Device for dispensing and / or preparing a medium to be prepared, container for receiving and dispensing components, container for receiving and dispensing a fluid, and corresponding system

Abstract

There is shown and described a device (1, 1') for dosing and / or preparing a medium to be prepared, in particular baby food, in particular baby milk or baby mash, coffee and / or tea, said device comprising a housing (3) having a first receiving area (5, 5') and a second receiving area (7, 7'), said first receiving area (5, 5') being designed to receive a first container (9, 9') for a first component of the medium to be prepared, and said second receiving area (7, 7') being It is designed to receive a second container (11) for a fluid and comprises a temperature control device for controlling the temperature of the fluid and a dosing device (29, 29') for dosing the first component, characterized in that the first receiving area (5, 5') comprises a dosing device receiving area (27, 27') for receiving the dosing device (29, 29'), and an actuation and / or drive device (39) for the dosing device (29, 29') is arranged in the dosing device receiving area (27, 27').

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to a device for dosing and / or preparing a medium to be prepared, in particular baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea, a container for receiving and dispensing components for preparing a medium, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea, a container for receiving and dispensing fluids for preparing a medium to be prepared, a system comprising a device for dosing and / or preparing a medium to be prepared, in particular baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea, a container for receiving and dispensing components for preparing a medium, and a container for receiving and dispensing fluids for preparing a medium to be prepared. [Background technology]

[0002] Accurate and precise dosing plays a key role, especially in media where fluids such as liquids or water must be mixed with ingredients such as powders or concentrates. For example, when preparing baby food from concentrated baby food, the corresponding amount of powder or concentrate must be measured or dosed and mixed with water before the baby food is dispensed. Also, when preparing coffee, for example, the corresponding amount of coffee powder or coffee beans must be measured or dosed and mixed with the desired amount of water. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Starting from the prior art, the object of the present invention is to allow simplified dosing and / or preparation of a medium for preparing, in particular, baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea.

[0004] According to the invention, this object is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments result from the dependent claims. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device for dosing and / or preparing a medium to be prepared, in particular baby food, in particular baby milk, baby food, coffee and / or tea, comprising: a housing with a first receiving area and a second receiving area, the first receiving area being designed to receive a first container for a first component of the medium to be prepared and the second receiving area being designed to receive a second container for a fluid, a preparation device for preparing the fluid, and a dosing device for dosing the first component, the first receiving area having a dosing device receiving area for receiving the dosing device, and an actuation device and / or drive device for the dosing device being arranged in the dosing device receiving area.

[0006] Preferably, the second container is connectable to a fluid reservoir, and the second container and / or the fluid reservoir are replaceable and designed as a disposable product.

[0007] Preferably, the administration device is connected to the first container, and the first container and administration device are interchangeable and designed as disposable products.

[0008] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a container for receiving and dispensing ingredients for preparing a medium, in particular baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea, said container comprising: a housing having an interior for receiving the ingredients, and an outlet in fluid communication with the interior, said outlet connectable to an inlet of a dosing device having said outlet such that actuation of said dosing device expels a dose of the ingredients through said outlet, said dosing device being connected or connectable to said container, said container and / or said dosing device being replaceable and designed as a disposable item.

[0009] Preferably, the container for receiving and dispensing ingredients for preparing a medium, in particular baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea, can be supplied pre-filled with the ingredients.

[0010] According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a container for receiving and dispensing a fluid for the preparation of a medium to be prepared, in particular baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea, said container comprising: a housing having an interior space for receiving a fluid, an inlet in fluid communication with said interior space, and an outlet in fluid communication with said interior space, said inlet being connectable to an outlet of a fluid reservoir, wherein a dose of fluid for preparing the medium to be prepared can be supplied via the outlet of said container, said container being replaceable and characterized in that it is designed as a disposable item.

[0011] Preferably, the container for receiving and dispensing the fluid for preparing the medium to be prepared, in particular baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea, can be supplied pre-filled with the fluid.

[0012] Another aspect of the invention relates to a system comprising an apparatus for preparing a medium to be prepared, such as baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea, a first container for receiving and dispensing ingredients for preparing the medium, and / or a second container for receiving and dispensing fluids for preparing the medium to be prepared, such as baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, coffee and / or tea.

[0013] In the following, the invention will first be described on the basis of an apparatus for measuring and grinding coffee beans and / or an apparatus for preparing coffee, in particular filter coffee. The invention will then be described on the basis of an apparatus for measuring and / or preparing baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, or coffee. Thus, the description will be based on coffee and baby food as the medium to be prepared. It is also conceivable that the medium to be prepared could be other media, such as tea, soup, etc.

[0014] There are many different methods for preparing filter coffee, including using a Chemex carafe with a Chemex filter and a Carlsbaeder jug ​​with a double-paned porcelain fine sieve. There are also drip coffee makers available, in which cold water percolates through a paper filter onto the coffee grounds, dripping the iced coffee into a glass jug underneath. Different methods involve different filters, grind sizes, temperatures, blend ratios, steeping times, and water dispense speeds.

[0015] To ensure that filter coffee has a particularly good aroma, freshly ground coffee is ideal, as the aromas disappear together. Until now, coffee grinders for filter coffee have been used. Manual grinding requires measuring the ground coffee and maintaining a certain mixing ratio between the ground coffee and water or other liquid depending on the amount and type of coffee desired, so that the coffee releases a particularly good aroma.

[0016] Filter-type coffee machines including such coffee grinders are known. These coffee machines, known in the prior art, grind coffee beans, heat them, and brew coffee. However, they must be cleaned regularly. Coffee residues, such as oil residues, can deteriorate the taste of the coffee and can produce residues contaminated with germs and bacteria. Furthermore, coffee machines can become calcified over time, resulting in irreparable damage and, in turn, negatively affecting the aroma of the coffee. Therefore, conventional coffee makers with built-in grinders must be cleaned and descaled regularly. The lines supplying the liquid used to make the coffee must also be cleaned, for example, to prevent biofilm buildup. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] The present invention aims to provide an apparatus for measuring and grinding coffee beans or coffee, which can be used to easily prepare aromatic coffee.

[0018] Preferably, there is provided an apparatus for metering and grinding coffee beans and / or an apparatus for preparing coffee, in particular filter coffee, comprising: a housing having a first receiving area and a second receiving area, the first receiving area designed to receive a first container for coffee beans and the second receiving area designed to receive a second container for a fluid, a tempering device for controlling the temperature of the fluid, and a dosing and grinding device for dosing and grinding the coffee beans, the first receiving area being a dosing and grinding device receiving area for receiving the dosing and grinding device having a grinding device, and an actuation device and / or drive device for the dosing and grinding device being arranged in the dosing and grinding device receiving area.

[0019] The device according to the invention is for dosing and grinding coffee beans or for preparing coffee, in particular filter coffee.

[0020] The device may have a first receiving area designed to receive a first container containing coffee beans. Furthermore, a metering and grinding device tray, which is a tray that can receive a metering and grinding device for quantifying and grinding the coffee beans, is arranged in the first tray of the device. In this way, the first container containing the coffee beans and the dosing and grinding device can be at least partially received in the first tray. This advantageously allows the dosing and grinding device to interact with the first container. In particular, the correct dosing of the coffee beans can be performed by the dosing and grinding device. This is possible because the dosing and grinding device is driven by a drive device that is also arranged in the dosing and grinding device receiving area.

[0021] Furthermore, all components of the described devices that come into contact with the coffee beans or coffee powder ground by the dosing and grinding device, or with the fluid, are particularly replaceable and can be easily removed from the device. Replaceable components mean that the components are designed as disposable or single-use items. In particular, the first container for the coffee beans, the dosing and grinding device for dosing and grinding the coffee beans, and the second container for the fluid are replaceable. The first container can be connected or fluidly connected to the dosing and grinding device, and / or the second container can be connected or fluidly connected to a fluid reservoir. This is advantageous in that the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or the device for preparing coffee, particularly the first and second receiving areas, do not come into contact with the coffee beans and the fluid. Since the device, particularly the first and second receiving areas, are not contaminated with coffee or the fluid, there is no need to clean the device after each coffee preparation. Furthermore, the device and / or its individual components do not need to be demineralized.

[0022] The coffee beans are first dosed and then ground into a dosed amount of coffee powder by a dosing and grinding device. The coffee powder and the supplied fluid can then be introduced into a container, preferably a filter or filter container, in the correct mixing ratio, which is advantageous for the desired aroma of the coffee to be prepared.

[0023] The apparatus may comprise a preparation device for preparing coffee from ground coffee powder and a fluid, which may also be replaceable and designed as a disposable or single-use item. This device allows ground coffee and a fluid (e.g., liquid) to be fed to the preparation device in the correct ratio from a second container, and the ground coffee and the fluid to be fed into a further container, in particular a filter and / or funnel container. This allows for the correct preparation of coffee, in particular filter coffee, and has a beneficial effect on the coffee's aroma quality.

[0024] Thus, the preparation device may have a filter and / or funnel or filter receptacle into which coffee grounds and a fluid may be introduced and / or mixed. Furthermore, the preparation device may have a receptacle such as a coffee cup or coffee pot, and the preparation device may be in contact with or interact with the receptacle such as a coffee cup or coffee pot. The coffee cup or coffee pot is positioned relative to the filter and / or funnel receptacle so that coffee can be introduced or filled from the filter and / or funnel receptacle as a result of gravity. The coffee cup or coffee pot is preferably positioned below the filter and / or funnel receptacle.

[0025] Preferably, it is a device for determining the presence and / or type of preparation device.

[0026] The temperature of the liquid in the second container can be adjusted to a suitable temperature for the preparation of filter coffee using a tempering device. Temperatures suitable for the preparation of filter coffee are between 90°C and 100°C, with a temperature around 96°C being preferred. The tempering device can be designed as a heating plate, which can maintain a constant temperature for the liquid in the second container. This is possible in contrast to a flow heater. The tempering device can heat or warm the liquid inside the second container as a whole, similar to a high-speed water boiler. Therefore, by designing the tempering device as a heating plate, a similar effect to that of a pour-over water boiler can be achieved, resulting in a particularly delicious coffee. In particular, this allows for the coffee grounds in contact with the liquid from the second container to expand or bloom.

[0027] Preferably, the tempering device is controllable or adjustable. For this purpose, the device may include a control or adjustment unit. It is conceivable that the tempering device is designed as a heating plate and / or a cooling plate, or that the tempering device consists of at least one heating plate and / or at least one cooling plate. It is also possible to control, adjust or activate different zones or areas of the tempering device, the heating plate and / or the cooling plate.

[0028] The coffee bean and / or coffee preparation device of the present invention allows for the automatic administration of the desired amount of fluid with which the ground coffee powder is mixed by the dispensing and grinding device, thereby automatically obtaining the desired coffee aroma. This means that the entire fluid in the fluid tank of the coffee filter machine is consumed at the available stand, rather than the need to accurately measure and match the amount of ground coffee powder with the fluid with which the ground coffee powder is mixed, as in conventional coffee filter machines. The automated comparison of the fluid with the coffee beans and / or ground coffee powder eliminates the need to mistakenly set the correct mixing ratio of fluid to coffee powder, which has a beneficial effect on the coffee aroma.

[0029] The coffee beans and / or coffee preparation device has interchangeable components that allow different first containers containing different types of coffee beans to be introduced into the first receiving area, so that different types of coffee can be prepared with the device. Advantageously, the first container and the dosing and grinding device are designed as disposable or single-use products, which avoid residues from previous types of coffee remaining in the individual components of the device. This means that cleaning is not required and the aroma of newly prepared coffee is not affected by residues from previously prepared coffee. An infinite number of different types of coffee can be prepared or processed without residues or cleaning in the device for measuring and grinding coffee beans or the device for preparing coffee.

[0030] Preferably, a dosing and grinding device can be connected to the first container.

[0031] The dosing and crushing device can be connectable to the first container, i.e., by connecting the dosing and crushing device to the first container, the dosing and crushing device and the first container can be introduced together into the receiving area and removed again. For example, the dosing and crushing device can be firmly connected to the first container (e.g., by gluing and / or welding) so that the dosing and crushing device and the first container are firmly connected to each other. However, it is also conceivable that the dosing and crushing device and the first container are detachably connected to each other.

[0032] This allows the first container with coffee beans and the dosing and grinding device to be introduced into the first receiving area in a simplified manner and at least partially received in the first receiving area. At the same time, the dosing and grinding device can be safely engaged with the drive device, allowing the intended amount of coffee beans to be introduced or dispensed from the first container into the dosing and grinding device and then ground into coffee powder. However, it is also conceivable that the dosing and grinding device and the first container are not connected to each other and are introduced into and / or removed from the first receiving area separately from each other.

[0033] Preferably, the dosing and grinding device comprises a grinding device, the grinding device being designed for dosing and grinding.

[0034] The grinding device can be a grinder. By operating the grinder, coffee beans can be fed and ground at the same time. A separate feeding device such as a screw conveyor, which will be described later, is not required.

[0035] Preferably, the defined amount of coffee is controlled or regulated or dosed by controlling or regulating the grinding device or grinder.

[0036] For example, the grinder may be operated to grind a defined amount of coffee beans over a period of time, thereby simultaneously dispensing a defined amount of coffee or ground coffee, thereby simultaneously grinding the coffee beans and dispensing a defined amount of ground coffee.

[0037] Preferably, the control or adjustment parameter is a signal from a sensor device, the sensor device comprising a scale and / or a timer.

[0038] The sensor device may include a timer. The timer may emit a signal to control or adjust the duration of grinding and dosing. Operating the grinder for a certain period of time via the timer can grind a defined or predetermined amount of coffee beans and dispense a certain amount of coffee powder. Alternatively, or simultaneously, the sensor device may comprise a scale, such as a platform balance. The scale may be placed, for example, below a container filled with ground coffee powder to measure the weight inside the container. When a certain or desired weight is reached, the scale may send a signal to the grinding device to terminate grinding and dosing, thereby achieving the desired dosage. The scale may be placed to the side or above the container filled with ground coffee powder, and may be designed, for example, as a hanging scale. For example, the hanging scale may be placed above the container containing the coffee beans. By hanging or placing the container containing the coffee beans on the scale, the desired dosage can be determined by the weight or weight loss of the container.

[0039] Preferably, the grinder is insertable, preferably over its entire length, into the outlet of the first container and is rotatably arranged therein such that the grinder and the outlet extend about a common longitudinal axis.

[0040] In particular, the grinder can be positioned at least partially at the outlet of the first container containing the coffee beans. In this way, the coffee beans in the first container can be gravity fed to the outlet and ground. This arrangement avoids the need for a screw conveyor, as described below. The coffee beans are transported to the grinder by gravity alone. The grinder grinds the coffee beans delivered by gravity to produce coffee powder.

[0041] Preferably, the grinder is rotatably disposed at the outlet of the first container. The grinder is connected or connectable to the container. For example, the grinder can be glued to the outlet of the container or glued to the inner wall of the outlet. However, it is also conceivable that the grinder is integrally connected to the container.

[0042] When inserted into the outlet, the grinder and the outlet can extend about the same longitudinal axis. The grinder can be actuated and / or driven by an actuator and / or drive. Upon actuation and / or driving, coffee beans from the first container can be ground by the grinder and ground coffee can exit the container or grinder through the outlet of the first container.

[0043] The grinding mechanism can have a first end and an opposite second end along the longitudinal axis of the grinding mechanism. The first end can protrude from the outlet of the first container and thus be located outside the first container. The second end can be located within the first container. The first end of the grinder can be designated as the drive end of the grinder.

[0044] A coupling device can be arranged at the drive end of the grinding machine along the longitudinal axis of the grinding machine, and a coupling device can be arranged at the first drive end, which can comprise a transmission, for example a gear transmission with a gear or pinion, that drives the grinding device or grinder.

[0045] Preferably, the grinder is a corn grinder, which can be used for dosing and grinding at low speeds, preferably 30 to 240 revolutions per minute (rpm).

[0046] The grinder may have a grinder core having an essentially conical longitudinal cross-section in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the grinder. The grinder core may extend between a first end and a second end of the grinder in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the grinder. Corresponding to the conical longitudinal cross-section of the grinder core, the circumference of the grinder core, as viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the grinder, decreases from the first end to the second end.

[0047] The grinder may have an inner ring adjacent or proximate to the second end. The inner ring may extend at least partially around the grinder core from the second end to the first end. The inner ring may surround the longitudinal axis of the grinding mechanism and preferably have a substantially conical longitudinal cross-section along the longitudinal axis of the grinding mechanism, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner ring tapering toward the second end.

[0048] The inner ring of the grinder, attached to the grinder core or shaft, can be moved along the longitudinal direction of the grinder toward the first and / or second ends of the grinder by means of an adjustment element. The adjustment element is located adjacent to or close to the first end and concentrically surrounds the longitudinal axis of the grinder. Using the adjustment element, the inner ring can be displaced toward the first and / or second ends of the grinder. This allows for a simple adjustment of the grinding degree.

[0049] The grinder can have an outer ring. The outer ring can have an essentially cylindrical cross section and an inner circumference that is larger than the outer circumference of the inner ring and smaller than the inner circumference of the first container outlet. The outer ring can be positioned on the inner wall of the first container outlet, and can be positioned adjacent to or in close proximity to the inner wall of the outlet. The outer ring can be positioned on the inner wall of the outlet using a holding element, such as a hold-down device. The outer ring can be held in a fixed or stationary position within the outlet by the hold-down device.

[0050] The outer ring is positioned around the inner ring, allowing the inner ring to rotate within the outer ring when driven by the grinding mechanism. The grinding level can be adjusted using an adjustment element, which adjusts the position of the inner ring relative to the outer ring (as viewed in the longitudinal direction of the grinder) and adjusts the gap between the inner and outer rings. Within this gap, coffee beans are ground into coffee powder at the interface between the inner and outer rings. Coffee beans transported by gravity to the outlet and grinder enter the space between the inner and outer rings, where they are ground into coffee powder as the inner ring rotates within the outer ring. The inner and outer rings are positioned adjacent to or close to the inner wall of the outlet and the outlet of the first container. This allows coffee powder ground between the inner and outer rings to exit the first container through the outlet.

[0051] The motor may be housed or located as part of the actuator and / or drive of the dose receiving area of ​​the device. The motor may comprise a gear wheel or pinion, and the gear wheel or pinion of the motor may contact a gear wheel or pinion of the coupling of the grinder to drive the grinder.

[0052] The motor is preferably controlled or regulated by signals from a sensor device.

[0053] The motor can be in communication with a sensor device, such as the scale mentioned above, so that the motor can be switched off once the desired dosage has been reached. In this way, the device can be operated in an automated manner.

[0054] Preferably, the apparatus for dosing and grinding coffee beans or preparing coffee is designed so that the housing has only one receiving tray, and the receiving tray is designed to receive the first container for the coffee beans. In other words, the apparatus does not include a second receiving area for receiving a second container for a fluid. Therefore, the apparatus can also be designed without a second container for a fluid, thereby eliminating the need for a preparation device for preparing a fluid.

[0055] Preferably, the dosing and grinding device comprises a grinding device and a dosing device. The grinding device can comprise a grinder, and the dosing device can comprise a screw conveyor. Furthermore, preferably, the dosing and grinding device comprises a screw conveyor, a grinder, and a screw conveyor housing, where the screw conveyor is preferably inserted into the screw conveyor housing over its entire length and / or rotatably disposed or attached therein, and the grinder is preferably inserted into the screw conveyor housing over its entire length and rotatably disposed therein, such that the screw conveyor, grinder, and screw conveyor housing extend around a common longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing.

[0056] The dosing and grinding device thus constitutes a screw conveyor housing in which the grinder and the screw conveyor are arranged. In other words, the dosing and grinding device consists of a housing or a dosing and grinding device housing, which will be referred to hereinafter as the screw conveyor housing. The screw conveyor is designed to transport the coffee beans to the grinder. The grinder is designed to grind the coffee beans to form coffee powder after they have been transported to the grinder by the conveying screw.

[0057] The screw conveyor can be designed as a shaft around which one or more spirally wound flights, in the form of flat metal sheets and / or rubber flaps or wings, extend essentially in the form of a screw thread laterally away from the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor. The screw conveyor is preferably designed as a rigid screw conveyor. However, it is also conceivable to design the screw conveyor as a flexible, particularly bendable, screw. The screw thread is either rigidly connected to the shaft, for example, by welding, or is manufactured integrally with the shaft. The screw conveyor preferably has a continuous screw thread extending along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor between its opposite ends. This allows the screw conveyor to transport coffee beans, particularly along the longitudinal axis. The screw conveyor, particularly the screw thread, can be turned from a solid material, such as round steel, or manufactured as a cast or injection-molded part. The screw conveyor and / or the screw conveyor housing are essentially cylindrical.

[0058] Due to the configuration of the dosing and grinding device, the coffee beans are led from a first container into the dosing and grinding device and transported by a screw conveyor in a screw conveyor housing along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor to the grinder. Since each revolution of the screw conveyor transports a certain amount of coffee beans, the number of (partial) revolutions determines the dose of coffee beans and therefore the amount of coffee powder ground by the grinder.

[0059] This allows for precise and easy dosing of the coffee powder, which can be done automatically, for example with a regulator or control device, or manually.

[0060] The feeding and grinding device may comprise a screw conveyor with a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing, and a grinding device for coffee beans may be located adjacent to or in the screw conveyor housing. The screw conveyor may be connected or connectable to a grinder so that a shaft can simultaneously rotate the screw conveyor and the grinder. The longitudinal axes of the grinder and the screw conveyor preferably extend in a single plane or in a straight line.

[0061] The dosing and crushing device and / or grinder can be designed as disposable or single-use articles. Therefore, the grinder's grinding surface and grinding knives do not need to be sharpened or replaced after a period of use. Rather, the entire grinder, including the dosing and crushing device and packaging, can be replaced to ensure high grinding and crushing quality.

[0062] The grinder may, for example, be made of or comprised of ceramic.

[0063] Preferably, the screw conveyor housing has an inlet with an inlet opening and an outlet with an outlet opening, the inlet and outlet being preferably located on opposite sides of the screw conveyor housing in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor.

[0064] The coffee beans are fed from the first container into the screw conveyor housing through the inlet opening and are then drawn into one or more spirally wound flights of the screw conveyor. The coffee preparation apparatus may include a shaking device that can cause the first container or its contents to undergo a shaking motion. This allows the coffee beans to be guided almost completely from the inlet opening of the first container into the screw conveyor housing, especially if the coffee beans do not slide on their own but are guided into the screw conveyor housing by, for example, gravity. The shaking device may preferably be disposed on the first tray or may be positioned corresponding to the first tray. The coffee preparation apparatus may include at least one sensor element or camera element. The shaking device or shaking function may be controllable or adjustable via an adjustment device or control device and / or a sensor element or camera element. A similar shaking device or function may also be provided in the container or filter container into which ground coffee powder is fed from the outlet of the screw conveyor housing to ensure uniform distribution of the coffee powder within the container. The sensor element or camera element may be used to determine the time or duration during which a desired amount of liquid has entered the container or filter container. Based on this time, the grinding degree can be adjusted automatically or manually. As grinding degree has a decisive influence on the quality and aroma of the coffee, automatic adjustment allows you to prepare particularly excellent or particularly aromatic coffee.

[0065] Preferably, the inlet is located adjacent or adjacent to the screw conveyor and the outlet is located adjacent or adjacent to the grinder.

[0066] As a result of the rotation of the screw conveyor, the coffee beans enter the interior of the screw conveyor housing and are then transported by the screw conveyor along the longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw to the grinder. After the coffee beans are ground by the grinder, the coffee powder leaves the screw conveyor housing through an outlet and can be brought into contact with a fluid for preparing coffee.

[0067] Preferably, the grinder is a cone grinder, which can grind at a low speed, preferably 30 to 240 revolutions per minute (rpm).

[0068] Preferably, the screw conveyor has a screw pitch diameter, i.e., an outer diameter perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor, in the range of about 20 to 40 mm. The screw flank diameter is particularly preferably about 25 mm. Such a screw flank diameter is advantageous for conveying or dosing coffee beans.

[0069] Preferably, the length of the screw conveyor is in the range of about 50 mm to 120 mm. Particularly preferably, the length of the screw conveyor is between about 50 mm and 90 mm, and even more preferably about 65 mm. The screw conveyor preferably has a diameter in the range of about 10 to 40 mm. Particularly preferably, the diameter is between about 20 mm and 30 mm, and more preferably, the screw conveyor has a diameter of about 22 mm. Such a screw conveyor length is advantageous for transporting coffee beans. If the screw conveyor length is shortened, the coffee beans may form bridges on one or more spirally wound flights, blocking the inlet opening and preventing further coffee beans from being introduced through the inlet opening. Bridging occurs particularly when the coffee beans are guided by gravity from the inlet opening into the screw conveyor housing.

[0070] Preferably, the screw conveyor housing has a length in the range of about 100 mm to 140 mm. The length of the screw conveyor housing is preferably between about 105 mm and 120 mm, more preferably about 110 mm. Preferably, the screw conveyor housing has a diameter at least the same as or slightly larger than the diameter of the screw conveyor and / or grinder. Preferably, the diameter of the screw conveyor housing is in the range of about 25 to 50 mm. Particularly preferably, the diameter of the screw conveyor housing is about 27.5 to 35 mm, more preferably, the diameter of the screw conveyor housing is about 30 mm.

[0071] By dimensioning the screw conveyor length and screw flank diameter within the above-mentioned range, a coffee bean delivery rate of approximately 1 to 5 g per revolution of the screw conveyor (e.g., approximately 2 g per revolution) can be achieved. Depending on the number of revolutions (or the angle of rotation around the longitudinal axis), the desired amount of coffee beans is ground, and as a result, the desired amount of ground coffee powder is guided through the outlet of the screw conveyor housing and, as a result, exits the screw conveyor housing. This allows for precise dosing of coffee beans or ground coffee powder for coffee preparation.

[0072] Preferably, the inlet opening is essentially oval and extends in the longitudinal direction. However, other shapes of inlet openings are also conceivable. The inlet opening has a length of approximately 20 mm to 60 mm (e.g., approximately 47 mm) in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor screw and / or a length of approximately 10 mm to 40 mm (e.g., approximately 29 mm) in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor screw, particularly when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor. Preferably, the outlet opening is essentially rectangular and extends in the longitudinal direction. However, other shapes of outlet openings are also conceivable. The outlet opening has a length of approximately 20 mm to 50 mm (e.g., approximately 30 mm) in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor and / or a length of approximately 5 mm to 20 mm (e.g., approximately 10 mm) in the longitudinal direction, particularly when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor. These dimensions of the inlet and outlet openings allow particularly good introduction of coffee beans into the screw conveyor housing and particularly good discharge of ground coffee powder from the screw conveyor housing.

