ITAN20100165A1 - INNOVATIVE SYSTEM FOR THE PREPARATION OF HOT DRINKS - Google Patents

Description

INNOVATIVE SYSTEM FOR THE PREPARATION OF HOT DRINKS

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A) Motivations, aims and prior state of the technique

The purpose of the present invention is to realize an innovative system (1) for the preparation of hot drinks which allows to obtain the following main advantages for final consumers:

- possibility to prepare, in conditions of maximum quality, maximum hygiene and maximum speed, only one hot drink at a time (espresso, coffee milk, barley, chocolate, tea, chamomile, herbal teas, punch, etc.), or two hot drinks at the same time, even if said contemporary drinks are different from each other (eg an espresso coffee and a hot chocolate can be prepared at the same time);

- save time and electricity, thanks to the possibility of preparing two drinks at the same time and to the fact that the machine's heating system, during the liquid heating phase, will remain on for a few seconds and then switch off automatically;

- possibility, for the final user, to â € œseparâ € the used product (coffee or other) from the rest of the container (in plastic or other material), thus obtaining a highly ecological system, perfect for collection â € œdifferentiatedâ € of waste;

- enjoy an excellent espresso coffee on any occasion, even in places where there is no water or is of poor quality (in terms of pH and hardness, fundamental characteristics for obtaining an optimal coffee);

- always obtain drinks with the right dosages and with no waste; - obtaining drinks with an innovative â € œhorizontalâ € mixing process, which allows you to use all the product (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules), even those parts (especially peripheral) that are usually little used during the classic infusion of the drink; - save in costs for repairs and technical assistance;

- obtain maximum hygiene and healthiness: now there will be no more problems with bacteria, encrustations, limescale, etc., as the system (1) will not have any container to fill and clean periodically, and moreover, contrary to what happens with the current cartridges, capsules and / or pods of known and / or commercially available products, now the liquid (being already contained, during manufacturing, inside a special retractable disposable cartridge â € œprotectedâ € from the external environment) it will never come into contact with external walls (of the cartridge, capsule or pod) that may have been contaminated and / or soiled during their initial storage;

- avoid periodic compulsory maintenance for the user (as it happens with current known and / or commercially available machines).

The present invention proposes to realize an innovative system (1) which mainly:

- does not have its own water tank, boiler / storage tank and water pumping system,

- has no cartridge â € œcompressionâ € system (by piston or other means),

- has a fast and optimal â € œheatingâ € system, which can also be automatically turned off (significant energy savings),

- has a beverage infusion mechanism made by means of a â € œliftingâ € system (lift / hoist type) of sliding parts, - has an electronic control and management â € œcontrollerâ €,

- has a three-component cartridge model instead of two,

- has a cartridge that allows the â € œsorting of wasteâ €,

- has a completely â € œhygienicâ € disposable cartridge,

- has a cartridge consisting of a `` single '' container instead of two, - has a disposable cartridge of the `` retractable '' type, i.e. with parts that slide internally and with smaller dimensions and overall dimensions, once used, - has a cartridge disposable with mixing mechanism that allows you to use â € œallâ € the product and not just a part,

- has a cartridge also equipped with a drink collection spout, thus avoiding unhealthy liquid residues inside the machine.

In the state of the art there are some prior documents (EP1658795, EP0344541, US3589272, US5240722, US6619188 and documents in the name of the present applicant), which however are very different from the present invention; in fact, they do not possess (all or almost all) the innovative characteristics and advantages of the invention, which can therefore be considered (compared to said documents) a notable improvement and an important inventive step. For more details, regarding the numerous differences between the present invention and the aforementioned prior documents, read pages 15-19.

B) Description and operation

The present invention proposes to realize an innovative system (1) (see Figures 1 to 10) capable of preparing hot drinks, such as espresso, coffee-milk, chocolate, tea, chamomile, herbal teas, punch or other , which are prepared in conditions of optimal quality, maximum hygiene, optimal and always identical dosage, optimal waste disposal and consistent energy savings. This system (1) comprises at least the following main characteristics and means (see Figures 1 to 10):

a) a special disposable cartridge (2), substantially and preferably cylindrical in shape, having the following characteristics:

- It is a sliding and retractable type, that is, with movable and sliding parts one inside the other that allow an optimal infusion of the drink and to reduce the final dimensions of the cartridge (2), once the drink has been prepared;

- It is equipped with a mechanism and process of infusion and mixing of the drink, of the `` horizontal '' type, which allows to gradually spread the liquid (previously heated) over the entire surface of the product (and not only in some points, as usually happens), from the edge towards the center and from the most superficial layers to the innermost ones, thus obtaining the total exploitation of the product itself (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules) and therefore a better infusion and a more intense final drink;

- It is completely sealed and protected from the external environment (maximum hygiene), thus obtaining that the liquid and the product, first, and the drink obtained, then, never come into contact with the external walls (perhaps dirty) of the same disposable cartridge (2);

- it favors the differentiated collection of waste allowing to easily separate the used product from the rest of the cartridge (2), made of plastic;

- it contains three components, namely the liquid (water or other), the product in powder and / or granules (coffee or other) and a certain amount of gas, air and / or nitrogen, useful for making the drink more creamy ;

- allows you to obtain a drink of â € œoptimal qualityâ €, thanks to the possibility of gradually spreading (by means of said â € œhorizontalâ € mixing mechanism of the liquid) the hot liquid over the entire surface of the product, and thanks to the possibility of always use the same quality and quantity (dosage) of components (liquid, product and gas);

b) an electronic `` fast '' heating system (31), which allows:

- a significant energy saving, as the system remains switched on for only a few seconds and is then automatically switched off;

- to heat both the liquid (water or other), both the product (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules), and (indirectly) the quantity of gas present inside the cartridge (2), obtaining in this way (thanks to the possibility of also heating the product), a better infusion and the elimination of any humidity present in the product itself;

c) an electromechanical and electronic system (32), of the `` vertical lifting '' type, with intermediate pauses during movement, which allows to obtain an innovative process of mixing, initial infusion and final infusion of the beverage, complete and optimal, and which also allows said system (32) to obtain an easy separation of the used product from the rest of the disposable cartridge (2) (optimal separate waste collection). The system (1), in detail, includes at least the following means and features:

a) at least one special disposable cartridge (2) which is:

- of the â € œretractableâ € type, that is with parts that retract and slide internally,

- of the `` horizontal infusion '' type, that is with horizontal / transversal mixing mechanism of the liquid with the product, which allows (finally) to exploit and mix the whole product and not just a part of it,

- type with â € œthree componentsâ €, with liquid, product (in powder and / or granules) and gas (air and / or nitrogen),

and having, said cartridge (2), at least the following characteristics and means: a.1) It is composed of a single, single container divided into two parts, in two modules, (21) and (22), sliding the One inside the other and one approaching the other, thus reducing, once the hot drink preparation phase is complete, the dimensions and final dimensions of the cartridge (2) used , and being, moreover, said lower part (22) sliding upwards (i.e. in the direction of the upper part (21)) in close contact and in perfect adherence with the inner wall of the upper part (21) of the disposable cartridge ( 2);

a.2) the first module (21) is rigid, positioned above the second module (22), closed in its upper part and open, free, in its lower part, and includes, inside, the liquid ( water, milk, rum or other) necessary for the preparation of the hot drink;

a.3) the second module (22) slides inside said first module (21), towards its upper part, and also acts as a closing cover for the lower part of said first module (21) ( so as not to leak the liquid during storage and storage of the cartridge (2)), from the product container (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules), from a â € œhorizontalâ € liquid diffuser (for obtain a better and complete mixing of the liquid with the product), from the final filter (to prevent the drink from being ruined by lumps and / or impurities) and from the drink collection and conveying spout;

the second module (22), in detail, includes:

* a lid (221), used as â € œcover / temporary closure capâ € of the first module (21) containing the liquid (in this way the liquid cannot mix prematurely with the underlying product);

* a circular sealing lip (229), with the outer edge preferably facing downwards (or directed almost horizontally), which, when â € œopenâ €, allows lateral outflow (see arrows in figure 3 ) of the hot liquid towards the product, and being able to open said lip (229) only during the `` infusion '' phase of the drink (and not before) or during the sliding of the module (22) inside the module (21) ; said lateral / perimeter lip (229) is made on the edge of the lid (221) and is also made in such a way as to be, when closed, in perfect adherence or in sliding contact with the internal wall of the module (21) of the cartridge (2) (see figure 2), in order to prevent the penetration of liquid into the area below;

* the product (220), in powder and / or granules (coffee or other);

* at least one sealing ring (227), with the outer edge preferably facing upwards (or directed horizontally), used to prevent lateral leakage of the liquid or beverage from the disposable cartridge (2); said sealing ring (227) is made in such a way as to always be in perfect adherence or in sliding contact with the internal wall of the module (21) of the cartridge (2) (see figure n.2);

* one or more liquid diffusion channels / grooves (222) (preferably three or four), positioned in the area between said circular sealing lip (229) and said sealing ring (227), and used for the passage, the outflow , horizontal, of the liquid, thus allowing a horizontal / transversal mixing of the liquid with the product, thus obtaining a better and complete infusion of the drink since in this case the mixing will involve all the product contained in the module ( 22), even those parts of the product (especially peripheral ones) which are usually poorly mixed during the classic infusion phase of the drink; an example of diffusion channels (222) that suits our case may consist of various perimeter `` grooves '' (made on the internal lateral edge of the module (22)) that allow a flow, a spreading of the hot liquid from the edge towards the center and from the upper layers towards the lower ones, thus obtaining a total exploitation, complete with all the product; in the â € œhorizontalâ € infusion process (which allows â € œallâ € the product to be involved and not just a part) in addition to the diffusion channels (222), the circular sealing lip also plays an important role (229) , which has the outer edge facing downwards and is sized to soften at certain temperatures (around 80-90 ° C) and then open definitively at certain pressures (e.g. around 2-3 atmospheres) making in this way, the hot liquid can flow into the diffusion channels / grooves (222) only during the â € œinfusionâ € phase; the sealing ring (227) also plays an important role (in the â € œhorizontalâ € infusion process), which has the outer edge facing upwards and avoids the lateral leakage of liquid during all phases preparation of the hot drink;

* a micro-perforated spout (223), used as a temporary closing lid for the module (22) (to prevent the product from leaking), as a final filter (to avoid lumps and / or impurities) and as a drink conveyor (for easy outflow of the same in a glass or cup below); said spout, preferably, will also contain a small quantity of gas (air and / or nitrogen) useful for giving a greater creaminess to the drink;

a.4) the retractable disposable cartridge (2), made of plastic material, contains three components, instead of two, necessary to prepare a perfect hot drink, namely the liquid (water, milk, rum or other), the product mixture in powder and / or granules (coffee, cocoa, tea, chamomile, herbal tea, mandarin or other), and a certain amount of gas, air and / or nitrogen, ideal for obtaining an optimal infusion of the drink and a better quality ;

a.5) during the preparation phase of the hot drink, the second module (22) of the disposable cartridge (2) is pulled, raised upwards (by means of a special electric motor (321) and plate (323)), opening thus the circular lip (229), this opening that will allow the gradual mixing and infusion, of the `` horizontal '' type, of the liquid (previously heated) with the product (in powder and / or granules), through the underlying channels diffusion (222), thus producing the gradual spreading of the liquid over the entire surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the most superficial to the innermost layers, and therefore a complete exploitation of â € œallâ € the product, thus obtaining a more complete and more intense hot drink, which will then be automatically filtered (to avoid lumps and / or impurities) and conveyed inside the micro-perforated spout (223), to then go down into a glass or cup below;

b) a machine (3), electromechanical and electronic, for the preparation of hot drinks, inside which one or two retractable disposable cartridges (2) will be inserted each time a drink is to be prepared, and being equipped , said machine (3), at least of the following main characteristics and means:

b.1) an electronic â € œfastâ € heating system (31), used to heat (in a few seconds) the liquid contained inside the module (21) of said disposable cartridge (2), and the product ( 220), and having the following necessary characteristics:

- It has at least 800 watts of power;

