BEVERAGE DISPENSING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A BEVERAGE DISPENSING MACHINE - Patent application

Abstract

The present invention refers to a beverage dispenser comprising a liquid feed path (2) having a liquid feed unit (4) for feeding a liquid through the beverage dispenser (1), and a dispenser unit (5) for dispensing the fed liquid. The beverage dispenser (1) further comprises a detector (7) for detecting a flush command, and a control unit configured to initiate a flush process upon detection of the flush command by the detector (7), the flush process comprising feeding a liquid along the liquid feed path (2). The present invention is further directed to a method for controlling a beverage preparation machine.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention is directed to a beverage dispenser machine for dispensing (edible) liquids or beverages such as water, flavored water, enhanced water, coffee, tea, soup, etc. The present invention is further directed to a method for controlling the beverage dispenser machine, in particular for cleaning purposes. [Background technology]

[0002] Beverage dispenser machines are commonly known in the art. In these machines, a liquid is pumped through the machine and dispensed at a dispensing outlet. The liquid may be conditioned (e.g., cooled or heated) before being dispensed. The liquid may interact with an edible product to prepare a particular beverage product, such as coffee, tea, or soup, or other liquid food product. The liquid may also interact with the edible product to enhance or flavor it before being dispensed. The liquid may be pumped through a beverage preparation unit to interact with the edible product. Thus, the edible product may be held in a capsule or other type of container that can be selectively positioned within the beverage preparation unit to allow the liquid to be filled into the capsule or other type of container to interact with the liquid.

[0003] For hygiene reasons and to allow the beverage dispenser machine to function properly, the liquid lines along which the liquid or the produced beverage is sent are cleaned from time to time, preferably periodically. Most of the cleaning-in-place (CIP) methods are usually based on chemicals and / or require regular cleaning or replacement of spare parts. The user often has to follow complicated procedures to activate the cleaning process.

[0004] Furthermore, if the beverage dispenser is intended to deliver chilled liquids or beverages, an additional cleaning process is required: disinfection of the beverage dispenser needs to be carried out from the liquid inlet (at the beverage dispenser) to the beverage dispenser outlet. Summary of the Invention

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a beverage dispenser and a method for controlling the beverage dispenser, which allows easy and proper cleaning of the beverage dispenser and preferably the entire liquid delivery path of the beverage dispenser.

[0006] This object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. The dependent claims further explore the central idea of ​​the invention.

[0007] According to one aspect, the present invention is directed to a beverage dispenser comprising a liquid transport path. The liquid transport path comprises a liquid transport unit for transporting a liquid through the beverage dispenser, for example via a fluid line or piping of the liquid transport path. Furthermore, the liquid transport path comprises a dispensing unit for dispensing the transported liquid. The beverage dispenser further comprises a detector for detecting a flush command. Additionally, the beverage dispenser comprises a control unit configured to activate (i.e., start and execute) a flushing process based on detection of the flush command by or via the detector. The flushing process includes transporting a liquid along the liquid transport path.

[0008] Since the beverage dispenser initiates the cleaning process or cycle based on the detection of the cleaning command, cleaning can be initiated automatically without further user intervention. Therefore, the user does not need to remember or follow complicated procedures to initiate the cleaning process. Since the cleaning command itself is detected by the detector, the beverage dispenser preferably receives the command or even additional information necessary to initiate the cleaning process by mere detection, and thus in a simplified manner. Therefore, the overall cleaning process can be facilitated and made more reliable and foolproof for the user. Furthermore, since the cleaning process can be initiated automatically by simply detecting the cleaning command, no further manual intervention by the user (e.g., pressing a button, selecting a cleaning process from a menu via a touch display, etc.) is required, and as a result, the risk of cross-contamination can also be minimized.

[0009] In the context of the present invention, the term "cleaning" may preferably encompass rinsing, cleaning, washing, descaling, sanitizing and any other type of cleaning. Thus, a "cleaning liquid" may be any type of liquid for improving the cleanliness of a machine, such as heated / hot liquid, water, descaling agent, disinfectant, sterilant, etc.

[0010] In the context of the present invention, the term "cleaning command" may preferably encompass any type of detectable feature, as long as it can be identified as such by a corresponding detector and preferably enables a control unit to be activated accordingly. In this regard, a cleaning command may, for example, simply be the (physical) presence of an element in the sensing area of ​​a detector. A cleaning command may also be structural or functional information detected by a detector, such as the outline, color, readable information, preferably encoded information, carried on a chip or another element, etc. A cleaning command may also be a (coded) control command implemented in the control unit via a detector, or may simply activate a cleaning sequence stored in the control unit when detected by a detector. However, the present invention is not limited to these types of cleaning commands.

[0011] The liquid feed line may further comprise an inlet for supplying liquid to the liquid feed unit. Thus, an easy and reliable feature is provided to allow any desired method and source for supplying liquid to the liquid feed line (e.g., from outside the machine). Thus, sufficient liquid for dispensing a beverage or cleaning liquid for performing a cleaning process can be replenished / supplied.

[0012] The detector may be a presence sensor, an optical detector such as a barcode reader, and / or a code reader such as an RFID code reader. By using a presence sensor, the mere presence of a feature or element, e.g., simply being placed in front of the detector, can be detected as a cleaning command, thereby easily initiating the cleaning process. The detector may also be an optical detector or sensor, such as a barcode reader or a camera, for detecting the presence, position, type, shape, size, code, etc., of the cleaning command or the element carrying it, thus providing a highly sophisticated sensor means for detecting the cleaning command and initiating the cleaning process for improved cleaning results. A detector that is a code reader may, for example, detect a defined code carried on an element (such as a smartphone) so that the code can be implemented in the system (e.g., a control unit) or simply recognized to initiate the cleaning process. The code reader may, for example, be an RFID reader, while the cleaning command can be stored on an RFID tag or RFID chip. Other, preferably wireless, cleaning commands may also be provided in any possible way that can be detected by the detector to initiate the cleaning process.

[0013] The beverage dispenser may further comprise a cleaning path selectively fluidly connectable to the fluid path to form a closed circulation loop. By selectively providing a closed cleaning circulation loop, cleaning fluid can be easily circulated, thereby enabling the beverage dispenser to be efficiently cleaned. Because the circulation loop allows for closed circulation of cleaning fluid, less cleaning fluid is required compared to machines that are cleaned along an open fluid path.

