AUTOMATIC MACHINE FOR PREPARING INJECTION BEVERAGES AND METHOD FOR CLEANING SUCH AUTOMATIC MACHINE - Patent application

Abstract

An automated machine for preparing infused beverages is disclosed, comprising a housing (1) and a pouring container (3) inserted or insertable into the housing (1). The pouring container (3) has a lower inner surface (31) and a lateral inner surface (32) which define an interior space (33) for receiving pouring material and water and an outlet opening (34). An outlet conduit (26) is connected or connectable to the outlet opening (34) for discharging the infused beverage from the pouring container (3). An outlet valve (26) allows for opening and closing the discharge of the infused beverage through the outlet conduit (26). The automated machine also comprises an inlet device (4) for admitting liquid into the pouring container (3), the inlet device being configured such that the liquid flows uniformly into the interior (33) of the pouring container (3) and across the lateral inner surface (32). A method for automated cleaning of a pouring container used for preparing infused beverages is also provided.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic machine for preparing infused beverages. The machine is used in particular for preparing infused beverages such as tea. Furthermore, a method for automatic cleaning of infused containers used in the preparation of infused beverages is disclosed. [Background technology]

[0002] Typically, a cup of tea is prepared by placing a tea bag or tea powder in a strainer container with hot water or pouring hot water over it, and after a certain amount of infusion time, the tea is ready and can be consumed as a beverage. Very often, more water is heated than is actually needed for a cup of tea, and the preparation of tea is often laborious, so this preparation usually consumes an unnecessary amount of electrical energy. First, water must be heated in a container, then the heated water must be added to the tea, usually in a tea bag, and then it must be added to a boiling container, and when the tea is ready, the tea bag must be removed from the boiling container. Only then can the tea be enjoyed as a beverage.

[0003] There are also automatic tea makers. These heat water to the boiling point in a vessel and the resulting steam passes through a steeping vessel in which the tea is placed in a permeable capsule. This type of tea preparation differs from the classical preparation in that it barely has time to infuse the tea and transfers it directly to the beverage receiver as a beverage. This automatic preparation does not fall under the "classical tea leaf preparation method" since it gives the tea almost no time to infuse or steep. As a result, a loss of taste must be accepted. Due to the heating and the subsequent necessary evaporation of the water, this type also consumes an unnecessary amount of electrical energy. In contrast, in the classical tea preparation method, the water is usually not heated all the way to the boiling point, which has proven to be clearly advantageous not only in terms of energy consumption but also in terms of aroma development.

[0004] For example, US Pat. No. 5,399,633 discloses a tea machine in which heated water is introduced into an upper container where it comes into contact with tea or coffee, which is retained in a filter inserted into the upper container from above. After a certain time, the infusion thus prepared passes through an outlet line into the lower container where it is kept warm.

[0005] Other universal machines for preparing infused beverages are disclosed, for example, in the documents US Pat. No. 5,399,663, US Pat. No. 5,433,366, US Pat. No. 5,433,366, US Pat. No. 5,433,366 and US Pat. No. 5,433,366. In US Pat. No. 5,433,663, a brewing device for hot beverages is shown, which comprises a rotatable distribution element for distributing water on the surface of the beverage arranged in a filter holder. In US Pat. No. 5,433,663, a manifold is shown for introducing hot water at several points on the surface of the coffee grounds placed in a filter in order to achieve an optimal extraction for a high-quality coffee beverage. In US Pat. No. 5,433,663, a brewing device is shown which can be used alternately for tea or coffee. The different brewing processes of these two types of hot beverages are taken into account by the additional use of a coffee receiving vessel containing a coffee filter and a tea receiving vessel containing a tea filter. In particular, for the preparation of tea, an additional valve is provided, which closes the outlet opening depending on the desired brewing time of the tea. The hot water can be supplied to the coffee grounds in the coffee receiving vessel or, via several inlet openings, to the tea bags or tea leaves in the tea receiving vessel. In addition, in US Pat. No. 5,433,663, a tubular liquid distributor for distributing hot water to a granular infusion material for brewing a hot beverage is disclosed. To better distribute the hot water to the pouring material, the tubular liquid distributor includes a number of openings arranged at an angle to the vertical.

[0006] US Pat. No. 5,399,633, by the same inventor, discloses another general purpose automatic machine for preparing infused beverages.

[0007] In the case of automatic machines for preparing infused beverages, the infusion vessel in which the tea or herbs are infused and the corresponding beverage is prepared must be cleaned regularly. This task is tedious and often forgotten, so that over time stubborn deposits often form on the inner surface of the infusion vessel. Such deposits are difficult to remove manually, requiring considerable effort, and are particularly frustrating when using different types of tea or herbs, as they distort the taste of the prepared beverage. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 1808110 [Patent Document 2] WO 99 / 34716 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 6,964,222 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 7,717,026 [Patent Document 5] US Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 017380 [Patent Document 6] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 182063 [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent No. 9,820,607 [Patent Document 8] International Publication No. 2016 / 041835 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide an automatic machine for preparing infused beverages that is user-friendly, in which the above-mentioned cleaning problems are alleviated. In particular, the object of the present invention is to make it possible to clean the infusion container before, during or after the preparation of the infused beverage without removing the infusion container for cleaning and without using cleaning agents. Thus, cleaning of the infusion container can already take place while the brewing material is still in the retaining sieve. To solve this problem, an automatic machine for preparing infused beverages is proposed as indicated in claim 1. Furthermore, claim 16 discloses a method for automatically cleaning the infusion containers that are used for the preparation of infused beverages. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are indicated in the dependent claims.

