Beverage preparation with simple capsule transfer

Abstract

A machine 1 prepares a beverage from a capsule 5 having a body containing ingredients. The beverage is prepared by passing a liquid through the capsule and centrifugally driving the capsule. The machine comprises a first and a second capsule handler 10, 20 which are movable relative to each other from a capsule transport configuration to a capsule processing configuration in which the capsules are centrifugally processed by rotation of the first and second capsule handlers about a processing axis 30'. The machine comprises a capsule insertion passage 60 associated with a capsule insertion guide 61 which guides the capsule towards a holding position in a space 100' between the first and second capsule handlers in the transport configuration. The insertion guide comprises a rotatable part 38 which is stationary relative to at least one of the first and second capsule handlers and which rotates with the first and second capsule handlers when the first and second capsule handlers are rotated for centrifugation.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The field of the invention relates to beverage preparation machines by centrifuging capsules containing the ingredients of the beverage to be prepared.

[0002] For the purposes of this specification, "beverage" is intended to include any liquid substance suitable for human consumption, such as tea, coffee, hot or cold chocolate, milk, soup, baby food, etc. "Capsule" is intended to include any container, such as a package for containing pre-portioned beverage ingredients, such as flavor ingredients, where the package forms an enclosure of any material, in particular airtight or permeable materials, porous or non-porous materials (e.g. plastic, aluminum, recyclable and / or biodegradable packaging), as well as any shape and configuration, including soft pods or rigid cartridges containing the ingredients. [Background technology]

[0003] Some beverage preparation machines use capsules that contain the ingredients to be extracted or dissolved and / or ingredients that are stored in the machine and automatically dispensed or added during preparation of the beverage. Some beverage machines have a filling means that includes a pump for a liquid, usually water, which pumps from a water source either cold water or indeed a liquid that is heated by a heating means, for example a thermoblock.

[0004] In particular, in the field of coffee preparation, machines have been widely developed in which a capsule containing the beverage ingredients is inserted into a brewing device that is sealed around the capsule, injects water into a first face of the capsule to produce a beverage in the sealed volume of the capsule, and releases the brewed beverage from a second face of the capsule where it can be collected in a container such as a cup or glass.

[0005] Brewing devices have been developed to facilitate the insertion of "new" capsules and the removal of capsules during use. Examples of such brewing devices are disclosed in EP 1767129, WO 2009 / 043630, WO 2005 / 004683 and WO 2007 / 135136. The preparation of beverages using centrifugation is also known. Examples of centrifugation processes and corresponding devices are disclosed in WO 2008 / 148601, WO 2008 / 148650, US 5566605, WO 2013 / 007776, WO 2013 / 007779 and WO 2013 / 007780.

[0006] It has also been proposed to facilitate the handling of the capsules by a system for extracting the capsules, independent of the extraction process itself, in particular by motorizing the opening and / or closing of the extraction system for inserting and / or removing the capsules. Examples of such systems are disclosed, for example, in EP 1 767 129, WO 2009 / 113035, WO 2012 / 025258, WO 2012 / 025259, WO 2012 / 041605, WO 2013 / 127476, WO 2014 / 096122, WO 2014 / 096123 and EP 2015185946.9.

[0007] The preparation of beverages using a centrifugal process is also known. Such beverage preparation comprises the steps of preparing the beverage (flavor) ingredients in a capsule, for example powder and / or tea leaves, and rotating the capsule at a speed sufficient to ensure the interaction of the liquid with the ingredients while passing a liquid through the capsule and creating a pressure gradient of the liquid within the capsule. Such pressure increases gradually from the center of the capsule towards the periphery. As the liquid passes through the ingredients, such as the coffee layer, extraction of the ingredients, such as the coffee mixture, occurs, resulting in a liquid extract that flows out at the periphery of the capsule. Examples of such systems are disclosed in WO 2008 / 148601, WO 2013 / 007776, WO 2013 / 007779, WO 2013 / 007780, WO 2017 / 046294, WO 2017 / 068134 and WO 2017 / 202746.

[0008] It has been proposed to prepare beverages by centrifugal processing along a horizontal axis.

[0009] WO 2015 / 173123 and WO 2015 / 173124 disclose a centrifugal brewing chamber formed between two enclosing parts that are relatively translatable between an open position and a closed position. The enclosing parts cooperate with a pair of jaws that are movable between a capsule retaining position that retains the capsule between the enclosing parts in the open position and a capsule releasing position that releases the capsule. The jaws are actuated by a first actuator and a second actuator that are actuated by the enclosing parts while the enclosing parts are translating relative to each other. The jaws guide the capsule to a position between the enclosing parts in the open position and fix the capsule therebetween. The jaws then release the capsule when the enclosing parts translate together to enclose the capsule, thereby forming a brewing chamber around the capsule. The enclosing parts are rotated about a horizontal axis to centrifuge the capsule in order to prepare a beverage using the ingredients in the capsule. At the end of the beverage preparation, the centrifugation process stops and the surrounding parts translate relatively to an open position, thereby allowing the used capsule to fall out of the surrounding parts. The jaws are then returned to the capsule-holding position. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The present invention relates to a capsule processing machine for preparing a beverage from at least one ingredient. Typically, such a beverage is then dispensed to a user, for example in a user's cup or a user's mug.

