Extraction equipment and beverage production equipment

Abstract

The present invention provides an extractor that extracts a beverage liquid from an extraction target, and a beverage production apparatus that includes the extractor, and the apparatus has a distinctive method for heating the liquid. [Solution] The system includes a control means 11a that controls a supply unit 72d based on the measurement results of a first measurement unit 72c and a heater 72a based on the measurement results of a second measurement unit 72b, and the control means 11a supplies liquid to a storage tank 725 in multiple batches (two batches) until the level of the stored liquid reaches a predetermined level (full tank level), and heats the stored liquid to a first target temperature (100°C) before the level of the stored liquid reaches the predetermined level (the point at which it reaches the remaining level).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an extractor that extracts a beverage liquid from an extracting object, and to a beverage preparation apparatus that includes the extractor. [Background technology]

[0002] In an extractor, when extracting a liquid beverage, it may be necessary to heat the liquid used to extract the liquid beverage (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-30435 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, conventional brewers leave room for improvement in the way the liquid is heated.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide an extraction device that has a distinctive method for heating a liquid, and a beverage preparation apparatus that includes the extraction device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The extraction device that solves the above problems is: An extractor for extracting a beverage from an extracting object, a storage tank for storing a liquid used to extract the beverage; a supply unit that supplies liquid to the storage tank; a heater capable of heating the liquid stored in the storage tank; a first measuring unit that measures the level of the stored liquid; a second measuring unit that measures the temperature of the stored liquid; a control means for controlling the supply unit based on the measurement result of the first measurement unit and for controlling the heater based on the measurement result of the second measurement unit; The control means a first control is performed in which liquid is supplied to the storage tank until the liquid level reaches a first liquid level and the supplied liquid is heated to a first target temperature, and then a second control is performed in which liquid is supplied to the storage tank until the liquid level reaches a second liquid level higher than the first liquid level and the supplied liquid is heated to a second target temperature, a pressure adjusting means for adjusting the pressure inside the storage tank; The control means controls the air pressure adjusting means to maintain the air pressure inside the storage tank in the first control at a first air pressure that allows liquid to be supplied to the storage tank. and while controlling the air pressure adjusting means, the air pressure inside the storage tank in the second control is maintained at the first air pressure until the liquid level reaches the second air pressure, and then the air pressure is changed to and maintained at a second air pressure higher than the first air pressure. Characterized by 。 difference Furthermore, in the extraction device, a delivery means for delivering a liquid used in one cycle for extracting the beverage liquid from the storage tank; The storage tank is configured to decrease in liquid level to the first liquid level when the liquid used in one cycle is delivered while the storage tank is at the second liquid level. It may be characterized by the fact that Also, An extractor for extracting a beverage from an extracting object, a storage tank for storing a liquid used to extract the beverage; a supply unit that supplies liquid to the storage tank; a heater capable of heating the liquid stored in the storage tank; a first measuring unit that measures the level of the stored liquid; a second measuring unit that measures the temperature of the stored liquid; a control means for controlling the supply unit based on the measurement result of the first measurement unit and for controlling the heater based on the measurement result of the second measurement unit; The control means supplying liquid to the storage tank in multiple batches until the level of the stored liquid reaches a predetermined level, and heating the stored liquid to a first target temperature before the level of the stored liquid reaches the predetermined level; The extraction device may be characterized by:

[0007] According to this extraction device, even if a command to deliver liquid to the extraction target is received before the liquid level reaches the predetermined level, the liquid heated to the first target temperature can be delivered to the extraction target. Furthermore, by adding liquid to the liquid heated to the first target temperature, the liquid is stirred in the storage tank, which is expected to promote heating of the liquid.

[0008] Also, a delivery means for delivering a liquid used in one cycle for extracting the beverage liquid from the storage tank; the storage tank is configured to decrease to a first liquid level when the liquid to be used in one cycle is delivered while the storage tank is at the predetermined liquid level; the control means performs a first control of supplying liquid to the storage tank until the liquid level reaches the first liquid level and heating the supplied liquid to the first target temperature, and then performs a second control of supplying liquid to the storage tank from the first liquid level until the liquid level reaches the predetermined liquid level and heating the supplied liquid to a second target temperature. It may be characterized by the fact that

[0009] If the first liquid level is kept the same or close to the liquid level after the liquid heated to the second target temperature is delivered to the extraction target, the second control will be executed repeatedly, and the state of the liquid (liquid volume and liquid temperature) when heating begins will be the same (or similar in some cases) each time, stabilizing the management of the liquid temperature and reducing the risk of variations in the extraction of the beverage liquid (e.g., variations in taste).

[0010] The first control may be a control for heating the liquid stored up to the first liquid level, or a control for heating the liquid while supplying it.

[0011] The second control may be a control for heating the liquid that has accumulated up to the predetermined liquid level, or a control for heating the liquid while supplying it.

[0012] The first target temperature and the second target temperature may be different temperatures or may be the same temperature. For example, the first target temperature may be a temperature lower than the second target temperature.

[0013] Also, a pressure adjusting means for adjusting the pressure inside the storage tank; The control means maintains the air pressure inside the storage tank at a first air pressure in the first control and maintains the air pressure inside the storage tank at a second air pressure in the second control while controlling the air pressure adjustment means. It may be characterized by the fact that

[0014] In this way, the boiling point of the liquid can be adjusted.

[0015] In addition, the control means may maintain the air pressure inside the storage tank at a predetermined air pressure [for example, a first air pressure (150 kPa) in Figures 9(2) to 10(6), and a second air pressure (210 kPa) in Figures 10(8) to 12(16)].

[0016] The control means may perform the second control while controlling the air pressure adjusting means.

[0017] Alternatively, the storage tank may be provided with a pressurizing means (e.g., a pressurizing solenoid valve 72f) for increasing the air pressure inside the storage tank, and the control means may perform the second control while controlling the pressurizing means, or the storage tank may be provided with a depressurizing means (e.g., a pressure-release solenoid valve 72h) for decreasing the air pressure inside the storage tank, and the control means may perform the second control while controlling the depressurizing means.

[0018] Also, The control means controls the air pressure adjustment means to maintain the first air pressure at an air pressure that allows liquid to be supplied to the storage tank, and to maintain the second air pressure at an air pressure higher than the first air pressure. It may be characterized by the fact that

[0019] By creating a pressure inside the storage tank that is higher than the first pressure when the storage tank has reached the specified liquid level, it is possible to raise the boiling point of the liquid and to efficiently supply the liquid up to the first liquid level while enabling the liquid to be delivered from the storage tank in a short period of time.

[0020] Here, the second pressure is preferably higher than atmospheric pressure.

[0021] In addition, The first measurement unit (e.g., water level sensor 72c) a float (e.g., float 730) that floats on the liquid; an upper first sensor (e.g., upper sensor 731h) that detects the float; a second lower sensor (e.g., lower sensor 731l) that detects the float; The configuration may include:

[0022] The level of the stored liquid can be measured with an inexpensive configuration.

[0023] moreover, The extraction target is ground coffee beans, The beverage is coffee. It may be characterized by the fact that

[0024] The extraction device of the present invention is suitable for extracting coffee, since the taste of the coffee is easily affected by the amount of liquid extracted.

[0025] The beverage production device that solves the above problems is The present invention is characterized by comprising the above-mentioned extraction device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an extraction device having a distinctive method for heating a liquid, and a beverage preparation device equipped with the extraction device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram of a beverage preparation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram of a control device of the beverage production apparatus shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is a perspective view of the liquid delivery amount adjuster shown in FIG. 1, seen obliquely from above. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a perspective view of the liquid delivery amount adjuster shown in FIG. 1, seen from diagonally below on the opposite side to FIG. 3. FIG. [Figure 5] 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the liquid feeding amount adjuster 72 shown in FIG. 3 taken along line AA' in FIG. 3. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 7] 7 is a schematic diagram showing a modified liquid delivery amount adjusting device so that its internal structure can be seen, similar to FIG. 6. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart of a control process for one coffee beverage preparation cycle. [Figure 9] 10 is a timing chart showing the process from the initial state of the liquid feed rate regulator 72 to the completion of the first water supply. [Figure 10] 10 is a timing chart continuing from FIG. 9. [Figure 11] 11 is a timing chart continuing from FIG. 10. [Figure 12] 12 is a timing chart continuing from FIG. 11. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0029] Fig. 1 is a configuration diagram of a beverage production apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 2 is a block diagram of a control device for the beverage production apparatus shown in Fig. 1. The beverage production apparatus 1 automatically produces a coffee beverage from roasted coffee beans and liquid (water in this case), and is capable of producing one cup's worth of coffee beverage per production operation. The beverage production apparatus 1 includes a bean processing device 2, an extraction device 3, and a control device 11.

