System for preparing beverages with enhanced operative arrangement of multiple individual portions

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system for preparing beverages including a beverage preparation machine (10), such as an espresso-type coffee machine, operable with a cartridge (3) configured such that it can be held in the operating position in the machine (10), wherein it can successively supply a plurality of individual portions (2) of an edible substance for the beverage by means of a portion support (1) configured in the form of a strip. The system is characterized in that it provides a simpler and more ergonomic way of feeding the cartridge (3) into the machine (10), including establishing a functional connection between the portion support (1) and a traction device (101) of the beverage preparation machine (10).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Beverage preparation system with improved operational layout for multiple individual portions.

[0003] Field of Invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a system comprising a beverage preparation machine operable by means of a cartridge enclosing a portion holder for multiple individual portions of edible substance, for example roasted and ground coffee beans, a precursor to a beverage, for example espresso coffee and similar beverages.

[0005] Background of the Invention

[0006] The state of the art includes solutions relating to a flexible and elongated support comprising a plurality of individual portions, in particular portions of roasted and ground coffee, to be processed successively in the extraction device of a beverage preparation machine, including in a machine for preparing espresso, tea or similar coffee.

[0007] Documents US 598, 639, US 3, 607, 297, US 3, 812, 273, WO 97 / 17006, DE 10248137 A1 disclose supports for individual portions of the type of the present invention.

[0008] Document EP 0653177 BI discloses a method for preparing a coffee beverage with a cartridge comprising a portion holder for individual portions that can be operatively associated with a beverage preparation machine, so that it can supply individual portions of beverage precursor substance carried by the portion holder, successively to a beverage preparation device. The cartridge is in this case arranged so that the tape is only pulled upwards by a traction element that is part of the extraction device, therefore not including a traction device upstream of the extraction device. Furthermore, the cartridge is disposed partially outside the machine casing and has a reduced number of individual portions.

[0009] Furthermore, the state of the art includes document WO 2013 / 169134 A2 registered by the author of the present invention, which discloses an advantageous configuration of a beverage preparation system adapted for use with such a multi-portion holder, and which further discloses some arrangements relating to the cartridge and traction element upstream of an extraction device.

[0010] Beverage preparation systems of this type raise several technical problems due to their simple construction and efficient operation.

[0011] In the case of cartridges with a relatively high number of individual portions, including more than 10 individual portions, questions arise regarding the possibility of a more efficient and reliable displacement of a portion holder that has a greater length and total weight of support to pull, as well as how easy it is to store it inside a collection package for the holder, for example in a zigzag arrangement extending vertically.

[0012] The relative arrangement of the cartridge in its operating position on the beverage preparation machine can determine the outcome of issues related to the possibility of more efficient and reliable displacement of the support by a traction device on the machine, as well as a more ergonomic layout on the machine.

[0013] Document EP 0457708 Al also discloses a beverage preparation system including a collection container for a flexible, elongated individual portion holder in a ribbon-type configuration of the type of the present invention. In particular, the document discloses the ribbon arrangement in a zigzag-type arrangement vertically inside the container with the portions in a staggered fashion, the ribbon being pulled from a top region of the container in a generally vertical direction for supply to the beverage preparation machine. Documents WO 2016 / 048181 Al and WO 2016 / 048182 Al registered by the author of the present invention disclose solutions for moving the individual portion holder of the type of the present invention from the collection container to a downstream extraction device.Document WO 2016 / 048181 Al includes a schematic representation of a machine that features a cartridge compartment inside the machine, but does not detail particular aspects of the relationship of this compartment to other machine features.

[0014] Documents WO 2016 / 013034 Al and WO 2016 / 130035 Al, also registered by the author of the present invention, disclose advantageous configurations of packaging for collecting individual portion holders of the type of the present invention.

[0015] Documents WO 2021 / 118376 Al and WO 2021 / 118377 Al, also registered by the author of the present invention, address several of these aspects.

[0016] General Description of the Invention

[0017] The object of the present invention is to provide a beverage preparation system including a machine operable with a cartridge configured in such a way that it can provide a plurality of individual portions of edible substance for the preparation of a respective beverage, for example by means of extraction of a precursor substance, said system being configured in such a way as to provide a more ergonomic loading of the cartridge into the machine, a more efficient operation of the cartridge, as well as a simpler and more compact machine construction.

[0018] The above objective is solved according to the present invention by means of a beverage preparation system according to claim 1.

[0019] In particular, this objective is solved according to the present invention by means of a machine and cartridge configured so that the cartridge can be placed in an operative position through a common access space provided inside the machine and configured so as to provide manipulation of the cartridge for cartridge retention and for functional connection of the cartridge in the operative position.

[0020] The system may include a machine configured so that the access space provides loading access to at least two cartridge compartments arranged side-by-side, and it is preferred when the loading access space also provides access to the traction devices located in front of the respective cartridge compartments.

[0021] The system can be configured so that the cartridge can be manually placed into the operating position by a user, including placing the cartridge in the operating position and functionally connecting the portion holder to the traction device, through the common access space.

[0022] The system may include a machine configured so that the common access space can be accessed by a user reaching from a front region of the machine.

[0023] The system may include a machine comprising a common access space configured so as to provide cartridge insertion in a predetermined relative position and spatial orientation aligned with at least one respective relative position and spatial orientation in a cartridge compartment provided inside the machine and configured so as to retain the cartridge in an operating position relative to the traction device.

[0024] The cartridge compartment can be configured so as to provide cartridge retention in at least one direction with a horizontal component, and preferably also in a direction with a vertical component, relative to the traction force exerted by the traction device.

[0025] The cartridge compartment can be configured so that it allows cartridge insertion if the cartridge is not moved along at least one of the front and top walls of the cartridge compartment.

[0026] The cartridge compartment can be configured so that it retains the cartridge in an operational position if it is placed against a front wall of the cartridge compartment.

[0027] The machine may comprise an access portion associated with the machine housing and operable in such a way as to provide access to the common access space for inserting the cartridge into the cartridge compartment and to provide closure of the access space, thus preferably including closure of the cartridge compartment, relative to the outside of the machine housing.

[0028] According to another aspect of the present invention, the system is configured so that the cartridge is operable while held in an operative position at least in the vicinity of a cartridge compartment opening, and so that the cartridge is operable in functional connection with the traction device through said compartment opening, such that the portion support extends through said compartment opening in the direction of the traction device.

[0029] The system can be configured so that the machine includes a cartridge compartment with a compartment opening that has a shape and dimensions that determine at least one of the relative position and spatial orientation of the cartridge insertion into the cartridge compartment and that are preferably aligned with the relative position and orientation of the cartridge in the operating position.

