With Agitating Or Compacting Patents (Class 99/287)
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Publication number: 20130186281Abstract: A coffee maker funnel comprises a funnel body (1) and a coffee-brewing head assembly (2), The coffee-brewing head assembly (2) comprises a funnel lid (4), a coffee powder press disc body (6), a sprinkler disc (9), and a connecting tube (13). The upper part of the funnel lid (4) is connected to the upper part of the funnel body (1). The lower part of the funnel lid (4) is connected to the upper part of the coffee powder press disc body (6). The connecting tube (13) connects a water inlet joint assembly (11) disposed on the funnel lid (4) and a water outlet joint assembly (10) disposed on the coffee powder press disc body (6). The sprinkler disc (9) is disposed below the water outlet joint assembly (10) and fastened on the bottom of the coffee powder press disc body (6). Disposed between the upper part of the funnel lid (4) and the lower part of the coffee powder press disc body (6) is a spring (5) for compacting coffee powder inside of the funnel body (1).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2011Publication date: July 25, 2013Applicant: GUANGDONG XINBAO ELECTRIC JOINT-STOCK LTD.Inventors: Jiangang Guo, Yongchun Zeng
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Publication number: 20130189405Abstract: The invention concerns a beverage dispenser comprising: —means for preparing a beverage from at least a concentrated food ingredient, —a user interface (6) operable to interact with a consumer for presenting to the consumer at least one of a list of selectable sensory parameters (P1, P2, P3, P4) and for receiving at least one input (61) from the consumer regarding at least one of said parameters, —a control unit (7) controlling the means for preparing a beverage and dispensing a beverage based at least in part on the at least one input of the consumer regarding at least one of the selectable sensory parameters.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2011Publication date: July 25, 2013Inventors: Carine Filliol, Aurore Berthet, Nicolas Pineau, Ingrid Corneau, Zenon Ioannis Mandralis, Michiel Kernkamp, Richard Luke Murphy
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Patent number: 8479638Abstract: A tamping device for applying a tamping force to ground coffee in a portafilter. The tamping device has a tamper and a guard. The tamper has a reciprocating tamping base. The guard defines a passageway through which the tamping base reciprocates. The passageway fits closely around the tamping base.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Simatelex Manufactory Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chi Wah Leung, Shek Chuen Luk, Ka Po Wong
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Patent number: 8481098Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for the preparation of a beverage having: a mixing chamber (1) for mixing a soluble ingredient (2) and a diluent, the chamber further having a top opening (4), a diluent inlet opening (5), a beverage outlet opening (6), sealing item (7) that is able to seal the top opening (4) of the mixing chamber (1) and to prevent any fluid from leaving the mixing chamber through said sealing item. The invention also relates to a method for using this device.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2009Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Francisco Deolarte, Juan J. Gonzalez
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Publication number: 20130167729Abstract: A compacting auger for ground coffee has an automatic cut off that responds to either timing signals or to the torque resistance to the augur offered by the coffee that has been compacted. The automation of the cut off increases the consistency of compaction and reduces the amount of skill required to compact ground coffee for making espresso.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2011Publication date: July 4, 2013Inventors: Richard Hoare, Robert Grassia
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Publication number: 20130152798Abstract: An apparatus for preparing a hot beverage. The apparatus includes a hot steam source for supplying a flow of steam into a vessel, a rotary stirring device including a rotatable shaft which carries a stirring rotor; and a cleaning container. A control unit controls movement of the stirring device between its rest position and its working position; the activation of the steam source and of the stirring device whilst the shaft and the rotor of the latter extend inside a vessel; and the activation of the steam source and of the stirring device whilst the shaft and the rotor of the latter extend in the cleaning container.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2011Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: LUIGI LAVAZZA S.P.A.Inventor: Gaetano Pagano
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Publication number: 20130139697Abstract: A device designed to automate the insertion and compression of the filter-holder in the dispenser unit of professional coffee machines or the like, whereby said dispenser unit consists of a rounded body whose lower part is designed to couple with the filter-holder fitted with a grip. Said device comprises a hollow mobile body fitted on said dispenser unit, and comprises a housing in which the filter-holder can be inserted manually. The movement of the body from a lowered release position to a raised traction position being is allowed by a cam type automatism or the like, whereby the mobile body is able to slide vertically on slides with respect to the dispenser unit allowing the filter and the filter-holder including the dose of coffee to be coupled automatically to the dispenser unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: June 6, 2013Inventor: Marco Ambrosini