[0010] The present invention therefore provides an automatic machine for preparing an infused beverage comprising a housing, an infusion container having a lower inner surface and a side inner surface inserted or insertable into the housing and defining an internal space for receiving infusion material and water, and an outlet opening, an outlet conduit connected or connectable to the outlet opening for discharging the infused beverage from the infusion container, and an outlet valve for blocking and unblocking the discharge of the infused beverage through the outlet conduit.

[0011] The automatic machine also has an inlet device for introducing a liquid, in particular water, into the inlet container, which inlet device is configured in such a way that the liquid flows uniformly into the interior space of the inlet container over the inner lateral surface. By making the liquid flow uniformly over the inner lateral surface of the inlet container, the inlet device removes in a very simple but efficient way residues and sediments of previously used infusion material from the inner surface of the inlet container. For example, the liquid can be introduced into the inlet container through the inlet device immediately after the preparation of the infused beverage with a cleaning step specially provided for this purpose. In particular, such a cleaning step can be provided to be carried out in each case before the automatic machine is switched off. The liquid is for example a cleaning liquid or drinking water. Alternatively or additionally, the water used to prepare the beverage can be introduced into the inlet container through the inlet device and via the inner lateral surface of the inlet container. In this way, self-cleaning is already performed during the preparation of the beverage, minimizing water and energy consumption.

[0012] A uniform inflow of liquid over the inner lateral surface of the infusion container means that the liquid introduced into the infusion container covers a large part of the part of the inner lateral surface of the infusion container that comes into contact with the infusion material and / or the infused beverage during beverage preparation. Preferably, during the process, a circulating liquid film is formed, so that the inner lateral surface is circulatorily soiled, cleaned from deposits etc. Advantageously, this liquid film covers a large part of the inner lateral surface, and even more advantageously, the entire inner lateral surface. In particular, the inlet device comprises at least one inlet opening aligned with the inner lateral surface such that in the operating state, the liquid flowing from the inlet opening to the inner lateral surface can wet the inner lateral surface before entering the interior space of the infusion container.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the inlet device comprises a single inlet opening. According to one embodiment, the inlet device comprises a plurality of inlet openings which are operable one after the other.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the inner lateral surface has a wettability with the liquid ranging from 60% to 100%. Preferably, the inner lateral surface has a wettability with the liquid ranging from 70% to 100%.

[0015] In particular, the lateral inner surface is wetted in such a way that the entire lateral inner surface can be covered with liquid at the same time, i.e. the lateral inner surface is wetted with liquid at the same time. For example, if the lateral inner surface is configured as a cylinder jacket, the entire cylinder jacket is wetted at the same time. In this way, the lateral inner surface can be cleaned particularly quickly and thoroughly. Furthermore, the lower inner surface can also be covered with liquid at the same time.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the housing includes a plurality of inlet devices.

[0017] Preferably, the inlet device is also configured to allow the liquid to flow uniformly over the lower inner surface into the interior of the inlet vessel, advantageously forming a liquid film covering a large part, and more preferably the entire, of the lower inner surface of the inlet vessel.

[0018] The lower inner surface of the pouring container preferably has a circular or elliptical outer contour, but this is not necessarily the case. The side inner surface is preferably cylindrical or elliptical cylindrical, but this is not necessarily the case. In the latter case, the side inner surface is elliptical in cross section. In a pouring container of this shape, dirt adheres less to the inner surface. It is also easier to clean.

[0019] The outlet opening is preferably located at the lowest point or at one of the lowest points of the pouring container along the direction of gravity, so that the finished poured beverage can easily flow out of the pouring container. Preferably, the pouring container has no further opening at the bottom, so that the poured beverage can flow out exclusively through the outlet opening when the pouring container is inserted into the housing as intended.

[0020] The dosing container preferably has a connecting piece which forms the outlet opening. The connecting piece, which advantageously projects downwards from the dosing container, is preferably used to connect the outlet conduit thereto. The outlet conduit can in particular be formed by a flexible hose. Alternatively, the connecting piece itself can form the outlet line or the outlet line can be firmly attached in the form of a flexible hose directly to the dosing container in the vicinity of the outlet opening.

[0021] The outlet valve is configured to retain water within the infusion container during preparation of the infused beverage or to expel water from the infusion container once preparation is complete, and can thus be used to block or unblock the outlet conduit.

[0022] The material to be infused is in particular tea or herbs. For example, in the case of tea, it can be introduced into the infusion container in the form of tea powder or tea bags and infused with water. Depending on the type of tea, the water preferably has a corresponding temperature. For example, the water can also be cooled, for example when making iced tea. However, the application of the automatic machine is not essentially limited to tea and herbs. For example, any fruit can be infused, and more generally plants and plant parts. For example, pieces of ginger, peppermint leaves, lemon or orange slices, and any combination thereof can be placed in the infusion container and infused with hot or cold water. The machine can also be used for the preparation of syrup drinks. In this case, concentrated syrup forms the infusion material. It is also conceivable to use coffee as the infusion material.

[0023] For preparation, the infusion material is placed in the infusion container in any form, for example in powder or in a bag. A preparation program set by the user or selected automatically is then started. In some embodiments, the user can select and / or set the preparation program directly on the automatic machine or remotely via a smartphone. During preparation, preferably pre-temperature-controlled water is introduced into the infusion container and the infusion material is boiled accordingly.

