Abstract: A device for identification of a filter holder (4, 13) of an espresso coffee machine, comprising a support (3, 17, 18) on which the filter holder to be identified is removably placed, at least one thermopile radiation sensor (6, 6a) having a plurality of heat radiation-sensitive elements, an optical apparatus (8, 8a) that focuses radiations on said sensitive elements and circuit means, which receive electric signals transmitted by said sensitive elements and process a corresponding output signal. Said radiation sensor (6, 6a) is placed, relative to the support (3, 17, 18) for the filter holder to be identified, such that at least one portion thereof (10, 11, 15), when it is placed on the support, falls within the field of view (9, 9a) of the optical apparatus (8, 8a) of said sensor, such that said circuit means can determine a signal representative of the radiations of the filter holder portion detected by said optical apparatus of the sensor.

Abstract: A system for preparing a coffee beverage, provided with a coffee making apparatus comprising a grinder for grinding coffee beans to obtain ground coffee, a coffee beverage preparation device arranged for, with supply of water to the ground coffee, preparing the coffee beverage, and a coffee outlet for dispensing the coffee beverage, a separate coffee bean package with an inner space which at least before use is filled with the coffee beans, wherein the coffee bean package before use is closed off in itself such that the exposure of the coffee beans to ambient air is prevented, a coffee bean inlet for supply of coffee beans from the coffee bean package to the grinder, and a connecting device for connecting the coffee bean package to the coffee making apparatus.

Abstract: A beverage preparation machine is electrically operated and has a control unit, at least one functional unit, and an electric circuit for supplying the functional unit and the control unit with current. The electric circuit has a switch for switching the current on or off, through respective first and second operations of an operating element. The switch has a first switch contact and a second switch contact, which are connected in parallel in the electric circuit. The first switch contact is brought into a closed state by the first operation of the operating element, and assumes an open state after the second operation. The control unit provides a control signal so that the second switch contact is closed after the first operation of the switch and opened after the second operation of the switch.

Abstract: The invention relates to a capsule for the preparation of a beverage. The capsule includes first and second covering walls connected at a peripheral seam for forming a cavity containing a beverage ingredient, and a contactless element for identifying the capsule by detecting means of a beverage producing device. The identifying element is oriented along its longer dimension substantially orthogonally relative to the transversal plane passing along the seam of the capsule.

Abstract: The invention proposes a device for preparing a beverage from a food substance contained in a capsule (24) by injection of a liquid into the capsule (24), wherein said liquid is provided by a pump (70) of the device, said device comprising an extraction head (20) having an aperture (22) for inserting a capsule-holder (30) providing the capsule (24) to a capsule-holder receiving chamber (25) of the device, a closing mechanism (21) to selectively enclose said capsule (24) in the capsule-holder receiving chamber (25), at least one injection member (11) to supply a liquid received from the pump (70) to the inside of the capsule (24), a control unit (80) for controlling at least the pump (70) of the device, and decoding means (1) connected to the control unit (80) and designed to read information from the capsule-holder (30).

Abstract: A reusable brewing cartridge includes a lid having a permanent injection nozzle passage and includes an extraction nozzle pocket permanently open at the top of the cartridge allowing use in a coffee maker configured to puncture a single use disposable cartridge lid with both the injection and extraction nozzles. The cartridge thus avoids puncturing contact with the extraction needle. The reusable brewing cartridge includes at least one passage in a cartridge base allowing brewed drink to escape the reusable brewing cartridge into a coffee container.

Abstract: One embodiment: A portable insulated beverage brewing device 10 for liquids and gravity fed method for brewing. A device 10, with lid 14 and vessel 12, may house insulation 52A and 52B, liner reservoir 50A and 50B, and filter 28 to brew hot or cold liquids and contain hot or cold liquids for controlled dispensing 26. A large capacity filter 28 secures inside the vessel 12 accepting brew mixtures for gravity fed brewing method.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a Turkish coffee cooking and serving machine having a cooking compartment whose inner volume is heated by a heater and wherein coffee mixture including Turkish coffee, water and optionally sugar is cooked; and when the cooking process is completed, providing transfer of the cooked coffee mixture in the cooking compartment through a discharge spout to a beverage receptacle for serving the cooked coffee to people.