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Patent number: 8453562Abstract: An apparatus for quickly preparing infant formula and beverage comprising: a powder container for storing dry formula or beverage powder, a powder dispenser for dispensing controllable amount of formula or beverage powder into a milk bottle or a cup, a water container for storing water, a heat-exchanging reservoir for heating up or cooling down water to an ideal temperature, a water delivery system for delivering controllable amount of water from the water container to the heat-exchanging reservoir and then from the heat-exchanging reservoir to the milk bottle once the water is adjusted to the ideal temperature. The device has a main setting and controlling system to set up parameters of powder dispensing amount, water dispensing temperature and water dispensing volume prior to a formula or beverage preparation, so that the apparatus can prepare infant formula or beverage with ideal volume, concentration and temperature.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Inventors: Zhenyu Lu, Jingfeng Yuan
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Publication number: 20130133520Abstract: A system for brewing a desired portion of a beverage, such as a single-cup portion of coffee, is provided. The system may have more than one brew module. The system allows a user to quickly and easily brew a variety of types of single-cup portions of a beverage. In some embodiments, the system may brew a single-cup portion of coffee in a relatively short period of time based on a combination of certain parameters. The system may include an automatic cleaning mechanism such that a user does not need to manually clean components of a brewing machine between brew cycles. The system may also include apparatus configured to substantially prevent steam from reaching grinder components of the system. The system may also include apparatus configured to provide a precise dose of material based on, for example, volume of the material. Methods and apparatus for brewing a beverage are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2012Publication date: May 30, 2013Applicant: Starbucks Corporation d/b/a Starbucks Coffee CompanyInventor: Starbucks Corporation d/b/a Starbucks Coffee Co
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Publication number: 20130125761Abstract: Apparatuses, systems and methods for providing a pressed beverage using a press and lid system. In one aspect, a beverage material is pressed to the bottom of a beverage container by means of a press ring including a filter. The walls of the beverage container exert a force on the press ring, folding flaps (perimeter portions) that are attached to the press ring by means of a flexible attachment member. Any beverage material or other debris that is not collected by the filter in the press ring is collected by a filter in the lid. Other variations and features consistent with the present invention exist.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2013Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: SmartCup Inc.Inventor: Jeff Brian
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Patent number: 8439235Abstract: An automatic ground-coffee dispenser with a ground-coffee storage vessel designed to be mounted on an automatic coffee maker. The storage vessel includes rotary serving paddles for transferring a predetermined quantity of ground coffee through an outflow opening formed in the bottom of the storage vessel and a cone-shaped driver with rotary paddles located above the outflow opening turned by a motor about a vertical axis of the storage vessel. The internal wall of the storage vessel includes at least one longitudinal rib projecting into the storage vessel.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: SEB S.A.Inventors: Séverine Mih, Thierry Dutertre
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Patent number: 8402888Abstract: Apparatuses, systems and methods for providing a pressed beverage using a press and lid system. In one aspect, a beverage material is pressed to the bottom of a beverage container by means of a press ring including a filter. The walls of the beverage container exert a force on the press ring, folding flaps (perimeter portions) that are attached to the press ring by means of a flexible attachment member. Any beverage material or other debris that is not collected by the filter in the press ring is collected by a filter in the lid. Other variations and features consistent with the present invention exist.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2009Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Smartcup, Inc.Inventor: Jeff Baccetti
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Publication number: 20130068108Abstract: A coffee maker and coffee holder cooperate to provide either single-cup or multi-cup brewing. A single-cup coffee holder in insertable into the coffee maker for preparing a single serving of coffee, and a multi-serving coffee holder is insertable into the coffee maker for preparing multiple servings of coffee. A coffee holder lid is attached to the coffee maker and is configured to close both the singe serving and multi-serving coffee holders. The holder lid is configured to either spray heated water into the coffee holders, or to inject the heated water through needles into coffee in the coffee holder. In one embodiment, the coffee is held in a filter paper package with a rim, and the rim is sandwiched between the coffee holder and the holder cover. A tamper may be included which tamps the coffee before brewing.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2012Publication date: March 21, 2013Inventor: Adrian Rivera