[0030] The system can be configured so that the machine includes a cartridge compartment with a compartment opening that has at least one different shape and dimension from an access portion provided in the machine housing, and so that it provides access to the interior of the machine housing and to the cartridge compartment opening.

[0031] The system can be configured so that the machine includes a cartridge compartment with a compartment opening that extends in at least one horizontal extension and one vertical extension, preferably in both.

[0032] The system can be configured so that the machine includes a cartridge compartment with a cartridge opening that extends along part of the front and top portions of the cartridge compartment.

[0033] Within the scope of this description, the front of the machine is considered to be the part where the beverage discharge and / or the machine's user interface is provided, and is generally represented on the right side of the drawings.

[0034] Description of the Figures

[0035] The present invention will now be explained in greater detail based on preferred embodiments and the attached Figures.

[0036] The figures show, in simplified schematic representations:

[0037] Figure 1: Schematic diagram of a preparation system.

[0038] of beverages according to the state of the art;

[0039] Figure 2: Side cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to the state of the art;

[0040] Figure 3: Top view (top) and side cutaway view (bottom)

[0041] of a portion holder (1) contained in a cartridge (3) according to the invention;

[0042] Figure 4: side sectional view of a cartridge (3) of a system according to the invention;

[0043] Figure 5: Schematic diagram of a first embodiment of an operational cartridge arrangement.

[0044] (3) in a machine (10) of a system according to the invention;

[0045] Figure 6: View corresponding to that of Figure 5 with the cartridge.

[0046] (3) in operating position; Figure 7: top view corresponding to that of Figure 5 of a machine (10) with the cartridge (3) in operating position and access portion (111) open;

[0047] Figure 8: Schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the operating arrangement of a cartridge (3) in a machine (10) of a system according to the invention;

[0048] Figure 9: view corresponding to that of Figure 8 with the cartridge (3) in operative position;

[0049] Figure 10: top view corresponding to that of Figure 8 of a machine (10) with the cartridge (3) in operating position and access portion (111) open;

[0050] Figure 11: Schematic diagram of a first embodiment of the relative position of cartridge (3) in a system according to the invention;

[0051] Figure 12: Schematic diagram of a variant of the embodiment according to Figure 11;

[0052] Figure 13: Schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the relative position of cartridge (3) in a system according to the invention;

[0053] Figure 14: Schematic diagram of a variant of the embodiment according to Figure 13;

[0054] Figure 15: Schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the system according to the invention;

[0055] Figure 16: Schematic diagram of another embodiment of the system according to the invention. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0056] As is known in the state of the art and represented in a merely schematic way in Figures 1 and 2, a cartridge (3) can be part of a system for preparing edible products, for example coffee-based drinks, such as espresso coffee.

[0057] A cartridge (3) of the type of the present invention comprises a cartridge box (31) configured so as to collect a portion holder (1) comprising a plurality of collection enclosures (130) that confine an individual portion (2) of edible precursor substance for beverage preparation.

[0058] 0 cartridge (3) is associable with the machine (10) in an operating position where the portion holder (1) is arranged at least approximately aligned in the same vertical plane as an axis of symmetry and / or center of the traction device (101) and extraction device (102), when viewed from the front view of the machine (10).

[0059] If the cartridge (3) is in the operating position, the portion holder (1) is operable so that it can be actuated by the machine's traction and actuation devices (10), including being pulled by a traction device (101) which is actuated by an actuation device, for example an electric motor (not shown) and regulated by control means (not shown) so that it can be supplied step-by-step to an extraction device (102) arranged downstream of the traction device (101) in the machine (10).

[0060] In general, in the case of known systems, the cartridge (3) is operable at a first vertical distance (Xi) and a second horizontal distance (X2) between the outlet opening (32) and an interaction region with the traction device (101) which leads to higher traction requirements and larger machine dimensions.

[0061] According to a state-of-the-art solution, and also schematically represented in Figure 1, the system can be configured so that a further downstream collection portion (13) is separated by means of a cross-section in the region between collection portions (13), from the remaining support (1) of portions is thus moved to the extraction device (102) only by the action of gravity.

[0062] With regard to the distribution inside the cartridge box (31), several possibilities are known for arranging the portion support (1), including such that collection confinements (130) of successive row segments, or their respective central axes (X), are alternately offset from each other relative to a subsequent row and aligned with those of a second row upstream or downstream, as schematically represented in Figure 2.

[0063] 0 cartridge (3) includes a parallelepiped-shaped cartridge case (31) that confines a support (1) of portions folded in a zigzag pattern in successive rows along the height (H3) of the cartridge case (31) and such that a downstream end of the support (1) is located in close proximity to an outlet opening (32).

[0064] The most downstream end of the support (1) of portions is disposed in proximity to an outlet opening (32) of the cartridge case (31), and the outlet opening (32) is provided in a corner region of the cartridge case (31), such as a corner region including part of at least one of the top wall and front wall of the cartridge case (31).

[0065] As the reader will readily realize, and considering the dimensions of a collection enclosure ( 130 ), the dimensions and number of individual portions ( 2 ) contained in a given collection volume of the cartridge box ( 31 ) are parameters that determine the overall dimensions of the cartridge ( 3 ) and the frequency of need for replacement of the cartridge in the machine ( 10 ), and the ease of handling of the cartridge by a user of the beverage preparation system, as well as related transport and storage costs.

[0066] Furthermore, the length (L3) and height (H3) of the cartridge box (31) are parameters that can determine the overall dimension of the machine (10). The present description then addresses aspects of a cartridge (3) in a system according to the present invention.

[0067] Figures 3 and 4 include views of a support segment (1) of portions, and a portion of the support (1) of portions collected in a cartridge box (31), respectively.

[0068] 0 support ( 1 ) of portions presents a plurality of collection confinements ( 130 ) configured in such a way that they confine a respective individual portion ( 2 ) within the same .

[0069] The individual portion (2) may comprise roasted and ground coffee beans, preferably at least in the greater part of the respective mass fraction, or other edible substance for preparing beverages by infusion or extraction thereof. The individual portion (2) is advantageously a portion of roasted and ground coffee beans, in particular weighing between 5 and 7 g.

[0070] The individual portion (2) is advantageously provided in the form of a pre-compacted tablet of edible substance, for example roasted and ground coffee beans. The individual portion (2) is advantageously a compacted tablet of roasted and ground coffee beans with a hardness between 10 and 30 N.

