BEVERAGE PREPARATION APPARATUS AND METHOD

Abstract

A beverage preparation apparatus and method are provided, the apparatus including a brewing chamber, at least one pump configured to supply a diluent to the brewing chamber, two heaters configured to heat the diluent, at least one heater of the two heaters being a pipe heater, a controller configured to independently supply power to one or both of the heaters as a function of a flow rate and of a temperature of the diluent.

Claims

1.-94. (canceled)

95. A beverage preparation apparatus, comprising: a brewing chamber configured to contain at least one ingredient for beverage preparation; at least one pump configured to supply a diluent liquid from at least one diluent source to the brewing chamber; and at least two heaters including at least one pipe heater or two or more heating sections of a pipe heater, the at least two heaters being configured to heat diluent liquid flowing therethrough, at least one heater of the two heaters being disposed upstream of the brewing chamber and being configured to feed the diluent liquid to the brewing chamber, and the at least two heaters being independently controlled by a controller configured to independently supply power to the at least two heaters and to activate the at least two heaters.

96. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein the at least two heaters comprise two or more heating sections of at least one pipe heater, each heating section of the two or more heating sections being configured to be independently controlled by the controller, and wherein the controller is connected to the two or more heating sections and is further configured to selectively supply power to the two or more heating sections.

97. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein the at least two heaters are formed by two or more distinct pipe heaters connected in series.

98. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 96, wherein the two or more heating sections of the at least one pipe heater are formed by two or more separate portions of heating film applied on the at least one pipe heater, the separate portions of heating film being electrically insulated one from the other.

99. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein the controller is further configured to supply power to the at least two heaters depending on a flow rate of the diluent liquid passing through the at least two heaters.

100. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, further comprising means for measuring a flow rate of the diluent liquid passing through the at least one pipe heater; and means for modifying the flow rate.

101. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein the controller is further configured to modify the supplied power, or to deactivate, one or more heating sections of the at least one pipe heater, depending on a flow rate of the diluent liquid passing through the at least one pipe heater.

102. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein the controller is further configured to supply power to the at least two heaters, to set a temperature of diluent liquid exiting the at least one pipe heater to a temperature value for a maximum flow rate value of the diluent liquid passing therethrough, to reduce the supplied power to the at least one pipe heater, or to deactivate the at least one pipe heater if a current flow rate value is below the maximum flow rate value of the diluent liquid.

103. A method for preparing a beverage by an apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a brewing chamber configured to contain at least one ingredient for beverage preparation; at least one pump configured to supply a diluent liquid from at least one diluent source to the brewing chamber; and at least two heaters including at least one pipe heater or two or more heating sections of a pipe heater, the at least two heaters being configured to heat diluent liquid flowing therethrough, at least one heater of the two heaters being disposed upstream of the brewing chamber and being configured to feed the diluent liquid to the brewing chamber, and the at least two heaters being independently controlled by a controller configured to independently supply power to the at least two heaters and to activate the at least two heaters; and the method comprising: providing the at least one ingredient inside the brewing chamber; activating the at least one pump to supply the diluent liquid from the at least one diluent source to the brewing chamber; and operating the controller to independently supply power to the at least two heaters, and to selectively activate or deactivate one or both of the at least two heaters.

104. The method according to claim 103, further comprising at least one of a step of supplying power to the at least two heaters and a step of reducing the supplied power to the at least two heaters or deactivating the at least one pipe heater, depending on a diluent liquid flow rate passing through the at least one pipe heater to maintain a preset temperature of diluent exiting the at least one pipe heater.

105. The method according to claim 103, further comprising reducing the supplied power to one or more heating sections of the at least one pipe heater, or deactivating the one or more heating sections of the at least one pipe heater, depending on a diluent liquid flow rate passing through the at least one pipe heater, to maintain a preset temperature of diluent exiting the at least one pipe heater.

106. The method according to claim 103, further comprising operating the at least one pump to modify a flow rate of the diluent liquid passing through the at least one pipe heater to maintain a preset temperature of diluent exiting the at least one pipe heater.

107. The method according to claim 103, further comprising evaluating a current flow rate value of the diluent liquid passing through the at least one pipe heater, by means of an operating point of the at least one pump and/or by means of at least one sensor.

108. The method according to claim 103, further comprising supplying power to the at least two heaters to set a temperature of diluent liquid exiting the pipe heater to a temperature value for a maximum flow rate value of the diluent liquid passing therethrough; and reducing the supplied power to the at least two heaters or deactivating the at least two heaters if a current flow rate value is below a maximum flow rate value of the diluent liquid.

109. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, further comprising: beverage dispensing means; a first pipe heater connected to the brewing chamber; and a second pipe heater connected to the beverage dispensing means downstream of the brewing chamber or to the brewing chamber, wherein the controller is further configured to independently set a temperature of the diluent exiting the first and the second pipe heaters to a constant value and/or to at least two different values during a beverage preparation cycle.

110. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 109, wherein a difference between the at least two different temperatures values is of at least 30° C., a second temperature value of the at least two different temperature values being higher than a first temperature value thereof.

111. The beverage apparatus according to claim 109, wherein each of the first and the second pipe heaters is connected to a corresponding pump.

112. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 109, wherein the controller is further configured to independently operate the at least one pump to stop or to slow down a flow rate of the diluent supplied by the pump during the beverage preparation cycle.

113. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein at least one heater of the at least two heaters is configured to supply vapour to the brewing chamber.

114. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, further comprising two diluent liquid sources configured to supply a same diluent liquid or two different diluent liquids, wherein the brewing chamber is fluidically arranged to receive a first diluent liquid from a first diluent source or to receive the two different diluent liquids from the two diluent liquid sources.

115. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 114, wherein one of the at least two heaters is configured to receive at least one diluent liquid from one of the two diluent sources, and another of the at least two heaters is configured to receive at least one diluent liquid from another one of the two diluent sources.

116. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein at least a portion of the at least two heaters delimits a portion of the brewing chamber.

117. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, further comprising at least one temperature sensor configured to measure a temperature of diluent liquid exiting from at least one heater of the at least two heaters.

118. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein the at least one ingredient in the brewing chamber is pre-packaged in a capsule or in a filter pod, and is disposed in the brewing chamber.

119. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 109, further comprising means for closing an outlet of the brewing chamber.

120. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein the at least one pipe heater is of a closed type or of an open type.

121. The beverage preparation apparatus according to claim 95, wherein the at least one pipe heater is of a self-regulating type.

122. The method according to claim 103, further comprising supplying a diluent from a second heater of the at least two heaters to a means for dispensing a beverage from the brewing chamber or to the brewing chamber or to both; and supplying power to one or both of the at least two heaters to independently set a temperature of diluent exiting the one or both of the at least two heaters to a constant value and/or to at least two different values.

