SYSTEMS AND PROCESSES INCLUDING CARTRIDGES OF SINGLE PORTIONS OF EDIBLE SUBSTANCE

Abstract

The present invention refers to systems of distribution and preparation of edible products, that include cartridges (1, 1) adapted for collection of single portions (2) of edible substances devoid of single packages, and apparatus (10) for preparation of edible products, such as aromatic beverages, for example espresso type coffee, adapted for operating single portions (2) in product preparation devices (12), for example extraction devices, whereby the systems and processes are adapted so that provide a simpler and more reliable handling of the cartridges (1, 1) and/or single portions (2), as well as present a simpler construction and provider better ergonomics.

The present invention further refers to processes of operation of systems of the type of the present invention.

Claims

1. A system for distributing and preparing edible products, for example a beverage, and comprising: at least one type of cartridge comprising a package that gas barrier confines a plurality of single portions of aromatic edible substance, for example roast and ground coffee beans, devoid of respective single packages, at least one type of product preparation apparatus comprising a discharge disposition and a product preparation device, for example an extraction device, adapted so that can collect and operate a single portion, whereby the discharge disposition presents a discharge passageway adapted for passage of single portions, preferentially in a previously determined position of its central symmetry axis, and whereby a plurality of single portions can be disposed along a previously defined alignment on a discharge position upstream of the discharge passageway, wherein the system is adapted so that single portions can be retained in discharge position, forcefully constrained towards the discharge passageway by an upstream force, and so that an interruption of said retention can be actuated so as to deliver the single portions one-by-one to the product preparation device.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system is adapted so that the supply of single portions between at least one of: the passageway in the package and the discharge passageway, and the product preparation device, presents at least one of: extends along a trajectory that at least partially overlaps in vertical projection over an open position of the product preparation device where can collect a single portion; extends along a trajectory without change in the orientation of the central symmetry axis of the single portion, or with a change thereof of up to 95? relative to its position in the passageway of the package or cartridge; extends only along a vertical plane, preferentially also only along a vertical path, or along a plane converging towards the vertical plane that insects the product preparation device, is driven only by action of the gravity force, at least upstream of the discharge disposition; is driven though a conduction disposition disposed directly upstream of the discharge disposition and upstream of the product preparation device.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus presenting a discharge disposition adapted so that can retain an alignment of single portions according to at least one of: by direct contact with the edible substance of the furthest downstream single portion in the alignment of single portions; against the action of the gravity force, by means of retention of the single portion furthest downstream that is in the upstream proximity, directly adjacent or inside of the discharge disposition, and in operative discharge position in a previously defined spatial position, including similar, oblique or orthogonal, relative to a central region of the discharge passageway, whereby the discharge disposition preferentially presents a collection part and a support part associated with an alignment of single portions, and wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus presenting a discharge disposition in functional connection with control means so that can be actuated for temporary removal of the retention of the furthest downstream single portion in a respective alignment of single portions, whereby said control means are further adapted so that can regulate the opening and closing of the product preparation device, including according to the actuation of said removal of retention by the discharge disposition.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus presenting at least one type of discharge disposition that presents at least one of: a discharge passageway downstream of the alignment of single portions, preferentially with a shape similar and generally aligned with at least one of: the shape of the furthest downstream single portion, and the central symmetry axis thereof, the lateral shape of the furthest downstream single portion and oblique or orthogonal to the central symmetry axis thereof; a support part configured so that can retain the single portions in only a portion of the perimeter thereof, and with a cross section different from the cross section of the single portions, preferentially also different from the shape of the discharge passageway.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises: a type of apparatus adapted so that can be removably retained in operative position on a discharge disposition, and a type of apparatus with a discharge disposition provided on a portion of the exterior surface, preferentially a top or frontal surface of the apparatus, and presenting at least one of: a collection part configured as a cavity so that can collect at least one base region of the package, preferentially at least a closing part of the cartridge, preferentially with cross section of shape similar to, or different from the shape of cross section of at least one of: a container part and a closing part of the package, and/or a discharge passageway adapted so that can provide passage connection for single portions from the cartridge and towards the interior of the apparatus.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus presenting a discharge disposition with a support part configured as a tubular projection, preferentially disposed on the collection part so that confines the discharge passageway, whereby the discharge part is further adapted so that can provide at least one of: retaining a package of cartridge, preferentially by the closing part thereof, and apprehending data from the package, preferentially by data apprehension means, thereby enabling movement of the single portions relative to the collection part and in direction of the discharge passageway.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of cartridge presenting a package with retention means adapted so that can provide removable retention in operation position on the discharge disposition, whereby said retention means are preferentially configured as spot cavities, in particular in the shape of notches or slots, preferentially on the exterior surface of a closing part of package, preferentially of extension smaller than 10?, preferentially smaller than 5?, disposed asymmetrically relative to a central symmetry axis and in at most two, or in only one previously defined angular position relative to the discharge disposition.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system presents: a type of cartridge adapted so that can supply a plurality of single portions, one-by-one or jointly, to a discharge disposition, in particular to at least one of: a collection part and a support part, and a type of apparatus presenting a discharge disposition including a collection part configured with a container-like shape so that can collect at least one previously defined alignment of single portions, preferentially through an access different from the discharge passageway, so that the single portions can be maintained in operative discharge position in at least one previously defined alignment relative to the discharge passageway, whereby the discharge disposition is preferentially provided inside the apparatus, or as a container that can be retained in operative discharge position on an exterior surface of the apparatus, preferentially adapted so that can be removably retained.

