The seconds between choosing and drinking involve several components. Here is what happens inside.
After a drink is chosen, the controller runs the components in sequence: the cup dispenser drops a cup, the grinder grinds a dose, the brewer brews it with hot water from the boiler, and dosers add milk or powders. Finally, the machine signals that the drink is ready.
The stages
- Dropping a cup – unless the customer uses their own.
- Grinding a dose of beans.
- Brewing in the brewer.
- Adding milk, powder, or sugar.
- Serving the drink.
Powder-based drinks
Hot chocolate, milk drinks, or instant teas are made in mixing bowls where powder meets hot water. That is a different path from bean coffee.
Types of coffee machines
There are bean machines, instant machines, and mixed ones. See examples on the page about coffee vending machines (publisher's site).
FAQ
Does every coffee machine have a grinder? No. Instant coffee machines do not need one.
How long does a drink take? It depends on the drink and model. Manufacturers list times in their specs.