Automatically adjustable coffee machine and associated coffee bean container

Abstract

A coffee machine (200), a coffee bean container (100) and a system (10) comprising the coffee machine (200) and the coffee bean container (100) are described. The coffee bean container (100) has an identification element (130) which is read by the coffee machine (200) when the coffee bean container (100) is placed on the coffee machine (200). Based on the information read from the identification element (130), a parameter set is applied to the coffee machine and the coffee machine is individually adjusted to the placed coffee bean container.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present description relates to the technical field of machine preparation of coffee beverages, in particular the present description relates to a coffee machine, a coffee bean container (coffee bean hopper) for use with said coffee machine, and a system comprising the coffee machine and the coffee bean container. [Background technology]

[0002] Coffee beverages have been consumed for a long time. The general principle has always been basically the same: coffee beans are roasted, then the roasted coffee beans are ground into ground coffee, and then a liquid (usually hot water) is added to the ground coffee. In this final step, the liquid absorbs the flavor from the ground coffee and can be consumed as a coffee beverage.

[0003] There are a variety of manual and machine options for preparing coffee beverages. In particular, machines for preparing coffee beverages have become very popular.

[0004] Coffee machines can be designed according to different principles. Usually, a coffee machine comprises a reservoir for ground coffee. Hot water is then passed through the ground coffee and subsequently collected in a drinking vessel.

[0005] The ground coffee reservoir may be sized to hold ground coffee for one or multiple servings of coffee beverage. The ground coffee may be introduced into the reservoir in a ground state, or the coffee beans may be first ground just prior to brewing, and the resulting ground coffee then introduced into the reservoir. Liquid is then added to the ground coffee under pressure, or simply flows through the ground coffee without pressure under the influence of gravity. Other coffee machines are designed to hold preportioned ground coffee in various containers and provide hot water into these containers.

[0006] The basic difference between existing types of coffee machines is whether the roasted coffee beans are freshly ground before the brewing process or the ground coffee is already ground. Since ground coffee can lose flavor and aroma if left for a long time, for a high quality coffee beverage it may be advantageous and desirable to grind the coffee beans only immediately before the brewing process. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] It would be an object to simplify and make more flexible the process for producing coffee beverages, including the coffee bean grinding process, so that coffee beverages based on different coffee beans and with different settings of the coffee machine can be produced in any and varying sequences using one coffee machine without hassle.

[0008] This object is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Further embodiments emerge from the dependent claims and the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to a first aspect, a coffee machine is disclosed having a housing, a coffee bean container receiving device and a grinder. The coffee bean container receiving device is configured to receive a coffee bean container. The grinder is configured to grind coffee beans. The coffee bean container receiving device comprises a container holder and an actuator. The container holder is configured to receive a coffee bean container. The actuator is arranged and configured to move the closure device from an open state to a closed state and vice versa. The closure device is arranged on the container holder or the coffee bean container, the closure device being arranged to selectively close or open an inlet opening on the container holder or the coffee bean container. The actuator is further configured to move the closure device from the open state to the closed state after an adjustable period of time, thereby presetting an amount of coffee beans to be fed to the grinder. The coffee machine further comprises a detection device designed to detect and read an identification of the coffee bean container. The coffee machine is designed to set a period of time for the closure device to be moved from the open state to the closed state depending on the detected identification of the coffee bean container.

[0010] This design allows the coffee machine to regulate the amount of coffee beans required to make one serving of coffee. The coffee bean container is placed on or coupled to the inlet opening of the coffee bean container receiving device so that the coffee beans dropping from the coffee bean container are fed to the grinder. The closing device opens and closes the inlet opening. Since the period between the opening and closing of the inlet opening is constant, the amount of coffee beans dropped is predetermined by or influenced by that period. In other words, the amount of coffee beans passing through is determined by the length of time the inlet opening is open.

[0011] The closing device may for example be a flap or a slide, which is guided into the inlet opening by a translational or rotational movement, so that no more coffee beans enter the receiving space from the coffee bean container. The inlet opening may be arranged directly on the coffee bean container or on the container holder. It may be advantageous if the inlet opening together with the closing device is arranged directly on the coffee bean container. When the closing device is closed, the coffee bean container can be removed from the container holder without any more coffee beans falling from the coffee bean container towards the grinder or generally into the coffee machine.

[0012] The closure device can fully or only partially open the inlet opening (i.e. the opening through which the coffee beans are fed from the coffee bean container to the coffee machine, i.e. the grinder or the feeder to the grinder), i.e. the opening cross section of the inlet opening is adjustable. The size of the opening cross section can also influence the amount of coffee beans fed.

[0013] Typically, an actuator interacting with the closing device makes it possible to adjust the amount of coffee beans dispensed per dose. In addition to the time that the closing device is in the open position, the size of the opening cross section of the inlet opening may also be variable to determine the amount of coffee beans for the preparation of the coffee beverage.

[0014] The coffee machine has a detection device for detecting and reading the identification of a coffee bean container inserted in the container holder.

[0015] The identification indicia may be a contactless readable element (e.g. an RFID chip). Alternatively, the identification indicia may be an element that is read via one or more contact pins between the coffee bean container and the coffee machine. The identification indicia comprises, for example, identification data that allows the coffee machine to read out the identifier of the inserted coffee bean container. Alternatively or additionally, other values ​​may also be read from the identification indicia.

[0016] The coffee machine, e.g. a controller or control unit of the coffee machine, can be configured on the basis of the read-out identification or with the read-out value. For this purpose, for example, a value of the opening time of the closure device for the preparation of a coffee beverage can be stored in the identification. Alternatively, the coffee machine can include a memory, e.g. a so-called look-up table, which contains values ​​for setting the coffee machine for a specific identification value of the coffee bean container.

[0017] The operation of the coffee bean container identification and the reading of the identification are now described with reference to, for example, the opening time of the closing device. The same principle is applicable to several other parameters of the coffee machine. Some of these parameters may be, but are not limited to, the grinding degree of the grinder, the water pressure, the water temperature, the pressure curve. The coffee bean container identification is used to adjust the coffee machine to the coffee beans placed in the coffee bean container.

[0018] In one embodiment, the container holder encloses a receiving space for the coffee beans, and the actuator is further configured to act on the container holder to vary a size of the receiving space, and the actuator is further configured to bring the closure device to a closed state when the receiving space is filled with coffee beans and to feed the coffee beans from the receiving space to the grinder.

[0019] Generally, the size of the receiving space is a measure of the amount of coffee beans used in the grinding process. The duration for which the closing device is moved from the open state to the closed state is also a measure of the amount of coffee beans used in the grinding process. The mechanisms of variable size receiving space and adjustable duration for which the closing device is kept in the open state can alternatively and independently be implemented in the coffee machines described herein.

[0020] The receiving space is located in the flow direction of the coffee beans towards the grinder downstream of the closing device. Opening and closing of the closing device controls the point in time at which the coffee beans are fed into the receiving space.

[0021] By changing the size of the receiving space of the container holder, it is possible to determine how many coffee beans are released from the coffee bean container and used to make a dose of coffee. By changing the size of the receiving space of the container holder, it is not necessary to close the closing device after a certain break-in time to prevent too many coffee beans from entering the receiving space. Rather, the receiving space is adjusted accordingly and then completely filled with coffee beans. Thus, the ingress of coffee beans into the receiving space is automatically stopped when the receiving space is filled. Now the closing device is brought to a closed state and the coffee is ground to the correct dose. No more coffee beans can flow out of the coffee bean container.

[0022] This design has another advantage: several coffee bean containers with different coffee beans can be used in the same coffee machine. After a batch of coffee has been prepared, the closing device of the container holder is in the closed state and there are no more coffee beans in the receiving space. The coffee bean container is now removed from the coffee bean container receiving device and another coffee bean container can be used. As there are no beans from a previous operation in the coffee machine, a new operation can be started to make a batch of coffee with a different type of beans.