9. The system according to am claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus presenting a discharge disposition with a collection part and a support part adapted so that can confine and support the single portions in a previously defined alignment relative to the discharge passageway, whereby the support part is preferentially adapted so that can be actuated and provide or transmit movement to the single portions towards the discharge passageway and relative to the container part, and/or wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus presenting a discharge disposition with a collection part provided as a portion of container type and at least partially inside the apparatus relative to a casing of apparatus, preferentially at least in most part of its extension, or as a portion of container type completely outside relative to a casing of apparatus, whereby the collection part is preferentially adapted so that can be removably retained in operative position on a support part.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus presenting a discharge disposition whereby at least one of: collection part and support part is adapted so that can collect at least one interior package with an alignment of single portions, whereby the support part is preferentially adapted so that can be retained and removed inside the collection part.

11. The system according to a claim 1, wherein the system comprises a first type of cartridge that presents closing means in the form of a lid and associated with the closing part so that can provide gas barrier, and/or wherein the system comprises a second type of cartridge that presents closing means adapted so that can be selectively removed when the package is in operative position in the discharge disposition and that can be applied when not.

12. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus adapted so that can provide supply of the single portions between the discharge passageway and the product preparation device, so that the edible substance of the single portions does not touch any other part of the apparatus, preferentially in a trajectory with extension smaller than twice the characteristic dimension thereof, preferentially smaller than one and half times the characteristic dimension thereof, and preferentially without changing the spatial orientation of the central symmetry axis of the single portion.

13. The system according to a claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus presenting a conduction disposition configured so that can provide conduction of single portion between the discharge passageway and the product preparation device, whereby the apparatus is configured so that the edible substance of the single portions only touches the conduction disposition between the discharge passageway and the product preparation device.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus that presents one of: a conduction disposition configured so that can conduct single portions from the discharge passageway of a respective discharge disposition, preferentially extending along a common central symmetry axis, and preferentially also common to a symmetry axis of the cartridge; a conduction disposition configured so that can conduct single portions from the discharge passageways of a plurality of discharge dispositions, and preferentially extending along a vertical projection common to a region of casing of apparatus presenting a plurality of discharge dispositions.

15. The system according to a claim 1, wherein the system comprises a type of apparatus that presents a conduction disposition provided in at least one of: tubular shape and shell shape, and in the proximity of the discharge passageway and of the open position of the product preparation device, and wherein at least one type of apparatus presents a conduction disposition with a vertical extension that corresponds to at least one of: at most five times, preferentially at most three times, particularly preferentially at most two times the height of a single portion; at most twice, preferentially at most the width of a single portion.

16. A process for operating a system of distribution and preparation of edible products, wherein includes at least one cycle of preparation of edible product, whereby single portions devoid of respective single packages are operated in an apparatus of preparation of edible product, and that comprises the steps: disposing a plurality of single portions in an operative position where they are impinged by a force along a previously defined alignment relative to a discharge disposition and operatively retained upstream of a discharge passageway thereof; optionally, confirming that the product preparation device is in the open position; operating the removal of retention so as to supply the single portion furthest downstream to the product preparation device; operating the closure of the product preparation device; impinging directly the single portion with a pressurized flow, so that the pressurized flow only interacts with the edible substance in the volume confined by the closed product preparation device, discharging edible product from the closed product preparation device; optionally, operating the opening of the product preparation device; discharging operation residues downstream thereof, whereby the residues do not include non-bio-degradable materials.

17. The process according to claim 16, wherein the operation of the single portions in the apparatus further includes at least one of the following steps: disposing the single portions in a similar alignment, preferentially including of respective central symmetry axis, relative to the discharge disposition; optionally, detecting the presence and/or correct disposition of the alignment of single portions relative to the discharge disposition; actuating the discharge disposition of said alignment, in particular so as to remove the retention of the furthest downstream single portion therein, so as to supply the latter to a product preparation device; supplying the single portions to the product preparation device only by the action of the gravity force, at least downstream of the discharge disposition, whereby the single portions preferentially carry out a generally vertical route inside the apparatus, without transversal displacement relative to the vertical direction, preferentially only actuated by the action of the gravity force.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0043] The invention shall be hereinafter explained in greater detail based upon preferred embodiments and on the attached Figures.