Abstract: The invention proposes a device for preparing a beverage from a food substance contained in a capsule (24) by injection of a liquid into the capsule (24), wherein said liquid is provided by a pump (70) of the device, said device comprising an extraction head (20) having an aperture (22) for inserting a capsule-holder (30) providing the capsule (24) to a capsule-holder receiving chamber (25) of the device, a closing mechanism (21) to selectively enclose said capsule (24) in the capsule-holder receiving chamber (25), at least one injection member (11) to supply a liquid received from the pump (70) to the inside of the capsule (24), a control unit (80) for controlling at least the pump (70) of the device, and decoding means (1) connected to the control unit (80) and designed to read information from the capsule-holder (30).

Abstract: A system and method for determining the consumption by an infant of beverages produced from capsules in a beverage production machine. Capsule information regarding a plurality of different types of capsules is stored in a server. Further at least one user account including personal information about the infant consuming beverage produced from capsules is stored in said server. A beverage is produced from a capsule and the capsule used therefore by the beverage production machine is identified. The information on the identified capsule is transmitted to the server; such information including at least the date and time the beverage is prepared.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for dispensing milk portions in drink preparation machines having a milk fill level monitoring unit for a milk container. According to the method, one delivery of a milk portion from the milk container, said delivery being controlled by a device control electronic system, is only carried out completely and with a sufficient quantity of milk when during the delivery of the milk portion, the milk fill level monitoring unit signals a drop in the fill level of the milk below a threshold value.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a beverage preparation module intended for installation in a self-service beverage vending machine. According to the disclosure, a water connection and a preparation device for preparing a beverage by means of water provided at the water connection are provided. Beverage preparation parameters can be transmitted to a control unit via a communication interface. The control unit is configured to control the preparation device in order to prepare a beverage based on the beverage preparation parameters. A beverage outlet for discharging the beverage prepared by the preparation device is provided. In one embodiment, at least one additional module interface is provided for connecting the control unit to at least one additional module.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a beverage preparation machine, comprising a memory for storing icons, said icons being divided into at least two menu level groups, whereby each icon indicates a selectable menu function of the machine. The machine further comprises a display for displaying: in a first operation mode a first group of icons adjacent a main portion of the display; and in a second operation mode one group of icons as currently selectable icons on said main portion of the display. A touch pad is adapted to accept a touch operation for switching between the first and second operation mode.

Abstract: The present application relates to a pouch location device (18) for a machine (10) for dispensing beverages or foods, and in particular to a device for enabling a soft pouch (31) containing beverage or food ingredients to be accurately located in a bar code reader (37). The pouch location device comprises a slot (17) for receiving at least an end of a flexible pouch. The slot (17) has an entry aperture (32) at one end, an end wall (34) at the opposing end, a substantially transparent window (30) defining the top of the slot, a spring biased platen (33) defining the base of the slot. The platen (33) defines the lower lip of the entry aperture (32) and is angled to taper the slot (17) towards the end wall (34).