[0024] Alternatively, the water can be temperature-regulated in the pouring container. By selecting the preparation program, for example the amount of water required, the pouring temperature of the water, the preparation time or the pouring time are determined. After the automatic machine has completed the selected preparation program, the pre-prepared poured beverage is preferably dispensed fully automatically into a suitable beverage container. Advantageously, the user does not have to worry about the preparation or serving of the poured beverage, once he or she has placed the poured beverage in the automatic machine and started the program. After preparation, the poured beverage is ready to drink in the cup. The automatic machine can be configured to acoustically and / or visually signal the end of the preparation.

[0025] In particular, certain automatic machines have the advantage that they consume minimal electrical energy and are easy to handle, thus making the preparation easier for the user and also time-optimized. At the same time, the automatic machine is capable of providing an infused beverage, in particular a tea beverage, in the same high quality as if it had been infused or, in the case of a tea beverage, extracted in the classical way. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the automatic machine can be operated remotely from anywhere.

[0026] Preferably, the automatic machine comprises a holder for the pouring material, which is configured to be placed inside the pouring container and serves to hold the pouring material during pouring. Particularly preferably, the holder is configured such that during pouring, both the pouring material and the holder itself are placed at a distance from the lower and lateral inner surfaces of the pouring container. That is to say, the holder is preferably configured to be placed exclusively during intended use in the interior space of the pouring container, such that both the pouring material held therein and the holder itself are placed at a distance from the lower and lateral inner surfaces of the pouring container. Such a configuration of the pouring container has the great advantage that, for example, during cleaning or draining of the poured beverage, residues of the pouring material and other particles can flow down unhindered along the inner surface of the pouring container. In addition, the removal of residues from the pouring container is also better, since no or less turbulent flows are generated in the draining liquid. The combination of a uniform flow of liquid over the inner surface of the pouring container into the interior space of the pouring container and the spacing of the holder and the pouring material held therein from the inner surface of the pouring container thus leads to a significant reduction in the cleaning effort.

[0027] The holder can be, for example, a small plate attached to the side of the lower end of a vertical holding rod. In this case, for example, a tea bag can be placed on the plate and lowered into the infusion vessel using the holding rod. However, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the holder is a holding sieve having a base and a peripheral side wall extending upward from the base. The bottom and / or the side wall preferably have holes or perforations to allow the passage of water during infusion. Preferably, the bottom and / or the side wall are sheets with holes or perforations, advantageously manufactured with the aid of a laser, preferably each with a diameter of up to 2 mm, more preferably up to 1 mm. When used as intended, the holding sieve can be arranged exclusively inside the infusion vessel, preferably such that the bottom and side walls of the holding sieve are arranged at a distance from the lower and lateral inner surfaces of the infusion vessel.

[0028] The retaining screen can be made of metal or plastic, in particular silicone, but can also be made, for example, of paper.

[0029] Preferably, one or more retaining arms are attached to the holder, which serve to hold the holder in the pouring vessel. For example, the retaining arms can be configured to rest on the upper side, in particular on the upper edge, of the pouring vessel.

[0030] To ensure the spacing of the holder from the inner lateral and / or lower surface of the injection vessel, one or more spacers are preferably attached to the holder, which may in particular be attached to or formed by the aforementioned holding arms.

[0031] The injection container preferably has a connecting piece which defines the outlet opening and serves to connect the outlet conduit.

[0032] Preferably, the injection container can be easily removed from the housing in order to thoroughly clean it from time to time, or even to replace it if necessary, and thus advantageously no tools are required.

[0033] For even easier handling and / or to improve the preparation of the beverage and / or to prevent incorrect operation, the automatic machine preferably has one or more sensors connected to the control unit used to control the preparation program.

[0034] For example, the machine may have a pouring container sensor for detecting whether the pouring container is correctly inserted into the housing, and the control unit may be configured to, for example, emit an acoustic or visual signal and / or stop or prevent beverage preparation if the pouring container sensor detects that the pouring container is not correctly inserted into the housing. The pouring container sensor is preferably a mechanical or electromechanical sensor.

[0035] To prevent heat loss and the entry of dirt particles, the automatic machine preferably comprises a lid for closing the pouring container. Closing the pouring container with the lid is advantageously possible even when the holder is inserted in the pouring container. A lid sensor is preferably provided for detecting whether the lid is open or closed. The control unit may be configured to emit an acoustic or visual signal and / or to stop or prevent the preparation of the beverage if the lid sensor detects that the lid is open.

[0036] The inlet device is preferably manufactured as a whole in one piece, advantageously by injection molding from a plastic material, however, it is also possible for the inlet device to have several parts which can also be made from a plastic material by injection molding.

[0037] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the inlet device has a plurality of inlet openings for admitting the liquid into the injection vessel. These are preferably arranged along the inner side surface of the injection vessel, particularly preferably at uniform intervals from each other. The liquid then flows from the inlet openings in a circumferential direction along the inner side surface into the injection vessel. For this purpose, the inlet device can have a circumferential annular space which serves to distribute the liquid to the inlet openings. In this case, each of the inlet openings opens into the annular space.

[0038] The inlet openings are preferably each bordered by a short tube section that defines the direction of liquid flow into the inlet vessel, the tube section may for example form a nozzle for atomizing the liquid as it enters the inlet vessel.

[0039] A particularly efficient cleaning effect with low liquid consumption is obtained if the inlet device is configured such that the liquid enters the injection container in a spiral manner on the inner lateral surface, for which purpose the pipe sections surrounding the inlet opening in particular can be aligned accordingly.

