With Liquid Supply Or Directing Means Patents (Class 99/300)
  • Publication number: 20130259995
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a machine for preparing coffee infusions by means of a liquid under pressure, in particular water under pressure, the machine comprising: a pump assembly (11) arranged to raise the pressure of the liquid outgoing from the pump assembly up to a preset pressure value (PI); one or more dispensing units (14) connected to the pump assembly, each dispensing unit (14) being arranged to dispense the coffee infusion; one or more pressure managing devices (20), each managing device (20) being connected to a certain dispensing unit (14). In the machine (10), the pressure managing device (20) includes a first duct (15) and at least one second duct (16) that are connected in parallel, have a common outlet and are arranged to supply the dispensing unit (14), during the coffee infusion preparation, with liquid at different pressures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: RANCILIO GROUP S.P.A.
    Inventors: Giancarlo Porzio, Carlo Carbonini
  • Publication number: 20130247770
    Abstract: This invention relates to a dispensing system, comprising a dispensing outlet (108) for dispensing beverage at a controlled temperature, a mixing chamber (120) upstream in a flow path to said outlet such that dispensed beverage flows from said chamber to the outlet, at least three feeding lines (124, 126, 128) feeding beverage of at least three different defined temperatures to said chamber; and a controller (500) for controlling the feed from each of said feeding lines so as to yield a desired temperature of the dispensed beverage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: STRAUSS WATER LTD.
    Inventors: Haim Wilder, Eyal Krystal, Omri Bar-On
  • Publication number: 20130251868
    Abstract: A beverage concentrate system (10) includes a brewer (12), a receptacle (14), a heat exchanger (16) and pump (22). Beverage concentrate is pumped by pump (22) from the receptacle (14) and through the heat exchanger (16). The beverage concentrate is cooled in the heat exchanger (16) with water. The coolant water and the beverage concentrate are dispensed to form a finished beverage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: IBS Interbev, Inc.
    Inventor: John E. Wells
  • Publication number: 20130247775
    Abstract: A machine (1) for preparing a beverage (2) comprises: -a seat (10) having at least one part (11) that is movable between a transfer position for introducing a beverage ingredient into the seat and/or removing said ingredient therefrom, and a processing position for forming said beverage from the ingredient in the seat;—an outlet (20) for dispensing said beverage upon formation in the seat; and—a drop collector (30) for collecting drops (2?) from the outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: Nestec S.A.
    Inventor: Peter Mori
  • Publication number: 20130239817
    Abstract: A kitchen appliance includes a first reservoir for receiving a liquid to be used for preparing a beverage and a hot water generator (‘HWG’) which has an inlet end, an outlet end and a passageway therebetween. The inlet end of the HWG is connected to the first reservoir. Liquid from the first reservoir flows into the HWG through the inlet end. A second reservoir is connected to the outlet end of the HWG. The second reservoir includes a discharge port. A fluid path connects the first and second reservoirs and bypasses the HWG. The kitchen appliance is operable for both pressurized brew/heat cycles and un-pressurized brew/heat cycles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: William D. Starr, Adam Hanes, Patrick T. Mulvaney
  • Publication number: 20130230627
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device (1), suitable for use with a beverage machine of the type comprising a code reader, the device (1) comprising: an inlet (40) for receiving, in use, heated water from a water supply of the beverage machine; and an outlet (43) through which said heated water can be dispensed; the device (1) further comprising a plurality of codes (19), each other plurality of codes (19) containing information relating to one or more dispensation parameters of the beverage machine; the device (1) being configurable by a user such that the user can choose one of the plurality of codes (19) to be read by the code reader of the beverage machine during a dispensation operation in order to set one or more dispensation parameters o the beverage machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventors: Nick Andrew Hansen, Mark Norton
