Storage device and beverage manufacturing device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a storage device that heats a stored liquid and sends the heated liquid to the outside, and a beverage manufacturing device including the storage device, and suppresses variations in the temperature of the sent liquid. 【Solution means】The delivery units 74, 72y, 728a, 728 that deliver the liquid stored in the storage space of the storage tank 725 to the outside include a delivery port 741 into which the stored liquid flows, and a flow path (a flow path that continues from the flow path forming pipe 74 through the storage side hot water supply port 72y to the storage side pipe 728a) through which the liquid flowing in from the delivery port 741 flows toward the outside. The flow path extends from the inside (upper side) to the outside (lower side) of the storage space. The delivery port 741 is arranged so as to be located above the lower end 72ab of the heating unit 72a2 that directly touches and heats the liquid stored in the storage space. The measurement unit 72b1 that measures the temperature of the stored liquid measures the temperature of the liquid in the vicinity of the height position of the delivery port 741.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a storage device that heats stored liquid and sends out the heated liquid to the outside, and a beverage manufacturing device including the storage device.

Background Art

[0002] As a storage device, there is known one including a storage tank for storing liquid and a sending unit for sending out the liquid stored in the storage tank to the outside (for example, the liquid sending amount adjusting device 720 shown in FIG. 68 of Patent Document 1). The sending unit includes a liquid outlet into which the liquid stored in the storage tank flows, and a flow path through which the liquid flowing in from the liquid outlet flows toward the outside.

[0003] In addition, in the storage tank, a heater having a heating unit that directly touches and heats the stored liquid, and a measuring unit for measuring the temperature of the stored liquid are provided. The heater is arranged at a position where the heating unit is spaced upward from the bottom surface of the storage tank for cost and structural reasons. As a result, a space is created between the lower end of the heating unit and the bottom surface of the storage tank. The liquid in this space is difficult to warm up. For example, when the liquid is water, since the density of water decreases as the temperature rises, the water stored in the storage tank becomes colder as it goes downward. Since there is no heating unit in the above space, it is difficult to control the temperature of the liquid in the above space.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the liquid delivery amount adjusting device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the liquid outlet in the delivery unit is arranged at the bottom surface of the storage tank, and there may be a problem that the liquid in the above space is discharged from the outlet, and the temperature of the discharged liquid varies.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a storage device that suppresses variations in the temperature of the discharged liquid and a beverage manufacturing device including the storage device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The extraction device for solving the above problems is a storage tank having a First storage space for storing liquid, First a supply unit for supplying liquid to the storage space, the First a heating unit that directly touches and heats the liquid stored in the storage space, and the heating unit is a heater arranged at a position spaced upward from the bottom surface of the the First storage tank, First a measuring unit for measuring the temperature of the stored liquid, 、 front recording into the first storage tank a control means for controlling the supply unit and the heater to store a liquid at a certain temperature in the storage tank, First and 、 a second storage tank having a second storage space for storing the liquid sent out from the first storage tank; a sending unit for sending the liquid stored in the first storage tank to the second storage tank; driving means for changing the volume of the second storage space corresponding to the amount of liquid sent out from the second storage tank; an air communication part for communicating air between the first storage tank and the second storage tank; a sending switching part for switching between sending and storing the liquid stored in the second storage tank; is provided with the control means controls the heater based on the measurement result of the measuring unit, the delivery unit in the first storage tank includes a liquid outlet into which the stored liquid flows, and a flow path through which the liquid flowing in from the liquid outlet flows the second storage tank towards, The flow path extends from the inside to the outside of the First storage space, including a communication switching part for switching between communication and interruption between the first storage tank and the second storage tank and is The control means performs control to send out the liquid at a certain temperature stored in the first storage tank to the second storage tank by using the head pressure by operating the communication switching part, and in this control, no liquid is supplied to the first storage tank. The discharge port is arranged to be located above the lower end of the heating part, and is below the water level of the first storage tank in a state where the liquid amount corresponding to the maximum volume of the second storage space has been supplied. and is is open upward in the first storage space; The measuring part measures the temperature of the liquid at the discharge port, is arranged at a higher position, and before flowing into the outlet and is and the flow path is located below the outlet. characterized in that.

[0008] According to this storage device, the liquid in the space generated between the lower end of the heating part and the bottom surface of the storage tank is less likely to flow into the discharge port. Moreover, since the measuring part measures the temperature of the liquid in the vicinity of the height position of the discharge port, the liquid temperature-controlled by the control means is discharged. As a result, the variation in the temperature of the discharged liquid can be suppressed.

[0009] Note that the measuring part may measure the temperature of the liquid at the height position of the discharge port. Further, the measuring part may be separated from the discharge port in the vertical direction by a length shorter than the length of the interval between the lower end of the heating part and the bottom surface of the storage tank [for example, the height direction interval represented by the arrow G1 shown in FIG. 6] [for example, the arrow G2 shown in FIG. 6]. Alternatively, the measuring part may be separated from the discharge port in the vertical direction by a length shorter than the opening length of the discharge port (for example, if the discharge port is circular, the inner diameter length, and if it is square, the length of the diagonal which is the longest length).

[0010] Also, The flow path extends from the inside to the outside of the first storage space through the bottom surface. This may be a feature. Alternatively, The flow path may extend upward from the bottom surface, or may extend downward from the upper surface of the storage tank, or may extend into the storage space from the side surface of the storage tank. Furthermore, the shape of the flow path is not limited, and the flow path may be a straight flow path or a bent flow path (for example, an L-shaped flow path, etc.).

[0011] Also, the discharge port is arranged in the vicinity of the heating part, which may be a feature.

[0012] The measurement part and the discharge port are in the vicinity of the heating part, enabling more precise control (management) of the liquid temperature.

[0013] Here, the vicinity means, for example, when the heating part is arranged around the inner peripheral wall defining the storage space, the range between the heating part and the inner peripheral wall.

[0014] Also, the storage tank has a discharge port for discharging the stored liquid from the bottom surface, which may be a feature.

[0015] The liquid stored below the discharge port can be discharged by the discharge port.

[0016] Also, the storage space is a space provided between an inner peripheral wall and an outer peripheral wall, the heating part is arranged spirally along the inner peripheral wall, a part of the flow path is located above the lower end of the heating part, which may be a feature.

[0017] By doing so, the temperature of the liquid passing through the flow path can be kept warmer by the heating part.

[0018] In addition, the inner peripheral wall may be cylindrical. Further, the outer peripheral wall may also be cylindrical.

[0019] Also, A mode characterized in that a part of the flow path connects a position above the bottom surface and the bottom surface. may be an aspect characterized by this.

[0020] According to this aspect, the liquid can be sent to the outside of the storage tank with a simple configuration.

[0021] The beverage manufacturing apparatus that solves the above problems is characterized by including the above storage device.

Effect of the Invention

[0022] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a storage device that suppresses variations in the temperature of the sent liquid and a beverage manufacturing apparatus including the storage device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of a beverage manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 is a block diagram of a control device of the beverage manufacturing apparatus shown in Figure 1. The beverage manufacturing apparatus 1 is an apparatus for automatically manufacturing coffee beverages from roasted coffee beans and a liquid (here, water), and can manufacture one cup of coffee beverage per manufacturing operation. The beverage manufacturing apparatus 1 includes a bean processing apparatus 2, an extraction apparatus 3, and a control apparatus 11.

[0026] The control apparatus 11 controls the entire beverage manufacturing apparatus 1. The control apparatus 11 includes a processing unit 11a, a storage unit 11b, and an I / F (interface) unit 11c. The processing unit 11a is a processor such as a CPU, for example. The storage unit 11b is a RAM or a ROM, for example. The I / F unit 11c performs input / output of signals between an external device and the processing unit 11a.

[0027] The processing unit 11a executes the program stored in the storage unit 11b and controls the actuator group 14 based on an instruction from the operation unit 12 or the detection result of the sensor group 13. The operation unit 12 is a unit that receives a user's instruction input, for example, a touch panel or a mechanical switch. The user can instruct the production of coffee beverages via the operation unit 12. The sensor group 13 is various sensors provided in the beverage production apparatus 1 (for example, the temperature sensor 72b shown in FIG. 5 etc., the operation position detection sensor of the mechanism, the pressure sensor, etc.). The actuator group 14 is various actuators provided in the beverage production apparatus 1 (for example, the heater 72a shown in FIG. 5 etc., the motor, the solenoid valve, etc.).

[0028] The bean processing device 2 generates ground beans from roasted coffee beans. The extraction device 3 extracts coffee liquid from the ground beans supplied from the bean processing device 2. The extraction device 3 includes a fluid supply unit 7, an extraction container 9, and a switching unit 10.

[0029] The bean processing device 2 includes a storage device 4 and a grinding device 5. The storage device 4 stores roasted coffee beans, and a predetermined amount of roasted coffee beans is supplied from the storage device 4 to the grinding device 5. The grinding device 5 is a grinder that grinds the roasted coffee beans supplied from the storage device 4. The ground beans ground by the grinding device 5 are put into the extraction container 9.

[0030] The fluid supply unit 7 pours hot water into the extraction container 9. Coffee liquid is extracted from the ground beans in the extraction container 9. The hot water containing the extracted coffee liquid is sent to the cup C as a coffee beverage via the switching unit 10.

[0031] The configurations of the fluid supply unit 7 and the switching unit 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. First, the fluid supply unit 7 will be described. The fluid supply unit 7 supplies hot water to the extraction container 9 and controls the air pressure inside the extraction container 9, etc. In this specification, when the air pressure is exemplified by a number, it means absolute pressure unless otherwise specified. The atmospheric pressure refers to the air pressure around the extraction container 9 or the air pressure of the beverage manufacturing apparatus. For example, when the beverage manufacturing apparatus is installed at a location 0 m above sea level, it is the standard air pressure (1013.25 hPa) at 0 m above sea level of the International Standard Atmosphere (= "International Standard Atmosphere" [[abbreviation] ISA]) established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (= "International Civil Aviation Organization" [[abbreviation] ICAO]) in 1976.

