With Gas Treating Means Patents (Class 99/323.1)
  • Patent number: 7661352
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Alexander A. Sher, Derrick Abilay Bautista, Simon J. Livings, Larry Bartoletti, Randall C. Chrisman
  • Publication number: 20100034942
    Abstract: A method for preparing a hot beverage, in particular a coffee beverage or a tea beverage, with flavors being extracted from a flavor carrier, which is prepared from roasted coffee or dried tea, by means of water or steam having a plurality of steps: a predetermined quantity of the flavor carrier, in which the flavors are contained, is added to an extraction chamber which can be closed in a fluid-tight manner in a first step; water or steam for extracting flavors from the flavor carrier is added to the extraction chamber in a subsequent step; the extracted beverage flows out of the extraction chamber in a subsequent step; before the step of introducing water or steam into the extraction chamber, a step of introducing pressurized gas into the extraction chamber is executed. In the process, the internal pressure in the extraction chamber rises.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: PETERVIN SA
    Inventors: Francesco Illy, Alessandro Parenti, Paolo Spugnoli
  • Publication number: 20100028515
    Abstract: A carbonated drink container pressurizer adapter that is screwed onto a conventional drink container in place of the original bottle top, which includes a valve attachment point for the purpose of allowing entry of CO2, and a pressure release valve preset to open at a given pressure for the safe use of the adapter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Gormley
  • Publication number: 20100011967
    Abstract: A bottle top regulator/aerator for controlling the flow from a bottle having a narrow cylindrical opening through which wine or similar liquid may be poured. The dispensing apparatus includes, in combination, an air inductor, a regulating cartridge having a percolation labyrinth, and an anti-drip trough integrated within a housing. The application of this apparatus provides for both the rapid aeration of the wine, as well as a uniform flow rate absent the hazard of post-pouring droplets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Janet Barberio, Paul J. Brennan
  • Publication number: 20100011968
    Abstract: The device comprises: a milk feed pipe (11); an air inlet duct (15); a pressurized steam feed pipe (17); an emulsion chamber (41), in which milk and air, drawn by means of the pressurized steam, are mixed and emulsified; along the steam feed pipe (17), a valve to place the steam feed pipe in communication with the outside and to cause emptying of the milk feed pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Giuseppe Fin, Marco Santini
  • Publication number: 20100011969
    Abstract: A frothing device (1) is disclosed which is suited for a beverage machine. The frothing unit has an inlet (11) for a frothing medium (12) and a gas inlet (13) with an opening diameter. Furthermore, the frothing unit comprises a pumping means (14) and a tubing (15) for connecting the aforementioned components to one another. The aforementioned components form a continuous tubing system. In addition, due to the pumping action of the pumping means, a negative pressure difference with respect to the atmospheric pressure is accomplished throughout the whole tubing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Paulus C. Duineveld, Joeke Noordhuis, Fred Fraij, Marinus C. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20100006592
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for dosed dispensing from a container of a liquid including a substance dissolved therein, like e.g. a carbonated beverage, wherein prior to dispensing of the liquid the pressure in the container is equalized with the ambient pressure in the space in which the liquid is dispensed, said pressure being equalized by first establishing a gas connection and only then establishing a liquid connection between the container and the space in which the liquid is dispensed. In accordance with the invention the liquid is dispensed from the container via a dosing chamber, prior to transferring of the liquid to the dosing chamber the pressure in the container is equalized with the pressure in the dosing chamber, and prior to dispensing of the liquid from the dosing chamber the pressure in said chamber is equalized with the ambient pressure in the space in which the liquid is dispensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventors: Wilhelmus Johannes Joseph Maas, Petrus Lambertus Wilhelmus Hurkmans
  • Publication number: 20100010422
    Abstract: The object of the invention is to provide an apparatus and a method for generating a large amount of nanofluid continuously and stably with a relatively simple, inexpensive and easy-to-use structure, and for efficiently performing an intra-apparatus cleaning operation to substantially reduce the nanofluid manufacturing cost. A nanofluid generating apparatus 1 for generating nanofluid containing nanobubbles, wherein the nanobubbles are gas bubbles with diameter less than 1 ?m, comprises a gas-liquid mixing chamber 7, comprising a turbulence generating mechanism for forcibly mixing supplied gas and liquid by generating turbulence, and a nano-outlet 20 for discharging the gas-liquid mixture fluid to outside of the gas-liquid mixing chamber to generate nanofluid; a gas-liquid supply apparatus 21, 23, . . .
