System and process for the preparation of beverages with motorized operation - Patents.com

Abstract

The present invention discloses a system and process for preparing beverages, in particular espresso coffee and similar aromatic beverages, based on a beverage preparation machine (1), comprising a beverage preparation device (2) adapted to be driven between open and closed positions by an actuation device (3) including an electric motor (31) and thereby to collect individual portions (5) of beverage ingredients, and further comprising control means (4) configured to regulate the operation of several components of the machine (1), said control means (4) being suitable for limiting the power supplied to the electric motor (31) according to at least one predefined rule along at least a substantial part of its movement path between the open and closed positions.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THEINVENTION The present invention relates to the field of systems and processes for beverage preparation based on individual portions of beverage ingredients, in particular in which the operation of the beverage preparation device is driven by an electric motor. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Background of the Invention The prior art presents several solutions for beverage preparation machines, e.g. coffee machines, in which the extraction device is adapted to be able to collect individual portions of edible substances, e.g. roasted and ground coffee beans, and can be operated between open and closed positions by an electric motor.

[0003] The document US 2010 / 0098823 A1 discloses a portable espresso coffee maker including a brewing device operated by a piston powered by an electric motor with a power of less than 100 W.

[0004] Document EP 2177393 B1 also discloses a coffee maker with an extraction device operated by a motor with low energy consumption. The electric motor can be a direct current and low voltage motor, for example a stabilized 24V. The electric motor is provided in operative connection with a control unit, so that the control unit can start and stop the electric motor. It is further envisaged that a current sensor is operatively connected to the control unit, on the basis of which the control unit can determine the current absorbed by the electric motor in the several stages of opening and closing the infusion chamber. This document further discloses several diagrams of energy usage representative of the operation of the electric motor for the operation of the extraction device, in particular the evolution of the current intensity over time during the respective initial and final operating paths. Said diagrams disclose maximum consumptions at powers below 50W, in particular below 25W. Furthermore, said diagrams of energy usage disclose consumption evolution patterns, in which a first operating phase of the electric motor consumes a part of the current used in a second phase next to the destination position. The literature is silent about active control of the power consumed along most parts of the motion path produced by the electric motor, including the region of the motion path near the destination position, but not including the region of the displacement path adjacent to the destination position.

[0005] Document WO 2012 / 025259 A1 also discloses an extraction device that is operated by an electric motor, in this case a low-consumption motor that requires less than or equal to 50 W of power to move the extraction device between the open and closed positions and / or generates a torque less than or equal to 50 mN.m.

[0006] Document WO 2012 / 025258 A1 discloses a method for controlling a motor comprising the measurement of at least one electrical parameter representative of the power consumed by the motor and a comparison of the occurrence of this representative parameter to a predefined criterion.

[0007] Document Chinese Utility Model Application No. 201452867U discloses a coffee maker for a coffee carp cell presenting an extraction device by an electric motor. In particular, the electric motor is arranged to extend along a direction generally parallel to the direction of the drive cam and thus to the movement of the extraction device and along a generally longitudinal direction of the machine. The transmission of the movement of the electric motor to the drive cam is provided by a gear set, and each of the three operating parts is supported by a common support structure.

[0008] Document WO 2012 / 072764 A1 appears to present a similar arrangement of three parts, namely electric motor, transmission gear set and drive cam, in terms of their relative arrangement with respect to one another and within the machine, and furthermore the electric motor and the elements of the motion transmission are each directly fixed to a single element of a common mechanical support.

[0009] Document WO 2008 / 129033 A1 also appears to disclose a brewing unit of a coffee maker, in which the electric motor and the elements of the transmission of motion are fixed to a common support element, and in this case too, the electric motor is arranged such that its relatively large extension extends along a direction parallel to the direction of motion of the movable part of the brewing device.

[0010] Therefore, none of the documents in the prior art discloses a solution to provide an apparatus with a beverage preparation device that is actuated by an electric motor in a regulating situation relative to the available torque requirements and therefore power, and that provides an operation monitoring means adapted to provide for the adjustment of the electric motor based on operating parameters along the operating path, and further to provide an apparatus with a more advantageous arrangement of the transmission of operation between the electric motor and a drive cam that is operatively associated with at least a part of said beverage preparation device, in terms of transmission efficiency and in terms of structural simplicity and reduction in the volume required by the actuating device inside the beverage preparation apparatus. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] Summary of the Invention The object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus comprising a beverage preparation device, e.g. an extraction device, adapted to collect individual portions of an edible substance, e.g. portions of roasted and ground coffee beans, and an actuation device (disposição de atuacao, actuation disposition) adapted to open and close said beverage preparation device, said actuation device further comprising control means configured to use the least possible amount of electrical energy in the most adjusted possible manner to the effective requirements of the operation of the beverage preparation device between an initial and a destination position.

[0012] At least one movable part of the beverage preparation device can be actuated in a linear motion by an actuator between an initial position and a destination position, said positions corresponding alternately to an open state in which the beverage preparation device can collect individual portions of the edible substance, and a closed state in which the individual portions are trapped inside.

