Abstract: The coffee machine for different coffee types requires no preheating time and consumes no energy in the standby mode. It essentially comprises a water supply chamber (1), a pump (5), a continuous flow heater (8) for heating the water and a brewing chamber (10) for receiving the coffee (10'). The continuous flow heater (8) has a low heat capacity and can therefore perform large temperature changes within a short time. In order to obtain the desired water starting temperature, use is made of a control loop. The unheated parts (9-12) along the water path between the continuous flow heater (8) and the coffee (10') are so designed that a minimum amount of heat energy is abstracted from the hot water, but at the same time the parts have an adequate strength.

Abstract: A double boiler for domestic use includes a heating vessel for receiving water and a filtering device containing food, the vessel having a lid on the top; a main case having a reception hollow and a heater at one side so that the heating vessel is mounted and heated; a steam condenser incorporated in the top end of the main case so that steam produced from the heating vessel is collected; steam cooling device for circulating cooling water along the inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the steam condenser so that the steam collected in the steam condenser becomes cooled; and a condensed water collecting device for receiving the heating vessel to the hollow of the main case and at the same time connecting the heating vessel and steam condenser so that the condensed water condensed in the steam condenser is gathered into the heating vessel.

Abstract: A coffee maker comprises a water reservoir, a water heating and supply device for supplying hot water to a filter device, the brewed coffee flowing from the filter device to a receptacle. The coffee maker includes a level detection circuit for detecting the water level in the reservoir, and this water level is used to control the brewing process so as to vary the flow of hot water to the filter device in dependence upon the water level in the reservoir. The water level may be used to control the power of a heating element in a continuous heater or may be used to control the operation of a pump in a pumped system.

Abstract: A brewing machine with brewing water flow control mechanisms for controlling flow between chambers, includes a filling chamber in fluid connection with a heating reservoir. In one aspect of the invention, a control chamber with a sealable opening is formed about a drain hole in the filling chamber so that water must flow through the control chamber to reach the reservoir, and fluid access to the control chamber is controlled by a seal which engages the opening in the control chamber. Engagement of the seal with the opening in the control chamber is controlled by operation of a lid which covers the filling chamber. In another aspect of the invention, a flow rate control valve assembly is at least partially housed within the control chamber and has a portion which is proximate to the drain hole in the filling chamber connected to the reservoir, whereby a rate of flow from the filling chamber to the reservoir is selectively controllable by adjustment of the flow rate control valve.

Abstract: A coffee brewer and hot water dispenser, which includes a brew water tank (30), with water heated to a pre-determined temperature by a pre-heater (38). A boiler (50) boils the pre-heated water into a spray head (56) and into a ground coffee containing cone (114). A separate hot water tank (70) is heated by a heater (72), and a solenoid valve (74) dispenses hot water into a container. Fill, water level dispensing and process control use a solid state electronic controller (140) interconnected to an indicating control panel (112). The improvement permits larger capacity by the use of a bypass hot water cycle adding a predetermined volume of water to the container and supplementing the control by expanding its capabilities using multiple sequencing of the brew cycle for increasing the volume of brewed coffee.

Abstract: A coffee brewing apparatus has a first cylinder for containing hot water having a top opening, a vertically extending shaft fixedly connected to the first cylinder, the shaft having a hot water release channel vertically therethrough and a pressure-operated hot water release valve disposed in the channel, a vertically movable piston, a vertically movable second cylinder for holding ground coffee therein having top and bottom openings and disposed below the first cylinder coaxially therewith, and a vertically movable plunger sealingly and slidingly connected with the shaft. The plunger has an internal cylindrical chamber and a shallow hot water spreading chamber in a bottom section thereof. When the plunger is lowered, the bottom section thereof enters the second cylinder and compacts the ground coffee therein.

Abstract: A beverage brewing method for producing a brewed beverage having a serving temperature within a predetermined serving temperature range. A beverage brewing appliance includes a brewing apparatus for infusing a beverage brewing substance retained therein to extract a brewed beverage therefrom. The appliance also includes a first water source having a water heater coupled thereto for providing and delivering brewing water to the brewing apparatus within a predetermined range of brewing temperatures to produce a desired brewed beverage. The brewing appliance also includes a second water source for providing and delivering temperature reduction water to the brewed beverage within a temperature range which, when mixed with the brewed beverage results in a final beverage dispensed from the brewing apparatus within a predetermined serving temperature ranges.

