CARTRIDGE RECEPTACLE, CARTRIDGE SYSTEM, BEVERAGE PREPARATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREPARING BEVERAGES - Patent application

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge receptacle for producing a beverage by means of a cartridge with a reservoir, which is filled with a beverage substance and closed by a sealing element, in particular by a sealing film. The cartridge receptacle has a connection area for connection to a cartridge, which can be inserted into a beverage preparation machine with the cartridge. The cartridge receptacle has a mixing chamber which can be fluidly connected with the reservoir and a fluid supply which opens into the mixing chamber to introduce liquid into the mixing chamber. The cartridge receptacle has a cartridge removal device for at least partially transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir to the mixing chamber. The cartridge receptacle has an outlet for conducting the beverage from the mixing chamber, in particular an outlet for conducting directly into a beverage container. The cartridge receptacle also has a gas outlet for conducting gas, in particular carbon dioxide gas released from the cartridge receptacle to the mixing chamber.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cartridge receptacle, a cartridge system, a beverage preparation system, and a method for preparing a beverage. [Background technology]

[0002] Such systems are known from the prior art, for example from US Pat. Nos. 5,999,223, 5,103,111 and 5,200,302, and are used to produce beverages consisting of pre-portioned cartridges. The production of a beverage using such a system is very simple for the user, since it is only necessary to insert the cartridge into the beverage preparation machine and begin the start-up procedure. The beverage preparation machine, also called dispenser, manages the preparation of the beverage fully automatically, i.e. in particular a food or beverage base is mixed with a predefined amount of liquid, in particular cold carbonated water, and is released into the beverage container. In this way, in particular a mixed beverage can be produced significantly easier, faster and with less effort for the user. The user can select a number of different cartridges, so that a variety of beverages can be produced as required.

[0003] The cartridge is connected in a connection area to a cartridge receptacle that provides an interface for coupling to the beverage preparation machine for insertion into the beverage preparation machine. Carbonation, particularly in the form of carbon dioxide gas, may be released from the water in the mixing chamber, particularly as a function of the volumetric flow rate and temperature, especially when using carbonated water. The released gas will flow out of the beverage outlet of the cartridge receptacle together with the mixed liquid, leading to disturbances in the liquid flow. The liquid jet may be interrupted, may contain air bubbles, may spurt irregularly or splash. This may contaminate the surroundings in the vicinity of the beverage preparation machine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2017 / 121802A1 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2017 / 121801A1 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2017 / 121800A1 [Patent Document 4] International Publication No. 2017 / 121799A1 [Patent Document 5] International Publication No. 2017 / 121798A1 [Patent Document 6] International Publication No. 2017 / 121797A1 [Patent Document 7] International Publication No. 2017 / 121796A1 [Patent Document 8] International Publication No. 2019 / 002293A1 Summary of the Invention

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a cartridge receptacle and a cartridge system which do not have the aforementioned drawbacks. In particular, it is intended to ensure a uniform jet of water exiting the cartridge receptacle.

[0006] This object is achieved by a cartridge receptacle according to claim 1, a cartridge system according to claim 18, a beverage preparation system according to claim 19 and a method according to claim 21.

[0007] Embodiments relating to this subject matter of the invention apply equally to other subject matters of the invention, and vice versa.

[0008] The present invention relates to a cartridge receptacle for preparing a beverage by means of a cartridge with a reservoir, which is filled with a beverage substance and sealed by a sealing element, in particular by a sealing film. The cartridge has a cavity, which is the reservoir into which the beverage substance is placed. This beverage substance is preferably a liquid, in particular a concentrate, which is provided to be mixed with a liquid, in particular with water, in order to produce a beverage and is then collected in a container, in particular in a glass, mug or cup, which is preferably placed on a support of a beverage preparation machine, which is preferably placed under the cartridge receptacle. The beverage substance preferably comprises liquid premixed components, such as for soft drinks containing caffeine, carbonation, fruit and / or sugar, such as lemonade or juice, beer (mixed) drinks or other alcoholic or non-alcoholic (mixed) drinks.

[0009] The cartridge receptacle has a connection area for connection to the cartridge and can be inserted into the beverage preparation machine together with the cartridge. The cartridge receptacle is preferably configured in the shape of a cap and has a large free opening on the side facing the cartridge. The cartridge receptacle is preferably form-fitted, pressure-fitted and / or materially connected to the cartridge, in particular to the cartridge neck, preferably before use. Particularly preferably, this connection is made by a reversible or non-reversible method, for example a snap-on connection and / or a screw connection. The sealing element, in particular a sealing film, preferably seals the cartridge at the open end and is particularly preferably connected by a material connection (gluing) to the free end of the cartridge, which is sealed, for example, at the edge. The sealing element is preferably provided to seal the cartridge in an airtight manner and to retain the beverage substance in the reservoir.

[0010] The cartridge receptacle has a mixing chamber which can be fluidly connected to the reservoir and a fluid supply opening into the mixing chamber for introducing liquid therein. This mixing chamber is preferably a free space in the cartridge receptacle, particularly preferably seamlessly bordering the connection area, i.e. in particular accessible through a free opening in the cartridge receptacle. The fluid supply is preferably a fluid supply opening, in particular in a side wall of the cartridge receptacle, particularly preferably for introducing liquid into the mixing chamber substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis defined by the cartridge and the cartridge receptacle.

[0011] The cartridge receptacle has a cartridge release device for at least partially transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir to the mixing chamber. The cartridge receptacle also has a beverage outlet for discharging the beverage from the mixing chamber, in particular directly into a beverage container. The cartridge release device can be preferably actuated in a targeted manner such that the beverage substance is not inadvertently transferred into the mixing chamber. Particularly preferably, the cartridge receptacle is mounted on a cartridge, which is then arranged in the beverage preparation machine to face downwards relative to the cartridge receptacle, and the mixed beverage is provided to be transferred from the cartridge receptacle to the beverage container, in particular by gravity.

[0012] Thus, according to the invention, the cartridge receptacle also has a gas outlet for releasing gas from the cartridge receptacle, in particular the carbon dioxide gas released in the mixing chamber. The gas outlet is therefore configured away from the beverage outlet and is preferably configured such that the gas is exclusively released during the mixing process, i.e. in particular the liquid and / or the mixed beverage are not released into the surroundings of the cartridge receptacle. As a result, it is made possible in a particularly advantageous manner that the released gas can continue to flow out of the cartridge receptacle without being dissolved any more in the liquid and / or beverage and without adversely affecting the jet of beverage released. At the same time, it is ensured that no liquid and / or beverage flows out of the gas outlet. Preferably, the liquid is carbonated water, in which case the gas is in particular carbon dioxide, i.e. carbon dioxide gas, which is no longer dissolved.