[0013] In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus including an actuation mechanism for a beverage preparation device that is more energy efficient, contributes to a more efficient transmission of motion, and is based on better monitoring of the progression of motion occurring along the forward translational motion path from open to closed state, and the rearward translational motion path in the opposite direction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] This object is achieved according to the invention by an apparatus as claimed in claim 1 which comprises a beverage preparation device.

[0015] In particular, this object is solved according to the invention by a beverage preparation machine, in which the actuation by an electric motor associated with the actuation device can be adjusted in each motion path depending on at least one of the relative position along the motion path and the speed of progression therein, at least by power limitations which can be imposed, for example in an electronic manner, on the power supplied to the electric motor and thus on the power effectively consumed by the electric motor.

[0016] The movement path produced by the actuator of at least one movable part of the beverage preparation device may be linear, for example along a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity, and may include first and second ends of the complete movement path associated with open and closed device positions.

[0017] The control means may be configured to regulate the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor according to the relative position along the operating path, and such that operation between the open and closed positions and vice versa requires no longer than 5 seconds, preferably no longer than 3 seconds.

[0018] A limitation of the power supplied to the electric motor may be imposed, at least in the case of a closed motion path, over at least most of the motion path, excluding the destination position.

[0019] A limitation of the power supplied to the electric motor may be imposed by the control means based on data sensed by the actuation monitoring means, at least for the closed motion path, over at least 90% of the motion path.

[0020] The limit of the power supplied to the electric motor is - a first regulation rule based on the limitations of the power supplied to the electric motor; - a second regulation rule comprising a reduction and / or reduction of the power supplied to the electric motor upon detection of a predefined variation in an operational parameter of the actuator; The method may be imposed by at least one of the following:

[0021] The first and second rules may be applied in accordance with at least one of a velocity and a relative position of the sensed movement of the movable part along the motion path.

[0022] The first rule for limiting the power consumed by the electric motor may be a limit value type and / or a limit value interval, which may be predefined and the power supplied may be approximately constant, at least in the case of a closing movement of the beverage preparation device, along at least most of the operating path including the initial position and excluding the area adjacent to the destination position.

[0023] The limit value of the supplied power is the nominal or rated power P of the electric motor. N It may be at most 20%, preferably at most 10%, particularly preferably at most 8%.

[0024] The limit value of the supplied power is the nominal or rated power P of the electric motor. N The interval may be 1 to 10%, preferably 2 to 9%, and particularly preferably 3 to 8% of the above.

[0025] The power limiting value may provide for a consumption of electrical energy by the electric motor of less than 10 mWh, preferably less than 8 mWh, particularly preferably less than 5 mWh in each operating path.

[0026] The first rule for the limitation of the power supplied to the electric motor may be of the functional type with only one variable, such that said limiting value is applied only as a function of the relative displacement of the movable part of the beverage preparation device along and to its predefined motion path. Said relative position may be considered along a predefined first part of the motion path including at least a region in the vicinity of the closed position and excluding a region adjacent to the closed position. Said first part of the motion path may be considered along a predefined first part of the motion path including at least a region in the vicinity of the closed position and excluding a region adjacent to the closed position. portion may advantageously include the open position and the entire extension of the movement path between the open position and the area near the closed position. The first portion may correspond to at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, particularly preferably at least 95% of the movement path of the movable part of the beverage preparation device including the open position and the area near the closed position.

[0027] The second rule may be a function type with two or more variables.

[0028] The second rule may be applied as a function of a given relative position along the motion path and as a function of the displacement direction along the motion path.

[0029] The second rule may include ceasing or temporarily interrupting the supply of power to the electric motor when a predefined variation in at least one of the speed of displacement, the rate of variation of the speed of displacement, the current strength, the rate of variation of the current strength consumed by the electric motor is detected.

[0030] The second rule may be applied at least in an area adjacent the closed position, preferably in an area corresponding to 10% of the motion path, or at least in the majority of the motion path.

[0031] For example, the possibility is advantageously provided here of having an electric motor with sufficient power and therefore torque in a closed area to connect parts of a beverage preparation device and ultimately even to push individual parts inside one part of the device, while minimizing the risk of overheating of the electric motor.

[0032] Furthermore, the possibility is advantageously provided of detecting eventual clogging or incorrect positioning of individual parts in the beverage preparation device prior to their closure and inhibiting their closure, preventing the electric motor from providing excessive torque at a stage in the operating path.

[0033] The beverage preparation apparatus may include an actuator including an electric motor operatively connected to a gear set provided to actuate a drive cam to rotate, the rotating drive cam being provided in functional association with the beverage preparation device so as to cause translational movement of at least one part of the beverage preparation device between an initial and a destination position.

[0034] The beverage preparation device may include a control means adapted to control the supply of energy to the electric motor and provided in functional connection with the operation monitoring means and adapted to receive data therefrom.

[0035] The control means may be configured to limit the power effectively supplied to the electric motor, for example during at least most of the movement path, depending on the relative position of the displacement of the moveable part of the beverage preparation device with respect to the movement path.

[0036] The control means may be configured to limit the supplied voltage and / or current strength, and thereby the maximum power supplied to the electric motor, preferably to a predefined maximum value and / or a predefined interval of values, depending on the speed of movement and / or the relative position of the displacement of the movable part of the beverage preparation device relative to the movement path.