Abstract: The present invention concerns a beverage preparation machine (1) comprising: (i) a reservoir (2) for a fluid, (ii) a brewing head (3) adapted for receiving at least one ingredient capsule, (iii) a pump for pumping a predetermined volume of said fluid from said reservoir to said brewing head, such that said fluid can be injected into said capsule to mix with said ingredient under pressure and produce a pre-determined volume of beverage, (iv) a heating element for optionally heating said fluid pumped from said reservoir before it enters the capsule, (v) an electronic control board able to receive commands from a control panel (5) of the machine, and actuate operation of the pump, heating element, control panel, and/or brewing head, characterized in that said control panel (5) comprises in combination:—a rotating wheel (6) which is linked to the control board such that by rotating and/or pressing the wheel, a beverage preparation parameter is set in said control board, and—illuminated means (7), at least a port

Abstract: An electric tea maker device has a vessel with a reservoir having an opening that removably receives a tea brewing chamber. The chamber has an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion lacks perforations and the lower portion has perforations. The device has a plunger for the chamber that, when in a depressed position within the chamber, isolates tea from the reservoir. The vessel has a sensor for detecting when the chamber is inserted into the reservoir in a brewing position, a brew countdown timer that is activated by the sensor, and an indicator for alerting a user that a brew countdown is complete.

Abstract: A beverage brewer having a water flow control system for controlling the flow water through the system during a brewing cycle. The water flow control system is related to the spray head used in the brewer. The system can be calibrated based on the spray head used with the system and the calibration information can be used during the brewing process. An information device may be provided on the spray head to communication information to the brewer to control the brewing process. The brewer may be provided with a reader to read the information from the spray head. A system which can be used with a brewer, including all of the aforementioned information associated with the spray head for use in controlling the water flow during a brewing cycle. The system can be provided with the brewer or retrofitted with an existing brewer.

Abstract: The invention relates to an optically readable code support to be associated with or part of a capsule indented for delivering a beverage in a beverage producing device by centrifugation of the capsule. The support comprises at least one sequence of symbols represented on the support so that each symbol is sequentially readable by a reading arrangement of an external reading device while the capsule is driven in rotation along an axis of rotation. The symbols are at least partly formed of surfaces arranged to reflect mainly diffusively, in any direction forming an angle comprised between 3° and 10° with respect to a normal of said surface, any incoming beam of light with an incoming direction forming an angle comprise between 0 and 10° with respect to a normal of said surface.

Abstract: An adapter for single serving cartridges includes a coffee maker readable identification feature. The identification feature may be visual (for example any feature which may be read or a bar code), a readable magnetic strip, a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), or any feature able to contain information and provide that information to a reader. The adapter may be configured for known disposable single serving cartridges, and may include one or more needles to puncture the cartridges for use. The identification feature may inform the coffee maker that an adapter carrying a disposable single serving cartridge is in use, and adjust the coffee maker accordingly.

Abstract: A beverage preparation capsule containing a beverage preparation ingredient, having a body with side walls formed from one or more substantially air- and liquid-impermeable sheet materials defining a chamber containing a beverage preparation ingredient and further defining an outlet channel having an upstream end in fluid communication with the chamber for escape of beverage from the chamber. At least a region of the outlet channel is filled by a filtration material for filtering the beverage escaping from the chamber. Also provided is a clamp assembly for preparing a beverage from such a capsule, the clamp assembly comprising two or more clamp members, wherein an inner wall of at least one of the clamp members comprises a concave base surface for receiving the capsule and one or more pressure pads projecting from the concave base surface for selectively constricting a region of the capsule.

Abstract: Systems and methods for brewing coffee and producing other hot beverages are disclosed herein. An automated coffee vending kiosk configured in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure includes a coffee brewing unit for brewing coffee and a cup dispensing portion. The cup dispensing portion can include a motor and a door operably coupled to the motor. The door can be moveable between a closed position and an open position to provide access to a cup storage area having a plurality of cups. A coffee dispensing portion can be positioned to dispense the coffee into an individual cup.

Abstract: A beverage brewing device includes a pump that delivers water at a controlled rate to a heater via a conduit, and subsequently to a dispensing outlet for brewing a beverage. The heater heats the water to a target temperature designated by a user via a control interface. A thermal sensor measures the temperature of the heated water, and logic circuitry of a controller determines the presence of a deviation relative to a user-designated temperature. If a difference is detected, the controller affects the pump, correspondingly affecting a flow rate of water through the heater, until a water temperature measurement attains the designated temperature. A display device displays water temperature, flow rate, or user-selectable operational settings. Additionally, a bypass conduit having a user-adjustable flow control device diverts a portion of the heated water past a flavoring medium and into a brewed beverage reservoir at a controlled, user-variable flow rate.

