ES2937791T3 - Systems and methods for dispensing beverages - Google Patents

Abstract

The beverage dispensing system (310) may comprise: a base (336) comprising a top surface and a first check valve (324A); piping (316) connected to the first check valve (324A) and to a source of a liquid milk product; and a container (312) comprising an interior, an upper end (318) and a lower end (320), the lower end comprising a second check valve (324B), the container removably engageable with the upper surface of the base; the container and the base being configured such that when the container engages the base, the first and second check valves are open, and the interior cavity of the container is in fluid communication with the pipeline through the first and second check valves. the second check valve, thereby allowing the liquid dairy product to flow from the source of the liquid dairy product into the container; (Automatic translation with Google Translate, without legal value)

Description

DESCRIPTION

Systems and methods for dispensing beverages

Background

Field

This description relates to systems and methods for dispensing beverages, such as systems and methods for dispensing espresso portions.

Description of Certain Related Techniques

Espresso coffee is a coffee drink made by forcing steam or hot water through ground coffee. Espresso coffee is typically thicker in consistency than drip coffee, which has a higher amount of dissolved solids than drip coffee by relative volume, and a serving size that is generally measured in spurts. When a portion of espresso is produced (called a "shot"), the ground coffee is subjected to high pressure in a beverage preparation machine. This transforms the ground coffee into a firm puck. Hot water is then forced through the disc to produce espresso coffee, which typically flows directly from the machine into a cup. The espresso cup is then removed from the machine for consumption, sale, etc. US 2014/182744 Al describes a situation where a container, if placed on top of a valve, pushes the valve element down and brings a pipe into the valve element in alignment with an inlet port. so that the fluid can be injected into the container. Furthermore, US 2008169048 Al describes a situation where the underside of the container can be coupled with a supply line for fluids. A one port valve which closes a container upon disengagement is provided on the underside of the container.

Brief description of the drawings

Various embodiments are depicted in the accompanying drawings for illustrative purposes, and are not to be construed in any way as limiting the scope of the embodiments. Various features of different described modalities may be combined to form additional modalities, which are part of this description.

In particular, a beverage preparation system is provided having the characteristics defined in claim 1. Furthermore, a method of producing a heated and aerated liquid is provided having the characteristics defined in claim 4.

In addition, a beverage preparation system is provided having the features

defined in claim 9.

Additional preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

Figure 1 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a beverage dispensing system.

Figures 2A-2F illustrate portions of the beverage dispensing system of Figure 1 in various operating states.

Figure 3 illustrates one embodiment of a dual jet beverage dispensing assembly.

Figure 4 schematically illustrates another embodiment of a beverage dispensing system, such as a system including the assembly of Figure 3.

Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example of the dual-stream beverage dispensing assembly of Figure 3.

Figure 6 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a method related to some of the beverage dispensing systems.

Figure 7 schematically illustrates another embodiment of a beverage dispensing system, such as a system comprising a base that is configured to engage with, and introduce fluid through, a bottom of a container.

Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example of the base of the system of Figure 7 coupled with the container.

Figure 9 represents additional examples of a base and a container that can be used with the system of the Figure 7, with the container in an upright position.

Figure 10 depicts the base and container of Figure 9, with the container in an inverted position.

Figure 11 represents a close-up view of the base of Figure 10.

Figure 12 represents a close-up view of a lower part of the container of Figure 10.

Figure 13 represents an example of tubing that can be used with the Figure 7 system.

Detailed description of certain modalities

Various systems and methods for dispensing beverages are described below to illustrate various examples that can achieve one or more desired improvements. These examples are illustrative only and are not intended in any way to restrict the general description presented and the various aspects and features of this description. The general principles described in the present description may be applied to embodiments and applications in addition to those discussed in the present description without departing from the scope of the description. In fact, this description is not limited to the particular embodiments shown, but instead is granted the scope as defined in the appended claims.

Although certain aspects, advantages, and features are described herein, it is not necessary that any particular embodiment include or achieve any or all of those aspects, advantages, and features. Some embodiments may not achieve the advantages described herein, but may achieve other advantages instead. Any structure, feature, or stage in any mode may be used instead of, or in addition to, any structure, feature, or stage in any other mode, or omitted. This description contemplates all combinations of features of the various embodiments described, within the scope of the appended claims.

Overview (Figure 1)

Figure 1 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a beverage dispensing system 10. For ease of presentation, the system 10 is discussed in relation to dispensing an espresso beverage, such as an espresso shot. But various modalities can also be applied in many other contexts, such as in the dispensing of brewed coffee, tea, juice, alcohol, and other types of beverages.

As illustrated, system 10 may include a dispensing unit 12 and a beverage preparation machine 14, such as an espresso coffee machine. Dispensing unit 12 may be connected to tubing 16, such as flexible or rigid tubing, to allow delivery of the beverage from beverage making machine 14 to dispensing unit 12. As shown, dispensing unit 12 may be detached from the beverage preparation machine 14. For example, the dispensing unit 12 may be placed above a counter and/or be generally visible from a front side and a rear side of the counter, and the beverage preparation machine 14 may be placed further under the counter, within a cabinet, and/or generally otherwise concealed from view from at least one of the front and rear sides. In various embodiments, the dispensing unit 12 is not received in, part of, and/or directly coupled to the beverage preparation machine 14.

The dispensing unit 12 may receive the beverage from the beverage preparation machine 14 through a fluid communication path through the tube 16. In some embodiments, the dispensing unit 12 is configured to contain and/or dispense the beverage. For example, the dispensing unit 12 may receive a stream of espresso coffee, hold the espresso coffee for a period, and dispense the espresso coffee into a cup or other container. In certain implementations, the dispensing unit 12 is configured to hold a single serving of a beverage, such as a single shot of espresso coffee. In some variations, the dispensing unit 12 is configured to contain multiple servings of a beverage.

In some embodiments, the dispensing unit 12 comprises a generally elongated hollow member. The dispensing unit 12 can be open at one end and closed at the other end. For example, dispensing unit 12 may include a hollow tube that opens at a first end 18 and closes at a second end 20. In certain implementations, as illustrated schematically in Figure 1, when dispensing unit 12 is in In a vertical configuration, the first end 18 is the top or uppermost end of the dispensing unit 12 and the second end 20 is the bottom or bottom end of the dispensing unit 12. In some embodiments, the dispensing unit 12 is transparent or semi-transparent . For example, the dispensing unit 12 can be made of transparent or semi-transparent glass or plastic.

