WO2025099239A1 - Piercing spike, cartridge holder, system for preparing a drink, method for preparing a drink, and use of a piercing spike - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a piercing spike (1) for use in a cartridge holder (20) for preparing a beverage by means of a cartridge (30) that can be connected to the cartridge holder (20) and that comprises a reservoir (31) filled with a beverage substance, wherein the reservoir (31) is sealed by a sealing element (32), in particular a foil element, wherein the piercing spike (1) is designed to pierce the sealing element (32), wherein the piercing spike (1) has substantially the shape of truncated cone with an oblique cut, wherein the piercing spike (1) has a compressed-air channel (11) that extends at least in sections along its longitudinal axis L, wherein the top surface has a substantially planar first surface area (3) and a second surface area (4) adjacent to the first surface area, wherein the second surface area (4) has a curvature.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Title

Piercing mandrel, cartridge holder, system for producing a beverage, method for producing a beverage and use of a piercing mandrel

State of the art

The present invention is based on a piercing mandrel for use in a cartridge receptacle for producing a beverage by means of a cartridge which can be connected to the cartridge receptacle and which comprises a reservoir filled with a beverage substance, wherein the reservoir is closed by a sealing element, in particular a film element, wherein the piercing mandrel is provided for piercing the sealing element, wherein the piercing mandrel essentially has the shape of an obliquely cut truncated cone, wherein the piercing mandrel has a compressed air line, in particular a centrally arranged one, which extends at least in sections along its longitudinal axis.

The cartridge holder, which includes the piercing spike, and the cartridge together form a system that can be inserted into a beverage preparation machine for producing a beverage, in particular a cold beverage. Such systems are generally known from the prior art and are used to produce beverages from pre-portioned cartridges. Producing beverages with such systems is extremely convenient for the user, as they only need to insert a cartridge and press a start button. The beverage preparation machine then fully automatically produces the beverage, i.e., in particular, the beverage substance is mixed with a predetermined amount of liquid, in particular cold and/or carbonated water, to form the beverage and then poured into a drinking vessel. In this way, mixed drinks, in particular, can be produced much more easily, quickly, and with less effort for the user. The user can choose from a variety of different cartridges, allowing them to produce different beverages as desired.

During the production of the beverage, the beverage preparation machine triggers a displacement of the piercing spike from a retracted position, in which the piercing spike is spaced from the sealing element of the cartridge, to an extended position, in which the piercing spike pierces the sealing element. The liquid in the reservoir of the cartridge The beverage substance contained then flows past the piercing spike into the mixing chamber.

This can be supported by introducing compressed air through the compressed air line of the piercing mandrel, which displaces the beverage substance from the reservoir.

One problem with these known systems is that a controlled outflow of the beverage substance from the opening created by the piercing spike is virtually impossible. This is necessary, however, to produce a high-quality beverage together with the controlled liquid supply. In these known systems, it can happen that the sealing element at least partially obscures a flow path on the piercing spike and/or that the sealing element tears open uncontrollably after an initial piercing, resulting in an uncontrollable outflow of the beverage substance.

Disclosure of the invention

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a piercing spike, a cartridge receptacle with such a piercing spike, a system for producing a beverage comprising a cartridge receptacle and a cartridge, and a method for producing a beverage, in which the sealing element is punctured in a controlled and, in particular, reproducibly controllable manner. The piercing spike is thus intended to enable a simple, yet reliable and reproducible opening of a cartridge previously sealed, in particular aroma-tight, by means of the sealing element.

This object is achieved by a piercing mandrel according to patent claim 1.

The piercing spike according to the invention has the advantage over the prior art that the force required to pierce the sealing element is lower, enabling clean, controlled, and reproducible piercing of the film. Due to the curvature of the second surface area, the pierced sealing element can conform to the piercing spike, particularly the cover surface, as it enters the reservoir, thus preventing uncontrolled tearing.

In the following description, relative location terms such as "top", "bottom", etc. are used. The person skilled in the art will understand that these terms refer to a cone or truncated cone standing vertically on its base. A slanted truncated cone, the shape of which the piercing mandrel essentially has, comprises a base surface, a conical surface and a cover surface which is opposite the base surface and, in the case of an obliquely cut truncated cone, is essentially oval or elliptical in shape.

The piercing mandrel may exhibit individual deviations from the truncated cone shape, but as a whole the piercing mandrel can be described as an obliquely cut truncated cone. For example, the piercing mandrel may have several sections along the longitudinal axis, which runs centrally through the piercing mandrel, which are separated from one another in particular by circumferential edges. For example, an essentially cylindrical region may be provided adjacent to or near the base surface. A further deviation from the shape of the obliquely cut truncated cone is the top surface, which has a curved region, the second surface region. The first surface region essentially corresponds to an oblique surface, as would be produced by a corresponding oblique conic section.

Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims and the description with reference to the drawings. The embodiments explained with reference to the piercing mandrel according to the invention also apply to the other objects of the present invention, and vice versa.

Preferably, the film element comprises a multilayer film, which is sealed, for example, to a flange of the cartridge. The film can comprise several layers, of which preferably at least one layer is a barrier layer.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first surface area forms the upper end of the piercing mandrel. This means that the first surface area, and in particular the associated outer contour, contacts the sealing element first. Piercing of the sealing element is thus primarily caused by the interaction between the first surface area or its outer contour and the sealing element. Piercing is, in particular, a cutting or slicing action.

According to a preferred embodiment, the cover surface is a cutting surface, wherein the outer edge of the cover surface, in particular of the first surface area, is at least partially a cutting edge for piercing the sealing element. Due to the oblique cut of the conical shape, a continuously curved cutting edge, which is inclined to the sealing element, is thus advantageously provided as the first surface area. This cutting edge pierces, cuts through, or perforates the Sealing element. The continuously curved shape promotes continuous tearing of the sealing element. In this way, a flap-like tab is preferably created on the sealing element, in particular with a smooth cut edge. As the piercing mandrel moves further into the reservoir, this tab folds inward toward the reservoir. Advantageously, according to the invention, this does not occur along a substantially straight fold line, which could lead to uncontrolled tearing, but rather successively by the tab nestling against the curved second surface area. The inventors have surprisingly discovered that this shape of the piercing mandrel enables reproducibly controlled piercing of the sealing element.