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Patent number: 8399035Abstract: A pod for mixing an amount of a dispersible material with water. The pod may include a pod body having a lower aperture and a poppet positioned within the aperture. The poppet may be sized so as to seal the lower aperture until a predetermined pressure is reached within the pod body.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2011Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: The Coca-Cola CompanyInventors: Jonathan Kirschner, Carter Crittenden Bennett
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Patent number: 8371211Abstract: A machine for brewing a beverage such as coffee includes a chamber and a piston disposed in the chamber. The piston is operable to move to a first position to allow the chamber to receive a liquid and a flavor base such as ground coffee, to remain in the first position for a time sufficient for the beverage to brew, and to move to a second position to dispense the beverage by forcing the beverage out of the chamber. By modifying some or all steps of the French press brewing technique, the machine can typically control coffee-brewing parameters with a level of precision that yields brewed coffee having a uniform taste from cup to cup, and can typically brew the coffee with a speed that renders the machine suitable for use by establishments that serve significant amounts of coffee.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2010Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Starbucks CorporationInventors: Zander Nosler, Randy Hulett, Jorah Wyer, Michael Baum, Jeff Allison
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Patent number: 8322271Abstract: A sealed capsule for use in apparatus including a capsule receiving station and a water delivery system for brewing a hot beverage in which a hot liquid under pressure infuses a material. A capsule base has a concave bottom floor with angularly spaced structural ribs that form channels for directing brewed beverage to a sharpened spout. A collar surrounds the dispensing spout. A foil attaches to the collar to overlie the spout. A filter lies on the structural ribs. Infusible material lies on the filter. A water distribution plate overlies the infusible material. A cover closes the base unit and includes a water inlet. As the capsule seats in the capsule receiving station, the foil seal is forced over the sharpened spout to rupture and enable brewed beverage to be dispersed. A probe of the water delivery system also penetrates the cover to direct water into the capsule without contacting the infusible material or the brewed beverage.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2007Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Brewl Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Dov Z Glucksman, Laura J Nickerson, Gary P McGonagle, David Normand Belanger
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Patent number: 8291812Abstract: A self-tamping coffee holder tamps loose ground coffee obtaining richer flavor. The coffee holder includes a holder base and a holder cap. Coffee is loosely deposited in the coffee holder and the holder cap is attached to the holder base. An internal filter chamber holds the coffee and allows tamping of the coffee into a compacted state. The filter chamber may be formed by a fixed filter or by a removeable filter constructed of filter paper, nylon mesh, metal mesh, or any material capable of holding the coffee while allowing a flow of heated water through the coffee. The tamping may be by a spring or by a resilient solid material attached to the coffee holder and may push the coffee down inside the filter or push the filter and the coffee up against the holder lid.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2009Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Inventor: Adrian Rivera
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Publication number: 20120251682Abstract: The invention relates to a method with an accompanying brewing system for preparing a mixed drink from two or more drink components, wherein the mixed drink is made up in a collecting container and at least two drink components are prepared by means of electromagnetic radiation. The drink components are prepared in successive steps, and different drink components are on no account exposed simultaneously to electromagnetic radiation. In order to prepare each drink component, the same collecting container is always used for direct collection of the drink components and the drink components already prepared remain in the collecting container during preparation of subsequent drink components.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2010Publication date: October 4, 2012Inventor: Hendrik Sebastian Meyl
