Electromagnetic induction continuous fluid heating device for automatic beverage vending machines

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electromagnetic induction continuous fluid heating device (2), and more particularly to an automatic beverage vending machine (1). The heating device (2) comprises: a tubular body (8) having a longitudinal axis (A), the tubular body (8) including at least one inlet (10) configured to receive the fluid to be heated and supply it into the interior of the tubular body (8), and an outlet (11) from which the heated fluid flows out of the tubular body (8) when in use; and an electric winding (12) wound around the tubular body (8) and electrically powered to generate an electromagnetic induction field. The tubular body (8) is made of an electrically conductive material to be heated by electromagnetic induction due to the effect of the electromagnetic induction field. The heating device (2) further comprises inserts (18, 118, 218, 318, 418, 518, 618) which engage axially with the tubular body (8) and extend along the longitudinal axis (A). The heating device further comprises flow channel channels (19, 119, 219, 319, 419, 519, 619) for the fluid, which fluidly connect the inlet (10) to the outlet (11) and are partitioned by the outer side surface (18a) of the insert (18) and the inner side surface (8a) of the tubular body (8). The flow channel channels (19, 119, 219, 319, 419, 519, 619) extend around the longitudinal axis (A), and at least a portion of them extend along a zigzag pattern or a zigzag trajectory from the inlet (10) to the outlet (11).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications This patent application claims priority based on Italian Patent Application No. 102023000006612 filed on April 4, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention generally relates to the field of automatic beverage vending machines, and more specifically, to a heating device for fluids, particularly food - grade liquids such as water and milk, in an automatic vending machine for hot beverages based on anhydrous materials such as coffee, tea, chocolate, etc. In the following description, without loss of generality, reference will be made to these.

Background Art

[0003] Machines for preparing and selling beverages, particularly hot beverages based on anhydrous materials such as coffee, tea, chocolate, etc., are known.

[0004] These machines are provided with one or more heating devices for heating fluids, particularly food - grade liquids such as water and milk, and are usually manufactured in two types: a heat - storage heating device (boiler, kettle) and a fluid heating device or a continuous - flow heating device.

[0005] Those belonging to the latter type are mainly devices for heating fluids according to two technologies: heating by a resistive heating element is very widespread in this field, and heating by electromagnetic induction is less widespread in this field compared to the former.

[0006] According to the first technology, a potential difference is applied across the ends of the heating element, and the flow of the fluid to be heated comes into direct or indirect contact with the heating element. In this way, an electric current is generated within the heating element, and energy is released in the form of heat due to the Joule effect, and the fluid is heated by conduction.

[0007] An example of this type of heating device is described in GB - A - 2542359.

[0008] EP-A-2044869 describes three embodiments of a flow-through water heater. The first two embodiments shown herein include respective fluid heating devices using the first technique (heating by a resistive element). The third embodiment, on the other hand, shows a heating device that heats water using the aforementioned second technique (heating by electromagnetic induction) in a relatively simple and undetailed manner.

[0009] According to this second technique, the fluid flow is heated using the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction.

[0010] In particular, a fluid heating device is known that uses electromagnetic induction to generate eddy currents in a conduit made of a conductive material, through which a fluid to be heated flows. The eddy currents release energy in the form of heat due to the Joule effect, thereby heating the conduit, and consequently heating the fluid flowing in contact with the conduit.

[0011] Electromagnetic induction fluid heating devices are known to be particularly advantageous for rapidly heating fluids.

[0012] EP-A-2868242 represents a water heater with a spirally wound metal conduit, which is coaxially housed within a cavity of an electrically insulating spool (winding core) on which an electromagnetic induction winding is wound.

[0013] The windings are powered by alternating current, which generates eddy currents via electromagnetic induction. These eddy currents then heat the spiral metal conduit through the Joule effect, and as a result, heat the water flowing inside.

[0014] The spool is attached to the machine's support structure, but the metal conduit is not mechanically fixed to the spool; it is supported only by a fluid circuit connected via a simple quick coupling connector.

[0015] More specifically, the metal conduit and spool are radially separated by free space (or an air "gap").

[0016] CN-A-1844777, US-A-2022191980, and WO-A-2004062320 describe additional examples of electromagnetic induction flow-through water heaters. [Overview of the project]

[0017] While the above-described type of fluid heating device represents a functionally effective option for heating fluids in machines configured for the preparation and sale of hot beverages, the applicant was able to confirm that known heating devices can be further improved, particularly with respect to the efficiency of the heat exchange obtained.

[0018] The object of the present invention is to provide an electromagnetic induction flow heating device that is highly reliable, low-cost, and capable of satisfying the needs identified above in relation to known electromagnetic induction heating devices.