[0014] The cleaning path may comprise an integrated cleaning line. Thus, a closed circulation loop can be easily created or formed inside the machine without the risk of user interference. The beverage dispenser machine preferably further comprises a valve for selectively fluidly connecting the cleaning line to the liquid feed path to form a closed circulation loop. This allows for a simple means for creating or forming a closed circulation loop for easy cleaning of the machine. The use of valves also allows for a repeatable and reliable selective connection of the respective liquid feed routes, i.e., the liquid feed paths and the cleaning line of the cleaning path.

[0015] The beverage dispenser may further comprise a removable connector (also called connector), for example in the form of a jug, which may be fluidly connectable to the dispenser unit for receiving the liquid dispensed during the cleaning process, i.e. the removable connector may be directly connected to the beverage dispenser liquid feed line at the inlet and the beverage dispenser outlet. Such a connector allows for reliable recovery of the dispensed cleaning liquid, which minimizes the risk of a user coming into contact with the cleaning liquid while facilitating its removal, for example after the cleaning process is finished.

[0016] The connector may be designed to fluidly connect the dispensing unit and the inlet of the liquid transport path, if present, as a cleaning path, to form the closed circulation loop described above together with the liquid transport unit for circulating liquid along the liquid transport path.

[0017] The proposed detachable connector allows for a complete disinfection process of the beverage dispenser machine, i.e. from the liquid inlet (in the liquid line of the beverage dispenser) to the beverage dispenser outlet, using a closed circulation loop, without the need for user intervention during the process, which may be carried out using high temperature and / or chemical cleaning liquid products.

[0018] Thus, the connector preferably allows for an (external) shortcut between the outlet (i.e., the dispensing unit) and the inlet of the liquid feed path. Therefore, a preferred closed circulation loop can be easily created / formed by a very simple and easy-to-use means, i.e., a removable connector, while still allowing for proper cleaning of the beverage dispenser. Completing the closed circulation loop via the dispensing unit on the one hand and the inlet on the other hand, the liquid feed path including the inlet, the liquid feed unit, and the dispensing unit (outlet) become part of the closed circulation loop, and are therefore positioned completely along the cleaning path. Furthermore, since a closed circulation loop is created by fluidly connecting the removable connector to the liquid feed path, the cleaning liquid containing dirt and contaminants remains within this closed loop, thereby avoiding its release. This minimizes the risk of a user coming into contact with the cleaning liquid. The risk of cross-contamination can also be minimized. Therefore, by using a very simple means, i.e., a removable connector, the entire beverage dispenser can be easily and properly cleaned using a given beverage dispenser. Additionally, the connector can preferably be used with existing beverage dispensers, and therefore can be easily retrofitted.

[0019] The connector may include a space for holding a certain amount of liquid, which preferably aligns with a closed circulation loop when fluidly connected to or with the fluid feed line. Thus, the connector can be used to funnel cleaning liquid into the space at the end of the cleaning process, allowing the entire cleaning liquid to be easily removed. This facilitates the removal of the cleaning liquid and minimizes cross-contamination. Furthermore, when a closed circulation loop is formed along the connector and its space, cleaning liquid can be retained with the connector so that sufficient cleaning liquid is present for the cleaning process when the connector is fluidly connected to the fluid feed line.

[0020] The connector may include an inlet port for fluid connection with or to the dispensing unit. Thus, a defined connection with the connector on the dispensing unit side can be easily provided, and a reliable fluid connection between the detachable connector and the dispensing unit can be obtained. The connector may further include an outlet port, as necessary, for fluid connection with or to the inlet. Thus, a reliable fluid connection of the connector with or to the inlet can be obtained, and a closed circulation loop can be easily and reliably formed.

[0021] The connector may carry readable information, preferably coded information, comprising a flushing command, i.e. a flushing command for a flushing process to be executed by the beverage dispenser once a closed circulation loop with the beverage dispenser is formed and / or a flushing command for initiation by the beverage dispenser. The connector may therefore be the element along which the flushing command is provided. Thus, the mere provision of the connector results in an automatic or at least easy activation of the corresponding flushing process.

[0022] The delivery unit may comprise a storage tank for holding a quantity of liquid to be delivered to the dispensing unit. Preferably, the storage tank is supplied with liquid via an inlet. Thus, for example, a free-standing machine can be provided which holds enough liquid for multiple beverage dispense requests or even for a cleaning cycle.

[0023] The liquid delivery unit may comprise cooling means for cooling the liquid. The liquid may preferably be cooled in the storage tank. The storage tank may therefore preferably comprise cooling means. Thus, chilled liquid can be provided for delivery and / or dispensing of chilled liquid or beverage.

[0024] The liquid delivery unit may comprise a heater for heating the liquid. The liquid may be heated, for example, in a storage tank. The storage tank may therefore preferably comprise a heater. Thus, it is possible to heat the liquid to provide a heated or hot liquid / beverage for dispensing. Furthermore, if a detachable connector is fluidly connected so that the heated liquid can circulate along a closed circulation loop, the heated liquid may preferably be used as a cleaning liquid for cleaning the beverage dispenser machine, in particular the liquid delivery path.

[0025] The liquid delivery unit and / or the dispensing unit may preferably further comprise disinfection means for disinfecting the liquid as it is delivered along the liquid delivery path or its liquid delivery unit. The disinfection means may preferably comprise or be a UV lamp, which may be provided so that the liquid, and preferably the delivered liquid, can be irradiated and thus exposed to UV light for disinfection purposes. Thus, the liquid delivered for beverage delivery or preparation, or the liquid delivered or circulated for cleaning purposes, can be disinfected, which further improves the safety of the user and the cleanliness of the machine.

[0026] The liquid delivery unit may further comprise a pump for delivering the liquid along the liquid delivery path and / or the closed circulation loop. Thus, the integrated pump allows for easy and accurate delivery or circulation of the liquid. Furthermore, since the pump is provided in the liquid delivery unit, it can function both for delivering the liquid for beverage dispensing and for delivering or circulating the liquid during cleaning of the beverage dispenser, which cleaning is preferably performed along the closed circulation loop.

[0027] The beverage dispenser may further comprise filtering means for upstream filtering the liquid stored in the storage tank. The filtering means is preferably removably connected to the beverage dispenser machine, and the removable connector may fluidly connect the dispenser unit and the inlet only when the filtering means is not connected to and / or removed from the beverage dispenser machine.