[0011] For example, the machine is a coffee, tea, chocolate, cocoa, milk or soup preparation machine, for example configured to prepare a beverage in a beverage processing module including a capsule holder by passing hot or cold water or other liquid through a capsule held in the holder containing an ingredient such as a flavour ingredient of the beverage to be prepared, such as ground coffee, tea, chocolate, cocoa or milk powder.

[0012] Such beverage preparation typically involves mixing a number of beverage ingredients, e.g., water and milk powder, and / or infusion of the beverage ingredients, e.g., infusion of ground coffee or tea with water. One or more of such ingredients may be provided in loose and / or agglomerated powder form, and / or in liquid form, particularly concentrated form. A carrier or diluent, e.g., water, may be mixed with such ingredients to produce the beverage. Typically, a predetermined amount of beverage is produced and dispensed corresponding to one serving (e.g., one scoop) upon user request. Such a serving amount may be in the range of 15-1000 mL, e.g., 25-600 mL, e.g., 40-250 mL, depending on the type of beverage, e.g., the amount to fill a cup or mug. The beverage produced and dispensed may be selected from ristretto, espresso, lungo, cappuccino, caffe latte, americano coffee, tea, etc. For example, the coffee machine may be configured to dispense an adjustable amount of espresso, e.g., between 20 and 60 mL per serving, and / or to dispense an amount of lungo, e.g., in the range of 70 to 200 mL per serving, and / or to dispense an amount of americano, e.g., in the range of 150 to 750 mL.

[0013] An aspect of the invention relates to a capsule processing machine for preparing a beverage from a capsule having a body containing ingredients, the beverage being prepared by passing a liquid through such a capsule and centrifugally driving such a capsule.

[0014] Centrifugal processes for preparing beverages are known, for example, from EP 2000 062, EP 2155020, EP 2152128, WO 2008 / 148646, 2009 / 106175, 2009 / 106589, 2010 / 026045, 2010 / 026053, 2010 / 066736, 2008 / 148650, 2008 / 148834, 2010 / 066705, 2010 / 063644, 2011 / 023711, 2014 / 096122 or 2014 / 096123.

[0015] Typically, the machine includes at least one of the following components: a) a fluid system in fluid communication with the capsule during beverage preparation; b) an in-line heater and / or cooler for adjusting the temperature of the liquid flowing through the capsule, or a batch heater and / or cooler for flowing a liquid that has been adjusted in temperature by the batch heater and / or cooler through the capsule; c) a pump for pumping liquid into the capsule, in particular a low-pressure pump in the range of 1 to 5 bar, for example 1.5 to 3 bar; d) A motor for driving the capsule in rotation during beverage preparation; e) an electronic control unit, in particular comprising a printed circuit board (PCB), for receiving instructions from a user through an input user interface and for controlling the heater and / or cooler, the pump and the motor(s); and f) one or more sensors for sensing at least one characteristic selected from characteristics of the fluid system, the heater and / or cooler, the pump, the liquid tank, the raw material collector, the flow of the liquid (e.g., via a flow meter), the pressure of the liquid, and the temperature of the liquid, and for communicating such characteristic(s) to the control unit.

[0016] Typically, a capsule has a body that contains the ingredients and a peripherally projecting flange (e.g. a body in the shape of a cup and a lid that covers and extends beyond the mouth of the cup to form a peripherally projecting flange).

[0017] The capsule can have a body that is symmetrical or asymmetrical, conical, frusto-conical, cylindrical, spherical, hemispherical, or truncated spherical, containing an ingredient, for example ground coffee, tea, cocoa, or other beverage ingredient.

[0018] The capsule may be of the type described above under the heading "Technical Field". The capsule may be, for example, a capsule having a container body, such as a generally cup-shaped, hemispherical or semi-ellipsoidal body, having a flange to which a cover lid (or membrane) is attached, in particular a sealed one. Typically, the capsule contains a beverage ingredient. Examples of suitable capsules are disclosed in WO 2008 / 148601, WO 2008 / 148604, WO 2008 / 148646, WO 2008 / 148650, WO 2008 / 148656, WO 2008 / 148834, WO 2011 / 141532, WO 2011 / 141535, WO 2013 / 072239, WO 2013 / 072297, WO 2013 / 072326, WO 2015 / 044400. The capsule may be of the type marketed by Nespresso under the trademark Vertuo.

[0019] The machine has a first capsule handler and a second capsule handler which are movable relative to the other from a capsule transfer configuration for receiving and / or releasing capsules by the first and second capsule handlers, to a capsule handling configuration for centrifugally processing capsules by rotation of the first and second capsule handlers about a processing axis, and vice versa.

[0020] The machine includes a capsule insertion passage associated with one or more capsule insertion guides configured to guide the capsule, such as a protruding capsule flange of the capsule, towards a capsule holding position in a space between the first and second capsule handlers in the transfer configuration. The space may be associated with one or more stop members, e.g. a holding device, such as a stop member formed by the insertion guide(s) or fixed to the insertion guide(s), configured to hold the capsule in the space before being held by at least one of the first and second capsule handlers moving relatively towards and / or to the capsule processing configuration. Suitable stop members are known, for example, from WO 2005 / 004683.

[0021] The machine has a machine frame and / or housing that is stationary and supports the first and second capsule handlers when the first and second capsule handlers are rotated for centrifugation.

[0022] The frame and / or housing may include or be fixed to a bottom, the bottom being configured to rest on an external support surface of such machine when the first and second capsule handlers are rotated about a processing axis for centrifugal processing. The external support surface may be formed by a table top. The processing axis may be at an angle (positive or negative) in the range of 0°-80°, such as 0°-45°, such as 0°-30°, such as 0°-15°, typically substantially 0°, relative to such bottom.

