Infusors Patents (Class 99/279)
  • Publication number: 20130247769
    Abstract: A machine (1) for preparing a beverage comprising:—an ingredient processing module (10) that has a first part (20) and a second part (30) movable relative to the first part from a position for processing therein an ingredient for forming a beverage to a transfer position for inserting said ingredient into the processing module and/or for evacuation thereof from the processing module;—a motor means (50) for relatively moving the first and second parts between the processing position and the transfer position;—a control unit (60) for controlling the motor means to relatively move the first and second parts; and—a user-interface (80) connected to the control unit for sensing a user-request to relatively move the first and second parts by the controlled motor means. The user-interface (80) is configured to detect a direction (81,82) and extent of displacement of an object (3) in a user-input area (80?).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventor: Fabien Ludovic Agon
  • Publication number: 20130247771
    Abstract: A machine (1) for preparing a beverage comprises: an ingredient processing module (10) for processing at least one ingredient, in particular an ingredient supplied within a capsule (2) into the module; a sensing arrangement (70, 70?) for sensing a user-request by a user-actuation of the sensing arrangement; and a control unit (60) containing different control programs for controlling the ingredient processing module executable on corresponding user-requests. The sensing arrangement (70, 70?) and the control unit (60) are so arranged that each of said different user-requestable control programs is executed on a generally identical user-actuation of the sensing arrangement (70, 70).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventor: Rainer Maisch
  • Patent number: 8541039
    Abstract: A water purifying and flavor infusion device that includes a lower reservoir for storing filtered water, and a pitcher top removably affixed to the lower reservoir. The pitcher top includes a lid, an upper reservoir, and a filter housing affixed to and extending below the upper reservoir. The filter housing is adapted to contain a filter cartridge wherein the upper reservoir and the filter housing are in liquid communication. The device also includes an infusion tube for infusing filtered water with an additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Protect Plus LLC
    Inventors: Robert William Lackey, Robert Charles Beckman, Andrew Frederick Fay
  • Patent number: 8528466
    Abstract: The liquid-overflow platform and container device includes a generally horizontal platform for catching overflow liquid from a small appliance, such as a coffee maker, and a container attached beneath the platform that receives the liquid flowing through apertures in the platform. The apertures are less than 10% of the platform area. The platform may be topographically structured to encourage liquid to drain into the apertures, and is larger than the footprint of the appliance. The container is sized to contain more than the liquid capacity of the small appliance. The device is removable from beneath the appliance for carrying to an appropriate place to empty the contents, preferably by tipping the device to drain the liquid through platform corner apertures. The device may be separate from, and not connected to, the appliance, or may be sold as a connected but removable portion of the appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventors: Bobbi J Sweet, Jeff Graves
  • Patent number: 8528464
    Abstract: A brewing facility for a coffee machine comprises a brewing cylinder (6) and an upper plunger (3) and a lower plunger (4) by means of which a brewing chamber is formed. The brewing cylinder (6) and the plungers (3 and 4) are held in a frame (2) such that they can be shifted, and can be driven by means of a driving facility. For adding the coffee powder, a coffee powder feed facility is provided which in turn is provided with a swivel-type funnel (14), which can be moved against a spring force from a filling position into a swiveled-away position, and vice versa. The swivel-type funnel (14) can be swiveled further from the swiveled-away position to a fully swiveled-out position and, in said fully swiveled-out position, can be locked by locking means (29) and unlocked by unlocking means (30). In this way, the swivel-type funnel (14) can be held in the fully swiveled-out position during the cleaning of, in particular, the upper plunger (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Schaerer AG
    Inventor: André Lüssi
  • Patent number: 8522670
    Abstract: A hydraulic circuit for instant beverage machines includes a tank, a water extraction pipe contained in the tank, a flow-meter connected to the extraction pipe, a pump, a first vibration-damping valve, a boiler, a second relief and safety valve, a water/steam faucet, a third beverage flow valve, and a recovery tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Stefano Tonelli, Massimo Lelli
  • Patent number: 8522668
    Abstract: A beverage brewing system for producing on demand iced tea. The beverage brewing system may include a concentrated beverage brewer, one or more brew water circuits in communication with the concentrated beverage brewer, one or more makeup water circuits, and one or more back pressure valves in communication with the brew water circuits and the makeup water circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Jonathan Kirschner, Douglas John Franck, Shaun Blaise Gatipon, Kenneth George Smazik, Wolfgang Fischer