As illustrated, dispensing unit 12 may be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation 22. For example, dispensing unit 12 may be rotatably connected to a base or support member (not shown). As will be described in more detail below, such rotation may allow the dispensing unit 12 rotate between various operating states, such as dispensing the drink from the dispensing unit 12 into a cup or other container. In the schematic shown, the axis of rotation 22 is located at or near the second end 20 (for example, the bottom) of the dispensing unit 12. In some variants, the point of rotation 22 is located at or near the first end. 18 (eg, the top) of the dispensing unit 12. In certain implementations, the point of rotation 22 is located between the first and second ends 18, 20, such as at or near the longitudinal midpoint of the dispensing unit 12. Certain embodiments are configured so that the dispensing unit 12 can rotate and can move laterally, such as in a side-to-side direction and/or a front-to-back direction on a counter. In some embodiments, dispensing unit 12 is connected to a link (not shown) that allows dispensing unit 12 to traverse a curved path. In some such embodiments, the dispensing unit 12 is capable of being reversed (for example, for dispensing and/or cleaning) but the path it takes is not a simple twist.

System 10 may include one or more position sensors configured to detect the location of dispensing unit 12. For example, system 10 may detect when dispensing unit 12 is in a receiving position (eg, upright), a position dispense, and/or a cleaning position (for example, inverted). In some embodiments, the system 10 can determine if the dispensing unit 12 is in position to receive beverages from the beverage preparation machine 14 and/or to receive cleaning fluid from a source.

The system 10 may include a flow control device, such as a check valve 24. The check valve 24 may be located at the second end 20 of the dispensing unit 12. The check valve 24 may allow fluid to flow at through the second end 20 and into the dispensing unit 12 and/or may inhibit or prevent fluid from exiting the second end 20 of the dispensing unit 12. In certain implementations, the check valve 24 is configured to close in certain orientations of the valve. dispensing unit 12. For example, check valve 24 may close (for example, due to the force of gravity acting on a movable sealing component of check valve 24) when dispensing unit 12 is in the vertical configuration and there is less than a minimal amount of fluid pressure in tube 16. In certain embodiments, check valve 24 is configured to removably engage with, and close, second end 20 of dispensing unit 12, as will be discussed with more detail below. In some implementations, check valve 24 is a ball check valve, diaphragm valve, duckbill valve, or in some other manner. In certain embodiments, check valve 24 is rotatably connected to tube 16, such as with a swivel coupling. This may allow check valve 24 and dispensing unit 12 to rotate relative to tube 16.

In some embodiments, system 10 includes a pump 26, such as a peristaltic pump. The pump 26 can push the beverage from the beverage preparation machine 14 to the dispensing unit 12. Some embodiments do not include a pump 26. For example, in certain variants, the pressure that is produced during the beverage preparation process (for example, the pressure that occurs during the preparation of espresso coffee) is used to propel the beverage from the beverage preparation machine 14 to the dispensing unit 12 without the need for a pump 26.

As further illustrated, certain embodiments include a control valve 28, such as a three-way valve. Control valve 28 may be adapted to switch between a first position and a second position. In the first position, check valve 28 may allow beverage to flow into dispensing unit 12. In second position, check valve 28 may allow cleaning fluid (eg, drinking water) to flow into unit dispenser 12. In some implementations, the flow of cleaning fluid purges or otherwise cleans part or all of tube 16, control valve 28, check valve 24, container 12, and/or other components of the system 10. In some implementations, control valve 28 is an electronic valve, such as a solenoid valve.

As shown, certain embodiments include a controller 30, such as a processor and memory. Controller 30 may be electrically coupled with various other components of system 10, such as via one or more cables or wires 32. In some mode, controller 130 communicates with one or more other components wirelessly, such as via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, etc. Controller 30 may control aspects of certain components of system 10. For example, controller 30 may control the operation of control valve 28 and/or pump 26. In some embodiments, controller 30 may instruct the preparation machine of drinks 14 that prepares a type of drink, size of the drink, strength of the drink, etc. In some embodiments, controller 30 and beverage maker 14 may communicate bi-directionally. For example, the controller 30 may send instructions to the beverage maker 14 and may receive information from the beverage maker 14, such as status information (for example, number of espresso shots produced in a certain period of time). , grain hopper status, etc.), health information (for example, fault codes and/or descriptions), etc.

Certain methods of dispensing a beverage (Figures 2A-2F)

Figures 2A-2F depict illustrative operating states of beverage dispensing system 10. As will be described in more detail, system 10 can be configured to introduce beverage B through the bottom. of the dispensing unit 12 when the unit 12 is in a vertical configuration. Certain modes are configured to rotate, or at least allow rotation of, the dispensing unit 12 to dispense the beverage contained in the dispensing unit 12 into a cup C or other container. Some embodiments are configured to introduce cleaning fluid through the top of the dispensing unit 12 when the unit is in an inverted configuration.

Figure 2A illustrates an example of feeding beverage B into dispensing unit 12. In some embodiments, during the feeding operation, beverage from beverage machine 14 may flow through tube 16 (for example, in response to at pump impulse 26) and control valve 28 may be toggled to allow beverage to flow into dispensing unit 12. The beverage flow may open check valve 24, thereby allowing beverage to flow toward the dispensing unit 12.

As shown, the dispensing unit 12 can receive the beverage in the vertical configuration (eg, an orientation in which a longitudinal axis of the dispensing unit 12 is generally parallel with the vertical). For example, the beverage can enter the dispensing unit 12 through the second end 20, which is the lower end of the dispensing unit 12 in the vertical configuration, and the first end 18 can be held higher than (for example, directly by above) the second end 20. In some implementations, the beverage is introduced into the dispensing unit 12 through a lower or lower portion of the dispensing unit 12. During the course of the beverage being introduced into the dispensing unit 12, the upper surface of the beverage in the dispensing unit 12 can be seen to progress upwards towards the top of the dispensing unit 12. This can provide a visual appearance of the beverage surging, growing and/or rising within the unit dispensing unit 12. In some embodiments, introducing the beverage into the dispensing unit 12 while the dispensing unit 12 is in the upright configuration may allow the beverage to remain in the dispensing unit 12 for a period of time and/or for activities to occur. of Inspection. For example, picking up the beverage in the vertical dispensing unit 12 may allow the beverage to be prepared earlier and ready for use at a later time, such as in response to a subsequent customer order. As another example, picking up the beverage in the vertical dispensing unit 12 may allow inspection of the characteristics of the beverage (eg, color, opacity, foam, etc.), the total volume of the beverage, or other characteristics. In some variants, the beverage enters the dispensing unit 12 when the dispensing unit is in a non-upright configuration. For example, the beverage may be introduced into the dispensing unit 12 when the first end 18 is lower than the second end 20. This may allow the beverage to flow out and/or be immediately discharged from the dispensing unit 12.

