EP4373362A1 - Dispositif de préparation de boissons - Google Patents

Dispositif de préparation de boissons

Info

Publication number
EP4373362A1
EP4373362A1 EP22751737.2A EP22751737A EP4373362A1 EP 4373362 A1 EP4373362 A1 EP 4373362A1 EP 22751737 A EP22751737 A EP 22751737A EP 4373362 A1 EP4373362 A1 EP 4373362A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
portion capsule
identifier
beverage preparation
brewing chamber
preparation device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP22751737.2A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Marc KRÜGER
Günter EMPL
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
K Fee System GmbH
Original Assignee
K Fee System GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by K Fee System GmbH filed Critical K Fee System GmbH
Publication of EP4373362A1 publication Critical patent/EP4373362A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
    • A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
    • A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
    • A47J31/4492—Means to read code provided on ingredient pod or cartridge
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
    • A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
    • A47J31/24—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure
    • A47J31/34—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure
    • A47J31/36—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means
    • A47J31/3604—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means with a mechanism arranged to move the brewing chamber between loading, infusing and ejecting stations
    • A47J31/3623—Cartridges being employed
    • A47J31/3633—Means to perform transfer from a loading position to an infusing position

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a beverage preparation device for preparing a beverage by means of a portion capsule, the portion capsule having a base element with an open side and an edge protruding laterally from the base element on the open side, the open side being closed, in particular hermetically, on the edge lid film is attached, with a beverage raw material being arranged in the cavity formed by the lid film and the base element, with the portion capsule having an identifier on the side of the edge facing away from the lid film, with the beverage preparation device having a brewing chamber which is provided for receiving the portion capsule , wherein the brewing chamber comprises a first brewing chamber element and a second brewing chamber element, which can be moved between an open position, in which the portion capsule can be inserted into the brewing chamber and/or removed from the brewing chamber, and a closed position, in d a liquid can be introduced into the portion capsule to prepare a drink, are movable relative to one another, the beverage preparation device having at least one detection means for detecting the identifier.
  • the present invention relates to a system consisting of a beverage preparation device and a portion capsule, a method for preparing a beverage using such a system and the use of a portion capsule for producing a beverage in such a beverage preparation device or in such a system.
  • portion capsules Such beverage preparation devices and portion capsules are well known.
  • a portion capsule is taught, for example, in the applicant's European patent EP 3 023 362 B1.
  • the Nestle company uses such portion capsules, for example, in its Vertuo portion capsule system.
  • the beverage is prepared by centrifuging the portion capsule in the brewing chamber of the portion capsule machine.
  • the portion capsule has a rotationally symmetrical design and is rotated around its central axis. Water is injected through the lid film in a central position and the finished drink, for example coffee, leaves the portion capsule through the lid film Area of the flange-like edge.
  • the identifier is read out by a detection means installed in the brewing chamber and the recorded information is used to control the beverage preparation, for example the volume of water supplied and/or the speed of the centrifugation. Because the portion capsule is rotated, it is easy for a stationary detection means to detect the identifier along the entire circumference of the rim.
  • Such a beverage preparation device with a rotating brewing chamber has a complex structure, requires a lot of maintenance and is expensive to manufacture.
  • a large number of other portion capsule machines are known which have a simpler design and do not require centrifugation.
  • these portion capsule machines cannot read the identifier arranged on the underside, ie the side facing away from the lid foil, of the edge.
  • a beverage preparation device for preparing a beverage using a portion capsule, the portion capsule having a base element with an open side and an edge protruding laterally from the base element on the open side, the open side being, in particular hermetically sealing cover film is attached, wherein a beverage raw material is arranged in the cavity formed by the cover film and the base element, wherein the portion capsule has an identifier on the side of the edge facing away from the cover film, wherein the beverage preparation device has a brewing chamber which is provided for receiving the portion capsule is, wherein the brewing chamber comprises a first brewing chamber member and a second brewing chamber member between a open position, in which the portion capsule can be inserted into the brewing chamber and/or removed from the brewing chamber, and a closed position, in which a liquid can be introduced into the portion capsule for beverage preparation, can be moved relative to one another, with the beverage preparation device having at least one detection means for detecting having the identifier, the brewing chamber and the portion capsule being provided so as to be immovable
  • the detection means is arranged in such a way that an identifier can be read on the side of the edge facing away from the lid film, hereinafter also referred to as the underside of the edge, without the portion capsule having to rotate relative to the detection means.
  • This makes it possible in a particularly advantageous manner to also use a portion capsule with an identifier on the underside of the rim in a beverage preparation device which does not rotate the portion capsule during the beverage preparation.
  • a portion capsule it is advantageously possible to prevent portion capsules that are not intended for the beverage preparation device or are not compatible with it, from being inserted into it or at least prepared in it.
  • the beverage preparation device can recognize what type of portion capsule is in the brewing chamber and to control the beverage preparation process or the beverage production process accordingly, i. H. for example, adjust the amount of liquid, its pressure and/or its temperature accordingly.
  • the liquid is preferably water.
  • the beverage preparation device is preferably a beverage preparation machine, in particular a coffee machine, ie here a portion-capsule coffee machine.
  • the beverage preparation device has an insertion opening for inserting the portion capsule, with the detection means being arranged along the path between the insertion opening and the brewing chamber, preferably in an insertion chute that takes the portion capsule from the insertion opening to the brewing chamber, in particular form-fitting, directs.
  • a means is particularly preferably provided in the insertion chute, in particular below the detection means, by means of which the portion capsule can be selectively held in an intermediate position. This makes it possible in a particularly advantageous manner to prevent an unsuitable portion capsule from entering the brewing chamber.
  • the means will not allow the sachet to fall under the influence of gravity into the brewing chamber in the open position.
  • the brewing chamber is initially in the closed position, in which the portion capsule cannot enter the brewing chamber, and is only brought into the open position if an identifier is detected or the identifier contains information that makes it possible to determine that it is a compatible portion capsule. In this case, the user must remove the portion capsule from the insertion chute again.
