Beverage apparatus

Abstract

A beverage apparatus of the present invention comprises an extraction unit for simultaneously perforating two or more capsules and extracting a beverage. In addition, the extraction unit of the beverage apparatus of the present invention is provided as a power transmission module composed of a single motor and a plurality of gears, and thus movement of the capsules during the perforation of the capsules and the extraction of the beverage can be prevented.

Description

beverage device

[0001] The present invention relates to a beverage device for extracting a beverage contained in a capsule.

[0002] Capsules, which contain ingredients for beverage production, are widely used. These capsules contain the beverage ingredients in a sealed container, and users can use a mechanical device to pass water through the capsule to make a beverage. Coffee machines are a representative example of beverage devices that utilize capsules. Recently, capsules are being used to make beverages by providing not only coffee but also various beverages and ingredients.

[0003] One such device for extracting beverages using capsules is disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2015-0017541, Prior Art 1. Prior Art 1 has the problem that the entire device is integrated and all components are contained within a single housing, making it difficult to vary the operation of the extraction portion. Furthermore, since only one capsule is used to extract beverages, it is difficult to extract a variety of beverages. Furthermore, since the portion from which the extracted beverage is discharged is fixed, it is difficult to use various types of cups.

[0004] Prior art document 2, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0040026, utilizes a rotational motion to form a hole in the capsule for injecting water, making it relatively complex. Furthermore, the user must perform a separate operation to perforate the hole, making inserting and removing the capsule inconvenient.

[0005] In the case of prior art document 3, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2006-0039431, a lever is manually operated to perforate a capsule. Consequently, perforating the capsule was difficult. Specifically, if the perforation was not precise or excessively large, the beverage could not be extracted smoothly or an excessive amount of extracted water could be provided, preventing the desired beverage flavor from being achieved.

[0006] In addition, the above-mentioned prior art document 3 is mounted so that the capsule lies horizontally. This structure reduces extraction efficiency because it is perpendicular to the direction in which the extraction water is injected and discharged.

[0007] In the case of prior art document 4, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2013-0098891, a capsule inserted into an extraction chamber is moved to perforate a hole in the capsule. However, prior art document 4 has a problem in that if the capsule is inserted incorrectly or if movement of the capsule occurs while it is being moved, the accurate hole is not perforated and hot water is not injected smoothly.

[0008] The present invention has been devised to solve various problems of the above-mentioned conventional technology, and the purpose of the present invention is to enable an operation of perforating a hole in a capsule to be performed automatically.

[0009] The purpose of the present invention is to enable a beverage to be extracted while the capsule is mounted in a vertically standing state and the extraction water is supplied in an up-and-down direction.

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is to enable multiple capsules to be simultaneously gripped.

[0011] The purpose of the present invention is to enable an extraction water injection hole to be perforated in the upper part of the capsule while moving from the upper part to the lower part while the lower part of the capsule is supported.

[0012] The purpose of the present invention is to enable the simultaneous perforation of extraction water injection holes in multiple capsules.

[0013] The purpose of the present invention is to place a motor in a position where the operation of the capsule cap can be performed stably.

[0014] The purpose of the present invention is to lower the center of gravity of the extraction unit so that the extraction operation can be performed stably.

[0015] According to the beverage device of the present invention for achieving the above object, a phage cap positioned on the upper side of a capsule can be configured to automatically rise and fall toward the capsule, thereby pressurizing and perforating the capsule. This can prevent capsule flow during the process of perforating a hole in the capsule, and eliminate inconvenience caused by manual work.

[0016] According to the beverage device of the present invention, capsules can be provided as trays within the frame member. This allows stable injection of capsules.

[0017] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the frame member can be formed as a cylinder with the front and upper and lower surfaces open.

[0018] According to the beverage device of the present invention, a capsule can be positioned on the inner lower portion of the frame member. As a result, a gripping cap for gripping the capsule can be positioned above the capsule and moved upwards toward the capsule.

[0019] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the frame member can be used to insert or remove capsules from the front.

[0020] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the inner surface of the phage cap may be provided with a perforation projection so that a hole can be perforated in the capsule as the phage cap pressurizes the capsule.

[0021] According to the beverage device of the present invention, an elevating module for elevating the phage cap may be included.

[0022] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the lifting module may include a first rotational shaft, both ends of which are rotatably installed on both side walls of the frame member. This allows the first rotational shaft installed on the frame member to be selectively rotated.

[0023] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the lifting module can be installed so that the first link is linked to the first rotation axis.

[0024] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the lifting module can be installed so that the second link is linked to the first link.

[0025] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the first link may include a hub that rotates together with the first rotational axis. Thus, when the first rotational axis rotates, the first link may rotate.

[0026] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the first link may include a protrusion protruding from one circumference of the hub. This allows the protrusion to rotate along with the rotation of the hub.

[0027] According to the beverage device of the present invention, one end of the second link can be connected to the first link. As a result, the second link can be linked with the first link.

[0028] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the other end of the second link can be connected to the phage cap. This allows the second link and the phage cap to be linked.

[0029] According to the beverage device of the present invention, one end of the second link can be rotatably connected to the protrusion of the first link.

