EP3349624A1

EP3349624A1 - Beverage preparation machine

Info

Publication number: EP3349624A1
Application number: EP16754515.1A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Yann Mieville; Cédric BEAUSIRE; Charles-Henri Delacretaz
Original assignee: Nestec SA
Current assignee: Societe des Produits Nestle SA
Priority date: 2015-09-15
Filing date: 2016-08-23
Publication date: 2018-07-25
Also published as: KR20180050666A; JP2018527102A; WO2017045876A1; JP6783299B2; AU2016321729A1; MX2018002891A

Abstract

The invention concerns a beverage preparation machine comprising : - a tank (1) for storing a beverage ingredient, - a rotating dosing device (3) configured for dosing and dispensing a dose of beverage ingredient from the tank, - a first beverage producing device (2) configured for being fed with water and with the dose of beverage ingredient, - a second beverage producing device (4) configured for being fed with water, - a water supplying system comprising a first tube (51) feeding water to the first beverage producing device (2) and a second tube (52) feeding water to the second beverage producing device (4), - a valve (6) for delivering water from the water supplying system either to the first beverage producing device (2) or to the second beverage producing device (4), wherein the first and the second tubes are flexible and the valve is a pinching valve selectively pinching either the first tube (51) feeding water to the first beverage producing device or the second tube (52) feeding water to the second beverage producing device, the valve being movable for selectively pinching one of the two tubes and the valve being mechanically movable due to the rotation of at least one part of the rotating dosing device (3) either in one first direction or in one second opposed direction.

Description

BEVERAGE PREPARATION MACHINE

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a beverage machine for preparing foamed or non-foamed beverages.

Background of the invention

WO 2009/144219 describes a beverage preparation for producing a frothed whitened beverage, that is to say a beverage comprising at least a foamed milk component and another different beverage component, usually coffee or chocolate. The machine prepares the foamed milk and the other beverage component in two steps :

- first milk is introduced in a drinking cup and frothed by means of a jet of water,

- secondly, the other beverage component is prepared in a mixing chamber by mixing a dose of soluble beverage ingredient (like instant coffee) in a mixing chamber with water. The dose of soluble beverage ingredient is metered by means of a dosing system. The resulting beverage component prepared in the mixing chamber is dispensed and blended with the already frothed milk inside the drinking cup.

This type of beverage preparation machine can implement a dosing system and a mixing chamber such as described in WO 2009/144239.

Such a machine requires the use of several motors to actuate the different devices of the machine, in particular : the dosing device for metering the soluble beverage ingredient and the valve for selectively dispensing water either through the foaming nozzle or through the mixing chamber. Yet motors represent an important part of the costs of a machine. An object of the present invention is to provide a beverage preparation machine presenting low costs of production.

It would be advantageous to provide such a beverage production machine with a reduced number of motors.

Summary of the invention

In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a beverage preparation machine comprising :

- a tank for storing a beverage ingredient,

- a rotating dosing device configured for dosing and dispensing a dose of beverage ingredient from the tank, - a first beverage producing device configured for being fed with water and with the dose of beverage ingredient,

- a second beverage producing device configured for being fed with water,

- a water supplying system comprising a first tube feeding water to the first beverage producing device and a second tube feeding water to the second beverage producing device,

- one valve for delivering water from the water supplying system either to the first beverage producing device or to the second beverage producing device,

wherein the first and the second tubes are flexible and the valve is a pinching valve selectively pinching either the first tube feeding water to the first beverage producing device or the second tube feeding water to the second beverage producing device, the valve being movable for selectively pinching one of the two tubes and the valve being mechanically movable due to the rotation of at least one part of the rotating dosing device either in one first direction or in one second opposed direction.

The beverage preparation machine comprises a tank for storing the beverage ingredient in bulk and a rotating dosing device configured for dosing and dispensing a dose of beverage ingredient from the tank in order to prepare a beverage. The machine comprises at least two beverage production devices, said devices being configured for mixing a diluent, generally water, with a beverage ingredient or a beverage component in order to prepare a final beverage. Such beverage production devices encompass :

- mixing chambers designed for receiving at least one soluble beverage ingredient and a diluent and facilitating the dissolution of the soluble beverage ingredient(s),

- brewing chambers designed for receiving at least one infusible beverage ingredient and a diluent and facilitating the extraction of a brewed beverage,

- nozzles for introducing a diluent in a container either for dissolving or diluting a beverage ingredient or texturizing a beverage component - by the force of jet for example.

This first beverage producing device is configured for being fed with water and with a dose of beverage ingredient too in order to prepare a beverage from the mixing of the beverage ingredient and water.

