Convertible Patents (Class 99/284)
  • Patent number: 11317755
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a machine (1) for preparing beverages, in particular aromatic beverages such as for example espresso type coffee, comprising a machine casing (2) that presents at least one first access element (21) on a lateral face of said machine casing (2), adapted so that provides access to the interior region where there are the fluid pressurization means (5), preferentially also a second element access (22) also on a lateral face of said machine casing (2), adapted so that provides access to the interior region where there is provided a milk frothing device (9), thereby enabling its removal for periodic cleaning in ergonomic manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: NOVADELTA—COMÉRCIO E INDÚSTRIA DE CAFÉS S.A.
    Inventors: Rui Miguel Nabeiro, Joäo André De Figueiredo Branco, Marco Filipe Gonçalves Martins
  • Patent number: 11045036
    Abstract: A beverage filtering device wherein flavoring solids, such as coffee, tea, or herbs, are infused or brewed with fluids and then a finished beverage is filtered from the flavoring solids using a system of nested cups. The nested cups are pressed together during filtration to create a compact form that can then also serve as a beverage cup or beverage serving device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: O2C RALEIGH, LLC
    Inventor: Aly Khalifa
  • Patent number: 10244889
    Abstract: A multi-purpose beverage pod holder for a beverage brewing apparatus is disclosed comprising a flange adapted to be received in a slot in the brewing apparatus, a screen disposed orthogonal with the flange for allowing fluid to pass therein through, a first cylindrical wall encircling the screen on a first surface of the pod holder, the first cylindrical wall having a first diameter and defining a first packet retainer, and a second cylindrical wall encircling the screen on an opposite surface of the pod holder, the second cylindrical wall having a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter and defining a second packet retainer. The pod holder can be used to brew both espresso and coffee in the same machine depending upon the orientation of the pod holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: B/E Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: William Dale Aronson, Lawrence Joseph Egan, Kirsten Suzanne Frogley
  • Patent number: 10149568
    Abstract: The present disclosure illustrates a filter positioning structure for a beverage infuser. In the filter positioning structure, a casing member includes upper and lower engaging parts respectively connected with top and bottom ends of a connecting part. A filter can be combined with the lower engaging part. The upper engaging part is ring-shaped and has protruding parts on an outer periphery thereof. Therefore, the filter positioning structure can be positioned in the beverage infuser by blocking between the protruding parts and a stop part of a body of the beverage infuser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Inventor: Tzu Yuan Shen
  • Patent number: 10034569
    Abstract: A beverage filtering device wherein flavoring solids, such as coffee, tea, or herbs, are infused or brewed with fluids and then a finished beverage is filtered from the flavoring solids using a system of nested cups. The nested cups are pressed together during filtration to create a compact form that can serve as a beverage cup or beverage serving device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Assignee: O2C RALEIGH, LLC
    Inventor: Aly Khalifa
  • Patent number: 9974409
    Abstract: A system for the preparation of beverages including capsules (C) with a cup-shaped body (1) having an annular lateral wall (6) which tapers from a mouth opening (2) towards a bottom wall (5). These capsules (C) are of at least a first type and a second type, and have identical bottom walls (5) and different axial lengths (h1, h2, h3). An infusion assembly (10) has a variable-volume infusion chamber (20), having an introduction opening (20a), an end delimitation part (16a) having a shape corresponding to that of the bottom wall (5) of the capsules (C), and with a lateral delimitation structure (13a, 13b; 14) which includes a static portion (13a, 13b) and which extends between said introduction opening (20a) and the end delimitation part (16a). The latter is movable away from the introduction opening (20a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: LUIGI LAVAZZA S.p.A.