[0030] According to the beverage device of the present invention, when the protrusion of the first link is raised so that it faces the phage cap, the second link can be raised so that it faces the phage cap and pressurizes the phage cap downward. As a result, the phage cap can be raised or lowered by the rotation of the first rotation shaft.

[0031] According to the beverage device of the present invention, a second rotational axis to which a second link is connected may be provided at the end of the protrusion. As a result, the first link and the second link may be linked.

[0032] According to the beverage device of the present invention, one end of the second link can be rotatably connected to the second rotational axis. Accordingly, when the first link rotates, the second link can rotate around the second rotational axis.

[0033] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the first link may be provided with a tension member that provides elastic restoring force in the protruding direction of the protrusion. As a result, the tension member can pressurize the second rotational axis.

[0034] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the first link may be provided with an adjusting bolt for adjusting the tension of the tension member. This allows for adjustment of the force pressing the second rotation shaft.

[0035] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the second link may be provided in two pieces. This allows the pressure to be transmitted more accurately to the phage cap.

[0036] According to the beverage device of the present invention, one end of the two second links is connected to each of the two side walls of the protrusion, and the other end of the two second links can be rotatably connected to each of the two upper sides of the phage cap.

[0037] According to the beverage device of the present invention, a skirt that flares outward toward the end may be formed on the protrusion of the first link.

[0038] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the lifting module may include a gripping member that grips the skirt. This prevents rotation of the first link during the process of the gripping cap pressurizing the capsule.

[0039] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the gripping member can be formed to grip the skirt when the protrusion is positioned toward the gripping cap.

[0040] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the gripping member can be operated by the power transmission module. Accordingly, the first link and the gripping member can be rotated together by the operation of the power transmission module.

[0041] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the grip member can be formed to be engaged with the skirt while rotating opposite to the first rotation axis by driving the power transmission module.

[0042] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the frame member may be formed to provide a plurality of capsule seating spaces that are separated from each other. As a result, the frame member can perform beverage extraction for a plurality of capsules simultaneously.

[0043] According to the beverage device of the present invention, a plurality of phage caps may be provided, each provided in a capsule-receiving space of the frame member. As a result, perforation of a plurality of capsules can be performed simultaneously.

[0044] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the first link of the lifting module may be provided in multiple numbers. This allows multiple phage caps to operate simultaneously.

[0045] According to the beverage device of the present invention, a plurality of first links can be simultaneously coupled to a single first rotational axis while being respectively positioned in each capsule mounting space of the frame member. As a result, the plurality of first links can simultaneously rotate forward and backward when the first rotational axis rotates.

[0046] According to the beverage device of the present invention, a power transmission module that provides driving force to operate the lifting module may be included. Accordingly, the phage cap can be raised or lowered when the power transmission module operates.

[0047] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the power transmission module may include a motor that provides driving force.

[0048] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the power transmission module may include a gear that transmits the driving force of the motor to the lifting module.

[0049] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the gear may include a main gear installed on the motor shaft of the motor and a plurality of driven gears. This allows the phage cap to maintain the capsule in a state of accurately pressurizing the capsule while the beverage in the capsule is being extracted.

[0050] According to the beverage device of the present invention, one of the plurality of driven gears can be engaged with the main gear to transmit power, and another of the plurality of driven gears can be engaged with the lifting module to operate.

[0051] According to the beverage device of the present invention, a water supply unit may be included, thereby allowing extraction water to be supplied into the phage cap.

[0052] According to the beverage device of the present invention, an extraction unit may be included. This allows the beverage within the capsule to be extracted using extraction water supplied from the water supply unit.

[0053] According to the beverage device of the present invention, a frame member providing a plurality of capsule seating spaces; a plurality of grip caps that pressurize the capsules while being elevated toward the capsules; a first rotational shaft rotatably installed on the frame member; a plurality of links that are coupled to the first rotational shaft and that raise and lower each of the grip caps while being linked to the operation of the first rotational shaft; a power transmission module having a motor that provides a driving force for driving the first rotational shaft and a plurality of gears that transmit the driving force of the motor to the first rotational shaft;

[0054] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the power transmission module may include a gear housing. As a result, each gear can be coupled to the gear housing to form a modular system.

[0055] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the motor may be positioned at the lower portion of the periphery of the frame member. This lowers the center of gravity of the extraction unit, thereby enabling the phage cap to smoothly pressurize or puncture the capsule.

[0056] According to the beverage device of the present invention, the plurality of gears includes a driving gear provided on the motor shaft of the motor, a linkage gear provided on the first rotational shaft, and a plurality of driven gears provided in a plurality from the motor shaft to the first rotational shaft and interlocked with each other to rotate. This allows the driving force of the motor to be accurately transmitted to the first rotational shaft, and prevents the first rotational shaft from shaking.

[0057] The beverage device according to the present invention may have at least one of the following effects.

[0058] Since the beverage device of the present invention holds the capsule while the phage cap is raised and lowered from the upper side of the capsule, sufficient pressure can be provided to the capsule even with a small force.

[0059] Since the beverage device of the present invention provides or extracts capsules through the front of the frame member, it is possible to easily provide or extract capsules.