  • the first brewing chamber element and/or the second brewing chamber element has the detection means, wherein the detection means is preferably configured in such a way that the identifier can be detected in the closed position.
  • the detection means is preferably configured in such a way that the identifier can be detected in the closed position.
  • This embodiment is advantageous because it speeds up beverage preparation. Instead of initially holding the portion capsule in an intermediate position, the portion capsule is introduced directly into the brewing chamber and this is transferred to the closed position. If the identifier is recognized, the beverage preparation can be started immediately, preferably as a function of preparation parameters encoded by the identifier.
  • the brewing chamber can be moved back into the open or open position and the portion capsule is ejected, in particular via an ejection opening will.
  • the detection means is provided on an outside of the beverage preparation device, preferably in a depression that at least partially accommodates the portion capsule.
  • the indentation is particularly preferably provided on the upper side of the beverage preparation device.
  • a depression accommodating the portion capsule is provided on the upper side of the housing of the beverage preparation device, the detection means being in particular an at least partially, preferably completely circumferential optical sensor that detects the identifier.
  • the identifier is detected or it is determined that the identifier contains information that it makes it possible to establish that it is a compatible portion capsule, for example, an opening is released and/or the user is signaled, for example via an optical and/or acoustic signal, that the portion capsule can be inserted into the beverage preparation device.
  • the user can then, for example, grasp the portion capsule by the peripheral edge, remove it from the recess and insert it into the beverage preparation device via an insertion opening.
  • This embodiment is also particularly advantageous because the user can try out several portion capsules in a simple manner and decide on a suitable portion capsule without the portion capsules having to be laboriously removed from a chute or transferred unused, in particular into a portion capsule collection container for used portion capsules.
  • An optical and/or acoustic signaling means is very particularly preferably provided in the area of the depression.
  • an illuminant is provided which at least partially surrounds the depression, so that in the event of positive detection, the illuminant lights up green, for example, in particular in the form of a green circular ring, and/or in the event of non-detection and/or negative detection, it lights up red, for example, especially in the form of a red circle. This represents an easy-to-understand and convenient solution for the user.
  • the beverage preparation device comprises a control unit which is connected to the detection means in such a way that the detection means sends information to the control unit if an identifier is detected, the control unit preferably being provided in such a way that it controls the beverage preparation device at least partially as a function of the information received.
  • the control unit is particularly preferably connected to a liquid delivery system of the beverage preparation device, in particular a pump, with a drive means which causes the relative movement of the first brewing chamber element and the second brewing chamber element and/or the means provided in the insertion chute for holding the portion capsule in an intermediate position.
  • the control device particularly preferably releases and/or controls the activation of at least one of the aforementioned components.
  • control unit controls the volume of liquid delivered by the pump, its temperature and/or a time profile of the volume of liquid delivered and/or its temperature.
  • control unit controls the relative movement of the first brewing chamber element and the second brewing chamber element between the open and the closed position and/or vice versa, caused by a drive means. It is conceivable that the first Brühschelement and / or the second Brühhuntelement are moved.
  • the control unit is configured such that the
  • Beverage preparation device can only be put into operation, in particular the pump can be activated if the identified identifier matches a reference identifier.
  • the detection means comprises an optical sensor, in particular a CCD sensor and / or a camera, wherein the optical sensor preferably in a wavelength range of 100-400 nm, 400-600 nm and / or 800 nm to 1 mm works.
  • an optical sensor is a particularly simple and proven method for detecting an identifier.
  • sensors of this type are particularly advantageously small and therefore advantageously enable integration into the brewing chamber.
  • the detection means has an optical transmitter for emitting electromagnetic radiation, preferably in a wavelength range of 100-400 nm, 400-600 nm and/or 800 nm to 1 mm, the optical transmitter in particular an LED and/or a laser diode.
  • the optical transmitter therefore provides electromagnetic radiation, in particular (UV/IR) light, which is reflected at the identifier and can then be detected by an optical sensor.
  • the detection means particularly preferably comprises an optical sensor and an optical transmitter.
  • the detection means has a detection surface in which an identifier can be detected, the detection surface relative to the edge of the portion capsule having an angular range of 1° to 360°, preferably up to 180°, particularly preferably up to 90°, very particularly preferably up to 45° and even more preferably up to 30°.
  • the detection means includes optical beam shaping means and/or a large number of optical sensors, so that the identifier can be detected in a large angular range.
  • the brewing chamber particularly preferably comprises an at least partially ring-shaped detection means or an at least partially ring-shaped detection surface. This makes it possible in a particularly advantageous manner to detect the identifier in a large angular range and, in particular in the case of a single, rotating identifier, to completely detect the identifier without the portion capsule and/or the detection means moving would be required for this.
  • a beverage preparation device of simple construction can hereby be provided in a simple manner.
  • the detection means for detecting the identifier of the portion capsule is pivotable and/or rotatable, preferably in an angular range of 1° to 360°, particularly preferably up to 180°, very particularly preferably up to 90°, even more preferably up to 45° and in particular up to 30°. It is conceivable that the detection means is pivoted in a guide in order to cover a larger angular range and/or that the brewing chamber element having the detection means relative to the other brewing chamber element and/or relative to the portion capsule about an axis, for example the central central axis of the portion capsule is rotated at least in sections in order to detect the identifier.
  • the detection means is rotated from an initial position in both directions through an angular range of 90° or 180°. As a result, at least half or advantageously the entire circumference of the edge and thus the entire identifier can be detected.
  • the beverage preparation device is provided in the open and/or closed position in such a way that the portion capsule can be pivoted and/or rotated for detecting the identifier by the detection means, preferably in an angular range of 1 ° to 360°, particularly preferably up to 180°, very particularly preferably up to 90°, even more preferably up to 45° and in particular up to 30°.
  • the detection means is particularly preferably arranged in a stationary manner relative to the beverage preparation device. This embodiment is very particularly advantageous since no complex pivoting or rotation of the detection means and/or at least one brewing chamber part is required, but rather a rotation that is structurally simpler to implement takes place through the portion capsule.