According to a preferred embodiment, the transition from the first surface area to the second surface area runs along a straight line, wherein the line preferably intersects the longitudinal axis. In other words, the first surface area preferably corresponds essentially to half an oval or half an ellipse. This is advantageous because it initially allows for a controlled cutting open of the sealing element before further tearing is controlled by the sealing element's contact with the second surface element.

According to a preferred embodiment, the curvature of the second surface region is a continuous curvature, in particular a curvature with a constant radius of curvature. In other words, the second surface region becomes increasingly steeper with increasing distance from the first surface region. This advantageously allows for the further opening of the sealing element to be controlled in a targeted manner. Particularly preferably, the second surface region has a radius of curvature of between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably 3-6 mm, in particular approximately 3.4 mm. Such a radius of curvature has proven particularly advantageous in tests.

According to a preferred embodiment, the curvature of the second surface region is designed such that the second surface region merges, in particular seamlessly, into the lateral surface of the piercing mandrel. This advantageously ensures that even when the piercing mandrel completely passes through the opening created in the sealing element, no uncontrolled tearing occurs, since the flap created during the piercing is guided throughout the entire movement.

According to a preferred embodiment, it is provided that no point of the second surface area is arranged above the first surface area. The curvature of the The second surface area therefore runs in particular, starting from the first surface area, in the direction of the base area of the piercing mandrel (or the truncated cone shape approximating it).

According to a preferred embodiment, the extension of the cover surface along the longitudinal axis is between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably 3-6 mm, in particular approximately 3.8 mm. This particularly means that the vertical extension (i.e., the extension parallel to the longitudinal axis) from the lowest point of the second surface area to the uppermost point of the first surface area, i.e., the distance between the points of the cover surface furthest apart parallel to the longitudinal axis, is between 1 mm and 10 mm.

According to a preferred embodiment, the piercing mandrel has at least one side channel extending parallel to the longitudinal axis in its lateral surface, in particular below the first surface area and/or the second surface area. The beverage substance can advantageously flow from the reservoir into the mixing chamber through this side channel in a controlled manner. This advantageously further improves the quality of the beverage preparation. Particularly preferably, the piercing mandrel has a plurality of side channels, preferably at least three, four, or five side channels. The size, length, position, and number of the side channels can advantageously be used to specifically control the volume flow of the beverage substance. For example, it is conceivable that the cross-section of the side channel and/or the number of side channels is adapted to the viscosity of the beverage substance, so that the side channels control or limit the flow of the beverage substance towards the mixing chamber. At high viscosity, preferably several side channels and/or side channels with a larger cross-section are used, while at lower viscosity, fewer side channels and/or side channels with a smaller cross-section are provided. A suitable piercing spike can therefore be provided for each cartridge or beverage substance.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one side channel is designed in the form of a groove open on one side, formed in the lateral surface of the piercing mandrel. The groove advantageously guides the flow of the beverage substance in a controlled manner from the reservoir into the mixing chamber. The beverage substance can enter the open groove at any point, is guided through the groove in the narrowed flow cross-section between the piercing mandrel and the sealing element, and can flow out of the groove in the mixing chamber. According to a preferred embodiment, it is provided that the at least one side channel does not intersect the outer contour of the first surface region and/or the second surface region. In other words, the side channel does not extend as far as the lid surface. The side channel is therefore not open upwards, but only in the radial direction, i.e. laterally. This is particularly advantageous because in this way, when the sealing element is pierced, no contour corresponding to an intersection between the outer contour of the first surface region and/or the second surface region is punched out of the sealing element. Such punched-out channels of the sealing element can at least partially close the openings of the side channels, so that the beverage substance cannot flow unhindered through the side channels. Because the side channels do not extend as far as the lid surface, the sealing element is punched or cut out with the outer contour of the first surface region.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first surface region has at least one, particularly sharp-edged, bulge in its outer contour, wherein the at least one bulge is preferably arranged offset in the circumferential direction relative to the at least one side channel. Advantageously, the bulge of the outer contour thus provides additional sharp edges and corners that assist in piercing the sealing element. If the piercing mandrel comprises side channels, the offset arrangement ensures that the side channels are not blocked.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first surface area is stepped at least in sections, wherein the steps are preferably provided such that the first surface area is tooth-like at least in sections along its outer contour. Such steps can be introduced into the first surface area in a comparatively simple manner, and in particular, the tooth-like outer contour created thereby advantageously improves the cutting/perforation/puncturing of the sealing element.

According to a preferred embodiment, the piercing mandrel has at least one anti-twist device in the form of a web projecting radially from the lateral surface, in particular in a lower region of the piercing mandrel. This advantageously prevents the piercing mandrel from twisting when being transferred from the retracted position to the extended position. Preferably, the cartridge receptacle comprises corresponding complementary means in which the anti-twist device is guided. Furthermore, it is ensured that the side channels on the side of the The piercing mandrel is arranged on a shaft facing away from the beverage outlet of the mixing chamber and, in particular, toward the fluid supply. This achieves improved mixing of the beverage substance and the fluid within the mixing chamber. Furthermore, it advantageously ensures that the compressed air connection of the piercing mandrel is correctly positioned relative to the compressed air connection of the cartridge holder.

According to a preferred embodiment, the piercing mandrel, preferably in a lower region, has a compressed air connection in its lateral surface for establishing a compressed air connection with a compressed air connection of the cartridge receptacle, wherein the compressed air line opens into the compressed air connection. The compressed air connection is thus located on the side of the piercing mandrel and can be brought into fluid communication there with a compressed air connection of the cartridge receptacle. Particularly preferably, the compressed air connection is arranged below the anti-rotation device. This advantageously ensures that the compressed air connection can be arranged correctly within the cartridge receptacle.