[0030] The control device 11 controls the entire beverage production device 1. The control device 11 includes a processing unit 11a, a memory unit 11b, and an I / F (interface) unit 11c. The processing unit 11a is, for example, a processor such as a CPU. The memory unit 11b is, for example, a RAM or ROM. The I / F unit 11c inputs and outputs signals between external devices and the processing unit 11a.

[0031] The processing unit 11a executes a program stored in the memory unit 11b and controls the actuator group 14 based on instructions from the operation unit 12 or the detection results of the sensor group 13. The operation unit 12 is a unit that accepts user instruction inputs, and is, for example, a touch panel or a mechanical switch. The user can issue instructions to produce a coffee beverage via the operation unit 12. The sensor group 13 is various sensors provided in the beverage production device 1 (for example, the temperature sensor 72b shown in FIG. 5, etc., a mechanism operating position detection sensor, a pressure sensor, etc.). The actuator group 14 is various actuators provided in the beverage production device 1 (for example, the heater 72a shown in FIG. 5, etc., a motor, a solenoid valve, etc.).

[0032] The bean processing device 2 produces ground coffee 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.

[0033] 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 placed in an extraction container 9.

[0034] 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 delivered to a cup C via the switching unit 10 as a coffee beverage.

[0035] 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 brewing container 9 and controls the air pressure inside the brewing container 9. In this specification, when air pressure is exemplified numerically, it means absolute pressure unless otherwise specified. Atmospheric pressure refers to the air pressure around the brewing container 9 or the air pressure inside the beverage production device. For example, if the beverage production device is installed at sea level, the reference air pressure at sea level (1013.25 hPa) of the International Standard Atmosphere (ISA) established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in 1976.

[0036] The fluid supply unit 7 includes a liquid feed rate adjuster 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 portion of pipe L2 is connected to the liquid feed rate adjuster 72, and the downstream portion of pipe L2 connects the liquid feed rate adjuster 72 to pipe L3. Pipe L3 is a pipe through which both air and water can flow, and is connected to the extraction container 9.

[0037] The fluid supply unit 7 includes a compressor 70 as a pressurized source. The compressor 70 compresses and sends out atmospheric air. 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 to maintain the predetermined air pressure. The reserve tank 71 is provided with a drain 71c for draining water, which allows water produced by the compression of the air to be drained.

[0038] The liquid delivery rate adjusting device 72 has a tank 720a that stores hot water (water) that constitutes the coffee beverage, and is a device that has the function of delivering a fixed amount of hot water. In the following explanation, hot water and water may be collectively referred to as liquid. In this case, the liquid level is used, but the explanation will be unified as water level. This liquid delivery rate adjusting device 72 adds the stored liquid heat At the same time, the temperature of the liquid is monitored and the temperature of the stored liquid is maintained at a predetermined temperature (for example, 120°C).

[0039] Furthermore, after one coffee beverage production cycle (described later) is completed, tap water is supplied to tank 720a of liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 via a water purifier (not shown). Pipe L2 from the water purifier is provided with water supply solenoid valve 72d, which is opened by processing unit 11a (shown in Fig. 2) to supply tap water, and when tank 720a is full, processing unit 11a closes water supply solenoid valve 72d to cut off the supply of tap water. In this way, the hot water in tank 720a is maintained at the full tank level.

[0040] In addition, when the water level drops below a predetermined water level that is different from the full water level, the water supply solenoid valve 72d is opened to supply tap water, and when the predetermined water level is reached, the water supply solenoid valve 72d is closed to cut off the supply of tap water.

[0041] The liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 is also provided with a pressure sensor 72g. The pressure sensor 72g detects the air pressure inside the tank 720a. The air pressure inside the reserve tank 71 is supplied to the tank 720a via a pressure adjustment valve 72e and a pressurizing solenoid valve 72f. The pressure adjustment 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 adjusted by the pressure adjustment valve 72e to the tank 720a. The pressure release solenoid valve 72h switches whether or not to open the inside of the tank 720a to the atmosphere, and opens the inside of the tank 720a to the atmosphere when the air pressure inside the tank 720a exceeds the predetermined air pressure, thereby maintaining the air pressure inside the tank 720a at the predetermined air pressure.

[0042] The hot water in the tank 720a is supplied to the extraction container 9 via 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 that measures 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.

[0043] Various processes centered around the liquid delivery rate adjusting device 72 will be described later.

[0044] The air pressure inside the reserve tank 71 is also supplied to the extraction container 9 via a pressure regulating valve 73a and a 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 inside the extraction container 9 is detected by a pressure sensor 73d. When the extraction container 9 is pressurized, the solenoid valve 73b opens based on the detection result of the pressure sensor 73d, and the extraction container 9 is pressurized to a predetermined air pressure. The air pressure inside the extraction container 9 can be reduced by a solenoid valve 73c. ​​The solenoid valve 73c switches whether or not to open the inside of the extraction container 9 to the atmosphere, and opens the inside of the extraction container 9 to the atmosphere in the event of a pressure abnormality (for example, if the air pressure inside the extraction container 9 becomes too high).

[0045] The switching unit 10 is a unit that switches the destination of the liquid delivered from the extraction container 9 between the pouring part 10c and the waste tank T. The switching unit 10 includes a switching valve 10a and a motor 10b that drives the switching valve 10a. The switching valve 10a switches the flow path to the pouring part 10c when delivering the coffee beverage in the extraction container 9. The coffee beverage is poured from the pouring part 10c into a cup C.

[0046] Once the extraction of the coffee beverage is complete, the inside of the extraction container 9 is cleaned. When discharging the waste liquid and residue (ground beans) from the cleaning process, the flow path is switched to a waste tank T. In this embodiment, the switching valve 10a is a three-port ball valve. Because residue passes through the switching valve 10a during cleaning, a ball valve is suitable for the switching valve 10a, and the motor 10b switches the flow path by rotating its rotary shaft.

[0047] Next, the liquid delivery rate adjusting device 72 shown in FIG. 1 will be described in more detail.

[0048] Figure 3 is an external oblique view of the liquid delivery rate adjustment device 72 shown in Figure 1 when viewed from diagonally above, Figure 4 is an external oblique view of the liquid delivery rate adjustment device 72 shown in Figure 1 when viewed from diagonally below on the opposite side to Figure 3, Figure 5 is a cross-sectional oblique view of the liquid delivery rate adjustment device 72 shown in Figure 3 when cut along line A-A' shown in Figure 3, and Figure 6 is a cross-sectional schematic view showing the internal structure of the liquid delivery rate adjustment device 72 shown in Figure 1.

[0049] The liquid delivery rate regulator 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, which is a view from the opposite side to Fig. 3, the water level sensor 72c is shown on the left side of the figure.

[0050] As described above, the liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 is a device that has the function of delivering a fixed amount of hot water. This allows the amount of hot water required for one cup of coffee to be delivered sequentially. Moreover, the amount of hot water delivered for one cup can be changed.

[0051] Tank 720a has a cylindrical shape as a whole, and the outer wall of tank 720a includes a peripheral wall 721, an upper wall 723 joined to the upper end of peripheral wall 721, and a bottom wall 724 joined to the lower end of peripheral wall 721. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, a partition wall 722 is provided inside tank 720a, and the internal space is divided by partition wall 722 into a cylindrical outer space 725 and an inner, columnar inner space 726A. Partition wall 722 is a cylindrical wall body disposed concentrically with peripheral wall 721, but partition wall 722 may be eccentric with respect to peripheral wall 721.

[0052] Outer space 725 constitutes a storage section that stores hot water, and corresponds to an example of a storage space. Outer space 725 is also referred to as storage section 725. Movable member 727c is arranged above inner space 726A, and lower space 726 below it constitutes a measuring section that measures hot water. This lower space 726 is also referred to as measuring section 726. By separating storage section 725 and measuring section 726 with partition wall 722, which is a common wall body, tank 720a can be made more compact than if they were partitioned by separate walls.

