Patent ID: 8215229
Filing Date: 2012-07-10
Classification: A47J

Abstract:
1. A machine for the preparation of coffee, comprising: hydraulic pumping means for the controlled supply of a flow of water; at least one unit for the preparation and dispensing of the coffee, with at least one dispensing seating, said unit comprising an electric heater, located upstream of said seating and suitable for heating up to a predetermined temperature a flow of water passing through the heater; a hydraulic circuit which connects the pumping means to the inlet of said heater and which comprises solenoid valve means capable of assuming a rest configuration in which said heater is substantially emptied of water and a working configuration in which the heater is enabled to receive and be traversed by a flow of water sent by the pumping means for the preparation of the coffee; and control means arranged for activating the heater and causing said solenoid valve means to change to the working configuration only when a command is issued for the preparation and dispensing of coffee, wherein, in said unit, hydraulically upstream of the heater, a chamber is provided which is in a heat exchange relationship with the heater and is capable of pre-heating a flow of water directed towards said heater, wherein the machine further comprises a unit for generating hot steam, and wherein said solenoid valve means are capable of assuming a further working configuration in which said heater is disabled from receiving the flow of water sent by the pumping means, and in which said chamber is connected to the inlet of the steam generating unit so that the latter is enabled to receive the flow of water coming from the pumping means and passing through said chamber.