Beverage Preparation Machine

Abstract

The beverage preparation machine includes a fluid distribution system for a fluid substance, a container holder for receiving an ingredient storage container, and a fluid treatment device that is part of the system. The system further includes a fluid source, a fluid pump, a fluid heating element, and a fluid distribution conduit. The device includes a fluid treatment body with inlet means for introducing the fluid substance into the container to prepare a beverage product by mixing the fluid substance with ingredients contained in the container. The fluid treatment body further includes outlet means for dispensing the beverage product from the container. Movement means are provided for separately moving the device and the container relative to each other between a fluid introduction position and a beverage dispensing position. In the fluid introduction position, the fluid treatment body protrudes inside the interior volume of the container to introduce the fluid substance into the container. In the beverage dispensing position, the fluid treatment body is at least partially withdrawn from the interior volume of the container to allow dispensing of the beverage product from the container through the outlet means.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to beverage preparation machines, in particular machines for preparing beverage products by mixing a fluid substance with ingredients contained in a container, for example a sachet. [Background technology]

[0002] All known systems for the home preparation of beverages require a machine that receives an ingredient storage container for storing ingredients for preparing the beverage product. Typically, the ingredient container is introduced into the beverage preparation machine, which passes a fluid (typically hot water) through a dose of the ingredients. The beverage product prepared by mixing the soluble ingredients with the fluid substance is then dispensed from the container into a consumer's container (typically a cup).

[0003] Typically, the fluid passed from the beverage preparation machine to the container is introduced either by a shower plate in contact with the fluid permeable side of the container. Alternatively, the beverage preparation machine is equipped with a fluid treatment device that penetrates the inlet wall of the container and injects the fluid therein (typically under a certain pressure). In such beverage preparation machines known in the art, the dispensing of the beverage product from the container is accomplished by: a) increasing fluid pressure within the closed cavity of the container until the dispensing wall of the container self-opens and delivers the beverage product; or b) by piercing the outlet wall of the container with a outlet piercing means of the beverage preparation machine (or other similar piercing means) which allows the beverage product to be drawn or delivered from adjacent the container.

[0004] If the dispense side of the container is self-opening, this can result in variations in pressure or opening pattern from one container to another, as well as some undesirable changes in the quality of the dispensed beverage product.

[0005] Where the beverage preparation machine is equipped with a dispensing puncturing means for puncturing the dispensing wall of the container, the technique of adding this dispensing puncturing means in addition to the fluid handling device used to inject the mixed fluid into the container adds complexity and cost to the beverage preparation machine.

[0006] There is therefore a need for a beverage preparation machine that eliminates the above-mentioned shortcomings of existing beverage systems and, in particular, is simpler and provides more reproducible quality from one beverage product to another over time. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The invention as claimed in claim 1 is a beverage preparation machine comprising a fluid flow system for a fluid substance, at least one container holder adapted to receive a corresponding ingredient storage container, and at least one fluid treatment device which is part of the fluid flow system. The fluid flow system further comprises at least one fluid source, at least one fluid pump, at least one fluid flow conduit and preferably at least one fluid heating element. The fluid treatment device comprises a fluid treatment body comprising at least one inlet means for introducing the fluid substance into the container in order to prepare a beverage product by mixing the fluid substance with ingredients contained in the container. The fluid treatment body further comprises at least one outlet means for dispensing the beverage product from the container.

[0008] At least one moving means is provided for separately moving the fluid treatment device and the container relative to each other between a fluid introduction position and a beverage dispensing position. In the fluid introduction position, the fluid treatment body protrudes inside the interior volume of the container to introduce a fluidic substance into the container. In the beverage dispensing position, the fluid treatment body is at least partially withdrawn from the interior volume of the container to enable complete dispensing of the beverage product from the container through the outlet means. Optionally, in the beverage dispensing position, the fluidic substance may be simultaneously introduced into the container by the fluid treatment body as the beverage product is dispensed from the container.

[0009] It should be noted that in the fluid introduction position, the fluid and / or beverage may leak downwards onto the outlet means of the fluid treatment body.

[0010] Advantageously, the fluid treatment body is a needle-like fluid treatment body, with at least one end adapted to pierce, puncture and / or tear a particular part or wall of the container prior to the introduction of the fluid substance into the container. Also advantageously, the fluid treatment body further comprises at least one sealing means, the sealing means being in the fluid introduction position, engaging the container to at least partially or completely block the dispensing of the fluid substance and / or beverage product from the container; In the beverage dispense position it does not engage the container, allowing complete dispense of the beverage product from the container.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fluid treatment body comprises: an inlet portion provided with inlet means for introducing a fluid material into the vessel; an outlet portion provided with outlet means for dispensing the beverage product from the container; a first end provided at an inlet portion of the fluid treatment body and configured to open a portion or wall of the vessel; a second end provided at an outlet portion of the fluid treatment body; and at least one first inlet conduit disposed within the fluid treatment body and in fluid communication with the first end and with a second inlet conduit of the fluid treatment device.

[0012] In this preferred embodiment of the invention the inlet means and outlet means are separate from each other: the inlet means comprises a first inlet conduit and a first end of the fluid treatment body and the outlet means comprises a second end of the fluid treatment body.

[0013] In this preferred embodiment of the invention, the outlet means comprises at least one outlet conduit, separate from the inlet conduit, which outlet conduit is provided on the outer surface of the fluid treatment body and in fluid communication with the second end of the fluid treatment body.

[0014] Advantageously, the fluid treatment device further comprises at least one air or gas inlet bore in fluid communication with the inlet means. The transfer means therefore transfers the fluid treatment device and the vessel in the following manner: a first intermediate position, in which the air or gas inlet bore is located outside the interior volume of the container and the sealing means is not engaged with the container; and a first intermediate position, in which the air or gas inlet bore is located inside the interior volume of the container and the sealing means is still not engaged with the container, or a second intermediate position, in which the air or gas inlet bore is located inside the interior volume of the container and the sealing means is still not engaged with the container. According to one preferred embodiment, the beverage preparation machine comprises a first locking means for selectively locking / unlocking the container relative to the container holder when the container is received in the container holder, while the container holder is fixed relative to the fluid treatment device. The moving means comprises a first actuating means for moving the fluid treatment device relative to the container at least between a fluid introduction position and a beverage dispensing position and vice versa. Preferably, the first locking means comprises a first gear and / or lever mechanism, which is movable relative to a fixed part of the beverage preparation machine and which comprises at least one tooth selectively engageable with at least one corresponding hole provided in the container, the container being removable from the container holder and thus from the beverage preparation machine when each tooth is in a disengaged position relative to the corresponding hole. Always preferably, the first actuation means comprises a second gear and / or lever mechanism connected to the fluid treatment device, the second gear and / or lever mechanism being configured to move the fluid treatment device along a vertical axis relative to the vessel.