- It is equipped with a high frequency radiofrequency module, higher than 2 Giga Hertz (preferable band: UHF -ultra high frequency-), with thermionic valve (311) and wave guide (312);

- It is equipped with a protective metal cage (313) (Faraday cage type) that wraps and surrounds the chamber where the disposable cartridges (2) are inserted and housed, and having, said cage (313), a spatial dimension equal to at least â € œoneâ € wavelength of the electromagnetic waves emitted by the system (31) and the other two spatial dimensions equal to at least â € œ half â € of a wavelength of said electromagnetic waves;

b.2) an electromechanical `` lifting with vertical sliding '' system (32) (type `` lift / hoist ''), used as an `` infusion '' mechanism for the drink, consisting of a small electric motor (321) with mechanical equipped with gears, levers and / or eccentrics (322) used for lifting, by means of a plate (323), the plane (324) in which the cup or cup is placed, and being also, said plane (324), connected , by means of a special metal frame (325), to the lower part (22) of the disposable cartridge (2), which will also be raised (during the preparation of the hot drink) thus sliding inside the upper part (21) of the cartridge (2) and thus starting the mixing and infusion of the hot liquid (water or other) with the product in powder and / or granules (coffee or other); said system (32) of `` vertical lifting '' (lift / hoist type) of sliding parts (both of the machine (3) and of the cartridge (2)) constitutes, in short, the mechanism of `` mixing and infusion '' of the beverage;

- the platform (324), on which the glass or cup is placed, during the beverage infusion phase, is raised (by the motor (321)) at the same time as the second module (22) of the cartridge (2) is raised , thus obtaining that the micro-perforated spout (223) is always at the same distance from the glass or cup, and also obtaining a sort of optical warning for the user that the drink is now ready (the supporting surface (324) will in fact have risen by a few centimeters);

b.3) an electronic controller (326), used for:

- manage and control the speed of the electric motor (321);

- manage and control the vertical lifting phase of the second module (22) inside the first module (21) of the cartridge (2), so that it takes place gradually and with intermediate pauses, useful for improving the infusion initial and final of the drink (the liquid, in this way, can in fact mix with as much of the product as possible) and to avoid possible structural stress to the disposable cartridge (2);

- manage and control, by means of a special probe, the temperature of the liquid contained inside the module (21) of the disposable cartridge (2);

- manage and control the automatic shutdown of the entire heating system (31), thus obtaining considerable energy savings, once the heated liquid has reached the predetermined temperature. The innovative mechanism of mixing and infusion of the â € œhorizontalâ € type allows a better and complete infusion of the drink, and takes place thanks to the presence of one or more diffusion channels (222), which will allow a gradual passage of the liquid towards the product (in powder and / or granules) only in a horizontal / transverse way (and not in a longitudinal / vertical way as usually happens), thus obtaining the spread of the liquid over the entire surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the most superficial to the innermost layers, and therefore the complete exploitation of `` all '' the product (contained in the module (22) of the cartridge (2)), even of those parts, especially peripheral ones, which are usually little used, lightly mixed, during the classic phase of mixing and infusing the drink in a â € œverticalâ € way. In classic infusion systems, the liquid penetrates the product (mixing) only vertically (with respect to the main axis of symmetry of the capsule or cartridge), and even only in some points (of the capsule or cartridge), thus resulting in some parts of the product (in powder and / or granules), especially those far from the (vertical) infusion points, badly used and not mixed.

The innovative â € œhorizontalâ € infusion mechanism is made possible thanks to the presence of said diffusion channels (222) (positioned between said circular sealing lip (229), which opens only in case of vertical lifting of the module ( 22) and therefore only during the mixing phase of the drink, and said sealing ring (227), which always remains closed avoiding possible side leakage of liquid not due), thanks to the particular conformation of the two main modules (21) and (22 ) of the disposable cartridge (2) which slide one inside the other, thanks to the presence of the vertical lifting system (32) and its intermediate pauses. As already specified, the circular sealing lip (229) plays an important role in the â € œhorizontalâ € infusion process (which allows for the involvement, exploitation of â € œallâ € of the product and not just a part), as already specified. the task of letting the liquid flow into the grooves (222) only during the `` infusion '' phase of the drink (and not before), which occurs thanks to the vertical lifting of the module (22) inside the module (21) ; to obtain all this, the circular lip (229) has the outer edge preferably facing downwards (or almost horizontal) and is sized and made to soften a little at certain temperatures (around 80-90 ° C) to then open definitively when the module (22) begins to slide inside the module (21), thus allowing the hot liquid to flow inside the diffusion channels / grooves (222) only during the â € œmixing and infusion 'of the drink (and not before). The sealing ring (227) also plays an important role (in the â € œhorizontalâ € infusion process), which has the task of preventing lateral leakage of liquid during all phases of beverage preparation; to achieve this, the ring (227) has the outer edge facing upwards which prevents the liquid from escaping laterally.

The presence of the circular sealing / adherence lip (229) is also useful to prevent dripping of any residual liquid left inside the container (21), once the disposable cartridge (2) has been used; said lip (229), in fact, once the `` infusion '' phase of the drink has been completed (i.e. the vertical lifting phase of the module (22) inside the module (21)), it will close automatically (being made of plastic light and foldable) thus avoiding any dripping from the cartridge (2) now used.

Furthermore, the closing lid (221) preferably comprises, in the wall directed downwards (towards the product), more or less helix-shaped bends (226), used to create, during the infusion phase, a â € œhorizontalâ € , small swirls of liquid that can increase the size of the infusion and the creaminess of the final drink.

Once the desired drink has been obtained, a coupling system (328) connected with said frame (325) of the system (32) (on which the spout (223 hooked to the frame (325) by means of said system (328)) of the cartridge (2) rests during the beverage preparation phase); when the motor (321) (managed by the controller (326)) makes the frame (325) return (once the beverage preparation phase is completed) downwards, in its initial rest position, it pulls down, lowers, by a few centimeters (by opening the coupling system (328)), also the spout (223), which can then be easily removed, separated from the rest of the cartridge (2) with the consequence of being able to separate the used product (coffee or other) from plastic.