[0040] To allow easy removal of the filling container from the housing, the inlet device is advantageously openable and closable relative to the upper side of the filling container.

[0041] Preferably, an inlet device sensor is provided which detects the position of the inlet device relative to the pouring container. The control unit may be configured to emit an acoustic or visual signal and / or to stop or prevent beverage preparation if the inlet device sensor detects that the inlet device is not correctly positioned on the pouring container.

[0042] The inlet device may at the same time form a lid for closing the injection container.

[0043] The pouring vessel is preferably made of glass, ceramic, in particular porcelain, or a coated material, and is particularly preferably manufactured in one piece, so that cleaning efforts can be further reduced. Preferably, the pouring vessel is open at the top.

[0044] The automatic machine may also have a beverage receptacle sensor for detecting whether a beverage receptacle is positioned in or on the automatic machine such that the poured beverage may be dispensed through the outlet conduit into the beverage receptacle, and the control unit may be configured, inter alia, to emit an acoustic or visual signal and / or to stop or prevent the dispense of the prepared beverage if the beverage receptacle sensor detects that the beverage receptacle is not present or is incorrectly positioned.

[0045] One or more weight sensors may be provided to allow metering of the injection material. The control unit may in particular be configured to automatically adapt the preparation program to the amount of injection material. Preferably, the weight sensor is arranged such that it is configured to measure the weight of the holder including the injection material contained therein when the holder is inserted into the injection container.

[0046] To enhance the extraction of flavorings from the infusion material and / or to improve the mixing of the infusion material with the water during infusion, the automatic machine may further comprise a processing device for mechanically processing the infusion material in the infusion container. The processing device may in particular be a plunger that is pressed against the bottom of the retaining sieve to push out the infusion material. The processing device may be operated manually by a user or automatically by means of a motor.

[0047] To regulate the temperature of the water and / or the poured beverage, the automatic machine preferably has a heating and / or cooling device, in particular a cryostat. The heating and / or cooling device can be arranged in the vicinity of the water tank or in the supply or discharge line. It is also conceivable that the heating and / or cooling device serves to heat or cool the pouring container or the beverage receptacle. Preferably, one or more temperature sensors are provided to control the temperature of the water, in particular the temperature in the region of the heating and / or cooling device. Particularly good control and regulation of the water temperature is possible if the heating and / or cooling device comprises an input temperature sensor which measures the water temperature when it enters the heating and / or cooling device and an output temperature sensor which measures the water temperature when it leaves the heating and / or cooling device.

[0048] The automatic machine preferably also comprises a pump for delivering water and / or liquid to the infusion container, in particular the inlet device. The automatic machine may comprise an additional preparation unit, which allows an additional medium, such as milk or concentrated syrup, to be added to the infusion beverage. In particular, the additional preparation unit may comprise an additional tank serving to hold the additional medium. A heating and / or cooling device may be provided for temperature regulation of the additional medium. Furthermore, the additional preparation unit may comprise a compressed air pump, a compressed air connection and / or a fluid pump for conveying the additional medium.

[0049] The invention further relates to a method for the automatic cleaning of a pouring container intended for the preparation of poured beverages, the pouring container having a lower inner surface and a lateral inner surface, which together define an interior space intended for the accommodation of pouring material and water, the method being in particular carried out by an automatic machine as indicated above and comprising at least the step of introducing a liquid, in particular water, into the pouring container in such a way that the liquid flows uniformly, preferably in a spiral manner, over the lateral inner surface into the interior space of the pouring container. Advantageously, the inlet liquid is heated water, preferably having a temperature of at least 40°C, more preferably at least 60°C and most preferably at least 70°C. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0050] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic central cross-sectional view of a pouring container according to a first variant of the invention, into which a retaining screen has been inserted and on which an inlet device of an automatic machine is arranged. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic central cross-sectional view of a pouring container according to a second variant of the invention, into which a retaining screen has been inserted and on which an inlet device of an automatic machine is arranged. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic central cross-sectional view of a pouring container according to a third variant of the invention, into which a retaining screen has been inserted and on which an inlet device of an automatic machine is arranged. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic central cross-sectional view of a pouring container according to a fourth variant of the invention, into which a retaining screen has been inserted and on which an inlet device of an automatic machine is arranged. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic central cross-sectional view of an automatic machine according to the invention according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the retaining screen and inlet device located above the automated machine of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic central cross-sectional view of the area of ​​the pouring container of an automatic machine according to a second embodiment, with the lid and the inlet device open. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a schematic central cross-sectional view in the area of ​​the pouring container of the automatic machine according to the third embodiment, with the lid and the inlet device in an open state. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic central cross-sectional view in the region of a dosing container of an automatic machine according to the invention according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic central cross-sectional view in the region of a dosing container of an automatic machine according to the invention according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic central cross-sectional view of an automatic machine according to the invention according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic central cross-sectional view of an automatic machine according to the invention, according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 13a] FIG. 13a is a schematic central cross-sectional view of an outlet valve in the shut-off state of an automatic machine according to the invention. [Figure 13b] FIG. 13b shows the outlet valve of FIG. 13a in an open state. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic central cross-sectional view of an outlet valve in a locked state of another automatic machine according to the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic central cross-sectional view in the region of a pouring container of an automatic machine according to the invention with a treatment device for mechanically treating the pouring material in the pouring container. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0051] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, which are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

[0052] 1 to 15, which are described below, show various embodiments of an automatic machine for preparing infused beverages and its parts according to the invention. Elements from different embodiments, but which have the same or similar functions, are respectively provided with the same reference numbers. Wherever possible, the features of the different embodiments can of course be transferred in any way to the other embodiments, i.e. the different embodiments can be combined with one another in any way.