[0071] 0 support ( 1 ) of portions has only two support sheets ( 11, 12 ) arranged in juxtaposition along a longitudinal connecting plane, wherein the two support sheets ( 11, 12 ) extend along at least most of, preferably the entire width and the entire length of said support ( 1 ) of portions.

[0072] The distance between corresponding points of successive collection confinements (130) defines a step (p), and successive collection confinements (130) are proportioned apart from each other by a free distance (q).

[0073] 0 support ( 1 ) of portions includes, in a preferred mode, two support sheets ( 11, 12 ) and a plurality of individual portions ( 2 ) collected in successive respective collection portions ( 13 ).

[0074] The collection confinements ( 130) advantageously present a disc-type format, with a height (H 30 ) of confinement smaller than a characteristic cross-sectional dimension ( Q3) of the collection confinement ( 130 ) .

[0075] It is preferred when the support ( 1 ) of portions is provided in such a way that the collection confinements ( 130 ) have a characteristic collection dimension ( Q3o ) between 30 and 50 mm, preferably between 35 and 45 mm .

[0076] The height (H 30) of the collection confinements ( 130 ) may be between 6 and 12 mm, preferably between 7 and 11 mm. The Applicant has determined experimentally that this dimension provides good results in terms of coffee extraction, and provides greater stability of the support ( 1 ) of portions within the cartridge box ( 31 ).

[0077] Furthermore, the collection portions (13) include annular linking regions (14) that extend radially with a characteristic linking transverse dimension (Q) from the side wall (15) of the collection confinement (130), and do not extend along the entire free distance (q) between successive collection confinements (130) nor along a width (r) of free side margins of the support (1) of portions.

[0078] It is preferred when the support ( 1 ) of portions is provided so that the ratio between the bonding surface area of ​​the bonding regions ( 14 ) and the area of ​​the collection confinements ( 130 ) in the bonding plane (Y ) is between 1 . 5 : 1 and 5 . 0 : 1 , preferably between 2 . 0 : 1 and 3 . 0 : 1 , so that the bonding region ( 14 ) has a sufficient material bonding surface relative to the characteristic dimension of the collection confinements ( 130 ).

[0079] Figure 4 represents part of a support arrangement ( 1 ) of portions, such as this can be carried out inside a cartridge box ( 31 ).

[0080] According to one aspect, the cartridge (3) comprises a support (1) of portions arranged so that the height occupied by three successive folded rows is less than 2.5 times the height (H 30) of the collection confinements ( 130 ). Furthermore, it is preferred when the height occupied by three successive folded rows corresponds at least approximately to twice the height (H 30 ) of the collection confinements ( 130) .

[0081] According to another aspect, the cartridge box (31) can collect a portion holder (1) featuring collection confinements (130) spaced apart by a pitch (p) equal to or greater than the characteristic dimension (Q30) of the collection confinements (130).

[0082] This provides a more compact arrangement of the collection portions (13) in the cartridge box (31), with fewer empty spaces between collection confinements (130) of row segments in a zigzag arrangement of the portion holder (1).

[0083] It is thus advantageously provided that collection confinements (130) of a first row are interspersed between collection confinements (130) of a second row beneath the first row, in particular so that at least the greater part, preferably the whole length of a lower half of the collection confinement (130), i.e., corresponding at least approximately to half the height (H). 30 ) of the collection confinements ( 130 ), remain collected in the projection space between the upper halves of collection confinements ( 130) of a row underneath.

[0084] It has been shown to be advantageous when the cartridge (3) comprises a support (1) of portions arranged so that the side walls (15) of collection confinements (130) of adjacent vertical alignments result in laterally aligned extensions of half the height (H 30) of the collection confinements ( 130) and, in addition, result adjacently and in such a way that they do not support each other laterally, or at a distance less than half the height (H 30 ) of the collection confinements ( 130) .

[0085] Furthermore, the cartridge ( 3 ) comprises a support ( 1 ) of portions arranged so that it forms vertical alignments in which the base regions of collection confinements ( 130 ) of a first row rest directly on the top regions of collection confinements ( 130 ) of a second row, preferably along at least the greater part of the characteristic collection dimension (Q30) thereof.

[0086] As represented in the drawings of Figures 5 to 10, the beverage preparation system according to the invention is configured so that the cartridge (3) can be placed by a user in a previously defined operating position and is located at least partially, preferably completely inside the machine (10), i.e., inside the machine box (100).

[0087] Furthermore, the system is configured so that the cartridge (3) is operable by a user from a front region of the machine (10).

[0088] Figures 5 to 7 represent a first embodiment of systems in which the means of actuation of the machine (10) for actuating the portion support (1) include a traction device (101) which is located in close proximity to and directly opposite in front of the cartridge box (31), in particular the region of the outlet opening (32), and which is also located in close proximity to and at least approximately above the extraction device (102).

[0089] According to one aspect, the system according to the present invention is provided in such a way that the cartridge (3) can be manually placed into an operating position by passing the cartridge (3) through a common access space that is configured so as to provide space for retention and functional connection of the cartridge (3) in the operating position, i.e., that provides user manipulation of the cartridge (3) and functional association of the portion holder (1) with the traction device (101) inside the machine box (100).

[0090] The common access space is advantageously provided in such a way that access to the common access space is regulated in functional connection with means of control of the machine ( 10 ).

[0091] The common access space is confined by the box (100) inside the machine (10), preferably accessible only through an access portion (110) which is provided so that an actuation thereof can be detected by means of control of the machine (10). In particular, the machine (10) may advantageously comprise control means and sensors provided so that they prevent, or if necessary interrupt, the operation of the traction device (101) and fluid circulation means, in the event that an actuation of the access portion (110) is detected.

[0092] Furthermore, the system is provided in such a way that the cartridge (3) can be manually placed into an operating position by manipulating the cartridge (3) in a common access space inside the machine (10) by a user reaching from the front region of the machine (10).

[0093] A simpler and more ergonomic handling of the cartridge (3) is thus advantageously provided, as well as a more efficient and compact configuration of the machine (10).

[0094] The system can be provided in such a way that the cartridge (3) can be placed in the operating position by means of movements of the cartridge box (31) and the portion holder (1), such movements extending into the common access space.

[0095] Alternatively or complementarily, the system can be provided in such a way that the cartridge (3) can be placed in the operating position by means of movements of the cartridge box (31) supported laterally towards the interior of the machine (10) and of the portion holder (1) towards the front region of the machine (10), such movements extending into the common access space to the operating positions of both the cartridge (3) and the portion holder (1).