123. The method according to claim 122, wherein a difference between the at least two different temperature values is at least 30° C., and a second temperature value of the at least two different temperature values is higher than a first temperature value thereof.

124. The method according to claim 122, further comprising maintaining the constant value and/or the at least two different temperatures values for a predetermined amount of time and/or for a predetermined quantity of diluent liquid passing through the at least one pipe heater.

125. The method according to claim 122, further comprising independently controlling a flow rate of the diluent through the at least one pipe heater by means of a pump for the at least one pipe heater.

126. The method according to claim 122, further comprising stopping or slowing a flow rate of the diluent supplied by the at least one pump during the brewing and during a temperature transition between the at least two different temperature values.

127. The method according to claim 122, further comprising closing an outflow of the brewing chamber for a predetermined amount of time, when a predetermined amount of diluent liquid, at one temperature value, has been supplied to the brewing chamber.

128. The method according to claim 122, further comprising maintaining at least one heater of the at least two heaters deactivated during at least part of a beverage preparation cycle.

129. The method according to claim 122, further comprising feeding diluent liquid exiting one of the at least two heaters to the dispensing means downstream of the brewing chamber, without passing inside the brewing chamber, a temperature of the diluent being higher than a temperature of a dispensed beverage.

130. The method according to claim 122, wherein the apparatus further comprises two diluent liquid sources configured to supply a same diluent liquid or two different diluent liquids, and wherein the method further comprises activating a second pump of one of the two diluent liquid sources after a predetermined amount of time after activating a first pump of another of the two diluent liquid sources.

131. The method according to claim 122, further comprising supplying a diluent liquid from two diluent liquid sources, respectively, to the at least two heaters.

132. A beverage preparation apparatus, comprising: a brewing chamber configured to contain at least one ingredient for beverage preparation; at least one pump configured to supply a diluent liquid from a diluent source to the brewing chamber; at least one pipe heater configured to heat the diluent liquid flowing therethrough, disposed upstream of the brewing chamber; and a controller configured to supply power to the at least one pipe heater and to activate the at least one pipe heater, and is further configured to supply power to the at least one pipe heater to set a temperature of diluent exiting the at least one pipe heater to at least two different values during a beverage preparation cycle.

133. A method for preparing a beverage by an apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a brewing chamber configured to contain at least one ingredient for beverage preparation; at least one pump configured to supply a diluent liquid from a diluent source to the brewing chamber; at least one pipe heater configured to heat the diluent liquid flowing therethrough, disposed upstream of the brewing chamber; and a controller configured to supply power to the at least one pipe heater and to activate the at least one pipe heater, and is further configured to supply power to the at least one pipe heater to set a temperature of diluent exiting the at least one pipe heater to at least two different values during a beverage preparation cycle; and the method comprising: providing the at least one ingredient inside the brewing chamber; activating the at least one pump to supply the diluent liquid from the diluent source to the brewing chamber; supplying power to the at least one pipe heater to heat the diluent liquid flowing therethrough by setting the temperature of the diluent exiting the at least one pipe heater and entering the brewing chamber to the at least two different values during the beverage preparation cycle.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0092] Further advantages and features of the present invention will be more apparent from the description below, provided with reference to the accompanying drawings, purely by way of a non-limiting example, wherein:

[0093] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a first possible embodiment of the beverage preparation apparatus according to the present invention, wherein one pipe heater is provided and the temperature of the diluent liquid can be set on at least two different values during the beverage preparation;

[0094] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a second possible embodiment of the beverage preparation apparatus according to the present invention, wherein two diluent sources are provided to supply the same diluent, or two different diluents;

[0095] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a third possible embodiment of the beverage preparation apparatus according to the present invention, wherein two pipe heaters are provided, the diluent exiting one pipe heater can be supplied downstream of the brewing chamber, or both the liquid exiting the two pipe heaters can be supplied inside the brewing chamber;

[0096] FIGS. 4 and 4a are two schematic views of further possible embodiments of the beverage preparation apparatus according to the present invention, wherein at least two heating means are provided and wherein the at least two heating means are independently controlled by the controller. In the embodiment of FIG. 4 the two heating means comprises at least two heating sections of a pipe heater, and in the embodiment of FIG. 4a, the two heating means comprises two separate pipe heaters.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0097] In the beverage preparation apparatus according to the invention, for example schematically shown in FIGS. 1-3, 4 and 4a, the preparation of a beverage, such as coffee, tea, hot and cold drinks, or any other liquid foodstuff, is obtained from a pre-determined amount of a brewing ingredient, for example an extractable, or soluble, or dilutable product, either liquid or solid. Preferably, the dose of brewing ingredient comprises a powder product, such as coffee powder, which is brewed by means of diluent liquid (brewing liquid) and/or a gaseous diluent such as vapor, e.g. steam.

[0098] The apparatus 1 is provided with a brewing chamber 2, inside which one or more ingredients are temporarily housed during the beverage preparation cycle, and in particular when the diluent liquid passing inside the brewing chamber 2 extracts the ingredient.

[0099] The brewing chamber 2 can be shaped in a known manner, and it can be opened and, preferably hermetically, closed so as to allow a dose of one or more ingredients to be housed therein, and extracted therefrom, at the end of the beverage preparation cycle.

[0100] Additionally, the brewing chamber 2 can be provided with a diluent inlet, from which the diluent liquid is injected therein, and a diluent outlet from which the prepared beverage can exit the brewing chamber to reach for example a beverage container 10.

[0101] Suitable dispensing means, comprising for example a dispensing duct 2b, are provided to dispense the beverage from the brewing chamber 2 into a beverage container 10.

[0102] According to an aspect of the invention, means 2a for closing the brewing chamber is provided, for example said means 2a comprises a valve able to prevent the outflow of the liquid from the brewing chamber until a programmable pressure is achieved or a set time has elapsed. Such pressure is preferably equivalent to a fraction of the pressure used during the beverage preparation.

[0103] The ingredient can be supplied to the beverage preparation apparatus 1, and in particular to the brewing chamber, either in a loose form, for example as dehydrated powder or ground and roasted powder loosely conveyed into the chamber by appropriate conveying means (not shown in the drawings), preferably appropriately dosed by means of a metering device. Alternatively the ingredient can be used in pre-packaged from, e.g. contained in a primary packaging such as a so-called “capsule”, or—similarly—in a filter pod or other single-serve container. Also in this case the pre-packaged ingredient will be inserted in the brewing chamber 2 by appropriate conveying means (not shown in the drawings) which may include—as for the ingredient in loose form—also manual loading by the end user.