[0023] The frame and / or housing may support a motor connected to at least one of the first and second capsule handlers. For example, the motor is connected to at least one of the support device, the first and second capsule handlers directly or via a transmission device. Typically, such a motor is connected to at least one of the support device, the first and second capsule handlers by at least one of a belt, e.g. a toothed belt, a gear, e.g. a spur gear, and a connecting rod. Such a motor may be configured to relatively move the first and second capsule handlers between a transfer configuration and a processing configuration and / or to rotate the first and second capsule handlers for centrifugal processing of the capsules.

[0024] The capsule insertion guide may include at least a rotatable portion that is stationary relative to at least one of the first and second capsule handlers and that rotates therewith when the first and second capsule handlers are rotated for centrifugation, e.g., the rotatable portion is formed by or assembled to at least one of the first and second capsule handlers.

[0025] The capsule insertion guide(s) may have a non-rotating portion that is stationary relative to the machine frame and / or housing when the first and second capsule handlers are rotated for centrifugal processing. For example, the non-rotating portion is stationary relative to the frame and / or housing when the first and second capsule handlers are moving relative to each other between the capsule transfer configuration and the capsule processing configuration. The non-rotating portion may be formed by or assembled to the machine frame and / or housing.

[0026] In such a configuration, the capsule insertion guide (or at least a portion thereof) is associated with or integral with the first rotatable handler or the second rotatable handler, and thus, instead of forming an additional entity in the system that requires proper mechanical and / or cinematic coordination with and separation from the rotatable handlers, the mobility of the capsule insertion guide tracks the mobility of the rotatable handlers.

[0027] The machine may include a handler support apparatus for supporting the first capsule handler and the second capsule handler.

[0028] The handler support device may be configured to be angularly fixed relative to the first and second capsule handlers and to remain fixed and to rotate therewith about the processing axis when the first and second capsule handlers are rotated for centrifugal processing.

[0029] The handler support apparatus may be configured to be angularly fixed relative to the first capsule handler and the second capsule handler in the transfer configuration.

[0030] Thus, the first and second capsule handlers and the capsule with the ingredients can be held by and fixed in the rotating handler support and rotate as one unit. Thus, stresses during rotation resulting from imperfect alignment of the first and second capsule handlers and the capsule or its contents between themselves and / or with respect to the processing axis, and the effects of said stresses on other parts of the machine, can be minimized. For example, the stresses of the closing forces on the capsule of the first and second capsule handlers are not amplified by imperfect alignment of the first and second capsule handlers and the capsule or its contents with the processing axis, especially at high rotation speeds. This can advantageously result in a reduction of vibrations during beverage preparation and wear of the machine, in particular wear of the bearing elements that allow the first and second capsule handlers to rotate in the machine. By avoiding vibrations due to imperfect alignment parallel to the rotation, the centrifugal processing of the capsule and the processing of ingredients inside the capsule can also be improved.

[0031] The machine may include an actuator configured to actuate the first and / or second capsule handler to relatively move the first and second capsule handler between a capsule transfer configuration and a processing configuration, for example connected to the machine frame and / or housing such that the first and second capsule handler remain stationary relative to the machine frame and / or housing when rotated for centrifugal processing.

[0032] The actuator may include a motor or handle pivotally mounted on a handle shaft. The motor or handle may cooperate with an actuator slide and / or a translational transmission member, such as a member controlled by the motor or handle via a cam and cam follower connection. Such a member may be directly or indirectly connected to the first and second capsule handlers for relatively moving the capsule handlers between the capsule transfer configuration and the capsule processing configuration.

[0033] The machine may include a drive connected to the first capsule handler and the second capsule handler for relatively moving the capsule handlers between the capsule transport arrangement and the capsule processing arrangement.

[0034] The drive may be secured to the capsule handler in the processing configuration by at least one of a lock, a friction stop, and an over-centre lever or cam mechanism.

[0035] The drive mechanism may include one or more of: a lever, such as a lever pivotally assembled about a pivot axis in a knuckle joint arrangement; a gear, such as a spur gear, and / or a rack, such as a flat rack; a cam and cam follower; a belt, such as a toothed belt; and a drive slide.

[0036] The drive device may connect the first capsule handler and the second capsule handler via the handler support device, for example, the first capsule handler or the second capsule handler may be stationary relative to the handler support device, fixed to the handler support device, or integral with the handler support device.

[0037] The drive device may include the above-mentioned drive slide(s) and, optionally, one or more transmission members connecting the drive slide(s) to the first and second capsule handlers for relatively moving the capsule handler between the capsule transfer configuration and the capsule processing configuration. The drive slide(s) may be actuated by the above-mentioned actuator, for example by being connected to the above-mentioned translational transmission members cooperating with the drive slide(s) via grooves and pins.

[0038] The drive slide(s) may include a slide body carrying a pair of arms each defining a groove, the arms extending from the body parallel or substantially parallel to the processing axis along either side of at least one of the first and second capsule handlers, for example the groove being defined by a ridge or protrusion projecting from the slide body, for example around at least one of the first and second capsule handlers.