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventor: Sadatoshi Watanabe
  • Patent number: 7644652
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (15) for foaming milk by means of external suction equipment (35), used as in accessory for espresso machines or similar domestic appliances. Said device comprises a fixed part that can be connected to the steam supply conduit (1) of said machines and an easily interchangeable disposable part (26) containing all parts that come into contact with the milk. The invention is characterised in that components of the disposable parts and in some embodiments of the invention even the entire disposable part consist(s) of thin-walled plastic tubes of the drinking straw type, which can be produced in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner by extrusion and subsequent thermoplastic forming. The use of the inventive device obviates the need for the inconvenient cleaning of conventional foaming nozzles and eliminates hygiene problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Klaus Eimer, Dieter Patzig
  • Publication number: 20090301310
    Abstract: The inventive coffee machine is provided with a housing (2) including a coffee output (9, 10), a steam generator and a steam output nozzle (20) which is movable with respect to the housing and is provided with a free end (22) immersible into a cup. The free end is introducible into a space under the coffee output (9, 10) and is translationally displaceable between an elevated position in which the free end (22) is placed at least substantially at the level of the coffee output (9, 10) and a lower position in which the free end (22) is immersible into a cup which is positioned in such a way that it receives espresso coffee.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Nicolas Bazin, Gilles Morin, Romain Turpin, Didier Brodin
  • Publication number: 20090282987
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system, pod and method for preparing a beverage containing extract from a water infusible ingredient and, in one preferred embodiment, provides: a system for preparing a beverage comprising: at least one compartment defining a storage volume for containing, or for receiving a pod containing, an extraction ingredient of roast and ground coffee for forming a beverage; and one or more jetting apertures arranged for jetting in use a liquid into the at least one compartment, wherein: the system operates in use at a pressure of less than 8.5×105 Pa (8.5 bar); at least one of the one or more jetting apertures delivers in use a jet of liquid which impacts the extraction ingredient of roast and ground coffee at a speed in the range of 15 to 500×10?2 m/s (15 to 500 cm/s); and the one or more jetting apertures comprise a total cross sectional area less than 16×10?6 m2 (16 mm2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Alistair John MacMahon, Mark Norton, Paul James Harpley, Audrey Virginie Trouillot, Amy Jane Stockwell, Richard James Walker
  • Patent number: 7603945
    Abstract: An apparatus constituted by a plurality of dispensing assemblies for automatically preparing and dispensing espresso coffee, each assembly of the plurality being of the type comprising a kinematic arrangement having a connecting rod and crank for moving the members responsible for preparing and dispensing the coffee in a prescribed operating sequence. The kinematic arrangement comprises a pair of connecting rods which are connected, at one end, to a respective crank and motor means for actuating at least one of the cranks. The dispensing assemblies are beside each other and the connecting rod of an assembly is provided with means which can function as the connecting rod of the adjacent assembly and transfer the rotational movement to the relevant crank so that all the dispensing assemblies are actuated at the same time by means of a single motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A.
    Inventor: Maurizio Beretta
  • Patent number: 7600467
    Abstract: Automatic apparatus for treating milk by means of steam comprises a steam-generating source, a reservoir containing the milk to be treated, a mixing chamber into which a flow of milk with a predetermined flow-rate and at least one flow of steam with a predetermined flow-rate are brought through respective ducts opening into the mixing chamber, the chamber being provided with an opening for the delivery of the mixture produced, as well as a peristaltic pump operating on the milk duct between the reservoir and the chamber and driven by an electric motor with adjustable speed. The flow-rate of the pump and consequently the ratio between the flow of milk and the flow of steam can thus be varied so as to achieve the desired temperature in the final product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A.