  • both the portion capsule and the detection means and/or the brewing chamber element having the detection means are pivoted and/or rotated through a predetermined angular range, in particular in opposite directions. This makes it in It is advantageously possible for the identifier to be detected along the entire edge circumference, but both parts do not have to move by, for example, 360°.
  • a further object of the present invention is a system consisting of a beverage preparation device according to the invention and a portion capsule, wherein the portion capsule has a base element with an open side and an edge protruding laterally from the base element on the open side, on the edge a in particular a hermetically sealing lid film, wherein a beverage raw material is arranged in the cavity formed by the lid film and the base element, the portion capsule having an identifier on the side of the edge facing away from the lid film.
  • the portion capsule according to the invention is made, for example, from plastic, a natural substance, a biodegradable material, a metal, such as aluminum, a metal alloy and/or a metal laminate, for example aluminum foil, which is coated on one or both sides with a plastic, and has usually a base element, in particular a deep-drawn base element, which is preferably shaped like a truncated cone, cylindrical or dome-shaped or hemispherical.
  • the base element preferably has a side wall and a bottom area. Particularly preferably, a hole can be provided in the bottom area, but this is closed by a film attached to the inside or outside of the bottom area.
  • the film may be pierceable by the beverage maker or may be peelable by a user.
  • the film most preferably has a tab.
  • the portion capsule has an edge that protrudes laterally from the base element, in particular horizontally. This edge is preferably formed like a flange.
  • An impermeable and/or at least partially perforated and/or at least partially porous cover film is attached to the edge, in particular sealed and/or glued to it, and thereby closes off a cavity in the base element.
  • the cover film is preferably designed in one or more layers and can be made at least partially from a metal, in particular aluminum, and/or a plastic.
  • the cover foil can be made of the same material as the base element or a different material. The cover film thus closes an open end of the portion capsule.
  • the beverage raw material which can be extracted and/or dissolved, for example, by a liquid, in particular water, is filled into the cavity of the portion capsule.
  • the beverage raw material includes in particular coffee powder, preferably ground roasted coffee, chocolate powder, milk powder, tea or the like.
  • the beverage raw material includes a beverage extract, such as instant coffee.
  • the portion capsule preferably has one or more built-in elements in the cavity, such as a filter element, a liquid distribution element, a fleece, a felt, a barrier film and/or the like. If a felt and a fleece are provided, they are preferably connected to one another.
  • the fleece and/or the fleece can be provided in multiple layers, whereby the layers can differ in the type of starting material used and/or the way it is processed.
  • this portion capsule has an identifier that makes it possible, in particular, to individualize the respective portion capsule.
  • Individualization within the meaning of the invention preferably means that the respective portion capsule can be assigned to a group that is suitable for the associated beverage preparation device. It is not necessary for the beverage preparation device to recognize which portion capsule it is specifically, but only that it recognizes that the respective portion capsule belongs to a group of portion capsules that is suitable for the beverage preparation device. Individualization means in particular that portion capsules that are not suitable for the respective beverage preparation device cannot be inserted into the brewing chamber and/or fall directly out of the brewing chamber and/or that the beverage preparation device can only be put into operation with the correct, i.e. compatible, portion capsules is.
  • the detection means detects this identifier and preferably compares it with a stored identifier, ie a reference identifier.
  • a stored identifier ie a reference identifier.
  • the beverage preparation device can only be put into operation, in particular a pump that makes the liquid available can only be activated or is only activated when the identified identifier matches the reference identifier.
  • the identifier prevents the portion capsule from being inserted into the beverage preparation device, in particular into the brewing chamber.
  • means, in particular mechanical means, particularly preferably a flap that at least partially closes the insertion chute are provided in an insertion chute, which prevent an incorrect portion capsule from entering the beverage preparation device, in particular the insertion chute.
  • a filter element which divides the cavity into a first area for receiving the beverage raw material and a second area for temporarily storing a beverage extract, is preferably provided within the cavity, it being particularly preferably provided that the filter element is a fleece material and/or a felt material includes.
  • a liquid distribution element is provided within the cavity, which divides the cavity into a first area for receiving the beverage raw material and a third area for temporarily storing the liquid introduced, it being particularly preferably provided that the liquid distribution element is a rigid and/or flexible Plastic material comprises, wherein the liquid distribution element very particularly preferably has a plurality of holes.
  • the identifier is a one-dimensional identifier, in particular a barcode.
  • the identifier is particularly preferably a machine-readable imprint. This imprint is preferably carried out with a color that is approved for use in the food sector.
  • a barcode in particular, is a tried-and-tested identifier that can be easily detected by an optical sensor and by means of which information can be encoded in a simple manner.
  • the barcode particularly preferably comprises a sequence of circular arc segment sections of different widths, which in particular are alternately dark and light, in particular black and white.
  • the identifier is arranged at least in sections along the peripheral direction of the edge, with the side of the edge facing away from the cover film being essentially completely and uninterruptedly covered by the identifier in the peripheral direction.
  • the identifier is provided in repeated and circumferentially spaced regions.
  • a circular identifier allows more information to be stored, while a repeated identifier allows easier, because localized, detection.
  • the edge has a rolled area at its radially outer end.
  • a rolled-up edge is advantageous, particularly in the case of a portion capsule whose base element is at least partially made of metal, since it reduces the risk of injury to the user.
  • the portion capsule is also simpler in this way Way tangible for the user.
  • the rolled-up edge particularly preferably extends on both sides of the, in particular horizontal, plane defined by the edge.
  • a further object of the present invention is a method for preparing a beverage using a system according to the invention, the identifier being recorded by the detection means before, during and/or after the insertion of the portion capsule into the brewing chamber.
  • the identifier is detected by the detection means before, during or after the movement of the brewing chamber from the open to the closed position. Since the position of the portion capsule and the detection means relative to one another is defined in particular in the closed position, this position is preferred for detecting the identifier. On the other hand, detection, for example during the movement, is advantageous since an incompatible portion capsule can thus be ejected before the closed position is reached and the beverage preparation takes place more quickly due to early transmission of preparation parameters.
  • the detection means for detecting the identifier is pivoted, preferably along a path that is essentially in the shape of a circular arc and has a predetermined length.
  • the detection means and/or the brewing chamber element having the detection means is rotated about an axis, the axis preferably being identical to the central central axis of the portion capsule arranged in the brewing chamber.