[0053] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an inlet device 4 arranged on top of an injection container 3 into which a retaining sieve 5 is inserted. The injection container 3 here has a circular bottom, which forms a lower inner surface 31. A cylindrical side wall forming a lateral inner surface 32 extends circumferentially from the bottom. Furthermore, a connecting piece 35 extends centrally downwards for a short distance from the bottom in the direction of gravity. The connecting piece 35 forms an outlet opening 34. The lower inner surface 31 and the lateral inner surface 32 together define an internal space 33 of the injection container 3. The entire injection container 3 is preferably constructed in one piece and is advantageously made of glass, ceramic or coated plastic.

[0054] The retaining sieve 5 is inserted into the internal space 33 so as not to come into contact with either the lower inner surface 31 or the lateral inner surface 32 of the pouring container 3. The retaining sieve 5 has a circular bottom 51 from which a cylindrical side wall 52 extends upwards in the circumferential direction. The side wall 52 and advantageously the bottom 51 have a number of openings and / or perforations which are dimensioned such that water can pass through but not the pouring material held in the retaining sieve. The retaining sieve 5 thus serves as a holder for the pouring material during the preparation of the beverage, in particular during pouring. The pouring material can be contained in the retaining sieve 5 in any form, for example in powder form, or in leaves, or in bags. The retaining sieve 5 can be held, for example, in the inlet device 4 or in other elements of the automatic machine.

[0055] The inlet device 4 is connected to the water conduit 23 and is used for introducing water into the internal space 33 of the inlet container 3 for the purpose of preparing a beverage and / or for injecting the inlet material retained in the retaining sieve 5 for cleaning the inlet container 3. For this purpose, the inlet device 4 has one or more inlet openings 41 arranged in such a way that the water flows from these directly onto the inner lateral surface 32 of the inlet container 3 and from there evenly down the internal space 33. In this way, residues, sediments and dirt particles remaining attached to the inner surface of the inlet container 3 from the previous beverage preparation are removed.

[0056] The outlet conduit 26 is attached to a connecting piece 35, here formed by a flexible hose. After preparation, the poured beverage can be discharged through the outlet conduit 26 into a beverage receptacle located below.

[0057] In the variant shown in Fig. 2, a lid 7 is also provided with which the injection container 3 can be closed. The lid 7 is provided with one or more openings 71 for the escape of steam or condensate. Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding gap can be provided between the lid 7 and the injection container 3 for this purpose. An additional sieve lid, not shown here, can also be provided for closing the retaining sieve 5. The injection container 3 is now inserted into the housing 1 together with the connecting piece 35.

[0058] 3 shows a possible holder which ensures that the retaining sieve 5 is spaced relative to the inner surfaces 31, 32 of the dosing vessel 3 during the dosing process. Retaining arms 53 are attached to the retaining sieve 5 for this purpose, each extending radially outwards and resting on the upper edge of the dosing vessel 3. The retaining arms 53 are arranged so that the water flowing from the inlet device 4 into the dosing vessel 3 is not impeded.

[0059] The retaining arms 53 each have a vertical portion in the region of the inner lateral surface 32 which forms a spacer 54 .

[0060] When the retaining sieve 5 is inserted into the inlet vessel 3 as intended, it is ensured that it does not come into contact with the inner surfaces 31 and 32. As a result, there are no contact points between the retaining sieve 5 and the inlet vessel 3 at which particles can become attached when water is introduced through the inlet device 4.

[0061] 4 shows a variant in which the retaining arms 53 are attached to the bottom 51 of the retaining sieve 5 rather than to the upper edge thereof as in FIG. 3. Furthermore, the pouring container 3 is now surrounded circumferentially by the wall of the housing 1.

[0062] Figure 5 shows diagrammatically a central section through an automatic machine according to the invention for preparing infused beverages. The automatic machine comprises a housing 1 which is generally C-shaped in cross section. The lower horizontally extending leg of the C forms a receiving surface 11 which is used to receive a beverage receptacle T below the outlet conduit 26. The beverage receptacle T serves to hold the prepared infused beverage. The receiving surface 11 is preferably formed by a plate which is permeable to liquids, i.e. a plate provided with openings. A drip tray is preferably arranged below this plate.

[0063] FIG. 5 shows in particular the water treatment unit 2 of the automatic machine. The water treatment unit comprises in particular a water tank 22, a pump 24, a heating or cooling device 25 and the aforementioned water conduit 23 which connects these elements to one another. The water tank 22, which is preferably easily removable from the housing 1, serves to hold and supply the water required for the preparation of the beverage. Instead of or in combination with the water tank 22, a water supply can also be provided for a continuous supply of water to the automatic machine. Via the water conduit 23, the water tank 22 is connected to a pump 24 which serves to convey water from the water tank 22 to the inlet device 4. The pump 24 can be, but does not have to be, for example a diaphragm pump or a vibrating armature pump. The heating or cooling device 25, which is arranged in the water conduit 23 between the pump 24 and the inlet device 4, serves to regulate the temperature of the water before it enters the inlet container 3. The heating or cooling device 25 can consist of a heating element, such as a heating coil or a flow heater, and / or can include a cooling device which cools the water, for example for the preparation of iced tea.