[0073] Preferably, the screw conveyor housing extends along its longitudinal axis between a first end and an opposite second end, the grinder is disposed adjacent to or near the first end and extends along its longitudinal axis, the screw conveyor is disposed adjacent to or near the second end and extends along its longitudinal axis, the outlet is disposed adjacent to or near the first end, and the inlet is disposed adjacent to or near the second end. The longitudinal axes of the screw conveyor, the grinder, and the screw conveyor housing preferably extend in a single plane or line.

[0074] The inlet and outlet are preferably spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor housing. By positioning the inlet adjacent to or close to the second end of the screw conveyor housing and the outlet adjacent to or close to the first end of the screw conveyor housing, coffee beans enter the screw conveyor housing through the inlet opening, are received by one or more spiral flights, and are transported to the second end of the screw conveyor housing by the rotation of the screw conveyor, where they are picked up by a grinder and ground into coffee powder. The ground coffee powder then exits again through the outlet opening. In this way, a predetermined or predetermined amount of coffee beans can be delivered per rotation, allowing the dosage to be set (or controlled or adjusted) based on the number of rotations (or the angle of rotation around the longitudinal axis).

[0075] The first end of the screw conveyor housing is preferably designed to be open, and the second end of the screw conveyor housing is preferably designed to be closed. Thus, the screw conveyor can be fully inserted into the screw conveyor housing through the first end, preferably until it reaches the second end. The grinder can then be fully inserted into the screw conveyor housing through the first end, preferably to one end of the screw conveyor. However, it is also conceivable that the screw conveyor and grinder can be designed as an integrated unit, allowing the screw conveyor and grinder to be fully inserted into the screw conveyor housing as a unit, preferably until it reaches the second end. The second end can be provided with an insertion or removal element extending away from the second end. The insertion or removal element can be designed as a flap forming a surface approximately the size of a thumb. In particular, the insertion or removal element can have a length of approximately 3-4 cm and / or a width of approximately 2-3 cm. On the opposite side, the insertion or removal element can include a tactile corrugated structure. The corrugated structure is preferably made of a soft rubber material. However, it can also be made of the same material as the insertion or removal element.

[0076] The insertion element allows the dosing and grinding device to be held and / or introduced into the dosing and grinding device receptacle in a targeted manner, and also allows the dosing and grinding device to be easily removed again, especially when the first container has become empty and must be replaced.

[0077] Preferably, the inlet is configured with a flange having a peripheral wall that at least partially surrounds the inlet opening and extends (preferably substantially radially) from the screw conveyor housing, and a flange for connecting the dosing / grinding device to the first container and / or a flange for introducing the dosing / grinding device is configured in the dosing / grinding device receiving area.

[0078] The peripheral wall of the screw conveyor housing's inlet is designed to engage with the first container, particularly the outlet of the first container. This allows coffee beans from the first container to be introduced into the screw conveyor housing in a particularly reliable manner. The peripheral wall can be manufactured integrally with the screw conveyor housing or as a cast or injection-molded part that can be connected to the screw conveyor housing.

[0079] The peripheral wall can extend from the edge of the inlet opening of the screw conveyor housing at an angle different from essentially 0° or 180°, particularly laterally. Thus, like the inlet opening, the peripheral wall can be essentially elliptical and extend in the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor. However, other shapes of the peripheral wall are also contemplated. In particular, the peripheral wall can have essentially the same shape as the inlet opening. The peripheral wall can have a circumference ranging from approximately 100 mm to 130 mm (e.g., approximately 122 mm). The peripheral wall can also extend along a first central longitudinal axis, which can have a length ranging from approximately 30 mm to 60 mm (e.g., approximately 47 mm). Furthermore, the peripheral wall can extend along a second central longitudinal axis oriented perpendicular to the first central longitudinal axis and / or can have a length ranging from approximately 20 mm to 40 mm (e.g., approximately 29 mm). Other lengths are also possible. The length of the first central longitudinal axis of the circumferential wall is preferably greater than the length of the second central longitudinal axis of the circumferential wall. The aforementioned lengths of the first and second central longitudinal axes of the circumferential wall are particularly preferred for introducing coffee beans into the screw conveyor housing and / or for connecting a dosing and grinding device to the first container.

[0080] Preferably, the peripheral wall comprises a first contact surface and an opposing second contact surface, the first contact surface and the second contact surface being arranged parallel to each other.

[0081] The first and second contact surfaces can be arranged on opposite sides of the central longitudinal axis of the second peripheral wall. These contact surfaces allow the dosing and grinding device to be introduced particularly easily into the dosing and grinding device receiving area. In particular, the contact surfaces can slide along the lateral guide elements of the first receiving area during insertion into the dosing and grinding device receiving area and can rest against the lateral guide elements after receipt into the dosing and grinding device receiving area. The first and second contact surfaces can have essentially parabolic cross-sectional areas. Due to the design of the two contact surfaces and the lateral guide elements and their interaction when the first container is inserted into the first receiving tray, the first container can be received in the correct position by the first receiving tray, so that the ground coffee powder can be guided from the outlet of the dosing and grinding device in the correct dose.

[0082] Preferably, a coupling device extends from the drive end of the screw conveyor in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor, and a coupling device extends from the drive end of the grinder in the longitudinal direction of the grinder. The coupling device of the screw conveyor is designed to couple with, and in particular to intervene with, the actuation and / or drive device of the grinder. The coupling device of the crusher is designed to couple with, and in particular to intervene with, the actuation and / or drive device of the dosing and crushing device.

[0083] The coupling device of the screw conveyor is designed to coupleably interact with the operating device and / or drive device of the grinder, particularly by interposing or connecting them. In the interconnected state, the screw conveyor coupling device engages with the operating device and / or drive device of the grinder so that the longitudinal axes of the grinder and screw conveyor run in a single plane or straight line, and when inserted into the screw conveyor housing, the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing runs in a single plane or straight line. Contrary to the operating device and / or drive device of the grinder, the grinder has a coupling device. The coupling device of the grinder is designed to coupleably interact with the operating device or drive device of the device for feeding and grinding coffee beans or the device for preparing coffee, particularly by interposing or connecting them. This is advantageous in that the grinder and screw conveyor can be driven simultaneously via the same shaft by operating or driving the operating device and / or drive device of the device. However, it is also conceivable that the grinder does not have an actuating device and / or a drive device and the screw conveyor does not have a coupling device, but instead the grinder and screw conveyor are integrally connected and can be driven together in a coupled manner via the coupling device of the grinder as described above.

[0084] The coupling device of the screw conveyor can be designed as an essentially cylindrical cavity and / or a receptacle extending essentially in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor. Correspondingly, the coupling device of the grinder can be designed as an essentially cylindrical cavity or as a receptacle extending essentially in the longitudinal direction of the grinder. After the dosing / grinding device is introduced and received in the dosing / grinding device receiving part, the coupling element of the dosing / grinding device receiving part can simultaneously be received in the (preferably essentially cylindrical) cavity of the grinder. The inner wall of the (cylindrical) cavity of the screw conveyor preferably has an inner contour that can engage with the outer contour of the outer wall of the coupling element of the grinder. The inner wall of the (cylindrical) cavity of the grinding machine preferably has an inner contour that can engage with the outer contour of the outer wall of the coupling element of the device. For example, the outer profile of the coupling element of the apparatus can have at least one material height that can engage or interact with at least one material recess in the inner profile of the cylindrical cavity of the grinder. Correspondingly, the outer profile of the coupling element of the grinder can have at least one material height that can engage or interact with at least one material recess in the inner profile of the cylindrical cavity of the conveyor screw.

[0085] The coupling element of the device can be designed as a drive shaft, and by introducing the coupling element into the cylindrical cavity of the grinder, the dosing and grinding device can be driven, so that the grinder and the screw conveyor can rotate when the grinder and the coupling device or the cavity of the screw conveyor are connected to each other by the coupling element. Preferably, the speed translation is adjustable or variable, so that the speed of the coffee beans transported within the screw conveyor housing can be changed, and therefore the dose of coffee beans and subsequently ground coffee powder can be changed.

[0086] Preferably, the grinder has a grinder core with an essentially conical longitudinal cross section along the longitudinal axis of the grinder. The grinder or grinder core can be designed as a shaft. The grinder core has a first end and an opposing second end, the first end having a coupling device disposed thereon, and the second end having a coupling element connectable to a coupling device of the screw conveyor. Corresponding to the conical longitudinal cross section of the grinder core, the circumference of the grinder core, as viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the grinder, decreases from the first end to the second end. Furthermore, at no point in the grinder core as viewed along the longitudinal axis of the grinder does the circumference exceed the circumference of the screw conveyor as viewed along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor. This allows the grinder and screw conveyor to be introduced together into the housing of the screw conveyor, and the operating and driving device of the device that grinds and discharges coffee beans can drive the grinder and screw conveyor together to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the housing of the screw conveyor.

[0087] Preferably, the grinder has an inner ring adjacent to or close to the second end of the grinder core. The inner ring can extend at least partially around the grinder core from the second end to the first end. The inner ring can surround the longitudinal axis of the grinding mechanism and preferably has an essentially conical longitudinal cross-section along the longitudinal axis, with the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner ring tapering toward the second end of the grinding mechanism core. The grinder's inner ring, seated on the grinding mechanism core and / or shaft, can be moved along the longitudinal axis of the grinder toward the first and second ends of the grinding mechanism core by an adjustment element, for example, an adjustment screw. The adjustment element is preferably positioned adjacent to or close to the first end of the grinder core and concentrically surrounds the longitudinal axis of the grinder. The position of the inner ring can be adjusted longitudinally of the grinder using the adjustment element. The inner ring can therefore be easily displaced toward the first end and / or the second end of the grinder core. This allows for easy adjustment of the grinding strength. The adjusting element allows for the grind size to be adjusted to suit the type of coffee beans in the first container and the type of preparation (Chemex, Cold Brew, Karlsbader, etc.). The grind size significantly influences the quality and aroma of coffee. The finer the grind, the longer water has to pass through the coffee grounds. This results in a stronger coffee and extraction. The coarser the grind, the faster the fluid or water passes through the coffee grounds. If the grind is too coarse, the coffee will taste watery or sour. If the grind is too fine, the coffee will taste too strong, have an earthy flavor, or be incompatible with other coffees. Setting the correct grind size is essential to maximize the coffee's flavor and aroma.

[0088] It is conceivable that the grinding degree can be automatically set, adjusted, or controlled (using an adjusting or control device) by scanning the first container containing the coffee beans with a scanning element, such as a smartphone. For example, the grinding degree can be adjusted depending on the volume of fluid in the second container or the type of coffee preparation desired (e.g., Chemex, Cold Brew, Karlsbader). The dosing and grinding device has a grinder suitable for the coffee beans contained in the first container, which simply needs to be inserted or clicked into the dosing and grinding device receptacle of the device. The grinding degree can also be manually set using an adjusting element. However, it is also conceivable that the grinding degree is already preset, preferably adapted to the type or variety of coffee beans, eliminating the need for automatic and / or manual setting.

[0089] Preferably, the grinder has a spring element located adjacent to or near the inner ring and / or adjacent to or near the second end of the grinder core. The spring element can be located, for example, at the rear of the shaft or the grinder. The rear of the shaft refers to the second end of the grinder, on which the operating and driving devices of the grinder are located. However, it is also conceivable that a recess in the grinder core extends at least partially from the second end toward the first end of the grinder core. This recess can be spaced apart from the longitudinal or central longitudinal axis of the grinder core and extend substantially concentrically around the longitudinal axis of the grinder. Therefore, the distance between the recess and the outer wall of the grinder core surrounded by the inner ring, transverse to the longitudinal or central longitudinal axis of the grinder core, can be smaller than the distance relative to the longitudinal or central longitudinal axis of the grinder core. This arrangement also allows a spring element to be placed in the recess, thereby ensuring that the inner ring is in the selected position for setting the desired degree of grinding.

[0090] Preferably, the grinder has an outer ring. The outer ring may have a substantially cylindrical cross section with an inner circumference larger than the outer circumference of the inner ring. The outer ring is preferably disposed on the inner wall of the screw conveyor housing, and more preferably, the outer ring is disposed on the inner wall of the screw conveyor housing by a retaining element, such as a hold-down device. The hold-down device may extend along the inner wall of the screw conveyor housing to the outer ring between the first open end of the screw conveyor housing adjacent or proximate to the adjusting element.

[0091] Preferably, the grinder outer ring has an outer diameter in the range of about 20-30 mm, preferably about 25-27 mm, more preferably about 25.7 mm. The grinder outer ring preferably has an inner diameter of about 10-20 mm, preferably about 17-19 mm, more preferably about 18 mm. The outer ring preferably has a length along its central longitudinal axis, which length is in the range of about 5-15 mm, preferably in the range of about 8-12 mm, more preferably about 11 mm.

[0092] Preferably, the grinder core has a diameter in the range of about 10 to 25 mm, particularly preferably about 13.5 to 19.5 mm. Preferably, the grinder core has a length in the range of about 5 to 15 mm, particularly preferably about 10 to 12 mm. More preferably, the length of the grinder core is about 11.1 mm.

[0093] In this way, by disposing the outer ring around the inner ring, the inner ring can be rotated within the outer ring by driving the grinder.

[0094] The grinding can be adjusted using the adjusting element by adjusting the position of the inner ring relative to the outer ring (when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor or the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor housing), thereby creating a gap between the inner and outer rings, or by adjusting the interface between the inner and outer rings. The essentially conical inner ring allows the coffee beans to be ground into coffee powder at the interface between the rotating inner ring and the fixed outer ring. The coffee beans, transported by the screw conveyor towards the grinder, reach the space between the inner and outer rings and are ground into coffee powder by the rotation of the inner ring within the outer ring.

[0095] Preferably, the inner and outer rings are positioned adjacent to or close to the discharge opening of the screw conveyor housing, so that coffee powder ground between the inner and outer rings of the grinder can exit the screw conveyor housing through the discharge opening.

[0096] Preferably, the grinder and screw conveyor are interconnected and driven with a driving force of approximately 0.5 Nm to 2 Nm, preferably approximately 1 Nm, so that the screw conveyor transports the coffee beans toward the grinder, where they are then ground according to the grinding level set by the grinder.

[0097] Preferably, the housing of the screw conveyor comprises an outer wall having a plurality of ribs, the ribs preferably extending essentially axially at least partially between the first end and the second end, and / or the ribs extending essentially radially away from the outer wall.

[0098] The ribs are preferably formed as longitudinal ribs between the first and second ends and / or surround the outer wall at regular or symmetrical intervals around the periphery. The ribs may have an outer edge that runs substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing and / or may extend away from the outer wall at a substantially constant distance from the screw conveyor housing. However, the ribs may also have, for example, a conical region, preferably near the first end of the screw conveyor housing. In this conical region, the outer edge of the rib tapers toward the first end of the screw conveyor housing.

[0099] Preferably, two further ribs limit or are located opposite the outlet opening in the circumferential direction of the outer wall. In other words, the two ribs are arranged adjacent to or close to the outlet opening and extend away from the edge of the outlet opening. Preferably, two further ribs are provided which limit the outlet opening on opposite axial sides of the outer wall. These ribs pass between the two ribs which limit the outlet opening on opposite circumferential sides and are located adjacent to or close to the outlet opening and extend away from its edge. In this way, the discharge opening can be surrounded on all sides by ribs.

[0100] The ribs on the outlet, particularly the ribs on the outlet, advantageously prevent the discharged coffee powder from coming into contact with the housing of the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans or for preparing coffee. Because the coffee powder does not come into contact with the housing of the device, the housing does not need to be cleaned after use and can be immediately reused. Furthermore, this prevents coffee powder from adhering to the housing, which could contaminate the device or render it unusable for coffee preparation. However, the ribs can also function as a stand for the dosing device, especially when the dosing device is not inserted into the dosing device tray of the first tray. This allows for easy connection of the first container to the dosing and grinding device and subsequent filling of the first container with coffee beans.

[0101] Preferably, the first tray has a rear wall, and more preferably, the first tray has two side walls spaced apart from one another and angled at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular essentially transverse to the rear wall. Preferably, the first tray has upper and lower limits angled at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular essentially transverse to the side walls. Even more preferably, the first tray has an open front surface opposite the rear wall, and the first tray is formed between the side walls and / or the upper and lower limits. The first receiving area preferably has a container receiving area for receiving the first container, and the container receiving area is preferably arranged above the dosing / crushing device receiving area.

[0102] Thus, the container receiving area can be adjacent to the upper limit, and / or the dosing and grinding device receiving area can be adjacent to the lower limit. Through the open front, the first container together with the dosing device and grinding device can be introduced into the first receiving area by a movement essentially perpendicular to the rear wall, so that the first container is received by the container receiving area, and the dosing device and grinding device are received from the dosing and grinding device receiving area. Preferably, the first container is connected to the dosing device and grinding device such that, when inserted into the first receiving area, it is positioned above the dosing device and grinding device relative to the lower limit and / or is further spaced from the lower limit than the dosing device and grinding device. This allows the coffee beans to be guided from the first container to the dosing and grinding device, for example, by gravity.

[0103] Preferably, a first guide element and a second guide element are arranged between the container receiving area and the dosing and grinding device receiving area, the guide elements extending from the essentially open front side towards the rear wall and / or the guide elements extending away from the side wall.

[0104] The guide elements are substantially continuous from the front wall to the rear wall. This allows the first container and the dosing / grinding device, which are connected to each other, to be introduced particularly easily into the first receiving area: the first container is placed / received on the guide elements, and the dosing / grinding device is placed / received below the guide elements. To correctly insert the first container and the dosing / grinding device, the peripheral wall can be inserted between the guide elements so that the first and second support surfaces slide substantially along the guide elements. In other words, the first support surface slides along the first guide element, and the second support surface slides along the second guide element, until the dosing / grinding device is fully received in the dosing / grinding device receiving section. Once inserted into the dosing / grinding device receiving area of ​​the first receiving area, the lateral contact surfaces of the peripheral wall of the dosing / grinding device then rest on the two guide elements. This allows the first container and / or the dosing / grinding device to be received in a particularly simple manner and positioned in a stable manner in the first receiving area.

[0105] Preferably, the guide elements are aligned essentially in a plane parallel to the upper and / or lower limits, and the guide elements are preferably inclined forward outside the plane towards the container receiving area.

[0106] As a result, each guide element includes an insertion bevel adjacent to or close to its open front face, which facilitates the correct insertion of the dosing and crushing device. In particular, during insertion, the two ribs arranged on the outer wall of the screw conveyor housing can slide substantially along the underside of the guide elements, while the two lateral contact surfaces slide between the guide elements as described above. Once inserted into the dosing and crushing device receiving area of ​​the first receiving area, the peripheral wall of the dosing and crushing device and the two lateral contact surfaces of the ribs then rest on the two guide elements. In particular, the abutment surfaces may abut the edges of the guide elements extending away from the side walls, and the two ribs may abut the undersides of the two guide elements facing toward the lower limit. When inserting the screw conveyor or its housing into the dosing / grinding area, the screw conveyor will, for example, make an audible "click" as soon as it reaches its final position. This lets the user know that the screw conveyor is correctly installed or that the (cylindrical) cavity is correctly connected to the coupling element or drive shaft. The lead-in bevel helps to bring the first container into the correct position and also simplifies the click-in of the screw conveyor.

[0107] Preferably, the lower limit has a receptacle for the screw conveyor housing extending from the open front to the rear wall.

[0108] The receptacle for the screw conveyor housing can extend between the two side walls around its longitudinal axis, which is oriented substantially parallel to the two side walls. A receptacle outlet opening, formed with substantially the same shape and dimensions as the outlet opening of the screw conveyor housing, can be located on the longitudinal axis of the receptacle, particularly adjacent to or close to the rear rear wall. The receptacle is essentially concave in a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle. In other words, the receptacle is embedded as a substantially concave section in the lower limit. Thus, the lower limit can have a surface having a first horizontal surface adjacent to or close to the first side wall and a second horizontal surface adjacent to or close to the second side wall, with the receptacle being disposed as a substantially concave surface between the first and second surfaces.

[0109] The screw conveyor housing receptacle allows the dosing and grinding device to be held particularly securely and firmly within the dosing and grinding device receptacle. After the dosing and grinding device is inserted and received, the screw conveyor housing lies firmly within the screw conveyor housing receptacle with two of the ribs resting firmly on the first and second horizontal surfaces. At the same time, the screw conveyor housing outlet opening is positioned above, adjacent to, or close to the receiving outlet opening. The ground coffee powder can be transported from the screw conveyor housing through the screw conveyor housing outlet opening and the dosing and grinding device receptacle receptacle outlet opening without the coffee powder coming into contact with the housing, and can be supplied to a preparation device, for example.

[0110] Preferably, the drive shaft is formed in or on the rear wall, the drive shaft and receptacle extending in a plane transverse to the lower limit.

[0111] The coupling element or drive shaft is preferably arranged at or on the rear wall. The distance between the lower limit and the coupling element or drive shaft, as viewed in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction of the receptacle, can correspond to the distance between the first cylindrical cavity and the peripheral wall of the screw conveyor, as viewed in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor. As described above, by inserting the dosing / comminuter device into the receptacle of the screw conveyor housing, the coupling element or drive shaft can automatically engage with the (cylindrical) cavity.

[0112] The ribs preferably extend substantially parallel to the upper and / or lower limits. The ribs preferably extend substantially from the open front wall to the rear wall. However, it is contemplated that the ribs may be positioned across the upper or lower limits and / or that the ribs may not extend continuously from the front to the rear wall.

[0113] Preferably, the ribs are arranged in pairs on the two side walls. In other words, each of the two ribs extends transversely to the side wall and / or parallel to the upper or lower limit. In this way, multiple pairs of ribs can be arranged on the side wall of the container receiving area, preferably between the guide element and the upper limit. Preferably, the ribs of a pair of ribs are spaced apart from each other by approximately 40 to 50 mm, more preferably by approximately 50 mm. It is also conceivable that not all of the ribs of a pair of ribs are spaced apart from each other by the same distance, but rather by different distances, preferably between approximately 40 and 50 mm.

[0114] The ribs allow the first containers received in the first tray to be optimally positioned, allowing the coffee beans to be guided through the discharge opening of the first container to the inlet opening of the screw conveyor housing and then discharged. At the same time, they prevent coffee beans from remaining in the first container and becoming unusable for coffee preparation. The ribs thus allow for easy and reliable reception of multiple first containers of different shapes, thereby forming a consistent, desired shape, allowing the powder to move toward the outlet. This also keeps the first containers in a stable position, particularly upright.

[0115] Preferably, a container for receiving, dosing, and grinding coffee beans is provided, the container comprising a housing having an internal space for receiving the coffee beans and an outlet in fluid communication with the internal space, the outlet being connectable to an inlet of a dosing and grinding device having an outlet, such that by operating the dosing and grinding device, the coffee beans are dosed and ground into coffee powder and the coffee powder is discharged from the outlet. The container is preferably designed to be introduced into and at least partially received by a device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or a device for preparing coffee, as described above. The dosing device is or can be connected to the container, and the container and / or the dosing device and grinding device are replaceable and designed as disposable items.

[0116] Preferably, the container for receiving, dosing and grinding the coffee beans is provided pre-filled with coffee beans, i.e. it can be filled with coffee beans at the factory and provided to the consumer pre-filled with coffee beans.

[0117] The container may have all the features and advantages of the first container described above. As a first container, the container may be designed to be introduced into and at least partially received in a first receiving area of ​​the above-mentioned device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or for preparing coffee. Accordingly, all features of the previously described device described in relation to the first container and / or the dosing and grinding device also apply to the below-described container for receiving, dosing and grinding coffee beans (hereinafter referred to as the first container).

[0118] The first container may include a dosing and grinding device to which the first container can be connected, such that the first container and the dosing and grinding device are used to dose and grind the correct amount of coffee beans into coffee powder. Thus, the correct amount of coffee powder can be provided by the dosing and grinding device. However, it is also conceivable that the first container and the dosing and grinding device are separate elements. The first container has an outlet with an outlet opening, so that coffee beans received in the first container can exit and be dispensed from the first container. The outlet can be connected to an inlet of the dosing and grinding device, so that coffee beans exiting the first container can be introduced into the dosing and grinding device through the inlet. The screw conveyor transports the coffee beans along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor to the grinder, and the coffee powder ground by the grinder can exit through a second outlet of the dosing and grinding device and be used in the specified or predetermined dose for preparing coffee powder.

[0119] In this way, the described first container allows for the correct dosing of coffee beans and their grinding into coffee powder by a dosing and grinding device. The dosing and grinding device can be driven by an actuating device and / or a drive device. However, it is also conceivable to drive the dosing and grinding device manually. The fluid from the second container can be mixed with the coffee powder obtained by the coffee beans leaving the first container and introduced into a container, in particular a filter container, in the correct mixing ratio. This allows for the coffee to be prepared correctly and in a simple manner.

[0120] Furthermore, the first container may include a dosing and grinding device to which the first container can be connected, so that the first container and the dosing and grinding device can be used to dose the correct amount of coffee beans and, as a result, dispense the correct dose of freshly ground coffee powder. For this purpose, the first container connected to the dosing and grinding device can be inserted and received in a first receiving area, in particular the container receiving area and the dosing and grinding device receiving area, of the above-mentioned coffee preparation device. However, it is also conceivable that the first container and the dosing and grinding device are two separate elements that are inserted into the first receiving areas, in particular the container receiving area and the dosing and grinding device receiving area, respectively, and received separately from each other.

[0121] In this way, the correct dosing of the coffee beans from the first container and their subsequent grinding into coffee powder can be achieved by means of a dosing and grinding device. The dosing and grinding device can be driven, for example, by an actuating device and / or a drive arranged in the dosing and grinding device receiving area of ​​the device described above. However, it is also conceivable to drive the dosing and grinding device manually. The coffee powder dosing and grinding device can be introduced into a container, in particular a filter container, in the correct mixture ratio together with a fluid supplied, for example, from a second container. This allows the coffee to be prepared correctly and in a simple manner.

[0122] Preferably, the dosing and grinding device comprises a grinding device, the grinding device being designed for dosing and grinding.

[0123] The grinding device can be a grinder. By operating the grinder, coffee beans can be fed and ground at the same time. This eliminates the need for a separate feeding device such as a screw conveyor, which will be described later.

[0124] Preferably, the defined amount of coffee is controlled or regulated or dosed by controlling or regulating the grinding device or grinder.

[0125] For example, the grinder may be operated to grind a defined amount of coffee beans over a period of time, thereby simultaneously dispensing a defined amount of coffee or ground coffee, thereby simultaneously grinding the coffee beans and dispensing a defined amount of ground coffee.

[0126] Preferably, the first container is provided with a sensor device and the first container is connectable, in particular signal connectable, to the sensor device.