According to a preferred embodiment, the compressed air line has an opening, particularly a central opening, in the cover surface. This advantageously allows compressed air to be introduced directly into the reservoir after the sealing element has been pierced, thereby displacing the beverage substance from the reservoir. This advantageously accelerates beverage production and ensures that the beverage substance is completely transferred from the cartridge into the mixing chamber.

According to a preferred embodiment, the piercing mandrel is designed as a plastic part, in particular as a plastic injection-molded part. This enables cost-effective production. Alternatively, it is also conceivable to design the piercing mandrel as a metal part.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the piercing mandrel is configured on its underside to correspond to a trigger element of the beverage preparation machine. In particular, the underside of the piercing mandrel is configured such that it at least partially accommodates a trigger element in a form-fitting and/or force-fitting manner. This ensures reliable operation of the beverage preparation machine. The problem is further solved by a cartridge holder according to patent claim 20.

The embodiments explained with regard to the cartridge holder according to the invention also apply to the other objects of the present invention and vice versa.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the guide comprises a guide part with an internal guide channel for receiving the piercing mandrel, wherein the guide channel of the guide part is substantially cylindrical or frustoconical in shape, and wherein a circumferential stop is formed on an end of the guide part facing the cartridge, which stop limits the movement of the piercing mandrel in the direction of the reservoir, wherein the stop in particular comprises a region of reduced diameter. Advantageously, this ensures reliable guidance of the piercing mandrel during movement from the retracted position to the extended position. Preferably, a groove corresponding to the anti-twist device of the piercing mandrel, which is in particular designed as a web, is formed within the wall of the guide channel as an anti-twist device, so that unwanted twisting of the piercing mandrel is prevented. The guide part is preferably arranged in the mixing chamber and protrudes from a base of the mixing chamber in the direction of the cartridge.

According to a preferred embodiment, the piercing mandrel can be moved from the retracted position to the extended position by a trigger element of the beverage preparation machine when inserting the cartridge holder into the beverage preparation machine. Particularly preferably, the trigger element can be activated automatically and/or manually. Most preferably, the trigger element is movable by a drive, in particular a motorized drive.

According to a preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber has a beverage outlet through which the beverage formed from a mixture of the beverage substance with the fluid is dispensed. The cartridge receptacle is preferably configured such that the beverage can be introduced from the beverage outlet directly into a portable container. This advantageously eliminates cross-contamination in the beverage preparation machine.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber is provided with mixing structures. The mixing structures advantageously ensure Improved mixing of the beverage substance and the fluid. For this purpose, the mixing structures are particularly designed to swirl the fluid flowing into the mixing chamber. It is conceivable that the mixing structure comprises one or more mixing ribs arranged in the area of the fluid supply at the bottom of the mixing chamber and extending substantially perpendicular to the fluid inflow direction. The mixing ribs thus act as barriers for the fluid, swirling the fluid and achieving better mixing with the beverage substance.

Furthermore, the object is also achieved by a system for producing a beverage according to patent claim 23.

The embodiments explained with reference to the system according to the invention also apply to the other objects of the present invention and vice versa.

According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge receptacle is detachably connectable to the cartridge via a snap-in connection. Accordingly, the cartridge receptacle is preferably reversibly attached to the cartridge, particularly preferably via the snap-in connection. For example, it is conceivable for the cartridge to comprise a type of bottle neck, having the cartridge opening, with a circumferential retaining flange, and for the cartridge receptacle to be clipped onto the bottle neck. In particular, elastic snap-in elements, such as retaining arms, engage behind the retaining flange. The cartridge is intended, in particular, as a disposable container for the beverage substance and is particularly recyclable. Advantageously, the cartridge receptacle can be used multiple times by being attachable to different cartridges. Furthermore, the manufacture of the cartridge system is simplified because the cartridge and the cartridge receptacle can be manufactured separately, and only the cartridge receptacle is subsequently clipped onto the cartridge. The cartridge comprises, in particular, a square, round, or rounded bottle. The cartridge is typically made of plastic using a blow-injection molding process, an injection molding process, or other molding processes. However, a deep-drawing process is also conceivable for the cartridge's production. It is also conceivable, of course, that the cartridge be reusable. Alternatively, it is also conceivable for the cartridge to comprise a glass bottle, while only the cartridge holder is a plastic part.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the cartridge has a cartridge opening which is in fluid communication with the reservoir, wherein the cartridge opening in the initial state is sealed by the sealing element is closed, wherein the sealing element in particular comprises a film element, for example a sealing film, which is applied to the edge of the cartridge opening and preferably sealed. In this way, the reservoir is advantageously sealed hermetically and aroma-tight. The sealing element is for this purpose in particular designed to be largely airtight and liquid-tight. To produce this cartridge system, first the cartridge with the cartridge opening is produced, then the cartridge is filled with the beverage substance through the cartridge opening, subsequently the cartridge opening is closed by the sealing element and finally the cartridge receptacle is applied, for example clipped onto the cartridge in the area of the closed cartridge opening. Before, during or after inserting the system into the beverage preparation machine, the sealing element is opened in the area of the cartridge opening, in particular pierced by the piercing mandrel, so that the beverage substance can be transferred from the reservoir into the mixing chamber by introducing compressed air.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge and/or the cartridge receptacle comprises a product identification code, and a beverage preparation machine and/or the cartridge receptacle comprises an identification detector for identifying the product identification code. The product identification code is preferably embedded in a barcode, an RFID code, a QR code, a data matrix code, a color code, a hologram code, or the like. This advantageously enables automatic reading of the product identification code. The identification detector comprises, in particular, an optical sensor, such as a CCD camera, which automatically reads the barcode, QR code, or data matrix code when the cartridge is inserted into the beverage preparation machine. Alternatively, the identification detector comprises a transmitting and receiving antenna for automatically reading the RFID code. Alternatively, it would be conceivable for the product identification code to be embedded in other automatically readable computer chips. The term QR code, within the meaning of the present invention, particularly encompasses any data matrix code. In this respect, the terms QR code and data matrix code are used synonymously. Alternatively or additionally, it would also be conceivable for the product identification code to comprise a barcode, a dot code, a binary code, a Morse code, Braille code (braille), or the like. The code can also be embedded in a three-dimensional structure, such as a relief. The product identification code particularly encompasses the so-called product identification number, in particular a Universal Product Code (UPC), a European Article Number (EAN), a GS1 code, a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), or the like. In this way, No new coding system needs to be introduced for this purpose. In particular, the product identification code is based on the GS1 standard.