    Inventors: Alberto Cabilli, Danilo Bolognese, Denis Rotta, Luca Bugnano, Elvio Bonisoli
  • Patent number: 9915467
    Abstract: A refrigerator with an integrated multi-speed blender including a stand alone kitchen refrigerator having a recess in a front door thereof and a continuous opening therein. A housing body, on the upper side of the recess, stores components of a motorized blender assembly adjacent to a water dispenser within the recess. The blender assembly includes a mixer shaft operationally communicating with the motor and extending into the recess opening, with blades on a distal end thereof, first and second control switches proximal and operationally controlling the motor, first and second pressure control buttons on a forward side of the housing body, which when pushed along with an activation switch, activate the motor and operate the motor at a first speed and at a faster second speed, respectively. An activation button movable between an initial lower position to a second upper position activates the activation switch in the second upper position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Inventor: Sheila Mosley
  • Patent number: 9687106
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide beverage makers and their ability to be made modular, such that the beverage maker may brew beverages using interchangeable components. One embodiment relates to an espresso maker that can brew a coffee or espresso beverage using different types of modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: The Richards Corporation
    Inventors: Abdelaziz Boubeddi, Mohammad Ghalambor, Ali Olfat
  • Patent number: 9121189
    Abstract: A portable solar kiosk is provided. The solar kiosk is configured for use with vending machines, outdoor kitchens, parking lot payment booths, bus stop waiting areas, and the like, as well as associated battery systems, solar power assemblies, traditional power access, wiring systems and harnesses, and so forth. The solar kiosk includes a multiplicity of solar panels. The multiplicity of solar panels can charge batteries to power a vending machine. The solar kiosk includes side beams supported by a base such that the solar panel array can swivel on swivel rod to an appropriate angle to the sun. The base of the solar kiosk can support battery bank assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Inventors: Mark M. Hixson, Robert P. Creswell
  • Patent number: 9072405
    Abstract: In order to create a fully automatic electric coffee maker, at least comprising a housing (1) having a water tank (12), a water pump, a brewing unit (2), controls, an electrical controller (3), and a collecting container (4) for coffee remains (5) or used coffee grounds, possibly having a bean container (6) and a grinding assembly (7), wherein the formation of mildew is substantially or completely prevented, the fully automatic electric coffee maker being cheap and easy to produce and having a long operating life, at least one UV light source (8, 11, 13, 14, 15) is arranged on the housing (1) or inside the housing (1) in such a way that the parts of the fully automatic coffee machine in contact with used coffee grounds or coffee remains (5) and/or the coffee remains (5) or the used coffee grounds and/or the bean container (6) and/or the grinding assembly (7) and/or the water tank (12) and/or a connecting line between the water tank (12) and the water pump or the brewing unit (2) is or can be irradiated with u
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: SEVERIN ELEKTROGERAETE GMBH
    Inventor: Klaus Kroesen
  • Publication number: 20150068403
    Abstract: A beverage preparation machine for dispensing beverages comprising: a housing; a first reservoir station; a first reservoir for containing an aqueous medium, the first reservoir being connectable to said first reservoir station; an auxiliary module station for receiving an auxiliary module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Andrew Charles Bentley, Adam Martyn Lloyd
  • Publication number: 20150033947
    Abstract: An appliance (1) which can be used for making a beverage in at least two different ways comprises at least two different types of removable accessories, a housing (43) having an internal space for receiving and accommodating one of the accessories at a time, and a liquid supplying system for supplying a liquid to the internal space. In a practical embodiment of both types of accessories, a substantial portion of the accessory is generally shaped like a dish, wherein the dish-shaped portion of a first type of accessory comprises at least one hole for allowing liquid to pass that portion and flow from one side of that portion to the other, and wherein the dish-shaped portion of a second type of accessory is free from holes. The second type of accessory can therefore be used for guiding liquid received from the supplying system directly to outside of the appliance (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Gertrude Riëtte Van Der Kamp, Klaas Kooijker, Bernardo Arnoldus Mulder
  • Patent number: 8931397
    Abstract: A support for a container for receiving beverages from a spout of a machine for the production of beverages, where the support includes a first resting surface and a second surface with is hingedly attached to the first resting surface for positioning the two surfaces at different heights. In particular, the two resting surfaces are positioned on top of one another in a first position to accommodate a first cup between the second resting surface and the spout. Further, the two resting surfaces are positioned away from one another in a second position to accommodate a second cup between the first resting surface and the spout, where the second cup is taller than the first cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Patrizio Frigeri, Marco Marchi
  • Patent number: 8821953
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for decocting ingredients in a solvent. The apparatus including a container for containing the solvent, a recipient for containing the ingredients, the recipient being placed inside the container, a pipe connecting a bottom part of the container and a bottom part of the recipient, a pump placed in series with the pipe for circulating the solvent from the bottom part of the container to the bottom part of the recipient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Tao Wen, Gang Wang
  • Patent number: 8813633
    Abstract: A system is described for delivering infusion beverages including at least one infusion capsule having an essence to be infused, at least one delivering manifold equipped with at least one housing seat of the capsule and at least one manifold for perforating and supplying water. The housing seat includes at least two different delivering ducts each one of which has a perforating end oriented towards an inside portion of the housing seat and a base of the capsule including at least one recess and one perforation portion. The recess and the perforation portion selectively correspond to the perforating end depending on a type of essence to be infused. An infusion capsule is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Babas, S.R.L.