Abstract: A beverage brewing apparatus is disclosed which includes a housing having a base for supporting a carafe with a brewing basket and a body defining a water reservoir, a brewing assembly including a heating chamber communicating with the water reservoir and a heating element in thermal contact with said heating chamber, and a dispensing assembly including a valve member supported adjacent an outlet port of the heating chamber, a thermally responsive actuating member disposed within the heating chamber and connected to the valve member for moving the valve member from a closed position to an open position when water contained within the heating chamber is heated to a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for preparing beverages, such as a coffee-maker, comprising a water reservoir (1) with a heating element (6), a filter device (2), an outlet channel (1) between the water reservoir and the filter device, a valve (19) arranged in the outlet channel, first sensor/switching means (24/18) for detecting the water temperature in the water reservoir and for opening/closing the valve (19, and second sensor/switching means (27) for turning on/off the heating element (6). In order to ensure that the heating element is turned off when the valve opens and is automatically turned on when a new coffee-making cycle is stared, the coffee-maker is characterized in that the second sensor (27) has been arranged on a wall (26) of the outlet channel (11) to detect the temperature of the water in the outlet channel and to turn on/off the heating element (6) when a preset temperature is reached.

Abstract: A control device processes simultaneously the signals received from a temperature sensor and from a water delivery counter means to control instant by instant the pump delivery and the electricity feeding of the machine heat exchanger so as to maintain at the reference temperature the water exiting the heat exchaner;

Abstract: Disclosed is a brewing apparatus having a housing; a compartment for receiving a brewable material, the compartment having an upper opening for introducing a brewing liquid and a drain for removing the brewing liquid after brewing of at least a portion of the brewable material; and a receptacle positionable beneath the drain for receiving the brewing liquid. The receptacle is movable to an operating position wherein the receptacle is positioned beneath the drain to receive the brewing liquid and non-operating positions wherein the receptacle is not positioned beneath the drain to receive the brewing liquid. In accordance with the invention, the apparatus includes a switch for initiating the introduction of a predetermined amount of brewing liquid to the compartment, and control means for activating the switch when the receptacle is in the operating position and for deactivating the switch when the receptacle is not in the operating position.

Abstract: A portable beverage brewing device for brewing a single cup or other individual portion of a beverage in an automobile, boat, van, or other vehicle without distracting attention from driving or operating responsibilities. An anchored mounting base, a leveling plate and a clamp together support a coffee maker body in level position. The body includes a water reservoir, a brewing chamber, a drinking cup, and a drip cup or cupholder. A brewing chamber holds a prepackaged filter containing beverage precursor particles. A water reservoir is removable and resealable. A positive displacement pump, driven by a permanent magnet motor pumps water from the water reservoir through an electric heater to the brewing chamber. Operation of the motor and the pump commences only when water has been heated to a predetermined brewing temperature.

Abstract: A control system for a beverage brewing apparatus which includes a programmable control module and a separate input device. The control system is used with a beverage brewing apparatus of the type having an infusion assembly for retaining and filtering a brewing substance, a heated water source and a water distribution system for transporting water from the heated water source to the infusion assembly. The programmable control module controls numerous adjustable functions associated with the brewer and stores at least one function limit for each of the functions which it controls. The separate input device is selectively attachable to the control module for manipulating the function limits of the programmable function retained and controlled by the control module. Function controls are associated with the input device for selecting a function to manipulate and for incrementing and decrementing the limit or limits of the selected function.

Abstract: This invention relates to an espresso machine comprising a boiler (1) and a filter chamber (5) which is connected to the boiler (1) via a hot water line (11) and which comprises an outlet (18) and is divided via an inserted screen (6) into two chamber regions (b, c), a thermostat switch (TH1) which is responsive to the temperature within the boiler (1) and connected in series with the heating apparatus (2) to limit the temperature within the boiler to a predetermined upper value, an air pump (8) terminating in the boiler (1), a first shut-off valve (17) positioned in the hot water line (11) and a second shut-off valve (19) positioned upstream of the outlet of the filter chamber (5).