[0037] The control means may be configured such that the power effectively consumed by the electric motor is limited to a maximum power made available to the electric motor, although this may vary along the motion path due, inter alia, to variations in the load required along the motion path.

[0038] The control means may be configured to determine the relative position of displacement of the drive cam to the ends of the motion path based on the direction and number of rotations sensed by actuation monitoring means associated with the drive cam.

[0039] The control means may be adapted to adjust at least one of a maximum voltage and a maximum current intensity supplied to the electric motor, in particular based on parameter data received from said operation monitoring means.

[0040] The electric motor may in particular be a low voltage electric motor of less than 50V, for example between 12V DC and 44V DC, preferably a 24V motor, or a 12V motor.

[0041] The electric motor may be a direct current, DC, electric motor.

[0042] The electric motor may be supplied with direct current, DC, by an AC-DC conversion device included in the apparatus, and the apparatus is supplied with alternating current, AC, for example 110V AC, or 230V AC.

[0043] Electric motors are driven by a rated power (P N ), or an electric motor having a rated power of at least 60 W, preferably at least 30 W, particularly preferably at least 10 W and less than 25 W.

[0044] The electric motor may be operatively associated with a transmission box having a transmission ratio comprised between 1:100 and 1:500, preferably between 1:200 and 1:400.

[0045] Another object of the present invention is to provide a process for preparing a beverage that provides a better efficiency of use of electrical energy, particularly by an electric motor, while at the same time providing sufficient torque for the specific requirements associated with the operation of the beverage preparation device.

[0046] This object is solved by claim 12.

[0047] In particular, this process may be associated with the operation of a beverage preparation machine according to any one of claims 1-11.

[0048] Preferred embodiments are set out in the dependent claims.

[0049] Within the scope of the present description, the expression "nominal power" should be understood as equivalent to the classification of the rated power attributed to a device by the respective manufacturer and corresponding approximately to the maximum energy input that can flow through the apparatus, i.e. the maximum power of an electric motor, or "stall" power.

[0050] In particular, the nominal power of a 24V DC electric motor corresponds to the product of such voltage and the current strength assessed by the manufacturer as the maximum permissible, final approved tolerance.

[0051] "Nominal power", P, if there is no explicit value provided by the manufacturer that can be deduced from the type of operation of the electric motor and if it is a 24V DC motor or more N , the value is considered to be less than 50W.

[0052] Description of the drawings Below, the invention is explained in more detail on the basis of preferred embodiments and in the accompanying drawings.

[0053] The figures are shown in simplified schematic form. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0054] [Figure 1] 1 shows a side (left) and front view of an embodiment of a beverage preparation machine (1) of the present type. [Diagram 2] 1 is an operational diagram of a beverage preparation device (2) in an apparatus (1) according to the invention. [Diagram 3] 2 shows an operating diagram of an opening cycle at a moment corresponding to the open position of the beverage preparation device (2) in the apparatus (1) according to the invention. [Figure 4] 2 shows an operating diagram of an opening cycle at a moment corresponding to a first displacement position of a movable part (21) of a beverage preparation device (2) in an apparatus (1) according to the invention. [Diagram 5] 3 shows an operating diagram of an opening cycle at a moment corresponding to a second displacement position of the movable part (21) of the beverage preparation device (2) in the apparatus (1) according to the invention. [Figure 6] 2 shows an operating diagram of an opening cycle at a moment corresponding to the closed position of the beverage preparation device (2) in the apparatus (1) according to the invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view from above of a preferred embodiment of a beverage preparation device (2) and a respective actuation device (3) according to the invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view from above of the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the movable part (341) and the stationary part (342) of the actuation monitoring means (34) in the actuation device (3) of the device (1) according to the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a front view of a preferred embodiment of the movable part (341) and the stationary part (342) of the actuation monitoring means (34) in the actuation device (3) of the device (1) according to the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 8 is a first side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 12] FIG. 8 is a second side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 shows a side cutaway view (left side) of a preferred embodiment of an actuation device (3) with a beverage preparation device (2) in an open position in an apparatus (1) according to the invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 shows a side cutaway view (left side) of a preferred embodiment of an actuation arrangement (3) with a beverage preparation device (2) in a closed position in an apparatus (1) according to the invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the application of a preferred embodiment of the first rule of limitation of the power provided to the electric motor (31) in the closing movement path according to the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the application of a preferred embodiment of the first rule of limitation of the power provided to the electric motor (31) in the closing movement path according to the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of the second rule of limitation of the power provided to the electric motor (31) in the closing movement path according to the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of the second rule of limitation of the power provided to the electric motor (31) in the closing movement path according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0055] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVETION The invention is described on the basis of an embodiment of a beverage preparation system, in particular one based on the extraction of individual portions of an edible substance, for example roasted and ground coffee beans, provided in a container, for example a capsule, which is supplied with an extraction device for discharging the resulting beverage into a beverage receiving part, for example a glass cup, arranged in a respective arrangement.

[0056] FIG. 1 shows a side view (on the left side of the figure) and a front view of a beverage preparation device (1) according to the invention adapted for collecting individual parts (7) when in an open position.