As shown in Figure 2B, the dispensing unit 12 can be partially, substantially, or completely filled with the beverage. For example, in some embodiments, the dispensing unit 12 is substantially refilled after receiving a volume that is equivalent to approximately one shot of espresso coffee. In certain implementations, the beverage preparation machine 14 is configured to dispense a quantity of beverage that is less than, or substantially equal to, the volume of the dispensing unit 12. In some embodiments, after a certain amount of time has elapsed and/or a certain volume of beverage has been introduced into the dispensing unit 12, the beverage flow ceases or decreases and/or the non-return valve 24 closes. For example, controller 30 may instruct beverage preparation machine 14 to stop beverage preparation. In some embodiments, the beverage may be held in the dispensing unit 12 for a period of time. This may allow for modifications to the beverage in dispenser unit 12. For example, additives may be introduced into the beverage contained in dispenser unit 12, such as sugar, flavoring (eg cinnamon, chocolate, vanilla extract, etc.) , dairy products, ice, etc. Certain embodiments include a cap (eg, a removable stop) that can be used to close the first end 18 of the dispensing unit 12, so that the dispensing unit 12 can be shaken and/or rotated to facilitate mixing.

As mentioned above, the dispenser unit 12 can be rotated to facilitate pouring of the beverage from the dispenser unit 12 into a cup C or other container. For example, as shown in Figures 2C and 2D, the dispensing unit 12 can be rotated in a first direction about the rotation point 22, such as at least approximately: 90°, 120°, 150°, 170°, 180° , 190°, 210°, values between the values mentioned above, or in any other way. In some embodiments, the point of rotation 22 is positioned at or near the lower or lower portion of the dispensing unit 12. In certain variants, the point of rotation 22 is positioned approximately in the center of the longitudinal length of the dispensing unit. 12. Some embodiments rotate about an axis that is generally parallel to the horizontal and/or passes through the second end 20 of the dispensing unit 12. In various embodiments, the dispensing unit 12 is configured to pour the beverage directly into the cup or other container, without intervening the tube 16 or other structures. As mentioned above, in certain implementations, the beverage may be inserted into the dispensing unit 12 when the first end 18 is lower than the second end 20. For example, the beverage may be inserted into the dispensing unit 12 in the position shown in Figure 2D. . The drink can be poured immediately instead of being collected within the dispensing unit 12.

In some embodiments, the system 10 includes a drain or receiving basin, which can collect splashes and spills that occur during pouring. The drain or receiving basin can be covered with a grate, in which the cup or other container is placed to receive the drink. The grid may include coded markings (for example, words or symbols) that indicate to a user where to place the cup or other container to receive the beverage from the dispensing unit l2.

In certain embodiments, system 10 is configured to flush dispensing unit 12. For example, as shown in Figure 2E, dispensing unit 12 can be rotated to an approximately inverted position. In some embodiments, check valve 28 is toggled to allow cleaning fluid to pass into dispensing unit 12, for example, to allow potable water to flow through tube 16 and check valve 24 and into the unit. dispenser 12. As shown, in some embodiments, the cleaning fluid enters the second end 20 of the dispenser unit 12, which is the upper end of the dispenser unit 12 when in the inverted position. The cleaning fluid may pass through the interior walls of the dispensing unit 12. In some embodiments, the cleaning fluid may be discharged from the first end 18 of the dispensing unit 12 and into the drain or receiving basin.

Certain implementations are configured to spray, or otherwise distribute, the cleaning fluid around the entire, or at least substantially the entire, inner circumference of the dispensing unit housing 12. This can increase the possibility that the cleaning fluid reaches substantially the entire internal surface area of the dispensing unit 12. Some embodiments include a diffuser configured to direct the cleaning fluid around substantially the entire internal circumference of the dispensing unit 12. In certain implementations, the cleaning fluid is sprayed against the internal surface of the dispensing unit 12 at a substantially perpendicular angle and/or at or near the second end 20 of the dispensing unit 12. Some embodiments are configured to spray the cleaning fluid in a downward direction .

In some variations, the system 10 includes jets and/or nozzles adapted to spray cleaning fluid into the dispensing unit 12. For example, the jets and/or nozzles may spray cleaning fluid generally upwards at the first end 18 of the unit. dispenser 12. Cleaning fluid can fall downward through the force of gravity into the drain or receiving basin. Some embodiments do not include jets or nozzles configured to spray cleaning fluid upward into the dispensing unit 12.

Some implementations include drying functionality. For example, some modes include an active drying feature, such as a blower. The blower may be configured to direct a flow of air around and/or into the dispensing unit 12 (for example, through the first end 18) to facilitate drying of the dispensing unit 12. Some implementations include a passive drying feature, such as a rest period. For example, the movement and/or use of the dispensing unit 12 may be stopped for a period to facilitate drying, such as for at least about: 5 seconds, 10 seconds, or in any other manner. In some embodiments, the rest period occurs when the dispensing unit 12 is in the inverted position.

As shown in Figure 2F, the dispensing unit 12 can be rotated (for example, in a second direction opposite to the first direction), such as to approximately the vertical position shown in Figure 1. This can put the dispensing unit 12 in a position to be ready to receive another amount of beverage from the beverage preparation machine 14, and to again progress through part or all of the operating states described above.

Multi-stream dispenser assembly (Figures 3 and 4)

Certain beverage preparation machines are adapted to produce multiple servings of a beverage at one time, such as two shots of espresso. Therefore, it may be advantageous for a beverage preparation system to be configured to receive, hold, and/or dispense multiple portions of the beverage, such as being configured to receive, hold, and dispense two shots of espresso coffee. An example of a dual-stream beverage dispensing assembly 111 is illustrated in Figure 3 and an example of a system 110 including assembly 111 is illustrated in Figure 4. As shown, assembly 111 may include a first dispensing unit. 112A and a second dispensing unit 112B.

Many of the features of system 110 are the same as, or similar to, the features described above in connection with system 10. To illustrate such correspondence, many of the numerals used to identify features of system 110 are increased by a factor of one hundred with reference to numerals used in connection with system 10. System 110 may include one, some, or all of the features of system 10, including all combinations and sub-combinations. Furthermore, any of the components of system 110 may be similar to corresponding components of system 10. For example, first dispensing unit 112A and second dispensing unit 112B may each be similar to dispensing unit 12 discussed above, which includes all combinations and sub-combinations. Any component or step described in any embodiment in this description may be used in another embodiment.