[0023] In coffee machines with grinders that freshly grind the ground coffee for a single dose of coffee as needed, it is generally not possible or customary to replace the coffee beans as long as there are still beans in the bean container. Thus, changing to a different coffee bean type is limited to when the bean container is empty. This problem is solved in that as many coffee beans as are needed to prepare a single dose of coffee are released from the coffee bean container into the receiving space. The coffee bean container is then separated from the receiving space by a closing device. The coffee bean container can be removed from the coffee bean container receiving device and the outlet opening of the coffee bean container can be closed, and another coffee bean container with a different type of coffee beans can be used. After the other coffee bean container has been inserted into the coffee bean container receiving device, the size of the coffee bean receiving space can be changed to use an appropriate amount of coffee beans for a desired coffee flavor or taking into account the characteristics of the coffee beans.

[0024] That is, the function of the coffee machine can be described as follows: the coffee machine is designed to prepare a coffee beverage on the basis of freshly ground coffee, the container holder with a variable receiving space holds the appropriate amount of coffee beans for one batch of coffee at a time and prevents any more coffee beans from entering the receiving space, and after the preparation of one batch of coffee, the same coffee bean type can be used for another batch of coffee or the coffee bean container can be replaced to prepare coffee with a different flavor. Thus, the coffee beverage can be prepared anew and the same coffee machine can be operated alternately with different types of coffee beans without mixing different types of beans in large proportions (e.g. apart from small amounts of residues from previous operations in the grinder or other components of the coffee machine, which have no discernible effect on the taste of the coffee). The grinder is designed so that after making the coffee beverage, no unground beans are usually left in the grinder.

[0025] The receiving space is defined or limited by an outer wall of the container holder (lateral boundaries), a part of the coffee machine (lower boundary) and a closure device (upper boundary). The closure device is connected to the container holder.

[0026] Once the actuator transitions the closure device to the closed state, the coffee beans can be ground: either the coffee beans are fed individually to the grinder, or the coffee beans are placed on the grinder and the grinder is simply activated.

[0027] The actuator may further be connected to a grinder in order to adjust the grinding degree of the ground coffee by adjusting the grinding discs. For example, the distance between the grinding discs of the grinder is changed. Grinding may be performed with a conventional disc or cone grinder. Other designs are possible, for example roller grinders or rotary piston grinders, in which the ground coffee is ground between an outer housing and an asynchronously rotating inner piston, whereby the asynchronously rotating piston can perform several grinding stages in one revolution.

[0028] A nozzle may be placed in the outlet volume to wet the coffee beans with a liquid. This can reduce or avoid static charging during the grinding process. In addition, liquid may be used at this stage before the grinding process to influence the flavor profile.

[0029] The coffee bean container may be configured in a particular way for use with the coffee machine described herein. For example, the coffee bean container has an outlet with a closure that opens when the coffee bean container is coupled to the coffee bean container receiving device and automatically closes when the coffee bean container is removed from the coffee bean container receiving device. This keeps the beans in the coffee bean container fresh for a long period of time and prevents excessive reaction with the ambient air.

[0030] Further properties and characteristics of the coffee bean container are presented and described herein.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the actuator is arranged and configured to translate the container holder relative to the housing of the coffee machine to vary the size of the receiving space. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator is configured to move a shell surface of the container holder to vary the size of the receiving space.

[0032] The actuators can be, for example, electric motors, stepper motors, servo motors, which move the container holder in and out relative to the housing of the coffee machine, thereby changing the receiving space, i.e. the internal space of the container holder. As a result, the amount of coffee beans that can be accommodated in the receiving space can be changed. This movement of the container holder can also, for example, be accompanied by a coffee bean container. Based on the above-mentioned boundaries of the receiving space by the coffee machine, the side walls of the container holder and the closing device, the size of the receiving space in this example is changed in that the upper boundary of the receiving space (the container holder together with the closing device) moves relative to the coffee machine, as a result of which the size of the receiving space is changed.

[0033] Alternatively or in addition to this translational movement, the shell surface of the vessel holder can be manipulated, for example by an unwinding or winding movement, in order to adjust the circumference of the vessel holder and thus the receiving space.

[0034] The vessel holder can be cylindrical or partially funnel-shaped. In the funnel shape, a change in the diameter of one opening (the smaller opening, the larger opening, or both openings) can be made to change the size of the receiving space. A cylindrical vessel holder can be moved along its central axis to change the length of the cylinder, which also changes the size of the receiving space.

[0035] It is conceivable to simply translate the vessel holder to change the size of the receiving space, a change in the shape or geometry of the vessel holder's shell surface may be made in addition to or instead of the translational movement.

[0036] For example, the actuator is connected to the container holder via at least one mechanical coupling element (a pressure or traction element such as a linkage or rope) and / or gears so that movement of the actuator can be transmitted to the container holder and / or the shell surface of the container holder.

[0037] According to a further embodiment, the coffee machine further comprises a receiving cup, which is movably connected to the container holder such that the receiving cup and the container holder can move relative to each other, and a receiving space for the coffee beans is defined by the receiving cup, the container holder and the closing device when in the closed state.

[0038] The container holder and the receiving cup are, for example, telescopically connected. The container holder can therefore move translationally relative to the receiving cup, thereby changing the receiving space. When the coffee beans enter the receiving space, the closing device is closed, preventing further coffee beans from flowing out of the coffee bean container, and the outlet opening of the receiving cup is opened, guiding the coffee beans from the receiving space to the grinder.

[0039] The receiving cup is optional and is not essential for determining the amount of coffee beans. If the dead space in the grinder and the volume of the container holder below the closing device are known, the receiving space can also be determined from the shape and / or position of the container holder, since the beans entering the receiving space are first accumulated below by the grinding discs of the grinder.

[0040] According to a further embodiment, the coffee machine further comprises a strainer and a tamper, the strainer being arranged to collect the ground coffee from the grinder and the tamper being arranged to apply a compressive force to the ground coffee in the strainer to provide a uniform surface, distribution and thickness of the ground coffee in the strainer.

[0041] The strainer may be positioned below the grinder such that the ground coffee falls directly into the strainer after grinding and is collected therein. Following the grinding process, the ground coffee is evenly distributed within the strainer by a tamper.

[0042] The tamper may include a plunger or plate and is pressed against the ground coffee in the strainer with a predetermined force. During the grinding process, the tamper is housed in a retracted position in the housing of the coffee machine. After the grinding process, the tamper is extended from the retracted position and moved over the strainer, where the tamper may be positioned over the ground coffee in the strainer with a predetermined force.

[0043] The coffee machine may have an actuator which causes movement of the tamper.

[0044] The function of the tamper may alternatively be realized by an impeller, which is disposed between the grinder and the sieve and rotates during the grinding process, dispersing the ground coffee in the strainer due to this rotation, and after the grinding process, the impeller is moved towards the strainer and seats on the ground coffee, dispersing it evenly in the strainer.

[0045] It is also conceivable that the ground coffee is mixed and evenly distributed by air turbulence after the grinding process and during the fall, however, alternatively or additionally vibrations can be applied to the strainer to achieve this.

[0046] According to a further embodiment, the coffee machine is designed to be selectively operated with one of a plurality of interchangeable coffee bean containers.

[0047] Basically, the coffee bean container placed in the container holder is in a closed state, i.e. the coffee beans do not fall into the grinder or the coffee machine. The coffee beans are released from the coffee bean container by opening the closing device only when necessary. The released amount of coffee beans is then used to prepare the coffee beverage, i.e. no coffee beans remain in the grinder or in the supply to the grinder. Between the preparation of two coffee beverages, the coffee bean container can be replaced and the newly inserted coffee bean container can contain different coffee beans (different varieties, different roast degrees, beans with generally different smell and taste profiles). However, it is guaranteed that beans from different coffee bean containers do not mix in the coffee machine.