[0019] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by an electromagnetic induction fluid heating device as described in the appended claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0020] [Figure 1] Figure 1 schematically shows an automatic beverage vending machine equipped with an electromagnetic induction fluid heating device according to the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 2a] Figure 2a is a schematic side view of a partial cross-section of the heating device shown in Figure 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 2b] Figure 2b is a schematic side view of a partial cross-section of the heating device shown in Figure 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 3a] Figure 3a is a schematic side view of a partial cross-section of the heating device shown in Figure 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 3b] Figure 3b is a perspective view of the insert of the heating device in Fig. 3a at an enlarged scale, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 4a] Figure 4a is a schematic side view at an enlarged scale of a partial cross-section of the heating device in Fig. 1 according to the third embodiment of the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 4b] Figure 4b is a perspective view of the insert of the heating device in Fig. 4a at an enlarged scale, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 5a] Figure 5a is a schematic side view at an enlarged scale of a partial cross-section of the heating device in Fig. 1 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 5b] Figure 5b is a perspective view of the insert of the heating device in Fig. 5a at an enlarged scale, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic side view at an enlarged scale of a partial cross-section of the heating device in Fig. 1 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic side view at an enlarged scale of a partial cross-section of the heating device in Fig. 1 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic side view at an enlarged scale of a partial cross-section of the heating device in Fig. 1 according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention, with some parts omitted for clarity.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] The present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can manufacture and use it. Various modifications to the embodiments described will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles described can be applied to other embodiments and uses without departing from the scope of protection of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims. Accordingly, the present invention should not be considered limited to the embodiments described and illustrated herein, but rather the broadest scope of protection consistent with the features described and claimed herein should be recognized.

[0022] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art in which the invention pertains. In case of any conflict, the herein, including the definitions provided, shall prevail. Furthermore, the examples are provided purely for illustrative purposes and should not be considered limiting.

[0023] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments described herein, certain specific embodiments are referenced and specific language is used to describe them. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing only specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0024] Referring to Figure 1, reference number 1 schematically shows an entire automated machine for preparing and selling beverages, particularly hot and cold beverages based on anhydrous ingredients such as coffee, tea, and chocolate.

[0025] Machine 1 comprises the following: • Electromagnetic induction type continuous fluid heating device 2; A fluid supply circuit 3 (circumstantial illustration) comprises a container 4 configured to contain a fluid, particularly water, preferably water at room temperature, and is configured to transport the fluid flow from the container 4 to the heating device 2 via piping 5 and a hydraulic pump 6; and • Electrical circuit 7 (circularly illustrated). Its function is explained below.

[0026] Specifically, the heating device 2 is electrically connected to the electrical circuit 7 and fluidically connected to the fluid circuit 3.

[0027] According to the present invention, the fluid used by the heating device 2 is preferably, but not limited to, water. Therefore, although water is referred to below as the fluid to be heated supplied to the heating device 2, this does not result in any loss of generality.

[0028] Alternatively, the heating device 2 can operate with other food liquids commonly used in automated machines for preparing and selling hot beverages, such as milk, plant-based milks (i.e., oat, soy, or rice milk, etc.).

[0029] Figures 2a and 2b show a heating device 2 according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] As shown in Figure 2a, the heating device 2 basically comprises a tubular body 8 having a longitudinal axis A, and is configured to receive a flow of fluid (water) to be heated from the container 4 and supply it into the tubular body 8, and includes an outlet 11, in particular a through outlet, from which the heated fluid flow flows out of the tubular body 8 when in use.

[0031] According to this preferred non-limiting embodiment, the tubular body 8 has a basically hollow cylindrical shape, and the axis A is straight. Furthermore, the tubular body 8 is attached to the internal support structure (not shown) of the machine 1 according to known methods not described in detail.

[0032] For this purpose, the heating device 2 has a first end 13 and a second end 14 located on opposite sides in the axial direction of the tubular body 8, and is designed to be fixed to the tubular body 8 and coupled to the internal support structure of the machine 1.

[0033] In particular, the first end 13 and the second end 14 define the respective (axial) closing flanges 13 and 14 of the tubular body 8, and are provided with an inlet 10 and an outlet 11, respectively.

[0034] Therefore, according to the non-limiting example described, the inlet 10 and outlet 11 are located on opposite sides in the axial direction of the tubular body 8 and thus on opposite sides in the axial direction of the heating device 2.

[0035] In alternative embodiments not shown, the inlet 10 and outlet 11 may be located on the same side of the heating device 2, for example, on a flange 13 or 14.

