WO2020047612A1

WO2020047612A1 - A beverage mixer/dispenser for bespoke beverages

Info

Publication number: WO2020047612A1
Application number: PCT/AU2019/050962
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lawson P. Kelley
Original assignee: Kelley Lawson P
Priority date: 2018-09-06
Filing date: 2019-09-06
Publication date: 2020-03-12
Also published as: AU2019335420A1

Abstract

A beverage mixer and dispenser system for bespoke beverages is disclosed. The system includes a liquid carrier supply inlet, a number of ingredient reservoirs to each hold an ingredient component, and at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir to store carbon dioxide, each associated with a control component to control an amount released. A mixer is associated with each of the liquid carrier supply inlet and number of ingredient reservoirs, to mix a beverage on order from a customer, and a dispenser portion dispenses the beverage from the mixer. A control system is associated with each of the control components, the mixer, the dispenser, the carbon dioxide storage reservoir and at least one communication pathway to receive instructions from the customer to produce the beverage and then to control operation of the control components, the mixer, and the dispenser to produce the beverage on demand.

Description

A BEVERAGE MIXER/DISPENSER FOR BESPOKE BEVERAGES

Background of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates generally to beverage mixers and dispensers and particularly to a beverage mixer and dispenser for bespoke beverages on a micromanufacturing or point of sale basis.

Description of the Prior Art

[0002] The ready to drink beverage market is huge in the world today. Many of the available beverages are manufactured in bottling plants and are packaged and delivered to a retail site.

[0003] Consumers are thus dependent upon the retailer to stock their drink of preference and once consumed, the customer must then be concerned with the disposal of the beverage container.

[0004] Further, large amounts of energy are used to produce the packaged beverage, transport the packaged beverage to the point of sale and keep the beverage hot or cold as required at the point of sale prior to purchase.

[0005] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

Summary of the Present Invention

[0006] The present invention is directed to a beverage mixer and dispenser for bespoke beverages, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0007] ln a first broad form the present invention seeks to provide a beverage mixer and dispenser system for bespoke beverages, the mixer and dispenser system comprising:

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU a) a liquid carrier supply inlet associated with a control component to control an amount released; b) a number of ingredient reservoirs to each hold an ingredient component, each associated with a control component to control an amount released; c) at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir to store carbon dioxide and associated with a control component to control an amount released; d) at least one mixer associated with each of the liquid carrier supply inlet, the number of flavour reservoirs, and the at least one additive reservoir, to mix a beverage on order from a customer; e) a dispenser portion to dispense the beverage from the mixer; and f) a control system associated with each of the control components, the mixer, the dispenser, the at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir and at least one communication pathway to receive instructions from the customer to produce the beverage and then to control operation of the control components, the mixer, and the dispenser to produce the beverage on demand.

[0008] In an embodiment, a number of the ingredient components are a flavour component and at least one of the ingredient components is an additive component.

[0009] In an embodiment, the beverage includes more than one of the flavour components.

[0010] In an embodiment, the beverages are ordered and personalised using a personal mobile computing device allowing communication with the mixer and dispenser to issue instructions to the controller in relation to the beverage required.

[0011] In an embodiment, the computing device can be configured to gradually alter the instructions issued over time.

[0012] In an embodiment, a consumer can alter the number and/or amount of ingredient component(s) in the beverage.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0013] In an embodiment, the dispenser portion can dispense the beverage to different receptacles, including a receptacle supplied by a consumer.

[0014] In an embodiment, the liquid carrier supply inlet is configured to supply a base liquid from a source that is external to the system.

[0015] In an embodiment, the system further comprises at least one filtration unit.

[0016] In an embodiment, the filtration unit performs a filtration process based on reverse osmosis.

[0017] In an embodiment, the system is configured to perform at least one water conditioning process.

[0018] In an embodiment, the system further comprises a refrigeration unit configured to cool the liquid released by the liquid carrier supply inlet.

[0019] In an embodiment, the refrigeration unit is located within a housing of the system.

[0020] In an embodiment, the refrigeration unit may cool only a portion of the liquid released by the liquid supply carrier, the portion being selectable by a consumer or calculated based on a selection by the consumer.

[0021] In an embodiment, at least one of the ingredient reservoirs is a refillable and/or replaceable pouch.

[0022] In an embodiment, at least one of the ingredient components is an additive chosen from a group comprising: one or more sugar syrups; artificial sweetener; guarana and/or a similar substance; a protein rich substance; an electrolyte mixture; and alcohol and/or a mixture including an alcohol.

[0023] In an embodiment, the carbon dioxide is combined with liquid released from the liquid carrier supply inlet prior to being supplied to the mixer or any flavour or additive components being added.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0024] In an embodiment, the carbon dioxide is combined with only a portion of the liquid that has been cooled.

[0025] In an embodiment, the carbon dioxide storage reservoir is located within a housing of the system.

[0026] In an embodiment, the mixer is substantially spherical in shape.

[0027] In an embodiment, the mixer comprises one or more agitators.

[0028] In an embodiment, the control system comprises a monitoring subsystem to monitor levels of components, operations undertaken by the system, refilling amounts and/or timings, and/or revenue made.

[0029] In an embodiment, at least some of the control components comprise a peristaltic pump.

[0030] ln an embodiment, at least some of the control components comprise a venturi based mixing mechanism.

[0031] In an embodiment, a consumer may use a personal computing device to order the beverage and payment for the beverage may be accomplished via a software application operating on the personal computing device once the order has been placed and/or filled through an appropriate billing platform.

[0032] In an embodiment, the system further comprises a sterilising component as part of the dispenser portion.

[0033] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0034] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

[0035] It will be appreciated that the broad forms of the invention and their respective features can be used in conjunction and/or independently, and reference to separate broad forms is not

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU intended to be limiting. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that features of the method can be performed using the system or apparatus and that features of the system or apparatus can be implemented using the method.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0036] Various examples and embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: -

[0037] Figure 1 is a schematic view of the components of a personalised beverage mixer and dispenser according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 2 is a schematic view of a system including a personalised beverage mixer and dispenser according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a proposed mixing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a proposed mixing and rinsing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a proposed single stage mixing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 5 A is a schematic illustration of a distribution ring used in the single stage mixing system illustrated in Figure 5.

[0043] Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of a proposed two stage mixing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of a proposed three stage mixing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 8 is a schematic view of an excess carbon dioxide purge system from the mixing chamber to assist with carbonation according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0046] Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of a proposed mixing and dispensing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of a proposed mixing and dispensing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0048] An example of a beverage mixer and dispenser system according to the present invention will now be broadly described. The system for dispensing bespoke beverages includes: a liquid carrier supply inlet associated with a control component to control an amount released; a number of ingredient reservoirs to each hold an ingredient component, each associated with a control component to control an amount released; at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir to store carbon dioxide and associated with a control component to control an amount released; at least one mixer associated with each of the liquid carrier supply inlet, number of flavour reservoirs, at least one additive reservoir to mix a beverage on order from a customer; a dispenser portion to dispense the beverage from the mixer; and a control system associated with each of the control components, the mixer, the dispenser, the at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir and at least one communication pathway to receive instructions from the customer to produce the beverage and then to control operation of the control components, the mixer, and the dispenser to produce the beverage on demand.