[0096] According to another aspect of the invention, the system is configured so that the cartridge (3) can be operated in a cartridge compartment (110) in a more reliable way in terms of operation and more ergonomically for a user.

[0097] In particular, the system can be configured so that the cartridge (3) is operable when collected in a cartridge compartment (110) and retained in the operating position by the cartridge compartment (110), relative to the traction device (101).Furthermore, the system can be configured so that the machine (10) includes a cartridge compartment (110) disposed entirely inside the machine (10) and with a compartment opening disposed so as to provide placement of the cartridge (3) in an operative position so that it is operable in functional connection with the traction device (101) through the compartment opening, and the support (1) of portions thus extends from the outlet opening (32) of the cartridge box (31) and through the compartment opening towards the traction device (101), the compartment opening preferably having at least one of the following: box opening (32) and access portion (111) which provides access to the interior of the machine box (110) and to the compartment opening of the cartridge compartment ( 110) .

[0098] According to another aspect, the system can be configured so that the cartridge (3) is operable in functional connection with the traction device (101) according to at least one of:

[0099] - inside the cartridge compartment (1) so that the outlet opening (32) of the cartridge case (31) is arranged at least near the cartridge compartment opening (110),

[0100] - so that it is at least approximately directly opposite the traction device (101), that is, with a horizontal projection at least partially, preferably at the same level as at least part of the traction device (101),

[0101] - provides retention of the cartridge case (31) relative to the interaction force with the traction device (101), and is preferred when the direction of the main interaction force component is the horizontal direction;

[0102] - provides a force on the support portions (1) in a direction that is at least approximately equal to the direction of the principal component of the interaction force of the cartridge (3) with the traction device (101).

[0103] The system can be configured so that the cartridge (3) is operable by retaining the cartridge case (31) in the operating position in a cartridge compartment (110) according to at least one of:

[0104] - leaning against the cartridge box compartment opening (110) and at a distance from an access portion (111) to the cartridge compartment (110);

[0105] - at least partial retention by means of fitting the cartridge case shape (31) relative to interaction forces with the traction device (101);

[0106] - at least partial retention by means of fitting the cartridge case (31) into an access portion of the cartridge compartment (110).

[0107] Furthermore, the system can be configured so that the cartridge (3) is operable by means of operative retention of the support (1) of portions in functional connection in the traction device (101), according to at least one of:

[0108] - in a space outside the cartridge compartment (110) and accessible via access portion (111) associated with the machine box (100);

[0109] - lacking form fitting of the collection compartments (130) of the individual portions (2) in the traction device (101).

[0110] Furthermore, the system can be configured so that the cartridge (3) is operable in an operating position inside the machine (10) according to at least one of:

[0111] - at least partial retention by means of fitting of at least the greater part of the outer surface of the cartridge case (31) in a cartridge compartment (110) relative to a force transmitted by the traction device (101) and at least with a horizontal force component forward, preferably also with an upward vertical force component; - with the cartridge case (31) behind and in direct opposition relative to the traction device (101) which is located near the front of the machine (10), so that the portion support (1) generates a pulling moment on the cartridge case (31) at least forward, preferably also downward.The machine (10) may comprise a cartridge compartment (110) having a compartment opening configured so as to provide introduction of the cartridge (3) in a previously defined relative position and spatial orientation thereof and generally aligned with at least one of the relative position and spatial orientation of the cartridge (3) in the operating position, and which is configured so as to provide retention of the cartridge (3) in the operating position by means of form fitting of the cartridge case (31), the relative spatial orientation preferably including one of: vertical downward and oblique downward, and at least approximately in the direction of the center of the machine (10), preferably by means of an access portion (111) associated with the machine case (100).

[0112] Furthermore, the machine (10) may comprise a cartridge compartment (110) configured such that the cartridge (3) is operatively associable with the machine (10) by means of form fitting relative to the longitudinal side walls, preferably also relative to at least part of the base and top walls of the cartridge compartment (110).

[0113] Furthermore, the machine (10) may comprise a cartridge compartment (110) having compartment walls extending into the interior of the machine box (100) and over at least most of the extent of the collection volume of the cartridge compartment (110), such that the cartridge (3) is operatively associable with the machine (10) by means of guided driving of the cartridge box (31) and at least relative to the longitudinal side walls of the cartridge compartment (110) and over at least most of the extent between the opening of the access portion (111) through the compartment opening of the cartridge compartment (110) and up to the operative position of the cartridge (3) within it.

[0114] The machine (10) may comprise a cartridge compartment (110) configured so that it provides at least one of:

[0115] - introduction of cartridge (3) in a general vertical downward or oblique downward direction, through an access portion (111) of the box (100) and an opening of the cartridge compartment (110);

[0116] - cartridge retention (3) in operative position generally behind the cartridge compartment opening (110) and behind the traction device (101); - cartridge retention (3) in operative position relative to traction forces exerted by the traction device (101) and having at least one horizontal component, preferably also a vertical component.

[0117] In addition, the machine (10) may comprise a cartridge compartment (110) having compartment walls configured so that they extend according to at least one of:

[0118] - at least the base and longitudinal side walls, preferably all the walls, inside the machine box (100);

[0119] - in at least the greater extent of the collection volume around the cartridge compartment ( 110 ), and

[0120] - so that the volume confined by the collection compartment (110) is larger but does not exceed the volume of the cartridge box (31) by more than 50%, preferably does not exceed by more than 30%;

[0121] - so that the width between the side walls of the cartridge compartment (110) is greater but does not exceed the width of the cartridge box (31) by more than 15%, preferably does not exceed by more than 10%.

[0122] In addition, the machine (10) may comprise a cartridge compartment (110) configured in accordance with at least one of:

[0123] - features compartment walls that extend into the interior of the machine box (100) and in at least the greater extent of the cartridge compartment collection volume (110);

[0124] - It has six walls that extend in such a way as to define an access to the compartment;

[0125] - features compartment walls that delimit a compartment access that extends in part from at least one of the front face and top face of the cartridge compartment (110);

[0126] - featuring side walls that define a width that does not exceed by more than a tolerance the width of the cartridge box (31) and, preferably, a collection volume that does not exceed by 1.3 times the volume of the cartridge box (31);

[0127] - it has longitudinal and rear side walls that extend at least to the height (H3) of the cartridge (3), and also front and top walls that do not extend to the full height (H3) and length (L3) respectively, configured so that it can collect and retain a cartridge (3) in an operating position inside the machine (10), - it has a base wall that extends to the full length (L3) of the cartridge (3) but not to the full length of the machine (10), and side walls with an extension greater than the length (L3) and height (H3) of the cartridge (3), wherein the base and side walls of the cartridge compartment (110) are not preferably walls of the machine box (100);

[0128] - features a top wall that has at least two parts that delimit respective regions of different heights of the cartridge compartment ( 110);

[0129] - It has a front wall relative to the front part of the machine (10) that extends below the level of the outlet opening (32) thereof, preferably below the level corresponding to half the height (H3) of the cartridge box (31), wherein the front wall of the cartridge compartment (110) is preferably not the wall of the machine box (100). The machine (10) may comprise an access portion (111) associated with the box (100) and operable in such a way as to provide access for the introduction of the cartridge (3) into a respective cartridge compartment (110) and occlusion of the common access space which includes at least one cartridge compartment (110) and its respective traction device (101) relative to the outside of the box (100).