[0032] The fluid supply unit 7 includes a liquid feed rate adjusting device 72 and pipes L1 to L3. Pipe L1 is a pipe through which air flows, and pipe L2 is a pipe through which water flows. The upstream part of pipe L2 is connected to the liquid feed rate adjusting device 72, and the downstream part of pipe L2 connects the liquid feed rate adjusting device 72 and pipe L3. Pipe L3 is a pipe through which both air and water can flow and is connected to the extraction container 9.

[0033] The fluid supply unit 7 includes a compressor 70 as a pressurizing source. The compressor 70 compresses and sends out the atmosphere. The compressor 70 is driven, for example, by a motor (not shown) as a drive source. The compressed air sent out from the compressor 70 is supplied to a reserve tank (accumulator) 71 via a check valve 71a. The air pressure inside the reserve tank 71 is monitored by a pressure sensor 71b, and the compressor 70 is driven so as to be maintained at a predetermined air pressure. The reserve tank 71 is provided with a drain 71c for draining water, and the water generated by the compression of air can be drained.

[0034] The liquid delivery volume adjustment device 72 has a tank 720a for storing hot water (water) that constitutes the coffee beverage, and is a device having a function of delivering a fixed amount of hot water. In the following description, hot water and water may be collectively referred to as liquid. Also, in this case, although it is the liquid level, it will be uniformly described as the water level. In this liquid delivery volume adjustment device 72, the stored liquid is heated and the temperature of the liquid is monitored, and the temperature of the stored liquid is maintained at a predetermined temperature (for example, 120°C).

[0035] Also, after one coffee beverage production cycle described later is completed, tap water is supplied to the tank 720a of the liquid delivery volume adjustment device 72 via a water purifier (not shown). A water supply solenoid valve 72d is provided in the middle of the pipe L2 from the water purifier. The water supply solenoid valve 72d is opened by the processing unit 11a shown in FIG. 2 to supply tap water, and when the tank 720a is full, the water supply solenoid valve 72d is closed by the processing unit 11a to cut off the supply of tap water. In this way, the hot water in the tank 720a is maintained at the full level.

[0036] Note that when the water level drops below a predetermined water level different from the full water level, the water supply solenoid valve 72d may be opened to supply tap water, and when the predetermined water level is reached, the water supply solenoid valve 72d may be closed to cut off the supply of tap water.

[0037] Also, a pressure sensor 72g is provided in the liquid delivery volume adjustment device 72. The pressure sensor 72g detects the air pressure in the tank 720a. The air pressure in the reserve tank 71 is supplied to the tank 720a via a pressure regulating valve 72e and a pressurizing solenoid valve 72f. The pressure regulating valve 72e reduces the air pressure supplied from the reserve tank 71 to a predetermined air pressure. The pressurizing solenoid valve 72f switches between supplying and blocking the air pressure regulated by the pressure regulating valve 72e to the tank 720a. The pressure release solenoid valve 72h switches whether to release the inside of the tank 720a to the atmosphere, and releases the inside of the tank 720a to the atmosphere during decompression. Also, the pressure release solenoid valve 72h releases the inside of the tank 720a to the atmosphere when the air pressure in the tank 720a exceeds a predetermined air pressure, and maintains the air pressure in the tank 720a at the predetermined air pressure.

[0038] The hot water in the tank 720a is supplied to the extraction container 9 through the three-way solenoid valve 728, the extraction-side pipe 728c, the check valve 72j, the solenoid valve 72i, and the pipe L3. A temperature sensor 73e for measuring the temperature of the hot water is provided in the pipe L3, and the temperature of the hot water supplied to the extraction container 9 is monitored.

[0039] Various processes centered around the liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 will be described later.

[0040] The air pressure in the reserve tank 71 is also supplied to the extraction container 9 through the pressure regulating valve 73a and the solenoid valve 73b. The pressure regulating valve 73a reduces the air pressure supplied from the reserve tank 71 to a predetermined air pressure. The solenoid valve 73b switches between supplying and blocking the air pressure regulated by the pressure regulating valve 73a to the extraction container 9. The air pressure in the extraction container 9 is detected by the pressure sensor 73d. When pressurizing the inside of the extraction container 9, the solenoid valve 73b is opened based on the detection result of the pressure sensor 73d, and the inside of the extraction container 9 is pressurized to a predetermined air pressure. The air pressure in the extraction container 9 can be reduced by the solenoid valve 73c. The solenoid valve 73c switches whether to release the inside of the extraction container 9 to the atmosphere, and releases the inside of the extraction container 9 to the atmosphere in case of abnormal pressure (for example, when the air pressure in the extraction container 9 becomes too high).

[0041] The switching unit 10 is a unit that switches the delivery destination of the liquid sent out from the extraction container 9 to either the pouring part 10c or the waste tank T. The switching unit 10 includes a switching valve 10a and a motor 10b that drives the switching valve 10a. When sending out the coffee beverage in the extraction container 9, the switching valve 10a switches the flow path to the pouring part 10c. The coffee beverage is poured from the pouring part 10c into the cup C.

[0042] When the extraction of the coffee beverage is completed, the inside of the extraction container 9 is cleaned. When discharging the waste liquid and residue (ground beans) during cleaning, the flow path is switched to the waste tank T. The switching valve 10a is a 3-port ball valve in this embodiment. During cleaning, since the residue passes through the switching valve 10a, the ball valve is suitable for the switching valve 10a, and the motor 10b rotates its rotating shaft to switch the flow path.

[0043] Next, the liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 shown in FIG. 1 will be described in more detail.

[0044] FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of the liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 shown in FIG. 1 as viewed obliquely from above, FIG. 4 is an external perspective view of the liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 shown in FIG. 1 as viewed obliquely from below on the side opposite to FIG. 3, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 shown in FIG. 3 taken along the line A-A' shown in FIG. 3, and FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 shown in FIG. 1.

[0045] The liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 has a tank 720a and a water level sensor 72c. In FIG. 3, the water level sensor 72c is shown on the right side of the figure, but in FIG. 4 viewed from the side opposite to FIG. 3, the water level sensor 72c is shown on the left side of the figure.

[0046] Also, as described above, the liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 is a device having a function of delivering a certain amount of hot water. Thereby, the hot water required for one cup of coffee beverage is sequentially delivered. Moreover, the amount of hot water for one cup to be delivered can be changed.

[0047] The tank 720a is generally cylindrical in shape, and the outer wall of the tank 720a includes a peripheral wall 721, an upper wall 723 joined to the upper end of the peripheral wall 721, and a bottom wall 724 joined to the lower end of the peripheral wall 721. Also, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a partition wall 722 is provided inside the tank 720a, and its internal space is partitioned by the partition wall 722 into a cylindrical outer space 725 and an inner cylindrical inner space 726A. The partition wall 722 is a cylindrical wall body arranged concentrically with the peripheral wall 721, but the partition wall 722 may be eccentric with respect to the peripheral wall 721.

[0048] The outer space 725 constitutes a storage part for storing hot water and corresponds to an example of a storage space. The outer space 725 is also referred to as the storage part 725. A movable member 727c is arranged above the inner space 726A, and the lower space 726 below it constitutes a metering part for metering hot water. This lower space 726 is also referred to as the metering part 726. By partitioning the storage part 725 and the metering part 726 with a partition wall 722 which is a common wall, the size of the tank 720a can be reduced compared to partitioning with separate walls.

[0049] The storage part 725 is provided with a heater 72a for heating the water in the storage part 725 and a temperature sensor 72b for measuring the temperature of the water. As shown in FIG. 5, the heater 72a has a vertical part 72a1 extending downward from the upper wall 723 along the cylindrical partition wall 722, and a heating part 72a2 that spirally winds around the lower half of the partition wall 722 along the partition wall 722 with a gap from the partition wall 722. This heating part 72a2 is of a direct heating type that directly touches and heats the hot water (water). As shown in FIG. 6, the lowermost end 72ab of the heating part 72a2 is separated from the bottom wall 724. In FIG. 6, the vertical (height direction) interval between the lowermost end 72ab of the heating part 72a2 and the bottom wall 724 is represented by an arrow G1.

[0050] The temperature sensor 72b is a thermocouple and is inserted into the storage part 725 from the upper wall 723 and extends toward the bottom wall 724. The measurement part (contact point) 72b1 which is the tip of the temperature sensor 72b is located inside the heating part 72a2 of the heater 72a, that is, between the heating part 72a2 and the cylindrical partition wall 722. Note that the measurement part 72b1 may be located outside the heating part 72a2 of the heater 72a, that is, between the heating part 72a2 and the peripheral wall 721.

[0051] Also, when the heating part 72a2 is divided into three in the vertical direction such as upper, middle, and lower, the measurement part 72b1 is arranged at the height position of the middle part of the heating part 72a2.

[0052] As described above, the processing unit 11a shown in FIG. 2 controls the on / off of the heater 72a based on the detection result of the temperature sensor 72b, and maintains the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit 725 at a predetermined temperature (for example, 120°C).

[0053] As shown in FIG. 4, a pressure inlet 72p is provided in the upper wall 723 at the portion that defines the storage unit 725. A pipe through which the air pressure in the reserve tank 71 (see FIG. 1) is supplied is connected to this pressure inlet 72p, and FIG. 6 also shows a pressure control solenoid valve 72f provided in this pipe. Further, the liquid feed amount adjustment device 72 includes a pressure sensor 72g (see FIG. 1) that detects the air pressure in the storage unit 725, and the pressure control solenoid valve 72f switches between supplying and blocking the air pressure regulated by the pressure regulating valve 72e (see FIG. 1) to the storage unit 725. The pressure control solenoid valve 72f is controlled to open and close so that the air pressure in the storage unit 725 is maintained at a predetermined air pressure.

[0054] Also, a pipe that communicates the storage unit 725 with the atmosphere is connected to the upper wall 723 at the portion that defines the storage unit 725, and a pressure release solenoid valve 72h is provided here. The pressure release solenoid valve 72h switches whether to release the inside of the storage unit 725 to the atmosphere, and releases the inside of the storage unit 725 to the atmosphere during depressurization. The pressure release solenoid valve 72h releases the storage unit 725 to the atmosphere when the air pressure in the storage unit 725 exceeds a predetermined air pressure, and maintains the storage unit 725 at the predetermined air pressure.

