Beverage dispensing device and anomaly detection system

Abstract

To provide a beverage extraction device capable of providing beverages appropriately.SOLUTION: A beverage extraction device for extracting a beverage in an extraction chamber includes: a tubular cylinder; a filter block configured to be moved with respect to the cylinder, which forms the extraction chamber by closing an opening at a lower end of the cylinder with a filter for filtrating the beverage between the filter block and the lower end; a discharge part provided in the filter block for discharging the beverage extracted in the extraction chamber; a lead-out pipe, one end of which is connected to the discharge part, and the other end of which is connected to a lead-out side connection pipe configured to flex accompanying the movement of the filter block for guiding the beverage discharged from the discharge part to the outside of the extraction chamber; and an abnormality detection part for detecting whether or not a first connection state between the discharge part and the lead-out pipe is released, or whether or not a second connection state between the lead-out side connection pipe and the lead-out pipe is released.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a beverage extraction device, an abnormality detection method, and an abnormality detection system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a beverage extraction device that extracts beverages such as coffee through a strip-shaped paper filter has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the beverage extraction device of Patent Document 1, when extracting a beverage, first, with a paper filter sandwiched therebetween, the filter block is raised and pressed against the lower end portion of the cylinder. Next, after putting a powder raw material into the cylinder whose bottom is blocked by the paper filter, hot water is supplied in multiple portions. Also, simultaneously with the supply of hot water, the tube pump is operated to pour the extract filtered by the paper filter into a paper cup.

[0003] When the extraction of the extract is completed, the filter block is lowered to separate the paper filter from the lower end portion of the cylinder, and the raw material residue adhering to the inner wall surface of the cylinder is scraped onto the paper filter by a scraper. After that, the paper filter wound around the supply roller is wound up by the take-up roller to run the paper filter and store the raw material residue on the paper filter in a raw material residue receiver.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the beverage extraction device of Patent Document 1, there is a risk that the tube connected to the capillary tube of the filter block may come off as the filter block moves up and down.

[0006] This disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and to provide a beverage extraction device, an anomaly detection method, and an anomaly detection system that can appropriately provide beverages. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The beverage extraction apparatus of this disclosure is a beverage extraction apparatus for extracting a beverage in an extraction chamber, comprising: a cylindrical cylinder; a filter block configured to be movable relative to the cylinder and forming the extraction chamber by blocking the opening at the lower end of the cylinder with a filter for filtering the beverage in between; a discharge unit provided on the filter block for discharging the beverage extracted in the extraction chamber; an outlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the discharge unit and configured to bend with the movement of the filter block, and the other end of which is connected to an outlet-side connecting pipe that guides the beverage discharged from the discharge unit to the outside of the extraction chamber; and an abnormality detection unit that detects whether a first connection state between the discharge unit and the outlet pipe has been released, or whether a second connection state between the outlet-side connecting pipe and the outlet pipe has been released.

[0008] The abnormality detection method of this disclosure is a method for detecting an abnormality in a beverage extraction apparatus that extracts a beverage in an extraction chamber, wherein the beverage extraction apparatus comprises a cylindrical cylinder, a filter block configured to be movable relative to the cylinder and forming the extraction chamber by blocking the opening at the lower end of the cylinder with a filter for filtering the beverage in between, a discharge section provided on the filter block for discharging the beverage extracted in the extraction chamber, and an outlet pipe having one end connected to the discharge section and configured to bend with the movement of the filter block, with the other end connected to an outlet-side connecting pipe that guides the beverage discharged from the discharge section to the outside of the extraction chamber, wherein the abnormality detection method detects whether the connection between the discharge section and the outlet pipe has been released, or whether the connection between the outlet-side connecting pipe and the outlet pipe has been released, when the extraction chamber is formed or not formed.

[0009] The abnormality detection system of this disclosure includes a cylindrical cylinder, a filter block configured to be movable relative to the cylinder and forming an extraction chamber by sandwiching a strip filter for filtering beverages between them and closing the opening at the lower end of the cylinder, a discharge section provided on the filter block for discharging the beverage extracted in the extraction chamber, and an extraction section including an outlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the discharge section and configured to bend with the movement of the filter block, and the other end of which is connected to an outlet-side connecting pipe that guides the beverage discharged from the discharge section to the outside of the extraction chamber, and the The device includes an abnormality detection unit that emits detection light so as to be blocked by the outlet pipe in one of the following states: a state in which the discharge unit and the outlet pipe are disconnected in a first connection state or the outlet-side connecting pipe and the outlet pipe are disconnected, and a state in which the first connection state and the second connection state are not disconnected; an abnormality detection unit that includes a light-emitting unit and a light-receiving unit that receives the detection light; a determination unit that determines whether or not the detection light is blocked by the outlet pipe; and a notification unit that, if the determination unit determines that the detection light is blocked, notifies that the first connection state or the second connection state has been disconnected. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the beverage extraction apparatus, anomaly detection method, and anomaly detection system of this disclosure, beverages can be provided appropriately. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Front view showing the internal configuration of the beverage extraction apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Perspective view of the extraction unit and filter supply unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] A schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the extraction unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Perspective view of the filter feed section according to the embodiment [Figure 5] Front view of the extraction unit and filter supply unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Perspective view from the right side of the extraction unit and filter supply unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 7A]A perspective view showing the state in which the filter block according to the embodiment is located at the extraction position. [Figure 7B] A perspective view showing the state after the filter block has moved to the standby position after the coffee beverage according to the embodiment has been served. [Figure 7C] Perspective view showing the state in which raw material residue is disposed of according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Perspective view showing the arrangement of the abnormality detection unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 9A] A schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the detection light and the outlet piping when the filter block according to the embodiment is in the standby position and the outlet piping is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe and the pump-side connecting pipe. [Figure 9B] A schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the detection light and the outlet piping when the filter block according to the embodiment is located at the extraction position and the outlet piping is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe and the pump-side connecting pipe. [Figure 9C] A schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the detection light and the outlet piping when the filter block according to the embodiment is in a standby position, and the outlet piping is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe but is disconnected from the pump-side connecting pipe. [Figure 9D] A schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the detection light and the outlet pipe when the filter block according to the embodiment is located at the extraction position, and the outlet pipe is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe but is disconnected from the pump-side connecting pipe. [Figure 9E] A schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the detection light and the outlet piping when the filter block according to the embodiment is in a standby position, and the outlet piping is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe but not from the pump-side connecting pipe. [Figure 9F] A schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the detection light and the outlet pipe when the filter block according to the embodiment is located at the extraction position, and the outlet pipe is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe but not from the pump-side connecting pipe. [Figure 10A]Schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the raw material residue adhering to the used area and the detection light when the filter block according to the embodiment is in the standby position and the used area of the belt-shaped filter is not bent [Figure 10B] Schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the raw material residue adhering to the used area and the detection light when the filter block according to the embodiment is in the standby position and the used area of the belt-shaped filter is bent [Figure 10C] Schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the raw material residue adhering to the used area and the detection light when the filter block according to the embodiment is in the extraction position and the used area of the belt-shaped filter is not bent [Figure 11] Block diagram showing the control system of the beverage extraction device according to the embodiment [Figure 12] Schematic diagram showing the beverage providing process according to the embodiment [Figure 13] Flowchart showing the beverage providing process according to the embodiment [Figure 14A] Block diagram showing the configuration of the abnormality detection system according to the modification [Figure 14B] Block diagram showing the configuration of the abnormality detection system according to the modification

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] [Embodiment] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0013] [Configuration of Beverage Extraction Device] First, the general configuration of the entire beverage extraction device will be described. FIG. 1 is a front view showing the internal configuration of the beverage extraction device. Here, the front side is the side facing the user of the beverage extraction device, and the rear side is the opposite side of the front side. Also, the right side is the right side as viewed from the user, and the left side is the opposite side of the right side. The upper side is the upper side as viewed from the user, and the lower side is the opposite side of the upper side.