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Patent number: 8272317Abstract: A beverage system includes a pump that draws a set amount of a flavored concentrate into a mixing chamber (28) for mixing with water to form a beverage. A pump head (46) includes a piston opening that receives a piston (48) and a water port that defines a water flow path. A housing (62) includes an integral water port (40). Water from a water source flows along a water line and into the integral water port (40) of the housing (62). The water flows through the water port (40) of the pump head (46) and into the mixing chamber (28) to form the beverage.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Carrier Commercial Refrigeration, Inc.Inventors: James J. Minard, Mark E. Bush
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Publication number: 20120231126Abstract: The present invention relates to dispensing of a substance from a container by means of a dispensing apparatus. Specifically, the exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to (1) a container and (2) the automated method for opening such container and (3) the automated method of dispensing of the contents from such container into a customer receptacle or glass.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2011Publication date: September 13, 2012Applicant: La-Vit Technology LLCInventors: Gian Matteo Lo Faro, John R. Laverack, Yuanli Shentu, Kurt R. Weseman, George E. Riehm, Greg G. Weaver
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Patent number: 8250969Abstract: An apparatus for the preparation and dispensing of doses, in selectable variable volumes, of infusions, particularly of coffee, by means of pressurised water, comprising a cylindrical infusion chamber provided with a closed end and an opposed open end, a piston with an end axially insertable into said infusion chamber via said open end and removable therefrom, water feeding element for feeding a predetermined quantity of pressurised water into said chamber and for opening into the latter in the zone comprised between the end of the piston inserted into the chamber and the closed end of the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2010Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A.Inventors: Davide Sampaoli, Guido Quaratesi, Claudio Volonté
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Patent number: 8247010Abstract: A brewing system (100) includes a brew group (130) having a cylindrical brewing chamber (132), a first actuator (146) attached to an upper piston assembly (140) that is movable to sealingly engage one end of the brewing chamber, a second actuator (156) attached to a lower piston assembly (150) that slidably engages the opposite end of the brewing chamber. The lower piston assembly includes a water supply tube (151) that engages a channel through the piston to supply heated water to the brewing chamber. The upper piston assembly includes a dispensing tube (141) that engages a channel through the piston to accommodate dispensing the brewed liquid. A sliding arm assembly is positioned to remove spent grounds from the brewing assembly. The current embodiment includes a controller (100), hopper (112), water heater (11) and grinder assembly (120). An optional flavoring dispenser may also be provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2011Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Concordia Coffee Company, Inc.Inventors: Quan Hoang Nguyen, Christopher Dalton Collier, James Michael McLaughlin
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Patent number: 8234971Abstract: Provided is a brewing device which is portable and does not require the use of electricity, as well as a method of brewing using the portable brewing device. The device includes an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder that function together like a piston in a cylinder. The inner cylinder includes a filter for holding brewing solids at one end. The inner cylinder is dimensioned to slide within the outer cylinder and create a water tight frictional fit with the outer cylinder. Thus, when the inner cylinder is pushed into the outer cylinder filled with liquid, the liquid is force to pass through the filter and into the inner cylinder as brewed liquid.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2009Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Inventor: Peter M. Cerroni
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Publication number: 20120189754Abstract: An arrangement (20,120,220,320,420,520,620,720,820,920) to hold a dissolvable and/or dispersible beverage flavouring ingredient in a liquid carrier (105,205,405,505) contained in a device (1,100,200,300,400,500,900) has: a tank (11) for containing this liquid carrier; and an impeller (14,214,214?,514,914) located in this tank for circulating this liquid carrier relative to this ingredient to promote dissolution and/or dispersion of this ingredient in the carrier. Such arrangement has means (26,126,226,326,426,526,626,726,826,926) for securing a self-sustaining body (2,102,202,302,402,502,602,702,802,902) of this ingredient and means (21,121,221,321,421,521,621,721,821,921) for positioning the securing means in this tank so as to secure a position of this self-sustaining body spaced apart from this impeller.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2010Publication date: July 26, 2012Applicant: NESTEC S.A.Inventors: Fabien Ludovic Agon, Alexa Perrin, Alexandre Perentes
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Publication number: 20120186457Abstract: The invention concerns a beverage production machine comprising:a machine base (21) laying on a work surface (4),a drip tray assembly (1) comprising: a drip tray (11) and a grid (12), said assembly being retained in a nesting area (22) of the machine, wherein the drip tray assembly comprises support means (13) so that said assembly rests at last partially on the work surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2010Publication date: July 26, 2012Applicant: NESTEC S.A.Inventors: Matthieu Ozanne, Didier Vuagniaux