    Inventors: Andrea Coccia, Dario Sala
  • Publication number: 20090235828
    Abstract: A holder to dispense and prepare ice coffee, consisting of a first compartment containing liquid coffee extract, a second compartment containing a propellant, a nozzle with a valve, and whereby at least one additive, such as sugars, sweeteners, aromas or a combination thereof, can be added to the concentrate in order to spray a jet of product onto a liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Peter Kerstens
  • Patent number: 7591217
    Abstract: A beverage device for making a beverage with a foam layer on top, comprising foaming means for generating foam from said beverage, said foaming means comprising at least one inlet opening (18) for receiving beverage under pressure and at least one outlet opening (38,39) for the beverage with the foam. To obtain a fine and stable foam layer on the beverage, the beverage device is characterized in that the foaming means comprises means for generating a spray (48) of beverage, and said foaming means further comprises a collision surface (34) which, in use, is hit by said spray (48) of beverage, thereby generating foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignees: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V., Sara Lee/De N.V.
    Inventors: Hans Kodden, Wilhelmus Johannus Joseph Maas, Joeke Noordhuis
  • Patent number: 7550169
    Abstract: A foamed milk system for creating foamed milk from a source of condensed milk, a source of water, and a source of pressurized air. The foamed milk system may include a milk inlet system for the condensed milk, a water inlet system for the water, an air inlet system for the pressurized air, and a mixing area to mix the condensed milk, the water, and the pressurized air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Charles B. Green, Udaiyan Jatar, Paul A. Phillips
  • Publication number: 20090130278
    Abstract: An aqueous beverage (11) in a container (12) is raised in pressure to a predetermined level by a pressurizing pump (13) to feed it to a liquid introduction path (51A), oxygen gas from an oxygen gas container (15) is fed to a gas introduction path (56A) of an ejector (50A), and a pressurized oxygen-containing aqueous beverage obtained from a static mixer (60A) connected to an ejector (50) is led to the upper part of a receiver (21) maintained at normal pressures. Then, the oxygen-containing aqueous beverage (22) in the receiver (21) is again raised in pressure to a predetermined level by a pressurizing pump (23) to feed it to a liquid introduction path (51B) of a second ejector (50B), hydrogen gas from a hydrogen gas container (25) is fed to a gas introduction path (56B) of an ejector (50B), and a static mixer (60B) connected to the ejector (50B) is connected to the upper part of a receiver (31) maintained at the normal pressures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Wataru Murota
  • Publication number: 20090114099
    Abstract: The present invention describes a beverage system (1) comprising a coffee machine (2) for preparing and dispensing hot beverages, and a water dispenser (3) for processing and dispensing drinking water; this system is inexpensive and it requires little space. To this end, it is suggested that wherein the coffee machine (2) and the water dispenser (3) should be connected to one another in such a way that at least one functional component of the coffee machine (2) or of the water dispenser (3) can be utilized both for the coffee machine (2) and for the water dispenser (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventor: Frank Gotlenboth
  • Publication number: 20090107342
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for preparing and dispensing a beverage such as coffee, tea, milk, chocolate milk, soup or the like, which beverage, if desired, may be at least partly foamed. To that end, the apparatus comprises a foaming chamber (3), provided with an inlet opening (4) for supply of beverage prepared upstream, an outlet opening (6) for dispensing the beverage, and foaming means (8) for foaming beverage fed through the foaming chamber, and dosing means (15) for regulating a beverage flow rate flowing from the foaming chamber (3). The foaming means (8) and outlet opening (6) are preferably displaccable relative to each other, so that the foaming means can close off or clear this opening at least partly and can thus function as dosing means (15). The foaming means (8) can for comprise, for instance, a drive shaft (9, 20) with paddles (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: Petrus Josephus Carolus Piscaer, Hendrikus Christinus Maria Wessels
  • Publication number: 20090104336