  • Patent number: 8516947
    Abstract: A food processing apparatus (20) such as a coffee brewer having functional elements (45) protectively contained with a housing assembly (43) composed off a wall assembly (44, 448, 44B) having wall panels (58,60,62 and 64) being formed from a single, thin-sheet, metallic work piece (50) that extend between corners (66,68,70 and 72) formed in the work piece by folding the work piece (50) at each of the corners with at least one fold having an angle substantially different from a right angle. After the corners are formed, opposite ends (52,54) of the work piece are aligned in abutting relationship at a location laterally spaced from all the plurality of corners and permanently welded together with a weld joint (56). As a result of bringing together the opposite ends, at least one of the panels is stressed into an arcuate shape and also forms interior corner angles at opposite sides that are substantially different from a right angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Food Equipment Technologies Company, Inc
    Inventors: Zbigniew G. Lassota, Bartosz Sokolski
  • Patent number: 8516946
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Lukasz D. Skalski, Tiemen T. Van Dillen
  • Patent number: 8511221
    Abstract: A machine for preparing coffee and milk based beverages having a steam generator, a first apparatus for producing coffee as well as a source of liquid milk and a second apparatus for preparing and dispensing a beverage from a concentrated fluid product. The second apparatus includes a beverage preparation device associated with a second dispenser connected via first line to a first connector unit of the second apparatus to receive a concentrated fluid product pre-diluted in the first connector unit and, via a second line, to the source of liquid milk to complete dilution and obtain a diluted product to be dispensed from the beverage preparation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A.
    Inventors: Dario Sala, Andrea Coccia
  • Publication number: 20130189404
    Abstract: The invention proposes an improved method and system for carrying a solvent. To this end, the system (10) for carrying a solvent (20) according to the invention comprises: a container (30) for containing said solvent, a tube (40) placed in said container, said tube having a first extremity (41) placed in the proximity of a bottom part (36) of said container, and a second extremity (42) extending up to an upper part of said container, and an air pump (50) for generating an air flow exiting at said bottom part, such that at least part of said air flow can enter the tube at said first extremity, for carrying said solvent in said tube from said first extremity to said second extremity. By generating an air flow by means of an air pump instead of vapor bubbles naturally generated by locally boiling solvent, solvent can reach the second extremity of the tube while having a much lower temperature than the boiling temperature of the solvent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Wan Kei Ricky Ha
  • Publication number: 20130189405
    Abstract: The invention concerns a beverage dispenser comprising: —means for preparing a beverage from at least a concentrated food ingredient, —a user interface (6) operable to interact with a consumer for presenting to the consumer at least one of a list of selectable sensory parameters (P1, P2, P3, P4) and for receiving at least one input (61) from the consumer regarding at least one of said parameters, —a control unit (7) controlling the means for preparing a beverage and dispensing a beverage based at least in part on the at least one input of the consumer regarding at least one of the selectable sensory parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventors: Carine Filliol, Aurore Berthet, Nicolas Pineau, Ingrid Corneau, Zenon Ioannis Mandralis, Michiel Kernkamp, Richard Luke Murphy
  • Patent number: 8485089
    Abstract: A beverage maker that includes a container having a bottom wall, side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall to foam a container cavity and a lid. The bottom wall includes a drain opening to enable liquid to drain from the container cavity. The lid is designed to be movable between an open and closed position. The lid forms a cover over a top of the container cavity. The lid includes a filter rib that extends partially into the container cavity when the lid is in a closed position. A drain plug is provided to control a flow of liquid through the drain opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Innovation Direct LLC
    Inventors: Curtis Taylor, Doug Whitner, Brian Sokol, Brian Catlett
  • Patent number: 8479637
    Abstract: An apparatus for brewing a beverage, which includes an elongated member having a plurality of disks stacked along an axis of the elongated member; a filter having at least one slot and adapted to fit over the plurality of disks; and an elongated housing member having first and second slots on opposite sides of the elongated housing member, wherein the elongated housing member is adapted to fit over the filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: John A. Fedor
  • Patent number: 8453562
