Abstract: The invention relates to dispensing devices for drinks or similar dosable liquid foodstuffs, e.g. coffee, milk or soft drinks, comprising manually actuatable selector switches for determining the type and quantity of the foodstuff to be dispensed. The aim of the invention is to simplify the use of one such dispensing device. To this end, said device is provided with an identification device for identifying different types of containers for receiving the foodstuff with subsequent consumption from the container, and for emitting an identification signal describing the container. The dispensing device is also provided with a valve device which, on the basis of the identification signal, connects at least one of a plurality of supply devices for supplying a defined foodstuff or a mixture of defined foodstuffs by means of a filling device, and fills the container with a predetermined quantity of the defined foodstuff or the mixture thereof.

Abstract: Various forms of apparatus (1) for preparing and dispensing beverages, preferably based on coffee, can receive instructions from a customer and deliver the beverage automatically. The apparatus is preferably capable of fully automatic cleaning in a cleaning cycle in which a cleaning agent is flushed through the lines (62, 64), and the apparatus is preferably arranged to ensure that not only are the lines cleaned properly but that no cleaning agent can be dispensed. The apparatus includes a brewer assembly (78) having a chamber (81) in which freshly ground coffee can be introduced and either espresso or filter coffee can be automatically prepared by passing hot water through the chamber and removing the spent coffee grounds. The coffee may be stored as coffee beans in sealed containers (208) that can automatically be pierced to release the beans which are ground immediately before preparation of the beverage.

Abstract: An apparatus constituted by a plurality of dispensing assemblies for automatically preparing and dispensing espresso coffee, each assembly of the plurality being of the type comprising a kinematic arrangement having a connecting rod and crank for moving the members responsible for preparing and dispensing the coffee in a prescribed operating sequence. The kinematic arrangement comprises a pair of connecting rods which are connected, at one end, to a respective crank and motor means for actuating at least one of the cranks. The dispensing assemblies are beside each other and the connecting rod of an assembly is provided with means which can function as the connecting rod of the adjacent assembly and transfer the rotational movement to the relevant crank so that all the dispensing assemblies are actuated at the same time by means of a single motor.

Abstract: Automatic apparatus for treating milk by means of steam comprises a steam-generating source, a reservoir containing the milk to be treated, a mixing chamber into which a flow of milk with a predetermined flow-rate and at least one flow of steam with a predetermined flow-rate are brought through respective ducts opening into the mixing chamber, the chamber being provided with an opening for the delivery of the mixture produced, as well as a peristaltic pump operating on the milk duct between the reservoir and the chamber and driven by an electric motor with adjustable speed. The flow-rate of the pump and consequently the ratio between the flow of milk and the flow of steam can thus be varied so as to achieve the desired temperature in the final product.

Abstract: An apparatus for preparing a coffee beverage comprises a containing element for heating an extracting fluid, a transferring arrangement for causing the fluid to pass through a dose of coffee and an inhibiting arrangement arranged for inhibiting the passing through when the fluid contains a substantial steam phase, the inhibiting arrangement comprising a pressure-adjusting arrangement arranged for adjusting a pressure of the fluid inside the containing element and distinct from an overpressure adjusting arrangement comprised in the apparatus; a method for obtaining a coffee beverage comprises heating an extracting fluid of the beverage to induce the fluid to pass through a dose of coffee, inhibiting the passing through when the fluid contains a substantial steam phase and suitably adjusting a pressure of the extracting fluid before the passing through, the adjusting being obtained through a pressure-adjusting arrangement distinct from an overpressure adjusting arrangement.

Abstract: The beverage can presents immediately below the lid a first chamber not initially containing beverages ready for use, but intended to receive the final beverage, the first chamber being separated by a sealed baffle from a second chamber which already contains, a drinkable liquid; the sealed baffle presenting a housing constructed to receive a filtering device provided with a tube intended to dip into the interior of the second chamber. Elements are provided to enable the consumer to dispose the filtering device in the utilization condition in which communication is established between the two chambers via the filtering device such that, when the can is subjected to the action of a heat source, the liquid contained in the lower chamber is transferred into the first chamber (38) by passing through the substance, to give rise to the formation of the beverage.