    Abstract: A disposable cartridge (10), which is suitable for use in a process of preparing a beverage, comprises a pump unit (1). A duct system (30) of the pump unit (1) has a first duct (31) and a second duct (32) which merges into the first duct (31), wherein an angle (?) between the ducts (31, 32) is considerably smaller than 90°. In a process of preparing a beverage, a first fluid is supplied by an inlet portion of the first duct (31), and a flow of a second fluid is supplied by the second duct (32). At the position where the ducts (31, 32) meet; a transfer of momentum from the flow of the second fluid to the first fluid takes place, so that an underpressure is obtained, as a result of which the first fluid is put in motion. Furthermore, a joint flow of the first fluid and the second fluid is obtained in an outlet portion of the first duct (31).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2006
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Fred Fraij, Paulus Cornelis Duineveld, Marinus Christian Hansen, Joeke Noordhuis
  • Publication number: 20090092728
    Abstract: Apparatus for preparing and dispensing hot or cold milk, in the frothed or non-frothed state, in a coffee machine for preparing various types of beverages based on coffee with milk, said coffee machine comprising a coffee apparatus for producing coffee with an associated coffee dispensing device, a first water heater for producing steam, a second water heater for producing hot water for preparation of the coffee in said coffee apparatus, said first and second heaters being connected to a water source for replenishing them with water, a frothing device provided with an internal chamber for frothing the milk when required and at least one nozzle for dispensing the milk externally, said apparatus comprising a milk line for the milk, connecting a source of liquid milk to the frothing device, a steam line for the steam, connecting the first water heater to the frothing device, as well as an air line for the air, connecting a source of air to the said frothing device, a pump arranged along the milk line for supplyi
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A.
    Inventors: Andrea Coccia, Dario Sala
  • Publication number: 20090087532
    Abstract: Proposed is a milk frother including a milk feed conduit (2), a pump (5) for forwarding the milk, at least one means for heating the milk, as well as a blender element (1) for blending the milk with the frothing medium. The milk is first heated and then air is jetted into the milk. After this, the milk/air blend is fed to a blending section of the blender element (1) where it is multiply deflected and/or decombined to generate high-quality milk froth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Applicant: Cafina AG
    Inventor: Hermann Meier
  • Publication number: 20090047402
    Abstract: A device for frothing and steaming milk comprises a steamer (1) and a steamer tube (3) connected to a steam conduit (2). The steam conduit (2) is provided with an air feeder port (6) which can be closed off. The steamer tube (3) comprises a temperature sensor (11) for sensing the milk temperature. The device comprises furthermore a controller (13) devised to open/close the air feeder port (6) as a function of the operating mode and/or sensed milk temperature. When the milk is steamed the air feeder port (6) remains closed whilst when frothing the milk it normally firstly remains closed until opened at a predefined milk temperature so that air can be mixed in the flow of steam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: CAFINA AG
    Inventor: Claudio Schodler
  • Patent number: 7478583
    Abstract: A draught beverage (170) which may be alcoholic or non-alcoholic, for example a lager or cider in an open-topped drinking vessel or glass (172). The beverage comprises a water content and dissolved gas content. The draught beverage is dispensed from a font at a cooled temperature below the freezing point of water at ambient atmospheric pressure. The dispense temperature may be in the range of ?1° C. to ?12° C. The beverage in the glass may or may not be subjected to external excitement energy, for example ultra-sound, to encourage formation of nucleation sites in the beverage. Either way dissolved gas bubbles out of the beverage causing occurrence of nucleation sites at which ice (188A, 188B) from the water content forms. At least in part the ice has a slushy character. A head (174) also forms on the dispensed draught beverage and below the head the ice (188A, 188B) locates and develops downwards into the beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Coors EMEA Properties, Inc.