[0039] The first and second capsule handlers in the processing configuration may define a capsule processing chamber configured to enclose a capsule. For example, one of the first and second capsule handlers forms a cavity shaped to receive a capsule, and the other of the first and second capsule handlers forms a lid configured to close the cavity in the processing configuration. The lid may be spaced from the cavity in the transfer configuration to provide sufficient space between the first and second capsule handlers, for example, to allow the capsule to reach and / or eject from a position between the first and second capsule handlers in the transfer configuration.

[0040] At least one of the first capsule handler and the second capsule handler may include or be associated with an inlet for directing a liquid carrier, e.g., water, into the capsule as the capsule is being centrifuged by rotation. For example, the inlet is associated with a capsule inlet opener, e.g., an inlet piercer, configured to open the capsule, such as a capsule inlet opener having a conduit for directing the liquid carrier from the inlet to the capsule and / or a capsule opener having an exterior surface defining a passage for directing the liquid carrier from the inlet to the capsule.

[0041] At least one of the first capsule handler and the second capsule handler may include or be associated with an outlet for guiding the beverage from the capsule as the capsule is being centrifuged by rotation, for example the outlet being associated with a capsule outlet opener, e.g. an outlet piercing device, configured to open the capsule, such as a capsule opener having a conduit for guiding the beverage from the capsule to the outlet and / or a capsule opener having an outer surface defining a passage for guiding the beverage from the capsule to the outlet.

[0042] One of the first capsule handler and the second capsule handler may include or be associated with both such an entrance and an exit.

[0043] For example, examples of suitable outlets and inlets leading to a beverage collector and then to a machine outlet are disclosed in WO 2015 / 173123 and WO 2015 / 173124.

[0044] The capsule insertion passage may be covered by a lid or gate when the first and second capsule handlers are rotated for centrifugal processing, e.g., when the first and second capsule handlers are in the capsule processing configuration, e.g., the lid or gate is formed by the above-mentioned handle or handles configured to relatively move the first and second capsule handlers between the capsule transfer configuration and the processing configuration.

[0045] The handler support apparatus may be pivotally supported by the machine frame or housing via a first bearing, such as a ball or roller bearing or a magnetic or plain bearing, and via a second bearing, such as two ball or roller bearings or a magnetic or plain bearing. The first and second bearings may be spaced apart along the process axis.

[0046] The first bearing can be located on a side of the handler support apparatus closer to the first capsule handler than the second capsule handler, and the second bearing can be located on a side of the handler support apparatus closer to the second capsule handler than the first capsule handler. The first bearing and the second bearing can be located, for example, at opposite ends of the handler support apparatus.

[0047] The handler support apparatus may have a substantially cylindrical shape extending along the processing axis and at least partially surrounding the first and second capsule handlers. For example, the handler support apparatus may define one or two openings configured to pass capsules into and / or out of the handler support apparatus, for example, by passing capsules transversely to the processing axis, e.g., via corresponding capsule inlet and / or outlet capsule passages.

[0048] For example, the capsules may be collected in a capsule collector downstream of the exit capsule passage, for example as disclosed in WO 2009 / 074559 or WO 2009 / 135869.

[0049] The machine may have a positioning device configured to position at least one of the first and second capsule handlers at a predetermined angular position relative to the processing axis when the first and second capsule handlers are in a capsule transfer configuration, e.g. when rotation of the first and second capsule handlers about the processing axis is stopped.

[0050] The positioning device may have a mechanical position coupler, e.g., including a mechanical lock, stopper, or brake, such as a coupler that decouples and / or disengages during rotation of the first capsule handler and the second capsule handler about the processing axis.

[0051] The placement device can include a magnetic position coupler, such as a magnetic coupler having a connector that is stationary relative to the machine frame and / or housing. The stationary connector can be magnetically constrained to a connector that is fixed to or included in at least one of the first and second capsule handlers and the handler support device. For example, one of the connectors can be a magnetic field generating element, such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, or a permanent magnet with an electromagnet configured to demagnetize the permanent magnet when the first and second capsule handlers are rotated about the processing axis, and the other of the connectors can include at least one of a ferromagnetic member, a permanent magnet, and an electromagnet.

[0052] Another aspect of the invention relates to a system comprising a capsule processing machine as described above and a capsule having a body containing an ingredient, the capsule being handled by a capsule insertion guide associated with a capsule insertion passage of the machine, a rotatable portion of the insertion guide being configured to rotate together with a first capsule handler and a second capsule handler of the machine in a capsule processing configuration when the capsule is being centrifuged.

[0053] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for preparing a beverage from a capsule having a body containing ingredients in a machine as described above, the method comprising the steps of: transferring the capsule via a capsule insertion guide associated with the capsule insertion passage to a first capsule handler and a second capsule handler in a transfer configuration to receive the capsule; placing the first capsule handler and the second capsule in a handler-capsule processing configuration; Centrifugating capsules handled by the first and second capsule handlers rotated together with the capsule insertion guide about a processing axis and distributing liquid through the capsules to produce a beverage; Includes.

