Patent Grant
11395557
The invention generally relates to a system for preparing a beverage. The invention also relates to an apparatus and method for preparing a beverage. More specifically the invention relates to a system for preparing a beverage using a capsule.
Beverage preparation systems are known comprising an exchangeable capsule and an apparatus including a first brew chamber part and a second brew chamber part forming a brew chamber for holding the exchangeable capsule, and a fluid dispensing device for supplying an amount of fluid, such as water, under pressure to the exchangeable capsule. The first brew chamber part and the second brew chamber part are movable with respect to another, so that they can provide for an open position wherein the exchangeable capsule can be inserted into one of the brew chamber parts and a closed position, wherein the first brew chamber part and the second brew chamber part form the brew chamber enclosing the exchangeable capsule. The movement from the open position to the closed position is typically used to prepare the exchangeable capsule for use in the brewing process, e.g. during this movement the exchangeable capsule may be forced into a final position inside the brewing chamber to be formed from its original position where it was inserted by the user. Also the exchangeable capsule may be pierced during this movement, so as to enable the fluid dispensing device to supply an amount of fluid. It is a disadvantage of known beverage preparation systems that the way in which the exchangeable capsule is prepared depends on the material used for the exchangeable capsule. For example aluminum exchangeable capsules tend to be relatively easily pierced as compared to polymer exchangeable capsules. Polymer exchangeable capsules on the other hand may have a higher flexibility allowing them to be more easily positioned. Accordingly the way in which an exchangeable capsule is prepared may depend on the material of which it is made.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for preparing a beverage wherein it is avoided that a material of the exchangeable capsule affects the process of its preparation for brewing.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide method for preparing a beverage wherein it is avoided that a material of the exchangeable capsule affects the process of its preparation for brewing.
It is a still further object of the present invention to provide a system for preparing a beverage wherein it is avoided that a material of the exchangeable capsule affects the process of its preparation for brewing.
According to a first aspect of the invention an apparatus is provided for preparing a quantity of beverage suitable for consumption, including a first brew chamber part and a second brew chamber part forming a brew chamber for holding an exchangeable capsule. The apparatus further includes a fluid dispensing device for supplying an amount of fluid, such as water, under pressure to the exchangeable capsule. The first relative position of the brew chamber parts defines an open state in which the capsule can be inserted into the brew chamber. The second relative position defines a closed state allowing the brew chamber to enclose the capsule. The second biasing member allows to the brew chamber parts to move relative to each other, but biases the brew chamber parts in each others direction. When moving the brew chamber parts from their first relative position to their second relative position using an external actuating mechanism e.g. a user driven actuator, such as a handle or an electro-mechanical actuator the second biasing member will allow the brew chamber parts to yield with respect to each other if the abutting force between the brew chamber parts exceeds the biasing force of the biasing member provided that a dynamic range of the biasing member is not exceeded. Also, during this movement from the first relative position to the second relative position the first biasing member biases the capsule towards the second brew chamber part. As the first biasing member has a higher stiffness than the second biasing member, the capsule will remain biased towards the second brew chamber part during the closing movement, until the second biasing member exceeds its dynamic range or a mechanical stop is encountered.
As a result, the brew chamber will first assume its closed state before the capsule is fully inserted into the first brew chamber part. A biasing member, such as the first or second basing member may be provided in various ways. For example as a resilient element, like a leaf spring or a helical spring, a biasing member may exert a pushing or a pulling force on the part to be biased. Other example of biasing members are a pneumatic spring and a pair of magnetic elements.
According to an aspect a method is provided for preparing a quantity of beverage suitable for consumption. The method includes:
Depending on the application the movement between the first and the second relative positions may be achieved in that one of the brew chamber parts has a fixed absolute position within the apparatus and the other one of the brew chamber parts is movable within the apparatus. In an embodiment the first brew chamber part is movable between a first absolute position defining its loading position to be assumed in said first relative position with the second brew chamber part and a second absolute position defining its brewing position to be assumed in said second relative position with the second brew chamber part. In an alternative embodiment the second brew chamber part is movable between a first absolute position defining its loading position to be assumed in said first relative position with the first brew chamber part and a second absolute position defining its brewing position to be assumed in said second relative position with the first brew chamber part. An embodiment having only one movable brew chamber part is favorable in view of relatively low manufacturing costs.
Alternatively both brew chamber parts may be movably arranged in the apparatus. Therein, the first brew chamber part is movable in the apparatus between a proper loading position and a proper brewing position. In addition the second brew chamber part is movable in the apparatus between a proper loading position and a proper brewing position. This embodiment wherein both brew chamber parts are movably arranged in the apparatus renders the apparatus applicable for a wider range of exchangeable capsules.