[0014] The beverage extraction device 1 shown in Figure 1 provides a coffee beverage C (see Figure 12) extracted using hot water W (see Figure 12) and coffee bean powder F (see Figure 12). Coffee bean powder F is an example of the raw materials of this disclosure. Coffee beverage C is an example of the beverage of this disclosure. Note that water may be used instead of hot water W to extract the coffee beverage C. The beverage extraction device 1 comprises a main body 10.

[0015] The main body 10 is formed in the shape of a rectangular box with an open front. A front section (not shown) is attached to the left edge of the main body 10 so as to be openable and closable. The front section is equipped with an operating section 71 (see Figure 11) used to operate the beverage dispensing device 1, and an information display section 72 (see Figure 11) that provides various information using displays or sounds. Inside the main body 10 are two canisters 11, a mill 12, an internal housing 13, an extraction section 2, a filter supply section 4, and a waste collection section 14.

[0016] The two canisters 11 each store different types of coffee beans. However, the two canisters 11 may also store the same type of coffee beans. The mill 12 is an example of a raw material supply unit in this disclosure. The mill 12 accepts and grinds the type of coffee beans selected based on the user's operation of the control unit 71. The coffee bean powder F obtained by driving the mill 12 is supplied to the extraction unit 2. The internal housing 13 is located in the center of the main body 10. The extraction unit 2 and the filter supply unit 4 are fixed to the internal housing 13.

[0017] The extraction unit 2 extracts a coffee beverage C using hot water W and coffee bean powder F. The extraction unit 2 comprises a cylinder 21 and a filter block 22.

[0018] The cylinder 21 is formed in a cylindrical shape, for example, from plastic. The cylinder 21 is supported by a pair of support arms 131 that protrude forward from the internal housing 13, such that its axial direction is horizontal to the vertical direction and its lower end surface is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0019] The filter block 22 is formed in the shape of a square block, for example, from plastic. The filter block 22 is positioned below the cylinder 21 so as to be able to move up and down. The filter block 22 reciprocates between a standby position spaced below the cylinder 21, as shown in Figure 1, and an extraction position (see, for example, Figure 6) where it is pressed against the lower end of the cylinder 21 with the strip-shaped filter 40 in between. In the extraction chamber 20 (see, for example, Figure 3) formed by the filter block 22 and the cylinder 21 at the extraction position, the coffee beverage C filtered by the strip-shaped filter 40 is extracted. The filter block 22 is provided with a discharge section 221. The discharge section 221 comprises a funnel section 221A and a block-side connecting pipe 221B. The funnel section 221A is formed to penetrate the filter block 22 in the vertical direction. The block-side connecting pipe 221B is provided on the lower surface of the filter block 22 and is configured to guide the coffee beverage C in the funnel section 221A to the outside. The block-side connecting pipe 221B is inserted (connected) to one end of the flexible outlet pipe 23. The other end of the outlet pipe 23 is connected (inserted) to the pump-side connecting pipe 132, which is provided on the front of the internal housing 13. The pump-side connecting pipe 132 is an example of the outlet-side connecting pipe of this disclosure. The extracted coffee beverage C is discharged from the extraction chamber 20 via the discharge section 221 and the outlet pipe 23.

[0020] The filter supply unit 4 supplies a strip filter 40 between the cylinder 21 and the filter block 22. The filter supply unit 4 comprises a filter housing unit 41 and a filter feeding unit 42.

[0021] The filter housing 41 is located to the left of the cylinder 21. The filter housing 41 is formed in a box shape with an open front and bottom. The filter housing 41 houses a strip filter 40. A roll support shaft 411 extending forward is provided on the rear wall of the filter housing 41. The roll support shaft 411 rotatably supports the roll body 40A of the strip filter 40. The roll body 40A has a structure in which the strip filter 40 is wound around a cylindrical core material 40B. One end of the strip filter 40 is bonded (fixed) to the core material 40B with a predetermined adhesive force (fixing force). With the roll support shaft 411 inserted into the internal space of the core material 40B, the roll body 40A is rotatably supported. The core material 40B and the roll support shaft 411 constitute the filter holding part of this disclosure.

[0022] The filter feeding unit 42 is located in the left region below the filter block 22. The filter feeding unit 42 is pulled out to the right from the filter housing unit 41 and feeds the strip-shaped filter 40, which has been folded back to the left at the right end of the filter block 22, downward. As the strip-shaped filter 40 is fed, the residue K of coffee bean powder F (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "raw material residue K") attached to the strip-shaped filter 40 (see, for example, Figure 7B) falls off at the folded portion of the strip-shaped filter 40.

[0023] The waste collection section 14 is located below the filter feeding section 42. The waste collection section 14 is formed in a box shape with an open top. The waste collection section 14 contains the portion of the strip filter 40 used for extracting the coffee beverage C. The waste collection section 14 also contains the raw material residue K that falls from the strip filter 40.

[0024] Next, the detailed configuration of the extraction unit 2 will be described. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the extraction unit and the filter supply unit.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, a drop assist portion 222 extending in the front-rear direction is provided on the right side of the filter block 22 of the extraction unit 2. A disc-shaped mesh member 223 is arranged on the upper surface of the filter block 22. The mesh member 223 is positioned to close the upper opening of the funnel portion 221A. The mesh member 223 has the function of guiding the coffee beverage C filtered by the strip-shaped filter 40 to the discharge unit 221. An annular packing 224 is arranged on the upper surface of the filter block 22. The packing 224 is made of rubber and is positioned to surround the mesh member 223 and to press against the lower end of the cylinder 21 with the strip-shaped filter 40 in between.

[0026] The left, front, and rear side edges of the upper surface of the filter block 22 are provided with upward-extending wall portions 225. With these wall portions 225, if, due to a setting error or malfunction, coffee beverage C remains in the extraction chamber 20 after dispensing, the filter block 22 can guide the coffee beverage C in the extraction chamber 20 to the right when it descends.

[0027] The rear portion of the filter block 22 is supported by a lifting member (not shown) that is configured to move up and down within the internal housing 13. In other words, the filter block 22 is supported by the lifting member in a cantilevered manner. The lifting member moves up and down by the drive of a lifting mechanism 73 (see Figure 11). The filter block 22 is supported such that the front end (first direction side) of the top surface is positioned above the rear end (second direction side). Because the filter block 22 is supported in a cantilevered and diagonal manner in this way, when the filter block 22 rises, the front portion, which is the free end of the packing 224, is pressed against the cylinder 21 first, and finally the rear portion, which is the fixed end, is pressed against the cylinder 21. Therefore, the entire packing 224 can be tightly sealed against the cylinder 21, and leakage of the coffee beverage C from the extraction chamber 20 can be suppressed.

[0028] The extraction unit 2 further comprises a cover 24 and a pump 25.

[0029] The cover 24 is fixed to the front of the internal housing 13 so as to cover the upper opening of the cylinder 21. The cover 24 includes a raw material input section 241, a hot water input section 242, and a steam extraction section 243. The raw material input section 241 is formed in a cylindrical shape so that coffee bean powder F from the mill 12 can be introduced into the extraction chamber 20. The hot water input section 242 is formed in a cylindrical shape so that hot water W from the hot water supply section 74 (see Figure 11) can be introduced into the extraction chamber 20. The steam extraction section 243 is formed in a cylindrical shape so as to be able to draw steam from inside the extraction chamber 20 to the outside of the extraction chamber 20. One end of the upper pipe 244 is fixed to the cover 24. The upper pipe 244 is fixed so as to be able to guide the fluid inside the upper pipe 244 into the extraction chamber 20.

[0030] Pump 25 is fixed to the right side of the internal housing 13. One end of a serving pipe 251 is connected to pump 25. The serving pipe 251 supplies the coffee beverage C extracted in the extraction chamber 20 to a container such as a cup, either directly or via other piping. One end of a relay pipe 252 is connected to pump 25. The other end of the relay pipe 252 is connected to a pump-side connecting pipe 132 provided in the internal housing 13, and is configured to guide the coffee beverage C in the extraction chamber 20 to pump 25. In other words, the serving pipe 251 is indirectly connected to the other end of the outlet pipe 23 via pump 25, relay pipe 252, and pump-side connecting pipe 132. The other end of the outlet pipe 23 may be directly connected to pump 25 without going through the pump-side connecting pipe 132 and relay pipe 252.