[0036] More specifically, the inlet 10 and outlet 11 are defined by hollow projections that project radially from the first end, i.e., from the flange 13, and from the second end, i.e., from the flange 14, respectively.

[0037] Alternatively, the inlet 10 and outlet 11 can be defined by projections that protrude axially from their respective flanges 13 and 14.

[0038] In the illustrated example, outlet 11 is fluidically connected to outlet 15 piping (Figure 1). This outlet 15 piping is configured to transport heated water from the heating device 2 to a beverage production chamber (not shown), where the heated water typically comes into contact with anhydrous material contained in pre-perforated capsules. The resulting beverage is then transported from the production chamber to a vending machine (also not shown), which discharges it from machine 1.

[0039] The heating device 2 further includes an electric winding 12 that is coaxial with respect to axis A, arranged around or wound around the tubular body 8, and is electrically powered to generate an electromagnetic induction field.

[0040] Specifically, the winding 12 is defined by a plurality of consecutive concentric helices 12a wound around the outer surface of a cylindrical, hollow support spool 16, and is coaxially mounted to the tubular body 8. In other words, the tubular body 8 is at least partially housed within an axial cavity defined inside the support spool 16.

[0041] More specifically, the support spool 16 is made of an electrically nonconductive material, in other words, a material with zero magnetic susceptibility.

[0042] The winding 12 is configured to be supplied with alternating current at a specific oscillation frequency, thereby generating the electromagnetic induction field described above.

[0043] Conveniently, the tubular body 8 is made of an electrically (and magnetically) conductive material and is therefore configured to be heated by electromagnetic induction through an electromagnetic induction field generated via the aforementioned power supply to the winding 12. In other words, the winding 12 defines a solenoid.

[0044] Conveniently, a layer of thermal insulating material (not shown) is interposed radially between the support spool 16 and the outer surface of the tubular body 8, thereby preventing heat transfer from the tubular body 8 to the support spool 16 during use.

[0045] In one embodiment, the tubular body 8 can be co-molded (overmolded) with the spool 16.

[0046] In another embodiment, the winding 12 is wound directly around the tubular body 8 with only a layer of insulating material in between.

[0047] In another embodiment, the winding 12 is wound directly around the tubular body 8.

[0048] The heating device 2 preferably includes a protective sleeve 17 coaxially arranged around the winding 12, such that the winding 12 engages with the sleeve 17 in the axial direction.

[0049] The sleeve 17 functions as a protective element for the winding 12 and is preferably made of an electrically nonconductive material, in other words, a material with zero magnetic susceptibility.

[0050] As shown in Figure 1, the machine 1 also includes a number of temperature sensors 30, two temperature sensors 30 in the example described, located at the inlet 10 and outlet 11 respectively, and configured to detect the temperature of water in their respective operating areas.

[0051] Machine 1 also includes a control unit 31 configured to receive temperature values ​​detected by a temperature sensor 30 and, as a result, control the operation of the electrical circuit 7.

[0052] As can be seen in Figures 2a and 2b, the heating device 2 also includes the following: - A non-heat-generating (i.e., non-heat-generating) insert 18 made of an electrically non-conductive material with zero magnetic susceptibility, which engages axially with the tubular body 8 (particularly housed within the tubular body 8), and more specifically is coaxial with axis A and extends along axis A; and A fluid channel 19 for a fluid (i.e., water) is provided, with the inlet 10 fluidly connected to the outlet 11 and partitioned by the outer side surface 18a of the insert 18 and the inner side surface 8a of the tubular body 8.

[0053] Specifically, the outer surface 18a is defined with respect to axis A by the outer side surface 18a of the insert 18. The inner surface 8a is defined with respect to axis A by the inner side surface 8a of the tubular body 8.

[0054] In reality, the outer surface 18a is radially opposite the inner surface 8a.

[0055] In particular, the flow channel 19 is defined by a continuous groove formed on the outer surface 18a of the insert 18, and its upper side is closed (radially with respect to axis A) by the inner surface 8a of the tubular body 8.

[0056] In other words, the flow channel 19 is partially partitioned by the insert 18 and the tubular body 8.

[0057] Conveniently, the grooves defining the flow channel 19 define “valleys” on the outer surface 18a of the insert 18, while the “perfect” material on this surface 18a defines one or more “ridges” on the surface 18a, which cooperate (preferably in a fluid-tight manner) in contact with the inner surface 8a of the tubular body 8. In this way, water flowing through the flow channel 19 during use remains inside the flow channel 19 itself, with no significant leakage, or at least limiting fluid leakage as much as possible.

[0058] According to the present invention, the flow channel 19 extends around axis A, and at least a portion of it extends along a zigzag pattern or a zigzag trajectory from the inlet 10 to the outlet 11.