[0054] Yet another aspect of the invention relates to the use of a capsule as a capsule for a machine as defined above or for implementing a system as defined above or for carrying out a method as defined above. a capsule insertion passageway connected to the first and second capsule handlers, the first and second capsule handlers being in a transfer configuration to receive the capsule; supported by a first capsule handler and a second capsule handler in a capsule processing configuration; A liquid is provided which is centrifugally processed while being handled by a first capsule handler and a second capsule handler which rotate together with a capsule insertion guide about a processing axis while the liquid is being circulated within the capsule to produce a beverage. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0055] The invention will now be described with reference to schematic drawings. [Figure 1] 2 is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of a machine in a capsule transfer configuration and a capsule insertion guide having a rotatable portion according to the present invention; FIG. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view from above of a portion of the machine shown in FIG. 1; [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the machine shown in FIG. 1 after it has been placed in a capsule processing configuration. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view from above of a portion of the machine shown in FIG. 1; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0056] 1 to 4 show an exemplary embodiment of a machine 1 according to the invention for handling ingredient capsules 5 having a body for containing an ingredient.

[0057] A beverage may be prepared using the machine 1 by passing a liquid, such as water, for example temperature conditioned water, through a capsule 5 and centrifugally driving the capsule 5.

[0058] The machine 1 has a first capsule handler 10 and a second capsule handler 20, which from a capsule transfer arrangement for receiving a capsule 5 by the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 and / or releasing a capsule 5 from the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20; the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 are movable relative to one another into a capsule processing arrangement for centrifugal processing of capsules 5 by rotation of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 about a processing axis 30'; The reverse is also true.

[0059] The machine 1 includes a capsule insertion passage 60 associated with one or more capsule insertion guides 61 configured to guide the capsule 5, such as a protruding capsule flange 5' of the capsule 5, towards a capsule holding position in a space 100' between the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 in the transfer configuration. For example, the space 100' is associated with a holding device, such as one or more stop members 38', e.g. formed by or fixed to the insertion guide 61, configured to hold the capsule 5 in the space 100' before being held by at least one of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 moving relatively towards and / or to the capsule processing configuration.

[0060] The machine 1 is provided with a machine frame and / or housing 40 which is stationary and supports the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 when the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 are rotated for centrifugation.

[0061] The frame and / or housing 40 may include or be fixed to a bottom configured to rest on an external support surface of such machine 1, e.g. an external support surface formed by a table top, when the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 are rotated about a processing axis 30' for centrifugal processing. The processing axis 30' may be at an angle in the range of 0°-80°, e.g. 0°-45°, e.g. 0°-30°, e.g. 0°-15°, typically substantially 0°, relative to such bottom.

[0062] The frame and / or housing 40 may support a motor 2 which is connected to at least one of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20, for example directly connected or via a transmission device 3 such as at least one of a belt, for example a toothed belt, a gear, for example a spur gear, and a connecting rod.

[0063] The capsule insertion guide(s) 61 include at least a rotatable portion 38 that is stationary with respect to at least one of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 and that rotates therewith when the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 are rotated for centrifugation. For example, the rotatable portion 38 is formed by or assembled to the first capsule handler 10 and / or the second capsule handler 20.

[0064] The capsule insertion guide(s) 61 may include a non-rotating portion 48 that is stationary relative to the machine frame and / or housing 40 when the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 are rotated for centrifugation. For example, the non-rotating portion 48 is stationary relative to the frame and / or housing 40 when the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 are moving relative to each other between the capsule transfer configuration and the capsule processing configuration, e.g., the non-rotating portion 48 is formed by or assembled to the machine frame and / or housing 40.

[0065] The machine 1 may include a handler support device 30 for supporting the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 .

[0066] The handler support device 30 may be configured to be angularly fixed relative to the first and second capsule handlers 10 and 20 and to remain fixed and to rotate therewith about the processing axis 30' when the first and second capsule handlers 10 and 20 are rotated for centrifugal processing. For example, the handler support device 30 is configured to be angularly fixed relative to the first and second capsule handlers 10 and 20 in the transfer configuration.

[0067] The machine 1 may include actuators 50, 51, 52 configured to actuate the first capsule handler 10 and / or the second capsule handler 20 to move the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 relative to each other between a capsule transfer configuration and a processing configuration. For example, the actuators 50, 51, 52 are connected to the machine frame and / or housing 40 such that the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 remain stationary relative to the machine frame and / or housing 40 when they are rotated for centrifugal processing.

[0068] The actuator may include a motor or handle 50 pivotally mounted on a handle shaft 51 cooperating with an actuator slide 52 and / or a translational transmission member 52 such as a member 52 controlled by the motor or handle 50 via a cam 53 and cam follower 54 connection, the translational transmission member 52 being directly or indirectly connected to the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 for relatively moving the capsule handlers 10 and 20 between a capsule transfer configuration and a capsule processing configuration.

[0069] The machine 1 may include drives 31, 32, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36 connected to the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 for relatively moving the capsule handlers 10 and 20 between a capsule transfer configuration and a capsule processing configuration.

[0070] The drives 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36 may secure the capsule handlers 10 and 20 in the processing configuration by at least one of a lock, a friction stop, and an over-centre lever or cam mechanism 37, 37'.

[0071] The drives 31, 32, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36 may include one or more of: levers 31, 32, e.g. levers pivotally assembled about pivot axes 33, 34, 35 in a knuckle joint arrangement; gears, e.g. spur gears, and / or racks, e.g. flat racks; cams and cam followers; a belt, e.g. a toothed belt; and a drive slide 36.

[0072] The driving devices 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, and 36 may connect the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 via the handler support device 30. For example, the first capsule handler or the second capsule handler 20 is stationary relative to the handler support device 30.