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Publication number: 20120167773Abstract: A mug body has an open top. A lid is fitted to the open top. The lid has first and second top to bottom holes formed therein. An arm extends down from the bottom of the lid into the mug body. An actuator handle extends out from the top of the lid, through the second hole. The actuator handle is coupled to the arm to move the arm relative to the mug body. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2012Publication date: July 5, 2012Inventors: Sharron Swartz, John M. Serra
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Patent number: 8166867Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Lukasz D. Skalski, Tiemen T. Van Dillen
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Publication number: 20120100275Abstract: The present disclosure relates to apparatus, systems, and methods of use for producing beverages. The apparatus includes components and methods for facilitating beverage production applying water or other liquid in combination with a brewing substance and controlled aeration and pressurization of a mixing vessel or column. The aeration of the water and brewing substance can be accomplished with a vacuum system, a positive pressurization system, and a combination of such systems. The apparatus, systems, and methods can be used with a variety of beverage making devices such as a device which might be used to controllably produce volumes of beverage to a reservoir. The methods include controllable aeration and pressurization of the vessel for brewing which may include controlling extraction time, steep time, active controllable agitation of the brewing substance, as well as other brewing characteristics, features, and actions.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2009Publication date: April 26, 2012Applicant: BUNN-O-MATIC CORPORATIONInventors: John D. Bishop, Charles H. Clark, William E. Midden, Randy D. Pope, Suresh Radhakrishnan, Rex Allen Rogers
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Patent number: 8151693Abstract: Apparatus for preparing a beverage using a soluble preparation, comprising a container for a soluble preparation, a mixer provided with a mixing chamber, said chamber having a filling inlet for the soluble preparation, at least one opening for supplying a liquid for solubilizing the preparation and forming the beverage, a duct for evacuating any vapor and/or aerosol which forms during preparation of the beverage, said duct comprising a suction fan, as well as an opening for dispensing the prepared beverage, a centrifuging device housed inside said mixing chamber and rotationally operated by an associated electric motor positioned outside said chamber, means for conveying a predetermined quantity of soluble preparation from the said container to the filling inlet of said mixing chamber, as well as means for conveying the solubilizing liquid from the associated source to the respective opening of the mixing chamber.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A.Inventors: Dario Sala, Claudio Bianchi
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Patent number: 8151692Abstract: Apparatus for preparing a beverage using a soluble preparation, comprising a container for the soluble preparation, a mixer provided with a mixing chamber, said chamber having a filling inlet for the soluble preparation, at least one opening for supplying a liquid for solubilizing the preparation and forming the beverage, a duct for evacuating any vapour and/or aerosol which forms during preparation of the beverage, said duct comprising a suction fan, as well as an opening for dispensing the prepared beverage, a centrifuging device housed inside said mixing chamber and rotationally operated by an associated electric motor positioned outside said chamber, means for conveying a predetermined quantity of soluble preparation from the said container to the filling mouth of said mixing chamber, as well as means for conveying the solubilization liquid from the associated source to the respective opening of the mixing chamber.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.a.Inventors: Dario Sala, Claudio Bianchi
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Patent number: 8152361Abstract: A mug body has an open top. A lid is fitted to the open top. The lid has first and second top to bottom holes formed therein. An arm extends down from the bottom of the lid into the mug body. An actuator handle extends out from the top of the lid, through the second hole. The actuator handle is coupled to the arm to move the arm relative to the mug body. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2011Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Inventors: Sharron Swartz, John M. Serra