[0013] Preferably, the cartridge receptacle is fully or partly manufactured from a plastic material, in particular by the injection moulding and / or blow moulding methods. According to a preferred embodiment, the gas outlet and / or the beverage outlet are configured substantially in the form of a channel, in particular elongated, and / or the fluid supply is a fluid supply opening configured for fluid connection with a fluid line of the beverage preparation machine. Particularly preferably, when the cartridge receptacle and the cartridge are connected, the gas outlet and / or the beverage outlet extend substantially along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Very preferably, the length of the beverage outlet is shorter than the length of the gas outlet. Since the gas outlet and the beverage outlet are arranged in substantially the same plane, in particular on the outlet side, this means, in particular, that in a normal position during beverage preparation, the opening of the gas outlet of the mixing chamber is higher than the opening of the beverage outlet. It is thus advantageously ensured that only gas and not liquid flows out of the gas outlet.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the gas outlet is arranged substantially parallel to the beverage outlet. Particularly preferably, when the cartridge receptacle and the cartridge are connected, the gas outlet and the beverage outlet extend substantially along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Due to the parallel design, the cartridge receptacle can be particularly simpler to manufacture.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the gas outlet is substantially centrally located in the cartridge receptacle, as a result of which gas can advantageously easily exit through the gas outlet uniformly from all areas of the mixing chamber.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the beverage outlet opening is larger than the gas outlet opening, the beverage outlet having, in particular at least in some parts, a larger cross section than the gas outlet. The cartridge receptacle is preferably configured such that there is a substantial laminar flow in the mixing chamber. In particular, since turbulence is substantially prevented, less gas escapes from the liquid and a smaller diameter is required for the gas outlet. Since the beverage outlet has a comparatively larger diameter than the gas outlet, this advantageously ensures a sufficiently rapid beverage preparation, while at the same time ensuring an effective mixing of the beverage substance with the liquid.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the opening of the gas outlet facing the sealing element is spaced closer to the sealing element than the opening of the beverage outlet facing the sealing element. As a result, it is advantageously ensured that the opening of the gas outlet is above the liquid level in the mixing chamber, so that only gas can escape from the gas outlet during preparation of the beverage. Particularly preferably, the spacing between the opening of the gas outlet facing the sealing element and the sealing element is 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm, in particular 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm. Very preferably, the spacing between the opening of the gas outlet facing the sealing element and the sealing element is 5% to 50%, preferably 10% to 40%, in particular 20% to 30% of the spacing between the opening of the beverage outlet facing the sealing element and the sealing element. In particular, this means that the sealing element is in a rest position, i.e. there is no bulging of the sealing element due to gravity and / or pressure. A person skilled in the art will understand that, in particular, in the case of a sealing film as sealing element, the distance between the gas outlet opening and the sealing element must be large enough so that even under pressure there is a sufficiently large opening for the released gas, while on the other hand, making this distance smaller ensures the distance between the gas outlet and the liquid flowing in the mixing chamber so that no liquid / beverage substance or beverage can escape from the gas outlet.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge release device comprises a compressed air connection and a compressed air line extending from the compressed air connection to a compressed air outlet, the compressed air outlet in particular projecting in the direction of the reservoir of the cartridge, the compressed air connection being configured to introduce compressed air into the reservoir, and the cartridge release device being configured so that the beverage substance can be transferred from the reservoir to the mixing chamber by the compressed air. Particularly preferably, the compressed air connection is configured as an opening in the wall of the cartridge receptacle. Very preferably, the opening is arranged adjacent to the fluid supply. As a result, the compressed air and the liquid can be advantageously supplied to the cartridge receptacle in the same area, preferably by an element of the beverage preparation machine. During preparation, the compressed air is preferably supplied substantially simultaneously with the liquid, so that the liquid and the beverage substance pass simultaneously into the mixing chamber and are mixed therein. The skilled person will understand that, depending on the configuration, there may also be a small time offset in order to achieve sufficient mixing in the mixing chamber. The compressed air, particularly in conjunction with gravity, drives the beverage substance out of the reservoir, thereby preventing a negative pressure from building up in the reservoir which could prevent the reservoir from emptying completely.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge release device comprises a pin guide and a piercing pin displaceably mounted inside the pin guide, in particular displaceably mounted in one direction, which piercing pin is displaceable, in particular by an actuator element of the beverage preparation machine, between a retracted position, in which said piercing pin is away from the sealing element, and an extended position, in which said piercing pin penetrates the sealing element and projects into the reservoir, and a compressed air line is preferably integrated into the piercing pin. As a result, the cartridge can be pierced in a targeted and particularly advantageous manner, and thus the beverage preparation is actuated in a targeted manner, with the piercing pin penetrating the sealing element with a single element and simultaneously supplying compressed air. Preferably, the piercing pin has at least one, in particular elongated channel, on its outer surface. As a result, the outflow of the beverage substance from the reservoir is possible in a particularly simple and reliable manner. Alternatively or additionally, the piercing pin has at least one recess and / or protuberance on its outer periphery, preferably several of which are provided as drains for the beverage substance. The amount and size of the recesses and / or protuberances preferably depend on the viscosity of the substrate. The outer wall of the piercing means is therefore preferably provided with at least one transverse channel for directing the beverage substance in the direction of the mixing chamber. In particular, the beverage substance can then flow through the diaphragm in the direction of the mixing chamber by means of a transverse channel arranged to align with the piercing pin. Preferably, a number of transverse channels are arranged on the piercing pin. The transverse channels are arranged in particular in the form of a groove open on one side in each case. It is conceivable that the transverse channels are adapted in number and / or cross section to the viscosity of the substrate so as to control or limit the flow of the substrate in the direction of the mixing chamber. If the viscosity is high, a number of transverse channels or a number of transverse channels with a larger cross section are used, whereas if the viscosity is low, a smaller number of transverse channels or a smaller number of transverse channels with a smaller cross section are provided. The skilled person will understand that this in particular means that for each beverage substance and thus for the various types of cartridges, suitable cartridge receptacles are provided.These embodiments have in common that the only movable element of the cartridge receptacle is the puncture pin, and therefore the cartridge receptacle is configured in a simple manner and can be manufactured in a simple manner, which is particularly advantageous. Preferably, the fluid connection is only in the protruding position between the compressed air connection and the compressed air outlet. In particular, in the retracted position, compressed air cannot flow out of the compressed air outlet. As a result, it is ensured in a particularly advantageous manner that the compressed air passes through the compressed air outlet only in the protruding position, i.e. only when the puncture pin penetrates the sealing element.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the gas outlet, the beverage outlet and / or the pin guide have a substantially circular cross section. Alternatively, the gas outlet, the beverage outlet and / or the pin guide have an inclined cross section. A circular cross section can be particularly easily manufactured and is particularly advantageous for laminar flows. Particularly preferably, the cross section is constant over the entire length of the gas outlet, the beverage outlet and / or the pin guide. Alternatively, the cross section varies over the length, for example expanding in the flow direction.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the gas outlet is arranged between the pin guide and / or the fluid supply and the beverage outlet. In order to ensure sufficient mixing of the liquid with the beverage substance, the liquid preferably needs to cover a sufficiently long path between the fluid supply and the beverage outlet. Therefore, preferably, an area is provided between the fluid supply and the beverage outlet, through which no liquid flows. It is therefore particularly advantageous to arrange the gas outlet in this area.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the distance between the opening of the gas outlet facing the sealing element and the sealing element is 10% to 80%, preferably 30% to 60%, in particular substantially 50% of the distance between the opening of the pin guide facing the sealing element and the sealing element. The puncture pin preferably projects beyond the opening of the pin guide at least in the projected position.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge receptacle, in particular the beverage outlet, comprises a residue outlet, the cross section of which is preferably between 2% and 30%, particularly preferably between 5% and 20%, in particular 10%, of the cross section of the beverage outlet. Particularly preferably, the residue outlet is located, in particular at the lowest point of the cartridge receptacle in its orientation during beverage preparation. As a result, it is advantageously ensured that even the last residues of liquid or beverage are removed from the cartridge receptacle, so that after beverage preparation no dead volume remains and the cartridge receptacle and the cartridge can be removed from the beverage preparation machine without spilling any liquid, in particular any drips, remaining in the cartridge receptacle. Thus, a hygienic and clean beverage preparation is made possible.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the beverage outlet comprises a jet-forming element, in particular configured in a cross shape. The skilled person understands that the jet-forming element may also have another shape, in particular arranged in the flow direction in the lower region of the beverage outlet. The jet-forming element is particularly preferably arranged in such a way that the beverage leaves the beverage outlet in a uniform jet, in particular in a laminar flow.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the gas outlet has at least one spacing means for maintaining a minimum spacing from the sealing element, the spacing means being preferably configured in an arc shape, advantageously ensuring that a sufficiently large opening of the gas outlet is provided even in the event of bulging of the sealing element under high pressure.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge receptacle has a flow shaping element in the area facing the fluid supply to ensure a laminar flow of the liquid led through the fluid supply to the mixing chamber. The flow shaping element is configured, in particular, prow-shaped. Advantageously, the flow shaping element ensures that the liquid flowing into the mixing chamber is not turned into a turbulent flow, in particular is divided.