    Inventor: Maddalena Ricotti
  • Publication number: 20140102306
    Abstract: A coffee maker comprises a filter basket assembly that enables two coffee dispensing modes. The assembly comprises a filter basket, an actuator that cooperates with a carafe and a motor driven valve. The actuator stops coffee from dispensing when the carafe is removed, but can be defeated by the user to dispense into a cup or mug when the carafe is absent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Breville Pty Limited
    Inventors: Gerard Andrew White, Daniel Serra
  • Publication number: 20140013958
    Abstract: A drink brewer is operable to hold brewable grounds in either an open filter or an enclosed capsule and brew a drink using the grounds. The drink brewer includes a water dispensing station and a brew basket structure. The water dispensing station includes a water nozzle to dispense water onto the grounds. The brew basket structure presents a brew chamber. The brew basket structure is shiftable between an open filter brewing configuration and a capsule brewing configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: SELECT BRANDS, INC.
    Inventors: Mark T. Krasne, William S. Endres, Blaise Wooderson
  • 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: 8475854
    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: June 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Lukasz D. Skalski, Tiemen T. Van Dillen
  • Publication number: 20130160653
    Abstract: A coffee maker including a base, a filter basket positioned above the base, the filter basket including an outlet, and a drip stop assembly, and a method of using the coffee maker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Arren J. MCCORMICK, Ben C. SHAO
  • Patent number: 8459177
    Abstract: A coffee machine, especially an espresso machine, comprising a brew chamber provided with at least one coffee outlet, a height-adjustable spout for ejecting coffee, and an impact surface arranged upstream of said spout. The aim of the invention is to ensure that, despite the fact that the height of the spout can be adjusted, the coffee produced is of a consistently high quality. To this end, the impact surface is arranged at a fixed distance from the coffee outlet, coffee passing through said outlet hitting the impact surface and being guided to the spout from the impact surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Magg, Andreas Mayr, Markus Obermaier
  • Patent number: 8453561
    Abstract: A support to hold a beverage receiving container in a machine for the preparation of beverages designed to position the container at two different heights with respect to a dispensing spout of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventor: Luca Ferraris
  • 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
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8359969
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for retrofitting an indoor water dispenser of an existing refrigerator having a water outlet with one or more components to provide secondary water conditioning to dispense an enhanced beverage using water from the water outlet of the indoor water dispenser are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Tiemen Van Dillen, Lukasz D. Skalski, Luca Gamberoni, Steven J. Kuehl
  • Patent number: 8250972
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to method and a device to make a single or a multiple serving of a select flavored, carbonated beverage. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Primo Products, LLC
    Inventor: Carl Santoiemmo
  • Patent number: 8205542
    Abstract: An integrated beverage infuser and lid are adapted for use with an insulated drinking vessel for brewing a consumable product, such as tea, in an insulated travel mug, tumbler, or the like. The lid includes a main body adapted for movable receipt on a drinking vessel that forms a downwardly directed, open-ended cavity. A fluid-permeable brewing basket defines an enclosable receptacle for removable receipt of the brewing consumable product. The basket is movable between a stowed position, substantially within the cavity above the liquid level of the hot water in the tumbler, and a deployed position, below and substantially outside of the cavity for submersion in the hot water contained in the drinking vessel. A lever arm forms a part of the transfer mechanism and has a portion that penetrates the main body to the outside thereof so that the transfer mechanism can be operated by an individual without removing the lid from the insulated drinking vessel, tumbler, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Pacific Market International, Inc.