Whether or not the brew chamber parts each are movable within the apparatus or only one thereof is movable, various options are possible for biasing the brew chamber parts towards one another. In an embodiment the second biasing member includes a biasing member for biasing the first brew chamber part in a direction towards said second brew chamber part. In another embodiment the second biasing member includes a biasing member for biasing the second brew chamber part in a direction towards said first brew chamber part. Also a combination of these both types of biasing elements may be applied. The biasing elements may serve an additional purpose, for example to position a locking member or a sealing member.
According to an aspect the brew chamber is arranged for selectively holding a first exchangeable capsule and a second exchangeable capsule as the exchangeable capsule, the second exchangeable capsule being different from the first exchangeable capsule. The second brew chamber part may be movable into one of a first brewing position and a second brewing position as its brewing position. The first brew chamber part in its brewing position together with the second brew chamber part in its first brewing position defines a closed state in which the first exchangeable capsule fits in the brew chamber. The first brew chamber part in its brewing position together with the second brew chamber part in its second brewing position defines a closed state in which the second exchangeable capsule fits in the brew chamber. It can be achieved that a preparation process of a first exchangeable capsule during transition of the brewing chamber from its open state to its closed state is similar to the preparation process of a second exchangeable capsule during that transition.
Optionally, the cavity of the first brew chamber part is arranged for receiving the first or second capsule. The cavity of the first brew chamber part can be a predetermined cavity arranged for holding the first or second capsule. The cavity can have an invariable shape for holding the first or second capsule. The first brew chamber part can be arranged for holding the first or second capsule without changing a configuration of the first brew chamber part. The first brew chamber part can be a monolithic part.
According to an aspect, the system includes a locking unit arranged for selectively locking the second brew chamber part in or near the first brewing position. The first brewing position of the second brew chamber part may coincide with its loading position. This is advantageous in that the second brew chamber part does not need to be displaced when a first exchangeable capsule is loaded and subsequently the brew chamber is brought into its second relative position. In that case the basing of the first and second brew chamber parts to each other may be provided by a biasing member coupled to the first brew chamber part.
According to an aspect the first and the second exchangeable capsule to be selectively used by the apparatus may differ from each other in that the first exchangeable capsule has a first body with a first flange, and the second exchangeable capsule has a second body with a second flange, wherein the second flange has a larger diameter than the first flange. In an embodiment of the apparatus using these mutually different first and second capsules the first brew chamber part has a cavity for selectively holding one of the first and second exchangeable capsules. The brew chamber part of this embodiment may have a first substantial annular abutment surface in the cavity, and having a second substantial annular abutment surface. wherein the first abutment surface is arranged for abutting the first flange thereagainst when the cavity holds the first exchangeable capsule, and wherein the second abutment surface is arranged for abutting the second flange thereagainst when the cavity holds the second exchangeable capsule. Therewith the apparatus can properly operate with both capsules despite their different size of flange. In an embodiment of this aspect, the first substantially annular abutment surface is spaced from the second substantially annular abutment surface in an axial direction of the first brew chamber part. Therewith it can be achieved that a bottom of the first exchangeable capsule and a bottom of the second exchangeable capsule have a predetermined position relative to a bottom of the cavity of the first brew chamber part when loaded into the first brew chamber part. Therewith the preparation process of these first and second exchangeable capsules can be harmonized.
According to an aspect an extraction plate of the second brew chamber part may include a central portion and a peripheral portion, wherein the central portion is movable relative to the peripheral portion in an axial direction. Therewith the first brew chamber part can assume the same position in a closed state of the brew chamber, regardless whether it holds a first or a second exchangeable capsule.
In an embodiment the central portion includes a first sealing member and the peripheral portion includes a second sealing member. The first sealing member is arranged for providing a fluid sealing engagement between the central portion and the first brew chamber part when forming the brew chamber for holding the first exchangeable capsule. When forming the brew chamber for holding the second exchangeable capsule the second sealing member provides for a fluid sealing engagement between the peripheral portion and the first brew chamber part.
In an alternative embodiment the first sealing member provides for a fluid sealing engagement between the central portion and a portion of the first capsule facing the second brew chamber part when the brew chamber holds the first exchangeable capsule. Therein the peripheral portion includes a second sealing member arranged for providing a fluid sealing engagement between the peripheral portion and a portion of the second capsule facing the second brew chamber part when the brew chamber holds the second exchangeable capsule.