    Abstract: An apparatus for quickly preparing infant formula and beverage comprising: a powder container for storing dry formula or beverage powder, a powder dispenser for dispensing controllable amount of formula or beverage powder into a milk bottle or a cup, a water container for storing water, a heat-exchanging reservoir for heating up or cooling down water to an ideal temperature, a water delivery system for delivering controllable amount of water from the water container to the heat-exchanging reservoir and then from the heat-exchanging reservoir to the milk bottle once the water is adjusted to the ideal temperature. The device has a main setting and controlling system to set up parameters of powder dispensing amount, water dispensing temperature and water dispensing volume prior to a formula or beverage preparation, so that the apparatus can prepare infant formula or beverage with ideal volume, concentration and temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventors: Zhenyu Lu, Jingfeng Yuan
  • Publication number: 20130122156
    Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements in the preparation of beverage and food products and, in particular, to an improved composition for preparing beverage and food products in machines. The composition is 10 prepared by the addition of a liquid to said composition and comprises one or more beverage or food ingredients and at least one preparation aid. The preparation aid comprises a plurality of bodies formed from a substantially insoluble material and the preparation aid is selected to have a 15 predetermined effect on the interaction between the liquid and the composition. The bodies have a diameter in the range of 0.1 mm to 200 mm, and preferably in the range of 1 to 20 mm or in the range of 100 to 200 mm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventors: Ian Denis Fisk, Ayse Tulay Massey
  • Publication number: 20130118358
    Abstract: A beverage preparation and dispensing system includes a container having an open top end; a cover having a bottom portion removably attachable to the top end of the container; at least first and second infusers removably attachable to the bottom of the cover: and a juicer device removably attachable to the top end of the container when the cover is removed. In a specific embodiment, the container includes a container body having an open top, and a lid ring having a bottom portion removably attachable to the open top of the container body and a top portion defining the open top end of the container to which the cover and the juicer are removably attachable. At least a first one of the infusers is configured to hold herbal material. and at least a second one of the infusers is configured to hold crushed fruit or fruit pulp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventor: John M. Lown
  • Patent number: 8438968
    Abstract: A coffeemaker includes a bottom of a coffeemaker adapted to be placed onto and supported by a surface. Three or more wheel assemblies are mounted onto the bottom of the coffeemaker. The wheel assemblies rotate in substantially a straight line. The wheel assemblies are mounted on an imaginary circle on the bottom of the coffeemaker, and the straight line of rotation of each of the wheels is substantially tangent to the imaginary circle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc
    Inventor: Dean C. Warner
  • Publication number: 20130101710
    Abstract: Infused beverages are produced using ultrasound energy. The device delivers ultrasound energy to the target, producing infused beverages that may have more flavor and smoothness and are safer than conventionally produced infused beverages. The process of infusing one or more ingredients with a beverage comprises placing the ingredients with beverage, placing an ultrasound transducer at a predetermined location from the ingredients, and sonicating the ingredients by applying ultrasound energy from the ultrasound transducer. The process can comprise the additional step of pulverizing the ingredient. The steps can occur in any order, including partially or completely simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventor: Bobak Ha'Eri
  • Patent number: 8418601
    Abstract: A method for controlling heating processes in a coffee machine which is particularly suitable for preparing coffee on the basis of coffee pads. The coffee machine comprises a continuous flow heater and a pump used to convey water through the continuous flow heater. According to the inventive method, the temperature is measured in the region of the continuous flow heater and/or water which is conveyed by the pump. In order to avoid steam overpressure and to ensure a sufficient, constant temperature during the entire steeping process, the amount of water which is conveyed by the pump is influenced according to temperature. The invention also relates to an electronic control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Magg, Andreas Mayr, Markus Obermaier
  • Publication number: 20130087050
    Abstract: A system for generating beverages is provided. The system comprises a central host comprising a database, and a kiosk configured for communication with the central host. The kiosk comprises an electronic control unit (ECU), a plurality of process modules, and a memory device that is accessible by the ECU and suitable for storing information required for the operation of the kiosk. Each process module of the kiosk is configured to be controlled by the ECU to perform one or more chemical or mechanical processes contributing to the production of one or more brewed beverages. Further, information required for the operation of the kiosk is stored in the database of the central host and also stored in the memory device of the kiosk to allow the kiosk to operate independently of the central host when communication between the kiosk and central host is compromised.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: BRIGGO, INC.