Abstract: A bottle pouring dispenser featuring a dispenser housing having a lower end configured to be removably attached to and cover an open end of a bottle. The bottle pouring dispenser includes a valve providing one-way hydraulic communication from the bottle to a chamber defined within the dispenser housing. The dispenser housing has upper and lower chamber portions. A flavorant is disposed within the upper chamber portion in solid form and it is dissolvable in liquid so as to add flavoring to liquid flowing through the chamber. The flavorant is held spaced above a floor of the chamber, such that a lower portion of the chamber defines a drain volume beneath the flavorant for receiving liquid draining from about the flavorant. The bottle pouring dispenser further includes a pour spout extending from an upper end of the dispenser housing, for dispensing the flavored liquid from the chamber.

Abstract: The invention aims to provide a device sensing a capsule (2) inserted in a receptacle (1) in machine and physical parameters of liquid supplied by a beverage production apparatus flowing through the capsule in function of the type of capsule. The capsule containing beverage ingredient is inserted in a cylindrical or conical wide mouthed receptacle having an upper opening for inserting the capsule and a lower bottom closing the receptacle. The receptacle rotates around an axis of a hollow shaft (3) attached at the center and perpendicularly to the external face of the bottom of the receptacle, said shaft forming a hole at the center of the inner face of the bottom of the receptacle. The device comprises a rod sliding in the shaft and passing through the hole of the inner face of the bottom of the receptacle, said rod (4) being provided with a spring maintaining an end of the rod lifted inside the receptacle in contact with the capsule, the other end being inside the shaft.

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.

Abstract: A machine for preparing a liquid food or beverage, including at least one outermost machine face selected from a front face, a top face and a lateral face; a component for emitting light and a control unit connected to the light emitting component. The light emitting component has states of light emission or non-emission, and an illuminatable outer face on the outermost machine face. The control unit is arranged to detect at least one condition of such machine involving a non immediate readiness of such machine to prepare a liquid food or beverage, and to communicate this condition to a user via the illuminatable outer face by changing the state of the light emitting component. The illuminatable outer face extends in at least one direction across a substantial part of the outermost machine face and is arranged to be substantially entirely illuminated when in this state of light emission.

Abstract: A hot beverage brewing apparatus including a pressurized hot water delivery system to provide liquid under pressure within a range of acceptable infusion temperatures without a water pump. A fresh water tank is situated above a water heater in liquid communication to maintain the water heater filled. Water in the water heater is kept at a pre-infusion temperature. When infusion process is to commence the user selects volume of water to be dispensed into infusion material, water is rapidly heated to infusion temperature and displaced from water heater by pressurised air from air pump. At the end of the brew cycle the air pump is stopped and a valve connects the water heater to atmospheric pressure to facilitate water flow from the fresh water tank into the water heater. After the infusion process an air valve may direct air from the air pump to the infusible material to dry it for ease of disposal.

Abstract: Methods and systems described herein include beverage immersates and methods of their use. Systems include: at least one beverage immersate, wherein the at least one beverage immersate includes at least one sensor configured to detect at least one analyte in a fluid within a personal use beverage container; and at least one signal transmitter configured to transmit a signal responsive to the at least one beverage immersate. Methods include: detecting one or more analyte in fluid within a personal use beverage container with at least one sensor integral to at least one beverage immersate; and communicating data from the at least one beverage immersate to at least one device external to the beverage immersate.