  • Patent number: 8522668
    Abstract: A beverage brewing system for producing on demand iced tea. The beverage brewing system may include a concentrated beverage brewer, one or more brew water circuits in communication with the concentrated beverage brewer, one or more makeup water circuits, and one or more back pressure valves in communication with the brew water circuits and the makeup water circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: The Coca-Cola Company
    Inventors: Jonathan Kirschner, Douglas John Franck, Shaun Blaise Gatipon, Kenneth George Smazik, Wolfgang Fischer
  • Patent number: 8522670
    Abstract: A hydraulic circuit for instant beverage machines includes a tank, a water extraction pipe contained in the tank, a flow-meter connected to the extraction pipe, a pump, a first vibration-damping valve, a boiler, a second relief and safety valve, a water/steam faucet, a third beverage flow valve, and a recovery tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Stefano Tonelli, Massimo Lelli
  • Publication number: 20130220137
    Abstract: In described embodiments, a hot liquid extraction system includes a vessel, a controllable steam and water source external from the vessel which heats the liquid of the corresponding vessel, a filter assembly disposed within the vessel operable to filter and remove a solid from the brewed beverage, and a valve to dispense the filtered beverage from the base of the brew vessel. Some embodiments include one or more valves operable to regulate water flow and steam into the brewing vessel, and a filter operable to separate a brewed liquid from a flavor base and to remove a spent flavor base from the system. Some embodiments include processor control of the system, allowing for operation tailored to individual user requirements that might be downloaded to the processor through various wired and non-wired interfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventors: Khristian Bombeck, Casey Dodge, Casey Smith, Tymer Von Tilton, Eli Salomon
  • Publication number: 20130220141
    Abstract: A coffee machine comprises a main body (2) and a heating device (25), wherein a funnel device for coffee brewing that includes a funnel main body (17), a funnel upper cover (6) and an assembly of funnel lower cover is also provided on the main body (2) of the coffee machine. The assembly of funnel lower cover comprises a funnel lower cover (14), and a shower piece (15) which is fixed on the bottom of the funnel lower cover (14) and makes water uniformly submerge coffee powder in the funnel main body (17). A water inlet joint (6.4) which is connected with water passage of the coffee machine is provided on the funnel upper cover (6), and a water outlet joint (15.1) which is connected with the shower piece (15) is provided on the funnel lower cover (14). The water inlet joint (6.4) is connected with the water outlet joint (15.1) through a connecting pipe (15.2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: GUANGDONG XINBAO ELECTRIC JOINT-STOCK LTD.
    Inventors: Jiangang Guo, Yongchun Zeng, Hou Xiong
  • Patent number: 8516949
    Abstract: A tea pot includes an upper container assembly comprising a releasable top, an open bottom, a beverage chamber, and a funnel in the beverage chamber; a check valve comprising a cylindrical seat comprising a bossed hole having a conical top surface, an opening spaced from the hole and being sealingly aligned with a stem of the funnel, and guide slots on an annular surface of the seat; a conical valve unit comprising a stepped-diameter tunnel, the valve unit being seated upon the seat; and a sliding assembly comprising a body, periphery tabs slidably received in the guide slots, and a top shaft including grooves, and a cylindrical top projection fasten in the tunnel wherein the shaft is slidably inserted into the hole in an assembled state; and a lower container assembly comprising releasable top and bottom, a lower ingredient chamber, and an intermediate strainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventors: Han Tsung Chen, Wei Fu Chen
  • Patent number: 8511222