According to an aspect in order to minimize waste fluid, an embodiment is provided wherein the first brew chamber part includes a first volume not occupied by the first exchangeable capsule when the brew chamber holds the first exchangeable capsule, which first volume is arranged for holding part of the second exchangeable capsule when the brew chamber holds the second capsule. Analogously the first brew chamber part includes a second volume not occupied by the second exchangeable capsule when the brew chamber holds the second capsule, which second volume is arranged for receiving the second brew chamber part when the brew chamber holds the first capsule.
According to an aspect in order to have similar operating conditions regardless whether the apparatus uses a small exchangeable capsule or a large exchangeable capsule, an embodiment is provided wherein the apparatus includes an extraction plate having a plurality of relief elements for selectively engaging one of a first exit area defined by the small exchangeable capsule and second exit area defined by the large exchangeable capsule. When brewing, the fluid dispensing device of the apparatus supplies an amount of fluid, such as water, under pressure to a selected one of the exchangeable capsules, so as to press its exit area onto the relief elements, for opening the exit area. Embodiments may be contemplated wherein the extraction plate and the second exit area are adapted to each other such that a flow resistance of the second exit area when opened is less than a flow resistance of the first exit area when opened.
According to an aspect the first brew chamber part and the first exchangeable capsule are adapted to each other such that a flange-like rim of the first exchangeable capsule engages an inner circumferential wall of the first brew chamber part when loading the first exchangeable capsule into the first brew chamber part. Furthermore, the first brew chamber part and the second exchangeable capsule are adapted to each other such that an outer part of the second exchangeable capsule engages the inner circumferential wall of the first brew chamber part when loading the second exchangeable capsule into the first brew chamber part. This further facilitates operation of the apparatus as part of a system with mutually different first and second exchangeable capsules.
According to an aspect a system is provided for preparing a quantity of beverage suitable for consumption, including the apparatus according to the first aspect and/or according to any of the other aspects as specified above or a combination of such aspects and further including at least one exchangeable capsule.
According to an aspect of the system the at least one exchangeable capsule is a first exchangeable capsule and the system at least comprises a second exchangeable capsule that differs from the first exchangeable capsule, the brew chamber being for selectively holding one of the first and second exchangeable capsules.
It will be appreciated that any of the embodiments, aspects, features and options described in view of the apparatus apply equally to the system, capsules and method. It will also be clear that any one or more of the above embodiments, aspects, features and options can be combined.
The invention will further be elucidated on the basis of exemplary embodiments which are represented in a drawing. The exemplary embodiments are given by way of non-limitative illustration. It is noted that the figures are only schematic representations of embodiments of the invention that are given by way of non-limiting example.
In the drawing:
Alternatively the apparatus may be configured to form a system with only one type of exchangeable capsule for example the second exchangeable capsule.
The first and second capsules 4A, 4B are of a different type. In this example, the second capsule 4B is larger than the first capsule 4A. An axial length LB of the second capsule 4B is larger than an axial length LA of the first capsule 4A. A diameter DB of the second capsule 4B is a larger than a diameter DA of the first capsule 4A. Notwithstanding the differences, in this example the first and second capsules 4A, 4B are designed to make a similar visual impression. The first and second capsules 4A, 4B are designed to have a family look and feel. Here a ratio of the axial length and diameter LA/DA of the first capsule 4A is substantially the same as a ratio of the axial length and diameter LB/DB of the second capsule 4B. Preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the first and second capsules is identical within 20%, preferably within 10%, e.g. identical.
In view of the similarity, both capsules 4A, 4B will now be described simultaneously. In this example, the capsules 4A, 4B both include a cup-shaped body 6A, 6B. Here the cup-shaped body 6A, 6B includes a bottom 8A 8B and a circumferential wall 10A, 10B. The bottom 8A, 8B and the circumferential wall 10A, 10B can form a monolithic part. The capsules 4A, 4B both include a lid 12A, 12B. The lid 12A, 12B closes off an open end of the cup-shaped body 6A, 6B. The lid 12A, 12B includes an exit area 13A, 13B through which beverage can be drained from the capsule as explained below. In this example the lid 12A, 12B is connected to a flange-like rim 14A, 14B of the capsule 4A, 4B. Here the rim 14A, 14B is an outwardly extending rim. The bottom 8A, 8B, the circumferential wall 10A, 10B and the rim 14A, 14B can form a monolithic part. Here the exit area 13A, 13B defines the area of the lid 12A, 12B through which the beverage can potentially exit the capsule 4A, 4B. Hence, an area of the lid 12A, 12B sealed to the rim 14A, 14B does not constitute part of the exit area 13A, 13B. In this example, the capsules 4A, 4B are substantially rotation symmetric around an axis extending from the bottom 8A, 8B to the lid 12A, 12B. The cup-shaped body 6A, 6B and the lid 12A, 12B enclose an inner space 16A, 16B of the capsule. The inner space 16A, 16B includes a quantity of beverage ingredient, such as an extractable or soluble substance. The beverage ingredient can e.g. be roast and ground coffee, tea, or the like. The beverage ingredient can be powdered coffee. The beverage ingredient can be a liquid. In view of the difference in size of the capsules 4A, 4B it will be appreciated that the second capsule 4B can include a larger quantity of beverage ingredient than the first capsule 4A. In this example, the inner space 16B of the second capsule 4B is about twice the inner space 16A of the first capsule 4A. For example, the first capsule 4A may include 4-8 grams, e.g. about 6 grams, of ground coffee. For example, the second capsule 4B may include 8-16 grams, e.g. about 12 grams, of ground coffee.