This first beverage producing device can be a mixing chamber enabling the dissolution of a dose of soluble beverage ingredient, like instant soluble coffee or milk powder, with water. Alternatively this first beverage producing device can be a brewing chamber enabling the brewing of a dose of infusible beverage ingredient, like roast and ground coffee, with water. The beverage preparation machine comprises a second beverage producing device configured for being fed with water too. This second beverage producing device enables the preparation of another beverage than the beverage produced in the first producing device or the implementation of a further step of beverage preparation on the beverage prepared in the first producing device.

Preferably the second beverage producing device is a nozzle designed for dispensing a jet of water. This jet of water can be used to froth the beverage produced from the first beverage producing device or to produce or froth an additional beverage different from the beverage produced from the first beverage producing device. This additional beverage can be mixed with the beverage produced from the first beverage producing device to produce the final beverage.

In the preferred beverage preparation machine :

- the first beverage producing device is a mixing chamber configured for being fed with water and with a soluble beverage ingredient,

- the rotating dosing device is configured for dosing and dispensing a dose of beverage ingredient from the tank in the mixing chamber, and

- the second beverage producing device is a nozzle configured for dispensing a jet of water.

The mixing chamber is designed for enabling the mixing of the soluble beverage ingredient and a diluent, usually water.

The mixing chamber usually presents a top opening. The soluble beverage ingredient is usually introduced in the mixing chamber through this top opening. Ingredient generally simply falls by gravity in the mixing chamber from the dosing rotating device positioned above the chamber.

The chamber is generally devoid of any actuated mixing device like a rotor, a rotating blade or a whipper.

The first flexible tube of the machine introduces water in the mixing chamber. Usually the end of the first flexible tube is attached to a tube emerging in the mixing chamber either though a top opening of the chamber or through an opening in a lateral wall of the chamber. Preferably the mixing chamber is designed to enable an efficient mixing of soluble ingredient with water and accordingly an efficient dissolution of the soluble ingredient. For example the chamber described in WO 2008/071613 is convenient.

The machine comprises a tank for storing the beverage ingredient in bulk and a rotating dosing device configured for dosing and dispensing a dose of beverage ingredient from the tank in the mixing chamber.

Generally this rotating dosing device is positioned at the bottom of the beverage ingredient tank.

Generally this rotating dosing device comprises at least a rotating disc with an aperture for taking a dose powder out of the tank and discharging this dose in the first beverage producing device. According to the preferred embodiment, this rotating dosing device comprises :

- a fixed body comprising at least a disc presenting a single pierced aperture,

- a rotary top disk disposed on the top of the fixed body and presenting a taking out pierced aperture,

- a rotary bottom disk disposed on the bottom of the fixed body and presenting a discharging pierced aperture,

- a rotary shaft connecting the bottom disk and the top disk. With such embodiment, preferably in the stand-by position of the device the metered pierced aperture is empty and closed to the atmosphere. This embodiment is described in WO 2009/144239.

Generally the rotating dosing device is activated by a motor.

Preferably the second beverage producing device is a nozzle designed for dispensing a jet of water in a drinking container positioned in a beverage dispensing area of the machine. Generally the nozzle is a simple conduit presenting an outlet end sufficiently small to create a jet of water. While flowing through the outlet end, water reaches a sufficient velocity and therefore a sufficient kinetic energy to provide high shear forces on the surface of the beverage. The outlet end of the conduit can present a section equivalent to the section of circle of a diameter comprised between 0,2 and 1 ,0 mm, preferably between 0,3 and 0,9 mm, even more preferably between 0,4 to 0,6 mm. The design of the nozzle can vary depending on the flow of water dispensed by the water supply to the nozzle.

In a particular embodiment, the nozzle can comprise several conduits. In this latter case, preferably, the sections of the outlet ends present identical value and the sum of the sections presents the same value as the section of a unique conduit outlet end presenting a diameter comprised between 0,2 and 1 mm.

Water is delivered by a water supplying system generally comprising a supply of water, usually a water tank, and a pump for pumping water from the supply and delivering it to the beverage producing devices. The water supplying system comprises a first tube feeding water to the first beverage producing device, preferably a mixing chamber, and a second tube feeding water to the second beverage producing device, preferably a nozzle. Generally these two tubes diverge from a main single tube at the upstream part of the water supplying system in order to dispense water either to the first or the second beverage production device. These first and second tubes are flexible so as to be pinched by a pinching valve. The tubes feeding water to the beverage producing devices can comprise a back pressure valve downstream to the pinching valve, in particular to avoid dripping.

The water supplying system can comprise a heating device and/or a cooling device to adjust the temperature of water at the upstream part of the water supplying system.

The machine comprises a valve for delivering water from the water supplying system either to the first or the second beverage producing device.

