[0138] The closing part 96 also includes an air supply duct 98, visible in [Fig. 7], adapted to be fluidly connected to the main flow duct 48 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position, and an air flow control device 99 configured to regulate the air flow 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 part 96 is in the closed position so as to be fluidly connected to the main flow duct 48.

[0139] 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.

[0140] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, and as more clearly seen in [Fig. 5], the air flow control 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 control device 99 also comprises an air flow control member 102, such as a flow control knob, supported by the support part 100 and mounted to move, and for example mounted to move helically, relative to the support part 100 in a direction of movement D2 which may for example be substantially vertical.

[0141] The air flow control member 102 is configured to occupy a plurality of adjustment positions offset from each other along the direction of movement D2.

[0142] The air flow control device 99 further includes a sealing element 104 which is fixed to the air flow control member 102 and which is configured to delimit with the support part 100 an air flow passage having a passage cross-section which varies according to the position occupied by the air flow control element 102.

[0143] The air flow control element 102 is more particularly movable between a maximum adjustment position in which the passage cross-section of the air flow passage is maximum, and a minimum adjustment position in which the passage cross-section of the air flow passage is minimum, and for example zero or substantially zero.

[0144] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the support portion 100 has 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 control device 99 has a flow restrictor element not visible in the figures, such as a pin or a needle of generally cylindrical shape, having a lower end portion that is housed in the insertion hole 106. The flow restrictor element is fixed in movement to the air flow control element 102, and is therefore movably mounted in the insertion hole 106 along the direction of movement D2. The insertion hole 106 and the flow restrictor element more specifically define a calibrated air passage fluidly connected to the air supply duct 98.

[0145] The air flow control device 99 allows the flow rate of air injected into the main flow duct 48 to be adjusted, and therefore the size of the air bubbles contained in the milk foam at the outlet of the milk foaming device 28. By changing the size of the air bubbles, the volume of milk foam is changed.

[0146] According to one 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.

[0147] The milk foaming device 28 includes a sealing gasket 110, visible in [Fig.7], arranged at a junction area between the mixing element 42 and the closing part 96. The sealing gasket 110 extends over the periphery of the mixing part 44 and the main flow conduit 48.

[0148] The closing part 96 is designed to provide support on the sealing gasket 110 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position.

[0149] As shown more particularly in [Fig. 7], the sealing gasket 110 extends around the mixing chamber 78 and in particular around the open upper end 80, the main flow conduit 48, the air intake channel 92 and the hot water / steam inlet 46. For this purpose, the mixing element 42 comprises a receiving groove 112 provided in the upper face of the upper wall 54 in which the sealing gasket 110 is housed.

[0150] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the sealing gasket 110 comprises a gasket body housed entirely in the receiving groove 112, and a sealing lip extending along the gasket body and projecting out of the receiving groove 112. Advantageously, the sealing gasket 110 is continuous and can, for example, have a constant cross-section.

[0151] The closing part 96 together with the sealing gasket 110 ensures a seal at the upper wall 54, the main flow conduit 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 milk foaming device 28 is thus guaranteed.

[0152] The milk frothing device 28 also includes a frothed milk distribution element 114 adapted to be reversibly connected to the mixing element 42 as is more clearly seen in [Fig.8].

[0153] The frothed milk distribution element 114 advantageously comprises an inlet channel 116 and two outlet channels 118, 120 of frothed milk.

[0154] The frothed milk distribution element 114 and in particular the inlet channel 116 is suitable to be fluidly connected to the liquid outlet opening 76 when connected to the mixing element 42.

[0155] The frothed milk distribution element 114 is adapted to deliver frothed milk into two cups simultaneously via the two outlet channels 118, 120.

[0156] In the embodiment shown, the closing body 34 forms a device for retaining the milk foaming device 28 in the receiving housing 26.

[0157] The retaining device takes the form of a retaining lever 130 movable between the open position for access to the receiving housing and the closed position in which the retaining lever 130 is suitable for cooperating with the milk foaming device 28 to retain it in the receiving housing 26.

[0158] When the retaining lever 130 is in the open position, a user can access the housing 26 and in particular the milk frothing device 28 to remove it from the housing 26 and, for example, perform a cleaning operation on the frothing device.

[0159] When the retaining lever 130 is in the closed position and the milk frothing device 28 is received in the housing 26, the retaining lever 130 is able to cooperate with the milk frothing device 28 to hold it in the receiving housing 26.