[0055] Furthermore, a water supply port 72w is provided in the upper wall 723 at the portion that defines the storage unit 725. As shown in FIG. 6, a pipe L2 that supplies tap water to the storage unit 725 is connected to this water supply port 72w, and a water supply solenoid valve 72d is provided here. The water supply solenoid valve 72d is controlled to open and close based on the detection result of a water level sensor 72c described later, and controls the water level of the hot water in the storage unit 725.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 4, a hot water discharge port 72x is provided in a portion of the bottom wall 724 that defines the storage portion 725. As shown in FIG. 6, a pipe L2' for discharging the hot water in the storage portion 725 is connected to the hot water discharge port 72x, and a drain solenoid valve 72q is provided here. The drain solenoid valve 72q is opened when the hot water in the storage portion 725 is to be discarded, and the hot water in the storage portion 725 is discharged into the pipe L2'.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the metering portion 726 is a space whose volume can be changed by the movement of the movable member 727c. In FIGS. 5 and 6, the movable member 727c is in the highest position, and the metering portion 726 is in a state where the maximum volume is secured.

[0058] The liquid supply amount adjusting device 72 includes a three-way solenoid valve 728, a storage side pipe 728a, a metering side pipe 728b, and an extraction side pipe 728c. Hot water is supplied to the metering portion 726 from the storage portion 725 via the storage side pipe 728a, the three-way solenoid valve 728, and the metering side pipe 728b. A more detailed description of the metering portion 726 will be given later.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 4, a storage side hot water supply port 72y is provided in a portion of the bottom wall 724 that defines the storage portion 725. The storage side hot water supply port 72y is provided inside (on the partition wall 722 side) of the heating portion 72a2, but may be provided outside (on the peripheral wall 721 side) of the heating portion 72a2. The storage side pipe 728a is connected to the storage side hot water supply port 72y and connects between the storage side hot water supply port 72y and the three-way solenoid valve 728.

[0060] Also, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a flow path forming pipe 74 is provided in the storage portion 725, one end of which is the outlet 741 and the other end of which is connected to the storage side hot water supply port 72y. Although the flow path forming pipe 74 has a bent shape due to installation space and space securing during maintenance, etc., it may be linear. The flow path formed by the flow path forming pipe 74 connects the outlet 741 above the bottom wall 724 and the bottom wall 724. Also, the flow path that continues from the flow path forming pipe 74 through the storage side hot water supply port 72y to the storage side pipe 728a extends from the inside to the outside of the storage portion 725 (storage space). In this embodiment, the direction of this flow path is from above to below, but it is not limited to this direction, and it may be in the opposite direction (from below to above), or in an oblique direction, or in a horizontal direction.

[0061] The flow path forming pipe 74, the storage side hot water supply port 72y, the storage side pipe 728a, and the three-way solenoid valve 728 have the function of sending the hot water stored in the storage portion 725 outside the storage portion 725.

[0062] Further, the flow path forming pipe 74 is for raising the height position of the port (outlet 741) into which the stored hot water flows when sending the hot water stored in the storage portion 725 outside the storage portion 725. In this embodiment, the outlet 741 is provided above the lowermost end 72ab of the heating portion 72a2. The hot water below the lowermost end 72ab of the heating portion 72a2 has a high density because the temperature is low and it is difficult to warm up, and it is difficult to enter the outlet 741. Note that the hot water below the lowermost end 72ab of the heating portion 72a2 can be discharged from the hot water discharge port 72x provided in the bottom wall 724. Also, more than the upper half of the flow path forming pipe 74 is located above the lowermost end 72ab of the heating portion 72a2, and while the hot water flowing in from the outlet 741 passes through this portion, it can be warmed by the heat from the heating portion 72a2 and the temperature drop can be avoided.

[0063] The measurement part (contact point) 72b1, which is the tip of the temperature sensor 72b, is located near the outlet 741 of the flow path forming pipe 74. To explain in more detail, as shown in FIG. 6, the measurement part 72b1 is at a position higher than the outlet 741. In FIG. 6, the difference in the height direction between the two is represented by the arrow G2. When the measurement part 72b1 is at a position higher than the outlet 741 and the length of this height direction difference becomes long (when the measurement part 72b1 is too high relative to the outlet 741), the temperature of the hot water flowing into the outlet 741 becomes much lower than the measured temperature of the measurement part 72b1, and insufficient heating of the hot water sent out from the storage part 725 becomes a problem. Originally, the measurement part 72b1 is preferably at the same height position as the outlet 741. However, due to problems such as the arrangement space of the outlet 741 and maintenance, in this embodiment, the measurement part 72b1 and the outlet 741 cannot be provided at the same height position, and the height position of the measurement part 72b1 and the height position of the outlet 741 are brought closer so that the length of the height direction difference represented by the arrow G2 is shorter than the length of the height direction interval represented by the arrow G1. Also, the outlet 741 is circular, and it is more preferable that the measurement part 72b1 is at a position within the length of the diameter of the outlet 741 from the outlet 741.

[0064] Note that the measurement part 72b1 may be at a position lower than the outlet 741. However, when the measurement part 72b1 is at a position lower than the outlet 741 and the length of the height direction difference between the measurement part 72b1 and the outlet 741 becomes long (when the measurement part 72b1 is too low relative to the outlet 741), the temperature of the hot water flowing into the outlet 741 becomes much higher than the measured temperature of the measurement part 72b1, and overheating of the hot water sent out from the storage part 725 becomes a problem. For this reason, it is preferable that the length of the height direction difference (see arrow G2) between the measurement part 72b1 and the outlet 741 is shorter than the length of the height direction interval represented by the arrow G1.

[0065] With the configuration described above, the measurement part 72b1 measures the temperature of the hot water near the height position of the outlet 741. As a result, the hot water temperature-controlled by the processing part 11a shown in FIG. 2 is sent out from the storage part 725, and the variation in the temperature of the sent liquid can be suppressed.

[0066] In addition, the liquid outlet 741 is located between the heating unit 72a2 and the partition wall 722, and the liquid outlet 741 is arranged in the vicinity of the heating unit 72a2. Also, the measuring unit 72b1 is located between the heating unit 72a2 and the partition wall 722, and the measuring unit 72b1 is arranged in the vicinity of the heating unit 72a2. Therefore, the liquid outlet 741 and the measuring unit 72b1 are in the vicinity of the heating unit 72a2, and the three can be integrated to control the temperature of the hot water. As a result, the temperature of the hot water flowing into the liquid outlet 741 can be measured. Moreover, the hot water flowing into the liquid outlet 741 is the hot water just heated by the heating unit 72a2, and the variation in the temperature of the discharged hot water can be further suppressed. Although the liquid outlet 741 is arranged farther from the heating unit 72a2 than the measuring unit 72b1, conversely, the measuring unit 72b1 may be arranged farther from the heating unit 72a2 than the liquid outlet 741.

[0067] Here, a modified example of the liquid delivery amount adjusting device 72 shown in FIG. 6 will be described.

[0068] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the modified example of the liquid delivery amount adjusting device in the same manner as FIG. 6. Hereinafter, the components having the same names as the components described so far will be described with the same reference numerals as those used so far. Also, the description of the content overlapping with the content described so far will be omitted.

[0069] The liquid feed amount adjustment device 72 shown in Fig. 7 is an example in which the flow path forming pipe 74 is extended to the highest possible position. As in Fig. 6 in Fig. 7, the movable member 727c is in the highest position, and the metering unit 726 is in a state where the maximum volume is secured. In the storage unit 725, it is necessary to be able to supply an amount of hot water corresponding to this maximum volume. Fig. 7 shows the liquid feed amount adjustment device 72 in a state where the metering unit 726 has been supplied with an amount of hot water corresponding to the above maximum volume, and the flow path forming pipe 74 extends to the water level WL of the storage unit 725 in this state. That is, the liquid outlet 741 is located at the water level WL of the storage unit 725 that has finished supplying an amount of hot water corresponding to the above maximum volume to the metering unit 726. Further, the measurement unit 72b1 is arranged in the vicinity of the liquid outlet 741 while being below and inside (on the side of the partition wall 722) the liquid outlet 741. Therefore, in this modification, the liquid outlet 741 and the measurement unit 72b1 are separated from the heating unit 72a2.

[0070] Returning to the description of the liquid feed amount adjustment device 72 shown in Fig. 6, as shown in Fig. 4, a metering side hot water supply port 72z is provided in the bottom wall 724. The metering side pipe 728b is connected to this metering side hot water supply port 72z. As shown in Figs. 5 and 6, the metering side hot water supply port 72z opens in the portion of the bottom wall 724 that defines the metering unit 726, and nothing is connected inside the metering unit 726. The metering side pipe 728b connects between the metering side hot water supply port 72z and the three-way solenoid valve 728.

[0071] The three-way solenoid valve 728 is provided with an extraction side hot water supply port 728d. As shown in Fig. 6, an extraction side pipe 728c for sending the hot water in the metering unit 726 to the extraction container 9 is connected to this extraction side hot water supply port 728d. Although not shown in Fig. 6, a check valve 72j and a solenoid valve 72i (see Fig. 1) are provided in the extraction side pipe 728c.

[0072] The three-way solenoid valve 728 can switch the communication and cutoff between the metering side pipe 728b and the storage side pipe 728a, and can also switch the communication and cutoff between the metering side pipe 728b and the extraction side pipe 728c. Further, the three-way solenoid valve 728 can cutoff any two pipes from each other.

[0073] By switching the communication and cutoff between the metering-side pipe 728b and the storage-side pipe 728a with the three-way solenoid valve 728, the communication and cutoff between the storage section 725 and the metering section 726 can be switched. Also, by switching the communication and cutoff between the metering-side pipe 728b and the extraction-side pipe 728c with the three-way solenoid valve 728, the delivery of hot water in the metering section 726 to the extraction container 9 and the storage in the metering section 726 can be switched.

