Capsule feeding apparatus for beverage vending machine

Abstract

The present invention refers to an apparatus (1) for feeding capsules (4), preferably single-use capsules for the preparation of beverages, infusions and the like, for beverage vending machines. The apparatus of the invention comprises a storage chamber (2, 22) for storing capsules (4) in a random arrangement, pick-up means (10, 210) for picking up said capsules (4), a capsule transfer device (13, 213) provided with one or more compartments (14, 214) for said capsules (4), at least an unloading conveyor (19, 219) for unloading said capsules (4). The apparatus of the invention is characterized in that, between the storage chamber (2, 22) and said at least an unloading conveyor (19, 219), the apparatus (1) comprises a first orientating device (8, 28), which is adapted to orientate the capsules (4) according to at least a substantially horizontal-axis position, and a second orientating device (20, 220) which is adapted to arrange the capsules (4) according to a same vertical-axis position.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.