[0060] In the beverage device of the present invention, since the direction in which the capsule is fixed and the direction in which the hole is perforated are the same by the lifting and lowering phage cap, the capsule can be stably fixed while the hole is being perforated in the capsule.

[0061] Since the beverage device of the present invention is configured to raise and lower the phage cap using a plurality of links, the structure for raising and lowering the phage cap is simple, making maintenance easy.

[0062] The beverage device of the present invention can provide sufficient pressure when the phage cap perforates a hole in the capsule, as the first link and the second link can be arranged vertically.

[0063] In the beverage device of the present invention, since the first link and the second link can be maintained in a vertically erected state when the phage cap pressurizes the capsule, the perforation operation of the capsule can be stably performed.

[0064] In the beverage device of the present invention, the rotation of the first link can be prevented during the process in which the grip cap pressurizes the capsule by the skirt formed on the first link and the grip member provided in the lifting module.

[0065] Since the beverage device of the present invention provides a plurality of capsule seating spaces in the frame member, beverage extraction for a plurality of capsules can be performed simultaneously.

[0066] The beverage device of the present invention can simultaneously pierce multiple capsules because a plurality of phage caps are provided in each capsule-seating space of the frame member.

[0067] Since the beverage device of the present invention operates multiple phage caps simultaneously by one first rotation shaft, the structure for power transmission can be simplified.

[0068] Since the beverage device of the present invention transmits power through a plurality of gears, the positive and negative flow of the first rotation shaft can be prevented, so that the phage cap can stably pressurize the capsule while perforating the capsule.

[0069] The beverage device of the present invention can be easily maintained because each gear is combined into a gear housing and modularized.

[0070] The beverage device of the present invention is arranged so that the motor can lower the center of gravity of the extraction unit, so that the phage cap can smoothly pressurize or puncture the capsule.

[0071] Figure 1 is a front view of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 2 is a front view of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention in a state where the cover is moved upward.

[0073] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 4 is a front perspective view of the extraction unit of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of the extraction unit of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the relationship between the lifting module and the power transmission module of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the beverage device of the present invention in a separated state.

[0078] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a tray of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a tray of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the lifting module of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the combination of the lifting module of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the power transmission module of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention coupled to the lifting module.

[0083] Figures 13 and 14 are a perspective view and an exploded view of the power transmission module of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Figures 15 to 17 are cross-sectional views of the operating state of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figures 18 to 20 are cross-sectional views showing the operating state of the beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention at a different part from Figures 15 to 17.

[0086] Figures 21 to 23 are operation state diagrams for another embodiment of the beverage device of the present invention.

[0087] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. When designating components in each drawing, it should be noted that, where possible, identical components will be given the same reference numerals, even if they appear in different drawings. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present invention, if a detailed description of a related known structure or function is deemed to hinder understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0088] The attached drawings 1 and 2 are front views of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention, each showing a state in which the cover is closed or open. In addition, FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the state of the extraction unit of the beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] A beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an extraction unit (30) capable of simultaneously perforating two or more capsules (1). In particular, the extraction unit (30) is configured to simultaneously perforate a plurality of capsules (1) with a single motor, and to prevent movement of the capsules during such perforation and beverage extraction.

[0090] The beverage device of this embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0091] The beverage device of the present invention may include a base (10).

[0092] The above base (10) may be equipped with a water tank (13). The water tank (13) stores the extraction water required to extract a capsule beverage. As shown in the attached drawing 3, the water tank (13) can be attached or detached to the side of the base (10).

[0093] A pump (not shown) may be further provided within the above base (10). The pump may perform an operation of pumping the extracted water within the water tank (13) and supplying it to the extraction unit (30).

[0094] A display window (16) may be provided on the outer surface of the base (10). The display window (16) may serve to provide various information related to the operation of the beverage device or various information related to the beverage. The display window (16) may be configured to input various information for the operation of the beverage device. For example, the display window (16) may be configured as a touch panel.

[0095] An area on which a beverage cup is placed may be provided on the upper surface of the base (10). The display window (16) is formed on the upper surface of the base (10), and the area on which the beverage cup is placed may be any part of the display window (16).

[0096] Next, the beverage device of the present invention may include a support leg (20).

[0097] The above support leg (20) serves to support the extraction unit (30) to be described later so that it can be installed on the base (10). That is, the extraction unit can be installed on the base (10) by the support leg (20).

[0098] The above support legs (20) may be provided in multiple numbers, and in this case, each support leg (20) may be formed to be connected along the circumference of the extraction part (30).

[0099] Next, the beverage device of the present invention may include an extraction unit (30). A capsule (1) is mounted in the extraction unit (30), and a beverage in the capsule (1) is extracted using extraction water supplied from the water supply unit.

[0100] The above extraction unit (30) may be provided separately from the base (10) and installed on the base (10) by a support leg (20).

[0101] The extraction unit (30) forming the beverage device of the present invention may include a housing (32) forming the exterior.

[0102] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3, the housing (32) includes a frame (321), an upper housing (323) positioned above the frame (321), and a lower housing (322) positioned below the frame (321). The frame (321), the upper housing (323), and the lower housing (322) may be provided separately from each other. Although not illustrated, at least one of the upper housing (323) and the lower housing (322) may be provided as a single body with the frame (321).