    Inventors: Simon Daniel Scullion, Peter Thomas Foster, Stephen Paul Smith
  • Publication number: 20090011110
    Abstract: A coffee machine for preparing hot, milk-containing beverages and having a milk supply (15) and a discharge means (8). In order to achieve improved handling, the milk supply (15) is configured for accommodating concentrated milk, and a mixing device (17) is provided for mixing the concentrated milk with water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: WMF WURTTEMBERGISCHE METALLWARENFABRIK AG
    Inventor: Frank Gotlenboth
  • Publication number: 20090011105
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventors: Gotthard Mahlich, Arthur Eugster
  • Patent number: 7472642
    Abstract: A nozzle adaptable to the steam outlet of a coffee machine is designed to froth a liquid such as e.g. milk. Said nozzle comprises in the direction of the steam flow path: a steam inlet opening, a restriction with limited cross-section adapted to accelerate the velocity of the steam flow, and at least one cavity having a cross-section larger than the restriction and from which the frothed liquid can be drained. The nozzle further comprises an outer casing comprising a smoothening reservoir and a jet breaking surface facing the opening and at least one outlet opening radially offset relatively to the opening of the portion of the enlarged mixing cavity. The outer casing is arranged at least partially around the tubular portion of mixing cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Michael Stieger, Alfred Yoakim
  • Patent number: 7461590
    Abstract: A system for cooking and then cooling food products by immersion in a heat transfer fluid, consisting of a vessel (200) to contain the heat transfer fluid and a system (500) for homogenization by blowing gas bubbles into the heat transfer fluid from a gas bubble formation system (530). The vessel (200) is closed by a cover (250) leaving a space above the maximum level of the free surface of the heat transfer fluid. Homogenization is accomplished by closed circulation of gas contained in the space above the heat transfer fluid which generates bubbles in the heat transfer fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Armor Inox SA
    Inventors: Olivier Marquet, Bernard Cadoret
  • Publication number: 20080276486
    Abstract: The invention proposes a domestic appliance having a cooling unit which provides an extended range of ways of utilizing the heat provided for the cooling unit as process heat during working operation of the domestic appliance. According to the invention, this is achieved by using a liquid sorbent and/or a liquid sorbent/refrigerant mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventors: Heinz-Dieter Eichholz, Georg Pfitzer, Bernd Geser
  • Patent number: 7448314
    Abstract: A device is provided for producing milk foam, in particular in combination with an automatic coffee machine, which has a mixing chamber (13) to which milk, air, and rinsing medium can be supplied via various supply lines (11, 20, 21), wherein the supply of the rinsing medium to the mixing chamber takes place at least partially via the milk supply line (11). Here it is essential that the air supply line (20), at least with its end segment (20a) connected to the mixing chamber (13), can be selectively connected via a valve (22) to a line (23) having rinsing medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Niro-Plan AG
    Inventors: Matteo Ioannone, Andreas Hubacher
  • Publication number: 20080260927
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus (1) for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption from at least two ingredients and an amount of liquid such as water which is supplied to the ingredients, wherein a first ingredient comprises a substance to be extracted such as ground coffee, and a second ingredient comprises a substance such as milk powder/creamer, sugar and such additives, soluble in liquid such as water During a first period, the liquid having, at most, a first temperature, is supplied to the first and second ingredient for obtaining a first beverage part, and, during a second period, the liquid having, at least, a second temperature is supplied to the first and second ingredient for obtaining a second beverage part. The first and the second beverage parts are combined for obtaining the beverage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventors: Vincent Jan Steenhof, Joseph Theodoor Knitel
  • Publication number: 20080178743
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Karl Hug, Jean-Luc Denisart, Jean-Paul Denisart
  • Publication number: 20080121112
    Abstract: Mobile or portable apparatus for preparing beverages comprising a module for delivering a beverage by supplying a pressurized liquid, a liquid feed tank of sufficient capacity for supplying the module with several volumes of liquid for supplying more than one beverage, gas pressurizing means suitable for supplying the module with pressurized liquid, a liquid feed chamber, of which the capacity is several times smaller than the capacity of the tank, said chamber being arranged, in a module feeding configuration, to communicate with the gas pressurizing means in order to pressurize the liquid in the chamber and to inject pressurized liquid into the module and thereby permit the delivery of the liquid through the module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Christoph Dworzak, Elmar Mock, Andre Klopfenstein, Christoph Rusch, Naomi Bitmead, Alfred Yoakim, Matthieu Ozanne
  • Patent number: 7350457