[0057] The apparatus (1) may comprise a fluid reservoir (not shown) capable of providing a flow supply (FS) at a temperature of 60-100° C. and a pressure of 1-20 bar, preferably 8-16 bar, for interaction with the edible substance, as well as a fluid pressurizing device (5), e.g. a hydraulic pump, and fluid heating means (6), these means being known to those skilled in the art without the need to show or describe them in greater detail.

[0058] Furthermore, the apparatus (1) comprises a beverage preparation device (2), hereinafter also referred to as extraction device, arranged to collect the individual portions (7) and to impinge them with the pressurized flow (FS) so as to be mixed with an edible substance to result in a beverage. The beverage preparation device (2) can be operated between open and closed positions and vice versa by an actuator (3) including an electric motor (31).

[0059] The device (1) further comprises a control means (4) adapted to control the operation of several components of the device (1) including the actuator (3).

[0060] The control means (4) is adapted to sense data of a number of operating parameters including data relating to the presence of the individual parts (7) in the apparatus (1) and in particular data relating to the position of the actuator (3) at both ends of the operating path, thereby inferring the corresponding positions of the beverage preparation device (2), in particular full closure and opening.

[0061] The electric motor (31) may advantageously be a direct current DC and low voltage motor, for example between 12 V and 44 V. In particular, the nominal power of the electric motor (31) may be less than or equal to 50 W. In particular, the value of the nominal power, or the value of the maximum power that can be consumed by the electric motor (31), may be at most 40 W, preferably at most 25 W.

[0062] FIG. 2 shows the main components of a preferred embodiment of a beverage preparation device (2) and associated actuation arrangement (3) adapted for collecting individual portions (7) of an edible substance but not for compressing the edible substance in a beverage preparation apparatus (1) according to the invention.

[0063] The actuation arrangement (3) comprises electric motors (31) arranged with their respective motor drive axes (X) aligned orthogonally to an actuation direction associated with a motion path of the beverage preparation device (2).

[0064] An electric motor (31), for example of 30 W nominal or rated power and 24 V DC, is directly connected to a single gear set (32) arranged along the direction of the motor drive shaft (X), which is advantageously provided inside the respective box and has a drive outlet arranged along a direction perpendicular to the direction of the motor drive shaft (X).

[0065] The gearbox (32) is operatively connected to a drive cam (33) which is connected at a first end directly to the drive outlet of the gearbox (32) and extends transversely to the beverage preparation device (2) and to its operating direction in most of its extension, so that the motion transmission between the gearbox (32) and the beverage preparation device (2) is driven exclusively by said drive cam (33).

[0066] The actuator (3) is devoid of other motion transmitting elements, including the absence of separate gears, lever type elements, and the like.

[0067] All major components of the actuator (3) are provided in an encapsulated state to prevent exposure to dirt or corrosive chemicals.

[0068] The drive cam (33) can be actuated in a rotational movement in each movement path in a clockwise direction and in a counterclockwise direction with an extension of an angle corresponding to approximately a quadrant, i.e. up to 110°, preferably up to 95°.

[0069] In the presented embodiment, the drive cam (33) is directly operatively connected to the movement means of the movable part (21) of the beverage preparation device (2) so that said movable part (21) can move between an initial position corresponding to the device (2) in the open position and a final position corresponding to the device (2) in the closed position.

[0070] Figures 3 to 6 represent successive instants of the movement path of the actuator (3) between the open and closed positions of the device (2).

[0071] The electric motor (31) produces a rotational motion that is transformed by the gearbox (32) from a first rotation axis (R1) to a second rotation axis (R2) perpendicular to the first rotation axis, resulting in a reduction in speed in terms of revolutions per minute and an increase in torque.

[0072] The drive cam (33) is associated with a drive actuator, such as a piston-type arrangement, of the beverage preparation device (2) such that the rotational movement of the drive cam (33) is converted into a linear movement along a predefined movement path corresponding to the path bounded by the open and closed positions of the device (2).

[0073] The rotational movement of the drive cam (33) advantageously presents an angular extension of up to 160°, preferably up to 120°, particularly preferably up to 95°, which corresponds to the extension of the linear movement path caused by the drive cam (33) on the movable parts (21, 22) of the beverage preparation device (2).

[0074] The actuation device (3) includes an actuation monitoring means (34) operatively associated with the drive cam (33) and adapted to sense at least one of a direction of rotation (clockwise or opposite thereto), an angular rotational velocity, and a number of rotations.

[0075] In particular, an actuation monitoring means (34) is provided to sense a plurality of relative angular positions at a predefined angular extension and corresponding to a portion of the linear motion path produced by the drive cam (33).

[0076] As shown in more detail in Figures 7 to 10, the motion monitoring means (34) may be provided in the form of optical means for sensing the variations in position, for example of the "encoder" type.

[0077] Figures 7 and 8, as well as figures 11 and 12, represent preferred embodiments of the beverage preparation device (2) and its actuation mechanism (3).

[0078] The electric motor (31) and the gearbox (32) are arranged along a first alignment perpendicular to the path of movement by the beverage preparation device (2).

[0079] The electric motor (31) is operatively connected to the gearbox (32) when the gearbox (32) is secured to the first support (36).