[0048] For the detection device mentioned above, this can be an optical detection unit (e.g. a scanner) or a radio wave receiver (e.g. a so-called NFC or RFID receiver). The detection device detects either the optical identification or the electromagnetic identifier of the coffee bean container and sets the coffee machine parameters (e.g. the duration of the open state of the closing device or the size of the receiving space) for the coffee beans from the respective coffee bean container depending on the identifier. If the coffee bean container is replaced, the coffee machine adapts to the new coffee bean container.

[0049] For example, the detection device may read only one coffee bean container identifier and set the coffee machine parameters (size of the receiving space, water flow profile, water temperature, water pressure, etc., see also below) depending on this identifier (e.g. based on a table of set values).

[0050] The coffee bean container identifier may for example be a number, an alphanumeric string or any other character string that uniquely identifies the coffee bean container or the coffee beans placed in the coffee bean container and enables the coffee machine to apply coffee machine parameter settings for these coffee beans.

[0051] Alternatively, the coffee machine may be designed to read, via the detection device, a set of parameters for setting the coffee machine. This second approach has the advantage that a separate table with setting values ​​does not have to be kept available and the settings of the coffee machine can be specified entirely anew for each coffee bean container, regardless of whether an existing table with setting values ​​has an entry for the particular coffee bean container or not.

[0052] According to a further embodiment, the coffee machine further comprises a water tank comprising a housing and a piston movable therein, the piston being drivable by the actuator to move within the housing and upon or by such movement forcing fluid in the water tank out of the housing through the outlet opening.

[0053] The water tank is preferably designed to hold one brew or dose of water for a coffee beverage. The actuator moves a piston in the water tank, forcing the water out of the housing and through the ground coffee in the strainer. This prepares the coffee beverage. The actuator may produce a predefined movement or flow profile for the water. For example, a flow rate per dose may be specified, and the actuator moves the piston to achieve this flow rate.

[0054] The housing may further have a water inlet for refilling the water reservoir with water after the coffee beverage making process.

[0055] The piston can be electromechanically or hydraulically driven. The flow rate and amount of water passing through the ground coffee can be specified by the path of the piston or its movement over time. The movement or position of the piston can be sensed by one or more sensors, which can be located on the piston or on the actuator. The water pressure can be determined from the mechanical load of the piston, for which further sensors can be used. The mechanical load of the piston can be used as a manipulated variable of the pressure / flow profile, as described below.

[0056] According to a further embodiment, the coffee machine further comprises at least one heating element arranged in the water tank and configured to heat the fluid in the water tank to a predetermined temperature.

[0057] The heating element, in particular an electric heating element, is arranged, for example, in the wall of the housing. It is also possible to arrange the heating element in the water tank, but care must be taken that the heating element does not interfere with the movement of the piston.

[0058] According to a further embodiment, the coffee machine further comprises a first sensor and / or a second sensor, the first sensor configured to detect a fluid flow profile at the outlet opening of the housing of the water tank and the second sensor configured to detect a force exerted on the piston by the actuator.

[0059] The flow profile of the fluid pushed out of the reservoir makes it possible to draw conclusions about how the fluid passes through the ground coffee in the strainer. This conclusion is easily allowed, since the coffee machine has a closed fluid circuit. In any case, this flow profile detected by the first sensor can be compared with an expected flow profile. If the sensed flow profile deviates from the expected flow profile, the control unit varies the actuator and the force applied to the fluid to reach a target flow profile of the fluid passing through the ground coffee. The reason for monitoring the flow profile of the fluid is that the flow profile of the water passing through the ground coffee also influences the taste of the coffee beverage. Thus, if an appropriate flow profile (especially corresponding to the flow rate over time) is set, the taste of the coffee beverage can be improved.

[0060] A second sensor monitors the force applied to the piston, which corresponds to the water pressure. The value detected by this sensor can further be compared to a set value and the actuator can be controlled accordingly such that the water pressure corresponds to a pre-determinable set value (which may differ for each type of coffee bean or for each coffee beverage).

[0061] The coffee machine has a control unit connected to the sensors and detection devices and capable of receiving data from these sensors, which, based on the data received from the sensors and detection devices of the coffee bean container, sends commands to the actuators for setting the size of the receiving space (or the time period until the closing device is moved from the open state to the closed state, i.e. generally speaking, for setting the amount of coffee beans or ground coffee for one coffee beverage preparation process), sends commands to the grinder for setting the grinding level of the coffee beans, and sends commands to the water tank for setting the temperature, flow profile and water pressure.

[0062] The parameters described herein may also be referred to as brewing parameters. The brewing parameters include, on the one hand, the so-called brewing parameters, which refer to the immediate brewing process of the coffee beverage, and, on the other hand, the grinding amount and grinding degree of the ground coffee. For example, the amount of ground coffee used refers to the weight of the ground coffee, regardless of how its weight is adjusted, for example, by the size of the receiving space for the coffee beans before the grinding process, or the weight of the beans, or the period during which the closing device is open. The brewing parameters refer to the water temperature or temperature curve, the water flow profile (amount of water per time), and the water pressure profile (pressure curve over time) during the brewing process.

[0063] That is, the coffee machine is parameterized and set based on the identification of the coffee bean container, and the coffee machine is automatically adjusted to the parameters determined by the coffee bean manufacturer or supplier and recorded in the identification of the coffee bean container, eliminating the need for manual adjustment of the coffee machine, and thus achieving a consistent taste and an optimal extraction level (as a percentage of dissolved substances from the coffee beans) of the coffee beverage thus produced.

[0064] The control unit of the coffee machine can measure the above mentioned brewing parameters and record them for each individual brewing process. It is possible that certain brewing parameters deviate from the specifications during the brewing process. If the actual prevailing brewing parameters are measured (using the sensors mentioned herein), errors from the predefined brewing parameters can be detected. For example, the water flow and pressure profiles can deviate from the defaults. This may indicate that the water pressure is too high, which may then affect the extraction of flavors and thus lead to a lower quality coffee drink.

[0065] The control unit may be designed to compare the measured brewing parameters with predefined brewing parameters (specified by an identification element on the coffee bean container). In case of an error of a predefined threshold between the measured values ​​and the default values, the control unit may apply a correction value to the default values ​​in order to adjust the brewing parameters. Such an adjustment may also be made when the user initiates the adjustment by an input at the coffee machine.

[0066] In one embodiment, the coffee machine may be configured to record the water pressure profile during the brewing process according to a recipe. The recipe specifies, for example, a flow rate (amount of water per shot). The expected pressure profile during the brewing process is stored for this recipe and the specified flow rate. If the recorded pressure profile deviates from the expected pressure profile, this may indicate a need for adjustment of the specified brewing parameters. In the example shown here, the flow rate may be increased or decreased according to the recipe. This adjustment may be made by the control unit of the coffee machine if the control unit detects an error between the recorded and expected values.

[0067] In the recipe, for example, a flow rate may be specified and the pressure profile is measured and compared to an expected pressure profile. However, it is also conceivable that in the recipe, the pressure profile is predetermined and the flow rate is measured and compared to the expected flow rate. The expected pressure profile or expected flow rate from the recipe is a pre-defined value, for example based on experience or on taste feedback. The expected pressure profile or flow rate is of a magnitude that corresponds to a high quality coffee drink.

[0068] In one embodiment, the control unit may be designed to modify the brewing parameters depending on the measured pressure and / or flow profile.

[0069] In one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to modify the brewing parameters depending on the characteristics of the coffee beans.

[0070] Coffee bean characteristics in this sense include, for example, origin, roasting temperature, and / or flavor attributes, which are stored on an identification element. The identification element may, for example, include an identification value for the respective coffee bean characteristic.