[0015] According to another preferred embodiment, the moving means comprises a second actuating means for moving the container relative to the fluid treatment device between the fluid introduction position and the beverage dispensing position and vice versa, while the fluid treatment device is fixed relative to the container holder. Preferably, the second actuating means comprises a container support device and a third gear and / or lever mechanism. The container support device is actuated by the third gear and / or lever mechanism for moving the container along a vertical axis relative to the container holder and relative to the fluid treatment device. Always preferably, the container support device is provided with a second locking means comprising at least one pin selectively engageable with at least one corresponding hole provided in the container, such that the container is removable from the container holder and thus from the beverage preparation machine when each pin is in a disengaged position relative to the corresponding hole.

[0016] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the container is manufactured from a flexible material and is provided with an additional layer of substantially rigid material in the portion of the container that is engaged by the fluid treatment device. More preferably, the substantially rigid layer is provided with a hole having a cross-sectional shape that matches the cross-sectional shape of the fluid treatment body in the portion of the container that is engaged by the fluid treatment device. This hole is closed by a predetermined portion of the flexible material of the container in the non-operational state of the fluid treatment device. This hole is therefore opened by the fluid treatment body in the fluid introduction position.

[0017] Preferably, at the beverage dispensing position, a fluid substance is simultaneously introduced into the container by the fluid handling body as the beverage product is dispensed from the container, thereby mixing the fluid and ingredients and, if desired, producing a foamy beverage product. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be described in or will be apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments, which proceeds with reference to the drawings. [Figure 1]1 is a schematic diagram of a beverage preparation machine according to the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a fluid treatment device for a beverage preparation machine according to the present invention; [Diagram 3] 3 is another perspective view of the fluid treatment device of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid treatment device of FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] 3 is yet another perspective view of the fluid treatment device of FIG. 2, showing further components of the fluid treatment device; [Figure 6A] A first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view respectively show the fluid treatment device of FIG. 2 in a non-operational state, ie before fluid is introduced into the raw material storage vessel. [Figure 6B] A first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view respectively show the fluid treatment device of FIG. 2 in a non-operational state, ie before fluid is introduced into the raw material storage vessel. [Figure 6C] A first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view respectively show the fluid treatment device of FIG. 2 in a non-operational state, ie before fluid is introduced into the raw material storage vessel. [Figure 7A] In the first oblique view, the cross-sectional view and the second oblique view, respectively, the fluid treatment device of FIG. 2 is shown in a first operating position, i.e. a fluid introduction position, in which the fluid treatment device protrudes in a sealing manner into the inside of the raw material storage container so as to be able to introduce fluid into the raw material storage container and to prevent this fluid from leaking outside the container. [Figure 7B] In the first oblique view, the cross-sectional view and the second oblique view, respectively, the fluid treatment device of FIG. 2 is shown in a first operating position, i.e. a fluid introduction position, in which the fluid treatment device protrudes in a sealing manner into the inside of the raw material storage container so as to be able to introduce fluid into the raw material storage container and to prevent this fluid from leaking outside the container. [Figure 7C]In the first oblique view, the cross-sectional view and the second oblique view, respectively, the fluid treatment device of FIG. 2 is shown in a first operating position, i.e. a fluid introduction position, in which the fluid treatment device protrudes in a sealing manner into the inside of the raw material storage container so as to be able to introduce fluid into the raw material storage container and to prevent this fluid from leaking outside the container. [Figure 8A] The fluid processing device of Figure 2 is shown in a second operating position in a first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view, respectively, where the fluid processing device protrudes inwardly of the ingredient storage container so that it can introduce both fluid and a predetermined amount of air or gas into the ingredient storage container while allowing the resulting beverage product to exit towards a user's cup. [Figure 8B] The fluid processing device of Figure 2 is shown in a second operating position in a first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view, respectively, where the fluid processing device protrudes inwardly of the ingredient storage container so that it can introduce both fluid and a predetermined amount of air or gas into the ingredient storage container while allowing the resulting beverage product to exit towards a user's cup. [Figure 8C] The fluid processing device of Figure 2 is shown in a second operating position in a first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view, respectively, where the fluid processing device protrudes inwardly of the ingredient storage container so that it can introduce both fluid and a predetermined amount of air or gas into the ingredient storage container while allowing the resulting beverage product to exit towards a user's cup. [Figure 9A] The first oblique view, cross-sectional view and second oblique view, respectively, show the fluid processing device of Figure 2 in a third operating position, where the fluid processing device protrudes inwardly of the ingredient storage container so that only fluid can be introduced into the ingredient storage container while the resulting beverage product can exit towards a user's cup. [Figure 9B]The first oblique view, cross-sectional view and second oblique view, respectively, show the fluid processing device of Figure 2 in a third operating position, where the fluid processing device protrudes inwardly of the ingredient storage container so that only fluid can be introduced into the ingredient storage container while the resulting beverage product can exit towards a user's cup. [Figure 9C] The first oblique view, cross-sectional view and second oblique view, respectively, show the fluid processing device of Figure 2 in a third operating position, where the fluid processing device protrudes inwardly of the ingredient storage container so that only fluid can be introduced into the ingredient storage container while the resulting beverage product can exit towards a user's cup. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another possible embodiment of a fluid treatment device for a beverage preparation machine according to the present invention; [Figure 11] 11 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid treatment device of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] 11 is another cross-sectional view of the fluid treatment device of FIG. [Figure 13] 2 is a perspective view of a further possible embodiment of a fluid treatment device for a beverage preparation machine according to the present invention; FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid treatment device of FIG. [Figure 15A] The side views show two different operating positions of a locking means of the beverage preparation machine, which can selectively lock / unlock the ingredient storage container relative to the container holder. [Figure 15B] The side views show two different operating positions of a locking means of the beverage preparation machine, which can selectively lock / unlock the ingredient storage container relative to the container holder. [Figure 15C] The side views show two different operating positions of the locking means of Figures 15A-15B. [Figure 15D] The side views show two different operating positions of the locking means of Figures 15A-15B. [Figure 16A]The side view shows a preferred embodiment of the actuation means for moving the fluid treatment device relative to the container between the fluid introduction position and the beverage dispensing position and vice versa. [Figure 16B] The side view shows a preferred embodiment of the actuation means for moving the fluid treatment device relative to the container between the fluid introduction position and the beverage dispensing position and vice versa. [Figure 17A] The side view shows a preferred embodiment of the actuation means for moving the container relative to the container holder and relative to the fluid treatment device between the fluid introduction position and the beverage dispensing position and vice versa. [Figure 17B] The side view shows a preferred embodiment of the actuation means for moving the container relative to the container holder and relative to the fluid treatment device between the fluid introduction position and the beverage dispensing position and vice versa. [Figure 18] FIG. 17C is a detailed view of some components of the actuation means of FIGS. 17A-17B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] FIG. 1 shows a schematic layout of a beverage preparation machine according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0020] The beverage preparation machine is generally indicated by the reference number 1 and comprises a fluid flow system for a fluid substance. The fluid substance is typically water in a cold state (between 4°C and 20°C), in a room temperature state (between 20°C and 35°C) or in a hot state (between 35°C and 95°C). Preferably, the fluid substance is water at a temperature having a temperature between 40°C and 90°C.