[0053] The water in the reservoir 725 is added to the reservoir 725. heat The heater 72a includes a heater 72a that extends downward from an upper wall 723 along a cylindrical partition wall 722, and a temperature sensor 72b that measures the temperature of the water. As shown in FIG. 5, the heater 72a includes a hanging portion 72a1 that extends downward from an upper wall 723 along a cylindrical partition wall 722, and a heating portion 72a2 that spirally surrounds approximately the lower half of the partition wall 722 and is spaced apart from the partition wall 722. The heating portion 72a2 is of a direct heating type that heats the hot water (cold water) by directly contacting the hot water (cold water). As shown in FIG. 6, a lowermost end 72ab of the heating portion 72a2 is spaced from a bottom wall 724. In FIG. 6, the vertical distance (height direction) between the lowermost end 72ab of the heating portion 72a2 and the bottom wall 724 is indicated by an arrow G1.

[0054] Temperature sensor 72b is a thermocouple, and is inserted into storage portion 725 from top wall 723 and extends toward bottom wall 724. Measuring portion (contact point) 72b1, which is the tip of temperature sensor 72b, is located inside heating portion 72a2 of heater 72a, i.e., between heating portion 72a2 and cylindrical partition wall 722. Note that measuring portion 72b1 may also be located outside heating portion 72a2 of heater 72a, i.e., between heating portion 72a2 and peripheral wall 721.

[0055] Furthermore, when the heating section 72a2 is divided into three sections in the vertical direction, such as an upper section, a middle section, and a lower section, the measuring section 72b1 is disposed at a height position of the middle section of the heating section 72a2.

[0056] As described above, the processing unit 11a shown in FIG. 2 controls the on / off of the heater 72a based on the detection results of the temperature sensor 72b, and maintains the temperature of the hot water stored in the storage unit 725 at a predetermined temperature (e.g., 120°C).

[0057] As shown in Fig. 4, a pressure inlet 72p is provided in a portion of the upper wall 723 that defines the storage portion 725. A pipe that supplies the air pressure inside the reserve tank 71 (see Fig. 1) is connected to this pressure inlet 72p, and Fig. 6 also shows a pressurizing electromagnetic valve 72f provided on the pipe. The liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 is also provided with a pressure sensor 72g (see Fig. 1) that detects the air pressure inside the storage portion 725, and the pressurizing electromagnetic valve 72f switches between supplying and blocking the air pressure regulated by the pressure regulating valve 72e (see Fig. 1) to the storage portion 725. The pressurizing electromagnetic valve 72f is controlled to open and close so that the air pressure inside the storage portion 725 is maintained at a predetermined pressure.

[0058] Furthermore, a pipe that connects storage portion 725 to the atmosphere is connected to a portion of upper wall 723 that defines storage portion 725, and pressure release solenoid valve 72h is provided at this pipe. Pressure release solenoid valve 72h switches whether or not the inside of storage portion 725 is opened to the atmosphere, and opens the inside of storage portion 725 to the atmosphere when the pressure inside storage portion 725 exceeds a predetermined pressure, and maintains storage portion 725 at the predetermined pressure.

[0059] Furthermore, a water supply port 72w is provided in a portion of upper wall 723 that defines storage portion 725. As shown in Fig. 6, a pipe L2 that supplies tap water to storage portion 725 is connected to water supply port 72w, and a water supply electromagnetic valve 72d is provided in the pipe L2. Water supply electromagnetic valve 72d is controlled to open and close based on the detection result of water level sensor 72c (described later), and controls the level of hot water in storage portion 725.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 4, hot water outlet 72x is provided in a portion of bottom wall 724 that defines storage section 725. As shown in Fig. 6, hot water outlet 72x is connected to pipe L2' that drains hot water from storage section 725, and is provided with drain electromagnetic valve 72q. Drain electromagnetic valve 72q is opened when the hot water in storage section 725 is to be discarded, and the hot water in storage section 725 is drained to pipe L2'.

[0061] 5 and 6 is a space whose volume can be changed by moving movable member 727c. In Figures 5 and 6, movable member 727c is at the highest position, and measuring unit 726 is in a state where its maximum volume is ensured.

[0062] Furthermore, liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 has three-way solenoid valve 728, storage-side piping 728a, metering-side piping 728b, and extraction-side piping 728c. Hot water is supplied to metering section 726 from storage section 725 via storage-side piping 728a, three-way solenoid valve 728, and metering-side piping 728b. Metering section 726 will be described in more detail below.

[0063] 4, a storage-side hot water outlet 72y is provided in a portion of bottom wall 724 that defines storage section 725. Storage-side hot water outlet 72y is provided inside heating section 72a2 (toward partition wall 722), but may be provided outside heating section 72a2 (toward peripheral wall 721). Storage-side piping 728a is connected to storage-side hot water outlet 72y and connects storage-side hot water outlet 72y and three-way solenoid valve 728.

[0064] 5 and 6, a flow path forming pipe 74 is provided in the storage section 725. The flow path forming pipe 74 has a delivery port 741 at one end and a storage-side hot water supply port 72y at the other end. The flow path forming pipe 74 is bent to accommodate installation space and space for maintenance, but may also be straight. The flow path formed by the flow path forming pipe 74 connects the delivery port 741, which is located above the bottom wall 724, with the bottom wall 724. The flow path extending from the flow path forming pipe 74 through the storage-side hot water supply port 72y to the storage-side piping 728a extends from the inside to the outside of the storage section 725 (storage space). In this embodiment, the flow path is directed downward, but is not limited to this direction. It may be directed in the opposite direction (from bottom to top), diagonally, or horizontally.

[0065] Flow path forming pipe 74, storage side hot water supply port 72y, storage side piping 728a, and three-way electromagnetic valve 728 have the function of sending the hot water stored in storage section 725 out of storage section 725.

[0066] Furthermore, the flow path forming pipe 74 is intended to elevate the height of an opening (discharge port 741) through which the stored hot water flows when the hot water stored in the storage section 725 is discharged out of the storage section 725. In this embodiment, the discharge port 741 is provided above the lowest end 72ab of the heating section 72a2. The hot water below the lowest end 72ab of the heating section 72a2 is low in temperature and difficult to heat, and therefore has a high density, making it difficult for the hot water to enter the discharge port 741. The hot water below the lowest end 72ab of the heating section 72a2 can be discharged from a hot water discharge port 72x provided in the bottom wall 724. Furthermore, since more than the upper half of the flow path forming pipe 74 is located above the lowest end 72ab of the heating section 72a2, the hot water flowing in from the discharge port 741 is heated by the heat from the heating section 72a2 while passing through this section, and a decrease in temperature can be prevented.

[0067] Measurement unit (contact point) 72b1, which is the tip of temperature sensor 72b, is located near outlet 741 of flow path forming pipe 74. To explain in more detail, as shown in Fig. 6, measurement unit 72b1 is located higher than outlet 741, and in Fig. 6, the difference in height between them is indicated by arrow G2. In an embodiment in which measurement unit 72b1 is located higher than outlet 741, if the difference in height becomes long (if measurement unit 72b1 is located too high relative to outlet 741), the temperature of the hot water flowing into outlet 741 will be too low compared to the temperature measured by measurement unit 72b1, and the hot water sent out from storage unit 725 will be insufficiently heated. Normally, it is preferable that measurement unit 72b1 be located at the same height as outlet 741, but in this embodiment, due to issues such as the space required to install outlet 741 and maintenance considerations, measurement unit 72b1 and outlet 741 cannot be located at the same height, and so the height positions of measurement unit 72b1 and outlet 741 are brought close to each other so that the difference in height indicated by arrow G2 is shorter than the gap in height indicated by arrow G1. Furthermore, outlet 741 is circular, and it is more preferable that measurement unit 72b1 be located within the diameter of outlet 741.

[0068] Note that measuring unit 72b1 may be located lower than outlet 741. However, in an embodiment in which measuring unit 72b1 is located lower than outlet 741, if the difference in height between measuring unit 72b1 and outlet 741 becomes long (if measuring unit 72b1 is located too low relative to outlet 741), the temperature of the hot water flowing into outlet 741 will be too high compared to the temperature measured by measuring unit 72b1, causing the hot water discharged from storage unit 725 to be overheated. For this reason, it is preferable that the difference in height between measuring unit 72b1 and outlet 741 (see arrow G2) be shorter than the gap in height indicated by arrow G1.

[0069] With the configuration described above, measurement unit 72b1 measures the temperature of hot water near the height position of delivery outlet 741. As a result, hot water whose temperature has been controlled by processing unit 11a shown in Fig. 2 is delivered from storage unit 725, and variation in the temperature of the delivered liquid can be reduced.