[0071] The coffee machine may have, inter alia, an input / output unit or operating element that allows a person to interact with the coffee machine and to influence the brewing parameters. The operating element may for example be designed as a display that is attached to the housing of the coffee machine and has input functions. For example, the input may be made via switches, buttons or rotary knobs. Alternatively, the display may be designed as a touch-sensitive display that allows a person to input directly.

[0072] In this way, the quality of the coffee beverage can be improved by training the control unit on the brewing parameters and user inputs. For this purpose, the control unit uses the data collected by the machine for each brewing process (the brewing parameters mentioned above, in particular the flow profile and pressure profile, but also possibly the water volume and / or temperature profile, and optionally other preparation parameters such as grinding degree and coffee powder volume). Preferably, at least the maximum brewing pressure and / or the measured pressure and flow curves (flow and pressure profiles) of the brewing process are used as parameters for evaluating the brewing process. Furthermore, the temperature curve can be determined and used. The data of the brewing process are used to readjust the initial parameters and achieve an optimal brewing process with respect to the pressure and flow curves. In addition, if bean characteristics (such as origin and roasting temperature) are associated with the measured brewing parameters, new beans can be automatically adjusted to the best parameters by the control unit, for example by using the brewing parameters of the beans with the closest characteristics to the new beans.

[0073] The sensor data determined by the machine is the basis for training the control unit. The control unit may be designed to output a prediction of the flavor profile of the brewed coffee based on the growing conditions, growing region and planned processing of the coffee beans. Feedback from the user regarding the taste of the coffee can be used to relate bean characteristics to specific taste characteristics. An algorithm trained on this data can make a prediction about the taste of the coffee based solely on the bean characteristics (growing region, roasting temperature, etc.). The input parameters for this function are at least one bean characteristic (which may be read from the identification markings on the coffee bean container) and the required measurement parameter is the user input regarding taste.

[0074] The control unit can adapt existing recipes (i.e. preparation parameters) to the user's preferred taste. The control unit can also predict or recommend coffee beans or their origin or processing based on the user's taste profile. To do so, the control unit compares the user's taste input with the bean characteristics of the beans used and estimates in which direction the user has changed the taste with the input. This estimation allows the control unit to determine which beans have the appropriate flavor profile and recommend those beans. Following a similar mechanism, the control unit can recommend beans from a particular growing region or processing.

[0075] According to another aspect, an apparatus is disclosed comprising a plurality of coffee machines as described herein, the plurality of coffee machines being communicatively connected to a central unit, the coffee machines being able to transmit data to the central unit or receive data from the central unit, for example the coffee machines being connected to the central unit via a data network or data link.

[0076] A memory containing the recipes may be held in the central unit, each recipe containing the preparation parameters for a particular type of beans. In this way it is possible to provide the coffee machines with recipes centrally.

[0077] Conversely, it is also possible for the coffee machine to transmit the measurements (in particular the brewing parameters) recorded by the sensors and belonging to a particular bean type to the central unit. In this way, the central unit can evaluate whether the specified brewing parameters match the particular bean type. If it is determined that the specified brewing parameters cause undesirable behavior (incorrect flow profile or incorrect pressure curve), the recipe for the particular bean type can be modified and distributed to the coffee machine.

[0078] The central unit can adjust the brewing parameters in the same way as the local control units, whereby it uses measurements from the multiple coffee machines. The measurements recorded by the sensors of the multiple coffee machines are transmitted to the central unit. Then in the central unit the recorded measurements are compared with the expected values ​​of the respective parameters assigned to the recipe (water pressure profile or water flow rate). In case of a discrepancy between the measurements and the expected values, the corresponding recipe can be adjusted in the central unit and communicated to the coffee machines, so that in the adjusted recipe the measurements correspond to the expected values. The basic idea here is that the control unit in the coffee machine adjusts the manipulated variables as specified in the recipe (e.g. the water flow rate in the first case or the water pressure profile in the second case) and that the sensors in the coffee machine measure the test variables (e.g. the water pressure profile in the first case or the water flow rate in the second case). The measured test variables are compared with the expected values ​​of the test variables and in case of a discrepancy the recipe and its default manipulated variables are adjusted. This process can be carried out locally in each coffee machine using local measurements, or in a central unit using measurements of several coffee machines.

[0079] According to another aspect, a coffee bean container is disclosed. The coffee bean container comprises a housing, an outlet, and an identification element. The housing is configured to receive the coffee beans. The outlet is arranged to release the coffee beans from the housing. The identification element is machine readable and includes instructions for setting parameters of a coffee machine for preparing a coffee beverage with the coffee beans from the housing. The identification element is configured to pre-set a first parameter of the coffee machine, the first parameter being configured to instruct an actuator to move a closure device on a container holder or on the coffee bean container of the coffee machine from an open state to a closed state and vice versa, and to move the closure device from the open state to the closed state after an adjustable period of time, thereby pre-setting an amount of coffee beans to be fed to a grinder.

[0080] The coffee bean container is configured to interact with a coffee machine as described herein, the identification element being optically or electromagnetically readable as described in relation to the coffee machine, and the coffee bean container thus includes instructions for configuring the coffee machine to produce a coffee beverage using the coffee beans contained therein.

[0081] The identification element may be, as mentioned above, a character string, which acts as an identifier and enables the coffee machine to apply the setting parameters assigned to this string, or the identification element may include the setting parameters.

[0082] The outlet of the coffee bean container is configured to be coupled to a coffee bean container receiving device or container holder of a coffee machine.

[0083] According to a further embodiment, the coffee bean container further comprises a locking element arranged to releasably lock the outlet to a container holder of the coffee machine.

[0084] The locking element may for example be designed as a pin, a hook or an eye. The locking element interacts with a mating part on the container holder and serves to lock the coffee bean container to the container holder of the coffee machine. This locking can be performed and released without tools, for example by placing the coffee bean container on the container holder such that the locking element engages in a locking groove of the container holder. From this position the coffee bean container can be rotated or locked into a locked position.

[0085] According to a further embodiment, the coffee bean container further comprises a closure, the closure arranged to selectively open and close an outlet of the coffee bean container, the closure arranged to transition from a closed state to an open state when the coffee bean container is connected to a container holder of the coffee machine.

[0086] When the coffee bean container is not inserted in the coffee machine, the closure closes the housing and protects the coffee beans contained therein. When the coffee bean container is inserted in the coffee machine, the closure is moved into an open position, allowing the coffee beans to enter the receiving space of the container holder when the closing device of the container holder is also in the open state. When the coffee bean container is removed from the container holder, the closure of the coffee bean container is in the closed state. The closure can be designed, for example, as a central closure or a lamellar closure, the closure plate being pressed radially in front of the outlet opening of the coffee bean container to close the outlet opening. When the coffee bean container is inserted in the container holder of the coffee machine, the outlet opening of the coffee bean container is released by the closure opening during this insertion operation. In this state, the coffee beans cannot enter the receiving space. After the coffee bean container is inserted in the container holder, the coffee machine recognizes this and reads the identification of the coffee bean container. The coffee machine is then set according to the transferred parameters. A coffee beverage can thus be prepared. First, the closing device of the container holder is opened, coffee beans are placed into the receiving space and the receiving space is closed using the locking device, after which a coffee beverage is prepared as described above. Now the coffee bean container can be replaced (starting a new coffee machine setting procedure - typically parameters are applied to the coffee machine when the coffee bean container is inserted into the container holder) or another batch of coffee beverage can be prepared using the same coffee bean container.

[0087] According to a further aspect, a system for preparing a coffee beverage is disclosed, the system comprising one or more coffee bean containers as described herein and a coffee machine as described herein.