    Abstract: The apparatus for preparing a beverage with a foam layer suitable for consumption is provided with a mixing chamber, supply means for supplying a liquid, such as water or steam, to the mixing chamber and first dosing means for dosed supply of a concentrate to be mixed with the liquid, such as a coffee concentrate, to the mixing chamber for mixing the concentrate with the liquid in the mixing chamber while foam is formed for obtaining the foamed beverage suitable for consumption. The mixing chamber is designed as a whirl chamber while the supply means supply the liquid to the whirl chamber in such a manner that in the whirl chamber a whirl is formed of the supplied fluid. The supply means are provided with a second dosing device for dosed supply of the liquid to the whirl chamber and the apparatus is further provided with a control device for controlling the first and second dosing device for preparing a predetermined amount of beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Sara Lee/DE N.V.
    Inventors: Hendrikus Christinus M. Wessels, Emil Herman Rusche
  • Patent number: 7351576
    Abstract: The invention relates to an in home apparatus for simultaneously suspending, aerating, agitating, extracting and entraining a compost water nutrient culture. A beaker contains the compost nutrient water culture. A perforated elastic membrane transversely covers the open beaker bottom and is retained and compression sealed by a holder. The holder mates with a recess provided by upper portions of a base. The base contains a diaphragm air pump supplying air through the perforated elastic membrane releasing air bubbles into the compost, water nutrient culture in the beaker. Pulsating air supply from the diaphragm air pump vibrates the perforated elastic membrane which in combination with the sparging of air bubbles suspends the compost nutrient water culture preparing a high quality compost tea. The beaker, holder, and base easily engage and disengage for the proper cleaning and convenient in home preparation of compost tea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventors: Michael Todd Harmon, Elaine Ruth Ingham, Bradley Steven Glaze, Kenneth Roy Warner
  • Patent number: 7299743
    Abstract: This invention combines several processes into on easy to use product. The glass sphere dramatically enhances the aeration procedure by gently exposing air to thin waves of wine as wine passes over the surface of the sphere. The integrated filter provides a larger surface than normally found in wine filtration devices. The supporting structure secures the decanter in such a way that consumers can easily dispense wine without handling a wine bottle or conventional decanter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: James R. Moore
  • Patent number: 7258062
    Abstract: A foamed milk system for creating foamed milk from a source of milk, a source of air, and a source of steam. The system may include a milk inlet system for pressurizing the milk, an air inlet system for pressurizing the air, a mixing area to mix the pressurized milk, the pressurized air, and the steam, and an expansion area to expand the mixture of the pressurized milk, the pressurized air, and the steam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventor: Charles Bradley Green
  • Patent number: 7252034
    Abstract: A dispensing unit for dispensing hot, dairy-based beverages has a self-contained refrigerated unit located above a venturi-type emulsification foaming head. The dispensing unit has particular applicability to the dispensation of foamy, hot milk for use in beverages such as cappuccino and nonfoamy, hot milk for use in beverages such as coffee latte, hot chocolate, and other hot dairy-based beverages. The refrigeration unit accommodates a “bag in box” cold milk storage container of the type widely used in food service establishments. The dispensing unit employs a pinch valve that avoids direct contact between the milk and the valve components. The refrigerated milk is stored above the level of the foamer head so that the flow of milk results partially from gravitational force on the milk, and is not totally dependent upon venturi suction created in the foamer head. Also, selective actuation of beverage choice switches generates commands to produce different beverages at different temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Inventors: Roland B. Eckenhausen, Steven C. Eckenhausen
  • Patent number: 7240610
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for infusing a liquid with a flavoring or a scent. The method and apparatus may be used to produce soups and beverages, including tea-based beverages which use various flavoring agents, and also scented products. Further, the method and apparatus allow for fine adjustments to infusion conditions such as submersion time and temperature, and preparation (such as chopping or grinding) of the flavoring or scent agents, to allow for the consistent, repeatable preparation of a high quality flavored or scented liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: IHC Invest, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl Wimmer, Ramanbir Singh Nayyar
  • Patent number: 7225727
    Abstract: An automatic device for heating and frothing a liquid, in particular milk, comprises a container which is provided with an opening for the introduction of the liquid and is associated with a duct for introducing into the liquid pressurised steam for heating the liquid itself and creating turbulence therein, and air, which duct has, in an internal end portion, a set of openings or nozzles distributed along said end portion and is arranged so as to send steam into the liquid according to a predetermined trajectory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Rancilio Macchine Per Caffe′ S.p.A.
