Capsule beverage device and control method thereof

Abstract

The present invention provides a capsule beverage device comprising a structure for determining that a capsule is mounted somewhere other than an extraction part at a set position, among a plurality of extraction parts, and providing guidance such that a user recognizes the situation. Accordingly, unnecessary discharge of extraction water can be prevented or minimized, and capsule wastage can be prevented.

Description

Capsule beverage device and its control method

[0001] The present invention relates to a capsule beverage device that can be equipped with a plurality of capsules and for extracting a beverage contained in the capsules.

[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] Regarding devices for extracting beverages using capsules, various patents are provided, including Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2015-0017541, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0040026, Korean Patent Registration No. 10-0924447, Korean Patent Registration No. 10-1260504, and Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0000496.

[0004] Meanwhile, the aforementioned conventional technologies are designed to extract only one beverage from a single capsule. Therefore, these technologies can only extract a specific type of beverage, and cannot selectively provide a variety of blended beverages or multiple beverages according to the user's preference.

[0005] Accordingly, a beverage extraction device that selectively extracts a beverage by being equipped with multiple capsules has been provided, as described in Korean Patent No. 10-1284550 (Prior Document 1).

[0006] This prior art document 1 is a technology that enables hot water to dissolve or brew in a capsule for a sufficient period of time when extracting a capsule beverage.

[0007] To this end, the above-mentioned prior art document 1 provides a plurality of trays on which each capsule is placed, a plurality of punches for making holes in the capsules placed in each tray and supplying hot water, and a plurality of discharge paths for discharging beverages extracted from the capsules placed in each tray.

[0008] Meanwhile, in the case of a technology in which multiple trays are provided, such as in the above-mentioned prior art document 1, the control must be configured to be performed differently in the case where capsules are mounted on all of the multiple trays, in the case where capsules are mounted on only at least one of the multiple trays, and in the case where capsules are not mounted on all of the multiple trays.

[0009] However, in the case of the above-mentioned prior art document 1, a technology for extracting a beverage by mounting a capsule on only one tray is not provided. As a result, cases occurred in which only hot water was discharged without the beverage being extracted, or in which a hole was formed in the capsule by the punch despite the hot water not being supplied, resulting in unwanted wastage of the capsule.

[0010] Of course, to prevent the aforementioned problems, a sensor may be provided to detect the installation of the capsule. For example, as disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2015-0135402, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0094277, and Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0095858, a sensor may be provided that recognizes the capsule itself or reads and recognizes symbols (e.g., barcodes) printed on the capsule.

[0011] However, the structure that detects the loading of capsules in each tray using the aforementioned sensor has a disadvantage in that the product price inevitably increases due to the provision of the above sensor.

[0012] In particular, in order to detect a capsule with the sensor, a space for mounting the sensor and a space for the sensor to detect the capsule must be secured, which causes a problem of an increase in the product size.

[0013] The present invention has been devised to solve various problems according to the above-mentioned conventional technology, and the purpose of the present invention is to enable selective extraction of a plurality of capsule beverages.

[0014] In addition, an object of the present invention is to enable accurate recognition of the presence of a capsule without providing a separate sensor.

[0015] Additionally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a response when a beverage extraction operation occurs even though there is no capsule.

[0016] Additionally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a response in case the capsule is mounted in the wrong position.

[0017] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, a structure for determining that a capsule is mounted in a location other than a set location among a plurality of extraction locations can be provided.

[0018] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a structure can be provided to guide the user to recognize when a capsule is installed in a non-standard position among a plurality of extraction units.

[0019] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, information on the flow rate of the extracted water can be used to determine whether a capsule is mounted in a non-standard position among a plurality of extraction units.

[0020] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, power or pressure information of the water supply unit can be used to determine whether a capsule is mounted in a non-standard position among the plurality of extraction units.

[0021] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, visual or auditory means may be provided to guide that a capsule is mounted in a non-standard position among the plurality of extraction units.

[0022] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, one of the operating parts of the capsule beverage device can be operated to guide the installation of a capsule in a non-standard position among the plurality of extraction parts.

[0023] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, the main flow path may include a flow rate measuring unit that measures the flow rate or flow velocity of the extracted water supplied along the main flow path.

[0024] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, the control unit can determine whether a capsule is mounted in each extraction unit based on the flow rate or flow velocity measured by the flow rate measuring unit.

[0025] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, the control unit can determine whether a capsule is installed in each extraction unit based on a change in the load of the water supply unit during operation of the water supply unit.

[0026] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, whether a capsule is installed or not can be guided by a notification unit.

[0027] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, the notification unit may include a display window that provides information in the form of letters or pictures.

[0028] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, the notification unit may include a speaker that provides a warning sound or sound.

[0029] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, the notification unit may include a light-emitting module that emits light.

[0030] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, the notification unit may include any one operating part of the capsule beverage device.

[0031] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a plurality of extraction units in which capsules are mounted for beverage extraction may be provided.

[0032] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, each extraction unit can perforate a capsule by a separate perforation means.

[0033] According to the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a water supply unit for supplying extraction water to any one of the extraction units may be included.

[0034] And, according to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned purpose, a method for determining that a capsule is mounted in a location other than an extraction location among a plurality of extraction locations can be provided.

