With Agitating Or Compacting Patents (Class 99/287)
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Publication number: 20110011271Abstract: Beverage production device for producing a beverage from a single-use capsule containing a beverage ingredient, comprising: a brewing unit (1) for receiving the capsule (8) therein upon relative closing of a first and second engaging members (6, 7) forming a cavity for encasing the capsule and pressing it at a flange-like rim (9) in a liquid seal-tight manner, wherein at least one of the first and second engaging members comprises a substantially annular pressing portion (14) for applying a sealing pressure on the flange-like rim of the capsule, the first and second engaging members being configured in relative closure at the nip to leak to a liquid injected in the cavity when a capsule is not present, wherein one of at least the first or second engaging members comprises, at its annular pressing portion, flow directing means comprising at least one passage (37) arranged for controlling liquid leakage only within a limited angular radial direction when the first and second engaging members are closed at the nType: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2009Publication date: January 20, 2011Applicant: NESTEC S.A.Inventors: Alexandre Kollep, Blaise Rithener, Stefan Etter, Rudolf Schenk
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Publication number: 20110003038Abstract: A method for preparing a liquid comestible from a cell by passing liquid through the substance using centrifugal forces, wherein gas contained in the cell is controllably purged from the cell as liquid fills the cell. In one embodiment, the method includes prewetting the substance in the cell by filling liquid in the cell and rotating the cell at a first rotational speed; and then extracting the liquid comestible from the cell in an extraction phase which comprises continuing to fill liquid into the cell and rotating the cell at a second rotational speed that is higher than the first rotational speed. The invention also discloses a cell for use in these methods which cell includes a filter for preventing solids from being carried by gas during the gas purge.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2009Publication date: January 6, 2011Inventors: Jean-Luc Colantonio, Enzo Bonacci, Jean-Paul Denisart, Alfred Yoakim, Antoine Ryser
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Patent number: 7856919Abstract: The invention relates to a device for preparing an infused beverage. The device includes an infusion container for containing liquid and comprising an opening to allow liquid to flow out of the container. The device further includes a receptacle comprising a cavity for receiving a cartridge containing infusible matter. The infusion container and the receptacle are operable in relation to each other to be arranged in a position wherein the infusion container and the cavity communicate through the opening. The device further comprises an openable and closable passage communicating with the cavity to allow liquid to flow from the infusion container to the passage through the cavity. The device further includes a cleaning means for introducing a liquid and/or vapor within the infusion container and a removing means for removing the cartridge from the cavity. An operating means is arranged for operating the cleaning means and the removing means successively.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2006Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Cense D'Almez S.A.Inventor: Luc Van Belleghem
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Patent number: 7849784Abstract: A coffee or tea filtering press includes a hollow cylinder having top and bottom openings, a perforated removable cap which encloses the bottom opening, a removable piston which is inserted into said top opening and pressed downward to force liquid in the cylinder through the perforated cap, and a support to hold the press above the mouth of an open vessel.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2005Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Inventor: Alan J. Adler
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Publication number: 20100294135Abstract: An automatic steeping French press style apparatus comprises a housing and a carafe. The housing accommodates the carafe and comprises a motor and selector control for operating the device. The housing also comprises a funnel for directing liquid into the carafe, and a driving mechanism in communication with the motor for automatic control of a filter. The filter mechanism operates by virtue of a lead screw which, when rotating, urges a filter and stabilizer downward through the carafe. The non-circular columnar shape of the carafe prevents the filter and stabilizer from turning with the vertical shaft. An agitator located at the bottom of the vertical shaft is used to stir up sediment prior to filtration.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2009Publication date: November 25, 2010Inventors: Michael Weissman, Robert Radi
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Publication number: 20100275785Abstract: An automatic steeping French press style apparatus comprises a housing and a carafe. The housing accommodates the carafe and comprises a motor and selector control for operating the device. The housing also comprises a funnel for directing liquid into the carafe, and a driving mechanism in communication with the motor for automatic control of a filter. The filter mechanism operates by virtue of a lead screw which, when rotating, urges a filter and stabilizer downward through the carafe. The non-circular columnar shape of the carafe prevents the filter and stabilizer from turning with the vertical shaft. An agitator located at the bottom of the vertical shaft is used to stir up sediment prior to filtration.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2009Publication date: November 4, 2010Inventors: Michael Weissman, Robert Radi
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Publication number: 20100272870Abstract: A preparation method for caffeine control and device thereof, mainly consisting of: a. mixing coffee powder and water in a container; b. applying a vibration force to the container for an acting time, and maintaining the operating temperature during this stage within a first working temperature range; c. compressing the space within the container to cause specific components in the coffee powder to be extracted and form coffee liquid; d. heating the coffee liquid obtained from step c to a second working temperature. Accordingly, vibration extraction and compression process at the first working temperature and the further heating process at the second working temperature are used to control the caffeine content of hot coffee.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2009Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: Far East UniversityInventors: Hsien-Jung Hsu, Ming-Chi Chung
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Patent number: 7806042Abstract: An apparatus for the preparation of hot beverages by brewing a water-extractable particulate substance includes a delivery pump (5), water heater (6), brewing area (36) and beverage outlet (7). The apparatus comprises a delivery member in the form of a screw shaft (10) provided with at least one flight (13) by means of which the particulate substance is delivered into and out of the brewing area (36) in one and the same direction. An extraction area (37) is provided downstream of the brewing area (36) in which the substance is compacted by the screw shaft (10) and thereby the essence of the substance extracted or the substance is additionally extracted. This is achieved by the pitch of the flights (13) in the region of the extraction zone (25) being smaller than in the region of the brewing zone (24).Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Imel AGInventors: Patrizio Frigeri, Roland Kaelin, Rainer Bunge
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Publication number: 20100236418Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for the preparation and dispensing of doses, in selectable variable volumes, of infusions, particularly of coffee, by means of pressurised water, comprising an 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, a water feeding element for feeding a predetermined quantity of pressurised water into said chamber and opening into the chamber in the zone comprised between the end of the piston inserted into the chamber and the closed end of the chamber, and a powdered product feeding device for feeding into said infusion chamber a predetermined quantity of powdered product from which to form the infusion in an amount proportional to the volume selected for the dose of infusion to be prepared.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2010Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventors: Davide SAMPAOLI, Guido Quaratesi, Claudio Volonté
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Publication number: 20100236417Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2010Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventors: Davide SAMPAOLI, Guido Quaratesi, Claudio Volonté
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Patent number: 7784396Abstract: This invention uses a hydraulic system to seal the brew chamber of a coffee maker. The sealing mechanism consists of a heating part, sealing part and slider drawer. The heating part provides the hot water and forms a chamber that allows the piston seal to expand for sealing. The slide drawer is the region where the coffee is extracted and the crema is created. The claimed invention differs from that previously known in the art in that it does not employ a mechanical locking system but rather a hydraulic system for locking. This results in a tighter and more secure lock fit of the brew chamber than previously has been known in the art. In addition, because a hydraulic system for locking is used, locking of the brew chamber is accomplished without manual force.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2006Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Electrical and Electronics LimitedInventors: Yuen Kin Fai, Marcel Hendrikus Simon Weijers
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Publication number: 20100212507Abstract: The invention provides a method for the preparation of a foamed drink comprising the steps of: providing a capsule containing a foamable ingredient; providing a receptacle positioned to collect fluid escaping from the capsule; injecting liquid into the capsule to mix with the foamable ingredient; allowing the foamable ingredient mixed with the liquid to escape from the capsule into the receptacle; followed by injecting further liquid into the receptacle in a jet having a diameter of from about 0.5 to about 2 mm to produce foamed liquid in the receptacle. The invention also provides capsules, apparatus and systems specifically adapted for use in the method. Preferably, the food ingredient is a milk powder, and the method produces a hot foamed beverage such as a cappuccino coffee.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2010Publication date: August 26, 2010Applicant: Mars, Inc.Inventors: David A. Hester, Glenn Harrison, John C. Cooke, Jon W. Shaw
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Publication number: 20100192778Abstract: A brewing apparatus, in particular for brewed beverage vending machines, the brewing apparatus having a fixed axis; a fixed frame; a reversible drive; and a number of movable driven members all connected directly or indirectly to the drive to only oscillate about the fixed axis and/or move radially with respect to the fixed axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2008Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: N&W GLOBAL VENDING S.P.AInventor: Alessandro Magno
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Publication number: 20100173056Abstract: A method for preparing a beverage or liquid from a food substance contained in a filtering receptacle by passing water through the substance using brewing centrifugal forces. The method includes feeding water into the receptacle, and driving the receptacle in centrifugal rotation to force water to flow through the substance in a centrifugal flow path to the outlet of the receptacle. The receptacle is a sealed capsule which is opened for water to be introduced into the capsule, contains a predetermined dose of food substance and is discarded after use.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2008Publication date: July 8, 2010Applicant: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Alfred Yoakim, Jean-Paul Denisart, Antoine Ryser
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Patent number: 7745759Abstract: An electrically heated water kettle comprises a vessel for holding a liquid for extraction of tea, coffee or other food material. The vessel includes a partially open immersible container sized to allow the passage of water between the walls of the vessel. The container is capable of holding the material while an opening in the container allows the entrance of water into the container upon immersion of the container in the water. The heated kettle incorporates structure to hold the container out of the water until the water reaches an appropriate extraction temperature and to immerse or withdraw the container into or from the water as is necessary to accomplish the extraction.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2007Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Edgecraft CorporationInventors: Tom Long, Daniel D. Friel, Sr., Daniel D. Friel, Jr., James M. Fitzgerald, H. William Busch, Jr.
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Patent number: 7717027Abstract: The invention provides a beverage extractor permitting extraction of a beverage of high quality irrespective of its type. The extractor is provided with a first extraction channel for letting the beverage extracted in a cylinder flow into the extraction pipe via beverage outlet holes of a second piston having a prescribed first bore and a second extraction channel via a communication hole having a prescribed second bore, which is smaller in bore than the outlet holes, for letting the beverage extracted in the cylinder flow into the extraction pipe, and the first and second extraction channels are switched over between each other by the movement of the second piston. This makes it possible to select an extraction channel suitable for the type of beverage, whether regular coffee or espresso coffee, and accordingly to extract a beverage of high quality irrespective of the type of beverage.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2007Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: Sanden CorporationInventors: Takeshi Sato, Takashi Nagasawa, Takeshi Onda
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Publication number: 20100112152Abstract: An apparatus for producing a drink, for example milk, from mixing a powder formula with a liquid, preferably water, the apparatus preferably being an automated baby-milk machine. The apparatus is configured to prepare a drink concentrate by mixing the amount of formula necessary for the total amount of drink in a certain amount of hot liquid, and to add the right amount of liquid of a certain low temperature to the concentrate in order to reach the end volume of the drink at a safe drinking temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2008Publication date: May 6, 2010Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventors: Anke Sinnema, Martijn Oversteegen, Peter Sofrides Viet, Bernardus Lubbertus Kuiper
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Publication number: 20100095852Abstract: The method for adjusting the quantity of coffee comprises the steps of: dispensing a predetermined quantity of coffee powder into an infusion chamber (36); by means of an electric actuator (19), closing said infusion chamber compressing the coffee powder in the infusion chamber. The method also provides for detection of at least one parameter of the electric actuator during at least a part of the step to close the infusion chamber and compress the-coffee powder; and setting of the quantity of coffee powder dispensed in a subsequent dispensing cycle as a function of said parameter.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2008Publication date: April 22, 2010Inventors: Gianni Remo, Ciro Adelmo Pilone, Riccardo Ziani
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Publication number: 20100080886Abstract: The instant application describes a programmable apparatus for making coffee that includes a hopper for holding coffee beans; a grinding element for receiving the coffee beans and grinding them to produce ground coffee; and a brewing chamber for receiving programmable quantities of ground coffee and combining the ground coffee with quantities of hot, pressurized water. The programmable apparatus for making coffee also includes a piston for compressing the ground coffee, the piston being arranged to enter the brewing chamber at an open end thereof; an o-ring fitted to the outside of the piston so as to maintain a pressure-tight seal against the wall of the brewing chamber; and a programming element for selectively determining a quantity C of ground coffee to be combined with a quantity W of water in the brewing chamber, the brewing chamber being capable of accommodating more than 14 grams of ground coffee.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2009Publication date: April 1, 2010Inventor: Richard HOURIZADEH
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Patent number: 7673555Abstract: An embodiment of a machine for brewing a beverage such as coffee includes a chamber and a piston assembly disposed in the chamber. The chamber is operable to receive a liquid such as water and a flavor base such as ground coffee, and to allow the beverage to brew from a mixture of the liquid and the base. The piston assembly is operable to filter a solid such as spent coffee grounds from the brewed beverage by moving in a first direction, and to force the filtered beverage out of the chamber by moving in a second direction. By modifying or automating some or all steps of the French press brewing technique, such a machine may control one or more of the brewing parameters with a level of precision that yields brewed coffee having a uniform taste from cup to cup. Furthermore, such a machine may brew the coffee with a speed that renders the machine suitable for use by establishments that serve significant amounts of coffee.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2006Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Starbucks CorporationInventors: Zander Nosler, Randy Hulett, Mike Baum, Izaak Koller, Brian Shay
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Patent number: 7669517Abstract: Appliance for preparing a froth from a milk-based liquid which includes a tank for receiving liquid that is to be frothed, and in which liquid a rotatable stirrer is positioned, a stand associated with the tank, and a system for driving the stirrer. The stirrer drive system and the stirrer include magnetic elements allowing the stirrer to be rotationally driven magnetically in the tank. At least one disturbance member is also provided to break or prevent symmetric circulation of the liquid about the median vertical axis of the tank.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2007Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Christophe S. Boussemart, Alfred Yoakim, Francesco Chiarella
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Patent number: 7661352Abstract: Liquid food dispensing device (1) for dispensing hot or cold beverages or other liquid foods without using any mixing or whipping chambers comprising at least one liquid component source (30, 31) and a diluent source (18), a delivery device and at least one diluent nozzle and one food component nozzle wherein the delivery device and diluent and food component nozzles are configured for ejecting at least one stream (6a, 6b) of diluent at a predetermined spatial configuration inside a container (10) and within a velocity range effective to create turbulence and mix the food component so to produce the food product such as the hot or cold beverage.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2004Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Alexander A. Sher, Derrick Abilay Bautista, Simon J. Livings, Larry Bartoletti, Randall C. Chrisman
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Publication number: 20100005979Abstract: 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: September 21, 2009Publication date: January 14, 2010Inventor: Jeff Baccetti
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Publication number: 20090317526Abstract: A device for brewing coffee including a basket for retaining coffee grounds, the basket having an opening to receive water at a user-selected temperature for contacting the coffee grounds within the basket. A control valve is provided for controlling the discharge of brewed coffee from the basket only after all of the water intended to be brewed has steeped within the coffee grounds.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2009Publication date: December 24, 2009Inventors: Christopher Tacklind, R. Brooke Hanson
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Publication number: 20090308256Abstract: A coffee machine includes a hot water generator, an infusion chamber for receiving an infusible product, an infusion dispensing outlet (6) and a foam producing device (40), which is interposed between the infusion chamber and the dispensing outlet and is provided with at least two outlet orifices (43, 44) arranged with respect to each other in such a way that two infusion jets, which are formed at exit, collide with each other, thereby producing a foam. The two outlet orifices (43, 44) are oriented to each other at an angle of 90 degrees in such a way that the first outlet orifice (43) is oriented in a vertical direction whereas the second outlet orifice (44) is oriented in a horizontal direction and placed in such a way that the collision of the two infusion jets takes place under the first orifice.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2006Publication date: December 17, 2009Applicant: SEB S.A.Inventor: Frederic Hiron
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Publication number: 20090277335Abstract: 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: May 7, 2009Publication date: November 12, 2009Inventor: Jeff Brian Baccetti
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Publication number: 20090235825Abstract: A system for preparing a predetermined amount of beverage suitable for consumption, provided with an exchangeable holder, and an apparatus provided with a fluid dispensing device which is detachably connected to the holder for dispensing, under pressure, by means of the restriction, a jet of a first fluid, such as water, to the exchangeable holder, the exchangeable holder being provided with at least one storage space which is filled with a second fluid, such as a concentrate, and a first mixing chamber for mixing the first and the second fluid therein, the system further being provided with a narrow passage which is included in the fluid flow path between the restriction and the first mixing chamber for, on the one side, allowing the jet of the first fluid to pass from the restriction to the first mixing chamber, and, on the other side, for substantially preventing the first fluid, the second fluid and/or the beverage from proceeding from the first mixing chamber through the narrow passage in the direction oType: ApplicationFiled: April 19, 2007Publication date: September 24, 2009Inventors: Gerbrand Kristiaan De Graaff, Hendrik Cornelis Koeling, Ka Cheung Tsang, Ralf Kamerbeek
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Patent number: 7587972Abstract: A drink making machine (10) includes an ice shaving and dispensing unit (11) which provides a predetermined amount of ice, by weight, through a chute (21) to the pitcher (17) of a blending unit (12). A nozzle (30) is carried by the chute (12) and provides water through a nozzle opening (41) until a predetermined amount of water, by weight, is received by the pitcher (14). The water from the opening (41) is not allowed to directly impinge against the bottom of the pitcher (17). The water from the opening (41) is not allowed to directly impinge against the bottom of the pitcher (17) so that it does not adversely affect the weight measurements being taken.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2004Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Vita-Mix CorporationInventors: Jonathan M. Katz, Stephen P. Rukavina, Kenneth W. Bair
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Publication number: 20090223374Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2005Publication date: September 10, 2009Inventors: Gilles Morin, Severine Mih
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Publication number: 20090223375Abstract: A package for a portion of liquid foodstuff dilutable with a diluent, which package comprises: a reservoir for containing a portion of liquid foodstuff dilutable with a diluent, which reservoir has a filling aperture, a reservoir seal for closing the reservoir, a mixing element for mixing the dilutable liquid foodstuff with the diluent, which mixing element comprises: a mixing chamber, which mixing chamber has an outflow aperture for dispensing liquid foodstuff diluted with the diluent, a liquid passage for feeding dilutable liquid foodstuff from the reservoir to the mixing chamber, a feed channel for feeding diluent to the mixing chamber, which feed channel has a first portion and a second portion, the second portion having an outflow aperture which opens into the mixing chamber, and the cross section of the second portion being smaller than the cross section of the first portion and the cross section of the mixing chamber to such an extent that when diluent is fed to the mixing chamber a venturi effect oType: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2007Publication date: September 10, 2009Inventor: Roland Waldemar Verbeek
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Patent number: 7578231Abstract: A plunger device for use with a beverage press having a screen for filtering fines from an infused beverage. A flexible seal is provided that is compressible to function properly in different sized containers. The seal may be made of a material such as rubber or rubberized plastics or the like and may have a width that is greater than its thickness. Various seal embodiments including ascending, descending and non-circular embodiments are disclosed. Brew control and multiple access openings are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2005Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Pacific Cornetta, Inc.Inventor: Yiu Ching Liu
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Publication number: 20090188394Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (1) for preparing baby milk from water and dry formula. The apparatus comprises a formula supply system (3), which comprises a reservoir (6) for holding formula and feeding means (7) for feeding formula out off the reservoir through an outlet opening (9) in said reservoir. The apparatus furthermore comprises scraping means (10) for guiding formula towards and through said outlet opening (9) into the feeding means (7). The scraping means (10) are arranged to move closely along an inner wall portion (15) of the reservoir that borders on said outlet opening (9).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2007Publication date: July 30, 2009Applicant: KONINKLIJDE PHILIPS ELECTRONCICS N.V.Inventors: Anke Sinnema, Gertrude Riette Van Der Kamp, Klaas Kooijker
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Patent number: 7559274Abstract: A beverage making device for making a beverage from a liquid and a beverage making material includes an outer housing, an inner housing, and a filter member. The outer housing is configured to hold a mixture of the liquid and the beverage making material. The inner housing is configured to be received within the outer housing and is configured to slide within the outer housing. The filter member has at least an outer peripheral edge coupled to the inner housing, and the filter member is configured to filter the mixture to provide the beverage as the inner housing slides within the outer housing. The beverage making device may further include a wiper gasket coupled to an outer peripheral edge of the inner housing that wipes an inner surface of the outer housing as the inner housing slides within the outer housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2005Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Inventor: Robert Wilhite
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Patent number: 7537138Abstract: Methods and systems to deliver foamed beverages from liquid concentrate(s) through a dispenser machine are presented. In an embodiment, the method and system for improving foam quality by generating foam with the desired texture, stability and bubble size distribution comprises use of a low viscous liquid(s) to generate a primary foam, which is then stabilized by mixing it with liquid(s) of higher viscosity. To create high quality foam, different dosing protocols including two approaches such as delivery of foaming liquid concentrates at different concentration, or getting different concentration by varying water dosing times and/or flow rates were used. Positive results were found for the dispensing systems using milk and other liquid concentrates at specific dispensing conditions (flow rates and times).Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2005Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Rafaella Saggin, Martin Leser, Jean-Baptiste Bezelgues, Simon Livings, Alexander A. Sher
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Patent number: 7533602Abstract: For a purpose of providing a beverage manufacturing apparatus capable of quickly serving high-quality tea beverage which suits user's palate and enhancing versatility, the beverage manufacturing apparatus comprises: a tea mill for crushing leaf tea to produce crushed leaf tea; a hot water tank unit for producing hot water; an extraction container for extracting tea beverage using the crushed leaf tea and the hot water; and a microcomputer for controlling supply of the crushed leaf tea from the tea mill to the extraction container and supply of the hot water from the hot water tank unit to the extraction container based on arbitrary setting, and the extraction unit is capable of being charged with a dripper and a paper filter.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2005Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Naoto Fukushima, Mamoru Ittetsu, Hiroshi Yamamoto, Shigeru Togashi
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Patent number: 7484454Abstract: 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).Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2006Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Eugster/Frismag AGInventor: Max Oehninger
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Patent number: 7481152Abstract: A brewing unit 1 for a coffee machine comprises a brewing cylinder 2 and a piston 5, 13, wherein the brewing cylinder 2 and the piston 5, 13 are movable relative to one another in the axial direction. An activatable seal 12, 18 or seal assembly is provided to seal the piston 5, 13 against the inner wall 3, 15 of the brewing cylinder 2. The seal 12, 18 is activated by an axial movement of piston 5, 13 with respect to the brewing cylinder 2. Under compression when activated, to form a seal between piston 5, 13 and brewing cylinder inner wall 3, 15, and which seal 12, 18 or seal assembly. When not activated, the seal 12, 19 is either not at all, only under low compression contact with the element.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2006Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Assignee: WIK Far East Ltd.Inventors: Markus Steckhan, Dietmar Becker
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Publication number: 20090007792Abstract: A hot beverage brewing apparatus. A pressurized hot liquid delivery system provides liquid under pressure within a range of acceptable brewing temperatures without any mechanical pump. Water is apportioned into sealable tank volumes, one of which is heated to boil the liquid and produce steam under pressure. The pressurized steam displaces the liquid from the tank volumes in proportion and at a temperature that is within the acceptable brewing range. The hot liquid under pressure is directed to a capsule receiving station to infuse a material in a capsule. The capsule dispenses the brewed beverage without contacting the brewing apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2007Publication date: January 8, 2009Applicant: APPLIANCE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONInventors: Dov Z. Glucksman, Laura J. Nickerson, Gary P. McGonagle
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Publication number: 20090007793Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2007Publication date: January 8, 2009Applicant: APPLIANCE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATIONInventors: Dov Z. Glucksman, Laura J. Nickerson, Gary P. McGonagle, David Normand Belanger
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Patent number: 7469627Abstract: A coffee maker with combined milling stage and brewing stage is provided. The coffee maker includes a shaft, a brewing basket, a chopping blade and a locking mechanism. The shaft includes a longitudinal axis and is capable of being rotated about the axis. The brewing basket is adapted to receive coffee beans and hot water. The brewing basket includes a sleeve. A portion of the shaft is movably fitted within the sleeve. The brewing basket is capable of being rotated about the axis. The chopping blade is attached to an end of the shaft and positioned within the brewing basket. The locking mechanism is adapted to lock the brewing basket and unlock the brewing basket. When the brewing basket is locked, rotation of the shaft drives the chopping blade to rotate about the axis to mill the coffee beans to produce milled coffee powder.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2006Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Inventor: Zhiping Li
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Publication number: 20080233264Abstract: A method for the preparation of a beverage by mixing water and at least one powdered product in a mixing chamber (1) and dispensing the mixture to a final container (5) provides for the preparation and delivery of at least a first portion of beverage by mixing a first soluble product with water, in the absence of mechanical stirring and for the preparation and delivery of at least a second portion of beverage by mixing a second soluble product with water in the presence of mechanical stirring and for the possible delivery of further portions of beverage to the final container (5).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2006Publication date: September 25, 2008Applicant: RHEA VENDORS S.p.A.Inventor: Luca Doglioni Majer
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Publication number: 20080216665Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2008Publication date: September 11, 2008Inventors: Joachim Hoehne, Rolf Gierth
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Publication number: 20080202346Abstract: A tea maker, having a receptacle supported by a base, the receptacle being suitable for receiving water from a user and suitable for containing tea leaves, an actuatable valve having open and closed positions flowably connected to said receptacle; and a timer mechanism which sets the acuatable valve into the open position after a predetermined period set by the user, thereby allowing brewed tea to flow from the receptacle into a tea vessel. The invention further comprises a tea maker which has an agitation assembly which enhances the flavor and health benefits of the tea.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2007Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventors: Mario Bernardo Accumanno, Michael William Crowley, Richard Chang, Juan Fernandez
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Publication number: 20080168906Abstract: A brewing and extracting apparatus comprises an extracting cup, an eccentric filter and a stirrer configured inside the extracting cup, wherein the stirrer is driven by a motor so as to generate whirlpool currents from soaking liquid injected into the extracting cup by rotating the stirrer. The eccentric filter has a container placed within the extracting cup and soaked in the soaking liquid wherein the container is on a position deviating from the center of the whirlpool currents so as to bring contents of tea-leaves in the container up increasingly and dissolve the contents into liquid through the whirlpool currents.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2008Publication date: July 17, 2008Applicant: TSANN KUEN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.Inventors: Chih Jung Pan, Kuan Wei Lee, Shih Hua Chang, Shih Hung Cheng, Shih Yao Liu
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Publication number: 20080164284Abstract: An apparatus, method and vending system mixes a dry mix with water to produce a whipped fluid slurry for a beverage. The mixing apparatus includes an inlet for receiving an unwhipped fluid slurry and an outlet for discharging the whipped fluid slurry. A whipping chamber is connected to the inlet for whipping the unwhipped fluid slurry and further includes an impeller that induces fluid turbulence to produce the whipped fluid slurry when the impeller rotates above one or more indentations in the surface of the whipping chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Gregory G. Stettes
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Publication number: 20080166463Abstract: A foamed beverage system for creating foamed beverages from a powder, a liquid, and air. The foamed beverage system may include a mixing chamber having a mixing zone and a pressurized zone. An impeller is positioned between the mixing zone and the pressurized zone. The powder and the liquid are added to the mixing chamber and the air is entrained within the mixture of the powder and the liquid within the pressurized zone.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANYInventors: Charles Bradley Green, Xinhua Chen, Carter Crittenden Bennett
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Publication number: 20080148956Abstract: A coffee maker including an assembly for mixing water and coffee during the brewing process is disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2006Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventor: Scott D. Maurer
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Patent number: 7389720Abstract: A press assembly is adapted to be used with a disposable stackable cup. According to the preferred embodiment, the press includes a filter. A resilient radially compressible support forms a seal is formed between the filter and the interior of the cup. A detachable rod is mounted to the support. The support is sized to accommodate all radii of the cup. As the user presses down the rod, the press assembly is pushed downward to the bottom of the vessel. The seal maintains continual and firm pressure on the inside surface of the vessel so that the pressurized liquid passes through the filter and the infusion substance is trapped.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2003Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Inventor: Thomas B. Haverstock
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Patent number: 7377207Abstract: The invention relates to a device for preparing a beverage, comprising:—a water reservoir (1);—a chamber (5) that is connected to said reservoir for delivering water;—means (17) for filling said chamber with water;—means (16) for emptying water from the chamber;—a compressed gas reservoir (2) with a three-way valve (4) for displacing said means so as to empty the chamber; and—a conduit (14) for conveying the water from the chamber to an extraction head.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2003Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Karl Hug, Jean-Luc Denisart, Jean-Paul Denisart
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Patent number: 7353751Abstract: A coffeemaker that heats up water in water tanks and supplies the heated water into a coffee funnel that has ground coffee and further collects liquid coffee dripping from the coffee funnel; the coffeemaker including an iced coffee tank, which collects the liquid coffee that drips from the coffee funnel, and an ice water tank, which accommodates the iced coffee tank and contains ice water that cools the liquid coffee inside the iced coffee tank via the walls of the iced coffee tank; and a relative difference in rotational speed being given to the iced coffee tank and the ice water inside the ice water tank.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2004Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: Izumi Products CompanyInventor: Hiroyuki Takizawa