The product identification code serves, in particular, to indicate the beverage substance contained in the cartridge. During or before the start of the beverage preparation process, the product identification code is read using the identification detector. The beverage preparation machine thus knows which type of cartridge is inserted into the beverage preparation machine. It is conceivable that an evaluation and control unit of the beverage preparation machine has a plurality of pre-stored beverage preparation programs, which are intended for the preparation of different beverages and differ from one another, for example, in the delivery rate, delivery time, delivery pauses, temperature, degree of carbonation, and/or pressure of the supplied fluid. It is also conceivable that different compressed air supplies (e.g., different pressures) are used for different beverage preparation programs. Each beverage preparation program is linked to one or more product identification codes. When a cartridge is inserted into the beverage preparation machine, the product identification code on the cartridge is read by the identification detector and then compared with the pre-stored data. Based on the product identification code, a beverage production program is selected from the plurality of pre-stored beverage production programs, and the beverage production process is then started with the selected beverage production program. Parameters such as flow rate, delivery time, delivery pauses, temperature, carbonation level, and/or pressure of the supplied fluid are specified or controlled by the selected beverage production program in order to achieve optimal results for the beverage to be produced with the respective beverage substance.

It is conceivable that the beverage production process will not start if no product identification code can be identified or if the identified product identification code does not match any pre-stored beverage production program. This prevents the use of a non-system cartridge that is not certified for operation in the beverage production machine, which would pose a risk of damage to the beverage production machine or endanger the user, for example, due to the cartridge bursting (if it is designed for operation at lower pressures).

The product identification code is preferably printed or glued onto the wall of the cartridge or onto the sealing element. In particular, the The product identification code is positioned on the cartridge such that the product identification code is located within the detection range of the identification detector of the beverage preparation machine when the cartridge is inserted into the beverage preparation machine. Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable for the product identification code to be arranged on an outer wall of the cartridge receptacle.

Furthermore, the object is achieved by a method for producing a beverage according to patent claim 24.

The embodiments explained with reference to the method according to the invention also apply to the other objects of the present invention and vice versa.

The method steps according to the invention are not to be considered a mandatory chronological sequence, but can also occur simultaneously or in a different order. For example, the piercing of the sealing element and/or the transfer of the beverage substance into the mixing chamber preferably occur parallel to the feeding of the fluid.

According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the fluid is cooled and/or carbonated before being fed into the mixing chamber. The fluid or liquid is preferably water.

The fluid is preferably supplied to the mixing chamber separately. The fluid is preferably introduced into the mixing chamber under pressure. The fluid is provided in particular by the beverage preparation machine. It is conceivable that a fluid source is coupled directly to the fluid supply of the cartridge receptacle as soon as the cartridge system is inserted into the beverage preparation machine. The fluid connection is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber via a fluid line. This has the advantage that back-contamination in the direction of the beverage preparation machine is effectively prevented because the fluid connection is pressurized immediately upon insertion of the cartridge system, thus preventing beverage substance from migrating in the direction of the fluid line and in particular in the direction of the fluid source of the beverage preparation machine. The beverage substance and the beverage can therefore only move from the mixing chamber in the direction of the beverage outlet.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that the piercing mandrel is transferred from the retracted position to the extended position by a trigger element of the beverage preparation machine. Yet another object of the present inventors is the piercing spike according to the invention in a position according to the invention of a beverage, in particular in an inventive method according to the invention.

The embodiments explained with regard to the inventive use of the piercing mandrel also apply to the other objects of the present invention and vice versa.

Further details, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the drawings and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings merely illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention, which do not limit the essential inventive concept.

Short description of the drawings

Figure 1 shows a piercing mandrel according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 2a and 2b show various perspective views of a piercing mandrel according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3 shows a detailed view of the piercing mandrel according to the exemplary second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 shows a schematic side view of a part of the piercing mandrel according to the exemplary second embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 5a and 5b show a comparison of plan views of a piercing mandrel according to a non-inventive embodiment (Fig. 5a) and according to the exemplary second embodiment of the present invention (Fig. 5b); Figure 6 shows a schematic sectional view of a cartridge holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention without a piercing mandrel;

Figures 7a and 7b show perspective views of a cartridge and a system comprising a cartridge and a cartridge receptacle connected thereto according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 8a and 8b show sectional views of a system comprising a cartridge and a cartridge receptacle connected thereto in a retracted position of the piercing mandrel (Fig. 8a) and an extended position of the piercing mandrel (Fig. 8b) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 9a and 9b show detailed views in cross-section of a system comprising a cartridge and a cartridge receptacle connected thereto in a retracted position of the piercing mandrel (Fig. 9a) and an extended position of the piercing mandrel (Fig. 9b) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 10a and 10b show perspective sectional views of a system comprising a cartridge and a cartridge receptacle connected thereto in a retracted position of the piercing mandrel (Fig. 10a) and an extended position of the piercing mandrel (Fig. 10b) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments of the invention

In the various figures, identical parts are always provided with the same reference symbols and are therefore usually named or mentioned only once.

Insofar as directional information is used, such as “top” or “bottom”, these refer to an orientation of the piercing mandrel, as shown, for example, in Figures 2a and 2b. Figure 1 shows a piercing spike 1 according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention. The piercing spike 1 is inserted into a cartridge receptacle 20 in a manner explained in detail below. The cartridge receptacle 20 is in turn connected to a cartridge 30 containing a beverage substance arranged in a reservoir 31. The reservoir 31 is sealed in an aroma-tight manner by a sealing element, which is designed, for example, as a film element 32.