[0059] In the example described, the trajectory described above proceeds in a zigzag pattern from the inlet 10 to the outlet 11, or more precisely, along the entire length of the insert 18 and the flow channel 19.

[0060] More specifically, the flow channel 19 extends, and the grooves formed on the outer surface 18a in particular extend along a trajectory having (preferably sharp) bends, alternating in direction according to the opposite direction (or direction or trajectory).

[0061] In other words, the aforementioned trajectory is composed of alternating bends in opposite directions.

[0062] According to the preferred non-limiting embodiments shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the flow channel 19 comprises a series of transverse sectors 19a, which are transverse to axis A and in particular orthogonal (i.e., oriented perpendicular to axis A), and further alternate with elbow sectors 19b, the elbow sectors 19b are preferably basically parallel to axis A.

[0063] Specifically, each transverse sector 19a has corresponding elbow-shaped sectors 19b positioned before and after it.

[0064] More specifically, as shown in Figure 2b, each transverse sector 19a is fluidly connected to the nearest adjacent transverse sector 19a via an upstream elbow-shaped sector 19b and a downstream elbow-shaped sector 19b (with respect to the direction of fluid advancement).

[0065] In this way, the sequence of transverse sectors 19a and elbow-shaped sectors 19b from the inlet 10 to the outlet 11 defines the zigzag trajectory described above.

[0066] Thus, the direction of the fluid flow within the flow channel 19 during use is opposite in each pair of consecutive transverse sectors 19a with respect to axis A.

[0067] The insert 18 preferably has a cylindrical shape with axis A as its central axis.

[0068] As a result, each transverse sector 19a extends circumferentially around axis A, thereby defining the arc-shaped portion of the trajectory around axis A and is oriented transversely to axis A, particularly perpendicularly.

[0069] Therefore, with the configuration of the flow channel 19 according to the present invention, the fluid is configured to flow along each transverse sector 19a in a direction opposite to the direction of fluid flow in the transverse sector 19a immediately adjacent to each transverse sector 19a, and also in the same direction as the direction of fluid flow in the transverse sectors 19a located before and after the transverse sectors 19a immediately adjacent to them. In light of the above, the flow channel 19 defines a zigzag-shaped passage, in other words, a passage that includes alternating sharp bends in opposite directions, to heat the fluid, particularly water, flowing within the heating device 2. In other words, the fluid flow proceeds in alternating opposite directions, dividing and defining a series of elbow angles (in the elbow-shaped sector 19b).

[0070] This configuration allows the fluid to complete a significantly longer path within the tubular body 8 than would be possible if the fluid flow were linearly axial within the tubular body 8.

[0071] This allows for longer heat exchange time intervals (and therefore more effective heating) and precise control of the water temperature.

[0072] Furthermore, the zigzag trajectory (which can also be defined as a "maze"), consisting of alternating straight sections (transverse sectors 19a) and sharply curved sections (elbow-shaped sectors 19b), increases turbulence in the fluid flow within the flow channel 19. This is true whether the fluid flows linearly in the axial direction within the tubular body 8 or whether it flows in a helical or spiral manner.

[0073] As a result, through an extensive experimental campaign, the applicant observed that establishing turbulent motion, or in any case increasing the degree of turbulence of the fluid flow inside the flow channel 19, increases the heat exchange efficiency between the tubular body 8, heated by electromagnetic induction by the winding 12, and the fluid flowing inside the flow channel 19.

[0074] The shape of the flow channel 19 further tends to locally decelerate the fluid, and therefore increases heat gain by the fluid.

[0075] The operation of the heating device 2 according to the present invention will be described below, with particular attention given to the initial state in which the fluid flow is supplied to the tubular body 8 through the inlet 10.

[0076] In this state, the fluid flow passes through the flow channel 19 and repeatedly changes direction in the elbow-shaped sector 19b, resulting in alternating directions each time.

[0077] Simultaneously, the winding 12 is powered by a control unit 31 that controls the operation of the electrical circuit 7. The tubular body 8 is heated by electromagnetic induction, and the fluid passing through the flow channel 19 is consequently heated by conduction because the fluid comes into contact with the inner surface 8a of the tubular body 8.

[0078] At this point, the fluid exits through outlet 11. This process is repeated for each beverage being prepared.

[0079] A second preferred embodiment of the heating device 2 according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 3a and 3b, but only the differences from the heating device 2 according to the first embodiment will be described, and where possible, similar or identical components or parts will be indicated by the same reference numeral.

[0080] Components not explicitly described are deemed to be equivalent in form and / or function to those of heating device 2 described above.

