Abstract: Various beverage preparation systems and methods are disclosed. The beverage preparation system can include a container manipulation assembly having a support assembly and an elevator. The support assembly can be configured to receive a container. The elevator can be connected with the support assembly and can be configured to translate and/or rotate the support assembly. In some embodiments, the beverage preparation system includes a wand manipulation assembly having a wand unit and a mechanical linkage. The linkage can be configured to move the wand unit into and out of engagement with the container on the support assembly. The wand unit can provide a flow of fluid, such as steam, to liquid in the container to heat and/or froth the liquid.

Abstract: Various beverage preparation systems and methods are disclosed. The beverage preparation system can include a dispensing unit configured to receive beverage, such as a shot of espresso, from a beverage preparation machine. The dispensing unit can include a dispensing unit with a first end and a second end. The dispensing unit can be rotatable between an upright position and an inverted position. The dispensing unit can be configured to receive the beverage through the second end when the dispensing unit is in the upright position, and can be configured to receive cleansing fluid through the second end when the dispensing unit is in the inverted position. In some embodiments, when the dispensing unit is in an intermediate position between the upright and inverted positions, the dispensing unit is configured to dispense the beverage out of the first end and into a cup or other vessel.

Abstract: Various beverage preparation systems, beverage pods, and beverage preparation machines are described. In some embodiments, a beverage pod for the preparation of a single serving of a beverage includes a body portion containing whole coffee beans. The pod can include a movable grinding element positioned in the body portion. The movable grinding element can be configured to move relative to the body portion and to grind the coffee beans into coffee grounds inside the beverage pod. The pod can include an inlet configured to receive an introduction of liquid. The liquid can mix with the coffee grounds to prepare the beverage inside the pod. The beverage can be dispensed through an outlet, such as directly to a cup.