The valve is a pinching valve selectively pinching either the first flexible tube feeding water to the first producing beverage device or the second flexible tube feeding water to the second beverage producing device. The valve is movable for selectively pinching one of the two tubes and the valve is mechanically movable due to the rotation of the rotating dosing device either in one first direction or in one second opposed direction as follows.

Consequently the machine does not need a specific motor to actuate the pinching valve. This valve is indirectly actuated by the motor of the rotating dosing device.

According to the preferred embodiment :

- when the rotating dosing device rotates in the first direction in order to dose and dispense a dose of beverage ingredient in the first beverage producing device, preferably a mixing chamber, the second flexible tube feeding water to the second beverage producing device, preferably the nozzle, is or becomes pinched by the valve, and

- when the rotating dosing device rotates in the second opposed direction, the first flexible tube feeding water to the first beverage producing device, preferably the mixing chamber, is or becomes pinched by the valve.

According to said preferred embodiment when the rotating dosing device rotates to dose and dispense a dose of beverage ingredient in the first beverage producing device, the rotation happens in a first direction and during this movement the second flexible tube feeding water to the second flexible tube is or becomes pinched by the valve. Simultaneously the first flexible tube delivering water to the first beverage producing device is not pinched or becomes not pinched any longer.

According to said preferred embodiment when the rotating dosing device rotates in the second opposed direction, the first flexible tube feeding water to the first beverage producing device is or becomes pinched by the valve. Simultaneously the second flexible tube delivering water to the second beverage producing device is or becomes not pinched by the valve any longer.

Generally when the machine is at rest the first flexible tube delivering water to the first beverage producing device is not pinched by the valve and the second flexible tube feeding water to the second beverage producing device is pinched.

According to one preferred embodiment, the valve comprises :

- a support,

- compression means mounted on the support, said compression means being movable to pinch either the first or the second flexible tube against a bearing surface of the support, and

- an actuator for moving said tube compression means, said actuator being movable between one first position and one second position, the actuator being made movable between said two positions in response to the rotation of the rotating dosing device either in the first direction or in the second opposed direction.

Preferably the valve comprises two compression means mounted on the support, each compression means being movable to pinch a dedicated flexible tube against a bearing surface of the support.

The two tube compression means can be two pinching arms, preferably pivoting on a common pivot point. Each tube compression arms is preferably moved against elastic return means. The elastic return means can be formed by at least one return spring provided between the compression arm and the actuator.

Preferably the actuator is mounted on the support of the valve.

Preferably the rotating dosing device comprises a rotating disc, said rotating disc comprising a pin extending from the surface of the rotating disc and the actuator of the pinching valve being configured for cooperating with said pin according to the direction of the rotation of the rotating disc.

The actuator can comprise two actuating arms, each arm being designed to cooperate with the pin of the rotating disc so that :

- when the actuator is in the first position, only the first arm contacts the pin of the rotating disc if the disc is rotating,

- when the actuator is in the second position, only the second arm contacts the pin of the rotating disc if the disc is rotating.

When the actuator is in the first position, the second actuating arm does not contact the pin of the rotating disc, when the disc is rotating. The second actuating arm is offset from the rotating path of the pin.

Similarly when the actuator is in the second position, the first actuating arm does not contact the pin of the rotating disc, when the disc is rotating. The first actuating arm is offset from the rotating path of the pin.

Preferably when the actuator is in the first position, the first actuating arm cooperates with the pin of the rotating disc so that :

- when the rotating dosing device is rotating in the first direction in order to dose and dispense a dose of beverage ingredient in the first beverage producing device, the pin is able to slide along the first actuating arm, and

- when the rotating dosing device is rotating in the second opposed direction, the pin is able to engage the first actuating arm of the actuator and the actuator is moved to the second position.

Accordingly the first actuating arm does not prevent or block the rotation of the disc. In particular if a step of dosing requires several rotations of the disc, the several rotations are not prevented when the pin contacts the first actuating arm.

Preferably, when the actuator is in the second position, the second arm cooperates with the pin of the rotating disc so that when the rotating dosing device rotates in the first direction, the pin engages the second arm of the actuator and the actuator is moved to the first position.

The first actuating arm can be flexible so that the pin is able to slide along said first actuating arm during the rotation of the disc in the first direction.

Preferably the machine comprises an electric switch for detecting the position of the actuator of the pinching valve.

Preferably, in the machine :

- the rotating dosing device dispenses a dose of beverage ingredient through a bottom discharging aperture, and

- the first beverage production device is mixing chamber movable between :

. a metering position where the bottom discharging aperture of the rotating dosing device emerges in a top opening of the mixing chamber, and

. a mixing position where the bottom discharging aperture of the rotating dosing device does not emerge in the top opening of the mixing chamber.