[0027] A further subject of the present invention is a cartridge system for producing a beverage, the cartridge system having a cartridge which can be inserted into a beverage preparation machine and which comprises a reservoir to be filled with a beverage substance and a cartridge receptacle according to the present invention connected to the cartridge, the cartridge receptacle and the cartridge being connected in a connection region, the cartridge having a cartridge opening which has a sealing element, in particular a sealing film, in an edge region, which seals the reservoir to the cartridge receptacle in a fluid-tight manner.

[0028] The cartridge system can preferably be assembled by the user. Alternatively, the cartridge system is already assembled at a factory. The connection between the cartridge and the cartridge receptacle is highly preferably reversible. Alternatively, the connection is non-reversible, or at least not reversible in a non-destructive manner.

[0029] Embodiments relating to this subject matter of the invention apply equally to other subject matters of the invention, and vice versa.

[0030] The cartridge is preferably made entirely or partly from a plastic material, in particular by the injection moulding and / or blow moulding methods. The cross section of the side wall of the cartridge is for example circular, rectangular, square, conical or elliptical. Generally, at one end of the side wall, a base is provided, in particular made integrally with the side wall. The side wall and the optional base span a cavity forming a reservoir into which the beverage substance is supplied, in particular in liquid form. At the other end of the side wall, the cartridge has an opening defined by a connection area and is connected via the connection area to a cartridge receptacle. Preferably, the connection area comprises at least one flange. The flange projects from the connection area, preferably from a wall area of ​​the connection area, at an angle, in particular at a right angle. Preferably, the flange is made from a solid material, i.e. is not hollow. In particular, the flange and / or the connection area are configured integrally with the side wall. Particularly preferably, the flange has positioning means. The positioning means ensures that the cartridge can only be connected to the cartridge receptacle, in particular at a particular rotation angle, in particular at a particular position relative to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Very preferably, the positioning means are recesses and / or ridges, in particular protruding from the flange, in particular from its periphery. Preferably, the positioning means are provided integrally with the flange. For example, the positioning means are configured as an integrally formed protrusion at one point on the periphery of the flange. Particularly preferably, the thickness of the positioning means at least substantially corresponds to the thickness of the flange.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, a cartridge neck is provided between the wall region and the connection region, said cartridge neck preferably having a circular cross section, in particular having the same cross section as the side wall of the cartridge. The cartridge neck represents the wall region of the connection region. The flange adjoins the cartridge neck, preferably at a right angle.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, the sealing element, in particular a sealing film, which closes, in particular seals, the cartridge before use, is fixed to the flange, in particular at its front face, and is sealed in particular against the flange. For this purpose, the flange, in particular at its front face, can have a bead, in particular an annular bead, which cooperates with the sealing tool during sealing. Preferably, the outer diameter of the septum is smaller than the diameter of the flange. Preferably, fastening means are provided in the wall area of ​​the connection area and / or in the area of ​​the cartridge neck. Particularly preferably, the cartridge can be connected to the cartridge holder by means of said fastening means. The fastening means is in particular a groove into which a locking means of the cartridge holder engages.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the connection area of ​​the cartridge cooperates in a particularly sealing manner with the connection area of ​​the cartridge receptacle. Particularly preferably, the periphery of the flange of the cartridge engages in a groove of the cartridge receptacle. This connection between the flange and the groove is provided, in particular with a form-fit and / or a pressure-fit, such that no relative movement occurs between the cartridge and the cartridge receptacle during the preparation of the beverage. This advantageously prevents the connection between the cartridge and the cartridge receptacle from becoming loose.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge and cartridge receptacle are rotationally fixedly connected together.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge has a product code with which the cartridge can be identified. Once the cartridge has been identified, preferably, information regarding the beverage substance and / or the recommended preparation is available. The same applies to the container in which the beverage or food is collected. This can also include information and / or a product code. Particularly preferably, the cartridge and / or cartridge receptacle has a product identification code. Preferably, the product identification code is embedded in a bar code, an RFID code, a QR code, a data matrix code, a color code, a hologram code or the like. Advantageously, therefore, automatic reading of the product identification code is possible. Alternatively, it can also be conceived that the product identification code is embedded in a separate, automatically readable computer chip. The term QR code encompasses in particular any data matrix code within the meaning of the present invention. In this respect, the terms QR code and data matrix code are used synonymously. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be conceived that the product identification code comprises a bar code, a dot code, a binary code, a Morse code, a Braille character code (Braille text) or the like. The code can also be embedded in a three-dimensional structure, for example in a relief. The product identification code in particular comprises a so-called product identification number, in particular the Universal Product Code (UPC), the European Article Number (EAN), the GS1 code, the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) or the like. Thus, no new coding system has to be introduced for that purpose. In particular, the product identification code operates under the GS1 standard. The product identification code is preferably printed, adhesively bonded to the cartridge and / or incorporated into the surface of the cartridge during its production, for example by (laser) engraving, pressing or directly. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the cartridge is at least partially sealed by a casing, for example a sleeve in which the product identification code is arranged. The casing can also be adhesively bonded or welded to the cartridge. The casing or sleeve can be made of a plastic film, a textile or paper.

[0036] Another subject of the invention is a beverage preparation system comprising a beverage preparation machine and a cartridge system according to the invention, the beverage preparation machine comprising, in particular, a cartridge holder arranged to protrude forward, into which the cartridge system can be inserted, the beverage preparation machine also comprising a liquid reservoir, a liquid conditioning system for conditioning, in particular for heating, cooling and / or carbonating, a actuator element for actuating the cartridge release device, in particular a puncture pin, a fluid supply system connectable to the cartridge system, provided for introducing the conditioned liquid into the mixing chamber through the fluid supply and also for introducing compressed air, preferably at the compressed air connection, into the compressed air line, and a control device for controlling the liquid conditioning system, the fluid supply system and / or the actuator element. The beverage preparation system according to the invention is particularly advantageous, since a plurality of separate beverages can be quickly prepared in a simple and hygienic manner. The cartridge holder is preferably arranged to protrude forward. This means, in particular, that the cartridge holder protrudes in particular horizontally from the housing of the beverage preparation machine. The cartridge system is inserted into the cartridge holder, preferably from above, and particularly preferably from the cartridge receptacle the beverage descends directly, i.e. in particular without contact with any element of the beverage preparation machine, into the beverage container. In particular, the cartridge holder is configured substantially disk-shaped. This allows not only a particularly hygienic beverage preparation but also a very high level of cartridge variability. The interface between the cartridge holder and the cartridge system is provided in the form of a cartridge receptacle. The cartridge can have substantially any shape, since it is arranged on the cartridge holder. Preferably, the cartridge holder has a liquid connection, in particular movably arranged. To produce the beverage, liquid is supplied by means of this liquid connection. The liquid connection of the cartridge holder is preferably connected to a fluid supply of the cartridge receptacle, in particular in a fluid-tight manner.