As illustrated, the first and second dispensing units 112A, 112B may each include a first open end 118A, 120A and a second closed end 118B, 120B. The second end 118B, 120B of the first and second dispensing units 112A, 112B may be connected to a rotatable member 134, which in turn may be supported by a base 136. Rotatable member 134 may allow the first and second dispensing units 112A, 112B to rotate relative to base 136 In some embodiments, rotatable member 134 mates with tube 116 through which beverage from beverage maker 14 can be supplied to first and second dispensing units 112A, 112B. For example, as shown, rotatable member 134 may connect to tube 116 through an elbow connector. In various embodiments, the rotatable member 134, as well as the dispensing units 112A, 112B, can rotate relative to the tube 116.

As shown, the base 136 can project upwards, which can elevate the dispensing units 112A, 112B above a CT counter on which the base 136 is placed. This can position the dispensing units 112A, 112B on an elevation which is greater than the top of the cup or container into which the beverage is to be poured, thus allowing the beverage to flow by gravity into the cup or other container when the dispensing units 112A, 112B are they spin down. In some embodiments, raising the dispensing units 112A, ^112b above the counter provides clearance to allow the dispensing units 112A, 112B to rotate without contacting the counter. For example, in certain embodiments, the dispensing units 112A, 112B can be inverted without hitting, impacting, and/or physically touching the counter. In some embodiments, dispensing units 112A, 112B include a handle 140 or other type of grip. The handle 140 may allow a user to rotate the first and second dispensing units 112A, 112B manually. In certain embodiments, the first and second dispensing units ^112a , 112B rotate together. In some embodiments, the first and second dispensing units 112A, 112B rotate independently, such as the first dispensing unit 112A being able to rotate relative to the second dispensing unit 112B and vice versa. In some embodiments, the first and second dispensing units 112A, 112B each have a handle 140 or grip. In certain variations, the assembly 111 includes one or more motors or actuators (eg, springs) configured to rotate the first and second dispensing units 112A, 112B, either together or independently. For example, some variants include one or more motors or actuators configured to return one or both of the dispensing units 112A, 112B to the upright position, such as after one or both of the dispensing units 112A, 112B have been rinsed with cleaning fluid and/or after a period has elapsed. Some implementations include a mechanism (eg, a releasable latch) that holds one or both of the dispensing units 112A, 112B in a lowered position, such as in a pour position or the inverted position.

Figure 4 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a beverage dispensing system 110 including the dual-stream beverage dispensing assembly 111 of Figure 3. As shown, and similar to the discussion above regarding system 10, system 110 it may include a controller 130 and a beverage preparation machine 14. Some embodiments include a pump 126 configured to drive a flow of beverage from the beverage preparation machine 14 to the dispensing unit. Certain embodiments include a control valve 128 that is configured to switch between allowing the beverage to communicate in the dispensing unit and allowing a cleaning fluid to enter tube 116 and communicate in the dispensing unit. In some embodiments, control valve 128 is a solenoid or other electronically operated valve.

In some embodiments, system 110 includes a selector valve 142 configured to direct flow between first and second dispensing units 112A, 112B. For example, as shown in the Figure, system 110 may include a three-way valve that alternates between allowing the beverage to flow to the first dispensing unit and the second dispensing unit 112A, 112B. In some embodiments, selector valve 142 is a solenoid or other electronically operated valve. Selector valve 142 may be controlled by controller 130 or may be manually operated. In some implementations, system 110 automatically alternates beverage flow between dispensing units 112A, 112B, such as directing a first beverage portion to the first dispensing unit, a second beverage portion to the second dispensing unit, a third beverage portion of drink to the first dispensing unit, etc.

In various embodiments, the dispensing unit is readily visible. For example, in a retail environment, such as a coffee shop, the dispensing unit may be easily visible to a customer. In this regard, as mentioned above, in some embodiments, the dispensing unit is placed on a counter. In certain variants, the dispensing unit is visible from a first side of the counter (eg a user side) and from an opposite second side of the counter (eg a customer side). In some implementations, part or all of the other components of the system 110 are placed below the counter and/or otherwise out of view from at least the second side of the counter. For example, the beverage maker 14, controller 130, control and/or selector valve 142, and pump 126 may be located below the counter, within a cabinet, and/or otherwise outside of the counter. the view from at least the second side of the counter. In some embodiments, during a filling operation of the dispensing units 112A, 112B, the beverage may appear to a customer to materialize in the dispensing units 112A, 112B, as if out of nowhere. The customer can see the beverage dispensing from the bottom of the vertical dispensing unit and/or progressively collecting within the dispensing unit. In some implementations, the customer can see the dispensing unit being rotated and the beverage being poured into a cup or other container. In some embodiments, the customer can see the dispensing unit being inverted and/or flushed, such as above. down.

Removable dispenser unit (Figure 5)

Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the first dispensing unit 112A and associated mounting assembly 124. Similar or identical components may be used in system 10. In various embodiments, dispensing unit 112A is separable from other components of system 110. For example, dispensing unit 112A may be configured to be removed from mounting assembly 124. This may facilitate cleaning or replacement of dispensing unit 112A and/or mounting assembly 124. Mounting assembly 124 may comprise a check valve. retention.

As shown, dispensing unit 112A may include a generally elongated hollow body with a first open end 118A and a second generally closed end 120A. Second end 120A may include an opening 144, such as a hole in approximately the center of second end 120A. As illustrated, opening 144 may be adapted to receive a projection 146 of mounting assembly 124. Mounting assembly 124 or dispensing unit 112A may include a sealing member 148 (for example, an O-ring, gasket, or other type of seal) configured to provide a generally liquid-tight seal between dispensing unit 112A and mounting assembly 124. For example, opening 144 may include a rubber or plastic O-ring that seals against an exterior wall of projection 146 of check valve 124 when projection 146 of mounting assembly 124 is received in opening 144 of dispensing unit 112 A.

As mentioned above, dispensing unit 112A can be configured to be removed from mounting assembly 124. For example, in some embodiments, dispensing unit 112A can be separated from mounting assembly 124 by applying a tensile force generally along the longitudinal axis. A from dispensing unit 112A, thereby slidingly disengaging dispensing unit 112A and mounting assembly 124. In some embodiments, dispensing unit 112A is configured to disengage upon moving (eg, sliding) the dispensing unit 112A generally parallel with the longitudinal axis A. In some embodiments, the dispensing unit 112A is configured to disengage by rotating the dispensing unit 112A about the longitudinal axis A. For example, in some embodiments, the dispensing unit 112A is threadedly connected with mounting assembly 124 and/or rotary member 134, and is configured to disengage upon rotation of dispensing unit 112A about longitudinal axis A. Certain implementations are configured to engage and/or disconnect dispensing unit 112A and mounting assembly 124 without relative rotation of dispensing unit 112A and mounting assembly 124. In some embodiments, dispensing unit 112A is configured to contain fluid after it is disconnected from mounting assembly 124. For example, dispensing unit 112A may include a latch mechanism. (eg, a flapper valve, umbrella valve, duckbill valve, etc.) configured to close the opening 144, thereby inhibiting liquid in the dispensing unit 112A from being discharged through the opening 144. In some embodiments, dispensing unit 112 ^a comprises a check valve that inhibits leakage from port 144 after dispensing unit 112A has been disconnected from mounting assembly 124. In certain implementations, dispensing unit 112A may be disconnected from mounting assembly 124 and the contents of the dispensing unit 112A can be hand poured into a cup or other container. In some embodiments, the range of travel of the dispensing unit 112A is limited. For example, the dispensing unit 112A can be attached to the base 136 or another component of the system 110, such as with a rope, chain, cable, or in any other way.

As illustrated, in some embodiments, mounting assembly 124 includes a housing 150 with an interior chamber 152 that includes a conical wall 154. Chamber 152 may include a sealing member, such as a ball 156, that can seat against the conical wall. In some embodiments, the ball 156 is made of glass, plastic, or metal. As shown, in the vertical orientation of the dispensing unit 112A, the ball 156 can be sealed against the conical wall 154, such as by the force of gravity. When fluid is forced through tube 116, the fluid can displace ball 156, thereby opening mounting assembly 124 and allowing fluid to flow into dispensing unit 112A. When fluid flow slows or ends, ball 156 can again seat against conical wall 154, thereby inhibiting or preventing fluid flow in the opposite direction.

In certain embodiments, as dispensing unit 112A rotates, gravity moves ball 156 away from seating against conical wall 154, thus opening mounting assembly 124. In certain embodiments, such opening of assembly 124 does not occur until a certain amount of rotation of the dispensing unit 112A has occurred, such as at least approximately: 30°, 60°, 70°, 80°, 85°, 90°, 95°, values between the values mentioned above, or in any other way. In some variations, such opening of the mounting assembly 124 does not occur until a majority, or at least some, of the beverage in the dispensing unit 112A has been poured out of the first end 118A of the dispensing unit 112A.

In various embodiments, the opening of the mounting assembly 124 may result in and/or facilitate automatic cleaning of a portion of the tube 116. For example, the opening of the mounting assembly 124 may allow ambient air to enter the tube 116 This can help equalize the pressure between the inside of the tube 116 and the ambient and/or may reduce or eliminate a pressure differential (eg, vacuum) across tube 116. In some embodiments, allowing air to enter tube 116 may allow at least a portion of the beverage in tube 116 to flow back towards the beverage preparation machine 14, towards a container, and/or towards the drain or receiving basin. In various embodiments, rotating the dispensing unit 112A to pour the beverage into the cup or other container automatically results in the opening of the mounting assembly 124, such as without requiring any additional steps or actions by a user.

In some embodiments, when the dispensing unit 112A is in or near the inverted position (see Figure 2E), the mounting assembly 124 is open. For example, when dispensing unit 112A is in the inverted position, ball 156 can separate from conical wall 154 of interior chamber 152 and fluid can be allowed to pass through mounting assembly 124. This can allow fluid to flow through mounting assembly 124 and into inverted dispensing unit 112A, as discussed above.

Certain methods related to beverage dispensing systems (Figure 6)

Figure 6 illustrates an illustrative method 200 related to various beverage dispensing systems. As shown, in some embodiments, the method 200 includes introducing a beverage through a second end of the dispensing unit 202. This can be done when the dispensing unit is in the upright position, such that the second end is at the top. bottom of the dispensing unit and/or is below the first end. In certain implementations, the beverage is inserted generally upward into the dispensing unit (eg, upward and generally parallel with a vertical axis). Some embodiments include receiving, in the dispensing unit, at least about 1 squirt of drink and/or at least about 25 ml of drink. Certain variants include filling a substantial volume of the dispensing unit with the beverage, such as at least approximately: 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, percentages between the aforementioned percentages, or other percentages. Prior to block 202, some embodiments include preparing the beverage and/or transporting the beverage to the dispensing unit.

The method 200 may include rotating the dispensing unit to an intermediate position 204. For example, the dispensing unit may rotate at least approximately: 60°, 75°, 90°, 105°, 120°, values between the aforementioned values, or in any other way. Some embodiments of the method 200 include dispensing the beverage from the dispensing unit 206, such as by pouring the beverage directly into a cup or other container. In some embodiments, all or substantially all of the beverage is dispensed from the dispensing unit 206. For example, of the previously dispensed beverage volume contained in the dispensing unit, certain implementations include dispensing at least approximately: 90%, 95%, 99 %, percentages between the percentages mentioned above, or other percentages.

In some embodiments, the method 200 includes rotating the dispensing unit to a cleaning position, such as about an inverted position 208 . In some embodiments, the dispensing unit does not reverse perfectly. For example, the dispensing unit can be shifted from perfectly inverted to at least approximately: 1°, 3°, 5°, 10°, values between the aforementioned values, or in any other manner. In some embodiments, between block 202 and 208, method 200 includes rotating the dispensing unit at least approximately: 120°, 140°, 160°, 180°, 200°, values between the aforementioned values, or in any other way .

Certain embodiments include introducing the cleaning fluid through a second end of the dispensing unit 210. This can be done when the dispensing unit is in the inverted position, such that the second end is on top of the dispensing unit and/or or is above the first extreme. Some embodiments include placing a check valve to allow cleaning fluid, such as water, to pass through the valve and into the dispensing unit. Some implementations include flowing the cleaning fluid downward along part or all of the length of the dispensing unit. Some embodiments include conveying, with the cleaning fluid, debris from the internal surface of the dispensing unit. Certain implementations include discharging the cleaning fluid from the first end of the dispensing unit, such as into a drain or receiving basin.

In some embodiments, the method 200 includes rotating the dispensing unit 212, such as to the upright position. For example, the dispensing unit can be rotated approximately 180°. In some embodiments, the dispensing unit is rotated in opposite rotational directions when rotated from the upright to the inverted position, and from the inverted to the upright position. In some variants, the dispensing unit is rotated in the same rotational direction when rotated from the upright to the inverted position, and from the inverted to the upright position. Certain embodiments include placing a check valve to allow the beverage to pass through the check valve and into the dispensing unit. In some embodiments, such as embodiments with more than one dispensing unit, the method may include placing a selector valve to switch whose dispensing unit is configured to receive the next flow of beverage. As illustrated, method 200 may include a decision block 214, which may ask if there are additional beverage portions to prepare and/or dispense. If the answer is yes, then method 200 can return to the block 202 to introduce the additional beverage into the dispensing unit and the method 200 can continue. In some embodiments, if the answer to decision block 214 is no, then the method 200 terminates.