[0081] The heating device 2 according to this second embodiment includes an insert 118 different from the insert 18, and defines a flow channel 119 different from the channel 19.

[0082] In particular, the insert 118 is configured such that the flow channel 119 extends around axis A (clearly visible in Figure 3b), comprising a series of linear sectors 119a, which extend parallel to axis A (i.e., longitudinally) and are alternately arranged with transverse, and especially orthogonal, elbow-shaped sectors 119b with respect to axis A.

[0083] Specifically, each linear sector 119a has a corresponding elbow-shaped sector 119b positioned before and after it.

[0084] More specifically, each linear sector 119a is fluidically connected to the nearest adjacent linear sector 119a via an upstream elbow-shaped sector 119b and a downstream elbow-shaped sector 119b (with respect to the direction of fluid advancement).

[0085] In this way, the sequence of straight sectors 119a and elbow-shaped sectors 119b from the entrance 10 to the exit 11 defines the zigzag trajectory described above.

[0086] In this way, the direction of the fluid flow within the flow channel 19 is opposite in each pair of consecutive straight sectors 119a with respect to axis A during use.

[0087] For example, referring to Figure 3a, if water flows from left to right in a given straight sector 119a, then in fluidically continuous sectors 119a, it flows from right to left, and so on, alternating between sectors.

[0088] The insert 118 also preferably has a basically cylindrical shape with axis A as its central axis.

[0089] As a result, each elbow-shaped sector 119b extends circumferentially around axis A, thereby defining the arc-shaped portion of the trajectory around axis A and is oriented transversely, and particularly orthogonally, to axis A.

[0090] Therefore, the configuration of the flow channel 119 is such that the fluid flows along each linear sector 119a in a direction opposite to the direction of fluid flow in the linear sector 119a immediately adjacent to each linear sector 119a.

[0091] The configuration of the flow channel 119 according to this second embodiment of the present invention makes it possible to achieve the advantages associated with the zigzag configuration of the flow channel 119 described above.

[0092] Furthermore, the applicant observed that the increase in turbulence in the fluid flow was greater than in the previous example (due to the longer length of sector 119a compared to sector 19a). Therefore, the heat exchange efficiency is further improved.

[0093] It should be noted that by appropriately configuring the flow channel 119, in other words, by the appropriate number and length of sectors 119a and 119b, the inlet 10 and outlet 11 can be located at the same axial ends of the heating device 2.

[0094] A third preferred embodiment of the heating device 2 according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 4a and 4b, but only the differences from the heating device 2 according to the second embodiment will be described, and where possible, similar or identical components or parts will be indicated by the same reference numeral.

[0095] Components not explicitly described are deemed to be equivalent in form and / or function to those of heating device 2 described above.

[0096] The heating device 2 according to this third embodiment includes at least two inserts 218 housed inside a tubular body 8 and extending along axis A.

[0097] Each insert 218 has a basically semi-cylindrical shape.

[0098] The inserts 218 are arranged radially adjacent to each other inside the tubular body 8, forming a single, basically cylindrical body having axis A.

[0099] Each insert 218 defines its own flow channel 219 of the same type as the channel 119 described above.

[0100] Therefore, the heating device 2 according to the third embodiment differs from the heating device 2 according to the second embodiment in that it includes two semi-cylindrical inserts 218 arranged symmetrically with respect to axis A, and two flow channel channels 219 that extend parallel from the inlet 10 to the outlet 11.

[0101] Specifically, each flow channel 219 includes a series of straight sectors 219a (same type as sector 119a) arranged alternately with elbow-shaped sectors 219b (same type as sector 119b).

[0102] Therefore, the flow channel 219 extends according to a parallel configuration.

[0103] In this way, during use, the fluid flows in parallel along at least two of the zigzag trajectories from the inlet 10 to the outlet 11.

[0104] The configuration of each flow channel 219 according to this third embodiment of the present invention makes it possible to achieve the advantages associated with the zigzag configuration described above.

[0105] Furthermore, this configuration makes it possible to obtain a larger fluid flow rate, which is preferable in some applications.

[0106] It should be specified that there may be more than two inserts 218, and that each insert 218 may define a cylindrical sector or "segment" within the tubular body 8. Therefore, more than two channels 219 may exist in parallel, resulting in an increase in fluid flow rate.

[0107] A fourth preferred embodiment of the heating device 2 according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 5a and 5b, but only the differences from the heating device 2 according to the third embodiment will be described, and where possible, similar or identical components or parts will be indicated by the same reference numeral.

[0108] Components not explicitly described are deemed to be equivalent in form and / or function to those of heating device 2 described above.