The cup-shaped body 6A, 6B can be manufactured from a metal foil, such as aluminium foil, a plastics material, such as polypropylene or polyethylene, or a combination thereof. The cup-shaped body 6A, 6B can be manufactured by pressing, deep-drawing, vacuum forming, injection moulding or the like. The lid can be manufactured from a metal foil, such as aluminium foil, a plastics material, such as polypropylene or polyethylene, or a combination thereof. In the example the capsules 4A, 4B are so-called closed capsules. This indicates capsules that are hermetically closed prior to insertion into the apparatus. The closed capsules can be opened by the apparatus as described below. Alternatively, non-sealed or refillable capsules could also be used. An exchangeable capsule may have different mechanical properties dependent on the material(s) and the thicknesses thereof from which it is manufactured. For example aluminum exchangeable capsules tend to be relatively easily pierced as compared to polymer exchangeable capsules. Polymer exchangeable capsules on the other hand may have a higher flexibility allowing them to be more easily positioned.
The apparatus includes a first brew chamber part 18 and a second brew chamber part 20 that are movable relative to one another. In
The first and second brew chamber parts 18, 20 are movable from the first relative position to the second relative position. In this embodiment the first and second brew chamber parts 18, 20 each assume a respective brewing position in the second relative position, wherein they are closed against each other to form a brew chamber 22A, 22B. By way of example
In this embodiment, the loading position (
The loading position (
In the embodiment shown each of the brew chamber parts 18, 20 is movable. I.e. the first brew chamber part 18 is movable in a direction from left to right in the plane of the drawing and is further movable by a rotation in the plane of the drawing. The second brew chamber part 20 is movable in a direction from left to right in the plane of the drawing.
Here the cavity 24 of the first brew chamber part 18 is a predetermined cavity 24 arranged for holding the first or second capsule 4A, 4B. Here the cavity 24 has an invariable shape for holding the first or second capsule 4A, 4B. Here the first brew chamber part 18 is arranged for holding the first or second capsule 4A, 4B without changing a configuration of the first brew chamber part 18. In this example the first brew chamber part 18 is a monolithic part.
The first brew chamber part 18 includes a first biasing member arranged for biasing the capsule 4A, 4B towards the second brew chamber part 20. In the embodiment shown the biasing member is formed by a helical coil 42. Alternatively the biasing member may be provided as a leaf spring or another type of spring. In can also be contemplated to provide the biasing member as a pneumatic biasing element.
A second biasing member is provided that is arranged for biasing the second brew chamber part 20 towards its loading position. In the embodiment shown the second biasing member is formed by a helical spring 84. The helical spring 84 exerts a force on the second brew chamber part 20 that biases it towards the first brew chamber part 18. Other means may be used to provide the biasing force, for example a leaf spring or a pneumatic element.
The apparatus also includes a fluid dispensing device (not shown) for supplying an amount of fluid, such as water, under pressure to the exchangeable capsule, to be enclosed in the brew chamber 22A, 22B. The fluid dispensing device may be coupled to an inlet of the brew chamber, for example inlet 47 of the first brew chamber part 18.