[0028] The detachable connector may include a space for retaining a certain amount of liquid, preferably along a closed circulation loop when the connector is fluidly connected to or with the fluid feed line. Therefore, cleaning liquid can be retained along the connector so that sufficient cleaning liquid is present for the cleaning process when the connector is fluidly connected to the fluid feed line. The space can also be used to funnel the cleaning liquid into the space of the connector at the end of the cleaning process, allowing the entire cleaning liquid to be easily removed. This facilitates removal of the cleaning liquid and minimizes cross-contamination.

[0029] The detachable connector may comprise an inlet port for fluid connection with or to the dispensing unit. Thus, a defined connection with the connector on the dispensing unit side can be easily provided to obtain a reliable fluid connection between the detachable connector and the dispensing unit. The connector may comprise an outlet port for fluid connection with or to the inlet. Thus, a reliable fluid connection of the connector with or to the inlet can be obtained. The inlet and / or outlet ports can create corresponding fluid connections to easily and reliably form a closed circulation loop.

[0030] The removable connector may carry readable, preferably coded, information about the cleaning process to be performed by the beverage dispenser machine once the closed circulation loop is formed. The connector is therefore accompanied by means that allow automatic or at least easy initiation and / or execution of the corresponding cleaning process. For example, the readable / coded information may include instructions for the beverage dispenser machine to perform the cleaning process, such as the duration of the cleaning process, the heating temperature of the liquid to be heated and used as cleaning liquid, pump control for delivering the liquid, etc.

[0031] The beverage dispenser may further comprise a supply tank for supplying liquid into the liquid channel, so that a certain amount of liquid can be stored ready for use in the beverage dispenser, for example as beverage dispense liquid and / or cleaning liquid.

[0032] The supply tank may be removably mounted, thus facilitating refilling of the supply tank and allowing the supply tank to be provided only when required. Furthermore, the supply tank may be removed or even replaced, for example, for maintenance, for cleaning purposes (e.g., to place the supply tank in the dishwasher), or to allow the use of different types of supply tanks, which may differ, for example, in size, design, color, etc.

[0033] The supply tank may be selectively fluidly connectable to the liquid feed line, preferably via an inlet, either with or when the connector is not connected to the liquid feed line. By providing the supply tank in a manner that is selectively fluidly connectable to the liquid feed line, liquid from the supply tank can be provided or withdrawn whenever needed. The same inlet can be used both to attach a supply tank for replenishing liquid, for example, for beverage dispensing, and also to attach a connector, for example via an outlet port, to create a closed circulation loop for circulating liquid during a cleaning process. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced and the overall layout of the beverage dispensing machine can be simplified.

[0034] The dispensing unit may comprise a beverage preparation unit for producing a beverage based on the (delivered) liquid. Thus, a liquid such as water can be flavored or enriched, for example by mixing, extracting, dissolving, infusing, etc. Preferably, the beverage preparation unit may include a mixing chamber and / or a brewing chamber.

[0035] The dispensing unit, and preferably the beverage preparation unit, may comprise a receiving portion for receiving an edible product (e.g., in powder, gel, paste, liquid, or other suitable form), preferably held in a capsule, pad, pod, sachet, container, etc., which is arranged in the liquid feed path such that the (fed) liquid (e.g., water) can interact (e.g., by extracting, infusing, dissolving, dissolving, mixing, etc.) with the edible product to prepare a beverage. Thus, many different types of beverages can be easily prepared and dispensed by the beverage dispenser machine as required. Of course, any type of additive, such as flavoring, can be fed in a separate additive feed path or within / by the above-mentioned liquid feed path, and it is also possible to mix the additive with the liquid at a point along the liquid feed path, and preferably within the dispenser unit, to easily prepare various different types of liquids by the beverage dispenser machine.

[0036] The control unit may be configured to initiate the cleaning process upon detection of a cleaning command by the detector. Thus, the cleaning process can be started easily and quickly. The immediate activation upon detection of a cleaning command may be subject to additional requirements. For example, it may be initiated only if a closed circulation loop is formed and / or if the connector is fluidly connected to the dispensing unit. Thus, the safety of the cleaning process is increased.

[0037] The control unit may be configured to perform the beverage dispense process by preferably controlling the pump mentioned above to pump the liquid along the liquid path out of the dispense unit, thus making beverage production in a highly clean environment easily performed in an automated manner, thereby improving the safety and efficiency of the beverage dispense machine.

[0038] The beverage dispenser may further include a connector sensor for detecting the presence of the connector. The beverage dispenser or the control unit may then be (further) configured to initiate a cleaning process based on or upon the detection of the presence of the detachable connector or the completion of the formation of a closed circulation loop. Thus, the presence of the detachable connector or the completion of the formation of a closed circulation loop may enable immediate or defined initiation of the cleaning process. This automation facilitates use of the beverage dispenser. Thus, compared to the prior art, the user does not need to remember complex procedures for initiating the cleaning process and / or handle cleaning fluids. Furthermore, the safety of the execution of the cleaning process may be improved, since the cleaning process will not be initiated erroneously if the required detachable connector is not present / attached or if the closed circulation loop is not created / formed.

[0039] The connector sensor may be a presence sensor, a code reader, an optical sensor such as a camera, etc. If the connector sensor is a presence sensor, the mere presence of the connector can be detected, thus providing an easy way to start the cleaning process. If the connector sensor is a code reader, it may be possible to detect the aforementioned readable information, preferably encoded information, such as a defined code carried on the connector. The code reader may be, for example, an RFID reader, while the readable information carried by the connector can be stored on an RFID tag or RFID chip. The connector sensor may also be an optical sensor such as a camera for detecting the presence, position, type, code, etc. of the connector, thus providing a highly sophisticated sensor means for starting the cleaning process for improved cleaning results.

[0040] According to another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for controlling a beverage dispense machine, the method comprising: providing a beverage dispenser machine according to the present invention; detecting a cleaning command with a detector; and initiating (i.e., starting and executing) a cleaning process upon detection of a cleaning command, the cleaning process including pumping liquid along a liquid transport path.

[0041] Therefore, for the reasons already described herein above in relation to the beverage dispenser machine, a method for controlling a beverage dispenser machine is provided to enable easy initiation of a cleaning process. Simply detecting a cleaning command initiates the cleaning process without further user interaction. No complex procedures are therefore required to initiate the cleaning process, making the cleaning process fail-safe. To avoid repetition, reference is made to the comments and advantages described herein above in relation to the beverage dispenser machine, which also apply mutatis mutandis to the present method.