[0070] Furthermore, outlet 741 is located between heating unit 72a2 and partition wall 722, and is therefore disposed near heating unit 72a2. Measuring unit 72b1 is also located between heating unit 72a2 and partition wall 722, and is therefore disposed near heating unit 72a2. Therefore, outlet 741 and measuring unit 72b1 are located near heating unit 72a2, and the three can work together to manage the temperature of the hot water. As a result, the temperature of the hot water flowing into outlet 741 can be measured. Furthermore, the hot water flowing into outlet 741 is hot water that has just been heated by heating unit 72a2, and this further reduces the temperature variation of the hot water being dispensed. While outlet 741 is disposed farther from heating unit 72a2 than measuring unit 72b1, the measuring unit 72b1 may also be disposed farther from heating unit 72a2 than outlet 741.

[0071] Here, a modified example of the liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 shown in FIG. 6 will be described.

[0072] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a modified liquid delivery rate adjusting device, similar to Figure 6, showing its internal structure. In the following description, components with the same names as those previously explained will be assigned the same reference numerals. Further, descriptions of content that overlaps with those previously explained will be omitted.

[0073] The liquid delivery rate adjuster 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 at the highest position, and the measuring unit 726 is in a state in which its maximum volume is ensured. It is necessary for the storage unit 725 to be able to supply hot water in an amount corresponding to this maximum volume. FIG. 7 shows the liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 in a state in which the measuring unit 726 has finished supplying hot water in an amount corresponding to the 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 delivery outlet 741 is located at the water level WL of the storage unit 725 after the measuring unit 726 has finished supplying hot water in an amount corresponding to the maximum volume. Furthermore, the measuring unit 72b1 is located below and inside (on the partition wall 722 side) the delivery outlet 741, but is located near the delivery outlet 741. Therefore, in this modification, the delivery port 741 and the measuring unit 72b1 are located away from the heating unit 72a2.

[0074] Returning to the explanation of the liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 shown in Figure 6, as shown in Figure 4, a metering-side hot water inlet 72z is provided in the bottom wall 724. The metering-side piping 728b is connected to this metering-side hot water inlet 72z. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the metering-side hot water inlet 72z opens into a portion of the bottom wall 724 that defines the metering section 726, and is not connected to anything inside the metering section 726. The metering-side piping 728b connects the metering-side hot water inlet 72z and the three-way solenoid valve 728.

[0075] An extraction hot water outlet 728d is provided in three-way solenoid valve 728. As shown in Fig. 6, extraction hot water outlet 728d is connected to extraction side piping 728c, which delivers hot water from metering section 726 to extraction container 9. Although not shown in Fig. 6, extraction side piping 728c is provided with check valve 72j and solenoid valve 72i (see Fig. 1).

[0076] The three-way solenoid valve 728 can switch between communication and cut-off between the metering side pipe 728b and the storage side pipe 728a, and between communication and cut-off between the metering side pipe 728b and the extraction side pipe 728c. The three-way solenoid valve 728 can also cut off any of the pipes.

[0077] Three-way solenoid valve 728 switches between communication and cut-off between metering side pipe 728b and storage side pipe 728a, thereby making it possible to switch between communication and cut-off between storage section 725 and metering section 726. Also, three-way solenoid valve 728 switches between communication and cut-off between metering side pipe 728b and extraction side pipe 728c, making it possible to switch between sending the hot water in metering section 726 to extraction container 9 and storing it in metering section 726.

[0078] When storage-side pipe 728a and metering-side pipe 728b are in communication, three-way solenoid valve 728 blocks metering-side pipe 728b from extraction-side pipe 728c. Conversely, when metering-side pipe 728b and extraction-side pipe 728c are in communication, three-way solenoid valve 728 blocks storage-side pipe 728a from metering-side pipe 728b. The arrows on three-way solenoid valve 728 shown in Figure 6 indicate the hot water supply operating state of three-way solenoid valve 728, which connects metering-side pipe 728b and extraction-side pipe 728c and blocks storage-side pipe 728a from metering-side pipe 728b.

[0079] In addition, instead of the three-way solenoid valve 728, a configuration can be adopted in which the metering side pipe 728b is divided into two, and one valve is provided to switch between communication and blocking between the metering side pipe 728b and the storage side pipe 728a, and the other valve is provided to switch between communication and blocking between the metering side pipe 728b and the extraction side pipe 728c.

[0080] Furthermore, liquid delivery rate adjuster 72 includes drive unit 727. The amount of hot water required for one cup of coffee varies depending on the size of the coffee cup. Drive unit 727 adjusts the volume of measuring unit 726 so that an appropriate amount of hot water is delivered from measuring unit 726 in accordance with the size of the coffee cup, etc.

[0081] Drive unit 727 is a mechanism that changes the volume of measuring section 726 by vertically moving movable member 727c shown in Figures 5 and 6. Movable member 727c is a piston-like member that is inserted into inner space 726A and configured to slide up and down, and its bottom surface 727cb forms the upper wall of measuring section 726. The volume of measuring section 726 changes as bottom surface 727cb moves up and down.

[0082] It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the volume of the measuring section 726 is changed not by moving the position of the upper wall (bottom surface 727cb) but by moving the position of the lower or side wall.

[0083] Movable member 727c includes a seal member (not shown) that forms a seal with the inner surface of the partition wall, and slides liquid-tightly along the inner surface of the partition wall. However, as shown in FIG. 6, a groove 727e extending in the vertical direction is formed on the circumferential surface of movable member 727c, and groove 727e has a gap with the inner surface of the partition wall. This groove 727e is formed to communicate with opening a that penetrates the partition wall in the thickness direction. Opening a is formed above the highest water level of hot water in storage section 725 (the position of upper sensor 731h, described later), and serves as an air communication section that communicates storage section 725 with inner space 726A. Storage section 725 and measuring section 726 communicate with each other via opening a and groove 727e, and the air pressure within these spaces is the same. Note that if storage section 725 and measuring section 726 are always at atmospheric pressure, separate passages communicating with the atmosphere may be provided.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 6, the drive unit 727 includes a hot water volume adjustment motor 727a supported on the upper wall 723 as a drive source, and a screw shaft (lead screw) 727b as a movement mechanism for moving the movable member 727c. The screw shaft 727b extends vertically and rotates via a transmission gear 727g by the driving force of the hot water volume adjustment motor 727a. A rotation sensor 727s is provided at the head of the screw shaft 727b to detect the number of rotations of the screw shaft 727b. The movable member 727c has a threaded hole 727f opening on its top surface, and the screw shaft 727b is threadedly engaged with this threaded hole 727f. The movable member 727c is not rotatable around its axis, and the movable member 727c moves vertically as the screw shaft 727b rotates. The processing unit 11a shown in FIG. 2 determines 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 for the movable member 727c. The processing unit 11a may calculate the number of rotations of the hot water amount adjustment motor 727a and determine the vertical position of the movable member 727c from the calculated number of rotations.

[0085] As a moving mechanism for moving the movable member 727c, instead of the screw mechanism consisting of the screw shaft 727b and the screw hole 727f, other mechanisms such as a rack-and-pinion mechanism may also be employed.

[0086] Water level sensor 72c is a measurement unit that measures the level of hot water in storage section 725. Water level sensor 72c includes a hollow cylindrical pipe member 729 that extends vertically, a float 730 (see FIG. 6) provided inside pipe member 729, an upper sensor 731h that detects float 730, a lower sensor 731l, and a middle sensor 731m that is disposed between these two sensors.

[0087] Pipe member 729 communicates with storage unit 725 at communication part 729a, which is located below lower sensor 731l. Hot water in storage unit 725 flows into pipe member 729 through communication part 729a, and the level of hot water in pipe member 729 becomes equal to the level of hot water in storage unit 725.

[0088] Pipe member 729 may be made of a transparent material such as glass or acrylic. This makes it possible to visually check the hot water level in pipe member 729 from the outside, and as a result, the user can check the hot water level in storage section 725. Of course, it is also possible to employ a configuration in which a transparent section is provided in part of peripheral wall 721 of storage section 725 to make the water level visible.

[0089] Float 730 may be any type that floats on hot water within pipe member 729. Float 730 shown in Figure 6 has its buoyancy adjusted so that its upper surface 730t is approximately the same as the water level WL (strictly speaking, the upper surface 730t is slightly higher). In Figure 6, the water level WL of reservoir 725 is at the full tank level, and the upper end of float 730 is detected by upper sensor 731h, but the lower end is not detected by middle sensor 731m.