[0021] For example, the fluid flow system preferably comprises at least one fluid source 2, at least one fluid pump 3, and at least one fluid flow conduit 6. The fluid flow system may also comprise at least one fluid heating element 4. Such fluid flow systems are known in the art. The fluid source 2 may for example be a removable water reservoir connected to the fluid flow system. Alternative fluid sources may include for example a tap water connection, a non-water edible fluid canister, or a water bottle connection. The fluid pump 3 may for example be a standard piston pump delivering a maximum output pressure of 20 bar. Of course, alternative fluid pumps may also be provided.

[0022] The beverage preparation machine 1 comprises at least one container holder 7, which is adapted to receive a corresponding container C. The container holder 7 is a mechanical element adapted to ensure static alignment of the container C within the beverage preparation machine 1, at least during the actual operation of the beverage preparation machine to prepare a beverage, and a corresponding fluid flow system capable of connecting the container C in a functional manner for injecting a fluid substance into or through the container. These container holders are known in the art.

[0023] The beverage preparation machine 1 further comprises at least one fluid treatment device 10, which is part of a fluid flow system and comprises a fluid treatment body 12 (Figure 2). The fluid treatment body 12 comprises at least one inlet means 18 for introducing a fluid substance into a container C for preparing a beverage product. Preferably, the fluid treatment body 12 is a needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. By the term "needle-shaped" it is intended that the fluid treatment body 12 comprises at least one end 26, 28 configured to pierce, puncture and / or tear a particular part or wall of the container C prior to the introduction of the fluid substance into the container C. The fluid treatment body 12 is shaped such that it can penetrate at least partially into the container C.

[0024] The preparation of the beverage product is obtained by mixing the fluid substances with the raw materials contained in the container C. Preferably, the raw materials are selected from the list of roast and ground coffee, solid or non-solid soluble coffee powder, or leaf tea. Dairy raw materials (e.g. milk or creamer) can also be provided, as can chocolate, fruit juice, soup, vegetable juice, bouillon, smoothie, puree, coulis, cream, or combinations thereof, in powder soluble form, in liquid concentrated form with different viscosities, or in gel form. By the expression "mixing of fluid substances with raw materials", it is intended that all the raw materials contained in the container C are in a form compatible with the general mixing actions (dissolving, extracting or infusing) with a fluid substance (typically water) to obtain the beverage product.

[0025] According to the invention, the needle-like fluid treatment body 12 of the fluid treatment device 10 comprises at least one outlet means 20 for dispensing the beverage product from the container C. The beverage preparation machine 1 is provided with at least one moving means 54, 64 for moving the fluid treatment device 10 and the container C separately relative to each other, the fluid treatment device and the container being: a fluid introduction position, in which the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 projects inside the internal volume of the vessel C for introducing a fluid substance into the vessel; and a beverage dispensing position, in which the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is at least partially withdrawn from the interior volume of the container C to enable dispensing of the beverage product from the container C through the outlet means 20. Optionally, in the beverage dispensing position a fluid substance may be simultaneously introduced into the container C by the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 as the beverage product is dispensed from the container C. Optionally, during the fluid introduction position the fluid substance and / or the beverage product may leak partially downwards onto the outlet means 20 of the fluid treatment body 12.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 further comprises at least one sealing means 22, which is engaged with the container C to prevent leakage of the fluid substance and / or beverage product from the container C at least when the fluid substance is introduced into the container C. In other words, if the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is provided with sealing means 22, in the fluid introduction position these sealing means 22 engage with the container C and block the discharge of the fluid substance and / or beverage product from the container C (Figs. 7A-7C). In the beverage discharge position these sealing means 22 do not engage with the container C and allow the complete discharge of the beverage product from the container C (Figs. 8A-9C). However, the sealing means 22 are not an essential feature of the present invention.

[0027] According to the embodiment of the fluid treatment device 10 shown in Figures 2-9, the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 comprises an inlet portion 14 and an outlet portion 16. Inlet means 18 for introducing a fluid substance into the container C are provided at the inlet portion 14 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12, while outlet means 20 for dispensing a beverage product from the container C are provided at the outlet portion 16 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. The inlet means 18 and the outlet means 20 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 are preferably separate from each other, allowing a single fluid treatment device 10 to both introduce a mixed fluid substance (typically hot water) into the container C and to dispense the beverage product produced in the container C.

[0028] Preferably, according to the embodiment of the fluid treatment device 10 shown in Figures 2-9, the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 comprises a first end 26 and a second end 28, the first end being provided at an inlet portion 14 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 and configured to open (e.g., by tearing, piercing and / or perforating) a particular portion of the container C, and the second end being provided at an outlet portion 16 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. The needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 further comprises at least one inlet conduit 30 disposed therein. The inlet conduit 30 is in fluid communication with the first end 26 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 and with a second inlet conduit 36 ​​of a second fluid treatment body 34, which will be described in detail below. The inlet conduit 30 and the first end 26 are thus included in the inlet means 18 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. More precisely, the inlet conduit 30 is a closed conduit in the form of a tube embedded in the needle-like fluid treatment body 12, allowing the fluid substance to be inserted into the container C without being exposed to air.

[0029] As shown in the embodiment of the fluid treatment device 10 in Figures 2-9, the sealing means 22 is preferably provided between the first end 26 and the second end 28 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. Preferably, the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is a vertically oriented elongated body, more preferably a pointed shaped body, whose first end 26, its second end 28 and the sealing means 22 are arranged coaxially about the vertical axis A. More preferably, as shown in the figures, the first end 26 is oriented upwards relative to the position of the fluid treatment device 10 in the beverage preparation machine 1. Even more preferably, the first end 26 and / or the second end 28 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 are each a pointed shaped portion. The pointed shaped first end 26 is thus configured to open, for example by piercing, puncturing or tearing a certain part of the container C and to inject a fluid substance therein. This will be explained in more detail below. The pointed second end 28 is directed downwards relative to the position of the fluid treatment device 10 within the beverage preparation machine 1, thereby directing the flow of beverage product accurately into the user's cup.

[0030] The outlet means 20 of the fluid treatment device 10 comprises a second end 28 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 and at least one outlet conduit 32 that is separate from the inlet conduit 30 of the inlet means 18. More specifically, as shown in the embodiment of Figures 2-9, each outlet conduit 32 is obtained in the form of a grooved channel provided on the outer surface of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. Each grooved channel is therefore in fluid communication with the second end 28 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12.

[0031] Preferably, the sealing means 22 configured to engage with the container C to prevent leakage of fluid substances and / or beverage products from the container C during operation of the fluid treatment device 10 consists of an enlarged portion 22A of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. More specifically, this enlarged portion 22A of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is comprised between the first end 26 and the second end 28 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 and has a cross-sectional area larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​any of the portions of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 comprised between the first end 26 and the enlarged portion 22A itself. This enlarged portion 22A of the fluid treatment body 12 can be at least partially covered by an elastomeric material to ensure better sealing properties. This enlarged portion 22A of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is therefore configured to adhere against the wall of the container C in the portion of the container C opened by the first end 26 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12.