Preferably the rotating dosing device comprises :

- a fixed body comprising at least a disc presenting a single pierced aperture, - a rotary top disk disposed on the top of the fixed body and presenting a taking out pierced aperture,

- a rotary shaft connecting the bottom disk and the top disk,

wherein in the stand-by position of the device the metered pierced aperture is empty and closed to the atmosphere.

This type of rotating dosing device and the cooperation with the movable mixing chamber is described in WO 2009/144239.

Accordingly, the same motor can be used to actuate the rotating dosing device, the pinching valve and the mixing chamber movement. Advantageously, the same motor can be used to move the mixing chamber and rotate the rotary bottom and top disks.

In a preferred embodiment, the rotary bottom disc cooperates with a main notched gear presenting a central pin able to cooperate with and drive the rotary shaft of the dosing device and a delivery hole that faces the discharging pierced aperture of the rotary bottom disc. The teeth of the notched gear enable its driving by a motor, for example through an intermediate second notched gear rotated by the motor. The main notched gear present a central pin or a shaft that can cooperate with the shaft of the dosing device, then the motor can drive the rotation of the dosing device rotary discs. In order to avoid the obstruction of the discharging aperture of the rotary bottom disc, the notched gear presents a delivery hole that faces that discharging aperture of the rotary bottom disc. The upper face of the notched gear and the below face of the rotary bottom disc can present corresponding connecting means for improving the driving of the disc by the notched gear. This connecting means should be easily releasable so that the dosing device can easily separate the dosing device from the notched gear for cleaning.

According to this preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber is preferably connected to the main notched gear by a connecting rod, the extremity of said connecting rod that comprises the rotary axis being connected to the notched gear in such a place that in the metering position, the inlet of the mixing chamber faces the delivery hole of the notched gear. The use of the connecting rod enable the linear translation of the mixing chamber from the mixing position that is distant from the dosing device to the metering position where the mixing chamber inlet faces the delivery hole of the notched gear and then the discharging aperture of the rotary bottom disc. In the mixing position, diluent can be introduced in the mixing chamber inlet and due to the remote position of the mixing chamber at this step, the humidity created by the diluent cannot rise in the dosing device. Besides in this mixing position of the mixing chamber, the notched gear is in such an angular position that in the dosing device, the pierced aperture of the fixed body is closed up and down by the top and the bottom rotary discs.

According to the preferred embodiment, at least one part of the rotating dosing device :

- rotates 360° or a multiple of 360° in the first direction in order to dose and dispense a dose of beverage ingredient in the mixing chamber, and

- rotates less than 90° in the second direction to have the first flexible tube feeding water to the mixing chamber been or become pinched by the valve.

Accordingly if the chamber moves between a metering position and a mixing position due the full rotation of the disc, the small rotation in the second direction to enable the supply of water through the nozzle does not activate the dosing and the dispensing of a dose of powder in the mixing chamber simultaneously.

In a second aspect there is provided a method for foaming a beverage with a machine such as described above comprising a mixing chamber and a nozzle, the beverage to be foamed being placed in a container positioned under the nozzle outlet of the beverage preparation machine, said method comprising the steps of :

a - rotating the dosing device in the second opposed direction so that the valve pinches the first flexible tube feeding water to the mixing chamber, then

b - actuating the water supply in order to dispense water through the second flexible tube feeding water to the nozzle during a foaming period,

c - rotating the dosing device in the first direction until the valve pinches the second flexible tube feeding water to the nozzle.

According to one embodiment the method can comprise the further step of continuing step c) of rotating the dosing device in the first direction in order to feed the mixing chamber with a dose of soluble beverage ingredient and simultaneously actuating the water supply in order to dispense water through the first flexible tube feeding water to the mixing chamber during a mixing period.

This embodiment enables the preparation of a cappuccino by foaming fresh milk introduced in the container during steps a) to c) and preparing and dispensing coffee in said foamed milk in the further step. According to another embodiment the method can comprise the precedent step of rotating the dosing device in the first direction in order to feed the mixing chamber with a dose of soluble beverage ingredient and simultaneously actuating the water supply in order to dispense water through the first flexible tube feeding water to the mixing chamber during a mixing period.

This embodiment enables the preparation of afoamed milk from milk powder or milk concentrate by preparing and dispensing milk from milk powder or concentrate in the precedent step and then foaming said reconstituted milk present in the container during steps a) to c).

In the present application :

- the terms "soluble beverage ingredient" means powder or liquid concentrate, that is dissolved or diluted for preparing a beverage,

- the term "soluble" means water soluble,

- the terms "infusible beverage ingredient" means ingredients from which hot water extracts flavor. The infusable beverage ingredient can be roast and ground coffee, tea leaves, herbs, botanicals, as well as other substances.