Certain beverage dispensing systems with removable containers (Figures 7 and 8)

Figure 7 illustrates an example of a beverage dispensing system 310. Many of the features of system 310 are the same as, or similar to, the features described above in connection with systems 10, 110. To illustrate such correspondence, many of the numerals used to identify the features of system 310 are increased by a factor of one hundred relative to the numerals used in connection with systems 10, 110. System 310 may include one, some, or all of the features of system 10 and/or system 110, including all combinations and sub-combinations. Furthermore, any of the components of system 310 may be similar to corresponding components of systems 10, 110.

System 310 may include, and/or be coupled with, a removable container 312, such as a vase, jug, mug, or other container. Container 312 may be configured to hold and/or dispense a beverage, such as a coffee beverage, dairy beverage (eg, milk, cream, half and half, or otherwise), juice, or other beverage. In some embodiments, container 312 is configured to hold multiple servings of the beverage, such as two, three, four, five, six, or more servings. As illustrated, container 312 may include an upper end 318 and a lower end 320, which may include the bottom of container 312. An interior of container 312 may be in communication with a source of liquid through tube 316, such as a source of a liquid beverage component. For example, a flow of milk from a milk dispenser may pass through tube 316 and into container 312. The interior of container 312 may contain a volume of liquid L, such as at least approximately: 250 ml, 500 ml, 750 ml, 1 liter, volumes between the volumes mentioned above, or other volumes. In some embodiments, system 310 is configured to introduce steam into container 312 and/or tube 316, as described in more detail below.

As shown, the lower end 320 of the container 312 can be coupled with a base 336 of the system 310. Such coupling can open a fluid passage (also called a port) into an interior of the container. For example, a container port 310 in the container 312 and a base port 372 in the base 336 can be opened, thereby forming a fluid passage therethrough. In some implementations, the fluid passage extends through the base 336 and through the lower end 320 (eg, the bottom) of the container 312. In some embodiments, the coupling of the container 312 and the base 336, and/or or a flow of fluid opens one or more flow control valves, such as a check valve 324A in the base port 372 and/or a check valve 324B in the container port 370.

As mentioned above, system 310 can be configured to place an interior of container 312 in communication with a source of liquid, such as a source of milk. In some embodiments, system 310 is configured to heat liquid (eg, milk) before the liquid has been introduced into container 312. For example, certain embodiments include a heater that is configured to heat liquid passing through through tube 316. The heater may comprise an in-line heater, heat exchanger, or in any other manner. The heated liquid can be introduced into the container 312, such as through the port in the container 312.

In some embodiments, the system 310 is configured to aerate the liquid, such as after the liquid has been heated. For example, after heated liquid has been filled into container 312, a steam wand can be inserted through an open top mouth of container 312 and into the heated liquid. Air and/or steam can pass through the rod and into the heated liquid. In some embodiments, air is added to the steam to facilitate the aeration operation, such as through an air inlet port in fluid communication with a steam stream from a steam source. In some variants, air is added to the liquid (eg, milk), such as through the steam wand before steam is introduced through the wand and/or through an air inlet port in tube 316. In certain implementations, air is added to the liquid to aerate the liquid before heating occurs.

In some embodiments, the system 310 is configured to heat and/or aerate the liquid after the liquid has been introduced into the container 312. For example, the system 310 may be configured to introduce unheated liquid (for example, milk at a less than or equal to about 45°F) in container 312, and then heating the liquid (for example, by introducing vapor into the liquid in container 312). The steam can transfer heat to the liquid and/or can incorporate air or other gases into the liquid. In certain implementations, the introduction of steam can induce movement of the liquid within the container 312, which can facilitate mixing. In some embodiments, heating, aeration, and/or mixing of the liquid occur substantially simultaneously and within container 312. In certain implementations, liquid is introduced substantially completely before vapor is introduced. For example, the introduction of the liquid may end before the introduction of the vapor begins. In some variants, the introduction of steam begins before the introduction of liquids ends.

In some embodiments, liquid and vapor are introduced through the same port, such as the port on container 370. In some embodiments, liquid and vapor are introduced through different ports, such as a dedicated liquid port and a dedicated vapor port on container 312 and/or base 336. As shown in Figure 7, in certain implementations (not in accordance with the present invention), one or both of the ports may be substantially radially centered relative to the dispensing unit 312 and/or base 336. In certain variants (which are in accordance with the present invention), one or both of the ports are not radially centered relative to the dispensing unit 312 and/or base 336. For example, the vapor inlet port may be offset from center. This can help achieve the proper turbulent flow to trap air and/or froth the liquid (eg, milk) in the dispensing unit 312. As illustrated schematically, the port or ports may be positioned at the bottom of the container. 312. This may allow the liquid to appear to rise and/or emanate from the bottom of the container 312 and/or for the vapor to pass through part or all of the depth of the liquid. In some embodiments, the port or ports are configured to provide a minimum liquid flow rate and/or a minimum vapor flow rate. The minimum flow rate may be a rate that provides at least a certain amount of volume within a period, such as at least about 450 mL of fluid in about 6 seconds. The minimum flow rate may be a rate high enough to create sufficient agitation and/or liquid mixing, and a rate low enough to cause substantially no splashing out of container 312. For example, the flow rate may be between about 1.0 m/s and 1.5 m/s, such as about 1.2 m/s. In some implementations, the liquid port has a diameter of approximately 9mm and/or the vapor port has a diameter of approximately 4mm. In certain embodiments, the vapor port comprises a restriction orifice, such as an orifice with a diameter between approximately 1 mm and 2 mm. In some embodiments, the orifice can help produce a satisfactory quality and/or amount of foam in the liquid, and/or can help control the amount of air entering the vapor stream.

As further shown in Figure 7, some variants of the system 310 include a control valve 328, such as a three-way valve. Control valve 328 may be configured to allow a flow of cleaning fluid (eg, potable water) to enter tube 316. In some implementations, the flow of cleaning fluid purges or otherwise cleans part or all of the of tube 316, control valve 328, container 312, and/or other components of system 310. Certain implementations of system 310 have additional valves or other components, such as a pump and/or controller. In some embodiments, system 310 is configured to automatically deliver a predetermined amount of liquid to container 312, such as at least about: 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml, 400 ml, 600 ml, 800 ml, 1 liter, volumes in between. the volumes mentioned above, or other volumes.