[0090] The upper sensor 731h, the middle sensor 731m, and the lower sensor 731l are, for example, optical sensors (photointerrupters), and detect the float 730 from outside the pipe member 729.

[0091] It is also possible to construct a configuration equivalent to the water level sensor 72c inside the reservoir 725.

[0092] In the above explanation, "A storage tank (e.g., storage section 725) having a storage space for storing liquid; a supply unit (e.g., a water supply solenoid valve 72d and a water supply port 72w) that supplies liquid to the storage space; a heater (e.g., heater 72a) having a heating unit (e.g., heating unit 72a2) that directly contacts and heats the liquid stored in the storage space, the heating unit being disposed at a position spaced above the bottom surface (e.g., bottom wall 724) of the storage tank; a delivery section (e.g., a flow path forming pipe 74, a storage side hot water supply port 72y, a storage side pipe 728a, and a three-way solenoid valve 728) that delivers the stored liquid to the outside; a measuring unit (e.g., measuring unit 72b1 of temperature sensor 72b) that measures the temperature of the stored liquid; a control means (e.g., a processing unit 11a) for controlling the supply unit and the heater to operate to store a liquid at a certain temperature in the storage tank; the control means controls the heater based on the measurement result of the measurement unit, The delivery section includes a delivery port (e.g., delivery port 741) into which the stored liquid flows, and a flow path (e.g., a flow path extending from flow path forming pipe 74 through storage-side hot water supply port 72y to storage-side piping 728a) through which the liquid flowing in from the delivery port flows toward the outside, The flow path extends from the inside to the outside of the storage space (for example, extends from above to below), The outlet (e.g., outlet 741) is disposed so as to be located above the lower end (e.g., lowermost end 72ab) of the heating unit, The measuring unit (e.g., the measuring unit 72b1 of the temperature sensor 72b) measures the temperature of the liquid near the height position of the delivery outlet. A storage device characterized by the above. He explained about:

[0093] Conventionally, a storage device has been known that includes a storage tank that stores a liquid and a delivery unit that delivers the liquid stored in the storage tank to the outside (for example, a liquid delivery amount adjustment device 72 shown in Figure 68 of JP 2019-30435 A). The delivery unit includes a delivery outlet through which the liquid stored in the storage tank flows, and a flow path through which the liquid that flows in from the delivery outlet flows to the outside.

[0094] The storage tank is also provided with a heater having a heating unit that directly contacts and heats the stored liquid, and a measuring unit that measures the temperature of the stored liquid. For cost and structural reasons, the heater is positioned such that the heating unit is spaced above the bottom of the storage tank. As a result, a space is created between the lower end of the heating unit and the bottom of the storage tank. The liquid in this space is difficult to heat. For example, if the liquid is water, the density of water decreases as the temperature increases, so the temperature of the water stored in the storage tank decreases the further downwards. Since there is no heating unit in the space, it is difficult to control the temperature of the liquid in the space.

[0095] In the liquid delivery volume adjustment device disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Publication No. 2019-30435, the delivery outlet in the delivery section is located on the bottom surface of the storage tank, and the liquid in the above-mentioned space may be delivered from the delivery outlet, which may cause inconvenience such as variations in the temperature of the delivered liquid.

[0096] On the other hand, with the storage device described above, the liquid in the space between the lower end of the heating unit and the bottom surface of the storage tank is less likely to flow into the outlet, and the measuring unit measures the temperature of the liquid near the height position of the outlet, so that the liquid is temperature-controlled by the control means and is discharged. As a result, it is possible to reduce temperature variations in the discharged liquid.

[0097] The measuring unit may measure the temperature of the liquid at the height of the delivery outlet. The measuring unit may be located vertically away from the delivery outlet by a distance [e.g., arrow G2 in FIG. 6] that is shorter than the distance between the lower end of the heating unit and the bottom surface of the storage tank [e.g., the vertical distance indicated by arrow G1 in FIG. 6]. Alternatively, the measuring unit may be located vertically away from the delivery outlet by a distance that is shorter than the opening length of the delivery outlet (e.g., the inner diameter if the delivery outlet is circular, or the diagonal length, which is the longest length if the delivery outlet is rectangular).

[0098] The flow path may extend upward from the bottom surface, may extend downward from the top surface of the storage tank, or may extend from the side surface of the storage tank into the storage space. Furthermore, the shape of the flow path is not limited, and the flow path may be a straight flow path or a curved flow path (for example, an L-shaped flow path).

[0099] Also, The outlet (e.g., outlet 741) is disposed in the vicinity of the heating unit (e.g., between the heating unit 72a2 and the partition wall 722). A storage device characterized by the above. He also explained.

[0100] The measuring section and the delivery port are located near the heating section, which allows for tighter control (management) of the liquid temperature.

[0101] It should be noted that the term "vicinity" as used herein refers to the range between the heating unit and the inner peripheral wall, for example, when the heating unit is arranged around the inner peripheral wall that defines the storage space.

[0102] Also, The storage tank (e.g., storage section 725) has a discharge port (e.g., hot water discharge port 72x) on the bottom surface (e.g., bottom wall 724) for discharging the stored liquid. A storage device characterized by the above. He also explained.

[0103] The liquid stored below the delivery port can be discharged through the discharge port.

[0104] Also, "The storage space is a space provided between an inner peripheral wall (e.g., partition wall 722) and an outer peripheral wall (e.g., peripheral wall 721), The heating portion (e.g., the heating portion 72a2) is arranged spirally along the inner circumferential wall, A portion of the flow path is located above the lower end (e.g., the lowest end 72ab) of the heating section. A storage device characterized by the above. He also explained.

[0105] The temperature of the liquid passing through the flow path can be kept warmer by the heating section.

[0106] Also, "The flow path [for example, a flow path from the flow path forming pipe 74 through the storage-side hot water supply port 72y to the storage-side piping 728a] has a part [for example, a flow path by the flow path forming pipe 74] connecting the bottom surface [for example, the bottom wall 724] to a position above the bottom surface, A storage device characterized by the above. He also explained.

[0107] The liquid can be sent to the outside of the storage tank with a simple configuration.

[0108] Also, "A beverage production device comprising the above-mentioned storage device." He also explained.

[0109] Next, one coffee beverage production cycle will be described.

[0110] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the control process in one coffee beverage preparation cycle.

[0111] The control process shown in FIG. 8 is executed by the processing unit 11a shown in FIG.

[0112] Before receiving a production instruction, beverage production device 1 is in a standby state. When a production instruction for a coffee beverage is received in the standby state, first, a hot water volume setting process (step S1) is executed to adjust the volume of measuring unit 726, which measures the amount of hot water required to pour into extraction container 9, based on a recipe based on the production instruction. This hot water volume setting process will be described in detail later.

[0113] Following step S1, a preheating process (step S2) is carried out. In this preheating process, hot water is poured into the extraction container 9 to preheat the extraction container 9 and other components. heat In other words, the inside of the extraction vessel 9, the downstream portion of the pipe L2, and the pipe L3 are preheated, and the hot water is prevented from cooling down during the subsequent production of a coffee beverage. The hot water used in the preheating process is discharged into the waste tank T.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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).

[0121] 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).

[0122] 9, from the top, there are timing charts showing the operation and stop of the hot water volume adjustment motor 727a, and a timing chart showing whether the detection result of the rotation sensor 727s (the position detection sensor of the movable member 727c) is the detection result when the movable member 727c is in the preset position (set position) or not (other than the set position). Below that are timing charts showing whether the upper sensor 731h is detecting the float 730 (ON) or not (OFF), a timing chart showing whether the middle sensor 731m is detecting the float 730 (ON) or not (OFF), and a timing chart showing whether the lower sensor 731l is detecting the float 730 (ON) or not (OFF). Also below that are timing charts showing whether the water supply solenoid valve 72d is open or closed, a timing chart showing whether the pressurization solenoid valve 72f is open or closed, and a timing chart showing whether the pressure release solenoid valve 72h is open or closed. Below that are shown timing charts indicating whether three-way solenoid valve 728 is operating in hot water metering mode, connecting storage-side pipe 728a and metering-side pipe 728b and isolating metering-side pipe 728b from extraction-side pipe 728c, or whether the hot water metering mode is stopped; and whether three-way solenoid valve 728 is operating in hot water supply mode, connecting metering-side pipe 728b and extraction-side pipe 728c and isolating storage-side pipe 728a and metering-side pipe 728b, or whether the hot water supply mode is stopped. Also below that are shown timing charts indicating whether heater 72a is operating in heating mode or is stopped, a timing chart indicating whether the measurement result of temperature sensor 72b is at or below the target temperature, and a timing chart indicating whether the measurement result of pressure sensor 72g shown in FIG. 1 is at or below the target pressure.