The piercing mandrel 1 is now provided in such a way that it can be moved in the cartridge holder 20, in particular guided by a guide 22, that it can be moved from a retracted position in which the piercing mandrel 1 is spaced from the sealing element, into an extended position, wherein the piercing mandrel 1 pierces the sealing element and projects into the reservoir 31.

The piercing mandrel 1 is essentially frustoconical, with an oblique cut as the cover surface 2. As can be seen in Figure 1, the piercing mandrel 1 here has minor deviations from this truncated cone shape. For example, the piercing mandrel 1 here comprises a plate-like widening at its lower end, which can serve, for example, as a stop in the guide 22 and/or which is designed on the underside such that it interacts positively and/or non-positively with a trigger element of a beverage preparation machine (not shown) in order to be moved from the retracted to the extended position. Furthermore, the piercing mandrel here comprises a circumferential shoulder approximately in the middle as well as other elements explained in more detail below.

When the piercing spike 1 pierces the sealing element, in particular the film element 32, its tip projects into the reservoir 32. It can be clearly seen in Figure 1 that the piercing spike 1 has an opening at its lower end which serves as a compressed air connection 9. This opening is in continuous connection with a compressed air line 11 extending from this opening along the longitudinal axis L of the piercing spike. This compressed air line 11 is arranged centrally in the piercing spike 1 and ends on the upper side in an opening 8 in the cover surface 2. Compressed air from a compressed air source of a beverage preparation machine can be conducted through this compressed air line 11 and thus introduced into the reservoir 31 in the extended position. This compressed air and gravity ensure that the beverage substance flows from the reservoir 31 of the cartridge 30 through the opening formed by the piercing spike 1 into a mixing chamber of the cartridge receptacle 20, which will be explained in more detail later. There, the beverage substance mixes with a fluid or liquid, in particular chilled and/or carbonated water, which is also introduced into the mixing chamber, to form the beverage. To precisely control the mixing ratio and preparation time, it is crucial that the opening in the sealing element is controlled and reproducible. If the opening ruptures uncontrollably, for example, too much beverage substance can flow into the mixing chamber per unit of time. There is therefore a risk that the beverage substance will not be sufficiently mixed with the liquid. Conversely, an incomplete piercing or an opening in the sealing element that is too small can result in an insufficient volume flow of the beverage substance into the mixing chamber, which also leads to inadequate beverage quality.

To solve this problem, the piercing mandrel 1 according to the invention proposes that the cover surface have a first, essentially flat, surface region 3, as well as an adjacent, second surface region 4 that has a curve. This curve is more clearly visible in the following figures. According to the embodiment shown here, the boundary between the first surface region 3 and the second surface region 4 is linear. In particular, the boundary between the regions 3, 4 is a straight line that intersects the central longitudinal axis L.

The embodiment shown in Figure 1 also has several further features that improve beverage production. The outer contour of the first surface area 3 will contact the sealing element first, since the cover surface runs diagonally through the truncated cone. The outer edge therefore functions as a cutting edge. To further improve the piercing behavior, several, here four, bulges 6 are provided in the outer contour of the first surface area 3. These roughly correspond to an impression of a spherical segment (with a relatively small radius) in the outer edge. In this way, two sharp corners are created in each bulge 6, where a curved curve in the plane of the first surface area and a curved curve in the outer surface 12 of the truncated cone-shaped piercing mandrel 1 meet. This improves the cutting effect of the outer edge, allowing easier and more controlled piercing of the sealing element. The bulges 6 preferably have substantially identical dimensions and/or are provided substantially equidistant from one another along the circumferential direction.

The lateral surface 12 of the piercing mandrel 1 also comprises, in an upper third, side channels 5 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis L, here three side channels 5 in the lateral surface 12 below the first surface area 3 and two side channels 5 in the lateral surface 12 in the Area of the second surface area 4. These last two side channels 5 are only indicated in the illustration in Figure 1, they can be seen better in Figure 2b.

Once piercing spike 1 has pierced the sealing element, the piercing spike 1 partially extends into the reservoir 31. The pierced portion of the sealing element is then separated in the area of the first surface area 1, but is still connected to the remaining sealing element in the area of the second surface area 4. The sealing element thus forms a flap-like material flap. This may partially block the flow path of the beverage substance. To ensure a controlled outflow of the beverage substance from the reservoir 31, the piercing spike 1 comprises the side channels 5 described above.

The side channels 5 are preferably designed as outwardly open, elongated grooves with a skin extension direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The beverage substance can enter the side channels 5 in the reservoir 31 and be guided through the opening and exit again in the mixing chamber 21. Preferably, as shown here, the bulges 6 and the side channels are arranged offset from one another in the circumferential direction. The side channels 5 below the first surface area 3 preferably do not intersect its outer contour. As already indicated in Figure 1, the side channels 5 intersect the outer contour on the other side, i.e. in the region of the second surface area 4 of the cover surface 2.

Furthermore, the piercing mandrel 1 here comprises an optional anti-twist device 10 in the form of a web protruding radially from the lateral surface 12. Here, the anti-twist device 10 is essentially wedge-shaped, i.e., the web tapers towards the tip of the piercing mandrel 1. The anti-twist device 10 preferably cooperates with correspondingly designed guide means in the cartridge receptacle 20, so that the piercing mandrel 1 can only be inserted into the cartridge receptacle 20 in a predetermined orientation and maintains this orientation even during movement from the retracted to the extended position. This ensures, among other things, that the compressed air connection 9 of the piercing mandrel is aligned with a compressed air connection 25 of the cartridge receptacle 20 in the extended position.

Figures 2a and 2b show various perspective views of a piercing mandrel 1 according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention. The second embodiment essentially corresponds to the first embodiment, which is why reference is made to the corresponding explanations. The difference between the embodiments is, in particular, that the outer contour of the first surface region 3 does not have any bulges 6. Instead, the highest region of the first surface region 3 is provided with a number of steps, in particular straight ones. These steps 7 are preferably not flat, but inclined, as can be seen more clearly in Figure 3.