[0104] When the ingredient is supplied to the brewing chamber in a pre-packaged form, suitable piercing means of the capsule can be provided inside the brewing chamber, or within the pre-packaged ingredient e.g. the capsule, or belonging to the capsule, to allow the passage of the diluent liquid through the capsule to brew and extract the ingredient contained therein and let the beverage flow out from the chamber.

[0105] As mentioned above, at least one diluent liquid, such as water, is used in the apparatus 1 for the beverage preparation according to the invention.

[0106] The diluent liquid, for example water, is usually stored within the apparatus 1, in a water reservoir, or tank; alternatively it can be drawn from mains water, through an appropriate feeding system and valve, available to the skilled in the art.

[0107] The apparatus 1 is provided with at least one diluent source 4, 4′ from which the diluent can be provided.

[0108] It has to be noted that the term “diluent source” is used herein to indicate not only a diluent tank 4a, 4a′ (reservoir) or a supply line (mains line), but also the ducts 4b, 4b′ allowing to distribute the diluent therefrom. In the following description the word tank is used to refer to both a reservoir (or independent tank), a header tank receiving water from a mains water line and a mains water line.

[0109] In other words, if two diluent sources 4, 4′ are provided they can comprise two diluent tanks 4a, 4a′ and respective ducts 4b, 4b′. According to a possible embodiment, a single tank 4a having two ducts 4b, 4b′ exiting therefrom can be provided.

[0110] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and in FIGS. 4 and 4a, the apparatus 1 is provided with a diluent source 4 comprising a tank 4a and a duct 4b exiting therefrom.

[0111] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 two diluent sources 4, 4′ are provided with separate tanks 4a, 4a′ and different ducts 4b, 4b′.

[0112] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, a single diluent tank 4a is provided with two ducts 4b, 4b′ exiting therefrom to supply the diluent liquid to two pipe heaters 5, 5′. It has to be understood that the diluent source 4, 4′ of the apparatus 1 can supply the same diluent liquid, or two different diluent liquids for example water and milk (milk may also be an ingredient) to prepare the desired final beverage. Two diluent sources are present if two different diluent liquids are to be used.

[0113] Additionally, as for example shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2, a part of the diluent liquid can pass inside the brewing chamber 2 or outside it, to directly provide the diluent liquid, downstream of the brewing chamber, for example in the dispensing means 2b, or directly in the container 10 for the prepared beverage, or in a mixing area where the two diluents may be mixed.

[0114] According to a possible embodiment, when two diluent sources 4, 4′ are provided (see for example FIG. 2), the brewing chamber 2 receives diluent from only one source and the other source supplies liquid downstream of the brewing chamber.

[0115] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, wherein the diluent exiting the tank 4a is supplied by two ducts 4b, 4b′ in two pipe heaters 5, 5′, both diluents can be fluidically connected to pass inside the brewing chamber 2 as shown by line 6 exiting the second pipe heater 5′ in FIG. 3. According to a preferred embodiment, the brewing chamber 2 receives diluent from only one duct 4b connected to a first pipe heater 5, while the second duct 4b′, connected to the second pipe heater 5′, supplies liquid downstream of the brewing chamber, see continuous line 7 exiting pipe heater 5′ in FIG. 2, in a mixing device (e.g. a mixer) 2c.

[0116] The apparatus 1 is further provided with at least one pump 3, 3′ to supply, preferably under pressure, the diluent liquid from one or more diluent source 4, 4′. The pump 3, 3′ is preferably electrically operated, and different known types of pump can be used in the apparatus 1 according to the invention, e.g. selected from any of vibration pumps, peristaltic pumps, centrifugal pumps, jet pumps, immersion pumps or rotational pumps. Preferably the at least one pump is able to provide pressures up to 20 bars.

[0117] The pump 3, 3′ can be operated also to modify the flow rate of the diluent liquid.

[0118] The apparatus 1 further comprises at least one heater 5, 5′ to transfer heat to the diluent liquid passing therethrough. Preferably, the at least one heater is a pipe heater. If the apparatus 1 is provided with two heaters 5, 5′ (two heating means), or more than two heaters, at least one of the heaters is a pipe heater.

[0119] More in detail, if two heaters 5, 5′ are provided one of them is a pipe heater for heating a diluent liquid flowing there through and the other heater is a traditional heater, or both the heaters 5, 5′ are pipe heaters for heating a diluent liquid flowing there through, as for example shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0120] A traditional heater is not shown in the figure but according to the invention it can be provided and as such provide certain advantages, such as providing a bulk quantity of pre-heated diluent, which can be used to cover intense usage or so called “peak-use” of the apparatus by its users.

[0121] In more detail, the apparatus 1 comprises at least one heater of the said “pipe” type, that is a hollow pipe. The pipe heaters can be preferably provided with a linear shape (straight pipe heater), although it may utilized in other shapes, for example U-shaped, coil-shaped, serpentine-shaped etc. as previously discussed with reference to thin and thick film heaters.

[0122] The pipe heater 5, 5′ may have a length between 5 and 25 cm, with an outer diameter comprised between 6 mm and 25 mm and a thickness which may vary from 0.4 to several mm, depending on the material used. One preferred material is a quartz compound, known in the art for this use.

[0123] The pipe heaters are able to withstand at least a test pressure of over 40 bars, so that it is suitable for use with electrical pumps able to reach a maximum pressure of 20 bars during the normal dispensing cycle.

[0124] Although thickness may vary depending on the type of material used, it is a preferred feature to use a pipe heater having a thickness lower than 2.5 mm, in order to maintain a low heat inertia, thus a high speed in the heat transmission rate.

[0125] For electrical connection of the pipe heater, typically this heater may present an electrode strip solidly tightened or bonded onto the outer surface of the heater for electrical connection at 110, 120, 230 V. etc. It may also present an insulated zone. For instance, a couple of electrodes and insulated parts could be located at each tip of the pipe, although other configurations are possible.

[0126] The pipe heater 5, 5′ may have an insert, hollow or full made of plastic suitable for foodstuffs and for use with temperatures ranging between 50 and 100° C., and up to 200° C. Alternatively the pipe heater may contain a mesh or similar device inserted in the pipe itself, in order to maximize the thermal exchange between the surface of the pipe heater and the liquid passing therethrough. Optionally, such inserts may be devised to increase turbulence of the liquid flow, thus increasing thermal transfer, and reduce surface tension of the liquid to be heated in relation to the internal surface of the pipe. Such devices are commonly available. One such core is disclosed by Johnson et al. in US20100046934.