[0042] The method may further include the step of fluidly connecting the connector to the dispensing unit before initiating the cleaning process. The delivered liquid can then be received, e.g., collected, in or by the connector during the cleaning process. Thus, the cleaning liquid can be reliably received and preferably stored, e.g., when flushed from the dispensing unit. Also, if the cleaning liquid is collected in the connector, e.g., in its space, it can be easily removed.

[0043] The method may further include fluidly connecting the cleaning path to the fluid path before initiating the cleaning process to obtain a closed circulation loop. This step may be triggered by detecting a cleaning command. The cleaning process may then include circulating the liquid through the closed circulation loop. Thus, cleaning can be performed efficiently, preferably encircling the entire fluid path. Furthermore, the user does not have to interfere with the cleaning liquid.

[0044] The step of fluidly connecting the cleaning path may comprise the step of attaching a connector to fluidly connect the dispensing unit and the inlet to form a closed circulation loop. Thus, by simply attaching the connector, a fluid link, and preferably also a physical link, between the dispensing unit and the outlet can be easily created, thereby defining a proper loop along the (entire) liquid path of the machine via the dispensing unit (outlet) and back to its inlet. Thus, safe, easy and proper cleaning can be obtained. To avoid repetition, reference is made to the comments and advantages described herein above for the beverage dispenser machine, which also apply mutatis mutandis to the present method.

[0045] The step of detecting the flush command by the detector may include detecting the presence of the connector. Therefore, the flush command can be easily provided, allowing for easy activation of the flush process. The step of detecting the flush command by the detector may also include detecting that a closed circulation loop has been formed. Therefore, the flush command can be integrated into the machine, facilitating the activation process. Furthermore, if the flush command is linked to the completion of the required closed circulation loop, the flush process can be made safe and foolproof. The step of detecting the flush command by the detector may also include reading the flush command, preferably wirelessly or optically, from the connector or a secondary device such as a smartphone, which is preferably stored on a barcode or RFID tag or transmitted via the Internet. Therefore, the flush command can be provided reliably and easily. Furthermore, the flush process can be personalized, for example, according to the connector used or the required flushing fluid, since further information carried by the connector can preferably be additionally read in such a way that corresponding information can be obtained, for example, for supplying to the control unit of the beverage dispenser machine.

[0046] The step of circulating the liquid may be initiated automatically by the step of attaching the removable connector (or connectors), preferably by recognition of the presence of the connector and / or by recognition that a closed circulation loop has been formed and / or based on or at that time on reading of information, preferably coded, carried by the connector. Cleaning of the beverage dispenser machine, and in particular the entire liquid path, is thus facilitated. Also, the user does not have to interfere with the cleaning liquid. Furthermore, no complicated procedures are required to activate the cleaning process, making the cleaning process fail-safe. If further information carried by the connector is read, corresponding information can be obtained for supplying, for example, to a control unit of the beverage dispenser machine, so that the cleaning process can be individualized, for example, according to the connector used or the cleaning liquid required.

[0047] The cleaning process can be initiated upon detection of a cleaning command, so that the cleaning process can be started quickly and therefore performed efficiently.

[0048] The cleaning process may be performed for a predetermined duration. Alternatively or additionally, the cleaning process may be performed until a predetermined cleaning level of the beverage dispenser machine is reached, which may be measured, for example, based on the contamination level of the cleaning liquid. Thus, a sufficient and adequate cleaning can be achieved.

[0049] If or to the extent that the amount or level of liquid in the liquid supply path and / or in the closed circulation loop and / or in the storage tank and / or in the connector, such as in the space, and / or in the cleaning path is below a defined threshold, the step of sending or preferably circulating liquid can be postponed or paused after attaching the connector. It can thus be ensured that a sufficient amount of liquid, specifically cleaning liquid, is always provided in the cleaning cycle. Furthermore, in this way, it can be detected whether all the cleaning liquid has been flushed away at the end of the cleaning process. In this way, the safety of the cleaning process can be improved.

[0050] Preferably, if or so long as the amount or level of liquid is below the aforementioned threshold, an output may be generated. This output may be a visual output, such as a lamp or display, indicating, for example, by color and / or text and / or different levels of light intensity, the amount or level of liquid, and preferably also what type of error has been detected. The output may also be an audible output, such as a sound, a beep, or even a voice output. Thus, many different types of output are possible as needed, depending on the level of importance and the type of beverage dispense machine.

[0051] Before and / or while the liquid is being fed or preferably circulated, the liquid may be heated, preferably by a heater. Thus, the heated liquid can be used as the cleaning liquid, which allows for an efficient and economical cleaning process. Furthermore, the use of additional cleaning liquids or mixtures of chemicals, etc. can be avoided.

[0052] When the cleaning process is not being performed, a beverage can be dispensed by sending a liquid along the liquid feed path out of the dispense unit. Therefore, a clear distinction can be made between the beverage dispense process and the cleaning process, so that any cross-contamination can be avoided. The beverage can be produced based on the liquid before being dispensed, preferably in the beverage preparation unit of the dispense unit. Thus, the liquid can be enriched, e.g., flavored, carbonated, etc., to enable the dispensing of a wide variety of beverages. The liquid can also be used for mixing, extraction, infusion, dissolution, and any other type of beverage preparation step. For example, capsules, pads, pods, sachets, containers, etc., can be inserted into the beverage preparation unit while holding an edible product, and thus positioned along the liquid feed path so that the liquid can interact with the edible product when being dispensed, e.g., by injecting the liquid into the capsule. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0053] Further features, details and advantages of the invention will be explained in relation to the embodiments of the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic front view of a beverage dispenser machine in a beverage dispense state according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 shows a schematic front view of the beverage dispenser machine in a cleaning state. [Figure 3] 2 shows a schematic view of a beverage dispenser machine in a cleaning state according to a second embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] The figures show different embodiments of the beverage dispenser machine 1, as well as specific details and components thereof. All embodiments show a dispenser-type beverage dispenser machine 1. However, the beverage dispenser machine 1 may also be of another type, such as a brewing-type or infusion-type beverage dispenser machine 1. The beverage dispenser machine 1 may be adapted to be used by a consumer who requests a beverage from the beverage dispenser machine 1 (as needed). That is, the beverage dispenser machine 1 may be adapted to dispense or dispense a beverage that is ready for consumption by the consumer, i.e., a ready-to-drink beverage. The beverage dispenser machine is not limited to a particular design. Preferably, the beverage dispenser machine 1 is designed to be used on the business-to-business (B2B) and / or consumer-to-consumer (B2C) side. For example, the beverage dispenser machine 1 may be designed as a vending machine (airport, mall, public area, etc.), on the B2B side (hotel, restaurant, cafe, i.e., "HoReCa", fitness center, office, etc.), and / or on the B2C side (e.g., home). The beverage dispenser 1 may be designed as a vending machine, a water dispenser, and / or a household appliance device. The beverage dispenser 1 may be designed to be attached or placed on a wall (wall-mounted), a base, and / or a tabletop, and / or the beverage dispenser 1 may have a freestanding design. The beverage dispenser 1 may include a connection for a power source to replenish the respective components of the beverage dispenser 1 with electrical energy.