    Abstract: A coffee machine for preparing coffee, especially based on coffee pads, includes a continuous heater provided with a water-guiding tube that is thermally connected to at least one heating rod via at least one contact surface. A pump transports water through the continuous heater. The contact surface is embodied in such a way that it is flat between the tube and the at least one heating rod. The coffee machine structure provides a simple and cost-effective solution for a continuous heater, and ensures good heat transfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Johann Magg, Markus Obermaier
  • Patent number: 8512784
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a beverage production device for preparing a liquid comestible from a portioned food substance contained in a sealed capsule. The device includes a centrifugal unit for receiving the sealed capsule, a driving mechanism connected to the centrifugal unit for enabling a rotational motion of the centrifugal unit, a liquid supply connected to the centrifugal unit, a flow rate or pressure measuring mechanism for the supplied liquid and a controller for controlling the rotational speed of the driving mechanism dependent on the measured flow rate or the measured pressure of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Paul Denisart, Antoine Ryser
  • Publication number: 20130209636
    Abstract: A beverage forming method and system employing the introduction of air into the heater tank and/or an expansion chamber after liquid delivery is complete. An expansion chamber may be provided at the top of the heater tank and provide a tortuous flow path from an air inlet to the tank outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: Keurig, Incorporated
    Inventors: Tom Cominelli, James E. Shepard, Thomas Vitella
  • Publication number: 20130206014
    Abstract: Device for preparing a beverage from a beverage ingredient contained in a receptacle (17) by driving the receptacle in centrifugation comprising:—a holding part (16) arranged for holding the receptacle in a position enabling it to be driven in rotation along a longitudinal axis of rotation (I),—a liquid interfacing part (8) arranged for supplying water in the receptacle and/or extracting the beverage from the receptacle,—a collecting part (44) for collecting the beverage obtained by the interaction between the ingredient and water in the receptacle, wherein the holding part and liquid interfacing part (8, 16) are connected together by connection means in such a manner that these parts (8, 16) rotate together with the receptacle during centrifugation, wherein the connection means comprise at least a first engaging surface (48; 86) of the holding part (16) and a second engaging surface (23; 87) of the liquid interfacing part (8) engaged in contact together during connection in a manner preventing the holding pa
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Christian Jarisch, Stefan Etter, Alexandre Perentes
  • Publication number: 20130206013
    Abstract: The automatic coffee machine (1) comprises a milk container (2) associated with a milk emulsifier device (9) housed in the container (2) with air and steam coming from a steam dispenser (11) of the coffee machine (1), a front coffee dispenser group (3) having in turn a first (4) and at least a second (5) exit ways of coffee, oriented towards a lower positioning zone (6) of a first (7, 8) and at least a second (7, 8) cups, the emulsifier device (9) being provided with an emulsified milk dispenser (15) placed laterally to the front coffee dispenser group (3) and having in turn a first (17) and at least a second (18) exit way of the emulsified milk, oriented towards the positioning zone (6) and offset in the. depth direction of the coffee machine, the coffee dispenser (3) having at least one first work position in which also the first (4) and at least a second (5) exit way are offset, in the depth direction of the coffee machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: De' Longhi Appliances S.R.I.
    Inventor: Giuseppe De' Longhi
  • Patent number: 8505441
    Abstract: An espresso coffee machine comprises a boiler and a pump for feeding hot water under pressure to one or more brew groups (1), each of which comprises a receptacle (24) for infusing a predetermined dose of ground coffee, a hot water feed pipe (38) and an outlet pipe (40). Manual operating means (30, 50) are provided at the inlet of each brew group for selectively putting the coffee powder receptacle (24) in communication with the water feed pipe (38), with the outlet pipe 40 or with both the pipes in order to preinfuse the coffee powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: La Marzocco, S.R.L.
    Inventor: Piero Bambi
  • Patent number: 8495949
    Abstract: A apparatus for forming a beverage using a beverage formation device. Opening of a brew chamber may automatically enable the provision of beverage precursor liquid from a reservoir to a heating tank that is used (heated or not) to form a beverage. For example, opening of the brew chamber may cause a valve to be opened or otherwise permit flow of beverage precursor liquid from the reservoir to the heating tank. The valve may open simultaneously and automatically with a brew chamber lid, and may close when the brew chamber lid is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Keurig, Incorporated
    Inventors: Ian Tinkler, Mary Carter, William Sawyer, Richard Pasquini
  • Patent number: 8479643
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a beverage preparation device having a water circulation system that includes a water source with an outlet, a pump with a support member for holding and securing the pump in the device, and an integral water conduit having an inlet and outlet for guiding water from the water source to the pump. The conduit outlet is connected to the pump and the water source outlet is connected to the water conduit inlet via an annular sealing member that forms an integral protruding portion of one of the conduit inlet or the source outlet. The pump support is integral with the water conduit, in particular with the conduit outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Steve Aemisegger, Thomas Hodel, Markus Lang, Peter Möri, Renzo Moser, Rudolf Schenk
  • Publication number: 20130167732
    Abstract: When, according to the invention, various hot and cold beverages are made from ingredients in a preparation part (1), the dispensing may take place via an outlet pipe (4) with an outlet head (5), to which the beverage ingredients are supplied, and where they are mixed immediately before or at the same time as the beverages are dispensed. This ensures a high quality, as the dispensed beverages will be fleshly produced with the best possible flavour. The supply channels (16, 16a, 16b) for milk are flushed with water after each dispensing for hygienic reasons.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: SCANOMAT A/S
    Inventor: Kim Vibe Petersen
  • 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: 20130160657
    Abstract: In a coffee/espresso machine with a milk froth generating device for preparing cappuccino, an outflow distributor which includes two outflow tubes being liquid-conductively connected to an espresso inflow. The outflow tubes are bent downwardly from the ends of a distributor tube of the outflow distributor. The milk froth generating device which comprises a Venturi tube, a mixing and frothing chamber and, following in flow direction, a nozzle arrangement according to the Laval principle having a nozzle throat is also liquid-conductively connected to the outflow distributor. The nozzle arrangement opens directly into a central connecting section of the distributor tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: Eugster/Frismag AG
    Inventor: Eugster/Frismag AG
  • Patent number: 8468935
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Lukasz D. Skalski, Tiemen T. Van Dillen
  • Publication number: 20130156913
    Abstract: The coffee machine (100) is used to prepare a brewed coffee beverage and to dispense the brewed coffee beverage through at least one coffee outlet (47) and has a brewing device (10), which comprises a brewing unit (30) having a brewing chamber (36) for accommodating a predefined amount of coffee, a brewing-water supply line (31), which is connected to the brewing unit (30) and which opens into the brewing chamber (36) and which feeds the brewing water into the brewing chamber (36), and a device (20, 23) for introducing the brewing water into the brewing chamber (36).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: JURA ELEKTROAPPARATE AG
    Inventor: Philipp Büttiker
  • Patent number: 8459176
    Abstract: An integrated beverage blending system comprising: a controller for menu selection; an ice portion control module; an ingredient module; a dispensing apparatus in communication with the ice portion control module and the ingredient module, wherein the ice and the ingredient are dispensed into a beverage container via the dispensing apparatus; and at least one blender module which blends and/or mixes the ice and the ingredient in the beverage container, thereby producing the beverage; wherein, upon removal of the beverage container from the blender module, the blender module initiates a cleaning mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Enodis Corporation
    Inventors: Roberto Nevarez, William E. Smith, Jan Claesson
  • Publication number: 20130139702
    Abstract: The water container (3) for machines for making beverages comprises side walls (23) and a bottom (25), whereon there is a connecting union (27) to the machine. The union comprises two apertures for the water (37, 39), respectively an outlet aperture and an inlet aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Giuseppe Fin
  • Patent number: 8453562
    Abstract: An apparatus for quickly preparing infant formula and beverage comprising: a powder container for storing dry formula or beverage powder, a powder dispenser for dispensing controllable amount of formula or beverage powder into a milk bottle or a cup, a water container for storing water, a heat-exchanging reservoir for heating up or cooling down water to an ideal temperature, a water delivery system for delivering controllable amount of water from the water container to the heat-exchanging reservoir and then from the heat-exchanging reservoir to the milk bottle once the water is adjusted to the ideal temperature. The device has a main setting and controlling system to set up parameters of powder dispensing amount, water dispensing temperature and water dispensing volume prior to a formula or beverage preparation, so that the apparatus can prepare infant formula or beverage with ideal volume, concentration and temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventors: Zhenyu Lu, Jingfeng Yuan
  • Publication number: 20130133523
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an assembly formed by a removable infusion unit and the supporting or locking elements thereof, for a machine for preparing beverages by extraction of a product to be infused. The assembly includes a receptacle intended to be rigidly connected to the machine and configured to removably receive the infusion unit. The assembly also includes a device for locking the unit onto the receptacle and an actuation device supported by either the unit or the receptacle and which controls the locking device and is arranged such that in a position in which the actuation device is deactivated, the locking device prevents the unit from being disconnected from the receptacle, and in a position in which the actuation device is activated, the locking device allows the unit to be disconnected from the receptacle. The invention is suitable for use in machines for preparing EXPRESSO-type beverages by extracting a product to be infused.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Blanc, Alain Goering
  • Publication number: 20130133524
    Abstract: Devices and methods for infusing liquids and/or brewing beverages are described. The present invention relates to an apparatus for brewing beverages comprising a vessel, said vessel comprising a sealable chamber for holding a brewing material and a liquid, and a filter assembly connected to the sealable chamber; a liquid supply and conduit for introducing at least a portion of said liquid supply into said sealable chamber; and a vacuum source and conduit for reducing pressure in said sealable chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Dean J. Vastardis, Lou Vastardis
  • Publication number: 20130125759
    Abstract: A coffee maker includes a water storage device having a water tank and a water outlet piping communicating with the water tank; a driving device having a driving motor and a driving shaft; and a swing device having a rotating mechanism mounted on the driving shaft and a shifting mechanism connected to the water outlet piping and moving along with the rotating mechanism when the latter rotates. The water outlet piping is brought by a horizontal rotational movement of the rotating mechanism and a linear movement of the shifting mechanism to swing and shift in a spiral rotational course from a center point to outer and inner areas of a filter in a reciprocating motion while pouring water at controlled volume and stability, enabling ground coffee beans on the filter to be quickly and evenly extracted by water to release aromatic smell and sweet flavor just like drip brewing manually.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: Dong Sheng International Technology Company Limited
    Inventor: Chih-Te LIN
  • Publication number: 20130129885
    Abstract: A beverage dispensing machine includes: a first hydraulic circuit including a water source, a pump, a water heater, a brewing device selected from a brewing chamber and a capsule, the brewing device including an inlet and outlet, a beverage collector collecting brewed beverage leaving the brewing device and for dispensing the beverage to a container; and a second hydraulic circuit that includes a second pump and second water heater, the outlet of the second water heater being connected to the first circuit at a location that is downstream to the brewing device with respect to the water flow in the first circuit. The first circuit can maintain in the brewing device a pressure substantially constant for a pre-set time, the pressure being less that an opening pressure for the brewing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: TUTTOESPRESSO S.r.l.
    Inventor: Luca Doglioni Majer
  • Publication number: 20130129886
    Abstract: The present invention has as an objective to provide an apparatus for brewing a beverage that provides an attractive brewing experience for the consumer, which can perform an effective and efficient brewing process, and which also can be easily rinsed to remove any spent infusible material. These objectives have been met by a beverage brewing machine comprising an at least one water inlet port that is arranged at an angle of less than 4 degrees relative to the wall of the brew chamber to direct water around the wall of the brew chamber. The apparatus also provides for improved agitation of infusible material. Moreover a method is provided to brew a beverage using the brewing machine of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventors: Anthony Edward Quinn, Marco Karreman, Tjeerd Jan Pieter Gerbranda, Edwin Jeroen Muller
  • Publication number: 20130112085
    Abstract: A beverage preparation machine (1) has: a body (40) with an opening (41); and a hot water and/or steam generator that comprises a movable outlet (31). The generator and the outlet have an operative configuration for delivering via the outlet hot water and/or steam and a storage configuration in which the outlet (31) of the generator is moved and received in the opening (41) of the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: NESTEC S.A.
    Inventors: Daniel Turchi, Antoine Cahen
  • Publication number: 20130108755
    Abstract: This invention relates to a brew group for an infusion machine, in particular a machine for espresso coffee, comprising infusion means (43, 43b) designed for the preparation of infusions, a holding chamber (41) hydraulically connected to the said infusion means (43, 43b) and comprising at least two liquid inlets (411) allowing the delivery of liquids and heating means (46) capable of directly heating the liquids delivered to the holding chamber (41) through the inlets such as to hydraulically feed the infusion means (43, 43b) for the preparation of infusions. The invention also relates to a machine which comprises the brew group and a method for operating the machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: RANCILIO GROUP S.P.A.
    Inventors: Carlo Carbonini, Giancarlo Porzio
  • Patent number: 8414944
    Abstract: A brewing piston for infusion preparation, including a head associated with a filtering element, and a lateral surface having a first gasket in proximity to the head and a second gasket at a distance from the first gasket. The brewing piston includes a first conduit connected to the head and arranged to inject a liquid for infusion preparation, and a second conduit connected to the lateral surface between the gaskets and arranged to inject the liquid between the first gasket and the second gasket during infusion preparation. The piston is arranged to limit or avoid leaks in a machine for infusion preparation. Also included is a machine using the piston and a method of limiting or avoiding leaks in a machine for infusion preparation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Egro Coffee Systems AG
    Inventors: Christophe Staubli, Markus Landolt
  • Publication number: 20130061764
    Abstract: A coffee maker and coffee holder cooperate to tamp coffee in the coffee holder. The coffee holder may include a top tamping spring, a bottom tamping spring, or a top or bottom passage allowing entry of a tamper into the coffee holder. The coffee maker includes an actuator above or below the coffee holder, or a fixed tamper attached to a ceiling or platform of the coffee maker. The coffee holder may be inserted between the ceiling and platform, or into a moving drawer of the coffee maker. The actuator may be a solenoid actuator or a hydraulic actuator actuated by water pressure of heated water used for brewing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Adrian Rivera
  • Publication number: 20130055904
    Abstract: The beverage brewing device is configured for use with a beverage brewer having an inlet probe for dispensing water and an outlet probe. The beverage brewing device includes a body defining a brew chamber configured to contain a dry beverage medium and at least one outlet probe receptacle defined in the body and extending upwardly from a bottom surface of the body. The at least one outlet probe receptacle is sized and configured to receive an outlet probe of a beverage brewer. A lid is removably securable to the body and is engageable with the body to selectively enclose a top opening of the body. An inlet probe opening is defined in the lid for receiving an inlet probe of the beverage brewer. At least one filter is defined within in the body, wherein the filter is configured to retain a dry beverage medium within the brew chamber while allowing a brewed beverage to pass through the brew chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: EKO BRANDS, LLC
    Inventor: EKO BRANDS, LLC
  • Patent number: 8387516
    Abstract: A coffee maker contains a siphon tube for discharging hot water from a heated reservoir to a container for coffee grounds. Flow through the siphon tube is initiated by pressurizing the air space in the heated reservoir with an air pump. A siphon flow of hot water through the siphon tube to a coffee grounds container then continues without pressurization. The flow is ended when the desired volume of coffee is brewed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: D. Michael Reynolds
  • Publication number: 20130040021
    Abstract: A capsule for making a drink comprises a cup-shaped main body (6) forming a housing chamber (7) containing a powdered or liquid substance (2). The main body (6) comprises a bottom wall (8) and a lateral wall (9) which has a lower portion (10) connected to the bottom wall (8) and an upper portion (11) delimiting an opening which is closed by a cover element (17). The capsule also comprises lengthening means (18) which, following an increase in the capsule (1) internal pressure, allow a movement away from the cover element (17) by the lower portion (10) of the lateral wall (9) and the bottom wall (8) connected to it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: COFFEE STAR S.A.
    Inventor: Paolo Digiuni
  • Publication number: 20130032037
    Abstract: A structure of universal nespresso comprising a water tank, a water pump, a heating element and an extractor, which is provided with at least one one-way water way communicating with the above components in turn, wherein said water pump is connected to a controller which can set the pumping power of the water pump. Different pumping power can be set by the water pump with controller to get different water pressure, so that the pressure conditions of different kinds of universal nespresso can be satisfied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: TSANN KUEN (ZHANGZHOU) ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Weijun ZHONG, Ming Chuan Yu
  • Patent number: 8359968
    Abstract: A drink preparing machine that includes a tank, a water supply system having at least a section for heated water and a section for unheated water, a pump for conveying water from the tank through the supply system as far as a module for preparing the drink, and a valve device arranged so as to control the selective opening and closing of the supply system sections. The valve device is a peristaltic system that includes a compression member for compressing a tube of each supply system section and acting under the effect of an elastic return member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Denisart, Jean-Paul Denisart, Enzo Bonacci, HansPeter Pleisch, Christian Talon
  • Publication number: 20130004629
    Abstract: A beverage making apparatus including a housing containing a water system. The water system includes a heated water reservoir and a pour-in basin for receiving water. The pour-in basin is connected to a water pump which pumps water from the basin to the heated water reservoir. Water from the heated water reservoir is moved to a spray head for dispensing to a beverage brewing substance retained in either at least one of a pod format or a cartridge format. A pair of conductance probes are contained in the fill basin to indicate the status of water in the fill basin. The brewer is designed for use with multiple beverage making substance holders so that multiple beverage substance formats can be used with the brewer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: BUNN-O-MATIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Charles H. Clark, Suresh Radhakrishnan
  • Publication number: 20120325094
    Abstract: A pressurized boiler comprises a first three-way valve, a dispenser, and a control card. The first valve comprises a seat integrated in the boiler and a pilot screwed into the seat. The dispenser receives hot water from the boiler through a first pipe and comprises a plurality of consecutively connected serving elements, each of which has three branches, which include closing means controlled by the card and which enable the direction of hot water towards a selected hot beverage serving. The first valve enables the direction of hot water from the boiler towards the dispenser and air towards the dispenser, draining the water downstream from the boiler so that it does not remain in the system and cool down between two consecutive servings. The boiler and the dispenser can be remotely disposed relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: Jofemar, S.A.