[0127] Preferably, the control or adjustment parameter is a signal from a sensor device, and preferably the sensor device comprises a scale and / or a timer.

[0128] The sensor device may include a timer. The timer may emit a signal to control or adjust the duration of grinding and dosing. Thus, by operating the grinder for a certain period of time via the timer, a defined or predetermined amount of coffee beans may be ground and a certain amount of coffee powder may be dispensed. Alternatively, or simultaneously, the sensor device may comprise a scale, such as a platform balance. The scale may be placed, for example, below a container filled with ground coffee powder to allow weight measurement within the container. When a certain or desired weight is reached, the scale may send a signal to the grinding device to terminate grinding and dosing, thereby achieving the desired dosage. The scale may be placed to the side or above the container filled with ground coffee powder, and may be designed, for example, as a hanging scale. For example, the scale may be suspended and placed above the container containing the coffee beans. By hanging or placing the container containing the coffee beans on the scale, the desired dosage may be determined by the weight or weight loss of the container.

[0129] Preferably, the grinder can be introduced into the outlet of the first container, preferably over its entire length, and is rotatably arranged therein such that the grinder and the outlet extend about a common longitudinal axis.

[0130] In particular, the grinder may be at least partially disposed at the outlet of the first container of coffee beans. In this way, the coffee beans in the first container are guided to the outlet by gravity and ground. This arrangement eliminates the need for a screw conveyor, which will be described later. The coffee beans are transported to the grinder by gravity alone. The grinder grinds the coffee beans transported by gravity to produce coffee powder.

[0131] Preferably, the grinder is rotatably disposed at the outlet of the first container. The grinder is connected or connectable to the container. For example, the grinder may be glued to the outlet of the container or to the inner wall of the outlet. However, it is also conceivable that the grinder is integrally connected to the container.

[0132] When inserted into the outlet, the grinder and the outlet can extend about the same longitudinal axis. The grinder can be actuated and / or driven by an actuator and / or drive. Upon actuation and / or driving, coffee beans from the first container can be ground by the grinder and ground coffee can exit the container or grinder through the outlet of the first container.

[0133] The grinder can have a first end and an opposite second end along its longitudinal axis. The first end can extend from the outlet of the first container and thus be located outside the first container. The second end can be located inside the first container. The first end of the grinder can be designated as the drive end of the grinder.

[0134] A coupling device can be arranged at the drive end of the grinding machine along the longitudinal axis of the grinding machine, and a coupling device can be arranged at the first drive end, which can comprise a transmission, for example a gear transmission with a gear or pinion, that drives the grinding device or grinder.

[0135] The grinder may have a grinding mechanism core having an essentially conical longitudinal cross-section in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the grinder. The grinding mechanism core may extend between a first end and a second end of the grinding device in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the grinder. Corresponding to the conical longitudinal cross-section of the grinder core, the circumference of the grinder core, as viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the grinder, decreases from the first end to the second end.

[0136] The grinder may have an inner ring adjacent or proximate to the second end. The inner ring may extend at least partially around the grinder core from the second end to the first end. The inner ring may surround the longitudinal axis of the grinding mechanism and preferably have an essentially conical longitudinal cross-section along the longitudinal axis of the grinding mechanism, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner ring tapering toward the second end.

[0137] The inner ring of the grinder, attached to the grinder core or shaft, can be moved along the longitudinal direction of the grinder toward the first and / or second ends of the grinder by means of an adjustment element. The adjustment element is located adjacent to or close to the first end and concentrically surrounds the longitudinal axis of the grinder. Using the adjustment element, the inner ring can be displaced toward the first and / or second ends of the grinder. This allows for a simple adjustment of the grinding degree.

[0138] The grinder can have an outer ring. The outer ring can have an essentially cylindrical cross section and an inner circumference that is larger than the outer circumference of the inner ring and smaller than the inner circumference of the first container outlet. The outer ring can be positioned on the inner wall of the first container outlet, and can be positioned adjacent to or in close proximity to the inner wall of the outlet. The outer ring can be positioned on the inner wall of the outlet using a holding element, such as a hold-down device. The outer ring can be held in a fixed or stationary position within the outlet by the hold-down device.

[0139] The outer ring is positioned around the inner ring, allowing it to rotate within the outer ring when driven by the grinder. By adjusting the grinding degree using the adjusting element, the position of the inner ring relative to the outer ring (as viewed in the longitudinal direction of the grinder) can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the intermediate space between the inner and outer rings. Within this space, coffee beans can be ground into coffee powder at the interface between the inner and outer rings. Coffee beans transported by gravity to the outlet and the grinder enter the space between the inner and outer rings and are ground into coffee powder by the rotation of the inner ring within the outer ring. The inner and outer rings are also positioned adjacent to or close to the inner wall of the outlet or the outlet of the first container. Therefore, coffee powder ground between the inner and outer rings can exit the first container through the outlet.

[0140] Preferably, the actuation and / or drive of the dosing and grinding device comprises a motor, the motor being designed to drive a grinder.

[0141] The motor can be housed or located in the dose receiving area of ​​the device as part of the actuator and / or drive device. The motor can comprise a gear wheel or pinion that can contact a gear wheel or pinion or sprocket of the grinder coupling to drive the grinding device or grinder.

[0142] Preferably, the motor can be controlled or regulated by signals from the sensor device.

[0143] The motor can communicate with a sensor device, such as the aforementioned scale, to switch the motor off once the desired dosage has been reached. In this way, the device can be operated in an automated manner.

[0144] Preferably, the first container and / or the second container are at least partially constructed from a flexible material and / or at least partially constructed from a dimensionally stable material.

[0145] Preferably, the housing of the first container and / or the housing of the second container is constructed of or formed from an aluminum composite film.

[0146] Preferably, the first container, e.g., its outer wall, comprises at least one valve. Preferably, the at least one valve is configured to allow carbon dioxide to escape from the first container. Preferably, the at least one valve is designed to prevent oxygen from entering the container.

[0147] Preferably, the dosing and grinding device comprises a screw conveyor, a grinder, and a screw conveyor housing, wherein the screw conveyor is insertable and rotatable, preferably over its entire length, into the screw conveyor housing, and the grinder is insertable and rotatably arranged, preferably over its entire length, into the screw conveyor housing, such that the screw conveyor, grinder, and screw conveyor housing extend around a common longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing, and an inlet of the dosing and grinding device is arranged in or on the screw conveyor housing.

[0148] The dosing and grinding device's design allows coffee beans to be guided from a first container into the dosing and grinding device, where they are transported by a screw conveyor within the screw conveyor housing along the screw conveyor's longitudinal axis toward a grinder, where they are ground into coffee powder. Because a fixed amount of coffee beans is delivered per rotation of the screw conveyor, the number of rotations determines the dosage of coffee beans or ground coffee powder. This allows for precise and easy dosing of coffee beans or ground coffee powder. This dosing can be controlled automatically, for example, by an adjusting or controlling device, or manually by an operator.

[0149] The first container can be connected to a dosing and grinding device consisting of a screw conveyor, a grinder and a screw conveyor housing, which can thereby have all the features described above in the context of the device for quantifying and grinding coffee beans and / or the device for preparing coffee, whereby the quantification and grinding device can be received in the first receiving area or in the receiving area of ​​the quantification and grinder of the device, as described above.

[0150] The plate, preferably designed as a stand plate, is arranged on the housing of the screw conveyor. This stand plate is used to better position the first container for holding coffee beans or to prevent the first container from tipping over, especially when the first container is arranged outside the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans or for preparing coffee. The plate can be rigidly connected to the screw conveyor housing or can be connectable to the screw conveyor housing. Thus, after the coffee beans are picked up, the plate can be removed from the screw conveyor housing, thereby allowing the first container and / or the dosing and grinding device to be accommodated in a first receptacle of the device for preparing coffee beans and / or coffee. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the housing of the screw conveyor consists of a casing having at least one flat surface that functions as a stand plate, thereby better positioning the first container and protecting it from tipping over. Preferably, the outlet of the first container is rigidly connected to the inlet of the screw conveyor housing, especially by screwing and / or gluing.

[0151] The first container can be connected to the screw conveyor housing, allowing the coffee beans to be introduced from the first container into the screw conveyor housing, transported by the screw conveyor to a grinder, ground into coffee powder, and then dispensed into the correct dose cans. The outlet of the first container can be securely connected (e.g., by adhesive) to the inlet of the screw conveyor housing. For example, the outlet of the first container can have a peripheral wall similar to that of a flange disposed on the screw conveyor housing. In particular, the peripheral wall of the container outlet can be slightly larger or smaller than the peripheral wall of the flange, but have a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the flange. In this way, the peripheral walls can overlap or be securely connected to each other (e.g., by gluing and / or welding).

[0152] However, it is also conceivable that the outlet of the first container is screwed into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing. Thus, the peripheral wall of the flange of the screw conveyor housing can constitute a first drive profile, and the peripheral wall of the container outlet can constitute a second drive profile. Preferably, the first container and the dosing and crushing device can be connected to each other in a form-fitting and rotationally fixed manner via two drive profiles. For example, the outer contour of the peripheral wall of the flange on the screw conveyor housing can have a drive profile, and the inner contour of the peripheral wall of the container outlet can have a corresponding drive profile, thereby allowing the peripheral walls to be connected to each other in a particularly non-rotatable manner. Any structure that allows a connection between the first container and the dosing and crushing device can function as a drive profile. The drive profile can be polygonal, star-shaped, slot-shaped, etc., accordingly.

[0153] Preferably, the screw conveyor housing is integrated into the first container. By integrating the screw conveyor housing into the first container, the first container and the screw conveyor housing can be connected integrally, in particular the first container and the dosing and grinding device can be connected firmly and non-detachably. In particular, it is conceivable that the peripheral wall of the container outlet and the peripheral wall of the flange on the screw conveyor housing are formed integrally with each other.

[0154] Preferably, the first container has an at least partially tapered portion, the periphery of the first container in the tapered portion preferably decreasing substantially conically towards the outlet.

[0155] The first container, when connected to the first container, can have a cross section in a plane passing through the longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw of the screw conveyor housing, with the tapered portion laterally bounded by a first side edge and a second side edge. Note that "connected to the first container" means that the discharge-grinding device or the screw conveyor housing is connected to the screw conveyor and the first container. The first side edge can run essentially transversely, preferably at an angle of less than 90°, particularly preferably about 45°, to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing (when viewed in the connected state). The second side edge can run essentially transversely, preferably at an angle of less than 90°, particularly preferably about 45°, to the longitudinal axis of the transport screw conveyor housing. It is also conceivable that both side edges run essentially transversely, preferably at an angle of less than 90°, particularly preferably about 45°, along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing. In this way, the coffee beans can be particularly easily emptied from the first container due to the arrangement of the side edges relative to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing (viewed in the connected state).

[0156] Preferably, the second side edge forms an angle of approximately 45° with the first side edge, such that the circumference of the first container at the tapered portion gradually decreases towards the outlet, allowing the coffee beans received in the first container to be emptied particularly efficiently through the outlet and then introduced into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing.

[0157] Preferably, the first container has at least in part a first essentially symmetrical portion, the circumference of the first container remaining the same within the first essentially symmetrical portion, and preferably the first essentially symmetrical portion being spaced further from the outlet than the tapered portion.

[0158] The first container, when viewed in a coupled state with the first container, may have a cross-section in a plane passing through the longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw of the screw conveyor housing, and the first substantially symmetrical section is laterally bounded by a first side edge and a second side edge, which are aligned substantially parallel to each other. Thus, the first substantially symmetrical section (when viewed in a coupled state) runs substantially transversely, preferably at an angle of about 90°, to the longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw of the screw conveyor housing. The first side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section may run in the same plane as the first side edge of the tapered section, and / or the second side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section may be transverse to the second side edge of the tapered section. However, it is also conceivable that the second side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section may run in the same plane as the second side edge of the tapered section, thereby forming an additional tapered section instead of a symmetrical section.

[0159] Preferably, the distance between the first and second side edges of the symmetrical portion is at most about 140 mm, and / or the length of the two side edges is at most about 155 mm. It is also conceivable that the length of the first side edge is longer than the length of the second side edge. Thus, the length of the first side edge can be at most about 155 mm, and / or the length of the second side edge can be at most about 125 mm. However, it is also conceivable that the aforementioned distances and lengths may differ from the specified values, resulting in the first container having a smaller or larger volume, or being smaller or larger.

[0160] This embodiment allows for a particularly efficient emptying of the coffee beans contained in the first container through the outlet of the first container and their subsequent introduction into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing, and the symmetrical cross section also allows for a variable configuration of the inlet for receiving the coffee beans contained in the first container.

[0161] Preferably, the first container has a second essentially symmetrical portion adjacent or proximate to the outlet, and the periphery of the first container remains the same within the second essentially symmetrical portion and substantially corresponds to the periphery of the outlet and / or the opening of the outlet.

[0162] The first container, when connected to the first container, can have a cross-section in a plane passing through the conveyor screw longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw conveyor housing, and the second substantially symmetric section can be laterally bounded (when viewed in the connected state) by first and second side edges that are arranged substantially parallel to each other and thus run substantially transversely, preferably at an angle of about 90°, to the conveyor screw longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw conveyor housing. The first side edge of the second substantially symmetric section can be coplanar with the first side edge of the tapered section and the first side edge of the first substantially symmetric section, and / or the second side edge of the second substantially symmetric section can be transverse to the second side edge of the tapered section and parallel to the second side edge of the first.

[0163] Preferably, the distance between the first and second side edges of the second symmetrical part is in the range of about 20 mm to 60 mm (e.g., about 50 mm), and / or the length of the two side edges is in each case in the range of about 10 mm to 110 mm (e.g., about 15 mm or 90 mm, respectively). However, it is also conceivable that the aforementioned distances and lengths may differ from the stated values, so that the first container may have a smaller or larger volume or may be smaller or larger. Preferably, the second essentially symmetrical part is connected to the outlet, more preferably such that the diameter of the outlet or the path of the outlet opening corresponds to the distance between the first and second side edges of the second symmetrical part.

[0164] In this embodiment, the operation of emptying the coffee beans received in the first container through the outlet and then introducing them into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing can be performed particularly efficiently.

[0165] However, it is also conceivable that the first container, instead of a tapered portion, has a further essentially symmetrical portion, where the first side edges of the three sections run in one plane and the second side edges run in one plane, and the two planes can be oriented essentially parallel to each other.

[0166] Preferably, the first container has an inlet opening, which is preferably positioned essentially opposite the outlet, and / or the outlet is provided with an outlet opening.

[0167] The inlet opening can be preferably located in the first substantially symmetrical section. More preferably, the inlet opening can be located adjacent to or proximate to a side edge running between the first and second side edges of the first substantially symmetrical section. Preferably, the inlet opening is located at a first free end opposite the second free end of the first container, and the outlet and outlet opening are located at the second free end. The tapered portion can be located between the inlet or inlet opening and the outlet or outlet opening.

[0168] The coffee beans can be received into the first container through the inlet opening. Since the inlet opening is located opposite the outlet, the coffee beans can be guided toward the outlet and the outlet opening and from the first container to the dosing and grinding device. This allows the coffee beans or ground coffee powder to be properly dosed. Preferably, the inlet opening can be closed by a closure element, more preferably by a zipper.

[0169] However, it is also conceivable that the first container does not have an inlet opening but is integrally or rigidly connected to the dosing and grinding device, and the first container and the dosing and grinding device can be integrally connected to each other as a unit and can be filled with coffee beans.

[0170] The inlet opening preferably extends adjacent to or close to the first free end between the first and second side edges of the first substantially symmetrical section. Preferably, the inlet opening can be closed with a closure element. The first container is advantageously reusable and / or refillable after being completely emptied of coffee beans, or the first container can be reclosed after the coffee beans have been transferred. However, it is also conceivable that the first container is not reusable and does not have a closure element, so that the inlet or inlet opening is welded after receiving the coffee beans. It is also conceivable that the first container does not have an inlet or inlet opening, and the coffee beans are first received into the first container through an outlet or outlet opening, which is then connected to the dosing and grinding device. In particular, after the coffee beans are introduced, the outlet can be connected to the inlet of the dosing and grinding device by a connecting element, for example, an adhesive element in the form of an adhesive strip or clip. In this case, one and the same opening is used to receive the coffee beans in the first container and to remove the coffee beans from the first container.

[0171] Thus, the first container with the coffee beans can already be connected to the dosing and grinding device and supplied and is designed as a disposable or single-use item. It is also conceivable that the dosing and grinding device connectable to the first container can be designed as a reusable item. In particular, the dosing and grinding device and the first container can be integrally formed with each other or glued or screwed together, in which case the dosing and grinding device can be designed as a single-use or disposable item.

[0172] The closure element can be designed as a zipper that is easy to open and close. However, instead of or in addition to a zipper, it is also conceivable to arrange a rail at the first free end of the first container. This rail allows the first container to be connected to the upper region of the first receiving part. Other types of fasteners that can connect the first container to the upper region of the receiving part are also conceivable, such as one or more magnetic holders, one or more Velcro fasteners, one or more buttons, and / or one or more adhesive strips. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the first container has a first screw element and the upper region of the first receiving part has a second screw element, by which the first container is connected to the upper region of the receiving part.

[0173] The tab can be arranged adjacent to or close to the closure element. The tab can have an internal opening. The internal opening can be designed as a handle so that the first container can be carried or held in a simplified manner from one place to another. However, the internal opening can also serve, for example, as a hook or for hanging, thereby providing additional stability, especially when filling the first container. Preferably, the closure element, a zipper, is designed to be inserted into a groove in a first receiving area of ​​the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or for preparing coffee.

[0174] The closure element or zipper can be designed to be inserted (at least partially) into the groove. Preferably, the closure element or zipper is designed to be inserted into a groove arranged in the first receiving area, in particular, arranged inside the upper limit facing the lower limit. When inserted into the device, the groove may extend substantially flush with the drive shaft of the receiving area of ​​the dosing and grinding device and the longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw of the conveyor housing of the conveyor screw. Preferably, the groove extends at least partially into the upper limit. More preferably, the groove extends from an area adjacent to or near the open front side to an area adjacent to or near the rear wall. This allows the first container and / or the dosing and grinding device to be easily inserted into the first receiving area of ​​the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or preparing coffee, with the dosing and grinding device being received by the receiving device at the lower limit and the cylindrical cavity of the dosing and grinding device engaging the drive shaft of the drive device. At the same time, a closure element or zipper can be inserted into the groove, which, in addition to the transverse ribs, can additionally hold the first container.

[0175] The first container can be made of various materials, such as paper, plastic, or other flexible materials for holding coffee beans. Furthermore, the first container can be designed as a pouch or bag. However, it is also conceivable that the first container can be made of a non-flexible material and therefore dimensionally stable, such as a metal such as aluminum or plastic. For example, the first container can be designed as a cardboard box such as a Tetra Pak. In particular, if the first container is made of a non-flexible material, the second tray can have two open sides arranged on opposite sides of the tray's longitudinal axis, instead of a closed sidewall and multiple ribs extending away from the sidewall.

[0176] The first container is approximately 1.5 dm 3This capacity can accommodate up to 500g of coffee beans, and 500g of coffee beans is 1.1dm 3 Thus, the volume of 1.5 dm 3 The capacity of the 1.5cm pod makes it easy to fill and transfer coffee beans. 3 It is also possible to have a volume that deviates from this, and the first container can be larger or smaller.

[0177] The second tray and second container are described in more detail below.

[0178] Preferably, the second receiving area has a rear wall, two side walls spaced apart from one another and oriented at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular essentially transverse to the rear wall, and a lower limit oriented at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular transverse to the side walls, wherein at least one of the side walls is an inclined side wall oriented at an angle different from 90°, preferably between 10° and 50°, more preferably between 10° and 30°, and particularly preferably at an angle of 20°, relative to the lower limit.

[0179] The second tray can have an open top. In other words, the top can be designed to be completely open. This allows the second container to be introduced into the second tray with a movement essentially perpendicular to the lower limit, and the second container can be received by the second tray. However, it is also conceivable that the second receiving area has an upper limit in which a through-hole or opening is arranged, and the second container can be introduced into the second receiving area with a movement essentially perpendicular to the lower limit.

[0180] The second tray can have a front side opposite the rear wall, which can preferably be configured with a glass or plastic window element or a flap or closure flap. This allows the fill level of the second container to be easily checked from the front. However, it is also conceivable that the front side, like the rear wall, can be designed as a closed front wall without an opening. The open front side of the first tray can also be closed by a flap or cap, preferably in a manner similar to the closure flap of the second tray. Thus, after the first container has been inserted and picked up, closing the closure flap can protect the first receiving area from dust and dirt. Preferably, at least one second receiving area is designed to receive a lifting system for dispensing fluids.

[0181] The lifting system allows the second container for the fluid to be pressurized, for example by means of a pump mechanism, so that the fluid is dispensed correctly. However, it is also possible to apply pressure to the second container by means of a rotary mechanism or other mechanism, which allows the fluid to be dispensed accurately and in a particularly simple manner. The second tray is designed to accommodate the lifting system in addition to the second container.

[0182] Preferably, the lifting system is connected or connectable to the second container.

[0183] The lifting system can be securely connected to the second container. In other words, the lifting system can be integrated into the second container and provided or delivered in such an integrated manner. However, it is also conceivable that the lifting system and the second container are two separate elements that can be combined or connected to each other so as to allow for the administration of fluid from the second container. For example, the lifting system can be coupled or connected to an opening of the second container (e.g., an inlet or outlet of the second container). Like the second container, the lifting system can be replaceable and can be a disposable or single-use item. Thus, the lifting system can be delivered ready-made, preferably with the second container already filled with liquid.

[0184] Preferably, the lifting system is connected or connectable to the outlet of the second container. Thus, by operating the lifting system, the fluid can be pumped from the second container and accurately dispensed. Preferably, the lifting system is connected or connectable, for example via a hose system, to a container or mug, such as a coffee pot or coffee mug, or one of the preparation devices described below. In this way, accurately dispensed fluid can be filled into the container, cup, or preparation device.

[0185] Preferably, the container or cup or preparation device is arranged in the direction of gravity below a lifting system connectable or connected to the second container. Preferably, the lifting system is arranged in the direction of gravity between the container or cup or preparation device and the second container. In this way, the fluid can be guided in a simple manner by gravity from the second container in the direction of the lifting system and pumped from the second container into the container or cup or into the preparation device, so that the fluid can be guided particularly simply in the container or cup or into the preparation device.

[0186] The lifting system preferably comprises a piston and a rotating plate.

[0187] The lifting system can supply fluid using a piston pump. For example, the lifting system can include a rotating plate driven by a motor and capable of applying pressure to a piston. The piston can be connectable or connected to a second container so that the piston can be deflected or moved by the rotating plate. The rotating plate is preferably positioned above the piston in the direction of gravity and can be driven by a motor to rotate. This rotational movement causes the piston to move in a translational motion. Therefore, the piston can be pushed downward in the direction of gravity toward the second container, thereby pumping the fluid from the second container and correctly administering it. In this way, deflecting or moving the piston can simply draw the fluid from the second container and correctly administer it. Several lifting and lowering movements can be performed with one rotation of the motor. In other words, one rotation of the motor results in multiple movements, combining the rotational and translational movements of the rotating plate and piston.

[0188] Preferably, the rotating plate is designed as an eccentric or control disk mounted on a shaft and its center is outside the shaft. The piston is preferably arranged below the eccentric in the direction of gravity and outside the shaft, preferably above or below in the direction of gravity. In this way, the rotational movement of the eccentric can be advantageously converted into a translational movement of the piston or into a stroke of the piston.

[0189] Preferably, the second tray comprises a lifting system tray.

[0190] The lifting system receiver is designed to receive a motor, a rotating plate, and a piston. The motor, rotating plate, and / or piston may be rigidly connected to the lifting system receiver. They may be arranged, for example, on the rear wall and / or side wall of the second receiver. The second container may then be introduced and inserted into the second receiver in such a way that the rotating plate and / or piston of the lifting system receiver can interact with the second container. In this way, the rotating plate and piston can be used to pump and administer fluid from the second container. It is also possible that the motor, rotating plate, and / or piston are rigidly connected to the second container and can be replaced together with the second container. In this way, the motor, rotating plate, and / or piston, together with the second container, can be inserted into the receiving area of ​​the lifting system to pump and administer fluid from the second container.

[0191] Preferably, the lifting system is equipped with a sensor.

[0192] The sensor can be securely connected to the receiving portion of the lifting device. When a second container is introduced or inserted into the second receiving area, the sensor can determine the level of fluid in the second container. The sensor can be connected to application software, such as a mobile app, described below, and new fluid can be automatically ordered over the internet based on the fluid fill level.

[0193] Preferably, the second container is connected or connectable to a dosing device or the second container is provided with a dosing device, preferably the dosing device is a lifting system, the lifting system being designed to dispense fluid from inside the second container. The device may have only one measuring and grinding device for measuring and grinding coffee beans and no measuring device for measuring liquid.

[0194] Preferably, the lifting system is made from bioplastic or bioplastic or bio-based plastic. Preferably, the lifting system consists of bioplastic or bioplastic or bio-based plastic. For example, the bioplastic can consist of stone paper and / or wood.

[0195] The inclined sidewall of the second receiving tray is preferably connected or connectable to the rear wall and spaced apart from the lower limit. Therefore, the lower end or edge of the inclined sidewall, which points to the lower limit of the second receiving area, can be adjacent to or adjacent to a flange that can surround the through-hole of the lower limit. The inclined sidewall is configured to receive and hold the second container of fluid in an inclined position. In other words, the second container has one of its outer sidewalls in contact with the inclined sidewall, which can be configured as a support member and / or a support member for the second container. The second container is held in an inclined position by the inclined sidewall, and the outlet of the second container can open into the through-hole surrounded by the flange. The flange allows the container's outlet to be easily introduced into the through-hole, while also functioning as a lateral support or lateral support element for the outlet. The inclined position of the second container is advantageous because it allows the fluid to flow out of the second container in an appropriate manner, without leaving any residual volume or residual fluid or dead volume within the second container. At the same time, the first container with the dosing and grinding device can be positioned essentially transversely, preferably at a 90° angle to the lower limit, above the lower limit and / or above the through-hole. In this way, the outlet of the screw conveyor housing and the outlet of the second container can advantageously open together within the through-hole. This allows the ground coffee powder and fluid in the device for dosing and grinding coffee powder and / or the device for preparing coffee to be guided through the through-hole and fed into the container, preferably a filter container.

[0196] Preferably, the outlet of the first container and the outlet of the second container are spaced apart from each other when they open into the through-hole. The distance between the two outlets when the first container is inserted into the first tray and when the second container is inserted into the second tray is preferably about 30 mm to 60 mm, more preferably about 45 mm.