[0055] The beverage dispenser 1 comprises a liquid transport path 2. The liquid transport path 2 is designed to transport a liquid through the beverage dispenser 1. The liquid transport path 2 is exemplarily shown in FIG.

[0056] The liquid transport path 2 comprises a liquid transport unit 4 for transporting the liquid through the beverage dispensing machine 1. Furthermore, the liquid transport path 2 comprises a dispensing unit 5 for dispensing the transported liquid.

[0057] The liquid feed path 2 may optionally further comprise an inlet 3 for supplying liquid to the liquid feed unit 4. As exemplarily shown in Fig. 1, the beverage dispenser 1 may also comprise a supply tank 100, here connected to the inlet 3, for supplying liquid into the liquid feed path 2. The supply tank 100 may be removably attachable, particularly if the liquid is supplied through the inlet 3. Here, the supply tank 100 is selectively fluidly connectable / connected to the liquid feed path 2, preferably via the inlet 3. The supply tank 100 may have an in-tank filter 101.

[0058] The liquid delivery path or at least the liquid delivery unit 4 may comprise any kind of means for allowing the flow of liquid, i.e. the delivery of liquid, such as a fluid line 47 or other type of piping.

[0059] The liquid delivery unit 4 may comprise a storage tank 40 for holding a quantity of liquid, as exemplarily shown in FIG. 3, which is preferably supplied via the inlet 3 (e.g., by being fluidly connected / fluidly connectable to the inlet 3) and fed to the dispensing unit 5 (e.g., by being fluidly connected / fluidly connectable to the dispensing unit 5).

[0060] As can also be seen in FIG. 3, the liquid delivery unit 4 and preferably the storage tank 40 may be provided with cooling means 41 for cooling the liquid, where the liquid is preferably stored in the storage tank 40.

[0061] Furthermore, the liquid delivery unit 4 and preferably the storage tank 40 may comprise a heater 42 for heating the liquid, which is preferably stored in the storage tank 40 .

[0062] Thus, as required, preferably either heated or cooled liquid can be stored in the storage tank 40 depending on the process being performed or the user's demand or beverage / liquid dispensing requirements.

[0063] The liquid delivery unit 4 (see Figure 3) and / or the dispensing unit 5 may further comprise disinfection means 45, preferably for disinfecting the liquid as it is delivered. The disinfection means 45 may be a UV lamp, as exemplarily shown in Figure 3, which may be provided along the liquid delivery unit 4, in particular along the line 47 for delivering the liquid, so as to expose the (flowing / delivered) liquid to UV light for disinfection purposes.

[0064] As further shown in Fig. 3, the liquid delivery unit 4 may further comprise pumps 43, 44 for delivering the liquid along the liquid delivery path 2. Here, a first pump 43 is provided for delivering the liquid from the inlet 3 through a part of the liquid delivery unit 4 into the storage tank 40. In the storage tank 40, the stored liquid can be heated or cooled as described above, preferably by the cooling means 41 and / or heater 42 described above. Here, another pump 44 is provided between the storage tank 40 and the dispensing unit 5 for delivering the liquid from the storage tank 40 to the dispensing unit 5 and dispensing the delivered liquid. Along the fluid line 47 through which the liquid is pumped by the second pump 44, disinfection means 45, here in the form of a UV lamp, can be provided to expose the delivered liquid to UV light for disinfection purposes.

[0065] The beverage dispenser 1 may further comprise an in-line carbonation device 46 for adding carbon dioxide (CO2) to the liquid being pumped through the beverage dispenser 1, here preferably through the liquid pumping path 2 or its liquid pumping unit 4.

[0066] The dispensing unit 5 may comprise a beverage preparation unit 50 for preparing a beverage based on the (delivered) liquid. The beverage preparation unit 50 may be a mixing chamber, a brewing chamber, etc. Preferably, the dispensing unit 5 and more preferably the beverage preparation unit 50 may comprise a receiving portion for receiving a capsule (or other type of container such as a pad, pod, sachet, container, etc.) holding an edible product, so that the capsule is easily positioned within the liquid feed path 2 so that the (delivered) liquid can interact (e.g. by extracting, infusing, dissolving, dissolving, mixing, etc.) with the edible product to prepare a beverage.

[0067] The beverage dispenser 1 further comprises a detector 7 (see Figure 3) for detecting a cleaning command and a control unit (not shown) configured to initiate a cleaning process based on detection of the cleaning command by the detector 7. The cleaning process includes at least pumping a liquid along the liquid transport path 2. Thus, a liquid (such as water or another cleaning liquid) can move along the liquid transport path 2, thereby cleaning the respective lines 47 or other types of piping or elements through which the liquid is pumped.

[0068] The detector 7 may be a presence sensor for detecting the physical presence of an element. Furthermore, the detector 7 may also be a code reader, as exemplarily shown in FIG. 2 , where the code detector 7 is exemplarily shown here as an RFID reader (e.g., a transceiver) for reading an RFID tag 70. The cleaning command is preferably stored in the RFID tag 70. The detector 7 may also be an optical detector or sensor, such as a camera or a barcode reader. The cleaning command may then be stored in a respective barcode or QR code to be read by the detector 7.

[0069] Based on the thus received flushing command, the flushing process of the beverage dispenser 1 can be activated, i.e., started and executed. The flushing command can be any type of detectable information that allows the control unit to be activated accordingly. Thus, the flushing command may simply be the (physical) presence of an element in the sensing area of ​​the detector 7. The flushing command may also be detected structural or functional information, such as the outline, color, readable information, preferably coded information, carried on a chip or another element, etc. The flushing command may also be a (coded) control command implemented in the control unit, or may simply activate a flushing sequence stored in the control unit when detected by the detector. Thus, the flushing command may be any type of detectable feature, as long as it can be identified as such by the corresponding detector 7.