[0031] Next, we will describe the other components of the extraction unit 2. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the extraction unit.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the extraction unit 2 further comprises a shutter 26 and a cylinder vibration unit 27. The shutter 26 is configured to be movable between an input-allowing position that opens the lower end surface of the raw material input unit 241, as shown by the solid line, and an input-prohibiting position that closes the lower end surface of the raw material input unit 241, as shown by the dotted line. The cylinder vibration unit 27 is configured to be rotatable between a non-vibration position where the lower end portion 271 is spaced away from the side surface of the cylinder 21, as shown by the solid line, and an excitation position where the lower end portion 271 is in contact with the side surface of the cylinder 21, as shown by the dotted line.

[0033] An upper pipe 244 is connected to a portion of the supply pipe 251. A waste liquid pipe 28 is connected to a portion of the intermediate pipe 252. The waste liquid pipe 28 guides the coffee beverage C to be discarded to the waste collection section 14. The extraction chamber 20, composed of the cylinder 21 and filter block 22, the outlet pipe 23, the intermediate pipe 252, the pump 25, the portion of the supply pipe 251 on the pump 25 side, and the upper pipe 244 constitute a first flow path R1 for circulating the coffee beverage C extracted in the extraction chamber 20. The upper pipe 244, the portion of the supply pipe 251 on the pump 25 side, the pump 25, the intermediate pipe 252, and the outlet pipe 23 constitute a second flow path R2 for introducing air A (see Figure 12) introduced from the upper pipe 244 into the extraction chamber 20. The second flow path R2 may be configured to introduce air introduced from the other end of the supply piping 251 (the supply port to the container) into the extraction chamber 20.

[0034] The extraction unit 2 further comprises a first adjustment unit 29, a second adjustment unit 30, and a third adjustment unit 31. The first adjustment unit 29 is configured to open and close the upper pipe 244. The second adjustment unit 30 is configured to open and close the portion of the supply pipe 251 downstream of the connection point with the upper pipe 244. The third adjustment unit 31 is configured to open and close the waste liquid pipe 28. The first, second, and third adjustment units 29, 30, and 31 are configured to be switchable between a closed state, which closes predetermined portions of each pipe 244, 251, and 28 to prevent the flow of fluid or gas, and an open state, which opens the predetermined portions to allow the flow of fluid or gas. Pinch mechanisms or solenoid valves can be applied as the first, second, and third adjustment units 29, 30, and 31.

[0035] The switching of states in the first, second, and third adjustment units 29, 30, and 31 is performed in conjunction with the raising and lowering of the filter block 22 through the coordination of the switching mechanisms of the first, second, and third adjustment units 29, 30, and 31 with the lifting and lowering mechanism 73 of the filter block 22. The states of the first, second, and third adjustment units 29, 30, and 31 and the filter block 22 can be switched to standby mode, stirring mode, or beverage serving mode, as shown below. Standby mode Filter block 22: Waiting position First adjustment unit 29: Open state Second adjustment unit 30: Open state Third adjustment unit 31: Open state • Stirring mode Filter block 22: Extraction position First adjustment unit 29: Open state Second adjustment unit 30: Closed state Third adjustment unit 31: Closed state • Beverage serving mode Filter block 22: Extraction position First adjustment unit 29: Closed state Second adjustment unit 30: Open state Third adjustment unit 31: Closed state

[0036] The standby mode is the mode in which the device waits for the extraction of coffee beverage C. The stirring mode is the mode in which the coffee beverage C is stirred. The beverage serving mode is the mode in which the coffee beverage C is served. The operation of the beverage extraction device 1 in each mode will be described later.

[0037] Next, the detailed configuration of the filter feeding unit 42, which constitutes the filter supply unit 4, will be described. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the filter feeding unit.

[0038] As shown in Figure 4, the filter feeding unit 42 comprises a feeding mechanism 43, a feeding motor 44, and a feeding detection unit 45.

[0039] The feeding mechanism 43 includes a support body 431. The support body 431 is composed of a pair of opposing support plates 431A and a connecting plate 431B that connects one end of the pair of support plates 431A.

[0040] A drum rotating shaft 432 is inserted through the center of a pair of support plates 431A. A drum 433 is fixed to the drum rotating shaft 432 in the vicinity of each support plate 431A. The drum 433 is an example of one of the rotating bodies of the pair of rotating bodies of this disclosure. A rubber roller rotating shaft 434 is inserted through the other end of the pair of support plates 431A. The rubber roller rotating shaft 434 is inserted so as to be able to move toward and away from the drum rotating shaft 432. A rubber roller 435 is fixed to the rubber roller rotating shaft 434 in the vicinity of each support plate 431A. The rubber roller 435 is an example of the other rotating body of the pair of rotating bodies of this disclosure. Each rubber roller 435 is fixed so that its outer circumferential surface faces the outer circumferential surface of each drum 433. The strip filter 40 is sandwiched between each drum 433 and each rubber roller 435.

[0041] A pair of springs 436 are stretched between the drum rotation shaft 432 and the rubber roller rotation shaft 434. These springs bias the rubber roller rotation shaft 434 toward the drum rotation shaft 432, thereby generating friction between the drum 433 and rubber roller 435 and the strip filter 40. The biasing force provided by the pair of springs 436 is set such that the frictional force generated between the drum 433 and rubber roller 435 and the strip filter 40 is less than the adhesive force between the strip filter 40 and the core material 40B.

[0042] The rotating shaft of the feed motor 44 is connected to the drum rotating shaft 432 via a coupling 441. The portion of the coupling 441 on the support 431 side constitutes a small-diameter portion 441A, which has a smaller diameter than the central portion.

[0043] The feed detection unit 45 detects the feed state of the strip filter 40 in the feed mechanism 43. The feed detection unit 45 includes a feed detection switch 451 and a switch cam 452. The feed detection switch 451 is located near the coupling 441. The switch cam 452 is provided so as to protrude from a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the small diameter portion 441A of the coupling 441. The switch cam 452 is configured to press the feed detection switch 451 each time the drum rotation shaft 432 rotates once. When the feed motor 44 is running, if the feed detection switch 451 is pressed by the switch cam 452, the feed motor 44 stops.

[0044] Next, the state in which the strip filter 40 is set in the filter supply unit 4 and the feeding operation of the strip filter 40 will be described. Figure 5 is a front view of the extraction unit and the filter supply unit. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the extraction unit and the filter supply unit from the right side. Figure 7A is a perspective view showing the state in which the filter block is in the extraction position. Figure 7B is a perspective view showing the state in which the filter block has moved to the standby position after the coffee beverage has been served. Figure 7C is a perspective view showing the state in which the raw material residue is discarded.

[0045] As shown in Figure 5, with the filter block 22 in the standby position, the strip filter 40 pulled out from the roll body 40A is passed between the cylinder 21 and the filter block 22 toward the right, and then folded back toward the left and downward at the drop assist section 222. Alternatively, the strip filter 40 may be bent vertically downward at the drop assist section 222. At this time, the portion of the strip filter 40 located between the cylinder 21 and the filter block 22 is in contact with the lower end of the right wall constituting the filter housing section 41 and the upper edge of the right side of the filter block 22, and is inclined so that the right side is lower than the left side. The strip filter 40 is then inserted from top to bottom between each drum 433 and each rubber roller 435 of the feeding mechanism 43.

[0046] As shown in Figures 6 and 7A, when the filter block 22 moves from the standby position to the extraction position, the packing 224 positioned on the upper surface of the filter block 22 is pressed against the lower end of the cylinder 21, forming the extraction chamber 20. After the coffee beverage C is served, as shown in Figure 7B, when the filter block 22 moves from the extraction position to the standby position, the cylindrical raw material residue K accumulated on the strip filter 40 is exposed.