[0032] Advantageously, each outlet conduit 32 in the form of a grooved channel is provided on the outer surface of the vertically oriented needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 in a portion comprised between the first end 26 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 and the enlarged portion 22A of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. A beverage guiding element 50 for guiding the beverage to the second end 28 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is thus provided between the enlarged portion 22A and the second end 28. Preferably, the beverage guiding element 50 has a tapered cross-sectional area that decreases from the enlarged portion 22A towards the second end 28 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. More preferably, the beverage guiding element 50 has a conical shape. Even more preferably, the beverage guiding element 50 is a frusto-conical shape with an additional pointed element at the outlet portion 16. Thus, the beverage product dispensed from the container C is guided by the outlet conduit 32 to the second end 28 through the beverage guiding element 50, thereby directing the flow of this beverage product precisely into the user's cup placed beneath the beverage guiding element 50.

[0033] The fact that the outlet means 20 of the fluid treatment device 10 is arranged externally with respect to the needle-like fluid treatment body 12, combined with the fact that the outlet means 20 is obtained in the form of a grooved channel, i.e. with an open cross section rather than a closed loop cross section (as is typical for conventional cylindrical channels), provides a particular advantage when processing beverage products based on a mixture of fluid substances and soluble ingredients. In fact, if the soluble ingredients contained in the container C consist mostly of solid particles, some of these solid particles (e.g. biscuit bits, etc.) will remain in their solid state even after mixing with the fluid substance (e.g. hot water) so as to be properly consumed by the user. The open cross section of the outlet means 20 therefore allows these particles to pass together with the fluid substance into the user's cup without the risk of blocking the otherwise designed pouring cylindrical channel.

[0034] Furthermore, the grooved channels may have a variable open cross-section that increases or decreases from the first end 26 of the needle-like fluid handling body 12 to the enlarged portion 22A. In other words, the grooved channels may be optionally manufactured with a specific profile (i.e., slope) from their top to bottom, with the open cross-section of the grooved channels increasing or decreasing depending on the height position of the needle-like fluid handling body 12 into the container C to adapt the flow rate of the beverage product exiting the cup and also the fluid pressure in the container C during mixing.

[0035] Optionally, the fluid treatment device 10 may be provided with at least one air or gas inlet bore 24, which is in fluid communication with the inlet means 18 and, in the embodiment of Figs. 2-9, is arranged on the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 between the first end 26 and the sealing means 22. According to the embodiment of Figs. 2-9, the air or gas inlet bore 24 is in the form of a through hole obtained on the side wall of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 and is arranged in fluid communication with the inlet conduit 30 for fluid inward addition. As will be explained in more detail below, the air or gas inlet bore 24 allows the inlet conduit 30 to come into contact with the external environment in certain operating conditions of the fluid treatment device 10 and allows the aspiration of a predetermined amount of air or gas, which is mixed with the fluid substance and introduced into the container C through the inlet conduit 30 by the Venturi effect.

[0036] In the case where the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is provided with an air or gas inlet bore 24, the moving means 54, 64 of the beverage preparation machine 1 move the fluid treatment device 10 and the container C to the following intermediate positions, namely: a first intermediate position (FIGS. 8A-8C) in which the air or gas inlet bore 24 is located outside the interior volume of the container C and the sealing means 22, if provided, is not engaged with the container C; and The air or gas inlet bores 24 are located inside the interior volume of the container C and the sealing means 22, if provided, are configured to be moved separately relative to one another to at least one of a first intermediate position (FIGS. 9A-9C) in which the sealing means 22 is not yet engaged with the container C.

[0037] More specifically, in the embodiment of Figures 2-9, the fluid treatment device 10 is configured to move between a first intermediate position and a second intermediate position to selectively obtain or not obtain the Venturi effect. In another possible embodiment, the fluid treatment device 10 is configured to always maintain the gas inlet bore 24 of the fluid treatment device 10 outside the internal volume of the vessel C to always obtain the Venturi effect. Preferably, in this possible embodiment of the fluid treatment device 10, the gas inlet bore 24 can be located between the sealing means 22 and the second end 28 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. More preferably, in this possible embodiment of the fluid treatment device 10, the sealing means 22 is not provided on the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12.

[0038] The fluid treatment device 10 preferably comprises a second fluid treatment body 34 connected to the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 described above. More preferably, the second fluid treatment body 34 is manufactured integrally with the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 at its coupling end 44. The second fluid treatment body 34 is provided therein with a second inlet conduit 36 ​​arranged in fluid communication with the inlet conduit 30 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, for example shown in Figures 6B, 7B, 8B and 9B, the second inlet conduit 36 ​​is a converging conduit having a cross-sectional area that decreases towards the inlet conduit 30. More specifically, the second inlet conduit 36 ​​is preferably provided with at least one first conduit section 38 having a first predetermined cross-sectional area and a second conduit section 40 having a second predetermined cross-sectional area, the second predetermined cross-sectional area being smaller than the first predetermined cross-sectional area of ​​the first conduit section 38. The second conduit section 40 is disposed downstream of the first conduit section 38 and is in fluid communication with the inlet conduit 30 obtained in the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 of the fluid treatment device 10.

[0040] In addition, at least one through hole 42 may be disposed between the inlet conduit 30 obtained in the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 and the second inlet conduit 36 ​​obtained in the second fluid treatment body 34. Advantageously, the through hole 42 has an average cross-sectional area smaller than both the average cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet conduit 30 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 and the average cross-sectional area of ​​the second inlet conduit 36 ​​of the second fluid treatment body 34.

[0041] Due to the dedicated configuration of the second fluid treatment body 34 with a convergent cross-sectional profile and the presence of the through-holes 42, the velocity of the fluid substance introduced by the fluid treatment device 10 into the container C can be appropriately set. In fact, the convergent cross-sectional profile of the second fluid treatment body 34 can increase the velocity of the fluid substance pumped by the beverage preparation machine 1 into the fluid treatment device 10. In addition, the through-holes 42 are provided to further increase the velocity of the fluid substance before it flows out of the inlet conduit 30 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. The presence of the through-holes 42 ensures good dissolution of the ingredients and reconstitution of the beverage product. The through-holes 42 define the flow and pressure of the fluid substance during the beverage product reconstitution. The through-holes 42 can also have an "anti-backflow" function, thereby reducing the risk of the fluid substance flowing back from the container C into the fluid line consisting of the inlet conduit 30, the through-holes 42 itself and the arrangement of the second inlet conduit 36.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second fluid treatment body 34 is arranged orthogonally to the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12, whereby the inlet conduit 30 is substantially orthogonal to the second inlet conduit 36. Thus, when the fluid treatment device 10 is properly connected to the beverage preparation machine 1 in its operative state, the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is oriented substantially along a vertical direction (indicated by axis A in FIG. 4 ), with its first end 26 at the top and its second end 28 at the bottom, while the second fluid treatment body 34 is substantially horizontal. As a result, in the operative state of the fluid treatment device 10, the inlet conduit 30 is oriented substantially along a vertical direction, whereas the second inlet conduit 36 ​​is oriented substantially along a horizontal direction.