The micro-perforated spout (223) preferably contains a small amount of gas, air and / or nitrogen, used to obtain a better infusion of the drink and a greater creaminess, and being also equipped, said spout (223), with small film (224) for initial closure (in plastic, aluminum foil or other), which will then be removed by the user before inserting the cartridge (2) inside the machine (3), thus obtaining the maximum hygiene and maximum protection and isolation of the cartridge (2) from the external environment.

The preferable dimensions of said protective metal cage (313) (of the heating system (31)), used to avoid any leakage of electromagnetic waves, are equal to at least:

- 13 cm. high, 7 cm. wide and 7 cm. depth, in the case of machines (3) using only one disposable cartridge (2) at a time;

- 13 cm. high, 14 cm. wide and 7 cm. depth, in the case of machines also using two disposable cartridges (2) at the same time. The machine (3) is also preferably equipped with side drains (327), used to prevent any liquid leaking from a faulty cartridge (2) from falling into the cup or container during the preparation of the drink. cup.

The drinks, obtained by means of this innovative system (1), have the following important characteristics:

a) they are always prepared with â € œoptimalâ € quality, thanks to the possibility of gradually spreading (by means of said â € œhorizontalâ € mixing mechanism of the liquid) the hot liquid over the entire surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the more superficial layers to the innermost ones, thus obtaining the total exploitation of the product itself (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules) and therefore a better infusion and a more intense drink;

b) they are always prepared in an optimal and perfect way, thanks to the fact that, by means of the disposable three-component cartridge (2), the same quality and quantity (dosage) of liquid (water or other), of product ( coffee or other) and gas (air and / or nitrogen), thus obtaining a drink that is always of quality, with the right dosages and with no waste;

c) they are prepared in conditions of maximum energy saving, thanks to the fact that, by means of the heating system (31) and the electronic controller (326), there is a low consumption of electricity since said system (31) is automatically switched off (by the controller (326)) after reaching the predetermined temperature (therefore it stays on for only a few seconds) and, with said heating system (31), initial periods of pre-heating of the liquid are no longer necessary;

d) are prepared in conditions of maximum hygiene, thanks to the fact that, by means of the module (22) which slides inside the module (21), the micro-perforated spout (223) and the film (224), the disposable cartridge (2) turns out to be totally sealed and protected from the external environment, and also does not create (thanks to the fact that the collection spout (223) is integrated in the cartridge and therefore does not belong to the machine (3)) any unhealthy residue of beverage in the ™ inside the machine (3);

e) are prepared in conditions of optimal waste disposal, thanks to the fact that, by means of the coupling system (328) inserted in the frame (325) (belonging to the electromechanical system (32) of the machine (3)) which allows the , the separation of the micro-perforated spout (223) from the rest of the cartridge (2), it is possible to easily separate the used product (coffee or other) from the plastic (optimal for separate waste collection). The method of operation of the innovative system (1) includes at least the following main phases:

a) insertion phase, inside the machine (3), of one or two retractable disposable cartridges (2), new, undamaged, sealed and containing, in the pre-established doses, all the components necessary to obtain the desired drink, or the liquid, the product in powder and / or granules, and a certain quantity of gas (air and / or nitrogen);

b) rapid heating phase, by turning on said heating system (31), of the liquid contained inside the first module (21) and of the product (220) contained in the second module (22) of each disposable cartridge (2 ) present at that moment inside the machine (3), then automatically turning off, said heating module (31) (by means of electronic controller (326)), after the liquid has reached a predetermined temperature;

c) phase of mixing and infusion of the drink, obtained by interpenetrating and sliding the second module (22) (of the disposable cartridge (2)) inside the first module (21) (or of reciprocal approach of said two modules (21) ) and (22)), thanks to the movement of said electromechanical lifting system with vertical sliding (32), which lifts upwards, by means of the motor (321) and frame (325), called the second module (22), which will thus rise inside the module (21) (of the disposable cartridge (2)) thus opening the circular lip (229) which will allow the gradual mixing and infusion, of the â € œhorizontalâ € type, of the liquid (in previously heated) with the product (in powder and / or granules), allowing (this `` horizontal '' infusion) to gradually spread the hot liquid over the entire surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the most superficial layers to the more internal, thus obtaining full exploitation of the product itself and therefore a more complete and more intense drink, which will then be automatically filtered (to avoid lumps and / or impurities) and conveyed inside the micro-perforated spout (223) to then go down into a glass or cup below ;

d) optional phase of separating the consumed product (coffee or other) from the rest of the container (usually plastic) of the disposable cartridge (2), thus obtaining the possibility of easily differentiating the two different types of waste, characterized by the fact of including, said phase of separation of the product, the following, preferable, steps:

- when the frame (325) (of the machine (3)) comes into contact (during the beverage preparation phase) with the spout (223) of the cartridge (2), it hooks the spout ( 223);

- when the frame (325), once the beverage preparation phase has been completed, returns to its initial rest position, of inactivity, it also moves the micro-perforated spout down a few centimeters (by opening it, releasing it from the system (328)) (223), thus being able to easily remove said spout (223) from the rest of the cartridge (2), with the consequence of being able to separate the used product (coffee or other) from the plastic;

e) automatic or manual removal phase of each disposable cartridge (2), now exhausted, present inside the machine (3).

Patents and prior documents

In the state of the art there are some prior documents, EP1658795, EP0344541, US3589272, US5240722, US6619188 and documents in the name of the present applicant, which however are different from the present invention and do not possess (all or almost all) of its innovative characteristics. The invented system (1) can therefore be considered (with respect to said documents) a notable improvement and an important inventive step. The most important differences (better specified in the description of the invention and in the subsequent claims) existing between the present invention and the aforementioned prior documents are listed below, i.e. the most important characteristics and advantages of the present invention that the aforementioned prior documents are listed. (totally or partially) do not own.

1) The system (1) does not have its own water tank, boiler / water heater and water pumping system.