[0080] The reference volume occupied by these components of the actuation device (3) may be similar to, and preferably smaller than, the estimated volume of the beverage preparation device (2). Furthermore, it is advantageous if none of the motion transmitting elements of the actuation device (3) is higher than the beverage preparation device (2).

[0081] The transverse extension, relative to the direction of the movement path of the set formed by the electric motor (31) and the gear set (32), is smaller than the transverse extension of the beverage preparation device (3).

[0082] At least a portion of the transverse extension relative to the direction of the operating path of the set formed by the electric motor (31) and the gearbox (32) may be protrudingly aligned with at least a portion of the transverse extension of the beverage preparation device (2).

[0083] A simple, compact and effective structure in terms of motion transmission of the actuator (3) and the beverage preparation device (2) is advantageously provided here, reducing the volume required by the set inside the beverage preparation device (1).

[0084] Figures 9 and 10 represent two parts (341, 342) of operational monitoring means (34) of optical type provided in functional connection with the control means (4) of the device (1) according to the invention.

[0085] The operation monitoring means (34) may include a first movable part (341) including a plurality of viewing datums, for example in the form of apertures or windows, and a second stationary part (342) including a transmitter of electromagnetic radiation, for example an infrared beam. The first and second parts (341, 342) are preferably provided on a common structural support (37) and in an arrangement in a spatial relationship to each other such that the infrared beam may continuously intersect the apertures.

[0086] The first movable part (341) is operatively associated with the drive cam (33) so as to rotate therewith. Additionally, the first movable part (341) has a plurality of similarly sized openings spaced apart to provide observation windows corresponding to the portions of the angular extension of the motion illuminated by the second stationary part (342) so that the relative position of the linear motion path can be sensed.

[0087] 11 and 12 show opposite side views of the presented embodiment.

[0088] Figures 13 and 14 show side and rear views associated with beverage delivery with the actuator (3) in the open and closed positions respectively.

[0089] As can be observed in the described embodiment, the drive cam (33) is operatively connected at its two end regions to respective arms of a piston-like arrangement, so that the rotational movement of the drive cam (33) is converted into a linear movement of the movable part (21) along a movement path between the open and closed positions.

[0090] 15 to 18 show diagrammatically the curves of the development of the power supplied to the electric motor (31) along the path of motion of the actuator (3) on an index basis according to the first and second rules of its regulation.

[0091] As reproduced in figures 15 and 16, according to a first rule the control means (4) and the actuation device (3) may be adapted to limit the supply of power to the electric motor (31) to a predefined maximum limit value (P1) (see figure 15) along at least most of the movement path, including at least the area near the closed position, but excluding the area directly adjacent thereto. Said limitation of the power supplied to the electric motor (31) may be controlled by the control means (4) by a limitation of the voltage available in the power supply circuit of the electric motor (31).

[0092] The maximum or nominal power (P nom It is here ensured that the energy required by the electric motor (31) during most of the extension of the movement path is minimal, even though the torque (P1) will eventually be relatively large and will eventually need to be able to generate sufficient torque for the part of the movement path corresponding to the encounter of the parts (21, 22) of the beverage preparation device (3). Naturally, the value of the power effectively consumed by the electric motor (31) may vary slightly but will always be kept below said maximum limit value (P1).

[0093] In an alternative embodiment, the control means (4) and the actuator (3) may be adapted such that the supply of power to the electric motor (31) may be varied within an interval of predefined values ​​of power (P1, P2) along at least most of the operating path (see FIG. 16).

[0094] As represented in Figs. 17 and 18, the control means (4) and the actuator (3) are adapted to detect a predefined variation (Delta) at least in the area adjacent to the closed position of the beverage preparation device (2). P ), in particular may be adapted such that the power supplied to the electric motor (31) may be reduced or interrupted if a variation in the increase or rate of increase of the power (31) effectively consumed by the electric motor is detected.

[0095] Power (Delta) Pmax) fluctuations higher than the predefined maximum value (Delta P ) is detected, the control means (4) may command a complete interruption, as represented in FIG. 17, or a temporary reduction, as represented in FIG. 18, of the power supplied to the electric motor (31).

[0096] Advantageously provided here is the possibility to detect excessive torque demands resulting, for example, from jamming of individual parts (7) between the components (21, 22) of the beverage preparation device (2) and to prevent such excessive increases in torque from damaging parts thereof or parts of the actuator (3).

[0097] The combination of the first and second regulation rules advantageously provides a nominal power (P) sufficient to provide the required torque in both the closing and opening movement paths, particularly in the region adjacent to the closed position. nom ) electric motors (31), while ensuring that the latter operate with an energy consumption profile adjusted to the needs of each part of the movement path, preventing eventual abnormal situations and associated risks.