Abstract: A semiautomatic beverage maker (10) with a valve actuator or handle (12) for manually moving a valve (14) from a stop, closed position to a brew, open position through means of a mechanical linkage (20, 32, 36). The dispenser valve is held in the open position for a preselected brew time period by means of an electromagnet (53) which is energized through a timer switch (48) until the end of the time period, and then a coil spring (50) returns the dispenser valve (14) to the open position. In an emergency, the dispenser valve actuator (12) can be used to manually return the dispenser valve (14) to the open position before de-energization of the electromagnet (53) at the end of the brew time period. The dispenser valve actuator (12) also blocks removal of the ingredient holder, or brew basket (38) from its proper brew position when the dispenser valve (12) is open during the brew cycle.

Abstract: A purifying unit containing an adsorbent is positioned between the discharge outlet of a discharge pipe from which boiled water is discharged, and an extracting chamber, so that boiled water flows into the extracting chamber after detrimental components are removed from the boiled water by the purifying unit. Further, a passage change-over section is provided in order to circulate water through the heater until the water is heated up to a temperature suitable for extraction of coffee, and the passage change-over section allows water to be discharged into the extracting chamber from the discharge outlet of the discharge pipe when the water is heated up to the suitable temperature.

Abstract: A combination beverage brewer with cold water supply is embodied within a housing, to furnish a beverage brewing segment, at one or more locations within a housing, and a water chilling or cooling supply disposed in association therewith, to supply cold water as required. The beverage brewer incorporates a hot water tank, a heating element therein, which hot water is delivered to a spray head for deposit onto a basket of grounds for brewing of a beverage. In addition, hot water may be tapped from the tank and delivered to a faucet for direct dispensing. The cold water segment of the apparatus includes a cold water tank, a cooling rod therein, cooling module for operating as a heat pump for extracting warmth from the water to heat it, and delivery of the extracted heat to a heat sink, for dissipation.

Abstract: Apparatus for preparing beverages such as coffee or tea, comprising a filter unit (3), and extraction chamber (1) positioned above the filter unit, and a reception chamber (2) positioned underneath the filter unit, which reception chamber at the bottom part thereof comprises a discharge channel (9) for discharging the prepared beverage. The apparatus comprises furthermore reservoirs for supplying coffee or tea powder (7) and hot water (6) in the extraction chamber to prepare an extract during a predetermined extraction period, and a control unit (13) controlling the various components such that after activating said reservoirs for supplying predetermined amounts of hot water and coffee or tea powder in the extraction chamber (1), an extraction period is measured during which the extraction porcess is completed, after which the pump (11) unit is activated to suction the prepared extract through the filter paper web (3).

Abstract: A system for automatically delivering one or more precise volumes of hot water to a beverage brewer for brewing a precise amount of a beverage and also permitting variable volumes of hot water, ordinarily in conventional cup sizes, to be manually obtained, is disclosed. The system employs single resistance probe sensor circuit and control circuit in combination with a latch circuit relay to maintain one level of hot water in a heated water tank for manual draw off of variable amounts of hot water from a faucet and for displacing the hot water in the tank from the one level to a second higher level for delivery of a predetermined portion of the displaced volume of hot water to a brewing funnel for brewing a precise volume of hot beverage upon command. A selector switch permits selection of different precise volume of hot water to be delivered to the beverage brewer upon command.

Abstract: A household coffeemaker comprises a cold water reservoir (1) supplying a water heater (2) of the circulating type whose outlet is connected to a water channel (3) of a coffee filter (4). The water heater comprises a heating resistance (7) whose supply circuit is connected to the terminals (8) of a source of alternating current. The supply circuit of the resistance (7) comprises a device (11) for changing the electric power supplied to the resistance (7) so as to supply, during a first so-called pre-steeping phase, a low power to obtain a low flow rate of hot water, and during a second so-called infusion phase, a higher power to obtain a higher flow rate of hot water. The invention is applicable to drip coffeemakers.

Abstract: A plurality of carafes on a coffee machine primarily for restaurant and institution use can be filled selectively with decaffeinated or normal coffee via a distributor between a brewing chamber and the outlets to the carafes. The microprocessor controller operates the device selecting the coffee for delivery to the brewing chamber in response to signals received from the carafes if they are placed at respective stations on the machine so that a decaffeinated carafe at any station will receive only decaf and a normal carafe will receive only normal coffee regardless of the station at which it is placed.