[0070] 3, the beverage dispenser 1 may further comprise a cleaning line C selectively fluidly connectable to the liquid feed line 2 to form a closed circulation loop O. Pumps 43, 44 may enable liquid feed along the closed circulation loop O.

[0071] The cleaning path C may comprise an integrated cleaning line (not shown), which may for example shortcut a part of the liquid delivery line 47 of the liquid delivery unit 4. The beverage dispense machine 1 may preferably further comprise a valve (not shown) for selectively fluidly connecting the cleaning line (not shown) to the liquid delivery path 2 to form a closed circulation loop O.

[0072] The cleaning path C may also be part of an external, removable element that can, for example, selectively fluidly connect the dispensing unit 5 and the inlet 3, preferably forming a closed circulation loop O along the entire liquid feed path 2. For example, a removable connector 6, here illustratively in the form of a jug, is shown, which is designed to fluidly connect the dispensing unit 5 and the inlet 3 as the cleaning path C and form, together with the liquid feed unit 4, a closed circulation loop O for circulating liquid along the liquid feed path 2, as shown in Figures 2 and 3 .

[0073] The connector 6 may also preferably only be fluidly connectable to the dispensing unit 5 to receive the liquid delivered during the cleaning process. Thus, the drained or flushed cleaning liquid can be easily and reliably collected and removed for easy and safe disposal.

[0074] 2 and 3, the connector 6 may include a space 60 for holding a quantity of liquid when fluidly connected to or in fluid path 2, preferably along a closed circulation loop O. Here, the connector 6 is illustratively shown as a jug. The connector 6 preferably includes a handle 61 for easily carrying the connector 6.

[0075] The connector 6 may comprise an inlet port 62 for fluid connection (and preferably physical connection) with or to the dispensing unit 5, as shown in Figure 2. As shown schematically in Figure 3, the connector 6 may further preferably comprise an outlet port 63 for fluid (and preferably physical) connection with or to the inlet 3, so as to form a closed circulation loop O, if desired, as exemplarily shown in both Figures 2 and 3.

[0076] The beverage dispenser machine 1 may further comprise filtering means (not shown) for upstream filtering the liquid stored in the storage tank 40. The filtering means is preferably removably connected to the beverage dispenser machine 1, and the removable connector 6 may fluidly connect the dispenser unit 5 and the inlet 3 only when the filtering means is not connected to and / or removed from the beverage dispenser machine 1.

[0077] As exemplarily shown in Fig. 1, the connector 6 may carry readable information, preferably coded information, including a cleaning command. This information may further include other information, for example related to a cleaning process, such as about the cleaning process executed by the beverage dispenser 1 once the closed circulation loop O is formed. Here, the readable information is provided by the above-mentioned RFID tag 70 or any other type of radio transmitter. The readable information, preferably coded information, may also be provided by a visual code, such as a barcode or a QR code. The visual code may be glued, printed, etc. on the connector 6. The cleaning command may also simply be present in the connector 6 or may be the shape, color, or presence of the connector 6.

[0078] The control unit may also be configured to initiate the cleaning process upon detection of a cleaning command by the detector 7. Thus, the cleaning process can be started easily and quickly, resulting in the most efficient cleaning process.

[0079] Activation of the cleaning process preferably depends on the fluid delivery status of the beverage dispenser machine 1. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the cleaning process may only be activated if a closed circulation loop O is formed and / or the connector 6 is fluidly connected to the dispenser unit 2.

[0080] The control unit may be configured to carry out the beverage dispensing process, preferably by controlling pumps 43, 44, or by forcing liquid along the liquid feed path 2 to leave the dispensing unit 5, e.g. into a beverage container, when the connector 6 is not connected to or with the liquid feed path 2, as exemplarily shown in Figure 1. In this condition, the supply tank 100 may be (selectively) fluidly connected to the liquid feed path 2, here preferably via the inlet 3.

[0081] The beverage preparation machine 1 or its control unit may also be configured to perform a cleaning process by circulating liquid through a closed circulation loop O when the connector 6 is fluidly connected to the liquid supply line 2, as exemplarily shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0082] In both the beverage dispense process and the cleaning process, the control unit may preferably be configured to pump or circulate liquid by controlling at least one or all of the pumps 43, 44.

[0083] The beverage dispenser 1 may further comprise a connector sensor 7 for detecting the presence of the connector 6. The connector sensor 7 may be a presence sensor for detecting the physical presence of the connector 6. Furthermore, the connector sensor 7 may be a code reader, as exemplarily shown in FIG. 2 , where the code reader 7 is exemplarily shown as an RFID reader (e.g., a transceiver) for reading an RFID tag 70 carried by the connector 6. The RFID tag 70 may carry the above-mentioned readable information, preferably encoded information, about the cleaning process performed by the beverage dispenser 1. The connector sensor 7 may also be an optical sensor, such as a camera.

[0084] The beverage preparation machine 1 or its control unit may (further) be configured to initiate a cleaning process upon or upon detection of the presence of the connector 6 or completion of the formation of the closed circulation loop O.

[0085] In the following, a method for controlling the beverage dispenser machine 1 is described.

[0086] First, a beverage dispenser 1 according to the present invention is provided.

[0087] The cleaning command is then detected by the detector 7. This step may include detecting that a closed circulation loop has been formed. This can be done, for example, by detecting a valve (not shown) having a cleaning line (not shown) fluidly connected to the fluid supply line 2 to form the closed circulation loop O. The detection of the cleaning command may also include reading the cleaning command, preferably wirelessly or optically, from, for example, the connector 6 or a secondary device such as a smartphone. The cleaning command thus provided can, for example, be stored in a barcode, for example printed or glued on, or visualized on a display of, the respective device, or can also be stored, for example, in an RFID tag 70 attached to or integrated in, the respective device.

[0088] The step of detecting a flush command by detector 7 may also include detecting the presence of connector 6. Thus, connector 6 may be attached so as to be fluidly connected to dispensing unit 5 to receive or recover cleaning fluid dispensed (e.g., drained or flushed) via dispensing unit 5. Connector 6 may also be attached to fluidly connect dispensing unit 5 with inlet 3 to form a closed circulation loop O with fluid delivery unit 4. Prior to such attachment of connector 6, supply tank 100, if fluidly connected or attached to inlet 3, may be removed or disconnected to release inlet 3 so that connector 6 can be fluidly connected with or to inlet 3 as defined. If a supply tank 100 is used that can be fluidly connected to fluid delivery line 2 at a location other than inlet 3, supply tank 100 may remain connected regardless of whether connector 6 is fluidly connected to inlet 3 or not.