The first brew chamber part 18 includes a cavity 24. The cavity 24 is arranged for receiving an exchangeable capsule. In the embodiment shown the cavity is arranged to receive either one of the first exchangeable capsule 4A and the second exchangeable capsule 4B as the exchangeable capsule. In this example the first brew chamber part 18 includes a first abutment surface 26. The first abutment surface is positioned inside the cavity 24. Here the first abutment surface 26 is a first generally annular abutment surface. The first generally annular abutment surface 26 can be continuously annular, or it may be interrupted annular, such as comprising a plurality of segments along an annulus. The first abutment surface 26 may for example take the shape of one or more, e.g. arched, ridges which protrude into cavity 24. Here the first abutment surface 26 provides the cavity 24 with a stepped shape. In this example the first brew chamber part 18 includes a second abutment surface 28. The second abutment surface is positioned near the open end of the cavity 24. Here the second abutment surface 28 is a second generally annular abutment surface. The second generally annular abutment surface 28 can be continuously annular, or it may be interrupted annular, such as comprising a plurality of segments along an annulus. The second abutment surface 28 may for example take the shape of one or more, e.g. arched, ridges. It will be appreciated that the first abutment surface 26 and the second abutment surface 28 are spaced at a mutual distance in an axial direction of the first brew chamber part 18. The first abutment surface 26 and the second abutment surface 28 are positioned at a fixed spacing. The first abutment surface 26 and the second abutment surface are immobile relative to each other. Here, the first brew chamber part 18 includes an ejector 38. In this example the ejector 38 includes a conical ring 40 arranged at an end of the resilient element 42 facing the capsule. The first brew chamber part 18 includes piercing means 44 for piercing the bottom of the capsule. Here the piercing means includes a plurality of knives, such as three knives. Alternatively or additionally, piercing means may be provided as one or more drilling elements.
As noted above, in an alternative embodiment, the apparatus 2 may be configured to cooperate with a single type of exchangeable capsule for example only the exchangeable capsule 4B. In such alternative embodiment, only one abutment surface, e.g. abutment surface 28 suffices.
The second brew chamber part 20 includes an extraction plate 30. As can best be seen in
The system 1 as described thus far can be used for preparing a beverage as follows. Further features of the system 1 will be explained along the way.
In the example of
As shown in
As shown in
Once the capsule 4A, 4B is inserted into the cavity 24 as shown in
In this example the first brew chamber part 18 includes first bosses 50 and second bosses 52 as shown in
The apparatus 2 includes a lever 58. The lever can be actuated manually by a user. The lever is pivotally connected to the frame 48 around a lever axis 60. The first brew chamber part 18 is connected to the frame 48 via a knee joint 62. The knee joint 62 includes a push rod 64 and a crank 66. The push rod 64 is pivotally connected to the crank 66 at a knee axis 68. The crank 66 is pivotally connected to the frame 48 at a crank axis 70. The lever 58 is connected to the knee joint 62 for actuating the first brew chamber part 18 in motion. Here the lever 58 is connected to the knee joint 62 through a lever link 74. The lever link 74 is pivotally connected to the lever 58 at a lever link axis 76. The lever link 74 is pivotally connected to the push rod 74 at a knee link axis 78.
An arresting ring 80 is arranged surrounding the first brew chamber part 18. As can be seen in more detail in
When the lever 58 is moved in a downward direction the knee joint 62 will push the first brew chamber part 18 towards the second brew chamber part 20. Simultaneously, due to the shape of the first and second grooves 54, 56, the first brew chamber part 18 will be rotated from the upwards inclined orientation into a an aligned orientation in which an axial direction of the first brew chamber part 18 is aligned with an axial direction of the second brew chamber part 20.
As mentioned above, the apparatus 2 is arranged for selectively cooperating with either the first capsule 4A or the second capsule 4B. Here, the system 1 is arranged for automatically adjusting the brew chamber depending on whether the first or the second capsule has been inserted. This provides the advantage that no user input is required for selecting proper handling of the first or second capsule. Hence, the risk of errors is greatly reduced.
As mentioned above, referring in particular to
Upon a further displacement towards the brewing position, the extraction plate 30 or central portion 32 is locked, effectively ending the dynamical range of the second basing member, e.g. resilient element 84. From that point onward the first biasing member, e.g. the resilient element 42 or other biasing means, possibly in combination with the resilience of the capsule can no longer withstand the force exerted by the extraction plate 30 or part thereof on the exit area 12A, 12B of the capsule. As a result the bottom 8A, 8B of the capsule is pierced by the piercing member 44, so that the fluid dispensing device can supply an amount of fluid, such as water, under pressure to the exchangeable capsule.