[0035] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a method for guiding a user to recognize when a capsule is installed in a non-standard position among a plurality of extraction units can be provided.

[0036] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a first step of supplying extraction water along the main flow path by driving the water supply unit when the start condition for beverage extraction is satisfied may be included.

[0037] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a second step of controlling a flow path opening / closing part so that the extracted water supplied along the main flow path flows to a predetermined extraction part may be included.

[0038] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a third step of determining whether a capsule is installed in the corresponding extraction unit may be included based on information that changes according to the flow rate or pressure of the extraction water supplied along the main flow path.

[0039] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a process of determining that a capsule is not installed may be included when the water supply unit is operated at a set pressure and the flow rate or flow velocity measured by the flow rate measuring unit exceeds a set value.

[0040] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, the process of operating the water supply unit at a set pressure to determine whether a capsule is installed can be performed for a set time.

[0041] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, the set time can be shorter than the time for beverage extraction.

[0042] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a process of determining that a capsule is not installed may be included if the time until the extracted water pumped by the water supply unit reaches a set pressure exceeds a set time.

[0043] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a process of determining that a capsule is installed may be included when a load change according to the operation of the water supply unit exceeds a preset load change value.

[0044] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a process of stopping the operation of the water supply unit may be included when it is determined that a capsule is not mounted in the extraction unit.

[0045] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a process of operating a flow opening / closing unit to control the flow of extracted water to another extraction unit may be included when it is determined that a capsule is not mounted in the extraction unit.

[0046] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, a step of guiding the user as to whether or not to install a capsule may be included.

[0047] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, guidance can be performed by at least one of LED lighting, display through a display window, voice or sound output, operation for a certain movement part, and guidance through an application of a terminal designated by the user.

[0048] According to the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, guidance can be performed when it is determined that no capsule is mounted in the corresponding extraction unit.

[0049] As described above, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention can accurately detect and provide guidance on the misposition of a capsule when extracting beverage from only one capsule in a structure in which multiple extraction units are provided. Accordingly, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention can prevent or minimize the discharge of unnecessary extraction water.

[0050] Furthermore, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention can detect capsule misposition without providing a separate sensor when extracting beverage from only one capsule. Therefore, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention can prevent an increase in product size and manufacturing cost due to the provision of a sensor.

[0051] In addition, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention stops the operation of the pump and provides guidance or notification to the user when it is determined that the capsule is not in the correct position. Accordingly, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention enable the user to perform desired control when the capsule is not installed in the correct position.

[0052] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figures 3 and 4 are front views of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 6 is an internal state diagram of the base module of the beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of a tray of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention with a capsule mounted on the tray.

[0059] Figure 9 is a flowchart for explaining the control process of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figures 10 and 11 are state diagrams showing the state in which the extraction water is provided to the first extraction unit during the control process of the beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing a control process when a capsule is mounted in a second extraction unit during the control process of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figures 13 and 14 are state diagrams showing the state in which the extraction water is provided to the second extraction unit during the control process of the beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] 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 are 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.

[0064] The present invention relates to a beverage device capable of blending two or more capsule beverages and a control method thereof.

[0065] A beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention is a beverage device that uses a capsule (11, 12).

[0066] The attached drawing 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a beverage device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] As illustrated in the drawing, the beverage device according to the embodiment of the present invention is provided with a plurality of extraction units (201, 202) in which capsules (11, 12) are mounted, and when an extraction operation occurs with a capsule provided in only one of the plurality of extraction units (201, 202), it is possible to confirm and guide that the capsule is not mounted in the set position. This reduces unnecessary waste of extraction water or capsules.

[0068] The capsule beverage device of this embodiment of the present invention is described by each component.

[0069] First, the capsule beverage device of the present invention includes a main channel (51).

[0070] The above main flow path (51) is a flow path that guides the supply of extraction water for beverage extraction.

[0071] The above main flow path (51) may be connected to a separate flow path in which the extraction water is stored or supplied. For example, the main flow path (51) may be connected to a water storage tank (57a) in which the extraction water is stored.

[0072] Meanwhile, a flow measurement unit (53) may be provided in the main flow path.

[0073] The above flow rate measuring unit (53) may be formed as a flow meter that measures the flow rate or flow velocity of the extracted water supplied along the main flow path (51).

[0074] Additionally, a heating unit (54) may be provided in the main channel (51).

[0075] The above heating unit (54) heats the extraction water flowing along the main channel (51) to a set temperature.

[0076] The heating unit (54) may be formed to heat the main channel (51) or directly heat the extraction water within the main channel (51). For example, the heating unit (54) may be formed as a chamber (boiler) structure having a built-in heater (omitted from the drawing) through which a portion of the main channel (51) passes.

[0077] Although not shown, the heating part (54) may be formed as a coil heater that winds around one outer surface of the main channel (51) or may be formed as an electric heater (e.g., a sheath heater, etc.) that is inserted into one inner surface of the main channel (51).

[0078] Although not shown, the main flow may additionally be provided with a cooling unit (not shown) to lower the temperature of the extraction water provided to each extraction unit (201, 202).

[0079] Next, the capsule beverage device of the present invention includes an extraction unit (201, 202).