[0064] From the pouring container 3, the prepared poured beverage enters via the outlet conduit 26 into the beverage receptacle T arranged directly below it. With the help of the outlet valve 27, the passage through the outlet conduit 26 for the liquid located in the pouring container 3 can be opened or closed as required. The automatic machine is preferably configured to keep the outlet valve 27 closed during the inflow of water into the pouring container 3 and during the subsequent reaction time, so that no liquid escapes from the outlet opening 34 of the pouring container 3. Once the pouring time has elapsed and the preparation of the beverage is completed, the outlet valve 27 can be automatically opened to discharge the poured beverage into the beverage receptacle T. The outlet valve 27 is preferably configured as a pinch valve, i.e. the passage through the flexibly designed outlet conduit 26 is closed by the latter by mechanical compression from the outside.

[0065] As can be seen in Fig. 5, the inlet device 4 and the lid 7 are each openable and closable with respect to the pouring container 3. Thus, the pouring container 3 and the retaining sieve 5 inserted therein can be very easily removed from the housing. This makes cleaning of these parts quite easy. A hinge 42 on the inlet device 4 and a hinge 72 on the lid 7 are provided for opening and closing.

[0066] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, the retaining sieve 5 is fitted with retaining arms 53 which extend horizontally outward from the upper edge of the side wall 52 and rest on the upper edge of the pouring container 3. To ensure circumferential support of the side walls 52 of the retaining sieve 5, downwardly projecting spacers 54 are provided on the underside of each retaining arm 53. From the inlet device 4, water for beverage preparation also flows into the pouring container 3 by flowing over the inner lateral surface 32, thereby removing deposits and dirt residues from the inner surfaces 31, 32 of the pouring container 3.

[0067] The automatic machine shown in Fig. 5 also comprises a control unit 6 which is used to control, i.e. execute, the preparation program. For this purpose, the control unit 6 is connected to at least a pump 24, a heating or cooling device 25 and an outlet valve 27.

[0068] A user interface (not shown) may also be provided, allowing the user to select and set the brewing program. In particular, the user interface may include a touch screen and / or conventional rotary switches and buttons. Alternatively or additionally, the automatic machine may have a communication unit for wireless communication, for example with a smartphone. In this case, a smartphone app can serve as the user interface. The user interface or communication unit of the automatic machine is connected to the control unit 6, which preferably comprises a CPU and at least one memory element for executing the control. The memory element advantageously allows individual parameterization and / or programming of the control unit 6. The individual programs allow the user to create multiple brewing programs for different types of tea, whereby packages of different types of tea are recorded, for example via a built-in digital camera or a smartphone app, and then displayed on the touch screen or the display of the automatic machine. This facilitates the user to select the desired brewing program, which is pre-adapted to the different beverage types. The user only has to tap on the image of the package of the corresponding tea type on the touch screen or the smartphone app, and the correct brewing program is pre-processed by the control unit 6.

[0069] In order to facilitate handling of the automatic machine, to avoid malfunctions and to further optimize beverage preparation, the automatic machine preferably has a number of sensors connected to the control unit 6, as shown in FIG.

[0070] For example, a water tank sensor 67 may be provided to detect whether the water tank 22 is correctly inserted in the housing 1 and / or whether the water tank 22 is sufficiently filled with water. A flow meter 68 arranged in the water conduit 23 is used to measure the amount of water supplied to the pouring container 3 during beverage preparation. A lid sensor 62 and an inlet device sensor 63 may also be provided to detect whether the lid 7 and the inlet device 4 are correctly closed and positioned above the pouring container 3. Furthermore, a pouring container sensor 61 may be provided to detect whether the pouring container 3 is correctly inserted in the housing 1. A beverage receptacle sensor 64 may be provided to detect whether the beverage receptacle T is positioned below the outlet conduit 26 on the storage surface 11. In particular, mechanical or electromechanical sensors may be used for the above-mentioned sensors 61, 62, 63, 64 and 67. Alternatively, the use of, for example, optical sensors is also conceivable. The control unit 6 is preferably configured to emit an acoustic or visual signal and / or to stop or prevent the preparation of the beverage in response to signals received from the sensors 61, 62, 63, 64 and 67. To control the heating or cooling device 25 and thus the temperature of the water flowing into the pouring vessel 3, an inlet temperature sensor 65 and an outlet temperature sensor 66 are provided, which are arranged in the flow direction at the beginning and end of the heating or cooling device 20, respectively.

[0071] As already mentioned, water is introduced into the inner space 33 of the injection vessel 3 by the inlet device 4 and flows uniformly downwards over the inner lateral surface 32 towards the inner lower surface 31. Due to the conical design of the inner lower surface 31 in the embodiment of FIG. 5, the water flows uniformly from the inner lateral surface 32 over the inner lower surface 31 to the outlet opening 34. In this way, the inner surfaces 31, 32 of the injection vessel 3 are cleaned of dirt particles and deposits.

[0072] To facilitate the introduction of water into the injection vessel 3, the inlet device 4 has a number of inlet openings 41 spaced apart along the inner lateral surface 32 of the injection vessel 3, as shown in Fig. 6. On the upstream side, the inlet openings 41 preferably open into an annular space which serves within the inlet device 4 to distribute the water flowing from the conduit 23 to the inlet openings 41. The inlet device 4 may therefore have a generally annular configuration, as can be seen in particular in Fig. 6. As also clearly shown in Fig. 6, the inlet openings 41 are preferably arranged so that they are not affected or impeded by the retaining arms 53 as the water enters the injection vessel 3.