[0049] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention is designed to provide consumers with on demand beverages mixed and dispensed on a micro manufactured level rather than a macro manufactured level, that are ordered and personalised preferably using a personal mobile computing device such as a smartphone operating a software application allowing communication with the mixer and dispenser to issue instructions to the controller in relation to the beverage required. The mixer and dispenser will preferably target consumers that are eco-conscious as it will eliminate the need to produce beverages in factories and then transport them over great distances and then store them in a refrigerated state until the consumer is ready for them. The mixer and dispenser will be able to generate a large number of combinations of drinks due to the personalisation available in the mixer and dispenser and which can be utilised

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU by the customer. Each mixer and dispenser will generally require connection to a water supply, electricity and a communications pathway.

[0050] Consumers can get the exact beverage they want ay any dispenser location without worrying about what is in stock at their local store or restaurant. Customers can create healthier versions of beverages by altering the number and amount of additives in the beverage.

[0051] The mixer and dispenser will preferably reduce or eliminate pollution created from beverage bottles and cans discarded by consumers. Consumers can preferably choose to use their own container or use a biodegradable container.

[0052] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention will revolutionise the carbon footprint of the consumer beverage industry by eliminating the need to truck heavy liquids over long distances and expend energy to store them in a refrigerated state. Instead, the bulk of the liquid can be supplied locally, with only small quantities of a limited number of highly concentrated flavours and/or additives needing to be provided.

[0053] Any type of beverage may be provided from the mixer and dispenser of the present invention. For example, the beverage will typically be non-alcoholic but alcoholic beverages may be prepared and dispensed if one of the additives provided in the mixer and dispenser of the present invention is ethanol, for example, which could then be mixed with one or more flavours and/or one or more other additives to form an alcoholic beverage which could be carbonated if requested.

[0054] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention includes a liquid carrier supply inlet associated with a control component to control an amount of the liquid carrier released. The liquid carrier will typically be the base liquid used to form the beverage. Usually, the base liquid will be water as this will typically allow the greatest number and combination of beverages to be produced tfom a single base liquid, however other liquids such as milk for example may be provided, usually as an additive, but potentially as an alternative base liquid.

[0055] The liquid carrier supply inlet will normally be a part of the mixer and dispenser of the present invention but the supply of the one or more base liquids may be external to the mixer and dispenser. For example, where water is provided as the base liquid, the water supply inlet

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU may be attached to or associated with any source, for example a public water supply, with the mixer and dispenser of the present invention simply plumbed into liquid connection with a supply in the particular location in which the mixer and dispenser is provided. The same could be done with an alternative base liquid such as milk, however if a base liquid such as this is provided, the liquid source will typically be one or more reservoirs, provided externally of the mixer and dispenser and with which the mixer and dispenser is associated.

[0056] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention will typically include one or more filtration processes or units. The filtration processes or units may be of any type, and any number and/or combination of filtration processes or units may be provided in order to filter the incoming base liquid. Where water is provided as the base liquid for example the water will typically undergo a particularly rigorous filtration, generally based on reverse osmosis or similar, in order to ensure that the water is as well-prepared as possible for use in a beverage.

[0057] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention will typically include one or more water conditioning processes where water is provided as abase liquid, again, in order to provide water which is as well-prepared as possible for use in a beverage. Again, any type, number or combination of water conditioning processes may be used.

[0058] Typically, where one or more filtration processes or units and/or one or more water conditioning processes are provided, these will be provided on board the mixer and dispenser, typically within a housing of the mixer and dispenser.

[0059] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention may have provision for chilling the base liquid. Therefore, one or more chilling units may be provided, typically on board the mixer and dispenser of the present invention, and preferably within a housing of the mixer and dispenser. Any type of chiller may be used. Not all of the base liquid need be chilled and a portion of the base liquid may be retained at ambient temperature if required or desired by a customer and a portion of the base liquid may be chilled to a lower temperature for use as needed according to orders submitted by the customer. In each of these preferred circumstances, an onboard reservoir will normally be provided to store the ambient base liquid and/or the chilled base liquid.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0060] If a chiller is provided, then the chilling may occur on demand or as the liquid is used and/or a chilled base liquid reservoir may be provided.

[0061] As mentioned above, a control component will typically be associated with the liquid carrier supply inlet. A control component may be associated with the ambient and/or chilled storage reservoirs as well as any supply inlet in order to control the provision of the base liquid to the mixer according to an order placed by the customer.

[0062] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention includes a number of flavour reservoirs to each hold a flavour component, each flavour reservoir associated with a control component to control an amount released from the respective flavour reservoir.

[0063] Any number of flavour reservoirs may be provided and any type of flavour reservoir may be provided. Different flavours may be provided in differently configured reservoir(s) depending upon the manner in which the flavour is provided.

[0064] Typically, a number of separate flavour reservoirs will be provided to allow the controller to dispense from any number or combination of flavour reservoirs into the mixer to achieve the required flavour. Of course, the number of flavour reservoirs will need to be limited due to space restrictions in the mixer and dispenser so it is intended that a number of base flavour reservoirs will be provided in order to form a relatively large number of beverages by combination of the base flavours as required.

[0065] Each of the flavour reservoirs will preferably have a control component associated therewith for individual activation as required and controlled by the controller.

[0066] In a particularly preferred configuration, each flavour reservoir will typically be a refillable and/or replaceable pouch, typically a flexible pouch that can be mounted relative to a control component for dispensing an amount of flavour from the reservoir. Such pouches are advantageous because they can greatly reduce the packaging waste from use of the system. Each of the control components will typically be associated with a reservoir in order to control the feed of the one or more flavour ingredients to the mixer.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0067] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention will preferably include at least one additive reservoir to each hold an additive component, each additive reservoir associated with a control component to control the amount released from the respective additive reservoir.

[0068] Any number of additive reservoirs may be provided and any type of additive reservoir may be provided. Different additives may be provided in different configurations reservoir depending upon the manner in which the additive is provided.

[0069] Typically, a number of separate additive reservoirs will be provided to allow the controller to dispense from any number or combination of additive reservoirs into the mixer to achieve the required beverage. Of course, the number of additive reservoirs will need to be limited due to space restrictions in the mixer and dispenser so it is intended that a number of base additive reservoirs will be provided in order to form a relatively large number of beverages by combination of the base additives as required.