[0098] The first and second regulation rules for the energy supply to the electric motor (31) are preferably defined in the control means (4) and applied by the control means (4) on the basis of data sensed by the operation monitoring means (34, 35). 。 The present invention is as follows. [1] 1. An apparatus (1) comprising a beverage preparation device (2) having at least one movable part (21, 22) adapted to be actuated by an actuation device (3) including an electric motor (31), said actuation device (3) being capable of being coordinated by a control means (4) in a closed movement path between an open position in which the beverage preparation device (2) can collect individual portions (7) of an edible substance and a closed position, and in a reverse movement path, The control means (4), - a nominal power P of said electric motor (31) at least in a first part of said motion path, including between an initial position and a region of said motion path near a destination position. N only a portion of the current can be supplied to the electric motor (31), - the total energy consumption by the electric motor (31) in each movement path is equal to the nominal power P N less than one-fourth, preferably less than one-fifth, particularly preferably less than one-sixth of the standard maximum energy consumption by the electric motor (31) at The device (1) is configured to be able to regulate the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor (31) by at least one of the following: [2] The control means (4), - the power (P 1 ), and a second adjustment rule comprising a second maximum value of the operational parameter at least obtainable in a portion of the motion path including a region adjacent to the closed position; being configured to regulate the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor (31) by at least one of and The device according to [1], characterized in that the control means (4) is configured to regulate the supply of electric energy to the electric motor (31) according to a displacement speed determined preferentially on the basis of data of the relative position in the movement path and of at least one operating parameter associated with a drive cam (33) driven by the electric motor (31) and sensed by the control means (4) and / or by an operation monitoring means (34). [3] The control means (4), a first regulation rule, wherein the power may be limited according to the displacement position along at least a substantial portion of the motion path including at least a region near the closed position, but not in the region adjacent to the closed position. and a second regulating rule, which, if it is determined that there is a predefined decrease in the displacement speed, may be adapted to interrupt the supply of electrical power to the electric motor (31) along at least the portion of the movement path including the area adjacent to the closed position, preferably along the entire closing path, depending on the displacement speed. being configured to regulate the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor (31) by at least one of and The device according to [1] or [2], characterized in that the control means (4) are configured to be able to adjust at least one of the current intensity and the voltage of the current supplied to the electric motor (31) as a function of the relative position of the movable parts (21, 22) with respect to the movement path, preferably according to at least one of a first and a second adjustment rule. [4] The control means (4) controls the power supplied to the electric motor (31) to be equal to or smaller than the nominal power value P of the electric motor (31) according to a first rule. N A first maximum power value (P 1 ) and The control means (4) determines, according to a second rule, - interrupting the supply of power to the electric motor (31) when a reduction of at least 30%, preferably at least 50%, in the displacement speed is detected in relative positions of the movement path not corresponding to the open and closed positions, including at least the region adjacent to the closed position; - limiting the rate of variation over time of the power supplied to the electric motor (31) to a predefined rate of variation over time in order to prevent sudden power peaks; The device according to any one of [1] to [3], characterized in that it is configured to be able to carry out at least one of the above. [5] The control means (4) controls the consumption of electrical energy by the electric motor (31) in each movement path of the beverage preparation device (2) to be smaller than the nominal power P N configured to control the supply of electrical power such that the reference maximum energy consumption at 300 rpm is less than 10%, preferably less than 8%, and in a preferred case such that each operating path requires less than 4 seconds, preferably less than 3 seconds, and such that the control means (4) is capable of adjusting the power supplied to the electric motor (31) such that the consumption of electrical energy by the electric motor (31) in each operating path is less than 20 mWh, preferably less than 15 mWh, particularly preferably less than 10 mWh (thousandths of a watt-hour), and, 10. The device according to any one of claims [1] to [4], characterized in that the actuation device (3) comprises a gear set (32) functionally associated with the electric motor (31) and adapted in such a way that the maximum torque required by the electric motor (31) in each working path is comprised between 10 and 60 mNm, preferably between 20 and 40 mNm, and in that the gear set (32) is adapted to provide a transmission ratio comprised between 1:100 and 1:500, preferably between 1:200 and 1:400. [6] The apparatus according to any one of [1] to [5], characterized in that the actuating device (3) comprises an electric motor (31), a speed and torque conversion device, preferentially in the form of a gearbox (32), and a drive transmission device for the final rotational movement to the linearly moving movable parts (21, 22) of the beverage preparation device (2), the actuating device (3) being preferably adapted such that the linear movement path between the initial and destination positions of the beverage preparation device (2), i.e. between the open and closed positions and also in reverse, only requires a rotational movement by a drive cam (33) in clockwise direction and reverse with a rotation angle of up to 110°, preferably up to 95°. [7] said actuation device (3) comprising an electric motor (31) operatively connected by direct operational transmission to a single gear set (32) presenting a motion outlet preferentially oriented in a direction perpendicular to the drive shaft of said electric motor (31), said gear set (32) adapted for direct transmission of said rotational motion of a drive cam (33) driving at least one movable part (21, 22) of said beverage preparation device (2); all components of said motion transmission of said actuation device (3) are provided in an enclosed state to avoid exposure to dirt or corrosive chemicals, including said single gear set (32) being preferentially provided inside a respective gear box and said drive cams (33) being provided inside respective drive sleeves; and, the actuation device (3) comprises a drive cam (33) adapted to provide a direct operational transmission between the transmission outlet of the gear set (32) and an actuation part of the beverage preparation device (2), the drive cam (33) preferentially extending along the entire width of the actuation device (3) and at least a substantial part of the transverse extension of the beverage preparation device (2); The device described in any one of [1] to [6], [8] The control means (4), - the correct entry and exit of the individual parts (7), in particular the eventual clogging of the individual parts (7) at the inlet of the beverage preparation device (2); - the start and end positions of the movement path of the actuator (3) and thereby infer the fully open or fully closed state of the beverage preparation device (2). The device described in any one of [1] to [7] is configured to be capable of adjusting at least one of the operation of the actuator (3), the operation of the fluid pressurizing device (5), and the display of the operating status to a user based on at least one of the above. [9] The control means (4) is in the following state, i.e. - cannot be started if the positioning of the beverage receiving part (10) on the respective positioning arrangement (9) is not detected and / or if the beverage preparation device (2) is not in the fully closed position and further if the presence of an individual part (7) therein is detected and / or presumed, and - may be initiated even if the presence of an individual part (7) inside the closed beverage preparation device (2) is not detected or presumed; - can be interrupted and / or terminated upon detection of the removal of the beverage receiving portion (10) from the positioning arrangement (9) and can be stopped upon detection of an operation of the beverage receiving portion (10) at the respective positioning arrangement (9). The apparatus according to any one of [1] to [8], characterized in that the operation of the fluid pressurizing device (5) can be adjusted by at least one of the following.