Abstract: A foamed milk system for creating foamed milk from a source of condensed milk, a source of water, and a source of pressurized air. The foamed milk system may include a milk inlet system for the condensed milk, a water inlet system for the water, an air inlet system for the pressurized air, and a mixing area to mix the condensed milk, the water, and the pressurized air.

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 steam unit, in particular for a machine for espresso beverages, includes a supporting island with external fastening, which connects removably to the machine; a tank for frothing milk, the base of which connects removably to the supporting island, which in turn comprises an electro/hydraulic circuit to deliver steam from the machine to the tank, by means of the connection at the base of the tank, said tank including an upper part for heating and emulsifying the beverages.

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 frothing device adaptable to a steam outlet for producing milk froth comprising a steam inlet, a milk inlet, an air inlet, a vacuum chamber adapted to receive steam, liquid milk and air therein, a restriction with a limited cross-section adapted for conducting the product there through at high velocity, an emulsifying chamber; the emulsifying chamber having an outlet for draining the product froth out of the chamber and a froth flow regulation system configured for breaking the kinetic energy of the froth stream and for changing its direction sufficiently so that the froth is gently delivered out of the device. The frothing device can be mounted on a coffee machine to deliver cappuccino upon a push of a button.

Abstract: A device for frothing and steaming milk comprises 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) comprises a temperature sensor (11) for sensing the milk temperature. The device comprises 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 steam automatic dispensing device for preparing hot and/or frothed drinks, includes a first duct (13) for introducing steam inside a drink; a second duct (15) for introducing air inside the drink; an electronic control unit (51) for controlling the introduction of steam and/or air through said first and second duct, the control unit being programmable to carry out a predetermined control cycle depending on the desired drink to be obtained and on the drink temperature.

Abstract: Based on an outflow distributor for espresso coffee makers comprising one common coffee inlet (2) and at least two partial outflow openings (19, 20) connected to it in a flow conducting manner, and flow dampening means disposed upstream of the partial outflow openings, brewed coffee is to be equally distributed over two cups while avoiding considerably differently-sized air bubbles. To this end, two partial outflow ducts (3, 4) branched off from the common coffee inlet (2) include an open end section (5, 6) each, which is directed in a baffle chamber (11, 12) each against a baffle wall (9, 10). One of the baffle chambers (11, 12) each is formed in one outflow body (7, 8) each which includes, in spaced relationship below said baffle wall (9, 10), one of the partial outflow openings (19, 20).

Abstract: In a device for dispensing milk and/or milk froth from a container (1) containing milk, this container is placed in a coolable cabinet (3). Via an extraction line (4) and a further line (5), the milk reaches an emulsifying device (6) disposed outside the coolable cabinet. The product received is dispensed from this emulsifying device (6) via the discharge nozzle (7). Steam is feedable into the emulsifying device (6) with which steam the milk conducted through the emulsifying device (6) is able to be heated up and/or frothed up. The further line (5) consists of a flexible tube which is placed in a peristaltic pump (9). This peristaltic pump (9) is equipped with switching means (10) with which the peristaltic pump (9) is switchable from a closed pump state into an open pump state releasing the passage of the flexible tube (5). Milk of different temperatures or milk froth can be optimally dispensed using this device; in addition an optimal cleaning can be carried out.

Abstract: Milk froth generating device for generating milk froth from milk powder (7) and hot water comprises a hot water supply and a water heater. For simply obtaining milk froth of high quality, the milk froth generating device comprises a substantially rotation-symmetrical hot water sprayer head having hot water channels (9, 12) downwardly directed and open at the bottom. Some of them are disposed close to an outer convex surface (10) of the hot water sprayer head and some extending close to a central axis of the hot water sprayer head (1). The hot water channels are connected via a hot water distribution chamber (16) in the hot water sprayer head, and the hot water supply (17) with a hot water pressure generator and the water heater.