Certain implementations include a steam valve, which may be control valve 328 or another valve, that controls the flow of steam. In some embodiments, when the steam valve is open, steam can flow from a steam source and into tube 316. Steam can flow through tube 316, through the port, and into container 312. In some variants, the steam valve is part of a manifold. Some modalities include one or more check valves to inhibit or prevent backflow. For example, system 310 can be configured to inhibit or prevent liquid, steam, and/or condensation from flowing upstream to the milk source and/or steam source.

In some embodiments, the steam valve is controlled by a controller. The controller can operate the steam valve to provide a certain amount of steam, such as in terms of volume, elapsed time, desired amount of liquid heating (eg, temperature set point), or in any other manner. In some variants, the controller operates the steam valve to provide a certain amount of time, or a certain amount of flow, that the steam allows to flow into the container 312, such as at least approximately: 2 seconds, 4 seconds, 6 seconds, 8 seconds, 10 seconds, values between the values mentioned above, or other values. In certain implementations, the steam valve is a two-position valve, such as an electronic solenoid valve. In some embodiments, the steam valve is a variable valve, such as a ball or butterfly valve. This may allow adjustment of the volume and/or rate of steam delivered from the valve. For example, some modes are set to vary (eg, increase or decrease) the volume and/or velocity of the steam near the beginning and/or end of the steam introduction process, such as during or near the first and/or or the last 5 seconds of the process.

In some implementations, the controller is in communication with a user input device, such as a touchpad, dial, button, stick, or in some other way. In some implementations, after introducing milk into container 312, system 310 waits for a user to signal, via the user input device, that the steaming process should begin. In certain variants, after introducing milk into the container 312, the system 310 automatically begins to introduce steam into the container 312. The automatic introduction may occur substantially immediately after the introduction of the milk is complete, or after a period of time has elapsed. delay after the introduction of milk has finished. For example, the delay may be at least approximately: 1 second, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, or in any other manner.

Figure 8 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of an example of the base 336 mated (eg, mated) with an example of the container 312. As shown, the base 336 may include a platform configured to receive container 312, such as a generally flat and horizontal tray that stably supports container 312. Some embodiments include a sealing member 348, such as an O-ring. Sealing member 348 can provide a generally airtight seal to liquids between the container 312 and the base 336. As shown, the sealing member 348 can be placed in a groove in an upper face of the base 336. In certain variations, the sealing member 348 is placed in a groove in the bottom of container 312.

Base 336 may include check valve 324A, such as a duckbill valve, diaphragm valve, umbrella valve, ball check valve, or other type of flow control valve. In various embodiments, check valve 324A is configured to open in response to fluid flowing in one direction into container 312 and to close in response to fluid flow in the opposite direction and/or in response to substantially no flow. of fluid. Therefore, the check valve 324A can inhibit or prevent backflow of fluid.

As illustrated, container 312 may include check valve 324B. Check valve 324B may be configured to inhibit or prevent liquid from flowing out of container 312 when container 312 is disengaged from base 336. In some embodiments, check valve 324B includes an interior chamber 352 with a tapered wall 354. The Chamber 352 may include a sealing member, such as a ball 356, that can be seated against tapered wall 354. Ball 356 can be engaged with (eg, pressed against) tapered wall 354 by a biasing member, such as a coil spring 358. This can close check valve 324B and provide a generally liquid-tight seal. Therefore, the liquid L from inside the container 312 through the check valve 324 ^b can be inhibited or prevented from flowing out.

In some embodiments, check valve 324B on container 312 opens automatically when container 312 engages base 336. For example, as shown, a projection 360 of base 336 may engage ball 356 of the valve. check 324B. This can move ball 356 against the tilt of spring 358, which can open a flow path through check valve 324B. In certain embodiments, as shown in Figure 8, when container 312 mates with base 336 and fluid flow (eg, liquid or vapor) is in a direction toward container 312, fluid can flow through of check valves 324A, 324B, through the port, and into an interior of container 312. In various implementations, system 310 is configured to introduce liquid into container 312 through the bottom of container 312.

In some embodiments, check valve 324B closes automatically when container 312 disengages with base 336. For example, when container 312 is withdrawn from base 336, projection 360 of base 336 disengages from ball 356 and the inclination of the spring moves the ball back into engagement with the conical wall 354. This can result in the check valve 324B closing and inhibiting or preventing backflow of the liquid L. Therefore, the container 312 can move at another location without the liquid L spilling through the bottom of the container 312.

As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the base 336 includes the projection 360. In certain embodiments, having the projection on the base 336 may allow the container 312 to have a generally flat bottom, which may allow the container 312 to be placed stably on a counter or other location. In some variations, container 312 includes projection 360 and check valve 324A and base 336 includes check valve 324B, such as tapered wall 354 and spring-loaded ball 356.

Various modalities include certain other aspects, benefits, or features. For example, in some embodiments, container 312 does not include a magnetic seal. For example, in some embodiments, check valve 324A in container 312 is not a magnetically operated valve. In some embodiments, the non-return valve 324A is a valve comprising a diaphragm that is magnetically attracted to a lower part of the container, where the diaphragm separates from the lower part of the container 312 (for example, by a pillar) when container 312 mates with base 336, and wherein the diaphragm moves (due to magnetic attraction) for sealing engagement with the bottom of container 312 when container 312 disengages with base 336. In some embodiments Substantially all, the whole, or at least the bottom part of the container 312 is made of a magnetic material. In certain variants, substantially all, all, or at least the bottom of container 312 is made of glass or a metal, such as stainless steel. Various embodiments do not require container 312 to rotate relative to base 336 during engagement and/or disengagement between container 312 and base 336. In some implementations, the surface of base 336 that receives container 312 is generally flat and /o does not comprise an upwardly extending pillar. In various embodiments, container 312 is configured to be used to prepare a beverage and/or is not the container from which the beverage is consumed. In certain embodiments, system 310 is configured to introduce liquid into container 312 in a generally vertical direction and/or not in a substantially radially outward direction into container 312. In certain embodiments, system 310 is configured to heat the liquid, such as with a heating element that heats (eg, to at least about 45°C) the liquid flowing through the tube. In some implementations, the beverage source is not a pressurized carbonated beverage supply, such as a keg.