[0130] Furthermore, the machine (10) may comprise an access portion (111) configured so that it can be operated, preferably by means of only one hand, by means of rotation outwards relative to the machine box (100), including sideways or upwards.

[0131] The machine (10) comprises a cartridge compartment (110) and an operable access portion (111) so that it can provide access to at least one cartridge compartment (110) and its respective traction device (101), such that the cartridge (3) can be placed in an operative position in the cartridge compartment (110) and the portion holder (1) can be retained in the traction device (101) by means of access through an access portion (111), it being preferred when an access portion (111) provides access to two cartridge compartments (110) and their respective traction devices (101).

[0132] Alternatively or complementarily, the machine (10) may comprise a cartridge compartment (110) and an access portion (111) operable in the front region of the machine (10) so as to provide access to the cartridge compartment (110) and to the traction device (101), so that the cartridge (3) may be placed in an operative position in a respective cartridge compartment (110) of the machine if the access portion (111) is open, the cartridge compartment (110) and access portion (111) being preferably configured so as to provide at least one of:

[0133] - supported guidance of the cartridge (3) along a vertical plane of movement that is at least approximately common to the plane of symmetry of the traction device (101) and the cartridge (3) in the operating position, when viewed from the front view of the machine (10), it being preferred when at least the cartridge compartment (110), preferably also the access portion (111) in the closed position, provides retention of the cartridge (3) in the operating position when impinged by a force exerted by the traction device (101),

[0134] - guided introduction of the cartridge (3) into the cartridge compartment (110) from a front side of the machine (10) according to at least one of: a translational movement and a rotational movement, wherein at least one of: cartridge compartment (110) and access portion (111) is preferably operatively associated with presence sensor means configured to identify the presence of cartridge (3) in the cartridge compartment (110).

[0135] In the case of the embodiment of the system represented in Figures 5 to 7, the cartridge (3) can be introduced into the cartridge compartment (110) through an access portion (111) disposed on the top face of the machine box (100).

[0136] As shown, the access portion (111) is adapted so that it can be manually operated by the user between an open position where the access portion (111) provides access for inserting a cartridge (3) into a cartridge compartment (110), and a closed position where the access portion (111) confines the cartridge compartment (110) relative to the outside of the machine (10).

[0137] The user can hold the cartridge (3) with just one hand in a position above a machine case opening (100) associated with the cartridge compartment (110), align the shape of the cartridge case (31) with the shape of the opening associated with the access portion (111) and simply let the cartridge case (31) slide vertically down along the confining walls of the cartridge compartment (110) until it reaches the respective operating position therein, so that the cartridge (3) can be placed in a laterally supported position along the entire range of movement from outside the machine (10) and inside it.

[0138] Next, the user can access the common space and remove a downstream end of the portion holder through the outlet opening (32) so as to retain this further downstream end of the portion holder (1) in the traction device (101).

[0139] It is advantageous in this case when the cartridge (3) has a portion associated with the cartridge case (31) and configured, for example, as an extension that projects up to the access portion (111), so that it allows the user to grasp this and remove the cartridge (3) from the cartridge compartment (110).

[0140] The user can then close the access portion (111) so that it confines the cartridge (3) in the operating position in the cartridge compartment (110).

[0141] The access portion (111) may advantageously have a gear arrangement (112) configured so as to provide retention of the cartridge case (31) in the operating position after the access portion (111) is closed, in this case exerting pressure on a top face of the cartridge case (31).

[0142] According to another aspect, the system according to the present invention is provided in such a way that the cartridge (3) is operable by being held in an operating position relative to a cartridge compartment opening (110), and functionally connected through that compartment opening, the compartment opening being preferably provided inside and away from the machine housing (100). Furthermore, the system is also provided in such a way that the machine (10) includes a cartridge compartment (110) with a compartment opening having at least one different shape and dimension from an access portion (111) which provides access to the interior of the machine housing (110) and to the cartridge compartment (110). It is thus advantageously provided that the cartridge (3) can be operated more efficiently and the machine (10) has a more efficient and compact construction.

[0143] In the case of the embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 10, the cartridge (3) can be introduced into the cartridge compartment (110) through an access portion (111) that extends at least in a front region and, preferably, also in part of a top region of the machine case (10).

[0144] Indeed, as represented, the access portion (111) is configured as a user-operable door-type form so that it can be rotated upwards around a horizontal axis of rotation, thereby providing access to a front region of the cartridge compartment (110).

[0145] 0 cartridge (3) can be placed inside the cartridge compartment (110) by means of a first linear movement from top to bottom, a rotational movement, and a second linear movement towards the front of the machine (10).

[0146] The cartridge compartment (110) is advantageously configured so that it includes a compartment opening that has a shape approximately equal to the shape of the cartridge case (31) when tilted in a previously defined spatial position corresponding to the position in which the cartridge (3) can be inserted into the cartridge compartment (110).

[0147] Furthermore, the cartridge compartment (110) may have retention means (112) configured so that they project into the interior of the cartridge compartment (110) and thus provide guidance and / or retention of the cartridge case (31) in the operating position.

[0148] As represented, it is advantageous in this case when the traction device (101) can also be moved manually or mechanically, between an operating position and an access position where it provides space for the insertion of the cartridge (3), and vice versa, to the operating position where it is operable by an actuating device, such as an electric motor. In particular, it is preferred when the traction device (101) can be rotated up and down around a horizontal axis of rotation.

[0149] The machine (10) may have a cartridge compartment (110) and a waste collection container (103) provided inside the housing (100) and preferably configured so that the cartridge compartment (110) and the waste collection container (103) are operable by a user from the front side of the machine (10).