[0088] The system allows a coffee machine to be used for the new preparation of a coffee beverage based on freshly ground coffee beans with several different coffee bean containers (and different coffee beans or types of coffee beans placed therein), whereby the coffee bean containers can be selectively inserted and the coffee machine is parameterized according to parameterized specifications on the identification elements of the coffee bean containers.

[0089] In connection with coffee machines and systems in general, it is conceivable that a user of the coffee machine deviates from the predefined parameters for setting the coffee machine. The coffee machine sets these parameters, but the user can permanently or temporarily change the predefined parameters for a particular type of coffee, thus training (parameterizing) for example for a new type of coffee bean. To that end, the coffee machine may include a data memory that stores a user-specific parameterization for a particular identifier of the coffee bean container. When the coffee machine reads this identifier from the identification element, the parameters from the data memory may be directly applied. For this purpose, this data memory may optionally be arranged decentrally, in which case the data memory may be accessed via a data network. Such a central data memory may be updated from a central location, for example by centrally adapting the parameters to a particular coffee bean variety, for example by modifying existing parameters to a coffee bean variety or by providing a parameter set for a new coffee bean variety. The central data memory may be contacted and read each time the coffee machine parameters are adjusted in order to apply the read parameters in a distributed manner to the respective coffee machines, or the data memory may act as a source for distributing updated parameters to the coffee machines so that the parameters are retained in a distributed manner on the coffee machines after the update process.

[0090] Furthermore, the coffee bean container can be sealed with the container holder such that when the coffee bean container is inserted in the container holder the coffee beans are kept in as inert an atmosphere as possible. Naturally, the coffee bean container can be removed from the container holder after each preparation of a coffee beverage, whereby the closure closes the outlet opening of the coffee bean container and thus protects the coffee beans.

[0091] Several such systems can be connected to each other via a data network (e.g. via the Internet or a private data network) and transmit information about the parameters of the coffee machines to a central data repository, which allows alternative parameters for coffee bean types to be transmitted, allowing other users to use the same parameter set.

[0092] In the following, a coffee machine or parts thereof will be described according to further aspects, each of which includes several variants, and reference from one variant to another is to be understood as referring to the variants of the same aspect.

[0093] Aspect 2: Strainer for a coffee machine and coffee machine having a strainer

[0094] Initial variant of embodiment 2 (variant 0): A strainer for a coffee machine, for example a so-called portafilter machine, the strainer comprising a first coating arranged to provide thermal insulation between the strainer and a strainer support of the coffee machine.

[0095] The coffee machine of the initial variant of embodiment 2 may be a coffee machine as described herein. However, the coffee machine may also be a machine that does not have or only partially has other features as described herein. That is, such a strainer may be used in any portafilter machine for preparing hot beverages such as coffee drinks. For example, the grinder, the container holder with the associated actuator or the closing device on the coffee bean container, as well as the coffee bean container receiving device and the coffee bean container may be omitted for the functions described in embodiment 2. In embodiment 2, the detection device may also be omitted.

[0096] The strainer support is an element that holds or supports the strainer in its place.

[0097] Variant 1 of embodiment 2: A strainer of an earlier variant, wherein a first coating is disposed on an exterior surface of the strainer.

[0098] A strainer may generally be described as a vessel, for example having a substantially U-shaped exterior. The vessel has a base and an interior space, as well as a side wall. The base has an opening that allows the strainer to function. In the case of coffee beverage preparation, the strainer contains ground coffee and hot water is passed through the coffee. The hot water absorbs material from the ground coffee and flows into the vessel through the opening in the bottom of the strainer.

[0099] Variant 2 of Variant 2: A strainer of the earlier variant or variant 1, wherein the first coating covers or overlaps a portion or all of the outer surface of the strainer.

[0100] The strainer is typically held by a support, sometimes called a strainer support. The first coating is preferably disposed on the strainer such that the transfer of thermal energy from the strainer to the support is reduced.

[0101] It is conceivable that the first coating is disposed on the strainer such that the first coating on the outer surface is disposed only at those points or surfaces where the strainer is in contact (i.e., mechanical contact) with the support. As a result, the first coating ensures that the flow of thermal energy (i.e., thermal conduction) between the strainer and the support is reduced precisely at these points. Alternatively, the entire outer surface of the strainer may be coated with the insulating first coating.

[0102] The outer surface of the strainer is specifically the surface that runs along one or more side walls and / or shoulders of the strainer and faces away from the interior space of the strainer. The outer surfaces of the side walls and / or shoulders that hold the strainer on the support are usually at least partially in mechanical contact with the support. The insulating first coating at these locations ensures that the escape of thermal energy from the strainer to the support is reduced.

[0103] In one variant, the strainer may have a thermal insulation coating on the entire outer surface, i.e. where it is not in mechanical contact with a support or another element of the coffee machine. By insulating the strainer also in that part of its outer surface that is in contact only with the ambient air, the loss of thermal energy by convection may also be reduced. For example, the bottom surface of the strainer on the side facing away from the interior space may also be coated with said first coating.

[0104] The first coating on the entire or part of the outer surface of the strainer serves to reduce the dissipation of heat energy from the strainer. It is also contemplated that a ceramic coating may be applied to the inner surface of the strainer, preferably the entire inner surface.

[0105] The strainer may, for example, consist of a metal-based material provided with said first coating.

[0106] This has the advantage of improving the energy efficiency of the coffee machine without adversely affecting the quality of the prepared beverage. An important point for the quality of the prepared coffee beverage is, among other things, the temperature stability of the water during the preparation of the coffee beverage, especially while the water is in contact with the ground coffee. This temperature stability can be realized on the one hand by the high thermal mass of the strainer and the support in contact with the strainer, which are preheated to an appropriate temperature and kept at this temperature. In order to reduce the energy required to heat the strainer and the support, it is proposed in this aspect to thermally isolate the strainer from the support, thus reducing the energy required while maintaining a constant brewing temperature of the water. This insulation can be realized, for example, by a ceramic first coating of the strainer. This insulation reduces the thermal mass, which must have a constant temperature, to the thermal mass of the strainer. The support is thermally separated or isolated from the strainer.

[0107] Variant 3 of embodiment 2: The strainer of any of the previous variations of embodiment 2, wherein the first coating is a ceramic coating.

[0108] Ceramics are inorganic non-metallic materials that have low thermal conductivity combined with high mechanical strength. For example, aluminum oxide (Al2O3) can be used.

[0109] The thickness of the first coating can vary depending on the application and the expected temperature difference between the strainer and the support. For example, the first coating can be from a few tenths of a millimeter to a millimeter thick.

[0110] Variant 4 of Variant 2: The strainer of any of the preceding variations of Variant 2, further comprising a second coating covering or overlapping a portion or all of the inner surface of the screen.

[0111] The second coating is preferably non-sticky. This has the advantage that the ground coffee does not stick to the strainer or its inner surface after the preparation of the coffee drink, or comes off more easily from the inner surface. The second coating may contain or consist of a fluoropolymer, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). However, the second coating may also be a ceramic-based coating (i.e. containing or consisting of ceramic) and have a smooth surface, which also results in good anti-adhesion properties.

[0112] Variant 5 of aspect 2: A coffee machine having a strainer support and having a strainer according to any of the preceding variants of aspect 2.

[0113] The strainer is removable from the strainer support. When the strainer is removed from the strainer support, the interior space of the strainer can be filled with ground coffee. After the ground coffee has been prepared for the preparation of the coffee beverage, the strainer is inserted into the strainer support and the preparation process begins. For this variant, the strainer support means any holder for holding the strainer during the preparation process of the coffee beverage or other hot beverage.

[0114] Variant 6 of aspect 2: A coffee machine according to variant 5, wherein the retaining surface of the strainer support comprises a thermal insulating coating.