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: A nozzle adaptable to the steam outlet of a coffee machine is designed to froth a liquid such as e.g. milk. Said nozzle comprises in the direction of the steam flow path: a steam inlet opening, a restriction with limited cross-section adapted to accelerate the velocity of the steam flow, and at least one cavity having a cross-section larger than the restriction and from which the frothed liquid can be drained. The nozzle further comprises an outer casing comprising a smoothening reservoir and a jet breaking surface facing the opening and at least one outlet opening radially offset relatively to the opening of the portion of the enlarged mixing cavity. The outer casing is arranged at least partially around the tubular portion of mixing cavity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hot water unit for a hot beverage maker, in particular a coffee machine provided with a milk foamer, said hot water unit comprising a boiler for providing brewing water and an evaporator for providing steam. The boiler includes a boiler supply, a boiler heating means and a brewing water outlet. The evaporator includes an evaporator supply, an evaporator heating means and a steam outlet. According to the present invention, the boiler and the evaporator are arranged in series, the evaporator supply being implemented as a brewing water supply and connected to the brewing water outlet of the boiler. In addition, the present invention relates to the use of such a hot water unit for connection to a milk roamer and to a hot beverage maker comprising a milk foamer and such a hot water unit.

Abstract: An apparatus for preparing a beverage provided with a storage tank, a heater and a three-way valve. The three-way valve is provided with in inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet. The three-way valve is provided with a first member which is freely movable between a first and second extreme position wherein the first member can move under the influence of the liquid flow from the inlet to the first outlet and/or the second outlet from the first extreme position towards the second extreme position and in the second extreme position closes off the first outlet so that the liquid flow then extends from the inlet to the second outlet.

Abstract: A coffee maker allowing simultaneous brewing and frothing includes a steam boiler, a brewing unit, and a frothing unit. Steam from the steam boiler is respectively introduced into both the brewing unit and the frothing unit. The brewing unit contains a disk to accommodate a coffee pack. The frothing unit disposed on top of the steam boiler includes an inlet tube to introduce steam, a duct connecting to an inlet tube and an outlet, a suction tube connecting to one side of the duct close to the outlet. The suction tube has an opening located inside the frothing unit. A replaceable disk is movably inserted into a chamber of the brewing unit and is made in a size corresponding to that of a coffee pack.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for pumping a liquid from a packaging, for the distribution thereof in a heated, foamed or emulsified form, comprising a sub-assembly for aspiration by venturi effect which can be connected to the tubing of a pressurized liquid flow generator. Said sub-assembly comprises a body with a liquid flow inlet duct, opening out in an aspiration chamber and at least one aspiration duct for the liquid contained in the packaging. The invention is characterized in that the aspiration sub-assembly comprises a nozzle and fixing and opening means, connecting the nozzle to the packaging and connecting the aspiration duct with the liquid inside the packaging. The invention is of application to the production of cappuccinos or other foamed drinks.

Abstract: The invention concerns an espresso coffeemaker having a removable water reservoir (4) connected to a main hydraulic circuit including a pump which sucks up water from the reservoir (4) and sends it into a heating unit and hence through the ground coffee contained in a filter-holder, said reservoir (4) being also connected to a return water hydraulic circuit exiting from the heating unit. The invention is characterized in that the device (28) connecting said reservoir (4) to said hydraulic circuits comprises means for expanding (49) the water jet returning through the hydraulic circuit to the reservoir and means for directing (44) said jet to a storage zone.

