Abstract: A method of and system for providing machine-readable tags, preferably programmable RFID tags are provided. In one embodiment of the present invention, a receptacle having at least one wall member that defines an enclosure and a tag associated with the receptacle, which includes machine-readable information regarding a product occupying the enclosure is provided. In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, the tag includes identification information in electronic form for the product.

Abstract: A liquid heating module for use in a hot beverage machine, a beverage forming system that includes the module, and a process for heating liquid for forming beverages. The liquid heating module includes a hollow metal tube, a cylindrical insert which is disposed inside the hollow tube along its entire length and substantially along its axis of symmetry, at least one electrical resistor on a first outer part of the tube for preheating liquid flowing through the tube, and at least one additional electrical resistor on a second outer part of the tube for temperature adjustment of the liquid flowing through the tube.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for delivering powder in a beverage dispenser comprising a hopper for containing a mass of beverage powder. The hopper includes at least one flexible body member and an actuating mechanism coupled with the flexible body member. The actuating mechanism is operatively associated with a mechanical or magnetic driving device which is actuated in an active mode to actuate the actuating mechanism to impart motion to the flexible body member at a frequency that is sufficiently low to correspond to a non-vibrating mode.

Abstract: A dehumidifier which includes a thermoelectric cooler having first and second ends on opposite sides, with the first end being cooler than the second end during operation; a first plate which is thermally conductive and has first and second surfaces on opposite sides, wherein the first surface is thermally coupled to the first end of the thermoelectric cooler; a second plate spaced from and facing the second surface of the first plate to form a first air passage therebetween; and a fan positioned to cause air to flow through the first air passage, wherein the air flowing through the first air passage is dehumidified as moisture therein condenses on the second surface of the first plate. The invention also relates to a dispensing machine which includes the humidifier and a method for dehumidifying air in the dispensing machine or in other devices.