[0123] (1) is the initial state of the liquid delivery rate adjustment device 72. In this initial state, the tank 720a is empty and does not contain any water (hot water). The float 730 is in its lowest position and is detected by the lower sensor 731l, but is not detected by the middle sensor 731m or the upper sensor 731h. Note that the float 730 may be configured so that it is not detected by the lower sensor 731l in the initial state. The hot water rate adjustment motor 727a is stopped. The movable member 727c is in its highest position, and the measuring unit 726 is in a state where its maximum volume is ensured. Here, the preset position of the movable member 727c is not the highest position, but a position lower than that (for example, a position where the volume of the measuring unit 726 is 180 ml). Therefore, the detection result of the rotation sensor 727s (the position detection sensor for the movable member 727c) indicates that the movable member 727c is in a position other than the set position. The various solenoid valves (72d, 72f, 72h) are closed, and the three-way solenoid valve 728 is also fully closed (stopped). The heater 72a has also stopped heating, and the measurement result of the temperature sensor 72b is below the target temperature, and the measurement result of the pressure sensor 72g is also below the target temperature.

[0124] In (2), processing unit 11a shown in FIG. 2 opens water supply solenoid valve 72d, and water supply begins. When supplying water from the initial state, water is not supplied to reservoir 725 until it reaches the full level, but rather until it reaches a remaining level that is lower than the full level. The remaining level here refers to the level of hot water remaining in reservoir 725 after one coffee beverage production cycle shown in FIG. 8 has been performed from the full level. For example, if reservoir 725 is full to about 1000 ml, the amount of hot water required for one coffee beverage production cycle shown in FIG. 8 is approximately 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, approximately 50 to 80 ml is required, although the amount of hot water required varies depending on the temperature of extraction container 9. In the extraction process (step S5) shown in FIG. 8, the amount of hot water required for one cup varies depending on the recipe, but approximately 150 to 200 ml is required. Furthermore, the discharge process (step S6) shown in Figure 8 requires about 50 ml of hot water for washing. In this case, the amount of hot water remaining in reservoir 725 after one coffee beverage preparation cycle has been performed from a full state is about 670 ml to 750 ml, and here the remaining water level is set to 700 ml, and water is supplied up to this remaining level.

[0125] During water supply, the air pressure inside the reservoir 725 is maintained at a target air pressure. The target air pressure here is a first air pressure (for example, 150 kPa (1.48 air pressure)). The processing unit 11a sets the air pressure inside the reservoir 725 to the first air pressure when water supply starts, opens the pressurizing electromagnetic valve 72f, and increases the air pressure inside the reservoir 725. During water supply, if the air pressure inside the reservoir 725 is high, water will not enter the reservoir 725. For this reason, the air pressure at which water can be supplied into the reservoir 725 is set as the first air pressure. Therefore, the first air pressure is not limited to 150 kPa, but may be any air pressure at which water can be supplied into the reservoir 725. It is sufficient if the pressure is equal to atmospheric pressure, for example. Alternatively, the pressure may be equal to or higher than atmospheric pressure. In (2), the float 730 was not detected by the middle sensor 731m and the upper sensor 731h, but in (3), the water level in the reservoir 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 atmospheric pressure, which is the target pressure, and the processing unit 11a closes the pressurizing electromagnetic valve 72f. Note that, During water supply, the air pressure in the reservoir 725 tends to increase, and in the timing chart shown in Fig. 9, the pressure release solenoid valve 72h remains closed, but the period shown by the two-dot chain line indicates the period during which the processing unit 11a performs automatic opening and closing control of the opening solenoid valve 72h to maintain the target air pressure (the same applies to Figs. 12 and 13). The automatic opening and closing control refers to control in which the processing unit 11a repeatedly opens the solenoid valve and returns it to the closed state, and during the period when the target air pressure is maintained, the processing unit 11a opens the solenoid valve. The pressure release solenoid valve 72f is not closed (this also applies to the following explanations). In (2) to (4), the processing unit 11a performs automatic opening and closing control of the pressure release solenoid valve 72h to maintain the first atmospheric pressure. On the other hand, the period indicated by the dashed dotted line in the timing chart shown in Fig. 9 indicates a period during which the processing unit 11a performs automatic opening and closing control of the pressurizing solenoid valve 72f to maintain the target atmospheric pressure (the same applies to Figs. 12 and 13). In (3) to (4), the processing unit 11a performs automatic opening and closing control of the pressurizing solenoid valve 72f to maintain the first atmospheric pressure.

[0126] 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.

[0127] FIG. 10 is a timing chart continuing from FIG.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] FIG. 11 is a timing chart continuing from FIG.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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).

[0135] Then, when an instruction to make the first coffee beverage is received, the hot water volume setting process of step S1 shown in Figure 8 is executed. In (11), setting of the hot water volume in measuring unit 726 is started based on the production instruction (recipe). Note that if the instruction to make the first coffee beverage is received before hot water preparation is complete (for example, if the instruction to make the first coffee beverage is received before heating to the first target temperature is completed), the hot water volume setting process is started immediately after hot water preparation is complete. In the hot water volume setting process, processing unit 11a operates hot water volume adjustment motor 727a to lower movable member 727c to the set position (here, the position where the volume of measuring unit 726 is 180 ml). In (12), rotation sensor 727s (position detection sensor for movable member 727c) detects that movable member 727c has reached the set position, and processing unit 11a stops hot water volume adjustment motor 727a. As a result, the volume of measuring section 726 becomes 180 ml, the hot water volume setting process is completed, and the hot water volume setting process ends. Note that there is no change in the air pressure inside reservoir 725 during the hot water volume setting process.

[0136] FIG. 12 is a timing chart continuing from FIG.

[0137] FIG. 12 shows that hot water is supplied from reservoir 725 to measuring section 726, which has completed setting the amount of hot water to 180 ml, and then hot water is supplied from measuring section 726 to extraction container 9 shown in FIG.

[0138] Although not shown in the timing chart of FIG. 12, 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 is determined in advance, and processing unit 11a controls the opening and closing of three-way solenoid valve 728 to connect storage-side pipe 728a and extraction-side pipe 728c for the required time, and block storage-side pipe 728a and metering-side pipe 728b. In this way, 70 ml of hot water flows into extraction container 9 through the downstream portion of pipe L2 and pipe L3 shown in FIG. 1 and is discharged into waste tank T. Extraction container 9 and the pipes are preheated, and any hot water or water remaining in the pipes is also discharged into waste tank T. After the preheating process is completed, the hot water measurement process of step S3 shown in FIG. 8 is executed. At (13), processing unit 11a starts the hot water metering operation of three-way solenoid valve 728 as the hot water metering process. That is, storage-side pipe 728a and metering-side pipe 728b are connected, and metering-side pipe 728b and extraction-side pipe 728c are disconnected. This causes hot water to be supplied from storage unit 725 to metering unit 726, where the hot water volume of 180 ml has been set. The air pressure inside metering unit 726 also becomes the second air pressure, and the supply of hot water from storage unit 725 to metering unit 726 now uses head pressure. When the hot water metering process starts, the water level in storage unit 725 begins to drop, and at (13), float 730 is detected by middle sensor 731m and then is no longer detected by upper sensor 731h. In (14), processing unit 11a determines that the supply of hot water to metering unit 726 has been completed because a predetermined time (e.g., 40 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the hot water metering operation, and terminates the hot water metering operation of three-way solenoid valve 728, completing the metering of 180 ml of hot water in metering unit 726. Note that, since metering unit 726 is filled with hot water when the supply of hot water to metering unit 726 is completed, a full tank detection sensor may be provided in metering unit 726. During the hot water metering process, there is no change in air pressure within storage unit 725 or metering unit 726. Meanwhile, even during the hot water metering process, processing unit 11a performs automatic heating control of heater 72a to maintain the second target temperature, as shown by the dotted line.When the hot water measurement process is completed, the bottom end of the float 730 has descended to a position slightly above the lower sensor 731l, but is not detected by the lower sensor 731l, and the water level in the storage section 725 is 50 ml higher than the remaining level shown in (4) of Figure 9.