2) The system (1) has no beverage infusion system by means of `` compression '' of the cartridge (with piston or other means), which involves the crushing / compression of the liquid container, with the real risk of causing ( in many cases) structural damage and / or breakage of the container itself, things to be avoided for obvious technical and sanitary reasons. The solution adopted by the present invention, on the other hand, concerns a completely different infusion system, which does not crush or compress the liquid container (21), but leaves it intact, unaltered; this is possible thanks to a `` vertical lifting '' system (32) (lift or hoist type), which allows the module (22) (containing the product) to slide inside the container (21) (containing the liquid) of the disposable cartridge (2), without danger of any structural breakage and negative hygienic implications; the system (32) (unlike the compression one) is also perfect for â € œhorizontalâ € infusion.

3) The system (1), to heat the liquid, has a â € œfastâ € (31) heating system, equipped with â € œspecific and mandatoryâ € technical characteristics that make it â € œvery fastâ € and effective; furthermore, said heating system (31) is â € œautomatically turned offâ € (considerable energy saving) once the beverage preparation phase is finished.

4) The system (1), as the beverage `` infusion '' mechanism, has a `` vertical lifting '' system (32) (lift / hoist type), which also concerns only the `` sliding / retractable '' part € (22) for the disposable cartridge (2); said lifting system (32) is also activated and (by means of a special controller (326)) with initial and / or intermediate â € œpauseâ € (interruptions), thus favoring a better initial and final infusion of the drink and also avoiding possible stress structural.

5) The system (1) has a `` platform '' (324), on which the glass or cup is placed, which, during the preparation phase of the drink, is `` raised '' thus producing a sort of `` € œoptical warningâ € for the user, to warn him that the drink is now ready (the support surface (324), when the drink is ready, will in fact have risen by a few centimeters compared to its initial position).

6) The system (1) has an `` electronic controller '' (326) that manages and controls both the heating system (31) (especially its automatic shutdown) and the lifting system (32) (especially its pauses initial and / or intermediate).

7) The system (1) has a three-component cartridge model (liquid, product and gas), instead of two (liquid and product).

8) The system (1) has a special disposable cartridge (2) in which the liquid (water or other) is gradually mixed and infused with the product (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules), spreading so â € œhorizontal, transversalâ € (and not in a longitudinal / vertical way, as usually happens), thus involving (in the mixing process) â € œallâ € the surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the outermost layers to the more internal ones, thus obtaining the exploitation and mixing of â € œallâ € the product, even those parts (especially peripheral ones) that are usually rarely used during the classic vertical infusion of the drink. 9) The system (1) has a disposable cartridge (2) which is not equipped with any valve that allows the mixing of the liquid with the product, but is equipped with â € œspreading channels for liquidâ € (222) used to allow the outflow of the liquid in an (almost) â € œhorizontalâ € way, thus obtaining a better and complete mixing of the liquid with â € œallâ € the product.

10) The system (1) has a disposable cartridge (2) which allows the â € œdifferentiation of wasteâ €, that is the â € œseparationâ € of the used product (coffee or other) from the plastic.

11) The system (1) has a completely â € œhygienicâ € disposable cartridge (2): both the liquid, the product and the gas never come into contact, even during the preparation of the hot drink, with the external walls , possibly dirty, of the cartridge itself.

12) The system (1) has a disposable cartridge (2) consisting of a â € œsingleâ € container, instead of two separate containers.

13) The system (1) has a disposable cartridge (2) of the â € œretractableâ € type, that is with parts between them â € œsliding internallyâ €, which allow a better infusion of the drink and smaller dimensions and final dimensions, once said cartridge has been used.

14) The system (1) has a cartridge also equipped with a "spout" (223) for collecting the drink, thus avoiding unhealthy "residues" of liquid inside the machine.

For example, the system specified in document EP1658795 is different from the present invention and does not possess the innovative features of the present invention. In fact, this document describes a cartridge that is not of the `` sliding and retractable '' type (as the one of the present invention is instead), without a mechanism for mixing the liquid with the `` horizontal '' type product which allows to exploit `` all '' the product (which instead occurs in the present invention), with only two components instead of three, divided into two distinct containers (instead of one) and pressed by means of a `` compression '' system equipped with a piston (the present invention uses instead, for the Infusion of the drink, a completely different and more effective mechanism, consisting of a lift / hoist-type â € œliftingâ € system, which is also operated with intermediate â € œpause / interruptionsâ € that make the infusion process better. initial and final of the drink). Furthermore, the document EP1658795 does not have (unlike the present invention) a â € œheatingâ € system with specific technical characteristics that allow it to operate in a â € œfast and optimalâ € way, nor does it possess (unlike the present invention) a model disposable cartridge with â € œhygienicâ € and â € œecologicalâ € characteristics (separate waste collection), and does not even have an â € œelectronic controllerâ € (326), which is important both for â € œautomatically shutdownâ € (favoring a significant energy saving) the heating system (31) (once the heating phase is over) both to move, with initial and / or intermediate pauses (favoring a better infusion), the electromechanical system (32) used for the € ™ infusion of the drink. Finally, the document EP1658795 does not have the `` other '' innovative characteristics of the present invention (better specified in the previous pages), while the classic temperature and pressure values (known for decades) necessary to obtain a good coffee.

C) Drawings of the invention and further explanations

The invention consists of 10 drawings, which have been made with a front view, in section, of the various components of the system (1).