It is noted that it is not necessary that a separate element is provided for defining an end of the dynamical range of the second biasing member. The second biasing member, e.g. resilient element 84 may have an intrinsic end of its dynamical range that complies with the dynamical range required for operation of the apparatus. For example the resilient element 84 may be in a fully compressed state in the ready position shown in
It is noted that in embodiments intended for use with a single type of exchangeable capsule only, it suffices if the second brew chamber part only has a single brew position in addition to its loading position/ready position. As indicated above, it suffices if the extraction plate 30 has only one portion or portions that are fixedly arranged with respect to each other. Also in such embodiments for use with only a single type of capsule a locking mechanism is superfluous. An example of a locking mechanism for facilitating cooperation of the apparatus 2 with different types of exchangeable capsules is described below with reference to
Therein, the locking mechanism 86 includes a locker 88. Here the locker 88 is designed as a pivotable finger, pivotable around a pivoting axis 90. The locker 88 is biased into a position pivoted away from the shaft 32′. The locker could also be biased into any other suitable position. The locking mechanism 86 further includes a pusher 92. The pusher is slidably guided in a body 94 of the second brew part 20. The pusher 92 is connected to the body 94 via a resilient member 96, here a helical spring. The resilient member 96 biases the pusher in an extended position. The first brew chamber part 18 includes an actuator 98. Here the actuator is formed by a frontal surface of the first brew chamber part 18.
Thus, the locking mechanism 86 is arranged for locking the central portion 32 in the first extraction position when the cavity 24 holds the first capsule 4A. It is noted that the locking may be single-sided, viz. the locking mechanism may prevent the central portion 32 from being moved beyond the first extraction position when the cavity 24 holds the first capsule 4A. However movement of the central portion 32 from the first extraction position to the ready position may be not prevented. The locking unit 86 is arranged for selectively preventing the central portion 32 being locked in or near the first brewing position when the second capsule 4B is included in the brew chamber. The locking unit 86 is arranged for selectively allowing the central portion 32 being moved into the second brewing position when the second capsule is included in the brew chamber.
When comparing
When comparing
As mentioned above, the knee joint 62 is indirectly connected to the first brew chamber part 18, viz. via the arresting ring 80 and one or more resilient elements 82.
In
The arresting ring 80 is still in the rearward position. It will be appreciated that the lever 58 will not yet have reached its end position. The first brew chamber part 18 includes a protrusion 108. Here the protrusion 108 is a substantially annular protrusion. The protrusion 108 extends outwardly. Here the protrusion 108 forms an outermost edge of the first brew chamber part 18. The second brew chamber part 20 includes a retainer 110. Here the retainer 110 is designed as a circumferential ring of retainer lips. The retainer 110 is pivotally connected to the body 94. Here the retainer 110 is resiliently pivotally connected to the body 94. The retainer 110 includes a tooth 112. The tooth here has a first inclined surface 114 and a second inclined surface 116.
When lowering the lever 58, the arresting ring 80 will be advanced towards the second brew chamber part 20. The one or more resilient elements 82 will push the first brew chamber part 18 ahead of the arresting ring 80 until the first brew chamber part reaches its brewing position wherein it abuts against the second brew chamber 20 part, e.g. with the capsule 4A, 4B clamped in between. This causes the retainer 110 to be pivoted outwardly (see
In this stage the force exerted by the second brew chamber part 20 exceeds the biasing force exerted by the resilient member 42. Consequently, the piercing means 44 are forced into the bottom 8A of the capsule 4A therewith providing an access for supplying an amount of fluid, such as water, under pressure to the exchangeable capsule, At the same time the capsule 4A is forced into the cavity Further advancing causes the protrusion 108 to pass beyond the second inclined surface 116, causing the retainer 110 to pivot inwardly (see
The apparatus can include a fluid supply system for supplying a fluid, e.g. a liquid, such as hot water under pressure, to the first brew chamber part 18. When the brew chamber is pressurized with the fluid for brewing a beverage, the first and second brew chamber parts 18, 20 will be pushed away from each other by the fluid pressure. The retainer 110 and arresting ring 80, and optionally the locking ring 118, will bear all, or part of, the force exerted by the fluid pressure. The arresting ring 80 interposed between the retainer 110 and the locking ring 118 increases mechanical stability. The arresting ring 80 does not have to bear all forces exerted onto it by the retainer 110, since it can abut against the locking ring 118 and transmit at least part of the forces to the locking ring 118. The locking ring 118 can be immobile, and hence can easily be reinforced. Since the first brew chamber part is locked onto the second brew chamber part 20 the frame 48 and the actuation mechanism, e.g. the knee joint, do not have to bear this force, or at least a smaller part thereof. Hence the frame and/or the actuation mechanism can be designed weaker and/or cheaper.
Although the functioning of the arresting ring 80 has been shown in
The piercing member 44 is arranged for piercing the bottom 8A, 8B of the capsule 4A, 4B. As can also be seen in
Once the capsule 4A, 4B is included in the brew chamber, and the bottom 8A, 8B has been pierced, a fluid, in this example hot water under pressure, can be supplied to the brew chamber. Therefore it is desired that the brew chamber is leak tight. Thereto the central portion 32 is provided with a first sealing member 120. The peripheral portion 34 is provided with a second sealing member 122. The beverage preparation apparatus 2 is arranged for preparing a quantity of a beverage, suitable for consumption, using either a first capsule 4A or a second capsule 4B. The quantity can be a predetermined quantity. The quantity can also be a user selectable, user settable, or user programmable quantity.