[0150] The machine (10) may have a cartridge compartment (110) and a waste collection container (103) provided inside the machine housing (100) and configured so that the cartridge (3) may be inserted into the cartridge compartment (110) in a direction of insertion, including vertical downward or oblique downward, different from the direction of insertion of the waste collection container (103) which is at least approximately horizontal.

[0151] The machine (10) may have a waste collection container (103) configured so that it can collect collection portions (13) downstream of the extraction device, wherein the waste collection container (103) is configured with a width that is at least 1.5 times, preferably at least 2 times the width of the waste collection container (110) so that it can collect a number of collection portions (13) corresponding to at least 70%, preferably equal to or greater than the number of collection portions (13) contained in the cartridge (3).

[0152] It is preferred when the machine (10) has a cartridge compartment (110) arranged inside the machine box (1) at a level above the level of the waste collection compartment (103), and it is preferred when the waste collection compartment (103) is arranged with its base region at least close to a base wall of the machine box (10).

[0153] It is particularly preferred when the machine (10) is configured so that the total volume occupied by the cartridge compartment (110) and waste collection container (103) is between 40 and 70%, preferably between 50 and 70% of the volume confined by the machine box (10).

[0154] As shown, the waste collection compartment (103) is configured so that it can collect a respective container in a direction that is at least approximately equal to the cartridge insertion direction (3) and also from a front side of the machine (10).

[0155] According to another aspect, the system according to the present invention is adapted so that the cartridge (3) is operable by the machine (10) in such a way that the portion holder (1) defines an angle greater than 0 o and less than 45° relative to the horizontal direction, at least in the region of the first extension in close proximity to the outlet opening (32). It is thus advantageously provided that the traction force requirements of the traction device (101) can be reduced and the machine (10) can have a more compact shape.

[0156] It is preferred when the support (1) of portions defines an angle between 0 oand 40°, preferably an angle between 4 o and 35°, in a particularly preferred manner an angle of up to 15°, relative to the horizontal direction at least in the region of the first extension of the support (1) of portions next to the outlet opening (32).

[0157] It is preferred when the portion support (1) is operated in a second direction at least approximately horizontal, upward or downward from the outlet opening (32) and along at least the greater part of the first extension between the cartridge outlet (3) and the traction device (101), so as to reduce the actuation effort required by the cartridge (3).

[0158] According to another aspect, the system according to the present invention is configured so that the cartridge (3) is operable by the machine (10) in an operating position such that the portion support (1) is pulled by a traction device (101) in a first extension, between the outlet opening (32) of the cartridge (3) and the traction device (101) of the machine (10), less than five times, preferably less than four times, particularly preferably less than three or two times the pitch extension (p) of the collection portions (13).

[0159] Alternatively or supplementarily, the system is configured so that the cartridge (3) can be operated in such a way that the actuation requirement, or required traction force generated by the first support extension (1) of portions to the traction device (101), is less than that corresponding to a weight of 35 g, preferably less than a weight of 28 g, particularly preferably less than 21 g, and greater than a weight of 7 g, preferably greater than a weight of 14 g.

[0160] Figures 11 to 14 represent embodiments of the system according to the invention which provide a simpler and more compact construction of the machine (10) and more efficient means of operating a cartridge (3).

[0161] As represented in all embodiments of Figures 11 to 14, it is advantageous when the cartridge (3) is operable in a position where the top wall is at a level that is no higher than the level of the top region of the traction device (101) inside the machine (10).

[0162] Furthermore, in the case of the embodiment of Figures 12 and 14, the cartridge (3) is operable in a position where it is arranged at a level above the top level of the extraction device (102).

[0163] It is further advantageous when the cartridge (3) can be operatively associated with the machine (10) in such a way that a central axis of the outlet opening (32) of the cartridge (3) is disposed at a level above or below in an extension of up to twice the pitch (p), preferably up to one time the pitch (p), relative to at least one axis of rotation of the traction device (101), preferably at least approximately horizontally aligned with at least one axis of rotation of the traction device (101).

[0164] It is further preferred when the system is configured so that the outlet opening (32) induces a direction of displacement variation in the portion holder (1) between a direction of displacement prevailing inside the cartridge case (31), in a manner preferred at least along part of the operating extent of the portion holder (1), which is the extent that is moved outward from an initial storage arrangement of the portion holder (1) inside the cartridge case (31), and a direction of displacement prevailing of the portion holder (1) outside the cartridge case (31), it being further preferred when said direction variation configures an angle of up to 120° along part of the operating extent, or up to 90° along another part of the operating extent.

[0165] Furthermore, according to another aspect, the system is configured so that the cartridge (3) is operable by the machine (10) according to at least one of:

[0166] - so that all the collection portions (13) in a first extension of the support (1) for portions outside the cartridge box (31) are pulled in an upward direction to a height extension less than the height (H3) of the cartridge; - so that all the collection portions (13) in a first extension of the support (1) for portions outside the cartridge box (31) are pulled in an upward direction to a height extension that is less than four times, preferably less than three times the height (H 30) of the collection confinements ( 130 ) of the portion holder ( 1 ); - so that all the collection portions ( 13 ) in a first extension of the portion holder ( 1 ) outside the cartridge box ( 31 ) are pulled in a direction that is at least approximately horizontal and / or downward.

[0167] Any of the aspects mentioned above contributes individually and jointly to a lower actuation force requirement by the traction device (101), and lower risks of trajectory alteration of the support (1) of portions between the cartridge box (31) and the traction device (101), as well as to a machine (10) having a more compact format.

[0168] It is preferred when the cartridge (3) is operable in an operating position on the machine (10) such that a first shortest vertical travel distance (Zi) between the exit opening (32) and the traction device (101) does not exceed three times the pitch (p), preferably does not exceed twice the pitch (p), in a particularly preferred way does not exceed or is less than one time the pitch (p) •

[0169] It is further preferred when the cartridge (3) is operatively associable with the machine (10) such that a second shortest horizontal path distance (Z2) between the outlet opening (32) and the extraction device (102) does not exceed six times the pitch (p), preferably does not exceed five times the pitch (p), in a particularly preferred way does not exceed four or three times the pitch (p).

[0170] It is particularly advantageous when the cartridge (3) is arranged in the operating position so that the outlet opening (32) is at least approximately horizontally aligned with at least one of: the traction device (101) and at least one axis of rotation thereof.

[0171] It is preferred when the cartridge (3) is operable in such a way that the outlet opening (32) induces a variation in the direction of displacement in the support (1) of portions between a direction prevailing inside and outside the cartridge (3).