Abstract: Apparatus for refilling the filter-holders of a machine for the preparation of espresso coffee with selected doses of ground coffee. The machine has a plurality of dispensing units for the preparation of coffee beverages, each dispensing unit having a detachable filter-holder and a plurality of keys for selecting the beverage to be dispensed and a coffee bean grinder and metering device provided with a hopper for supplying beans of a desired grain size. The grinder and metering device has a hopper for supplying ground coffee and supporting means for the filter-holder. An identification unit generates information for recognizing the filter-holder of a selected dispensing unit and information related to the dose with which the filter-holder is to be refilled. A detection unit detects the information generated by the identification unit. A wireless device transmits the information generated by the identification unit to the detection unit.

Abstract: Combined water dispensers and coffee making devices are disclosed, which include a cabinet configured to house a water bottle in a bottom half of the interior portion of the cabinet; a cold tank that is configured to receive water from the water bottle, which is connected to an evaporator; one or more hot tanks that are configured to receive water (directly or indirectly) from the cold tank, which are connected to a heating coil to heat the water that is contained therein; and a coffee making device located on a top side of the cabinet. The coffee making device receives water from the hot tank, receives a disposable cartridge that contains coffee grinds for a single-serving of coffee, causes water to contact the coffee grinds to produce a coffee beverage, and employs a set of spikes to make water entry and exit apertures in the cartridge.

Abstract: A frozen drink dispenser includes a housing and a dispensing station supported by the housing and configured to dispense a precise quantity of a flavored fluid from a variety of flavored fluids into a blender cup. The dispensing station includes a first support configured to support the blender cup and weigh contents within the blender cup. The frozen drink dispenser further includes a shaved ice and blend station supported by the housing and configured to dispense a precise quantity of shaved ice within the blender cup and to mix the contents within the blender cup. The shaved ice and blend station includes a second support configured to support the blender cup. The frozen drink dispenser further includes a rinse station configured to rinse and clean the blender cup.

Abstract: A weighing device for an espresso coffee machine may include a weighing platform locatable in a drip tray area of the espresso coffee machine under a group of the espresso coffee machine, a control unit connected to the weighing platform, a start/stop button, a timer unit, and/or a display. The start/stop button, the timer unit, and/or the display may be connected to the control unit. The weighing platform may be configured to measure a weight of a brewed shot. The timer unit may be configured to measure a time taken to deliver the brewed shot. The display may be configured to show results of the measurements.

Abstract: A coffee grinding apparatus (10) and related methods for precisely measuring the weight of ground coffee to be used for preparing espresso shots and espresso-based beverages. The coffee grinding apparatus (10) includes a coffee grinding mechanism (30) that is operative to grind whole coffee beans into ground coffee. The coffee grinding mechanism (30) also includes a portafilter platform (40) positioned directly below an output portion (16) of the coffee grinding apparatus (10). The portafilter platform (40) is coupled to a weight measurement device (20) so the net weight of the ground coffee in a basket (52) of a portafilter (50) resting on the portafilter platform may be measured. The coffee grinding apparatus (10) may be configured to automatically stop the coffee grinding mechanism (30) when a desired weight of ground coffee has been dispensed into the basket (52) so that a precise weight of coffee may be dispensed.

Abstract: A coffee maker has a water reservoir, an in-line water heater, a brew basket for receiving coffee grounds, a water passage between the water reservoir and the brew basket, a water level sensor located in the water reservoir, a water level indicator, and a controller in communication with the water level sensor and the water level indicator. The passage passes through the in-line water heater for delivering heated water to the brew basket. The controller activates the water level indicator in response to a signal from the water level sensor. A method of making coffee in the coffee maker includes determining, in the controller, an operating condition for a coffee bean grinder and operating the coffee bean grinder based on the operating condition to grind coffee beans and produce a quantity of ground coffee beans.

Abstract: A water tank for a household device includes a tank container with a bottom and side walls. At least one of the side walls includes filling-level markings that comprise a profiling formed integrally with the at least one side wall.