    Inventor: Briggo, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8404294
    Abstract: The invention relates to a disposable brewing device including at least one inner compartment formed by a liquid-permeable material and containing aroma material, at least one outer compartment forming a brewing container where the brewing container is formed by a liquid-impermeable material, the at least one liquid-permeable inner compartment being integrated within the brewing container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Columbus E. APS
    Inventors: Ulrik Skovgaard Rasmussen, Werner Schulz
  • Patent number: 8397626
    Abstract: A beverage brewer assembly has a base configured to rest on a surface, an upward facing vessel support, and a tower coupled to and extending up from the base. The tower has a stationary lower section and an upper section vertically height adjustable relative to the lower section. A head is coupled to the upper section of the tower and has a cantilevered section extending forward from the tower and spaced above the vessel support. A height adjust mechanism includes a vertically oriented male threaded shaft interconnecting the upper and lower sections of the tower. Relative rotation between the male threaded shaft and a female threaded element carried on a part of the tower selectively raises and lowers the vertical position of the upper section and head relative to the lower section and base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Bernard Winkler
  • Publication number: 20130055901
    Abstract: A tea maker provides a simple structural configuration, stable and rigid structure, and low manufacturing cost, and is adapted to effectively separate the tea leaves from the brewed tea for adjustably controlling the concentration of the brewed tea. The tea maker includes a supporting frame, a tea infusing container with a container lid, a tea basket disposed in the tea infusing container, and a control circuit. A sliding arrangement includes a vertical support, a sliding frame slidably coupled at the vertical support, and a resilient element. The sliding frame includes a hanger, an actuator, and a first permanent magnet. The hanger is supported above and aligned with an electromagnet. A second permanent magnet is provided at the outer side of the surrounding wall of the tea basket and is magnetically attracted with the first permanent magnet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: CRASTAL TECHNOLOGY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Bei Zhang, Huajin Chen
  • Publication number: 20130047862
    Abstract: A brewing assembly for a coffee machine, which brewing assembly includes a brewing module with a brewing head, an upper and lower closure element, and a drive module with at least one linear guide element. The brewing head has a cylindrical brewing chamber, which can be closed by the upper and lower closure elements and cooperates with the linear guide such that the brewing head is displaceable linearly in the brewing assembly. The drive unit also includes a motor drive for the linear guide element. The brewing head and at least one of the two closure elements with at least a brewing chamber are arranged in the brewing module in a linearly displaceable fashion. The brewing module is arranged detachably in or on the drive unit such that when it is in or on the drive unit at least the brewing head is linearly displaceable via the linear guide element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: FRANKE KAFFEEMASCHINEN AG
    Inventors: Mariano Turi, Heinz Vetterli
  • Publication number: 20130052321
    Abstract: An apparatus for brewing coffee includes: a filter cup movably supported on a supporting member of a main frame and configured with a receiving space; a control rod connected pivotally to an axle rod disposed above the supporting member; and a piston rod connected pivotally to the control rod and connected fixedly to a piston that is disposed fittingly and movably in the filter cup to divide the receiving space into upper and lower space parts. The piston is operable, based on rotation of the control rod, in a communicating state when moving upwardly and in a closed state when moving downwardly. When the control rod rotates to move downwardly the piston, ground coffee contained in the lower space part is pressed by the piston to the bottom of the lower space part. A method of brewing coffee performed by the apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Yu-Kun LIU
  • Patent number: 8371211
    Abstract: A machine for brewing a beverage such as coffee includes a chamber and a piston disposed in the chamber. The piston is operable to move to a first position to allow the chamber to receive a liquid and a flavor base such as ground coffee, to remain in the first position for a time sufficient for the beverage to brew, and to move to a second position to dispense the beverage by forcing the beverage out of the chamber. By modifying some or all steps of the French press brewing technique, the machine can typically control coffee-brewing parameters with a level of precision that yields brewed coffee having a uniform taste from cup to cup, and can typically brew the coffee with a speed that renders the machine suitable for use by establishments that serve significant amounts of coffee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Starbucks Corporation
    Inventors: Zander Nosler, Randy Hulett, Jorah Wyer, Michael Baum, Jeff Allison
  • Publication number: 20130019754