[0103] The upper housing (323) is formed so that the front is open, and the lower housing (322) is formed so that the bottom is open.

[0104] The upper housing (323) may be provided with a cover (34) that opens and closes a portion of the open portion. The cover (34) is installed to be able to move up and down from the upper housing (323) and selectively opens and closes the open portion of the upper housing (323) as needed.

[0105] The cover (34) may be provided with a viewing window (344). This allows the user to accurately perceive the situation inside the upper housing (323) through the viewing window (344). For example, the user can perceive through the viewing window (344) whether the phage cap (35) is accurately pressurizing the capsule (1).

[0106] The extraction unit (30) forming the beverage device of the present invention may include a frame member (33) in which the extraction operation is performed.

[0107] The above frame member (33) can form the body of the extraction unit (30). As shown in Fig. 3, the frame member (33) is fixed within the housing (32). For example, the frame member (33) can be installed with its lower end fixed within the lower housing (322).

[0108] Figures 4 and 5 are front and rear perspective views of the extraction unit, and Figure 6 illustrates the coupling relationship between the extraction unit and the power transmission module.

[0109] As shown in these drawings, the frame member (33) can be formed to have an open front and two side walls.

[0110] A space (settlement space) in which a capsule (1) can be seated can be provided in the lower portion of the frame member (33). The seating spaces can be provided in multiple numbers. That is, multiple capsules (1) can be positioned in the frame member (33). For example, each capsule (1) can be positioned in each seating space.

[0111] Each of the above-described settling spaces may be formed to be separated from each other by a partition wall (331). The partition wall (331) is located between the two side walls of the frame member (33). Preferably, the partition wall (331) is located in the central portion between the two side walls.

[0112] A space (elevation space) in which a phage cap (35), which will be described later, can be elevated may be provided on the upper side of each settling space within the above frame member (33). The elevation space is formed to have a height sufficient to allow the phage cap (35) to completely detach from the capsule (1) placed on the tray (500).

[0113] A support protrusion (332) that supports the circumference of the phage cap (35) when the phage cap (35) moves downward may be formed on the inner lower portion of the frame member (33). As a result, the phage cap (35) can be raised and lowered in a precisely vertical direction.

[0114] As shown in Fig. 5, the upper portion of the rear surface of the frame member (33) may be formed to be open. A portion of the first link (720), which will be described later, may be exposed during operation of the first link (720) through the open portion. That is, the first link (720) may operate smoothly without interference due to the open portion.

[0115] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a mounting groove (333) is formed on the lower portion of the rear surface of the frame member (33). A motor (910) of a power transmission module (900), which will be described later, is mounted in the mounting groove (333). A coupling protrusion (334) may be formed on the upper and lower sides of the mounting groove (333), respectively. A coupling member (914), to which the motor (910) of the power transmission module (900) is coupled, may be coupled to the coupling protrusion (334).

[0116] Meanwhile, as illustrated in Fig. 7, the capsule (1) can be provided to the seating space of the frame member (33) using a tray (500). That is, the capsule (1) is provided to the seating space by passing through the open front of the frame member (33) while being mounted on the tray (500). The tray (500) can be inserted into the open portion of the upper housing (323) when the cover (34) of the housing (32) is moved upward.

[0117] The above tray (500) can be placed on a support member (335) (see Fig. 4) formed at the bottom of the frame member (33). The inner side of the support member (335) can be opened so that a beverage extracted from the capsule (1) can fall.

[0118] As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, a plurality of mounting portions (501) are formed on the tray (500). Each mounting portion (501) is formed to be open upward and downward, and a support (510) having a rupturing projection (511) is provided within each mounting portion (501). A capsule (1) is mounted on each of the supports (510), and the rupturing projection (511) functions to rupture the film (1a) sealing the capsule (1) when the capsule (1) is pressed. To this end, the capsule (1) is mounted on the support (510) of the tray (500) so that the area sealed with the film (1a) faces downward.

[0119] The above-mentioned stand (510) can be separated from the above-mentioned mounting portion (501). This makes it possible to separate and clean the stand (510). The stand (510) can be formed with a plurality of extraction holes (512) to allow the extracted beverage to flow out.

[0120] The above extraction unit (30) may be provided with a sensor (not shown) for detecting whether the tray (500) is stored. The sensor may be configured as a Hall sensor, and in order for the sensor to detect the tray (500), the tray (500) may be provided with a member (e.g., a permanent magnet) (502) that can be detected by the Hall sensor.

[0121] The extraction unit (30) forming the beverage device of the present invention may include a phage cap (35).

[0122] The above-mentioned phage cap (35) pressurizes and fixes the capsule (1) provided within the frame member (33).

[0123] The above-mentioned phage cap (35) is installed so as to be able to be lifted in the lifting space within the frame member (33). For example, the phage cap (35) is positioned on the upper side of the capsule (1) and is configured to move downwards by the operation of the lifting module (70) described later to wrap around and pressurize the capsule.

[0124] As illustrated in Fig. 10, the phage cap (35) is formed with a receiving groove (351) in which a capsule (1) is received. When the phage cap (35) moves downward by the receiving groove (351), the outer surface of the capsule (1) is pressed against the peripheral surface within the receiving groove (351). This prevents movement of the capsule (1) during beverage extraction.