  • the portion capsule is rotated about a central central axis of the portion capsule, preferably in a predetermined angular range, in particular 1°-360°, for detecting the identifier.
  • the portion capsule is particularly preferably rotated by a maximum of 180°, a maximum of 90°, a maximum of 45° or a maximum of 30°.
  • the detection means is provided in such a way that an identifier is detected within a detection area, the detection area covering an angular range of 1°-360°, preferably 10° to 90°. As already mentioned above, this is possible, for example, by appropriately arranging the at least one detection means or a multiplicity of detection means and/or sensors and/or by appropriate beam shaping.
  • the portion capsule is introduced into the beverage preparation device in a first step, with the identification of the portion capsule being recorded by means of the detection means in a second step and with the portion capsule being transferred into the brewing chamber and/or the beverage preparation in a third step is started when the identifier of the portion capsule has been recorded.
  • This method advantageously ensures that the portion capsule is only arranged in the closed brewing chamber if it is a system-specific portion capsule. Otherwise, the transfer of the brewing chamber into the closed position is prevented and/or the portion capsule is not picked up and falls into a collection container located below the brewing chamber, for example, in order to prevent any damage to the beverage preparation device by accommodating a non-system portion capsule.
  • the beverage preparation and in particular the pump for introducing the liquid into the portion capsule are only started if the presence of a system-specific portion capsule is detected in the second step. This also prevents any damage to the beverage preparation device through the use of a non-system portion capsule.
  • a further object of the present invention is the use of a portion capsule, the portion capsule having a base element with an open side and an edge protruding laterally from the base element on the open side, with a lid film sealing the open side, in particular hermetically, on the edge is attached, with a beverage raw material being arranged in the cavity formed by the lid film and the base element, with the portion capsule having an identifier on the side of the edge facing away from the lid film, for producing a beverage in a beverage preparation device according to the invention or in a system according to the invention.
  • FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a beverage preparation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figures 2a-d show a portion capsule according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3 shows a basic sketch of the detection of an identifier of a portion capsule by means of a detection means according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figures 4a-d show a method for preparing a drink in a
  • Beverage preparation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figures 5a-b show a method for preparing a drink in a
  • Beverage preparation device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a beverage preparation device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the beverage preparation device 1 shown is a portion capsule machine with which a beverage, in particular an industrious beverage, can be produced from beverage raw material contained in portion capsules 2, for example ground and roasted coffee, instant coffee powder, milk powder and/or tea leaves.
  • the beverage preparation device 1 comprises a housing, a beverage outlet provided here at the front, from which the ready-made beverage flows into a vessel arranged underneath, for example a cup or a mug.
  • the vessel can be placed in different fleas, here two fleas, on a drip tray.
  • a reservoir for receiving liquid dripping through the drip grid is provided below the drip grid.
  • an upper reservoir is designed as a removable hollow cylinder with a bottom. The drip grid can be easily removed and placed over the reservoir below.
  • Below the beverage outlet there is a collection container for receiving used portion capsules 2, which is inserted into the housing and can be removed from the front. After a certain number of drinks, this collection container must be removed and emptied.
  • the beverage preparation device 1 On the rear side of the beverage preparation device 1 is a removable liquid tank (not shown here), in particular a water tank, which provides the beverage preparation device 1 with a liquid.
  • the beverage preparation device 1 is narrow and elongated here and has a clearly recognizable lever 18 on the upper side. This covers here a throw-in opening 13, which is adjacent to a throw-in slot, through which an inserted portion capsule 2 reaches an open brewing chamber 7 by gravity.
  • the brewing chamber 7 consists It consists of a first brewing chamber element 8 and a second brewing chamber element 9, which can be moved relative to one another between an open position of the brewing chamber 7 and a closed position. This will be explained in more detail using the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 4a-d. 1, one brewing chamber element 8, 9 is immovable and the other brewing chamber element 9, 8 can be moved between the open and closed position by means of a corresponding deflection mechanism 112 by actuating the lever 18.
  • the closed position is shown here, in which, for example, a drink can be prepared.
  • a user pivots the lever 18 until it points approximately vertically upwards (other end positions are of course also possible).
  • the brewing chamber 7 is in an open position and the portion capsule 2 can be inserted into the beverage preparation device 1 through the insertion opening 13 .
  • the lever 18 is then brought back into the horizontal position shown here, as a result of which the brewing chamber 7 is transferred to the closed position.
  • a detection means 10 detects an identifier 6 applied to the portion capsule 2.
  • the detection means 10 is particularly preferably functionally connected to a control unit 11, so that the detected identifier 6 is transmitted to the control unit 11.
  • control unit 11 If no identifier 11 has been recorded, corresponding information is sent to the control unit 11 .
  • the control unit 11 is set up to infer a missing and/or incorrect identifier 6 from the absence of information associated with the identifier 6 within a predetermined time interval.
  • the control unit 11 is preferably set up to compare the detected identifier 6 with at least one stored identifier 6, ie a reference identifier, or to compare the information obtained with reference information. If the result of this comparison is negative, i.e. there is no (at least partial) match, the control unit 11 is configured, for example, in such a way that a pump (not shown here) delivering the liquid under pressure from the to the brewing chamber 7 is not activated. In this case, the user has to open the brewing chamber 7 via the lever 18 and the portion capsule 2 falls unused into the collection container. If, on the other hand, a match is detected, the control unit 11 activates the pump and the beverage preparation begins, or the control unit 11 enables the pump so that the user can initiate the beverage preparation by pressing a button, for example.
  • control unit 11 can also deduce at least one preparation parameter from the transmitted information, for example the volume of liquid to be supplied, the pressure and/or the temperature at which the liquid is supplied and/or a pressure and/or temperature profile, i.e. a temporal one Course of the pressure or the temperature of the liquid over the period of the beverage preparation.
  • the beverage preparation device 1 generally includes other, in particular controllable, components, which are also not shown here for the sake of clarity, such as a flow meter, a liquid temperature control device, in particular a flow heater, a thermal block and/or a boiler, and /or at least one valve, in particular a solenoid valve.
  • a flow meter a liquid temperature control device, in particular a flow heater, a thermal block and/or a boiler, and /or at least one valve, in particular a solenoid valve.