[0043] The second fluid treatment body 34 may be provided with a connecting portion 46 for removably connecting the fluid treatment device 10 to the beverage preparation machine 1. Such removably connecting allows the fluid treatment device 10 to be removed from the beverage preparation machine 1 and washed separately with respect to the machine 1, for example in a dishwasher. The connecting portion 46 is located at an opposite end of the second fluid treatment body 34 to its mating end 44 with the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. As shown in the figure, the connecting portion 46 may be provided with at least one third inlet conduit 48 therein, the third inlet conduit having an average cross-sectional area larger than that of the second inlet conduit 36 ​​of the second fluid treatment body 34, thereby further increasing the velocity of the fluid material before it exits the inlet conduit 30 of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12.

[0044] 6A-6C, a non-operating state of the fluid treatment device 10 is shown in a first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view, respectively. In this non-operating state, the fluid treatment device 10 is shown outside the vessel C, i.e. prior to the introduction of fluidic materials into the vessel C through the inlet means 18. In other words, in this non-operating state, fluidic materials and other materials do not pass through the inlet means 18 and the outlet means 20 of the fluid treatment device 10.

[0045] 7A-7C show a first operating state, i.e. a fluid introduction position, of the fluid treatment device 10 in a first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view, respectively, in which at least a part of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 protrudes inside the container C so that a fluid substance can be introduced into the container by the inlet means 18.

[0046] In this fluid introduction position, it is preferred, but not essential, that the sealing means 22 in the embodiment shown in Figures 2-9, i.e. the enlarged portion 22A of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12, is in contact with the bottom wall of the vessel C. In this embodiment, the outlet means 20, i.e. the outlet conduit 32 in the form of a grooved channel, is provided on the side wall of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 at a position above the position of the enlarged portion 22A of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12. In this way, in the fluid introduction position of the fluid treatment device 10, the outlet conduit 32 is fully inserted into the vessel C due to the sealing engagement between the sealing means 22 and the vessel C, and no or very little leakage of any fluidic and / or other substances from the vessel C occurs.

[0047] In the embodiment shown in Figures 2-9, the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 of the fluid treatment device 10 is a pointed body with a first pointed end 26 provided at the inlet portion 14 of the fluid treatment body 12. This pointed end 26 is thus configured to pierce, puncture and / or tear a particular portion of the container C and to inject a fluid substance into the container. However, as will be explained below, other embodiments of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 are also envisaged, such as the embodiment of Figures 10-14, which will be explained in more detail below, in which the inlet portion 14 is otherwise configured to reach the first operating state of the fluid treatment device 10.

[0048] In the particular embodiment of the beverage preparation machine 1 shown in the figures, the container C is preferably manufactured from multiple layers of flexible material, more preferably essentially from paper layers. Preferably, this container C is provided internally in its lower part, i.e. in the part engaged by the fluid treatment device 10, with an additional layer L of substantially rigid material. This substantially rigid material can be, for example, a compostable plastic capable of forming a barrier against oxygen and moisture. Compostable means that the entire container C can be disposed of after use together with fruit and vegetable peels. Although other embodiments of the container C are possible, in the particular embodiment of the beverage preparation machine 1 shown in the figures, preferably such a container C has a substantially rigid part in the contact area with the needle-like fluid treatment body 12, since the relative rigidity of at least a part of the container C is advantageous for cooperating with the sealing means 22 of the needle-like fluid treatment body 12.

[0049] The preferably substantially rigid layer of the container C is provided at its bottom with an inlet hole having a cross-sectional shape (e.g. circular cross-sectional shape) that matches the cross-sectional shape of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12, i.e. the cross-sectional shape of the pointed body. In the non-operational state of the fluid treatment device 10, the inlet hole is closed (preferably in airtight mode) by the bottom part of the multi-layer flexible material of the container C. In the case of a circular cross-sectional shape, the diameter of the inlet hole is larger than the average diameter of the pointed body, but is smaller than or equal to the maximum diameter of the sealing means 22, i.e. the maximum diameter of the enlarged part 22A of the pointed body (if these sealing means 22 are provided on the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12). This configuration allows the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 to be introduced into the container C through the inlet hole (breaking or tearing the part of the multi-layer flexible material closing the inlet hole) while the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is moving towards the container C, until the sealing means 22 reach a sealing position against the periphery of the inlet hole. In this sealed position, no further movement is permitted between the needle-like fluid treatment body 12 and the container C, thus resulting in the fluid introduction position described above and shown in Figures 7A-7C.

[0050] In Figures 8A-8C, a first intermediate position 10 of the fluid treatment device is shown in a first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view, respectively. In this first intermediate position, at least a part of the needle-like fluid treatment body 12 still projects inside the container C. This is similar to what happens in the fluid introduction position described above, but the sealing means 22 is not in tight contact with the bottom wall of the container C. In other words, in this first intermediate position, compared to the fluid introduction position, a smaller part of the fluid treatment body 12 projects inside the container C (this fact can be seen by comparing Figures 7B and 8B), so that a fluid substance can be introduced into the container C by the inlet means 18 and at the same time the resulting beverage product can exit through the outlet means 20.

[0051] More specifically, in this first intermediate position, the needle-like fluid treatment body 12 projects inside the container C such that its air or gas inlet bore 24 remains outside the container C. Thus, in this first intermediate position, the injection of air or gas into the container C is possible together with the injection of the fluid substance by the Venturi effect. It should be noted that the Venturi effect obtained due to the simultaneous injection of the fluid substance and the air or gas into the container C only occurs when the injection of the fluid substance into the container C is performed by the inlet means 18. In fact, as soon as the injection of the fluid substance into the container C through the inlet means 18 stops, the Venturi suction effect through the air or gas inlet bore 24 no longer works. Thus, only in the dispensing mode, i.e. when the beverage product is completely prepared and flows out through the outlet means 20, the Venturi effect does not occur.

[0052] Essentially, the Venturi effect is the fact that when a fluid substance flows at high velocity within the inlet means 18 of the fluid treatment device 10, it draws in a volume of air or gas through the air or gas inlet bore 24. This is due to suction, a physical property known in the field of fluid dynamics. As air or gas is drawn (i.e. sucked) into the flow of fluid substance injected into the container C, this air or gas also mixes with the soluble ingredients. The mixture of soluble ingredients, fluid substance, and air or gas creates the foam boost required for foamy beverage products (frothy milk, creamy chocolate, etc.).

[0053] Obviously, the effect of sucking air or gas together with the fluid substance can only function when the air or gas inlet bore 24 is located outside the container C. Thus, the Venturi effect can be stopped when the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is inserted sufficiently into the container C so that the air or gas inlet bore 24 is located inside the container C, for example in the second intermediate position of the fluid treatment device 10 described below.

[0054] 9A-9C show a second intermediate position of the fluid treatment device 10 in a first perspective view, a cross-sectional view and a second perspective view, respectively. This second intermediate position is essentially similar to the first intermediate position described above (see especially FIG. 9B), except for the fact that the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 is inserted inside the container C such that the air or gas inlet bore 24 is also located in the container C. Meanwhile, the sealing means 22 is again not in tight contact with the bottom wall of the container C.