[0127] As mentioned above, the pipe heaters will be provided with a heating film or, preferably, a coating containing suitable metal oxides and/or carbon nanotubes (CNT), so that immediate heat generation can be achieved, as soon as power is provided to the connecting leads. The power of the pipe heater will be ranging depending on the desired specific application, such as double heaters for long drinks quick delivery, or single-pipe for small espresso-only beverages. Suitable power of the pipe heaters can be selected from a wide range of ratings, preferably between 500 W and 3500 W, or 500 W to 2500 W.

[0128] According to a possible embodiment, the apparatus can be provided with at least two heating means 5, 5′, including at least one pipe heater for heating a diluent liquid flowing therethrough, The heating means 5, 5′ may comprise two or more heating sections 80, 80a, 80b of a pipe heater 5, as for example shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4. In particular, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the pipe heater 5 is provided with three heating sections 80, 80a, 80b.

[0129] The two or more heating sections of the pipe heater 5 are formed by two or more portions of heating film applied on the surface of the pipe heater; the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 has three portions of heating film 80, 80a, 80b.

[0130] As mentioned, the portions of heating film on the pipe's surface are electrically insulated from each other, i.e. they can be activated independently one from the others (or all together) so that the water or fluid passing through the pipe is heated to a higher or lesser temperature according to how many portions are activated by the controller C.

[0131] Preferably, the heating sections are independently controlled by a controller C.

[0132] According to another exemplary embodiment, as for example shown in FIG. 4a, the two or more heating means 5, 5′ of the apparatus can be formed by two or more separate pipe heaters 5, 5′ which are independently controlled by a controller C. The two or more separate pipe heaters 5, 5′ are preferably arranged in series, so that the diluent liquid exiting one pipe heater 5 is directed to the inlet of a second pipe heater 5′.

[0133] In both cases, using multiple heating means or heating sections of the same heating means allows for more accurate calibration of the power to be used in order to heat a specific amount of diluent in a determined amount of time. In other words, the flow-rate of the diluent may be varying upon differing conditions during the beverage preparation process (e.g. a more compact ingredient bed increasing the pressure required to pass through i.e. permeate through, the ingredient) or different depending on the type of beverage preparation (e.g. by utilizing within the volume of the brewing chamber different amounts of coffee powder, or freshly minced teas. In both cases an arrangement utilizing multiple heating means, or multiple sections of the same heating means, allows given the same amount of time to reduce, or increase the power transferred by the heating means to the diluent via the pipe. In such case at increasing or decreasing rates of flow-rate the power needed per each time-unit will be increased or decreased to provide the required temperature for the diluent that is fed to the brewing chamber.

[0134] Alternatively, the same amount of power required to heat the same amount of diluent to the desired temperature may be utilized during a longer period of time.

[0135] In order to adapt to a wider range of changes in the flow-rate, i.e. to adapt the total time required to heat the same amount of diluent to the desired temperature, the controller may also include means to control the at least one pump of the apparatus, thus increasing or reducing the flow-rate via such external means. E.g., in case the temperature of the diluent exiting the heating means is below the required value, the flow rate of the diluent is decreased by acting on the pump(s); the control can be made in real-time, during the beverage preparation.

[0136] In order to provide an apparatus suitable to be used in at-home situations, it is a preferred feature to maintain the total rated absorption of the apparatus below the rated load of a domestic socket and preferably to maintain the total rated absorption below 12 Amps.

[0137] According to an aspect of the invention, the apparatus 1 comprises at least one temperature sensor S to measure the temperature of the diluent liquid exiting the heater 5, 5′.

[0138] Temperature sensors S can be arranged directly on the heater or in the close proximity of the heater to detect its temperature and they are used for its regulation. Alternatively the at least one sensor S can be positioned in the hydraulic circuit downstream of the heater, e.g. a pipe heater.

[0139] Suitable temperature sensors S are for example one or more thermistor, either of the NTC (negative temperature coefficient) type or of the PTC (positive temperature coefficient) type. Other types are available to the skilled in the art: for instance the at least one sensor S can also comprise bi-metallic sensors positioned at a distance from the pipe heater itself.

[0140] In any case, the sensor S is arranged to directly measure, or to evaluate, and more generically, accurately control, the temperature of the diluent as heated by the heater, and optionally to control the surface temperature of the pipe heater itself if the heater is a pipe heater.

[0141] One or more sensors S, and in general the temperature monitoring system, is connected to a controller C, as later described. The temperature monitoring software in the controller may include feedback loops for improved control and accuracy, preferably in a real-time condition, so as to be able to control the temperature within the brewing step and to act on the heating of the pipes or pipe's portions according to the detected temperature values, during a step of beverage preparation. Moreover, algorithms available to the skilled in the art may be included in the controller's software to provide improved accuracy over the maximum range of temperature effectively achieved, with respect to temperatures readings above and below the pre-set value.

[0142] The apparatus 1 can be also provided with at least one sensor 51, see for example FIGS. 4 and 4a, for measuring the diluent liquid flow rate. The sensor may be arranged downstream of a heater 5 or preferably upstream the heater (with respect to the diluent direction of flow (from pump to brewing chamber) or upstream of the heater and the pump.

[0143] It has to be noted that the current flow rate value of the diluent liquid, for example passing through said at least one pipe heater 5, can be evaluated by means of the operating point of the at least one pump 3 intended to supply a diluent liquid from at least one diluent source 4, and/or by means of at least one flow sensor S1 or of a pressure sensor.

[0144] According to a possible embodiment, the at least one pipe heater can be of the so-called self-regulating types, i.e. without any control to allow for accurate and on-line monitoring of the temperature of the diluent liquid used for the drinks preparation. In such case a steady flow and appropriate rating of the heating means will provide consistently the diluent to be heated at the required temperature. Self-regulating films may be used in a range of temperatures between 80° and 130° C., preferably between 85° C. and 99° C.

[0145] For safety reasons the pipe heaters can be provided also with at least one safety cut-off switch that allows for immediate breaking of the power supply to the pipe heater in case the sensor detects a temperature exceeding a threshold value, which may be chosen in a range of temperatures between 90° C. and 180° C., preferably the temperature threshold value is chosen above 100° C.

[0146] Additional sensors (not shown), all of which are available to the skilled in the art, may be used for detecting lack of diluent e.g. if diluent is detected in less than 50% of the pipe. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the use of the pipe heater in case there is a considerable lack of diluent inside the pipe. In fact, in this case, the pipe heater is unable to sufficiently dissipate the heat and there is a high possibility to irremediably damage it, be it thin film or coating, etc. In case the sensor intended to detect the lack of diluent is activated, the power supply to the pipe heater has to be immediately cut off, for which it needs providing adequate software instructions in the controller C.