    Inventor: Tyler Sean Gilbert
  • Patent number: 8146485
    Abstract: A hierarchical modular beverage production system that includes a docking station and a beverage production module adapted to be selectively in a connected state and a disconnected state, respectively, with the docking station. In this system, the module is provided with a fluid delivery mechanism for producing a beverage from ingredients contained in a capsule, the docking station and module are respectively provided with control circuitry with the control circuitry of the module being designed for an autonomous control of the module in the disconnected state, and the control circuitry of the docking station being designed to take over at least partially the control of the module in the connected state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Matthieu Ozanne, Fabien Ludovic Agon
  • Patent number: 8087346
    Abstract: The multiple beverage brewer utilizes the vacant vertical spaces in an establishment, opens counterspace, and allows placement of different products, such as coffee varieties and flavors, for simultaneous brewing. The vertical multiple coffee brewer begins with a base, a housing upon the base extending upright while leaving room for at least one warmer on the base, a deck extending from the housing above the base with a brew basket and a coffee pot, at least one warmer on the deck, a second deck extending from the housing, and a top. The housing contains one tank for heating of water supplied to all of the brew baskets through piping and dump valves. Alternatively, the housing has two vertically stacked tanks supplied with fresh water but heating the water separately for delivery to each deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Newco Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph P. Webster, Jody G. Jacobsen
  • Patent number: 8061263
    Abstract: A sensor head/brew cup with liquid level sensor probes which rotate down into the server to avoid damage to the probes by the server. The sensor head/brew cup moves as a unit, thereby eliminating any gap between the brew cup and the sensor head through which the brewed liquid must pour, thereby preventing spillage. The moveable sensor head/brew allows beverage brewing devices to use servers of various heights. Raising the sensor head/brew cup causes the level sensor probes to rotate upward out of the server, thereby protecting the probes from impact by the server when it is removed from the brewing device. When the level sensor probes are in the upward position they touch electrical contacts completing a self-test circuit confirming electrical continuity through the level sensor probes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventors: Gary Ray Hannah, Richard William Heim
  • Publication number: 20110259202
    Abstract: A drink preparing device that includes a box and a holding and drip-collecting system that comprises a holding part positionable beneath a drink outlet in order to accept a first, relatively small receptacle, and being configured and dimensioned to be moveable between a deployed holding position suitable for accepting the small receptacle and a second position in which the part is moved at least partly out of the way of the drink outlet to create an unoccupied space in which a second, larger receptacle can be positioned, in place of the first receptacle, beneath the drink outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventors: Antoine Cahen, Philippe Cahen, Christophe S. Boussemart
  • Patent number: 8028616
    Abstract: A beverage maker for brewing a beverage from water and a quantity of particle material includes a water supply structure, a brewing chamber downstream of the water supply structure, and a dispensing channel downstream of the brewing chamber. A bounding member is adjustable for adjusting the operational size of the brewing chamber, and an adjustment structure is provided for adjusting said bounding member. The adjustment structure is adjustable in response to the quantity of particles present in said brewing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Sijtze Van Der Meer, Simon James Faneco, Shaun Alan East
  • Patent number: 7966927
    Abstract: A machine for preparing and dispensing drinks by extraction under pressure of a food substance contained in a capsule which can function in a standalone mode in order to deliver several drinks successively. The machine includes an extraction module for receiving a capsule, a heat insulated water reservoir for supplying the extraction module, a pump and an electrical power supply that includes a low voltage electrical accumulator configured to supply the pump. The reservoir has a heating device that includes an electrical element powered by the accumulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Alfred Yoakim, Matthieu Ozanne
  • Patent number: 7832328
    Abstract: A system for making a beverage, the system comprising a pad (7) and a holder (6) in which the pad (7) is placed in use, the pad being provided with a chamber in which a product (24) required for making the beverage is situated, the system defining, at least partly, a fluid path, while the fluid path extends, in use, at least through the product (24) in the pad (7), while in use a fluid is introduced into the fluid path under super-atmospheric pressure, wherein the system is designed for assuming two conditions, i.e. a froth condition in which a beverage with a froth layer is produced, and a froth-free condition in which a beverage substantially without froth layer is produced. Also is described a restriction element (15a, 16, 18, 19, 20) and a pad (7) and the use of such a system as a method for making beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Sara Lee/DE N.V.