[0055] Thus, in this second intermediate position, a fluid substance can be introduced inside the container C by the inlet means 18 and at the same time the resulting beverage product can exit towards a cup through the outlet means 20. However, in this second intermediate position, no Venturi effect occurs and no air or gas is injected into the container C through the air or gas inlet bore 24, only the fluid substance is introduced into the container C during the injection phase.

[0056] Regardless of the Venturi effect, in both the first and second intermediate positions, the fluid substance is injected into the container C through the inlet means 18 of the needle-shaped fluid handling body 12. The fluid substance injected into the container C is mixed with the soluble raw material (e.g., coffee powder) to produce a beverage product. Even in these intermediate positions, the needle-shaped fluid handling body 12 partially exits from the container C, so that the pouring grooved channel is always at least partially located outside the container C (i.e., the pouring grooved channel is open), and thus the beverage product can be delivered from the container C to the user's cup. Thus, simultaneously with the injection of the fluid substance into the container C, the beverage product is also dispensed into the user's cup.

[0057] Figures 10-14 show further embodiments of the fluid treatment device 10. In these embodiments, the fluid treatment body 12 has a different shape than that described above with reference to Figures 2-9. More precisely, the outlet means 20 differs from an outlet conduit 32 in the form of a grooved channel, since the function of the outlet means 20 can be performed by other outlet guiding elements. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 9-13, the outlet means 20 also comprises an outlet conduit arranged at least on the inside of the fluid treatment body 12, as well as a first inlet conduit 30. In other embodiments, these outlet guiding elements can be one or more outlet conduits arranged on the outer surface of the fluid treatment body 12 and / or on the inner surface of the fluid treatment body 12 and / or on the outer surface of the fluid treatment body 12.

[0058] In the embodiment of Figures 10-14, no specific sealing means are provided on the outer surface of the fluid treatment body 12. However, a specific sealing function can be performed by a specific portion (not necessarily an "enlarged" portion) of the outer surface of the fluid treatment body 12, located below the inlet means 18. This specific portion of the outer surface of the fluid treatment body 12, if provided, can also be configured to adhere against the wall of the container C in the portion of the container C opened by the first end 26 of the fluid treatment body 12. Preferably, in the embodiment of Figures 10-14, no sealing means 22 of any kind is provided between the fluid treatment body 12 and the container C. As a result, only a slight or negligible leaked liquid substance falls into the user's cup during the preparation of the beverage.

[0059] Advantageously, in the embodiment of Figures 10-14, the outer surface of the fluid treatment body 12 is tapered. Always advantageously, the inlet conduit of the second fluid treatment body 34 has a cross-sectional area that decreases towards the inlet conduit 30, as disclosed for the embodiment of Figures 2-9. It is further noted that at least one of the first end 26 and / or the second end 28 of the fluid treatment body 12 does not have to be sharp, but may be a substantially flat or slightly curved portion. In fact, the substantially flat first end 26 of the fluid treatment body 12 can effectively open a particular part or wall of the container C, for example by pushing the particular part or wall of the container C inside the container C and / or by removing or unsealing the particular part or wall of the container C from the container C. In this case, the container C is designed such that the particular part or wall of the container C is welded or glued to the bottom of the container, such that the particular part or wall of the container C covers and closes a through-hole provided in this bottom. Alternatively, this particular portion or wall may be provided with a kind of weakened profile, which allows the first end 26 of the fluid treatment body 12 to remove or open this portion or wall and / or to be pushed inside the container C. According to this embodiment, which does not have a pointed first end 26, the fluid treatment body 12 is not necessarily needle-like and may have any suitable shape.

[0060] In the embodiment of Figures 10-14, the optional gas inlet bore 24 can be located on the fluid treatment device 10 and remain outside the vessel C, as in the second operating state of the embodiment of Figures 2-9, with a Venturi effect, or can be located inside the vessel C, as in the third operating state of the embodiment of Figures 2-9, without a Venturi effect. Preferably, in the embodiment of Figures 9 and 10, the gas inlet bore 24 is located on the second fluid treatment body 34 of the fluid treatment device 10 and is always in fluid communication with the inlet means 18 of the fluid treatment body 12 through a dedicated conduit 24A (illustrated in Figure 12). In this embodiment of Figures 9 and 10, the gas inlet bore 24 is located on the fluid treatment device 10 and remains outside the vessel C at all times, thus always providing a Venturi effect. In the embodiment of Figures 11-13, the gas inlet bore 24 is located at the second end of the fluid treatment body 12, i.e. in the lower part of the fluid treatment body 12, and is always in fluid communication with the inlet means 18 of the fluid treatment body 12 through a dedicated conduit 24A (shown in Figure 14). Also in this embodiment of Figures 11-13, the gas inlet bore 24 is at a position on the fluid treatment device 10, which gas inlet bore 24 always remains outside the vessel C, thus always providing the Venturi effect. According to further variants of the fluid treatment device 10, not shown, the optional gas inlet bore 24 can be located at different positions on the fluid treatment body 12 and / or the second fluid treatment body 34, whereby the optional gas inlet bore 24 always remains outside the vessel C, thus always providing the Venturi effect.

[0061] In view of all the embodiments described thus far, the term "opening" when referring to a particular portion or wall of container C is intended to mean piercing, puncturing, tearing, removing, unsealing, forcing into the inside of container C, or in some equivalent manner opening said particular portion or wall of container C prior to the introduction of a fluid substance into container C.

[0062] Preferably, container C is a single-use container such as a pouch or sachet, or any known container having at least a sidewall that is flexible. Container C may also be any other openable (e.g. puncturable) closed packaging such as a capsule, a pod, a pad, a bottle, a flow bag, a canister, etc. Alternatively, container C may be a multi-dose container, for example with a large storage compartment for storing multiple doses of raw materials, and a dispensing and mixing chamber that can receive the raw materials one dose at a time transferred from the storage compartment.

[0063] Figures 15A-15D disclose an embodiment of a container holder 7 for a beverage preparation machine 1. This container holder 7, of a type known in the art and therefore not described in detail, comprises a seat 8 for supporting a container C. As shown in Figures 15A-15B, the beverage preparation machine 1 may be provided with first locking means 52 for selectively locking / unlocking the container C relative to the container holder 7 when the container C is received in its seat 8 of the container holder 7. In the embodiment according to Figures 15A-15D, the container holder 7 is fixed relative to the fluid treatment device 10.