[0074] When the storage-side pipe 728a and the metering-side pipe 728b are in communication, the three-way solenoid valve 728 shuts off the communication between the metering-side pipe 728b and the extraction-side pipe 728c. Conversely, when the metering-side pipe 728b and the extraction-side pipe 728c are in communication, the three-way solenoid valve 728 shuts off the communication between the storage-side pipe 728a and the metering-side pipe 728b. The arrow in the three-way solenoid valve 728 shown in Fig. 6 indicates the hot water supply operation state of the three-way solenoid valve 728 that connects the metering-side pipe 728b and the extraction-side pipe 728c and shuts off the communication between the storage-side pipe 728a and the metering-side pipe 728b.

[0075] Note that instead of the three-way solenoid valve 728, a configuration can also be adopted in which the metering-side pipe 728b is divided into two, and a valve for switching the communication and cutoff between one metering-side pipe 728b and the storage-side pipe 728a, and a valve for switching the communication and cutoff between the other metering-side pipe 728b and the extraction-side pipe 728c are provided.

[0076] Furthermore, the liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 includes a drive unit 727. Depending on the size of the coffee cup, the required amount of hot water for one cup is different. The drive unit 727 adjusts the volume of the metering section 726 so that an appropriate amount of hot water is delivered from the metering section 726 corresponding to the size of such a coffee cup and the like.

[0077] The drive unit 727 is a mechanism that changes the volume of the metering unit 726 by moving the movable member 727c shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 up and down. The movable member 727c is a piston-shaped member that is inserted into the inner space 726A and configured to slide in the vertical direction, and its bottom surface 727cb constitutes the upper wall of the metering unit 726. As the bottom surface 727cb moves up and down, the volume of the metering unit 726 changes.

[0078] Note that the volume of the metering unit 726 may be changed not by moving the position of the upper wall (bottom surface 727cb), but by moving the position of the lower or side wall.

[0079] The movable member 727c includes a seal member (not shown) that forms a seal with the inner surface of the partition wall and slides on the inner surface of the partition wall in a liquid-tight manner. However, as shown in FIG. 6, a groove 727e extending in the vertical direction is formed on the peripheral surface of the movable member 727c, and there is a gap between the inner surface of the partition wall in the groove 727e. This groove 727e is an opening 722 a that communicates with the opening 722 a is formed at a position above the highest water level of the hot water in the storage unit 725 (the position of the upper sensor 731h described later), and is an air communication part that communicates the storage unit 725 and the inner space 726A. Through the opening 722 a and the groove 727e, the storage unit 725 and the metering unit 726 communicate with each other, and the air pressure in these spaces becomes the same. When the storage unit 725 and the metering unit 726 are always at atmospheric pressure, passages communicating with the atmosphere may be provided individually.

[0080] Also, as shown in FIG. 6, the drive unit 727 includes a hot water amount adjustment motor 727a supported by the upper wall 723 as a drive source, and a screw shaft (lead screw) 727b as a moving mechanism for moving the movable member 727c. The screw shaft 727b extends in the vertical direction and rotates by the driving force of the hot water amount adjustment motor 727a via the transmission gear 727g. A rotation sensor 727s for detecting the rotation speed of the screw shaft 727b is provided at the head of the screw shaft 727b. The movable member 727c has a screw hole 727f opened on its upper surface, and the screw shaft 727b is screwed into the screw hole 727f. The movable member 727c is provided so as not to be rotatable around the axis, and the movable member 727c moves in the vertical direction by the rotation of the screw shaft 727b. The processing unit 11a shown in FIG. 2 grasps the vertical position of the movable member 727c based on the detection result of the rotation sensor 727s provided at the head of the screw shaft 727b. Therefore, the rotation sensor 727s corresponds to a position detection sensor of the movable member 727c. Note that the processing unit 11a may calculate the rotation speed of the hot water amount adjustment motor 727a and grasp the vertical position of the movable member 727c from the calculated rotation speed.

[0081] Note that, as a moving mechanism for moving the movable member 727c, instead of the screw mechanism including the screw shaft 727b and the screw hole 727f, other mechanisms such as a rack - pinion mechanism can also be adopted.

[0082] The water level sensor 72c is a measurement unit that measures the water level of the hot water in the storage unit 725. The water level sensor 72c includes a hollow cylindrical pipe member 729 extending vertically, a float 730 (see FIG. 6) provided in the pipe member 729, an upper sensor 731h for detecting the float 730, a lower sensor 731l, and a middle sensor 731m arranged in the middle of these two sensors.

[0083] The pipe member 729 communicates with the storage unit 725 at a communication portion 729a located below the lower sensor 731l. The hot water in the storage unit 725 flows into the pipe member 729 through the communication portion 729a, and the water level of the hot water in the pipe member 729 becomes equal to the water level of the hot water in the storage unit 725.

[0084] The pipe member 729 may be composed of a transmissive member such as glass or acrylic. By doing so, the water level of the hot water in the pipe member 729 can be visually recognized from the outside, and as a result, the user can confirm the water level of the hot water in the storage unit 725. Of course, a configuration in which a transmissive portion is provided in a part of the peripheral wall 721 of the storage unit 725 so that the water level can be visually recognized is also adoptable.

[0085] The float 730 may be any type as long as it floats on the hot water inside the pipe member 729. The float 730 shown in FIG. 6 has its buoyancy adjusted so that the upper surface 730t is substantially the same as the water level WL (strictly speaking, the upper surface 730t is slightly higher). In FIG. 6, the water level WL in the storage unit 725 is at the full level, and the upper end portion of the float 730 is detected by the upper sensor 731h, but the lower end is not in contact with the middle sensor 731m and is not detected.

[0086] The upper sensor 731h, the middle sensor 731m, and the lower sensor 731l are, for example, optical sensors (photo interrupters) that detect the float 730 from outside the pipe member 729.

[0087] It is also possible to construct a configuration equivalent to the water level sensor 72c inside the storage unit 725.

[0088] In the above description, a storage tank having a storage space for storing a liquid [for example, the storage unit 725], a supply unit for supplying the liquid to the storage space [for example, the water supply solenoid valve 72d and the water supply port 72w], a heating unit for directly heating the liquid stored in the storage space [for example, the heating unit 72a2], and a heater [for example, the heater 72a] in which the heating unit is disposed at a position spaced upward from the bottom surface [for example, the bottom wall 724] of the storage tank, a delivery unit for delivering the stored liquid to the outside [for example, the flow path forming pipe 74, the storage side hot water supply port 72y, the storage side pipe 728a, and the three-way solenoid valve 728], A measuring unit that measures the temperature of the stored liquid [for example, the measuring unit 72b1 of the temperature sensor 72b], Control means [for example, the processing unit 11a] that performs control to store a liquid at a certain temperature in the storage tank by operating each of the supply unit and the heater, The control means controls the heater based on the measurement result of the measuring unit, The delivery unit includes a delivery port [for example, the delivery port 741] into which the stored liquid flows, and a flow path [for example, a flow path that continues from the flow path forming pipe 74 through the storage side hot water supply port 72y to the storage side pipe 728a] through which the liquid flowing in from the delivery port flows outward, The flow path extends from the inside to the outside of the storage space [for example, extends from above to below], The delivery port [for example, the delivery port 741] is arranged to be located above the lower end [for example, the lowermost end 72ab] of the heating unit, The measuring unit [for example, the measuring unit 72b1 of the temperature sensor 72b] measures the temperature of the liquid in the vicinity of the height position of the delivery port, A storage device characterized by the above. has been described.

[0089] Also, 'The delivery port [for example, the delivery port 741] is arranged in the vicinity of the heating unit [for example, between the heating unit 72a2 and the partition wall 722], A storage device characterized by the above. has also been described.

[0090] Also, 'The storage tank [for example, the storage unit 725] has a discharge port [for example, the hot water discharge port 72x] for discharging the stored liquid to the bottom surface [for example, the bottom wall 724], A storage device characterized by the above. has also been described.

[0091] Also, The storage space is a space provided between an inner peripheral wall [for example, partition wall 722] and an outer peripheral wall [for example, peripheral wall 721], The heating unit [for example, heating unit 72a2] is arranged spirally along the inner peripheral wall, A part of the flow path is located above the lower end [for example, the lowermost end 72ab] of the heating unit, which is a characteristic of the storage device. has also been described.

[0092] Also, A part of the flow path [for example, the flow path formed by the flow path forming pipe 74 and continuing to the storage side piping 728a through the storage side hot water supply port 72y] is connected to a position above the bottom surface [for example, the bottom wall 724] and the bottom surface, which is a characteristic of the storage device. has also been described.

[0093] Also, A beverage manufacturing device characterized by including the above storage device. has also been described.

[0094] Subsequently, a single coffee beverage manufacturing cycle will be described.

[0095] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of control processing in a single coffee beverage manufacturing cycle.

[0096] The control processing shown in FIG. 8 is executed by the processing unit 11a shown in FIG. 2.

[0097] The beverage manufacturing device 1 before the manufacturing instruction is in a standby state. In the standby state, when there is an instruction to manufacture a coffee beverage, first, a hot water amount setting process (step S1) for adjusting the volume of the measuring unit 726 that measures the amount of hot water necessary for injection into the extraction container 9 is executed based on the recipe according to the manufacturing instruction. A detailed description of this hot water amount setting process will be described later.

[0098] Following step S1, a preheating process (step S2) is carried out. This preheating process involves pouring hot water into the extraction container 9 to preheat the extraction container 9 and other components. That is, the inside of the extraction container 9, the downstream portion of pipe L2, and pipe L3 are preheated, thereby preventing the hot water from cooling down during the subsequent production of a coffee beverage. The hot water used in the preheating process is discharged into waste tank T.

[0099] Next, a hot water metering process (step S3) is performed to supply hot water to the metering unit 726. This hot water metering process will be described in detail later. A grinding process (step S4) is also performed to grind the roasted coffee beans and feed the ground beans into the extraction container 9. The hot water metering process and the grinding process are started first and then the grinding process, respectively, but there is a period when both processes are performed in parallel. The grinding process may be started first and then the hot water metering process, or both processes may be started simultaneously. Alternatively, the grinding process may be started after the hot water metering process has finished, or conversely, the hot water metering process may be started after the grinding process has finished.