[0047] Subsequently, when the feed motor 44 is driven and the drum rotation shaft 432 of the feed mechanism 43 rotates, the strip filter 40 is fed downward by the frictional force between each rubber roller 435 and each drum 433 and the strip filter 40. When the strip filter 40 is fed downward, as shown in Figure 7C, the portion of the strip filter 40 located below the feed mechanism 43 is discarded into the left-hand area of ​​the waste collection section 14. In addition, the raw material residue K on the strip filter 40 falls from the folded position of the strip filter 40 into the right-hand area of ​​the waste collection section 14. Note that some of the raw material residue K may remain attached to the strip filter 40. Here, a configuration in which the raw material residue K falls by folding the strip filter 40 at the fall assist section 222 has been illustrated, but a rib or the like that which falls by contact with the raw material residue K may also be applied as the fall assist section.

[0048] Next, other components of the beverage dispensing device 1 will be described. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of the abnormality detection unit.

[0049] As shown in Figure 8, the beverage dispensing device 1 further includes an abnormality detection unit 5. The abnormality detection unit 5 detects the following four abnormalities as abnormalities in the beverage dispensing device 1. - The outlet pipe 23 has been disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132 (the first connection state between the outlet pipe 23 and the discharge section 221 or the second connection state between the outlet pipe 23 and the pump-side connecting pipe 132 has been released). - The raw material residue K could not be transported due to the feeding operation of the strip filter 40. • Leakage of coffee beverage C from the extraction chamber 20 during stirring (extraction) or serving. • After coffee beverage C was served, coffee beverage C remained in the brewing room 20.

[0050] The abnormality detection unit 5 comprises a light-emitting unit 51 and a light-receiving unit 52. The light-emitting unit 51 is positioned to the right of the portion of the strip-shaped filter 40 located between the filter block 22 and the filter feeding unit 42. The light-emitting unit 51 emits detection light L (see, for example, Figure 9A) that passes through the strip-shaped filter 40. The light-receiving unit 52 is positioned opposite the light-emitting unit 51 across the strip-shaped filter 40 and capable of receiving the detection light L. When the light-receiving unit 52 receives the detection light L, it outputs a received signal, but when it does not receive the detection light L, it does not output a received signal. Based on the state of reception of the detection light L by the light-receiving unit 52, an abnormality in the beverage dispensing device 1 is detected.

[0051] Next, the details of the placement of the anomaly detection unit 5 will be explained. The anomaly detection unit 5 is positioned to satisfy the conditions shown in Figures 9A to 9F and Figures 10A to 10C.

[0052] Figures 9A and 9B show the positional relationship between the outlet pipe 23 and the detection light L when the outlet pipe 23 is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132. As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the detection light L passes through a position behind the center in the front-to-back direction of the strip filter 40, that is, a position behind the center (second direction side) in the area vertically below the filter block 22. Also, as shown in Figure 9A, when the filter block 22 is in the standby position, the detection light L is not blocked by the outlet pipe 23. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 9B, when the filter block 22 is in the extraction position, the detection light L is blocked by the outlet pipe 23.

[0053] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9A, the filter block 22 is supported such that the front end of the top surface is positioned above the rear end. Therefore, when the filter block 22 is separated from the cylinder 21, the portion of the strip filter 40 located above the filter block 22 tilts so that its front end is positioned above the rear end, following the upper right edge of the filter block 22. In other words, the upper right edge of the filter block 22 functions as the tilting assist portion of this disclosure. As a result, if any coffee beverage C remains in the extraction chamber 20 after it has been dispensed, the coffee beverage C in the extraction chamber 20 flows out from the relatively rear portion of the folded portion of the strip filter 40, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 9A. In this case, the detection light L is blocked by the flowing coffee beverage C. Also, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 9A, the detection light L is temporarily blocked by the raw material residue K falling from the strip filter 40. Here, the portion of the falling raw material residue K with the longest vertical length is the portion T at the front-to-back center of the raw material residue K, indicated by the dashed line. In this embodiment, the detection light L is emitted so as to be blocked by the portion behind the front-to-back center of the falling raw material residue K, that is, the portion of the raw material residue K that does not have the longest vertical length.

[0054] Figures 9C and 9D show the positional relationship between the lead pipe 23 and the detection light L when the lead pipe 23 is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B, but is disconnected from the pump-side connecting pipe 132. In both cases, when the filter block 22 shown in Figure 9C is in the standby position, and when the filter block 22 shown in Figure 9D is in the extraction position, the detection light L is not obstructed by the lead pipe 23.

[0055] Figures 9E and 9F show the positional relationship between the outlet pipe 23 and the detection light L when the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B but not from the pump-side connecting pipe 132. In both cases, when the filter block 22 shown in Figure 9E is in the standby position and when the filter block 22 shown in Figure 9F is in the extraction position, the detection light L is not obstructed by the outlet pipe 23.

[0056] Although not shown in the diagram, when the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from both the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132, and when the filter block 22 is in the standby position, and when the filter block 22 is in the extraction position, the detection light L is not obstructed by the outlet pipe 23.

[0057] Figure 10A shows the positional relationship between the raw material residue K adhering to the used region 401 and the detection light L when the filter block 22 is in the standby position and the region 401 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "used region 401") located between the filter block 22 and the feeding mechanism 43 of the strip filter 40 is not bent. In this case, the detection light L is not obstructed by the raw material residue K and passes through the underside of the used region 401.

[0058] Figure 10B shows the positional relationship between the raw material residue K adhering to the used area 401 and the detection light L when the filter block 22 is in the standby position and the used area 401 is bent. If the raw material residue K contains a lot of moisture, the raw material residue K may not fall from the strip filter 40, and the used area 401 may bend due to the weight of the raw material residue K. In this case, the bending of the used area 401 lowers the position of the raw material residue K, and the detection light L is blocked by the raw material residue K adhering to the used area 401.

[0059] Figure 10C shows the positional relationship between the raw material residue K adhering to the used region 401 and the detection light L when the filter block 22 is in the extraction position and the used region 401 is not bent. When the filter block 22 moves from the standby position to the extraction position, the portion of the strip filter 40 located on the filter block 22 is lifted, so the used region 401 becomes non-bent, regardless of whether it was bent when it was in the standby position or not. In this case, the detection light L passes under the used region 401 without being blocked by the raw material residue K.

[0060] In other words, when the filter block 22 is in the standby position, regardless of whether the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132, the light receiving unit 52 receives the detection light L and outputs a light receiving signal if the used area 401 is not bent, but does not output a light receiving signal if the used area 401 is bent. Also, when the filter block 22 is in the extraction position, regardless of whether the used area 401 is bent as it was in the standby position, the light receiving unit 52 outputs a light receiving signal if the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132, but does not output a light receiving signal if it is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132.

[0061] Next, the control system of the beverage dispensing device 1 will be described. Figure 11 is a block diagram showing the control system of the beverage dispensing device.

[0062] As shown in Figure 11, the beverage dispensing device 1 further comprises a control unit 6. The control unit 6 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and the CPU executes a control program stored in a memory unit (not shown) to realize the functions of the control unit 6. The control unit 6 is configured to transmit or receive various signals between the operation unit 71, the notification unit 72, the lifting mechanism 73, the hot water supply unit 74, the mill 12, the pump 25, the shutter 26, the cylinder vibration unit 27, the first, second, and third adjustment units 29, 30, and 31, the feed motor 44, the feed detection switch 451, and the abnormality detection unit 5. The control unit 6 comprises a reception unit 61, a supply control unit 62, a determination unit 63, and a notification control unit 64.

[0063] The reception unit 61 receives a request from the user to provide a predetermined coffee beverage C based on the operation of the operation unit 71. The provision control unit 62 controls the extraction unit 2, the filter supply unit 4, and the abnormality detection unit 5 to provide the coffee beverage C to the user. The determination unit 63 determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred based on the detection result from the abnormality detection unit 5. The notification control unit 64 notifies the notification unit 72 of any abnormality in the beverage extraction device 1.