[0064] In a first preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation machine 1 shown in Figures 15A-15D and Figures 16A-16B, the fluid treatment device 10 is movable with respect to the container C, which is fixed with respect to its container holder 7 and the beverage preparation machine 1. In this particular embodiment of Figures 15A-15D, the moving means 54, 64 of the beverage preparation machine 1 comprise first actuating means 54 (Figures 16A-16B) for moving the fluid treatment device 10 with respect to the container C at least between a fluid introduction position and a beverage dispensing position and vice versa. In this particular embodiment of Figures 15A-15D, the first locking means 52 of the container C with respect to the container holder 7 comprise a first gear and / or lever mechanism 56. In this particular embodiment of Figures 15A-15D, the first gear and / or lever mechanism 56 consists of at least a lever 78 rotatable about a respective hinge 80 obtained on a fixed part of the beverage preparation machine 1. Thus, the first gear and / or lever mechanism 56 is movable relative to a fixed part of the beverage preparation machine 1 and at least one tooth 58 on the lever 78 is selectively engageable with at least one corresponding hole 60 (FIGS. 15C-15D) on the container C. The container C is removable from the container holder 7 and thus from the beverage preparation machine 1 only when the tooth 58 is in a disengaged position with respect to the corresponding hole 60. It should be noted that this embodiment of the first gear and / or lever mechanism 56 is described and illustrated for illustrative purposes only and further embodiments of this first gear and / or lever mechanism may be provided.

[0065] In the embodiment of Figures 16A-16B showing the fluid treatment device 10 movable relative to the vessel C, the first actuation means 54 comprises a second gear and / or lever mechanism 62 connected to the fluid treatment device 10. In this particular embodiment of Figures 16A-16B, the second gear and / or lever mechanism 62 consists of a number of gears 74 that actuate at least a rod 76 connected to the fluid treatment device 10. The second gear and / or lever mechanism 62 is configured to move the fluid treatment device 10 along the vertical axis A of the needle-shaped fluid treatment body 12 relative to the vessel C. More specifically, as shown in Figures 16A-16B, rotation of the gear 74 causes a corresponding vertical movement of the rod 76, which in turn moves the fluid treatment device 10 vertically along the axis A between the engaged position of Figure 16A (i.e., the fluid introduction position of Figures 7A-7C) and the disengaged position of Figures 16B (i.e., the non-operated state of Figures 6A-6C). Furthermore, the rotation of gear 74 and the corresponding vertical movement of rod 76 also causes vertical movement of fluid treatment device 10 along axis A to reach the first intermediate position of Figures 8A-8C (i.e., an intermediate position where the Venturi effect is active) and, if desired, to reach the second intermediate position of Figures 9A-9C (i.e., an intermediate position where the Venturi effect is not active). It should be noted that this embodiment of second gear and / or leverage mechanism 62 is described and illustrated for purposes of illustration only and that further embodiments of this second gear and / or leverage mechanism may be provided.

[0066] In a second preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation machine 1 shown in Figures 17A-17B and 18, the fluid treatment device 10 is fixed with respect to the container holder 7 and the container C is movable with respect to both the container holder 7 and the fluid treatment device 10. In this particular embodiment, the moving means 54, 64 of the beverage preparation machine 1 comprises a second actuating means 64 for moving the container C with respect to the fluid treatment device 10. More specifically, in this embodiment of the beverage preparation machine 1, since only the container C is movable with respect to the fluid treatment device 10, the moving means 54, 64 are configured to move the container C between the liquid introduction position and the beverage dispensing position and vice versa, starting from the inoperative state of Figures 6A-6C.

[0067] In the embodiment of Figs. 17A-17B and 18 showing the container C being movable relative to the fluid treatment device 10, the second actuation means 64 comprises a container support device 66 and a third gear and / or lever mechanism 68. In this particular embodiment of Figs. 17A-17B and 18, the third gear and / or lever mechanism 68 consists of a number of gears 82 which rotate to drive the rotational and translational movement of a linkage 84. The container support device 66 is actuated by the third gear and / or lever mechanism 68 to move the container C relative to the container holder 7 and relative to the fluid treatment device 10 along the vertical axis A of the needle-like fluid treatment body 12. As shown in Fig. 18, the container support device 66 is provided with a second locking means 72, which for example comprises at least one pin 70 selectively engageable with at least one corresponding hole 60 provided in the container C. In operation, the rotation of the gear 82 causes a rotational and translational movement of the linkage 84, which is connected to the second locking means 72 (as shown in FIG. 18). The rotational and translational movement of the linkage 84 in turn causes a vertical movement of the container support device 66 and its corresponding second locking means 72, i.e. along the vertical axis A. Since the pin 70 of the second locking means 72 is engaged with a corresponding hole 60 provided in the container C, this container C is thus vertically moved between all positions illustrated in FIGS. 6A-9C relative to the fluid treatment device 10 (where it is fixed). It is to be noted that the container C is removable from the container holder 7, and thus from the beverage preparation machine 1, only when the pin 70 is in a disengaged position relative to the corresponding hole 60. It is also to be noted that in this embodiment, other locking means can also be provided instead of the second locking means 72 of FIG. 18. For example, the first locking means 52 shown in Figures 15A-15C, where a movable fluid treatment device 10 and a fixed container C are shown, may also be used in conjunction with the third gear and / or lever mechanism 68 of Figures 17A-17B and Figure 18, instead of the second locking means 72, where a fixed fluid treatment device 10 and a movable container C are shown.For the same reasons, the second locking means 72 shown in Figures 17A-17B and 18 can also be used in conjunction with the first gear and / or lever mechanism 52 of Figures 15A-15C instead of the first locking means 52. Finally, it is noted that this embodiment of the third gear and / or lever mechanism 68 is also described and illustrated for illustrative purposes only, and that further embodiments of this third gear and / or lever mechanism can be provided.

[0068] Last but not least, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the beverage preparation machine 1 comprises, in addition to the first container holder and fluid treatment device described in detail above, a second container holder and fluid treatment device (not shown in the drawings). Preferably, the second fluid treatment device is fluidly connected to the same fluid flow system which is also connected to the above-mentioned first fluid treatment device. This has the advantage that the machine is simpler and less expensive to manufacture and operate. However, it will be appreciated that the second fluid flow system, although separate, is constructed similarly to the first fluid flow system and may be included in the same beverage preparation machine.

[0069] In this embodiment, a preferred setup is a sachet (embodiment thereof) in which a first container adapted to be inserted into a first container holder and processed in a first fluid processing device is configured to contain soluble ingredients for mixing with a fluid (e.g. water), such ingredients being, for example, a dairy composition, a tea-based composition, a chocolate-based composition, a fruit composition such as soup, a smoothie, etc. The sachet may also contain leaf tea ingredients, or plant-based soluble or infusible ingredients. Generally, fluid processing in a sachet-type container is carried out at low pressure, as indicated in the above description.

[0070] The second container, which is adapted to be inserted in the second container holder and to be processed with the second fluid treatment device, is preferably a rigid or semi-rigid container, such as a capsule or a pod, containing raw materials adapted to be extracted at a fluid pressure higher than the fluid pressure used with the first fluid treatment device. Such raw materials are typically roast and ground coffee, which is extracted according to coffee extraction techniques known in the art, by passing pressurized water through the raw materials. The fluid passing through the coffee powder is preferably, but not necessarily, hot water (generally, hot water for coffee extraction passes through the raw materials at a temperature between 75 and 95°C). However, water at room temperature, or even chilled water, can be used for the preparation of so-called "cold brewed coffee". In this case, the container holder is preferably a brewing chamber, which comprises two elements movable relative to each other so as to open the brewing chamber for the insertion or removal of the container and then close the chamber to dispense the raw materials contained in the container. Such brewing chambers are well known in the art of beverage machines, and therefore no further details are provided here.