    Abstract: A brewing device includes a receptacle, which has a bottom forming a bore. A filtering member is received in the receptacle. A flow control assembly is arranged below the receptacle and is vertically movable with respect to the receptacle. The flow control assembly includes a bar extendible through the bore. An upward movement of the flow control assembly pushes away a closure member sitting on the bore. A guidance section is formed below the bore. The flow control assembly includes a flow guide section corresponding to the guidance section. When the flow control assembly is moved upward, the guidance section and the flow guide section collectively form a water passage. A brewing liquid contained in the receptacle, when discharged through the bore, is shielded by the water passage and is confined and concentrated for smooth flow thereby eliminate the occurrence of leak, splash, and overflow of the brewing liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventors: PAO-WU TIEN, Yu-Mei Tien Lin
  • Publication number: 20130022717
    Abstract: The invention is an improvement of the filter unit in beverage makers. Said filter unit comprises a filter insert and a filter lock, can be placed as a whole onto and removed from the brewing container, and at the same time ensures good sealing of all components. For improved handling, the brewing chamber can be filled and closed outside of the beverage-maker, wherein the particularly large depth of the filter insert offers significant assistance. Closing the brewing chamber by means of the filter closure prevents the beverage base material from oozing out due to a ring engaging in the filter insert and additionally ensures its adequate sealing. By widening the brewing chamber, the beverage-making machine provides a consistent quality of the beverages with of different fill levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventors: Hendrik Meyl, Frank Templin, Bernd Spleiss
  • Publication number: 20130019755
    Abstract: The brewing device contains a container and a functional unit beneath the container conductive to the container. The functional unit contains a pressure section and an exit section. The pressure section is conductive to and is smaller than the container. The pressure section is configured with air holes for drawing outside air. The exit section is conductive to and is smaller than the exit section. As the brewed liquid (such as the coffee brewed from the coffee powder) flows through the pressure section, it undergoes a pre-determined pressure through the air holes. Additionally, the container and the functional unit jointly achieve Venturi effect so that the brewed liquid is sped up under greater pressure difference as it passes through the exit section. As such, the molecules of the brewed liquid are activated and thinned to achieve enhanced flavor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventors: PAO-WU TIEN, Yu-Mei Tien Lin
  • Publication number: 20130014647
    Abstract: A beverage preparation machine (1) comprises: a beverage preparation module (2) that vibrates during use, in particular a module for preparing a beverage by circulating a liquid via a flavouring ingredient such a pre-portioned ingredient contained in a capsule; and a reservoir (4) for storing liquid and supplying such liquid to the beverage preparation module. The beverage preparation module and the reservoir are connected by a vibration-barrier 44 mechanical connection (3, 45, 291, 431) for inhibiting or preventing propagation of vibrations from the beverage preparation module to the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Peter Mori, Gilles Gavillet
  • Patent number: 8337918
    Abstract: A filter envelope which is filled with ground coffee or other drinkable dry granular substance by a user and sealed for use comprises two (2) round filter media sections crimped together about a perimeter and an extended opening along one (1) edge. The user would fill the interior space of the filter with a desired amount of chosen dry granular substance through the opening. A preferred embodiment comprises the dry granular substance to comprise ground coffee for subsequent brewing within a conventional coffee machine including those such as percolators that require the filter to have a central hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Sara E. Fair
  • Patent number: 8337635
    Abstract: A beverage preparation machine comprises a fluid circuit (2) comprising a water reservoir (4), a water pump (5), a heating means (7), and a beverage producing module (9), which are fluidically connected for circulating water from the reservoir to the beverage producing module. An in-line descaling system (3) is provided in the fluid circuit (2) comprising a dedicated compartment (15) intended for receiving a predetermined dose of a water soluble/dispersible descaling agent (19). The invention also relates to a method for automatically descaling and rinsing the fluid circuit (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventor: Christophe S. Boussemart
  • Publication number: 20120321769
    Abstract: A coffee filter basket includes a filter retainer having an outer shell with an upper end having open top and a bottom including an opening, an insert having an upper collar of a less than the diameter than the upper end of the retainer to fit therein and having a lower extension which when a filter is disposed within the retainer and the insert is disposed within the filter, the insert press-fits within the retainer to retain the filter adjacent the retainer shell, and a removable top having an outer perimeter lip portion of at least that of the diameter of the upper end of the retainer and a lower collar portion of a diameter less than the diameter of the upper collar and configured to press-fit therein to secure the insert in the retainer, wherein the removable top has an opening. A method of use is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Jay D. Otto