[0197] However, it is also conceivable that the second receiving area has two separate side walls that are arranged transversely to the rear wall, preferably at an angle of approximately 90°, and parallel to each other. A third wall designed as an inclined wall and having the aforementioned inclined side wall characteristics can be arranged between these two separate side walls.

[0198] Preferably, the second tray has a plurality of clamping elements extending at least partially between the front surface facing the rear wall and the rear wall of the second tray, the clamping elements being preferably designed as clamps, and the clamps being preferably arranged in a plane parallel to the inclined side walls.

[0199] Particularly preferably, at least two clamping elements, preferably three clamping elements, are arranged adjacent to or adjacent to the inclined sidewall of the second transfer area, running in a plane parallel to the inclined sidewall, or clamping element plane. However, it is also conceivable that the second receiving area has three or more clamping elements adjacent to or adjacent to the inclined sidewall, running in the clamping element plane. Preferably, the clamping element plane is oriented at an angle different from 90°, preferably between 10° and 50°, more preferably between 10° and 30°, and particularly preferably at an angle of 20° relative to the lower limit. This advantageously allows the second container to be held between the inclined sidewall and the clamping elements, with one sidewall of the second container resting on the inclined sidewall and the opposite sidewall of the second container resting on the clamping elements. In this way, the clamping elements can be used to dispense fluid from the second container. The clamping elements allow fluid to be dispensed both into and out of the second container. The desired or correct dosage of fluid inside the second container can be closed off by a clamping element, which is advantageous as it can eliminate the need for expensive peristaltic pumps, flow sensors, etc.

[0200] Preferably, at least one of the clamping elements is replaced by a tempering device for controlling the temperature of the fluid dispensed by the clamping element.

[0201] By introducing a second container into the second receiving area through the open top, the second container is received in the second receiving area such that the second container is laterally held or clamped by up to three clamping elements and the inclined sidewalls. The clamping elements clamp the fluid in the second container. The clamping elements are displaceably arranged on the rear wall of the second receiving area, so that fluid can be dispensed by moving the clamping elements. This allows the up to three clamping elements to assume at least one position, specifically a first position and a second position. In the first position, the up to three clamping elements press against one of the sidewalls of the second container, and the opposite second sidewall of the second container can laterally adjoin and / or contact the second container, facing the pressed inclined sidewall. In the second position, the up to three sets of clamping elements cannot adjoin or touch the second container, so that the clamping elements cannot apply pressure to one of the sidewalls of the second container. The different position of the at least one clamping element is advantageous when the fluid inside the second container is tempered or heated by a tempering device, where the heating or boiling causes the fluid inside the second container to expand, increasing the circumference of the outer wall and thus the distance between the side walls of the second container.

[0202] The first and second positions of the at least one clamping element allow the position of the clamping element to be changed or displaced relative to the sidewall or the sloped sidewall and / or the lower limit of the second receiving area. In this way, the position of the clamping element can also be changeable relative to the sidewall or the sloped sidewall and / or the lower limit of the second container when the second container is received in the second receiving area.

[0203] The first clamping element can be positioned such that the clamping element has a first distance from the lower limit. The second clamping element can be positioned such that the clamping element has a second distance from the lower limit that is greater than the first distance from the lower limit. In this manner, the first clamping element can be positioned as a lower clamping element adjacent or proximate to the lower limit in the second receiving area. The second clamping element can be positioned as an upper clamping element adjacent or proximate to the open upper side. Furthermore, the third clamping element can be positioned as an intermediate clamping element between the first and second clamping elements and can have a third distance from the lower limit that is greater than the first distance and less than the second distance.

[0204] The first lower clamping element may have a first distance from the lower limit that is between 10 mm and 30 mm, preferably about 20 mm. The second upper clamping element may have a second distance from the lower limit that is between 160 mm and 240 mm, preferably about 180 mm. The distance between the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element may preferably be between 140 mm and 220 mm, preferably about 160 mm. The third intermediate clamping element may be disposed between the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element so as to be displaceable in the range of 10 mm to 30 mm, preferably about 20 mm, from the lower limit, and in the range of 160 mm to 240 mm, preferably about 180 mm.

[0205] The first lower clamping element can apply pressure to one of the side walls of the second container when the second container is received in the second receiving area, or the second container can be closed when the second container is received in the second receiving area, with the side wall of the second container clamped or confined between the lower clamping element and the sloped side wall such that fluid cannot escape from the second container, for example, through an outlet opening of the second container. The first lower clamping element can aseptically seal the second container, so that, for example, germs or bacteria cannot enter the second container through the outlet opening of the second container. The second upper clamping element can apply pressure to one of the side walls of the second container or clamp the side wall of the second container between the upper clamping element and the sloped side wall, thereby closing the second container and preventing fluid from exiting the second container and / or a fluid reservoir connectable to the second container, for example, through the inlet opening of the second container. The second container is closed when the second container is received in the second receiving area. In this way, the second upper clamping element can aseptically seal the second container, preventing germs or bacteria from entering the second container through, for example, the inlet opening of the second container. The sloped side wall with the heating element can serve as a counter surface for a clamp, preferably a lower clamp, and the second container can be positioned between the lower clamp and the heating element and / or sloped side wall. It is also conceivable that the sloped side wall can serve as a counter surface for two other clamps, i.e., a second upper clamping element and / or a third intermediate clamping element.

[0206] The first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element close off a sterilized or heated area within the second container to preserve the fluid in a sterile condition, and a third intermediate clamping element is provided between the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element for administering the fluid into the second container.

[0207] Preferably, the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element are arranged such that the two clamping elements delimit a region of the second container, limiting the volume of fluid in the second container to approximately 50 ml to 400 ml. This allows for dispensing volumes of liquid up to approximately 400 ml. This region covers the volume of liquid required for a single cup of coffee or a single cup of espresso, depending on the preparation method required in each case. However, it is also conceivable that the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element are arranged such that the two clamping elements delimit a region of the second container, limiting the volume of fluid in the second container to more than 400 ml, preferably more than 400 ml but not more than approximately 1000 ml, or more than 400 ml but not more than 750 ml. In this way, it is also possible to provide or dispense volumes of fluid suitable for preparing more than one serving or more than one cup of coffee.

[0208] Preferably, the distance between the clamping elements is variable relative to the restricted lower and / or open upper sides.

[0209] Preferably, the third, intermediate clamping element is adjustable in height or in the clamping element plane. In other words, the third distance from the lower limit can be changed. This allows for a precise dosage of the desired amount of fluid for coffee preparation. It is also conceivable that the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element are adjustable in height or in the clamping element plane, thereby changing the first and second distances from the lower limit. This allows the two clamping elements to be adapted to the size or volume of the second container, allowing two containers of different sizes to be received in the second receiving area and laterally held or confined by the clamping elements and the inclined sidewalls, allowing for the correct dosage of the fluid in the second container.

[0210] Preferably, each clamping element comprises a first clamping element surface and a second clamping element surface, the clamping element surfaces being arranged on opposite sides of the clamping element longitudinal axis.

[0211] The first and second clamping element surfaces can be arranged essentially parallel to each other and can each extend between a first end and a second end. The first clamping element surface can extend in a first plane, and the second clamping element surface can extend in a second plane, with the first and second planes arranged parallel to each other and / or the clamping element longitudinal axes arranged in a plane between the first and second planes. The widths of the two clamping element surfaces, i.e., the widths of the two clamping element surfaces, are tapered from the first end to the second end at an angle different from 0° or 180°, particularly essentially transverse to the clamping element longitudinal axes. Furthermore, each of the clamping elements can include a connecting plate arranged at an angle different from 0° or 180°, particularly essentially transverse to the clamping element longitudinal axes. The first clamping element surface can be connected to the connecting plate by its first end, and the second clamping element surface can be connected to the connecting plate by its first end. The connecting plate is designed to connect the individual clamping elements to the second receiving area. In particular, the connecting plate can be connectable to the rear wall of the second receiving area so that the clamping elements extend essentially transversely to the rear wall at an angle different from 0° or 180°, particularly so that the second ends of the clamping element surfaces are spaced apart from the rear wall. Preferably, the connecting plate of each clamping element is connected to the rear wall adjacent to or close to the inclined side wall of the second receiving area, so that the clamping elements extend along the inclined side wall, preferably at the clamping element surfaces, between the front and rear walls. This allows the second container, once received in the second receiving area, to be held between the clamping elements and the inclined side wall, allowing fluid to be dispensed into the second container. The tapered width of the surfaces of the two clamping elements toward the second ends allows the individual clamping elements to be moved from the first position to the second position in a particularly simple manner.However, it is also conceivable that the individual clamping elements are not connected to the rear wall by connecting plates, but that the clamping elements are arranged or connected in a displaceable manner to the rear wall and / or one of the side walls of the second receiving area by means of carriages or rail or guide rail elements. Preferably, the surfaces of the two clamping elements are connected by a surface of a third clamping element, the surface of the third clamping element having a conical cross section essentially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the clamping element.

[0212] The third clamping element surface can extend from the first side edge of the first clamping element surface to the first side edge of the second clamping element surface. The first side edges of the first and second clamping element surfaces can extend at an angle different from 0° or 180°, preferably at a 90° angle, in particular in the same plane extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the clamping element. The third clamping element surface can be arranged at a 90° angle relative to the first and second clamping element surfaces, and / or relative to the connecting plate, and / or relative to the rear wall of the second receiving area when the connecting plate with a rear wall is connected. Preferably, the connecting plate has at least one through-hole, allowing the clamping element to be connected to the rear wall using a connecting element, e.g., a screw. However, it is also conceivable that the connecting plate be arranged adjacent or close to the first end of the clamping element surface, for example, on the second side edge opposite the first side edge of the clamping element surface, so that the clamping element can be connected to the side wall.

[0213] Preferably, the third clamping element surface can have a substantially conical or triangular cross section at an angle different from 0° or 180°, particularly essentially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the clamping element. The third clamping element surface can have a clamping element edge that extends essentially in the longitudinal direction of the clamping element due to the essentially conical cross section between the first side edge of the first clamping element surface and the first side edge of the second clamping element surface. Preferably, the clamping element edge extends in the same plane as the longitudinal axis of the clamping element. The design of the clamping element edge of each clamping element allows for particularly good dosing of the fluid in the second container when the second container is received in the second receiving area and pressure is applied to the side wall of the second container by the clamping element and the inclined side wall.

[0214] It is also conceivable that the third clamping element surface comprises two or more clamping element edges, preferably two clamping element edges, which, like the aforementioned clamping element edges, extend essentially in the direction of the clamping element longitudinal axis and between a first side edge of the first clamping element surface and a first side edge of the second clamping element surface, each of which extends in a plane that runs essentially transversely or at an angle different from 0° or 180°, preferably 90°, relative to the plane of the clamping element longitudinal axis.

[0215] Each clamping element can be designed to have an open configuration transversely to the clamping element longitudinal axis, opposite the third clamping element surface. In other words, each clamping element defines an internal cavity defined by the three clamping element surfaces and having an open side. When the clamping element is connected to a second receiving tray, e.g., when the clamping element is connected to the rear wall by a connecting plate, the open side of the internal cavity points toward one of the two side walls of the second receiving tray. This configuration reduces the weight of the clamping element and makes it suitable for clamping a second container or dispensing a fluid therein. However, it is also conceivable that the clamping element could have a fourth clamping element surface, opposite the third clamping element surface, extending between the second side edge of the first clamping element surface and the second side edge of the second clamping element surface, as viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the clamping element.

[0216] Preferably, at least one of the surfaces of the clamping elements, preferably the surface of the third clamping element, is designed as a bearing surface, preferably as a rubber support surface.

[0217] This bearing surface allows for a particularly secure closure of the second container. The bearing surface can be configured as a rubber bearing surface and can consist of or be made of an elastomer, thermoplastic resin, or thermosetting resin. The bearing surface can also consist of or be made of soft or solid plastic.

[0218] In particular, when the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element are in the second position, the rubber contact surfaces provide an improved seal to prevent germs and bacteria from entering the interior of the second container, ensuring that the fluid is received in a sterile condition inside the second container and preventing leakage of the fluid from the second container. Furthermore, it is ensured that the interior of the device, particularly the interior of the second receiving area, e.g., the sidewall, does not come into contact with the fluid. In this way, cleaning of the device, particularly the interior of the device, can be omitted.

[0219] Preferably, one or more (preferably each) clamping elements comprises at least one spring element.

[0220] At least one spring element can be designed as a tension spring or rubber band and can be positioned adjacent to or near the first end of the first clamping element surface or adjacent to or near the first end of the second clamping element surface. However, it is also conceivable that the first spring element is positioned adjacent to or near the first end of the first clamping element surface and the second spring element is positioned adjacent to or near the first end of the second clamping element surface. The contact pressure of the clamping elements in the first state can be adjusted by the spring element. This allows for particularly tight closure or sealing of the second container, particularly between the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element. The end of the clamping element can be pressed particularly hard against one of the side walls of the second container, ensuring sterile reception of the fluid into the second container. The spring support ensures a good, sterile seal.

[0221] The spring support allows for a flat or uniform pressure on the contact surface of the clamping element, which allows for a particularly sterile seal. The flat or uniform pressure can be greater than the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid inside the second container or the pressure resulting from heating or boiling of the fluid. In this way, the clamping element and the spring support provided thereon always ensure that the second container is airtight or sealed.

[0222] Preferably, the tempering device is arranged in contact with the second container, and the tempering device is preferably arranged in an area adjacent or close to the lower limit of the second receiving area, and / or the tempering device is preferably arranged in an area adjacent or close to the inclined side wall, and / or in an area adjacent or close to one of the clamping elements closest to the lower limit.

[0223] The tempering device can be positioned adjacent to or adjacent to the first lower clamping element, and can also be positioned adjacent to or adjacent to the lower end of the second side wall, facing the lower limit of the second receiving area and / or by means of a flange with a through hole surrounding the lower limit. When the second container is received by the second receiving area, the lower region of the second container is positioned adjacent, preferably adjacent to, the tempering device. The tempering device preferably comprises a tempering element, such as a heating plate, positioned adjacent to or adjacent to the lower limit of the second receiving area and / or adjacent to or adjacent to the lower clamping element and / or adjacent to or adjacent to the lower end of the inclined side wall. It is also possible for a tempering element to be positioned between the first lower clamping element and the third intermediate clamping element, or for a temperature control element to be positioned between the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element. In this case, the tempering element can extend between the first lower clamping element and the third intermediate clamping element or the second upper clamping element.Furthermore, it is conceivable that the device consists of two or more tempering elements, preferably two tempering elements, arranged adjacent or close to the inclined side wall.

[0224] The arrangement of at least one tempering element in this manner allows the fluid to be mixed inside the second container. The deepest or lowest part of the second container, or the point of the second container closest to the lower limit of the second receiving area when the second container is placed in the second receiving area, is tempered or heated. In this manner, a circulatory movement of the fluid inside the second container can be generated, allowing the fluid to be thoroughly mixed inside the second container. This allows the fluid to be kept at the same temperature throughout the entire interior of the second container. This is advantageous because it eliminates the need for a mixing unit inside the second container.

[0225] Preferably, the tempering device comprises at least one sealing element, preferably two sealing elements. The at least one sealing element may be a sealing lip located adjacent to or close to the lower limit of the second receiving area and / or a sealing lip located adjacent to or close to one of the clamping elements of the first lower clamping element pair and / or a sealing lip located adjacent to or close to one of the tempering elements. The sealing lip is designed to press the innermost or lowermost part of the second container received in the second receiving area, preferably in a region adjacent to or close to the outlet opening of the second container, against the tempering element, and the tempering element is moved to the second container so that the tempering element contacts the second container, preferably in surface-to-surface contact. However, instead of a separate sealing element, it is also conceivable that the first lower clamping element presses the innermost or lowermost part of the second container received in the second receiving area, preferably in a region adjacent to or close to the outlet opening of the second container, against the tempering element. The sealing element and the first lower clamping element can be positioned on opposite sides of the second container when the second container is received in the second receiving area.

[0226] The at least one tempering element can be designed as a heating element, for example as a heating plate, as described above, in order to set up a circulating movement of the fluid moving inside the second container and to heat it uniformly. Preferably, the at least one tempering element is designed to heat the fluid to a temperature between 90°C and 100°C, particularly preferably to about 96°C, so that the coffee can be prepared.

[0227] However, it is also conceivable that at least one tempering element is designed as a cooling element, such as a cooling plate. In this way, the internal circulation movement can be stopped by the cooling element, and the fluid can be cooled to a predetermined temperature. It is also conceivable that a first tempering element is designed as a heating element, such as a heating plate, and a second tempering element is designed as a cooling element, such as a cooling plate. Furthermore, one and the same tempering element can be designed as both a heating element and a cooling element. As a result of being designed as a cooling plate, the fluid inside the second container can be cooled or chilled to a temperature that is favorable for a particular type of coffee preparation method, such as cold brew preparation.

[0228] Preferably, the lower limit of the second tray is provided with a through hole.

[0229] The through-hole is designed to allow the outlet of the second container and the outlet of the first container to pass through. In particular, when the second container is inserted into the second receiving section with its top open, the outlet of the second container at its lower end can be guided through the through-hole, so that the outlet of the second container, once received in the second receiving section through the through-hole, protrudes below the second receiving area. Similarly, the outlet of the screw conveyor housing can be guided through the through-hole when delivered to the first receiving area and protrudes below the second receiving area. This allows ground coffee powder to be guided through the outlet of the screw conveyor housing, and fluid to be guided through the outlet of the second container. These outlets can be guided by the through-hole toward a container, such as a filter container, toward the container. As mentioned above, the through-hole has a flange that laterally surrounds the through-hole and extends from the lower limit toward the upper limit. This flange simplifies the introduction of an outlet. At the same time, the screw conveyor housing and the outlet of the second container can be designed to have a certain length, for example as an extended outlet, so that the outlet can be easily guided into the through-hole without the fluid and the ground coffee already in the through-hole coming into contact with each other or without the side walls of the through-hole being contaminated with coffee grounds or fluid. This eliminates the need for cleaning the through-hole. Preferably, the screw conveyor housing and the outlet of the second container have a length greater than the length of the through-hole and flange when viewed laterally or at a 90° angle to the lower limit.

[0230] Preferably, the through-hole is located in the center of the lower limit of the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or the device for preparing coffee, preferably at a point equidistant from the front and rear of the device and / or at a point equidistant from two opposing side walls of the device. This eliminates the need for a partition between the first and second trays. The first and second containers with the dosing and grinding devices can be arranged so that their outlets are guided through the through-hole.

[0231] This allows the outlet to be connected to a preparation device or container (e.g., a filter container), and a properly dosed amount of fluid can be dispensed into the filter container by a second container, by the preparation device, or together with the preparation device, or ground coffee powder provided in the filter container can be mixed and filled into a container, preferably a coffee cup or coffee pot. Ready-to-drink coffee can then be prepared by dispensing the properly dosed amounts of liquid and coffee powder into the container or filter container and shaking or agitating the container or filter container. In other words, the properly dosed amounts of liquid and coffee powder are mixed by shaking or agitating the container or filter container. The shaking or agitation can be performed manually by the user. However, it is also conceivable that the device comprises a vibration device and / or a mixing device, which vibrates and / or mixes the properly dosed fluid and coffee powder in the container or filter and / or funnel container.

[0232] To obtain a homogeneous coffee, the coffee in the filter and / or funnel container can be mixed. This can be done manually, with a rotating heating plate, with 3D acoustic waves, or even by shaking. These include favorable sliding of the coffee grounds or beans, even distribution of the coffee grounds in the coffee filter (preferably using a camera to confirm proper distribution), recognition of the bloom effect, mixing of the coffee grounds in drip and cold brew processes (preferably with 3D acoustic waves), and recognition of the speed at which water or fluid flows through the coffee grounds (fluid flow rate). This allows the camera to recognize the bloom effect and the correct mixing of the coffee grounds. If necessary, the grind size can be readjusted to suit the type of coffee and the coffee preparation method (crema, drip, etc.). This can also be done automatically, with the device automatically optimizing itself.

[0233] However, it is also conceivable that the mixing is performed by the preparation device. In the case of the drip method or drip-through method, the preparation device is placed in a container with a sieve at the bottom. From here, the coffee drips into a container below, such as a pitcher or container. In the case of cold brew, the preparation device is placed in a container designed as a sieve, for example, which is or can be inserted into another container filled with water. However, the mixture can only be arbitrary. In other words, the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or the device for preparing coffee can only fill a container or component (with the correct dosage). In the case of cold brew preparation, water can be placed in the container and the coffee can be poured into a filter. In the case of drip-through preparation, the liquid or water and the coffee powder are mixed in the preparation device.

[0234] The following is a brief description of the features of the present preparation device, which may be provided as optional components.

[0235] Preferably, the preparation device has an interior cavity extending about a central longitudinal axis between an upper open end and a lower open end, the cavity being surrounded by an interior wall, the perimeter of which preferably decreases from the upper open end to the lower open end. Preferably, the interior cavity includes an interior wall extending along the central longitudinal axis and dividing the interior cavity into a first cavity region and a second cavity region. Preferably, a first closure flap for closing the first cavity region and a second closure flap for closing the second cavity region are disposed at the upper open end of the preparation device. Preferably, the preparation device includes a connector adjacent or proximate to the upper open end for connecting or coupling the preparation device to the device, and / or a connector adjacent or proximate to the lower open end for connecting or coupling the preparation device to a container (e.g., a jug or vessel).

[0236] Preferably, the brewing device has a filter and / or funnel container into which the coffee powder and liquid are introduced and / or mixed. Furthermore, the brewing device can have a container such as a coffee cup or coffee pot, which is positioned relative to the filter and / or funnel container so that the coffee is introduced or filled from the filter and / or funnel container by gravity. The coffee cup or coffee pot is preferably positioned below the filter and / or funnel container. In the case of a drip process, the brewing device can be placed in a container with a sieve or filter at the bottom. From there, the coffee drips into a container below, such as a pitcher or container. In the case of a cold brew method or type of brewing, the brewing device or the stirring device and flap would be located in a container designed as a sieve, which would be placed in a further container into which the liquid or water can be placed.

[0237] Preferably, the device housing is provided with a drip tray, which extends away from a side wall of the housing, preferably away from the rear wall of the housing. Preferably, the drip tray is positioned below the preparation device. Preferably, the distance of the first receiving area relative to the drip tray is variable, and / or the distance of the second receiving area relative to the drip tray is variable. In particular, the device housing can be folded or pushed together. This allows, for example, to provide a device with a push-fit or foldable housing, thereby saving packaging material for transportation. Furthermore, by varying the distance of the first and / or second receiving areas relative to the drip tray, the distance can be adapted to the size of the container, in particular the size of the coffee container into which the coffee will be filled. Containers or coffee containers of different sizes can be placed on the drip tray and filled with coffee. Preferably, it is a device for determining the presence and / or type of preparation device.

[0238] Preferably, the dosing and grinding device comprises a closure or flap element, which is designed to be opened automatically or manually, and preferably the closure or flap element is designed to accommodate the dosing and grinding device and / or to hermetically seal the first container.

[0239] Preferably, a container for receiving and dispensing a fluid (especially a liquid) for preparing coffee, in particular filter coffee, is provided, the container having a housing with an interior space for receiving the fluid, an inlet fluidly connected to the interior space, and an outlet fluidly connected to the interior. Furthermore, the inlet is connected to an outlet of a fluid reservoir, and dispensing of the fluid for preparing coffee can occur via the outlet of the container. The container is replaceable and designed as a disposable product.

[0240] Preferably, the container for receiving and dispensing a fluid, in particular a liquid, is provided pre-filled with the fluid, i.e. the container can be supplied pre-filled at the factory so that the consumer can be provided with the container filled with the liquid for preparing coffee, in particular filter coffee.

[0241] Just as the first container for coffee beans, the dosing and grinding device for dosing and grinding coffee beans, the second container for fluid, and the preparation device can be designed as replaceable components, the fluid reservoir can be replaceable, i.e., the fluid reservoir can be designed as a disposable or single-use item. However, it is also conceivable that each component described above as replaceable can be designed as a reusable or reusable component. The fluid reservoir can be connected to the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or the device for preparing coffee, particularly the second receptacle, in such a way that the fluid does not come into contact with the device, particularly the second receptacle. In this way, the device, particularly the second receptacle, is not contaminated with fluid, eliminating the need to clean the device after each individual coffee preparation.

[0242] Preferably, the container is designed to be introduced into a machine for measuring and grinding coffee beans or a machine for preparing coffee and to be received as a second container.

[0243] This container can be designed as a second container to be introduced into and at least partially received in the second receiving area of ​​the previously described device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or preparing coffee. Accordingly, all previously described features of the device described in relation to the second container also apply to the second container described below for receiving and dispensing a fluid. In particular, the second container described below can be inserted and received in a second receiving area of ​​the above-mentioned device, whereby a precise dispensing of the fluid for preparing coffee is enabled by the clamping element.

[0244] Preferably, the inlet of the second container comprises an inlet opening, which is preferably located essentially opposite the outlet of the second container in the longitudinal axis direction of the container and / or essentially opposite the outlet opening of the outlet of the second container in the longitudinal axis direction of the container. The second container may have an inlet with an inlet opening and an outlet with an outlet opening, which may be located on the side opposite the inlet. When the second container is introduced into the second receiving area by moving substantially vertically through the open top, the second container is received by the second receiving area so that the outlet is located in a lower area of ​​the second receiving area, adjacent to or adjacent to the first lower clamping element and adjacent to or adjacent to the lower limit. Therefore, the discharge port can be implemented through a through-hole in the lower limit of the second receiving area. The inlet is located in an upper area of ​​the second receiving area, adjacent to or adjacent to the open upper side and adjacent to or adjacent to the second upper clamping element. The inlet can be connected to the outlet of the fluid reservoir, so that fluid can be guided from the fluid reservoir into the interior of the second container, which can be done by the clamping element and / or the inclined sidewall. The desired amount of fluid required for coffee preparation can be dispensed and exit the second container via the outlet. This allows for a predetermined or predeterminable dosage of fluid for coffee preparation and the correct dosage of fluid to be achieved by the clamping element.

[0245] Preferably, the inlet of the second container is rigidly connected to the outlet of the fluid reservoir, preferably by screwing or gluing.

[0246] The second container can be securely connected to the fluid reservoir. Therefore, the second container and the fluid reservoir can be designed as a unit that is firmly connected to each other. Therefore, the fluid reservoir can preferably be integrated into the container so that the fluid reservoir is integrally formed with the second container. As a result, the second container and the fluid reservoir can be introduced into the receiving area and received as a unit connected to each other. Since the outlet of the fluid reservoir is connected to the inlet of the second container, after the second container is received in the second receiving area, the fluid can be guided from the fluid reservoir into the second container, administered in a desired amount using a clamping element, and then supplied to the preparation device through the outlet. This provides a liquid agent tank and a second container as a single unit, eliminating the need for the user to manually assemble the liquid agent tank and the second container. In this way, the second container can be connected to the fluid reservoir to form a combination container or combination bag. In this state, the combination container can be manufactured in a fluid-filled state. In other words, the fluid can be filled between the second container and the fluid reservoir. Here, it is conceivable that only the fluid reservoir is filled with fluid, and the second container is placed or fixed to the fluid reservoir in a folded state. The filled fluid reservoir (e.g., a tetra pack) can be separated from the second container using a separation element, such as a clamp. The use of a clamp as a separation element can prevent fluid from flowing from the fluid reservoir into the second container or from flowing out of the outlet of the container when the second container is opened.