[0064] <Operation of the beverage dispensing device> Next, the operation of the beverage dispensing device 1, specifically the beverage dispensing process, will be described. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the beverage dispensing process. Figure 13 is a flowchart of the beverage dispensing process.

[0065] As shown in the left diagram on the upper side of Figure 12, when waiting to receive a request for the coffee beverage C, the supply control unit 62 of the control unit 6 sets the filter block 22 and the first to third adjustment units 29 to 31 to standby mode and positions the shutter 26 in the ready-to-close position. The supply control unit 62 also causes the light-emitting unit 51 of the abnormality detection unit 5 to emit detection light L. At this time, as described above, the light-receiving unit 52 outputs a light-receiving signal to the control unit 6 if the used area 401 is not bent, regardless of whether the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132, but does not output a light-receiving signal to the control unit 6 if the used area 401 is bent. In addition, the feed detection switch 451 is pressed by the switch cam 452.

[0066] As shown in Figure 13, when the receiving unit 61 of the control unit 6 receives a request to serve coffee beverage C during the waiting period, the serving control unit 62 controls the lifting mechanism 73 to raise the filter block 22 and move it from the waiting position to the extraction position (step S2). In the process of step S2, the serving control unit 62 changes the mode of the filter block 22 and the first to third adjustment units 29 to 31 from the waiting mode to the extraction and stirring mode. With this change in mode, the filter block 22 rises and the extraction chamber 20 is formed, as shown in the upper center diagram of Figure 12. In addition, the open state of the first adjustment unit 29 is maintained, while the second and third adjustment units 30 and 31 change from the open state to the closed state.

[0067] As shown in Figure 13, the determination unit 63 of the control unit 6 determines whether the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected or not based on the light reception state of the detected light L in the light receiving unit 52 of the abnormality detection unit 5 (step S3). As described above, when the filter block 22 is in the standby position and the used area 401 is not sagging, the light receiving unit 52 outputs a light reception signal to the control unit 6 regardless of whether the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132. On the other hand, when the filter block 22 is in the standby position and the used area 401 is sagging, the light receiving unit 52 does not output a light reception signal to the control unit 6 regardless of whether the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132. Furthermore, when the filter block 22 is in the extraction position, the light receiving unit 52 outputs a light receiving signal to the control unit 6 if the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132. On the other hand, when the filter block 22 is in the extraction position, the light receiving unit 52 does not output a light receiving signal to the control unit 6 if the outlet pipe 23 is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132.

[0068] The determination unit 63 determines that the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132 if the state of acquiring a light receiving signal continues before and after the rise of the filter block 22, or if the state of acquiring a signal transitions from not acquiring a signal to acquiring a signal. On the other hand, the determination unit 63 determines that the outlet pipe 23 is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132 if the state of acquiring a light receiving signal transitions from acquiring a signal to not acquiring a signal before and after the rise of the filter block 22. Furthermore, if the state of not acquiring a light receiving signal continues before and after the rise of the filter block 22, there is a possibility that an abnormality has occurred in the abnormality detection unit 5, such as a malfunction of the light receiving unit 52, so the supply control unit 62 lowers the filter block 22 to the standby position and then raises it again to the extraction position. In addition to this, it is more preferable to transport the strip filter 40. If the determination unit 63 determines that the light receiving signal has not been acquired before and after the second rise of the filter block 22, or before and after the transport of the strip filter 40, then it determines that the lead pipe 23 has not been disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132.

[0069] If the determination unit 63 determines that the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132 (step S3: YES), the provision control unit 62 stops the process of providing the coffee beverage C (step S4). The control unit 6 may return the filter block 22 to the standby position and then perform steps S2 and S3 again (it may retry). The notification control unit 64 of the control unit 6 causes the notification unit 72 to notify that an abnormality has occurred in the beverage dispensing device 1 (step S5). In this case, the notification control unit 64 causes the notification unit 72 to notify that the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected. The notification control unit 64 may, for example, use a wireless or wired medium to notify the notification unit of an information processing device such as a portable terminal that can be viewed by the administrator of the beverage dispensing device 1 of the occurrence of the abnormality. The reception unit 61 then stops accepting the request to provide the coffee beverage C (step S6) and terminates the process. If the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected, the suspension of accepting requests for coffee beverage C will be lifted after the administrator reconnects the outlet pipe 23.

[0070] On the other hand, if the determination unit 63 determines that the outlet pipe 23 is not disconnected (step S3: NO), the supply control unit 62 puts coffee bean powder F and hot water W into the extraction chamber 20 (step S7). As shown in the central diagram on the upper side of Figure 12, the supply control unit 62 controls the mill 12 to put coffee bean powder F from the raw material input unit 241 into the extraction chamber 20, and controls the hot water supply unit 74 to put hot water W from the hot water input unit 242 into the extraction chamber 20.

[0071] As shown in Figure 13, the serving control unit 62 performs a stirring and cooking process (step S8). The serving control unit 62 performs a circulating stirring process and an air stirring process at least once each as part of the stirring and cooking process. Note that the stirring and cooking process in step S8 may consist of only the circulating stirring process or only the air stirring process, or it may be omitted from the stirring and cooking process in step S8 (both the circulating stirring process and the air stirring process).

[0072] In the circulation stirring process, the supply control unit 62 moves the shutter 26 from the input-allowed position to the input-prohibited position, as shown in the upper right diagram of Figure 12, and then drives the pump 25 so that the coffee beverage C circulates through the first flow path R1 at least once. The circulation stirring process allows the coffee bean powder F and hot water to be stirred within the extraction chamber 20, and even if the coffee bean powder F accumulates unevenly, efficient stirring of the entire extraction chamber 20 can be promoted.

[0073] In the air agitation process, the supply control unit 62 drives the pump 25 in the opposite direction to the circulation agitation process, as shown in the lower right-hand diagram of Figure 12, to guide the air A introduced from one end of the upper piping 244 into the extraction chamber 20 via the second flow path R2. By performing the air agitation process after the circulation agitation process in this way, even if there are variations in the air gaps in the strip filter 40, the coffee beverage C passes through the strip filter 40 once during the circulation agitation process, allowing the air A to be uniformly injected into the extraction chamber 20. This reduces variations in the mixing of coffee bean powder F and hot water W in the extraction chamber 20. Note that the circulation agitation process may be performed after the air agitation process.

[0074] As shown in Figure 13, the dispensing control unit 62 dispenses the coffee beverage C into a container (step S9). In step S9, the dispensing control unit 62 changes the mode of the filter block 22 and the first to third adjustment units 29 to 31 from stirring mode to beverage dispensing mode. With this mode change, as shown in the lower center diagram of Figure 12, the filter block 22 remains in the extraction position and the third adjustment unit 31 remains closed, while the first adjustment unit 29 changes from an open state to a closed state, and the second adjustment unit 30 changes from a closed state to an open state. The dispensing control unit 62 then drives the pump 25 for a preset time so that the coffee beverage C in the extraction chamber 20 is guided to the container via the outlet pipe 23, the relay pipe 252, and the dispensing pipe 251.

[0075] As shown in Figure 13, the dispensing control unit 62 lowers the filter block 22, moving it from the extraction position to the standby position (step S10). In step S10, the dispensing control unit 62 changes the mode of the filter block 22 and the first to third adjustment units 29 to 31 from beverage dispensing mode to standby mode. With this mode change, as shown in the lower left diagram of Figure 12, the second adjustment unit 30 remains open, while the first and third adjustment units 29 and 31 change from closed to open. Also, the raw material residue K accumulated on the strip filter 40 is exposed.