[0125] The above-mentioned receiving groove (351) may be formed to be recessed upward from the bottom surface of the phage cap (35). The peripheral surface within the receiving groove (351) may be formed to have an incline having the same shape as the outer surface of the capsule (1). Accordingly, when the phage cap (35) moves downward and the capsule (1) is received within the receiving groove (351), the outer surface of the capsule (1) gradually comes into contact with the inner surface of the receiving groove (351) and can be pressurized.

[0126] The above-mentioned phage cap (35) may be configured to perforate a hole (a hole through which the extracted liquid is injected) while the capsule (1) is fixed. To this end, at least one perforation projection (355) is provided within the receiving groove (351) of the phage cap (35). The perforation projections (355) may be provided in plurality, and each of the perforation projections (355) is integrally formed into a single member and coupled to the upper surface within the receiving groove (351). The perforation projections (355) may be positioned to be offset from the center of the upper surface within the receiving groove (351) to one circumferential side. For example, a plurality of perforation projections (355) may be positioned radially from the center of the upper surface within the receiving groove (351) and perforate a hole in the circumferential portion of the upper surface of the capsule (1). As a result, since the capsule (1) has holes formed in multiple locations rather than just one location, the extracted liquid can be evenly supplied to all locations within the capsule (1). In other words, the beverage within the capsule (1) can be extracted evenly.

[0127] In addition, the perforation projection (355) may be formed to protrude downward from the upper surface within the receiving groove (351). That is, the perforation projection (355) protrudes in the upward and downward direction of the phage cap (35) and perforates a hole in the upper surface of the capsule (1) by the downward movement of the phage cap (35). Although not shown, the perforation projection (355) may also be formed to be inclined.

[0128] A cap housing (352) extending downwards may be further formed around the lower periphery of the above-mentioned phage cap (35). The cap housing (352) may be formed of a rubber material. That is, by additionally providing the cap housing (352), it is possible to prevent pressure from leaking or the extraction liquid from leaking through a gap that may occur between the inner surface of the receiving groove (351) and the outer surface of the capsule (1).

[0129] In addition, a metal cover (353) may be further provided on the outer surface of the cap housing (352). The metal cover (353) serves to prevent the cap housing (352) from being unintentionally opened by the pressure of the extraction water because it is formed of a rubber material.

[0130] The extraction unit (30) forming the beverage device of the present invention may include an elevation module (700).

[0131] The above-mentioned lifting module (700) serves to lift the above-mentioned phage cap (35).

[0132] The above-mentioned lifting module (700) receives power from the power transmission module (39) described later and operates to raise and lower the phage cap (35).

[0133] As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6 and 10 to 12, the lifting module (700) includes a first rotational shaft (710). The first rotational shaft (710) is installed at both ends so as to be rotatable on both side walls of the frame member (33). The first rotational shaft (710) may be formed to penetrate the partition wall (331) of the frame member (33).

[0134] The above-described lifting module (700) includes a first link (720). If the above-described phage caps (35) are provided in multiple numbers, the first links (720) may also be provided in multiple numbers. For example, if two phage caps (35) are provided as in the embodiment, the first links (720) may also be provided in two numbers.

[0135] The first link (720) may include a hub (721) through which the first rotation axis (710) passes, and a protrusion (722) protruding from one circumference of the hub (721). The protrusion (722) is positioned to face horizontally when the phage cap (35) moves upward, and is positioned vertically directly above the phage cap (35) when the phage cap (35) moves downward. A second rotation axis (723) is provided at the end of the protrusion (722).

[0136] The above-mentioned lifting module (700) includes a second link (730).

[0137] The second link (730) is connected at both ends to the first link (720) and the phage cap (35), and functions to raise and lower the phage cap (35) while interlocking with the operation of the first link (720). One end of the second link (730) is rotatably connected to the second rotation shaft (723) provided in the first link (720), and the other end of the second link (730) is provided at the upper end of the phage cap (35). The second links (730) may be provided in pairs. In this case, one end of the two second links (730) may be respectively connected to both ends of the second rotation shaft (723), and the other ends of the two second links (730) may be respectively connected to both upper sides of the phage cap (35).

[0138] When the first link (720) is erected to face the phage cap (35), the second link (730) is erected to face the phage cap (35) and is positioned to press downward on the phage cap (35). This allows the greatest possible pressing force to be applied to the phage cap (35), thereby enabling the capsule (1) to be smoothly perforated.

[0139] In the case of the second link (730), it can be formed in a curved shape so that the phage cap (35) can be raised and lowered in conjunction with the rotation of the first link (720). For example, as shown in the drawing of the embodiment, the second link (730) may not be formed in a straight shape, but may be formed in a curved shape with a portion bent.

[0140] The extraction unit (30) forming the beverage device of the present invention may include a power transmission module (900).

[0141] The above power transmission module (900) provides driving force for the operation of the above lifting module (700).

[0142] As shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 12 to FIG. 14, the power transmission module (900) includes a motor (910) and a power transmission member that transmits the driving force of the motor (910).