[0073] The drive devices 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36 may comprise the above-mentioned drive slide(s) 36 and, optionally, one or more transmission members 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 connecting the drive slide 36 to the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 for relatively moving the capsule handlers 10 and 20 between a capsule transfer configuration and a capsule processing configuration. The drive slide(s) 36 may be actuated by the above-mentioned actuators 50, 51, 52, for example by being connected to the above-mentioned translational transmission member 52 cooperating with the drive slide(s) 36 via a groove 36' and a pin 52'.

[0074] The drive slide(s) 36 may have a slide body 36''' carrying a pair of arms 36'''', each defining a groove 36', the arms 36'''' extending from the body 36''' parallel or substantially parallel to the processing axis 30' along either side of at least one of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20. For example, the groove 36' is defined by a ridge or protrusion 36''' protruding from the slide body 36'''', for example around at least one of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20.

[0075] The first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 in the processing configuration may define a capsule processing chamber 100 configured to enclose a capsule 5. For example, one of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 forms a cavity 11 shaped to receive a capsule 5, and the other of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 forms a lid 21 configured to close the cavity 11 and secure the capsule 5 within the cavity 11 in the processing configuration, the lid 21 being spaced apart from the cavity 11 in the transfer configuration to provide a sufficient space 100' between the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 to allow the capsule 5 to reach and / or be ejected from a position between the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 in the transfer configuration, for example.

[0076] At least one of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 may include or be associated with an inlet 22 for directing a liquid carrier, e.g. water, to the capsule 5 as the capsule 5 is being centrifuged by rotation. For example, the inlet 22 is associated with a capsule inlet opener, e.g. an inlet piercer 23, configured to open the capsule 5. The capsule opener may have a conduit for directing the liquid carrier from the inlet 22 to the capsule 5. The capsule opener may have an exterior surface defining a passage for directing the liquid carrier from the inlet to the capsule.

[0077] At least one of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 may include or be associated with an outlet 24 for guiding the beverage from the capsule 5 when the capsule 5 is being centrifuged by rotation. For example, the outlet 24 is associated with a capsule outlet opener, such as an outlet piercing device 25, configured to open the capsule 5. The capsule opener may have a conduit for guiding the beverage from the capsule to the outlet. The capsule opener may have an exterior surface defining a passage for guiding the beverage from the capsule to the outlet.

[0078] One of the first handler 10 and the second handler 20 may include or be associated with both such an inlet 22 and an outlet 24 .

[0079] The capsule insertion passage 60 may be covered by a lid or gate when the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 are rotated for centrifugal processing, for example when the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 are in a capsule processing configuration. For example, the lid or gate is formed by the above-mentioned handle 50 or a handle configured to relatively move the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 between the capsule transfer configuration and the processing configuration.

[0080] The handler support apparatus 30 may be pivotally supported by a machine frame or housing 40 via a first bearing 41, such as a ball or roller bearing or a magnetic or plain bearing, and via a second bearing 42, such as a second ball or roller bearing or a magnetic or plain bearing. The first bearing 41 and the second bearing 42 may be spaced apart along the process axis 30'.

[0081] The first bearing 41 can be located on a side of the handler support device 30 closer to the first capsule handler 10 than the second capsule handler 20. The second bearing 42 can be located on a side of the handler support device 30 closer to the second capsule handler 20 than the first capsule handler 10. For example, the first bearing 41 and the second bearing 42 are located at both ends of the handler support device 30.

[0082] The handler support apparatus 30 may have a substantially cylindrical shape extending along a processing axis 30' and at least partially surrounding the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20. For example, the handler support apparatus 30 may define one or two openings 39 configured to pass the capsules 5 into and / or out of the handler support apparatus 30, for example via corresponding capsule inlet passages 39' and / or outlet capsule passages 39'', for example, the capsules 5 may be passed transversely to the processing axis 30'.

[0083] The machine 1 may have positioning devices 30'', 40'', which are configured to position at least one of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 in a predetermined angular position relative to the processing axis 30' when the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 are in a capsule transfer configuration, for example when rotation of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 about the processing axis 30' is stopped.

[0084] The positioning devices 30'', 40'' may include mechanical position couplers, e.g., including mechanical locks, stops, or brakes, such as couplers that are decoupled and / or released during rotation of the first capsule handler 10 and the second capsule handler 20 about the processing axis 30'.

[0085] The positioning device 30'', 40'' may be provided with a magnetic position coupler, such as a magnetic coupler having a connector 40'' that is stationary relative to the machine frame and / or housing 40. The stationary connector 40'' may be magnetically constrained to a connector 30'' that is fixed to or included in at least one of the first and second capsule handlers 10 and 20 and the handler support device 30. The connector 40'' of one of the connectors 30'', 40'' may be a permanent magnet with a magnetic field generating element, for example a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, or an electromagnet configured to demagnetize the permanent magnet when the first and second capsule handlers 10 and 20 are rotated about the processing axis 30'. The connector 30'' of the other of the connectors 30'', 40'' may include at least one of a ferromagnetic member, a permanent magnet, and an electromagnet.