[0247] However, it is also conceivable that the fluid reservoir and the second container are two separate elements provided separately from each other, such that the inlet of the second container can first be connected to the outlet of the fluid reservoir, for example by a threaded, plugged, glued, clamped or similar connection, so that the second container and the fluid reservoir can be introduced together into the second receiving area through an open top.

[0248] The second container can be formed from a different material, such as plastic or other flexible materials, such as film materials, suitable for receiving fluids. Furthermore, the second container can be designed as a bag or pouch. Like the second container, the fluid reservoir can be formed from a flexible material. However, it is also conceivable that the fluid reservoir can be formed from a non-flexible material, thereby being dimensionally stable, and the fluid reservoir can be made of a metal, such as aluminum, or plastic. For example, the fluid reservoir can be designed as a cardboard box, such as a Tetra Pak. Preferably, the fluid reservoir and the second container are made from the same material, especially when the fluid reservoir and the second container are made as a single unit rather than two separate elements.

[0249] Preferably, the second container comprises a substantially horizontal plate positioned adjacent or adjacent to the inlet opening of the second container and / or positioned adjacent or adjacent to the inlet of the second container. Preferably, the plate can be connected to the second container, rigidly connected to the second container, or integral with the second container. The horizontal plate can also be integral with the fluid reservoir.

[0250] The plate or suspension strap can be fixedly or detachably connected to the upper region of the second container. The plate can be integrally formed with the second container. Preferably, the plate has a surface shape that essentially corresponds to the cross-sectional surface shape of the second container, particularly when viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the second container, at an angle different from 0° or 180°, preferably 90°. The plate surface shape can be, for example, rectangular, square, circular, or elliptical. However, other shapes are also contemplated. Preferably, the distance between two opposing sides of the cross-sectional surface shape of the plate is equal to or greater than the distance between two opposing sides of the second container when the second container is inserted and received in the second receiving area, or when the second container is filled with fluid, or when fluid is added to the second container.

[0251] The plate facilitates the introduction of the second container into the second tray and subsequent retention or positioning of the second container in the second tray. When the second container is received in the second receiving area, the plate rests on the edge or rim surface of the sloped sidewall. Furthermore, the plate allows the second container to be accurately inserted into the second tray, the clamping element applies pressure to one sidewall of the second container, and the tempering device can contact the second container. This allows the liquid to be precisely controlled to the desired temperature for coffee preparation and then dispensed.

[0252] As an alternative to the plate, a positioning and holding device or suspension device can be provided that essentially serves the same purpose as the plate. The positioning and holding device is preferably designed as a clamp, a C-clamp, or a C-shaped C-holding element. This C-clamp can be arranged between the second container and the fluid reservoir, and in the case of a combination container, preferably at the point where the second container is connected to the fluid reservoir. This C-shaped clamp can be fixed, for example, to the underside of the fluid reservoir or to the upper surface of the second container, preferably with an adhesive. It is also conceivable that the positioning and holding device could consist of an adhesive element, such as an adhesive strip and / or a Velcro element, instead of a C-clamp or C-holding element.

[0253] The combination container can be positioned and held by a positioning and holding device on one of the side walls or the inclined side wall of the second receiving area, preferably in the upper area of ​​the second receiving area. The positioning and holding device can prevent the combination container inserted in the second receiving area from sliding toward its lower limit while emptying the fluid. This allows the second container to be completely emptied. The positioning and holding device is designed to hold the second container and / or fluid reservoir in a predetermined position.

[0254] Preferably, the plate preferably has a through hole, and the plate preferably comprises a first flange having a first peripheral wall that at least partially surrounds the through hole and extends essentially transversely from a first side of the plate at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular from a first side of the plate. Preferably, the first flange is designed to connect the plate to an outlet and / or outlet opening of the fluid reservoir.

[0255] The first peripheral wall of the first flange of the plate is designed to engage with the fluid reservoir, particularly the outlet of the fluid reservoir. This allows the second container to be fluidly connected to the fluid reservoir and ensures fluid can be introduced from the fluid reservoir to the second container. The first flange or the first peripheral wall can be manufactured integrally with the plate or as a cast or injection-molded part connectable to the plate. The outer wall of the first flange can be essentially circular, and the outer wall of the outlet of the fluid reservoir can be essentially circular. However, other shapes are also possible, such as an elliptical shape.

[0256] The first flange can be connected to the outlet of the fluid reservoir, for example, via a plug-in connection. The inner diameter of the first flange or the first peripheral wall can essentially correspond to the outer diameter of the outlet of the fluid reservoir, or the inner diameter of the first flange or the first peripheral wall can be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the outlet of the fluid reservoir. In this way, the outlet of the fluid reservoir can be easily connected to the first flange, thereby ensuring the introduction of fluid into the second container. However, it is also conceivable to threadably connect the first flange to the outlet of the fluid reservoir. Thus, the first peripheral wall of the first flange can have a first thread, for example, on the inside or outside of the first peripheral wall facing the through-hole, which can be threadably connected to a second thread of the outlet of the fluid reservoir, for example, on the outside or inside of the peripheral wall of the outlet.

[0257] Thus, the second container can be simply connected to the fluid reservoir by plugging or screwing. However, it is also conceivable that the second container is attached to the outlet of the fluid reservoir by a first flange or that the second container is designed integrally with the fluid reservoir (e.g., as a combined container). A tank can be provided as the fluid reservoir, whose dimensions can be adapted to the dimensions of the preparation device. For example, the tank's cross section in one plane of its side, in which the outlet and outlet opening are located, essentially corresponds to the cross section of a device for adding and grinding coffee beans and / or a device for preparing coffee, and can have one of different angles, particularly a transverse cross section, of 0° or 180° relative to the longitudinal axis of the device or the longitudinal axis of the second receiving area. However, it is also conceivable that the fluid reservoir is a bottle, for example, a bottle of still mineral water, which holds a fluid suitable for coffee preparation and is available, for example, in a supermarket. Instead of a bottle, it is also conceivable to use a container such as a Tetra Pak. In this case, the bottle opening or Tetra Pak opening can be screwed onto the first flange as an outlet in a simple manner, whereby for example the external thread of the bottle opening or Tetra Pak opening can be screwed onto a first thread on the inside of the first flange or first peripheral wall.

[0258] Preferably, the plate has a second flange with a second peripheral wall that at least partially surrounds the through-hole and extends essentially transversely from a second side of the plate opposite the first side, and the second flange is preferably designed to connect the plate to the inlet and / or inlet opening of the container.

[0259] As mentioned above, the plate can be securely connected to the second container, and in particular, the second side of the plate opposite the first side with the first flange and first peripheral wall can be securely connected to the second container, thereby allowing the second container using the plate to be connected to a fluid reservoir. However, it is also contemplated that the plate is a separate element that can be connected to an outlet of the fluid reservoir by a first flange and to an inlet of the second container by a second flange.

[0260] The second flange comprises a second peripheral wall and is disposed on a second side of the plate such that the second flange and the second peripheral wall at least partially surround the through-hole. The second flange and the second peripheral wall can be configured essentially the same as the first flange and the first peripheral wall. Preferably, the first flange and the second flange surround the same flange central longitudinal axis, which extends at an angle different from 0° or 180°, particularly transverse to the plane of the plate and / or the through-hole. Thus, the plate is connectable to the fluid reservoir by the first flange and to the inlet of the second container by the second flange, and the fluid reservoir central longitudinal axis of the fluid reservoir and the container longitudinal axis of the second container run on the same straight line when the fluid reservoir, the plate, and the second container are connected to each other. The central longitudinal axis of the fluid reservoir extends through the outlet, and the opening of the outlet is disposed about the central longitudinal axis of the fluid reservoir. The longitudinal axis of the container extends through the inlet, and the opening of the inlet is disposed about the longitudinal axis of the container. The outlet opening and / or outlet of the second container can also be disposed about the longitudinal axis of the container. However, it is also conceivable that the outlet opening and / or outlet extend not about the longitudinal axis of the container, but about a longitudinal axis extending in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container.

[0261] It is also conceivable to connect the inlet of the second container directly to the outlet of the fluid reservoir. In this case, a plate is not required. Preferably, the outlet of the fluid reservoir can be connected to the inlet of the second container by a plug connection or a screw connection. However, the inlet of the second container can also be glued to the outlet of the fluid reservoir or can be integrally connected to each other. Preferably, the inlet of the second container has a first thread, for example, on the inside or outside of the inlet when viewed from the inlet opening, and the first thread is threadably connected to the second thread of the outlet of the fluid reservoir, for example, on the inside or outside of the inlet when viewed from the outlet opening. Preferably, the fluid reservoir comprises a housing having an upper side and a lower side, the upper side and the lower side being located at opposite ends relative to the central longitudinal axis of the fluid reservoir. The outlet of the fluid reservoir is located on the lower surface, which extends in a substantially horizontal plane or at an angle different from 0° or 180°, particularly 90°, when viewed transversely to the central longitudinal axis of the fluid reservoir, allowing the lower surface to function as a plate.

[0262] The fluid reservoir may also have an inlet with an inlet opening, preferably located opposite the outlet or outlet opening. In this manner, fluid is introduced and / or added to the fluid reservoir via the inlet. However, it is also conceivable that the fluid reservoir may not include an inlet or inlet opening, particularly if a combination container filled with fluid is to be produced.

[0263] Preferably, the outlet of the container is for insertion into a through-hole configured in a lower limit of the second receiving area.

[0264] The outlet of the second container can be designed as an elongated element, e.g., tubular, extending along its longitudinal axis between a first end and an opposite second end. The first end is located adjacent to or close to the second container, and the second end is spaced apart from the second container. The outlet has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the through-hole at the lower limit of the second receiving area. Therefore, when the second container is inserted into the second receiving area, the outlet of the second container can be guided into the through-hole at the lower limit of the second receiving area. This allows the outlet to be connected to the preparation device when the second container is inserted into the second receiving area, and the correctly dosed amount of fluid can be discharged from the second container, mixed with the coffee grounds also supplied by the preparation device, and filled into a container, preferably a coffee pot or a cup. The first end of the outlet can be firmly connected to the second container, for example, the first end of the outlet can be integrally designed with the second container or can be glued to the second container. The second end of the outlet can be located in a plane below the plane of the lower limit when the second container is received in the second receiving area. However, it is also conceivable that the second end is in the same plane as the plane of the lower limit or in a plane adjacent or close to the plane of the lower limit, for example, above the level of the lower limit.

[0265] Preferably, the second container has an at least partially tapered portion, the circumference of the second container in the tapered portion decreasing towards the outlet, and preferably being essentially conical.

[0266] The second container can extend along the longitudinal axis of the container between an inlet end and an opposite outlet end. The inlet opening and the inlet are located adjacent to or near the inlet end. The outlet and the outlet opening are located adjacent to or near the outlet end. The second container can have a first sidewall extending substantially parallel to the plane of the longitudinal axis of the container and an opposing second sidewall between the inlet and outlet ends. In a lower region near the outlet end, the container has a tapered portion. In the tapered portion, the distance between the first and second sidewalls decreases toward the outlet, preferably in an essentially conical manner. This allows fluid to be almost completely guided out of the second container through the outlet, minimizing the amount of residual fluid remaining in the second container.

[0267] Preferably, the second container has at least a partially substantially symmetrical section, the periphery of the second container remaining the same within the substantially symmetrical section, and the substantially symmetrical section being further from the outlet than the tapered section.

[0268] In the substantially symmetrical section, the first and second side walls each extend in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the container. The substantially symmetrical section may extend between the inlet end and the tapered section. When a second container is inserted or received in the second receiving area, each pair of clamping elements is adjacent to the side wall of the substantially symmetrical section and can apply pressure to the side wall, thereby dispensing a fluid for preparing coffee. Preferably, the first lower pair of clamping elements is within the essentially symmetrical section and is positioned on the side wall of the second receiving area so as to apply pressure to a region of the second container adjacent to or adjacent to the tapered section.

[0269] Preferably, the second container comprises at least one first magnet, preferably arranged on the outer wall of the tapered portion, and characterized in that the at least one first magnet is connectable with at least one second magnet adjacent or close to the through hole at the lower limit of the second receiving portion.

[0270] The at least one first magnet can be positioned adjacent to or close to the outlet, preferably on the outer wall of the outlet. The at least one second magnet can be positioned adjacent to or close to the through-hole of the lower restriction, preferably on the inner wall of the through-hole. The at least one first magnet can at least partially surround the outer wall of the outlet, preferably the at least one first magnet can completely surround the outer wall of the outlet. The at least one second magnet can at least partially surround the inner wall of the through-hole, preferably the at least one second magnet can completely surround the inner wall of the outlet. Preferably, the at least one first magnet and the at least one second magnet are positioned so that they can interact when the second container is received in the second receiving area. In this way, the second container is positioned appropriately, allowing fluid to be almost completely discharged from the second container through the outlet, and the individual clamping elements enable or ensure optimal dosing of the fluid. It is also conceivable that the at least one first magnet is replaced by a metal element (or metal plate or metal piece) which interacts with the second magnet. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the at least one second magnet is replaced by a metal element (or metal plate or metal piece) which interacts with the first magnet. The magnet ensures that the second container is always in the correct position and that the liquid for brewing coffee is directed through the outlet without reaching the housing of the second receiver.

[0271] Preferably, the second container is a hose or is designed as a hose. Preferably, the fluid within the second container can be dispensed using a peristaltic pump.

[0272] Preferably, the second container or hose and / or peristaltic pump is preferably introduced into and can be received by a second receiving area of ​​the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or the device for preparing coffee.

[0273] Preferably, the hose and / or peristaltic pump and / or fluid reservoir are replaceable and designed as a single use or disposable product.

[0274] Preferably, the hose and the fluid reservoir are interconnectable or connected to each other.

[0275] Preferably, a tempering device, such as a heating plate and / or a cooling plate, is positioned adjacent or in close proximity to the fluid reservoir, and more preferably, the tempering device is in contact with the fluid reservoir.

[0276] Preferably, at least one clamping element is arranged adjacent or in close proximity to the fluid reservoir. Preferably, the at least one clamping element is designed as a clamp. Preferably, the at least one clamping element or clamp is designed to heat and / or cool at least a portion of the fluid inside the fluid reservoir.

[0277] Preferably, the first container and / or the second container and / or the dosing device or the screw conveyor and / or the hose and / or the peristaltic pump are made from bioplastic or bioplastic or bio-based plastic. Preferably, the first container and / or the second container and / or the dosing device or the screw conveyor and / or the hose and / or the peristaltic pump are made from bioplastic or bioplastic or bio-based plastic. For example, the bioplastic can be made from stone, paper and / or wood.

[0278] Preferably, the first container, e.g. after it has been emptied of coffee beans or after it has reached a certain fill level, and / or the second container, e.g. after it has been emptied of liquid or after it has reached a certain fill level, can be ordered automatically over the Internet.

[0279] Preferably, the sensor or scale is connected to application software, for example a mobile app, which automatically indicates the liquid level, e.g. by means of an audible or optical signal, and allows a new container of liquid or coffee beans to be prepared manually or a new container of liquid or coffee beans to be automatically ordered over the internet.

[0280] Preferably, the device or the second container comprises a positioning and retention device designed to position and retain the second container in the second receiving area.

[0281] Preferably, the device described above can be operated remotely. For example, the device can be adjusted or controlled from anywhere and at any time using a smartphone, computer app, or remote control. In this way, coffee can be prepared remotely without the need for a person to be near the device. Furthermore, different operating schedules are conceivable so that the device can automatically prepare coffee at predetermined times.

[0282] It is also conceivable to prepare so-called community coffees, meaning that a group of people can access the device and place an order for preparing coffee, for example by using a smartphone app, or by computer, or remotely. To this end, a computer-implemented method for controlling or regulating the above-mentioned device (and for preparing community coffee) is conceivable, which method comprises at least one of the following steps:

[0283] · Recognize that someone is preparing or wants to prepare a specific type of coffee at a specific time period. notify you, for example by an audible signal, a pop-up window on the screen of your smart device, smartphone or computer, or by a text message (SMS), that someone is preparing or wants to prepare a particular type of coffee within a certain period of time; or You can order the number of cups of coffee you want using the reservation button that appears on your computer or smartphone screen. Information about the maximum capacity or number of cups that can be reserved, i.e., if there are more pre-orders than the space in the coffee pot or other container, another community coffee must be made and the user is notified that their order will be taken into account for the next preparation (this process can be repeated); and / or - Set the period for pre-ordering and whether to automatically prepare using the app. · Coffee preparation including all orders Now, when someone makes coffee, reservations and orders are prepared in addition to the coffee, or - The coffee is ready when it is announced by a beep, a pop-up window on the screen, a text message (SMS), etc. After the coffee is prepared, all participants who have ordered or reserved a coffee can be notified that the coffee is ready. In addition, they can be informed whether their order has been taken into account or will be taken into account in the next preparation. The user confirms via a screen or other means that the coffee has been drunk or picked up, or The intention for a new use or new community coffee can be communicated through a beep, a pop-up window on the screen, a text message (SMS), etc. For example, "I'm going to prepare regular filter coffee, so please insert the filter into the device and set the coffee pot accordingly" can be agreed upon verbally or via an app.

[0284] As mentioned above, the computerized method allows you to precisely define and prepare the amount of coffee a person desires, which prevents them from preparing more coffee than they can drink in the end. The computer-implemented method described above can be used in corporate offices as well as cafes and coffee shops. The process can also be used to prepare other types of coffee, such as cold brew, cold drip, and espresso. Remote pre-ordering is also possible, for example, when someone arrives at work early in the morning so that coffee is ready for them upon arrival.

[0285] Without automatic preparation, the following sequence could be used: when enough orders are received within a predetermined time frame, a machine person is asked to prepare the system. Alternatively, someone from the local area or from the university is chosen by the software to do this, taking into account who has been there and how often. Thus, no participant is disadvantaged.

[0286] Selected participants can be notified that preparation is underway via a text message such as SMS, a beep, or a pop-up window on their computer or smartphone screen. It is also possible to use an app to track which participants have ordered and how often, and to build a billing system based on this. It is also possible for the device to automatically recognize participants as they approach the device, allowing for automatic reservations. This can be done, for example, by recognizing smartphones or keys with RFID chips. Therefore, preparation is possible only if the participant has a smartphone or a key with an RFID chip. It is also possible to manually enter an identification code into the device's input field.

[0287] Another computer-implemented method for controlling or regulating the aforementioned devices may comprise the steps of: dosing coffee beans from a first container using a dosing and grinding device, and / or dosing liquid from a second container using a further dosing device, for example using the aforementioned clamping element or the aforementioned lifting system, and / or preparing coffee using a preparation device (as described above or below), determining a level in a first container designed to hold coffee beans, and / or determining a level in a second container designed to hold a fluid, and / or identifying a first component and / or fluid, and / or reordering coffee beans and / or fluid based on the determined levels.

[0288] Preferably, the device recognizes the type of preparation device in an automated manner.

[0289] It is conceivable that the device can recognize the preparation device inserted into it via a sensor element, for example via a click sensor. Ideally, the device or the sensor element can detect whether a coffee pot or coffee cup is placed in the device. Preferably, the device detects whether the coffee pot or coffee cup is suitable for receiving the amount of coffee to be prepared. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the device is equipped with a barcode reader, which can be used to read, for example, a barcode attached to the dosing and grinding device. The barcode can contain data about the type of beans and the grinder.

[0290] Furthermore, depending on the recognized preparation device, the device can take into account specific preparation steps and sequences. Preferably, the device is designed to check whether the right coffee and the right grinder are being used for the selected type of preparation. It is conceivable that the device can output an audible signal to indicate that the wrong coffee or the wrong grinder is being used.

[0291] Preferably, the preparation device (or preparation unit) has at least one ring. This at least one ring may have at least one notch. This allows the device to recognize the respective preparation device or preparation type (e.g., filter coffee, cold brew, cold drip, espresso, Carlsbad, etc.) using the number of rings and / or the number of notches. Also, RFID, barcodes, and different ring sizes can be used to recognize the type of cooking equipment.

[0292] The device is designed to accommodate various preparation tools and recognize the type of preparation tool based on the number and type of rings or notches. In this way, the cooking tool is integrated into the device and used, and is recognized or identified by the sensor element. In this way, the device can automatically prepare the desired coffee or type of coffee depending on the preparation tool used. However, it is also conceivable that additional settings related to the type of preparation can be selected or adjusted, for example, via the control panel.

[0293] The device is designed to accommodate a holding element for the preparation device, such as a holder for a paper filter or a holder consisting of a housing with a filter. The holding element, for example, has an inner surface that contacts the preparation device made of porcelain or at least partially made of porcelain. The filter can also be made of porcelain or at least partially made of porcelain. It is also conceivable that the holding element is at least partially made of glass, metal, and / or plastic, or that the holding element is made of glass, metal, or plastic. A coffee pot or barrel can be placed below the filter. The coffee pot can be combined or connected with various filters and filter holders.

[0294] Preferably, for each type of preparation, such as filter coffee, cold brew, cold drip, espresso, etc., there is a separate preparation device that is automatically recognized by the device or sensor element.

[0295] The preparation device can be connected to or combined with a coffee pot or coffee cup. The preparation device consists of a water tray, portafilter, and other accessories. The device can be designed so that temperature-controlled or preheated water is first filled into the water tray up to just below the valve. Then, the portafilter or filter is clicked or hung, and freshly ground espresso powder is added. The device can automatically provide the correct ratio of liquid or water to powder.

[0296] It is also conceivable that a preparation device, for example, a preparation device for preparing espresso, can be placed below the device, preferably adjacent or close to it, or even clicked into place below the device. In this case, only a cover or attachment needs to be attached. In other words, separate parts such as a water pan, portafilter, or other attachments are not required. The device can also include a tempering field or hob, which can be used for the milk foamer and the preparation device, for example, an espresso preparation device. The tempering field is designed for heating, but also for cooling.

[0297] When water and coffee grounds are mixed or come into contact with each other in a portafilter or filter, the water rises and produces a bubbling, hissing sound. The device can be designed to include a temperature sensor, for example, to measure the temperature of the coffee grounds and water mixture. Furthermore, a determination unit for determining when the coffee or espresso is ready can be included, allowing the corresponding preparation device to be removed from the device to take into account the effects of the bubbling, hissing sound, and water flow. The device can also include a heating plate, allowing the temperature to be controlled or adjusted.

[0298] Correspondingly, if a cold drip type preparation is to be carried out, a corresponding preparation device can be hooked onto the device, which can also be recognized by the device or a corresponding sensor element. Clamping elements, such as clamps, can be provided that can hold the filter and the water jug. Furthermore, a cooling water sensor can be suspended within the device or installed underneath the device. As soon as the device determines the corresponding preparation device, for example by means of a click sensor, the corresponding type of preparation (here cold drip) is carried out.

[0299] The device has a displaceable control panel so that it can be used vertically as well as horizontally.

[0300] Preferably, a system is provided, comprising an apparatus for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or for preparing coffee, a first container for receiving, dosing and grinding coffee beans, and / or a second container for receiving and dispensing a fluid for making coffee. The system for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or the apparatus provided in the system for preparing coffee may have all of the features and advantages associated with these features. The first container for receiving, dosing and grinding coffee beans may have all of the features and advantages associated with these features. The second container for receiving and dispensing a fluid for preparing coffee may have all of the features and advantages associated with these features.

[0301] The container or filter vessel is part of the device for metering and grinding coffee beans and / or coffee and can be arranged so that the ground coffee powder and liquid are introduced into the container, preferably by gravity. The container or filter vessel is preferably arranged below the through-hole through which the outlet of the screw conveyor housing and the outlet of the second container are guided.

[0302] Preferably, the device for adding and grinding coffee beans or the device for preparing coffee includes a rotatable or rotating plate or a rotatable or rotating heating plate. By rotatable or rotating, we mean that the plate or heating plate can be configured to rotate or move in a circular motion. The rotating heating plate is preferably positioned below the through-holes through which the screw conveyor housing outlet and the second container outlet are guided. The container or filter container can be placed on the rotating plate and held in a fixed position on the rotating plate by lateral restraining or positioning elements.

[0303] Water or liquid can be applied to the coffee powder in a circular motion to achieve uniform moistening. This can be achieved using a rotating plate. It is also conceivable to use this method to support uniform filling of the coffee powder into the filter vessel. In this case, the filter vessel is connected to a jug or cup. Alternatively, a type of rotating top can be attached directly to the filter vessel or filter holder (brewing group). The gyroscope can have the shape of a horizontal propeller. When water or liquid strikes the blades, they rotate. This causes the point where the water or liquid meets the coffee powder to rotate. In this way, a circular motion is achieved, resulting in a uniform application of the water or liquid. The blades correspond to the blades of a propeller. The screw rotates due to the impact of water. This ensures that the water is evenly distributed over the coffee powder. The gyroscope can consist of multiple blades, preferably at least two, preferably three, and more preferably five.

[0304] For example, a coffee pot can be connected to the filter container and placed on a rotating plate. In this way, the coffee grounds in the filter container can be uniformly moistened with the desired amount of fluid, while the rotational movement of the filter container allows the coffee grounds to be particularly well mixed with the fluid. Advantageously, the entire coffee grounds are mixed or submerged in the fluid, allowing as little coffee grounds as possible to pass through the filter and into the coffee pot. This improves the quality of the coffee. The presence of the rotating plate eliminates the need for a nozzle. It is also conceivable that the mixing of the coffee grounds and the liquid can be achieved via three-dimensional acoustic waves or a preparation device. This mixing can be used for cold brew and drip-type preparations. It is advantageous to uniformly submerge or soften the coffee grounds in the fluid, which can be achieved, for example, by the aforementioned propeller. Mixing can also be achieved by manual swirling or stirring with a spoon.

[0305] Preferably, the coffee bean measuring and grinding device or coffee preparation device is equipped with a timer or camera designed to detect the expansion of the coffee or coffee grounds. Approximately 30 seconds after the coffee grounds are placed in the filter container, the coffee begins to expand (known as "bloom"). This causes carbon dioxide (CO2) gas to escape from the coffee. The coffee becomes heavier and adheres better to the filter, promoting uniform extraction, which is essential for a delicious cup of coffee. By adjusting or detecting the expansion with the timer or camera, additional liquid can be introduced from a second container. Further administration of the fluid can be achieved via a clamp in the second receiving area. A regulating or controlling device can be provided to control or adjust the clamp for further administration of the fluid. Thus, the clamp can be used for the first administration of the fluid, and after the coffee has expanded, the clamp can administer the second administration of the fluid. However, the clamp can also be manually controlled by an operator.