[0172] In this embodiment, the system is provided so that the cartridge (3) has a height (H3) that does not exceed the total height occupied by the traction device (101) and extraction device (102) inside the machine (10). In other words, in the operating position the cartridge (3) occupies a height confined by the horizontal projection delimited by the top level of the traction device (101) and the base level of the extraction device (102).

[0173] The extraction device (102) can be arranged at a level inside the machine (10) so that it extends at least partially into the horizontal projection of the cartridge (3) placed in the operating position.

[0174] It is preferred when the extraction device (102) is disposed at a level below the level of the cartridge (3) when in the operating position inside the machine (10), preferably so that it does not extend into the horizontal projection of the cartridge (3) placed in the operating position. According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge (3) is operable in the operating position so that the top level of the cartridge box (31) does not differ by more than 20%, preferably by more than 10% from the top level of the traction device (101), preferably at least above the base level or at least above the top level of a waste collection container (103) that is disposed under the traction device (101).

[0175] Furthermore, the cartridge (3) is operable in an operating position such that the cartridge box (31) extends from a top level below a top level of the machine box (100) to a base level that is above the base level of the machine box (100), preferably at least above at least one of: the base level and the top level of a waste collection container (103) disposed under the traction device (101) and the extraction device (102).

[0176] Although represented here only schematically, the waste collection container (103) may have a volume with a collection capacity of at least 70%, preferably more than 1.5 times the number of individual portions (2) contained in a cartridge (3). The cartridge (3) contains at least 50, preferably at least 60 individual portions (2).

[0177] Furthermore, it is preferred when the cartridge (3) is operable in an operating position where the respective base wall of the cartridge box (31) is at a level above the level of the top region of a waste collection container (103) located below the traction device (101) and the extraction device (102).

[0178] It was experimentally determined to be advantageous when the cartridge (3) can be operatively associated with the machine (10) so that the portion holder (1) is operated with extensions that correspond to at least one of:

[0179] - a first extension between the outlet opening (32) and the traction device (101) does not exceed four times, preferably does not exceed three or two times the support pitch (p) (1) of portions,

[0180] - an extension between the outlet opening (32) and the extraction device (102) corresponding to at least four times and up to ten times the pitch (p), preferably up to seven or five times the pitch (p) of portion support (1);

[0181] - a maximum traction extension of a collection confinement ( 130 ) inside the cartridge box ( 31 ) until reaching the traction device ( 101 ) corresponding to at least four times and at most twelve times the support pitch (p ) ( 1 ) of portions, preferably at least five times and at most ten times the support pitch (p ) ( 1 ) of portions, particularly preferably at most eight times the support pitch (p ) ( 1 ).

[0182] It is preferred when the system is provided in such a way that when the cartridge (3) is in the operating position, the second extension of the portion holder (1) corresponds to at least two and at most seven times, preferably at most five or four times the pitch (p), particularly preferably at most three times the pitch (p).

[0183] According to another aspect, the system according to the present invention is configured so that the portion support (1) is pulled by the traction device (101) in each actuation step thereof in a maximum displacement extension that corresponds to at least one of: an extension of up to eleven times the step (p), preferably between five times and eleven times the step (p), and a weight of up to 77 g, preferably between 20 g and 77 g.

[0184] This provides an advantageous reduction in the traction force requirements of the traction device (101) so that the machine (10) is operable more efficiently and can have a more compact form. As represented in all embodiments of Figures 11 to 14, it is advantageous when the cartridge (3) is operable in an operating position relative to the level of the base wall of the machine (10), wherein the top wall of the cartridge (3) is at a level above the level of the top surface of the traction device (101) inside the machine (10), but does not differ from it by more than 20%, preferably by more than 10%, relative to the level of the latter above the base wall of the machine (10).

[0185] Furthermore, in the case of the embodiment of Figures 12 and 14, the cartridge (3) is operable in a position where the cartridge (3) is positioned at a level above the top level of the extraction device (102).

[0186] In the case of the embodiment shown in Figures 15 and 16, the cartridge (3) is operable in a position where the top wall of the cartridge case (31) is positioned below the level of the top surface of the extraction device (102), but above the level of the base surface of the traction device (101).

[0187] It is preferred when the top level and / or the base level of the cartridge case (31), preferably both levels, is above the top surface level of the extraction device (102), the extraction device (102) being located below the traction device (101).

[0188] It is preferred when the base level of the cartridge box (31) is at least above the base level of a waste collection container (103), preferably above the top level of a waste collection container (103), wherein said waste collection container (103) is disposed under the extraction device (102).

[0189] Figures 15 and 16 represent two embodiments in which the cartridge (3) is operable such that the portion holder (1) is pulled by the traction device (101) and the cartridge (3) has an outlet opening (32) that extends only on the top wall of the cartridge case (31), preferably at least in the vicinity of a corner region thereof. According to an advantageous aspect, the cartridge (3) has an outlet opening (32) that extends only on the top wall of the cartridge case (31).

[0190] It has also been shown to be advantageous when the outlet opening (32) extends in this case along only part, preferably along a smaller part of the length (L3) of the cartridge case (31).

[0191] It is preferred when the outlet opening (32) extends from a region at least in the vicinity, preferably at least in the vicinity of the corner between the top wall and the front wall of the cartridge case (31).

[0192] Furthermore, according to another aspect, the system is advantageously configured so that the cartridge (3) is operable in a position where the height (H3) of the cartridge (3) is contained within the horizontal projection defined jointly by the traction and extraction devices (102), i.e., it does not extend above or below the space jointly occupied by these.

[0193] In the case of the embodiment of Figures 15 and 16, the cartridge (3) is operable in a position where the top wall of the cartridge case (31) is arranged at a level below the level of the top surface of the extraction device (102), but above the level of the base surface of the traction device (101).

[0194] It is preferred when the top level and / or the base level of the cartridge case (31), preferably both, is above the top surface level of the extraction device (102), and it is preferred when the extraction device (102) is located below the traction device (101).

[0195] It is preferred when the base level of the cartridge box (31) is at least above the base level of a waste collection container (103), preferably above the top level of a waste collection container (103), and it is preferred when the waste collection container (103) is located below the extraction device (102).

[0196] In particular, in the case of Figure 15, the cartridge (3) is operable in an operating position where the top wall of the cartridge case (31) is at a level below the top level of the traction device (101) and the base wall of the cartridge case (31) is at a level at least approximately equal to or above the extraction device (102).

[0197] According to an advantageous aspect, the cartridge (3) is operable in an operating position where the top wall is at least approximately at the level of at least one of: the traction device (101), axes of rotation thereof.