Claims

1. A capsule processing machine (1) for preparing a beverage from a capsule (5) having a body containing ingredients by passing a liquid through said capsule (5) and centrifugal driving said capsule (5), said machine (1) comprising: A first capsule handler (10) and a second capsule handler (20), from a capsule transfer arrangement for receiving the capsule (5) by the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) and / or releasing the capsule (5) from the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20), the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are movable relative to each other into a capsule processing arrangement for centrifugal processing of the capsules (5) by rotation of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) about a processing axis (30'); A first capsule handler (10) and a second capsule handler (20), or vice versa; a capsule insertion passage (60) associated with one or more capsule insertion guides (61), configured to guide the capsule (5), such as a protruding capsule flange (5') of the capsule (5), towards a capsule holding position in a space (100') between the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) in the transfer configuration, the space (100') being associated with a holding device, such as one or more stop members (38'), e.g. a stop member (38') formed by the insertion guide (61) or fixed to the insertion guide (61), the holding device being configured to hold the capsule in the space (100') before being held by at least one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) moving relatively towards and / or to the capsule handling configuration; a machine frame and / or housing (40) that is stationary when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are rotated for centrifugation and that supports the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20); Equipped with Optionally, the frame and / or housing comprises: and / or comprising or fixed to a bottom configured to rest on a support surface external to the machine (1), for example an external support surface formed by a table top, when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are rotated about the processing axis (30') for centrifugation, the processing axis (30') being at an angle in the range of 0° to 80°, for example 0° to 45°, for example 0° to 30°, for example 0° to 15°, typically substantially 0°, relative to the bottom; and / or A machine supporting a motor (2) connected to at least one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20), for example directly connected or via a transmission device (3) such as at least one of a belt, for example a toothed belt, a gear, for example a spur gear, and a connecting rod, the capsule insertion guide (61) comprises at least a rotatable part (38) that is stationary with respect to at least one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) and that rotates together with the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are rotated for centrifugation, and optionally the rotatable part (38) is formed by or assembled to at least one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20); A machine characterized by:

2. 2. The machine of claim 1, wherein the capsule insertion guide (61) comprises a non-rotating part (48) that is stationary with respect to the machine frame and / or housing (40) when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are rotated for centrifugation, and optionally the non-rotating part (48) is stationary with respect to the machine frame and / or housing (40) when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are moving relatively between the capsule transfer configuration and the capsule processing configuration, e.g. the non-rotating part (48) is formed by or assembled to the machine frame and / or housing (40).

3. 3. A machine according to claim 1, comprising a handler support device (30) for supporting the first and second capsule handlers (10) and (20), the handler support device (30) being configured to be angularly fixed with respect to the first and second capsule handlers (10) and to remain fixed and to rotate together with the first and second capsule handlers (10) and (20) about the processing axis (30') when the first and second capsule handlers (10) and (20) are rotated for centrifugation processing, and optionally the handler support device (30) being configured to be angularly fixed with respect to the first and second capsule handlers (10) and (20) in the transfer configuration.

4. an actuator (50, 51, 52) configured to actuate the first capsule handler (10) and / or the second capsule handler (20) to move the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) relative to each other between the capsule transfer arrangement and the capsule processing arrangement, optionally the actuator (50, 51, 52) being connected to the machine frame and / or housing (40) such that the actuator (50, 51, 52) remains stationary relative to the machine frame and / or housing (40) when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are rotated for centrifugation, A machine as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, for example wherein the actuator comprises a motor or handle (50) pivotally mounted on a handle shaft (51), the motor or handle (50) cooperating with an actuator slide (52) and / or a translational transmission member (52), such as a member (52) controlled by the motor or handle (50) via a cam (53) and cam follower (54) connection, the translational transmission member (52) being directly or indirectly connected to the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) for relatively moving the capsule handlers (10, 20) between the capsule transfer configuration and the capsule processing configuration.

5. a drive unit (31, 32, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) connected to the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) for relatively moving the capsule handler (10, 20) between the capsule transfer arrangement and the capsule processing arrangement, optionally the drive units (31, 32, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) securing said capsule handler (10, 20) to said processing arrangement by at least one of a lock, a friction stop, and an over-center lever or cam mechanism (37, 37'); and / or a lever (31, 32), e.g. a lever pivotably assembled about a pivot axis (33, 34, 35) in a knuckle joint arrangement; a gear, e.g. a spur gear, and / or a rack, e.g. a flat rack; a cam and cam follower; a belt, e.g. a toothed belt; and a drive slide (36). A machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A machine as described in claim 5 when dependent on claim 3, wherein the drive device (31, 32, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) connects the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) via the handler support device (30), e.g., the first capsule handler or the second capsule handler (20) is stationary relative to the handler support device (30).

7. the drive device (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) comprises the drive slide (36) and optionally one or more transmission members (31, 32, 33, 34, 35) connecting the drive slide (36) to the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) for relatively moving the capsule handler (10, 20) between the capsule transfer configuration and the capsule processing configuration, the drive slide (36) being actuated by the actuators (50, 51, 52), for example by being connected to the translation transmission member (52) cooperating with the drive slide (36) via a groove (36') and a pin (52'); 7. A machine according to claim 5 or 6 when dependent on claim 3 or 4, optionally wherein the drive slide (36) comprises a slide body (36'") carrying a pair of arms (36''") each defining a groove (36'), the arms (36''") extending from the body (36'") parallel or substantially parallel to the processing axis (30') along either side of at least one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20), e.g. the groove (36') being defined around the at least one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) by a ridge or protrusion (36") protruding from the slide body (36'").