[0076] For example, if the packing 224 is damaged or deteriorated, or if the lifting mechanism 73 of the filter block 22 is damaged or deteriorated, and the sealing between the cylinder 21 and the filter block 22 is not properly performed, meaning that a seal failure occurs in the extraction chamber 20, the coffee beverage C may leak from the extraction chamber 20 during the stirring and cooking process in step S8 (during the extraction process) or during the serving process of the coffee beverage C in step S9. In this case, the coffee beverage C that was leaking before the filter block 22 descends will flow down through the strip filter 40. Also, for example, if the pump 25 is not driven for long enough or if the pump 25 malfunctions when serving the coffee beverage C, some of the coffee beverage C may remain in the extraction chamber 20. In this case, when the filter block 22 descends, the coffee beverage C will flow down through the strip filter 40.

[0077] Therefore, as shown in Figure 13, the determination unit 63 determines whether a sealing defect has occurred in the extraction chamber 20 or whether coffee beverage C remains in the extraction chamber 20, based on the light reception state of the detection light L at the light receiving unit 52 of the abnormality detection unit 5 (step S11). When the filter block 22 is in the extraction position, if the outlet pipe 23 is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132, the detection light L is blocked by the outlet pipe 23. Also, when the filter block 22 is in the standby position, if the outlet pipe 23 is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132, and the used area 401 is not bent, the detection light L is not blocked by the outlet pipe 23. On the other hand, when the filter block 22 is in the standby position, if coffee beverage C leaks from the extraction chamber 20 due to a sealing defect in the extraction chamber 20, or if coffee beverage C remains in the extraction chamber 20, the detection light L is blocked by the coffee beverage C flowing through the strip filter 40. The determination unit 63 determines that if it continues not to acquire a light receiving signal before and after the descent of the filter block 22, a sealing defect has occurred in the extraction chamber 20, or coffee beverage C remains in the extraction chamber 20. On the other hand, if the determination unit 63 transitions from not acquiring a light receiving signal to acquiring one before and after the descent of the filter block 22, it determines that there is no sealing defect in the extraction chamber 20 and that no coffee beverage C remains in the extraction chamber 20.

[0078] If the determination unit 63 determines that a sealing defect has occurred in the extraction chamber 20, or that coffee beverage C remained in the extraction chamber 20 (step S11: YES), the notification control unit 64 causes the notification unit 72 to notify the notification unit 72 that there is a possibility of a sealing defect in the extraction chamber 20 or that coffee beverage C remained in the extraction chamber 20 as an abnormality in the beverage extraction device 1 (step S5). As described above, the notification control unit 64 may also notify the notification unit of the abnormality of the information processing device that can be checked by the administrator. The reception unit 61 then stops accepting requests for the provision of coffee beverage C (step S6) and terminates the process. If a sealing defect has occurred in the extraction chamber 20, the suspension of accepting requests for the provision of coffee beverage C will be lifted after the sealing defect is resolved by replacing the packing 224 or the lifting mechanism 73, etc. If coffee beverage C remains in the extraction chamber 20, the suspension of accepting requests for coffee beverage C will be lifted after the above-mentioned malfunction is resolved by resetting, repairing, or replacing the pump 25.

[0079] On the other hand, if the determination unit 63 determines that there is no sealing defect in the extraction chamber 20 and that no coffee beverage C remains in the extraction chamber 20 (step S11: NO), the dispensing control unit 62 performs a disposal process for the raw material residue K (step S12). In the disposal process for the raw material residue K, the dispensing control unit 62 vibrates the cylinder 21 by rotating the cylinder vibration unit 27 at least once back and forth, as shown in the lower left diagram of Figure 12, thereby causing the raw material residue K adhering to the inner surface of the cylinder 21 to fall onto the strip filter 40. The dispensing control unit 62 then controls the feed motor 44 to rotate the drum 433 once after the feed detection switch 451 has been deactivated and then deactivated again. When the drum 433 rotates, the strip filter 40 is sent to the right, and the accumulated raw material residue K falls off at the folded portion of the strip filter 40, while the portion of the strip filter 40 located near the feed mechanism 43 is stored in the waste collection unit 14. Furthermore, the unused portion of the strip filter 40 that is not used for extracting the coffee beverage C is sent downwards by the cylinder 21. The drum 433 stops with the used portion 401 positioned between the filter block 22 and the feeding mechanism 43. In other words, the filter feeding unit 42 feeds the strip filter 40 so that the unused portion of the strip filter 40 is positioned below the cylinder 21.

[0080] For example, the strip filter 40 may not be fed due to malfunctions such as incorrect setting of the strip filter 40 in the filter housing section 41, slippage of the strip filter 40 between the rubber roller 435 and the drum 433, or the waste housing section 14 becoming full and unable to accommodate the strip filter 40. In addition, when the remaining amount of strip filter 40 is low, the adhesive force between the strip filter 40 and the core material 40B is greater than the frictional force generated between the drum 433 and the rubber roller 435 and the strip filter 40, which can cause slippage of the strip filter 40 between the rubber roller 435 and the drum 433, preventing the strip filter 40 from being fed. In these cases, the raw material residue K is not conveyed and does not fall from the strip filter 40.

[0081] Furthermore, if the coffee bean powder F is not fed into the extraction chamber 20 due to a shortage of coffee beans for the coffee beverage C being offered, or a malfunction such as a failure of the mill 12, no raw material residue K will be generated even if the strip filter 40 is sent. In this case, no raw material residue K will fall from the strip filter 40.

[0082] Therefore, as shown in Figure 13, the determination unit 63 determines whether or not the raw material residue K has been transported and fallen into the waste storage unit 14 (step S13). When the filter block 22 is in the standby position, and the outlet pipe 23 is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132, and the used area 401 is not bent, the detection light L is not obstructed by the outlet pipe 23. On the other hand, when the raw material residue K falls into the waste storage unit 14, the detection light L is temporarily obstructed by the falling raw material residue K. If the determination unit 63 transitions from acquiring a light receiving signal to temporarily not acquiring one, it determines that the raw material residue K has fallen. On the other hand, if the determination unit 63 continues to acquire a light receiving signal, it determines that the raw material residue K has not fallen.

[0083] If the determination unit 63 determines that the raw material residue K did not fall (step S13: NO), the notification control unit 64 causes the notification unit 72 to notify that there is a possibility that the strip filter 40 was not fed, that the remaining amount of the strip filter 40 is low, or that the coffee bean powder F was not put into the extraction chamber 20 as an abnormality in the beverage extraction device 1 (step S5). As described above, the notification control unit 64 may also cause the notification unit of the information processing device, which can be checked by the administrator, to notify the occurrence of the abnormality. Then, the reception unit 61 stops accepting the request to provide the coffee beverage C (step S6) and terminates the process. If the raw material residue K does not fall, the suspension of accepting requests for coffee beverage C will be lifted after the above-mentioned malfunction is resolved by resetting the strip filter 40 into the filter housing 41, eliminating slippage of the strip filter 40 between the rubber roller 435 and the drum 433, removing waste from the waste housing 14, replacing the roll body 40A, replenishing coffee beans, or repairing or replacing the mill 12.

[0084] On the other hand, if the determination unit 63 determines that the raw material residue K has fallen (step S13: YES), the serving control unit 62 terminates the serving process while maintaining the state in which it is possible to accept a request to serve the coffee beverage C.

[0085] <Effects of the Embodiment> The beverage extraction device 1 includes an abnormality detection unit 5 that detects whether or not raw material residue K was transported in conjunction with the feeding operation of the strip filter 40 by the filter feeding unit 42 after the filter block 22 has been separated from the cylinder 21. Therefore, if the abnormality detection unit 5 detects that raw material residue K was not transported, the provision of the next coffee beverage C can be stopped. Thus, if the reason why raw material residue K was not transported is that the strip filter 40 was not fed and the raw material residue K remains below the cylinder 21, it is possible to prevent the next extraction from being performed with raw material residue K remaining in the cylinder 21. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the provision of low-quality coffee beverage C or the occurrence of extraction failures, and to provide coffee beverage C appropriately.

[0086] The beverage extraction device 1 causes the raw material residue K to fall by folding the strip filter 40 in the drop assist unit 222, and detects the falling raw material residue K in the abnormality detection unit 5. Therefore, the disposal of the raw material residue K and the transport status of the raw material residue K can be performed at almost the same time.