[0037] Embodiments relating to this subject matter of the invention apply equally to other subject matters of the invention, and vice versa.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment, the liquid reservoir is releasably inserted into the beverage preparation machine. In this way, the liquid reservoir can be removed from the beverage preparation machine, for example for filling. Particularly preferably, the liquid is water. Alternatively or additionally, the beverage preparation machine can be connected to an external liquid supply, in particular a water supply. For example, the liquid reservoir is filled, in particular automatically, by an external water source and / or the required liquid is taken directly from the external water source. As a result, the ease of use of the beverage preparation machine is advantageously improved. Preferably, the beverage preparation machine has at least one pump for conveying the liquid, in particular a diaphragm pump. Particularly preferably, the beverage preparation machine also has at least one flow measuring device for detecting and controlling the volumetric flow rate of the liquid, in particular a flow sensor, such as, for example, an ultrasonic flow sensor, a magnetic inductive flow sensor, etc.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, the liquid conditioning system comprises at least one temperature control device for controlling the temperature of the liquid. Particularly preferably, the temperature control device is a thermal cooler for cooling the liquid. Alternatively, the beverage preparation machine is coupled to an external temperature control device. Advantageously, therefore, at room temperature, a chilled beverage can be produced without cooling the cartridge itself. The cooler preferably comprises a compressor cooler, an absorber cooler or a thermoelectric cooler. According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the liquid conditioning system comprises at least one soda dispenser for carbonating the liquid. Particularly preferably, the beverage preparation machine also has a receptacle in addition to the soda dispenser for at least one carbon dioxide gas reservoir, in particular for a carbon dioxide gas cartridge. Advantageously, carbonated beverages (soft drinks) can also be produced with this system. Alternatively, the beverage preparation machine can be coupled to an external carbon dioxide gas source.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the actuator element has at least one protrusion which engages geometrically and / or non-geometrically at the lower end of the piercing pin and displaces the piercing pin in the pin guide towards the cartridge and into the closure element upon actuation. Particularly preferably, the beverage preparation machine comprises a drive for the actuator element. Very preferably, the drive is arranged inside the housing of the beverage preparation machine, thus in particular not in the cartridge holder, but is connected by a suitable mechanism to the actuator element in the cartridge holder.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment, the fluid supply system comprises a pump, in particular a diaphragm pump for transporting the liquid. Particularly preferably, the fluid supply system also comprises at least one flow measurement device for sensing and controlling the volumetric flow rate of the liquid, in particular a flow sensor, for example an ultrasonic flow sensor, a magnetic inductive flow sensor. Very preferably, the fluid supply system comprises a movable coupling element, in particular a compressed air line and / or a liquid line, which coupling element is movable such that a fluid-tight coupling to the fluid supply and / or a compressed air connection of the cartridge receptacle occurs when the cartridge system is inserted into the cartridge holder. Alternatively, the coupling element is movable and configured such that a fluid-tight coupling to the fluid supply and / or a compressed air connection of the cartridge receptacle occurs when the cartridge system is inserted into the cartridge holder.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment, the beverage preparation machine and / or the fluid supply system comprises a compressed air source. Alternatively, the beverage preparation machine and / or the fluid supply system may be coupled to an external compressed air source. In particular, the beverage preparation machine applies compressed air to the compressed air connection of the cartridge receptacle as soon as the coupling element is coupled to the compressed air connection or the actuator element activates the piercing means. In this way, it is advantageously ensured that the beverage substance is immediately transferred into the mixing chamber when penetrating the sealing element, in particular that no beverage substance gets into the compressed air line and thus contaminates the beverage preparation machine with the beverage substance.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, the beverage preparation machine also has a product code detector for detecting the product code of the cartridge and / or cartridge receptacle. Particularly preferably, the product code detector is arranged on and / or behind the cartridge holder, in particular in the housing of the beverage preparation machine above the cartridge holder. The product code detector in particular comprises an optical sensor, e.g. a CCD camera, which automatically reads the product code, in particular the product identification code, when the cartridge system is inserted into the beverage preparation machine. Alternatively, the product code detector comprises a transmitting / receiving antenna, for example for automatically reading an RFID code.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the beverage preparation machine comprises locking means for reversibly locking the cartridge system in the cartridge holder, which can be actuated by a user. Particularly preferably, the locking means is connected to the control device such that the beverage preparation process is only possible when the cartridge system is successfully locked in the cartridge holder. In this way, possible malfunctions and damage to the cartridge system and / or the beverage preparation machine are prevented, and also contamination with liquids and / or beverage substances is avoided. Very preferably, the locking means comprises a fixed flange, which encloses the cartridge receptacle by a positive and / or pressure fit during or after insertion into the cartridge holder. The fixed flange preferably also comprises an actuation mechanism, which is configured to operate to grip the cartridge receptacle by means of the fixed flange and / or to displace the fixed flange to cause a relative movement between the cartridge receptacle and an actuator element in contact with the piercing means, and to move the piercing means from the retracted position to the extended position. The actuation mechanism comprises, for example, a hand lever for manual operation, which is preferably configured to be rotatable around a rotation axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Furthermore, the actuation mechanism preferably comprises a transmission for converting the rotational movement of the hand lever around the rotation axis parallel to the longitudinal axis into a translational movement substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. After the cartridge system is inserted into the cartridge holder, the user actuates the hand lever, which causes the cartridge system to be firmly gripped and linearly displaced relative to the actuation element. The anti-twist device and the conversion of the rotational movement into a linear translational movement ensure that the orientation of the cartridge relative to the cartridge holder remains constant. As a result, possible identification of the code (product identification) is advantageously simplified.

[0045] A further subject of the invention is a method for preparing a beverage using a beverage preparation system according to the invention, the method comprising the steps of: - inserting a cartridge system, comprising a cartridge and a cartridge receptacle, into a cartridge holder; - providing a fluid connection between a fluid supply system and a cartridge receptacle; - piercing the closure by actuating an actuator element to activate the cartridge release device, in particular by moving a piercing pin from a retracted position to an extended position; - transferring the beverage substance from a reservoir of the cartridge to a mixing chamber of the cartridge receptacle, in particular by supplying compressed air to the cartridge through a compressed air connection; - introducing a liquid into a mixing chamber of a cartridge receptacle through a fluid supply; - discharging a beverage produced by mixing the beverage substance with the liquid in the mixing chamber through a beverage outlet; - releasing the gas released during the mixing, in particular carbon dioxide, through a gas outlet. It is characterized by:

[0046] Embodiments relating to this subject matter of the invention apply equally to other subject matters of the invention, and vice versa.

[0047] Advantageously, the method according to the invention allows for an exceptionally versatile, hygienic and fast beverage preparation or production, since the only condition is to allow mixing of the beverage substance and the liquid. In particular, the separate gas outlet ensures that the volumetric flow rate of the outgoing beverage is not disturbed by the released gas, thus avoiding undesirable effects such as partial interruption of the jet, splashing, bubbles, etc. The skilled person will understand that the amount of released gas depends on several parameters, such as temperature, pressure, volumetric flow rate, viscosity and degree of carbonation of the beverage substance and / or liquid. However, the gas outlet is preferably arranged to be able to safely release any reasonably expected amount of gas.