[0044] The Figures show embodiments of the present invention in simplified schematic representations:

[0045] FIG. 1: views of a single portion (2);

[0046] FIG. 2: views of an alignment of single portions (2);

[0047] FIG. 3: side cut and top views of a first preferred embodiment of cartridge (1);

[0048] FIG. 4: side cut views of a second embodiment of cartridge (1), including first and second package (3A, 3B);

[0049] FIG. 5: first instant of a first embodiment of placement of a cartridge (1) in operative position on an apparatus (10);

[0050] FIG. 6: second instant of a first embodiment of placement of a cartridge (1) in operative position on an apparatus (10);

[0051] FIG. 7: first instant of a second embodiment of placement of a cartridge (1) in operative position on an apparatus (10);

[0052] FIG. 8: second instant of a second embodiment of placement of a cartridge (1) in operative position on an apparatus (10);

[0053] FIG. 9: second instant of a third embodiment of placement of a cartridge (1) in operative position on an apparatus (10);

[0054] FIG. 10: second instant of a fourth embodiment of placement of a cartridge (1) in operative position on an apparatus (10);

[0055] FIG. 11: flux diagram of a first embodiment of a process according to the invention;

[0056] FIG. 12: flux diagram of a first embodiment of a process according to the invention;

[0057] FIG. 13: views of respective top regions of first embodiment of closing part (32) of cartridge (1) and discharge disposition (11) of apparatus (10);

[0058] FIG. 14: views of respective top regions of second embodiment of closing part (32) of cartridge (1) and discharge disposition (11) of apparatus (10);

[0059] FIG. 15: front and side cut views of an embodiment of system;

[0060] FIG. 16: front and side cut views of an embodiment of system;

[0061] FIG. 17: top view of a first embodiment of a cluster of discharge dispositions (11) on an apparatus (10);

[0062] FIG. 18: top view of a second embodiment of a cluster of discharge dispositions (11) on an apparatus (10);

[0063] FIG. 19: top view of a third embodiment of a cluster of discharge dispositions (11) on an apparatus (10);

[0064] FIG. 20: top view of a fourth embodiment of a cluster of discharge dispositions (11) on an apparatus (10);

[0065] FIG. 21: side view of a first embodiment of a second type of apparatus (10);

[0066] FIG. 22: front view of a second embodiment of a second type of apparatus (10);

[0067] FIG. 23: flux diagram of embodiment of process according to the invention;

[0068] FIG. 24: flux diagram of embodiment of process according to the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0069] The present invention shall be described based upon the case of systems for distribution and preparation of beverages, for example of espresso coffee type, for example of espresso coffee type, soluble coffee, tea or similar, without excluding other beverages.

[0070] The cartridges (1) according to the present invention are adapted so that can collect and supply single portions (2) of an aromatic edible substance (see FIGS. 1 and 2) devoid of a respective single package, whereby the gas barrier function can be provided by the package (3) that collects a previously defined set of a plurality of single portions (2).

[0071] The single portions (2) consist in a portion of edible substance, in particular in a compacted tablet of a granulate or powder of an aromatic edible substance, such as for example roast and ground coffee, so that maintains a volumetric shape.

[0072] Alternatively, the single portions (2) consist of a portion of aromatic edible substance and of an edible coating that includes compounds associated with an edible substance, preferentially also aromatic, and that can be adapted to provide at least partial barrier to liquids and/or to gases. It is preferred when the edible coating presents chemical affinities with the aromatic edible substance of the single portion, for example is obtained from coffee or from a coffee derivate.

[0073] The single portions (2) do not include, therefore, a respective single package in a material with gas barrier property different or non-derived from a vegetal substance, including of metallic, synthetic, or non-biodegradable materials, such as for example aluminium capsule, container of synthetic material, and similar.

[0074] The single portions (2) can present a shape with a height (H.sub.2) and most part of the exterior surface on an upstream-oriented surface and on a downstream-oriented face, both mostly extending along a direction transversal to the direction of a single central symmetry axis (X.sub.2), thereby providing a similar extension of crossing of pressurized flow along at least most part of its characteristic dimension (D.sub.2), and separated by a smaller part of exterior surface on a lateral face, for example of disc, ring or similar type.

[0075] It has been demonstrated as particularly advantageous when the single portions (2) are configured so that the edible substance of adjacent single portions (2) can only be in direct contact by parts of respective surfaces, such as for example a part of ring shape of the top surface, or upstream-oriented, or base surface, or downstream-oriented.

[0076] FIGS. 3 and 4 represent preferred embodiments of cartridges (1, 1) that are part of a system according to the present invention.

[0077] The cartridge (1) can include a package (3) with a generally elongated and tubular shape along at least most part of its longitudinal extension, configured so as to contain at least a disposition of single portions (2) with central symmetry axis (X.sub.2) aligned along a same direction, for example at least one stack of single portions (2).

[0078] According to one aspect, the package (3; 3A, 3B) presents a cross section with a shape different from the cross section of the single portions (2). In particular, at least a part of package (3), preferentially at least an exterior package (3A) presents a non-circular cross section.

[0079] According to another aspect, at least one part of the package (3; 3A, 3B), preferentially at least one of: an interior package (3B) and an exterior package (3A) can be provided in a material that includes compounds associated with or derived from a vegetal substance, further preferentially from an edible vegetal substance.

[0080] The package (3) can present a container part (31) configured so that can collect a plurality of single portions (2), and at least a closing part (32) associated with a top edge of the container part (31) so that can provide gas sealed closing thereof, and preferentially with a cross section similar to, in particular bigger by only a clearance than a cross section of single portion (2).

[0081] Moreover, at least part of the package (3; 3A, 3B) can include a container part (31) that presents a characteristic dimension (D.sub.3) comprised between 1,02 and 1,15 times, preferentially between 1,03 and 1,10 times the characteristic dimension (D.sub.2) of the single portions (2).

[0082] According to another aspect of the present invention, a cartridge (1) comprises a package (3) adapted so that the cartridge (1) can be operated retained in functional connection and sealed to the ambient atmosphere, whereby the closing part (32) of package (3) can be adapted so that provides the functional connection and the gas sealing connection of the cartridge (1) in operative position.

[0083] The cartridge (1) can present a closing part (32) configured so that can provide retention, recognition and sealing of a cartridge (1) in operative position, that is, when functionally connected with the discharge disposition (11) of an apparatus (10) for preparing edible products.

[0084] The closing part (32) can present a cross section with at least one of: a different characteristic dimension and a different shape from the cross section of the container part (31).

[0085] The closing part (32) can present a cross section with a circular, oval, quadratic, prismatic shape.

[0086] At least the container part (31), preferentially also the closing part (32), can be provided in a recyclable material, preferentially in a compostable material presenting gas barrier properties.

[0087] The system can include at least one of: [0088] a first type of cartridge (1) adapted so that can be operatively retained in a discharge disposition (11) of apparatus (10), and [0089] a second type of cartridge (1) adapted so that can supply a first type of cartridge (1) that can be part of a second type of apparatus (10), optionally adapted so that can operatively retained in a discharge disposition (11) of apparatus (10).

[0090] The system can include at least one type of cartridge (1, 1) adapted so that can be retained in the product preparation apparatus (10), optionally so that is part thereof, or can be at least partially associated with or form fitter in a discharge disposition (11) of the apparatus (10), so that feed a product preparation device (12).

[0091] The system can include at least one type of apparatus (10, 10) presenting a discharge disposition (11) configured so that can collect one alignment of single portions (2) in gas sealed manner, and so that can supply the latter to a product preparation device (12) through a conduction disposition (13) that is preferentially devoid of actuation mechanisms.

[0092] The cartridge (1) represented in FIG. 3 includes only one exterior package (3A) that includes a container part (31) preferentially provided in a gas barrier material and that confines a stack of single portions (2), preferentially at least 15, or at least 20, and at most 50, or at most 40, together with a closing part (32).

[0093] It is preferred when the container part (31) and the closing part (32) confine a discharge passageway centred with the central symmetry axis (X.sub.3) of the container part (31), and configured so that provides passageways of single portions (2) only when oriented in the position of the respective central symmetry axis (X.sub.2) in which they are collected inside the container part (31).

[0094] As can be observed, the container part (31) presents a shape of cross section, squared in the case of FIG. 3, that is different from the shape of cross section of the single portions (2), circular in both cases.

[0095] The package (3) is preferentially configured so that can collect at least one alignment of single portions (2) in a previously defined of spatial relationship to each other, and so that can collect at least 15, preferentially at least 20, particularly preferentially at least 30 single portions (2).

[0096] The closing part (32) can present a shape of cross section of the discharge passageway similar to that of the single portions (2) and a wall thickness bigger than that of the container part (31).

[0097] It is preferred when in the case of two packages (3) disposed side-by-side, only in respective closing parts (32) can be in direct contact.

[0098] In the case of the represented embodiment, the closing part (32) is configured so that can retain closing means (33) of the discharge passageway, in the form of a lid that extends along at least part of the longitudinal extension of the closing part (32) and that can be retained by pressured-fitting in a perimeter region of the closing part (32).

[0099] Moreover, the closing part (32) can present at least one of: closing means (33), retention means (34) and data means (35).

[0100] The closing part (32) can further present retention means (34), preferentially disposed in an interior lateral face (FIG. 3) or exterior thereof, adapted so that can provide removable engagement in the discharge disposition (11) of a product preparation apparatus (10).

[0101] The closing part (32) can further present data means (35), for example in the form of symbols or a code, advantageously disposed on an exterior lateral face (FIG. 3) of the closing part (32), in particular so that can only be apprehended when in an angular position associated with the operative position of the cartridge (1) in a discharge disposition (11). The data means (35) are advantageously adapted so that can be automatically apprehended by data apprehension means (14) operable in functional connection with control means (15) of the apparatus (10).

[0102] The cartridge (1) represented in FIG. 4 comprises an exterior package (3A) and an interior package (3B).

[0103] The exterior package (3) can be provided in a material that does not ensure gas barrier but barrier to ultraviolet radiation, for example in cardboard, and the interior package (3B) can be provided in a material that ensures gas barrier, and preferentially biodegradable.

[0104] In particular, it is preferred when the interior package (3B) is provided in a material that comprises compounds of vegetal substances, or obtained from at least one of: vegetal substance, edible vegetal substance, and aromatic edible vegetal substance, in particular corresponding to the single portion (2).

[0105] According to a particular aspect, the package (3) and the single portions (2) consist in materials that comprise compounds of vegetal substances, or obtained from at least one of: vegetal substance, edible vegetal substance, and aromatic edible vegetal substance, in particular corresponding to the single portion (2).

[0106] The interior package (3B) can be provided in a flexible material, non-self-supporting, and presenting a container part (31) and a closing part (32) of easy manual opening, for example disposed in a top region and for example of the type closure by welding and weakened rupture zone for preferential opening.

[0107] The cartridge (1) can present a prismatic shape adapted so that can collect a single interior package (3B), or a parallelepiped shape adapted so that can collect a plurality of interior packages (3B), such as in the case of FIG. 4.

[0108] The shape and dimension of the closing parts (32A, 32B), as well as the exit direction of the single portions (2) and position thereof relative to the central symmetry axis (X.sub.2) of the single portions (2), can be different in the case of the closing parts (32A, 32B) of the exterior and interior packages (3A, 3B).

[0109] FIGS. 5 to 10 represent preferred embodiments of systems of distribution and preparation of edible products according to the present invention that can also be interpreted based upon the embodiments of operation processes represented in FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0110] In general, the cartridge (1) can be configured as at least one of: a package adapted for transport of single portions (2) to a consumption location, and a container adapted to operate associated with, or as part of an apparatus (10). That is, the package (3) can be package in the sense that can serve only for transport between locations or uses, and/or can be a container in the sense that can be used to operate apparatuses.

[0111] The package (3) can be adapted so that the cartridge (1) can be operated according to at least one of: [0112] retained in removable manner by a region of the package (3), preferentially by the closing part (32), with a transversal dimension at least approximately similar to and neighbouring to the transversal dimension of the discharge passageway for single portions (2), and in gas sealed manner relative to ambient atmosphere; [0113] retained in a collection part (110) of the discharge disposition (11) configured as a recess or cavity relative to the exterior surface or casing of apparatus (10); [0114] retained on a support part (111) of discharge disposition (11) configured as a space at least partially confined, preferentially at least mostly confined inside the product preparation apparatus (10).

[0115] In the case of a first embodiment, represented in FIGS. 5 and 6 and corresponding to a process represented in FIG. 11, a cartridge (1) is delivered to a consumption location and can be operatively retained in a discharge disposition (11) of an apparatus (10), so that the single portions (2) can be supplied to a product preparation device (12) along a single vertical direction aligned with its central symmetry axis (X.sub.2).

[0116] The retention of the cartridge (1) is advantageously carried out by retention means (34) associated with the closing part (32) and that can include shape retention by means of pressurized fitting, and retention by engagement, for example of the bayonet type, screw or similar.

[0117] The regulation of discharge of the single portions (2) can be carried out by discharge means associated with a conduction disposition (13) and regulated by control means (15) configured so that can regulate the operation of the apparatus (10).

[0118] The apparatus (10) can include data apprehension means (14) adapted so that can apprehend data means (35) associated with the closing part (32) of the cartridge (1) when the latter is in a correct operative position. In this case, the data means (35) can be provided in a lateral wall of the closing portion (32) and the data apprehension means in an angular position of an interior lateral wall of the discharge disposition (11) corresponding to said operative retention position.

[0119] A residues collection disposition (16) only collects edible substances, in particular aromatic edible substances and water or other edible fluid.

[0120] The system can comprises one type of cartridge (1) presenting a package (3) adapted so that can be retained in operative position on the discharge disposition (11) whereby data apprehension means (14) associated with the discharge disposition (11) can apprehend data means (35) associated with the package (3), preferentially associated with an exterior surface of the closing part (32) thereof, including lateral and/or base surface of the closing part (32), and communicating respective data to control means (15) of the apparatus (10).

[0121] Moreover, the system can comprise: [0122] one type of cartridge (1) that can include an exterior package (3A) and at least one interior package (3B), and adapted so that can collect at least one alignment of single portions (2) in the exterior package (3A), each alignment collected in the interior package (3B) and preferentially presenting a number and relative orientation of single portions (2) corresponding to those that can be collected by a discharge disposition (11), and [0123] a type of apparatus (10) with a discharge disposition (11) presenting at least one collection part (110) that can confine one alignment of single portions (2) relative to a discharge passageway (112), and preferentially also a support part (111), adapted so that can collect an alignment of single portions (2) in operative position upstream of a discharge passageway (112).

[0124] The system can be adapted so that at least one alignment of single portions (2) can be operatively retained in the apparatus (10, 10) so that the single central symmetry axis (X.sub.2) of the single portions (2) results in a previously determined position, for example at least approximately aligned, parallel or orthogonal, relative to a central symmetry axis of the discharge passageway of the discharge disposition (11)

[0125] At least one type of cartridge (1, 1) can present a package (3) that can be operatively retained in the apparatus (10) so that the single central symmetry axis (X.sub.2) of the single portions (2) is generally orthogonal relative to a central symmetry axis of the discharge passageway of the discharge disposition (11).

[0126] Moreover, the system can comprise at least one of: [0127] a first type of cartridge (1) adapted so that can distribute single portions (2) to a consumption location, preferentially with a reusable package (3); [0128] a second type of cartridge (1) adapted so that can only operate at a consumption location, preferentially be part of the apparatus (10), and that can be reloaded with single portions (2) delivered from a first type of cartridge (1).

[0129] The system can further comprise at least one of: [0130] a first type of cartridge (1) reusable and presenting retention means (34) adapted so that can operate in different apparatuses (10) and consumption locations, and [0131] a second type of cartridge (1) reusable and presenting data means (35) adapted so that can operate in at least one of: an apparatus (10) and a consumption location.
The system can comprise a type of apparatus (10) that presents a plurality of discharge dispositions (11, 11) disposed close to each other, preferentially in a matrix like disposition, each adapted so that can collect at least 20, or retain a cartridge (1) with at least 20, preferentially at least 30 single portions (2), and at most 100, preferentially at most 80 single portions (2).

[0132] In the case of the embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8, the system includes a first type of cartridge (1) adapted so that can be transported to a consumption location, whereby its exterior package (3A) can be opened so as to remove an interior package (3B) that confined a plurality of single portions (2) with gas barrier. The process of operation can basically follow the way represented on the right-hand side of the flow diagram of FIG. 12.

[0133] The interior package (3B) can be opened and the single portions (2) can be supplied to a second type of cartridge (1) adapted so that can be operatively retained on the discharge disposition (11) of an apparatus (10).

[0134] The second type of cartridge (1) can be provided as being a part of apparatus (10), in particular a part adapted so that can be retained in removable manner in operative position in a discharge disposition (11).

[0135] The second type of cartridge (1) can be adapted so that can be removed from the discharge disposition (11) for simplicity of loading of the single portions (2), as represented in FIG. 7, or so that can be removed only a portion of package (3), for example a closing part (32) disposed in the top region thereof, as represented in FIG. 8.

[0136] Alternatively, the system can include only one type of package (1) with an exterior package (3) and an interior package (3B), and the apparatus (10) can present a discharge disposition (11) configured as a collection cavity (110) adapted so that can collect a plurality of single portions (2), eventually further presenting a retention support (111), preferentially provided movable between open and closed positions, adapted so that can provide placement of single portions (2), as represented in FIGS. 9 and 10 that represent a drawer-like arrangement of the discharge disposition (11).

[0137] Alternatively, a cartridge (1) can supply single portions (2) along a direction orthogonal to the symmetry central axis (X.sub.2), as in the case of FIG. 10.

[0138] The single portions (2) are supplied, preferentially only by action of the gravity force, to a product preparation device (12) where they are impinged by a pressurized fluid flow. For example, water at a temperature between 80 and 98? C., and a pressure above 2 bar, preferentially above 8 bar.

[0139] In particular, the pressurized flow does not directly impinge other substance inside the product preparation device (12) than the edible substance associated with the single portion (2). That is, first impinges upon a portion of the edible substance of the edible substance, and not upon other substances.

[0140] FIGS. 13 and 14 represent preferred embodiments of a discharge disposition (11) adapted so that can operatively retain a cartridge (1), including mutually opposing views (top) and side cut views of the discharge disposition (11) (bottom), where the collection part (110) is provided as a cavity in the casing of the apparatus (10) that surrounds a support part (111).

[0141] In the case of a first embodiment, the cartridge (1) can present retention means (34) provided as projections, preferentially at most two or three, that extend laterally and distributed in symmetric manner along a side wall of the closing part (32), and configured so that can provide retention of corresponding openings and cavity in the collection part (110) of the collection disposition (11).

[0142] In the case of a second embodiment, the cartridge (1) can present retention means (34) provided as cavities, preferentially at most one or two, distributed in asymmetric manner in the exterior perimeter of the closing part (32) of package (3), and configured so that can be engaged by corresponding retention means associated with the collection part (110).

[0143] It is advantageous when the retention means (34) of the cartridge (1) are adapted so that can engage with corresponding retention elements in the container part (110). These retention elements can be configured with an asymmetric shape, adapted so as to provide an engagement limit.

[0144] Alternatively (not represented), the retention means (34) can be provided on an interior wall of the closing part (32) and so that can engage with retention elements on the support part (110).

[0145] FIGS. 15 and 16 represent preferred embodiments of a system whereby cartridges (1) can be retained in the discharge disposition (11) of an apparatus (10).

[0146] According to one aspect, the apparatus (10) is configured so that at least part of the discharge disposition (11), including at least a discharge passageway (112), is vertically aligned with a respective product preparation device (12) and the supply of single portions (2) is driven by the gravity force, preferentially only by action thereof, at least upstream of the discharge passageway (112).

[0147] Moreover, a first type of apparatus (10) can present discharge dispositions (11) adapted so that can retain cartridges (1), as represented in FIG. 15, whereas in the case of a second type of apparatus (10) these discharge dispositions (11) are configured so that can collect alignments of single portions (2) in respective collection parts (110) associated with a support part (111), as represented in FIG. 16.

[0148] In particular, the apparatus (10) includes a conduction disposition (13) arranged between the discharge passageway (112) of the discharge disposition (11) and the product preparation device (12). It is particularly advantageous when, in the pathway between the discharge passageway (112) and the product preparation device (12), the edible substance of the single portions (2) can only touch in the interior surface of said conduction disposition (13).

[0149] According to another aspect, represented in FIG. 15, the apparatus (10) can present at least one cluster with a plurality of discharge dispositions (11) disposed relatively close to each other, and in this case arranged on a top surface thereof, that are operatively connected to a respective product preparation device (12). An apparatus (10) can present a plurality of clusters, each thereof functionally associated with a respective product preparation device (12).

[0150] The discharge disposition (11) can present data apprehension means (14) adapted so that can apprehend data associated with cartridge (1), in particular by data means (35), or associated with collection parts (110) operatively retained in support parts (111).

[0151] FIG. 16 represents a second type of apparatus (10) with a discharge disposition (11) that presents several collection parts (110) configured as generally tubular containers, and adapted so that can collect one alignment of single portions (2) devoid of single packages and so that the latter are impinged by the gravity force towards a discharge passageway (112).

[0152] The several collection parts (110) are arranged on a support part (111) adapted so that can be moved in rotation, in a general configuration of carrousel type, so that each collection part (110) can be aligned with the discharge passageway (112).

[0153] According to one aspect, the discharge passageway (112) is vertically aligned with the product preparation device (12), in particular with the collection space thereof in an open position, so that the single portion (2) can be supplied through a conduction disposition (13) driven only by the gravity force and preferentially without touching on any interior surface of the apparatus (10) upstream from the product preparation device (12).

[0154] FIGS. 17 to 20 represent schematic top views of preferred embodiment of an apparatus (10) that presents a plurality of discharge dispositions (11) associated with a conduction disposition (13), so that a product preparation device (12) can be supplied through a single discharge passageway confined by said conduction disposition (13).

[0155] An apparatus (10) can present different arrangements of a plurality of discharge dispositions (11), preferentially of matrix type when seen in top view, including of linear type (FIG. 17), of triangular type (FIG. 18), of square type (FIGS. 19 and 20).

[0156] According to one aspect, the conduction disposition (13) includes in these cases an upstream portion (131) disposed directly upstream of the discharge disposition (11) and that is configured and extends so that can collect single portions (2) that pass through any one of the discharge passageways, and is, therefore, common to the several discharge passageways (112), and a downstream portion (132) that extends directly between an upstream portion (131) and a downstream region of the product preparation device (12), in particular of an open position thereof.

[0157] It is advantageous when the downstream portion (132) confines a discharge passageway with a shape and dimension adapted so that enable passage of a single portion (2) in a relative position, that is, with a relative orientation of the respective central symmetry axis (X.sub.2), generally aligned with the position whereby can be collected with by the product preparation device (12).

[0158] FIG. 21 represents an apparatus (10) that presents a discharge disposition (11) with a collection part (110) confining a plurality of support parts (111) adapted so that each can collect one alignment of single portions (2) devoid of single packages and whereby the one furthest downstream is retained upstream of a discharge passageway (112) and in a direction opposite to the one of the impinging force, in this case only the gravity force. Moreover, the discharge disposition (11) is adapted so that the removal of said retention can be actuated so as to supply the single portions (2) one-by-one to a product preparation device (12), preferentially only the gravity force.

[0159] The conduction disposition (13) is in this case configured as a mobile element, for example of rotation drum type, presenting several portions configured for collection of single portions (2) along the perimeter oriented to the discharge passageway (112), and that can be actuated by the single portion (2) that falls by action of the gravity force on a first position and that is rotated so that can be supplied to a product preparation device (12) with a different spatial orientation of respective central symmetry axis (X.sub.2). The conduction disposition (13) can also be driven by elastic, mechanic, electro mechanic or other.

[0160] FIG. 22 represents an apparatus (10) that presents two discharge dispositions (11) each one thereof operatively associated with a respective product preparation device (12). The discharge dispositions (11) present collection parts (110) configured as containers that can be retained in removable manner in support parts (111).

[0161] The interior packages (3B) are in this case also retained in discharge position inside the container parts (110), and coerced towards the discharge passageway (112) of the discharge disposition (11, 11) by an upstream force, in this case gravity force and, optionally, further elastic, mechanic or electro mechanic force that impinges the interior packages (3B) towards the discharge passageway (112).

[0162] Moreover, the discharge dispositions (11) are in this case also adapted so that can actuate the retention of a single portion (2) furthest downstream in each respective alignment of single portions in cartridges (1), and upstream of a discharge passageway (112), so that can be supplied to the product preparation device (12) actuated only by the gravity force.

[0163] Thus, as described above, a process according to the invention can include the distribution of a second type of cartridge (1) to a consumption location (C) and the removal of an interior package (3B) that includes an alignment of single portions (2), for example along a respective central symmetry axis (X.sub.2), with the edible substance of one directly adjacent to the edible substance of the other, and so that at least the exterior package (3A) can be reused.

[0164] Said interior package (3B) can be placed inside of a collection part (110), or the single portions (2) devoid of interior package (3B), as represented in FIG. 23.

[0165] As represented in FIG. 24, the process can further include the confirmation, preferentially by automatic means, of at least one single portion (2) upstream of the discharge passageway (112). After an input for start of cycle of preparation of edible product, there can be further actuated and/or confirmed whether the product preparation device (12) is in the open position. In this case, removal of the direct contact retention with the edible substance of the furthest downstream single portion (2), that is, directly upstream of the discharge passageway (12), can then be actuated so that the latter can fall, passing by the latter and by the conduction disposition (13) so that can be collected in the product preparation device (12). The latter can then be closed and the fluid circulation through it can be initiated so as to obtain the edible product.

[0166] The process can include the following steps: [0167] retaining a first type of cartridge (1) in the discharge disposition (11), preferentially by means of placing the package (3) in only or at most two previously defined angular positions (11) and rotation thereof by up to 35?, preferentially up to 25?, in a previously defined direction around its central symmetry axis (X.sub.3), in particular so that the passageway opening of the package (3) of the cartridge (1) results aligned upstream with the discharge passageway (112) of a discharge disposition (11); [0168] optionally, detecting the presence and/or a correct position of retention of cartridge (1) in the discharge disposition (11); [0169] automatically apprehending at least one of: a first set of data associated with an operative position of the cartridge (1) and a second set of data associated with the cartridge (1), whereby the apprehended data is transmitted to control means (15) associated with the apparatus (10); [0170] apprehending an external input relating to the cartridge (1) and/or to the discharge disposition (11) to be operated in a beverage preparation cycle; [0171] operating the removal of retention by actuation of the cartridge (1) and/or of the discharge disposition (11), and operating the opening of the product preparation device (12), preferentially by control means (15) of the apparatus (10).

[0172] The process can further include the following steps: [0173] delivering a second type of cartridge (1) to a consumption location; [0174] removing a plurality of single portions (2) from the second type of cartridge (1) and disposing these inside a collection part (110) of the discharge disposition (11), so that result in operation position of retention relative to the discharge passageway (112) of the discharge disposition (11), [0175] optionally, detecting the presence and/or correct placement of the alignment of single portions (2) in the collection part (110) and/or in the support part (111) of the discharge disposition (11); [0176] automatically apprehending at least one of: a first set of data associated with an operative position of the collection part (110), for example presence of a single portion (2) furthest downstream, and a second set of data associated with an operative condition of the collection part (110), for example quantity of single portions (2), whereby the apprehended data are transmitted to control means (15) associated with the apparatus (10); [0177] apprehending an external input relating to the discharge disposition (11) to be operated in a product preparation cycle; [0178] operating the removal of retention of single portions (2) by actuation of the discharge disposition (11), and operating the opening of product preparation device (12), preferentially by control means (15) of the apparatus (10).

[0179] The process can include the following steps: [0180] disposing a plurality of alignments of single portions (2) coerced towards the discharge passageway (112) of respective discharge dispositions (11) disposed in relative proximity to each other, [0181] operating each one of said alignments of single portions (2) by means of: [0182] apprehending an input associated with said alignment or with respective discharge disposition (11); [0183] actuating the discharge disposition (11) of said alignment, in particular so as to remove the retention of the furthest downstream single portion (2), so as to supply the latter to a product preparation device (12); [0184] apprehending an input associated with the conclusion of the product preparation cycle; [0185] optionally, preventing the operation of another alignment of single portions (2) or of respective discharge disposition (11), before apprehending an input associated with the conclusion of the product preparation cycle.

[0186] The process can include a cycle of distribution of single portions (2) of an edible substance to consumption locations (C) that can include: [0187] transporting a first type of cartridge (1) with a plurality of single portions (2), from a supply location to a consumption location (C); [0188] operating the single portions (2) in an apparatus (10) at the consumption location (C); [0189] optionally, transporting said empty cartridge (1) to a supply location so that can be reloaded with single portions (2);
whereby the operation of the single portions (2) can include at least one of: [0190] placing a first type of cartridge (1) in operative position on a discharge disposition (11) of a product preparation apparatus (10) [0191] communicating to a supply location, for example wirelessly, operation data associated with the cartridge (1).

[0192] The process can include a cycle of distribution of single portions (2) of an edible substance to consumption locations (C) that can include: [0193] transporting a second type of cartridge (1) from a supply location to a consumption location (C); [0194] opening an exterior package (3A) so as to withdraw an interior package (3B) containing one alignment of single portions (2); [0195] optionally, removing the alignment of single portions (2) from the interior package (3B); [0196] disposing an alignment of single portions (2) in operative position on an apparatus s(10), for example inside of a collection part (110) and/or along a support part (111) associated with a discharge disposition (11) of the apparatus (10); [0197] operating the single portions (2) in an apparatus (10) at the consumption location (C);
and further includes one of: [0198] sending the exterior package (3A) back to a supply location and the interior package (3B) to a disposal of biodegradable waste; [0199] sending at least one of: the exterior package (3A) and the interior package (3B) to a disposal of biodegradable waste.

[0200] The operation of at least one type of apparatus (10) further includes the step of actuating the circulation of pressurized flow through the product preparation device (12) in a closed position and devoid of single portion (2), so as to wash residues of edible substance or associated with the preparation of edible product, whereby said step can be carried out automatically after removal of a cartridge (1) or opening of a closing part (110) associated with a discharge disposition (11).