[0080] The above extraction part (201, 202) can be formed to provide a mounting portion where a capsule (11, 12) is mounted.

[0081] In addition, the above extraction unit (201, 202) can be formed so that the beverage in the capsule (11, 12) mounted on the above mounting portion is extracted with the extraction water supplied from the main channel (51).

[0082] In particular, the above extraction units (201, 202) may be provided in multiples. For example, the above extraction units (201, 202) may include a first extraction unit (201) in which one capsule (11) is mounted and a beverage is extracted, and a second extraction unit (202) in which another capsule (12) is mounted and a beverage is extracted.

[0083] Each of the above extraction units (201, 202) can be formed to provide a separate extraction space. This allows a beverage to be extracted sequentially or simultaneously with a plurality of capsules (11, 12) mounted in each extraction unit (201, 202).

[0084] Meanwhile, each of the above extraction units (201, 202) is provided with an outlet (201a, 202a). Thus, the beverage supplied into each of the above extraction units (201, 202) and extracted while passing through each of the capsules (11, 12) can be discharged through each of the above extraction units (201a, 202a).

[0085] The outlets (201a, 202a) of each of the above extraction units (201, 202) can be configured to discharge the extracted beverage through a single guide tube (203). That is, the beverage extracted from the first capsule (11) while passing through the first extraction unit (201) and the beverage extracted from the second capsule (12) while passing through the second extraction unit (202) can be sequentially provided to the same beverage cup (2) through the guide tube (203).

[0086] The above guide tube (203) may be provided as a single unit. That is, beverages extracted from each extraction unit (201, 202) may be sequentially placed in a single beverage cup (2) through the single guide tube (203) and blended. Although not shown, the above guide tubes (203) may be provided in multiple units. For example, the above guide tubes (203) may be provided in two units and positioned adjacent to each other.

[0087] In addition, each of the above extraction parts (201, 202) may be formed with the same structure, shape or size, but may also be formed with different structures, shapes or sizes.

[0088] For example, although not shown, the first extraction unit (201) and the second extraction unit (202) may be formed so that different types of capsules are each mounted to extract beverages.

[0089] Next, the capsule beverage device of the present invention includes a branch channel (55a, 55b).

[0090] The above branch flow path (55a, 55b) is a flow path formed to branch from the main flow path (51).

[0091] These branch channels (55a, 55b) can be formed to branch and supply the extracted water supplied along the main channel (51) to each of the extraction units (201, 202).

[0092] To this end, the branch flow paths (55a, 55b) may include a first branch flow path (55a) branched to guide the extraction water supplied along the main flow path (51) to the first extraction unit (201), and a second branch flow path (55b) branched to guide the extraction water supplied along the main flow path (51) to the second extraction unit (202).

[0093] Next, the capsule beverage device of the present invention may include a euro opening / closing part (56).

[0094] The above-mentioned flow opening (56) is provided to selectively block the flow of the extraction water supplied to each extraction unit (201, 202). That is, the flow opening (56) can be defined as selectively blocking the flow of the extraction water to each extraction unit (201, 202).

[0095] The above-mentioned euro opening / closing part (56) can be formed to open / close the euro by electronic control. For example, the above-mentioned euro opening / closing part (56) can be formed as a solenoid valve.

[0096] In particular, the flow opening / closing part (56) may be formed to control the flow direction of the extraction water. For example, the flow opening / closing part (56) may be formed as a three-way valve. In this case, the flow opening / closing part (56) may be provided at a connection portion between the main flow path (51) and each branch flow path (55a, 55b). That is, the extraction water flowing along the main flow path (51) may be provided to the first branch flow path (55a) or the second branch flow path (55b) by the operation of the flow opening / closing part (56).

[0097] Although not shown, the above-described flow path opening and closing unit (56) may be provided in multiple numbers. For example, one flow path opening and closing unit may be provided in the first branch flow path (55a) to open and close the corresponding flow path, and another flow path opening and closing unit may be provided in the second branch flow path (55b) to open and close the corresponding flow path.

[0098] Next, the capsule beverage device of the present invention may include a water supply unit (57).

[0099] The above water supply unit (57) serves to supply extraction water for extracting beverages from capsules (11, 12). The extraction water may be water, but may also be a liquid other than water or steam.

[0100] This water supply unit (57) may include a water storage tank (57a) in which extracted water is stored and a pump (57b). That is, the water supply unit (57) may pump extracted water (e.g., water) stored in the water storage tank (57a) by using the pump (57b) and supply it along the main flow path.

[0101] The above pump (57b) may be provided as a pump capable of controlling the extraction pressure. As an example, the pump (57b) may be provided as a variable displacement pump.

[0102] Although not shown, the water supply unit (57) may be directly connected to a tap or water purifier without using a water storage tank (57a) or a pump (57b). In this case, the extracted water supplied from the water supply unit (57) may be tap water or purified water.

[0103] Next, the capsule beverage device of the present invention may include a control unit (58).

[0104] The above control unit (58) can be defined as a controller that controls the operation of the capsule beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] The above control unit (58) can control the water supply unit (57). That is, the water supply unit (57) can adjust the supply amount of extraction water under the control of the control unit (58).