    Inventors: Hendrik Cornelis Koeling, Gustaaf Frans Brouwer
  • Publication number: 20100251899
    Abstract: A brewing device of a coffeemaker includes a base to which a filter cup loaded with ground coffee is assembled from below. Hot water in a heating tank of a delivery system is guided into a guide tube of the brewing device, flows through a sliding element and a downward pressing element, and finally drips onto and thus infuses the ground coffee in the filter cup, thereby making caffè espresso. When the delivery system switches to a different waterway and guides the hot water through a lower water inlet opening at the filter cup, caffè Americano, i.e., a diluted caffè espresso, is made instead. Thus, the coffeemaker is capable of making both caffè espresso and caffè Americano. Besides, the hot water guided through the lower water inlet opening at the filter cup also purges a bottom space in the filter cup of coffee ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Yu-Yuan Lin
  • Patent number: 7798055
    Abstract: A beverage system for selectively delivering, in a same coffee extraction device, short coffee liquid extracts and long coffee liquid extracts comprising: cartridges containing ground coffee; a receiving device for receiving one cartridge at a time and pumping means or injecting water under pressure in the cartridge; means for opening the cartridge wherein these means comprises retaining means to retain the liquid under pressure in the cartridge and engaging means which engage the retaining means to open the cartridge and deliver the coffee liquid extract; wherein the system comprises at least a first cartridge adapted to deliver a short coffee liquid extract, wherein the system comprises at least a second cartridge which has substantially the same external configuration and shape as the first cartridge so as to be capable of being received in the same receiving device as the first cartridge and which is adapted to deliver a longer coffee liquid extract upon allowing a larger amount of water to flow there tro
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Zenon Ioannis Mandralis, Peter Koch, Francisco Campiche
  • Patent number: 7779751
    Abstract: An integrated beverage infuser and lid are adapted for use with an insulated drinking vessel for brewing a consumable product, such as tea, in an insulated travel mug, tumbler, or the like. The lid includes a main body adapted for movable receipt on a drinking vessel that forms a downwardly directed, open-ended cavity. A fluid-permeable brewing basket defines an enclosable receptacle for removable receipt of the brewing consumable product. The basket is movable between a stowed position, substantially within the cavity above the liquid level of the hot water in the tumbler, and a deployed position, below and substantially outside of the cavity for submersion in the hot water contained in the drinking vessel. A lever arm forms a part of the transfer mechanism and has a portion that penetrates the main body to the outside thereof so that the transfer mechanism can be operated by an individual without removing the lid from the insulated drinking vessel, tumbler, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Pacific Market International, LLC
    Inventor: Tyler Sean Gilbert
  • Patent number: 7726233
    Abstract: A brewing receptacle for an apparatus for brewing a beverage such as coffee. The receptacle has a brewing chamber (13; 63; 113) having an entry passage and an exit passage for displacing water through the chamber (13; 63; 113) for brewing the beverage, a bottom (14; 64; 114) for supporting the particles (18; 118, 118?) (18), and a discharge 5 opening (19; 69; 119) in the bottom (14; 64; 114) for discharging beverage liquid through the bottom (14; 64; 114). At least the bottom (14; 64; 114) is invertible between a first and a second operative position. The brewing chamber (13; 63; 113) has a first volume and a first shape when the bottom (14; 64; 114) is in said first position and at least a second volume or a second shape of the brewing chamber in said second position is different from the first volume or shape, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Hans Kodden, Ben Arlett, Christopher James Smith, James Neave, David Stuart Harris
  • Patent number: 7717027