[0073] In order to achieve a particularly efficient cleaning of the injection container 3 with less water consumption, the inlet device 4 is preferably configured to introduce water in a spiral manner into the interior space 33. In order to specify the direction of the water flowing into the injection container 3, the inlet openings 41 can each be surrounded by a short tube section. In Fig. 6 the spiral water flow W is indicated by an arrow.

[0074] Figure 7 shows an embodiment that differs from Figure 5 in that an additional inlet device 4' is provided. The additional inlet device 4' can be used to introduce drinking water into the infusion container 3 for preparing the infusion beverage, while the inlet device 4 can be provided specifically for a cleaning process and accordingly serves to introduce a cleaning liquid into the infusion container 3. However, the additional inlet device 4' can also simply be used to allow a faster filling of the infusion container 3 during the preparation of the beverage. In contrast to Figure 5, Figure 7 shows the inlet device 4 and the lid 7 in an open state.

[0075] Whereas in the embodiment of Figure 7 the inlet device 4 and the lid 7 are provided with separate hinges 42 and 72, in the embodiment of Figure 8 the inlet device 4 and the lid 7 are attached to the housing 1 via a common hinge 72. The inlet device 4 is here rigidly connected to the underside of the lid 7 or may even form part of the lid 7.

[0076] 9 shows an embodiment in which the retaining sieve 5 can be inserted from above into the injection vessel 3 through the lid 7 and the inlet device 4. In an alternative embodiment, the lid 7 can be attached to the retaining sieve 5 rather than to the housing 1.

[0077] In the embodiment of Fig. 10, a weight sensor 69 is additionally provided, which makes it possible to measure the weight of the dosing material. The weight sensor 69 is connected to the control unit 6 and allows, for example, an automatic adaptation of the preparation program to the amount of dosing material. The dosing material can, for example, be automatically measured as soon as the retaining sieve 5 is inserted into the dosing container 3 and / or before the preparation of the beverage is started.

[0078] In the embodiment of Figure 11, a weight sensor 69 for the same purpose is arranged on the upper side of the housing 1. Before preparing the beverage, the user must place the pouring material contained in the retaining sieve 5 on the weight sensor 69.

[0079] The embodiment of FIG. 11 also differs from the embodiment of FIG. 5 in that an additional preparation unit 8 is provided for supplying the beverage receptacle T with an additional medium, such as milk or concentrated syrup. The additional preparation unit 8 has a container 81 for the additional medium, which is connected via a conduit 83 to an outlet piece 84 arranged above the storage surface 11 for the beverage receptacle T. To transport the additional medium from the container 81 to the outlet piece 84, a compressed air pump 82 is provided, with which compressed air can be pumped into the container 81 and into the conduit 83. Instead of the compressed air pump 82, a compressed air connection can also be provided, which allows connection to an external compressed air system. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, instead of the compressed air pump 82, a fluid pump 85 is provided for conveying the additional medium. This fluid pump is arranged in the conduit 83 between the container 81 for the additional medium and the outlet piece 84. The fluid pump 85 can in particular be configured as a peristaltic pump. Furthermore, the outlet piece 84 here opens into the interior space 33 of the injection container 3. Furthermore, a heating or cooling device 86 is provided, which serves to regulate the temperature of the additional medium in the container 81 .

[0080] The design and function of the outlet valve 27, configured here as a pinch valve, is shown in Figures 13a and 13b. In the locked state (Figure 13a), the outlet conduit 26 formed of a flexible hose is compressed and pinched by the slider. In the open state (Figure 13b), the slider is located at a distance from the outlet conduit 26 and the passage through the outlet conduit 26 is free. A similar situation is shown in Figure 14, but here the outlet conduit 26 is firmly attached to the injection vessel 3, for example by welding.

[0081] Figure 15 shows an embodiment with an additional processing device in the form of a plunger 9 used for mechanical processing of the infusion material in the infusion container 3. The infusion material can be extruded by automatically pushing the plunger 9 down into the retaining sieve 5 along the direction of the arrow, either by motor or by hand. Such a processing device is particularly advantageous for the preparation of tea or herbal beverages. The plunger 9 has a radial circumferential seal 91 to prevent the infusion material from escaping upwards during the pushing operation.

[0082] Of course, the invention described here is not limited to the embodiments given, but various variants are possible. For example, the inlet device can have only a single outlet opening, in order to make the liquid flow into the injection container 3 in a spiral manner. However, the outlet opening can equally well be annular, for example, so that the liquid is guided uninterrupted to the inner lateral surface 32 of the injection container 3.