[0306] The adjusting or controlling device can also be used to adjust or control the filling rate of the coffee grounds and / or fluid into the filter container. For example, the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid can be used to adjust or control the filling rate. This adjustment or control can be achieved via different clamp positions, allowing different filling volumes to be set in the second container, which in turn generates different hydrostatic pressures and, consequently, different flow rates. Adjustments can be made using either bracket, as needed. However, it would also be conceivable to change or adjust the inclination of the inclined sidewalls or the planes on which the three brackets extend relative to the lower limit. This can be done automatically by the adjusting or controlling device or manually by an operator. In this way, the flow rate of the fluid can be determined or influenced depending on the inclination of the inclined sidewalls and the planes.

[0307] The aforementioned coffee bean injecting and grinding device and coffee preparation device can be used, for example, as a coffee machine that can prepare coffee using a drip process in which cold water gradually passes drop by drop through the paper filter of the filter container onto the coffee grounds, and the iced coffee accumulates in a glass or coffee pot below. Note that the paper filter is optional. For this purpose, an attachment can be placed at the outlet of the second container. The attachment can be connected to the outlet and glued or screwed to the attachment. The attachment can be designed as a valve to adjust the drip rate of the fluid from the second container. For example, droplets can be introduced from the second container into the filter container every two seconds, and this filter container is preferably placed below the through-hole, i.e., below the outlet. As mentioned above, a coffee pot or glass pot is preferably placed below the filter container. This device is designed to allow for the appropriate dosing of the fluid and coffee powder. The coffee powder is moistened using the machine (followed by an attachment) (it must be dosed so that all of the powder is moistened). The powder can be mixed via 3D acoustic waves, via a preparation device, via a shaking function or device, or via a rotating plate on which the filter container and / or coffee pot are placed. A paper filter can then be placed on the coffee powder in the filter container. This is done manually. Preferably, a machine can emit a signal when the paper filter is placed on the coffee grounds. A sensor or camera element can be used to determine when the correct mixture has been achieved. The fluid can be cooled, for example, by a tempering device designed as a combined heating and cooling plate. However, it is also conceivable to add ice to the water reservoir or to place ice in the water reservoir. The heating element can be turned off accordingly. It is also conceivable that the associated valves can be automatically controlled or adjusted. The drip rate can also be controlled using a camera or sensor. It is also possible to control the drip rate using hydrostatic pressure.

[0308] The coffee bean loading and grinding device and coffee extraction device can also be used for other types of brewing, such as a Chemex or French Press, a Café Solo Brewer or hand filter, a Carlsbad Canne or Aeropress, etc. The required amount of ground coffee and / or fluid, the degree of grinding, and the length of time the fluid is in contact with the ground coffee can be adjusted or controlled using a regulating or controlling device and / or a sensor or camera element. The following table shows preferred values ​​for selected preparation methods:

[0309] [Table 1]

[0310] The device may have a memory unit in which values ​​shown in a table are stored. For example, the contact time can be automatically determined depending on the type of preparation desired, and the adjustment or control unit can access this table. The required preparation time can be transferred to the control unit using the app.

[0311] Preferably, a device for dispensing and / or preparing baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food, or coffee, is provided, comprising a housing with a first receiving area and a second receiving area, the first receiving area designed to receive a first container for baby food concentrate or coffee powder and the second receiving area designed to receive a second container for a fluid (in particular a liquid), a tempering device for tempering the fluid, and a dosing device for dispensing the baby food concentrate or coffee powder, wherein the first receiving area is provided with a dosing device receiving area for receiving a dosing device, and an actuation device and / or drive device for the dosing device are arranged in the dosing device receiving area.

[0312] The device has a first receiving area designed to receive a first container containing baby food concentrate or coffee powder. Furthermore, a dosing device receiving area capable of receiving a dosing device is arranged in the first receiving area of ​​the device. In this way, the first container containing baby food concentrate or coffee powder and the dosing device can be at least partially received in the first receiving area. This advantageously allows the dosing device to interact with the first container. In particular, the dosing device can correctly dispense the concentrated baby food or coffee powder. This is possible because the dosing device is driven by a drive arranged in the dosing device receiving area.

[0313] Furthermore, all components of the device that come into contact with the baby food concentrate, coffee powder, or liquid are particularly replaceable and easily removable from the device. Replaceable components mean that the components are designed as disposable or single-use items. In particular, the first container for the concentrated baby food or coffee powder, the dosing device for administering the concentrated baby food or coffee powder, and the second container for the fluid are replaceable. The first container can be connected or fluidly connected to the dosing device, and / or the second container can be connected or fluidly connected to a fluid reservoir. This is advantageous because the device for preparing baby food, particularly the first and second receiving areas, do not come into contact with the baby food concentrate or coffee powder and the fluid. Therefore, since the device, particularly the first and second receiving areas, are not contaminated with the baby food concentrate or coffee powder and the fluid, there is no need to clean the device after each preparation of baby food or coffee. Furthermore, there is no need to demineralize the device and / or its individual components.

[0314] The concentrated baby food or coffee powder and liquid can be introduced in the correct mixing ratio via the device into a container, preferably a baby bottle or coffee cup, so that by shaking or swirling the container, baby bottle, coffee container or coffee cup, the baby food or coffee can be mixed and ready to drink.

[0315] However, the device may also comprise a preparation device for preparing baby food or coffee from baby food concentrate or coffee powder and a fluid, which may be interchangeable and designed as a disposable or single-use item. In this device, baby food concentrate or coffee powder from a first container and a fluid (e.g., liquid) from a second container are fed into the preparation device and introduced into a funnel and / or filter container in the correct mixing ratio, allowing for the introduction of a further container, in particular a baby bottle or coffee cup. This allows for the proper preparation of the baby food or coffee. In this way, the device may recognize the configuration, e.g., shape, volume, and / or size, of the further container and, based on this, automate its design by filling the further container with the fluid and / or baby food concentrate or coffee powder.

[0316] The tempering device can adjust the temperature of the liquid in the second container to the preparation temperature provided or recommended by the baby food or coffee powder manufacturer. Furthermore, the tempering device can sterilize the liquid, for example, before it is fed into the preparation device. Sterilization is particularly useful when preparing baby food. For example, sterilization can be achieved by first heating the liquid to near boiling point to kill any germs or bacteria in the liquid. The liquid can then be cooled or otherwise adjusted to the desired temperature. However, if the liquid is already colder than the intended drinking temperature, it can be heated to the desired temperature and adjusted accordingly. In this way, the liquid can be maintained at the appropriate temperature for sterile administration to the baby. This device thus simplifies and safely facilitates the preparation of baby food.

[0317] Preferably, the temperature control device is controllable or adjustable. For this purpose, the device may include a control or adjustment unit. It is conceivable that the tempering device is designed as a heating plate and / or a cooling plate, or that the tempering device is composed of at least one heating plate and / or at least one cooling plate. It is also conceivable that different zones or areas of the tempering device, or the heating plate and / or the cooling plate, are controllable, adjustable, or activatable.

[0318] Preferably, the administration device is connectable to the first container.

[0319] The administration device is connectable to the first container. This means that the administration device can be connected to the first container so that the administration device and the first container are introduced into the receiving area together and / or removed again. For example, the administration device can be securely connected to the first container (e.g., by gluing and / or welding) so that the administration device and the first container are securely connected to each other. However, it is also conceivable that the administration device and the first container are detachably connected to each other. This allows the first container and the dosing device to be introduced into the first receiving area in a simplified manner and at least partially received there. At the same time, the dosing device can safely intervene in the drive device so that the intended amount of baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be delivered from the first container to the preparation device by the dosing device. However, it is also conceivable that the dosing device and the first container are not connected to each other and can be introduced into and removed from the first receiving area separately from each other.

[0320] Preferably, the dosing device consists of a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing, the screw conveyor being introduced, preferably over its entire length, into the screw conveyor housing and / or being rotatably arranged or supported therein, the screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing extending around a common longitudinal axis of the screw shaft of the conveyor.

[0321] The dosing device can be designed as a screw conveyor, including a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing. The screw conveyor can be designed as a shaft wound around one or more spirally wound flights in the form of flat metal sheets and / or rubber flaps or wings, which essentially extend laterally away from the longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw in the form of a screw thread. Preferably, the conveyor screw is designed as a rigid conveyor screw. However, it is also conceivable that the screw conveyor can be designed as a flexible, particularly bendable, screw. The screw thread is either rigidly connected to the shaft, for example, by welding, or is manufactured integrally with the shaft. This preferably screw conveyor comprises a continuous screw thread extending between the opposing ends of the screw conveyor along its longitudinal axis, so that baby food concentrates and coffee powders, in particular, can be transported by the conveyor thread along their longitudinal axis. The screw conveyor, in particular the screw thread, can be turned from a solid material, for example, round steel, or manufactured as a cast or injection-molded part. The screw conveyor and / or the housing of the screw conveyor are essentially cylindrical.

[0322] Due to the design of the dosing device, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder is fed from a first container into the dosing device and transported by the screw conveyor within the screw conveyor housing along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor. Since each revolution of the screw conveyor can transport a fixed amount of powder, the dosage of the baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be determined by the number of (partial) revolutions. This allows for precise and easy dosing of the concentrated baby food or coffee powder. This dosing can be done automatically, for example by an adjusting or controlling device, or manually.

[0323] Preferably, the screw conveyor housing has an inlet with an inlet opening and an outlet with an outlet opening, the inlet and outlet being preferably located on opposite sides of the screw conveyor housing in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor.

[0324] The concentrated baby food or coffee powder can be fed from a first container into the interior of the housing of the screw conveyor and introduced into one or more spirally wound flights of the screw conveyor. The device for preparing baby food or coffee includes agitating the first container or its contents. motion Movement can be set to vibration motion This allows the baby food or coffee powder to be almost completely guided from the inlet opening of the first container into the housing of the screw conveyor, especially if the baby food or coffee powder does not slide by itself but is guided into the housing of the screw conveyor by, for example, gravity. motion The device is disposed in the first tray or in correspondence with the first tray.

[0325] As a result of the rotation of the conveyor screw, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder enters the interior of the conveyor housing of the conveyor screw, and is then transported by the conveyor screw essentially along the longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw, and can exit through an outlet opening, which is located opposite the inlet when viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the conveyor screw, and through which the baby food concentrate or coffee powder can exit the conveyor housing of the conveyor screw when it reaches the inlet.

[0326] Preferably, the screw conveyor has a screw flank diameter, i.e., an outer diameter perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor, in the range of approximately 20 to 40 mm. Particularly preferably, the screw flank diameter is approximately 25 mm. This screw flank diameter is advantageous for conveying or dosing baby food concentrates or coffee powders. The properties of baby food concentrates or coffee powders can change significantly as a result of moisture, especially if the baby food concentrates or coffee powders are (partially) agglomerated or clumped together. The aforementioned screw flank diameter setting ensures that the baby food concentrates or coffee powders are conveyed and dosed correctly even in the event of moisture intrusion.

[0327] Preferably, the screw conveyor has a length ranging from about 60 mm to 120 mm. Particularly preferably, the screw conveyor has a length ranging from about 90 mm to 110 mm, and even more preferably about 106 mm. Such screw conveyor lengths are suitable for conveying baby food concentrates or coffee powders. As the screw conveyor length decreases, the baby food concentrates or coffee powders may bridge one or more of the spiral paths, blocking the inlet opening and preventing the baby food concentrates or coffee powders from being introduced through the inlet opening. Bridging may occur, particularly when the baby food concentrates or coffee powders are fed by gravity through the inlet opening into the screw conveyor housing.

[0328] By dimensioning the screw conveyor length and screw flank diameter within the aforementioned range of values, a delivery rate of baby food concentrate or coffee powder in the range of approximately 5 to 10 grams per revolution of the screw conveyor (e.g., approximately 8.8 grams per revolution) is possible. This number of revolutions (or angle of rotation about the longitudinal axis) allows the desired amount of baby food concentrate or coffee powder to be delivered through the outlet of the screw conveyor housing and thus exit the screw conveyor housing. This allows for precise dosing of baby food concentrate or coffee powder for preparing baby food.

[0329] Preferably, the inlet opening is essentially oval and extends longitudinally. However, inlet openings of other shapes are also contemplated. The inlet opening has a length of about 20 mm to 60 mm (e.g., about 47 mm) in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor and / or a length of about 10 mm to 40 mm (e.g., about 29 mm) in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor, particularly a length of about 10 mm to 40 mm when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor. Preferably, the outlet opening is essentially rectangular and extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis. However, outlet openings of other shapes are also contemplated. The outlet opening has a length of about 20 mm to 50 mm (e.g., about 30 mm) in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor and / or a length of about 5 mm to 20 mm (e.g., about 10 mm) in the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor, particularly a length of about 5 mm to 20 mm when viewed perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor. These dimensions of the inlet and outlet openings allow particularly good introduction and running of the baby food concentrate or coffee powder into the housing of the screw conveyor.

[0330] Preferably, the housing of the screw conveyor extends along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor between a first end and an opposite second end, the outlet being located adjacent or adjacent to the first end and the inlet being located adjacent or adjacent to the second end.

[0331] The inlet and outlet are preferably spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. By positioning the inlet adjacent to or adjacent to the second end of the screw conveyor housing and the outlet adjacent to or adjacent to the first end of the screw conveyor housing, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder can enter the screw conveyor housing through the inlet opening of one or more spirally wound flights, be picked up by the rotation of the screw conveyor, be transported to the second end of the screw conveyor housing, and then exit again through the outlet opening. In this way, a predetermined or predictable amount of baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be transported per rotation, allowing the dosage to be set (or controlled or adjusted) based on the number of rotations (or the angle of rotation around the longitudinal axis).

[0332] The first end of the screw conveyor housing is preferably designed to be open, and the second end of the screw conveyor housing is preferably designed to be closed. Thus, the screw conveyor can be fully inserted into the screw conveyor housing through the first end. An insertion or removal element extending away from the second end can be provided at the second end. The insertion or removal element can be designed as a tab forming a surface approximately the size of a thumb. In particular, the insertion or removal element can have a length of approximately 3-4 cm and / or a width of approximately 2-3 cm. On the opposite side, the insertion or removal element can include a tactile corrugated structure. Preferably, this corrugated structure is made of a soft rubber material. However, it can also be made of the same material as the insertion or removal element.

[0333] The administration device can be held and / or introduced in a targeted manner into the administration device receptacle by means of the insertion element, and furthermore the administration device can also be simply removed from the insertion part, especially when the first container is empty and has to be replaced.

[0334] Preferably, the inlet consists of a flange having a peripheral wall that at least partially surrounds the inlet opening and extends (preferably substantially radially) away from the screw conveyor housing, the flange being designed for connecting the dosing device to the first container and / or for introducing the dosing device into the dosing device receiving area.

[0335] The peripheral wall of the screw conveyor housing's inlet is designed to engage with the first container, particularly the outlet of the first container, ensuring reliable introduction of baby food concentrate or coffee powder from the first container into the screw conveyor housing. The peripheral wall can be manufactured integrally with the screw conveyor housing or as a cast or injection-molded part that can be connected to the screw conveyor housing.

[0336] The peripheral wall can extend from the edge of the inlet opening of the screw conveyor housing at an angle different from essentially 0° or 180°, particularly laterally. Thus, like the inlet opening, the peripheral wall can be essentially elliptical and extend in the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor. However, other shapes of the peripheral wall are also contemplated. In particular, the peripheral wall can have essentially the same shape as the inlet opening. The peripheral wall can have a circumference ranging from approximately 100 mm to 130 mm (e.g., approximately 122 mm). The peripheral wall can also extend along a first central longitudinal axis, which can have a length ranging from approximately 30 mm to 60 mm (e.g., approximately 47 mm). Furthermore, the peripheral wall can extend along a second central longitudinal axis oriented perpendicular to the first central longitudinal axis and / or can have a length ranging from approximately 20 mm to 40 mm (e.g., approximately 29 mm). Other lengths are also possible. The length of the longitudinal axis of the first peripheral wall is preferably greater than the length of the central longitudinal axis of the second peripheral wall. The above-mentioned longitudinal axis lengths of the first and second peripheral walls are particularly preferred for introducing baby food concentrate or coffee powder into the screw conveyor housing and / or for connecting a dosing device to the first container.

[0337] Preferably, the peripheral wall comprises a first contact surface and an opposing second contact surface, the first contact surface and the second contact surface being arranged parallel to each other.

[0338] The first and second contact surfaces can be positioned on opposite sides of the central longitudinal axis of the second peripheral wall. These contact surfaces can facilitate the introduction of the dosing device into the dosing device receiving area. In particular, the contact surfaces can slide along the lateral guide elements of the first receiving area during introduction and can rest against the lateral guide elements after being received in the dosing device receiving area. The first and second contact surfaces can have essentially parabolic cross-sectional areas. Due to the design of the two contact surfaces and the lateral guide elements and their interaction when the first container is inserted into the first receiving area, the first container can be received in the correct position by the first receiving area, so that the correct dosage of baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be guided to the outlet of the dosing device.

[0339] Preferably, a coupling device extends longitudinally from the drive end of the screw conveyor, which coupling device is designed to interact, in particular intervene in a coupling manner, with the actuator and / or drive device.

[0340] The coupling device can be designed as an essentially cylindrical cavity and / or receptacle. After the dosing device is introduced into and received in the dosing device receiving area, the coupling element of the dosing device receiving area can be simultaneously received in the (preferably essentially cylindrical) cavity. The inner wall of the (cylindrical) cavity preferably has an inner surface shape that can engage with the outer surface shape of the outer wall of the coupling element. For example, the outer profile of the coupling element can have at least one material ridge that can engage or interact with at least one material recess in the inner profile of the cylindrical cavity. The coupling element can be designed as a drive shaft. Introducing the coupling element into the cylindrical cavity can drive the dosing device, thereby rotating the screw conveyor. Preferably, the rotational speed transmission ratio is adjustable or variable. This allows the speed of the baby food concentrate transported through the screw conveyor housing to be changed, thereby changing the dosage of the baby food concentrate.

[0341] Preferably, the housing of the screw conveyor has an outer wall provided with a plurality of ribs, the ribs preferably extending essentially in an axial direction at least partially between the first end and the second end and / or the ribs preferably extending essentially in a radial direction away from the outer wall.

[0342] The ribs preferably extend longitudinally between the first and second ends of the screw conveyor housing and / or surround the outer wall at regular or symmetrical intervals around the periphery. The ribs may extend away from the outer wall, with each rib running in a straight line substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing and / or having an outer edge that is substantially at a constant distance from the outer wall of the screw conveyor housing. However, the ribs may also have, for example, a conical region, preferably near the first end of the screw conveyor housing. In this conical region, the outer edge of the rib tapers toward the first end of the screw conveyor housing.

[0343] Preferably, two further ribs limit the outlet opening in the circumferential direction of the outer wall or are located on opposite sides. In other words, the two ribs are arranged adjacent to or close to the outlet opening and extend away from the edge of the outlet opening. Preferably, two further ribs are provided that limit the outlet opening on opposite axial sides of the outer wall. These ribs pass between the two ribs that define the outlet opening on opposite circumferential sides and are arranged adjacent to or close to the outlet opening and extend away from the edge of the outlet opening. In this way, the discharge port is surrounded on all sides by ribs.

[0344] The ribs at the outlet, particularly at the outlet opening, advantageously prevent the escaped baby food concentrate or coffee powder from coming into contact with the housing of the device for preparing baby food concentrate or coffee powder. Due to the fact that the powder does not come into contact with the housing of the device, the housing does not need to be cleaned after each use and can be reused immediately. Furthermore, this prevents powder adhering to the housing from becoming contaminated or rendering the device unusable for preparing baby food or coffee. However, the ribs can also serve as a base for the dosing device, especially when the dosing device is not inserted into the dosing device receiving area of ​​the first receiving area. This allows for easy connection of the first container to the dispensing device and subsequent filling of the first container with baby food concentrate or coffee powder.

[0345] Preferably, the first transfer area has a rear wall, two spaced apart side walls oriented at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular essentially transverse to the rear wall, an upper side and a limit oriented at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular essentially transverse to the side walls, and an open front side opposite the rear wall, such that the first transfer area is formed between the side walls and / or the upper and lower limits. The first receiving area preferably has a container receiving area for receiving the first container, the container receiving area preferably being arranged above the administration device receiving area. Thus, the container receiving area can be adjacent to the upper limit, and / or the dosing device receiving area can be adjacent to the lower limit. The first container together with the dosing device can be introduced into the first receiving area via the open front surface in a movement substantially perpendicular to the rear wall, so that the first container is received in the container receiving area and the dosing device is received in the dosing device receiving area. Preferably, the first container is connected to the dosing device such that, when inserted into the first receiving area, it is positioned above or above the dosing device relative to the lower limit and / or is further spaced from the lower limit than the dosing device. This allows the powder to be guided from the first container to the dosing device, for example, by gravity.

[0346] Preferably, a first guide element and a second guide element are arranged between the container transfer area and the administration device transfer area, the guide elements extending from the essentially open front side towards the rear wall and / or the guide elements extending away from the side wall.

[0347] The guide elements are substantially continuous from the front wall to the rear wall. This allows the first container and the dispensing device, which are connected to each other, to be introduced particularly easily into the first receiving area: the first container is placed and / or received on the guide elements, and the dispensing device is placed and received below the guide elements. To correctly insert the first container and the dispensing device, the peripheral wall can be inserted between the guide elements so that the first and second support surfaces essentially slide along the guide elements. In other words, the first support surface slides along the first guide element, and the second support surface slides along the second guide element, until the dispensing device is fully received in the dispensing device receptacle. Once inserted into the dispensing device receiving area of ​​the first receiver, the lateral contact surfaces of the peripheral wall of the dispensing device then rest on the two guide elements. This allows the first container and / or the dispensing device to be received in a particularly simple manner and positioned in a stable manner in the first receiving area.

[0348] Preferably, the guide elements are aligned essentially in a plane parallel to the upper and / or lower limits, and the guide elements preferably slope forward outside the plane towards the container receiving area.

[0349] As a result, each guide element forms an insertion bevel adjacent or close to its open front face, which can facilitate correct insertion of the dosing device. In particular, during insertion, the two ribs arranged on the outer wall of the screw conveyor housing can essentially slide along the underside of the guide elements, while the two lateral abutment surfaces slide between the guide elements as described above. When inserted into the dosing device receiving area of ​​the first receiving area, the lateral contact surfaces of the peripheral wall of the dosing device and the two ribs rest on the two guide elements. In particular, the contact surfaces can rest against the ends of the guide elements extending away from the side walls, and the two ribs can rest against the undersides of the two guide elements toward the lower limit.

[0350] When the screw conveyor or its housing is inserted into the receiving area of ​​the doser, for example, the auger clicks into place as soon as it reaches the end position. This lets the user know that the screw conveyor is correctly installed or that the (cylindrical) cavity is correctly connected to the coupling element or drive shaft. The lead-in bevel helps to bring the first container into the correct position and also simplifies the click-in of the screw conveyor.

[0351] Preferably, the lower limit has a receptacle for the screw conveyor housing extending from the open front side to the rear wall.

[0352] The receptacle for the screw conveyor housing can extend between the two side walls around its longitudinal axis, which is oriented substantially parallel to the two side walls. A receptacle outlet opening can be located on the longitudinal axis of the receptacle, particularly adjacent to or close to the rear wall, and this opening is formed with substantially the same shape and dimensions as the outlet opening of the screw conveyor housing. The receptacle is essentially concave in cross section across the longitudinal axis of the receptacle. In other words, the receptacle is embedded as a substantially recessed portion in the lower limit. Thus, the lower limit can have a surface having a first horizontal surface adjacent to or close to the first side wall and a second horizontal surface adjacent to or close to the second side wall, with the receptacle being disposed as a substantially recessed surface between the first and second surfaces.

[0353] The receptacle for the screw conveyor housing allows the dosing device to be held particularly securely and firmly within the dosing device receptacle. After inserting and receiving the dosing device, the screw conveyor housing rests firmly on the receptacle for the conveyor housing, with two of the ribs resting firmly on the first and second horizontal surfaces. At the same time, the outlet opening of the screw conveyor housing is positioned above, adjacent to, or close to the receiving outlet opening. Thus, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be transported from the screw conveyor housing through the outlet opening of the screw conveyor housing and the receiving outlet opening of the dosing device receptacle and supplied to the preparation device without the baby food concentrate or coffee powder coming into contact with the housing.

[0354] Preferably, the drive shaft is formed in or on the rear wall, the drive shaft and receptacle extending in a plane transverse to the lower limit.

[0355] The coupling element or drive shaft is preferably arranged on or at the rear wall. The distance between the lower limit and the coupling element or drive shaft, as viewed in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction of the receptacle, can correspond to the distance between the first cylindrical cavity and the peripheral wall of the screw conveyor, as viewed in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction of the screw conveyor. As described above, by inserting the dosing device into the receptacle of the screw conveyor housing, the coupling element or drive shaft can automatically engage with the (cylindrical) cavity of the screw conveyor housing. Thus, the screw conveyor can be driven.

[0356] Preferably, one or more side walls of the container receptacle include a plurality of ribs extending from the one or more side walls.

[0357] The ribs preferably extend substantially parallel to the upper and / or lower limits. Preferably, the ribs extend substantially from the open front face to the rear wall. However, it is also contemplated that the ribs may be disposed transversely to the upper or lower limits and / or that the ribs may not extend continuously from the front to the rear wall.

[0358] Preferably, the ribs are arranged in pairs on the two side walls. In other words, each of the two ribs extends in a plane transverse to the side wall and / or parallel to the upper or lower limit. In this way, multiple pairs of ribs can be arranged on the side wall of the container receiving area, preferably between the guide element and the upper limit. Preferably, the ribs of a pair of ribs are spaced apart from each other by approximately 40 mm to 50 mm, and more preferably, the ribs of a pair of ribs are spaced apart from each other by approximately 50 mm. It is also conceivable that the ribs of a pair do not all have the same distance from each other, but have different distances from each other, preferably between approximately 40 mm and 50 mm.

[0359] The ribs allow the first containers received in the first tray to be optimally positioned, allowing the baby food concentrate or coffee powder to be guided from the outlet of the first container to the inlet opening of the screw conveyor housing and dispensed. At the same time, they prevent the baby food concentrate or coffee powder from remaining in the first container and becoming unusable for preparing baby food or coffee. The ribs thus allow multiple first containers of different shapes to be easily and reliably received, allowing them to assume a desired shape so that the powder can move toward the discharge opening. This allows the first containers to be held upright and not collapse.