In Figure 2b, one of the two side channels 5 can be seen more clearly in the area of the second surface region 4. This side channel 5 is open at the top but begins at approximately the same height as the side channels 5 visible in Figure 1. Furthermore, an additional web can be seen in Figure 2b, which can preferably also function as an anti-twist device 10. This web is arranged on the opposite side of the anti-twist device 10 explained in connection with Figure 1, relative to the longitudinal axis L.

Furthermore, the curvature of the second surface region 4 is clearly visible in Figure 2b. The second surface region 4 slopes increasingly steeply with increasing distance from the center of the piercing mandrel and, at the end, approximately merges into the lateral surface 12. This ensures that the region of the sealing element that has been cut open and bent into the reservoir 31 is slowly and steadily straightened by the movement of the piercing mandrel 1. Uncontrolled tearing can thus be advantageously prevented.

Figure 3 shows a detailed view of the piercing mandrel 1 according to the exemplary second embodiment of the present invention. Here, the curvature of the second surface area 4 is again clearly visible. Furthermore, the steps 7 in the first surface area 3 are clearly visible. The steps 7, particularly the inclined ones, create a sawtooth-like profile along the outer contour. This advantageously improves the piercing or cutting action of the piercing mandrel.

In addition or alternatively to the steps 7, the piercing mandrel could also have bulges 6 along the outer contour according to the first embodiment.

Figure 4 shows a schematic side view of a part of the piercing mandrel 1 according to the exemplary second embodiment of the present invention. It is clearly visible that the first surface area 3 comprises an inclined, flat surface. It is also clearly visible that the second surface area 4 is curved. The curvature of the second surface area 4 preferably has a radius of curvature R of approximately 3.4 mm. Furthermore, a height is indicated here over which the entire cover surface 2. This means that the maximum distance along the longitudinal axis L between the highest point of the first surface area 3 and the lowest point of the second surface area 4 is, for example, approximately 3.8 mm. The radial extent of the steps 7, ie the area in which the steps are incorporated, has a width of approximately 1.4 mm.

Figures 5a and 5b show a comparison of top views of a piercing mandrel 1 according to a non-inventive embodiment (Figure 5a) and according to the exemplary second embodiment of the present invention (Figure 5b). Figure 5a shows a piercing mandrel 1 which is also essentially frustoconical in shape, but here has a horizontally oriented cover surface 2. The truncated cone was therefore created here by a horizontal cut. This embodiment also comprises side channels 5 in the lateral surface 12. However, here all of the side channels 5 intersect the outer contour of the cover surface 2. In other words, the side channels 5 are open not only radially outwards but also upwards. This leads to a correspondingly rounded cutting edge. When the piercing mandrel 1 now cuts through a film element 32, a region of the film element 32 is cut out which corresponds to the shape of this cutting edge, i.e. which also has bulges projecting into the side channels 5. If the piercing mandrel 1 is now moved further into the reservoir 31, these bulges of the film element 32 block the side channels and thus prevent a targeted discharge of the beverage substance.

Therefore, according to the invention, the side channels 5 are not open at the top—at least on the side that first contacts the film element 32, i.e., the side of the first surface area 3. The upper ends of the side channels 5 are located below the outer contour of the cover surface 2.

Figure 6 shows a schematic sectional view of a cartridge receptacle 20 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention without piercing mandrel 1. The cartridge receptacle 20 is shown here in its preferred orientation after insertion into the associated beverage preparation machine. At its upper end, the cartridge receptacle 20 comprises a large opening through which it can be connected—preferably reversibly—to a cartridge 30.

In the right-hand area, a guide 22 is provided, in which the piercing mandrel 1 according to the invention can preferably be inserted with a precise fit, wherein the guide 22 particularly preferably has guide means corresponding to the anti-twist device 10 (not shown here). shown), by means of which correct orientation of the piercing spike 1 in the guide 22 is ensured. The piercing spike 1 is not shown here for the sake of clarity, but corresponds, for example, to one of the embodiments shown in the previously explained figures. The piercing spike 1 is arranged to be vertically movable in the guide 22. In particular, the piercing spike 1 can be moved by a trigger element of the beverage preparation machine from a retracted position into an extended position, in which the piercing spike 1 pierces the sealing element, for example the film element 32, and projects into the reservoir 31 of the cartridge 30.

Also indicated on the right in the illustration is a fluid supply 23 which can be coupled to a fluid source when the cartridge holder 20 is inserted into the beverage preparation machine, so that a fluid, for example chilled and/or carbonated water, can be introduced into the cartridge holder 20 through the fluid supply 23. The fluid or liquid enters a mixing chamber 21 of the cartridge holder 20. When the piercing mandrel 1 pierces the film element 32 and, in the extended position, the compressed air connection 9 is aligned with a compressed air connection 25 of the cartridge holder 20, which can preferably be connected to a compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine, compressed air can be passed through the compressed air line 11 of the piercing mandrel 1, in particular parallel to the liquid supply, so that it exits through the opening 8 in the cover surface 2 into the reservoir 31. In this way, the beverage substance can be transferred by gravity and assisted by the compressed air blown into the reservoir 31 through the opening in the film element 32 and, in particular, at least partially through the side channels 5 into the mixing chamber 21, where it mixes with the introduced fluid, e.g., the chilled and carbonated water, to form the beverage. The beverage can then exit the cartridge receptacle 20 through a beverage outlet 24 of the cartridge receptacle 20 and preferably flow directly into a vessel arranged below.

Figures 7a and 7b show perspective views of a cartridge 30 and a system comprising a cartridge 30 and a cartridge receptacle 20 connected thereto according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The cartridge 30 in Figure 7a is bottle-shaped, with a reservoir 31 and a bottle neck comprising a flange to which the cartridge receptacle 20 can be clipped. The opening of the cartridge 30 is sealed by a foil element 32, in particular an aroma-tight one. The cartridge 30 shown here is essentially cuboid-shaped, although the cartridge 30 can, in principle, have any desired shape. can be cylindrical, for example. This is limited only by the fact that the cartridge 30 must be insertable into a corresponding holder of a beverage preparation machine and that the cartridge 30 must include a suitable area with a sealing element, via which the cartridge receptacle 20 can be connected to the cartridge 30.