Abstract: An automatic drip coffee maker (10) includes a timer circuit (42) for providing a preselected "start" time of day at which an activation/deactivation circuit (40) will activate the automatic drip coffee maker and a "stop" time of day, independent of said start time of day at which the activation/deactivation circuit (40) will deactivate the automatic drip coffee maker and prevent further reactivation thereof. A "next-day-reset" switch (58) allows manual resetting so that the activation/deactivation repeats the start/stop cycle at the same preselected "start", "stop" times of day on the next day. An auto access button allows creation of an artificial start signal for initiating the cycle immediately.

Abstract: A coffee maker of the centrifugal brewing type includes a brewing case for containing milled coffee beans, the brewing case having a filter provided at the outer periphery thereof for the coffee brewing, a hot water feed mechanism for feeding hot water to the brewing case, an electric motor for rotating the brewing case so that a centrifugal force is applied to the hot water fed into the brewing case, thereby causing the hot water to pass through the milled coffee beans and then, through the filter, and control circuitry for controlling the hot water feed mechanism and the motor so that the motor is driven to rotate the brewing case after the hot water feed is initiated from the hot water feed mechanism to the brewing case.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for contacting particulate solid matter with a fluid in a pressure vessel through which the fluid continuously moves at high, supercritical, pressure while the particulate solid matter is periodically moved via isolatable pressurizable vessels which are periodically pressurized and de-pressurized to and from the supercritical pressure to facilitate periodic movement of the particulate solids between the pressure vessel and the isolatable pressurizable vessels. A supply of the fluid is maintained at an intermediate pressure at which the fluid exists in both the liquid and gaseous states. The pressurizable vessels are raised to supercritical pressure by first using intermediate pressure fluid in the gaseous state and then in the liquid state, followed by introducing fluid at the supercritical pressure. The vessels are de-pressurized by first venting and then pumping to the intermediate pressure fluid supply.

Abstract: A machine for brewing hot beverages, such as coffee, has a container for a supply of fresh liquid with two communicating sections one of which communicates with the atmosphere and the other of which has a bottom wall directly above an electric heater. Two or more siphons are used to convey streams of boiling liquid from the other section into a holder for a supply of flavoring agent. The siphons, the holder and at least the second section of the container are made of a non-metallic material (particularly porcelain, certain plastics, glass, ceramic or earthenware) which does not adversely affect the aroma of the beverage.

Abstract: Coffeemaker comprising a filter 20 which is dripped on by a head 18 having a principal opening 30 adapted to drip on the central region of the filter, as well as a series of holes 34 spaced apart about said opening 30 and adapted to drip on the peripheral region of the filter. The head 18 is provided with a valve 38 which is controlled by a timing device 40 which permits flow of hot water through the opening 30 only after a so-called "steeping" period in the course of which the hot water flows only through the holes 34.

Abstract: A beverage maker system for installation and use in automotive vehicles including an improved beverage-brewing chamber. The beverage-brewing chamber has an upper brewing chamber area for receiving heated water from a water heater and a lower brewing chamber area for receiving a disposable brew basket. The brew basket holds a filter-like pouch containing powdered or granular beverage making material and the brew basket includes a central top opening for receiving heated water from the upper chamber area, an annular side wall, and a bottom wall having a multiplicity of fluid flow perforations. The bottom wall of the brew basket also includes a central depressed closure portion for seating in and closing a bottom aperture of the beverage-brewing chamber. Shape-memory members of initially reduced height are located within the lower brewing chamber area below the brew basket and are positioned around the closure portion of the bottom wall of the basket.

Abstract: A convertible beverage (coffee and tea) making machine which as manufactured is a manual cold water pour-in machine and which is readily convertible "in the field" to an automatic cold water inlet machine, with or without a separate hot water faucet, by installing the contents of a conversion kit. If desired, the machine can be re-converted from an automatic back to a manual cold water pour-in machine. Separate and apart from being convertible from pour-in to automatic, the beverage making machine incorporates structural features which readily permit the following optional changes: the brewing funnel support rails can be re-positioned to allow the brewing funnel to be inserted and withdrawn from either the right or left side instead of from the front; the electric switch "buttons" can be re-positioned from the front to either the right or left sides; and, a hot water faucet, when added, can be mounted on either the right or left sides.