- the term " beverage component" means a beverage that is mixed with another beverage component to form a final beverage, like foamed milk and coffee for forming a cappuccino.

The above aspects of the invention may be combined in any suitable combination. Moreover, various features herein may be combined with one or more of the above aspects to provide combinations other than those specifically illustrated and described. Further objects and advantageous features of the invention will be apparent from the claims, from the detailed description, and annexed drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

The characteristics and advantages of the invention will be better understood in relation to the following figures :

- Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of a beverage preparation machine according to the prior art,

- Figure 2 is a schematic drawing of the principle of the invention,

- Figure 3 is a perspective view of some elements of a beverage preparation machine according of the invention,

- Figure 4a is a perspective top view of some elements of Figure 3,

- Figure 4b is a perspective bottom view of Figure 4a, - Figures 5a to 5c illustrate the cooperation of the rotating disc with the actuator of the pinching valve according to the two positions of the actuator 64,

- Figure 5d shows the different elements of the pinching valve,

- Figures 6a and 6b are magnified views of the pinching valve elements in the positions of Figures 5b and 5a respectively,

- Figures 7a and 7b are horizontal section views of the pinching valve elements of Figures 6a and 6b respectively.

Detailed description of the drawings

Figure 1 is a schematic drawing of a beverage preparation machine according to the prior art. The machine prepares beverage by dissolution of a dose of soluble beverage ingredient in a mixing chamber 2 that is first beverage production device. The beverage ingredient is stored in a tank 1 . It is preferably instant soluble coffee. The dose of beverage ingredient is metered and dispensed by a rotating dosing device 3. This dosing device is preferably such as described in WO 2009/144239 and comprises :

- a fixed body made of at least a disc presenting a single pierced aperture,

- a rotary shaft connecting the bottom disk and the top disk.

The dosing device dispenses the dose of beverage powder in mixing chamber 2, generally by gravity fall in a top opening of the chamber. This dosing device is actuated by a motor. The mixing chamber comprises :

- a water inlet for the introduction of water and the dissolution of the beverage powder, and

- a beverage outlet for dispensing the beverage in a drinking container 9 placed in a beverage dispensing area 8 of the machine. Generally the beverage outlet is at the bottom of the chamber.

The machine includes a nozzle 4, that is a second beverage production device, for delivering a jet of water in a drinking container 9 comprising a beverage 12 and positioned in the dispensing area 8.

A water supplying system 5 is provided in the machine to be able to feed water in the nozzle 4 or in the mixing chamber 2, more particularly, hot water.

The water supplying system comprises :

- a tank 56 that can be replenished with fresh water, or eventually connected to tap water,

- a water pump 55 for pumping water from the tank 56. The pump can be any type of pump such as a piston pump, diaphragm pump or a peristaltic pump. - a water heater 54 such as a thermoblock or a cartridge type heater to heat the pumped water, alternatively or in addition to, the machine can comprise a water cooler in a line bypassing the heater,

- a non-return valve 53.

- a solenoid valve 1 1 diverting water either to a tube 51 connected to the water inlet of the mixing chamber 2 or to a tube 52 connected to the nozzle 4. This solenoid valve is actuated by a motor.

A controller 13 is provided to control a beverage upon the user actuating or being prompted to press a command 14 on the machine.

Consequently the beverage preparation machine of the prior art comprises two motors for actuating two different devices of the machine, the dosing device and the valve.

This machine enables on one side the production of a beverage by dissolution of a soluble beverage ingredient with the mixing chamber and on another side the production of a beverage in the drinking container 9 or the foaming of a beverage present in the drinking container 9 with the nozzle.

This machine enables for example the production of the following beverages :

- a frothed single component beverage, like foamed coffee or foamed milk, by dissolution of soluble coffee of milk powder in the mixing chamber, dispensing of the beverage in the drinking container 9, and then frothing of said beverage in the container with the nozzle.

- a frothed dual component beverage, like a cappuccino, by introduction of milk by the user in the drinking container, frothing of milk with the nozzle, and then dissolution of soluble coffee in the mixing chamber and dispensing of said coffee in the frothed milk. Figure 2 is a schematic drawing illustrating the principle of the invention. The invention is implemented in a beverage preparation machine comparable to the machine of Figure 1 except that the solenoid valve is replaced by a pinching valve 6 configured for pinching either a flexible tube 51 feeding water to the first beverage producing device, that is the mixing chamber 2, or a flexible tube 52 feeding water to the second beverage producing device, that is the nozzle 4.