[0143] The above motor (910) may be formed as a step motor capable of forward and reverse driving. The motor (910) may include a reduction gear (911). The motor (910) may be positioned at the lower portion of the rear of the frame member (33). This arrangement structure allows the motor (910) to be positioned at the lowest possible portion of the extraction unit (30), thereby lowering the center of gravity of the extraction unit (30). That is, in the case of the beverage device of the present invention, since the extraction unit (30) is structured to be supported by the support leg (20) while being spaced apart from the base unit (10), the higher the center of gravity of the extraction unit (30) is positioned, the greater the possibility of overturning or shaking during pressurization or perforation. Considering this, the center of gravity of the extraction unit (30) is lowered as much as possible by the arrangement of the above motor (910), thereby enabling the phage cap (35) to smoothly pressurize or perforate the capsule (1).

[0144] The power transmission member may be formed in various ways, such as gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925), belts, links, etc. In the embodiment of the present invention, the power transmission member is provided as a plurality of gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925). That is, by transmitting power to a plurality of gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925), even if the capsule pressure of the extraction unit (30) becomes very high during beverage extraction, the first rotation shaft (710) can be prevented from shaking by the engagement between the gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925).

[0145] The above gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925) may include a main gear (913) installed on the motor shaft (912) of the motor (910), and a driven gear (921, 922, 923, 924) that receives the driving force of the main gear (913) and rotates the first rotation shaft (710). The driven gears (921, 922, 923, 924) may be provided in plurality. Preferably, three or more driven gears may be provided.

[0146] Among these plurality of driven gears (921, 922, 923, 924), one driven gear (first driven gear) (921) meshes with the main gear (913) and receives power. Another driven gear (second driven gear) (922) among the plurality of driven gears (921, 922, 923, 924) meshes with the linkage gear (925) provided on the first rotation shaft (710) and transmits power. At least one other driven gear (923, 924) is arranged between the first driven gear (921) and the second driven gear (922) and serves to prevent movement while maintaining the meshing state with the first driven gear (921) or the second driven gear (922). This is as illustrated in the attached Fig. 9.

[0147] The power transmission module (700) may further include a gear housing (930) that covers each of the gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925). That is, by additionally providing the gear housing (930), each of the gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925) can form a single module. This has the advantage of being easy to maintain, as when a malfunction occurs in any one of the gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925), only the gear housing (930) in which the plurality of gears are built needs to be replaced.

[0148] When the gear housing (930) is provided, each of the gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925) can be rotatably installed in the gear housing (930) and maintained in a state of interlocking with each other. The gear housing (930) is formed so that one side is open, and this open side can be formed so as to cover a part of the side wall of the frame member (33). That is, a part of the side wall of the frame member (33) serves as a cover that covers the open side of the gear housing (930). This is as illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14.

[0149] Below, the operation of the beverage device according to the embodiment of the present invention described above is described with reference to the attached FIGS. 15 to 20.

[0150] First, preparations for beverage extraction are made. That is, the beverage cup is placed on the lower part of the extraction unit (30) on the upper surface of the base (10), and the capsule (1) to be extracted is provided to the extraction unit (30) of the beverage device of the present invention.

[0151] In order to provide a capsule (1) to the above extraction unit (30), the user takes out the tray (500) and provides the capsule (1) to be extracted to the tray (500).

[0152] The above tray (500) is exposed to the outside by moving the cover (34) of the extraction unit (30) upward and then taken out.

[0153] The capsule (1) is placed on a support (510) provided in each of the placement sections (501) of the extracted tray (500). At this time, the capsule (1) is placed so that its film (1a) faces the support section (510). Afterwards, the tray (500) is inserted into the extraction section (30) and the cover (34) is closed, thereby completing preparation for beverage extraction.

[0154] When the above preparation is completed and an operation (or control) for beverage extraction occurs, the motor (910) of the power transmission module (900) is driven and its motor shaft (912) and the main gear (913) provided to the motor shaft (912) are rotated. The driving force generated by the driving of the motor (910) provides a set speed or a set torque by the reduction gear (911). In addition, the rotation of the motor shaft (912) and the main gear (913) causes the driven gear (921) of the power transmission module (900) meshed with the main gear (913) and other driven gears (922, 923, 924) meshed with the driven gear (921) to be sequentially rotated. Accordingly, the first rotation shaft (710) rotates as the linkage gear (925) meshed with the last driven gear (924) operates.

[0155] When the first rotation shaft (710) is rotated, the two first links (720) are rotated. As a result, the protrusions (722) of each first link (720) are gradually rotated in an upright direction. For example, when the motor (910) is driven as shown in the attached FIGS. 15 to 20, the first link (720) is rotated counterclockwise and gradually faces a vertical direction. At this time, FIGS. 15 to 17 and FIGS. 18 to 20 are respective operation state diagrams showing the same state in cross-section at different parts.

[0156] When the first link (720) rotates, the second link (730) also rotates. The second link (730) operates to gradually move the grip cap (35) downward as the rotation of the first link (720) progresses. In addition, when the first link (720) faces a vertical direction, the second link (730) also becomes vertically erected and presses the grip cap (35) from top to bottom.

[0157] Accordingly, the two phage caps (35) positioned on the frame member (33) are positioned to cover the two capsules (1) placed on the tray (500), respectively, and are gradually pressurized while simultaneously perforating a hole in the upper surface of the capsule (1).