Abstract: A coffee brewing unit is disclosed which enables a brew cycle to be initiated manually or automatically at a preset time, but which prevents a brew cycle from proceeding if a number of required operating conditions are not implemented. If all operating conditions again become implemented after a brew cycle, once underway, is interrupted, the brew cycle continues on to completion. Visual and audible signals indicate the current status of the brew cycle and/or of the brewing unit itself. An insulated carafe is used as the vessel to receive brewed coffee thereby eliminating the need for a warmer plate. The unit may be mounted under a cabinet to thereby maximize usable countertop space and the brew basket utilizes a dispensing valve which is opened by the carafe when inserted into position but which closes when the carafe is withdrawn.

Abstract: A coffee and/or tea disperser having a cold water reservoir connected to a water heater which is connected in turn to a spray head. Below the head is a container for a bed of coffee grains or tea leaves and below which again is a tank for the infused beverage. Cups of freshly infused coffee or tea can be metered from the tank by a dispensing valve. In order to ensure that the amount of coffee dispensed does not vary by any significant amount as the head of liquid in the tank varies, the tank is disposed above the surface on which the cup rests by a distance, measured from the maximum head of liquid in the tank to said datum, which is at least six times the maximum displacement of liquid in the tank. Moreover the tank is wide and low. The tank is preferably dismountable for easy cleaning and level probes normally protruding into the tank are arranged to be swung out of the tank to assist dismounting.

Abstract: A coffee or tea maker includes a freshwater container, a heater for heating water withdrawn from the freshwater container, a filter holder receptacle and a feed pipe extending from the heater and arranged for carrying hot water from the heater; an intermediate container into which the feed pipe opens to introduce hot water thereinto. There is further provided an arrangement for periodically emptying the hot water from the intermediate container into the filter holder receptacle.

Abstract: The housing of a machine for brewing coffee, tea or other hot beverages confines or carries a water container, a riser which conveys water from the container past an electric heater and into a manifold, and a filter holder. The manifold has two sections which are separably connected to each other to define an inlet connected with the riser, a first outlet which can deliver hot water to the filter holder, and a second outlet which can return water into the container. A disc-shaped valving element has a central portion clamped between the two sections of the manifold and a marginal portion which can snap over from a first position, in which the valving element seals the inlet of the manifold from the first outlet, to a second position in which the valving element seals the inlet from the second outlet of the manifold.

Abstract: In a coffee brewing apparatus, a milling assembly produces coffee powder which is filled into a brewing chamber. Then the brewing chamber is closed by a displaceable piston in order to exert a preselected pressure on the coffee powder in the brewing chamber, and hot water is forced through the compressed coffee powder. If it is recognized after several subsequent preparation cycles that too much or too less coffee powder has been filled into the brewing chamber, the operation period of the milling assembly is shortened or extended automatically under the influence of a programmed control unit. Simultaneously or additionally, a flow rate detector measures the amount of water flowing through the compressed coffee powder and the control unit measures the time required by the water to pass through the coffee powder in the brewing chamber.

Abstract: A control device for a valve (8) in the water supply conduit (7) of a reservoir (1), e.g. the water reservoir of a coffee machine, comprising a diaphragm (10) disposed in a reservoir wall and having an operating stud (11) for a tilting member (12, 40) swivelling between two end positions, the tilting member being associated with a bistable switch. The tilting member (12, 40) is retained in one, first end position by magnetic force (15), and is then in the path of motion of the operating stud (11). The swivelling movement of the tilting member (12, 40) to the other, second end position is used for operating a microswitch (18) incorporated in the control circuit of the valve (8).

Abstract: An electric coffee maker comprises a material grinding compartment (24) having a cutter (23) adapted to be drivingly rotated by a driving motor (22) provided in a coffee maker body (37); a filtering compartment (25) provided side by side with and communicated with the material grinding compartment (24); a tank (42) for containing water; a heater section (39) for heating water supplied from the tank (42); and a change-over device (64) for performing a change-over action such that water having been heated by the heater section (39) is circulated through the tank (42) or supplied to the filtering compartment (25).