[0109] The heating device 2 according to this fourth embodiment includes at least two inserts 318 housed inside a tubular body 8 and extending along axis A.

[0110] Each insert 318 basically corresponds to the insert 218 of the type described above, but differs in that each insert 318 defines a flow channel 319 of the same type as the channel 19 described above.

[0111] Specifically, each flow channel 319 includes a series of transverse sectors 319a (same type as sector 19a) arranged alternately with elbow-shaped sectors 319b (same type as sector 19b).

[0112] Therefore, the flow channel 319 extends according to a parallel configuration.

[0113] In this way, during use, the fluid flows in parallel along at least two of the zigzag trajectories from the inlet 10 to the outlet 11.

[0114] The configuration of each flow channel 319 according to this fourth embodiment of the present invention makes it possible to achieve the advantages associated with the zigzag configuration described above.

[0115] Furthermore, this configuration makes it possible to obtain a larger fluid flow rate, which is preferable in some applications.

[0116] It should be specified that there may be more than two inserts 318, and that each insert 318 defines a cylindrical sector or "segment" within the tubular body 8. Therefore, more than two channels 219 may exist in parallel, resulting in an increase in fluid flow rate.

[0117] Referring to Figure 6, a fifth embodiment of the heating device 2 according to the present invention will be described, but only the differences from the heating device 2 according to the first embodiment will be described, and where possible, similar or identical components or parts will be indicated by the same reference numeral.

[0118] Components not explicitly described are deemed to be equivalent in form and / or function to those of the heating device 2 described above according to the first embodiment.

[0119] The heating device 2 according to this fifth embodiment includes, along with the tubular body 8, an insert 418 that defines the flow channel 419, as described above.

[0120] The insert 418 comprises a first portion 420 along which the trajectory of the flow channel 419 proceeds in a zigzag pattern or zigzag manner (as described above), and a second portion 421 along which the trajectory of the flow channel proceeds spirally around axis A.

[0121] In particular, the first portion 420 basically corresponds to the insert 18 of the heating device 2 according to the first embodiment: thus, this first portion 420 includes a series of cross sectors arranged alternately with elbow-shaped sectors to define the zigzag trajectory, and has the advantages resulting from the above.

[0122] Advantageously, the heating device 2 according to this fourth embodiment includes a helical spring 22 housed inside the tubular body 8. This helical spring 22 is positioned around the second portion 421 in a direction perpendicular to axis A (radial direction) and is interposed between the tubular body 8 and the second portion 421.

[0123] The second portion 421 is preferably located at the inlet 10, thereby defining the beginning portion of the flow channel 419.

[0124] According to an alternative embodiment not shown, the second portion 421 is located at the outlet 11 and can define the terminal portion of the flow channel 419.

[0125] The flow channel 419 along the second portion 421 is defined radially by the outer surface of the insert 418 below, by the inner surface 8a of the tubular body 8 above, and by the helical spring 22 laterally.

[0126] Advantageously, the spring 22 is positioned inside the tubular body 8 in a compressed state with a predetermined preload when in use.

[0127] More precisely, the spring 22 is positioned in contact with the flange 13, compressed and preloaded, pressing the insert 418 against the second flange 14.

[0128] In this way, when the second flange 14 is removed for maintenance and / or cleaning, for example, the spring 22 is positioned in an extended state and the insert 418 protrudes at least partially from the tubular body 8.

[0129] This makes it easier to remove insert 418.

[0130] Once flange 13 is removed, spring 22 can be easily removed.

[0131] This configuration makes it possible to obtain a heating device 2 with improved heat exchange efficiency (due to the presence of the zigzag flow channel 419), and furthermore, ease of maintenance is increased (due to the presence of the spring 22).

[0132] Referring to Figure 7, a sixth preferred embodiment of the heating device 2 according to the present invention will be described, but only the differences from the heating device 2 according to the fifth embodiment will be described, and where possible, similar or identical components or parts will be indicated by the same reference numeral.

[0133] Components not explicitly described are deemed to be equivalent in form and / or function to those of heating device 2 described above.

[0134] The heating device 2 according to the sixth embodiment includes, together with the tubular body 8, an insert 518 that defines the flow channel 519, as described above.

[0135] Insert 518 essentially corresponds to the insert 418 described above and therefore includes a first portion 520 along which the trajectory of the flow channel 519 proceeds in a zigzag pattern or zigzag manner, and also includes a second portion 521 along which the trajectory of the flow channel proceeds spirally around the longitudinal axis A.

[0136] The difference between insert 518 and insert 418 lies in the fact that the first portion 520 essentially corresponds to insert 118 of the heating device 2 according to the second embodiment: thus, this first portion 520 includes a series of straight sectors arranged alternately with elbow-shaped sectors to define the zigzag trajectory, and has the resulting advantages described above.