Figure 7b shows a system comprising a cartridge 30, as shown in Figure 7a, and a cartridge receptacle 20 connected thereto. The system is shown in the preferred orientation in which the system is inserted into a beverage preparation machine.

Figures 8a and 8b show sectional views of a system comprising a cartridge 30 and a cartridge receptacle 20 connected thereto in a retracted position of the piercing mandrel 1 (Figure 8a) and an extended position of the piercing mandrel 1 (Figure 8b) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The embodiment shown essentially corresponds to the embodiments explained so far, so that reference is made to the preceding explanations.

Figure 8a clearly shows that the piercing mandrel 1 is in the retracted position. In this position, the piercing mandrel 1 is spaced from the foil element 32, meaning that the foil element 32 does not yet have an opening. Furthermore, the compressed air connection 9 of the piercing mandrel 1 and the compressed air connection 25 of the cartridge holder 20 are not aligned. Therefore, compressed air cannot enter the compressed air line 11.

Furthermore, it is visible that the piercing mandrel 1 is arranged in a form-fitting manner in the guide 22 of the cartridge holder 20. This has a fluid supply 23 below the compressed air connection 25. It is also indicated how the cartridge holder 20 is clipped to the flange of the cartridge 30.

The cartridge 30 is preferably filled with a pre-portioned amount of beverage substance required to produce a specific drinking portion, for example, a glassful of the desired beverage. In particular, a plurality of different systems are available, whose cartridges 30 or reservoirs 31 are filled with different beverage substances for producing different beverages. If the user of the system wishes to drink a specific beverage, he or she merely needs to select the system from the plurality of different systems that contains the corresponding beverage substance for producing the desired beverage, insert it into a Insert the holding unit of the beverage preparation machine and, if necessary, start the beverage production process on the beverage preparation machine if it does not start automatically, for example after detecting a product identification code arranged on the cartridge 30 and/or the cartridge holder 20.

The beverage substance preferably comprises liquid pre-mix ingredients for soft drinks, such as caffeinated, carbonated, fruit and/or sugar-containing lemonades and juices, beer (mixed) drinks or other alcoholic or non-alcoholic (mixed) drinks.

Before, during, or after startup, the piercing mandrel 1 is then moved from the retracted position to the extended position, as shown in Figure 8b, preferably by a trigger element of the beverage preparation machine acting on the piercing mandrel 1. During this movement, the piercing mandrel 1, in particular with the outer contour of the first surface area 3 acting as a cutting edge, pierces the film element 32 and, by contact with the second, curved surface area 4, successively pushes the cut area into the reservoir 31. In the extended position, the compressed air connection of the piercing mandrel 1 is now aligned with the compressed air connection 25 of the cartridge receptacle 20, and compressed air can escape through the compressed air line 11 from the opening 8 in the cover surface 2 and displace the beverage substance from the reservoir 31 of the cartridge.

An additional passage 26 is provided in the space between the guide 22 and the beverage outlet 24. Preferably, however, this passage 26 is closed, so that the beverage can only exit through the beverage outlet 24. Particularly preferably, the passage 26 is closed at the end facing the lid 32, in particular by an end surface formed integrally with the cartridge receptacle and particularly preferably with the passage 26 and/or aligned parallel to the lid 32. This is particularly advantageous because it prevents liquid from entering the passage 26, which could result in suboptimal mixing.

Figures 9a and 9b show detailed views in cross-section of a system comprising a cartridge 30 and a cartridge receptacle 20 connected thereto in a retracted position of the piercing mandrel 1 (Figure 9a) and an extended position of the piercing mandrel 1 (Figure 9b) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figures 10a and 10b also show perspective sectional views of a system comprising a cartridge 30 and a cartridge receptacle 20 connected thereto in a retracted position of the piercing mandrel 1 (Figure 10a) and an extended position of the piercing mandrel 1 (Figure 10b) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The embodiments shown in Figures 9a, 9b, 10a and 10b essentially correspond to the embodiment explained in connection with Figures 8a and 8b, so that reference is made to the relevant explanations.

In Figure 9b it can be clearly seen that the anti-rotation device 10 can also serve as a stop to limit the extended position of the piercing mandrel 1.

All previously described embodiments of the system have in common that the cartridge holder 20 can be reused by being detached from the used and emptied cartridge 30 and clipped onto a new cartridge 30. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the cartridge holder 20 is irreversibly connected to a cartridge 30, for example, for hygienic reasons.

List of reference symbols

1 piercing spike

2 deck area

3 first area

4 second area

5 side channels

6 bulges

7 levels

8 Opening the compressed air line

9 Compressed air connection

10 Anti-twist device

11 Compressed air line

12 Shell surface

20 cartridge holders

21 Mixing chamber

22 leadership

23 Fluid supply

24 beverage outlet

25 Compressed air connection

26 Passage

30 cartridges

31 Reservoir

32 slide elements

L Longitudinal axis

R radius of curvature

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. A piercing mandrel (1) for use in a cartridge receptacle (20) for producing a beverage by means of a cartridge (30) which can be connected to the cartridge receptacle (20) and which comprises a reservoir (31) filled with a beverage substance, the reservoir (31) being closed by a sealing element, in particular a film element (32), the piercing mandrel (1) being provided for piercing the sealing element, the piercing mandrel (1) essentially having the shape of an obliquely cut truncated cone, the piercing mandrel (1) having a compressed air line (11), in particular a centrally arranged line, which extends at least in sections along its longitudinal axis (L), characterized in that the cover surface (2) has an essentially planar first surface area (3) and a second surface area (4) adjoining the first surface area (3), the second surface area (4) having a curvature. 2. Piercing mandrel (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first surface area (3) forms the upper end of the piercing mandrel (1). 3. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cover surface (2) is a cutting surface, wherein the outer edge of the cover surface (2), in particular of the first surface area (3), is at least partially a cutting edge for piercing the sealing element. 4. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transition from the first surface area (3) to the second surface area (4) runs along a straight line, wherein the line preferably intersects the longitudinal axis (L). 5. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the curvature of the second surface region (4) is a continuous curvature, in particular a curvature with a constant radius of curvature (R). 6. Piercing mandrel (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the second surface area (4) has a radius of curvature (R) between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably of 3-6 mm, in particular of approximately 3.4 mm. 7. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the curvature of the second surface region (4) is designed such that the second surface region (4) merges, in particular seamlessly, into the lateral surface (12) of the piercing mandrel (1). 8. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that no point of the second surface region (4) is arranged above the first surface region (3). 9. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the extension of the cover surface (2) along the longitudinal axis (L) is between 1 mm and 10 mm, preferably 3-6 mm, in particular approximately 3.8 mm. 10. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the piercing mandrel (1) has in its outer surface (12) at least one side channel (5) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (L), in particular below the first surface area (3) and/or the second surface area (4). 11. Piercing mandrel (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that the piercing mandrel (1) has a plurality of side channels (5), preferably at least three, four or five side channels (5). 12. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that the at least one side channel (5) is designed in the form of a groove which is open on one side and is introduced into the lateral surface (12) of the piercing mandrel (1). 13. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of claims 10-12, characterized in that the at least one side channel (5) does not intersect the outer contour of the first surface region (3) and/or the second surface region (4). 14. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first surface area (3) has at least one, in particular sharp-edged, bulge (6) in its outer contour, wherein the at least one bulge (6) is preferably arranged offset in the circumferential direction to the at least one side channel (5). 15. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first surface area (3) is stepped at least in sections, wherein the steps (7) are preferably provided such that the first surface area (3) is tooth-like at least in sections along its outer contour. 16. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the piercing mandrel (1) has at least one anti-rotation device (10) in the form of a web projecting radially from the lateral surface (12), in particular in a lower region of the piercing mandrel (1). 17. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the piercing mandrel (1), preferably in a lower region, in the lateral surface (12) has a compressed air connection (9) for establishing a compressed air connection with a compressed air connection (25) of the cartridge holder (20), wherein the compressed air line (11) opens into the compressed air connection (9). 18. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the compressed air line (11) has an opening (8), in particular a central opening, in the cover surface (2). 19. Piercing mandrel (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the piercing mandrel (1) is designed as a plastic part, in particular as a plastic injection-molded part. 20. Cartridge receptacle (20) for producing a beverage by means of a cartridge (30) comprising a reservoir (31) filled with a beverage substance, wherein the reservoir (31) is closed by a sealing element, in particular a film element (32), wherein the cartridge receptacle (20) is connectable to the cartridge (30), wherein the cartridge receptacle (20) is insertable into a beverage preparation machine, wherein the cartridge receptacle (20) has a mixing chamber (21) which can be brought into fluid communication with the reservoir (31) and a fluid feed (23) opening into the mixing chamber (21) for feeding a fluid through the beverage preparation machine, wherein the cartridge receptacle (20) comprises a guide (22) and a piercing mandrel (1) displaceably mounted within the guide (22), wherein the piercing mandrel (1) can be moved between a retracted position, in which the piercing mandrel (1) is Sealing element of the cartridge (30) is spaced, and an extended position in which the Piercing mandrel (1) pierces the sealing element and projects into the reservoir (31), is displaceable, wherein in the extended position a compressed air line (11) of the piercing mandrel (1) is accessible from outside the cartridge receptacle (20) via a compressed air connection (9) of the piercing mandrel (1) which is connected to a compressed air connection (25) of the cartridge receptacle (20), characterized in that the piercing mandrel (1) is designed according to one of claims 1-19. 21. Cartridge holder (20) according to claim 20, characterized in that the piercing mandrel (1) can be moved from the retracted position into the extended position by a trigger element of the beverage preparation machine when the cartridge holder (20) is inserted into the beverage preparation machine. 22. Cartridge receptacle (20) according to one of claims 20 or 21, characterized in that the mixing chamber (21) has a beverage outlet (24) through which the beverage formed from a mixture of the beverage substance with the fluid is dispensed, wherein the cartridge receptacle (20) is preferably designed such that the beverage can be introduced from the beverage outlet (24) directly into a portable container. 23. A system for producing a beverage, the system comprising a cartridge (30) which comprises a reservoir (31) filled with a beverage substance, which reservoir is closed by a sealing element, in particular a film element (32), and a cartridge receptacle (20) connected to the cartridge (30) according to any one of claims 20-22, the system for producing the beverage being insertable into a beverage preparation machine. 24. A method for producing a beverage using a system according to claim 23, comprising the following steps: Inserting the system into a holding unit of a beverage preparation machine, establishing a fluid connection between a fluid source of the beverage preparation machine and the fluid supply (23) of the cartridge holder (20), Establishing a compressed air connection between a compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine and the compressed air connection (25) of the cartridge holder (20), piercing the sealing element by moving the piercing mandrel (1) from the retracted position to the extended position, Transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir (31) into the mixing chamber (21) by feeding compressed air into the reservoir (31), Feeding a fluid into the mixing chamber (21) through the fluid supply (23) and discharging the beverage produced in the mixing chamber (21) by mixing the beverage substance with the fluid through a beverage outlet (24). 25. The method according to claim 24, wherein the fluid is (21) is cooled and/or carbonated. 26. Method according to one of claims 24 or 25, wherein the piercing mandrel (1) is moved from the retracted position to the extended position by a trigger element of the beverage preparation machine. 27. Use of a piercing mandrel (1) according to one of claims 1-19 in a cartridge receptacle (20) according to one of claims 20-22 for producing a beverage, in particular in a system according to claim 23 and/or with a method according to one of claims 24-26.