The pinching valve 6 is made movable for selectively pinching one of the two tubes due to the rotation of at least one part of the rotating dosing device 3 either in one first direction or in one second opposed direction respectively. Consequently, rotating the dosing device in one direction moves the pinching valve so that it pinches one flexible tube, whereas rotating the dosing device in the opposed direction moves the pinching valve so that it pinches the other flexible tube. The pinching valve 6 and the rotating dosing device 3 are mechanically linked together, either directly or indirectly - that is through an intermediate mechanical element - so that the motor 7 actuating the rotating dosing device 3 simultaneously actuates the pinching valve 6.

The motor 7 is designed for actuating the rotating dosing device 3 only. Then the pinching valve is mechanically designed and is positioned relatively to the rotating dosing device 3 so as to pinch one flexible tube or the other flexible tube in accordance with the movement of the rotating dosing device.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of some elements of a beverage preparation machine according to the invention. In particular this view shows :

- the tank 1 of beverage powder connected at its bottom to the rotating dosing device 3, and

- the mixing chamber 2 and the nozzle 4, and

- the motor 7, and

- the pinching valve 6 with the two flexible tubes 51 , 52 emerging downwards therefrom. Dotted lines illustrate the connection of the flexible tubes 51 and 52 with the water inlet 21 of the mixing chamber 2 and the nozzle 4 respectively.

Figure 4a corresponds to a top view of Figure 3 in which the tank 1 was removed and all the elements of the rotating dosing device 3 were removed except the rotating disc 31. This rotating disc presents a discharging aperture 32 through which a dose of powder metered by the other elements of the dosing device can freely flow. This rotating disc presents teeth on its circumference designed for cooperating with teeth of a gear wheel 71 . Said wheel is rotated by the shaft of the motor 7. The rotating disc 31 presents a central shaft 35 configured for cooperating with the other elements of the dosing device and rotating them for metering a dose of powder as described for example in WO 2009/144239. Extending from the surface of the disc 31 , there is a pin 34. Said pin is able to cooperate with a part of the pinching valve 6 in order to pinch one of the tubes 51 , 52.

The pin 34 of the rotating disc is configured for cooperating with the actuator 64 of the pinching valve Figure 4b corresponds to a bottom view of the elements of Figure 4a. It makes apparent a connecting rod 22 attached to the mixing chamber 2 and the rotating disc 31 : this connecting rod enables the back and forth translation of the mixing chamber during the rotation of the rotating disc 31 , as described in WO 2009/144239. Consequently, the top opening of the chamber is positioned under the discharging aperture 32 when the metered dose of beverage powder is dispensed through the aperture. Figures 5a and 5b illustrate the cooperation of the rotating disc 31 with the actuator 64 of the pinching valve. These figures illustrate the two positions of the actuator 64.

The actuator comprises two actuating arms 641 , 642.

In Figure 5a the actuator 64 is in a position where only the first actuating arm 641 can cooperate with the pin 34 of the rotating disc 31 when this disc rotates. The second actuating arm 342 is away from the path of the pin 34.

The arrows A and B illustrate the two directions of rotation of the disc. Figure 5a illustrates the rotating disc at rest.

When the rotating disc 31 is rotating in the first direction A in order to dose and dispense a dose of soluble beverage ingredient in the mixing chamber, the pin 34 is either not engaged as illustrated in Figure 5a or is able to slide along the first actuating arm 641 as illustrated in

Figure 5c. The flexibility of the first actuating arm 641 is provided by the spring 643.

The disc 31 can rotate for several turns without moving the actuator 64.

When the rotating disc 31 is rotating in the second opposed direction according to arrow B, the first actuating arm is engaged and pulled by the pin 34 moving the actuator to the second position illustrated in Figure 5b.

Figure 5d shows how the back side 644 of the actuator is pivotally mounted at point 645 to the support 63 of the pinching valve. Accordingly the back side 644 of the actuator rotates around this pivot point during the movement of the actuating arms 641 , 642 engaged by the rotating disc 31 . Figures 5a and 5b clearly show the two positions of the actuator. A part of the actuator 64, for example the bottom of the actuator, can establish an electrical contact with a sensor or control circuit of the machine depending on the position of the actuator. Accordingly the position of the valve can be checked and known by the controller 13 of the machine.

When the actuator 64 is in the second position illustrated in Figure 5b, only the second actuating arm 642 cooperates with the pin 34 of the rotating disc if the disc is rotating. The first actuating arm 341 is away from the path of the pin 34. From this position, when the rotating disc 31 rotates in the first direction A, the pin 34 can engage the second actuating arm 642 and the actuator can be moved back to the first position of Figure 5a.