  • FIGS. 2a-d A portion capsule 2 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 2a-d.
  • the portion capsules 2 have in common is that they comprise a base element 3 which preferably has an open side which is closed, in particular hermetically, by a cover film 4 .
  • the portion capsules 2 have an edge 5 that protrudes radially outwards from the base element 3 and is in particular flange-like and/or circumferential, to which the cover film 4 is attached.
  • the edge 5 is particularly preferably aligned essentially horizontally, i.e. in particular parallel to a plane of the cover film 4 .
  • the cover film 4 is very particularly preferably sealed and/or glued to this edge 5 .
  • the base element 3 and the cover film 4 enclose a cavity in which the beverage raw material is arranged.
  • the portion capsules 2 have on the side of the edge 5 facing away from the cover film 4, hereinafter (arbitrarily) also as the underside of the Edge 5 denotes an identifier 6 (without this implying a statement about a preferred orientation of the portion capsule 2, also in the brewing chamber 7).
  • the identifier 6 is preferably machine-readable. It is particularly preferably a barcode (cf. FIG. 2d). Such a barcode is an example of a one-dimensional identifier and consists in particular of a sequence of dark, in particular black, and light, in particular white, areas of different widths.
  • Such a barcode can be read by a detection means 10, for example in the form of an optical sensor, and can store different amounts of information depending on the configuration and length.
  • This barcode can be printed, produced by removing material, or produced using optically recognizable means, for example fluorescent means, present in the edge 5 .
  • the identifier 6 is preferably provided over the entire circumference of the edge 5 . Alternatively, however, the identifier 6 is only provided in sections on the edge 5 . In this case, it is preferred if the identifier 6 is repeatedly applied to the edge 5 at regular intervals, so that regardless of the orientation of the portion capsule 2, in particular a rotation about a central central axis of the portion capsule 2, an identifier 6 is always nearby of the detection means is arranged.
  • identifiers 6 are of course also possible, as long as they are provided on the side of the edge 5 facing away from the cover film 4 and can be detected by a suitably positioned detection means 10 .
  • the portion capsule 2 shown in FIG. 2a is a portion capsule 2 with a base element 3 that is essentially in the shape of a truncated cone.
  • the base element 3 therefore has a side wall that runs from the edge 5 or the cover film 4 in the direction of a base area.
  • the bottom area is essentially flat here, but it can basically have any shape.
  • Such a portion capsule form is present, for example, in the applicant's K-fee portion capsules.
  • the base element 3 is preferably made of a plastic material, in particular injection-molded or deep-drawn.
  • the cover film 4 is preferably also at least partially made of a plastic film.
  • the cover film 4 is particularly preferably configured in multiple layers and in particular has at least one at least partially metallic layer, for example an aluminum foil.
  • FIG. 2b which belongs, for example, to the portion capsule 2 shown in FIG predetermined distance below the edge 5 in the side wall has a paragraph that can serve as a stacking shoulder, for example.
  • this paragraph has no further significance, in particular for the present inventive idea, and is therefore not discussed further.
  • FIG. 2c shows a portion capsule 2 according to a further possible embodiment.
  • it is a portion capsule 2 whose shape corresponds to a Nespresso capsule from Nestle.
  • the base element 3 shown here is similar to the base element 3 shown in FIG. 2a, but does not have a flat bottom area, but rather a bottom area tapering in the shape of a dome.
  • the portion capsule has 2 circumferential grooves on the side wall, but these are purely optional.
  • Such a base element 3 is preferably made from a metal material, for example from an aluminum foil or an aluminum alloy, in particular deep-drawn.
  • the base element 3 can be provided with a coating on one or both sides, for example a barrier layer consisting at least partially of PP.
  • FIG. 2d Another possible embodiment of the portion capsule 2 is shown in FIG. 2d.
  • This embodiment comprises a base element 3 that is dome-shaped or essentially hemispherical in shape, at least in some areas.
  • These portion capsules 2 are rotationally symmetrical and are rotated in the brewing chamber. Water is injected centrally, penetrates the beverage raw material arranged in the base element 3 to form the beverage, which is then thrown out at the edge 5 through the cover film 4 by centrifugal forces.
  • the base element 3 additionally has elongated grooves for reinforcing the base element 3, but these are purely optional.
  • the identifier 6 arranged on the underside of the edge 5 in the form of a circulating barcode can be clearly seen in FIG. 2d.
  • the portion capsule machines of the Vertuo system the portion capsules are rotated to prepare the beverage, as explained above.
  • the barcode moves past a stationary sensor, which can thus completely read the barcode within a 360° rotation.
  • a rotation of the capsule with the necessary rotational speeds in order to produce an espresso-like drink, for example is complex.
  • a drink produced by centrifugation is not comparable in terms of organoleptic qualities to a drink produced by classic extraction under a liquid pressure of 5-15 bar, in particular around 9 bar for espresso. Centrifugation is also detrimental to the crema, a foam layer on the drink created by pressure extraction, which is often used as a quality feature for espresso.
  • the identifier 6 on the side of the edge 5 facing away from the cover film 4 is advantageous.
  • the identifier 6 is protected there from damage and a sufficiently large amount of information can be stored here.
  • an associated detection means 10 can be protected from the pressurized liquid or the beverage if positioned appropriately.
  • portion capsule 2 with an identifier 6 on the underside, i.e. on the side of the edge 5 facing away from the cover film 4, with conventional beverage preparation devices 1 that do not provide for centrifugation of the portion capsule 2.
  • the portion capsule 2 can also contain other components, such as at least one filter element and/or at least one liquid distribution element. These components are optionally placed loosely in the base element, clamped into it, and/or attached to the base element at least in sections, for example glued or sealed.
  • FIG. 3 shows a basic sketch of the detection of an identifier 6 of a portion capsule 2 by means of a detection means 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the outer border which is shown only schematically, symbolizes a detection environment. This can be, for example, a brewing chamber 7 of the beverage preparation device 1, preferably in the closed position, or an insertion chute of the beverage preparation device 1.
  • the detection means 10 is preferably connected to a control unit 11 of the beverage preparation device 1.
  • the detection means 10 is arranged on an outside of the beverage preparation device 1, so that a user Can check identifier 6 before inserting into the beverage preparation device 1.
  • the housing of the beverage preparation device 1 includes a recess that accommodates the base element 3 .
  • at least one detection means 10 in particular an optical sensor, is arranged in such a way that it detects at least a section of the identifier 6, but preferably the entire identifier 6 can.
  • the at least one detection means 10 is provided at least partially in the shape of a ring.
  • the beverage preparation device 1 particularly preferably gives the user visual and/or acoustic feedback as to whether the identifier 6 was recorded and/or not recorded or whether the portion capsule 2 is compatible and/or not compatible with the beverage preparation device 1 .
  • FIGS. 4a-d preferably essentially corresponds to the embodiment explained in connection with FIG.
