Abstract: A coffee holder includes a holder body and a holder lid. The holder body includes a holder base, a holder sidewall extending from the base and defining an interior configured to receive loose coffee, and an open receiving end opposite the base. The holder lid is configured to engage the holder body to cover the open receiving end. The holder lid includes a recessed portion that extends into the holder body interior when the holder lid engages the holder body, and a passage in the recessed portion configured to allow fluid to flow into the holder body interior from the recessed portion.

Abstract: A machine (1) for dispensing a dispensable liquid (5) has: a liquid delivery module (10) for delivering the dispensable liquid (5) from a source (50) and a service area (7) for collecting collectable liquid (5?) from the liquid delivery module (10). The machine further includes a directing device (20) that has a dispensing position for directing said dispensable liquid (5) from the delivery module (10) to a dispensing area (6) and a collecting position for directing collectable liquid (5?) from the delivery module (10) to the service area (7). The directing device (20) has only one evacuation portion (21) from which: —the dispensable liquid (5) is evacuated from the directing device (20) to the dispensing area (6) when the directing device (20) is in the dispensing position; and—the collectable liquid (5?) is evacuated to the service area (7) when the directing device (20) is in the collecting position.

Abstract: A milk-frothing apparatus for preparing high quality micro-foamed milk for coffee drinks consistently and at high volume. A machine having one or more steaming stations includes an elevator at each station with an elevator-mounted steaming wand have a precise angle at the discharge end. The elevator-mounted steaming wand is configured to travel from an upward stowed status to a downward deployed status to insert the discharge end of the elevator-mounted steaming wand into milk inside a pitcher precisely located on the machine. A steam boiler is hydraulically coupled to the elevator-mounted steam wand via flexible tubing and an infrared sensor monitors the temperature of the pitcher during a downward deployed status. An LCD screen with operator controls and displays oriented to coincide spatially with the elevator indicate different operational settings selected by the user and related to machine operation.

Abstract: A beverage discharge disposition for frothing a liquid food product such as milk and comprising a discharge casing (1) configured for provision in the front region of a beverage preparation machine (20). The beverage discharge disposition comprises an air valve (10) adapted to provide better milk frothing conditions and including an ambient air admission, an air flow constrain element (19) adapted to provide variations of a passageway section (18) of ambient air flow, an air flux discharge wall (17) provided downstream of the air flow constrain element (19), and a discharge chamber provided upstream of the air flux discharge wall (17).

Abstract: A coffee machine having a water tank; at least one first pump; at least one first boiler for heating the water; a coffee brewing unit; and circuits to feed hot water and/or steam, with a first outlet for hot water or steam towards an emulsifying device which can be connected to a connection joint of the coffee machine; a second outlet for hot water and/or wash water.

Abstract: An automated frothing assembly. The automated frothing assembly has a wand module that includes an elongate member having an inlet, one or more outlets, and a fluid passageway extending between and in fluid communication with the inlet and the plurality of outlets. At least one of the one or more outlets extends parallel to a vertical plane that includes the centerline of the elongate member and at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane that is perpendicular to both the vertical plane and the centerline of the elongate member. The assembly further includes an actuator configured to be operatively coupled to the wand module and to drive the movement of at least a portion of the wand module along an axis, and an electronic controller configured to be electrically coupled to the actuator and to control the operation of the actuator to control the movement of the wand module.

Abstract: A milk container associated with a coffee machine includes a containment body for containing milk; a mixing unit for mixing milk with air and steam; an external dispenser of the mixed milk; and a movement mechanism for moving the external dispenser configured and disposed to subject the external dispenser to a combined movement for lifting it with respect to a resting surface and distancing it from the containment body without changing its own angular orientation.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided with an outlet, in particular for milk froth, which apparatus can be moved in two or three coordinate directions (x, y, z) using a control unit. When dispensing the fluid, a graphic pattern can thus be created automatically on the surface of the beverage dispensed into the container, preferably coffee. A pivotably housed guide sleeve and a hose element are provided with the outlet, which element can be pivoted in the sleeve and through which element the milk froth passes. This outlet can be moved with the hose element and the guide sleeve in a plane in these two coordinate directions (x, y) above the container in controlled manner, and the milk froth can thus be dispensed into the container. The result is a compact structure of the apparatus and this can be integrated into a coffee machine in a very space-saving manner.

Abstract: A milk frothing apparatus which includes a steam probe which consists of an inner steam tube surrounded by an outer tube spaced annularly from the inner tube with a nozzle mounted on the end of the outer tube adjacent the outlet end of the inner tube. The air gap between the inner and outer tubes insulates the outer tube from the heat generated in the inner tube during the steam cycle. By using stainless steel the milk does not stick to the cool outer tube surface and no cleaning of the outer surface of the probe is necessary. The steam itself keeps the inner surfaces of the probe clean.

Abstract: In a method for producing milk foam, in particular for the preparation of drinks that contain milk foam in a coffee machine, a gaseous medium, in particular air, is delivered to milk conveyed, and the milk/air mixture that is formed is conveyed to an outlet for milk foam or drinks containing milk foam. The consistency of the milk foam that is produced is determined here and is monitored by a regulating process and/or is changed by a setting. Even with variable conditions of use and operation, perfect quality of the milk foam that is produced is guaranteed, in which, moreover, its consistency can be changed.

Abstract: An appliance for preparing frothed milk includes a container for receiving milk and a docking element for connection to a drinks preparation machine. The docking element includes a connection for steam delivered by the drinks preparation machine, and a milk froth outlet for the frothed milk. The docking element includes a main body with a plurality of fluid channels and a supplementary part, which is reversibly removable from the main body. The supplementary part has a material that is softer in comparison to the main body, is continuous and includes several elements through which milk, steam, water and/or air can flow and which engage into the fluid channels.

Abstract: A tea maker includes a brewing unit which defines a vessel having an upper opening with a spout disposed thereon. A lid assembly is removeably received on the upper opening of the vessel and includes a steeping tube. The steeping tube extends downwardly from the lid assembly into the vessel when the lid assembly is received on the upper opening of the vessel. An articulating filter assembly is coupled to the lid assembly and includes a filter plate that is operable between an extended position and a retracted position. The filter plate is configured to contact an inner surface of the vessel when the filter plate is in the extended position. A biasing member is configured to bias the filter plate towards the extended position for filtering a brewed tea mixture as the mixture is poured through the upper opening of the vessel.

Abstract: Provided is a water purifier. The water purifier includes a water purifier body including a housing defining an outer appearance and a filter provided in the housing to filter raw water introduced from the outside, a water discharge module including a water discharge nozzle that protrudes forward from the water purifier body to supply the water passing through the filter to the outside of the water purifier body, and a tray disposed below the water discharge nozzle. The water discharge module is provided to be elevatable.

Abstract: A system (1) for making beverages comprises a capsule holder (11) and a capsule (2) containing a powdered food substance which can be extracted to make a beverage; the capsule (2) comprises a body (3) comprising a lower wall (4), a lateral wall (5), a lid (7) and a filter bag (9). The system (1) also comprises injection means (13) for injecting water into the capsule (2) through the lid (7) and collecting means (16) comprising a piercing element (17) for piercing the lower wall (4). The inside of the capsule (2), at the lower wall (4), comprises a protection element (20) for preventing contact between the piercing element (17) and the filter bag (9). The protection element (20) together with at least the lower wall (4) forms an annular chamber (21), extending around an axis of extension (8) and being in fluid communication with the filter bag (9), and forms a seat (33) facing towards the lid (7), in which a lower part (37) of the filter bag (9) is inserted, and which is surrounded by the annular chamber (21).

Abstract: A device for processing milk foam for use in an automatic hot and/or cold beverage machine includes a milk pump to pump the milk foam, and a secondary processing device coupled to the milk foam pump to change the consistency of the milk foam. The secondary processing device includes a homogenizer to break up and distribute air bubbles in the milk foam. The homogenizer has a reducing region including a plurality of impact bodies arranged to define a channel labyrinth through which the milk foam is flowable. Additionally, there is provided a process for homogenizing milk foam utilizing the above device, includes steps of a) impacting divided partial flows of the milk foam with the impact surfaces to divide the air bubbles of the milk foam; and b) mixing the divided partial flows with the divided air bubbles together to form new partial flows.

Abstract: A jug includes a body and a cover. The cover is provided with a steam inlet and supports a detachable stirrer. The stirrer is configured to rotate under an effect of a steam jet exiting a steam nozzle near a bottom of the body for impinging on the stirrer to cause rotation of the stirrer. The detachable stirrer extends from the cover towards the bottom of the body of the jug. The steam nozzle is further detachably connected to the cover and extends towards the bottom of the body of the jug and is positioned adjacent to the detachable stirrer. The steam nozzle and the detachable stirrer are connectable to and detachable from the cover one independently of the other.

Abstract: A beverage maker for making a beverage includes a duct system having at least one duct for conveying a fluid beverage ingredient, and at least two elements for defining the duct system, which are configured to be fitted closely together. Recesses are arranged in a surface of at least one of these two elements, and serve for defining the ducts of the duct system. The duct system is further configured to convey steam besides the fluid beverage ingredient, where the steam serves for heating and pumping the fluid beverage ingredient. Furthermore, the duct system may also include at least one duct for supplying air to the fluid beverage ingredient, so that a frothed beverage may be obtained.

Abstract: In an improved filter holder for espresso coffee machines, the spout (22) is applied to the hollow upper member (10) of the filter holder by a snap fitting and the bottom (14) of the upper member (10) is provided on the outside of it with a relief shape (30), the edge (32) of which forms a stable supporting surface for pressing the ground coffee powder. The filter holder is made entirely of polished stainless steel.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing accelerated transmission of broadcast data, such as financial data and news feeds, over a communication channel using data compression and decompression to provide secure transmission and transparent multiplication of communication bandwidth, as well as reduce the latency associated with data transmission of conventional systems.

Abstract: The invention discloses a method of increasing extracts 100E taken from cellular plant tissue 100 comprises the steps of placing prepared cellular plant tissue 100 in a container 114; introducing a fluid 101 into the container 114 to wet and immerse the prepared cellular plant tissue 100; and emitting acoustic shock waves 200 into the fluid 101 immersed cellular plant tissue 100 to increase the extracts 100E released by the plant tissue 100 into the fluid 101 and a product made from the method, the product being a beverage, medicine or drug.

Abstract: A beverage machine for preparing and dispensing a hot beverage having a pump dispensing system. Hot water passes through a water distributor to infuse material in a filter basket. A coffee tank receives the brewed beverage and maintains it at an appropriate temperature. On demand, a pump dispensing system delivers the beverage through an outlet chamber and spout into a user's cup. The user manipulates a switch to vary the rate at which the pump dispensing system dispenses the beverage.

Abstract: A device for heating and/or frothing a beverage includes a first duct connectable to an upstream steam source and to downstream mixing means arranged to introduce and mix at least steam into said beverage, said first duct having a first valve configured to be opened and closed and to enable or prevent steam flow into the duct, and a second duct connectable to the upstream steam source and to said downstream mixing means, said second duct having a second valve configured to be opened and closed and to enable or prevent steam flow into the duct, wherein a first one of said two ducts comprises a Venturi assembly configured to operate by Venturi effect in order to mix air with said steam in said first one of said two ducts when a second one of said two ducts is closed.

Abstract: The present invention is a froth wand for an espresso machine that can generate a high velocity stream of steam to foam a beverage at the beverage brewing apparatus. The wand includes an adapter for attaching to the beverage brewing machine at a steam supply outlet, and a conduit for communicating the steam to a steam tube. The steam tube has a cylindrical body with an annular recessed exit, and is surrounded by a cylindrical sheath. The sheath includes a cylindrical plug with a small longitudinal aperture that fits into the outlet of the steam tube. The mating of the sheath's plug and the steam tube forces the steam through the aperture, accelerating the steam at the exit.

Abstract: An apparatus for preparing a hot beverage. The apparatus includes a hot steam source for supplying a flow of steam into a vessel, a rotary stirring device including a rotatable shaft which carries a stirring rotor; and a cleaning container. A control unit controls movement of the stirring device between its rest position and its working position; the activation of the steam source and of the stirring device while the shaft and the rotor of the latter extend inside a vessel; and the activation of the steam source and of the stirring device while the shaft and the rotor of the latter extend in the cleaning container.

Abstract: Milk frothing system (1) including a water conduit (10) that successively interconnects a water reservoir (11); a pump (12); a heater (15), configured to evaporate water; and a mixing node (31). The system further includes an air conduit (20) that successively interconnects an air inlet (21); a first check valve (22); a second check valve (24); and the mixing node. The system also includes a steam/air conduit (30) that successively interconnects the mixing node, and a frothing device (32). The milk frothing system additionally includes an expansion vessel (60), having a water chamber and an air chamber, said water chamber being connected to a point of the water conduit, downstream of the pump and upstream of the heater, and said air chamber being connected to a point of the air conduit, downstream of the first check valve and upstream of the second check valve provided therein.

Abstract: An automated frothing assembly. The automated frothing assembly has a wand module that includes an elongate member having an inlet, one or more outlets, and a fluid passageway extending between and in fluid communication with the inlet and the plurality of outlets. At least one of the one or more outlets extends parallel to a vertical plane that includes the centerline of the elongate member and at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane that is perpendicular to both the vertical plane and the centerline of the elongate member. The assembly further includes an actuator configured to be operatively coupled to the wand module and to drive the movement of at least a portion of the wand module along an axis, and an electronic controller configured to be electrically coupled to the actuator and to control the operation of the actuator to control the movement of the wand module.

Abstract: A brewing unit (1) of an espresso coffee machine including a brewing chamber (25) and at least one spring-loaded pressure valve (16) which is flow-technically arranged between the brewing chamber (25) and a coffee beverage outlet and which opens when the brewing chamber pressure exceeds a structurally predetermined value. In order to produce by means of the coffee machine one kind of coffee beverage selected from at least two kinds of coffee beverages, an atmospheric coffee beverage bypass channel (21) flow-wisely disposed in parallel relative to the pressure valve (16) between the brewing chamber (25) and the coffee beverage outlet (23) may be locked depending on the kind of coffee beverage selected.

Abstract: A beverage machine (1), in particular to a coffee machine, has a main flow path (3), that leads through a heating device (2), and a bypass flow path (4) that circumvents the heating device (2). The bypass flow path (4) branches off from the main flow path (3) upstream of the heating device (2). The main flow path (3) is connected to a water tank (5) at the input side and to a dispensing location (6) at the output side. A main flow pump (7) is arranged in the main flow path (3) between the water tank (5) and the heating device (2). Thus a bypass pump (8) is arranged in the bypass flow path (4) to provide a cost-efficient and accurate admixing of cold water.

Abstract: A foaming nozzle is connected to a gas generating device for generating a high-pressure gas which has a pressure higher than an atmospheric pressure and spouting the high-pressure gas from the tip of the nozzle, and the foaming nozzle foams, while stirring, a liquid located in the direction of the spouting. The foaming nozzle has formed in the tip thereof at least two kinds of spouting holes for spouting the high-pressure gas. At least one kind of spouting hole is formed in a shape different from the shape of the other kind of spouting hole so as to spout the high-pressure gas at a speed different from the speed of the high-pressure gas spouted from the other kind of spouting hole.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a beverage preparation module intended for installation in a self-service beverage vending machine. According to the disclosure, a water connection and a preparation device for preparing a beverage by means of water provided at the water connection are provided. Beverage preparation parameters can be transmitted to a control unit via a communication interface. The control unit is configured to control the preparation device in order to prepare a beverage based on the beverage preparation parameters. A beverage outlet for discharging the beverage prepared by the preparation device is provided. In one embodiment, at least one additional module interface is provided for connecting the control unit to at least one additional module.

Abstract: A frothing device including a central body which is detachably associable with a steam delivery tube and an outer casing which fits over the central body. The central body forms channels for the passage of air and of liquid to be frothed, in order to mix them with the steam and consequently mix the three flows. The device further includes a first mixing region for forming a mixture composed of the air and the liquid to be frothed, which arrive respectively from an air intake channel and a liquid rising channel, which are formed by the central body and by the outer casing, the formed mixture then converges in a second mixing region with the steam that is injected in the second mixing region and arrives from the delivery tube and then enters the beverage by means of a discharge channel that extends from the second mixing region.

Abstract: A coffee machine including a boiler for producing hot water and steam for the preparation of coffee or coffee-containing beverages. A coiled tubing is located in the boiler for producing hot milk or milk froth. Thus, no separate heating element is required for producing the hot milk or milk froth, as the milk or milk froth is heated by the water heated in the boiler for preparing the coffee. The coiled tubing is connected alternately to a milk container and a rinsing water source, so that potential milk residue is flushed out after each milk heating process. A predetermined amount of milk or rinsing water is fed to the coiled tubing by a pump. Thus the milk and rinsing water usage is optimized and the energy consumption is reduced.

Abstract: This invention relates to a brew group for an infusion machine, in particular a machine for espresso coffee, having infusion means (43, 43b) designed for the preparation of infusions, a holding chamber (41) hydraulically connected to the said infusion means (43, 43b) and having at least two liquid inlets (411) allowing the delivery of liquids and heating means (46) capable of directly heating the liquids delivered to the holding chamber (41) through the inlets such as to hydraulically feed the infusion means (43, 43b) for the preparation of infusions. The invention also relates to a machine which includes the brew group and a method for operating the machine.

Abstract: A method for preparing hot beverages in a hot beverage machine by possibly repeatedly pumping a specific quantity of water from a water tank into a heating device, heating the quantity of water, pumping the heated quantity of water out of the heating device into a brewing chamber and possibly at the same time pumping a further quantity of water out of the water tank into the heating device, brewing a brewing substance contained in the brewing chamber to produce a hot beverage, and finally converting the quantity of water last pumped into the heating device completely into steam in a controlled manner for forcing liquid out of the entire line system downstream of the heating device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an equipment for brewing coffee. A water pump, a boiler, a check valve, a water port and a coffee extractor are arranged in the shell of the present invention, the coffee maker is not provided with water tank, the water pump is arranged between the outlet pipe of the boiler and the inlet of the check valve; the outlet of the check valve is communicated with the coffee extractor through the water port. The coffee maker in the present invention can ensure the stability of the water temperature at the water port, so that the coffee is better taste. The coffee maker simplifies the waterway system with low producing cost, high production efficiency, convenient maintenance and easy using.

Abstract: A replaceable end-piece which can be connected to the dispensing end, which is provided with connection means of the vapor nozzle of a coffee machine for heating and frothing a given quantity of milk contained in a jug, into which the nozzle is introduced. A tubular sleeve is provided with two ends, the first end of which is open and is provided with reversible connection means corresponding to those of the dispensing end of the nozzle. The sleeve defines at the inner side thereof a recess which extends in accordance with a longitudinal axis. The second end of the sleeve is also open and includes a body inserted therein, the body being provided with a plurality of channels connecting the recess to the external environment of the end-piece facing the second end of the sleeve.

Abstract: A device for discharging milk and/or milk froth, including a pump to convey milk from a container, a flow-heater, and an output for discharging milk, embodied cooperating with each other such that milk conveyed via the pump and heated via the flow-heater can be discharged from the output. At least one steam generator is provided cooperating with the flow-heater such that downstream in reference to the flow-heater and upstream in reference to the output, steam can be fed to the milk for an additional heating step.

Abstract: In described embodiments, a hot liquid extraction system includes a vessel, a controllable steam and water source external from the vessel which heats the liquid of the corresponding vessel, a filter assembly disposed within the vessel operable to filter and remove a solid from the brewed beverage, and a valve to dispense the filtered beverage from the base of the brew vessel. Some embodiments include one or more valves operable to regulate water flow and steam into the brewing vessel, and a filter operable to separate a brewed liquid from a flavor base and to remove a spent flavor base from the system. Some embodiments include processor control of the system, allowing for operation tailored to individual user requirements that might be downloaded to the processor through various wired and non-wired interfaces.

Abstract: A device for supplying milk from a storage tank to a dispensing element, having a supply line with an inlet end which is detachably connected to the storage tank, to improve the cleaning of such a device. A cleaning device is provided for the supply line, the cleaning device containing a hot water and/or water vapor outlet having a connection device for the detachable connection of the inlet end of the supply line.

Abstract: A machine for preparing beverages is described. The machine has a support structure which defines a first area for receiving a capsule that contains a beverage preparation and a second area for beverage delivery. The machine has support means for supporting the capsule containing a beverage preparation at the first area and means for directing a localized hot air jet to a predetermined localized portion of an enclosure of the capsule to form a first through opening in the predetermined localized portion thereby allowing the beverage preparation to come out therefrom.

Abstract: A delivery assembly for a machine for the preparation of liquid products using cartridges includes: an injector device, capable of introducing into the cartridge water and/or steam under pressure, an infusion chamber facing the injector device and capable to receive the cartridge, an actuation system, designed to cause displacements of the infusion chamber between a spaced position and a close position with respect to the injector device, a loading arrangement that includes an inlet passage and retention means, switchable between a retention condition and a release condition of the cartridge by means of displacements of the infusion chamber with respect to the injector device. The delivery assembly further includes ejector means, functionally distinct from the retention means and capable of pushing the cartridge towards the outside of the infusion chamber in function of the displacement of the infusion chamber towards its spaced position from the injector device.

Abstract: A disposable cartridge (10), which is suitable to be used in a process of preparing a beverage, comprises a beverage making unit (1). A duct system (30) of the beverage making unit (1) has a main duct (31), a first subsidiary duct (32) which merges into the main duct (31), and a second subsidiary duct (33) which merges into the main duct (31) as well, at a different position than the first subsidiary duct (32). In a process of preparing a beverage, a first fluid is supplied by the main duct (31), and flows of a second fluid are supplied by the subsidiary ducts (32, 33). In this way, it is achieved that the second fluid is mixed with the first fluid in two steps. In case the second fluid is used for heating the first fluid, local boiling of the first fluid is prevented.

Abstract: An apparatus for making beverages including a frothing device fluidly coupled to an outlet of a wand fluidly coupled to a boiler. The frothing device includes a nozzle configured to be positioned below the surface of the liquid, and a valve member movable between a first position in which steam is prevented from moving between the outlet of the wand and the nozzle and a second position in which steam is permitted to move between the outlet of the wand and the nozzle. The frothing device also includes a float device that maintains the frothing device on the surface of liquid.

Abstract: A machine for preparing liquid products via cartridges (10) comprises a delivery assembly (30) that includes at least: —one injector device (34), to introduce into a cartridge (10) water and/or steam under pressure; —an infusion chamber (31), facing the injector device (34) and designed to receive the cartridge (10); —an actuation system (35), designed to cause relative displacements between the injector device (34) and the infusion chamber (31), between a spaced position and a close position; —a loading arrangement that includes an inlet duct (40) and retention means (42, 47), which can be switched between a retention condition, where the cartridge (10) is kept in a position substantially coaxial to the infusion chamber (31) and to the injector device (34), and a release condition, where the cartridge (10) is free to fall towards an outlet passage (41) of the delivery assembly (30).

Abstract: A coffee/espresso machine having a milk froth generating device for cappuccino and including at least one outflow tube fluid-conductively connected with an espresso supply. The espresso supply is connected to an outlet of an espresso brewing unit, and at least one milk froth tube is connected to the milk froth generating device. At least one milk froth tube leads into an upper end of the outflow tube.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved hot beverage machine, comprising a water reservoir provided on a main body for filling of water, a conduit extended from said water reservoir to guide a steam heated to a predetermined temperature to a water pipe and correspondingly to a location having a brewing material placed therein for brewing; wherein after a completely brewed hot beverage is in a tank for a predetermined time, an outlet of said tank is opened to allow brewed hot beverage to enter into a container underneath said outlet; characterized in that: an upper opening circumference of said tank can be mounted with a supporting stand and related components for the brewing material to be placed therein such that easy replacements of mechanical components of said hot beverage machine for brewing hot beverages can be achieved and the practical usages of the hot beverage machine can be enhanced.

Abstract: An automated hot beverage dispensing machine and method for producing hot beverages is disclosed. The preferred apparatus includes a plurality of flavoring reservoirs connected through pumps and valves to a plenum that dispenses the flavoring directly into a mixing chamber. The mixing chamber also receives milk and steam, facilitating mixing of the milk, steam, and flavoring, and dispensing the mixture into a serving cup. The dispensing machine may include a coffee brewing system, whereby the machine can produce flavored lattés, cappuccinos, and the like. In the preferred embodiment, pressurized steam is directed through a venturi assembly that draws in refrigerated milk and ambient air and delivers the fluids to a vortex mixer to produce steamed and/or foamed milk. The flavoring is delivered to the vortex mixer, and steam is channeled to the plenum to facilitate delivery of the flavoring and maintain the cleanliness of the plenum.

Abstract: A multi-path valve arrangement in a beverage making unit by which, optionally, various beverages can be prepared. The multi-path valve arrangement includes a multi-path valve with a housing provided with a cold milk inlet, a cold water inlet, a valve outlet and an air opening. A valve body in the housing is suited to connect the cold milk inlet having an adjustable throttling with the valve outlet. The valve body is set by a step motor which is connected with a programmable control of the valve body position.

Abstract: Beverage making equipment, water heating equipment, and methods for using such equipment which use heated water and dispenses heated water from a heated water reservoir. The apparatus includes a water line extending from the heated water reservoir to a dispensing point, the line having a positive slope between the reservoir and dispensing point. A vent tube may also be used communicating with and coupled to the line with a return passage communicating with the vent and reservoir. The method of dispensing water from a heated water reservoir involves dispensing water from the reservoir at one level and delivering water to a dispensing point at a second level positioned at a positive dimension above the dispensing port of the heated water reservoir. the method may also include providing a vent tube coupled to and communicating with the line for removing gas which evolves from water passing through the line and returning the gas to the reservoir.

Abstract: An apparatus for preparing a coffee beverage inducing the passage of an extraction fluid through a dose of coffee by heating the fluid, includes a separating device arranged to separate a fraction of the beverage obtained with a prevalently liquid phase of the fluid from a further fraction of the beverage obtained with a prevalently steam phase of the fluid. A method for obtaining a coffee includes heating an extraction fluid so as to induce the passage of the extraction fluid through a dose of coffee to obtain the beverage, and separating a fraction of the beverage obtained with a prevalently liquid phase of the extraction fluid from a further fraction of the beverage obtained with a prevalently steam phase of said extraction fluid.