[0106] The above control unit (58) can control the heating unit (54) or the cooling unit (omitted in the drawing). That is, the extraction water flowing along the main channel (51) can be heated or cooled to a set temperature by the operation of the heating unit (54) or cooling unit under the control of the control unit (58).

[0107] The above control unit (58) can control the flow opening / closing unit (56). That is, the flow opening / closing unit (56) is operated under the control of the control unit (58) so that the extraction water flows to the first extraction unit (201) or the second extraction unit (202). At this time, the control unit (58) can control the opening time or the blocking time for each flow of the flow opening / closing unit (56), thereby adjusting the time at which the extraction water is supplied to the first auxiliary flow path (55a) or the second auxiliary flow path (55b).

[0108] In particular, the control unit (58) is set to control the first extraction unit (201) to be given priority over the second extraction unit (202) when extracting a beverage. That is, when an operation control for beverage extraction occurs, the extraction water can be set to be supplied preferentially to the first extraction unit (201).

[0109] Meanwhile, the control unit (58) of the capsule beverage device of the present invention can be configured to determine whether a capsule is installed in each extraction unit (201, 202) using various components provided in the past without using a sensor.

[0110] That is, when providing a sensor that detects the installation of a capsule (11, 12), not only does the manufacturing cost increase, but additional space must be provided for the installation of the sensor. Taking this into consideration, the control unit (58) is designed to be able to determine whether a capsule is installed in each extraction unit (201, 202) by using each component that makes up the capsule beverage device.

[0111] As an example, the control unit (58) can determine whether a capsule (11, 12) is mounted on each extraction unit (201, 202) based on the flow rate or flow velocity measured by the flow rate measurement unit (53).

[0112] That is, the control unit (58) determines that the capsule (11, 12) is mounted when the flow rate or flow rate decreases or the flow rate becomes slower after a set time has elapsed (second time point) after the pump (57b) is operated than the flow rate or flow rate at the time the pump (57b) is operated (first time point).

[0113] If the flow rate or flow velocity remains the same even when reaching the second point in time after a set period of time has elapsed from the first point in time, it is determined that the capsule (11, 12) is not mounted on the corresponding extraction unit (201, 202). At this time, the pump (57b) can be controlled to operate with the same load from the first point in time to the second point in time.

[0114] As another example, the control unit (58) can determine whether a capsule (11, 12) is mounted in each extraction unit (201, 202) by checking the load change of the water supply unit (57) when the water supply unit (57) is in operation or by checking the pressure of the extraction water.

[0115] That is, when the pump (57b) of the water supply unit (57) is operated with a preset load and the load of the pump (57b) exceeds the preset value (set load change value), it is determined that the capsule (11, 12) is installed. This is because, if the capsule (11, 12) is installed in the extraction unit (201, 202), the pressure gradually increases due to the contents within the capsule (11, 12) in the process of the extraction water supplied to the extraction unit (201, 202) passing through the capsule (11, 12), and thus the load of the pump (57b) that pumps the extraction water gradually increases.

[0116] If, while the pump (57b) is in operation, no change in the pressure of the extracted water occurs and thus no change in the load of the pump (57b) occurs, it is determined that the capsule (11, 12) is not mounted on the extraction unit (201, 202).

[0117] The presence or absence of the above load fluctuation can be confirmed when a preset time has elapsed from the time the pump (57b) is operated. In this case, the preset time may be shorter than the time required for beverage extraction. In other words, the presence or absence of the capsule (11, 12) is determined before beverage extraction is completed.

[0118] Meanwhile, the capsule beverage device of the present invention may further be provided with a notification unit (59).

[0119] The above notification unit (59) may be provided to notify whether the capsule is mounted as determined by the control unit (58).

[0120] This notification unit (59) may include at least one of a display window (103) that provides information in the form of letters or pictures, a speaker (not shown) that provides a warning sound or sound (voice or melody, etc.), and a light-emitting module (not shown) that emits light. In this case, the light-emitting module may be, for example, an LED lamp.

[0121] The attached drawings 2 to 8 illustrate an exemplary state in which the capsule beverage device of the present invention described above is commercialized.

[0122] The structure of one example of the capsule beverage device of the present invention is briefly described as follows.

[0123] The capsule beverage device of the present invention can be composed of a base module (100) and an extraction module (200) as shown in FIGS. 2 to 5.

[0124] As shown in Fig. 6, the base module (100) may be provided with a water supply unit (57), a flow opening / closing unit (56), and a control unit (58), and the extraction module (200) may be provided with a plurality of extraction units (201, 202).

[0125] The above base module (100) can be formed into a box-shaped structure to provide a space in which the water supply unit (57), the flow opening / closing unit (56), and the control unit (58) are installed inside.

[0126] An operation button (101) for operating the operation of the capsule beverage device may be provided on the upper surface of the base module (100), and a water storage tank (57a) forming a water supply unit (57) may be installed so as to be retractable to the side of the base module (100).

[0127] A communication module (not shown) may be additionally provided within the above base module (100). The communication module may be defined as a module for wireless communication that receives data for remote control of the control unit (58) wirelessly. At this time, the communication module may be, for example, communicatively connected to an online service server (301) or to a user's wireless terminal (302). Of course, the communication module may also be communicatively connected to a home network or other home appliances provided in the home, and transmit and receive data for remote control.