  • the brewing chamber 107 consisting of a first brewing chamber element 108 and a second brewing chamber element 109, in an open position.
  • the second brewing chamber element 109 is immovable here, i.e. stationary relative to the housing of the beverage preparation device 1, and is designed in such a way that it can receive the base element 3 of the portion capsule 2 in an essentially form-fitting manner.
  • the second brewing chamber element 109 has a piercing means 119, for example a piercing spike, which is intended to pierce the base area of the base element 3 in order to allow the beverage to flow out.
  • the first brewing chamber element 108 is designed to be movable relative to the second brewing chamber element 109 and can be moved by a correspondingly suitable deflection mechanism 112, for example with a lever 118 as shown in Figure 1 is coupled, are moved along a guide link 117 between the open or opened position of the brewing chamber 107 and the closed position.
  • the insertion opening 113 has been uncovered by the lever 118 and a user has thrown a portion capsule 2, for example according to the embodiment explained in connection with FIGS. 2a and 2b, into the insertion chute.
  • the insertion chute guides the portion capsule 2 preferably in a form-fitting manner, and thus in a correct positioning and orientation, between the two brewing chamber elements 108, 109 by gravity.
  • the first brewing chamber element 108 has holding means, not visible here, which hold the portion capsule 2 against the force of gravity. This position is shown in Figure 4b.
  • the portion capsule 2 is moved by the first brewing chamber element 108 in the drawing from left to right in the direction of the second brewing chamber element 109, as shown in Fig. 4c is shown.
  • the second brewing chamber element 109 has a detection means 110, for example a camera, which is arranged at at least one point that is directly opposite the identifier 6 when the brewing chamber 107 is in the closed position.
  • the detection means 110 is indicated only schematically and is arranged by way of example in the lower area of the second brewing chamber element 109 .
  • the detection means 110 can in principle also be provided at any other position along the circumference of the edge 5 in the closed position.
  • several detection means 110 can also be provided, which are arranged along the circumference. In particular, it is also conceivable for a large number of detection means 110 to be provided, the total detection areas of which cover the entire edge 5 of the portion capsule 2 .
  • the detection means 110 may be pivoted in the circumferential direction and/or moved along the circumference, i.e. rotated about an axis running centrally through the brewing chamber 107 or the portion capsule 2 to detect a sufficient area of the edge 5 or the identifier 6.
  • the portion capsule 2 can be rotated about its central central axis at least in a predetermined angular range in order to detect the identifier 6 .
  • both the portion capsule 2 and the brewing chamber, in particular the first brewing chamber element 108 and the second brewing chamber element 109, are immovable, ie in particular are not rotated.
  • the first brewing chamber element 108 and the second brewing chamber element 109 tightly enclose the portion capsule 2 in the closed position, possibly using at least one sealing means (for example a sealing ring in pressing contact with the edge 5).
  • Liquid, preferably pressurized and/or hot is now fed into the portion capsule 2 through the holes made in the cover film 4 and, together with the beverage raw material arranged there, forms the beverage, which leaves the portion capsule 2 through the bottom area and is discharged into the vessel will.
  • the detection means 110 is connected to a control unit 111 of the beverage preparation device 1 and forwards information related thereto to the control unit 111 after the identification 6 has been detected.
  • the control unit 111 preferably compares the identifier 6 with a stored identifier, for example a reference identifier.
  • a stored identifier for example a reference identifier.
  • a drink preparation is preferably released.
  • the control unit 111 activates the pump or allows the user to activate the pump by actuating an appropriate actuating means such as a button or button.
  • an appropriate actuating means such as a button or button.
  • control unit 111 can also deduce at least one preparation parameter from the information transmitted by the detection means 110, for example the volume of liquid to be supplied, the pressure and/or the temperature at which the liquid is supplied and/or a pressure and/or temperature profile , ie a time profile of the pressure or the temperature of the liquid over the period of the beverage preparation. In this way, the control unit 111 can directly control the beverage preparation.
  • FIGS. 5a and 5b show a method for preparing a drink in a drink preparation device 1 according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • the mode of operation and the mechanics of the brewing chamber 207 shown here are already well known, so that the aspects relevant to the present invention will be discussed here.
  • the brewing chamber 207 shown here is provided with a variable volume, i.e. it can accommodate two similarly designed portion capsules 2 with a different axial length and thus different volume.
  • the diameter of the portion capsules 2 or the diameter of the rim 5 is unchangeable.
  • the second brewing chamber element 209 has at least one volume adjustment element 215 for this purpose.
  • the bottom of the second brewing chamber element 209 is provided to be displaceable along the central central axis between at least two positions.
  • 5a shows a position in which a portion capsule 2 with a larger volume is inserted and the volume adjustment element 215 has consequently moved to the left through contact with the bottom area of the portion capsule 2 in order to accommodate the larger volume of the portion capsule 2.
  • FIG. 5b shows that position in which the volume adjustment element 2105 provides a smaller volume of the brewing chamber 207 for receiving a portion capsule 2 with a smaller volume.
  • blocking means 216 are provided which prevent an adjustment by positive locking.
  • the illustrated brewing chamber 207 already represents a purely mechanical concept for adjusting the volume of the brewing chamber 207 . For further details, reference is made to the document cited above.
  • the first brewing chamber element 208 is also provided here so that it can be moved by means of a suitable mechanism 212.
  • the second brewing chamber element 209 is now partially movable, since the bottom of the second brewing chamber element 209, i.e. the volume adjustment element 215, is movable, but the wall of the second brewing chamber element 209 is not.
  • the second brewing chamber element 209 has at least one detection means 210 in the area opposite the identifier 6 . This is provided here by way of example in the upper area, but as in the embodiment in FIGS. 4a-d, a different position and/or an additional number of detection means 210 is also conceivable.
  • the detection means 210 is preferably functionally connected to a control unit 211, so that the beverage preparation device 1 can be at least partially controlled by the control unit 211 when the identifier 6 is recognized by the detection means 210.
  • the detection means 210 and/or the portion capsule 2 may also be necessary here to move the detection means 210 and/or the portion capsule 2 to detect the identifier 6, in particular to rotate at least in sections around the central central axis of the portion capsule 2 or the brewing chamber 207.
  • this embodiment in which the detection means 210 is arranged in the second brewing chamber element 209, can also be combined with the embodiment discussed in connection with FIG. In this way it is ensured that the compatible portion capsule 2 selected by the user was actually inserted into the beverage preparation device 1 .
  • Reference List in which the detection means 210 is arranged in the second brewing chamber element 209, can also be combined with the embodiment discussed in connection with FIG. In this way it is ensured that the compatible portion capsule 2 selected by the user was actually inserted into the beverage preparation device 1 .