[0100] Next, the extraction process (step S5) is performed. Here, coffee liquid is extracted from the ground beans in the extraction container 9. In the extraction process, hot water for one cup is poured into the extraction container 9. Depending on the recipe, the ground beans in the extraction container 9 may be steamed first. When steaming the ground beans, hot water for steaming is poured into the extraction container 9 first, the ground beans are steamed for a predetermined time, and then the remaining hot water is poured into the extraction container 9. After pouring one cup's worth of hot water into the extraction container 9, the coffee liquid is extracted while adjusting the air pressure inside the extraction container 9. Finally, the switching valve 10a shown in FIG. 1 is switched to connect the pouring section 10c and the extraction container 9, and the coffee beverage is delivered to cup C.

[0101] After the extraction process, a discharge process (step S6) is performed. The discharge process is a process related to cleaning the inside of the extraction container 9. In this discharge process, a cleaning liquid is supplied to the extraction container 9, and then the inside of the extraction container 9 is pressurized and the liquid inside the extraction container 9 is discharged into a waste tank T together with the ground coffee residue.

[0102] This completes one coffee beverage production cycle. Thereafter, a similar production cycle is repeated for each production instruction. The time required to produce one coffee beverage is, for example, approximately 60 to 90 seconds.

[0103] Next, a detailed description will be given of various processes, focusing on the liquid delivery rate adjustment device 72. The description here will cover the flow when the main power of the beverage production device 1 is turned on, an instruction to produce the first coffee beverage is given, and the coffee beverage production cycle described using Figure 8 is executed.

[0104] FIG. 9 is a timing chart from the initial state of the liquid feed rate regulator 72 to the completion of the first water feed.

[0105] 9 shows multiple timing charts, and above them are cross-sectional diagrams showing the state of the liquid delivery rate regulator 72 in each state. In these cross-sectional diagrams, the state in which the heating section 72a2 of the heater 72a has stopped heating is shown as white (the same applies to Figures 11 to 12).

[0106] In the multiple timing charts in Figure 9, time passes from left to right as indicated by the arrow t at the bottom, and the horizontal axis is the time axis, but the width of the time axis is not constant, and even if the width is the same, it may represent different lengths of time (the same applies to Figures 12 to 13).

[0107] Also, the multiple timing charts in FIG. 9 show, from top to bottom, a timing chart representing the operation and stop of the hot water amount adjustment motor 727a, a timing chart representing whether the detection result of the rotation sensor 727s (position detection sensor for the movable member 727c) is the detection result when the movable member 727c is at a preset position (set position) or not (other than the set position). Below that, there are shown a timing chart representing whether the upper sensor 731h is detecting the float 730 (ON) or not (OFF), a timing chart representing whether the middle sensor 731m is detecting the float 730 (ON) or not (OFF), and a timing chart representing whether the lower sensor 731l is detecting the float 730 (ON) or not (OFF). Further below that, there are shown a timing chart representing whether the water supply solenoid valve 72d is in an open state or a closed state, a timing chart representing whether the pressurization solenoid valve 72f is in an open state or a closed state, and a timing chart representing whether the pressure release solenoid valve 72h is in an open state or a closed state. Still further below that, there are shown a timing chart representing whether the three-way solenoid valve 728 is operating in the hot water metering operation where the storage side pipe 728a and the metering side pipe 728b are in communication and the metering side pipe 728b and the extraction side pipe 728c are blocked, or the hot water metering operation is stopped, and a timing chart representing whether the three-way solenoid valve 728 is operating in the hot water supply operation where the metering side pipe 728b and the extraction side pipe 728c are in communication and the storage side pipe 728a and the metering side pipe 728b are blocked, or the hot water supply operation is stopped. Even further below that, there are shown a timing chart representing whether the heater 72a is operating in the heating operation or the heating operation is stopped, a timing chart representing whether the measurement result of the temperature sensor 72b is the target temperature or less than the target temperature, and a timing chart representing whether the measurement result of the pressure sensor 72g shown in FIG. 1 is the target pressure or less than the target pressure.

[0108] (1) shows the initial state of the liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72. In this initial state, the tank 720a stores no water (hot water) and is in an empty state. The float 730 is in the lowest state, detected by the lower sensor 731l but not detected by the middle sensor 731m and the upper sensor 731h. Note that in the initial state, the structure may be such that the float 730 is not detected by the lower sensor 731l. The hot water amount adjustment motor 727a is stopped. The movable member 727c is in the highest position, and the metering unit 726 is in a state where the maximum volume is secured. Here, the preset setting position of the movable member 727c is not the highest position but a position lower than that (for example, the position where the volume of the metering unit 726 becomes 180 ml). Therefore, the detection result of the rotation sensor 727s (the position detection sensor of the movable member 727c) is the detection result that the movable member 727c is at a position other than the setting position. Various solenoid valves (72d, 72f, 72h) are in the closed state, and the three-way solenoid valve 728 is also in the fully closed state (stop state). The heater 72a has also stopped its heating operation, the measurement result of the temperature sensor 72b is lower than the target temperature, and the measurement result of the pressure sensor 72g is lower than the target temperature.

[0109] In (2), the processing unit 11a shown in FIG. 2 opens the water supply solenoid valve 72d, and water supply is started. In the water supply from the initial state, water supply is not performed up to the full level of the storage unit 725, but water supply is performed up to the remaining level lower than the full level. The remaining level here refers to the level of the hot water remaining in the storage unit 725 after one coffee beverage production cycle shown in FIG. 8 is performed from the full level. For example, the full level of the storage unit 725 is about 1000 ml, and the amount of hot water required for one coffee beverage production cycle shown in FIG. 8 is about 250 ml to 330 ml. The breakdown of the amount of hot water required for one coffee beverage production cycle is as follows. First, in the preheating process (step S2) shown in FIG. 8, the required amount of hot water varies depending on the temperature of the extraction container 9, but about 50 to 80 ml is required. The amount of hot water for one cup required in the extraction process (step S5) shown in FIG. 8 varies depending on the recipe, but about 150 to 200 ml is required. Further, in the discharge process (step S6) shown in FIG. 8, about 50 ml is required as the amount of hot water for cleaning. Then, the amount of hot water remaining in the storage unit 725 after one coffee beverage production cycle is performed from the full state is about 670 ml to 750 ml. Here, the water level of the remaining level is set to the water level of 700 ml, and water supply is performed up to this remaining level.

[0110] Also, in the feed water, the air pressure in the storage unit 725 is maintained at the target air pressure. The target air pressure here is the first air pressure (for example, 150 kPa (1.48 atmospheres)). The processing unit 11a sets the air pressure in the storage unit 725 to the first air pressure at the timing when the feed water starts, opens the pressurizing solenoid valve 72f, and increases the air pressure in the storage unit 725. During the feed water, if the air pressure in the storage unit 725 is high, water will not enter the storage unit 725. Therefore, the air pressure at which water can be fed into the storage unit 725 is set as the first air pressure. Thus, the first air pressure is not limited to 150 kPa, and any air pressure at which water can be fed into the storage unit 725 is acceptable. For example, it may be the same air pressure as the atmospheric pressure. Or, it may be an air pressure equal to or higher than the atmospheric pressure. In (2), the float 730 was not detected by the middle sensor 731m and the upper sensor 731h. However, in (3), the water level in the storage unit 725 rises, and the float 730 is detected by both the lower sensor 731l and the middle sensor 731m. Also, in (3), the measurement result of the pressure sensor 72g becomes the first air pressure which is the target pressure, and the processing unit 11a closes the pressurizing solenoid valve 72f. During the feed water, the air pressure in the storage unit 725 tends to increase. In the timing chart shown in FIG. 9, the pressure release solenoid valve 72h remains closed. However, the period indicated by the two-dot chain line represents the period during which the processing unit 11a performs automatic opening and closing control of the release solenoid valve 72h to maintain the target air pressure (the same until FIG. 12). Automatic opening and closing control means that the processing unit 11a repeatedly opens and closes the solenoid valve. During the period when the target air pressure is maintained, the processing unit 11a does not open and close the solenoid valve (the same in the following description). In (2)-(4), the processing unit 11a performs automatic opening and closing control of the pressure release solenoid valve 72h to maintain the first air pressure. On the other hand, the period indicated by the one-dot chain line in the timing chart shown in FIG. 9 represents the period during which the processing unit 11a performs automatic opening and closing control of the pressurizing solenoid valve 72f to maintain the target air pressure (the same until FIG. 12). In (3)-(4), the processing unit 11a performs automatic opening and closing control of the pressurizing solenoid valve 72f to maintain the first air pressure.

[0111] When water is supplied up to the remaining level of 700 ml, as shown in (4), the bottom end of float 730 passes through lower sensor 731l and is no longer detected by lower sensor 731l. Note that the top end of float 730 is detected by middle sensor 731m. When lower sensor 731l no longer detects float 730, processing unit 11a determines that water supply to the remaining level has been completed, closes water supply solenoid valve 72d, and temporarily stops water supply. Note that whether water supply to the remaining level has been completed may be monitored by a dedicated sensor, or may be determined based on the elapsed time since water supply began.

[0112] FIG. 10 is a timing chart continuing from FIG.

[0113] 10 shows heating to the first target temperature and re-supplying of water after the water supply to the remaining level is completed. In (5), the processing unit 11a sets the first target temperature (e.g., 100°C) and causes the heating unit 72a2 of the heater 72a to start heating, heating the water stored up to the remaining level to the first target temperature. Up until now, the heater 72a has stopped heating, and in the cross-sectional diagrams (1) to (4), the state in which the heater 72a has stopped heating is represented by the heating unit 72a2 being painted white. In the cross-sectional diagram (5), the state in which the heater 72a is performing heating is represented by the heating unit 72a2 being painted black. During heating to the first target temperature, the pressure inside the storage unit 725 is maintained at the first atmospheric pressure. During heating, the air pressure in the storage section 725 tends to increase, and during heating, the processing section 11a automatically controls the opening and closing of the pressure release solenoid valve 72h to maintain the first air pressure, as shown by the two-dot chain line.