[0160] The retaining lever 130 is mounted pivotally relative to the receiving housing along the longitudinal axis X.

[0161] As can be seen in the figures, the open position of the retaining lever 130 corresponds to a high position and the closed position to a low position.

[0162] The retaining lever 130 includes in particular axial projections 132, 134 designed to bear against the milk foaming device 28, when the retaining lever 130 is moved from the open position to the closed position while the milk foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26.

[0163] The axial projections 132, 134 extend from an inferior face of the upper wall 40.

[0164] The axial projections 132, 134 extend in a substantially vertical plane.

[0165] Each axial projection 132, 134 is designed, when the milk frothing device 28 is incorrectly positioned in the receiving housing 26, to cooperate with a corresponding lug 62, 64 to prevent movement of the retaining lever in the closed position. The lugs 62, 64 form keying elements that ensure correct positioning of the milk frothing device 28 in the receiving housing 26.

[0166] Advantageously, each axial projection 132, 134 includes a relief, for example in the form of a hook, suitable for cooperating with the corresponding lug 62, 64.

[0167] Indeed, if the milk frothing device 28 is incorrectly positioned, and in particular not fully inserted into the receiving slot 26 along the insertion direction, the lugs are designed to cooperate with the axial projections and advantageously the raised areas, so as to prevent the retaining lever 130 from moving in the closed position. Thus, the user realizes that the milk frothing device 28 is not fully inserted into the receiving slot 26 and can correct its positioning.

[0168] Advantageously, each axial projection 132, 134 and advantageously again each relief is adapted to cooperate with the corresponding lug 62, 64 when the milk frothing device 28 is correctly positioned in the receiving housing 26 and the retaining lever 130 is moved to the closed position. More precisely, each relief is adapted to apply an axial force on the corresponding lug 62, 64 when the milk frothing device 28 is correctly positioned in the receiving housing 26 and the retaining lever 130 is moved to the closed position.

[0169] The axial force is exerted along the direction of insertion of the milk frothing device 28 into the receiving housing 26 in order to ensure the correct positioning of the milk frothing device 28 in the beverage distribution head 18 and to ensure the connection of the connecting member 50 to the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20.

[0170] The axial projections 132, 134 ensure, via the axial force, that the connecting member 50 cooperates with the hot water / steam distribution outlet 20 and that the The milk supply line 90 is connected to the milk supply inlet 29 so that the proper functioning of the milk frothing device 28 is ensured.

[0171] The axial projections 132, 134 are arranged on either side of a central axis of the beverage distribution head 18. The central axis is a vertical axis.

[0172] Alternatively, the retaining lever 130 comprises a single axial projection.

[0173] The retaining lever 130 also includes a front face provided with a gripping area 135 by the user to manipulate the retaining lever 130 between its open and closed positions.

[0174] Advantageously, the beverage dispensing head 18 comprises an upper face provided with a passage orifice 136 for the air flow control member 102. Advantageously the passage orifice 136 is formed through the upper wall 38 of the main body 30.

[0175] Advantageously, the beverage dispensing head 18 comprises an upper face, such as the upper wall 40, provided with a viewing area 138 of a mixing portion 44 of the milk frothing device 28. The viewing area 138 is, for example, formed by an opening provided through the upper wall 40 of the closure body 34. Alternatively, the viewing area 138 is a transparent area provided in the upper wall 40.

[0176] The viewing area 138 is arranged to be opposite the viewing window 97 when the retaining lever 130 and / or the closing body 34 is in the closed position and the milk frothing device 28 is received in the receiving compartment 26. The viewing area 138 allows the mixing chamber 78 to be viewed through the viewing window 97. Thus, the user can observe the mixing chamber 78 and the frothed milk flowing through the frothing chamber. This allows the user to visually check whether the milk frothing device 28 needs cleaning, as well as the proper functioning of the milk frothing device 28 by checking the cyclonic movement of the milk and, advantageously, the texture of the milk.

[0177] The closing body 34 also forms a support device on the closing part 96 of the milk foaming device 28.

[0178] The support device is suitable when the milk foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26, to exert a bearing force on the closing part 96 to ensure a seal between the mixing element 42 and the closing part 96.