[0360] Preferably, a container for receiving and dispensing baby food concentrate or coffee powder is provided, the container comprising a housing having an interior for receiving the baby food concentrate or coffee powder and an outlet in fluid communication with the interior, the outlet connectable to an inlet of a dosing device, the dosing device having an outlet, and actuation of the dosing device causing a dose of the baby food concentrate or coffee powder to be expelled from the outlet. Preferably, the container is designed to be introduced into and at least partially received by a device for preparing baby food or coffee. The dosing device is connected or connectable to the container, and the container and / or the dosing device are replaceable and designed as disposable items.

[0361] Preferably, the container for receiving and dispensing the concentrated baby food or coffee powder is provided pre-filled with the concentrated baby food or coffee powder. The container may be supplied ready-made filled with the concentrated baby food or coffee powder, i.e., the container may be filled with the concentrated baby food or coffee powder at a factory so that the container is delivered to the consumer already filled with the concentrated baby food or coffee powder.

[0362] This container can be designed as a first container to be introduced into and at least partially received in a first receiving area of ​​the previously described device for preparing baby food or coffee. Accordingly, all features of the previously described device described in relation to the first container and / or the dosing device also apply to the below-described container for receiving and dosing the baby food concentrate or coffee powder (hereinafter referred to as the first container).

[0363] The first container may have a dosing device connectable to the first container such that the first container and the dosing device can be used to dispense and thus dispense an appropriate amount of baby food concentrate or coffee powder. However, it is also conceivable that the first container and the dosing device are two separate elements. The first container may have an outlet with an outlet opening so that the baby food concentrate or coffee powder received in the first container can exit and be dispensed from the first container. The outlet may be connectable to an inlet of the dosing device so that the baby food concentrate or coffee powder exiting the first container can be introduced through the inlet of the dosing device. By activating the dosing device, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder then exits through a second outlet of the dosing device and can be used in a predetermined or pre-determined dose to prepare baby food or coffee.

[0364] Thus, in the first container described, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be correctly dispensed using the dispensing device. The dispensing device can be driven by an actuator and / or a drive. However, it is also possible to drive the dispensing device manually. The fluid from the second container can be mixed with the baby food concentrate or coffee powder from the first container and introduced into a container, in particular a baby bottle or coffee cup, in the correct mixing ratio. This allows the baby food or coffee to be prepared accurately and simply.

[0365] Furthermore, the first container can have a dosing device to which it can be connected so that the correct amount of baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be dispensed and administered using the first container and the dosing device. For this purpose, the first container connected to the dosing device can be inserted and received in the first receiving area, particularly the container receiving area and the dosing device receiving area of ​​the device, as described above for preparing baby food or coffee. However, it is also conceivable that the first container and the dosing device are two separate elements that are inserted separately into the first receiving area, particularly the container receiving area and the dosing device receiving area, and received separately from each other.

[0366] In this way, the dosing device can be used to accurately dispense the baby food concentrate or coffee powder from the first container. The dosing device is driven by an actuator and / or drive, for example, in a dosing device receiving area located within the device as described above. However, it is also possible to manually drive the dosing device. The concentrated baby food or coffee powder can be supplied from the first container to the preparation device together with a fluid, for example, from a second container, so that the concentrated baby food or coffee powder and the fluid are mixed in the correct ratio within the container, particularly a baby bottle or coffee cup. This allows for accurate and simple preparation of the baby food or coffee. Preferably, the dosing device comprises a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing, the screw conveyor being insertable and rotatable, preferably over its entire length, into the screw conveyor housing, the screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing extending around a common screw conveyor longitudinal axis, and the dosing device inlet being located in or on the screw conveyor housing.

[0367] This configuration of the dosing device allows the baby food concentrate or coffee powder to be guided from the first container into the dosing device and transported by the screw conveyor in the screw conveyor housing along the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor. Since a fixed amount of powder can be transported per revolution of the screw conveyor, the dosage of the baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be determined by the number of revolutions. This allows for precise and easy dosing of the concentrated baby food or coffee powder. This dosing can be performed automatically, for example, by an adjusting or controlling device, or manually by an operator.

[0368] The first container can be connected to a dosing device consisting of a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing. The screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing can have all the features described above in the context of the device for preparing baby food or coffee, so that the dosing device can be accommodated in the first receiving area or dosing device receiving area of ​​the device, as described above.

[0369] It is also conceivable that the dosing device consists of a plate, which is preferably designed as a standing plate and is arranged on the housing of the screw conveyor.

[0370] This stand plate is used to better position the first container for baby food concentrate or coffee powder and / or to prevent it from tipping over, especially when the first container for baby food concentrate or coffee powder is located outside the device for preparing baby food or coffee. The plate can be firmly connected to the screw conveyor housing, or the plate can be connected to the screw conveyor housing. Thus, after the baby food or coffee powder is picked up, the plate can be removed from the screw conveyor housing, and the first container and / or the dosing device can be picked up by the first receptacle of the device for preparing baby food or coffee. It is also conceivable that the screw conveyor housing has a casing with at least one flat surface that functions as a stand plate. This allows for better positioning of the first container and protects it from tipping over. Preferably, the outlet of the first container is firmly connected to the inlet of the screw conveyor housing, particularly by screwing and / or gluing.

[0371] By connecting the first container to the screw conveyor housing, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be introduced from the first container into the screw conveyor housing and then discharged in the correct amount. The outlet of the first container can be firmly connected (e.g., glued) to the inlet of the screw conveyor housing. For example, the outlet of the first container can have a peripheral wall similar to that of a flange arranged on the screw conveyor housing. In particular, the peripheral wall of the container outlet can be slightly larger or slightly smaller than the peripheral wall of the flange, but have a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the flange's peripheral wall. In this way, the peripheral walls can overlap or be firmly connected to each other (e.g., glued and / or welded).

[0372] However, it is also conceivable that the outlet of the first container with the inlet in the screw conveyor housing is screwed. Thus, the peripheral wall of the flange on the screw conveyor housing can constitute a first drive profile, and the peripheral wall of the container outlet can constitute a second drive profile. The first container and the dosing device can preferably be connected to each other in a geometrically compatible and rotationally fixed manner via two drive profiles. For example, the outer contour of the peripheral wall of the flange on the screw conveyor housing can have a drive profile, and the inner contour of the peripheral wall of the container outlet can have a corresponding drive profile, so that the peripheral walls can be connected to each other in a particularly non-rotatable manner. Any structure that allows connection between the first container and the dosing device can function as a drive profile. The drive profile can be polygonal, star-shaped, slot-shaped, etc., accordingly.

[0373] Preferably, the housing of the screw conveyor is integrated into the first container.

[0374] By assembling the screw conveyor housing into the first container, the first container and the screw conveyor housing can be connected integrally, in particular the first container and the dosing device can be connected firmly and non-detachably. In particular, it is conceivable that the peripheral wall of the container outlet and the peripheral wall of the flange of the screw conveyor housing are formed integrally with each other.

[0375] Preferably, the first container has an at least partially tapered portion, the periphery of the first container in the tapered portion preferably decreasing essentially conically towards the outlet.

[0376] The first container can have a cross section, when viewed in a plane passing through the longitudinal conveyor screw axis of the screw conveyor housing in the connected state with the first container, such that the tapered portion is laterally bounded by a first side edge and a second side edge. "Connected to the first container" means that the dosing device or the screw conveyor housing is connected to the screw conveyor and the first container. The first side edge can run essentially transversely to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing of the conveyor (as viewed in the connected state), preferably at an angle of less than 90°, particularly preferably at an angle of about 45°. The second side edge can run essentially transversely to the longitudinal conveyor screw axis of the screw conveyor housing, preferably at an angle of less than 90°, particularly preferably at an angle of about 45°. It is also conceivable that both side edges run essentially transversely to the longitudinal conveyor screw axis of the screw conveyor housing, preferably at an angle of less than 90°, particularly preferably at an angle of about 45°. Such an arrangement of the side edges relative to the longitudinal axis of the connected screw conveyor housing allows the baby food concentrate or coffee grounds to be emptied particularly easily from the first container.

[0377] Preferably, the second side edge forms an angle of approximately 45° with the first side edge, such that the circumference of the first container at the tapered section gradually decreases towards the outlet, which allows the baby food concentrate or coffee powder contained in the first container to be emptied through the outlet and subsequently introduced into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing in a particularly efficient manner.

[0378] The first container preferably has at least a partially first substantially symmetrical section, the circumference of the first container remaining the same within the first substantially symmetrical section, and preferably the first substantially symmetrical section being further from the outlet than the tapered section.

[0379] The first container, when connected to the first container, can have a cross-section in a plane passing through the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing, with the first substantially symmetrical section bounded laterally by a first side edge and a second side edge that are aligned substantially parallel to each other and thus run substantially transversely, preferably at an angle of about 90°, to the longitudinal axis of the screw conveyor housing (when viewed in the connected state). The first side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section can run in the same plane as the first side edge of the tapered section, and / or the second side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section can be transverse to the second side edge of the tapered section. However, it is also conceivable that the second side edge of the first substantially symmetrical section can run in the same plane as the second side edge of the tapered section, thereby forming an additional tapered section instead of a symmetrical section.

[0380] Preferably, the distance between the first and second side edges of the symmetrical portion is at most about 140 mm, and / or the length of the two side edges is at most about 155 mm. It is also conceivable that the length of the first side edge is longer than the length of the second side edge. Thus, the length of the first side edge can be at most about 155 mm, and / or the length of the second side edge can be at most about 125 mm.

[0381] In this embodiment, the baby food concentrate or coffee grounds received in the first container can be emptied from the outlet and then introduced into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing in a particularly efficient manner, while the symmetrical section allows for alternative configurations of the inlet for receiving the baby food concentrate or coffee grounds in the first container.

[0382] Preferably, the first container has an essentially symmetrical second portion adjacent or proximate to the outlet, and the circumference of the first container remains the same within the second essentially symmetrical portion and essentially corresponds to the periphery of the outlet and / or the opening of the outlet.

[0383] The first container, when connected to the first container, can have a cross-section in a plane passing through the longitudinal conveyor screw axis of the screw conveyor housing, and the second essentially symmetric section (when viewed in the connected state) is arranged essentially parallel to one another and thus bounded laterally by first and second side edges that run essentially transversely, preferably at an angle of about 90°, to the longitudinal conveyor screw axis of the screw conveyor housing. The first side edge of the second essentially symmetric section can run in a plane with the first side edge of the tapered section and the first side edge of the first essentially symmetric section, and / or the second side edge of the second essentially symmetric section can be aligned and parallel with the second side edge of the first essentially symmetric section, transversely to the second side edge of the tapered section.

[0384] Preferably, the distance between the first and second side edges of the second symmetrical portion is in the range of about 20 mm to 60 mm (e.g., about 50 mm), and / or the lengths of the two side edges are in the range of about 10 mm to 110 mm, respectively (e.g., about 15 mm or 90 mm, respectively). Preferably, the second essentially symmetrical part is connected to the outlet, so that the diameter of the outlet or the path of the outlet opening preferably corresponds to the distance between the first and second side edges of the second symmetrical part.

[0385] In this embodiment, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder received in the first container can be emptied from the outlet and then introduced into the inlet of the screw conveyor housing in a particularly efficient manner.

[0386] However, it is also conceivable that the first container has, instead of a tapered portion, a further essentially symmetrical portion, in which case the first side edges of the three sections run in one plane and the second side edges run in one plane, the two planes being oriented essentially parallel to each other.

[0387] Preferably, the first container has an inlet opening, which is preferably positioned essentially opposite the outlet, and / or the outlet is provided with an outlet opening.

[0388] Preferably, the inlet opening can be located in the first substantially symmetrical conveyor screw section. More preferably, the inlet opening can be located adjacent to or near a side edge running between the first and second side edges of the first substantially symmetrical section. Preferably, the inlet opening is located at a first free end of the first container opposite the second free end of the first container, and the outlet and outlet openings are located at the second free end. The taper can be located between the inlet or inlet opening and the outlet or outlet opening.

[0389] The baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be received into the first container through the inlet opening. By locating the inlet opening opposite the outlet, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be guided toward the outlet and outlet opening and delivered from the first container to the dosing device. This allows for correct dosing of the concentrated baby food or coffee powder. The inlet opening can be closed preferably by a closure element, more preferably by a fastener or zipper.

[0390] However, it is also conceivable that the first container does not have an inlet opening but is integrally or rigidly connected to the dosing device, the first container and the dosing device being integrally connected to each other as a unit and being filled with baby food concentrate or coffee powder.

[0391] Preferably, the inlet opening extends adjacent to or close to the first free end between the first and second side edges of the first substantially symmetrical section. Preferably, the inlet opening can be closed with a closure element. Thus, the first container is advantageously reusable and can be refilled after being completely emptied of baby food, or the first container can be reclosed after the baby food concentrate or coffee powder has been transferred. However, it is also conceivable that the first container is not reusable and does not have a closure element, since the inlet or inlet opening is welded after the concentrated baby food or coffee powder is introduced. It is also conceivable that the first container does not have an inlet or inlet opening, but that the baby food concentrate or coffee powder is first received into the first container through an outlet or outlet opening, which is then connected to the dosing device. In particular, after the concentrated baby food or coffee powder is introduced, the outlet can be connected to the inlet of the dosing device by a connecting element, for example, an adhesive element in the form of an adhesive strip or clip. In this case, one and the same opening is used to receive the concentrated baby food or coffee grounds into the first container and to remove the concentrated baby food or coffee grounds from the first container.

[0392] In this way, the first container with the baby food concentrate can be connected to the dosing device and dispensed already and is designed as a disposable or single-use item. It is also conceivable that the dosing device connectable to the first container is designed as a reusable item. In particular, the dosing device and the first container can be designed as a single-use or disposable item if they are integrally formed with each other or glued or screwed together.

[0393] The closure element can be designed as a zipper that is easy to open and close. However, instead of or in addition to a zipper, it is also conceivable to arrange a rail at the first free end of the first container. This rail allows the first container to be connected to the upper region of the first receiving part. Other types of fasteners that can connect the first container to the upper region of the receiving part are also conceivable, such as one or more magnetic holders, one or more Velcro fasteners, one or more buttons, and / or one or more adhesive strips. It is also conceivable that the first container has a first screw element and the upper region of the first receiving part has a second screw element that connects the first container to the upper region of the receiving part.

[0394] The tab can be located adjacent to or close to the closure element. The tab can have an internal opening. The internal opening can be designed as a handle so that the first container can be carried or held in a simplified manner from one place to another. However, the internal opening can also serve, for example, as a hook or for hanging, which ensures additional stability, especially when filling the first container. Preferably, the closure element, preferably a zipper, is designed to be inserted into a groove in a first receiving area of ​​the device for preparing baby food or coffee.

[0395] The closure element or zipper can be designed to be inserted (at least partially) into the groove. The closure element or zipper is preferably designed to be inserted into a groove arranged in the first receiving area, particularly on the inside of the upper limit facing the lower limit. The groove can be substantially in the same plane as the drive axis of the dosing device receiving area, aligning with the longitudinal axis of the feed screw of the feed screw conveyor housing when inserted into the device. The groove preferably extends at least partially into the upper limit. More preferably, the groove extends from or near the area adjacent to the open front side to or near the area adjacent to the rear wall. This allows the first container and / or dosing device to be easily inserted into the first receiving area of ​​the device for preparing baby food, with the dosing device being received by the receiving device at the lower limit and the cylindrical cavity of the dosing device engaging the drive axis of the drive device. At the same time, the closure element or zipper can be inserted into the groove, which allows additional retention of the first container in addition to the transverse ribs. The first container can be made from a variety of materials, including paper, plastic, and other flexible materials, for example, to hold powders such as baby food concentrates or coffee powder. Furthermore, the first container can be configured as a pouch or bag. However, it is also conceivable that the first container can be made from a non-flexible material, thereby providing dimensional stability, such as a metal such as aluminum or plastic. For example, the first container can be designed as a cardboard box, such as a Tetra Pak. In particular, if the first container is made from a non-flexible material, the second tray can have two open sides located on opposite sides of the tray's longitudinal axis, instead of a closed sidewall and multiple ribs extending away from the sidewall.

[0396] The first container is approximately 1.5 dm 3This capacity allows you to take up to 500g of baby food concentrate or coffee powder, which is 1.1dm 3 This corresponds to a capacity of 1.5dm 3 The capacity of 1.5cm makes it easy to fill and transfer concentrated baby food or coffee powder. However, if the first container is about 1.5cm 3 It is also possible to have a volume that deviates from this, and the first container can be larger or smaller. The second tray and the second container will be described in detail below.

[0397] Preferably, the second receiving area has a rear wall, two side walls spaced apart from each other and arranged at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular essentially transverse to the rear wall, a lower limit arranged at an angle different from 0° or 180°, in particular transverse to the side walls, and an open top opposite the lower limit, and the second receiving area for receiving the second container is formed between the side walls.

[0398] The second receiving area can be open-topped. In other words, the top can be designed to be completely open. This allows the second container to be introduced into the second receiving tray with a movement essentially perpendicular to the lower limit, and the second container can be received by the second receiving tray. However, it is also conceivable that the second receiving area has an upper limit with a through-hole or opening arranged therein, through which the second container can be introduced into the second receiving area with a movement essentially perpendicular to the lower limit.

[0399] The second tray can have a front side opposite the rear wall, which can preferably be configured with a glass or plastic window element or a flap or closure flap, for example. This allows the fill level of the second container to be easily checked from the front. However, it is also conceivable that the front side, like the rear wall, can be designed as a closed front wall without an opening. The open front side of the first tray can also be closed with a flap or cap, preferably in a manner similar to the closure flap of the second tray. In this way, after the first container has been inserted and picked up, the closure flap can be closed to protect the first receiving area from dust and dirt.

[0400] Preferably, at least one second receiving area is preferably designed to receive a lifting system for administering fluids.

[0401] The lifting system allows the second container for the fluid to be pressurized, for example by means of a pump mechanism, so that the fluid is dispensed correctly. However, it is also possible to apply pressure to the second container by means of a rotating mechanism or other mechanism, which allows for precise and particularly easy dispensing of the fluid. Furthermore, the second tray is designed to accommodate the lifting device in addition to the second container.

[0402] Preferably, the lifting system is preferably connected or connectable to the second container.

[0403] The lifting system can be securely connected to the second container. In other words, the lifting system can be integrated into the second container and provided or delivered in such an integrated manner. However, it is also conceivable that the lifting system and the second container are two separate elements that can be combined or connected to each other so as to allow fluid to be dispensed from the second container. For example, the lifting system is connected or connectable to an opening of the second container (e.g., an inlet or outlet of the second container). Like the second container, the lifting system can be replaceable and can be a disposable or single-use item. Therefore, the lifting system can be delivered from the factory together with the second container, preferably already filled with liquid.

[0404] Preferably, the lifting system is connected or connectable to the outlet of the second container. Thus, by activating the lifting system, the fluid can be drawn from the second container and accurately dispensed. Preferably, the lifting system is connected or connectable to a preparation device, such as a container or cup for coffee or baby food, or a hose system. In this way, an accurately dispensed fluid can be filled into the container or cup or preparation device.

[0405] Preferably, the container or cup or preparation device is arranged in the direction of gravity below a lifting system connectable or connected to the second container. The lifting system is preferably arranged in the direction of gravity between the container or cup or preparation device and the second container. In this way, the fluid can be easily guided from the second container in the direction of the lifting system by gravity and pumped from the second container into the container or cup or preparation device, so that the fluid can be particularly easily guided in the container or cup or to the preparation device.

[0406] Preferably, the lifting device includes a piston and a rotating plate.

[0407] The lifting system may be capable of dispensing fluids using a piston pump. For example, the lifting system may include a rotating plate driven by a motor and capable of applying pressure to a piston. The piston may be connectable or connected to a second container so that the piston can be deflected or moved by the rotating plate. Preferably, the rotating plate is disposed above the piston in the direction of gravity, and the rotating plate is driven by the motor to rotate. This rotational movement causes the piston to move in a translational manner. Thus, the piston can be pushed downward in the direction of gravity toward the second container, thereby drawing up the fluid from the second container and dispensing it correctly. In this way, the deflection or movement of the piston allows the fluid to be easily removed from the piston, thereby pumping the second container and dispensing it correctly. Several lifting and lowering movements are possible with one rotation of the motor. In other words, one rotation of the motor results in multiple movements, combining the rotational and translational movements of the rotating plate and piston.

[0408] Preferably, the turntable is designed as an eccentric or control disk mounted on a shaft and having its center point outside the shaft. Preferably, the piston is arranged below the eccentric in the direction of gravity and outside its shaft axis, preferably above or below in the direction of gravity. In this way, the rotational movement of the eccentric can be advantageously converted into a translational movement or stroke of the piston.

[0409] Preferably, the second tray comprises a lifting system tray.

[0410] The lifting system receiver is designed to receive a motor, a rotating plate, and a piston. The motor, rotating plate, and / or piston may be rigidly connected to the lifting system receiver. These may be arranged, for example, on the rear wall and / or side wall of the second receiver. The second container may then be introduced and inserted into the second receiver so that the rotating plate and / or piston of the lifting system receiver can interact with the second container. In this way, the rotating plate and piston can pump fluid from the second container and administer it correctly. It is also possible for the motor, rotating plate, and / or piston to be rigidly connected to the second container and interchangeable with the second container. Thus, the motor, rotating plate, and / or piston, together with the second container, can be inserted into the receiving area of ​​the lifting system to pump and administer the liquid from the second container.

[0411] Preferably, the lifting system is equipped with a sensor.

[0412] The sensor can be securely connected to the receiving portion of the lifting device. When the second container is introduced or inserted into the second receiving area, the sensor can determine the fluid fill level in the second container. The sensor can be connected to application software, such as a mobile app, described below, and can automatically order new fluid over the internet based on the fluid fill level.

[0413] Preferably, the second container is connected or connectable to a dosing device or the second container is provided with a dosing device, which is preferably a lifting system, which lifting system is designed to dispense fluid from inside the second container. It is also conceivable that an apparatus for measuring and preparing baby food, in particular baby milk or baby food or coffee, consists of only one metering device for measuring the liquid and no metering device for measuring the baby food concentrate or coffee powder. In the case of an apparatus for dosing and / or preparing baby food, the fluid may be pre-prepared baby milk and therefore not just water.

[0414] Preferably, the lifting system is made from bioplastic or bio-based plastic. Preferably, the lifting system is made from bioplastic or bio-based plastic. For example, the bioplastic can be made from stone, paper and / or wood.

[0415] Preferably, at least one of the side walls of the second tray is an inclined side wall inclined at an angle different from 90°, preferably between 10° and 50°, more preferably between 10° and 30°, and particularly preferably at an angle of 20° relative to the lower limit.

[0416] The sloped sidewalls can have all the advantages and features of the previously described embodiments of the apparatus for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or the apparatus for preparing coffee. Furthermore, apparatus for preparing baby food or coffee can be designed similarly to the previously described embodiments of the apparatus for dosing and grinding coffee beans or the apparatus for preparing coffee and can have or operate with sloped sidewalls.

[0417] Preferably, the inclined sidewall is connected or connectable to the rear wall and can be spaced apart from the lower limit. Therefore, the lower end of the inclined sidewall, or the end of the inclined sidewall that points to the lower limit of the second receiving area, can be adjacent to or close to a flange that can surround the lower limit through-hole. The inclined sidewall can be configured to receive the second container of fluid and hold it in an inclined position. In other words, one of the outer sidewalls of the second container can abut against the inclined sidewall, so the inclined sidewall is designed as a support element and / or a supporting element for the second container. The second container is held in an inclined position by the inclined sidewall, and the outlet of the second container can open into the through-hole surrounded by the flange. The flange allows the container's outlet to be easily introduced into the through-hole, while also functioning as a lateral support or a lateral supporting element for the outlet. The inclined position of the second container is advantageous because the fluid can thus flow out of the second container in an appropriate manner, leaving no residual volume or dead volume in the second container. At the same time, the first container with the dosing device can thus be positioned essentially transversely, preferably at an angle of 90° to the lower limit, above the lower limit and / or above the through-hole. The outlet of the screw conveyor housing and the outlet of the second container can thus advantageously open together in the through-bore, so that the coffee powder or baby food concentrate and the fluid can be guided through the through-bore of the device for blending and / or preparing baby food or coffee and can be supplied in a container, preferably a baby bottle or a filter container.

[0418] Preferably, a plurality of clamping elements are arranged adjacent to or close to the side walls and extend at least partially between the front surface opposite the rear wall and the rear wall of the second receiving area. The clamping elements are preferably designed as clamps. Two of the clamping elements may be arranged opposite each other in a plane parallel to the lower limit of the second receiving area.

[0419] Particularly preferably, at least two clamping elements, preferably three clamping elements, are arranged adjacent or adjacent to one of the two side walls of the second receiving section, and at least two clamping elements, preferably three clamping elements, are arranged adjacent or adjacent to the other of the two side walls of the second receiving section. In other words, the second receiving section preferably comprises a maximum of six clamping elements, two of which are arranged opposite each other as a pair of clamping elements in a plane parallel to the lower limit of the second receiving section. Preferably, the second receiving area comprises a maximum of three pairs of clamping elements. However, it is also conceivable that the second receiving section has three or more clamping elements adjacent or adjacent to the two side walls, so that the second receiving section has more than six clamping elements, and therefore more than three pairs of clamping elements.

[0420] The clamping element or clamping element pair allows for dispensing of fluid into or from the interior of the second container.

[0421] Due to the desired or correct dosage of fluid inside the second container, it can be clamped off by a clamping element or pair of clamping elements, which is advantageous in that it does not require expensive peristaltic pumps, flow sensors, etc.

[0422] It is conceivable that the fluid from the second container can be dispensed as a function of time. This allows for alternating dispensing of the concentrated baby food or baby food powder from the first container and the liquid from the second container. This can improve the mixing behavior and / or the mixing ratio between the baby food concentrate or baby food powder and the liquid. A particularly good mixing ratio can be achieved by dispensing the liquid first, then the powder, and then the liquid again. Mixing is preferably carried out in this order at a temperature of about 37°C to 43°C, particularly preferably 40°C. The powder and liquid mixture can then be shaken manually or automatically. The concentrated baby food can also preferably be dispensed from the first container as a function of time.