Starting from the device in the position illustrated in Figure 5a, the process for foaming a beverage - preferably fresh milk - present in a drinking container in the dispensing area of the machine can be implemented as follows :

- in a first step a) the rotating disc 31 is rotated in the second direction B in order to move the actuator 64 to the second position and so that the valve pinches the first flexible tube 51 feeding water to the mixing chamber 2 and to have the second flexible tube 52 feeding water to the nozzle 4 opened, - in a further step b) the water supply is actuated in order to dispense water through the second flexible tube 52 in order to foam the beverage in the drinking container,

- in a further step c) the rotating disc 31 is rotated in the first direction A in order to move back the actuator 64 to the first position and so that the valve pinches the second flexible tube 52 feeding water to the nozzle 4 and to have the first flexible tube 51 feeding water to the mixing chamber opened.

These steps enable the production of a foamed milk. In the case of the preparation of a cappuccino beverage, the process can comprise the additional following step to dispense coffee in the already foamed milk. In this further step, above step c) is continued so that the rotating disc 31 is rotated in the first direction A in order to feed the mixing chamber with a dose of soluble beverage ingredient - preferably instant coffee - and the water supply is actuated in order to dispense water through the first flexible tube 51 feeding water to the mixing chamber 2. the resulting beverage is dispensed in the foamed milk through the outlet of the mixing chamber.

Figures 6a and 6b are magnified views of the pinching valve elements in the positions of Figures 5a and 5b respectively.

The support 63 of the valve supports the back side 644 of the actuator and two compression means 61 , 62 mounted on the support. These means 61 , 62 are two pinching arms. Each arm pivots at a pivot point of the support. Each compression arm 61 , 62 is moved against a return spring 647, 646 attached the compression arm and the actuator 64.

Figures 7a and 7b are horizontal section along AA of the pinching valve elements of Figures 6a and 6b respectively. In these figures the flexible tubes 51 , 52 are represented.

Figure 7a corresponds to the pinching valve in its second position such as in Figures 3, 4a, 4b, 5b and where the flexible tube 51 of the mixing chamber is pinched and closed whereas the flexible tube 52 of the nozzle is opened. In this position water can be dispensed through the nozzle.

Figure 7a corresponds to the pinching valve in its first position such as in Figures 5a and 5bs and where the flexible tube 52 of the nozzle is pinched and closed whereas the flexible tube 51 of the mixing chamber is opened. In this position water can be dispensed in the mixing chamber.

Although the invention has been described with reference to the above illustrated embodiments, it will be appreciated that the invention as claimed is not limited in any way by these illustrated embodiments. Variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, where known equivalents exist to specific features, such equivalents are incorporated as if specifically referred in this specification.

As used in this specification, the words "comprises", "comprising", and similar words, are not to be interpreted in an exclusive or exhaustive sense. In other words, they are intended to mean "including, but not limited to".

List of references in the drawings : tank 1

mixing chamber 2

water inlet 21

connecting rod 22

top opening 23

rotating dosing device 3

rotating disc 31

discharging aperture 32

teeth 33

pin 34

shaft 35

nozzle 4

water supplying system 5

first tube 51

second tube 52

non return valve 53

heater 54

pump 55

water tank 56

upstream water line 57

pinching valve 6

compression means 61 , 62

support 63

actuator 64

actuating arm 641 , 642

spring 643, 645, 646

back side 644

motor 7 gear wheel motor

dispensing area

drinking container

beverage preparation machine solenoid valve

beverage

controller

command

Claims

1 . Beverage preparation machine comprising :

- a tank (1 ) for storing a beverage ingredient,

- a rotating dosing device (3) configured for dosing and dispensing a dose of beverage ingredient from the tank,

- a first beverage producing device (2) configured for being fed with water and with the dose of beverage ingredient,

- a second beverage producing device (4) configured for being fed with water,

- a water supplying system comprising a first tube (51 ) feeding water to the first beverage producing device (2) and a second tube (52) feeding water to the second beverage producing device (4),

- one valve (6) for delivering water from the water supplying system either to the first beverage producing device (2) or to the second beverage producing device (4),

wherein the first and the second tubes are flexible and the valve is a pinching valve selectively pinching either the first tube (51 ) feeding water to the first beverage producing device or the second tube (52) feeding water to the second beverage producing device, the valve being movable for selectively pinching one of the two tubes and the valve being mechanically movable due to the rotation of at least one part of the rotating dosing device (3) either in one first direction or in one second opposed direction.

2. Beverage preparation machine according to Claim 1 , wherein :

- the first beverage producing device (2) is a mixing chamber configured for being fed with water and with a soluble beverage ingredient,

- the rotating dosing device (3) is configured for dosing and dispensing a dose of beverage ingredient from the tank in the mixing chamber,

- the second beverage producing device (4) is a nozzle configured for dispensing a jet of water.