Figure 1 shows, schematically and by way of example, the disposable cartridge (2) â € œexplodedâ € and detailed in all its main components. Figure 2 shows, schematically and by way of example, the disposable cartridge (2) assembled in all its main components. Figure 3 shows, schematically and by way of example, an example of vertical sliding of the module (22) inside the module (21) of the cartridge (2), and therefore an example of initial infusion of the beverage; note the detail of the â € œhorizontalâ € mixing of the liquid with the product (note the particular example, inside the module (21), of the â € œarrowsâ € that summarize the spreading and outflow of the liquid, towards the area below containing the product in powder and / or granules), occurring gradually and over the entire surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the outermost to the innermost layers; this â € œhorizontalâ € infusion is made possible by the opening of the circular lip (229) (opening obtained by the movement of the vertical lifting system (32) which determined the consequent vertical sliding of the module (22) inside the module (21)) and the presence of the infusion channels (222) which now (with the circular lip (229) open) will allow the (hot) liquid to flow into the product. Figure 4 shows, schematically and by way of example, the final stage of the infusion of the drink; note the module (21) whose sliding (inside the module (22)) has practically reached the end of the stroke. The product has been completely used and exploited in all its parts. Figure 5 shows, schematically and by way of example, the main details of the machine (3), with the main components of the heating system (31) and of the vertical sliding lifting system (32); in this case the machine (3) is in the rest condition (the disposable cartridge (2) is absent and the systems (31) and (32) are off). Figure 6 shows, schematically and by way of example, the step of inserting a disposable cartridge (2) and a cup into the machine (3). The cartridge (2) is inserted into a chamber totally surrounded by the protection cage (313). Figure 7 shows, schematically and by way of example, the phase of heating the liquid and the product, by turning on the system (31); the lifting system (32) is still inactive. Figure 8 shows, schematically and by way of example, the initial infusion phase of the hot drink with the product (the heating system (31) was automatically turned off, by the controller (326), once a preset temperature was reached. liquid); note the initial raising of the platform (324) (and therefore the sliding of the module (22) inside the module (21) of the cartridge (2)), with respect to its initial rest position (see figure n. 7). Figure 9 shows, schematically and by way of example, the step of final infusion of the hot drink with the product; now the module (22) has risen completely inside the module (21) and the drink has been completely poured into the glass. The lifting system (32) has reached its maximum elevation with respect to the rest position. Figure 10 shows, schematically and by way of example, the phase of return to the initial position by the lifting system (32), with consequent opening of the coupling module (328) which allows the micro-perforated spout to be brought back to the initial position (223), which can then be easily removed from the rest of the cartridge (2) thus allowing the â € œseparationâ € of the used product from the plastic (optimal waste disposal condition).

ATTENTION: it is understood, however, that the invention must not be considered limited to the particular arrangement illustrated so far, which constitutes only an exemplary embodiment thereof, but that various variants will be possible, all within the reach of a technician of the branch, without thereby departing from the scope of protection of the invention itself, as defined by the following claims.

Claims (10)