[0179] The support device also makes it possible to maintain a constant distance between the closing part 96 and the upper wall 54 when the closing part 96 is in the closed position. Thus, the dimensions of the main flow duct 48, as well as the air intake channel 92, when using the foaming device The milk volume 28 is maintained over time, and foaming performance is optimized and guaranteed over time. The support device ensures proper contact between the closing part 96 and the mixing element 42, guaranteeing the dimensions of the conduit 48 and the channel 92 and preventing possible deformation of the closing part 96.

[0180] The support device is formed by the retaining lever 130 mounted pivotally relative to the receiving housing 26 and adapted to be moved between the open position for access to the receiving housing 26 and the closed position in which the support device exerts the bearing force on the closing part 96 to ensure that the closing part 96 is pressed against the mixing element 42. The retaining lever 130 is in particular adapted to press the closing part 96 against the sealing gasket 110.

[0181] The support force extends in particular in a substantially vertical direction.

[0182] The retaining lever 130 includes in particular an upper rib 140, preferably two 140, 142, arranged on the lower face of the upper wall 40.

[0183] Ribs 140, 142 extend from an inferior face of the upper wall 40.

[0184] The ribs 140, 142 are adapted to bear against the foaming device of milk 28, when moving the retaining lever 130 from the open position to the closed position while the milk frothing device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26.

[0185] The ribs 140, 142 are designed to exert the bearing force on the closing part 96 so as to guarantee a good seal between the mixing element 42 and the closing part 96.

[0186] Advantageously, the retaining lever also includes two additional ribs 144, 146, also called front ribs, positioned on an inner wall of a front face of the lever 130. The additional ribs 144, 146 extend preferentially along the longitudinal axis X. The additional ribs 144, 146 are adapted to bear against the foamed milk distribution element 114, when the retaining lever 130 is moved from the open position to the closed position while the milk foaming device 28 is positioned in the receiving housing 26. Such a configuration is particularly advantageous in the embodiment of Figures 9 and 10, as will be explained later.

[0187] Alternatively, the closing body is a front cover for the beverage dispensing head designed to close the receiving compartment 26, in particular the front end 32 of the main body 30. In this variant, the beverage dispensing head 18 includes a retaining lever 130 articulated on the main body 30 and separate from the closing body. The retaining lever 130 is movable between the open position for accessing the receiving compartment and the closed position in which it partially closes the receiving compartment. In this variant, the retaining lever is positioned between the main body 30 and the closing body and has characteristics generally similar to the embodiment shown in the figures except that it does not have a role as a cover for the beverage distribution head 18.

[0188] In the following, the second embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10. Only the elements that differ between the first and second embodiments will be described, the similar elements not being described again and bearing identical references to the first embodiment.

[0189] Figures 9 and 10 show a foaming device 228 according to the second embodiment of the invention.

[0190] The foaming device 228 includes a first body 230 forming a mixing element 232 overall similar to the first embodiment and comprising the hot water / steam inlet orifice 46, the main flow conduit 48, the milk supply conduit 90 and the air intake channel 92.

[0191] The mixing element 232 differs from the mixing element 42 in that it forms a partial contour of the mixing chamber 78 and not the entirety of the mixing chamber 78.

[0192] The foaming device 228 also includes a second body 234 movable relative to the first body 230. The second body 234 is hinged 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 hinge is positioned along a rear edge of an upper face of the first body 230.

[0193] The second body 234 forms the closing part and is movable between the open position and the closed position.

[0194] The second body 234 comprises a first portion 236, substantially horizontal in the operating position of the foaming device 228, 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 in the operating position of the foaming device 228, 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 distribution element 114.

[0195] In this second embodiment, the mixing chamber 78 and the frothed milk distribution 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.

[0196] Thus, when the second body is moved to the open position, the mixing chamber 78 and the frothed milk distribution element 114 are opened so that Their cleaning is made easier.

[0197] The additional ribs 144, 146 are adapted to exert a bearing force against the mixing chamber 78 and the foamed milk distribution element 114, respectively. 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 distribution element 114.

[0198] In this second embodiment, the gripping zones of the foaming device 228 are formed on the lateral walls of the foamed milk distribution element 114.