[0139] As described above, the hot water metering process and the grinding process (step S4) shown in FIG. 8 are started first, and the grinding process is started later, but there is a period when both processes are performed in parallel. When the hot water metering process is completed and the grinding process is completed and the ground coffee beans are added to 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 connected, and the storage side pipe 728a and the metering side pipe 728b are blocked. This starts the supply of hot water from the metering unit 726 to the extraction container 9 shown in FIG. 1. When a predetermined time (e.g., 6 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the hot water supply operation of three-way solenoid valve 728, processing unit 11a determines that the supply of hot water to extraction container 9 has been completed, and ends the hot water supply operation of three-way solenoid valve 728. This predetermined time is significantly shorter than the predetermined time (e.g., 40 seconds) for the hot water metering operation, because the air pressure in metering unit 726 is maintained at a second atmospheric pressure higher than atmospheric pressure. Also, as described above, depending on the recipe, the ground coffee beans in extraction container 9 may be steamed first. When steaming ground beans, processing unit 11a starts the hot water supply operation of three-way solenoid valve 728, injects hot water for steaming from metering unit 726 into extraction container 9, and once a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds) has elapsed, stops the hot water supply operation temporarily, steams the ground beans for a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds), and then starts the hot water supply operation of three-way solenoid valve 728 again, and injects the hot water remaining in metering unit 726 into extraction container 9. The time required for injecting the hot water remaining in metering unit 726 into extraction container 9 is, for example, about 3 seconds. At (16), the supply of hot water to extraction container 9 is completed, and metering unit 726 is empty, as shown in the schematic cross-sectional view.

[0140] During the hot water supply operation of three-way solenoid valve 728, the air pressure in metering unit 726 decreases, but pressurization does not occur. When the hot water supply operation is completed, processing unit 11a automatically controls the opening and closing of pressurization solenoid valve 72f (as shown by the dashed line in (16)) to maintain the second air pressure, and also automatically controls the opening and closing of pressure release solenoid valve 72h (as shown by the dashed line in (16)). Furthermore, although not shown in FIG. 12, when hot water supply is completed, processing unit 11a executes the draining process of step S6 shown in FIG. 8. Here, 50 ml of hot water is used for the draining process. The time required to supply 50 ml of hot water is calculated in advance, and processing unit 11a controls the opening and closing of three-way solenoid valve 728 to connect storage-side pipe 728a and extraction-side pipe 728c and to shut off storage-side pipe 728a and metering-side pipe 728b for the required time. This causes 50 ml of hot water to flow into the extraction container 9 through the downstream portion of pipe L2 and pipe L3 shown in Figure 1. Then, pressure is applied inside the extraction container 9, and the hot water inside the extraction container 9 is discharged together with the ground coffee residue into the waste tank T. When this discharge process is complete, the water level in the reservoir 725 drops by 50 ml, and the bottom end of the float 730 drops to just before reaching the lower sensor 731l, which is the same level as the remaining water level shown in Figure 9 (4).

[0141] After the discharge process is completed, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, the water supply from the remaining level to the full level is resumed. In this embodiment, the predetermined condition is satisfied when the water level sensor 72c of the reservoir 725 does not detect that the reservoir 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] After the discharge process is completed, three-way solenoid valve 728 is in a fully closed state (stopped state). When a predetermined condition is satisfied, pressure release solenoid valve 72h opens and pressure in storage section 725, which had been maintained at the second atmospheric pressure, is reduced to the first atmospheric pressure. As a result, the temperature of the hot water in storage section 725 also drops to the first target temperature. Therefore, the state of storage section 725 becomes the same as the state of storage section 725 in (6) during the first process. While the pressure in storage section 725 is maintained at the first atmospheric pressure (for example, 150 kPa (1.48 atmospheric pressure)), water supply from the remaining level to the full level is resumed. When the full level is reached, the pressure in storage section 725 is set to the second atmospheric pressure, and the hot water stored up to the full level is heated to the second target temperature. This completes the hot water preparation process shown in (10) of FIG. 11. In this embodiment, the same control program is used for both the water refill (7) to hot water preparation completion (10) when filling the tank 720a from its initial empty state, and the water refill (7) to hot water preparation completion (10) after the production cycle is complete. This ensures more consistent quality of coffee beverages. However, although the cycle (process) from water refill (7) to hot water preparation completion (10) is the same, the program for filling the tank from its initial state and the program for after the production cycle is complete may be separate programs. For example, the program for filling the tank from its initial state may be a series of dedicated programs.

[0145] As described above, when hot water preparation is complete, the air pressure inside storage unit 725 is maintained at the second atmospheric pressure, and the hot water stored up to the full tank level is maintained at the second target temperature. Then, when an instruction to produce a coffee beverage is received, preheating processing, setting of the amount of hot water (11) based on the production instruction (recipe), measurement of the hot water (13), and supply of hot water to extraction container 9 (15) are performed, and when the supply of hot water to extraction container 9 is completed and the discharge processing is finished, the state of storage unit 725 returns to the same state as the state of storage unit 725 in (6) during the first processing, or a similar state if the amount of hot water required for one coffee beverage production cycle has changed, and the above processing is then repeated.

[0146] When tank 720a is initially empty and filled with hot water and heated to the second target temperature (first time), unlike the present embodiment, even if the tank is filled from empty to full and the full-level water (e.g., 20°C) is heated to the second target temperature (e.g., 120°C) in one go, after the hot water supply to the extraction container 9 from the full level is completed (second time or later), water is resupplied from the remaining level to the full level, as in the present embodiment, and the full-level hot water (e.g., 100°C) is heated to the second target temperature (e.g., 120°C). In this case, the amount of liquid when water supply begins differs significantly between the first time (0 ml) and the second time or later (approximately 700 ml). Furthermore, the temperature of the liquid when heating to the second target temperature begins also differs significantly between the first time (20°C) and the second time or later (100°C). As a result, the density of the liquid in the storage section 725, the degree of linear expansion and buoyancy of the float 730 of the water level sensor 72c, the flow rate of the water supply, etc. will differ significantly between the first time and the second time and thereafter, resulting in differences in the timing of stopping the water supply and heating between the first time and the second time and thereafter, which will result in unstable management of the water temperature and, as a result, there is a risk of variations in the extraction of the coffee liquid (for example, variations in the taste of the coffee liquid).

[0147] On the other hand, in this embodiment, as described above, even in the initial state when tank 720a is empty, water is first supplied to the remaining level and heated to the first target temperature, and then resupplying water to the full level, heating the full-level hot water (e.g., 100°C) to the second target temperature (e.g., 120°C). That is, the same or similar conditions are reproduced in the first and second cycles, or when the amount of hot water required for one coffee beverage production cycle fluctuates, achieving unified control. Therefore, the amount of hot water when resupplying water in the first cycle and the amount when supplying water in the second and subsequent cycles are both approximately 700 ml. Furthermore, the temperature of the hot water when heating to the second target temperature begins is also approximately 100°C in both the first and second cycles. This stabilizes hot water temperature management, reducing the risk of variations in coffee extraction.

[0148] In addition, the process is not limited to starting from an initial state in which tank 720a is empty; water may be supplied from a water level in tank 720a below the remaining level (for example, a water level about 1 / 4 of the full level) to the remaining level and heated to the first target temperature.

[0149] Furthermore, in the process described using Figures 9 to 12, water supply and heating are completely separated, and heating begins after water supply is completed. In terms of the length of heating time and water supply time, examples of processes in which the heating time is longer than the water supply time include the example of performing heating while water is not being supplied, as in this embodiment, as well as an example in which heating is not stopped at timing (6) in Figure 10 but is continued even during re-supply. This allows hot water at the full tank level to reach the second target temperature more quickly. Alternatively, even in an example in which heating is started during the first water supply up to the remaining level (e.g., timing (3) in Figure 9), heating is continued after the first water supply is completed, heating is continued during re-supply, and heating is continued after re-supply is completed, the hot water at the full tank level can reach the second target temperature more quickly. Furthermore, starting heating midway through water supply (e.g., timing (3) in Figure 9 or midway through timing (7) in Figure 10) rather than starting heating after stopping water supply also allows the target temperature to be reached more quickly. Alternatively, heating may be started in the middle of the first water supply (for example, at timing (3) in Figure 9), and re-supply of water may be started after heating is completed, with heating not being started during re-supply of water and heating starting after re-supply of water is completed; or conversely, heating may not be started during the first water supply, heating starting after the first water supply is completed, and re-supply of water may be started after heating is completed, with heating starting in the middle of re-supply of water (for example, at timing (7) in Figure 10).

