Abstract: A dispensing device for dispensing coffee, milk, and/or milk foam includes a first fluid duct for supplying coffee and a second fluid duct for supplying steam. The first fluid duct opens into one coffee discharge pipe. The second fluid duct has an outlet opening for steam. The dispensing device includes a mixing arrangement for mixing milk with steam and/or air, and a housing. The mixing arrangement includes a milk duct, air duct, inlet opening, and a discharge pipe. The housing partially surrounds the fluid ducts, discharge pipe, and mixing arrangement, and includes a first and second housing part. The first housing part houses the fluid ducts, and the second housing part includes a recess for the mixing arrangement. The mixing arrangement may be positioned relative to the second fluid duct to produce a fluid connection between the second fluid duct outlet opening and the mixing arrangement inlet opening.

Abstract: In described embodiments, a hot liquid extraction system includes a brew chamber having a brew chamber upper end and a brew chamber lower end. A steam chamber is disposed below the brew chamber. A filtering base is removably inserted into the brew chamber. The filtering base has a diaphragm having a plurality of openings formed therein. The diaphragm is movable via fluid pressure between a first position in which the openings are open, thereby providing fluid communication between the brew chamber and the steam chamber and a second position in which the openings are closed, thereby precluding fluid communication between the brew chamber and the steam chamber.

Abstract: The invention concerns a nozzle (1) adaptable to the steam outlet of a coffee machine designed to froth a liquid, said nozzle is made in one single piece and comprises: an opening (3) for steam supply, a restriction (4) in the extension of said opening; and a flared zone (5) in the axis of said restriction and said opening providing an outlet for the liquid, having a cross-section substantially equal to the cross-section of the opening; and perpendicular to the opening a conduit (2) for supply of the liquid and an air inlet (40).

Abstract: A hydraulic circuit for instant beverage machines includes a tank, a water extraction pipe contained in the tank, a flow-meter connected to the extraction pipe, a pump, a first vibration-damping valve, a boiler, a second relief and safety valve, a water/steam faucet, a third beverage flow valve, and a recovery tank.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a machine able to dispense hot beverages such as short coffee, long coffee, tea and/or hot water. The machine comprises a substantially aluminium supporting structure, side panels, base and top, which are substantially made of aluminium, a pod-holding unit and a heat exchanger for heating the water. The heat exchanger for heating the water comprises an elongated body provided with a casing housing internally a heating element provided with helical grooves for passage of the water and, centrally, with a longitudinal cavity which houses a resistance. The parts are configured and formed so that the machine may be used in particularly small spaces such as those on-board vessels of the yacht and boat type and aircraft and/or in very small size kitchens with little available space.

Abstract: A machine for preparing coffee and milk based beverages having a steam generator, a first apparatus for producing coffee as well as a source of liquid milk and a second apparatus for preparing and dispensing a beverage from a concentrated fluid product. The second apparatus includes a beverage preparation device associated with a second dispenser connected via first line to a first connector unit of the second apparatus to receive a concentrated fluid product pre-diluted in the first connector unit and, via a second line, to the source of liquid milk to complete dilution and obtain a diluted product to be dispensed from the beverage preparation device.

Abstract: The automatic coffee machine (1) comprises a milk container (2) associated with a milk emulsifier device (9) housed in the container (2) with air and steam coming from a steam dispenser (11) of the coffee machine (1), a front coffee dispenser group (3) having in turn a first (4) and at least a second (5) exit ways of coffee, oriented towards a lower positioning zone (6) of a first (7, 8) and at least a second (7, 8) cups, the emulsifier device (9) being provided with an emulsified milk dispenser (15) placed laterally to the front coffee dispenser group (3) and having in turn a first (17) and at least a second (18) exit way of the emulsified milk, oriented towards the positioning zone (6) and offset in the. depth direction of the coffee machine, the coffee dispenser (3) having at least one first work position in which also the first (4) and at least a second (5) exit way are offset, in the depth direction of the coffee machine.

Abstract: In described embodiments, a hot liquid extraction system includes a brew chamber having a brew chamber upper end and a brew chamber lower end. A steam chamber is disposed below the brew chamber. The steam chamber has a steam chamber upper end, a steam chamber lower end in fluid communication with the brew chamber, and a fluid inlet. A filtering base is removably inserted into the brew chamber. A boiler has a first steam outlet in fluid communication with the fluid inlet and a second outlet in fluid communication with the fluid inlet. A fresh water supply conduit is in fluid communication with boiler and with the fluid inlet. A method of brewing a beverage is also disclosed.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an apparatus for heating and frothing a beverage product, in particular milk, comprising a steam generator, a compressed air source, an air supply conduit connected to the compressed air source to supply air from the compressed air source to the steam generator, and a steam/air conduit connected to the steam generator to supply a steam/air mixture from the steam generator into the beverage product.

Abstract: This invention relates to a brew group for an infusion machine, in particular a machine for espresso coffee, comprising infusion means (43, 43b) designed for the preparation of infusions, a holding chamber (41) hydraulically connected to the said infusion means (43, 43b) and comprising 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 comprises the brew group and a method for operating the machine.

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: The present invention relates to a frothing device for the frothing of milk, comprising a steam supply channel which opens into a mixing chamber, a milk supply channel which opens into the mixing chamber and comprising an air supply channel, wherein the mixing chamber is connected in communication with a froth chamber. It is essential to the invention that the air supply channel opens into the froth chamber, with the result that an almost identical dispensing temperature of milk froth and milk can be achieved.

Abstract: A steam system includes a cooking chamber, a housing comprising a volume of water and an inlet to receive steam, condensate, drain water, and/or weak steam from the cooking chamber, a sensor that detects a temperature of the water, a dispenser that sprays cooling water into the water to reduce the temperature of the water if the temperature exceeds a predetermined level, and an outlet to drain a portion of the water from the housing.

Abstract: The machine (1) comprises a support structure (3), in which the following are provided: a refillable water reservoir (4); a boiler (6) provided with an electric heater (7, 8); a pump (9) for supplying a flow of water from the reservoir (4) to the boiler (6); a first electric connector (5) for connecting the machine (1) to an AC supply voltage source; a dispensing unit (35) which is connected to the boiler (6), for dispensing a flow of hot water and/or steam, and to which the following can be coupled: a dose-holder unit (36) for receiving a dose, pre-packaged or loose, of a substance for the preparation of a beverage; a unit (24) for controlling operation of the machine (1); and at least one operating device (25) which can be operated so as to activate preparation of a beverage.

Abstract: A device for producing froth includes means (1) which are adapted to perform a pumping function and to perform a mixing process of at least one liquid and a gas at the same time. Furthermore, the device includes suitable means (2) for supplying the liquid and the gas to the pumping means (1), and suitable means (3) for discharging froth from the pumping means (1). In order for the device to be capable of producing hot froth, means (4) for supplying steam are provided, and arranged such as to supply the steam directly to the pumping means (1), in particular to an outlet side of the pumping means (1). This way of attributing a heating functionality to the pumping means (1) has many advantages, including the option of a most compact design. Furthermore, the steam may be used for cleaning the pumping means (1).

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: For the production from a liquid food of an at least partially foamed food, in particular at least partially foamed milk or a milk product, the liquid food, which is contained in a container (1) or a capsule-type formation, is expelled from the container or the capsule, and at least partially foamed and subsequently expelled by generating an at least partially turbulent flow.

Abstract: A heating device for a beverage-making machine has at least one water pump for supplying water to a first continuous-flow heater for generating hot water and to a second continuous-flow heater for generating steam. The first continuous-flow heater is switched over, if required, to steam generation and be connected up to the second continuous-flow heater. The second continuous-flow heater can also be switched over, if required, to hot-water generation and to be connected up to the first continuous-flow heater. A control means which is provided for controlling the switchover operations and the connections between the continuous-flow heaters, and is configured depending upon entries input into an operating unit and relating to the previous operating state of the heating device. In comparison with conventional appliances, the configuration envisaged for the heating device also makes it possible to provide relatively large quantities of hot water or steam in a relatively short period of time.

Abstract: The beverage appliance of the present invention includes a venturi having a steam inlet and a milk inlet. The steam inlet and milk inlet each include a solenoid valve configurable between an open state and a closed state. The solenoid valves are electrically coupled to a processor and are controllable through first and second switches. In operation, upon activation of the first switch, the solenoid valves are controlled to their open states to deliver milk and steam to the venturi to produce frothed milk. When a desired amount of frothed milk has been dispensed, the user deactivates the first switch and the processor controls only the milk inlet solenoid valve to its closed state. The steam inlet solenoid valve remains in its open state for a predetermined amount of time such that a burst of steam only is forced through the venturi and distribution lines to purge them of milk.

Abstract: Apparatus for preparing and dispensing hot or cold milk, in the frothed or non-frothed state, in a coffee machine for preparing various types of beverages based on coffee with milk, said coffee machine comprising a coffee apparatus for producing coffee with an associated coffee dispensing device, a first water heater for producing steam, a second water heater for producing hot water for preparation of the coffee in said coffee apparatus, said first and second heaters being connected to a water source for replenishing them with water, a frothing device provided with an internal chamber for frothing the milk when required and at least one nozzle for dispensing the milk externally, said apparatus comprising a milk line for the milk, connecting a source of liquid milk to the frothing device, a steam line for the steam, connecting the first water heater to the frothing device, as well as an air line for the air, connecting a source of air to the said frothing device, a pump arranged along the milk line for supplyi

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 dispensing device for milk and/or milk foam is provided that includes a mixing device for mixing steam, milk and/or air. A mixing device may include a chamber, a first line for the supply of milk into the chamber, a second line for a supply of steam into the chamber, a third line for the supply of air into the chamber, at least one outlet for dispensing the milk and/or the milk foam from the chamber, a valve including an adjustable regulating shaft for regulating the supply of milk and/or air into the chamber. By adjusting the regulating shaft between different predetermined positions at least one flow of milk may be switched on and switched off and/or altered and a flow of air may be switched on and switched off and/or altered. A dispensing device may further include a drive motor for adjusting the regulating shaft of the valve and a control device for controlling the drive motor.

Abstract: The coffee machine (1) comprises: at least a coffee supply module (7); a support surface (9) for cups, arranged beneath said coffee supply module (7); at least a first steam supply nozzle (13), to which a milk container (15) can be connected, equipped with an emulsifying module (12) having a connection seat in which the first steam supply nozzle is inserted when the container is connected to the steam supply nozzle. The emulsifying module comprises a pipe for sucking up milk from the container and a nozzle for supplying hot or emulsified milk (67). The steam supply nozzle (13) is oriented toward the support surface (9) and the connection seat of the container (15) is oriented upwardly when the container is placed on the support surface (9) with the first steam supply nozzle (13) inserted in the connection seat.

Abstract: In an improved method and machine for espresso coffee there are provided one or more operating units (10) each of which comprises a boiler, a pump, a heating unit, a group (26) for aroma extraction and dispensing of the espresso coffee brew, including related conduits. Each unit (10) is equipped with a system for controlling and adjusting the espresso coffee brewing parameters, in particular the water pressure.

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: A beverage making device includes a case, a first beverage making unit, a second beverage making unit and a third beverage making unit, all of the three beverage making units are installed to the case, and inlet pipes, outlet pipes and cables are connected between the units so as to save space required.

Abstract: The container (9) comprising an emulsifying device (17) having a milk suction pipe (37), a nozzle (19) for supplying hot or emulsified milk with a discharge end outside the container, a steam inlet (33) and an air inlet (40).

Abstract: The coffee machine comprises: a water tank (11); at least one first pump (17); at least one first boiler (31) for heating the water; a coffee brewing unit (25); and circuits to feed hot water and/or steam, with a first outlet (43) for hot water or steam towards an emulsifying device which can be connected to a connection joint (35) of the coffee machine; a second outlet for hot water and/or wash water.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an infusion machine comprising a boiler having first heating means provided for heating a liquid suitable for infusion preparation, in particular for espresso coffee preparation, at least one supplying group (14), and infusion means (43, 43b) provided for infusion preparation and associated with second heating means (46). The supplying group (14) in the machine further comprises an accumulation chamber (41) hydraulically connected to the infusion means (43, 43b) and arranged to contain a certain amount of liquid. Second heating means (46) are provided, which are arranged to directly heat the liquid contained in the accumulation chamber (41) for hydraulically feeding the infusion means (43). The invention also relates to the supplying group and the method of manufacturing the machine.

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.

Abstract: Apparatus comprising a containing element for heating an extracting fluid, a transferring arrangement for causing the passage of the fluid through a dose of coffee and a collecting arrangement for collecting a beverage produced with the extracting fluid during the passage: there being provided a separating arrangement arranged for separating 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, the separating arrangement leading into distinct zones of the collecting arrangement.

Abstract: A system for preparing a beverage comprises a beverage maker (15) and a cartridge (10) that is removably arranged in the beverage maker (15). The cartridge (10) comprises a beverage making unit (1) having a duct system (30) for conveying flows of steam and flows of liquid. The duct system (30) comprises two combinations of ducts (31, 32; 41, 42), wherein the arrangement of the ducts (31, 32; 41, 42) of each combination is adapted to enabling a flow of steam to perform a pumping action on a flow of liquid. The beverage maker (15) comprises a steam generator (16) having two steam sockets (17, 18), wherein each of the steam sockets (17, 18) is in communication with another combination of ducts (31, 32; 41, 42) of the duct system (30). As each of the combinations of ducts (31, 32; 41, 42) is associated with a different steam inlet (36, 46), and the steam inlets (36, 46) may be located at different positions on the cartridge (10), it is achieved that the duct system (30) may be of a relatively simple design.

Abstract: A device for heating milk includes a body (2) having: a steam injecting conduit and a milk conduit emerging into a suction chamber; and a heating chamber (4) extending from an outlet of the suction chamber to an outlet (7) through which the heated milk can flow outside said body (2). The heating chamber (4) includes a globally helical inner conduit (40). A coffee machine including such a device is also disclosed.

Abstract: Coffee machine, comprising at least one steam generator for producing steam and an apparatus for producing the coffee with associated dispensing device, a storage tank containing a ready prepared liquid chocolate product with a density suitable for being a conventional chocolate beverage, a heating device provided with an inlet and an outlet for the product to be heated and an inlet for introducing the steam, a line between said storage tank and the inlet of said heating device, a metering pump arranged along said line for conveying a predetermined amount of chocolate-based product from said storage tank to said heating device and for circulating it inside it, a line for the steam, connecting said steam generator to said inlet for the steam of the heating device, an intercept valve arranged along the said steam line as well as a beverage dispensing device connected to the outlet of the said heating device.

Abstract: The inventive coffee machine is provided with a housing (2) including a coffee output (9, 10), a steam generator and a steam output nozzle (20) which is movable with respect to the housing and is provided with a free end (22) immersible into a cup. The free end is introducible into a space under the coffee output (9, 10) and is translationally displaceable between an elevated position in which the free end (22) is placed at least substantially at the level of the coffee output (9, 10) and a lower position in which the free end (22) is immersible into a cup which is positioned in such a way that it receives espresso coffee.

Abstract: A beverage preparation apparatus with a three-way valve that includes an inlet; a first outlet; a second outlet; a first member movable between first and second extreme positions under the influence of liquid flow from the inlet to the first and/or second outlets from the first extreme position towards the second extreme position which closes off the first outlet so that the liquid flow then extends from the inlet to the second outlet; a second member which is freely moveable under the influence of a liquid flow from the inlet to the second outlet between a third and fourth extreme position wherein under the influence of the liquid flow from the inlet to the second outlet, moves from the third extreme position to the fourth extreme position and in the third extreme position blocks a liquid flow from the second outlet in the direction of the inlet.

Abstract: A device for frothing and steaming milk has a steamer (1) and a steamer tube (3) connected to a steam conduit (2). The steam conduit (2) is provided with an air feeder port (6) which can be closed off. The steamer tube (3) has a temperature sensor (11) for sensing the milk temperature. The device has furthermore a controller (13) devised to open/close the air feeder port (6) as a function of the operating mode and/or sensed milk temperature. When the milk is steamed the air feeder port (6) remains closed whilst when frothing the milk it normally firstly remains closed until opened at a predefined milk temperature so that air can be mixed in the flow of steam.

Abstract: A device for producing froth comprises means (1) which are adapted to perform a pumping function and to perform a mixing process of at least one liquid and a gas at the same time. Furthermore, the device comprises suitable means (2) for supplying the liquid and the gas to the pumping means (1), and suitable means (3) for discharging froth from the pumping means (1). In order for the device to be capable of producing hot froth, means (4) for supplying steam are provided, and arranged such as to supply the steam directly to the pumping means (1), in particular to an outlet side of the pumping means (1). This way of attributing a heating functionality to the pumping means (1) has many advantages, including the option of a most compact design. Furthermore, the steam may be used for cleaning the pumping means (1).

Abstract: A coffee machine has a housing, a dispenser head on the housing for pouring brewed coffee into a cup below the dispenser head, a horizontally open steam/hot-water dispenser fixed on the housing adjacent the dispenser head, and a container adapted to hold a supply of milk and having a cover. A connection conduit opening into a chamber on the cover and can fit with the steam/hot-water dispenser to receive steam or hot water therefrom. An air-suction conduit opens into the chamber, and a milk-suction conduit extends from the chamber down into the milk in the container. A discharge conduit carried on the container and opening into the chamber can shift into a working position directed into the zone to feed a mixture of steam or hot water and air and/or milk into the cup below the dispenser head.

Abstract: A device for heating and/or frothing milk for machines for preparing hot beverages such as a cappuccino, comprising a tubular body inside which a Venturi tube is provided which has an intake end which can be associated with a source of steam and a discharge end, a mixing chamber, which is defined between a converging portion and a diverging portion of the Venturi tube, and at least one milk supply duct, which has a drawing port which can be associated with a milk reservoir and a port for introducing the milk in the mixing chamber, the milk being drawn into the mixing chamber due to the partial vacuum created by the flow of steam between the converging portion and the diverging portion of the Venturi tube.

Abstract: A method and apparatus using steam to sterilize liquid dispensers. This is achieved by injecting steam into a drained dispenser machine equipped with a cover having a safety valve that matches the top of the dispenser to provide sealing. The steam is generated by a steam generator physically integrated with the new liquid dispenser machine. The steam circulates through the fluid compartment of the liquid dispenser and continues through its conduits and exits at the taps which are held open by a stepped boss. The sanitizing period can be adjusted and controlled. After sterilizing the machine, the cap of the dispenser is removed and its taps are released in order to return the machine back to its normal operation.

Abstract: A device for preparing froth, in particular for preparing milk froth by means of hot steam output by a domestic coffee machine, contains an elongate nozzle body having a rear end and a front end, which can be connected in the region of its rear end to a hot steam source and which has an outlet nozzle in the region of its front end. A casing sleeve having a rear end and a front end surrounds the nozzle body and has an air intake opening in the region of its rear end and an outlet opening in the region of its front end, an intermediate space being formed between the nozzle body and the casing sleeve. An outer sleeve surrounds the casing sleeve at least in the region of the rear end of the casing sleeve.

Abstract: A beverage maker for making a beverage on the basis of at least one fluid beverage ingredient comprises a duct system having at least one duct for conveying the fluid beverage ingredient, and at least two elements (1, 2) for defining the duct system, which are adapted to be fitted closely together. Recesses are arranged in a surface of at least one of these two elements (1, 2), and serve for defining the ducts of the duct system. The duct system is easy to clean, wherein a cleaning action simply involves taking the elements (1, 2) apart and cleaning their surfaces. Preferably, the duct system is adapted to convey steam besides the fluid beverage ingredient, wherein the steam serves for heating and pumping the fluid beverage ingredient. Furthermore, the duct system may also comprise at least one duct for supplying air to the fluid beverage ingredient, so that a frothed beverage may be obtained.

Abstract: A device for transporting milk includes a nozzle coupled via a line to a milk container. A steam generating unit produces hot milk foam at the nozzle. A milk outlet is coupled to the nozzle. A pump to pump cold milk is arranged between the milk container and the milk outlet.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for preparing liquid from solid materials such as medicinal materials. It includes liquid and materials for preparing the liquid at the beginning and the end of the process. The device uses a steam generator, an intermediate switch valve and a material chamber, which are connected sequentially with pipes, and further includes an outlet pipe, which is at the bottom of the material chamber. The method involves the steps of: distillation and absorption; immersion; and repetition. The device and method for preparing liquid alternates the distillation and immersion steps, which reduces harmful substance in the prepared liquid that would otherwise occur by conventional methods. The method not only extracts soluble effective matter, but also reduces loss of volatile effective matter. Ultimately, the method makes the steps for preparing liquid simple and clear, and it can prepare liquid quantitatively, effectively and without pasty and shrinkable characteristics.

Abstract: In an espresso coffee maker having an espresso brew unit (1) and a coffee outflow duct (18) in fluid-conductive connection with the espresso brew unit via a crema valve (15) and having an end sided coffee outflow (19), no brewed residual coffee should remain in the coffee outflow duct nor leak out, for instance as leakage, through the coffee outflow. In order to avoid this, a return-flow suction unit (21), which is preferably independent except for a drive means, is in fluid-conductive connection with the coffee outflow duct (18) between crema valve (15) and coffee outflow (19), which is automatically activated when a brewing process is finished.

Abstract: An improved steam nozzle assembly for electric coffee machines, having an external pipe (1) where an internal pipe (2) is inserted, through which heated steam flows, and provided with a lower section (2a) externally protruding from the lower end (1a) of the external pipe (1), with a dispenser spout (5) screwed on it, which is axially provided with a blind conduit (5a) where the lower section (2a) of the internal pipe (2), is inserted, the lower end (2b) of which overhangs the nozzles (5b) obtained on the bottom of the conduit (5a) of the spout (5).

Abstract: A brewing unit of a drinks preparation device is provided with a first housing device with a coffee brewing chamber (4), having an outlet (5), for housing coffee powder and for preparation of a drink therefrom, provided with a second housing device (6) with a housing chamber (7) having a through opening (22) in the base thereof for an alternative or additional milk or foamed milk regeneration, said second device being suitable for housing a milk or milk powder portion unit (14) and for preparation of the milk or milk foam.

Abstract: A mixing head for producing heated milk in the form of a froth or water-milk mixture. The mixing head includes a steam feed, a milk inlet, a mixing area where the steam feed and milk inlet join and the steam and milk combine, an outlet nozzle for draining the resulting mixture from the mixing head, a rinsing medium supply, a milk supply and a transfer mechanism that provides relative movement between the milk inlet and the rinsing medium supply or the milk supply for selectively bringing the milk inlet into fluid connection with the rinsing medium supply or the milk supply, such that milk or a rinsing medium, as desired, can enter the mixing head at the milk inlet.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (15) for foaming milk by means of external suction equipment (35), used as in accessory for espresso machines or similar domestic appliances. Said device comprises a fixed part that can be connected to the steam supply conduit (1) of said machines and an easily interchangeable disposable part (26) containing all parts that come into contact with the milk. The invention is characterised in that components of the disposable parts and in some embodiments of the invention even the entire disposable part consist(s) of thin-walled plastic tubes of the drinking straw type, which can be produced in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner by extrusion and subsequent thermoplastic forming. The use of the inventive device obviates the need for the inconvenient cleaning of conventional foaming nozzles and eliminates hygiene problems.