INNOVATIVE SYSTEM FOR THE PREPARATION OF HOT DRINKS R I V E N D I C A Z I O N I 1) Innovative system (1) capable of obtaining hot drinks, such as espresso, coffee-milk, chocolate, tea, chamomile, herbal teas, punch or other, which are prepared in conditions of optimal quality, maximum hygiene, of optimal and identical dosage, of optimal waste disposal and consistent energy saving, characterized by the fact of having, said system (1), the following main characteristics and main means: a) a special disposable cartridge (2), having the following characteristics: - It is a sliding and retractable type, that is, with movable and sliding parts one inside the other that allow an optimal infusion of the drink and to reduce the final dimensions of the cartridge (2), once the drink has been prepared; - It is equipped with a mechanism, of infusion and mixing of the drink, of the `` horizontal '' type that allows you to gradually spread the liquid (previously heated) over the entire surface of the product (and not only in some points, as usually happens) , from the edge towards the center and from the more superficial layers towards the innermost ones, thus obtaining the total exploitation of the product itself (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules) and therefore a better infusion and a more intense drink obtained; - It is completely sealed and protected from the external environment (maximum hygiene), thus obtaining that the liquid and the product, first, and the drink obtained, then, never come into contact with the external walls (perhaps dirty) of the same disposable cartridge (2); - it favors the differentiated collection of waste allowing to easily separate the used product from the rest of the cartridge (2), made of plastic; - it contains three components, namely the liquid (water or other), the product in powder and / or granules (coffee or other) and a certain amount of gas, air and / or nitrogen, useful for making the drink more creamy ; - allows you to obtain a drink of â € œoptimal qualityâ €, thanks to the possibility of gradually spreading (by means of said â € œhorizontalâ € mixing mechanism of the liquid) the hot liquid over the entire surface of the product, and thanks to the possibility of always use the same quality and quantity (dosage) of components (liquid, product and gas); b) an electronic â € œfastâ € heating system (31), which allows: - substantial energy savings, as the system (31) remains on for only a few seconds and is then automatically turned off; - to heat both the liquid (water or other), and the product (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules), and also, indirectly, the quantity of gas present inside the cartridge (2), thus obtaining a better infusion and the elimination of any humidity present in the product itself; c) an electromechanical and electronic system (32) of â € œVertical liftingâ €, with intermediate pauses during movement, which allows to obtain an innovative process of mixing, initial infusion and final infusion of the drink, complete and optimal and which allows furthermore, said system (32), to obtain an easy separation of the used product from the rest of the disposable cartridge (2) (optimal separate waste collection). 2) Innovative system (1) capable of preparing hot drinks, as defined in claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least the following means: a) at least one special disposable cartridge (2) having the following characteristics and means: a.1) It is composed of a single, single container divided into two parts, in two modules, (21) and (22), one sliding inside the other and one in approaching each other, thus reducing, once the hot drink preparation phase is completed, the final dimensions and overall dimensions of the cartridge (2) used, and being, moreover, said lower part (22), sliding towards the € ™ high (ie towards the upper part (21)) in close contact and in perfect adherence with the internal wall of the upper part (21) of the disposable cartridge (2); a.2) the first module (21) is rigid, positioned above the second module (22), closed in its upper part and open, free, in its lower part, and includes, inside, the liquid ( water, milk, rum or other) necessary for the preparation of the hot drink; a.3) the second module (22) slides inside said first module (21) (in the direction of the upper part of said module (21)), and also acts as a closing cover for the lower part of said module first module (21) (so as not to leak the liquid during storage and storage of the cartridge (2)), from the product container (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules), from the diffuser â € œ horizontalâ € of liquid (to obtain a better and complete mixing of the liquid with the product), from the final filter (to prevent the drink from being ruined by lumps and / or impurities) and from the spout for collecting and conveying the drink; the second module (22), in detail, includes: * a lid (221), used as a â € œ temporary closing lidâ € of the first module (21), containing the liquid (in this way the liquid will not be able to mix prematurely with the underlying product); * a circular sealing lip (229), with the outer edge preferably facing downwards, which, when it is `` open '', allows the outflow of the hot liquid towards the product, and being able to open said lip (229) only during the phase of â € œinfusionâ € of the drink (and not before); * the product (220), in powder and / or granules (coffee or other); * at least one sealing ring (227), with the outer edge preferably facing upwards, used to prevent lateral leakage of liquid from the disposable cartridge (2), during the various stages of preparation of the drink, and being made, said ring (227), so as to always be in perfect adherence or in sliding contact with the internal wall of the module (21) of the cartridge (2); * one or more liquid diffusion channels (222), positioned between said circular lip (229) and said sealing ring (227) and used for the horizontal passage and outflow of the hot liquid, thus allowing mixing ( of the liquid with the product) of the horizontal / transverse type, thus obtaining a better and complete infusion of the drink since in this case the mixing involves all the product contained in the module (22), even those parts of the product (especially peripheral ones) that they are usually slightly mixed during the classic infusion phase of the drink; * a micro-perforated spout (223), used as a temporary lid for the second module (22) (to prevent the product from leaking), as a final filter (to avoid lumps and / or impurities) and as a drink conveyor (for easy outflow of the same into a glass or cup below); a.4) the disposable cartridge (2), made of plastic material, contains three components, instead of two, necessary to prepare a perfect hot drink, namely the liquid (water, milk, rum or other), the product mixture in powder and / or granules (coffee, cocoa, tea, chamomile, herbal tea, mandarin or other), and a certain amount of gas, air and / or nitrogen, ideal for obtaining an optimal infusion of the drink and a better drink quality; a.5) during the hot beverage preparation phase, the second module (22) of the disposable cartridge (2) is pulled, raised upwards (by means of a special electric motor (321) and lifting plate (323)) , thus opening the circular lip (229), this opening which will allow the gradual mixing and infusion, of the â € œhorizontalâ € type, of the liquid (previously heated) with the product (in powder and / or granules), through the underlying infusion channels (222), thus producing the gradual spreading of the liquid over the entire surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the most superficial to the innermost layers, and therefore a complete exploitation of `` all '' product, thus obtaining a more complete and more intense hot drink, which will then be automatically filtered (to avoid lumps and / or impurities) and conveyed inside the micro-perforated spout (223), to then go down into an underlying glass or cup; b) a machine (3), electromechanical and electronic, for the preparation of hot drinks, inside which one or two retractable disposable cartridges (2) will be inserted each time a drink is to be prepared, and being equipped , said machine (3), at least of the following main characteristics and means: b.1) a â € œfastâ € heating system (31), used to heat (in a few seconds) the liquid contained inside the module (21) of said disposable cartridge (2), and the product (220 ), and having the following necessary characteristics: - It has at least 800 watts of power; - It is equipped with a high frequency radiofrequency module, higher than 2 Giga Hertz, with thermionic valve (311) and wave guide (312); - It is equipped with a protective metal cage (313) that wraps and surrounds the chamber where the disposable cartridges (2) are inserted and housed, and having, said cage (313), a spatial dimension equal to at least one wavelength of the electromagnetic waves emitted by the system (31) and the other two spatial dimensions equal to at least half of a wavelength of said electromagnetic waves; b.2) an electromechanical system of `` lifting with vertical sliding '' (32), used as a mechanism for the `` infusion '' of the drink, consisting of a small electric motor (321), with a mechanical system equipped with gears, levers and / or eccentric (322), used for lifting, by means of a plate (323), the surface (324) in which the glass or cup is placed, and being, moreover, said surface (324), connected by means of a special metal frame (325 ), to the lower part (22) of the disposable cartridge (2), which will also be raised (during the preparation of the hot drink) thus sliding inside the upper part (21) of the cartridge (2 ) and thus starting the mixing and infusion of the hot liquid (water or other) with the product in powder and / or granules (coffee or other); - the platform (324), on which the glass or cup is placed, during the beverage infusion phase, is raised (by the motor (321)) at the same time as the second module (22) of the cartridge (2) is raised , thus obtaining that the micro-perforated spout (223) is always at the same distance from the glass or cup, and also obtaining a sort of optical warning for the user that the drink is now ready (the supporting surface (324) will in fact have risen by a few centimeters); b.3) an electronic controller (326), used for: - manage and control the speed of the electric motor (321); - manage and control the vertical lifting phase of the second module (22) inside the first module (21) of the cartridge (2), so that this occurs gradually and with intermediate pauses, useful for improving the initial and final infusion of the drink and to avoid possible structural stress to the disposable cartridge (2); - manage and control, by means of a special probe, the temperature of the liquid contained inside the module (21) of the disposable cartridge (2); - manage and control the automatic shutdown of the entire heating system (31), thus obtaining considerable energy savings, once the heated liquid has reached the predetermined temperature. 