[0070] In a particularly preferred configuration, each additive reservoir will typically be a refillable and/or replaceable pouch, typically a flexible pouch that can be mounted relative to a control component for dispensing an amount of additive from the reservoir. Each of the control components will typically be associated with a reservoir in order to control the feed of the one or more additive ingredients to the mixer.

[0071] In a preferred form, the additives provided in the mixer and dispenser of the present invention may include one or more sugar syrups, for example a cane sugar syrup or other type of sugar syrup as required. In a preferred form, artificial sweetener may be provided as an additive in the situation where a natural sugar is not preferred by the customer. In a preferred form, guarana or a similar substance or mixture may be provided as an additive. In a preferred form, a protein rich substance may be provided as an additive. In a preferred form, an electrolyte mixture may be provided as an additive. In a preferred form, alcohol, such as ethanol for example, or a mixture including an alcohol, may be provided as an additive for mixture into beverages if required.

[0072] Each of the additive reservoirs will preferably have a control component associated therewith for individual activation as required and controlled by the controller.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0073] Typically, each of the additives and each of the flavours will be provided in a liquid form but a different form may be provided depending upon the nature of the additive or flavour. For example, a protein powder may be provided instead of a liquid protein additive. Typically, the reservoir and the control component will preferably be configured according to the form in which the additive and/or flavour is provided.

[0074] The at least one flavour reservoir and at least one additive reservoir may be provided mounted in a carousel or similar. This may allow the components in the respective reservoirs to be dispensed sequentially into the mixer or alternatively, the control components of each of the reservoirs may be actuated more or less concurrently to release all of the components into the mixer substantially at the same time.

[0075] A single control component may be provided is use with for all of the reservoirs in a sequential operation. However, this will typically create cleaning or sanitation issues with the control component and therefore, it is preferred that a control component is provided for each individual reservoir to be actuated on demand and as required by the controller dependent upon the order placed by the customer.

[0076] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention includes at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir to store carbon dioxide and associated with a control component to control the amount of carbon dioxide released.

[0077] The provision of a carbon dioxide storage reservoir allows the dispensing of carbonated beverages from the mixer and dispenser of the present invention. The carbon dioxide will typically be dosed into the beverage after the beverages mixed and preferably prior to dispensing of the beverage from the mixer and dispenser. Typically, the carbon dioxide storage reservoir will be provided on board the mixer and dispenser, preferably within a housing of the mixer and dispenser but the carbon dioxide storage may be provided externally of the mixer and dispenser and appropriate connections provided to provide the carbon dioxide to the mixer and dispenser as required.

[0078] The carbon dioxide storage reservoir will typically have a control component associated therewith in order to control the amount of carbon dioxide released depending upon the order placed by the customer.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0079] In one form, the carbon dioxide may be released into the mixer, alternatively, may be released into a fluid line after the mixer and prior to the dispenser portion, or to the dispenser portion of the mixer and dispenser as required.

[0080] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention has at least one mixer associated with each of the liquid carrier supply inlet, number of flavour reservoirs and at least one additive reservoir in order to mix a beverage on order from a customer.

[0081] There may be one or more mixers provided. The provision of multiple mixers will typically allow the preparation of multiple beverages at any one time. Alternatively, a single mixer may be provided such that only a single customer can be served at any one time. If a single mixer is provided, it is preferred that the mixer is flushed or otherwise cleaned in order to remove any residual material from the previous beverage, preferably immediately after each beverage is dispensed. This may be achieved using water from the inlet water supply provided and any wash water or rinse water used to clean or rinse the mixer made then be returned to the preferred filtration process for reuse. Alternatively, any rinse water may simply be sent to waste.

[0082] In a preferred form, each of the constituents or ingredients are typically provided to the at least one mixer from the respective reservoirs and base liquid supply upon instructions from the controller. The mixer will then typically operate to mix the components as required.

[0083] Preferably, the mixer is sized to contain between approximately 250 mL and 1 L of liquid. In a particularly preferred form, the mixer may be sized to contain approximately 500 mL of liquid.

[0084] The mixer may have any shape which is conducive to mixing. The mixer may include one or more agitators in order to enhance or ensure the mixing of the components introduced into the mixer for each beverage as ordered by a customer.

[0085] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention includes a dispenser portion or assembly to dispense the beverage from the mixer once the beverage has been mixed. The dispenser portion or assembly may be of any type. Typically, the dispenser portion or assembly will preferably be controlled by the control system and the dispenser portion or assembly will

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU typically only dispense the mixed beverage once the beverage has been properly mixed by the mixer. One or more sampling tools may be used in order to sample the mixture to ascertain whether mixing has occurred prior to the dispensing of the beverage by the dispensing portion or assembly. The dispensing portion or assembly will typically dispense the mixed beverage into a beverage container for consumption.

[0086] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention also includes a control system associated with each of the control components, the mixer, the mixer and dispenser, the at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir and at least one communication pathway to receive instructions from the customer to produce the beverage and then to control operation of the control components, the mixer, the at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir and the mixer and dispenser to produce the beverage on demand. The control system may include a monitoring subsystem to monitor the levels of components, the operations undertaken by the mixer and dispenser, the refdling amounts and/or timings and/or revenue made.

[0087] The control system of the present invention will typically include at least one controller associated with each control component provided in the mixer and dispenser. Each control component will typically be configured to release an amount of ingredient material from each of the controlled reservoirs or supplies. Each control component will preferably be or include a positive displacement pump, such as a peristaltic pump, particularly if the ingredient material is a liquid. Alternatively, each control component may be or include a solenoid valve or similar, or any other suitable form of pump and/or metering device. Actuation of each control component will typically be controlled by the at least one controller as required and according to instructions from the controller which are issued pursuant to a customer order being received.

[0088] The controller will typically have a number of preprogramed recipes for beverages stored in an associated memory. The control will also preferably allow a bespoke beverage recipe to be provided by the customer, or for the preprogramed recipes to be modified in a gradual way over time.

[0089] A customer will typically submit an order for a beverage, whether a preprogramed recipe or a bespoke beverage to the mixer and dispenser over a communications pathway. Receipt of the order will typically prompt the controller to actuate the necessary control

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU components to allow ingredient materials to be released and be provided to the mixer where the ingredient materials are then mixed and then dispensed by the dispensing portion.

[0090] The control system will typically have an associated at least one communications pathway. The communications pathway may be wired or wireless with a wireless pathway being preferred. According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the customer will place the order using a software application provided on a personal computing device, typically a mobile personal computing device such as a smart phone or tablet for example which, once the order has been finalised, will be provided to the mixer and dispenser and more particularly to the control system of the mixer and dispenser of the present invention in order to have the mixer and dispenser prepare and dispense the requested beverage.