[0423] It should be noted that the concentrated baby food or coffee powder can be dispensed in a similar manner within the first container by means of a plurality of clamping elements or pairs of clamping elements, as described below in connection with the dispensing of the second container and the liquid. In other words, the baby food concentrate or coffee powder cannot be dispensed inside the first container using the screw conveyor and the housing of the screw conveyor, which allows the baby food concentrate or coffee powder to be dispensed correctly. By introducing a second container into the second receiving area through the open top, the second container is received by the second receiving area so that it can be held or laterally clamped by up to three pairs of clamping elements. The pairs of clamping elements clamp the fluid in the second container. The clamping elements are displaceably arranged on the side walls of the second receiving area, so that the fluid can be dispensed by moving the clamping element or pairs of clamping elements. This allows the up to three pairs of clamping elements to assume at least one position, particularly a first position and a second position. In the first position, the up to three pairs of clamping elements can be laterally adjacent to and / or in contact with the second container so as to apply pressure to the side walls of the second container, particularly two opposing side walls of the second container. In the second position, the up to three pairs of clamping elements cannot be adjacent to or touch the second container, so that the pairs of clamping elements cannot apply pressure to the side walls of the second container. The different positions of the at least one pair of clamping elements are advantageous when the fluid inside the second container is being tempered, heated, or sterilized by the tempering device, as heating due to boiling causes the fluid inside the second container to expand, and the expanded fluid increases the periphery of the outer wall and therefore the distance between the side walls of the second container.

[0424] The first and second positions of the at least one pair of clamping elements allow the position of the clamping elements to be changed or displaced relative to the sidewall of the second receiving area. Therefore, when the second container is received in the second receiving area, the position of the clamping elements can also be changed relative to the sidewall of the second container. Due to the arrangement of the clamping element pair, when the second container is received in the second receiving area, the second container and / or the fluid inside the second container cannot come into contact with the sidewall of the second receiving area. This reduces contamination of the sidewall of the second receiving area and the fluid inside the second container due to the introduction of the second container. A first clamp element pair can be arranged such that the clamp elements of the first clamp element pair have a first distance from the lower limit. A second clamp element pair can be arranged such that the clamp elements of the second clamp element pair have a second distance from the lower limit that is greater than the first distance from the lower limit. In this manner, the first clamp element pair can be arranged as a lower clamp element pair adjacent or proximate to the lower limit in the second receiving area. The second pair of clamp elements can be arranged as an upper clamp element pair adjacent or proximate to the open upper side. Furthermore, a third clamp element pair can be arranged as an intermediate clamp element pair between the first and second clamp element pairs and can have a third distance from the lower limit that is greater than the first distance and less than the second distance.

[0425] The first lower pair of clamping elements can have a first distance from the lower limit that is between 10 mm and 30 mm, preferably about 20 mm. The second upper pair of clamping elements can have a second distance from the lower limit that is between 160 mm and 240 mm, preferably about 180 mm. The distance between the first lower pair of clamping elements and the second upper pair of clamping elements can be preferably between 140 mm and 220 mm, preferably about 160 mm. The third intermediate pair of clamping elements can be positioned between the first lower pair of clamping elements and the second upper pair of clamping elements so as to be between 10 mm and 30 mm, preferably about 20 mm, and between 160 mm and 240 mm, preferably about 180 mm, from the lower limit.

[0426] The first lower pair of clamping elements can apply pressure to the sidewall of the second container when the second container is received in the second receiving area, or clamp or pinch the sidewall of the second container in a manner that prevents fluid from exiting the second container, for example, through an outlet opening of the second container, when the second container is closed and received in the second receiving area. In this manner, the first lower clamping element can aseptically seal the second container, for example, preventing germs or bacteria from entering the second container through the outlet opening of the second container. The second upper pair of clamping elements can apply pressure to or clamp the sidewall of the second container when the second container is received in the second receiving area, so that the second container is closed and prevents fluid from exiting the second container and / or a fluid reservoir connectable to the second container, for example, through an inlet opening of the second container. The second upper pair of clamping elements can therefore aseptically seal the second container, for example preventing germs or bacteria from entering the second container through the inlet opening of the second container. The first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element enclose the sterilized or heated area inside the second container, thereby preserving the fluid in a sterile state. In this way, preparation time can be reduced because the liquid does not need to be boiled to kill bacteria. The liquid only needs to be brought to a drinking temperature. A third pair of intermediate clamping elements is provided for dispensing the fluid inside the second container between the first pair of lower clamping elements and the second pair of upper clamping elements.

[0427] Preferably, the first pair of lower clamping elements and the second pair of upper clamping elements are arranged such that the two clamping element pairs define a region of the second container that limits the amount of fluid in the second container to approximately 180 ml to 250 ml. This allows for dispensing of up to approximately 250 ml, which is the maximum amount of fluid that can be dispensed into a conventional baby bottle or coffee cup when making baby food or coffee. However, it is also contemplated that the first pair of lower clamping elements and the second pair of upper clamping elements may be arranged such that the two clamping element pairs define a region of the second container that limits the amount of fluid in the second container to more than 250 ml, preferably greater than 250 ml to approximately 500 ml, or greater than 500 ml to 750 ml. In this manner, it is possible to dispense or dispense an amount of liquid suitable for preparing baby food in multiple conventional baby bottles or coffee in multiple portions or coffee cups. In this manner, it is possible to quickly fill multiple baby bottles with baby food or quickly fill multiple coffee cups or coffee pots with coffee.

[0428] If at least one of the side walls of the second receiving area is designed as an inclined side wall, the clamping element is preferably designed as a bracket, which is arranged in a plane parallel to the inclined side wall. The clamp can be arranged in a plane parallel to the inclined side wall, as described in the previously described embodiments of the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or preparing coffee. Furthermore, the clip can have all the advantages and features described in this context.

[0429] Preferably, one of the clamping elements is replaced by a tempering device for controlling the temperature of the fluid dispensed by the clamping element, thereby allowing for simultaneous dispensing and tempering of the fluid in the container using at least one clamping element.

[0430] Preferably, the distance between the clamping elements is variable relative to the restricted lower and / or open upper sides.

[0431] Preferably, the third, intermediate pair of clamping elements is height-adjustable. In other words, the third distance from the lower limit can be changed. This allows for accurate dosing of a desired amount of fluid for preparing baby food. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the first pair of lower clamping elements and the second pair of upper clamping elements are height-adjustable, allowing for the first and second distances to the lower limit to be changed. This allows the two sets of clamping elements to be adapted to the size or volume of the second container, allowing a second container of a different size to be received in the second receiving area and laterally held or confined by the first pair of lower clamping elements and the second pair of upper clamping elements, allowing for accurate dosing of fluid into the second container.

[0432] Preferably, each clamping element comprises a first clamping element region and a second clamping element region, which are arranged on opposite sides of the clamping element longitudinal axis.

[0433] The first and second clamping element surfaces can be arranged essentially parallel to each other and can each extend between a first end and a second end. The first clamping element surface can extend in a first plane, and the second clamping element surface can extend in a second plane, with the first and second planes arranged parallel to each other and / or the clamping element longitudinal axes arranged in a plane between the first and second planes. The width of one clamping element surface, i.e., the width of the two clamping element surfaces, is tapered from the first end to the second end at an angle different from 0° or 180°, particularly essentially transverse to the clamping element longitudinal axis. Furthermore, each clamping element can include a connecting plate arranged at an angle different from 0° or 180°, particularly essentially transverse to the clamping element longitudinal axis. The first clamping element surface can be connected to a connecting plate by its first end, and the second clamping element surface can be connected to a connecting plate by its first end. The connecting plate is designed to connect the individual clamping elements to the second receiving area.

[0434] In particular, the connecting plate can be connected to the rear wall of the second receiving section so that the clamping elements extend essentially transversely relative to the rear wall at an angle other than 0° or 180°, particularly so that the second ends of the clamping element surfaces are spaced apart from the rear wall. Preferably, the connecting plate of each clamping element is connected to a rear wall adjacent to or close to one of the side walls of the second receiving area, so that the clamping elements extend along the side wall between the front and rear walls. This allows the second container to be held between the individual clamping elements of the clamping element pair after it is received in the second receiving area, and fluid can be dispensed into the second container. The tapered width of the surfaces of the two clamping elements toward the second ends allows the individual clamping elements to be moved from a first position to a second position in a particularly simple manner. However, it is also conceivable that the individual clamping elements are not connected to the rear wall by a connecting plate, but are instead positioned or displaceably positioned on the rear wall and / or side wall of the second receiving area by a carriage, or that rails or guide rail elements can be connected.

[0435] Preferably, the surfaces of the two clamping elements are connected by a surface of a third clamping element, the surface of the third clamping element having a conical cross section essentially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the clamping element.

[0436] The third clamping element surface can extend from the first side edge of the first clamping element surface to the first side edge of the second clamping element surface. The first side edges of the first and second clamping element surfaces can extend at an angle different from 0° or 180°, preferably a 90° angle, in particular in the same plane extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the clamping element. The third clamping element surface can be disposed at a 90° angle relative to the first clamping element surface, the second clamping element surface, and / or the connecting plate, and / or, if the connecting plate is connected to the rear wall, the rear wall of the second receiving part. Each of the clamping elements of each clamping element pair can thus have a third clamping element surface, and the third clamping element surfaces of the two clamping elements of each clamping element pair can be aligned parallel to each other when the clamping elements are connected to the rear wall by the connecting plate. Preferably, the connecting plate has at least one through-hole, allowing the clamping element to be connected to the rear wall by a connecting element, such as a screw. However, it is also conceivable that the connecting plate is arranged adjacent or close to a first end of the surface of the clamping element, for example at a second side end opposite the first side end of the surface of the clamping element, so that the clamping element can be connected to a side wall.

[0437] Preferably, the third clamping element surface can have a substantially conical or triangular cross section at an angle different from 0° or 180°, particularly substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the clamping element. The third clamping element surface can have a clamping element edge that extends essentially in the longitudinal direction of the clamping element due to the essentially conical cross section between the first side edge of the first clamping element surface and the first side edge of the second clamping element surface. Preferably, the clamping element edge extends in the same plane as the longitudinal axis of the clamping element. The design of the clamping element edge of each clamping element allows for particularly good dosing of the fluid in the second container when the second container is received in the second receiving area and pressure is applied to the side wall of the second container by the clamping element or clamping element edge.

[0438] It is also conceivable that the third clamping element surface has two or more clamping element edges, preferably two clamping element edges similar to the clamping element edges already described, extending essentially in the direction of the clamping element longitudinal axis between a first side edge of the first clamping element surface and a first side edge of the second clamping element surface, each of which extends in a plane running essentially transversely or at an angle different from 0° or 180°, preferably 90°, to the plane of the clamping element longitudinal axis.

[0439] Each clamping element can be designed to be open, viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the clamping element, opposite the third clamping element surface. In other words, each clamping element defines an internal cavity defined by the three clamping element surfaces and having an open side. When the clamping element is connected to a second receiving tray, for example, when the clamping element is connected to the rear wall by a connecting plate, the open side of the internal cavity faces one of the two side walls of the second receiving tray. As a result of this configuration, the clamping element is lightweight and suitable for clamping a second container or dispensing a fluid therein. However, it is also conceivable that the clamping element may have a fourth clamping element surface, opposite the third clamping element surface, extending between the second side edge of the first clamping element surface and the second clamping element surface, viewed transversely to the longitudinal axis of the clamping element.

[0440] Preferably, at least one of the surfaces of the clamping elements, preferably the surface of the third clamping element, is preferably designed as a bearing surface, preferably made of rubber.

[0441] This support surface allows for particularly secure closure of the second container. The support surface can be designed as a rubber bearing surface and can be made of elastomer, thermoplastic, or thermosetting plastic. In particular, when the first lower pair of clamping elements and the second upper pair of clamping elements are in the second position, the rubberized contact surface provides an improved seal, preventing germs and bacteria from entering the second container and ensuring that the fluid is received in a sterile environment. Furthermore, it ensures that the interior of the device, particularly the interior of the second receiving area, e.g., the sidewall, does not come into contact with the fluid. This eliminates the need for cleaning the device, particularly the interior of the device. Preferably, one or more (preferably each) clamping elements comprises at least one spring element.

[0442] At least one spring element can be designed as a tension spring or rubber band and can be positioned adjacent to or near the first end of the first clamping element surface or adjacent to or near the first end of the second clamping element surface. However, it is also conceivable that the first spring element is positioned adjacent to or near the first end of the first clamping element surface and the second spring element is positioned adjacent to or near the first end of the second clamping element surface. The contact pressure of the clamping elements in the first state can be adjusted by the spring element. This allows for particularly tight closure or sealing of the second container, particularly by the first lower clamping element pair and the second upper clamping element pair. The edges of the clamping elements can in each case press particularly hard against the side wall of the second container, ensuring aseptic reception of the fluid into the second container. In particular, each clamping element of each clamping element pair can include a spring element. This double-sided spring support on both sides of the second container ensures a good, aseptic sealing. Sterility is important because the water is boiled or tempered to a temperature of at least 100°C or boiling temperature before being stored or kept in a second container. When preparing baby food, the water only needs to be brought to the desired drinking temperature, i.e., heated or cooled, saving the user time during preparation.

[0443] The spring supports on both sides provide a flat or uniform pressure, which allows for a particularly sterile seal. The flat or uniform pressure can be applied to the contact surface of the clamping element at a pressure greater than the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid in the second container or greater than the pressure resulting from heating or boiling of the fluid. In this way, the clamping element and the spring supports provided thereon ensure that the second container is always airtight or sealed.

[0444] Preferably, the tempering device is arranged in contact with the second container, the tempering device is preferably arranged in an area adjacent or close to the lower limit of the second receiving area, and / or the tempering device is arranged in an area adjacent or close to one of the clamping elements, which is arranged in a position closest to the lower limit.

[0445] The tempering device may be positioned adjacent to or close to the first lower pair of clamping elements. When the second container is received by the second receiving area, the lower region of the second container is positioned adjacent, preferably close, to the tempering device. Preferably, the tempering device may include a tempering element, such as a heating plate, positioned adjacent to or close to the lower limit of the second receiving area and / or a tempering element positioned adjacent to or close to a clamping element of the first, lower clamping element pair. It is also conceivable that the tempering element is positioned between the first lower clamping element pair and the third intermediate clamping element pair, or between the first lower clamping element pair and the second upper clamping element pair. The tempering element may extend between a clamping element of the first lower clamping element pair and a clamping element of the third intermediate clamping element pair or a clamping element of the second upper clamping element pair. The apparatus may include two or more tempering elements, preferably two, each arranged near opposite side walls of the second receiving area and in a position relative to the lower limit and / or second container as described above. For example, a first tempering element may be arranged adjacent to or adjacent to a clamping element of the first lower pair of clamping elements, and a second tempering element may be arranged adjacent to or adjacent to the other clamping element of the first lower pair of clamping elements.

[0446] This arrangement of at least one tempering element allows the fluid to be mixed inside the second container. The deepest or lowest part of the second container, or the point of the second container closest to the lower limit of the second container when the second container is placed in the second container, is tempered or heated. This allows the fluid to circulate inside the second container, allowing the fluid to be thoroughly mixed inside the second container. This allows the fluid to be kept at the same temperature throughout the entire second container. This is advantageous in that it eliminates the need for a mixing unit inside the second container.

[0447] Preferably, the tempering device comprises at least one sealing element, preferably two sealing elements. The at least one sealing element may be a sealing lip, which is arranged adjacent or adjacent to the lower limit of the second receiving area and / or adjacent or adjacent to one of the clamping elements of the first lower clamping element pair and / or adjacent or adjacent to one of the tempering elements. The sealing lip is designed to press the innermost, lowermost part of the second container received in the second receiving area, preferably in a region adjacent or adjacent to the outlet opening of the second container, against the tempering element, preferably in surface-to-surface contact with the second container. However, instead of a separate sealing element, it is also conceivable that one of the clamping elements of the first lower pair presses the tempering element against the innermost, lowermost part of the second container received in the second receiving area, preferably in a region adjacent or adjacent to the outlet opening of the second container. This results in a particularly high thermal conductivity and a particularly effective increase in the temperature of the fluid in the second container.When the second container is received in the second receiving area, the sealing element and the clamping element of the first lower clamping element pair can be positioned on opposite sides of the second container.

[0448] The at least one tempering element can be designed as a heating element, such as a heating plate, to establish a circulating movement of the fluid moving inside the second container and to heat the interior uniformly. Preferably, the at least one tempering element is designed to heat the fluid to a temperature of at least 100°C or boiling temperature. This allows the liquid in the second container to be sterilized when making baby food, ensuring the destruction of germs and bacteria, making it suitable for making baby food or coffee. In the case of infusion and / or preparation of coffee, the at least one tempering element can heat the fluid to a temperature between 90°C and 100°C, particularly preferably about 96°C, which is suitable for coffee preparation.

[0449] However, it is also conceivable that at least one tempering element is designed as a cooling element, such as a cooling plate. Therefore, the internal circulation can be stopped by the cooling element, allowing the fluid to cool to a predetermined temperature. It is also conceivable that the first tempering element is designed as a heating element, such as a heating plate, and the second tempering element is designed as a cooling element, such as a cooling plate. Furthermore, one and the same tempering element can be designed as both a heating element and a cooling element. For example, when preparing and / or blending baby food, the liquid can be heated to a temperature intended for preparing baby food or coffee, or the intended drinking temperature, after sterilization by heating the liquid to at least 100°C or boiling point. During heating to at least 100°C or boiling point, the clamping elements of the third intermediate pair can be in the second position. During subsequent cooling, e.g., cooling to the intended drinking temperature by the tempering element, the clamping elements of the third intermediate pair can be in the first position. In this way, the second container is held or clamped by the clamping elements during both heating and cooling. In this way, accurate dosing of properly prepared liquids is ensured.

[0450] If at least one of the side walls of the second tray is designed as an inclined side wall, the tempering device can also preferably be arranged in an area adjacent to or close to the inclined side wall and / or in an area adjacent to or close to one of the clamping elements closest to the lower limit.

[0451] In this case, the tempering device can be arranged on the inclined side wall in the manner described in the previous embodiment of the device for dosing and grinding coffee beans and / or preparing coffee, and furthermore, the tempering device can have all the advantages and features described in this context.

[0452] Preferably, the lower limit of the second tray is provided with a through hole.

[0453] The through-hole is designed so that the outlet of the second container can pass through it. In particular, when the second container is inserted into the second receiving section with its top open, the outlet at the bottom of the second container can be guided through the through-hole, so that the outlet of the second container received in the second receiving section through the through-hole protrudes below the second exception area. This allows the outlet to be connected to a preparation device, and a properly dosed amount of liquid is dispensed by the second container and mixed with baby food concentrate or coffee powder, which is also supplied to the preparation device, and then filled into a container, preferably a baby bottle or filter container, and / or a coffee cup or coffee pot. However, it is also conceivable that the properly dosed amounts of liquid and baby food concentrate or coffee powder can be dispensed into a container, baby bottle, coffee container, coffee cup, or coffee pot. Ready-to-eat baby food or coffee can then be prepared by shaking or agitating the container, baby bottle, coffee container, coffee cup, or coffee pot. In other words, the correctly dosed amounts of liquid and baby food concentrate or coffee powder are mixed by shaking or rocking the container or baby bottle or coffee container or coffee cup. The shaking or rocking can be done manually by the user. However, it is also conceivable that the device is equipped with a vibrating or mixing device to vibrate or mix the correctly dosed liquid, baby food concentrate or coffee powder contained in the container, baby bottle or coffee container. It is also conceivable that instead of shaking or rocking, three-dimensional acoustic waves are used. Preferably, a container for receiving and dispensing a fluid (especially a liquid) for preparing baby food or coffee is provided, the container including a housing with an interior for receiving the fluid, an inlet in fluid communication with the interior, and an outlet in fluid communication with the interior. Further, the inlet can be connected to an outlet of a fluid reservoir, and a dose of the liquid for preparing the baby food or coffee can be dispensed via the outlet of the container. Furthermore, the container is replaceable and designed for single use.

[0454] Preferably, the container for receiving and dispensing a fluid (especially a liquid) is provided pre-filled with the fluid, i.e. the container can be filled with a liquid and provided to the consumer for making coffee or baby food.

[0455] The fluid reservoir is replaceable, i.e., the fluid reservoir can be designed as a disposable or single-use item, just as the first container for the baby food concentrate or coffee powder, the dosing device for dosing the baby food concentrate or coffee powder, the second container for the fluid, and the preparation device can be designed as replaceable components. However, it is also conceivable that each of the components described above as replaceable can be designed as a reusable or reusable component. The fluid reservoir can be connected to the second container in such a way that the device for preparing baby food, particularly the second receiving area, does not come into contact with the fluid. In this way, the device, particularly the second receiving area, is not contaminated with the fluid, eliminating the need to clean the device after preparing the baby food or coffee separately. Preferably, the container is designed to be introduced into an apparatus for preparing baby food or coffee and to be received as a second container.

[0456] This container can be designed as a second container to be introduced into and at least partially received in the second receptacle of the device for preparing baby food or coffee described above. Accordingly, all of the features of the device described above in relation to the second container also apply to the second container described below for receiving and dispensing a fluid. In particular, the second container described below can be inserted and received in the second receiving area of ​​the device as described above, so that precise dispensing of the fluid for preparing baby food or coffee is possible by the clamping elements of the respective clamping element pairs.

[0457] Preferably, the inlet of the second container comprises an inlet opening, which is preferably located essentially opposite the outlet of the second container in the longitudinal axis direction of the container and / or essentially opposite the outlet opening of the outlet of the second container in the longitudinal axis direction of the container. The second container may have an inlet with an inlet opening and an outlet with an outlet opening, which may be located on the side opposite the inlet. When the second container is introduced into the second receiving area by moving substantially vertically through the open top, the second container is received by the second receiving area such that the outlet is located in the lower area of ​​the second receiving area, adjacent to or adjacent to the first lower pair of clamping elements, and adjacent to or adjacent to the lower limit. Thus, the outlet can be implemented through a through-hole in the lower limit of the second receiving area. At the same time, the inlet is located in the upper area of ​​the second receiving area, adjacent to or adjacent to the open upper side, and adjacent to or adjacent to the second upper pair of clamping elements. The inlet can be connected to the outlet of the fluid reservoir, allowing fluid to flow from the fluid reservoir into the interior of the second container, and the clamping elements of each clamping element pair can dispense a desired amount of fluid required for preparing baby food or coffee, and allow the fluid to exit the second container through the outlet, thereby allowing for a predetermined or pre-determined dosing of fluid for preparing baby food or coffee, and for the clamping elements to provide the correct do...

Claims

1. 1. A device for dosing and / or preparing a medium to be prepared, which medium is baby milk, baby puree, coffee and / or tea, comprising: a housing having a first receiving area for receiving a first container for a first component of a medium to be prepared and a second receiving area for receiving a second container for a fluid, a tempering device for tempering the fluid, and a dosing device for dosing the first component, the first receiving area includes a dosing device receiving area for receiving the dosing device; an actuation and / or drive device for the dosing device is arranged in the dosing device receiving area; the first container and the dosing device are replaceable and disposable; the first container and the dosing device are connected or connectable to each other, the first container being pre-filled with the first component of the medium to be prepared; The housing includes a guide element, and when the input device is received in the input device receiving area, a contact surface of the input device slides along the guide element. An apparatus characterized in that

2. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the dosing device includes a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing, the screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing extending along a common screw conveyor longitudinal axis, the screw conveyor housing having an inlet with an inlet opening and an outlet with an outlet opening.

3. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the second container is connectable to a fluid reservoir, and the second container and the fluid reservoir are replaceable and disposable.

4. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the dosing device is integrated within the first container.

5. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the feeding device comprises a grinding device for grinding.

6. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the feeding device comprises a grinding device for feeding and grinding.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a preparation device for preparing the medium to be prepared from the first component and the fluid.

8. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein a closure or flap element hermetically closes the dosing device and / or the first container.

9. A container for receiving and dispensing ingredients for a medium to be prepared, which may be baby milk, baby puree, coffee and / or tea, a housing having an interior for receiving the component, and an outlet in fluid communication with the interior; the outlet is connectable to an inlet of a dosing device; the dosing device has an outlet through which a predetermined dose of a component is dispensed by actuating the dosing device; the container and the dosing device are replaceable and disposable; The container is introduced into and contained in the device for preparing a medium to be prepared according to claim 1 as a first container; the container and the dosing device are connected or connectable to each other, the container being pre-filled with the components of the medium to be prepared; the input device includes a contact surface, and when the input device is received in the input device receiving area, the contact surface slides along the guide element of the housing; A container characterized by:

10. 10. The container of claim 9, wherein the dosing device includes a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing, the screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing extending along a common screw conveyor longitudinal axis, the screw conveyor housing having an inlet with an inlet opening and an outlet with an outlet opening.

11. 10. The container of claim 9, wherein the container has an entrance opening, the entrance opening configured to be closed by a closure element.

12. 10. The container of claim 9, wherein the dosing device comprises a grinding device for grinding.

13. 10. The container of claim 9, wherein the dosing device comprises a crushing device for dosing and crushing.

14. the dosing device is connected or connectable to the container, the dosing device including a screw conveyor and a screw conveyor housing, the screw conveyor being rotatably inserted within the screw conveyor housing, the screw conveyor and the screw conveyor housing extending along a common screw conveyor longitudinal axis; the inlet of the dosing device is located within or on the screw conveyor housing; 10. The container of claim 9.

15. 11. The container of claim 10, wherein the outlet of the container is rigidly connected to the inlet of the screw conveyor housing.

16. 10. The container of claim 9, wherein the dosing device is integrated within the container.

17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a plurality of clamping elements are disposed within the housing and extend within the second receiving area.

18. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the tempering device is in contact with the second container.

19. 18. The device according to claim 17, wherein at least one of the clamping elements is replaced by a tempering device for tempering the temperature of the fluid to be injected by the clamping element, and wherein at least one of the clamping elements is adjustable in the plane of the clamping element.

20. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, comprising three clamping elements.

21. 18. The device of claim 17, wherein at least one of the side walls of the second receiving area is a sloping side wall that slopes at an angle different from 90°, and the sloping side wall with the thermal element serves as one counter surface of the clamping element.

22. 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the tempering device comprises two or more tempering elements.

23. 22. The device of claim 21, wherein the position of the clamping element is changeable or movable relative to the side wall or relative to the sloping side wall and / or relative to a lower limit of the second receiving area.

24. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a positioning and retaining device for positioning and retaining the second container within the second receiving area.

25. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a vibration device capable of vibrating the first container or its contents.

26. 11. A system comprising a device for preparing a medium to be prepared, which is baby milk, baby puree, coffee and / or tea, as claimed in claim 1, a container for receiving and dispensing ingredients for preparing the medium as claimed in claim 10, and a container for receiving and dispensing fluids for preparing the medium to be prepared, which is baby milk, baby puree, coffee and / or tea.

27. 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the tempering element is disposed between a first lower clamping element and a third intermediate clamping element.

28. 28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein the tempering element is also disposed between the first lower clamping element and the second upper clamping element.

29. 29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the tempering element extends between the first lower clamping element and the third intermediate clamping element or the second upper clamping element.

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