    Inventor: Félix Guindulain Vidondo
  • Patent number: 8327755
    Abstract: An electrical beverage brewer (10) having a controller (26) responsive to a start switch (72) to operate a brew cycle by dispensing hot water from a tank (42) to beverage ingredient within a brew basket (38) through a bent tube (78) mounted to the water tank (42) for rotation about an axis aligned with an external horizontal rotary section (90) of the bent tube (78) between a closed position in which an inlet (80) of a swinging tubular section (79) is in a relatively elevated, closed position and an open position at a lower elevation relative to the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Food Equipment Technologies Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher P. Michalek, Zbigniew G. Lassota
  • Publication number: 20120297987
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to an espresso or other coffee drink maker that is configured to accept a number of different forms of coffee grounds. It may accept powder/coffee grounds that are loose, coffee capsules, coffee pods, (e.g., “ESE” (easy serving espresso) pods), or any other format. The machine may also be provided with an optional built-in grinder, which allows the machine to accept fresh coffee beans, in order to grind and brew them on-site, in a single machine. Such espresso/coffee drink makers find particular use on-board passenger transport vehicles such as aircraft, but may be useful in a number of other locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: MAG AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: THOMAS M. LEE, ABDELAZIZ BOUBEDDI, TIMOTHY C. MORSE
  • Publication number: 20120291634
    Abstract: A beverage machine (1), in particular to a coffee machine, has a main flow path (3), that leads through a heating device (2), and a bypass flow path (4) that circumvents the heating device (2). The bypass flow path (4) branches off from the main flow path (3) upstream of the heating device (2). The main flow path (3) is connected to a water tank (5) at the input side and to a dispensing location (6) at the output side. A main flow pump (7) is arranged in the main flow path (3) between the water tank (5) and the heating device (2). Thus a bypass pump (8) is arranged in the bypass flow path (4) to provide a cost-efficient and accurate admixing of cold water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: WMF WUERTTEMBERGISCHE METALLWARENFABRIK AG
    Inventor: Armin Startz
  • Publication number: 20120291633
    Abstract: A beverage machine (1) or a preparation machine, in particular a coffee machine has a main flow path (5) that leads from a line connection or a tank (2) through a boiler (3) to a dispensing location (4). The boiler (3) is connected to the tank (2), to a drip pan (8), to a drain or a dispensing location via a line (7) that encompasses a valve (6). In the case of a boiler (3) that is in the stand-by state, the valve (6) is at least partially open, whereby an unpressurized, open boiler system is at hand. A control device (9), actuates the valve (6) and closes the valve (6) provided that a demand is at hand. A combination of the advantages of a closed and of an open boiler system is possible through this.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: WMF Wuerttembergische Metallwarenfabrik AG
    Inventors: Frank Goeltenboth, Alexander Kiefer, Oliver Schneider, Heinz Albert, Johannes Bais
  • Publication number: 20120285334
    Abstract: The beverage brewing device is configured for use with a beverage brewer having an inlet probe for dispensing water and an outlet probe. The beverage brewing device includes a body defining a brew chamber configured to contain a dry beverage medium and at least one outlet probe receptacle defined in the body and extending upwardly from a bottom surface of the body. The at least one outlet probe receptacle is sized and configured to receive an outlet probe of a beverage brewer. A lid is removably securable to the body and is engageable with the body to selectively enclose a top opening of the body. An inlet probe opening is defined in the lid for receiving an inlet probe of the beverage brewer. At least one filter is defined within in the body, wherein the filter is configured to retain a dry beverage medium within the brew chamber while allowing a brewed beverage to pass through the brew chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: EKO BRANDS, LLC
    Inventors: Ron R. DeMiglio, Mark J. Staudacher, Randy R. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20120260807
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus (1) for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption from at least two ingredients and an amount of liquid such as water which is supplied to the ingredients, wherein a first ingredient comprises a substance to be extracted such as ground coffee, and a second ingredient comprises a substance such as milk powder/creamer, sugar and such additives, soluble in liquid such as water. During a first period, the liquid having, at most, a first temperature, is supplied to the first and second ingredient for obtaining a first beverage part, and, during a second period, the liquid having, at least, a second temperature is supplied to the first and second ingredient for obtaining a second beverage part. The first and second beverage parts are combined for obtaining the beverage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventors: Vincent Jan Steenhof, Joseph Theodoor Knitel
  • Publication number: 20120247341
    Abstract: A beverage maker, such as a pump espresso machine, comprises a noise attenuator reducing pump noise. The noise attenuator has a housing with an inlet chamber receiving inlet flow from an inlet port, the inlet chamber having compliant walls permitting volumetric expansion. An outlet chamber in the noise attenuator housing has an outlet port and spheroidal walls. A flow-restrictor is disposed between the inlet and outlet chambers. An elastomeric insert in the housing forms the inlet chamber and at least part of the outlet chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: G.E.W. INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION LIMITED
    Inventor: Thomas Chung Lik Yip