8. The first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) in the processing configuration define a capsule processing chamber (100) configured to surround the capsule (5), and optionally one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) defines a cavity (11) shaped to receive the capsule (5), and the other of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) defines a cavity (11) shaped to receive the capsule (5), forming a lid (21) configured to close the cavity (11) in the processing configuration, the lid (21) being spaced from the cavity (11) in the transfer configuration to provide a sufficient space (100') between the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20), for example to allow the capsules (5) to reach and / or eject from a position between the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) in the transfer configuration; and / or At least one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) comprises or is associated with an inlet (22) for introducing a liquid carrier, e.g. water, into the capsule (5) when the capsule (5) is being centrifuged by rotation, and optionally the inlet (22) is a capsule inlet opener, e.g. an inlet piercing device (23), configured to open the capsule (5), e.g. by guiding the liquid carrier through the inlet (22). a capsule inlet opener, which is a capsule opener having a conduit for guiding the liquid carrier into the capsule (5) and / or a capsule opener having an outer surface defining a passage for guiding the liquid carrier from the inlet into the capsule, optionally one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) comprises or is associated with both the inlet (22) and the outlet (24); and / or at least one of the first and second capsule handlers (10) and (20) comprises or is associated with an outlet (24) for guiding the beverage from the capsule (5) when the capsule (5) is being centrifuged by rotation, and optionally the outlet (24) is associated with a capsule outlet opener, e.g. an outlet piercing device (25), configured to open the capsule (5), e.g. a capsule opener having a conduit for guiding the beverage from the capsule to the outlet and / or a capsule opener having an outer surface defining a passage for guiding the beverage from the capsule to the outlet, and optionally one of the first and second capsule handlers (10) and (20) comprises or is associated with both the inlet (22) and the outlet (24), A machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. 9. The machine according to claim 1, wherein the capsule insertion passage (60) is covered by a lid or gate when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are rotated for centrifugation, e.g. when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are in the capsule processing configuration, e.g. the lid or gate is formed by the handle (50) or a handle configured to relatively move the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) between the capsule transport configuration and the capsule processing configuration.

10. the handler support device (30) is pivotally supported by the machine frame or housing (40) via a first bearing (41), such as a ball or roller bearing, or a magnetic or plain bearing, and via a second bearing (42), such as a second ball or roller bearing, or a magnetic or plain bearing, the first bearing (41) and the second bearing (42) being spaced apart along the processing axis (30'); Optionally, the first bearing (41) is located on a side of the handler support device (30) closer to the first capsule handler (10) than the second capsule handler (20), and the second bearing (42) is located on a side of the handler support device (30) closer to the second capsule handler (20) than the first capsule handler (10), the first bearing (41) and the second bearing (42) being located, for example, at both ends of the support device (30).

11. 10. A machine according to claim 3 or any claim dependent thereon, wherein the handler support device (30) has a substantially cylindrical shape extending along the processing axis (30') and at least partially surrounding the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20), and optionally wherein the handler support device (30) defines one or two openings (39) configured to pass the capsules (5) into and / or out of the handler support device (30), e.g. by passing the capsules (5) transversely to the processing axis (30'), e.g. via corresponding capsule inlet passages (39') and / or outlet capsule passages (39'').

12. a positioning device (30'', 40'') configured to position at least one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) in a predetermined angular position about the processing axis (30') when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are in the capsule transfer configuration, e.g. when rotation of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) about the processing axis (30') is stopped, and optionally the positioning device (30'', 40'') a mechanical position coupler, such as a coupler that is decoupled and / or released during rotation of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) about the processing axis (30'), including, for example, a mechanical lock, stopper, or brake; a magnetic position coupler, such as a magnetic coupler, having a connector (40'') that is stationary relative to the machine frame and / or housing (40), the stationary connector (40'') being magnetically constrained to a connector (30'') fixed to or included in at least one of the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) and the handler support device (30), and optionally one of the connectors (30'', 40'') being: The machine according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising at least one of: a magnetic field generating element, such as a permanent magnet or an electromagnet, or a permanent magnet with an electromagnet configured to demagnetize a permanent magnet when the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) are rotated about the processing axis (30'); and a magnetic position coupler, the other connector (30'') of the connectors (30'', 40'') including at least one of a ferromagnetic member, a permanent magnet, and an electromagnet.

13. A system comprising a capsule processing machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and a capsule (5) having a body containing an ingredient, said capsule (5) being handled by said capsule insertion guide associated with said capsule insertion passage (60) of said machine, said rotatable part (38) of said insertion guide being configured to rotate together with said first capsule handler (10) and said second capsule handler (20) of said machine in said capsule processing configuration when said capsule (5) is being centrifugally processed.

14. A method for preparing a beverage from a capsule (5) having a body containing an ingredient in a machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising: transferring said capsule (5) via said capsule insertion guide (61) associated with said capsule insertion passage (60) to said first capsule handler (10) and said second capsule handler (20) in said transfer configuration for receiving said capsule (5); placing the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) in the capsule processing configuration; centrifugally processing the capsules (5) handled by the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) which are rotated together with the capsule insertion guide (61) about the processing axis (30') to produce the beverage, and distributing the liquid within the capsules (5).

15. For a machine according to any one of claims 1 to 12, For implementing the system according to claim 13, or For carrying out the method according to claim 14 Use of a capsule as the capsule (5), The capsule (5) to the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) in the transfer configuration for receiving the capsule (5), via the capsule insertion guide (61) associated with the capsule insertion passage (60); supported by the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) in the capsule processing configuration; Use wherein the liquid is centrifugally processed while being handled by the first capsule handler (10) and the second capsule handler (20) which are rotated together with the capsule insertion guide (61) about the processing axis (30') while being circulated within the capsule (5) to produce the beverage.

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