[0128] The above extraction module (200) may be formed separately from the base module (100) and provided to be positioned on the upper side of the base module (100) by a connecting member. Here, the connecting member (102) may be provided in multiple numbers and may serve to support the extraction module (200) so that it remains mounted on the base module (100).

[0129] As shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the extraction module (200) may include a frame (203) forming an inner body, a lower housing (204) forming a lower body, and an upper housing (205) forming an upper body.

[0130] A plurality of extraction units (201, 202) are provided within the extraction module (200), and capsules can be provided to each of the extraction units (201, 202).

[0131] The above capsules (11, 12) may be placed on a tray (13) and provided to each extraction unit (201, 202), and each extraction unit (201, 202) may include a phage cap (201b, 202b) that covers each of the capsules (11, 12) placed on the tray (13) and forms a sealed space.

[0132] The above tray (13) may be provided as one, and the above phage caps (201b, 202b) may be provided in multiples. For example, two capsules (11, 12) may be mounted side by side on one tray (13), and the phage caps (201b, 202b) may be provided in two so as to cover each of the capsules (11, 12).

[0133] Although not shown, both the tray (13) and the phage cap (201b, 202b) may be provided in multiples and provided to each extraction section (201, 202).

[0134] As shown in Fig. 2, the tray (13) is formed to be selectively stored within the frame (203) forming the extraction module (200).

[0135] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the portion of the tray (13) where the capsules (11, 12) are placed is formed to be open upward and downward, and a support (510) having a rupture projection (511) is provided on the portion where the capsules (11, 12) are placed. The rupture projection (511) has the function of rupturing the film (11a, 12a) of the capsules (11, 12) placed on the support (510).

[0136] The above tray (13) can be stored in the frame (203) by manual operation of the user. Of course, the tray (13) can also be configured to be automatically stored in or taken out of the frame (203).

[0137] The phage caps (201b, 202b) of the above extraction units (201, 202) are mounted within the upper housing (204) forming the extraction module (200). At this time, one perimeter of the frame (203) is formed to be open so that the tray (13) can be accommodated.

[0138] The connecting member (102) is connected to the lower housing (205), and the frame (203) is maintained in a fixed state to the lower housing (205).

[0139] The upper housing (204) may be formed to open or close the portion where the tray (13) is stored as it is raised or lowered from the frame (203). At this time, the two phage caps (201b, 202b) mounted on the upper housing (204) are formed to simultaneously cover the two capsules (11, 12) placed on the tray (13) as they are raised and lowered together with the upper housing (204).

[0140] Each of the above-described phage caps (201b, 202b) may be configured to be lifted and lowered by a separate operation module (60) within the upper housing (204). At this time, the two phage caps (201b, 202b) may be configured to be lifted and lowered simultaneously by the operation of the operation module (60) or may be configured to be lifted and lowered separately.

[0141] A perforation projection (201c, 202c) for perforating the capsule (11, 12) may be provided on the inner surface of each of the above-mentioned phage caps (201b, 202b), respectively. Each branch channel (55a, 55b) may be connected to each of the above-mentioned phage caps (201b, 202b) and configured to supply extraction water to the space between the inner surface of the phage cap (201b, 202b) and the capsule (11, 12).

[0142] Meanwhile, the display window (103) forming the notification unit (59) can be formed as an LCD provided on the upper surface of the base module (100).

[0143] Additionally, in the case of a speaker (not shown) forming the notification unit (59), it can be provided on one circumferential surface or the bottom surface of the base module (100).

[0144] In addition, in the case of the light emitting module (omitted from the illustration) forming the notification unit (59), it can be provided on at least one of the outer surface of the upper housing (205) forming the extraction module (200), the outer surface of the lower housing (204), or the base module (100).

[0145] Below, the sequential control process for extracting a beverage of the capsule beverage device of the embodiment of the present invention described above will be described in more detail with reference to the flowchart of the attached Fig. 9.

[0146] First, in order to extract a beverage from a capsule (11, 12), the user places the capsule (11, 12) on one of the stands (510) of the tray (13) and then places the tray (13) in the extraction module (200). Although not shown, the process of placing the capsule (11, 12) on the tray (13) or the process of placing the tray (13) in the extraction module (200) may be performed automatically.

[0147] In this state, the control unit (58) continuously checks whether the starting conditions for beverage extraction are satisfied (S110).

[0148] These starting conditions may include user-controlled operation.

[0149] The above-mentioned operation control may be a touch operation of an operation button (101) or a display window (103) provided on the capsule beverage device, or an operation of a wireless terminal (302) capable of remotely controlling the capsule beverage device. In this case, the wireless terminal (302) may be a user's terminal capable of wireless communication, a home network, or other home appliances on which an application (302a) for remotely controlling the capsule beverage device is installed.

[0150] The control selected by the above operation button (101), display window (103) or wireless terminal (302) is a choice of whether to extract beverage from only one capsule or from both capsules.

[0151] Additionally, the above starting conditions may further include a condition in which the tray (13) is stored within the frame (203).

[0152] That is, even when the user has not stored the tray (13), the user's operation control may occur, and even if the user's operation control occurs, if it is confirmed that the tray (13) has not been stored, it is determined that the start condition is not satisfied.