Abstract: An assembly for creating milk froth and/or for heating milk is disclosed. It comprises a foaming device and optionally a milk container and a valve assembly. The foaming device is provided with a steam supply channel, an air supply channel, a milk supply channel and a discharge opening. In order to provide for an easy cleaning of the assembly and its microbicity, at least the components and/or cavities coming into contact with milk are provided with a hydrophobic and oleophobic surface consisting of nano-particles which consist partially of silver or a silver compounds.

Abstract: Apparatus for generating and delivering a pressurized hot water pulse to a brewing station comprises a water inlet adapted to close during delivering the pulse, an outlet for the pulse, a generator comprising a water heating chamber for receiving a amount of water via the inlet and for heating the water therein to produce sufficiently hot water for the brewing station, a pressurization chamber for vaporizing water to generate pressurized steam to deliver the hot water as a pressurized hot water pulse to the brewing station through the outlet, and a heating system for the heating and the vaporization of the water in said pulse generator. The chamber has a first end adapted to receive pressurized steam and a second end close to the hot water intake port of the inlet.

Abstract: A foamed milk system for creating foamed milk from a source of milk, a source of air, and a source of steam. The system may include a milk inlet system for pressurizing the milk, an air inlet system for pressurizing the air, a mixing area to mix the pressurized milk, the pressurized air, and the steam, and an expansion area to expand the mixture of the pressurized milk, the pressurized air, and the steam.

Abstract: A dispensing unit for dispensing hot, dairy-based beverages has a self-contained refrigerated unit located above a venturi-type emulsification foaming head. The dispensing unit has particular applicability to the dispensation of foamy, hot milk for use in beverages such as cappuccino and nonfoamy, hot milk for use in beverages such as coffee latte, hot chocolate, and other hot dairy-based beverages. The refrigeration unit accommodates a “bag in box” cold milk storage container of the type widely used in food service establishments. The dispensing unit employs a pinch valve that avoids direct contact between the milk and the valve components. The refrigerated milk is stored above the level of the foamer head so that the flow of milk results partially from gravitational force on the milk, and is not totally dependent upon venturi suction created in the foamer head. Also, selective actuation of beverage choice switches generates commands to produce different beverages at different temperatures.

Abstract: An automatic device for heating and frothing a liquid, in particular milk, comprises a container which is provided with an opening for the introduction of the liquid and is associated with a duct for introducing into the liquid pressurised steam for heating the liquid itself and creating turbulence therein, and air, which duct has, in an internal end portion, a set of openings or nozzles distributed along said end portion and is arranged so as to send steam into the liquid according to a predetermined trajectory.

Abstract: A hot beverage machine includes a heating unit having a fresh water intake. A fresh water line supplies fresh water to the fresh water intake of the heating unit. A residual fluid line is coupled to the fresh water intake of the heating unit through an on-off valve for conducting fluids to a collection container. A device for letting off residual steam and residual water from the heating unit includes a heat-exchanging and heat-storing condenser having a residual line section coupled to the residual fluid line, a fresh water line section coupled into the fresh water line and a heat storing medium that is connected for conducting heat between the residual line section and the fresh water line section.

Abstract: An espresso machine provided with a rotating ceramic disk valve (1) as a selective water-steam distributor that is in a driving connection with a drive motor (2), and a control device (3) for controlling the drive motor (2). To increase the precision of the rotational-angle setting, a Geneva gear (4) is incorporated into the driving connection between the drive motor (2) and the rotating ceramic disk valve (1), with the gear setting the rotating ceramic disk valve (1) in make-and-break cycles. The control device (3) shuts off the drive motor (2) after at least one make-and-break cycle of the Geneva gear (4).