[0091] The mixer and dispenser will typically have software provided on board in order to receive and process instructions in order to prepare the beverage, with the instructions being provided in the form of an order by the customer. The mixer and dispenser may allow direct entry of an order into the mixer and dispenser but again, remote, wireless entry of the order is preferred. As mentioned above, a software application is typically provided on a customer personal computing device allowing selection of a beverage and/or adjustment of constituent ingredients in a beverage and/or provision of particular ingredients that can be used by the mixer and dispenser to form a beverage.

[0092] Normally, the customer, with their personal computing device operating the software application will preferably present to a dispensing machine according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The mixer and dispenser and/or the personal computing device will typically register the proximity of the personal competing device relative to the mixer and dispenser in order to allow the personal computer device to issue an order and the mixer and dispenser to receive and process the order.

[0093] The mixer and dispenser may be provided with a queuing system for orders to facilitate use at the same time by multiple users and/or orders.

[0094] The dispensing machine may provide an indication of the availability and/or non- availability of any one or more of the ingredients to the software application operating on the customer personal computing device. Typically, this is done through a handshake process

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU whereby the customer personal computing device makes itself electronically known to the mixer and dispenser machine once within a particular radius of proximity.

[0095] A software application preferably operates on the customer personal computing device. The software application will typically be interfaced driven allowing the customer to prepare and submit an order for a beverage via the software application. The software application may allow selection of a particular beverage and/or the adjustment of ingredients and/or ingredient amounts in a particular beverage. The software application may allow construction of a beverage solely from the definition of the ingredients and/or the respective amounts of ingredients to be used to prepare the beverage. In a preferred form, the present invention may utilise hardware components of the personal computing device to communicate with the mixer and dispenser for example, the personal computing device will typically have access to one or more Wi-Fi networks or Bluetooth for example and/or any other communication pathways available to the personal computing device.

[0096] Communication between the personal computing device and the mixer and dispenser may be one way or two-way.

[0097] As mentioned, the mixer and dispenser may detect the presence of the personal computing device and/or vice versa when the personal computing device moves within a particular radius or proximity relative to the mixer and dispenser. The personal computing device via the software application operating thereon may query the mixer and dispenser machine as to the stock available on board the machine or alternatively, the mixer and dispenser machine may push this information to the personal computing device once the handshake has occurred. The provision of stock availability in the mixer and dispenser to the personal computing device may be provided before order is made in order that the customer can be aware of available ingredients and/or any ingredients which are not available. Preferably, the software application may be able to make suggestions based on the availability of ingredients in the mixer and dispenser, as well as taking into consideration the order history of the consumer when doing so.

[0098] In a particularly preferred form, the customer may use their personal computing device to order the beverage and payment for the beverage may be accomplished via the software

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU application operating on the personal computing device once the order has been placed and/or tilled through an appropriate billing platform such as the customer having an account for this purpose. Typically, the mixer and dispenser may inform the software application on the personal computing device once the order has been filled and request confirmation so that the payment can be processed. In a preferred embodiment, the system may take the order, seek authorisation for the payment of price of the order, provide the beverage to the customer and then process the authorised payment.

[0099] The payment function of the personal computing device may also extend to use in a marketplace for recipes. That is, in addition to purchasing the beverage, it may be possible to purchase new recipes. Additionally, the recipe marketplace may be combined with a reward scheme. For example, rewards in the form of discounts or free beverages may be provided for supplying popular recipes. Similarly, rewards may be offered for choosing different recipes for consumption, such as to incentivise purchase of healthier recipes.

[0100] The software application may also allow recipes to be made public or shared to other individuals, such as via a social media application, for example. A benefit to such sharing may be that influences or celebrities can share their favourite bespoke drink recipes as a form of promotion. In one example, it could also be used for fund raising purposes, and may allow a percentage of all drink sales of this specific recipe to be donated to a cause the celebrity is promoting, thereby further enhancing the environmental benefits of the invention. Other benefits and methods of social media integration and other sharing methods will also be possible and known to those skilled in the art.

[0101] A sterilising function may be provided as a finishing step, such as for example the provision of an ultraviolet light sterilisation step, preferably as a part of the dispensing apparatus.

[0102] It is anticipated that micropumps may be utilised for the dispensing of the flavours and/or additives rather that valves with solenoids as the control may be more precise using micropumps as solenoid valves typically require pressure to operate.

[0103] In terms of agitation, agitation may be provided in any way not necessarily through the provision of a mechanically driven agitator. For examples a buoyant or weights disc may

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU be provided with at least one agitation surface or configuration to agitate fluid as the disc moves through or relative to the fluid to agitate the fluid. In another example, agitation may occur through injection of liquid, such as through a nozzle, into a spherical or other appropriately shaped mixing device.

10104] An example of a personalised beverage mixer and dispenser will now be described with reference to Figure 1.

[0105] According to the example embodiment, a personalised beverage mixer and dispenser system 10 is provided as shown schematically in Figure 1. The beverage mixer and dispenser of this embodiment includes a liquid carrier supply 11 associated with a solenoid valve control component 12 to control an amount of liquid provided to a mixer 13, a number of flavour reservoirs 14 to each hold a flavour component, each associated with a solenoid valve control component 12 to control an amount of flavour component released to the mixer 13, a number of additive reservoirs 15 to each hold an additive component, each associated with a solenoid valve control component 12 to control an amount of additive released, a carbon dioxide storage reservoir 16 to store carbon dioxide and associated with a solenoid valve control component 12 to control an amount of the carbon dioxide released, the mixer 13 associated with each of the liquid carrier supply 1 1 , each of the flavour reservoirs 14, each of the additive reservoirs 15 to mix a beverage on order from a customer, a dispenser portion 17 to dispense the beverage from the mixer 13, and a control system associated with each of the solenoid valve control component 12, the mixer 13, the dispenser portion 17, the carbon dioxide storage reservoir 16 and at least one communication pathway to receive instructions from the customer to produce the beverage and then to control operation of the solenoid valve control components 12, the mixer 13, and the dispenser portion 17 to produce the beverage 18 on demand.

[0106] The mixer and dispenser 10 of the present invention is designed to provide consumers with on-demand beverages that are ordered and personalised preferably using a personal mobile computing device such as a smartphone operating a software application allowing communication with the mixer and dispenser 10 to issue instructions to the control system in relation to the particular beverage required. The mixer and dispenser 10 will preferably target consumers that are eco-conscious as it will eliminate the need to produce

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU beverages in factories and then transport them over great distances and then store them in a refrigerated state until the consumer is ready for them. The mixer and dispenser will be able to generate a large number of combinations of drinks due to the personalisation available in the mixer and dispenser and which can be utilised by the customer. Each mixer and dispenser will generally require connection to a water supply, electricity and a communications pathway.

[0107] Any type of beverage may be provided from the mixer and dispenser of the present invention. For example, the beverage will typically be non-alcoholic but alcoholic beverages may be prepared in dispensed if one of the additives provided in the mixer and dispenser 10 is ethanol for example which could then be mixed with one or more flavours and/or one or more other additives to form an alcoholic beverage which could be carbonated if requested.

[0108] In addition to being personalised, the beverage may also be gradually changed over time. For example, a consumer may wish to reduce the sugar content of their beverage of choice yet prefer the taste of a high sugar beverage. As such, the consumer could gradually lower the sugar content of the beverage over time, so that their taste preference may gradually change or until they reach a point that they consider an optimal compromise. This change could be automated, chosen by the consumer, or a combination of the two. For example, the consumer may set target goals for sugar content and the system gradually updates the recipe over time.

[0109] The mixer and dispenser 10 includes a liquid carrier supply. The liquid carrier will typically be the base liquid used to form the beverage 18. Usually, the base liquid will be water as this will typically allow the greatest number and combination of beverages to be produced from a single base liquid, however other liquids such as milk for example may be provided, usually as an additive, but potentially as an alternative base liquid.

[0110] The liquid carrier supply inlet will normally be a part of the mixer and dispenser of the present invention but the supply of the one or more base liquids may be external to the mixer and dispenser. For example, where water is provided as the base liquid, the water supply inlet may be attached to or associated with any source, for example a public water supply 19 as shown in Figure 1 with the mixer and dispenser 10 simply plumbed into liquid connection with the supply in the particular location in which the mixer and dispenser 10 is provided.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0111] As illustrated, the dispenser 10 includes a water fdtration process 20. The filtration process 20 may be of any type and any number and combination of filtration processes or units may be provided in order to filter the incoming water. Where water from a public water supply 19 is used as the base liquid, even though the water is likely already deemed potable, the water will typically undergo a particularly rigorous filtration, generally based on reverse osmosis in order to ensure that the water is as well -prepared as possible for use in a beverage as the presence of any undesirable elements in the water may cause variation in the taste of eth beverage 18 when prepared.

[0112] The mixer and dispenser 10 also includes one or more water conditioning processes 21 where water is provided as a base liquid, again, in order to provide water which is as well- prepared as possible for use in a beverage. Again, any type, number or combination of water conditioning processes 21 may be used.

[0113] Typically, where one or more filtration processes 20 and/or one or more water conditioning processes 21 are provided, these will be provided on board the mixer and dispenser 10, typically within a housing of the mixer and dispenser 10.

[0114] The mixer and dispenser 10 illustrated in Figure 1 has provision for chilling the base liquid. One or more chilling units 22 may be provided, typically on board the mixer and dispenser 10, and preferably within a housing of the mixer and dispenser 10.

[0115] Any type of chiller may be used. In one advantageous form, however, a water cooled chiller may be used. This water cooled chiller may use waste water from a reverse osmosis filtration process, thereby providing a use for this waste water while also providing a highly efficient cooling method.

[0116] Not all of the base liquid need be chilled and a portion of the base liquid may be retained at ambient temperature if required or desired by a customer and a portion of the base liquid may be chilled to a lower temperature for use as needed according to orders submitted by the customer. Both options are shown in Figure 1 and typically the respective amounts will be monitored by level sensors in the ambient water reservoir 23 and chilled water reservoir 24. In each of these preferred circumstances, an on-board reservoir will normally be provided to store the ambient base liquid and/or the chilled base liquid respectively.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0117] If a chiller 22 is provided, then the chilling may occur on demand or as the liquid is used and/or from the chilled base liquid reservoir 24.

[0118] As mentioned above, a solenoid valve control component 12 is associated with the liquid carrier supply, as illustrated with the outlet conduits from each of the ambient water reservoir 23 and the chilled water reservoir 24. This will also typically allow a customer to set a preferred temperature of beverage and the controller to adjust the respective amounts of ambient and chilled water to achieve that target temperature.

[0119] The mixer and dispenser 10 includes a number of flavour reservoirs 14 to each hold a flavour component, each flavour reservoir 14 being associated with a solenoid valve control component 12 to control an amount released from the respective flavour reservoir 14 to the mixer 13.

[0120] Any number of flavour reservoirs may be provided and any type of flavour reservoir may be provided. The configuration of each flavour reservoir 14 may depend upon the manner in which the flavour component is provided for example a powder or a liquid.

[0121] As shown in the preferred embodiment in Figure 1, a number of separate flavour reservoirs 14 are provided to allow the controller to dispense from any number or combination of flavour reservoirs 14 into the mixer 13 to achieve the required flavour in the beverage. Of course, the number of flavour reservoirs 14 will need to be limited due to space restrictions in the mixer and dispenser so it is intended that a number of base flavour reservoirs 14 will be provided in order to form a relatively large number of beverages by combination of the base flavours as required.

[0122] Each of the flavour reservoirs 14 has a solenoid valve control component 12 associated therewith for individual activation as required and controlled by the controller.

[0123] In a particularly preferred configuration, each flavour reservoir 14 is a refillable and/or replaceable pouch, typically a flexible pouch each with an outlet that can be mounted relative to a solenoid valve control component 12 for dispensing an amount of flavour from the reservoir 14.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0124] Any number of additive reservoirs 15 may be provided and any type of additive reservoirs may be provided. As with the flavour reservoirs, the configuration of each additive reservoir 15 may depend upon the manner in which the additive component is provided for example a powder or a liquid.

[0125] As shown in Figure 1 , a number of separate additive reservoirs 15 are provided to allow the controller to dispense from any number or combination of additive reservoirs 15 into the mixer 13 to achieve the required beverage. Of course, the number of additive reservoirs will need to be limited due to space restrictions in the mixer and dispenser so it is intended that a number of base additive reservoirs will be provided in order to form a relatively large number of beverages using the base additives as required.

[0126] In a particularly preferred configuration, each additive reservoir 15 will typically be a refdlable and/or replaceable pouch, typically a flexible pouch each with an outlet that can be mounted relative to a solenoid valve control component 12 for dispensing an amount of additive from the reservoir.

[0127] In the preferred form illustrated in Figure 1, the additives provided in the mixer and dispenser 10 include a cane sugar syrup, an artificial sweetener for situations where a natural sugar is not preferred by the customer, and guarana or a similar substance or mixture as an energy boost additive.

[0128] As shown, each of the additive reservoirs 15 has a solenoid valve control component 12 associated therewith for individual activation as required and controlled by the controller.

[0129] In the illustrated preferred embodiment, each of the additives and each of the flavours are provided in a liquid form.

[0130] The solenoid valve control component 12 of the reservoirs 14, 15 containing the components needed for a beverage are normally actuated more or less concurrently to release all of the components into the mixer 13 substantially at the same time.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0131] The provision of a carbon dioxide storage reservoir 16 allows the dispensing of carbonated beverages from the mixer and dispenser 10. The carbon dioxide may be dosed into the mixed beverage after the beverage has finished mixing and prior to dispensing of the beverage from the mixer and dispenser 10. In a preferred form, however, the carbon dioxide may be mixed with chilled water first, then mixed with other ingredients and supplied to the mixer 13. Typically, the carbon dioxide storage reservoir 16 is provided on board the mixer and dispenser, preferably within a housing of the mixer and dispenser 10, but the carbon dioxide storage may be provided externally of the mixer and dispenser 10 and appropriate connections provided to provide the carbon dioxide to the mixer and dispenser 10 as required.

[0132] The carbon dioxide storage reservoir 16 has a solenoid valve control component 12 associated therewith in order to control the amount of carbon dioxide released depending upon the beverage order placed by the customer.

[0133] In one form, the carbon dioxide may be released into the mixer 13, alternatively, the carbon dioxide may be released into a fluid line before the mixer 13, into a fluid line that contains only water prior to other ingredients being added, or into a fluid line after the mixer 13 and prior to the dispenser portion 17, or to the dispenser portion 17 of the mixer and dispenser 10 as required.

[0134] One or more mixers 13 may be provided. The provision of multiple mixers will typically allow the preparation of multiple beverages at any one time. Alternatively, a single mixer may be provided such that only a single customer can be served at any one time. If a single mixer is provided, it is preferred that the mixer be flushed or otherwise cleaned in order to remove any residual material from the previous beverage, preferably immediately after each beverage is dispensed. This may be achieved using water from the inlet water supply 11 and any used wash water or rinse water used to clean or rinse the mixer 13 may then be returned to the filtration process 20 for reuse. Alternatively, any rinse water may simply be sent to waste.

[0135] In a preferred form, each of the constituents or ingredients are typically provided to the mixer 13 from the respective reservoirs 14, 15 and base liquid supply upon instructions from the controller. The mixer 13 will then typically operate to mix the components as required.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0136] Preferably, the mixer 13 is sized to contain between approximately 250 mL and 1 L of liquid. In a particularly preferred form, the mixer 13 may be sized to contain approximately 500 mL of liquid.

[0137] The mixer 13 may have any shape which is conducive to mixing and may include one or more agitators in order to enhance or ensure the mixing of the components introduced into the mixer 13 for each beverage as ordered by a customer. In a preferred form, the mixer 13 is of a substantially spherical shape. The mixer 13 may include baffles and agitation could be provided from one or more nozzles jetting fluid into the mixer 13.

[0138] The dispenser portion or assembly 17 may be of any type. Typically, the dispenser portion or assembly 17 is controlled by the control system and the dispenser portion or assembly 17 will typically only dispense the mixed beverage once the beverage has been properly mixed by the mixer (the mixer may still be operating which may assist with dispensing of the mixed beverage into the container 18). One or more sampling tools may be used in order to sample the mixture to ascertain whether mixing has occurred prior to the dispensing of the beverage by the dispensing portion or assembly 17. The dispensing portion or assembly 18 will typically dispense the mixed beverage into a beverage container 18 for consumption.

[0139] The mixer and dispenser of the present invention also includes a control system associated with each of the solenoid valve control components 12, the mixer 13, the mixer and dispenser 17, the carbon dioxide storage reservoir 16 and at least one communication device 26 with access to at least one communications pathway to receive instructions from the customer to produce the beverage and then to control operation of the solenoid valve control components 12, the mixer 13, the mixer and dispenser 17, the carbon dioxide storage reservoir 16 to produce the beverage on demand.

[0140] The control system of the present invention will typically include at least one controller 25 associated with each solenoid valve control component 12 provided in the mixer and dispenser 10. Each solenoid valve control component 12 will typically be configured to release an amount of ingredient material from each of the controlled reservoirs or supplies. Actuation of each solenoid valve control component 12 will typically be controlled by the

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU controller 25 as required and according to instructions from the controller 25 which are issued pursuant to a customer order adding received.

[0141] The controller 25 will typically have a number of preprogramed recipes for beverages stored in an associated memory. The controller 25 will also preferably allow a bespoke beverage recipe to be provided by the customer. The consumer may also be able to store recipes on their device (smartphone 28 or tablet) which may allow for the sharing of recipes. The consumer may also be able to modify preprogramed recipes or to use preprogramed recipe modifiers to gradually change a recipe over time.

[0142] As shown in Figure 2, a customer 27 will typically submit an order for a beverage, whether a pre-programmed recipe or a bespoke beverage to the mixer and dispenser 10 over a communications pathway, typically using their smartphone 28 or tablet. As shown, the communications pathway may be direct between the smartphone 28 and the mixer and dispenser 10 or via a cloud 30 to a remote server 29 and then to the mixer and dispenser 10. Receipt of the order will typically prompt the controller 25 of the mixer and dispenser to actuate the necessary solenoid valve control components 12 to allow ingredient materials to be released and be provided to the mixer 13 where the ingredient materials are then mixed and then dispensed by the dispensing portion 17.

[0143] The controller of the mixer and dispenser 10 will typically have an associated at least one communications device 26 with access to at least one communications pathway. The communications pathway may be wired or wireless with a wireless pathway being preferred. According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the customer will place the order using a software application provided on a personal computing device, typically a mobile personal computing device such as a smartphone 28 or tablet for example which, once the order has been finalised, will be provided to the mixer and dispenser 10 and more particularly to the control system of the mixer and dispenser 10 in order to have the mixer and dispenser 10 prepare and dispense the requested beverage.

[0144] The mixer and dispenser 10 will typically have software provided on board in order to receive and process instructions in order to prepare the beverage, with the instructions be provided in the form of an order by the customer 27. The mixer and dispenser 10 may allow

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU direct entry of an order into the mixer and dispenser but again, remote, wireless entry of the order is preferred. As mentioned above, a software application is typically provided on a customer personal computing device allowing selection of a beverage and/or adjustment of constituent ingredients in a beverage and/or provision of particular ingredients that can be used by the mixer and dispenser to form a beverage.

[0145] Normally, the customer, with their personal computing device operating the software application will preferably present to a dispensing machine according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The mixer and dispenser 10 and/or the personal computing device will typically register the proximity of the personal competing device relative to the mixer and dispenser in order to allow the personal computer device to issue an order and the mixer and dispenser to receive and process the order.

[0146] The dispensing machine 10 may provide an indication of the availability and/or non-availability of any one or more of the ingredients to the software application operating on the customer personal computing device. Typically, this is done through a handshake process whereby the customer personal computing device makes itself electronically known to the mixer and dispenser machine once within a particular radius of proximity.

[0147] A software application preferably operates on the customer personal computing device. The software application will typically be interfaced driven allowing the customer to prepare and submit an order for a beverage via the software application. The software application may allow selection of a particular beverage and/or the adjustment of ingredients and/or ingredient amounts in a particular beverage. The software application may allow construction of a beverage solely from the definition of the ingredients and/or the respective amounts of ingredients to be used to prepare the beverage. In a preferred form, the present invention may utilise hardware components of the personal computing device to communicate with the mixer and dispenser for example, the personal computing device will typically have access to one or more Wi-Fi networks or Bluetooth for example and/or any other communication pathways available to the personal computing device.

[0148] Communication between the personal computing device and the mixer and dispenser 10 may be one way or two-way.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0149] As mentioned, the mixer and dispenser may detect the presence of the personal computing device and/or vice versa when the personal computing device moves within a particular radius or proximity relative to the mixer and dispenser. The personal computing device via the software application operating thereon may query the mixer and dispenser machine as to the stock available on board the machine or alternatively, the mixer and dispenser machine may push this information to the personal computing device once the handshake has occurred. The provision of stock availability in the mixer and dispenser to the personal computing device may be provided before order is made in order that the customer can be aware of available ingredients and/or any ingredients which are not available.

[0150] In a particularly preferred form, the customer may use their personal computing device to order the beverage and payment for the beverage may be accomplished via the software application operating on the personal computing device once the order has been placed and/or fdled through an appropriate billing platform such as the customer having an account for this purpose. Typically, the mixer and dispenser may inform the software application on the personal computing device once the order has been filled and request confirmation so that the payment can be processed.

[0151] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a proposed mixing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. This Figure shows a conduit 301 into which a number of extract pumps Pl to P7 provide beverage components for mixing into an ordered beverage. The solenoid valve 301 remains open while the flow meter 303 reads at less than the volume of the ordered beverage then closes. Once this occurs, the components can be mixed in mixer 304. A second solenoid 305 controls the amount of carbon dioxide that flows into the mixer 304 from the carbon dioxide storage tank 306. Once mixed and carbonated, the beverage can be dispensed by opening solenoid 307. Generally, the extract pumps Pl to P7 will run for a timed period to dispense an amount in to the conduit 301.

[0152] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a proposed mixing and rinsing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In step 1, the beverage components are mixed in the mixer 401 but the base liquid will be added to a lesser degree resulting in a more concentrated base mixture. In Step 2, the more concentrated base mixture is dispensed into customer container 402 possibly with some added base liquid, normally water

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU which can be added to the mixer 401 as the concentrated base mixture is dispensed. In step 3, additional base liquid can be run through the mixer 401 and into the container 401 to rinse the mixer 401 and to create the proper mix concentration in the beverage in the customer container 402.

10153] Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a proposed single stage mixing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this Figure, the mixer 501 is provided with a central conduit 502 for supply of carbon dioxide which exits through diffuser 503 below the weighted float 504 which maintains a pressurised environment beneath it in the mixer 501 (the edges of the weighted float 504 are shown spaced from the inner surface of the mixer 501 for clarity only). The beverage components enter the mixer through conduit 505 through distribution ring 506.

10154] As shown in Figure 5A, the distribution ring 506 has an inlet 507 for water flow and a number of openings 508 spaced about the distribution ring 506 for out flow of the mixed beverage.

[0155] Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of a proposed two stage mixing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown in this Figure, the mixer 601 has a weighted float 602. This system mixes carbon dioxide and water in the carbonator 603. The beverage components are introduced into the mixer 601 through conduit 604 and distribution ring 605 similar to that illustrated in Figures 5 and 5 A. The carbonated water and the mixed beverage components are then dispensed separately into the customer container 607 as illustrated.

[0156] Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of a proposed three stage mixing system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this the water and carbon dioxide are mixed in the carbonator 701. The mixer 702 has a central rod 703 that supports a weighted float 704 thereon. The beverage components are introduced to the mixer 702 through conduit 705 and the carbonated water is brought to a dual distribution spray ring 706 via conduit 707 which allows beverage components into the mixer 702 and the mixed beverage components out of the mixer 702 to be mixed contemporaneously with the carbonated water during entry or during the dispensing step. This can be achieved through a distribution ring

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU similar to that illustrated in Figure 5 A but with an inlet for each and two sets of spray openings therein, one set for carbonated water and one set for the beverage components

[0157] Figure 8 is a schematic view of an excess carbon dioxide purge system from the mixing chamber to assist with the dispensing process according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this Figure, carbon dioxide from carbon dioxide tank 804 is injected tonto the mixing container 801 through an elongate conduit 802 and a diffuser 803 at the base. The mixing container 801 has a floating cap 807 which floats on the upper level of the fluid in the container 801. The non-carbonated water and flavour component mixture is injected into the mixing container 801 via a conduit 805 with a spray nozzle 806. Excess carbon dioxide can be removed from an upper level in the mixing container 801 via the diverter conduit 808 and injected into the customer container 811 prior to the mixed beverage being dispensed into the customer container 811. A solenoid 809 controls the excess carbon dioxide flow, and a second solenoid 810 controls the dispensing. Without wising to be limited by theory, the excess C02 is injected into the container prior to the beverage being dispensed into the container so as to create a more balanced state of C02 in the container and therefore less chance for the over fizzing issue.

[0158] Figure 9 is a schematic view of a mixing and dispensing system according to another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, cold water and carbon dioxide are first mixed in a carbonator 901. Combining the carbon dioxide with water at lower temperatures, prior to any sugar or other additives being mixed, increases the solubility of the carbon dioxide and makes this carbonation step more effective.

[0159] Next, the carbonated cold water is sent towards the mixer 902 via a conduit 903. Located along the path between the carbonator 901 and the mixer 902 are a number of reservoirs 905. Each of these reservoirs 905 may contain a flavour component or an additive component, and are preferably in the form of a reusable and/or recyclable container. For example, they may be refillable containers that can be used many times. Alternatively, they may be made from flexible plastic or the like, such as a bag or bladder, which uses a minimum amount of material and takes up a very small volume once empty. It will be appreciated that any number of reservoirs 905 may be provided.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0160] The reservoirs 905 are connected to the conduit 903 by an input line 906 with a pump 907. The pump 907 is preferably in the form of a positive displacement pump, and ideally a peristaltic pump or similar that is capable of delivering very small, precise volumes of an additive or flavour component. The pump 907 measures the small volume of additive or flavour to the space 908 between the pump 907 and the conduit 903. This small volume of additive or flavour is then extracted by a venturi 910 formed where at the junction of the conduit 903 and space 908, so that the carbonated water flowing though the conduit 903 extracts the measured dose of additive or flavour and carries it to the mixer 902.

[0161] This embodiment is preferably used with additive or flavour components in a very concentrated form. For example, a sugar additive may be in a ratio of sugar to water of 50:50 or greater. Such high concentrations mean that the volume of additive required is greatly reduced, further improving the environmental benefits of lowering the packaging and reducing transport requirements. However, the venturi design of the input line 906 ensures that the component is still completely extracted, even if it has a high viscosity.

[0162] The concentrated components may allow smaller reservoirs 905 to be used and therefore a greater number within a single system, or alternatively may simply allow the reservoirs 905 to be replaced or refilled less often. If the reservoirs 905 are being replaced or refilled less often then it may be advantageous to add, change or increase the type or quantity of preservatives used, to ensure the shelf life is sufficient to allow the replacement to occur at these less frequent intervals. The concentrated components are also advantageous by reducing the packaging waste produced by the system, as packaging is somewhat proportional to the quantities of the components being used.

[0163] The carbonated water flows through the conduit 903 and exits into the mixer 902 via a nozzle 912. In the example shown, the mixer 902 is of a substantially spherical shape, which assists with mixing without generating excessive turbulence that may cause too much carbon dioxide to come out of solution. Once the mixing has occurred, the mixture is then dispensed via an outlet 913 to a receptacle 914.

[0164] Figure 10 is a schematic view of a mixing and dispensing system according to another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, water from a water source is filtered

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU and/or conditioned in apparatus 920, such as using one or more processes as described previously. The water is then supplied to three storage tanks. A first storage tank 921 holds chilled carbonated water, a second storage tank 922 holds still chilled water, and a third storage tank 923 holds still ambient water.

10165] The first tank may have an input from a carbon dioxide storage reservoir 926, while in some alternative embodiments the water may be carbonated prior to entering the first tank

921. A carbonation pump may optionally be used to increase the pressure in the carbonation process to increase the amount of carbon dioxide going into solution, as higher pressures as well as lower temperatures will increase the carbonation levels.

[0166] A single refrigeration unit 925 may cool both of the first tank 921 and second tank

922. The first tank 921 and second tank 922 may be vacuum insulated tanks to provide high levels of insulation, thereby performing well in terms of retaining cold temperatures. This will reduce power requirements and further improve the environmental benefits of the invention. It will be appreciated that other insulation methods may be used in other embodiments, however.

[0167] The three tanks 921, 922, 923, allow the beverage to be mixed according to a user preference in terms of temperature and/or carbonation level. For example, a warmer beverage can be supplied by using more water from the third tank 923. Similarly, a more highly carbonated beverage can be supplied by using a higher percentage of water from the first tank 921.

[0168] The mixing chamber 902 in this embodiment is also a sphere shape, with liquid entering at the top and exiting at the bottom after mixing. The top of the chamber 902 has a round disk 930 with holes all around the side of the disk close to the surface of the inside of the spherical chamber 902. When liquid enters the chamber the dispersion disk 930 will cause the liquid to run along the entire inner surface of the sphere 902 and then come together at the very bottom of the sphere where mixing will occur.

[0169] At the bottom of the chamber is a ball 932 connected to a rod 933. The ball 932 is biased downwardly, such as using a spring, so that it blocks the exit. It can be lifted by an electromagnetic actuator 934 that pulls up the rod 933 that is connected to the ball 932, thereby allowing the beverage to be dispensed.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU [0170] Throughout this specification and claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word“comprise”, and variations such as“comprises” or“comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. As used herein and unless otherwise stated, the term“approximately” means ±20%.

[0171] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous variations and modifications will become apparent. All such variations and modifications which become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered to fall within the spirit and scope that the invention broadly appearing before described.

[0172] In the foregoing description of preferred embodiments, specific terminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as“front” and“rear”,“inner” and“outer”,“above” and“below” and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms

[0173] Reference throughout this specification to‘one embodiment’ or‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0174] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1) A beverage mixer and dispenser system for bespoke beverages, the mixer and dispenser system comprising: a) a liquid carrier supply inlet associated with a control component to control an amount released; b) a number of ingredient reservoirs to each hold an ingredient component, each associated with a control component to control an amount released; c) at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir to store carbon dioxide and associated with a control component to control an amount released; d) at least one mixer associated with each of the liquid carrier supply inlet, the number of flavour reservoirs, and the at least one additive reservoir, to mix a beverage on order from a customer; e) a dispenser portion to dispense the beverage from the mixer; and f) a control system associated with each of the control components, the mixer, the dispenser, the at least one carbon dioxide storage reservoir and at least one communication pathway to receive instructions from the customer to produce the beverage and then to control operation of the control components, the mixer, and the dispenser to produce the beverage on demand.

2) The system according to claim 1, wherein a number of the ingredient components are a flavour component and at least one of the ingredient components is an additive component.

3) The system according to claim 2, wherein the beverage includes more than one of the flavour components.

4) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the beverages are ordered and personalised using a personal mobile computing device allowing communication with the mixer and dispenser to issue instructions to the controller in relation to the beverage required.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU 5) The system according to claim 4, wherein the computing device can be configured to gradually alter the instructions issued over time.

6) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a consumer can alter the number and/or amount of ingredient component(s) in the beverage.

7) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dispenser portion can dispense the beverage to different receptacles, including a receptacle supplied by a consumer.

8) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid carrier supply inlet is configured to supply a base liquid from a source that is external to the system.

9) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises at least one filtration unit.

10) The system according to claim 9, wherein the filtration unit performs a filtration process based on reverse osmosis.

1 l)The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is configured to perform at least one water conditioning process.

12) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises a refrigeration unit configured to cool the liquid released by the liquid carrier supply inlet.

13)The system according to claim 12, wherein the refrigeration unit is located within a housing of the system.

14)The system according to any one of claims 12 or 13, wherein the refrigeration unit may cool only a portion of the liquid released by the liquid supply carrier, the portion being selectable by a consumer or calculated based on a selection by the consumer.

15) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the ingredient reservoirs is a refillable and/or replaceable pouch.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU 16) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the ingredient components is an additive chosen from a group comprising: one or more sugar syrups; artificial sweetener; guarana and/or a similar substance; a protein rich substance; an electrolyte mixture; and alcohol and/or a mixture including an alcohol.

17)The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carbon dioxide is combined with liquid released from the liquid carrier supply inlet prior to being supplied to the mixer or any flavour or additive components being added.

18)The system according to claim 17, wherein the carbon dioxide is combined with only a portion of the liquid that has been cooled.

19)The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carbon dioxide storage reservoir is located within a housing of the system.

20) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixer is substantially spherical in shape.

21)The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixer comprises one or more agitators.

22) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system comprises a monitoring subsystem to monitor levels of components, operations undertaken by the system, refilling amounts and/or timings, and/or revenue made.

23) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least some of the control components comprise a peristaltic pump.

24) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, where at least some of the control components comprise a venturi based mixing mechanism.

25) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a consumer may use a personal computing device to order the beverage and payment for the beverage may be accomplished via a software application operating on the personal computing device once the order has been placed and/or filled through an appropriate billing platform.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU 26) The system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a sterilising component as part of the dispenser portion.

Substitute Sheet

(Rule 26) RO/AU