Referring to
Referring to
When the fluid under pressure is supplied to the capsule 4A, 4B in the brew chamber, the exit area 13A, 13B may open against the extraction plate 30. The extraction plate 30 in this example includes a plurality of relief elements 124. Here the relief elements 124 are truncated pyramids. A rise in pressure inside the capsule 4A, 4B can cause the exit area 13A, 13B to tear against the relief elements allowing beverage to exit the capsule 4A, 4B.
The beverage can pass through the extraction plate 30 via apertures in the extraction plate. Next the beverage can flow to an outlet 126. From the outlet 126 the beverage can flow into a receptacle, such as a cup.
In the previous sections aspects are disclosed that facilitate operation of the apparatus 2 with any of a first exchangeable capsule 4A and a second exchangeable capsule 4B. Other embodiments are conceivable, wherein the apparatus 2 is particularly suited for operating with a first exchangeable capsule 4A or particularly suited for operating with a second exchangeable capsule 4B.
In an apparatus 2 that is particularly suited for operating with a first exchangeable capsule 4A it may be considered to exclude one or more of the following elements: the second abutment surface 28, the peripheral portion 34 of the extraction plate 30, the locker 88, the pusher 92, the resilient element 96, the actuator 98.
In an apparatus 2 that is particularly suited for operating with a second exchangeable capsule 4B it may be considered to exclude one or more of the following elements: the first abutment surface 26, the locker 88, the pusher 92, the resilient element 96, the actuator 98. The extraction plate 30 may be provided as a single part, or as a mutually rigidly coupled central portion and peripheral portion.
Once the beverage has been brewed, the lever 58 can be moved upwardly. This causes the arresting ring 80 to be moved away from the retainer 110. Next, the first brew chamber part 18 will be moved rearwardly. The second inclined surface 116 of the retainer 110 can allow the retainer to pass the projection 108. The first brew chamber 18 part will move away from the second brew chamber part 20. The central portion 32 will return to the ready position. The bosses 50, 52 and grooves 54, 56 determine the path that will be followed by the first brew chamber part 18. As shown in
In this example the first and second capsules 4A, 4B are designed to make a similar visual impression.
It is noted that the first volume 126 is not occupied by the first capsule 4A when the brew chamber holds the first capsule 4A. However, this first volume 126 is occupied by part of the second capsule 4B when the brew chamber holds the second capsule 4B. The second volume 130 is not occupied by the second capsule 4B when the brew chamber holds the second capsule 4B. This second volume 130 receiving the central portion 32 of the extraction plate 30 when the brew chamber holds the first capsule 4A.
When brewing a beverage using the first capsule 4A, the first volume 126 will fill with fluid, such as water, which fluid is not used for brewing the beverage. This fluid can be drained to the waste basket after brewing. When brewing a beverage using the second capsule 4B, the second volume 130 will fill with fluid, such as water, which fluid is not used for brewing the beverage. This fluid can be drained to a container, e.g. the waste basket, after brewing. In this example the first volume 126 is substantially equal to the second volume 130. Hence, the volume of fluid directed to the waste basket is substantially equal when brewing a beverage using a first capsule 4A and when brewing a beverage using a second capsule 4B.
Herein, the invention is described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made therein, without departing from the essence of the invention. For the purpose of clarity and a concise description features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, alternative embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described in these separate embodiments are also envisaged.
In the examples, the central portion of the extraction plate includes a plurality of relief elements. The peripheral portion includes no relief elements. However, it will be appreciated that the peripheral portion may also include relief elements. The extraction plate and the second exit area can be adapted to each other such that a flow resistance of the second exit area when opened is less than a flow resistance of the first exit area when opened. The extraction plate and the second exit area may be adapted to each other such that the second exit area tears on the extraction plate over a larger surface area than the first exit area. The extraction plate and the second exit area may be adapted to each other such that the second exit area tears on the extraction plate om more locations than the first exit area. Outer relief elements may be designed for tearing both the first and second exit area wherein the second exit area tears on the outer relief elements over a larger surface area than the first exit area. The extraction plate can include relief elements of a first type and at least one relief element of a second type, wherein the relief elements of the first type are arranged within an area corresponding to the first exit area, and the at least one relief element of the second type being arranged within an area corresponding to the second exit area and outside the area corresponding to the first exit area. The relief element of the second type may have a sharper edge than the relief elements of the first type. The second exit area may include a weakened zone. The weakened zone may be located in a peripheral area of the second exit area.