[0158] Thereafter, the pump is operated under the control of the control unit (80) to pump the extracted water in the water tank (13) and supply it to each phage cap (35). Then, the extracted water is supplied into the capsule (1) through the hole formed in the capsule (1) in each phage cap (35). In this process, the film (1a) of the capsule (1) is torn by the pressure of the extracted water and the rupture protrusion (522), and the extracted beverage is discharged. Thereafter, the extracted beverage passes through each extraction hole (512) formed in the stand (510) and falls downward to be poured into a beverage cup.

[0159] Ultimately, since the beverage device of the present invention grips the capsule (1) while the phage cap (35) is raised and lowered from the upper side of the capsule (1), sufficient pressure can be provided to the capsule (1) even with a small force.

[0160] In addition, since the beverage device of the present invention has the same direction in which the capsule (1) is fixed and the direction in which the hole is perforated by the lifting and lowering phage cap (35), the capsule (1) can be stably fixed while the hole is being perforated in the capsule (1).

[0161] In addition, since the beverage device of the present invention is configured to raise and lower the phage cap (35) using a rotation shaft (710) and a plurality of links (720, 730), the structure for raising and lowering the phage cap (35) is simple, making maintenance easy.

[0162] In addition, since the beverage device of the present invention can pressurize the phage cap (35) while the first link (720) and the second link (730) are vertically arranged, the phage cap (35) can provide sufficient pressing force when perforating a hole in the capsule (1).

[0163] In addition, since the beverage device of the present invention provides a plurality of capsule seating spaces in the frame member (33) and a phage cap (35) is provided in each capsule seating space, beverage extraction for a plurality of capsules (1) can be performed simultaneously.

[0164] In addition, since the beverage device of the present invention has a plurality of phage caps (35) that are operated simultaneously by one first rotation shaft (710), the structure for power transmission can be simplified.

[0165] In addition, since the beverage device of the present invention transmits power to a plurality of gears (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925), the phage cap (35) can stably pressurize the capsule (1) while perforating the capsule (1).

[0166] In addition, the beverage device of the present invention can be easily maintained because each gear (913, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925) is modularized by being coupled to a gear housing (930).

[0167] Meanwhile, the beverage device of the present invention may be modified into various structures or additionally provided with various structures. For example, various structures may be provided to prevent movement of each link (720, 730) during the perforation operation of the capsule (1).

[0168] As an example, a tension member (740) may be further provided to enable the first link (720) and the second link (730) to be fixed at a set position, as shown in FIGS. 10, 16, 18, and 20.

[0169] The tension member (740) may be formed as a coil-shaped spring that is positioned within the first link (720) and provides elastic restoring force in the protrusion direction of the protrusion (722) while pressing the second rotation axis (723). That is, since the tension member (740) is installed to press the second rotation axis (723), the second link (730) is prevented from undesirably moving (or rotating) when the first link (720) is positioned horizontally or vertically.

[0170] The tension member (740) above can be configured to have its tension adjusted. That is, by adjusting the tension of the tension member (740), the two links (720, 730) are stably fixed at a specific point, but when the two links (720, 730) move away from the point, they can stably move to another point.

[0171] To this end, the first link (720) may be provided with an adjustment bolt (742) for adjusting the tension of the tension member (740). The adjustment bolt (742) can adjust the tension of the tension member (740) by moving the pressure ring (741) provided between the tension member (740) and the first rotation shaft (710) back and forth. That is, by manipulating the adjustment bolt (742), the pressure ring (741) moves forward to further compress the tension member (740), or moves backward to release the pressure of the tension member (740), thereby adjusting the tension of the tension member (740). The above adjustment bolt (742) may be formed as a bolt, and the hub (721) of the first link (720) may be formed with an adjustment groove (724) into which a tool for adjusting the adjustment bolt (742) can be inserted, along with the adjustment bolt (742) being installed through it.

[0172] As another example, as shown in the attached drawings 21 to 23, a skirt (725) may be further formed on the first link (720) constituting the lifting module (700), and a gripping member (750) for gripping the skirt (725) may be provided on the lifting module (700). That is, rotation of the first link (720) may be prevented during the process in which the gripping cap (35) presses the capsule (1) by the skirt (725) and the gripping member (750).

[0173] To this end, the skirt (725) is formed on the outer surface of the protrusion (722) of the first link (720). Specifically, the skirt (725) is formed to flare outward toward the end of the protrusion (722). The gripping member (750) may be formed to engage with and grip the skirt (725) when the protrusion (722) is positioned toward the gripping cap (35). That is, while the gripping cap (35) covers and presses the capsule (1), the gripping member (750) supports the end of the skirt (725) to prevent excessive rotation and to prevent the protrusion (first link) (722) from shaking when extracting a beverage. The gripping member (750) may be configured to rotate opposite to the first rotation shaft (710) by driving the power transmission module (900). For example, the above-mentioned grip member (750) may be configured to operate together while being coupled to the shaft of one of the driven gears (922) among the respective driven gears (921, 922, 923, 924) forming the power transmission module (900).