Abstract: A beverage making apparatus having structures and methods to facilitate programming of the apparatus with parameters suitable for a pre-determined brewing substances. The beverage making apparatus has a water delivery system for delivering water to a brewing substance holder containing a brewing substance. A temperature adjusting system is provided for adjusting the temperature of water in the water delivery system. A controller is provided for controllably operating the apparatus, the controller further being programmable with characteristics suitable for predetermined brewing substances.

Abstract: A brew through lid for a thermal carafe that has a pouring provision and an internal liquid reservoir. The brew through lid has a cap member with a cone shaped cap top wall, a brew inlet in a center of the cap top wall at a lowest part of the cone shaped cap top wall, a substantially cylindrical connection wall having a top edge that is connected to the cap top wall and a lid connector that is an integral part of the connection wall. The brew through lid further has a pouring skirt wall that extends around an upper portion of the connection wall and defines a liquid space between the connection wall and the pouring skirt wall. A plurality of pouring passages is circumferentially spaced in the pouring skirt wall and that allow passage of brew liquid out of the liquid space. A plurality of connection wall passages that are circumferentially spaced in the cylindrical connection wall and is configured to allow passage of brew liquid from the internal liquid reservoir of the carafe to the liquid space.

Abstract: A coffee dispensing device is provided with a transport device that couples various components for the processing of unroasted coffee beans together. For example a roaster may be coupled to a grinding and brewing device to enable the transfer of roasted coffee beans between the roaster and grinder/brewer. Also, the transport device may transfer the roasted coffee beans from a roaster to an output port so that roasted coffee beans may be obtained. An automated coffee transaction device (ACTD) is also provided to automate aspects of the purchasing of coffee. A service delay projection calculator is also provided to estimate the expected wait time of a customer entering a queue.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide improved heating methods for use in coffee makers and other beverage makers that use hot water for various beverages and other purposes. These improvements find particular use on-board aircraft or other passenger transport vehicles, where quick heating and reduced power consumption are particularly desirable and beneficial. Further embodiments also relate to improved water level sensing, improved water reservoirs, and improved carafe features.

Abstract: A brewing system and method are shown for brewing a beverage, such as coffee or tea. The system includes an inline sensor or sensor array that intercepts the dispensing stream and measures the time dependent properties of the brewed liquid at a particular location as the liquid is dispensed. In a particular embodiment, the total dissolved solids is measured to produce a coffee signature, which is sent to a controller that uses the time-dependent data to perform one or more of the following: evaluate the quality of the brewed liquid, control the brewing process for subsequent brewing cycles; identify the blend or brand of brewed product; and/or determine when maintenance is needed or advisable for the brewing system.

Abstract: A multi-brewer apparatus includes a plurality of brew groups that are configured to be selectively operated either in a ganged mode, wherein plurality of brew groups cooperate to rapidly produce a larger quantity of brewed beverage at a single dispensing location, or in a independent mode wherein the plurality of brew groups operate independently and dispense brewed beverage spaced apart dispensing locations. The apparatus includes a programmable controller apparatus that controls the delivery of the hot water and brewable material, and the operation of the brew groups. In an embodiment, an inline sensor array monitors a quality of the brewed beverage and reports to the programmable controller to maintain a consistent quality brewed product.