[0114] In (6), the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 72b reaches the first target temperature. When the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 72b reaches the first target temperature, the processing unit 11a stops the heating operation of the heater 72a. In this way, heating of the water stored up to the remaining level to the first target temperature is completed, and then re-supply of water is started.

[0115] In (7), the processing unit 11a opens the water supply solenoid valve 72d, and water replenishment begins. During this replenishment, water is supplied up to the full tank level of the storage unit 725. The air pressure inside the storage unit 725 is maintained at the first atmospheric pressure even during water replenishment. As described above, the air pressure inside the storage unit 725 tends to increase during water supply. Therefore, even during water replenishment, the processing unit 11a automatically controls the opening and closing of the pressure release solenoid valve 72h to maintain the first atmospheric pressure, as indicated by the two-dot chain line. Furthermore, when water replenishment begins, the float 730 rises, and its upper end reaches the upper sensor 731h, where it is detected by the upper sensor 731h. As water replenishment continues and the float 730 rises further, the lower end of the float 730 passes through the middle sensor 731m and is no longer detected by the middle sensor 731m. The processing unit 11a determines that water supply to the full tank level has been completed when the medium sensor 731m no longer detects the float 730, closes the water supply solenoid valve 72d, and ends the water supply. Note that whether water supply to the full tank level has been completed may be monitored by a dedicated sensor, or may be determined based on the elapsed time since the start of re-supply of water.

[0116] When the tank is full, the target pressure in the storage section 725 is set to a second atmospheric pressure, which is higher than the first atmospheric pressure. The second atmospheric pressure is, for example, 210 kPa (2.07 atmospheres), which is higher than atmospheric pressure. The second atmospheric pressure may be the same as the first atmospheric pressure. In (8), the processing section 11a opens the pressurizing electromagnetic valve 72f to increase the air pressure in the storage section 725. At the end of (8), the measurement result of the pressure sensor 72g reaches the second atmospheric pressure, which is the target pressure, and the processing section 11a closes the pressurizing electromagnetic valve 72f.

[0117] FIG. 11 is a timing chart continuing from FIG.

[0118] FIG. 11 shows heating to a second target temperature after water has been supplied to the full tank level and setting of the amount of hot water in the metering unit 726. In (9), the processing unit 11a sets a second target temperature higher than the first target temperature and causes the heating unit 72a2 of the heater 72a to start heating. In the cross-sectional view shown in (9), the state in which the heater 72a is performing the heating operation is also represented by the heating unit 72a2 being painted black. Here, the water stored to the full tank level is heated to a second target temperature (e.g., 120°C). The second target temperature is a temperature higher than 100°C. Because the air pressure in the storage unit 725 is increased to a second air pressure higher than atmospheric pressure, it is possible to heat the water stored to the full tank level to the second target temperature. However, the first target temperature and the second target temperature may be the same temperature. Even during heating to the second target temperature, the air pressure inside the storage section 725 tends to increase, and in (9), as shown by the dotted line, the processing section 11a automatically controls the opening and closing of the pressure release solenoid valve 72h to maintain the second air pressure.

[0119] In (10), the temperature detected by temperature sensor 72b reaches the second target temperature. When the temperature detected by temperature sensor 72b reaches the second target temperature, processing unit 11a temporarily stops the heating operation of heater 72a. In this way, heating of the hot water stored up to the full tank level to the second target temperature is completed, and hot water preparation is complete. When hot water preparation is complete, processing unit 11a maintains the air pressure inside storage unit 725 at the second atmospheric pressure and maintains the full tank level hot water at the second target temperature, while waiting for an instruction to make the first coffee beverage. In the timing chart shown in FIG. 11, after the second target temperature is reached, heater 72a stops its heating operation, but the period indicated by the dotted line indicates the period during which processing unit 11a performs automatic heating control of heater 72a to maintain the second target temperature (the same applies to FIG. 12). Automatic heating control refers to on / off control of the heater 72a in which the processing unit 11a repeatedly turns on the heater 72a when the hot water temperature drops to 118°C and turns off the heater 72a when the hot water temperature rises to 120°C, and the processing unit 11a does not turn the heater 72a on / off during the period in which the second target temperature is maintained (the same applies in the following explanations).

[0120] When there is an instruction to manufacture the first coffee beverage, the hot water amount setting process of step S1 shown in FIG. 8 is executed. In (11), based on the manufacturing instruction (recipe), the setting of the hot water amount in the metering unit 726 is started. If there is an instruction to manufacture the first coffee beverage before the hot water preparation is completed (for example, if there is an instruction to manufacture the first coffee beverage before the heating to the first target temperature is completed, etc.), the hot water amount setting process is started immediately when the hot water preparation is completed. In the hot water amount setting process, the processing unit 11a operates the hot water amount adjustment motor 727a to lower the movable member 727c to the set position (here, the position where the volume of the metering unit 726 becomes 180 ml). In (12), the rotation sensor 727s (the position detection sensor of the movable member 727c) detects that the movable member 727c has reached the set position, and the processing unit 11a stops the hot water amount adjustment motor 727a. As a result, the volume of the metering unit 726 is ensured to be 180 ml, the setting of the hot water amount of 180 ml is completed, and the hot water amount setting process ends. Note that there is no change in the air pressure in the storage unit 725 during the hot water amount setting process.

[0121] FIG. 12 is a timing chart following FIG. 11.

[0122] This FIG. 12 shows the supply of hot water from the storage unit 725 to the metering unit 726 where the setting of the hot water amount of 180 ml is completed, and then the supply of hot water from the metering unit 726 to the extraction container 9 shown in FIG. 1.

[0123] Although not shown in the timing chart shown in FIG. 12, the processing unit 11a executes the preheating process of step S2 shown in FIG. 8 before (13). Here, 70 ml of hot water is used for the preheating process. The time required to supply 70 ml of hot water has been obtained in advance. The processing unit 11a controls the opening and closing of the three-way solenoid valve 728 to communicate the storage side pipe 728a and the extraction side pipe 728c for the required time and block the storage side pipe 728a and the measurement side pipe 728b. By doing so, 70 ml of hot water flows into the extraction container 9 through the downstream part of the pipe L2 and the pipe L3 shown in FIG. 1, is discharged to the waste tank T, the extraction container 9 and the pipe are preheated, and the hot water or water remaining in the pipe is also discharged to the waste tank T. When the preheating process is completed, the hot water measurement process of step S3 shown in FIG. 8 is executed. In (13), the processing unit 11a starts the hot water measurement operation of the three-way solenoid valve 728 as the hot water measurement process. That is, the storage side pipe 728a and the measurement side pipe 728b are communicated, and the measurement side pipe 728b and the extraction side pipe 728c are blocked. By doing so, hot water is supplied from the storage unit 725 to the measurement unit 726 in which the setting of the hot water amount of 180 ml is completed. Note that the air pressure in the measurement unit 726 also becomes the second air pressure, and the supply of hot water from the storage unit 725 to the measurement unit 726 here is a supply using the head pressure. When the hot water measurement process is started, the water level in the storage unit 725 starts to decrease. In (13), the float 730 comes to be detected by the middle sensor 731m and then is no longer detected by the upper sensor 731h. In (14), the processing unit 11a determines that the supply of hot water to the measurement unit 726 is completed when a predetermined time (for example, 40 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the hot water measurement operation, ends the hot water measurement operation of the three-way solenoid valve 728, and the 180 ml hot water measurement in the measurement unit 726 is completed. Note that when the supply of hot water to the measurement unit 726 is completed, the measurement unit 726 is filled with hot water, so a full tank detection sensor may be provided in the measurement unit 726. During the hot water measurement process, there is no change in the air pressure in the storage unit 725 and the measurement unit 726. On the other hand, also during the hot water measurement process, as shown by the dotted line, the processing unit 11a performs automatic heating control of the heater 72a to maintain the second target temperature.In the state where the hot water metering process is completed, the float 730 has descended with its lower end slightly above the lower sensor 731l, but it has not been detected by the lower sensor 731l, and the water level in the storage section 725 is 50 ml higher than the remaining level water level shown in (4) of FIG. 9.

[0124] As described above, in the hot water metering process and the grinding process (step S4) shown in FIG. 8, the hot water metering process starts first and the grinding process starts later, but there is a period when both processes are performed in parallel. When the hot water metering process is completed, the grinding process is completed, and the ground beans are put into the extraction container 9, the extraction process (step S5) shown in FIG. 8 is started. In the extraction process, as shown in (15), the processing unit 11a starts the hot water supply operation of the three-way solenoid valve 728. That is, the metering side pipe 728b and the extraction side pipe 728c are communicated, and the storage side pipe 728a and the metering side pipe 728b are blocked. By doing so, the hot water supply from the metering unit 726 to the extraction container 9 shown in FIG. 1 is started. When a predetermined time (for example, 6 seconds) has elapsed since the processing unit 11a started the hot water supply operation of the three-way solenoid valve 728, it is determined that the hot water supply to the extraction container 9 is completed, and the hot water supply operation of the three-way solenoid valve 728 is terminated. The predetermined time here is much shorter than the predetermined time (for example, 40 seconds) in the hot water metering operation because the air pressure in the metering unit 726 is maintained at a second air pressure higher than the atmospheric pressure. Also, as described above, depending on the recipe, the ground beans in the extraction container 9 may be steamed first. When steaming the ground beans, the processing unit 11a starts the hot water supply operation of the three-way solenoid valve 728, injects the steaming hot water from the metering unit 726 into the extraction container 9, once terminates the hot water supply operation when a predetermined time (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed, steams the ground beans for a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds), and then starts the hot water supply operation of the three-way solenoid valve 728 again to inject the remaining hot water in the metering unit 726 into the extraction container 9. The injection time of the remaining hot water in the metering unit 726 into the extraction container 9 is about 3 seconds, for example. In (16), the hot water supply to the extraction container 9 is completed, and as shown in the cross-sectional schematic view, the metering unit 726 is empty.