In the examples, the first and second capsules have substantially the same shape. It is also possible to provide a third capsule having a different shape. The third capsule can e.g. be shaped to substantially fill the brew chamber when the central portion is in the first extraction position. It is also possible to provide a fourth capsule having a different shape. The fourth capsule can e.g. be shaped to substantially fill the brew chamber when the central portion is in the second extraction position.
In the examples, the first capsule has an outwardly extending flange-like rim. It will be appreciated that it is possible that the first capsule does not include an outwardly extending rim. In the examples, the second capsule has an outwardly extending flange-like rim. It will be appreciated that it is possible that the second capsule does not include an outwardly extending rim.
In the examples, the capsule body and lid are made of aluminium foil, preferable polymer coated aluminium foil to allow easy welding of the lid to the body. It will be appreciated that the capsule body and/or lid can be made of a wide variety of materials considered suitable by the skilled person and capable of being processed into a sheet, film or foil using techniques conventionally known in the art such as extrusion, co-extrusion, injection molding, blow molding, vacuum forming etc. Suitable materials for the capsule body and/or lid include, without being limited thereto, plastic materials, in particular thermoplastic materials, for example a polyolefin polymer, for example polyethylene or polypropylene, PVC, polyesters for example polyethylene terephthalate (PET); metal foils such as aluminum, stainless steel, metal alloys etc.; or sheets of a woven or a non-woven or otherwise processed fibrous material, like paper, polyester, etc.; or combinations thereof, e.g. multilayers. The material for the capsule can be a biodegradable polymer or another biodegradable material. The skilled person will be capable of selecting the appropriate material taking into account the envisaged use with food material and any other relevant circumstances during use of the capsule. The thickness of the sheet or foil may be chosen such that a form stable capsule is provided. The thickness of the sheet or foil may vary with the nature of the material.
In the examples, the capsules are closed capsules. It is also possible to provide the system with an open capsule. The open capsule is open prior to insertion into the apparatus. The open capsule can be pre-perforated. The open capsule can be packaged in a hermetically sealed package which has to be removed before inserting the open capsule in the apparatus. In the examples, the capsules are pierced by the piercing means. It is also possible to provide the system with a capsule that is not pierced by the piercing means. Such capsule can e.g. include an entrance filter. In the examples, the capsules open against the extraction plate. It is also possible to provide the system with a capsule that does not open against the extraction plate. Such capsule can e.g. include an exit filter.
In the examples, the capsules themselves do not include a sealing member. It will be appreciated that it is possible to provide the capsule with a sealing member, e.g. a resilient sealing member. The sealing member can e.g. be placed on the rim, e.g. on the side facing towards the cup-shaped body or on the side facing away from the cup-shaped body. Alternatively, or additionally, a sealing member can be provided on the circumferential wall and/or on the bottom.
In the examples the arresting ring and retainer extend along substantially the entire perimeter of the first and second brew chamber parts. This provides particular good locking of the two brew chamber parts onto each other. However, it will be appreciated that it is also possible that the arresting ring and retainer include arresting means and retaining means at one or more discrete positions along the perimeter, e.g. at two, three, four, six or eight positions.
It will be appreciated that it is also possible to provide a first apparatus arranged for brewing a beverage using a first capsule, but incapable of brewing a beverage using a second capsule. Such first apparatus can be included in a system with the apparatus as described in relation to the figures and a first capsule and optionally a second capsule.
It will be appreciated that it is also possible to provide a second apparatus arranged for brewing a beverage using a second capsule, but incapable of brewing a beverage using a first capsule. Such second apparatus can be included in a system with the apparatus as described in relation to the figures and a second capsule and optionally a first capsule.
However, other modifications, variations, and alternatives are also possible. The specifications, drawings and examples are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative sense rather than in a restrictive sense.
For the purpose of clarity and a concise description features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, it will be appreciated that the scope of the invention may include embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described.
In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other features or steps than those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the words ‘a’ and ‘an’ shall not be construed as limited to ‘only one’, but instead are used to mean ‘at least one’, and do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to an advantage.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017277 | Aug 2016 | NL | national |
This application is a continuation of PCT/NL2017/050509 filed Aug. 3, 2017, which claims the benefit of and priority to Netherlands Patent Application No. NL 2017277, filed Aug. 3, 2016, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20190335940 A1 | Nov 2019 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | PCT/NL2017/050509 | Aug 2017 | US |
| Child | 16265957 | US |