[0198] In the case of Figure 16, the rotation axes of the traction device (101) are arranged at a level below the top wall of the cartridge box (31), preferably at a distance corresponding to at least one pitch (p). This provides more space inside the box (100) for introducing the cartridge (3) into the cartridge compartment (110) from a front region of the machine (1).

[0199] Furthermore, the extraction device (102) is disposed entirely below the cartridge (3) so that the distance to the traction device (101) is reduced.

[0200] Lisbon, October 23, 2024

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Beverage preparation system that includes: - a beverage preparation machine (10) comprising a machine box (100) enclosing a traction device (101) disposed above an extraction device (102); - a cartridge (3) comprising a cartridge box (31) collecting an elongated and flexible portion holder (1), the portion holder (1) having two support sheets (11, 12) joined together in juxtaposition and enclosing individual portions (2) of edible beverage precursor substance in successive collection portions (13) distributed successively and spaced apart by a pitch (p), wherein the cartridge (3) is operable by the machine (10) so that the portion holder (1) can be moved out of the cartridge box (31) in a first extension between the outlet opening (32) and the traction device (101), characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) can be manipulated through an access space configured inside the machine housing (100) so that provides placement of the cartridge (3) in an operating position and functional connection of the cartridge (3) with the traction device (101).

2. System according to claim 1, characterized by means of a cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) can be manually placed into an operating position through an access space inside the machine housing (100) that is common to at least one cartridge compartment (110) and a corresponding traction device (101), preferably arranged directly opposite each other, and which provides functional connection of the cartridge (3) by means of manual retention of the support (1) of portions with a traction device (101).

3. System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) can be placed in an operative position through a common access space provided in a frontal region inside the machine (10), the common access space being preferably configured with a region extending according to at least one of: - above the operating position of the cartridge (3); - at least partially in front of the cartridge operating position (3).

4. System according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) can be placed in an operating position through a common access space inside the machine (10) which is accessible through a provided access portion (111) operable manually from the front region of the machine (10), it being preferred when the cartridge (3) can be placed in an operating position according to at least one of: - by means of movements of the cartridge box (31) and the support (1) of portions at least partially in the common access space; - by means of movements of the cartridge box (31) towards the interior of the machine (10), preferably supported laterally, and of the portion holder (1) towards the front region of the machine (10), preferably supported upstream, both directions of movement extending into the common access space.

5. System according to claims 1 to 4, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) can be placed in an operating position through a common access space to the cartridge compartment (110) and to the traction device (101) inside the machine box (100) and accessible from the front region of the machine box (100), the common access space preferably having a shape and dimension configured so as to allow manual association of the portion holder (1) to the traction device (101).

6. System according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) can be placed in an operating position through a common access space that provides space for functional connection of the cartridge (3) by means of manual retention of the support (1) of portions with the traction device (101), wherein the traction device (101) is preferably configured to move linearly and / or by rotation so as to provide at least one way of accessing and retaining the cartridge (3) in an operating position.

7. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured in such a way that at least one, preferably at least two cartridges (3) can be placed in their respective operating position through a common access space that can only be accessed through an access portion (111) associated with the machine box (100), the common access space preferably not providing access to the extraction device (102).

8. System according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) can be placed in operating position by a user from the front region of the machine (10), which is preferred when the machine (10) is configured so that the front region of the machine (10) also provides access to at least one waste collection container (103) located in a base region of the box (100) and configured for waste collection downstream of the extraction device (102).

9. System according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that the cartridge (3) can be placed in operating position by a user holding the cartridge (3) with only one hand and in at least one of the top portion and front portion of the cartridge box (31), it being preferred when the system is provided so that all functions of supplying support (1) of portions and collecting respective material waste, including preferably separate support sheets (11, 12) from individual portions (2), can be operated from the front region of the machine (10).

10. System according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) can be placed in an operating position in an interior region of the housing (100) behind the traction device (101) with respect to the front region of the machine (10), according to at least one of: - wherein the cartridge box (31) is located at a distance from the front region of the box (100) that allows for insertion and removal of the cartridge (3) relative to the front region of the machine (10), - wherein the most downstream end of the support (1) of portions can be moved in the first forward extension into the common access space and thus can be manually held in the traction device (101).

11. System according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) can be placed in an operating position in the machine (10) by means of at least one of: - a movement of the cartridge case (31) in the general direction of the interior region of the machine (10) and supported laterally inside the machine (10), preferably along at least the greater part of the range of movement between the case (100) and the operating position, and - a movement of the support ( 1 ) of portions generally forward in the direction of the traction device ( 101 ).

12. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured so that a cartridge (3) is operable by the machine (10) in an operating position where the cartridge (3) and the traction device (101) are functionally connected and occupy a first reference volume inside the box (100) which extends above a second reference volume also inside the box (100) which includes an extraction device (102) and a waste collection container (103).

13. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by cartridge (3) and machine (10) being configured in such a way that a cartridge (3) is operable by the machine (10) in an operating position in which the cartridge (3) and the traction device (101) occupy a reference volume that has at least approximately a parallelepiped shape inside the box (100), and that preferably has at least one of: - a respective reference height less than its respective reference length; - a total volume smaller than the reference volume of at least approximately parallelepiped shape, occupied by extraction device (102) and waste collection container (103); - a total volume less than two thirds, preferably less than half the reference volume of at least approximately parallelepiped shape, confined by the machine box (100).

14. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized wherein the machine (10) comprises at least one, preferably two cartridge compartments (110) accessible through a common access space and configured so that they can retract a respective cartridge (3) into an operating position, wherein each cartridge compartment (110) is preferably configured in accordance with at least one of: - inside the machine (10) and accessible through a compartment opening in the machine box (100) and its respective access portion (111) operable between open and closed positions, and vice versa; - with at least five, preferably at least six compartment walls (110) so that it confines at least part of, or all of, the faces of the cartridge case (31) and configures a compartment opening that provides access to the cartridge compartment (110); - with front compartment wall that confines part of the front face of the cartridge box (31) in operative position; - with top compartment wall that confines part of the top face of the cartridge case (31) in operative position; - in connection through the compartment opening of the compartment (110) with an access space that is common to the access space to the traction device (101) so that it provides passage from the support portions (1) to the traction device (101).

15. System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized whereby the machine (10) comprises either only one operating module or a plurality of operating modules, at least one of which is configured so that it can supply at least one power and water to the other operating modules, wherein each operating module of the machine (10) is configured so that it includes at least one, preferably at least two cartridge compartments (110) arranged side-by-side and in direct opposition to a respective traction device (101). Lisbon, October 23, 2024

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