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Patent number: 8146487Abstract: The present invention relates to a mixing device for aerating and frothing a product that comprises a fluid component and at least one further component, comprising a rotor (101) having a rotational axis (102) and a surface of revolution (4) defined by the rotor (101) upon rotation around its rotational axis (102), the surface of revolution (4) extending from a first axial (105) end to a second axial end (106), and the first axial end (105) being arranged upstream with respect to the second axial end (106); a motor in driving association with the rotor (101) for rotating the rotor about the rotational axis (102); and a product exit conduit disposed downstream of the rotor and configured for dispensing the aerated and frothed product of the fluid and at least one further component, which rotor (101) comprises a downstream part (108) and an upstream part (107). The invention relates furthermore to a beverage machine provided with the aforementioned mixing device.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Carlos Nikolaas Jozef Maria Koopman, Andreas Raymond Van de Leijgraaf, Romanus Eduard Verhoeven, Johannes Theodorus Emerentia Huiberts
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Publication number: 20120048120Abstract: Clark's Pre-Tamp is a device incorporating a disk with tines to stir espresso ground coffee in an espresso portafilter basket to create a more even distribution of the grounds after dosing and prior to tamping in order to improve the taste of the resulting extraction of espresso coffee. Further improvement of taste is achieved when the disk with tines is moved both horizontally and vertically simultaneously. Yet further improvement is realized when a helix or worm gear is used, allowing the horizontal motion to continue, without stopping or reversing, as the disk with tines is moved vertically down into the ground coffee in the basket and then back up and out of the basket. Clark's Pre-Tamp can be manually or electrically operated, and it can be used alone, or attached to or incorporated into other devices used in the preparation of espresso coffee.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventor: Clark Wayne Gillaspie
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Publication number: 20110297002Abstract: A brewing device (2) for an espresso-type coffee machine including a brewing chamber (12) for receiving ground coffee, a movably mounted pressure piston (13) in translation with a stroke that extends from an upper retracted position in which the pressure piston (13) is located above the brewing chamber (12) to a lower tamping position in which the pressure piston (13) enters said brewing chamber (12) and a potentiometer controlled by driving means during the stroke of the pressure piston (13) to measure the tamping position of said pressure piston and to thereby calculate the height of the compressed cake of ground coffee. The driving means only act on the potentiometer for a portion of the stroke of the pressure piston (13).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2011Publication date: December 8, 2011Applicant: SEB S.A.Inventors: Arnaud VITEL, Gilles LEBUFFE, Thierry GAILHARD
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Patent number: 8070019Abstract: An apparatus, method and vending system mixes a dry product mix with liquid to produce a mixed beverage. The apparatus includes a product canister containing the dry product mix. The product canister includes a dispensing mechanism that dispensed a portion of the mix through an outlet. During dispensing, a plurality of agitators positioned within the product canister and in contact with the product mix displaces the product mix, thereby keeping the product mix loose and lifted and resulting in a more evenly distributed product mix feed for dispensing through the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Crane Merchandising Systems, Inc.Inventor: Gregory G. Stettes
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Publication number: 20110293805Abstract: A method for producing a liquid extract from food ingredients in a beverage producing device that has a brewing unit driven in centrifugation. The method includes providing food ingredients in the brewing unit, supplying heated liquid in the brewing unit, centrifuging the brewing unit thereby generating centrifugal forces forcing liquid to flow through the food ingredients, and dispensing the liquid, along with an operation for compensating the thermal losses of the liquid extract in the brewing unit or the collecting unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2010Publication date: December 1, 2011Inventors: Alexandre Perentes, Christian Jarisch, Jean-Luc Colantonio, Zbynek Struzka
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Patent number: 8065953Abstract: Preparing device for preparing a beverage from a powdery substance and a hot liquid, the device comprising: at least one mixing chamber for mixing a quantity of the powdery substance and a quantity of the hot liquid; an inlet into the mixing chamber for the quantity of hot liquid; an inlet into the mixing chamber for the quantity of powdery substance; an extractor hood placed on the mixing chamber; an extraction duct connected to the extractor hood and provided with a suction device, such as a ventilating fan, for extracting vapor and dust particles from the mixing chamber via the extraction duct and the extractor hood; a first housing accommodating further components of the preparing device, such as electrical components and pipework, in which the extraction duct extends entirely along the exterior of the first housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2007Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: Bravilor Holdings B.V.Inventors: Ramon Eduard Verhoeven, Johannes Jacobus Van Steenderen de Kok, Carlos Nicolaas Jozef Maria Koopman