[0150] In addition, examples of processes in which the water supply time is longer than the heating time include processes in which heating is started during water supply and ended before the water supply ends, and processes in which heating is performed while water is not being supplied, as in the present embodiment.

[0151] Furthermore, if an instruction to produce a first coffee beverage is received before heating to the first target temperature is completed, the water may be heated to the second target temperature at the remaining level without starting re-supply of water, and hot water may be supplied to the extraction vessel. This accelerates the timing of supplying hot water to the extraction vessel, shortening the waiting time until the coffee beverage is extracted. Alternatively, if the first target temperature and the second target temperature are set to the same temperature, the timing of supplying hot water to the extraction vessel can be further accelerated, further shortening the waiting time until the coffee beverage is extracted.

[0152] 9 to 12, the process is configured to include a first water supply and heating (FIGS. 9(1) to 10(6)) and a second water supply and heating (FIGS. 10(7) to 11(10)), but a third or subsequent water supply and heating may also be provided. By dividing the process into multiple times, it is expected that the hot water in the reservoir 725 will be stirred by adding water when the water is supplied, and heating will be promoted.

[0153] Furthermore, although the above description has been given using ground roasted coffee beans as an example of an object to be extracted, other objects to be extracted include raw coffee beans, instant coffee powder, tea leaves such as Japanese tea, black tea, and oolong tea, ground tea leaves, vegetables, crushed vegetables, fruits, crushed fruits, grains, crushed grains, mushrooms such as shiitake mushrooms, crushed mushrooms such as shiitake mushrooms, mushrooms such as shiitake mushrooms that have been heated and then dried, crushed mushrooms such as shiitake mushrooms that have been heated and then dried, fish such as bonito, crushed fish such as bonito, etc. Examples of the liquid beverage include dried fish such as bonito after heating, dried fish such as bonito after heating and crushed, seaweed such as kelp, crushed seaweed such as kelp, dried seaweed such as kelp after heating, crushed seaweed such as kelp after heating, meat such as beef, pork, chicken, etc. after heating and drying, crushed meat such as the meat after heating and drying, meat such as beef bones, pork bones, chicken bones, etc. after heating and drying, crushed bones such as the bones after heating and drying, etc. Although coffee has been used as an example of the liquid beverage, other examples of the liquid beverage include Japanese tea, black tea, oolong tea, vegetable juice, fruit juice, soup, broth, stock, soup, etc.

[0154] In the above explanation, "An extraction device (e.g., extraction device 3) that extracts a beverage (e.g., coffee liquid) from an extraction target (e.g., ground beans), a storage tank (e.g., storage section 725) for storing a liquid used to extract the beverage; A supply unit (e.g., a water supply solenoid valve 72d) that supplies liquid to the storage tank; a heater (e.g., heater 72a) capable of heating the liquid stored in the storage tank; a first measuring unit (e.g., a water level sensor 72c) that measures the level of the stored liquid; a second measuring unit (e.g., temperature sensor 72b) that measures the temperature of the stored liquid; a control means (e.g., a processing unit 11a) that controls the supply unit based on the measurement result of the first measurement unit and that controls the heater based on the measurement result of the second measurement unit; The control means supplying liquid to the storage tank in multiple portions (e.g., two portions) until the level of the stored liquid reaches a predetermined level (e.g., a full tank level); and heating the stored liquid to a first target temperature (e.g., a first target temperature (100°C)) before the level of the stored liquid reaches the predetermined level (e.g., when the level reaches a remaining level); An extraction device characterized by the above. He explained about:

[0155] Also, "A delivery means (e.g., a three-way solenoid valve 728) is provided to deliver the liquid used in one cycle for extracting the beverage from the storage tank, The storage tank is configured to lower to a first liquid level (e.g., a remaining liquid level) when the liquid used in one cycle is delivered while the storage tank is at the predetermined liquid level (e.g., a full tank level), The control means performs a first control (e.g., control of the process shown in Figures 9(1) to 10(6)) of supplying liquid to the storage tank until the liquid level reaches the first liquid level and heating the supplied liquid to the first target temperature (e.g., 100°C), and then performs a second control (e.g., control of the process shown in Figures 10(7) to 10(10)) of supplying liquid to the storage tank from the first liquid level until the liquid level reaches the predetermined liquid level and heating the supplied liquid to a second target temperature (e.g., 120°C). An extraction device characterized by the above. He also explained.

[0156] Also, "The storage tank is provided with an air pressure adjusting means (e.g., a pressurizing solenoid valve 72f and a pressure releasing solenoid valve 72h) for adjusting the air pressure inside the storage tank, The control means maintains the internal air pressure of the storage tank at a first air pressure [for example, a first air pressure (150 kPa)] during the first control, and at a second air pressure [for example, a second air pressure (210 kPa)] during the second control, while controlling the air pressure adjustment means. An extraction device characterized by the above. He also explained.

[0157] Also, "The control means controls the air pressure adjustment means to maintain the first air pressure at an air pressure capable of supplying liquid to the storage tank (e.g., atmospheric pressure), and to maintain the second air pressure at an air pressure higher than the first air pressure (e.g., air pressure higher than atmospheric pressure). An extraction device characterized by the above. He also explained.

[0158] Also, "The extraction target is ground coffee beans, The beverage is coffee. An extraction device characterized by the above. He also explained.

[0159] Also, We have also described a beverage preparation device (e.g., beverage preparation device 1) that is equipped with the above-described extraction device.

[0160] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and examples, and these contents can be combined with each other without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and may be partially modified depending on the purpose, etc. Furthermore, the individual terms used in this specification are used merely 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 terms, and may also include equivalents. For example, expressions such as "means," "device," and "section" may be replaced with "unit," "module," etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0161] 1 Beverage production equipment 3 Extraction device 4. Storage device 7 Fluid Supply Unit 9 Extraction vessel 11 Control device 11a Processing section 11b Storage section 72 Liquid delivery volume adjustment device 720a Tank 721 Peripheral wall 722 Partition wall 724 bottom wall 725 Storage Unit 726 Measuring section 727 drive unit 727c Movable parts 728 Three-way solenoid valve 728a Storage side piping 728b Metering side piping 728c Extraction side piping 72a heater 72a2 heating section 72ab bottom end 72b Temperature Sensor 72b1 Measuring part 72c Water Level Sensor 730 Float 731h Upper sensor 731m Medium Sensor 731l Lower Sensor 72d Water supply solenoid valve 72f Pressure solenoid valve 72h Pressure release solenoid valve 72p press inlet 72q Drainage solenoid valve 72w water inlet 72x hot water outlet 74 Flow path forming pipe 741 Outlet

Claims

1. An extractor for extracting a beverage from an extracting object, a storage tank for storing a liquid used to extract the beverage; a supply unit that supplies liquid to the storage tank; a heater capable of heating the liquid stored in the storage tank; a first measuring unit that measures the level of the stored liquid; a second measuring unit that measures the temperature of the stored liquid; a control means for controlling the supply unit based on the measurement result of the first measurement unit and for controlling the heater based on the measurement result of the second measurement unit; The control means a first control is performed in which liquid is supplied to the storage tank until the liquid level reaches a first liquid level and the supplied liquid is heated to a first target temperature, and then a second control is performed in which liquid is supplied to the storage tank until the liquid level reaches a second liquid level higher than the first liquid level and the supplied liquid is heated to a second target temperature, a pressure adjusting means for adjusting the pressure inside the storage tank; The control means controls the air pressure adjustment means to maintain the air pressure inside the storage tank in the first control at a first air pressure at which liquid can be supplied to the storage tank, and controls the air pressure adjustment means to maintain the air pressure inside the storage tank in the second control at the first air pressure until the liquid level reaches the second air pressure, and then changes the air pressure to a second air pressure higher than the first air pressure and maintains the second air pressure. An extraction device characterized by:

2. 10. The extraction device of claim 1, a delivery means for delivering a liquid used in one cycle for extracting the beverage liquid from the storage tank; The storage tank is configured to lower its liquid level to the first liquid level when the liquid to be used in one cycle is delivered while the storage tank is at the second liquid level. An extraction device characterized by:

3. 3. The extraction device according to claim 1 or 2, The extraction target is ground coffee beans, The beverage is coffee. An extraction device characterized by:

4. A beverage manufacturing apparatus characterized by being equipped with the extraction device described in claim 1.

Images