  • Publication number: 20120285330
    Abstract: A beverage brewing device for use with a beverage brewer having an inlet probe for dispensing water and an outlet probe 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 the outlet probe. A lid is removably securable to the body and engageable with the body to selectively enclose a top opening of the body. An inlet probe opening is defined in the lid for receiving the inlet probe, and a filter is secured within at least one opening defined in the body. 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: EKO BRANDS, LLC
    Inventors: Ron Demiglio, Mark Staudacher, Randy Anderson
  • Patent number: 8297180
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Lukasz D. Skalski, Tiemen T. Van Dillen
  • Patent number: 8291811
    Abstract: A machine for preparing brewed drinks is provided and includes a brewing compartment for receiving drink substrate portions and a water supply for supplying a pressurized supply of water into the brewing compartment. The water supply is oriented in the brewing compartment in such that it would spray into a user region of the machine if the brewing compartment opens prematurely. However, a safety valve prevents the supplied water from entering into the brewing compartment when the brewing compartment is open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Brezovnik, Henrik Pavlovic, Aleksander Sedovsek, Igor Zibret
  • Publication number: 20120240774
    Abstract: An infusion barrel structure for a beverage making device includes a barrel body, a cover and an outflow unit. By dosing the cover to touch a touch switch of the barrel body, the outflow unit is closed. By opening the cover, the touch switch is not pressed by the cover and the outflow unit is opened. The outflow of beverage in the barrel body of the present invention is automatic, without the need of waiting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: DANIEL YANG
  • Publication number: 20120240775
    Abstract: A locking structure of an infusion barrel for a beverage making device includes a barrel having a protrusion portion and a first pivotal portion. The protrusion portion has a shaft pivotably connected with a locking member and a first resilient member. The first resilient member has a first end fixed to the protrusion portion and a second end contacting the locking member. A cover includes a protrusion and a second pivotal portion. An axle extends through the second pivotal portion and the first pivotal portion of the barrel to pivotably connect the cover to the barrel. The protrusion has an engaging member which is located corresponding to the locking member of the barrel. The cover is easily connected with the barrel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: DANIEL YANG
  • Patent number: 8272318
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Lukasz D. Skalski, Tiemen T. Van Dillen
  • Patent number: 8272317
    Abstract: A beverage system includes a pump that draws a set amount of a flavored concentrate into a mixing chamber (28) for mixing with water to form a beverage. A pump head (46) includes a piston opening that receives a piston (48) and a water port that defines a water flow path. A housing (62) includes an integral water port (40). Water from a water source flows along a water line and into the integral water port (40) of the housing (62). The water flows through the water port (40) of the pump head (46) and into the mixing chamber (28) to form the beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Carrier Commercial Refrigeration, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Minard, Mark E. Bush
  • Publication number: 20120234182
    Abstract: The invention provides an hourglass shaped apparatus for cold brewing coffee, comprising a brew chamber, and extract chamber and a middle unit connecting the brew and extract chambers. The extract and brew chambers comprise two ends of the hourglass shaped middle unit. The brew chamber houses a free-standing self-contained filter containing coffee grounds inside a water-permeable barrier. Water is poured into the brew chamber to generate coffee extract through cold water infusion. After the brewing process, the apparatus is inverted, and the coffee travels into the extract chamber through the middle unit for dispensing. Coffee brewed in this manner is less acidic and more flavorful than the conventionally hot-brewed beverage. All the components of the apparatus, the filter, the brew chamber, the extract chamber, and the middle unit, are detachable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Neace, JR., Todd H. Maas
  • Publication number: 20120227590
    Abstract: A coffee filter comprising gradations for measuring coffee grounds retained with the coffee filter. Gradations may be embossed into or printed on the filter material, or molded into a frame of a filter basket. The gradations may be labeled with a value defining a volume of coffee grounds retained within the coffee filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventors: Mark Glotkowski, Valentina Glotkowski
  • Patent number: 8263148