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Patent number: 8051766Abstract: There is an apparatus for brewing and making a personal beverage, which combines an independently sliding filter apparatus and a push button opening and closing mechanism, which coordinate vertically applied pressure and controlled rotational movement.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2008Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: Black Design Associates, LLCInventors: Henry K. Yu, Manuel A. Montano
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Patent number: 8039033Abstract: Device (1) for the preparation of coffee, wherein a water/coffee powder mixture is introduced into a cylindrical space (10). The cylindrical peripheral wall (15) is made as a vertical screen and by rotation/centrifugation the prepared beverage is forced through the filter to the outside, whilst granular coffee material remains behind. The top part (17) and the bottom part (19) of the holder (16) are made such they can be moved with respect to the cylinder wall. The motor (26) for rotation is above or below the top part or, alternatively, bottom part. Furthermore, there is a construction for producing the displacement of the top part or bottom part of the holder with the same motor.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2005Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Coffee Innovation Group B.V.Inventor: Marcel Van Hattem
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Publication number: 20110209623Abstract: A tamping device for applying a tamping force to ground coffee in a portafilter. The tamping device has a tamper and a guard. The tamper has a reciprocating tamping base. The guard defines a passageway through which the tamping base reciprocates. The passageway fits closely around the tamping base.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2010Publication date: September 1, 2011Applicant: SIMATELEX MANUFACTORY CO. LTDInventors: Chi Wah Leung, Shek Chuen Luk, Ka Po Wong
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Patent number: 7992488Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2007Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Eugster/Frismag AGInventors: Gotthard Mahlich, Arthur Eugster
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Patent number: 7980168Abstract: A process for making a hot beverage, such as coffee or tea, includes placing ground coffee or tea into a filter, inserting the filter into a filter basket to support the filter with respect to a reservoir that is to receive a brewed beverage; introducing water into the filter; and repeatedly deforming the filter to alter its shape as water passes through the filter and ground coffee or tea en route to the reservoir. A device for making a hot beverage includes a drive and a filter basket. The filter basket defines a filter basket chamber for receiving an associated filter. The filter basket includes a movable component operably connected to the drive and movable for deforming the associated filter. The movable component is operable between a first operating position where the filter chamber has a first dimension and a second operating position where the filter chamber has a second dimension that is smaller than the first dimension.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2007Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Inventor: Scott D. Maurer
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Patent number: 7946752Abstract: A mug body has an open top. A lid is fitted to the open top. The lid has first and second top to bottom holes formed therein. An arm extends down from the bottom of the lid into the mug body. An actuator handle extends out from the top of the lid, through the second hole. The actuator handle is coupled to the arm to move the arm relative to the mug body. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2006Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Inventors: Sharron Swartz, John M. Serra
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Publication number: 20110113969Abstract: A self-tamping coffee holder tamps loose ground coffee obtaining richer flavor. The coffee holder includes a holder base and a holder cap. Coffee is loosely deposited in the coffee holder and the holder cap is attached to the holder base. An internal filter chamber holds the coffee and allows tamping of the coffee into a compacted state. The filter chamber may be formed by a fixed filter or by a removeable filter constructed of filter paper, nylon mesh, metal mesh, or any material capable of holding the coffee while allowing a flow of heated water through the coffee. The tamping may be by a spring or by a resilient solid material attached to the coffee holder and may push the coffee down inside the filter or push the filter and the coffee up against the holder lid.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2009Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventor: Adrian Rivera
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Patent number: 7942093Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic dispenser for infused beverages made from powdered coffee or from pre-packaged capsules comprising, inside a housing: an infusion group (1) containing an infusion chamber (2) having a bottom and an opening (3) and being able to receive a pressing plunger (5), actuating means (7) for effecting a sliding movement relative to the pressing plunger (5) and/or said infusion chamber (2) relative to one another, starting from a position of rest, in which the plunger is located outside the chamber, and up to a working position inside the infusion chamber, and an ejecting plate mounted inside the infusion chamber (2) in a manner that enables it to be displaced between the bottom and the opening (3) of the latter by means of a drive device, and; a device (20) for ejecting the cake consisting of coffee grounds or ejecting infused capsules when said ejecting plate is brought to the level of the opening (3) of the infusion chamber (2), this ejecting device comprising an ejecting arm (2Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: SEB S.A.Inventors: Gilles Morin, Severine Mih
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Publication number: 20110100229Abstract: Coffee making apparatus and methods provide a tamped packing of loose ground coffee thereby obtaining richer flavor. The Coffee maker includes a reservoir, a pump, a heater, and a check valve. Coffee grounds are first loosely deposited in a coffee holder and then tamped onto a compacted state. The coffee holder may be filled loosely with the coffee and then placed into the coffee making apparatus and compacted, or the coffee may be compacted in the coffee holder and then the coffee holder placed into the coffee making apparatus. The compacting may be by a spring or by a resilient solid material and may be part of the coffee holder or part of the coffee making apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2009Publication date: May 5, 2011Inventor: Adrian Rivera
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Publication number: 20110086148Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus, system, and method of use for producing beverages. The apparatus includes at least a modular brewing mechanism. Also, the system includes a reservoir for retaining a volume of beverage produced by the brewing mechanism. The system includes controls for dispensing a single cup of beverage while producing multiple cycles of beverage for transfer to the reservoir. The system also includes controls for monitoring freshness of beverage, controllably disposing of beverage, and controlling production of single cup or batch production of beverage. The method and apparatus includes controllable pressurized brewing in a column or chamber using a controllable piston moving in the chamber and which may include controlling steep time, pressurization, extraction time, active controllable agitation of the brewing substance, as well as other brewing characteristics.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2009Publication date: April 14, 2011Applicant: BUNN-O-MATIC CORPORATIONInventor: David Ford
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Publication number: 20110076371Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for the preparation of a beverage comprising: a mixing chamber (1) for mixing a soluble ingredient (2) and a diluent, said chamber comprising: a top opening (4), a diluent inlet opening (5), a beverage outlet opening (6), sealing means (7), said sealing means being able to seal the top opening (4) of the mixing chamber (1) and to prevent any fluid from leaving the mixing chamber through said sealing means. The invention also relates to a method for using this device.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2009Publication date: March 31, 2011Applicant: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Francisco Deolarte, Juan Gonzalez
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Publication number: 20110041697Abstract: The invention relates to a brewing unit (1) for a coffee maker for brewing a ground coffee portion (10), comprising a brewing unit housing (2), an upper plunger (3) firmly connected to the brewing unit housing (2), a holder (4) for receiving the ground coffee portion (10), said holder being open at the top and closed at the bottom by a base (7), and a brewing plunger (6) for compressing the ground coffee portion (10) in a brewing chamber (5). The holder (4) and the brewing plunger (6) are disposed movably and pivotally in the brewing unit housing (2). Mechanical operating elements are provided in the brewing unit housing (2) for raising, lowering, and pivoting the holder (4) and the plunger (3). The brewing plunger (6) is hydraulically guided displaceably in the holder (4) relative to the holder (4). Between the brewing plunger bottom side (14) and the base (7) of the holder (4) a lower chamber space (13) is provided, into which the hot water supply (8) opens.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2009Publication date: February 24, 2011Applicant: EGRO COFFEE SYSTEMS AGInventor: Stephan Ruckstuhl
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Publication number: 20110033580Abstract: The invention relates to a system, method and capsule for preparing a predetermined quantity of beverage suitable for consumption using an extractable product. The system comprises an exchangeable capsule, and an apparatus comprising a receptacle for holding the exchangeable capsule, and a fluid dispensing device for supplying a fluid to the exchangeable capsule. The exchangeable capsule comprises a circumferential wall, a bottom, and a lid. The wall, bottom and lid enclose an inner space comprising the extractable product. The receptacle comprises bottom piercing means intended for piercing an entrance area of an alternative capsule for creating at least one entrance opening for supplying the fluid to the extractable product. The entrance area of the capsule according to the invention comprises an entrance filter for supplying the fluid to the extractable product there through.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2008Publication date: February 10, 2011Inventors: Arend Cornelis Jacobus Biesheuvel, Ralf Kamerbeek, Kon Euan Gerard Wong, Guido Brandt, Hendrick Cornelis Koeling