3) Innovative system (1) capable of preparing hot drinks, as defined in claims 1 and 2, characterized by the fact that said mechanism of mixing and infusion of the â € œhorizontalâ € type allows to obtain a better and complete drink, and takes place thanks to in the presence of one or more diffusion channels (or grooves) (222), which will allow a gradual passage of the liquid towards the product (in powder and / or granules) only horizontally / transversally (and not longitudinally / vertical as usually happens), thus obtaining the spread of the liquid over the entire surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the most superficial to the innermost layers, and therefore the complete exploitation of â € œallâ € the product (content in the module (22) of the cartridge (2)), also of those parts, especially peripheral ones, which are usually little used, little mixed, during the classic mixing and infusion phase of the vertical type drink. 4) Innovative system (1) capable of preparing hot drinks, as defined in claim 3, characterized by the fact that said `` horizontal '' type mixing and infusion mechanism, in addition to said diffusion channels (222) (or grooves) it also includes: - said circular sealing lip (229), which is used to drain the liquid only during the beverage `` infusion '' phase (and not before), which occurs thanks to the vertical lifting of the module (22) at the € ™ inside the module (21); to obtain all this, the circular lip (229) is preferably sized to soften a little at certain temperatures and then open definitively when the module (22) begins to slide inside the module (21), thus making it flow the hot liquid inside the diffusion channels (or grooves) (222) only during the beverage infusion phase (and not before); - said sealing ring (227), which is used to prevent lateral leakage of liquid during all phases of beverage preparation; to obtain this the ring (227) has the outer edge preferably facing upwards which prevents the liquid from escaping laterally. 5) Innovative system (1) capable of preparing hot drinks, as defined in claim 1, characterized by the fact that said temporary closing lid (221) also preferably comprises, in the wall directed downwards (towards the product), some curves (226), with the shape of a helix, used to create, during the â € œhorizontalâ € infusion phase, small vortices of liquid that can thus increase the infusion rate and the creaminess of the final drink. 6) Innovative system (1) capable of preparing hot drinks, as defined in claim 1, characterized by the fact that, once the desired drink has been obtained, in order to have an easy separation of the used product from the rest of the cartridge (2) (made in plastic material), thus favoring an optimal separate waste collection, a hooking system (328) connected with said metal frame (325) is used (which hooks, during the beverage preparation phase, the spout (223) of the cartridge (2)); when said frame (325) (once the beverage preparation phase has been completed) returns downwards, to its initial resting position, pulls down, lowers, by a few centimeters also the spout (223) (opening it, releasing it from the system ( 328)), which can therefore be easily removed, or separated from the rest of the cartridge (2), with the consequence of being able to separate the used product (coffee or other) from the plastic. 7) Innovative system (1) capable of preparing hot drinks, as defined in claim 1, characterized by the fact that said spout (223) preferably contains inside it a small quantity of gas, air and / or nitrogen, used to obtain a better infusion of the drink and a greater creaminess, and being also equipped, said spout (223), with a small closing film (224) (in plastic, aluminum foil or other), which will then be removed by the user before inserting the cartridge (2) inside the machine (3), thus obtaining maximum hygiene and maximum protection and isolation of the cartridge (2) from the external environment. 8) Innovative system (1) capable of preparing hot drinks, as defined in claim 1, characterized by the fact that said machine (3) is also preferably equipped with lateral drains (327), used to prevent beverage preparation, any liquid leaking from a faulty cartridge (2) could fall into the glass or cup. 9) Innovative system (1) capable of preparing hot drinks, as defined in claim 1, characterized in that said drinks possess, thanks to said system (1), the following important characteristics: a) they are always prepared with â € œoptimalâ € quality, thanks to the possibility of gradually spreading (by means of said â € œhorizontalâ € mixing mechanism of the liquid) the hot liquid over the entire surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the more superficial layers to the innermost ones, thus obtaining the total exploitation of the product itself (coffee or other, in powder and / or granules) and therefore a better infusion and a more intense drink; b) they are always prepared in an optimal and perfect way, thanks to the fact that, by means of the disposable three-component cartridge (2), the same quality and quantity (dosage) of liquid (water or other), of product ( coffee or other) and gas (air and / or nitrogen), thus obtaining a drink that is always of quality, with the right dosages and with no waste; c) they are prepared in conditions of maximum energy saving, thanks to the fact that, by means of the heating system (31) and the electronic controller (326), there is a low consumption of electricity since said system (31) is automatically switched off (by the controller (326)) after reaching the predetermined temperature (therefore it stays on for only a few seconds) and, with said heating system (31), initial periods of pre-heating of the liquid are no longer necessary; d) they are prepared in conditions of maximum hygiene, thanks to the fact that, by means of the second module (22) which slides inside the first module (21), by means of the micro-perforated spout (223) and the film (224), the cartridge disposable (2) is completely sealed and protected from the external environment, and also does not create (thanks to the fact that the collection spout (223) is integrated in the cartridge and therefore does not belong to the machine (3)) any unhealthy residues of drink inside the machine (3); e) are prepared in conditions of optimal waste disposal, thanks to the fact that, by means of the coupling system (328) inserted in the frame (325) (belonging to the electromechanical system (32) of the machine (3)) which allows the , the separation of the micro-perforated spout (223) from the rest of the cartridge (2), it is possible to easily separate the used product (coffee or other) from the plastic (optimal condition for separate waste collection). 10) Method of operation for an innovative system (1) capable of preparing hot drinks, as defined in the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said method comprises at least the following main phases: a) insertion phase, inside the machine (3), of one or two retractable disposable cartridges (2), new, undamaged, sealed and containing, in the pre-established doses, all the components necessary to obtain the desired drink, i.e. the liquid, the powder product and / or granules, and a certain amount of gas (air and / or nitrogen); b) rapid heating phase, by turning on said heating system (31), of the liquid contained inside the first module (21) and of the product (220) contained in the second module (22) of each disposable cartridge (2 ) present at that moment inside the machine (3), then automatically turning off, said heating system (31) (by means of an electronic controller (326)), after the liquid has reached a predetermined temperature; c) phase of mixing and infusion of the drink, obtained by interpenetrating and sliding the second module (22) (of the disposable cartridge (2)) inside the first module (21), thanks to the movement of said electromechanical lifting system. vertical sliding (32), which lifts upwards, by means of an electric motor (321) and metal frame (325), called the second module (22), which will rise and penetrate inside the first module (21) (of the disposable cartridge (2)), thus opening the circular lip (229) which will allow the gradual mixing and infusion, of the `` horizontal '' type, of the liquid (previously heated) with the product (powder and / or in granules), allowing this â € œhorizontalâ € infusion to gradually spread the hot liquid over the entire surface of the product, from the edge towards the center and from the most superficial to the innermost layers, thus obtaining the total of the product itself and qu then a more complete and more intense drink, which will then be automatically filtered (to avoid lumps and / or impurities) and conveyed inside the micro-perforated spout (223) to then go down into a glass or cup below; d) optional phase of separating the consumed product (coffee or other) from the rest of the container (usually plastic) of the disposable cartridge (2), thus obtaining the possibility of easily differentiating the two different types of waste, characterized by the fact of including, said phase of separation of the product, the following, preferable, steps: - when the frame (325) (of the machine (3)) comes into contact (during the beverage preparation phase) with the spout (223) of the cartridge (2), it hooks the spout ( 223); - when the frame (325), once the beverage preparation phase has been completed, returns to its initial rest position, of inactivity, it also moves the micro-perforated spout down a few centimeters (by opening it, releasing it from the system (328)) (223), thus being able to easily remove said spout (223) from the rest of the cartridge (2), with the consequence of being able to separate the used product (coffee or other) from the plastic; e) automatic or manual removal phase of each disposable cartridge (2), now exhausted, present inside the machine (3).