    Abstract: A capsule for preparation of a beverage in a beverage production machine that includes a body and a delivery wall forming a chamber containing an extractable beverage ingredient, The delivery wall has at least one outlet, an inner layer including at least one first orifice and an outer layer including at least a second orifice, with the first and second orifices extending in the axial direction of the capsule, The first and second layers are adjacent or the first and second layers are distant by a confined gap and when a gap is present, a labyrinth structure is provided which extends transversally in the gap between the first and second orifices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Alfred Yoakim, Patrice Borne
  • Patent number: 8261944
    Abstract: A dispenser for separately dispensing warmed water and powdered baby formula, to promote expeditious preparation of baby bottles. The dispenser may have a water circuit including a threaded water storage vessel, a threaded in-line filter, an electrically powered, thermostatically controlled heating chamber, and a discharge conduit controlled by a lever. The dispenser may have a powder circuit comprising a powder storage chamber, a rotary compartmented carousel which promotes flow of stored powder for discharge through a chute, and an agitator to further promote flow of powder. An illumination lamp may be disposed to illuminate discharge areas. A catch tray may be disposed beneath the liquid and powder discharge areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventors: Falon Julie Krause, Alan Delor Krause
  • Publication number: 20120225168
    Abstract: A capsule, system and method are usable for preparing a predetermined quantity of beverage using an extractable product. The system includes a capsule comprising a cup having a circumferential wall, a bottom at a first end, and a flange-like rim at a second end. The capsule further includes a lid, in use, connected to the flange-like rim. The wall, bottom and lid, in use, enclose an inner space comprising the extractable product. The cup further includes a plurality of substantially concentric circumferential ridges extending outwardly of the cup, wherein the ridges are made of the same material as the cup. The system further includes a beverage brewing device comprising an enclosing member for enclosing the capsule. In use, at least one of the ridges abuts against at least a portion of the enclosing member, such that a sealing engagement between the capsule and the enclosing member is formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventors: Ralf Kamerbeek, John Henri Flamand, Angenita Dorothea Post van Loon, Hendrik Cornelis Koeling, Arend Cornelis Jacobus Biesheuvel
  • Patent number: 8257766
    Abstract: A capsule for preparation of a beverage in a beverage production machine. The capsule includes a body and a delivery wall forming a chamber containing ground coffee. The delivery wall has at least one outlet, an inner layer and an outer layer forming respectively first and second layers at least partially connected together by at least one seal portion which delaminates or breaks under the pressure of coffee liquid against the seal portion. Preferably, the seal portion extends in a direction (P) which differs from the direction (A) of the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Alfred Yoakim, Patrice Borne
  • Patent number: 8245854
    Abstract: A filter paper insert for a brewed beverage includes a filter paper shaped to form a cone-shaped filter having a side wall, a closed bottom and an upper filling opening. The side wall has three parallel, circumferential zones of increasing permeability in a direction from the closed bottom to the upper filling opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Melitta Haushaltsprodukte GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Michael Hassebrauck
  • Patent number: 8245629
    Abstract: A liquid infusing and flavoring device for the infusing and/or flavoring of liquids. The liquid infusing and flavoring device includes an inlet passage connectable to a liquid (typically beer) to allow liquid to flow into the liquid infusing and flavoring device. An outlet passage allows the liquid to flow out of the liquid infusing and flavoring device and which the outlet passage is connectable to the inlet portion of a liquid dispensing tap. The liquid infusing and flavoring device has a container that houses the infusing and/or flavoring substance. The container is in selective fluid communication ith the with the inlet and outlet passages. In order to allow the liquid to pass through the liquid infusing and flavoring device, there is situated between the inlet and outlet passages a three way valve operable between a non-infusing-flavoring mode and an infusing-flavoring mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: C Little Engineering Limited
    Inventor: Christoph John Little
  • Publication number: 20120204729
    Abstract: An extraction device is disclosed, mainly including a frame, an elastic fixing ring and a filter. The frame includes a circular opening frame and a lower section formed with a hollowed cup-shaped structure. The filter includes a top section outwardly clamped by the elastic fixing ring to be positioned and clamped outside the filtration stand. The filtration stand includes a downward-bent handle outwardly extended from the frame, and the bottom end of the handle is disposed with an inwardly-bent concave hanging opening, thereby forming a filter stand with a cup-shaped liquid-filtering area. When the filter stand is lifted to be held above a cup opening of the liquid-collecting cup or to be stayed above the liquid-collecting cup, the primary liquid is drained out to downwardly or outwardly flow through the filter to rapidly drop in the liquid-collecting cup, and the residue can be collected in the filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: Ying-Yen Chang