[0071] To control the preparation of the different raw materials, the beverage machine comprises a control panel (either mounted on the machine casing or on a remote device) and a control chipboard capable of operating the fluid processing devices, as well as a fluid distribution system for simultaneous or sequential preparation of beverages from the first and second containers.

[0072] It should be understood that various modifications and variations to the presently preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation machine 1 described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A beverage preparation machine (1), comprising: A fluid flow system for a fluid substance, the fluid flow system comprising at least one fluid source (2), at least one fluid pump (3) and at least one fluid flow conduit (6); at least one container holder (7) adapted to receive a corresponding container (C); at least one fluid treatment device (10) which is part of said fluid flow system, said fluid treatment device comprising a fluid treatment body (12) comprising at least one inlet means (18) for introducing said fluid substance into said container (C) for preparing a beverage product by mixing said fluid substance with ingredients contained in said container (C); Equipped with In the beverage preparation machine (1), The fluid treatment body (12) is The beverage product is further provided with at least one outlet means (20) for dispensing the beverage product from the container (C), and at least one transfer means (54; 64) is arranged to transfer the at least one fluid treatment device (10) and the container (C) a fluid introduction position, in which the fluid treatment body (12) projects inside an interior volume of the vessel (C) for introducing the fluid material into the vessel (C); a beverage dispense position, in which the fluid treatment body (12) is at least partially withdrawn from the interior volume of the container (C) to allow the beverage product to be dispensed from the container (C) through the at least one outlet means (20); and A beverage preparation machine (1).

2. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the fluid treatment body (12) is a needle-shaped fluid treatment body (12) and has at least one end (26; 28) configured to pierce, puncture and / or tear a particular part or wall of the container (C) prior to the introduction of the fluid substance into the container (C).

3. The beverage preparation machine (1) of claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fluid processing body (12) further comprises at least one sealing means (22) which, in the fluid introduction position, engages with the container (C) to block the dispensing of the beverage product from the container (C) and which, in the beverage dispensing position, does not engage with the container (C) to allow the dispensing of the beverage product from the container (C).

4. The fluid treatment body (12) is an inlet section (14) provided with said at least one inlet means (18) for introducing said fluid material into said container (C); an outlet portion (16) provided with said at least one outlet means (20) for dispensing said beverage product from said container (C); a first end (26) provided in the inlet portion (14) and configured to open a portion of the container (C); a second end (28) disposed in the outlet portion (16) and configured to dispense the beverage product; at least one inlet conduit (30) disposed within the fluid treatment body, the at least one inlet conduit (30) being in fluid communication with the first end (26) and a second inlet conduit (36) of the fluid treatment device (10); Further comprising:

4. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the at least one inlet means (18) and the at least one outlet means (20) are separate from each other, the at least one inlet means (18) comprising the at least one inlet conduit (30) and the first end (26) and the at least one outlet means (20) comprising at least the second end (28).

5. 5. The beverage preparation machine (1) of claim 4, wherein the at least one outlet means (20) comprises at least one outlet conduit (32) separate from the at least one inlet conduit (30), the outlet conduit (32) being provided on an outer surface of the fluid treatment body (12) and in fluid communication with the second end (28).

6. The fluid treatment device (10) further comprises at least one air or gas inlet bore (24) in fluid communication with the at least one inlet means (18), and the at least one moving means (54; 64) connects the at least one fluid treatment device (10) with the vessel (C), a first intermediate position, in which the at least one air or gas inlet bore (24) is located outside the interior volume of the container (C) and the at least one sealing means (22) is not engaged with the container (C); and a second intermediate position, in which the at least one air or gas inlet bore (24) is located inside the interior volume of the container (C) and the at least one sealing means (22) is still not engaged with the container (C); 6. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 4 or 5 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 3, further configured to move at least one of the first and second plates separately with respect to each other.

7. 7. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the beverage preparation machine (1) comprises first locking means (52) for selectively locking / unlocking the container (C) relative to the at least one container holder (7) when the container (C) is received in the at least one container holder (7), while the at least one container holder (7) is fixed relative to the at least one fluid treatment device (10), and the at least one moving means (54; 64) comprises first actuating means (54) for moving the at least one fluid treatment device (10) relative to the container (C) at least between the fluid introduction position and the beverage dispensing position and vice versa.

8. 8. The beverage preparation machine (1) of claim 7, characterized in that the first locking means (52) comprises a first gear and / or lever mechanism (56), which is movable relative to a fixed part of the beverage preparation machine (1), and which is provided with at least one tooth (58) selectively engageable with at least one corresponding hole (60) provided in the container (C), such that the container (C) is removable from the at least one container holder (7), and thus from the beverage preparation machine (1), when the at least one tooth (58) is in a disengaged position with respect to the at least one corresponding hole (60).

9. 9. The beverage preparation machine (1) of claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the first actuation means (54) comprises a second gear and / or lever mechanism (62) connected to the at least one fluid treatment device (10), the second gear and / or lever mechanism (62) being configured to move the at least one fluid treatment device (10) along a vertical axis (A) relative to the container (C).

10. A beverage preparation machine (1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the at least one moving means (54; 64) comprises second actuation means (64) for moving the container (C) relative to the at least one fluid treatment device (10) between the fluid introduction position and the beverage dispensing position and vice versa, while the at least one fluid treatment device (10) is fixed relative to the at least one container holder (7).

11. The beverage preparation machine (1) of claim 10, characterized in that the second actuating means (64) comprises a container support device (66) and a third gear and / or lever mechanism (68), the container support device (66) being actuated by the third gear and / or lever mechanism (68) to move the container (C) relative to the at least one container holder and relative to the at least one fluid treatment device (10) along a vertical axis (A).

12. The beverage preparation machine (1) of claim 11, characterized in that the container support device (66) is provided with a second locking means (72) comprising at least one pin (70) selectively engageable with at least one corresponding hole (60) provided in the container (C), and the container (C) is removable from the at least one container holder (7) and thus from the beverage preparation machine (1) when the at least one pin (70) is in a disengaged position relative to the at least one corresponding hole (60).

13. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the container (C) is manufactured from a flexible material and the container is provided internally with an additional layer (L) of substantially rigid material in the part of the container (C) that is engaged by the at least one fluid treatment device (10).

14. The beverage preparation machine (1) of claim 13, characterized in that the substantially rigid layer (L) is provided with a hole having a cross-sectional shape matching the cross-sectional shape of the fluid processing body (12) in a portion of the container (C) engaged by the at least one fluid processing device (10), the hole being closed by a predetermined portion of the flexible material of the container (C) in a non-operating state of the at least one fluid processing device (10), and the hole being opened by the fluid processing body (12) in the fluid introduction position.

15. A beverage preparation machine (1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, at the beverage dispensing position, the fluid substance is simultaneously introduced into the container (C) by the fluid processing body (12) when the beverage product is dispensed from the container (C).

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