[0147] The pipe heater may be assembled using tie-beams, or click-on design made in high modulus thermo-injected plastics or otherwise apt fixations for two flanges, in detail one inlet flange and an outlet flange. Thus, the pipe heater becomes solidly attached to the flanges, and being provided with appropriate sealing means, the pipe heater can ensure perfect hydraulic sealing under working (and test) pressures. Fittings for connecting upward and, optionally, downward sections of the hydraulic system to the pipe heater are also provided. In an alternative embodiment, the downstream flange, on the outer flow path of the drink-preparation system is also—on the opposite side of the same piece—part of the brewing chamber, to provide directly the water or other diluent into the brewing chamber. In such arrangement, the heat-loss of the diluent is minimal since the distance between the heating area and the brewing or drink preparation area is minimised.

[0148] The inlet and/or outlet liquid ducts to/from the heater (either pipe heater or traditional heater, may be equipped with one-way valves (check-valve), even in the simplest form of a spring-activated one, to prevent backflow of the liquid from the heater (and in particular from the pipe heater), in other words to prevent emptying the heater (and in particular the pipe heater) from the incoming and outgoing liquid paths.

[0149] Other types of valves, such as 2-way and 3-way valves, may be devised to control the flow and thus directing the incoming diluent through one or more pipe heaters, to increase temperature and/or flow-rate.

[0150] According to possible embodiments, the outlet flowpaths ducts, from the pipe heater(s) may be designed to allow for discharging a programmable part of the diluent after heating, via at least one valve, to prevent contact of the same with the ingredient at sub-optimal temperature.

[0151] Similarly, parallel hydraulic circuits may be added to provide cleaning cycle to wash the internal part of the pipe heater.

[0152] Optionally, the pipe heater may be provided with recirculating means available to the skilled in the art, such as in CN202973847, for increased efficiency obtained by using the heat dissipated within the pipe assembly to pre-heat the incoming flow of diluent, e.g. water, milk.

[0153] Alternatively, or additionally, to the pipe heater described, the pipe heater(s) can also be of a simpler, not-pressurised “open pipe” type.

[0154] If the pipe heater is of the “open” type, it is preferably arranged to be vertical, when the beverage preparation apparatus is arranged in the operative position on a plane. In other words, the axis of a straight open type pipe heater is preferably perpendicular to the plane on which the apparatus 1 is arranged (i.e. parallel to the gravity force).

[0155] It has to be noted that, if two or more pipe heaters are provided, they can be connected in parallel, such as in CN102692079A. Alternatively or additionally, the apparatus can comprise multiple pipe heaters arranged in series, such as in CN201488232U, either working under pressure or in atmospheric condition.

[0156] Alternatively, the pipe heater can be of the “open” type, suitable to work under minimal pressure and anyway below 3 bar, preferably below 2 bars, and most preferably working below 1 bar pressure. In this case, there may be a collector of the outcoming hot diluent or liquid from the pipe heater, aimed at improving the mixing of the diluent's particles and related heat distribution. The hot liquid collector may be sealed or open.

[0157] A suitable pump for such lower pressure range is also available to the skilled in the art, e.g. a suction pump, or a jet pump, or an immersion pump to be used in such an arrangement. As stated the pressure is preferably minimal, below 1 bar, and as low as 0.50 meter i.e. about 0.05 bar. Flowrate may be adjusted to the required outlet-temperature for the diluent; an exemplary, not limiting flow rate will typically be between 1 and 10 ml/sec but it will change according to the requirements of beverage preparation.

[0158] The components of the apparatus 1 and of the heater 5, 5′, such as the heat-conductive film of the pipe heater, the related temperature and diluent sensors S, are electrically connected to a controller C, i.e. a control unit preferably comprising a micro-processor-equipped CPU-board, or “electronic controller”. The controller C optionally comprises a digital memory storage having a read-only and/or read & write areas, and appropriate software and hardware as available to a skilled person in the art, to manage the pipe heaters power supply. Also the at least one pump 3, 3′ needed for the beverage preparation are operated by the controller C.

[0159] Preferably the controller C is also able to operate the brewing chamber control means 2a, e.g. an outflow valve 2a of the brewing chamber; the valve may be operated by the beverage pressure.

[0160] It also controls the diagnostics provided by each relevant component, and most relevantly by the sensors available in the apparatus, distinctively for temperature and over-temperature control, water presence control and, optionally, water-metering unit to detect the flow rate of the dispensed beverage(s).

[0161] The apparatus 1 can also comprise graphic user interface (GUI), to collect inputs from the user and to deliver information to the same. For instance, a suitable graphic interface is disclosed in WO2009016490 by the Applicant. According to an aspect of the invention, the apparatus 1 is used to prepare a beverage by heating a diluent liquid at two different temperature values.

[0162] To this regard, the controller C supplies power to the heater 5, preferably a pipe heater, to set the temperature of the diluent exiting the heater on at least two different values T1, T2 during the beverage preparation cycle. At least one of said temperature value is maintained for a predetermined amount of time and/or for a predetermined quantity of diluent liquid passing through the pipe heater.

[0163] For example, according to a possible embodiment at least 5 to 100 cc are dispensed with diluent at a first temperature value T1 and then the heater is powered to increase the temperature on a second value T2, and maintained to this value for a predetermined amount of time and/or for a predetermined amount of diluent so as to reach the final volume of the prepared beverage.

[0164] The difference between the at least two temperature values T1, T2 is of at least 30° C., preferably of at least 40° C., and more preferably of at least 50° C.

[0165] It has to be noted that one of the temperature value can be substantially equal to the ambient temperature of the diluent liquid, i.e. substantially 25° C. In this case, if the diluent liquid is at the ambient temperature, the heater can be maintained deactivated without supplying power to it.

EXAMPLE 1

[0166] The first temperature value of the diluent liquid is set on 25° C. After a predetermined amount of supplied diluent liquid, preferably between 5 to 100 cc, the pipe heater is set to a temperature value of 90° C. If the apparatus is provided with a second pipe heater 5′, as for example shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, it can be maintained deactivated according to a first mode of operation.

[0167] According to a possible embodiment, an additional quantity of diluent is supplied at a further temperature value, for example 95° C.

[0168] In this case the second pipe heater 5′ can be powered to set the temperature of the diluent passing therethrough at 95° C.

[0169] It has to be noted that the diluent at a temperature of 95° C. can be also provided by powering the first pipe heater 5 to set the temperature on a further temperature value, for example of 95° C.

[0170] It has to be noted that additional liquid exiting the second pipe heater, for example at 95° C., can be provided in the brewing chamber, as for example in the embodiment of FIG. 3 (line exiting pipe heater 5′), or provided downstream of the brewing chamber 2, without passing therein, as in the embodiment of FIG. 2 and in the further embodiment of FIG. 3 (see continuous line exiting from pipe heater 5′).