[0089] Finally, the cleaning process is initiated upon detection of a cleaning command. Thus, the activation of the cleaning process depends on the detection of a cleaning command. Activation upon detection of a cleaning command may, for example, result in the machine 1 in initiating the cleaning process at a defined time, such as when the machine 1 is restricted in its use, for example at night. The cleaning process may also preferably be initiated upon detection of a cleaning command, i.e., immediately upon detecting the cleaning command. This may be done depending on the state of the machine, so that a currently running process, such as a beverage production process or a dispensing process, is terminated and the cleaning process is started immediately thereafter.

[0090] The cleaning process includes at least a step of feeding a liquid along the liquid feed path 2. If a closed circulation loop O is formed or created, the cleaning process may also include a step of circulating a (cleaning) liquid through the closed circulation loop O to clean the liquid feed path 2, as exemplarily shown by the corresponding arrows indicating the flow / feed direction of the liquid through the beverage dispense machine 1 in Figures 2 and 3.

[0091] The method may further include the step of fluidly connecting the connector 6 to the dispensing unit 5 before initiating the cleaning process. The method then further includes the step of receiving (e.g., collecting) the liquid delivered during the cleaning process by the connector 6. Thus, any liquid expelled or flushed from the dispensing unit 5 can be reliably received in or collected by the collector 6.

[0092] The method may further include the step of fluidly connecting the cleaning path C to the fluid feed path 2 before initiating the cleaning process to obtain a closed circulation loop O. This can be done, for example, by controlling a valve (not shown) to fluidly connect an integrated cleaning line (not shown) to the fluid feed path 2 to form the closed circulation loop O. This can also be done, for example, by attaching a collector 6 to fluidly connect the dispensing unit 5 and the inlet 3 to form the closed circulation loop O, for example, by fluidly connecting (e.g., attaching) the connector 6 to the fluid feed path 2 as described above. The cleaning process may then further include the step of circulating liquid through the closed circulation loop O, as described above.

[0093] The step of circulating the liquid through the closed circulation loop O can preferably be initiated automatically by the step of attaching the connector 6, which can be detected as a cleaning command. This is preferably due to the recognition of the presence of the connector 6, and the recognition that the connector 6 is in a defined position or in fluid connection with the fluid feed line 2 triggers the cleaning process, i.e., the circulation of the liquid through the circulation loop O. The step of circulating the liquid can also be initiated automatically by the recognition that the closed circulation loop O has been formed. Accordingly, corresponding sensors can be provided to recognize that the connector 6 is securely fluidly connected to the dispensing unit 5 and the inlet 3, preferably by its inlet port 62 and outlet port 63, respectively. The step of circulating the liquid can also be initiated automatically based on or upon reading information, such as coded information, carried by the connector 6 or another device, such as a smartphone. For example, an RFID tag 70, as shown in FIG. 1, can be recognized and read by an RFID reader 7, here provided on the beverage dispenser 1, once the connector 6 is attached.

[0094] The cleaning process, i.e. the step of pumping or circulating the liquid, may be carried out for a predetermined duration, so that sufficient cleaning can be achieved. The cleaning process, i.e. the step of pumping or circulating the liquid, may also be carried out until the beverage dispenser 1 reaches a predetermined cleaning level. Thus, for example, the pumped or circulated cleaning liquid may be analyzed to check the level of impurities in the cleaning liquid, which may be an indicator of the cleaning level.

[0095] If or to the extent that the amount or level of liquid in the liquid feed path 2, and / or in the closed circulation loop O, and / or in the storage tank 40, and / or in the connector 6, such as in the space 60, and / or in the cleaning path may be below a defined threshold, the step of feeding or preferably circulating the liquid may be postponed or paused. The beverage preparation machine 1 may therefore comprise, for example, a level sensor for detecting the level of liquid in the storage tank 40 or in the space 60 of the connector 6, if present.

[0096] As described, if the step of circulating the liquid is postponed or paused, an output may be generated if or to the extent that the amount or level of the liquid is below the threshold. This output may be visual, audible, or any other type of output. For example, the beverage dispenser 1 may be equipped with a display 8 or an indicator lamp 9 capable of generating a corresponding output. The display 8 may be a touch display so that the user can input a dispense request as needed. The display 8 may also be used to inform the user about the current status of the beverage dispenser 1. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the display 8 may indicate that the machine 1 is ready to dispense a beverage. As exemplarily shown in FIG. 2, the display 8 may also inform the user about the current status of the cleaning process, for example, by displaying the time remaining until the cleaning process is successfully completed.

[0097] Before and / or while the liquid is being pumped or preferably before and / or while it is being circulated, the liquid may be heated, preferably by heater 42. Thus, a heated liquid may be used as the cleaning liquid, which makes the cleaning process easier, most efficient and economical.

[0098] 1 , when a cleaning process is not being performed, for example when the connector 6 is not attached or the cleaning path C is not fluidly connected to the path 2, a beverage can be dispensed by pumping liquid along the path 2 out of the dispense unit 5. If the supply tank 100 is attached, the liquid can be pumped into the storage tank 40 by a first pump 43, where it is stored. In the storage tank 40, the liquid can be cooled by a cooling means 41 or heated by a heater 42. The liquid thus stored can then be pumped from the storage tank 40 by a second pump 44 to the dispense unit 5, through which it is dispensed into a beverage container (not shown), which is preferably arranged below the dispense unit 5.

[0099] The beverage may be produced based on the liquid before it is dispensed, preferably in the beverage preparation unit 50 of the dispensing unit 5. The liquid may thus interact with a corresponding edible product, e.g., in pourable, powdered, gel, pasty, liquid, or other suitable form. The edible product may be held in a capsule, pad, pod, sachet, container, etc., which may be placed or received within the beverage preparation unit 50 and thus along the liquid feed path 2, such that the liquid can be injected and interact with the edible product to produce a beverage, which can then be expelled / dispensed via the dispensing unit 5. To prepare the beverage, additives may also be fed or dispensed together with or separately from the liquid, e.g., to or into the dispensing unit 5, and mixed with the liquid before or during dispensing, or even after dispensing in the drinking vessel.