    Inventors: Renzo Oldani, Roberto Rancilio
  • Patent number: 7178453
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing milk drinks or foamed milk drinks, especially for a coffee machine, is envisaged with a capsule (1, 1?, 1?) containing a pre-determined quantity of milk for a single use. The capsule (1, 1?, 1?) can be positioned above an outlet (2) and heated. In addition, a device for opening the floor (9, 9a) to extract the milk from the capsule (1, 1?, 1?) should be provided so that air can be added to the milk exiting from the capsule (1, 1?, 1?) for a possible foaming of the milk. The apparatus is simple and cost-effective and simple to maintain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Steiner AG, Weggis
    Inventor: Jean-Paul In Albon
  • Patent number: 7175164
    Abstract: A method and corresponding apparatus for an oval carbonator employ an oblong housing to provide an improved gas/water interaction area within the confines of the carbonator. The increased cross sectional area provides a larger water surface area, whereby an increased amount of the pressurized gas is exposed to the increased surface area. Further advantages of the oval carbonator include a simplification of the tubing bundles that are cast into the cold plate. The oval carbonator consolidates the volumes previously used by the carbonator, thereby allowing the tubing bundles to be consolidated. Consolidation of this type translates into reduced manufacturing time and increased savings due to the simplified design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Lancer Partnership, Ltd
    Inventor: Adrian M Romanyszyn
  • Patent number: 7107896
    Abstract: A method of inerting a vat including an upper wall and containing a consumable liquid and an overhead gas, comprising the steps of injecting an inerting gas heavier than air at a velocity into the overhead gas above a free surface of the liquid and substantially below the upper wall of the vat and, during this injection, removing excess gas through a purge orifice of the vat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventor: Guy Gaubert
  • Patent number: 7104531
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for dissolving a gas in a liquid, the apparatus comprising (a) a closed vessel containing a liquid at a predetermined level, (b) a contactor module at least partially immersed in the liquid having (1) a gas supply channel to the bore side of the fibers, (2) a liquid supply channel to the shell side of the fibers, and (3) an exit port for transport of a gas-containing liquid, and (c) the remaining space in the closed vessel being occupied by a pressurized gas. The liquid prepared in the apparatus of the present invention containing a dissolved gas, is used to prepare beverages, such as coffee, tea, soda, chocolate and the like, whether hot or cold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventors: John K. R. Page, Mark George Page
  • Patent number: 7069843
    Abstract: A heating and emulsifying device (10), particularly for heating and optionally emulsifying air and milk in milk-based products and having the capability to regulate the air-flow and the milk-flow jointly and proportionally, comprises an emulsification chamber (12) having an opening (14) for the delivery of the product and a steam-inlet duct (20) which opens into the emulsification chamber (12). A milk-inlet duct (28) and an air-inlet duct (30) communicate with the steam inlet duct (20), the air and the milk being drawn in by the partial vacuum created by the flow of steam. An air-flow regulator (38) and a milk-flow regulator (40) are operatively associated with the air-inlet duct (30) and with the milk-inlet duct (28), respectively, the air-flow and milk-flow regulators being structurally connected and being suitable for varying the respective flow-rates in proportion with one another and the emulsion/milk ratio in the final product, without affecting its temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: SPIDEM S.p.A.