[0171] According to an aspect of the invention, the at least one diluent pump 3 is operated to stop, or to slow down, the flow rate of the diluent supplied by the pump 3. Preferably, pump stop, or the reduction of the diluent flow rate, is carried out preferably during the temperature transition between at least two different temperature values (T1, T2) of the diluent liquid. In general, a pump stop can be carried out when the brewing apparatus is operated to dispense a beverage, should the diluent temperature be too low, to avoid obtaining a final beverage having a too low temperature.

[0172] It has to be noted that even if in the example an explicit reference has been made to two pipe heaters 5, 5′, it can be also applied to an apparatus 1 wherein one heater is a pipe heater and the other heater is a traditional heater.

EXAMPLE 2

[0173] According to a possible embodiment 20 cc of a first diluent may be injected from pipe 5 at a temperature of 30° C. through the brewing chamber at a pressure of 15 bars for 10 seconds.

[0174] Then, pipe heater 5 is operated to set the diluent's temperature at 90° C.

[0175] During such transition at least one time the electrical pump 3 may be disconnected for no longer than 3 seconds, preferably not longer than 1 second, and most preferably not longer than 0.5 second. Thus the diluent motion inside the pipe is slowed down or halted.

[0176] As already mentioned above, according to an aspect of the invention, two or more pipe heaters 5, 5′ can be used to increase the flexibility of beverage preparation and also to provide a beverage preparation apparatus apt at drastically reducing the power consumption via use of at least two pipe heaters, so that the improved flexibility derived from the use of two heat sources is available even in case of limitations in the power supply, such as limited rating in a traditional socket used by home-appliances.

[0177] The two pipe heaters 5, 5′ may be controlled in different ways according to different beverage preparation cycles.

[0178] For example, one of said pipe heaters, or both said two pipe heaters 5, 5′, can be powered to set the temperature of the diluent exiting one of said pipe heaters, or exiting both said pipe heaters, on a constant value, and/or on at least two different values (T1, T2) during the beverage preparation cycle.

[0179] A combination of a constant value, or two or more different values, during the same beverage preparation cycle, for one or both the pipe heaters 5, 5′ can be also provided.

[0180] It has to be noted that even if in the example an explicit reference has been made to two pipe heaters 5, 5′, it can be also applied to an apparatus 1 wherein one heater is a pipe heater and the other heater is a traditional heater.

[0181] According to a possible embodiment, when two heaters 5, 5′ are provided (and preferably in the case two pipe heaters are provided), as for example shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 2 and 3, one pipe heater is powered to set the temperature of the diluent passing therethrough on a constant temperature value, while the other pipe heater is powered to set the temperature of the diluent passing therethrough on at least two temperature values.

[0182] It has to be noted that according to an aspect of the invention, beverage preparation is achieved via dispensing at least at one temperature at least two diluent liquids, preferably diluent of different type, to be mixed and reconstituted into a finished drink. Therefore, according to a possible embodiment, as for example shown in FIG. 2, the apparatus 1 comprises two diluent sources 4, 4′ provided with a dedicated pump 3, 3′ to supply the same diluents liquid, or two diluent liquids, and at least one heater 5 for heating a diluent liquid flowing therethrough from at least one of the diluent sources 4, 4′.

[0183] The brewing chamber 2 is fluidically arranged to receive at least one diluent liquid from at least one of said two diluent sources 4, 4′.

[0184] In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the diluent from a single tank 4a is supplied into two ducts 4b, 4b′, forming two sources of diluents to be supplied preferably to two pipe heaters 5, 5′.

[0185] According to a possible embodiment, the temperature of the two heaters 5, 5′ is set to a constant value. In general, it has to be understood that the constant value set for a heater can be different to the constant value set for the other heater.

[0186] In other words, and with the purpose of resuming, this second exemplary embodiment provides for at least two diluent sources determining two separate diluent flow paths, one of which is to be used in conjunction with foodstuffs contained in the brewing or preparation chamber, and the other which is to be mixed with the former in order to obtain the final beverage. Either diluent (or both) can be heated by at least one pipe heater and temperature control may be set to achieve at least one constant outlet temperature value. In an exemplary embodiment, a cold coffee can be prepared and added with hot water or another hot ingredient (e.g. milk), or viceversa.

EXAMPLE 3

[0187] According to Example 3, the first pipe heater is set on 92° C., while the second pipe heater is set on 97° C.

[0188] More in detail, the sequence is as follows: a consumer input commands to the controller, via a GUI, a new drink.

[0189] The first diluent pump 3 starts injecting the diluent liquid into pipe heater 5, for example at a flow rate of 2 ml/s.

[0190] Controller C turns heating of pipe heater 5 on, which is set to maintain 92° C., preferably with a tolerance of maximum plus minus one degree.

[0191] After a pre-determined, programmable amount of time, the second pump 3′ is turned on by the controller C, for example at a flow rate of 6 ml/s. Then, the second pipe heater 5′ heating is turned on by the controller C. There may be no changes in the temperature settings during the cycle of preparation.

[0192] The first pipe heater 5 is connected to the brewing chamber 2 filled for example with roast and ground coffee, weighing preferably 8 grams, median average grind (50% of distribution) 350 pM and brewed preferably at an average pressure of 16 bars. Suitable size dimensions are disclosed e.g. in EP1882432.

[0193] The second pipe heaters 5′ may be an “open pipe” type of pipe heating assembly, optionally with a self-regulating heating film set to maintain 97° C., continuously, preferably at a fixed rate of 6 ml/s.

[0194] It has to be noted that one pipe heater 5, 5′, of said two pipe heaters can be arranged to supply liquid exiting therefrom downstream of the brewing chamber 2, as for example shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2 with line 7. However, both pipe heaters 5, 5′ can be arranged to supply diluent liquid inside the brewing chamber 2, as for example in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 (see line 6 exiting pipe heater 5′).

[0195] According to a possible embodiment, the temperature of one pipe heater 5 is set on a constant value (for example on 92° C.), while the temperature of the second pipe heater 5′ is set on at least two different temperature values (for example 90° C. and 97° C.).

[0196] It has to be noted that even if in the example an explicit reference has been made to two pipe heaters 5, 5′, it can be also applied to an apparatus 1 wherein one heater is a pipe heater and the other heater is a traditional heater.

EXAMPLE 4

[0197] The sequence is as follows: a consumer input commands to the controller, via a GUI, a new drink.

[0198] The first diluent pump 3 starts injecting the diluent liquid into pipe heater 5, preferably at a flow rate of 2 ml/s. the first pipe heater 5 is powered to set the temperature of the diluent passing therethrough to the constant value of 92° C., preferably with a tolerance of plus minus one degree.