[10] the control means (4) being adapted to adjust the movement of the actuating device (3) based on the relative position of the individual parts (7) with respect to the beverage preparation device (2) and based on the positions of the start and end of a movement path of the actuating device (3), and The apparatus according to any one of [1] to [9], characterized in that the control means (4) is configured to be able to deduce or prevent the relative positions of the individual parts (7) and their eventual clogging at the inlet of the beverage preparation device (2) based on the determination of a predefined decrease in the rate of decrease of the displacement speed associated with the actuation device (3), in particular the drive cam (33).

[11] The control means (4) detects the following events based on the following means: - the presence of an individual portion (7) based on the activation of portion detection means, preferentially a first and a second portion sensor associated with said beverage preparation device (2), - the position of the beverage preparation device (2) based on the actuation of position sensors (34, 35), e.g. of optical and electromechanical switch type, associated with at least one of the ends of a movement path of the actuation device (3) and corresponding to the full opening and full closing of the beverage preparation device (2), - eventual jamming of the individual portions (7) in the beverage preparation device (2) due to variations in the displacement speed of the drive cam (33). The device according to any one of [1] to

[10] , characterized in that it is configured to be able to estimate the

[12] 1. A process for preparing a beverage comprising: - providing a beverage preparation device (1), - switching on the device (1) to provide readiness for operation; - optionally checking, for each beverage preparation cycle associated with an individual part (7), the position of the beverage preparation device (2) and the functional connection of the control means (4) with the actuator (3), including the operating state of the electric motor (31); and, - to cause opening and closing operations of said beverage preparation device (2) depending on data sensed by the operation monitoring means (34, 35); so that each movement path of at least one moving part (21, 22) of the beverage preparation device (2) requires less than 4 seconds, preferably less than 3 seconds, and the consumption of electrical energy by the electric motor (31) during each movement path is less than 20 mWh, preferably less than 15 mWh, particularly preferably less than 10 mWh (thousandths of a watt-hour). Regulating the supply of power to the electric motor (31) in each motion path. A process including.

[13] - The supply of power to the electric motor (31) is limited to a predefined maximum value (P 1 ) or at least one of the operating values ​​(P 1 、P 2 ) interval The method further includes the steps of: The process according to

[12] , characterized in that the limitation is adjusted by the control means (4) based on at least one of the direction of rotation, the number of rotations and the rotational speed of a drive cam (33) of the actuator (3) so that the consumption of electric energy by the electric motor (31) in each operating path is less than 10 mWh, preferably less than 5 mWh and particularly preferably less than 2 mWh (thousandths of a watt-hour).

[14] At least for closed motion paths, - reducing or interrupting the supply of power to the electric motor (31) after detecting a slowdown in the operating speed, e.g. the rotational speed of the drive cam (33) or immobilization thereof, at least in the area adjacent to the closed position. The process according to

[12] or

[13] , further comprising the step of:

[15] The process according to any one of

[12] to

[14] , characterized in that the supply of power to the electric motor (31) is coordinated by the control means (4) so ​​that it is not carried out simultaneously with the supply of power to the fluid pressurizing device (5), and preferably in each beverage preparation cycle, the supply of power to the electric motor (31) is only at least partially simultaneous with the supply of power to the control means (4), to the fluid heating device (6) and optionally further to the use of the interfaces of the apparatus (1).