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Food Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Making Beverages (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de préparation de boissons (1) servant à préparer une boisson au moyen d'une capsule (2), la capsule (2) étant constituée d'un élément de base (3) comportant un côté ouvert et un rebord (5) faisant saillie de l'élément de base latéralement au niveau du côté ouvert (3), rebord (5) sur lequel est fixé un opercule (4) fermant le côté ouvert, en particulier hermétiquement, une matière première pour boisson étant placée dans la cavité formée par l'opercule (4) et l'élément de base (3), la capsule (2) comportant un code d'identification (6) sur le côté du rebord qui est opposé à l'opercule (4), le dispositif de préparation de boissons comprenant une chambre d'infusion (7, 107, 207) qui est destinée à recevoir la capsule (2), la chambre d'infusion (7, 107, 207) comprenant un premier élément de chambre d'infusion (8, 108, 208) et un second élément de chambre d'infusion (9, 109, 209) qui peuvent être déplacés l'un par rapport à l'autre entre une position ouverte, dans laquelle la capsule (2) peut être insérée dans la chambre d'infusion (7, 107, 207) et/ou retirée de la chambre d'infusion (7, 107, 207), et une position fermée, dans laquelle un liquide peut être introduit dans la capsule (2) aux fins de préparation d'une boisson, ledit dispositif de préparation de boissons comprenant au moins un moyen de détection (10, 110, 210) destiné à détecter le code d'identification (6). Selon l'invention, la chambre d'infusion (7, 107, 207) et la capsule (2) sont prévues de manière à rester immobile, en particulier à ne pas tourner, pendant la préparation d'une boisson.
EP22751737.2A 2021-07-20 2022-07-20 Dispositif de préparation de boissons Pending EP4373362A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102021207768 2021-07-20
PCT/EP2022/070411 WO2023001918A1 (fr) 2021-07-20 2022-07-20 Dispositif de préparation de boissons