[0199] After a pre-determined, programmable amount of time, the second diluent pump 3′ is turned on by the controller C., preferably at a flow rate of 6 ml/s.

[0200] Then, the second pipe heater 5′ is powered by the controller C. The temperature value of the second pipe heater 5′ is firstly set at 90° C., for a predetermined amount of time and/or for a predetermined amount of diluent passing therethrough.

[0201] Preferably, the first temperature T1 (for example 90° C.) is maintained during most of the cycle. Then, the second pipe heater 5′ is powered to set the temperature on another temperature value, preferably higher than the first value, to reduce the amount of froth in the drink and raise the temperature of the finished drink.

[0202] Preferably, the second temperature value is 97° C. The second temperature value is maintained for a predetermined amount of time and/or for a predetermined amount of diluent passing through the pipe heater.

[0203] Preferably, the temperature of 97° C. is maintained for the last 10 seconds of the beverage preparation cycle.

[0204] The first pipe heater 5 is connected to the brewing chamber 2 filled for example with roast and ground coffee, weighing preferably 8 grams, median average grind (50% of distribution) 350 pm and brewed preferably at a maximum pressure of 16 bars. Suitable size dimensions are disclosed e.g. in EP1882432.

[0205] The second pipe heaters 5′ can be an “open pipe” type of pipe heating assembly, optionally with a self-regulating heating film set to maintain 97° C. continuously at a fixed rate of 6 ml/s. In general, 3500 W are required with a flow rate of 12 ml/sec.

[0206] It has to be noted that one pipe heater 5, 5′, of said two pipe heaters can be arranged to supply fluid exiting therefrom downstream of the brewing chamber 2, as for example shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2 (and in one embodiment of FIG. 3, see continuous line exiting pipe heater 5′). However, both pipe heaters 5, 5′ can be arranged to supply diluent liquid inside the brewing chamber 2, as for example in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, where line 6 exiting pipe heater 5′ and line 8 exiting pipe heater 5 are both connected to the brewing chamber 2.

[0207] As already mentioned above in connection to Example 3, the temperature of the two pipe heaters 5, 5′ is set on a constant value. In general, it has to be understood that the constant value set for a pipe heater can be different for the constant value set for the other pipe heater.

[0208] Additionally, although in the example an explicit reference has been made to two pipe heaters 5, 5′, the provided example can be also applied to an apparatus 1 wherein one heater is a pipe heater and the other heater is a traditional heater.

EXAMPLE 5

[0209] According to Example 5, the first pipe heater is set on 92° C., while the second pipe heater is set on 80° C.

[0210] More in detail, the sequence is as follows: a consumer input commands to the controller, via a GUI, a new drink.

[0211] The first diluent pump 3 starts injecting the diluent liquid into pipe heater 5, for example at a flow rate of 2 ml/s. Controller C turns heating of pipe heater 5 on, which is set to maintain 92° C., preferably with a tolerance of plus minus one degree.

[0212] After a pre-determined, programmable amount of time, the second pump 3′ is turned on by the controller C, for example at a flow rate of 6 ml/s. Then, the second pipe heater 5′ heating is turned on by the controller C. There may be no changes in the temperature settings during the cycle of preparation.

[0213] The first pipe heater 5 is connected to the brewing chamber 2 filled for example with roast and ground coffee, preferably weighing preferably 8 grams, and brewed preferably at a maximum pressure of 16 bars.

[0214] The second pipe heater 5′ is a pressurised type pipe heater, connected to a pump 3′ capable of supplying diluent at an average pressure of 16 bars. The pipe heater 5′ is provided with a heating film which can be set to maintain a constant temperature value, preferably of 80° C., e.g. with a tolerance of plus minus two degrees.

[0215] A top i.e. maximum flow rate 12 ml/s can be set.

[0216] It has to be noted that one of said two pipe heaters 5, 5′ can be arranged to supply fluid exiting therefrom downstream of the brewing chamber 2, as for example shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2 (and in one embodiment of FIG. 3). However, both pipe heaters 5, 5′ can be arranged to supply diluent liquid inside the brewing chamber 2, as for example shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3 where line 6 exiting pipe heater 5′ and line 8 exiting pipe heater 5 are both connected to the brewing chamber 2.

[0217] Additionally, even if in the example an explicit reference has been made to two pipe heaters 5, 5′, it can be also applied to an apparatus 1 wherein one heater is a pipe heater and the other heater is a traditional heater.

[0218] As mentioned above, according to an aspect of the invention, the beverage preparation apparatus 1 comprises at least two heating means 5, 5′ including at least one pipe heater for heating a diluent liquid flowing therethrough.

[0219] As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4, the heating means 5, 5′ comprises two or more heating sections of a pipe heater 5, and in particular three heating sections 80, 80a, 80b in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4.

[0220] Preferably, the heating sections 80, 80a, 80b are independently controlled by the controller C.

[0221] According to a possible embodiment, as for example shown in FIG. 4a, the two or more heating means 5, 5′ of the apparatus can be formed by two or more separate pipe heaters 5, 5′. The two or more separate pipe heaters 5, 5′ are preferably arranged in series so that the diluent liquid exiting one pipe heater 5 is directed to the inlet of a second pipe heater 5′.

[0222] In other words, the heating means of this embodiment can comprise two or more heating sections of a least one pipe heater, and/or two or more separate pipe heaters, connected in series.

[0223] The heating sections 80, 80a, 80b of the pipe heater 5 are independently controlled by the controller C of the beverage preparation apparatus. In other words, the controller C is configured to independently supply power to the two or more heating sections.

[0224] As mentioned above, the heating sections of the at least one pipe heater are formed by two or more portion of heating film applied on the surface of the pipe heater. Each portion of heating film is connected to at least one controller C to be independently controlled by supplying power independently to each heating section of the pipe heater.

[0225] In fact, each heating section 80, 80a, 80b of the pipe heater can be controlled, i.e. activated, or deactivated, independently from one or more other heating sections of the pipe heater. Each heating section can be activated (preferably for a desired amount of time) and/or it can be deactivated (preferably for a desired amount of time), independently from one or more other heating sections of the pipe heater.

[0226] The same applies to the possible embodiment wherein the heating means 5, 5′ are formed by two or more separate pipe heaters, as for example shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4a.

[0227] According to an aspect of the invention, the controller C is configured to supply power to the at least two heating means 5, 5′, including at least one pipe heater, depending on the diluent liquid flow rate passing through the heating means, in order to heat the diluent at a preset temperature required for the beverage preparation.