Abstract: A steam valve for a coffee maker comprises a valve, a valve seat, a valve block, a spring, a steam tube and a cap, wherein the valve has a plate on the top, the valve seat has a through hole, notches interconnected with the through hole, and a conical hole underneath the through hole, the valve block has a conical shape at the top, the valve block is placed in the conical hole, the lower portion of the valve is inserted in the valve block, the upper portion of the steam tube is secured with the valve seat, the lower portion of the valve is inserted into the valve block, the upper portion of the steam tube is secured with the valve seat, the spring seats in the steam tube with its top end urging the valve block to engage with the upper portion of the conical hole of the valve seat, whereas the conical shape of the valve block blocks the through hole and the notches of the valve seat, by pushing the plate of the valve downward, the stem pushes the valve block downward, thus the though hole and the notches are i

Abstract: A device for heating and emulsifying liquids, in particular drinks, which is unusually capable of generating a dense and creamy foam, comprises a steam-emitting member with which a hollow body can be associated. The steam-emitting member comprises a spout positioned along the hollow body at a height such as to be above the level of the liquid to be emulsified. Inserted coaxially inside the hollow body is a duct which defines a first passage and a second passage. A region for communication between the first passage, the second passage and a third passage for air, which is placed in communication with a groove formed in the inner surface of the hollow body, is provided between the steam-emitting member and the duct. The steam-emitting member comprises two annular projections provided with sectors which have different transverse dimensions and which are offset relative to one another and define a labyrinthine path.

Abstract: A delivery head for delivering a milk portion is connected via a connection line to a milk container in a refrigerator. A rinsing agent source is connected via a first line to a connection part in the connection line. A first on-off valve is inserted in the first line. The connection part is also connected via a second line and a second valve to a fresh air source. The container, the valves, and the connection part are installed in a refrigerator. Through this implementation, complete emptying of the connection line and the delivery head of rinse water after the rinsing procedure, as well as efficient rinsing during the rinsing procedure, are achieved.

Abstract: A device for heating and working up milk, in particular for preparing cappuccinos on a coffee machine, having a conveyor pipe with an open end which can be submerged in a vessel containing milk, a first pipe for supplying steam connected to the conveyor pipe, a valve, a pressurised air source, a second pipe for supplying pressurised air connected to the conveyor pipe, a temperature transducer associated with the submergible end of the conveyor to detect the temperature of the milk, a control unit connected to the valve, to the pressurised air source, as well as to the temperature transducer, said control unit being programmable to command the open and close of said valve and to actuate said pressurised air source, one independently from the other according to the desired temperature and/or working up of the milk.

Abstract: A filter coffee maker having: a boiler; a case in which the boiler is disposed; an ascending conduit coupled to the boiler for upward movement of the hot water produced by said boiler; a filter holder or filter holder housing; a lid pivoted on the case; and a water delivery head arranged in the lid. The delivery head has an inlet opening brought into communication with a hot water outlet orifice of the conduit and an outlet opening that opens above the filter holder or housing when the lid is closed. The lid has a lower face presenting a protuberance in which the inlet opening is arranged, the ascending conduit has an upper end with a closed upper part, and the orifice opens in a direction facing a lateral wall forming part of the case.

Abstract: A gasket for sealing a heating chamber of an electronic coffee maker, the heating chamber comprises a lid, a tank, bolts and nuts. The lid comprises a base with holes at four corners, and the tank also has a base with four holes at four corners. A gasket also comprises four holes at four corners corresponding to the holes of the bases of the lid and the tank. The gasket is placed on the base of the tank, and then the lid is placed on the gasket in sequence and fastened with the bolts and the nuts to seal the heating chamber securely.

Abstract: An espresso machine steam docking unit which can be connected to a milk steaming pitcher (1). The steam unit includes a steam inlet (10), a steam outlet (7) which can be pressed, by means of an activation lever (19) that can be swung out of a rest position into an operating position, against a steam inlet opening (2) of a milk steaming pitcher (1), a valve (12) which is connected to the steam inlet (10) and the steam outlet (7) and which can be activated by the activation lever (19). In addition, a switching contact (21), which is activated by the activation lever (19) to activate a steam generator in the espresso machine when the activation lever is in operating position, is provided. In addition, a steam release line (18) is provided and is connected by means of the activation lever (19) through the valve (12) to the steam inlet (10) and the steam outlet (7).