[0083] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the retaining sieve can be replaced by another holder or can be omitted completely. The dosing material can also be placed directly in the dosing container 3. Furthermore, even if considered advantageous here, in other embodiments, the dosing container can also be firmly connected to the housing 1 and therefore cannot be removed therefrom. Instead of a water tank, the automatic machine can also be equipped with a water piece for connecting a hose from the main water supply. As a further variant, the inlet device can also be formed by a lid for closing the dosing container or the retaining sieve, or by the dosing container itself. Further variants are conceivable. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 1. Housing 6. Control Unit 11 Storage 61 Injection container sensor 62 Lid Sensor 2 Water treatment section 63 Inlet device sensor 22 Water Tank 64 Beverage Receptacle Sensor 23 Water Pipe 65 Inlet temperature sensor 24 Pump 66 Outlet temperature sensor 25 Heating or cooling equipment 67 Water Tank Sensor 26 Outlet conduit 68 Flow meter 27 Outlet valve 69 Weight Sensor 3 Injection container 7 Lid 31 Lower inner surface 71 Opening 32 Inner side 72 Lid hinge 33 Interior Space 34 Exit opening 8 Additional preparation section 35 Connection piece 81 Container for additional media 82 Compressed Air Pump 4, 4' inlet device 83 Conduit 41 Inlet opening 84 Outlet piece 42 Hinge for entrance device 85 Fluid Pump 86 Heating or cooling equipment 5 Holder, holding sieve 9 Plunger 51 Bottom 91 Seal 52 Side wall 53 Holding Arm T beverage receptor 54 Spacer W water flow

Claims

1. 1. An automatic machine for preparing infused beverages, comprising: A housing (1); an injection container (3) inserted or insertable into said housing (1) and having a lower inner surface (31) and a side inner surface (32), said lower inner surface (31) and side inner surface (32) together defining an interior space (33) for receiving an injection material and water, and an outlet opening (34); an outlet conduit (26) connected or connectable to an outlet opening (34) for discharging the infused beverage from said infusion container (3); an outlet valve (27) for blocking and unblocking the discharge of said infused beverage through said outlet conduit (26); Equipped with The automatic machine comprises an inlet device (4) for introducing liquid into the injection container (3), the inlet device (4) being configured so that the liquid flows uniformly across the lateral inner surface (32) into the internal space (33) of the injection container (3).

2. 2. The automatic machine according to claim 1, further comprising a holder (5) for injection material, the holder (5) being configured to be placed in the interior space (33) of the injection container (3) and serving to hold the injection material during injection so that both the injection material and the holder (5) itself are positioned at a distance from the lower inner surface (31) and the lateral inner surface (32) of the injection container (3).

3. 3. The automatic machine according to claim 2, wherein the holder is configured as a retaining screen (5) including a bottom (51) and a peripheral side wall (52) extending upwardly from the bottom (51).

4. The automatic machine of claim 2, wherein one or more spacers (54) are attached to the holder (5) to ensure at least one of a distance from the side inner surface (32) of the holder (5) and a distance from the lower inner surface (31) of the injection container (3).

5. 2. The automatic machine according to claim 1, wherein the inlet container (3) has a connecting piece (35) formed as the outlet opening (34) and configured to connect the outlet conduit (26) to the outlet opening (34).

6. 2. The automatic machine of claim 1, further comprising a dosing container sensor (61) configured to detect whether the dosing container (3) is correctly inserted into the housing (1), the dosing container sensor (61) being preferably configured as a mechanical or electromechanical sensor.

7. 2. The automated machine of claim 1, further comprising a lid (7) for closing the pouring container (3) and preferably a lid sensor (62) for detecting whether the lid (7) is in an open or closed state.

8. 2. The automatic machine of claim 1, wherein the inlet device (4) has a plurality of inlet openings (41) for receiving liquid into the pouring container (3), the plurality of inlet openings being preferably uniformly distributed along the inner lateral surface (32) of the pouring container (3).

9. 2. The automatic machine of claim 1, wherein the inlet device (4) is configured such that the liquid enters the inlet vessel (3) in a spiral manner over the inner lateral surface (32).

10. 2. The automatic machine according to claim 1, wherein the inlet device (4) is configured to be openable and closable with respect to the upper side of the pouring container (3).

11. 2. The automatic machine of claim 1, further comprising an inlet device sensor (63) for detecting the position of the inlet device (4) relative to the pouring container (3).

12. 2. The automatic machine according to claim 1, wherein the inlet device (4) forms a lid (7) for closing the pouring container (3).

13. 2. The automatic machine according to claim 1, wherein the pouring container (3) is made of glass, ceramic or coated material, preferably manufactured in one piece.

14. 2. The automated machine according to claim 1, further comprising a treatment device (9) for mechanically treating the dosing material in the dosing container (3).

15. 2. The automatic machine of claim 1, wherein the inlet device (4) comprises at least one inlet opening (41) aligned with the lateral inner surface (32) such that, in an operating state, the liquid flowing from the inlet opening (41) to the lateral inner surface (32) can wet the lateral inner surface (32) before flowing into the interior space (33) of the pouring container (3).

16. 2. The automatic machine according to claim 1, wherein the inlet device (4) comprises a single inlet opening (41).

17. 2. The automatic machine according to claim 1, wherein the inlet device (4) comprises a plurality of successively operable inlet openings (41).

18. 2. The automated machine of claim 1, wherein the inner lateral surface (32) has a wettability of between 60% and 100%.

19. The automated machine of claim 1 , wherein the wettability of the inner lateral surface (32) is configured such that simultaneous coating of the inner lateral surface (32) by the liquid is achievable.

20. 2. The automatic machine of claim 1, wherein the housing (1) comprises a plurality of inlet devices (4).

21. A method for automatically cleaning a pouring container (3) for preparing a pouring, said pouring container (3) having a lower inner surface (31) and a lateral inner surface (32) which together define an interior space (33) for pouring and water, said method being particularly carried out by an automatic machine according to any one of the preceding claims, and comprising at least the step of introducing a liquid, in particular water, into said pouring container (3) in such a way that said liquid flows uniformly, preferably in a spiral manner, over said lateral inner surface (32) into said interior space (33) of said pouring container (3).

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