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment, the transfer of the beverage substance into the mixing chamber and the introduction of the liquid into the mixing chamber are performed substantially simultaneously, as a result ensuring that a homogenous beverage is produced and transferred into the beverage container, in particular it is generally undesirable for the liquid or beverage substance to at least partially flow out of the cartridge receptacle alone.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment, the liquid is temperature-controlled, in particular cooled and carbonated, in the beverage preparation machine before being introduced into the mixing chamber, thereby advantageously enabling the preparation of cooled carbonated soft drinks.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, activation of the actuator element comprises displacing the puncture pin along the pin guide. It is important here that a relative movement occurs between the cartridge holder or the actuator element of the beverage preparation machine, which may comprise a movement of the cartridge system and / or the actuator element.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, the locking step, in which the locking means is automatically or manually actuated, follows a step of inserting the cartridge system into the cartridge holder. Particularly preferably, during or after the step of inserting the cartridge system into the cartridge holder, a fixing flange of the cartridge holder is actuated by an actuation mechanism, which is manually or motorically actuated to cause the fixing flange to grip the cartridge receptacle geometrically and / or by pressure and / or to displace the fixing flange to cause a relative movement between the cartridge receptacle and an actuator element operatively connected to the cartridge release device, thereby moving the piercing means from the retracted position to the extended position.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, fluidly connecting the fluid supply system and the cartridge receptacle comprises moving the movable coupling element and the cartridge receptacle relative to each other such that a fluid-tight connection is created. Particularly preferably, the fluid connection between the liquid line on the machine side and the fluid supply of the cartridge receptacle and the fluid connection between the compressed air line on the machine side and the compressed air connection of the cartridge receptacle are created simultaneously.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment, compressed air is introduced into the reservoir of the cartridge through the cartridge release device, so that the beverage substance flows, in particular from the piercing pin through the sealing element into the mixing chamber and moves from the reservoir of the cartridge to the mixing chamber of the cartridge receptacle. The compressed air can optionally only compensate the outflow volume of the beverage substance to prevent negative pressure in the cartridge or can actively displace the beverage substance, in particular at a pressure higher than the beverage preparation pressure and / or atmospheric pressure in the reservoir, to move it from the reservoir to the mixing chamber.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, the liquid is introduced into the mixing chamber in such a way that there is substantially, in particular exclusively, a laminar flow. The skilled person will understand that this depends on various parameters, such as for example temperature, degree of carbonation, volumetric flow rate, volumetric flow cross section, etc., and particularly preferably, the control device adapts the machine parameters for the beverage preparation machine, in particular by means of the fluid regulation system and / or the fluid supply system, in such a way that there is a laminar flow. As a result, gas emissions are advantageously avoided.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one product code, in particular a product identification code, of the cartridge and / or cartridge receptacle is read by a product code detector before, during or after the insertion of the cartridge system into the cartridge holder, the supply of compressed air to the cartridge, the supply of liquid to the mixing chamber and / or the operation of the cartridge release device. The read product identification code is preferably evaluated by an evaluation unit, and the supply of compressed air and / or liquid and / or the operation of the cartridge release device is only performed if the product identification code is verified by the evaluation unit. In this way, it is ensured that the beverage preparation system cannot be operated without a known, certified or certified cartridge system for the beverage preparation machine, thus avoiding the risk of damage to the beverage preparation system or injury to the user, for example due to the inadvertent use of a wrong cartridge system that cannot withstand the pressure of compressed air and / or liquid. It is also conceivable that the properties of the excipients supplied, and in particular the time profile of the volumetric flow rate, the total volume, the pressure, the pause of the conveyance, the temperature and / or the carbonation of the supplied compressed air are controlled as a function of the product identification code. Alternatively or additionally, the properties of the compressed air supplied, and in particular the time profile of the volumetric flow rate, the total volume, the pauses of the conveying and / or the pressure of the compressed air supplied, are controlled as a function of the product identification code. Preferably, the ratio between the volumetric flow rate of the liquid and the volumetric flow rate of the compressed air is controlled as a function of the product identification code. In particular, all parameters of the beverage substance or beverage preparation and / or parameter ranges of the beverage preparation process that can be set by the beverage preparation machine are embedded in the product identification code, so that the beverage preparation machine obtains from the cartridge all the necessary or at least useful information for the production of the respective beverage. It is also conceivable that this information is stored in an internal memory of the beverage preparation machine and retrieved by the product identification code for the respective cartridge system and used to control the beverage production process as soon as the presence of this cartridge system in the cartridge holder is detected.

[0056] The present invention will now be described with reference to figures 1 to 6. These descriptions are merely examples and do not limit the inventive concept as a whole. These descriptions apply to the cartridge according to the invention, to the cartridge system according to the invention and to the beverage preparation system according to the invention, as well as to the method according to the invention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0057] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge receptacle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge receptacle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is another view of a cartridge receptacle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is another view of a cartridge receptacle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] 1A-1D show schematic cross-sections of a cartridge system and beverage preparation system and method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 1A-1D show schematic cross-sections of a cartridge system and beverage preparation system and method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0058] 1 shows a schematic cross-section of a cartridge receptacle 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Such a cartridge receptacle 1 is specifically configured as a cap and is attached to a cartridge 16 to form a cartridge system.

[0059] The cartridge 16 comprises a side wall, not shown here for the sake of clarity, and a base, which is preferably connected to the side wall and constructed integrally therewith. At the end opposite the base, the cartridge has an opening, which is preferably surrounded by a cartridge neck, which in particular preferably has a smaller diameter than the side wall. The cartridge 16 preferably has at least one flange 18 at the open end, in particular oriented perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge 16. This flange 18, on the one hand, provides a form-fit and / or a pressure-fit with the connection area 2 of the cartridge receptacle 1, and, on the other hand, preferably a sealing element is fixed against the flange 18.

[0060] According to the embodiment described herein, the sealing element is a sealing film 19, which is sealed, for example against the flange 18, thereby sealing a cavity in the cartridge 16, in particular in a fluid-tight, i.e. liquid-tight and gas-tight manner. This cavity serves as a reservoir 17 for a preferably liquid beverage substance. The skilled person will understand that the beverage substance may alternatively be, in particular, a liquid food substance, such as, for example, baby food, porridge, soup, or a medical product, such as a high-calorie food. It is important that this (beverage) substance is supplied so as to be mixed with a liquid, in particular water.

[0061] The cartridge 16, in particular the side walls, can have virtually any shape, for example a circular or inclined cross section, and the widest possible range of dimensions, in particular length and diameter. Only the cartridge neck needs to be configured in such a way that it can be connected in the connection area to the connection area 2 of the cartridge receptacle. It is a particular benefit of the beverage preparation system according to the invention that the cartridge holder 24 of the beverage preparation machine is preferably configured to project forward. This means, in particular, that the cartridge holder 24 projects in particular substantially horizontally from the housing of the beverage preparation machine and is configured substantially disk-shaped. The cartridge system consists of a cartridge 16, which is inserted into the cartridge holder upside down, i.e. with the opening of the cartridge 16 facing downwards, such that the cartridge receptacle 1 becomes the lowest element of the cartridge system and is preferably reversibly fixed there. This means that the cartridge 16 freely projects upwards from the cartridge holder 24 and is therefore free with respect to shape.

[0062] The cartridge receptacle 1 has an opening in the connection area 2, which directly abuts on a sealing element, which is a sealing film 19. The cartridge receptacle 1 according to the invention has at least two openings at opposite ends. The finished mixed beverage leaves one opening, which is the beverage outlet 5, and can be transferred directly into a beverage container, preferably a cup, mug or glass. The beverage outlet 5 is preferably configured in a channel-like manner, i.e. with a side wall and a longitudinal extent. The length of the beverage outlet 5 is selected in particular so that a uniform beverage jet is directed. Particularly preferably, for this purpose the beverage outlet also comprises a jet-forming element 15, which is for example cross-shaped, which is arranged in the lower area and configured for shaping the jet as required.

[0063] The fluid supply 4 is provided in a side wall of the cartridge receptacle 1 and is configured here as a hole, in particular with a conical boundary. This fluid supply 4 cooperates with the beverage preparation machine, such that a liquid, in particular chilled and / or carbonated water, is introduced by the fluid supply 4 through a coupling element 20 into the cartridge receptacle 1.

[0064] The free space within the cartridge receptacle 1 acts as a mixing chamber 3 where the beverage substance is mixed with the incoming liquid to form the desired beverage before exiting through the beverage outlet 5 .