[0153] Of course, even if the tray (13) is not stored, if the user performs a second manipulation control, the start condition may be determined to be satisfied. For example, even if the user performs a second manipulation control despite being notified that the tray (13) is not stored, the start condition may be determined to be satisfied.

[0154] Next, when the above starting conditions are satisfied, preparation control for beverage extraction is performed.

[0155] This preparation control may include the operation of the upper housing (205) and the operation module (60). That is, the upper housing (205) is lowered by the operation control of the control unit (58), and the operation module (60) is continuously operated so that each phage cap (201b, 202b) covers the capsule (11, 12) mounted on the tray (13). In particular, in the process of each phage cap (201b, 202b) covering the capsule (11, 12) by the operation of the operation module (60), the perforation projection (201c, 202c) within each phage cap (201b, 202b) perforates the outer surface of the capsule (11, 12).

[0156] In addition, the above preparation control may include the operation of the euro opening / closing unit (56). That is, when the euro opening / closing unit (56) is operated by the control of the control unit (58), the first branch passage (55a) is opened and the second branch passage (55b) is closed.

[0157] Next, when the above preparation control is completed, extraction control for extracting the beverage is performed.

[0158] Such extraction control may include the operation of the pump (57b). That is, by operating the pump (57b) under the operation control of the control unit (58), the extraction water stored in the water storage tank (57a) flows along the main flow path (51).

[0159] And, due to the operation of the above-mentioned pump (57b) and the operation of the aforementioned opening / closing part (56), the extraction water flowing along the main flow path (51) passes through the first branch flow path (55a) and is then supplied into the phage cap (201b) of the first extraction part (201).

[0160] Continuing, the extracted water supplied into the phage cap (201b) of the first extraction unit (201) passes through the perforated hole in the capsule (11) in the phage cap (201b) and is then supplied into the capsule (11), and then is discharged into the beverage cup (2) through the guide tube (203) while extracting the beverage in the capsule (11). This is as shown in the state diagrams of FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0161] The above extraction control may be executed simultaneously with the above preparation control. For example, when the start condition for beverage extraction is satisfied, the water supply unit (57) is driven to supply extraction water along the main flow path (51) (S120), and at the same time, the flow path opening / closing unit (56) is controlled so that the extraction water can be supplied only to the first extraction unit (201).

[0162] Of course, the above extraction control may be executed before the above preparation control, if necessary.

[0163] Meanwhile, when the pump (57b) is operated, the control unit (58) performs judgment control to determine whether a capsule (11, 12) is mounted on the extraction unit (201, 202).

[0164] That is, in the case of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, if beverage extraction for both extraction units (201, 202) is not selected and control is generated to extract only one capsule, the extraction water is controlled to be supplied only to the first extraction unit (201). Considering this, if the user misunderstands the installation location of the capsule and installs it in the second extraction unit (202), a problem occurs in which extraction water is supplied to the first extraction unit (201) even though there is no capsule. In addition, a problem occurs in which the capsule is punctured even though extraction water is not supplied to the second extraction unit (202).

[0165] Of course, if the user checks the extraction water discharged into the beverage cup (2) during the extraction of the beverage, he or she can recognize that the beverage is not extracted.

[0166] However, if the extraction water discharged into the beverage cup (2) is not checked, the capsule may not be recognized as being incorrectly installed until the extraction is completed. Furthermore, even after the extraction is completed, the incorrect installation of the capsule may not be recognized and the device may be mistaken for malfunction.

[0167] Accordingly, the capsule beverage device of the present invention provides a process (S130) for checking whether the capsule is incorrectly mounted by the control unit (58) without using a separate sensor even if the user incorrectly mounts the capsule in the second extraction unit (202), and a process (S140) for notifying the user of the confirmed incorrect mounting.

[0168] To this end, the control unit (58) can determine whether a capsule is mounted on the first extraction unit (201) based on information that changes according to the flow rate, flow velocity, or pressure of the extraction water supplied along the main channel (51).

[0169] As an example, the judgment control by the control unit (58) may include a process of judging whether a capsule is mounted in the first extraction unit (201) based on the flow rate or flow velocity measured by the flow rate measurement unit (53).

[0170] That is, the control unit (58) determines that a capsule is installed when it is confirmed that the flow rate decreases or the flow rate slows down from the time the pump (57b) is operated until the set time has elapsed.

[0171] If the flow rate or flow velocity remains the same until the set time has elapsed from the time the pump (57b) starts operating, it is determined that a capsule is not installed in the first extraction unit (201), and this is notified to the user.

[0172] As another example, the judgment control by the control unit (58) may include a process of judging whether a capsule is mounted in the first extraction unit (201) by checking the load change of the pump (57b) forming the water supply unit (57).

[0173] That is, if it is confirmed that the load of the pump (57b) of the water supply unit (57) gradually increases over a set period of time while the pump (57b) of the water supply unit (57) is operated with a preset load (power), it is determined that a capsule is mounted on the first extraction unit (201).

[0174] If there is no change in the load of the pump (57b) while the pump (57b) is in operation, it is determined that a capsule is not installed in the first extraction unit (201) and this is notified to the user.

[0175] The above load fluctuation can be confirmed when a preset time has elapsed since the pump (57b) was started. In this case, the preset time may be shorter than the time required for beverage extraction. In other words, it is possible to determine whether the capsule is installed before beverage extraction is completed.

[0176] As another example, the judgment control by the control unit (58) may include a process of judging that a capsule is installed in the first extraction unit (201) if the extraction water pumped by the pump (57b) reaches the set pressure within the set time when the pump (57b) of the water supply unit is operated at a set load.

[0177] If the time required for the extraction water pumped by the pump (57b) to reach the set pressure exceeds the set time, it is determined that the capsule is not installed in the first extraction unit (201) and this is notified to the user.

[0178] There are various ways to provide a notification to the user when a capsule is not installed in the first extraction unit (201).

[0179] For example, notifications can be provided in various ways, such as by illuminating a light-emitting module, displaying a message through a display window (103), outputting it through voice or sound, or guiding the user to an application of a terminal (302) designated by the user.

[0180] Additionally, the method for providing the above notification may include a method of notifying the user by the capsule beverage device performing a moving action. For example, the connecting member (102) may be operated to cause the extraction module (200) to move (up and down) relative to the base module (100).

[0181] In addition, when a capsule is not mounted on the first extraction unit (201), the control unit (58) can control the supply of extraction water to the first extraction unit (201) to be stopped.

[0182] As an example, the control unit (58) can stop the operation of the pump (57b) forming the water supply unit (57).

[0183] As another example, the control unit (58) may operate the euro opening / closing unit (56) to block the flow of extracted water to the first extraction unit (201) and control the flow of extracted water to the second extraction unit (202).

[0184] Meanwhile, in addition to simply informing that the capsule is incorrectly positioned, the above notification may additionally provide a request for selection regarding whether to continue beverage extraction despite the incorrect position. That is, if selection is made to continue beverage extraction despite the incorrect position, the operation of the flow control unit (56) is controlled to allow the extracted water to flow to the second extraction unit (202).

[0185] Of course, it is also possible to extract a beverage by automatically switching the flow of extraction water to the position where the capsule is installed without notifying that the capsule is installed in the wrong position.

[0186] However, this method may cause the user to not be aware that the position is incorrect, and until the user determines the position of the capsule, a small amount of the extracted liquid without the beverage is discharged into the beverage cup, which may change the overall taste of the beverage.

[0187] Therefore, if the capsule is installed in the wrong position, it is most desirable to provide repeated notifications so that the user naturally recognizes the correct position.

[0188] If beverage extraction continues despite being in an incorrect position, the extraction water is supplied until the extraction termination condition for the capsule of the first extraction unit (201) is satisfied. At this time, the extraction termination condition may include at least one of a condition in which a set amount of extraction water is supplied, a condition in which extraction water is supplied for a set period of time, and a condition in which a termination operation is performed by a user.

[0189] Then, it is checked whether the beverage extraction termination condition for the capsule of the first extraction unit (201) is satisfied (S150), and if the extraction termination condition is satisfied, the supply of the extraction water is stopped (S160). For example, the supply of the extraction water can be stopped by stopping the operation of the pump (57b) or operating the flow path opening / closing unit (56) to block each branch flow path (55a, 55b).

[0190] Of course, if the capsule is provided in the wrong position, the flow of the extracted water to the second extraction unit (202) can be guided (S210) as in the flow chart of Fig. 12. In this case, if the user approves the flow of the extracted water to the second extraction unit (202), the flow opening / closing unit (56) can be controlled (S220) so that the extracted water flows to the second extraction unit (202). This flow of the extracted water is as illustrated in Figs. 13 and 14.

[0191] Then, it is checked whether the beverage extraction end condition for the capsule of the second extraction unit (202) is satisfied (S230), and if the beverage extraction end condition is satisfied, the supply of the extraction water is stopped (S240).

[0192] As described above, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention can accurately confirm and guide the user to the incorrect position of a capsule when extracting only one beverage for a single capsule in a structure in which multiple extraction units (201, 202) are provided. Accordingly, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention can prevent or minimize the discharge of unnecessary extraction water.

[0193] Furthermore, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention can detect capsule misposition without providing a separate sensor when extracting beverage from only one capsule. Therefore, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention can prevent an increase in product size and manufacturing cost due to the provision of a sensor.

[0194] In addition, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention stops the operation of the pump (57b) and provides guidance or notification to the user when it is confirmed that the capsule is not in the correct position. Accordingly, the capsule beverage device and its control method of the present invention enable the user to perform desired control when the capsule is not installed in the correct position.

[0195] Meanwhile, the capsule beverage device of the present invention can be implemented in various forms not mentioned in the above-described embodiments.

[0196] For example, in the control method of the capsule beverage device of the present invention, when a user operation for beverage extraction occurs, control can be preferentially performed to check for errors in the capsule mounting position using only a small amount of extraction water before performing actual beverage extraction. In other words, by performing control to check for capsule mounting errors using only enough extraction water to confirm capsule mounting errors, the amount of extraction water discharged can be minimized.

[0197] In addition, while the process of checking for capsule mounting errors by the capsule beverage device of the present invention is being performed, the heating unit (54) or cooling unit can be controlled not to operate. This can prevent unnecessary power consumption.

[0198] In addition, the capsule beverage device of the present invention can be implemented in a different form than the structure illustrated in the embodiment.

[0199] That is, the beverage cup (2) being positioned on the base module (100), the base module (100) forming the bottom of the beverage device of the present invention, and the plurality of extraction parts (201, 202) being arranged on the extraction module (200) provided separately from the base module (100) are only one embodiment of the beverage device of the present invention.

[0200] In particular, all of the components mentioned in the embodiments may be provided as a single unit, but any one of the components mentioned in the embodiments may be provided alone. Alternatively, the components may be provided in a structure different from that mentioned in the embodiments. That is, within the scope of the present invention, all of the components may be selectively combined and operated one or more times.

[0201] Furthermore, terms such as "include," "comprise," or "have" described above, unless specifically stated otherwise, imply that the corresponding component may be present, and therefore should be interpreted to include other components rather than excluding other components. All terms, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly 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 dictionaries, should be interpreted to be consistent with the contextual meaning of the relevant technology, and shall not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense, unless explicitly defined in the present invention.

Claims

1. Main path that guides the supply of extraction water for beverage extraction; A plurality of extraction units in which a beverage is extracted using extraction water supplied from the main euro and equipped with capsules; A plurality of branch channels branching from the main channel and guiding the supply of extracted water to each extraction section; A flow path opening / closing unit that opens and closes each of the above branch flow paths; A water supply unit installed in the above main euro and supplying extracted water; A capsule beverage device comprising: a control unit that controls the operation of the water supply unit and the flow path opening / closing unit, and determines whether a capsule is installed in each extraction unit by using information that changes according to the flow rate or pressure of the extraction water supplied along the main flow path.

2. In paragraph 1, The above main flow path includes a flow rate measuring unit that measures the flow rate or flow velocity of the extracted water supplied along the main flow path. A capsule beverage device characterized in that the control unit determines whether a capsule is installed in each extraction unit based on the flow rate or flow velocity measured by the flow rate measuring unit.

3. In paragraph 1, A capsule beverage device characterized in that the control unit determines whether a capsule is installed in each extraction unit based on a change in the load of the water supply unit when the water supply unit is in operation.

4. In paragraph 1, A capsule beverage device further provided with a notification unit for notifying whether a capsule is mounted as judged by a control unit.

5. In paragraph 4, The above notification section A capsule beverage device including a display window providing information in the form of text or pictures.

6. In paragraph 4, The above notification section A capsule beverage device comprising a speaker providing an audible warning tone or sound.

7. In paragraph 4, The above notification section A capsule beverage device comprising a light-emitting module that emits light.

8. In paragraph 4, The above notification section A capsule beverage device comprising one moving part.

9. A plurality of extraction units equipped with capsules for extracting beverages; A water supply unit for supplying extraction water to one of the above extraction units; A capsule beverage device including a control unit that determines whether a capsule is installed based on the flow rate, flow speed, or pressure of the extraction water supplied to each extraction unit.

10. In paragraph 9, A capsule beverage device further provided with a notification unit to notify the user when a capsule is not installed in the extraction unit.

11. The first step is to drive the water supply unit to supply extraction water along the main flow path when the start conditions for beverage extraction are satisfied; A second step of controlling the opening and closing of the main flow path so that the extracted water supplied along the main flow path flows to a predetermined extraction section; A control method for a capsule beverage device, comprising: a third step of determining whether a capsule is installed in a corresponding extraction unit based on information that changes according to the flow rate, flow speed, or pressure of the extraction water supplied along the main flow path.

12. In paragraph 11, The judgment of the third step above is A control method for a capsule beverage device, comprising a process for determining that a capsule is not installed when the flow rate or flow speed measured by a flow measurement unit exceeds a set value for a set time when a water supply unit is operated.

13. In paragraph 12, A control method for a capsule beverage device, characterized in that the above-mentioned set time is shorter than the time for beverage extraction.

14. In paragraph 11, The judgment of the third step above is A control method for a capsule beverage device, comprising a process for determining that a capsule is not installed when the time required for the extraction water pumped by the water supply unit to reach a set pressure exceeds a set time when the water supply unit is operated.

15. In paragraph 11, The judgment of the third step above is A control method for a capsule beverage device, comprising a process of determining that a capsule is installed when a load change of the water supply unit exceeds a preset load change value when the water supply unit is operated.

16. In paragraph 11, A method for controlling a capsule beverage device, further comprising a step of stopping the operation of a water supply unit if it is determined through the third step above that no capsule is installed in the extraction unit.

17. In paragraph 11, A method for controlling a capsule beverage device, further comprising a process of operating a flow opening / closing unit to control the flow of extracted water to another extraction unit when it is determined through the above third step that no capsule is installed in the extraction unit.

18. In paragraph 11, A control method for a capsule beverage device, further comprising a fourth step of guiding a user as to whether or not a capsule is mounted as determined through the third step.

19. In paragraph 18, The above 4th step guidance A method of controlling a capsule beverage device, which is performed by at least one of LED lighting, display through a display window, voice or sound output, operation for a certain operating part, and guidance to an application of a terminal designated by the user.

20. In paragraph 18, The above 4th step guidance A method of controlling a capsule beverage device when it is determined that a capsule is not installed in the corresponding extraction unit.

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