[0199] Of course, the present invention is in no way limited to the embodiment described and illustrated, which has been given only by way of example. Modifications remain possible, particularly with regard to the composition of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

Demands

1. Milk frothing device (28, 228) intended to cooperate with a beverage dispensing machine (10), the milk frothing device (28, 228) comprising: - a mixing element (42, 232) comprising: + a mixing part (44) defining a liquid inlet opening (74), a liquid outlet opening (76) and an access opening (80); + a hot water / steam inlet orifice (46) and a main flow conduit (48) connecting the hot water / steam inlet orifice (46) to the liquid inlet opening (74);- a closing part (96, 234) movable relative to the mixing element (42, 232) between a closed position in which the closing part (96, 234) closes the access opening (80) and the main flow conduit (48) and an open position in which the access opening (80) and the main flow conduit (48) are open and accessible to allow cleaning of the mixing part (44) and the main conduit (48); and - a milk supply conduit (90) connected to the main flow conduit, characterized in that the closing part (96, 234) is configured to be articulated with the mixing element (42) via a hinge defining a substantially horizontal axis of rotation.

2. Milk foaming device (28, 228) according to claim 1, characterized in that the milk foaming device is suitable for integration into a beverage dispensing head (18) of a beverage dispensing machine (10) comprising a hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20), the hot water / steam inlet orifice (46) being suitable for fluidly connecting to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20).

3. Milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the milk supply conduit (90) is adapted to be connected to a remote milk reservoir separate from the milk foaming device.

4. Milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the milk foaming device (28, 228) comprises a sealing gasket (110) arranged to a junction zone between the mixing element (42, 232) and the closing part (96, 234) and extending over the periphery of the mixing part (44) and the main flow conduit (48), the closing part (96, 234) being suitable to provide support on the sealing joint (110) when the closing part (96, 234) is in the closed position.

5. Milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the closing part (96, 234) comprises an air supply duct (98) adapted to be connected to the main flow duct (48) when the closing part (96, 234) is in the closed position, and an air flow control device (99) configured to regulate an air flow rate in the air supply duct (98).

6. Milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the milk foaming device (28, 228) comprises two side walls (56, 58) each defining a gripping zone (56A, 58A) of the foaming device.

7. Milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the milk foaming device (28, 228) comprises two side walls (56, 58) each provided with a lug (62, 64) for retaining the foaming device in a beverage dispensing head (18), the lugs (62, 64) being adapted to cooperate with a retaining device (130) for the foaming device in the beverage dispensing head (18).

8. Milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the foaming device (28, 228) comprises two side walls (56, 58) each provided with a guide element (66, 68) adapted to cooperate with a corresponding guide element (70, 72) located in a beverage distribution head (18) intended to receive the foaming device (28, 228).

9. Milk foaming device (28, 228) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the guiding elements (66, 68) are formed by side walls of the closing part and side walls of the mixing element (42, 232) while the closing part (96, 234) is in the closed position.

10. Milk foaming device (28, 228) according to any one of the re- previous claims, characterized in that the closing part (96, 234) includes a viewing window (97) intended to be opposite the mixing part (44) when the closing part (96, 234) is in the closed position.

11. Milk foaming device (28) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the closing part (96) forms a substantially flat cover suitable for covering the access opening (80) and the main flow conduit (48).

12. Milk foaming device (28) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the milk foaming device (28) comprises a foamed milk distribution element (114) adapted to be reversibly connected to the mixing element (42) and to be fluidly connected to the liquid outlet opening (76) when connected to the mixing element, and in that the foamed milk distribution element (114) advantageously comprises an inlet channel (116) and two outlet channels (118, 120) of foamed milk.

13. Milk foaming device (228) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the closing part (234) comprises a first substantially horizontal portion (236) forming a cover suitable for closing the access opening (80) and the main flow conduit (48) when the closing part (234) is in the closed position, and a substantially vertical portion (238) forming with the mixing element (232), when the closing part (234) is in the closed position, a mixing chamber (78) and advantageously a foamed milk distribution element (114).

14. Beverage dispensing machine (10) comprising a hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20) and a milk frothing device (28, 228), characterized in that the milk frothing device is according to any one of the preceding claims, and in that the hot water / steam inlet port (46) is suitable for being fluidly connected to the hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20).

15. Beverage dispensing machine (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the beverage dispensing machine (10) comprises a beverage dispensing head (18) including the hot water / steam dispensing outlet (20) and a receiving housing for the milk frothing device (28, 228).

Images