[16] to remove the individual portions (7) from the inlet / outlet area of ​​the beverage preparation device (2) if a blockage of the individual portions (7) in the inlet / outlet area of ​​the beverage preparation device (2) is detected, - at least one and at most three successive attempts of partial opening and closing of the beverage preparation device (2) within a predefined time interval following a command to close the beverage preparation device (2), in the absence of a detection of a complete closure of the beverage preparation device (2), for example by activation of a first portion sensor, of the delivery of an individual portion (7). - at least one and up to five successive operations of closing and opening the beverage preparation device (2) within a predefined time interval following a command to open the beverage preparation device (2), when there is a detection of the opening of the actuation device (3) but no detection of the complete exit of the individual portion (7), e.g. by activation of a second portion sensor, The process according to any one of

[12] to

[15] , further comprising a step of instructing the actuator (3) by at least one of the following:

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus (1) comprising a beverage preparation device (2) having at least one movable part (21, 22) adapted to be actuated by an actuation device (3) including an electric motor (31) in a closing movement path between an open position in which the beverage preparation device (2) can collect individual portions (7) of an edible substance and a closed position in which the individual portions (7) of the edible substance are trapped inside the beverage preparation device (2), and in a reverse opening movement path, said actuation device (3) being capable of being coordinated by a control means (4), The control means (4), the nominal power P of said electric motor (31) in a first portion corresponding to at least 95% of each of said movement paths, excluding the area adjacent to said closed position; N 1. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the device (1) is adapted to regulate the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor (31) according to a first regulation rule, whereby at most 10% of the total electrical energy can be supplied to the electric motor (31).

2. The control means (4), - adapted to regulate, in each of the portions of the path of movement comprising the region adjacent the closed position, the supply of electric energy to the electric motor (31) according to a second regulation rule comprising a reduction and / or reduction of the power supplied to the electric motor (31) upon detection of a predefined variation of an operational parameter of the actuation device (3); and 2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means (4) is configured to adjust the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor (31) based on data of at least one operating parameter sensed by an operation monitoring means (34).

3. The control means (4), said second regulation rule being to discontinue or temporarily interrupt said supply of power to said electric motor (31) in the event of detection of said fluctuation; - configured to regulate the supply of electrical energy to the electric motor (31) by and 3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that the control means (4) are configured to be able to adjust at least one of the current intensity and the voltage of the current supplied to the electric motor (31) according to the first adjustment rule as a function of the relative position of the movable parts (21, 22) with respect to each of the movement paths.

4. The control means (4) adjusts the power supplied to the electric motor (31) according to the first adjustment rule to the nominal power value P N The first maximum power value (P 1 ) and The control means (4) performs the second adjustment rule: - limiting the rate of variation over time of the power supplied to said electric motor (31) to a predefined rate of variation over time in order to prevent sudden power peaks; 4. The device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that it is adapted to carry out the following:

5. the control means (4) is adapted to adjust the power supplied to the electric motor (31) so that the consumption of electrical energy by the electric motor (31) in each of the movement paths is less than 20 mWh (thousandths of a watt hour); and, 5. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the actuation device (3) comprises a gear set (32) functionally associated with the electric motor (31) and adapted in such a way that the maximum torque required by the electric motor (31) in each of the movement paths is comprised between 10 and 60 mNm, said gear set (32) being adapted to provide a transmission ratio comprised between 1:100 and 1:

500.

6. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the actuating device (3) is adapted such that a linear movement path between the initial and destination positions, i.e. between the open and closed positions and also reverse, of the beverage preparation device (2) only requires a rotational movement by a drive cam (33) in clockwise direction and reverse with a maximum rotation angle of 110°.

7. The control means (4), - the start and end positions of the movement path of the actuator (3) and thus the fully open or fully closed state of the beverage preparation device (2) can be inferred The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it is configured to regulate the actuation of the actuation device (3) on the basis of

8. The control means (4) is in the following state: cannot be started if the positioning of the beverage receiving part (10) on the positioning arrangement (9) is not detected and / or if the beverage preparation device (2) is not in a completely closed position, and moreover if the presence of an individual part (7) therein is detected; and - can be interrupted and / or terminated upon detection of the removal of the beverage receiving portion (10) from the positioning arrangement (9) and can be stopped upon detection of an operation of the beverage receiving portion (10) at the positioning arrangement (9); The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it is adapted to regulate the operation of the fluid pressurizing device (5) by at least one of the following:

9. The control means (4), the position of the beverage preparation device (2) based on the activation of optical and electromechanical switch type position sensors (34, 35) associated with at least one of the two ends of the movement path of the actuation device (3) and corresponding to the full opening and full closing of the beverage preparation device (2); 8. The apparatus of claim 7, configured to infer:

10. 1. A method for preparing a beverage comprising: - providing a device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 for the preparation of a beverage, - switching on said device (1) to provide readiness for operation; and, － - to cause opening and closing operations of said beverage preparation device (2) depending on the data sensed by the operation monitoring means (34, 35); - the consumption of electrical energy by the electric motor (31) in each of said motion paths is less than 20 mWh (thousandths of a watt-hour); Regulating the supply of power to the electric motor (31) in each of the motion paths. The method includes:

11. - limiting the supply of power to the electric motor (31) to a predefined maximum value (P 1 ) The method further includes the steps of:

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that the limitation is adjusted by the control means (4) based on at least one of the direction of rotation, the number of rotations and the rotational speed of a drive cam (33) of the actuator (3) so that the consumption of electric energy by the electric motor (31) in each of the movement paths is less than 10 mWh (thousandths of a watt hour).

12. At least for closed motion paths, a reduction or interruption of the supply of power to said electric motor (31) after detecting a slowdown in the rotational speed of said drive cam (33) or its immobilization; The method of claim 11 further comprising the steps of:

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