[0115] This thermal insulating coating may be of the same type as the coating on the outer surface of the strainer. The strainer support is preferably coated with said first coating at the surfaces in mechanical contact with the strainer. The strainer, in the inserted state, may contact the strainer support at one or more surfaces, or precisely at several points. At these contact points or surfaces, the strainer and optionally the strainer support are coated with a thermal insulating first coating. The first coating on the strainer and optionally on the strainer support reduces the heat flow from the strainer to the strainer support.

[0116] Aspect 3: Networked intelligent coffee machine

[0117] Initial variant of aspect 3 (variant 0): A coffee machine having a control unit and at least one sensor, the sensor being configured to detect brewing parameters during the preparation of a coffee beverage and transmit them to the control unit, the control unit being configured to modify a recipe for the preparation of the coffee beverage based on the detected brewing parameters.

[0118] Regarding the function of the control unit and the at least one sensor and the definition of the brewing parameters, reference is made to the above explanations, in particular the explanations regarding the manipulated variables and the test variables, and the adaptation of the recipe in case of an error between the measured and expected values ​​of the test variables. The coffee machine may comprise two or more sensors. The control unit is designed to modify the parameters included in the recipe for the preparation of the coffee beverage based on the detected brewing parameters, if the detected brewing parameters (e.g. flow profile, pressure curve, etc.) indicate a deterioration in the quality of the coffee beverage.

[0119] Variant 1 of aspect 3: A coffee machine of the earlier variant, comprising an input / output unit arranged to receive input from a user.

[0120] The user's inputs relate, for example, to taste parameters of the coffee drink to be prepared. The taste parameters are transmitted to a control unit, which is designed to use the taste parameters to modify the brewing parameters of the recipe.

[0121] Variant 2 of aspect 3: A coffee machine of any one of the preceding variants, further comprising an interface for establishing a connection to a data network, the coffee machine adapted to be communicatively connected to a central unit such that the coffee machine can transmit data to and / or receive data from the central unit.

[0122] For example, the interface may be designed to establish a wireless connection (e.g. WiFi, IEEE 802.11 protocol family) to an access point of a data network. However, the interface may also be designed for a wired connection (Ethernet or other standards). The coffee machine is usually indirectly connected to the central unit via this interface, i.e. the connection between the coffee machine and the central unit is established via an intermediate data network.

[0123] For variants of embodiment 3, see the corresponding explanations elsewhere in this document regarding sensors and brewing parameters. The brewing parameters specified in the recipe and measured by the sensors are also used in embodiment 3, as they are reproduced elsewhere in this document.

[0124] Variant 3 of aspect 3: An apparatus comprising a plurality of coffee machines of any one of the preceding variants and at least one central unit, wherein each of the plurality of coffee machines is connected to the central unit such that data can be exchanged at least in one direction between the respective coffee machine and the central unit.

[0125] It is conceivable that some coffee machines only transmit data in the direction of the central unit but do not receive data. Conversely, it is also conceivable that some coffee machines do not transmit data in the direction of the central unit but only receive or acquire data from the central unit. The data exchange between the coffee machine and the central unit may for example be a setting option specified by a user of the coffee machine. The data exchange between the coffee machine and the central unit may be based on a so-called push or pull mechanism, i.e. a data sink acquires data (pull) or a data source transmits data itself (push).

[0126] The input device of the coffee machine may be designed in such a way that the user can order accessories or coffee beans by means of the input device via a predefined input mask. For this purpose, the coffee machine may suggest to the user bean types that correspond to the taste profile preferred by this user.

[0127] In the central unit, the transmitted measured brewing parameters can be used to adjust the recipe for a particular bean type, which can be useful, for example, if it is determined that the specified brewing parameters for a recipe lead to an undesirable time curve of the measured brewing parameters.

[0128] In aspect 3, the coffee machine may be a coffee machine of any of the other aspects described herein. However, it may be a coffee machine with a different range of functions. For example, the grinder, the container holder with associated actuator or the closing device on the coffee bean container, the coffee bean container receiving device and the coffee bean container may be omitted for the functions described in aspect 3. Optionally, the detection device may be omitted if a recipe with predefined brewing parameters for the preparation of a coffee beverage is selected otherwise, for example via an input device.

[0129] In the following, the embodiments are explained in more detail using the attached drawings, in which the figures are schematic and not to scale, and in which the same reference signs refer to the same or similar elements, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0130] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for preparing a coffee beverage according to one embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a part of a coffee machine according to a further embodiment; [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a water tank for a coffee machine according to a further embodiment; [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a control unit and two sensors of a coffee machine according to a further embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a coffee machine having a strainer support and a coated strainer. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement of multiple coffee machines communicatively connected to a central unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0131] Fig. 1 shows a system 10 including a coffee bean container 100 and a coffee machine 200. The coffee bean container 100 comprises a housing 110, an outlet 120 having a closure 125 and a locking element 127, and an identification element 130. The coffee machine 200 comprises a housing 210, a control unit 220, a grinder 230, and a coffee bean container receiving device 240. Furthermore, the coffee machine 200 comprises a detection device 205. In this example, the detection device 205 is arranged in the housing 210. In particular, the detection device 205 is positioned to read the identification element 130 of the coffee bean container 100 when the coffee bean container 100 is coupled to the coffee bean container receiving device 240.

[0132] The grinder 230 comprises one or more grinding discs 232. Between the grinding discs 232 there is a free space 234 into which the coffee beans are inserted before the grinding process begins. The grinder 230 is adjustable via an actuator (e.g. via actuator 245) by varying the distance between the grinding discs 232.

[0133] The coffee bean container receiving device 240 includes a container holder 241 and a receiving cup 244. The container holder 241 is movable relative to the receiving cup 244, for example, by an actuator 245 that moves the container holder 241 up and down. This movement changes the size of a receiving space 246, which is the internal space of the container holder 241 and the receiving cup 244.

[0134] The container holder 241 has a locking groove 242. The coffee bean container 100 is placed on the container holder 241 by the outlet 120 such that the locking element 127 engages in the locking groove 242. The coffee bean container 100 is then rotated to the locking position. During this rotational movement, the closure 125 of the outlet 120 is opened to allow the coffee beans to enter from the coffee bean container 100 into the receiving space 246.

[0135] It is conceivable for the coffee bean container 100 that the housing 110 is rotatable with respect to the outlet 120, opening the closure 125 during this relative movement between the housing 110 and the outlet 120. When the coffee bean container 100 is coupled to the container holder 241, first a first rotational movement occurs that locks the locking element 127 in the locking groove 242. The housing 110 of the coffee bean container 100 can then be rotated in the same direction, during this subsequent rotational movement a part of the outlet 120 no longer rotates, this second movement opening the closure 125 of the outlet 120. However, the closure 125 can also be opened in other ways (for example by a lever or other opening element arranged on the housing 110). Removal of the coffee bean container 100 involves carrying out these steps in the reverse order. That is, first the housing 110 is rotated relative to the outlet 120 to close the outlet 120 with the closure 125, and then the locking element 127 in the locking groove 242 is released so that the coffee bean container 100 can be removed.

[0136] The container holder 241 comprises a closing device 243. The closing device 243 opens and closes the entrance to the receiving space 246. The closing device 243 is actuated by an actuator 245. The receiving space 246 is filled with an amount of coffee beans for preparing a dose of coffee beverage. For this purpose, the actuator 245 adjusts the size of the receiving space 246, in the example of FIG. 1, by moving the container holder 241 up and down. The closing device 243 is then moved, for example by a lateral sliding movement, so that the coffee beans enter the receiving space 246. The amount of coffee beans in the receiving space 246 is limited by the receiving space 246 being full. The closing device 243 is then moved to a closed position. The coffee beans are then fed from the receiving space 246 to the grinder 230, for example by opening the outlet opening 247 of the receiving cup 244. The outlet opening 247 can be selectively opened and closed by a closing device (not shown, similar to the closing device 243 at the entrance to the receiving space 246). With the closing device 243 in the closed position, no more coffee beans flow through the entrance opening 248 into the receiving space 246 or the grinder 230, and the coffee beans are distributed as specified for this brewing operation. Once all the coffee beans have been ground, the outlet opening 247 can be closed again and the process for making a coffee beverage can be repeated.