[0125] During the hot water supply operation of the three-way solenoid valve 728, the air pressure in the metering unit 726 decreases, but no pressurization is performed. When the hot water supply operation is completed, in order to maintain the second air pressure, the processing unit 11a performs automatic opening and closing control of the pressurizing solenoid valve 72f as indicated by the dashed line in (16), and also performs automatic opening and closing control of the pressure release solenoid valve 72h as indicated by the dotted line in (16). Also, when the hot water supply is completed, although not shown in FIG. 12, the processing unit 11a executes the discharge process of step S6 shown in FIG. 8. Here, 50 ml of hot water is used for the discharge process. The time required to supply 50 ml of hot water has been obtained in advance, and the processing unit 11a controls the opening and closing of the three-way solenoid valve 728 to communicate the storage side pipe 728a and the extraction side pipe 728c for the above necessary time and cut off the storage side pipe 728a and the metering side pipe 728b. By doing so, 50 ml of hot water flows into the extraction container 9 through the downstream portion of the pipe L2 shown in FIG. 1 and the pipe L3. Then, the inside of the extraction container 9 is pressurized, and the hot water in the extraction container 9 is discharged together with the ground bean residue to the waste tank T. When this discharge process is completed, the water level in the storage unit 725 drops by 50 ml, and the lower end of the float 730 drops until just before reaching the lower sensor 731l, reaching the same water level as the remaining level water level shown in (4) of FIG. 9.

[0126] Then, after the discharge process is completed, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the water supply from the above remaining level to the full tank level is restarted. In the present embodiment, the above predetermined condition is satisfied when the water level sensor 72c of the storage unit 725 has not detected that it is full (the upper sensor 731h is off and the middle sensor 731m is on) and the water supply timing has arrived. The water supply timing is the timing when the discharge process is completed.

[0127] After the discharge process is completed, the beverage production apparatus 1 enters a standby state until an instruction to produce a coffee beverage is received. During this standby state, preheating is repeatedly performed to warm the extraction container 9 and the like. The timing at which the first preheating is completed after entering the standby state may be set as the timing for supplying water. In this case, one coffee beverage production cycle lasts until the first preheating is completed, and if the amount of hot water required for one preheating is 70 ml, the remaining water level will be 630 ml, and it is preferable to end the first water supply in (4) of Figure 9 when the water level in the reservoir 725 reaches 630 ml.

[0128] Furthermore, in this embodiment, one coffee beverage production cycle is a cycle for producing one cup of coffee beverage, but it may also be a cycle for producing multiple cups of coffee beverage (for example, two cups). That is, in a cycle for producing two cups of coffee beverage, the remaining water level is 400 ml, and it is preferable that the timing for ending the first water supply in Figure 9 (4) be the timing when the water level in storage section 725 reaches 400 ml.

[0129] After the discharge process is completed, the three-way solenoid valve 728 is in a fully closed state (stop state). When a predetermined condition is satisfied, the storage unit 725, which has been maintained at the second air pressure until now, is depressurized to the first air pressure by opening the pressure release solenoid valve 72h. As a result, the temperature of the hot water in the storage unit 725 also drops to the first target temperature. Therefore, the state of the storage unit 725 becomes the same as the state of the storage unit 725 in (6) in the first process. With the air pressure in the storage unit 725 maintained at the first air pressure (for example, 150 kPa (1.48 atm)), water supply from the remaining level to the full level starts again. When the full level is reached, the air pressure in the storage unit 725 is set to the second air pressure, and the hot water stored up to the full level is heated to the second target temperature, reaching the state where the hot water preparation shown in (10) of FIG. 11 is completed. In this embodiment, the rewater supply (7) to (10) of the hot water preparation when filling the tank 720a from an empty state to full and the rewater supply (7) to (10) of the hot water preparation after the manufacturing cycle ends both use the same control program. By doing so, the quality of the coffee beverage becomes more stable. However, although the cycle (process) of the rewater supply (7) to (10) of the hot water preparation is the same, the program for filling from the initial state to full and the program after the manufacturing cycle ends may be separate programs. For example, the program for filling from the initial state to full may be a series of dedicated programs.

[0130] As described above, in the state where the hot water preparation is completed, the air pressure in the storage unit 725 is maintained at the second air pressure, and the hot water stored up to the full level is maintained at the second target temperature. Then, when there is an instruction to manufacture a coffee beverage, preheating, setting the hot water amount in (11) based on the manufacturing instruction (recipe), measuring the hot water in (13), and supplying hot water to the extraction container 9 in (15) are performed. When the hot water supply to the extraction container 9 is completed and the discharge process ends, the state of the storage unit 725 becomes the same as the state of the storage unit 725 in (6) in the first process or returns to a similar state if the amount of hot water required for one coffee beverage manufacturing cycle fluctuates. Thereafter, the above-described processes are repeated.

[0131] When heating water from the initial state where the tank 720a is empty to store water and reach the second target temperature (the first time), unlike this embodiment, even if water is stored from the empty state to the full tank level and then the water at the full tank level (for example, water at 20°C) is heated all at once to the second target temperature (for example, 120°C), after supplying hot water from the full tank level to the extraction container 9 (the second time and later), similar to this embodiment, replenishment water is supplied from the remaining level to the full tank level, and the hot water at the full tank level (for example, hot water at 100°C) is heated to the second target temperature (for example, 120°C). In this case, the liquid volume when starting to supply water is significantly different between the first time (0 ml) and the second time and later (about 700 ml). Also, the temperature of the liquid when starting to heat to the second target temperature is significantly different between the first time (20°C) and the second time and later (100°C). For this reason, the density of the liquid in the storage unit 725, the degree of linear expansion, buoyancy of the float 730 of the water level sensor 72c, the flow rate of water supply, etc. are significantly different between the first time and the second time and later, resulting in a difference in the stop timing of water supply and heating between the first time and the second time and later, the management of the hot water temperature is not stable, and as a result, there is a risk of variation in the extraction of coffee liquid (for example, variation in the taste of coffee liquid).

[0132] On the other hand, in this embodiment, as described above, even in the initial state where the tank 720a is empty, water is first supplied to the remaining level, heated to the first target temperature, then replenishment water is supplied to the full tank level, and the hot water at the full tank level (for example, hot water at 100°C) is heated to the second target temperature (for example, 120°C). That is, the same state is reproduced whether it is the first time or the second time and later, or when the amount of hot water required for one coffee beverage production cycle fluctuates, and unified control is realized. For this reason, the amount of hot water when starting to supply replenishment water for the first time is also about the same as the amount of hot water when starting to supply water for the second time and later, about 700 ml. Also, the temperature of the hot water when starting to heat to the second target temperature is about the same, about 100°C, whether it is the first time or the second time. As a result, the management of the hot water temperature is stable, and the risk of variation in the extraction of coffee liquid can be reduced.

[0133] Note that, not limited to the processing from the initial state where the tank 720a is empty, water may be supplied from a water level below the remaining level (for example, a water level about 1 / 4 of the full tank level) to the remaining level of the tank 720a and heated to the first target temperature.

[0134] Also, in the processing described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12, water supply and heating are completely separated, and heating is started after the water supply is completed. Looking at the time lengths of the heating time and the water supply time, as an example of a processing where the heating time is longer than or equal to the water supply time, in addition to the example of performing heating while no water supply is being performed as in this embodiment, there may be an example where heating is not terminated once at the timing of (6) in FIG. 10 and heating is continued even during re - water supply. By doing so, hot water at the full tank level can reach the second target temperature earlier. Alternatively, heating may be started during the first water supply to the remaining level (for example, at the timing of (3) in FIG. 9), heating may be continued after the first water supply is completed, heating may be continued during re - water supply, and heating may be continued after the re - water supply is completed, and hot water at the full tank level can also reach the second target temperature earlier. Also, instead of starting heating after stopping the water supply, heating may be started during the water supply (for example, at the timing of (3) in FIG. 9 or at an intermediate timing of (7) in FIG. 10), so that the target temperature can be reached earlier. Alternatively, heating may be started during the first water supply (for example, at the timing of (3) in FIG. 9), re - water supply may be started after the heating is completed, heating may not be started during re - water supply and heating may be started after the re - water supply is completed, or conversely, heating may not be started during the first water supply, heating may be started after the first water supply is completed, re - water supply may be started after the heating is completed, and heating may be started during the re - water supply (for example, at an intermediate timing of (7) in FIG. 10).

[0135] In addition, in the processing example where the water supply time is longer than the heating time, the processing example of starting heating during water supply and ending heating before the end of water supply applies. Also, as in this embodiment, the processing example of performing heating while no water supply is being performed can also be applied.

[0136] Furthermore, if a manufacturing instruction for the first coffee beverage is given before the heating up to the first target temperature is completed, heating up to the second target temperature may be performed at the above remaining level without starting re-water supply, and hot water may be supplied to the extraction container. By doing so, the hot water supply timing to the extraction container is advanced, and the waiting time until the coffee beverage is extracted can be shortened. Alternatively, if the first target temperature and the second target temperature are set to the same temperature, the hot water supply timing to the extraction container is further advanced, and the waiting time until the coffee beverage is extracted can be further shortened.

[0137] Also, in the processing described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12, the configuration was the first water supply and heating (FIGS. 9(1) to 10(6)) and the second water supply and heating (FIGS. 10(7) to 11(10)), but water supply and heating for the third and subsequent times may be provided. By dividing it into multiple times, it can be expected that the hot water in the storage unit 725 is stirred and the heating is promoted when water is added during water supply.