[0174] The grip member (750) may be formed with a grip projection (751) that grips the end of the skirt (725). The end of the skirt (725) and the end of the grip projection (751) may be bent to engage with each other. Thus, when the end of the skirt (725) and the end of the grip projection (751) engage with each other, unwanted rotation of the first link (720) can be prevented.

[0175] In this way, the beverage device of the present invention can enable a beverage to be extracted stably by additionally providing various structures.

[0176] Although all components constituting the embodiments of the present invention have been described above as being combined or operating in combination, the present invention is not necessarily limited to these embodiments. That is, within the scope of the purpose of the present invention, all components may be selectively combined and operated one or more times. In addition, terms such as "include," "comprise," or "have" described above, unless specifically stated to the contrary, mean that the corresponding component may be inherent, and therefore should be interpreted as including other components rather than excluding other components. All terms, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains, unless otherwise defined. Commonly used terms, such as terms defined in a dictionary, should be interpreted as being consistent with the contextual meaning of the related technology, and shall not be interpreted in an ideal or excessively formal sense, unless explicitly defined in the present invention.

Claims

1. A frame member having two side walls, an open bottom, and a capsule positioned on the inside; A phage cap that is installed so as to be liftable on the upper side of the capsule within the above frame member, pressurizes and perforates the capsule, and supplies extraction water into the capsule; An elevating module installed on the above frame member to elevate the above-mentioned phage cap; A power transmission module is installed on the above frame member and provides driving force to operate the lifting module by receiving power; The above power transmission module, A motor installed on one side of the above frame member to provide driving force, A beverage device including a gear that transmits the driving force of the above motor to the above lifting module.

2. In paragraph 1, A beverage device in which the front of the above frame member is formed to be open so that capsules can be inserted or removed.

3. In paragraph 1, A beverage device in which the inner surface of the above-mentioned phage cap is provided with a perforation projection for perforating a hole in the above-mentioned capsule.

4. In paragraph 1, The above lifting module, A first rotation axis, which is installed so that both ends can rotate on both side walls of the above frame member, A first link coupled to the first rotation axis, A beverage device including a second link, the first end of which is connected to the first link and the other end of which is connected to the phage cap.

5. In paragraph 4, The first link includes a hub through which the first rotation axis passes, and a protrusion protruding from one circumference of the hub, A beverage device characterized in that one end of the second link is connected to the protrusion.

6. In paragraph 5, A beverage device characterized in that when the protrusion of the first link is erected so as to face the phage cap, the second link is erected so as to face the phage cap and pressurizes the phage cap downward.

7. In paragraph 5, A second rotation axis is provided at the end of the above protrusion, A beverage device characterized in that one end of the second link is rotatably connected to the second rotation axis.

8. In paragraph 5, A beverage device characterized in that the first link is provided with a tension member that presses the second rotation axis while providing elastic restoring force in the protrusion direction of the protrusion.

9. In paragraph 8, A beverage device characterized in that the first link is provided with an adjustment bolt for adjusting the tension of the tension member.

10. In paragraph 5, The above second link is provided in two pieces, A beverage device characterized in that the two second links are connected at one end to each of the two side walls of the protrusion, and the other end is rotatably connected at each of the two upper ends of the phage cap.

11. In paragraph 4, A skirt provided on the first link and formed to spread outward toward the end of the first link, A beverage device including a gripping member that grips the skirt while being operated by the power transmission module.

12. In paragraph 11, A beverage device characterized in that the above gripping member is formed to grip the skirt when the protrusion is positioned so as to face the gripping cap.

13. In paragraph 11, A beverage device characterized in that the above-mentioned grip member is formed to be engaged with the skirt while rotating opposite to the first rotation axis.

14. In paragraph 1, A beverage device characterized in that the above gear is located on one side outer wall of the above frame member.

15. In paragraph 14, The above gear is a main gear installed on the motor shaft of the above motor, A beverage device including a plurality of driven gears, one of which is engaged with the main gear to receive power and the other of which is engaged with the lifting module to operate.

16. In paragraph 15, A beverage device further comprising a gear housing in which each of the above gears is installed.

17. A frame member providing a plurality of capsule seating spaces in which capsules are each positioned; A plurality of phage caps positioned above each capsule among the above capsule settling spaces and raised toward the capsule to pressurize and perforate the capsule; A first rotation axis having both ends rotatably installed on the upper two side walls of the above frame member; A plurality of links coupled to the first rotation axis and lifting and lowering each of the phage caps while being linked to the operation of the first rotation axis; A motor installed on one circumference of the above frame member and providing driving force for driving the first rotation axis; A beverage device comprising a plurality of gears provided on one side of the frame member and transmitting the driving force of the motor to the first rotation shaft.

18. In paragraph 17, A beverage device characterized in that each of the above gears is rotatably installed and further includes a gear housing to which the motor is coupled.

19. In paragraph 18, A beverage device characterized in that the above motor is installed at a lower portion of the circumference of the above frame member.

20. In paragraph 17, The above plurality of gears are, A main gear provided on the motor shaft of the above motor, A linkage gear provided on the first rotation axis, A beverage device including a plurality of driven gears that are provided in a plurality from the motor shaft to the first rotation shaft and rotate while interlocking with each other.

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