[0100] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, as encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A beverage dispenser (1), comprising: A liquid transfer path (2), a liquid delivery unit (4) for delivering liquid through said beverage dispenser (1); a liquid delivery path (2) having a delivery unit (5) for delivering the delivered liquid; a detector (7) for detecting a cleaning command; a control unit configured to initiate a cleaning process upon detection of the cleaning command by the detector (7), the cleaning process comprising feeding the liquid along the liquid feed path (2); the liquid delivery unit (4) preferably comprises a storage tank (40) for holding a quantity of liquid supplied via the inlet (3) and delivered to the dispensing unit (5); and / or the liquid delivery unit (4), preferably the storage tank (40), comprises cooling means (41) for cooling the liquid, preferably the liquid in the storage tank (40); and / or the liquid delivery unit (4), preferably the storage tank (40), comprises a heater (42) for heating the liquid, preferably the liquid in the storage tank (40); and / or the liquid delivery unit (4) further comprises pumps (43, 44) for delivering the liquid along the liquid delivery path (2) and / or the closed circulation loop (O); and / or The beverage dispenser (1) further comprises a supply tank (100) for supplying liquid into the liquid transfer path (2).

2. 2. The beverage dispenser (1) according to claim 1, wherein the liquid feed channel (2) further comprises an inlet (3) for supplying liquid to the liquid feed unit (4).

3. 3. The beverage dispenser (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the detector (7) is a presence sensor and / or an optical detector such as a barcode reader and / or a code reader such as an RFID code reader.

4. The beverage dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a removable connector (6), which, when placed in the beverage dispenser, defines the closed circulation loop (O) thereby forming a cleaning path (C).

5. a removable connector (6) fluidly connectable to the dispensing unit (5) for receiving the liquid delivered during the cleaning process; The beverage dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the removable connector (6) is preferably designed to fluidly connect the dispenser unit (5) and the inlet (3) as the cleaning path (C) to form the closed circulation loop (O).

6. 6. The beverage dispenser (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the removable connector (6) preferably comprises a space (60) for holding a quantity of liquid, preferably along the closed circulation loop (O), when the removable connector (6) is fluidly connected with the liquid supply line (2).

7. The beverage dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the removable connector (6) carries readable information, more preferably coded information, comprising the cleaning command.

8. The control unit when the detachable connector (6) is not connected to the liquid feed path (2), to carry out a beverage dispense process by sending liquid along the liquid feed path (2) and out of the dispense unit (5); or The beverage dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, configured to perform a cleaning process by circulating a liquid through the closed circulation loop (O), preferably by controlling the pumps (43, 44), when the detachable connector (6) is fluidly connected to the liquid supply line (2).

9. a connector sensor (7) for detecting the presence of the detachable connector (6), preferably wherein the beverage dispenser (1) or the control unit is configured to initiate the cleaning process upon or upon detection of the presence of the connector (6) or completion of the formation of the closed circulation loop (O); The beverage dispenser machine (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein said connector sensor (7) is preferably a presence sensor, a code reader, an optical sensor such as a camera.

10. said supply tank (100) is preferably removably attachable, and / or A beverage dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the supply tank (100) is selectively fluidly connectable to the liquid supply line (2), preferably via the inlet (3), when the connector (6) is not connected to the liquid supply line (2).

11. further comprising filtering means for upstream filtering the liquid stored in the storage tank (40); The filtering means is preferably removably connected to the beverage dispenser machine (1), A beverage dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the removable connector (6) can fluidly connect the dispenser unit (5) and the inlet (3) only when the filtering means is not connected to the beverage dispenser (1) and / or is removed from the beverage dispenser (1).

12. The control unit Preferably, it is configured to trigger the cleaning process upon detection of the cleaning command by the detector (7), provided that the closed circulation loop (O) is formed and / or the connector (6) is fluidly connected to the dispensing unit (5); and / or The beverage dispenser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the control unit is configured to carry out a beverage dispense process by forcing liquid along the liquid delivery path (2) and out of the dispense unit (5), preferably by controlling the pumps (43, 44).

13. A method for controlling a beverage dispenser machine (1), comprising: Providing a beverage dispenser machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12; detecting a cleaning command by said detector (7); and initiating a cleaning process upon detection of the cleaning command, the cleaning process comprising sending a liquid along the liquid delivery path (2).

14. fluidly connecting the removable connector (6) to the dispensing unit (5) before activating the cleaning process; The method of claim 13, further comprising receiving the liquid delivered during the cleaning process by the removable connector (6).

15. and further comprising the step of fluidly connecting a cleaning line (C) to the liquid delivery line (2) before the step of activating the cleaning process to obtain a closed circulation loop (O), the cleaning process comprises circulating the liquid through the closed circulation loop (O), 15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the step of fluidly connecting the cleaning path (C) preferably comprises the step of attaching the removable connector (6) to fluidly connect the dispensing unit (5) and the inlet (3) to form the closed circulation loop (O).

16. 16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the step of circulating the liquid is initiated automatically by the step of attaching the removable connector (6), preferably by recognition of the presence of the connector (6) and / or by recognition that the closed circulation loop (O) is formed, and / or based on or upon reading, preferably reading, encoded information carried by the connector (6).

17. 17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the step of circulating the liquid is carried out for a predetermined duration and / or until a predetermined cleaning level is reached.

18. said step of detecting said cleaning command by said detector (7) comprising: detecting the presence of the detachable connector (6) and / or detecting that the closed circulation loop (O) is formed and / or reading the cleaning command, preferably wirelessly or optically, from the detachable connector (6) or from a secondary device such as a smartphone, The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the cleaning command is preferably stored in a barcode or an RFID tag.

19. the cleaning process is initiated upon detection of the cleaning command; and / or A method according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the cleaning process is carried out for a predetermined duration and / or until a predetermined cleaning level is reached.

20. 20. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the step of feeding or preferably circulating the liquid is postponed or suspended if or insofar as the amount or level of liquid in the liquid feed line (2), and / or the closed circulation loop (O), and / or the storage tank (40), and / or the removable connector (6), such as the space (60), and / or the cleaning line (C) is below a defined threshold value.

21. 21. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein the liquid is heated, preferably by the heater (42), before and / or while it is being pumped or preferably before and / or while it is being circulated.

22. 22. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein when a cleaning process is not being performed, a beverage is dispensed by forcing liquid along the liquid path (2) out of the dispense unit (5).

23. 23. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 22, wherein when the connector (6) is not attached, a beverage is dispensed by forcing liquid along the liquid feed path (2) out of the dispensing unit (5).

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