[0137] The receiving cup 244 may be omitted. In the absence of the receiving cup 244, the receiving space 246 of the container holder 241 is expanded by the free space 234 in the grinder 230. When the closing device 243 is opened, the coffee beans flow into the receiving space 246 and into the free space 234. If the free space 234 and its size are known, the size of the receiving space 246 can be adjusted by moving the container holder 241.

[0138] The coffee bean container 100 can be replaced before the next coffee beverage is produced. If a coffee bean container 100 containing a different coffee bean type is used, the coffee machine 200 detects the identification element 130 of the new coffee bean container 100 by means of the detection device 205 and sets the coffee machine to the new coffee bean type.

[0139] In summary, Fig. 1 illustrates a coffee machine 200, a coffee bean container 100 and a system 10 comprising the coffee machine 200 and the coffee bean container 100. The coffee bean container 100 comprises an identification element 130 which is read by the coffee machine 200 when the coffee bean container 100 is placed on the coffee machine 200. Based on the information read from the identification element 130, a set of parameters (so-called preparation parameters) is applied to the coffee machine, which is set individually for the placed coffee bean container. Various actuators are provided which allow setting the following parameters: amount of coffee beans (by setting the size of the receiving space with a corresponding actuator), degree of grinding (by setting the grinder), flow profile, pressure, amount of water (by controlling the actuator of the water tank), water temperature (by controlling a heating element on the water tank). The settings are applied by the control unit 220 of the coffee machine by sending corresponding setting commands from the control unit 220 to the respective actuators or heating elements.

[0140] 1 shows a container holder 241 with a closing device 243, which may also be part of the coffee bean container. The closing device may be a flap or a slider at the outlet opening of the coffee bean container. An actuator of the coffee machine, including a lever or a linkage, can act on the closing device and thereby release said opening of the coffee bean container so that the coffee beans fall by gravity from the coffee bean container into the grinder or into the feed to the grinder.

[0141] The design of the coffee bean container 100 and the coffee machine 200 described here is particularly characterized in that the coffee bean container 100 can be replaced after each preparation process of a batch of coffee beverage and that no unground coffee beans of the previous coffee bean type are present in the grinder. The coffee machine 200 prepares a coffee beverage on the basis of freshly ground coffee and allows for further changes of the coffee bean type after each production process of a batch of coffee beverage.

[0142] The control unit 220 may be a program controller connected to the detection device 205 and to the actuator 245. The control unit 220 receives information about the identification 130 of the coffee bean container 100 from the detection device 205 and, based on this information, generates control commands instructing the actuator 245 to adjust the coffee machine 200 accordingly.

[0143] The actuator 245 is shown by way of example only. It is to be understood that the coffee machine may include one or more actuators 245 arranged to set parameters of the coffee machine or to perform functions: moving the closing device 243 from open to closed and vice versa (the same function is performed to open or close the outlet opening 247), adjusting the grinding degree of the grinder 230, changing the size of the receiving space 246. Further functions (i.e. dispersing and compressing the ground coffee in the strainer, pouring water from the water tank, heating the water in the water tank) will be explained with reference to the following figures but are mentioned here only for completeness.

[0144] The control unit 220 is configured to command one or more actuators to perform the above-mentioned functions and to adjust the coffee machine as specified according to the specifications corresponding to the identification of the coffee bean container.

[0145] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a coffee machine 200 having a housing 210, a grinder 230, a tamper 250, and a strainer 260. When coffee beans are ground in the grinder 230, the resulting ground coffee falls into the strainer 260. In this state, the ground coffee may be unevenly distributed in the strainer. Here, the tamper 250 is used to uniformly distribute and compress the ground coffee in the strainer. The tamper 250 may be positioned in a recess in the housing 210 during the grinding process, and extends from the recess back to a position above the strainer 260 when the grinding process is completed. The tamper 260 may be a flat piston or an impeller. The tamper 260 applies force to the ground coffee placed in the strainer 270 to disperse the ground coffee. Here, a heated fluid (e.g., water) is passed through the ground coffee in the strainer 260.

[0146] 3 shows a water tank 270 having a housing 271 in which water 276 is stored. A piston 273 is disposed within the housing and may be moved within the housing by an actuator 275 and a rod 274. As the piston 273 moves within the housing 271, the water 276 is forced out through an outlet opening 277. A hose or pipe (not shown) is disposed within the outlet opening 277 to deliver the water to the ground coffee in the strainer 260 (see FIG. 2).

[0147] The actuator 275 is further controlled by the control unit 220 to produce a desired flow profile and water pressure of the water 276 through the outlet opening 277. The water flow profile and water pressure are determined by the identification of the coffee bean container used.

[0148] A heating element 272 is disposed in the water reservoir 270 to bring the water 276 to a desired temperature, which may also be dictated by the identification of the coffee bean container being used.

[0149] For example, the water tank 270 has a water holding capacity for making one serving of a coffee drink. After the production process, the piston 273 is pulled away from the outlet opening 277 by the actuator 275. At this point, fresh water is introduced into the water tank 270 via an inlet opening (not shown separately), for example located in the wall of the housing 271.

[0150] 4 shows the control unit 220 and its associated first and second sensors 280 and 290. The first sensor 280 may be located on the coffee machine 200 to sense the flow profile of the water expelled from the water tank 270. The second sensor 290 may be located on the piston 273 or the actuator 275 to sense the movement or resistance of the piston 273 or the actuator 275, respectively.

[0151] Both the water flow profile and the resistance to the movement of the piston 273 or actuator 275 can be used by the control unit 220 to determine how the water flows through the ground coffee contained in the strainer 260. The water flow profile and the water pressure affect the taste of the coffee beverage. Both the water flow profile and the water pressure can be predefined for a particular coffee bean container 100 via the identification element 130 on the coffee bean container 100. If the flow profile and / or the water pressure deviate from these specifications, the control unit 220 can control the actuator 275 in the water tank 270 such that these values ​​comply with the specifications.

[0152] FIG. 5 shows a coffee machine 200A. This may be a coffee machine of the previous embodiment or a coffee machine that does not implement, or only partially implements, the features described in FIGS. 1 to 4. The coffee machine 200A comprises a support 252. The support 252 has an opening configured to receive a strainer 260 to allow the preparation of a coffee drink. In the state shown in FIG. 5, the strainer 160 is placed in the support 252. In this state, heated water or hot water is passed through ground coffee (not shown) placed in the internal space 262. The water leaves the internal space 262 through an opening (not shown) located in the bottom surface of the strainer 260 (not shown).

[0153] Strainer 260 has a substantially U-shaped profile with a bottom surface 261, one or more side walls 265, and one or more shoulders 266. Side walls 265 form an interior space 262 with bottom surface 261. Shoulder 266 rests on support 252 when inserted to hold strainer 260 in place.

[0154] In the example shown in FIG. 5, various surfaces of strainer 260 abut against support 252. To reduce the amount of heat energy transferred from the strainer to the support, exterior surface 263 of sidewall 265 is coated with a first coating 264. First coating 264 is configured to be thermally insulating. For example, first coating 264 is disposed on the exterior surface of the sidewall and on the underside of the shoulder. Generally speaking, first coating 264 is disposed at the interface or point of contact between strainer 260 and support 252.