[0065] As can be derived from the figure, the upper opening of the beverage outlet 5 is arranged above the lower region of the mixing chamber 3 so that a sufficient length for jet moulding is realised. In order that the beverage produced in the mixing chamber 3 can always be discharged from the cartridge receptacle 1 without residue, in particular to avoid continuous dripping and remaining unusable dead volumes when removing the cartridge system from the beverage preparation machine, the cartridge receptacle 1 can also be provided with a residue outlet 7 (in an orientation as it would be in a mechanism mounted on the beverage preparation machine), in particular at the lowest point of the mixing chamber. Particularly preferably, the residue outlet 7 is provided adjacent to the beverage outlet 5 and / or is at least partially part of the beverage outlet 5. Here, for example, the beverage outlet 5 is provided with a substantially circular cross section, a small area of ​​this cross section being arranged in the area around the residue outlet 7. In particular, the upper intake surface of the residue outlet 7 is arranged lower than the upper intake surface of the beverage outlet 5. In the present case, the residual outlet 7 is only provided for discharging a relatively small residual volume, so that when arranged in this way, the length and cross section of the residual outlet 7 is also significantly smaller than the length and cross section of the beverage outlet 5.

[0066] The cartridge receptacle 1 has a cartridge release device for transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir 17 to the mixing chamber 3. The cartridge receptacle 1 has a compressed air connection 9 under the fluid supply 4, which also has a conical boundary for cooperation with the compressed air supply of the beverage preparation machine, so that compressed air can be introduced into the cartridge receptacle 1. Preferably, the machine-side coupling element 20 comprises both a compressed air line 21 and a liquid line 22, so that both openings of the coupling element 20 can be coupled with the fluid supply 4 and with the compressed air connection 9, in particular simultaneously. The compressed air is led from the compressed air connection 9 in the direction of the pin guide 9, which here is configured geometrically as an opening for receiving the piercing pin 14, not shown in the figures, so that the piercing pin can be longitudinally displaced between the retracted and extended positions. The compressed air connection 9, the pin guide 8 and the piercing pin 14 form part of the cartridge release device.

[0067] The piercing pin 14 is arranged to cooperate with an actuator element 23 of the beverage preparation machine, in particular of a cartridge holder 24, by means of which it can be moved from a retracted position to an extended position. In the extended position, the piercing pin 14 pierces the sealing film 19, so that the beverage substance can flow through the sealing film 19, in particular through at least one groove-shaped channel arranged on the outer circumference of the piercing pin 14, into the mixing chamber 3. Since the mechanism of the cartridge system and the configuration of the cartridge receptacle 1 may cause a negative pressure in the reservoir 17 of the cartridge 16, the piercing pin 14 has an internal compressed air line 11 which opens into the tip of the piercing pin 14 at the compressed air outlet 10, and the piercing pin 14 and in particular the compressed air line 11 are configured such that only in the extended position is the compressed air line 11 fluidly connected to the compressed air connection 9. As a result, it is ensured that compressed air is not inadvertently introduced into the mixing chamber 3. During preparation, compressed air is introduced into the reservoir 17 to replace the volume released therein by the outflow of the beverage substance into the mixing chamber 3. Preferably, the compressed air supply is controlled by the control device of the beverage preparation machine in such a way that the compressed air further assists the movement of the beverage substance into the mixing chamber, i.e. in particular such that a small overpressure is created in the cartridge 16.

[0068] Alternatively, or in addition, it is also conceivable that the beverage preparation machine controls the compressed air supply such that towards the end of the beverage preparation, a remaining amount of beverage substance, liquid and / or beverage is removed from the cartridge system through the residual outlet 7.

[0069] Furthermore, the cartridge receptacle 1 also has a flow shaping element 13, which faces the fluid supply and is preferably configured in a bow shape. The flow shaping element 13 is arranged to divide, in particular to distribute evenly, the liquid flow entering the mixing chamber 3. In particular, turbulence should be avoided, since this hinders the even mixing of the liquids and, in particular in the case of carbonated water, increases the carbon dioxide released to the surroundings, in particular as carbon dioxide gas. If a substantially laminar flow is maintained, this outgassing is minimized. The skilled person will understand that this outgassing depends, inter alia, on temperature, pressure and flow rate.

[0070] However, in general, a certain volume of gas, in particular carbon dioxide gas, is released into the mixing chamber. This gas can escape, for example, through the beverage outlet 5 into the surroundings and disrupt the beverage jet. Thus, for example, intermittent jets, splashes or bubbles can occur. This is undesirable. The cartridge receptacle 1 according to the invention therefore has a gas outlet 6, which is in particular configured separately from the beverage outlet 5. "Separate" means in particular that there can be no flow of liquid and / or gas from the mixing chamber 3 from the beverage outlet 5 to the downstream gas outlet 6 or vice versa, and therefore there is no hole or fluid connection between the two outlets, which are preferably configured like a channel. As a result, it is ensured that no liquid, i.e. the introduced liquid, the beverage substance or the finished beverage, can escape through the gas outlet 6, but that the beverage is mainly released through the beverage outlet 5 and secondarily through a smaller residual outlet, the upper inlet surface of the gas outlet 6 being arranged higher than the upper inlet surface of the beverage outlet 5, as shown here.

[0071] The gas outlet 6 is here provided substantially centrally in the cartridge receptacle 1, but could also be arranged, for example, in an edge region. In any case, however, it is desired that the liquid and beverage substance cover as long a path as possible between the fluid supply 4 and the beverage outlet 6 for sufficient mixing, and therefore the arrangement shown here is advantageous as it makes convenient use of the central area between the pin guide 8 and the beverage outlet 5.

[0072] However, depending on the conditions and parameters of the beverage preparation, it is possible that the sealing film 19 is not perfectly horizontally oriented but bulges in the direction of the mixing chamber due to gravity and / or the pressure prevailing in the reservoir. The skilled person will understand that, in particular, in the central arrangement of the gas outlet 6 proposed here, the inlet opening at the top of the gas outlet 6 is located in the area of ​​maximum bulging of the sealing film 19. In order that a sufficiently large opening is still available to allow the escape of the released gases, there is at least one spacer means 12 at the periphery of the top of the gas outlet 6, in this case for example at least one arc-shaped protrusion, which optionally comes into contact with the bulging sealing film, to ensure a minimum distance and therefore a minimum free opening cross-section between the inlet opening of the gas outlet and the sealing film 19. According to the exemplary embodiment shown here, the distance between the top end of the gas outlet 6 and the imaginary horizontal sealing film 19 is at least 0.40 mm, in particular at least 0.45 mm or 0.50 mm.

[0073] In Figure 2 a further schematic cross-section of the cartridge receptacle 1 is shown, which here substantially corresponds to the embodiment described in relation to Figure 1, so reference is made to the relevant embodiment.

[0074] Here, the cartridge receptacle 1 is shown rotated by 180°, i.e. the fluid supply 4 and the compressed air connection 9 are shown on the left side of the figure. Furthermore, a piercing pin 14 is also arranged in the pin guide 8, which is shown here by way of example in the projected position. As can be seen in the figure, there is a fluid connection between the compressed air connection 9 and the compressed air outlet 10 by means of a compressed air line 11. When the piercing pin 14 penetrates the sealing film 19 in the position shown, i.e. in the installed cartridge system, the beverage substance is transferred from the reservoir 17 into the mixing chamber under pressure with the compressed air introduced into the cartridge 16. A channel is also indicated in the left-hand region above the piercing pin 14, by means of which the beverage substance can advantageously flow into the mixing chamber. This channel is particularly preferably open towards the outside, i.e. configured in the form of a groove.

[0075] 2 shows that the piercing pin 14 also preferably has a tip and an inclined surface which assists in piercing the sealing film 19. In the piercing pin 14, a compressed air outlet 10 is preferably provided at said surface, in particular in the center.

[0076] At its lower end in the figure, the piercing pin 14 has an area designed as a recess, into which an actuator element 23 of the beverage preparation machine engages in order to move the piercing pin 14 from the retracted position to the extended position. This area is preferably configured to taper at least in some parts upwards, i.e. in the direction of the tip of the piercing pin 14, in order to allow easy centering of the actuator element 23, thereby avoiding tilting of the piercing pin 14 in the pin guide 8 and possible damage thereto to the cartridge system and / or the beverage preparation machine.