Abstract: Device for preparing a coffee drink having a visually appealing crema layer comprises a container for receiving flavor-containing materials and allowing it to interact with pressurized hot water to produce a coffee drink, an orifice for converting the coffee drink into a high speed drink jet, and a cyclone channel located below the orifice and adapted to interact with the jet to generate a cyclone zone therein during preparing the coffee drink. The cyclone zone stays alive by constantly drawing air in from atmosphere to emulsify with the coffee drink within the cyclone zone and constantly driving the resulting emulsion out of the cyclone zone as a result of the momentum of the jet. The emulsion separates into a coffee drink layer and a crema layer on top of the coffee drink upon being received in a cup.

Abstract: An automatic device for heating and frothing a liquid, in particular milk, comprises a container (1) for the liquid, inside which a first tube (6) for introducing pressurised steam into the liquid is removably mounted. The first tube (6) has an inlet in correspondence of the bottom of the container (1), for receiving steam from a duct located within a support base (3) of the container (1), and is secured, for at least part of its length, to a second tube (7) for introducing air into the liquid.

Abstract: A milk foam delivery pipe for an espresso coffee maker includes a steam delivery pipe, a milk delivery pipe, a mixing joint and a milk foam delivery pipe. Both the steam and the milk delivery pipes are connected to the mixing joint. A mixture outlet is disposed in the mixing joint to connect through the milk foam delivery pipe. The milk foam delivery pipe is continuous curving pipe including a first curving section and a second curving section. A milk foam outlet is provided to a free end of the second curving section to produce delicate and well-mixed milk foams.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for preparing a coffee extract with a fine-bubble froth layer, provided with at least one inlet (2) to which coffee extract is supplied, at least one outlet (4.1; 4.2) for dispensing the coffee extract with the fine-bubble froth layer and at least one liquid flow path (6) extending from the at least one inlet to the at least one outlet (2) and along which, in use, the coffee extract flows from the at least one inlet to the at least one outlet (4.1; 4.2), while in the at least one liquid flow path a buffer reservoir is included with an upright sidewall and a bottom, the at least one inlet being provided with at least one spout opening for generating at least one coffee extract is supplied to the at least one inlet. According to the invention, in the buffer reservoir, a liquid flow decelerating barrier located at a distance from the upright sidewalls is included.

Abstract: A combination frothing pitcher and dial thermometer includes a cantilevered portion on the handle of the frothing pitcher. The cantilevered portion includes a projection having a substantially vertical bore for receipt of a dial thermometer. The dial thermometer has a stem which is received in the bore and a shaft of predetermined length such that a tip of the dial thermometer is precisely positioned both longitudinally and radially with respect to the bottom of the pitcher at a preferred location merely by inserting the thermometer into the handle.

Abstract: A steam structure for an electric coffee maker includes a throttle valve, a steam pipe, an enclosing valve, a valve seat and a backflow pipe, wherein the steam pipe is connected to one side of the throttle valve. The throttle valve is connected to the valve seat at the bottom thereof, and the valve seat then is connected to the backflow pipe. The enclosing valve is placed in the valve seat. The enclosing valve is made of flexible material and includes a valve, a thin film surrounding the valve, and a skirt with holes thereon. The outer edge of the skirt is in touch with the valve seat. The outer diameter of the valve corresponds to the inner diameter of the backflow pipe. When the skirt is pressed downward by the valve due to the steam pressure, the valve encloses the backflow pipe.