[0137] This configuration makes it possible to obtain a heating device 2 with improved heat exchange efficiency (due to the presence of the zigzag flow channel 519), and furthermore, ease of maintenance is increased (due to the presence of the spring 22).

[0138] Referring to Figure 8, a seventh preferred embodiment of the heating device 2 according to the present invention will be described, but only the differences from the heating device 2 according to the first embodiment will be described, and where possible, similar or identical components or parts will be indicated by the same reference numeral.

[0139] Components not explicitly described are deemed to be equivalent in form and / or function to those of heating device 2 described above.

[0140] The heating device 2 according to this fifth embodiment includes, together with the tubular body 8, an insert 618 that defines the flow channel 619, as described above.

[0141] Insert 618 essentially corresponds to the insert 18 described above. Therefore, the flow channel 619 includes a series of transverse sectors arranged alternately with elbow-shaped sectors to define the zigzag trajectory, and has the advantages resulting from the above.

[0142] Insert 618 differs from insert 18 in that it is hollow and includes an axially penetrating cavity 23. This cavity 23 is fluidly connected to a flow channel 619 on one side and to an inlet 10 or outlet 11 on the other side, defining the start or end portion of the flow channel 619.

[0143] Therefore, the cavity 23 defines the extended portion of the flow channel 619.

[0144] Conveniently, the cavity 23 is fluidically connected to the flow channel 619 via elbow passages 24 (Figure 8 shows the possibility of both elbow passages 24, one on the inlet 10 side and one on the outlet 11 side). This ensures that the direction of fluid movement along the cavity 23 is opposite to the direction of fluid movement inside the flow channel 619.

[0145] This configuration causes further changes in the direction of fluid flow within the tubular body (in each elbow passage 24). Consequently, the degree of turbulence in the fluid motion increases further, improving the heat exchange efficiency.

[0146] Examining the features of the heating device 2 manufactured according to the present invention reveals the advantages it enables.

[0147] In particular, due to the specific zigzag configuration of at least some of the flow channels 19, 119, 219, 319, 419, 519, and 619, the fluid follows a significantly longer path within the tubular body 8 compared to examples where the fluid flow is linear in the axial direction. This allows for precise control of the fluid temperature.

[0148] This allows for longer heat exchange time intervals (and therefore more effective heating) and precise control of the fluid temperature.

[0149] Furthermore, the zigzag trajectory (or "maze") consisting of alternating straight and sharply curved sections increases the turbulence of the fluid flow within the channel. This establishment of turbulent motion, or in any case the increased turbulence of the fluid flow within the channel, increases the heat exchange efficiency between the tubular body 8, heated by electromagnetic induction by the winding 12, and the fluid flowing through the channel.

[0150] The specific shape of the flow channel further tends to locally decelerate the fluid, and therefore increases heat gain by the fluid.

[0151] It is clear that modifications can be made to the heating device 2 described and illustrated herein, thereby generating deformations, and this does not deviate from the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. An electromagnetic induction type continuous fluid heating device (2), particularly for use in an automatic beverage vending machine (1), wherein the heating device (2) is: - A tubular body (8) having a longitudinal axis (A), comprising at least one inlet (10) configured to receive a heated fluid and supply it into the interior of the tubular body (8), and an outlet (11) through which the heated fluid flows out of the tubular body (8) when in use; and - An electric winding (12) wound around the tubular body (8) and electrically powered to generate an electromagnetic induction field; Equipped with, The tubular body (8) is made of an electrically conductive material so as to be heated by electromagnetic induction due to the effect of the electromagnetic induction field; The heating device (2) further comprises non-heat-generating inserts (18, 118, 218, 318, 418, 518, 618) made of an electrically non-conductive material with zero magnetic susceptibility, which engage axially with the tubular body (8) and extend along the longitudinal axis (A); The heating device further comprises flow channels (19, 119, 219, 319, 419, 519, 619) for the fluid, which fluidly connect the inlet (10) to the outlet (11) and are partitioned by the outer surface (18a) of the insert (18) and the inner surface (8a) of the tubular body (8); The flow channels (19, 119, 219, 319, 419, 519, 619) extend around the longitudinal axis (A), and at least a portion of them extend along a zigzag pattern or a zigzag trajectory from the inlet (10) to the outlet (11). Electromagnetic induction type continuous fluid heating device (2).