    Abstract: The invention provides a beverage extractor permitting extraction of a beverage of high quality irrespective of its type. The extractor is provided with a first extraction channel for letting the beverage extracted in a cylinder flow into the extraction pipe via beverage outlet holes of a second piston having a prescribed first bore and a second extraction channel via a communication hole having a prescribed second bore, which is smaller in bore than the outlet holes, for letting the beverage extracted in the cylinder flow into the extraction pipe, and the first and second extraction channels are switched over between each other by the movement of the second piston. This makes it possible to select an extraction channel suitable for the type of beverage, whether regular coffee or espresso coffee, and accordingly to extract a beverage of high quality irrespective of the type of beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Sanden Corporation
    Inventors: Takeshi Sato, Takashi Nagasawa, Takeshi Onda
  • Publication number: 20100050880
    Abstract: For separating the contents from the package of used capsules (10) for making beverages, particularly capsules of metal containing coffee, an device (1) respectively a press, particularly a manual press, is preferably used, by which the capsule is crunchable, such that its contents comes out of the extraction side of the capsule, where it is collected and can be disposed of separately from the capsule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: insent GmbH
    Inventors: Juerg Suter, Beat Zobrist, Stephan Villiger
  • Patent number: 7584695
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method, system, apparatus and kit for dispensing hot water. The apparatus includes a body which may be positioned or etched to a portion of a housing of a brewer or other beverage making system. The body may be mounted in various orientations relative to the brewer. A moveably mounted faucet is provided on the body to accommodate one of several orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Bunn-O-Matic Corporation
    Inventor: Burton L. Hart
  • Publication number: 20090178569
    Abstract: A tea brewing assembly which is disposed within an upper housing of a coffee maker and operates in conjunction with the coffee maker. The coffee maker delivers heated water to tea brewing assembly which includes a tea brewing basket divided into two sections by an internal wall, a tea leaf holder and a cover having a tea leaf holder positioner. A controllable valve in the internal wall provides communication between the two basket sections at an appropriate water temperature, which permits the heated water to contact the tea leaves in the tea leaf holder. A controller operates a drain valve at the bottom of the brewer basket at an elapsed brew time causing the brewed tea to ultimately enter a conventional pouring carafe. Sensors and operator selections control either the brew time, brew temperature or both for opening the wall and drain valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: George H. Tucker, Denise F. Tucker
  • Patent number: 7543526
    Abstract: A coffee maker having a housing having a brewing chamber in which coffee is produced, a water reservoir attached to the housing, a system to pump water from the reservoir, heat the water and then deliver the heated water to the brewing chamber, and an adjustable spout removably and movably secured to the housing for receiving the coffee produced in the brewing chamber wherein the adjustable spout is moveable upward and downward. The coffee maker also has a lid that is moveable attached to the housing. The lid is moveable between a closed position that provides a sealed brewing chamber and an open position that allows access to the coffee pod holder and the coffee pod therein. The coffee maker has a pressure valve that routes excess pressurized water back to the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Yuen Wa Tai
  • Publication number: 20090095163
    Abstract: Coffee machine, comprising at least one steam generator for producing steam and an apparatus for producing the coffee with associated dispensing device, a storage tank containing a ready prepared liquid chocolate product with a density suitable for being a conventional chocolate beverage, a heating device provided with an inlet and an outlet for the product to be heated and an inlet for introducing the steam, a line between said storage tank and the inlet of said heating device, a metering pump arranged along said line for conveying a predetermined amount of chocolate-based product from said storage tank to said heating device and for circulating it inside it, a line for the steam, connecting said steam generator to said inlet for the steam of the heating device, an intercept valve arranged along the said steam line as well as a beverage dispensing device connected to the outlet of the said heating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Applicant: Gruppp Cimbali S.p.A.