Abstract: A device for heating and frothing a beverage, the device including an elongate frothing wand includes a generally tubular external sleeve, an inner core within the external sleeve, wherein the inner core defines a steam conduit configured to pass steam from a supply end of the frothing wand to an expulsion end of the frothing wand, a steam-discharge ring in fluid communication with the steam conduit and configured to eject steam into the beverage, an annular airway defined by the external sleeve and the inner core, wherein the airway is configured to draw air from the supply end to the expulsion end of the frothing wand, and an air-discharge ring in fluid communication with the airway and concentrically aligned with the steam-discharge ring, wherein the air-discharge ring is configured to direct air into the beverage upon ejection of steam from the steam-discharge ring.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for preparing a coffee extract with a fine-bubble froth layer, provided with at least one inlet (2) to which coffee extract is supplied, at least one outlet (4.1; 4.2) for dispensing the coffee extract with the fine-bubble froth layer and at least one liquid flow path extending from the at least one inlet (2) to the at least one outlet (4.1; 4.2) and along which, in use, the coffee extract flows from the at least one inlet (2) to the at least one outlet (4.1; 4.2) while in the liquid flow path a liquid impact surface (12) is included and the at least one inlet is provided with at least one spout opening for generating at least one coffee extract jet which, in use, squirts to the liquid impact surface when the coffee extract is supplied to the at least one inlet. According to the invention, the impact surface (12) is provided with a roughened surface structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for the extraction of a substance for the preparation of a beverage. This device includes a fixed first component, and a second component moveable relative to the first along an axis of rotation arranged at the rear of the two components. The front of each component forms a housing for the substance to be extracted, and the device includes a member that is integral with the fixed and moveable parts for closing and opening the components. The device also includes a control and a valve associated with the control, with these components placed on the upper part of the moveable second component in such a way that the control and valve are near the housing wherein the substance is to be extracted.

Abstract: An assembly for generating milk foam and for heating milk comprises a milk supply container, a steam generator and a mixing element. The mixing element includes a first steam inlet channel, a necking located downstream of the first steam inlet channel, an air inlet channel opening into the necking and a milk inlet channel. The milk is fed to the milk inlet channel of the mixing element by means of a pump. Moreover, the mixing element is provided with a main channel whose inlet communicates with the necking, whereby the milk inlet channel opens into the main channel downstream of its inlet. Between the necking and the opening of the milk inlet channel, a second steam inlet channel opens into the main channel.

Abstract: A coffee machine of the “espresso” type that includes a water tank, a pump, a heater unit and passages for feeding hot water and steam to a percolation nozzle. The machine includes an integrated steam delivery device having a steam inlet connected to a steam feed passage and a steam outlet. The steam delivery passages include a cylindrical body equipped with an aperture connected to the steam inlet and a cylindrical piece which can move within the body to open or close the steam circuit depending on its position in the body. A control member actuated by a control or trigger finger enables the steam outlet to be brought into contact with the aperture in the closure of a receptacle.

Abstract: A device for producing milk froth for cappuccino, comprising: a nozzle arrangement disposed downstream of a steam supply line, and containing mixing vacuum chamber into which a steam-nozzle opening opens, and in which an air-milk-mixture supply line, leading from a pre-mixing chamber, terminates, and with the pre-mixing chamber being connected to an air conduit and a milk supply line. The nozzle arrangement further includes a calming portion disposed at an exit of the vacuum-chamber, with one end of the calming portion forming at least one discharge opening for releasing a steam-air-milk mixture from the mixing vacuum-chamber to the outside. The calming portion comprises a plurality of calming conduits that have a parallel flow direction, and that each form a respective discharge opening at one open end for discharging a steam-air-milk-mixture partial flow to the outside.

Abstract: The upper lid of a coffee includes an upper lid body, which is provided inside with a rotatable receiving unit having a female-threaded portion and a central through hole. A support post fitted with a prop member is inserted upward through the central through hole of the rotatable receiving unit and fitted around with a safety valve unit. Then, the rotatable receiving unit and the upper lid are combined together, and the top end of the support post is fitted with a warning member movably positioned in the central through hole of the upper lid. Thus, the steam produced by boiling water inside the coffee maker can push up the safety valve body to force the warning member to protrude out of the through hole of the upper lid, manifestly warning a user not to directly open the upper lid to avoid scalded.