2. The heating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the flow channel (19, 319, 419, 619) includes a series of transverse sectors (19a, 319a, 419a, 619a) that are transverse, particularly orthogonal to the longitudinal axis (A), and these are alternately arranged with elbow-shaped sectors (19b, 319b, 419b, 619b), thereby defining the zigzag trajectory, and the direction of the flow of the fluid flowing through the flow channel (19, 319, 419, 619) is opposite to that of each pair of consecutive transverse sectors (19a, 319a, 419a, 619a) with respect to the longitudinal axis (A) during use.

3. The inserts (18, 318, 418, 618) have a substantially cylindrical or semi-cylindrical shape with the longitudinal axis (A) as their central axis; Each transverse sector (19a, 319a, 419a, 619a) is fluidly connected to the nearest adjacent transverse sector (19a, 319a, 419a, 619a) via upstream elbow sectors (19b, 319b, 419b, 619b) and downstream elbow sectors (19b, 319b, 419b, 619b); Each transverse sector (19a, 319a, 419a, 619a) extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis (A), thereby defining the arc-shaped portion of the trajectory around the longitudinal axis (A), and is oriented transversely, particularly perpendicular to, the longitudinal axis (A). Furthermore, the heating device according to claim 2, wherein the fluid is configured to flow along each of the transverse sectors (19a, 319a, 419a, 619a) in a direction opposite to the direction of the fluid flow in the transverse sector (19a, 319a, 419a, 619a) that is immediately adjacent to each of the transverse sectors.

4. The flow channel (119, 219, 519) includes a series of linear sectors (119a, 219a, 519a) that extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (A), These are arranged alternately with elbow-shaped sectors (119b, 219b, 519b) that are transverse, and especially orthogonal, to the longitudinal axis (A), The heating device according to claim 1, wherein the zigzag trajectory is defined and the direction of the flow of the fluid flowing through the flow channels (119, 219, 519) is opposite to that of each pair of consecutive linear sectors (119a, 219a, 519a) with respect to the longitudinal axis (A) when in use.

5. The flow channels (19, 119, 219, 319, 419, 519, 619) are defined by continuous grooves formed on the outer surface (18a) of the inserts (18, 118, 218, 318, 418, 518, 618), and are closed at the top by the inner surface (8a) of the tubular body (8). A heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The tubular body (8) is housed inside and comprises at least two inserts (218, 318) that extend along the longitudinal axis (A); Each insert (218, 318) defines its respective flow channel (219, 319), thereby causing the fluid to flow in parallel along at least two zigzag trajectories from the inlet (10) to the outlet (11) during use. A heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The insert (418, 518) includes a first portion (420, 520) along which the trajectory of the flow channel (419, 519) proceeds in a zigzag pattern or zigzag manner, and the insert (418, 518) includes a second portion (421, 521) along which the trajectory of the flow channel proceeds spirally around the longitudinal axis (A); The second portion (421, 521) is positioned at one of the two axial ends of the insert (418, 518) at the inlet (10) or the outlet (11); The heating device (2) comprises a helical spring (22) housed inside the tubular body (8), the helical spring (22) being positioned around the second portion (421, 521) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A), and interposed between the tubular body (8) and the second portion (421, 521) of the insert; The flow channel (419, 519) along the second portion (421, 521) is partitioned below by the outer surface of the insert (418, 518), above by the inner surface (8a) of the tubular body (8), and laterally by the helical spring (22) in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A); The heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the helical spring (22) is positioned inside the tubular body (8) in a compressed state with a predetermined preload when in use.

8. The tubular body (8) comprises a first closing flange (13) for closing a first axial end, and a second closing flange (14) for closing a second axial end of the tubular body (8) opposite to the first axial end; The heating device according to claim 7, wherein the helical spring (22) is positioned in contact with the first flange (13) and biases the inserts (418, 518) toward the second flange (14), and thereby, upon removal of the second flange (14), the arrangement of the helical spring (22) expands, and the inserts (418, 518) protrude at least partially from the tubular body (8).

9. The insert (618) is hollow and has an axial through cavity (23) that is fluidly connected on one side to the flow channel (619) and fluidly connected on the other side to the inlet (10) or the outlet (11), thereby defining the beginning or end portion of the flow channel (619) itself; The heating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the axial through cavity (23) is fluidly connected to the flow channel (619) via an elbow section (24), so that the direction of the fluid flow along the axial cavity (23) is opposite to the direction of the fluid flow inside the flow channel (619).

10. A vending machine (1) for the manufacture of hot and cold beverages: - An electromagnetic induction type continuous fluid heating device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 9; - A fluid supply circuit (3) that is fluidically connected to the heating device (2) and supplies fluid flow to it; and - A power supply circuit (7) electrically connected to the winding (12) for electrically supplying power to it. A vending machine (1) equipped with the following features.

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