[0155] The inner surface 267 of the screen 260 is coated with a second coating 268. The second coating serves to prevent or reduce the degree of adhesion of ground coffee after the coffee beverage preparation process. The second coating 267 is, for example, arranged on the inner surface of the side wall 265 and on the bottom surface 261, and in particular extends over the entire inner surface of the strainer 260. The second coating 267 may extend up to the surface of the shoulder 266.

[0156] Fig. 6 shows an apparatus 1 with a plurality of coffee machines 200B and a central unit 5. The coffee machines 200B are communicatively connected to the central unit 5 via a data network or data link, so that data can be exchanged bidirectionally between the individual coffee machines and the central unit. For example, the coffee machines at home may be wirelessly or wired connected to an access node to the Internet (or another data network). The Internet (or other data network) establishes a connection to the remotely located central unit 5. The central unit 5 may provide information such as new recipes or changes to existing recipes to selected individual coffee machines or to all coffee machines.

[0157] The central unit 5 may for example be designed as a computer or computer device having sufficient computing power and transmission capacity to handle the connection to a large number of coffee machines.

[0158] Each coffee machine 200B has a control unit 220 which, on the one hand, applies preparation parameters for the coffee beverage and, on the other hand, receives measurement values ​​from a number of sensors distributed in the coffee machine (e.g. the first sensor 280 and the second sensor 290 as well as further sensors described herein), which measurement values ​​relate in particular to the brewing parameters. In addition, each coffee machine 200B includes an input / output unit or operating element 225, through which a user of the coffee machine can provide taste inputs for the coffee beverage to be prepared. The control unit 220 receives both the measurement values ​​and the taste sensor inputs and transmits them to the central unit 5.

[0159] The central unit 5 may further be configured to provide the coffee machine with preparation parameters based on the read-out identification element 130 of the coffee bean container. For example, when the coffee bean container 100 is inserted in the coffee machine 200B and the identification element is read, the coffee machine can retrieve from the central unit 5 a recipe comprising the preparation parameters belonging to this identification element. This means that the recipe does not have to be stored locally on the identification element or in the coffee machine. If the recipe is stored centrally and retrieved as needed, recipe modifications will reach the individual coffee machines at an early stage. For example, the recipe can be retrieved from the central unit by the coffee machine whenever a coffee bean container is newly inserted in said coffee machine or is replaced. It is conceivable that the coffee machine has a memory that holds a fixed or variable number of the most recently used recipes, whereby the recipes stored in this memory are, for example, time-stamped and deleted after a predefined period of time. However, if storage space for the most recently used recipes is required, the recipes can also be deleted from the memory.

[0160] Furthermore, it should be noted that "comprising" or "consisting" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "one" or "a" does not exclude a plurality. It should be further noted that features or steps described in relation to any of the above embodiments may also be used in combination with other features or steps of the other above embodiments. Reference signs in the claims are not to be considered as limiting. [Explanation of symbols]

[0161] 1 device 5 Central Unit 10. System 100 Coffee Bean Containers 110 Housing 120 Exit 125 Closure 127 Locking element 130 Identification elements 200 Coffee Machine 205 Detection Device 210 Housing 220 Control Unit 225 Input / Output Units, Operating Elements 230 Grinder 232 Grinding Disc 234 Free Space 240 Coffee bean container receiving device 241 Container Holder 242 Locking groove 243 Closure device 244 Receiving Cup 245 Actuator 246 Reception Space 247 Exit opening 248 Inlet opening 250 Tamper 252 Support 260 Strainer 261 Bottom 262 Interior Space 263 External surface 264 First Coating 265 side wall 266 Shoulder 267 Inside 268 Second Coating 270 Water Tank 271 Housing 272 Heating Element 273 Piston 274 Rod 275 Actuator 276 Water 277 Exit opening 280 First Sensor 290 Second Sensor

Claims

1. A housing (210); a coffee bean container receiving device (240) configured to receive a coffee bean container (100); A grinder (230) for grinding coffee beans; A coffee machine (200) comprising: The coffee bean container receiving device (240) comprises: a container holder (241) configured to receive said coffee bean container (100); an actuator (245) arranged and configured to move a closure device (243) on said container holder (241) or said coffee bean container (100) from an open state to a closed state and vice versa, said closure device (243) configured to selectively close or open an inlet opening (248) on said container holder (241) or said coffee bean container (100), said actuator (245) is configured to move said closing device (243) from said open state to said closed state after an adjustable period of time, thereby presetting an amount of coffee beans to be dispensed to said grinder (230); The coffee machine (200) further comprises a detection device (205) configured to detect and read an identification (130) of the coffee bean container (100), The coffee machine (200) is configured to adjust a time period during which the closure device is moved from an open state to a closed state depending on a detected identification of the coffee bean container (100).

2. said container holder (241) encloses a receiving space (246) for coffee beans, The actuator (245) is further arranged to act on the container holder (241) to change the size of the receiving space (246); 2. The coffee machine (200) of claim 1, wherein the actuator (245) is configured to transition the closing device (243) to a closed state and supply coffee beans from the receiving space (246) to the grinder (230) when the receiving space (246) is filled with coffee beans.

3. the actuator (245) is arranged to translate the container holder (241) relative to the housing (210) of the coffee machine (200) to vary the size of the receiving space (246); and / or Coffee machine (200) according to claim 2, wherein the actuator (245) is arranged to move a shell surface of the container holder (241) to vary the size of the receiving space (246).

4. Further comprising a receiving cup (244); The receiving cup (244) is movably connected to the container holder (241); Coffee machine (200) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the receiving space (246) for coffee beans is defined by the receiving cup (244), the container holder (241) and the closing device (243) in the closed state.

5. Further comprising a strainer (260) and a tamper (250); the strainer is positioned to collect ground coffee from the grinder (230); 5. The coffee machine (200) of claim 1, wherein the tamper (250) is configured to apply a compressive force to the ground coffee in the strainer to provide a uniform surface and thickness of the ground coffee in the strainer.

6. The coffee machine (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the coffee machine (200) is configured to be selectively operated with one coffee bean container (100) of a plurality of exchangeable coffee bean containers (100).

7. Further comprising a water tank (270); Coffee machine (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the water tank (270) comprises a housing (271) and a piston (273) movable therein, the piston (273) being drivable by an actuator (275) to move within the housing (271) and to push a fluid (276) within the housing (271) out of the housing (271) through an outlet opening (277).

8. 8. The coffee machine (200) of claim 7, further comprising at least one heating element (272) disposed in the water tank and configured to heat a fluid in the water tank to a predetermined temperature.

9. Further comprising a first sensor (280) and / or a second sensor (290); the first sensor (280) is configured to detect a flow profile of the fluid (276) at the outlet opening (247) of the housing (271) of the water tank (270); Coffee machine (200) according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the second sensor (290) is configured to sense a force exerted on the piston (273) by the actuator (275).

10. a housing (110) for holding coffee beans; an outlet (120) for discharging coffee beans from said housing (110); a machine-readable identification element (130) containing instructions for setting parameters of a coffee machine for preparing a coffee beverage with coffee beans from said housing; A coffee bean container (100) comprising: The coffee bean container (100), wherein the identification element (130) is configured to specify a first parameter of the coffee machine, the first parameter being configured to command an actuator (245) to move a closure device (243) on a container holder (241) of the coffee machine or on the coffee bean container (100) from an open state to a closed state and vice versa, and to move the closure device (243) from the open state to the closed state after an adjustable period of time, thereby specifying an amount of coffee beans to be supplied to a grinder.

11. Coffee bean container (100) according to claim 10, further comprising a locking element (127) arranged to releasably lock the outlet (120) to a container holder (241) of the coffee machine (200).

12. Further comprising a closure (125); the closure (125) is arranged to selectively open and close the outlet (120) of the coffee bean container (100); Coffee bean container (100) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the closure (125) is arranged to transition from a closed state to an open state when the coffee bean container (100) is connected to a container holder (241) of a coffee machine (200).

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