Abstract: An apparatus for preparing a coffee beverage inducing the passage of an extraction fluid through a dose of coffee by heating the fluid, includes a separating device arranged to separate a fraction of the beverage obtained with a prevalently liquid phase of the fluid from a further fraction of the beverage obtained with a prevalently steam phase of the fluid. A method for obtaining a coffee includes heating an extraction fluid so as to induce the passage of the extraction fluid through a dose of coffee to obtain the beverage, and separating a fraction of the beverage obtained with a prevalently liquid phase of the extraction fluid from a further fraction of the beverage obtained with a prevalently steam phase of said extraction fluid.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a beverage preparation machine (1) having a tank (2) for containing a food-grade fluid, said tank comprising: (i) a reservoir body with side, bottom and top walls, (ii) at least one filling opening, (iii) at least one dispensing opening comprising a dispensing valve for establishing a fluid connecting between said machine and said tank, said tank having a weight WE when less than 5% of its total volume is filled, and a weight WF when at least 5% of its total volume is filled with fluid, said valve being reciprocally movable between a first position where the tank has a weight WE and the valve is open and a second position where the tank has a weight WF and the valve is closed characterized in that said machine comprises a switch disposed in the vicinity of at least one wall of the tank (2), so that: —when the tank has a weight WF said tank is in a first position so that it contacts said switch, and —when the tank has a weight WE said tank is in a second position, away from said

Abstract: A coffee brewer advertising and marketing system includes a beverage brewer having a touch-screen display and at least one user-identification sensors, a beverage cup containing a pre-brewed beverage, a brewer lever that is lowered for piercing the beverage cup, and a pre-programmed RFID chip provided on the beverage cup. The beverage brewer has an RF reader that reads the RFID chip embedded on the beverage cup for ensuring that only authorized beverages provided in approved beverage cups are dispensed by the beverage brewer.

Abstract: A beverage preparation system (1,2,3) comprises:—a first machine (1) for preparing a first beverage (15??), the first machine having a first outlet (11) for dispensing a beverage, such as coffee, onto a beverage dispensing area (12) for positioning a cup or mug (4); and—a second machine (2) for preparing and dispensing a second beverage (25??) via a second beverage outlet (21), the second machine being disconnectably connected to the first machine and separable therefrom. The first and second machines (1,2), when connected, are configurable so that the second outlet (21) is positioned or positionable adjacent to the first outlet (11) to dispense the second beverage (25??) onto the beverage dispensing area (12) and into a cup or mug (4) in position for collecting the first beverage (15??) from the first beverage outlet.

Abstract: A method for operating a boiler of a device, such as a coffee maker, includes initial steps aimed at determining whether the boiler is filled with water or not. In the process, the insight that the thermal behavior of an empty boiler differs from the thermal behavior of a filled boiler is applied. A heating element of the boiler is used to generate heat during a predetermined length of time. As a result, the temperature inside the boiler starts to change. At a certain point, the temperature change over a time interval having a predetermined length is measured. Subsequently, the measured temperature change is compared with a reference temperature change. In case the measured temperature change is larger than the reference temperature change, it is concluded that the boiler is empty and needs to be filled before the heating element is activated again.

Abstract: A coffee machine includes a hot water generator, an infusion chamber for receiving an infusible product, an infusion dispensing outlet (6) and a foam producing device (40), which is interposed between the infusion chamber and the dispensing outlet and is provided with at least two outlet orifices (43, 44) arranged with respect to each other in such a way that two infusion jets, which are formed at exit, collide with each other, thereby producing a foam. The two outlet orifices (43, 44) are oriented to each other at an angle of 90 degrees in such a way that the first outlet orifice (43) is oriented in a vertical direction whereas the second outlet orifice (44) is oriented in a horizontal direction and placed in such a way that the collision of the two infusion jets takes place under the first orifice.

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.

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).

Abstract: A beverage machine comprises: a processing unit (60) that has a flavouring module (10) for mixing liquid with a flavouring ingredient to form a flavoured beverage, and that has a liquid drive arrangement (65) for in-taking liquid from a source (200) of liquid and driving said liquid to the flavouring module, and that has an outlet (12) for guiding a flavoured beverage from the flavouring module to a beverage dispensing area (12?); and a user-interface that is connected to the processing unit and that has an indicator for indicating a status of the processing unit. The indicator (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7) is displaceable, in particular relatively to the processing unit, in a manner visible from outside such machine by a mechanical, magnetic and/or thermal actuation thereof by the processing unit changing status.