[0087] The abnormality detection unit 5 emits detection light L from the light-emitting unit 51 so as to be blocked by the falling raw material residue K, and detects whether or not the raw material residue K did not fall based on the light-receiving state of the detection light L in the light-receiving unit 52. For this reason, abnormalities can be detected using a so-called optical sensor that is generally readily available.

[0088] If the beverage dispensing device 1 detects that the raw material residue K was not transported, the notification control unit 64 will notify that the strip filter 40 may not have been sent. This allows the administrator to easily recognize the nature of the abnormality and carry out appropriate and prompt recovery work.

[0089] If the beverage extraction device 1 detects that raw material residue K has not been conveyed, the notification control unit 64 will notify that the remaining amount of the strip filter 40 may be low. Therefore, it is possible to detect that the remaining amount of the strip filter 40 is low without installing sensors or the like in the filter housing 41.

[0090] If the beverage extraction device 1 detects that the raw material residue K was not transported, the notification control unit 64 will notify that there is a possibility that the coffee bean powder F was not put into the extraction chamber 20. Therefore, a malfunction in the mill 12 or a shortage of coffee beans can be detected without installing a sensor to detect a malfunction in the mill 12 or a sensor to detect a shortage of coffee beans in the canister 11.

[0091] The beverage dispensing device 1 is equipped with an abnormality detection unit 5 that detects whether or not the coffee beverage C in the dispensing chamber 20 is leaking from between the cylinder 21 and the filter block 22. Therefore, if the abnormality detection unit 5 detects that the coffee beverage C in the dispensing chamber 20 is leaking, the dispensing of the coffee beverage C can be stopped. Thus, it is possible to prevent the dispensing process of the coffee beverage C from continuing while the coffee beverage C is leaking from between the cylinder 21 and the filter block 22, and to properly provide the coffee beverage C.

[0092] The abnormality detection unit 5 emits detection light L from the light-emitting unit 51 so as to be blocked by the coffee beverage C leaking from between the cylinder 21 and the filter block 22, and detects whether or not the coffee beverage C in the extraction chamber 20 is leaking from between the cylinder 21 and the filter block 22 based on the state of reception of the detection light L in the light-receiving unit 52. Therefore, abnormalities can be detected using a light sensor that is generally readily available.

[0093] The abnormality detection unit 5, after the coffee beverage C is served and the filter block 22 moves to the standby position, detects whether the coffee beverage C leaked from the extraction chamber 20 or whether the coffee beverage C remained in the extraction chamber 20, by detecting whether the detection light L was blocked by the coffee beverage C. If the abnormality detection unit 5 detects that the detection light L was blocked by the coffee beverage C, the beverage extraction device 1, under the control of the notification control unit 64, notifies that there is a possibility that the coffee beverage C leaked from the extraction chamber 20 or that the coffee beverage C remained in the extraction chamber 20. This allows the administrator to easily recognize the nature of the abnormality and carry out appropriate and prompt recovery work.

[0094] The portion of the strip-shaped filter 40 located above the filter block 22 is tilted so that when the filter block 22 is separated from the cylinder 21, its front end is positioned above the rear end, following the upper right edge of the filter block 22. The detection light L is then emitted so as to pass through a position behind the center in the vertically lower region of the filter block 22. With this configuration, the coffee beverage C that leaks from the extraction chamber 20, or the coffee beverage C that remains in the extraction chamber 20, flows down in a concentrated manner from the relatively rear portion of the strip-shaped filter 40. This improves the light-shielding ability of the coffee beverage C to block the detection light L, thereby increasing the detection sensitivity for whether coffee beverage C has leaked from or remained in the extraction chamber 20.

[0095] The beverage dispensing device 1 is equipped with an abnormality detection unit 5 that detects whether or not the outlet pipe 23 has come loose from the block-side connecting pipe 221B. Therefore, if the abnormality detection unit 5 detects that the outlet pipe 23 has come loose from the block-side connecting pipe 221B, the dispensing of the coffee beverage C can be stopped. Thus, it is possible to prevent the dispensing process of coffee beverage C from continuing while it is leaking from the discharge section 221 of the filter block 22, and to provide the coffee beverage C appropriately. In particular, since the beverage dispensing device 1 also detects whether or not the outlet pipe 23 has come loose from the pump-side connecting pipe 132, it is possible to prevent the dispensing process of coffee beverage C from continuing while it is leaking from the outlet pipe 23.

[0096] When the filter block 22 is in the extraction position, the abnormality detection unit 5 emits detection light L from the light-emitting unit 51 so that it is blocked by the outlet pipe 23 that is not disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B and the pump-side connecting pipe 132, but not blocked by the outlet pipe 23 that is disconnected from either the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132. The abnormality detection unit 5 then detects whether the outlet pipe 23 has disconnected from either the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132 based on the light-receiving state of the detection light L in the light-receiving unit 52. For this reason, abnormalities can be detected using readily available optical sensors.

[0097] When the filter block 22 is in the extraction position, the detection light L is emitted so as to pass through the underside of the used area 401 without being obstructed by the raw material residue K. When the filter block 22 moves to the extraction position, the abnormality detection unit 5 detects whether the outlet pipe 23 has come out of the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132 based on the state of reception of the detection light L in the light receiving unit 52. Here, when the filter block 22 is in the standby position, if the disconnection of the outlet pipe 23 is detected based on the state of reception of the detection light L, for example, as shown in Figure 9A, even if the outlet pipe 23 is not disconnected, the detection light L is obstructed by the raw material residue K adhering to the bent used area 401, as shown in Figure 10B, and it is determined that the outlet pipe 23 has come out. In this embodiment, the filter block 22 is positioned at the extraction location, and the detection light L is not obstructed by the raw material residue K adhering to the used area 401. Therefore, the disconnection of the outlet pipe 23 is detected based on the light reception state of the detection light L, making it possible to appropriately detect the disconnection of the outlet pipe 23.

[0098] When the filter block 22 moves to the extraction position, the abnormality detection unit 5 detects whether the outlet pipe 23 has disconnected from the block-side connecting pipe 221B or the pump-side connecting pipe 132, based on the light reception state of the detection light L in the light receiving unit 52. Furthermore, when the filter block 22 moves to the standby position after the coffee beverage C has been dispensed, the abnormality detection unit 5 detects whether the coffee beverage C has leaked from the extraction chamber 20 or whether any coffee beverage C remains in the extraction chamber 20, based on the light reception state of the detection light L in the light receiving unit 52. Also, when the strip filter 40 is fed after the filter block 22 has moved to the standby position, the abnormality detection unit 5 detects whether the raw material residue K was not transported during the feeding operation, based on the light reception state of the detection light L in the light receiving unit 52. Therefore, the abnormality detection unit 5 can detect different abnormalities based on the light reception state at different timings of the detection light L emitted in a single state.

[0099] [Modified examples of embodiments] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit. Furthermore, the above embodiments and the modifications shown below may be combined in any way, as long as they function properly.

[0100] For example, while an optical sensor was used as an example for the abnormality detection unit 5 that detects when the outlet pipe 23 has come loose, other configurations capable of detecting such abnormalities, such as thermal sensors, passive sensors, or image sensors, may also be used.

[0101] Although the example shows the notification unit 72 located on the beverage dispenser 1, the notification unit 72 may also be located outside the beverage dispenser 1A to notify of any abnormalities in the beverage dispenser 1A, as shown in Figure 14A or Figure 14B.

[0102] Figure 14A shows an anomaly detection system 100A comprising a beverage dispenser 1A, a server device 81A, and a management terminal device 82A. The beverage dispenser 1A comprises a dispenser 2, a filter supply unit 4, an anomaly detection unit 5, and a control unit 6A. The control unit 6A comprises a reception unit 61, a supply control unit 62, and a determination unit 63. The server device 81A is connected to the beverage dispenser 1A and the management terminal device 82A via a communication network N such as the Internet. The server device 81A includes a notification control unit 64. The management terminal device 82A is a terminal device such as a mobile terminal that can be accessed by the administrator of the beverage dispenser 1A. In such anomaly detection system 100A, when the notification control unit 64 of the server device 81A performs the processing in step S5, it receives the determination result from the determination unit 63 via the communication network N and transmits the notification content to the management terminal device 82A via the communication network N, thereby causing the notification unit 72 to notify information regarding an anomaly in the beverage dispenser 1A.