[0138] In addition, although ground roasted coffee beans were used as an example of the extraction target, other extraction targets include green coffee beans, instant coffee powder, Japanese tea, black tea, tea leaves such as oolong tea, ground tea leaves, vegetables, ground vegetables, fruits, ground fruits, grains, ground grains, mushrooms such as shiitake mushrooms, ground mushrooms such as shiitake mushrooms, dried mushrooms such as shiitake mushrooms after heating, ground dried mushrooms such as shiitake mushrooms after heating, fish such as bonito, ground fish such as bonito, dried fish such as bonito after heating, ground dried fish such as bonito after heating, seaweeds such as kelp, ground seaweeds such as kelp, dried seaweeds such as kelp after heating, ground dried seaweeds such as kelp after heating, dried meat such as beef, pork, and chicken after heating, ground dried meat such as beef, pork, and chicken after heating, dried bones such as beef bones, pork bones, and chicken bones after heating, ground dried bones such as beef bones, pork bones, and chicken bones after heating, etc. As the beverage liquid, coffee liquid was used as an example for explanation, but other beverage liquids include Japanese tea, black tea, oolong tea, vegetable juice, fruit juice, soup, stock, soup, etc.

[0139] In the above description, An extraction device [for example, extraction device 3] for extracting a beverage liquid [for example, coffee liquid] from an extraction target [for example, ground beans], A storage tank [for example, storage unit 725] for storing the liquid used for extracting the beverage liquid, A supply unit [for example, water supply solenoid valve 72d] for supplying the liquid to the storage tank, A heater [for example, heater 72a] capable of heating the liquid stored in the storage tank, A first measurement unit [for example, water level sensor 72c] for measuring the liquid level of the stored liquid, A second measurement unit [for example, temperature sensor 72b] for measuring the temperature of the stored liquid, Control means [for example, processing unit 11a] for controlling the supply unit based on the measurement result of the first measurement unit and controlling the heater based on the measurement result of the second measurement unit, and The control means is, Before the liquid level of the stored liquid reaches a predetermined liquid level [for example, the liquid level at full tank level], the liquid is supplied to the storage tank in multiple portions [for example, 2 times], and before the liquid level of the stored liquid reaches the predetermined liquid level [for example, when the remaining level liquid level is reached], the stored liquid is heated to a first target temperature [for example, the first target temperature (100 ° C)]. An extraction device characterized by this. has been described.

[0140] In an extraction device, when extracting a beverage liquid, it may be necessary to heat the liquid used for extracting the beverage liquid. However, in a conventional extraction device, there is room for improvement in the way of heating the liquid.

[0141] On the other hand, according to the extraction device, even when there is an instruction to send out the liquid to the extraction target before reaching the predetermined liquid level, the liquid heated to the first target temperature can be sent to the extraction target. Further, it can be expected that when liquid is added to the liquid heated to the first target temperature, the liquid is stirred in the storage tank and the heating of the liquid is promoted.

[0142] Also, It is provided with a sending means [for example, a three-way solenoid valve 728] for sending out the liquid used for one cycle for extracting the beverage liquid from the storage tank. When the liquid used for one cycle is sent out in a state where the storage tank is at the predetermined liquid level [for example, the liquid level at full tank level], the storage tank drops to a first liquid level [for example, the remaining level liquid level]. The control means performs a first control [for example, control of the processes shown in FIGS. 9(1) to 10(6)] for supplying liquid to the storage tank until it reaches the first liquid level and heating the supplied liquid to the first target temperature [for example, 100 ° C]. After that, a second control [for example, control of the processes shown in FIGS. 10(7) to 10(10)] for supplying liquid to the storage tank from the first liquid level to the predetermined liquid level and heating the supplied liquid to a second target temperature [for example, 120 ° C] is performed. An extraction device characterized by this. has also been described.

[0143] If the first liquid level is set to be the same as or close to the liquid level after sending the liquid heated to the second target temperature to the extraction target, the second control will be repeatedly executed, and the state of the liquid (liquid volume and liquid temperature) at the start of heating will be the same (or similar in some cases) each time, the management of the liquid temperature will be stabilized, and the variation (e.g., taste variation) in the extraction of the beverage liquid will be reduced.

[0144] Note that the first control may be a control for heating the liquid stored up to the first liquid level, or may be a control for heating while supplying the liquid.

[0145] The second control may be a control for heating the liquid stored up to the predetermined liquid level, or may be a control for heating while supplying the liquid.

[0146] The first target temperature and the second target temperature may be different temperatures or the same temperature. For example, the first target temperature may be lower than the second target temperature.

[0147] Also, ‘equipped with pressure adjustment means [e.g., pressurizing solenoid valve 72f and pressure release solenoid valve 72h] for adjusting the internal air pressure of the storage tank, the control means controls the pressure adjustment means while maintaining the internal air pressure of the storage tank in the first control at a first air pressure [e.g., first air pressure (150 kPa)] and maintaining the internal air pressure of the storage tank in the second control at a second air pressure [e.g., second air pressure (210 kPa)], characterized by an extraction device.’ has also been described.

[0148] The adjustment of the boiling point of the liquid can be performed.

[0149] Incidentally, the control means may maintain the internal air pressure of the storage tank at a predetermined air pressure [for example, the first air pressure (150 kPa) in FIGS. 9(2) to 10(6) and the second air pressure (210 kPa) in FIGS. 10(8) to 12(16)].

[0150] Further, the control means may perform the second control while controlling the air pressure adjusting means.

[0151] Alternatively, it may be provided with a pressurizing means [for example, a pressurizing solenoid valve 72f] for pressurizing the internal air pressure of the storage tank, and the control means may perform the second control while controlling the pressurizing means, or it may be provided with a depressurizing means [for example, a pressure release solenoid valve 72h] for depressurizing the internal air pressure of the storage tank, and the control means may perform the second control while controlling the depressurizing means.

[0152] Also, 'The control means maintains the first air pressure at an air pressure [for example, atmospheric pressure] at which liquid can be supplied to the storage tank while controlling the air pressure adjusting means, and maintains the second air pressure at an air pressure higher than the first air pressure [for example, an air pressure higher than atmospheric pressure]. An extraction device characterized by this.' has also been described.

[0153] By setting the air pressure inside the storage tank to be higher than the first air pressure when the storage tank reaches the predetermined liquid level, the boiling point of the liquid can be raised, or the liquid can be sent out from the storage tank in a short time, while also enabling efficient supply of the liquid to the first liquid level.

[0154] Here, the second air pressure is preferably higher than atmospheric pressure.

[0155] Incidentally, the first measurement unit [for example, a water level sensor 72c] a float [for example, a float 730] floating on the liquid, an upper first sensor [e.g., upper sensor 731h] for detecting the float, and a lower second sensor [e.g., lower sensor 731l] for detecting the float, may be configured to include.

[0156] The liquid level of the stored liquid can be measured with an inexpensive configuration.

[0157] Also, 'The extraction target is ground coffee beans, and the beverage liquid is coffee,' characterized extraction device. was also described.

[0158] In coffee extraction, since the taste is likely to change depending on the amount of liquid extracted, the extraction device of the present invention is suitable.

[0159] Also, 'A beverage manufacturing device [e.g., beverage manufacturing device 1] characterized by comprising the above extraction device.' was also described.

[0160] The present invention is not limited to several aspects and examples shown above, and these contents can be combined with each other without departing from the gist of the present invention, and can also be partially changed according to the purpose and the like. Also, each term described in this specification is only used for the purpose of explaining the present invention, and it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the strict meaning of the term, and may include its equivalents. For example, expressions such as'means', 'device', 'part' may be paraphrased as 'unit','module', etc.

Explanation of Signs

[0161] 1 Beverage manufacturing device 3 Extraction device 4 Storage device 7 Fluid supply unit 9 Extraction container 11 Control device 11a Processing unit 11b Memory unit 72 Liquid delivery volume adjustment device 720a Tank 721 Peripheral wall 722 Partition wall 724 Bottom wall 725 Storage section 726 Metering section 727 Drive unit 727c Movable member 728 Three-way solenoid valve 728a Storage side pipe 728b Metering side pipe 728c Extraction side pipe 72a Heater 72a2 Heating section 72ab Lowest end 72b Temperature sensor 72b1 Measurement section 72c Water level sensor 730 Float 731h Upper sensor 731m Middle sensor 731l Lower sensor 72d Water supply solenoid valve 72f Pressurization solenoid valve 72h Pressure release solenoid valve 72p Pressure inlet 72q Drainage solenoid valve 72w Water inlet 72x Hot water discharge port 74 Flow path forming pipe 741 Outlet

Claims

1. A first storage tank having a first storage space for storing a liquid; A supply unit for supplying the liquid to the first storage space; A heater having a heating unit that directly touches and heats the liquid stored in the first storage space, the heating unit being disposed at a position spaced upward from the bottom surface of the first storage tank; A measuring unit for measuring the temperature of the liquid stored in the first storage tank; Control means for performing control to store a liquid at a certain temperature in the first storage tank by operating each of the supply unit and the heater; A second storage tank having a second storage space for storing the liquid sent out from the first storage tank; A sending unit for sending the liquid stored in the first storage tank to the second storage tank; Drive means for changing the volume of the second storage space corresponding to the amount of liquid sent out from the second storage tank; An air communication unit for communicating air between the first storage tank and the second storage tank; A sending switching unit for switching between sending and storing the liquid stored in the second storage tank, and comprising: The control means controls the heater based on the measurement result of the measurement unit; The sending unit includes a sending port into which the liquid stored in the first storage tank flows, and a flow path through which the liquid flowing in from the sending port flows toward the second storage tank; The flow path extends from the inside to the outside of the first storage space, and includes a communication switching unit for switching between communication and interruption between the first storage tank and the second storage tank; The control means performs control to send the liquid at a certain temperature stored in the first storage tank to the second storage tank using the head pressure by operating the communication switching unit, and does not supply liquid to the first storage tank in this control; The sending port is above the lower end of the heating unit and is arranged to be below the water level of the first storage tank in a state where the liquid amount corresponding to the maximum volume of the second storage space has been supplied, and is open upward in the first storage space; The measuring unit is arranged at a position higher than the sending port and measures the temperature of the liquid before flowing into the sending port; The flow path is located below the sending port, A storage device characterized by the above.

2. The storage device according to claim 1, The flow path extends from the inside to the outside of the first storage space through the bottom surface. A storage device characterized by this.

3. A beverage manufacturing device characterized by including the storage device according to Claim 1.

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