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP4373362A1 true EP4373362A1 (fr) 2024-05-29

Family

ID=82846280

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP22751737.2A Pending EP4373362A1 (fr) 2021-07-20 2022-07-20 Dispositif de préparation de boissons

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP4373362A1 (fr)
AU (1) AU2022314212A1 (fr)
CA (1) CA3227038A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2023001918A1 (fr)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US12005408B1 (en) 2023-04-14 2024-06-11 Sharkninja Operating Llc Mixing funnel

Family Cites Families (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CA3124446C (fr) 2010-07-22 2023-10-31 K-Fee System Gmbh Capsule de portion avec identifiant
MX342392B (es) * 2011-09-30 2016-09-28 Koninklijke Philips Nv Sistema para la produccion de bebidas.
DE102012105787A1 (de) 2012-06-29 2014-01-02 Eugster/Frismag Ag Elektrohaushaltgeräte System und Verfahren zum Zubereiten eines Getränks
JP6650875B2 (ja) * 2013-12-20 2020-02-19 コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エヌ ヴェＫｏｎｉｎｋｌｉｊｋｅ Ｐｈｉｌｉｐｓ Ｎ．Ｖ． 消耗品認識システム、消耗品のセット及び飲料ディスペンサ
GB2523775B (en) * 2014-03-04 2018-11-21 Leslie Gort Barten Coffee capsule
WO2016087474A1 (fr) * 2014-12-01 2016-06-09 Eugster / Frismag Ag Machine à capsule-portion et procédé pour faire fonctionner une machine à capsule-portion
EP3175749A1 (fr) * 2015-12-01 2017-06-07 Qbo Coffee GmbH Machine de preparations de boissons destinee a preparer une boisson
EP3338601A1 (fr) * 2016-12-22 2018-06-27 Qbo Coffee GmbH Module d'ébouillantage et machine de préparation de boissons
WO2021028472A1 (fr) 2019-08-13 2021-02-18 Eugster / Frismag Ag Dispositif de préparation de boisson et procédé pour préparer une boisson au moyen d'une capsule portion d'un premier et d'un deuxième type, et système comprenant un dispositif de préparation de boisson et un ensemble capsule portion

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2023001918A1 (fr) 2023-01-26
CA3227038A1 (fr) 2023-01-26
AU2022314212A1 (en) 2024-02-01

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
DE602004009718T3 (de) Gerät für die Zubereitung von Getränken
EP1554958B1 (fr) Machine à café pour l'infusion de café en poudre contenu dans une capsule
EP1811880B1 (fr) Systeme comprenant une machine a cafe et une capsule contenant une portion de produit
EP2384997B1 (fr) Cartouche mono-dose comportant du café moulu pour la fabrication d'une boisson à base de café
DE602004001053T2 (de) Patrone zur Zubereitung von Getränken
EP1559351B1 (fr) Dispositif d'extraction pour une machine à café
EP1183975B1 (fr) Machine à infusion de café à cartouches renfermant le café moulu
EP3023361B1 (fr) Capsule de portion avec moyen d'identification
DE602005004554T2 (de) Verfahren zur Herstellung eines Getränkes aus einer Kapsel
DE602005002186T2 (de) Kapsel, Vorrichtung und Verfahren zur Herstellung von Kaffee oder eines anderen Getränks
EP1046366B1 (fr) Dispositif pour délivrer des cartouches de café moulu dans une unité de breuvage
DE60302490T2 (de) Kartusche für Kaffee und wasserlösliche Produkte, Vorrichtung zur Herstellung von Getränken aus solcher Kartusche und Verfahren zur Herstellung von solchen Getränken
DE68904787T2 (de) Verfahren und maschine zum herstellen von getraenken.
EP2418987B1 (fr) Module d'infusion
DE602004007883T2 (de) Integrierte Kapsel zum Extrahieren eines Getränkes
EP2867143B1 (fr) Capsule présentant une identification sur la face interieure d'une membrane de fermeture
EP2119383A1 (fr) Machine à infuser
EP1792850A1 (fr) Cartouche mono-dose
EP4373362A1 (fr) Dispositif de préparation de boissons
DE102007038699A1 (de) System mit einer Brühmaschine und einem Portionspackungshalter
DE102010044251A1 (de) Portionskapsel mit Kennung
WO2017045699A1 (fr) Capsule, procédé de fabrication d'une capsule, système et procédé pour préparer une boisson
DE202023102237U1 (de) Wiederverwendbare Kappe für Kaffeekapsel
WO2018099983A1 (fr) Dispositif d'infusion servant à l'extraction d'une capsule, machine à capsule et adaptateur de capsule

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: UNKNOWN

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20240116

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR