Abstract: A coffee machine (1) having a coffee grinding device (9), a brewing device (5), a brewing water source (7) and a flowmeter (8), which for the user offers a particularly simple setting of the extract content of a coffee beverage. A display device (16) is provided for displaying the flow rate acquired on the flowmeter (8).

Abstract: The present invention concerns an injection-molded capsule for use in a food preparation machine, said capsule for use in a food preparation machine comprising: (i) a structure (1) with a lower side (2), at least three pillars (3) extending from the lower side and linked to a circular upper frame (4) which defines the surroundings of the capsule top side, the pillars (3) having cross-sections S1, S2 and S3, the lower side (2) being a solid wall that comprises a dispensing opening (5) and is centered across the vertical symmetry axis VSA of said capsule, and (ii) a label (6) attached to the outer surface of the lower side (2), pillars (3) and upper circular frame (4), thus forming an envelope that defines capsule side walls, characterized in that the injection point IP of the capsule is off-centered in the vicinity of said dispensing opening (5), opposed the pillar (3) having a cross-section S3 relatively to the axis VSA, and in that S1=S2 and S3>S1.

Abstract: The invention concerns a beverage production device comprising:—a beverage production chamber (1) designed to have a liquid interact with a beverage ingredient,—a pump (2) for pumping the liquid,—a heater (3) for heating the pumped liquid, wherein the heater comprises:—a chamber (31) presenting an inlet (32) for the introduction of the liquid and an outlet (33) for the discharge of the liquid,—a heating body (34) contained in the chamber, characterised in that the liquid outlet (33) is placed at the top side (310) of the heater chamber (31), and the chamber of the heater comprises an outlet (35) for the discharge of air, said air outlet being arranged at a position higher than the liquid outlet (33) with respect to the horizontal.

Abstract: A percolating machine for producing a beverage using a sealed capsule containing anhydrous powdered material, the machine having a pressurized-hot-water dispenser assembly extending along a vertical axis, and in turn having a sprinkler having an end wall substantially crosswise to the aforementioned axis; a removable percolating cup positioned, in use, with its inlet facing the end wall, and for housing a sealed capsule positioned with a sealing wall facing the end wall; and a piercing device integral with the sprinkler and having a number of substantially rectangular-based projections, which extend downwards from the end wall of the sprinkler, are equally spaced about the aforementioned axis along a peripheral portion of the end wall, and pierce the sealing wall of the sealed capsule when the percolating cup is set to a work position contacting the sprinkler.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a beverage. Movement of a brew chamber may automatically enable the provision of beverage precursor liquid into a reservoir in a brewer, which is then used (heated or not) to form a beverage. For example, closing of the brew chamber may cause a lid for a water reservoir to be fully opened or otherwise permit movement of the lid to allow access to the reservoir, allowing a user to provide water into the reservoir. The reservoir lid may open with an abrupt action, causing attention to be drawn to the reservoir lid. In another arrangement, closure of the brew chamber may cause actuation of a baffle, pump, valve or other device to provide a suitable amount of water to a reservoir for beverage formation. In another arrangement, opening of the brew chamber may cause the reservoir lid to be automatically and simultaneously opened with the brew chamber.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for controllably adjusting characteristics of a beverage produced by a beverage system. The characteristics of the beverage may include the strength, flavor, concentration of various flavor components as well as other characteristics. A control is provided for access by a user to adjust the characteristics to a desired level. The user may increment or decrement the level of the characteristics in response to personal preferences. The control provides an interface to control the beverage system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a machine for preparing coffee infusions by means of a liquid under pressure, in particular water under pressure, the machine comprising: a pump assembly (11) arranged to raise the pressure of the liquid outgoing from the pump assembly up to a preset pressure value (PI); one or more dispensing units (14) connected to the pump assembly, each dispensing unit (14) being arranged to dispense the coffee infusion; one or more pressure managing devices (20), each managing device (20) being connected to a certain dispensing unit (14). In the machine (10), the pressure managing device (20) includes a first duct (15) and at least one second duct (16) that are connected in parallel, have a common outlet and are arranged to supply the dispensing unit (14), during the coffee infusion preparation, with liquid at different pressures.

Abstract: The invention relates to an injection unit (1) for an espresso coffee machine including a stationary mechanical upper block (2) having a central projection (4) which forms a hot-water dispenser (7) and to which a removable portion, referred to as the group head (8), is attached, the inner surface of the group head having a cavity (22) in which the portafilter (9) is mounted, said portafilter comprising an operating handle (10) and a recess for holding a basket (11) containing the coffee grounds for preparing espresso coffee, characterised in that the group head (8) is attached to the mechanical block (2) of the injection unit (1) via a linking device having a resilient effect, and in that the seal (23) surrounding the dispenser (7) engages with the inner periphery of the basket (11). The invention is useful for manufacturers of espresso coffee machines.

Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are shown. 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.

Abstract: A kitchen appliance includes a first reservoir for receiving a liquid to be used for preparing a beverage. A hot water generator (‘HWG’) has an inlet end, an outlet end and a passageway extending therebetween. The inlet end of the HWG is connected to the first reservoir. Liquid from the first reservoir flows into the HWG through the inlet end. A selector valve is connected to the outlet end of the HWG. At least a portion of the selector valve is movable by a user between a first valve position and a second valve position.

Abstract: A kitchen appliance includes a first reservoir for receiving a liquid to be used for preparing a beverage. A hot water generator (‘HWG’) has an inlet end, an outlet end and a passageway extending therebetween. The inlet end of the HWG is connected to the first reservoir. Liquid from the first reservoir flows into the HWG through the inlet end. A second reservoir is connected to the outlet end of the HWG. The second reservoir includes a discharge port, a gas vent and a skirt extending from a wall of the second reservoir further than the gas vent. The skirt at least partially surrounds the gas vent. At least a portion of the skirt is spaced laterally inwardly from an outer sidewall of the second reservoir.

Abstract: A structure of universal coffee maker comprising a water tank, a water pump, a heating element and an extractor, which is provided with at least one one-way water way communicating with the above components in turn, wherein said water pump is connected to a controller which can set the pumping power of the water pump. Different pumping power can be set by the water pump with controller to get different water pressure, so that the pressure conditions of different kinds of universal coffee maker can be satisfied.

Abstract: A coffee maker includes a water storage device having a water tank and a water outlet piping communicating with the water tank; a driving device having a driving motor and a driving shaft; and a swing device having a rotating mechanism mounted on the driving shaft and a shifting mechanism connected to the water outlet piping and moving along with the rotating mechanism when the latter rotates. The water outlet piping is brought by a horizontal rotational movement of the rotating mechanism and a linear movement of the shifting mechanism to swing and shift in a spiral rotational course from a center point to outer and inner areas of a filter in a reciprocating motion while pouring water at controlled volume and stability, enabling ground coffee beans on the filter to be quickly and evenly extracted by water to release aromatic smell and sweet flavor just like drip brewing manually.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method, a device and a system for preparing a beverage from an extractable product, such as ground coffee. Said device is provided with a receptacle (2) having an inlet for the extractable product and an outlet (3) for the extracted beverage. The method comprises the steps of: providing said extractable product into the receptacle (2); closing off completely the outlet of the receptacle (2); providing a pressurized fluid, such as water and/or water vapor, through the inlet on and/or in the extractable product, thereby pre-extracting the extractable product in the closed receptacle; and opening the outlet (3) when a predetermined threshold, such as a volume, pressure or time related threshold, is reached, thereby obtaining the extracted beverage.

Abstract: The brewing unit comprises: a brewing chamber comprising at least two brewing chamber portions (215B, 227; 321, 323; 421, 423) movable one with respect to the other; a water heater (207; 315; 403); a hot water duct for feeding hot water from said water heater in said brewing chamber; a beverage dispensing duct (219; 334; 434) from which a beverage is dispensed. The water heater has a cavity (207C; 315E; 403C) through which the beverage dispensing duct extends for connection to an outer beverage dispensing spout (5; 5A).

Abstract: A device for brewing coffee. The device includes a microprocessor, a user actuated controller for interfacing with the microprocessor, a tank for retaining water and a heating element for selectively heating the water. The device further includes a brewing basket for receipt of water from the tank, and a cone valve located in a dispersing end of the brewing basket. The microprocessor dictates a measured quantity of water to be delivered to the brewing basket in conjunction with a measured amount of ground coffee for brewing. In a preferred embodiment, a multichannel valve is employed together with a suitable pump for controlling fluid flow as dictated by the microprocessor.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a drip filter coffee maker. The tilting rod assembly includes a tilting rod motor and a tilting rod driven by the tilting rod to repeatedly swing within a predetermined angle range, and a top end of the tilting rod performs helical rotation. The connecting rod assembly has a connecting rod driven by the tilting rod. The water injecting pipe assembly has a water injecting pipe driven by the connecting rod. By the connecting rod, the helical rotation of the top end of the tilting rod is transferred to the water injecting pipe, and the water injecting pipe performs helical water injection. Hot water is poured repeatedly and uniformly onto the coffee powder along a helical path. Therefore, the coffee powder is uniformly mixed with the water, and coffee with a more mellow taste is obtained.

Abstract: A system as disclosed herein uses a cold or unheated water source such as a reservoir or a pressurized inlet feed line, and a heated water reservoir. The unheated water reservoir is pressurized with a pressurizing apparatus communicating with the unheated water reservoir. Such a pressurizing apparatus may include an air pump, bladder or piston arrangement as well as other pressurizing apparatus. The pressurizing apparatus is controllable to push water from the unheated water reservoir to the heated water reservoir. As a result of the pressurization and displacement of the unheated water, heated water is then displaced and forced from the heated water reservoir. Heated water from the heated water reservoir is dispensed to the spray head and over the beverage brewing substance such as coffee for brewing.

Abstract: A disposable cartridge (10), which is suitable to be used in a process of preparing a beverage, comprises a beverage making unit (1). A duct system (30) of the beverage making unit (1) has a main duct (31), a first subsidiary duct (32) which merges into the main duct (31), and a second subsidiary duct (33) which merges into the main duct (31) as well, at a different position than the first subsidiary duct (32). In a process of preparing a beverage, a first fluid is supplied by the main duct (31), and flows of a second fluid are supplied by the subsidiary ducts (32, 33). In this way, it is achieved that the second fluid is mixed with the first fluid in two steps. In case the second fluid is used for heating the first fluid, local boiling of the first fluid is prevented.

Abstract: The brewing comprises: a brewing chamber with at least two brewing chamber portions (121, 123; 215B, 227; 321, 323) movable one with respect to the other; a water heater (115; 207; 315); and a structural frame supporting said at least two brewing chamber portions (121, 123; 215B, 227; 321, 323), on which forces generated by the pressurized water in the brewing chamber during brewing are discharged. The structural frame comprises two side components (111; 205; 311) arranged sideways of said brewing chamber, and two end components (113, 115; 221, 207; 313, 315) mechanically constrained to the side components (111; 205; 311). The side components and the end components form a closed structure, whereto the water heater is in turn constrained independently independently from the first brewing chamber portion and adjacent thereto. Forces generated by the pressurized water in the brewing chamber during brewing are discharged on the water heater (115; 207; 315).

Abstract: The invention relates to a distributing head, which is used to distribute a hot liquid over an infusion material in a beverage maker. The distributing head has a housing (1, 2, 3, 4), which has an interior (7) and an inlet (13) for the liquid that opens into the interior (7) and a plurality of outlet openings (35), which lead outward from the interior (7). The housing (1, 2, 3, 4) has at least one first portion (1, 2), which is made of a first material, and at least one second portion (3, 4), which is made of a second material that repels liquid better than the first material.

Abstract: The beverage brewing device is configured for use with a beverage brewer having an inlet probe for dispensing water and an outlet probe. The beverage brewing device includes a body defining a brew chamber configured to contain a dry beverage medium and at least one outlet probe receptacle defined in the body and extending upwardly from a bottom surface of the body. The at least one outlet probe receptacle is sized and configured to receive an outlet probe of a beverage brewer. A lid is removably securable to the body and is engageable with the body to selectively enclose a top opening of the body. An inlet probe opening is defined in the lid for receiving an inlet probe of the beverage brewer. At least one filter is defined within in the body, wherein the filter is configured to retain a dry beverage medium within the brew chamber while allowing a brewed beverage to pass through the brew chamber.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hot water supplying device for coffee machines comprising a condensation chamber having at least one output duct for supplying the hot water, a first duct having a first flow rate and arranged for injecting water or steam at a first temperature into the chamber, a second duct having a second flow rate and arranged for injecting water at a second temperature into the chamber.

Abstract: A beverage making apparatus having structures and methods to facilitate programming of the apparatus with parameters suitable for a pre-determined brewing substances. The beverage making apparatus has a water delivery system for delivering water to a brewing substance holder containing a brewing substance. A temperature adjusting system is provided for adjusting the temperature of water in the water delivery system. A controller is provided for controllably operating the apparatus, the controller further being programmable with characteristics suitable for predetermined brewing substances.

Abstract: The invention concerns a beverage dispenser (10) in which the beverage is prepared by introducing at least one jet of diluent in a recipient comprising a soluble food ingredient, wherein said dispenser comprises at least one removable rotating jet(s) module (M) comprising: a motor (1) connectable to an energy supply, a diluent nozzle (2) able to deliver at least one jet of diluent and connectable to a diluent supply, a gearing device (3) configured for making the motor rotate the diluent nozzle.

Abstract: A roasted plant extraction apparatus is provided which is capable of selectively reducing excessive bitterness in an extract liquid obtained by water extraction from a roasted plant raw material while preserving desirable flavor ingredients and body. A beverage extraction apparatus includes a granule containing part adapted to contain granules for extraction of a beverage, a pouring device for pouring an extraction solvent into the granule containing part from a first direction, and a collecting device for collecting an extract liquid extracted by means of the extraction solvent. The granule containing part comprises a detachable restraining member for placing the granules in a substantially sealed state. The beverage extraction apparatus further comprises a rotary mechanism for rotating the granule containing part.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of, and an apparatus (10) for, preparing a beverage from a solvent (11) and ingredients (12). The apparatus comprises:—a container (13) for containing the solvent,—an infuser (14) for containing the ingredients,—a first system (15) for moving solvent from the container to the infuser, and—a second system adapted to assume a first position for moving solvent being in the infuser out of the container, and a second position for carrying solvent being in the infuser back into the container. This apparatus allows preparing a beverage from a solvent and ingredients by means of a preliminary rinsing step of the ingredients, which is conducted in a simple manner for the user. Also, this apparatus allows a user to easily control the rinsing of the ingredients with respect to time, amount of water, etc., which minimizes nutritional loss (e.g. catechins in tea) during rinsing of the ingredients.

Abstract: Insert (20A) for use in a food preparation machine, the insert being adapted for being engaged by a fluid supplying interface (5) of the machine; such interface comprising a liquid injector (7) and a gas injector (8); both being transversally distant one another along the interface; the insert comprising a fluid interface side (21) and a fluid supply side (22); the fluid interface side (21) comprising a liquid inlet (23) designed for fitting with the liquid injector (7); the fluid supply side (22) comprising a liquid outlet (24) transversally distant from the liquid inlet (23) and, a liquid passage (26) providing liquid communication from the liquid inlet (23) to the liquid outlet (24); wherein the insert comprises a gas injector area (25) between the liquid inlet and the liquid outlet and wherein the insert (20A) comprises a liquid separation structure (29) arranged for closing the liquid communication from the liquid passage (26) to the gas injector area (25).

Abstract: A beverage brewing apparatus having a water heating portion and a brewing portion, the water heating portion comprising a three heating element tank having three heating elements, a three phase power system, and wherein each heating element is powered by a different phase power. Each heating element may operate with a different heating capacity to better control the heating operation, controlled by a processor that manages the brewing apparatus.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of and an apparatus (10) for, preparing a beverage from a solvent (11) and ingredients (12). The apparatus comprises a container (13) for containing the solvent, an infuser (14) for containing the ingredients, and a pumping system (15) for carrying solvent from the container to the infuser. The infuser (14) is arranged so as to assume: —a first position (P1) allowing the solvent carried to the infuser by the pumping system to circulate inside the infuser containing the ingredients, and allowing the solvent circulating inside the infuser to be subsequently carried back into the container, and —a second position (P2) allowing the solvent carried to the infuser by the pumping system to circulate outside the infuser containing the ingredients, and allowing the solvent circulating outside the infuser to be subsequently carried outside the container.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide improved heating methods for use in coffee makers and other beverage makers that use hot water for various beverages and other purposes. These improvements find particular use on-board aircraft or other passenger transport vehicles, where quick heating and reduced power consumption are particularly desirable and beneficial. Further embodiments also relate to improved water level sensing, improved water reservoirs, and improved carafe features.

Abstract: A beverage maker having a liquid director configured to channel liquid toward a lowermost surface thereof, into and though an opening in the beverage maker, and to a fluid container of the beverage maker. The liquid director can be engaged with a lid of the beverage maker and/or at least one side wall of the container. The lid can be moved between a first position where the lid at least partially covers the opening and a second position where the lid does not cover at least a portion of the opening. The liquid director can be in a deployed, fluid receiving position when the lid is in the first position and can be in an undeployed position when the lid is in the second position.

Abstract: A beverage forming method and system employing the introduction of air into the heater tank and/or an expansion chamber after liquid delivery is complete. An expansion chamber may be provided at the top of the heater tank and provide a tortuous flow path from an air inlet to the tank outlet.

Abstract: A supply container forming part of a descaling system of a flowline system includes a housing having a water inlet supplied by a water source. The water inlet opens into a reservoir chamber containing a water-soluble descaling agent. A bottom chamber is in fluid communication with the reservoir chamber. The bottom chamber is configured to collect the descaling agent dissolved by the water. A capillary line discharges a solution of the descaling agent.

Abstract: An in-line heater for a liquid food or beverage preparation machine, in which machine liquid is circulated through the heater and then guided into a brewing chamber for brewing a food or beverage ingredient supplied into said brewing chamber. The heater has a body incorporating an inlet, an outlet and a heating chamber extending therebetween, with the inlet, outlet and heating chamber forming together a rigid passage for guiding the liquid circulating through the body, and one or more electric components that are secured on or in the body and connected to a printed circuit board arranged to control the heater. The one or more electric components are rigidly connected to the printed circuit board.

Abstract: The device comprises a body (2-4) having an inlet passage (7) and an outlet passage (18) for the liquid, and wherein there is defined an internal cavity (8) which by means of a movable intermediate member (9, 12) is divided into a first and second chamber (10, 11) which are sealingly separated from one another, preferably by means of a diaphragm member (9). The first chamber (10) is adapted to be put into communication with the inlet passage (7); a resilient member (15) is provided in the second chamber (11) and tends to urge the movable member (9, 12) towards the first chamber (10). The movable member (9, 12) has an associated valve member (16) interacting with an associated valve seat (17) in such a way as to form a valve device (16-18) defining a first orifice with a variable passage cross section between the inlet passage (7) and the outlet passage (18).

Abstract: The invention proposes a brewing apparatus for extracting a portion capsule, having an accommodation element, which has a cavity for the portion capsule, and a closure element, it being possible for the closure element to move between a loading position, which is at a distance from the accommodation element, and an extraction position, which closes the cavity, and the brewing apparatus having a holding element for holding the portion capsule in the loading position, and furthermore the holding element being designed in such a way that the portion capsule is aligned substantially in the direction of the accommodation element by the holding element by virtue of the movement of the closure element from the loading position to the extraction position.

Abstract: Method and device for automatic preparing of tea. A container is provided with a strainer bottom and a closable discharge line downstream of said bottom. In a first step, water is fed in until the strainer bottom is substantially covered with water. Tea leaves, which can absorb the water, are then added. After that, further water is added, and tea can be made. The discharge line is then opened and the ready beverage is discharged, possibly with further water being fed in. The remaining tea leaves are left behind on the surface of the strainer. The container is then split into a container sleeve and strainer bottom, and a brush is placed between them for the purpose of removing the leaves.

Abstract: A capsule (1) for the preparation of beverages within dispensing machines, has a sealing film (4) which is perforated at the time of the use when the pressurized infusion water is supplied to the capsule and deforms the film (4), bringing it into contact with underlying perforation means (6) fixed to the same capsule.

Abstract: A liquid food or beverage preparation machine that includes a fluid arrangement and a printed circuit board for controlling one or more functions of the fluid arrangement, with the printed circuit board being enclosed within a substantially impervious housing to protect the printed circuit board from fluid or vapor emissions from the fluid arrangement.

Abstract: The invention concerns a beverage production device for preparing a beverage by introducing at least one liquid in a receptacle (13) containing a beverage concentrate, said beverage production device comprising: a plurality of nozzles (3, 40, 8, 11) for injecting at least one liquid into the receptacle, and at least one liquid supply means (5, 6)connected to said nozzles, wherein the nozzles are removably fixed in a positioning device (1) said positioning device being made of a flexible material.

Abstract: A beverage brewer (10) having a housing (16, 30) with source of dispense water (37, 39) for mixing with beverage ingredient to produce a freshly brewed beverage has an electromagnet (76) mounted to the housing (30) and a brew basket assembly (32, 34) with a drain plug assembly (49) that is responsive to energization of the electromagnet (76) to actuate a drain plug assembly to move a drain plug (48) out of blocking engagement with a drain hole (61). The drain plug (48) is attached to a lower end of a plug support member (50) that has an upper magnetic responsive end (51) that is received within a hollow core of (54) of the magnet (76) when the brew basket assembly (32, 34) is toolessly mounted to by raising it into operative position where it is held by mating magnetic connectors (72, 74). During use, the elongate plug support member (50) is used as a handle to remove a filter assembly (60) for cleaning.

Abstract: A system and method for brewing coffee to produce elevated levels of niacinamide is shown. One embodiment includes providing a dark roasted coffee, brewing the coffee at pressures above atmospheric pressure in water heated above boiling temperature, and producing a brewed coffee with elevated levels of niacinamide. Another embodiment includes a system comprising a boiler with a heating element, a heat exchanger extending into the boiler, the heat exchanger having an injector with at least one lateral opening to inject water laterally into the heat exchanger, to produce pressurized water above atmospheric boiling temperature to brew ground coffee at temperatures above boiling to produce a coffee with elevated levels of niacinamide. The embodiment system may also include a thermally insulating lid.

Abstract: The brewing assembly comprises: a brewing chamber (21, 31, 41); a support structure (17, 19) carrying a first portion (21) and a second portion (23) of the brewing chamber; and a boiler (51) for heating water. The support structure has a first part (17) which is fastened to the first portion (21) of the brewing chamber, and a second part (19) which is fastened to the second portion (23) of the brewing chamber. The first and second parts of the support structure can be mutually coupled and uncoupled. The first and second portions of the brewing chamber are mutually mobile to adopt an open position, and a closed position when the first and second parts of the support structure are coupled. The boiler (51) is rigidly connected to one of the parts of the support structure and to one of the portions of the brewing chamber.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a preparing device (1) for preparing an aqueous beverage by means of a beverage ingredient. The preparing device (1) comprises: an outflow nozzle (33) for dispensing prepared beverage; a preparation chamber (13, 16, 14) for at least partially preparing the beverage; a supply (12) line ending in the preparation chamber for the supply of water to the preparation chamber; an ingredient-dispensing system (7) for delivering the beverage ingredient to the preparation chamber; and an outflow path (36, 33) which extends from the preparation chamber to the outflow nozzle. The outflow nozzle (33) and/or the preparation chamber (13, 16, 14) and/or the outflow path (33, 36) are entirely or partly made from a polymer mixture which comprises (a) a self-lubricating, hydrophobic polymer or copolymer having a moisture absorption, determined in accordance with ASTM D 570 at a relative humidity of 50% and a temperature of 23° C.

Abstract: A portable automatic beverage brewing drinking vessel comprising, an on/off button, a heating element, a receptacle for accepting infusible material, and a means for translating the receptacle through the liquid. The means for translating the receptacle through the liquid includes but is not limited to, an electric motor, and magnets or electromagnets. In one embodiment, a pump transfers the liquid through tubes to the receptacle. The brewing vessel is portable and provides a simple and automatic means for brewing a beverage that can be consumed directly from the vessel.

Abstract: A beverage maker having a liquid director configured to channel liquid toward a lowermost surface thereof, into and though an opening in the beverage maker, and to a fluid container of the beverage maker. The liquid director can be engaged with a lid of the beverage maker and/or at least one side wall of the container. The lid can be moved between a first position where the lid at least partially covers the opening and a second position where the lid does not cover at least a portion of the opening. The liquid director can be in a deployed, fluid receiving position when the lid is in the first position and can be in an undeployed position when the lid is in the second position.

Abstract: The beverage brewing device is configured for use with a beverage brewer having an inlet probe for dispensing water and an outlet probe. The beverage brewing device includes a body defining a brew chamber configured to contain a dry beverage medium and at least one outlet probe receptacle defined in the body and extending upwardly from a bottom surface of the body. The at least one outlet probe receptacle is sized and configured to receive an outlet probe of a beverage brewer. A lid is removably securable to the body and is engageable with the body to selectively enclose a top opening of the body. An inlet probe opening is defined in the lid for receiving an inlet probe of the beverage brewer. At least one filter is defined within in the body, wherein the filter is configured to retain a dry beverage medium within the brew chamber while allowing a brewed beverage to pass through the brew chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus 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. The apparatus includes a liquid injection member comprising a needle for injecting liquid into the cell, a motor and shaft for centrifugally and rotationally driving the cell at at least one centrifugal speed, a peripheral discharge valve for enabling liquid extract to leave the cell after the centrifugal speed is achieved, and a gas purging conduit configured and positioned to remove gas from the cell as liquid fills the cell.

Abstract: Apparatus for preparing beverages comprising a module (10) for distributing a beverage by supplying a pressurized liquid, a liquid supply tank (7), gas supply means (65) configured to supply the module with pressurized liquid, a liquid feed chamber (80), the said chamber being arranged, in a filling configuration, to communicate with the tank (7) in order to be filled with liquid and the said chamber being arranged, in a module supply configuration, to communicate with the gas supply means in order to pressurize the liquid in the chamber and to distribute a quantity of liquid under a certain pressure through the module. Preferably, the chamber (80) is bounded by at least one elastic wall (85), separating the gas from the liquid in a sealed manner and, configured to deform elastically and thereby reduce the internal volume of the chamber under the effect of the gas thrust against this wall. The invention applies, for example, to mobile or portable coffee or multi-beverage machines.