[0103] Figure 14B shows an anomaly detection system 100B comprising a beverage dispenser 1B, a server device 81B, and a management terminal device 82A. The beverage dispenser 1B differs from the beverage dispenser 1A shown in Figure 14A in that the control unit 6B does not have a determination unit 63. The server device 81B differs from the server device 81A in that it has a determination unit 63. In such an anomaly detection system 100B, the determination unit 63 of the server device 81B receives a light signal from the anomaly detection unit 5 via the communication network N when processing steps S3, S11, and S13, and determines whether or not an anomaly has occurred in the beverage dispenser 1B. The notification control unit 64 of the server device 81B transmits the notification content to the management terminal device 82A via the communication network N, causing the notification unit 72 to notify information regarding the anomaly in the beverage dispenser 1B.

[0104] While the example illustrates a configuration in which the abnormality detection unit 5 detects whether the outlet pipe 23 has come loose when the filter block 22 moves to the extraction position, the abnormality detection unit 5 may also detect whether the outlet pipe 23 has come loose while adding coffee bean powder F etc. to the extraction chamber 20 (step S7), while stirring and cooking the coffee beverage C (step S8), or during the serving process (step S9). Alternatively, the abnormality detection unit 5 may detect whether the outlet pipe 23 has come loose when the filter block 22 moves to the standby position. In this case, the detection light L should be emitted such that the state in which the detection light L is blocked differs depending on whether the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected or not, when the filter block 22 is in the standby position. Similarly, when detecting whether the outlet pipe 23 has come loose when the filter block 22 is in the extraction position, the detection light L should be emitted such that the state in which the detection light L is blocked differs depending on whether the outlet pipe 23 is disconnected or not. The emission state of the detection light L is not limited to the state of the above embodiment.

[0105] The beverage extraction device 1 does not need to have a function to detect that raw material residue K was not transported, that there was a sealing defect in the extraction chamber 20, or that coffee beverage C remained in the extraction chamber 20. Alternatively, the beverage extraction device 1 may be equipped with a separate abnormality detection unit to detect these abnormalities.

[0106] Although coffee beverage C is given as an example of the beverage extracted by the beverage extraction device 1, other beverages that generate raw material residue during extraction, such as black tea or green tea, may also be used. Although the beverage extraction device 1 is shown as having a configuration in which coffee beverage C is stirred using the first flow path R1, such a stirring function is not required. In the filter housing section 41, the strip filter 40 is shown as being held in a rolled state 40A, but it may also be held in a folded state in multiple stages. The strip filter 40 may be made of paper or made of a material other than paper. Alternatively, a single-leaf filter may be used instead of the strip filter 40, and a new filter may be supplied to the filter block 22 with each extraction. [Industrial applicability]

[0107] This disclosure is applicable to beverage extraction devices, anomaly detection methods, and anomaly detection systems. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 1,1A,1B Beverage Brewing Equipment 2 Extraction part 4. Filter supply unit 5 Anomaly detection unit 6 Control Unit 10 Main unit 11 Canister 12 mil 13 Internal enclosure 14 Waste Storage Section 20 Extraction chamber 21 Cylinders 22 Filter Blocks 23 Outlet piping 24 Cover 25 pumps 26 shutters 27 Cylinder Vibration Unit 28. Waste liquid piping 29 1st adjustment section 30 Second adjustment section 31 3rd adjustment section 40 Strip filters 40A Roll 40B Core material 41 Filter housing 42 Filter feed section 43 Feed mechanism 44 Feed motor 45 Feed detection unit 51 Light-emitting part 52 Light receiving part 61 Reception Department 62. Control Unit 63 Judgment section 64 Notification Control Unit 71 Operation section 72 Hochi Department 73 Lifting mechanism 74 Hot water supply section 81A, 81B Server Equipment 82A Management Terminal Device 100A, 100B Anomaly Detection System 131 Support Arm 132 Pump-side connecting pipe 221 Discharge part 221A Funnel part 221B Block-side connecting pipe 222 Drop assist unit 223 Mesh member 224 Packing 225 Wall 241 Raw material input section 242 Hot water injection part 243 Steam draining section 244 Upper piping 251 Piping for provision 252 Intermediate piping 401 Used space 411 Roll support shaft 431 Support 431A Support plate 431B Connection Plate 432 Drum Rotating Axis 433 Drums 434 Rubber roller rotating shaft 435 Rubber Roller 436 spring 441 Fittings 441A Small diameter section 451 Feed detection switch 452 Switchcam A air C Coffee Beverage F Coffee Bean Powder K Raw material residue L detection light R1 First channel R2 Second channel

Claims

1. A beverage extraction apparatus that extracts beverages in an extraction chamber, A cylindrical cylinder, A filter block is configured to be movable relative to the cylinder and forms the extraction chamber by blocking the opening at the lower end of the cylinder with a filter for filtering the beverage in between, The filter block is provided with a dispensing unit for dispensing the beverage extracted in the extraction chamber, An outlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the discharge section and configured to bend as the filter block moves, and the other end of which is connected to an outlet-side connecting pipe that guides the beverage discharged from the discharge section to the outside of the extraction chamber, The system includes an abnormality detection unit that detects whether the first connection state between the discharge unit and the outlet piping has been released, or whether the second connection state between the outlet-side connecting pipe and the outlet piping has been released. The abnormality detection unit includes a light-emitting unit that emits detection light so as to be blocked by the outlet piping in one of the following states: when the first connection state or the second connection state is released, and when neither the first connection state nor the second connection state is released; and a light-receiving unit that receives the detection light. Beverage extraction equipment.

2. A filter holding unit that holds the strip-shaped filter as the filter in a retractable manner, A filter feeding unit pulls out and feeds the strip filter from the filter holding unit such that the unused area of ​​the strip filter is sandwiched between the cylinder and the filter block, The system further includes a drop assist unit positioned above the filter feeding unit, which bends the strip-shaped filter fed by the filter feeding unit downwards, thereby causing the residue of the raw materials used in the extraction of the beverage to fall. The aforementioned outlet piping is located below the filter block, The detection light is emitted such that, in the state in which the extraction chamber is formed, it is located between the drop assist portion and the filter feeding portion of the strip-shaped filter, passes through the lower side of the non-flexed used area, and is blocked by the discharge piping in the state described above. The abnormality detection unit detects whether the first connection state or the second connection state has been released based on the state of light reception of the detection light at the light receiving unit after the extraction chamber has been formed. The beverage extraction apparatus according to claim 1.

3. An extraction unit comprising a cylindrical cylinder, a filter block configured to be movable relative to the cylinder and forming an extraction chamber by sandwiching a strip-shaped filter for filtering beverages between them and closing the opening at the lower end of the cylinder, a discharge unit provided on the filter block for discharging the beverage extracted in the extraction chamber, and an extraction unit including an outlet pipe, one end of which is connected to the discharge unit and configured to bend with the movement of the filter block, and the other end of which is connected to an outlet-side connecting pipe that guides the beverage discharged from the discharge unit to the outside of the extraction chamber, An abnormality detection unit including a light-emitting unit that emits detection light and a light-receiving unit that receives the detection light, such that the detection light is blocked by the outlet pipe in one of the following states: the first connection state between the discharge unit and the outlet pipe, or the second connection state between the outlet-side connecting pipe and the outlet pipe, or the first connection state and the second connection state, or the state in which the first connection state and the second connection state are not released. A determination unit that determines whether or not the detection light is blocked by the aforementioned outlet pipe, The system includes a notification unit that, when the determination unit determines that the detection light has been blocked, notifies that the first connection state or the second connection state has been released. Anomaly detection system.

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