[0077] In this case, the lower end region of the cartridge receptacle 1 is inclined, but this is primarily an aesthetic decision; for example, a substantially horizontally arranged termination region oriented parallel to the opening plane defined by the connection region, in particular by the upper peripheral edge, would also be possible.

[0078] Here, the gas outlet 6 and the beverage outlet 5 have a substantially circular cross section, with a small area removed from the beverage outlet 5, which area is taken up by the residual outlet 7. However, a person skilled in the art will understand that other cross sections, e.g. elliptical or polygonal, are also possible in principle.

[0079] A perspective view of a cartridge receptacle 1 according to the embodiment shown in Figure 2 is shown in Figure 3. Thus, the above embodiments also apply to the embodiment shown in Figure 3.

[0080] In detail, the shaping of the cartridge receptacle 1 can be considered here merely as an example. At the upper end of this cartridge receptacle (corresponding to the lower end according to figures 1 and 2) there is a wall-like rectangular edge area, a beverage outlet 5, a gas outlet 6 and a pin guide 8 arranged in the gas outlet 6.

[0081] Apart from this area, the cartridge receptacle 1 has a substantially dome-shaped shape, ie is configured essentially rounded at the end opposite the opening.

[0082] In FIG. 3 it can be discerned that in particular the gas outlet 6 has a smaller opening cross section compared to the beverage outlet 5, in particular also compared to the pin guide.

[0083] The jet forming element 15, here configured in a ribbed and cross-shaped manner, is also shown in the beverage outlet 5 in Figure 3. The length of the beverage outlet 5, the cross-section of the beverage outlet 5 and the jet forming element 15 together serve to shape and guide the outgoing beverage jet.

[0084] Since the distance between the gas outlet 6 and the sealing film 19 is smaller than the distance between the gas outlet 6 and the beverage outlet 5, only gas can exit from the gas outlet 6. The gas can exit from the gas outlet 6 in any manner, but no jet-formed element is required for the gas outlet 6. A certain minimum length of the gas outlet 6 is not critical, so that the gas outlet shown here is simple and in particular lower than the pin guide 8 and / or the beverage outlet 5 (according to the orientation shown here).

[0085] In Fig. 4 only a plan view of the cartridge receptacle 1 from the side of the connection area 2 is shown. This embodiment substantially corresponds to the embodiment already described above, so that the relevant embodiments may also be applied here. Here, in detail it can be distinguished that the cartridge receptacle 1 has a substantially circular cross section with a flat part in the area of ​​the fluid supply 4 and a compressed air connection 9 to allow an easier coupling to the beverage preparation machine. In particular, the area of ​​the cartridge holder 24 that receives the cartridge receptacle 1 is preferably configured to receive the cartridge receptacle 1 by a form-fit and / or a pressure-fit. Due to the flat area a preferred orientation is also advantageously ensured, so that the coupling to the beverage preparation machine is reliable.

[0086] Here it is clearly shown that the flow shaping element 13 is bow shaped, in which case the flow shaping element is integrally formed with the pin guide 8, the flow shaping element 13, the pin guide 8, the connection area 2, the gas outlet 6, the beverage outlet 5 and / or the residue outlet 7 being preferably integrally formed.

[0087] Preferably, the cartridge 16 and / or the cartridge receptacle are produced, in particular by injection or blow molding methods, from a plastic material.

[0088] Particularly preferably, the puncture pin 14 is produced separately from the same material and / or by the same method and then inserted into the cartridge receptacle 1. Alternatively, the puncture pin 14 is produced at the same time as the cartridge receptacle 1.

[0089] The configuration of the residue outlet 7 can also be discerned in Fig. 4. Here, the residue outlet 7 has a substantially elliptical cross section, where an arcuate area is removed from the substantially circular cross section of the beverage outlet 5, where the residue outlet 7 is provided. In other words, apart from the partition, the beverage outlet 5 and the residue outlet 7 together form a substantially circular cross section. All that matters is that the residue outlet 7 is located in the lowest region of the mixing chamber 3. As shown here, the residue outlet can be transitioned downstream of the beverage outlet 5.

[0090] The gas outlet 6 and the pin guide 8 are also, by way of example, connected by a chamfered section in order to improve the flow conditions in the mixing chamber 3 .

[0091] Finally, at several points, ribs are identified which project inwardly along the periphery of the connection area 2, i.e. in the direction of the mixing chamber 3. These ribs act as spacers for the cartridge 16, so that proper mounting of the cartridge system, optionally also at the user's side, is ensured.

[0092] Finally, from FIG. 4 it can be discerned that in particular the residual outlet 7, the beverage outlet 5, the gas outlet 6, the pin guide 8, the fluid supply 4 and the compressed air connection 9 are arranged substantially from left to right on an imaginary axis, the mixing chambers 3 being primarily provided on either side of this axis.

[0093] Figures 5 and 6 show a schematic cross-section of a cartridge system inserted into a cartridge holder 24 of a beverage preparation machine of a beverage preparation system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The difference between Figures 5 and 6 is that Figure 5 shows the point when the tip of the piercing pin 14 penetrates the sealing film 19, while Figure 6 shows the later position. Both figures show the position of the piercing pin 14 between the retracted position and the fully extended position.

[0094] The embodiment of the cartridge receptacle 1 shown in Figures 5 and 6 also substantially corresponds to the embodiment already described above, so that the relevant embodiments are applicable here.

[0095] In this case, for the sake of clarity, only the cartridge 16 and the beverage preparation machine are indicated. The cartridge 16, which can be seen at the upper edge of the figure, comprises at least one flange 18, by means of which it is connected by means of a positive and / or pressure fit to the cartridge receptacle 1 through a connection area 2. To ensure a reliable connection, in particular a rotationally fixed connection, the cartridge 16 may also have two peripheral flanges, for example spaced apart vertically. A sealing film 19 is sealed against the flanges and thus represents the outermost element of the cartridge 16.

[0096] 5 shows the tip of the piercing pin 14 having penetrated the sealing film 19. Since the compressed air connection 9 is not yet fluidly connected to the compressed air outlet 10, it is preferably substantially impossible for beverage substance to pass from the reservoir 17 to the mixing chamber 3.

[0097] In order to clarify the elements of the cartridge receptacle 1 and their respective functions, in this case the actuator element 23 of the beverage preparation machine is shown spaced apart from the puncture pin 14, but a person skilled in the art will understand that the puncture pin 14 is moved, preferably from a retracted position to an extended position, here vertically upwards, by permanent contact between the actuator element receptacle of the puncture pin 14 and the actuator element 23, in particular by permanent application of a force.

[0098] In FIG. 5 it can also be discerned that the coupling element 20 of the beverage preparation machine is already in contact with the fluid supply 4 and the compressed air connection 9, in particular that the guide surfaces of the coupling element 20 cooperate with the conical surfaces of the fluid supply 4 and the compressed air connection 9 in order to ensure a fluid-tight and secure coupling. The coupling element 20 has both an internal liquid line 22 and an internal compressed air line 21, which are in each case indirectly connected to a liquid reservoir of the beverage preparation machine, to an external liquid source, to a compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine or to an external compressed air source. "Indirectly" in this case means in particular that further components are present between the liquid reservoir and the liquid line 22, such as a liquid conditioning system provided for example for carbonating and / or cooling the liquid, in particular the water, and for introducing liquid under pressure into the liquid line 22. The carbonated and cooled water flows through the fluid supply 4 into the mixing chamber 3, where the flow shaping element 13 ensures that a laminar flow is substantially preserved.