3. Beverage preparation machine according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein :

- when said at least one part of the rotating dosing device rotates in the first direction in order to dose and dispense a dose of beverage ingredient in the first beverage producing device (2), the second flexible tube (52) feeding water to the second beverage producing device (4) is or becomes pinched by the valve (6),

- when the rotating dosing device rotates in the second opposed direction, the first flexible tube (51 ) feeding water to the first beverage producing device is or becomes pinched by the valve (6).

4. Beverage preparation machine according to any one of the precedent claims wherein the valve (6) comprises :

- a support (63),

- compression means (61 , 62) mounted on the support, said compression means being movable to pinch one dedicated flexible tube against a bearing surface of the support, and

- an actuator (64, 641 , 642, 643) for moving said tube compression means, said actuator being movable between one first position and one second position, the actuator being made movable between said two positions in response to the rotation of the at least one part of the rotating dosing device either in the first direction or in the second opposed direction.

5. Beverage preparation machine according to Claim 4, wherein the rotating dosing device (3) comprises a rotating disc (31 ), said rotating disc comprising a pin (34) extending from the surface of the rotating disc and the actuator (64) of the pinching valve being configured for cooperating with said pin according to the direction of the rotation of the rotating disc.

6. Beverage preparation machine according to Claim 5, wherein the actuator (64) comprises two actuating arms (641 , 642), each arm being designed to cooperate with the pin (34) of the rotating disc so that :

- when the actuator (64) is in the first position, only the first actuating arm (641 ) cooperates with the pin (34) of the rotating disc if the disc is rotating,

- when the actuator (64) is in the second position, only the second actuating arm (642) cooperates with the pin (34) of the rotating disc if the disc is rotating.

7. Beverage preparation machine according to Claim 6, wherein, when the actuator (64) is in the first position, the first actuating arm (641 ) cooperates with the pin (34) of the rotating disc so that :

- when the rotating disc (31 ) is rotating in the first direction in order to dose and dispense a dose of soluble beverage ingredient in the first beverage producing device (2), the pin (34) is able to slide along the first actuating arm, and

- when the rotating disc (31 ) is rotating in the second opposed direction, the pin (34) is able to engage the first actuating arm of the actuator and the actuator is moved to the second position.

8. Beverage preparation machine according to Claim 6 or 7, wherein when the actuator (64) is in the second position, the second actuating arm (642) cooperates with the pin (34) of the rotating disc so that : - when the rotating disc (31 ) rotates in the first direction, the pin (34) engages the second actuating arm (642) of the actuator and the actuator is moved to the first position.

9. Beverage preparation machine according to Claim 7 or 8, wherein the first actuating arm (641 ) is flexible so that the pin (34) is able to slide along said first actuating arm during the rotation of the disc in the first direction.

10. Beverage preparation machine according to any one Claims 4 to 9, wherein the machine comprises an electric switch for detecting the position of the actuator (64) of the pinching valve.

1 1 . Beverage preparation machine according to any one of the precedent claims, wherein :

- the rotating dosing device dispenses a dose of beverage ingredient through a discharging aperture (32), and

- the first beverage producing device is a mixing chamber (2) movable between :

. a metering position where the discharging aperture (32) of the rotating dosing device emerges in a top opening of the mixing chamber, and

. a mixing position where the discharging aperture (32) of the rotating dosing device does not emerge in the top opening of the mixing chamber.

12. Beverage preparation machine according to any one the precedent claims, wherein the at least one part of the rotating dosing device :

- rotates 360° or a multiple of 360° in the first direction in order to dose and dispense a dose of beverage ingredient in the first beverage producing device, and

- rotates less than 45° in the second direction to have the first flexible tube feeding water to the first beverage producing device been or become pinched by the valve.

13. Method for foaming a beverage with a machine according to Claim 2 the beverage being placed in a container positioned under the outlet of the mixing chamber of the beverage preparation machine, said method comprising the steps of :

a - rotating the dosing device in the second opposed direction in order to have the valve pinched the first flexible tube feeding water to the mixing chamber, then

b - actuating the water supply in order to dispense water through the second flexible tube feeding water to the nozzle during a foaming period, then

14. Method according to the precedent claim, comprising the further step of :

- continuing step c) of rotating the dosing device in the first direction in order to feed the mixing chamber with a dose of soluble beverage ingredient and actuating the water supply in order to dispense water through the first flexible tube feeding water to the mixing chamber during a mixing period.

15. Method according to Claim 13, comprising the precedent step of :

- rotating the dosing device in the first direction in order to feed the mixing chamber with a dose of soluble beverage ingredient and actuating the water supply in order to dispense water through the first flexible tube feeding water to the mixing chamber during a mixing period.