    Inventors: Dario Sala, Andrea Coccia
  • Patent number: 7487711
    Abstract: A steam automatic dispensing device for preparing hot and/or frothed drinks, includes a first duct (13) for introducing steam inside a drink; a second duct (15) for introducing air inside the drink; an electronic control unit (51) for controlling the introduction of steam and/or air through said first and second duct, the control unit being programmable to carry out a predetermined control cycle depending on the desired drink to be obtained and on the drink temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Rancilio Macchine per Caffe' S.p.A.
    Inventor: Carlo Carbonini
  • Publication number: 20090020017
    Abstract: A coffee maker disclosed in the present invention at least comprises a supporting device, a brewing device, a heating device, an insulated carafe containing magnet, a magnetism-detecting device and a control device. The supporting device is used for supporting a carafe. The heating device is used for providing the hot water for brewing the coffee for the brewing device, and it can heat the carafe supported by the supporting device selectively. The insulated carafe containing magnet mounted detachably on the supporting device. The magnetism-detecting device is used for detecting the carafe supported by the supporting device whether it contains magnet or not, thus judges the carafe is an insulated carafe containing magnetic or not. The control device is connected to the magnetism-detecting device and the heating device, it estimate whether it need to heat the carafe supported by the supporting device or not based on the detecting result of the magnetism-detecting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: TSANN KUEN (CHINA) ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kuohsun Lin, Shengfang Cheng
  • Patent number: 7478584
    Abstract: The coffee maker comprises a height adjustment assembly by means of which the height position of a collecting tray, adapted to receive one or two coffee cups to be filled with coffee beverage, is adjustable. The collecting tray is attached to a support member. The height adjustment assembly comprises at least one vertically extending gear rack that can be non-positively engaged by a slider provided at the support member. The slider is biased by a spring towards the gear rack and can be manually displaced against the force of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Saeco IPR Limited
    Inventor: Mariano Turi
  • Patent number: 7472641
    Abstract: A machine for preparing beverages is disclosed, of the type provided with a hollow frame (1) comprising a water feed unit and an assembly for preparing beverages formed of a plurality of components. The components of the assembly are disposed in a compartment closed at the front by a supporting element (5) for at least one mixing chamber (6) and at least one dispensing nozzle (7) and are supported entirely or in part by the supporting element (5). The supporting element is removably mounted with respect to the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Rheavendors S.p.A.
    Inventor: Luca Doglioni Majer
  • Patent number: 7458316
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for brewing coffee, which includes a housing having an inner chamber for receiving and retaining brewed coffee, a water reservoir adjacent to and generally surrounding the inner chamber, for receiving water, and an electrically powered coil for heating the water contained in the water reservoir. A brew valve is positioned above the inner chamber for supporting coffee grounds, the brew valve being rotatable between a first inactive position and a second active position for brewing coffee. Heated water is directed from the water reservoir to the brew valve and to the coffee grounds to brew coffee. and to the coffee grounds to produce brewed coffee, and into the inner chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph Scelza
  • Publication number: 20080210098
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (1) for preparing a beverage comprising a holder (14) with an inner space (S) for accommodating at least one container (11) with a soluble or ex-tractable product to obtain said beverage, wherein said inner space has a non-planar surface (20) defining at least a first holding structure (21) and a second holding structure (22), respectively arranged to hold containers (11A; 11B) of at least a first dimension (D1) and a second dimension (D2), as defined by an edge (23) of said containers, substantially along said edge of said containers. Accordingly, an apparatus is provided that allows to hold a plurality of containers 11 of different dimensions while maintaining appropriate extraction characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Applicants: MARTEX HOLLAND B.V., ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS LTD., COVAL ART TEC LIMITED
    Inventors: Marcel Hendrikus Simon Weijers, Amy Decem Cheng Pui Yin