[0099] In FIG. 6, the piercing pin 14 penetrates fully forward through the sealing film 19, the compressed air outlet 10 is arranged inside the reservoir 17, and a channel, in particular a groove-shaped channel, provided on the outer surface of the piercing pin 14 provides a path for the beverage substance from the reservoir 17 to the mixing chamber 3. The compressed air line 11 of the piercing pin 14 already partially overlaps with the compressed air connection 9, so that a partial fluid connection exists and compressed air can pass from the machine-side compressed air line 21 to the reservoir 17, contributing to the movement of the beverage substance to the mixing chamber 3, where it is mixed with optionally carbonated and / or cooled water before being dispensed through the beverage outlet 5 into the beverage container arranged below. The skilled person will understand that depending on the beverage, the beverage preparation machine can be operated with different parameters and / or the cartridge receptacle 1 is correspondingly configured. Thus, for example, the temperature and / or the degree of carbonation of the water can be controlled. The dilution rate can also be controlled, in particular by the user.

[0100] For this purpose, firstly the volumetric flow rate of the liquid, e.g. water, can be controlled. The volumetric flow rate of the beverage substance can also be controlled. This can be done firstly by the volumetric flow rate of the compressed air, but secondly also by, e.g. the number or size of the channels of the piercing pin 14 and / or the diameter of the piercing pin 14 passing through the sealing film 19.

[0101] According to the invention, the gas released during preparation, in particular carbon dioxide gas in the case of soda water, is released from the cartridge receptacle 1 through the gas outlet 6 into the surroundings. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1 Cartridge Receptacle 2 Connection Area 3 Mixing chamber 4 Fluid supply section 5 Beverage outlet 6 Gas outlet 7 Remaining outlet 8 pin guide 9 Compressed Air Connection 10 Compressed air outlet 11 Compressed Air Line 12 Spacing Means 13 Flow shaping elements 14 Puncture pin 15 Jet Molding Elements 16 Cartridge 17 Storage tank 18 Flange 19 Sealing film 20 Joint elements 21 Compressed air line (machine side) 22 Liquid line (machine side) 23 Actuator Element 24 Cartridge holder

Claims

1. A cartridge receptacle (1) for preparing a beverage by means of a cartridge (16) comprising a reservoir (17) filled with a beverage substance and sealed by a sealing element (19), comprising: a connection area (2) for connection to said cartridge (16) and capable of being inserted into the beverage preparation machine together with said cartridge (16); a mixing chamber (3) in fluid communication with said reservoir (17); a fluid supply (4) opening into the mixing chamber (3) for introducing liquid into the mixing chamber (3); a cartridge release device for transferring said beverage substance at least partially from said reservoir (17) to said mixing chamber (3); and a beverage outlet (5) for discharging the beverage from the mixing chamber (3) into a beverage container, A cartridge receptacle having a gas outlet (6) for releasing gas released in said mixing chamber (3), characterized in that an upper inlet surface of said gas outlet (6) is arranged higher than an upper inlet surface of said beverage outlet (5).

2. 2. A cartridge receptacle as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the gas outlet (6) and / or the beverage outlet (5) are configured in the form of a channel and / or the fluid supply (4) is a fluid supply opening configured for fluid connection with a fluid line of the beverage preparation machine.

3. 3. A cartridge receptacle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the gas outlet (6) is arranged parallel to the beverage outlet (5).

4. 4. A cartridge receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the gas outlet (6) is centrally located in the cartridge receptacle (1).

5. 5. A cartridge receptacle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the opening of the beverage outlet (5) is larger than the opening of the gas outlet (6), and the beverage outlet (5) has a larger cross section than the gas outlet (6).

6. 6. A cartridge receptacle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the cartridge release device comprises a compressed air connection (9) and a compressed air line (11) extending from the compressed air connection (9) to a compressed air outlet (10), the compressed air outlet (10) protruding in the direction of the reservoir (17) of the cartridge, the compressed air connection (9) being configured to introduce compressed air into the reservoir (17), and the cartridge release device being configured so that the beverage substance can be transferred from the reservoir (17) to the mixing chamber (3) by the compressed air.

7. 7. A cartridge receptacle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the cartridge release device comprises a pin guide (8) and a puncture pin (14) displaceably mounted within the pin guide (8), the puncture pin (14) being displaceable between a retracted position in which the puncture pin (14) is away from the sealing element and an extended position in which the puncture pin (14) punctures the sealing element and protrudes into the reservoir (17).

8. 8. A cartridge receptacle according to claim 7, characterised in that the gas outlet (6), the beverage outlet (5) and / or the pin guide (8) have a circular cross section.

9. 9. A cartridge receptacle as claimed in claim 7 or 8, characterised in that the gas outlet (6) is arranged between the pin guide (8) and / or the fluid supply (4) and the beverage outlet (5).

10. A cartridge receptacle as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the cartridge receptacle (1) is provided with a residual discharge outlet (7), the residual discharge outlet (7) being located at the lowest point of the cartridge receptacle (1) in an orientation during beverage preparation.

11. A cartridge receptacle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the beverage outlet (5) comprises a jet-molded element (15).

12. 12. A cartridge receptacle according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the gas outlet (6) has at least one spacing means (12) for maintaining a minimum spacing from the sealing element.

13. 13. A cartridge receptacle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that in the area facing the fluid supply (4) it has flow shaping elements (13) for ensuring a laminar flow of liquid led through the fluid supply (4) into the mixing chamber (3).

14. 1. A cartridge system insertable into a beverage preparation machine for producing a beverage, comprising: a cartridge (16) comprising a reservoir (17) to be filled with a beverage substance; A cartridge system comprising: a cartridge receptacle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, connected to the cartridge (16), A cartridge system, characterized in that the cartridge receptacle (1) and the cartridge (16) are connected at a connection region (2), the cartridge (16) has a cartridge opening, the cartridge opening having the sealing element (19) in an edge region, the sealing element sealing the reservoir (17) to the cartridge receptacle (1) in a fluid-tight manner.

15. 15. A cartridge system as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that the opening of the gas outlet (6) facing the sealing element is spaced closer from the sealing element than the opening of the beverage outlet (5) facing the sealing element.

16. A cartridge system according to claim 15, characterized in that the distance between the opening of the gas outlet (6) facing the sealing element and the sealing element is between 0.1 mm and 1.0 mm.

17. A cartridge system as claimed in claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the spacing between the opening of the gas outlet (6) facing the sealing element and the sealing element is 5% to 50% of the spacing between the opening of the beverage outlet (5) facing the sealing element and the sealing element.

18. A beverage preparation system comprising a beverage preparation machine and a cartridge system as described in any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the beverage preparation machine comprises a cartridge holder (24) configured to protrude forward and into which the cartridge system can be inserted, a liquid reservoir, a liquid regulating system for regulating liquid from the liquid reservoir, an actuator element (23) for actuating the cartridge release device, a fluid supply system connectable to the cartridge system and provided for introducing the regulated liquid into the mixing chamber (3) through the fluid supply, and a control device for controlling the liquid regulating system, the fluid supply system and / or the actuator element.

19. 20. The beverage preparation system according to claim 18, characterized in that the beverage preparation machine has locking means for reversibly fixing the cartridge system in the cartridge holder (24), said locking means being operable by a user.

20. 20. A method for preparing a beverage using a beverage preparation system according to claim 18 or 19, comprising the steps of: - inserting a cartridge system consisting of a cartridge (16) and a cartridge receptacle (1) into said cartridge holder (24); - establishing a fluid connection between said fluid supply system and said cartridge receptacle (1); - puncturing said closure element by actuating said actuator element (23) for actuating said cartridge release device; - transferring a beverage substance from said reservoir (17) of said cartridge (16) to said mixing chamber (3) of said cartridge receptacle (1); - introducing a liquid into the mixing chamber (3) of the cartridge receptacle (1) through the fluid supply (4); - discharging the beverage produced by mixing said beverage substance with said liquid in said mixing chamber (3) through said beverage outlet (5); - discharging the gas released during said mixing through said gas outlet (6); The method comprising:

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