    Inventor: Luciano Paoletti
  • Patent number: 7022283
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for preserving one or more collectible items. The apparatus includes a housing and a nitrogen generator. A nitrogen generator generates a nitrogen rich gas and supplies the nitrogen gas to the housing, which displaces the oxygen inside the housing to preserve the collectible item or items enclosed by the housing. The nitrogen rich gas significantly reduces the degradation of the collectible item due to the exposure of the item to oxygen in the air. In another embodiment, the apparatus further includes a temperature control system and a humidity control system to control the temperature and humidity inside the housing. This further aids in preserving a collectible item for relatively long periods of time by reducing the effects of the environment on the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Vin Valet, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy C. McGuire, Daniel N. O'Connor
  • Patent number: 6983683
    Abstract: A confectionery aeration system comprising a confectionery material re-circulation circuit (7), the circuit comprising an aerator (12) and a confectionery vessel (2), the confectionery material re-circulation circuit being arranged such that a re-circulation outlet (8) of the vessel is connected to an inlet (9) of the vessel, the re-circulation circuit being without any de-aeration means for producing any substantial de-aeration material in the flow path between the re-circulation outlet and the aerator, the aerator being arranged in the re-circulation circuit to further aerate aerated confectionery material flowing from the re-circulation outlet of the vessel to the vessel inlet, the vessel inlet being provided with a back-pressure producing device (10) arranged so as to maintain a super-atmospheric pressure in the confectionery material in that part of the re-circulation circuit between the aerator and the vessel inlet, the circuit being provided with a supply connection (14) for feeding fresh confectionery
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: APV Systems Limited
    Inventors: Peter Arthur Brown, Anthony John Prange, Roger David Coulthard
  • Patent number: 6968776
    Abstract: A device for heating and emulsifying liquids, in particular drinks, which is unusually capable of generating a dense and creamy foam, comprises a steam-emitting member with which a hollow body can be associated. The steam-emitting member comprises a spout positioned along the hollow body at a height such as to be above the level of the liquid to be emulsified. Inserted coaxially inside the hollow body is a duct which defines a first passage and a second passage. A region for communication between the first passage, the second passage and a third passage for air, which is placed in communication with a groove formed in the inner surface of the hollow body, is provided between the steam-emitting member and the duct. The steam-emitting member comprises two annular projections provided with sectors which have different transverse dimensions and which are offset relative to one another and define a labyrinthine path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Spidem S.p.A
    Inventor: Luciano Paoletti
  • Patent number: 6959642
    Abstract: A delivery head for delivering a milk portion is connected via a connection line to a milk container in a refrigerator. A rinsing agent source is connected via a first line to a connection part in the connection line. A first on-off valve is inserted in the first line. The connection part is also connected via a second line and a second valve to a fresh air source. The container, the valves, and the connection part are installed in a refrigerator. Through this implementation, complete emptying of the connection line and the delivery head of rinse water after the rinsing procedure, as well as efficient rinsing during the rinsing procedure, are achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: EGRO AG
    Inventor: Markus Landolt
  • Patent number: 6901848
    Abstract: A device for heating and working up milk, in particular for preparing cappuccinos on a coffee machine, having a conveyor pipe with an open end which can be submerged in a vessel containing milk, a first pipe for supplying steam connected to the conveyor pipe, a valve, a pressurised air source, a second pipe for supplying pressurised air connected to the conveyor pipe, a temperature transducer associated with the submergible end of the conveyor to detect the temperature of the milk, a control unit connected to the valve, to the pressurised air source, as well as to the temperature transducer, said control unit being programmable to command the open and close of said valve and to actuate said pressurised air source, one independently from the other according to the desired temperature and/or working up of the milk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Cimbali S.p.A.
    Inventor: Maurizio Beretta