Abstract: A coffee and/or tea dispenser having a cold water reservoir connected to a water heater which is connected in turn to a spray head. Below the head is a container for a bed of coffee grains or tea leaves and below which again is a tank for the infused beverage. Cups of freshly infused coffee or tea can be metered from the tank by a dispensing valve. In order to ensure the head of liquid applied to the valve is within reduced limits the tank is wide and low. The tank is preferably dismountable for easy cleaning and level probes normally protruding into the tank are arranged to be swung out of the tank to assist dismounting. The dispensing valve is preferably formed with a flexible liquid conduit squeezed between three abutments so that the tube is not clamped but rather distorted into a closed state.

Abstract: A hot water tank particularly for a beverage brewing apparatus of the infusion type in which the hot water tank has a water draw-off tap at a position between the top and bottom of the tank and a thermostat above the outlet in the tank to the tap and a control means connected to the thermostat such that water may only be drawn off through the tap when the temperature of water above the tap outlet is at least as high as a predetermined temperature. The controller ensures that the user cannot draw water from the tank until the temperature of the water reaches the predetermined temperature. A water supply to the tank bottom ensures that the tank is kept full of water and in the case of the brewing apparatus this ensures feeding of hot water to an infusion spray head. Preferably the tap is prevented from being enabled to draw off water while infusion is taking place due to the provision of a control valve in the connection between the tap and the water tank.

Abstract: Described is a coffee percolator the brewing cycle of which is controlled by control means. This coffee percolator is provided with further control means effective to initiate and to control a hot flushing operation for preheating those parts of the coffee percolator which come into contact with the coffee separately from the brewing cycle proper.

Abstract: A semi-automatic beverage brewing apparatus for brewing a cup to a pot of beverage such as coffee. The apparatus passes a selected quantity of water after heating the water, through a preselected quantity of beverage making material such as freshly ground coffee to brew the coffee. The beverage brewing apparatus includes a filter, a beverage making material holding device, a beverage making material quantity selector and transfer system for automatically measuring and placing a selected quantity of beverage making material from the material holding device into the filter, a liquid holding system, a liquid heater, a liquid quantity selector, heating and transfer system for automatically measuring, heating and placing the selected quantity of liquid on the beverage making material, and an outlet for passing the brewed liquid after it passes through the beverage making material and filter into a cup or pot.

Abstract: A method for producing a beverage from an infusible material such as coffee or tea by contacting the material with aqueous medium such as hot water in successive discrete portions, each successive portion re-suspending and re-agitating the material to increase extraction efficiency. The infusible material is preferably enclosed in a disposable brewing container such as a sachet or capsule, the aqueous medium injected therein in successive cycles.

Abstract: An electrical timer for a household appliance typically has an integrated circuit including an internal presettable clock registering the time of day, an internal register storing a presettable activation time, and a gate generating an activation signal when an activation enable signal is present and the clock registers the activation time. To prevent an activation signal from being generated on a daily basis without manual intervention, a bistable circuit is provided to generate the activation enable signal in response to a cycle enable signal received from the appliance operator. The bistable circuit is set to activate the activation enable signal upon receipt of the cycle enable signal, and is reset by the activation enable signal to disable the activation enable signal. For a coffee maker, the bistable circuit is preferably reset by the activation signal at the active-to-inactive transition signalling the end of brewing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a coffee maker comprising a water reservoir (1), a filter device (2) and a flow heater (3) for heating water from the water reservoir for delivery to the filter device. A problem associated with coffee makers is the deposit of scale in the flow heater. It is proposed to provide a coffee maker with means (13, 14) for adding a small amount of coffee extract to the water before it enters the flow heater (3). Coffee extract naturally contains phosphoric-acid-like compounds which inhibit the crystal growth of metal salts in the water. Preferably, coffee extract is fed continuously from the filter device (2) to the water reservoir (1).

Abstract: A brewing device for either coffee or tea have a water pot bottomed with a base accomodating a heating element and a temperature-sensitive switch connected electrically therewith, by which applying heat to the water pot when being energized and cutting off the source of power at predetermined temperature, and a receiver for coffee grinds or tea to be brewed being disposed by the side of the pot. A U-shaped tube provided between the pot and the receiver having a first leg extended through an first aperture provided in the first lid and a second leg extended through a second aperture provided in the second lid, the former is gas tight sealed with the wall defining the first aperture but on the contrary, there is sufficient opening left between the receiver and the wall defining the second aperture.