[0228] Said flow-rate may be independently controlled and regulated by the controller C so that the temperature control program of the dispensing apparatus can utilize said flow rate as an additional variable for thermal control of the diluent(s) and of the finished drink. Advantageously, power can be supplied to the heating means, e.g. two or more separate pipe heaters 5, 5′ and/or two or more heating sections 80, 80a, 80b of at least one pipe heaters, to heat the diluent liquid at one or more desired temperature value(s).

[0229] Moreover the controller C may modulate the power supply to each of the at least two heating sections 80, 80a, 80b so that e.g. 100% of the available power is provided for 50% of the total surface of the heating section, or viceversa 50% of the available power is used on 100% of the surface of the heating section, or a combination of the two possible operating ways.

[0230] The power supplied to the heating means, and in particular the activation (and/or the deactivation) of one or more of the heating means can be controlled in order to heat the diluent liquid at a desired temperature for any diluent liquid flow rate.

[0231] In fact, according to predetermined data, such as for example maps of data relating to the supplied power/time for a determined temperature, the activation of the heating means 5, 5′ can be controlled to heat the diluent liquid at desired temperature for any diluent liquid flow rate.

[0232] According to a possible embodiment, each heating means is activated, i.e. power is supplied by the controller, to obtain a temperature value of the diluent liquid for a maximum flow rate of the diluent liquid. The controller is operated to reduce the power supplied to the heating means, or to deactivate certain heating means, if the current flow rate value falls below the maximum flow rate value of the diluent liquid. To this purpose the heating means may be deactivated at least for one time.

[0233] According to an aspect of the invention, the controller C is operated to reduce the power supplied to said at least one pipe heater or to deactivate said at least one pipe heater, preferably depending on the diluent liquid flow rate passing through the at least one pipe heater. Said flow-rate may be controlled by the controller C and purposefully reduced for improved organoleptic results.

[0234] According to an aspect of the invention, the controller is operated to reduce the power supplied to one or more heating sections 80, 80a, 80b of at least one pipe heater, or to deactivate one or more heating sections of the at least one pipe heater, preferably depending on the diluent liquid flow rate passing through the at least one pipe heater.

[0235] The current flow rate value of the diluent liquid can be evaluated by means of the operating point of the pump 3 intended to supply a diluent liquid from the diluent source 4, and/or by means of at least one flow sensor 51.

[0236] By doing so, depending on the current flow rate value of the diluent liquid the one or more heating means 5, 5′ can be independently controlled to obtain a desired temperature value of the diluent liquid necessary to an optimal preparation of the desired beverage.

[0237] It has to be noted that for maximising the quality of the different beverages to be prepared using the beverage preparation apparatus herewith described, different steps of the beverage preparation may be included in the controller C, and said different steps may include different flow-rates of the diluent liquid and the duration of time during these may be used. Therefore, the heating means 5, 5′ has to be controlled independently, so as for example to activate only the number of heating sections 80, 80a, 80b, and/or the number of pipe heaters, necessary to heat the diluent liquid, supplied at the current flow rate, at a desired temperature.

[0238] In the beverage preparation apparatus diluent liquid flow rate can be for example modified by operating the pump 3 to supply the diluent liquid from the diluent source 4.

[0239] Summarizing, the controller C selectively activates or deactivates the electrically independent heating means as a function of the temperature of the diluent to be fed to the brewing chamber and as a function of the flow rate of the diluent flowing through the heating means; in other words, the invention provides a beverage dispensing apparatus with a controller (C) for independently supplying power to one or all of said heating means as a function of the flow rate and of the temperature of the diluent that are required or, in the case of the flow rate, that are obtained in the beverage preparation step. At least one heating means is a pipe heater.

[0240] In particular, in the embodiment above disclosed with reference to FIGS. 4 and 4a the following possible methods can be carried out. In both methods the correlation between flow rate and temperature of the diluent obtainable by activation of one, two or more heating means is known and is provided to the controller.

[0241] Real Time Control.

[0242] During a brewing step the number of activated heating means (e.g. portions of a pipe heater) is set as a function of the flow rate of the diluent to obtain the required temperature at the exit of the last heating means (i.e. a temperature suitable for the brewing of the ingredients).

[0243] In case the flow rate changes and falls below (or exceeds) a set value, the number of activated heating means is modified to compensate the change in flow rate. This change can be made in real time, especially if the volume of the beverage to be dispensed is greater than about 40-50 cc.

[0244] Pre-Set Control.

[0245] The number of activated heating means (i.e. portions of pipe heater or number of pipe heaters) and the flow rate of the diluent are chosen by the controller in view of the volume of diluent to be used to prepare the beverage. A high volume for the beverage (e.g. 300 cc or more) will result in the use of a high flow rate to reduce the time necessary for preparing the beverage; in such a case a high number of heating means (e.g. all the heating means) will be activated to provide the required temperature for the brewing diluent.

[0246] It has to be noted that the pipe heaters used in the apparatus according to the invention, have a considerable energy efficiency when compared to the boilers and heaters used in today's vast majority of house appliances.

[0247] This is due to the fact that a greater part of energy can be transferred from the heat-conductive substrate, coating etc. to the diluent, thanks to the limited mass of the pipe itself. This creates unexpected gains in temperature control, with maximum efficiency, and allows for a twin heater system to more accurately control the drink preparation cycles.

[0248] The increased efficiency and the consumption reduction may be considered under two aspects:

[0249] 1. The amount of energy consumed in order to maintain the apparatus always in a ready-to-operate mode, to which prerogative it is associated a number of seconds of start up during which the machine's heating system gets ready for brewing. Typically a current dispensing apparatus such as a capsule coffee-machine will reach the operating temperature (and flow rates in case of pump stop) in about 30 seconds when it is of a “fast” type currently on the market. Instead, a pipe heater requires from fractions of a second to a few seconds in order for the diluent to reach operating temperatures.

[0250] Moreover it is needed to know whether the stand-by mode, inherent to a “fast” type of apparatus getting to a “ready to brew” status in a matter of 30″, requires energy and how much of it is required to maintain the machine virtually on a “ready” status. Instead, a pipe heater does not require any power supply and its heating cycle may start from a pipe and diluent both at ambient temperature.

[0251] 2. Secondly, energy may be considered in terms of the amount of energy needed to perform a determined beverage cycle.

[0252] By using the apparatus according to the invention the energy needed to maintain the apparatus in a ready to operate mode can be saved. In fact, the apparatus according to the invention, can be maintained in a non-operative mode between one beverage preparation cycle and a subsequent beverage preparation cycle. In fact, the preparation of a new beverage is required, the pipe heater(s) can heat the diluent in a reduced amount of time, even when heating the diluent having a temperature equal to the ambient temperature.