Abstract: The automatic espresso coffee machine brews coffee from coffee pods placed in an extraction head or in a plurality of extraction heads and is characterized in that it comprises an electronic control system, including a microprocessor and memory means, which operate all the operations of the machine. In particular, the machine carries out a continuous control of the water temperature in a boiler in order to keep that temperature in a narrow range of a selected temperature. It also controls the volume of the hot water delivered to each extraction head to be within a narrow range of predetermined volume. The machine diagnoses itself for possible failures and depleted supplies by showing on a display in code the kind of failure or of needed supply, i.e. coffee.

Abstract: A programmed control unit for a coffee machine is provided by which the number of cups and strength of coffee made by the machine may be selected. The unit controls the flow of hot water from the reservoir to the coffee in the filter depending on the number of cups selected. Also, the control unit operates to start brewing the coffee ahead of time set in by the user so that the coffee is ready at the time set into the dial.

Abstract: A beverage making appliance operable automatically or manually, and also providing a hot water faucet. The appliance has a cold water basin located over a hot water tank with a cold water tube extending down into the hot water tank from a basin drain opening whereby cold water discharges into the lower portion of the hot water tank and displaces hot water either through a faucet, or a spray head onto the contents of a brew funnel. When operated in its automatic mode, cold water is delivered to the basin through a conduit connected with a supply of cold water under pressure. The conduit has both flow control and solenoid valves whereby a predetermined volume of cold water is delivered on each actuation of a timer. A level control circuit, together with a water level sensing probe disposed within the hot water tank, also actuates the solenoid valve to maintain a predetermined water level in the tank as hot water is drawn through the faucet.

Abstract: An automatic coffee-brewing apparatus designed as an improved brewing device for ground coffee similar to the ones employed in the drip process. The brewing apparatus includes a container defining a coffee pot arranged to be removably supported by an electric heating plate, a floatable brew basket being releasably mounted within the coffee pot and including at least one floatational cell or chamber, whereby the brew basket is allowed to be released by a thermal latch in order to float on top of the brewed coffee at a predetermined temperature. A free-wheeling impeller is located within the brew basket and arranged to be rotated during the brewing process by a motor which is magnetically coupled to the impeller to cause rotation thereof.

Abstract: An espresso machine has a coffee brewing chamber, a water reservoir and a water heater. Two electrical pumps are provided, one capable of supplying a smaller quantity of water from the reservoir via the heater to the brewing chamber so as to make a regular-strength coffee beverage, and the other capable of supplying a considerably larger quantity of water from the reservoir via the heater to the brewing chamber, so as to make a weaker-strength coffee beverage from an identical quantity of coffee. A selector at the outside of the machine allows a user to select which one of the pumps he wishes to energize.

Abstract: A coffeemaker is provided with a power circuit and a control circuit. The power circuit is connected to a household source of electric power and it is activated by a relay switch. The control circuit includes a relay coil for the switch, and a triac that may be triggered into conduction when a turn on signal from an electronic timer module is applied to the control terminal of the triac simultaneously with the application of direct current control circuit voltage across the triac. Thereafter, the triac remains in its conductive state so long as the direct current flowing through the triac remains above a minimum level. Subsequent removal of the turn on signal from the control terminal of the triac has no effect on the operation of the power circuit which includes the coffeemaker heating means so long as the direct current flowing through the triac remains above a minimum level.

Abstract: A coffee vendor comprising a brewer having a horizontal relatively small-mesh screen therein dividing the brewer into upper and lower chambers, a line for delivering hot water to the upper chamber of the brewer, a line for delivering filtered brewed coffee from the brewer, an air compressor for delivering compressed air to the upper chamber of the brewer, and a sanitizing system for cleaning the brewer and the delivery line. The sanitizing system includes a programmer motor for operation of the vendor through a sanitizing cycle comprising a series of successive hot-water rinse cycles. Switches operated by cams driven by the programmer motor program the sanitizing cycle, which is initiated by closure of a manual start switch, the cycle being automatically terminated.