Figures 9-12 depict additional non-limiting examples of base 336 and container 312. As shown, base 336 can be placed on, under, and/or generally level with a counter or other surface. For example, as shown, the base 336 can be placed in an opening in the counter such that the top of the base 336 is approximately even with the top of the counter. In various embodiments, the periphery of the base 336 is sealed or otherwise connected to the counter to inhibit or prevent liquid from passing between the base 336 and the counter. As shown, in some variations, the base 336 includes a drain channel 362 and a drain outlet 364, which can receive residual liquid and drain it, such as into a tank floor drain, or in any other manner. Drain channel 362 may be positioned around base port 372 in base 336 to allow drain channel 362 to trap residual liquid from port 372.

As mentioned above, container 312 may include an upper end 318 and a lower end 320, which may include the bottom of container 312. The interior of container 312 may be in communication with a source of beverage liquid, such as a milk source. The lower end 320 of the container 312 can be configured to mate with the base 336. For example, the container 312 can rest on the base 336. In some embodiments, a projection (for example, a flange) of the container 312 is received in a cavity (for example, a channel) of the base 336.

In some implementations, when container 312 mates with base 336, container port 370 mates with base port 372. For example, ports 370, 372 may be positioned adjacent to and/or in fluid communication with one another. . In certain implementations, the mating of ports 370, 372 may open a fluid passage through base 336 and/or into container 312, such as to allow liquid to flow through base 336 and into the container. 312.

In some embodiments, one or both of the ports 370, 372 comprise a flow controller, such as check valves 324A, 324B. In some variations, the flow controller in the container 312 may comprise a gravity ball valve, such as described above in connection with Figure 8. In some implementations, the flow controller comprises an umbrella valve, spout valve, duck valve, slot valve, poppet valve, or other type of one-way valve.

In certain variations, container 312 and base 336 are configured to facilitate mating, such as with one or more mating features on container 312 and base 336. For example, as shown, container 312 may have four features mating features 366a-d and base 336 may have four corresponding mating features 366e-h. In certain variations, the container 312 and/or the base 336 have one, two, three, five, or more mating features. In some embodiments, the mating features 366 comprise magnetic elements, threads, projections (eg, pins) that fit into cavities (eg, slots), or otherwise. For example, in some embodiments where the mating features 366 comprise magnetic elements, the magnetic elements of the container 312 may attract, or be attracted by, the corresponding magnetic elements of the base 336. In various implementations, the mating features 366 may facilitate holding container 312 and base 336 together and/or sealing a fluid connection between container 312 and base 336.

Some embodiments are configured to help position container 312 relative to base 336. For example, container 312 and base 336 may include ramped surfaces that engage one another, thereby assisting in positioning (for example , centered) container 312 in base 336. In some variations, a portion of container 312 is received in base 336, which can help stabilize container 312. For example, a lip or shoulder on the bottom of container 312 it can be received in a corresponding cavity of the base 336 and/or on the counter.

Some modalities are configured to control, or at least drive, orienting container 312 relative to base 336. This can help align features of container 312 with corresponding features of base 336, such as corresponding steam ports. in container 312 and base 336, corresponding liquid ports in container 312 and base 336, and/or corresponding portions of a sensor in container 312 and base 336. In certain embodiments, the aforementioned mating features formerly facilitate orientation. For example, in some variants where the mating features comprise magnetic elements, the arrangement and polarity of the magnetic elements control the orientation of the container 312 relative to the base 336. For example, in some embodiments, the mating feature 366a has a negative polarity and the coupling characteristics 366b-d have a positive polarity, and the coupling characteristic 366h has a positive polarity and the coupling characteristics 366e-g have a negative polarity. In certain embodiments, when container 312 is positioned in base 336, the only orientation of container 312 relative to base 336 in which each of the mating features mates with a mating feature of opposite polarity is the orientation. wherein features 366a, 366h are coupled. Consequently, the orientation of the container 312 relative to the base 336 can be controlled.

Certain variants use physical interference to control, or at least drive, the orientation of container 312 relative to base 336. In some embodiments, container 312 and base 336 can be introduced to mate only in a certain relative orientation. For example, base 336 may have a shaped protrusion and container 312 may have a correspondingly shaped cavity, with the shape being such that the protrusion can only be received in the cavity in a single given orientation. In some embodiments, the shape is an irregular polygon. Certain implementations include a protrusion (eg, pin) that is offset from the center of base 336 and a cavity (eg, slot) that is at a corresponding location offset from the center of container 312.

In some embodiments, base 336 and/or container 312 comprise features configured to transmit a signal, such as a signal related to the temperature of container 312 and/or the liquid in container 312. For example, container 312 may include a probe 368a and base 336 may include a contact 368b. As shown, probe 368a can be placed inside container 312, to be in physical contact with the liquid in container 312. When container 312 and base 336 mate, probe 368a can mate with contact 368b to allow the signal from probe 368a is transmitted, via contact 368b, to controller or other system component 310. In some embodiments, the temperature of the liquid in container 312 is sensed with a contact device, such as probe 368a, which physically comes into contact with (eg, is immersed in) the liquid in the container 312. In certain variants, a non-contact device senses the temperature without physically coming into contact with the container 312 and/or the liquid. For example, some modalities have an infrared sensor.

In some embodiments, system 310 is configured to assist in cleaning container 312. For example, system 310 may be configured to partially or completely invert container 312 and/or to spray cleaning fluid (eg, water) into the container. 312. In some embodiments, this is accomplished by a user removing container 312 from base 336 and inverting container 312 by hand, such as on a separate rinse station. In some variants, container 312 remains engaged with base 336 and base 336 is configured to rotate, such as about an axis that is generally parallel to horizontal. For example, the base 336 can be rotated by a motor, which is controlled by the controller. Rotation of base 336 may result in container 312 in base 336 moving to a rotated position. In some embodiments, when moving to the rotated position, the container 312 is rotated, such as approximately 180° and/or inverted (eg, upside down). In some embodiments, from an upright to a rotated position, the container 312 is rotated at least approximately: 120°, 150°, 180°, 210°, amounts between the aforementioned amounts, or other amounts. In various embodiments, the strength of the engagement between container 312 and base 336 is sufficient to hold container 312 in base 336, even in the rotated position. In the rotated position, residual liquid, foam, or other material in container 312 can flow out of container 312 by the force of gravity. Some implementations include a drainage container or receiving basin under the residual liquid, foam, or other material.

Certain embodiments include a container cleaning unit, such as one or more nozzles. The nozzles can be configured to spray cleaning fluid (eg potable water) into the inverted container. For example, the nozzles may spray generally upward into the inverted container 312 to wash the interior of the container 312 and/or the container port 370. The cleaning fluid may fall into and be received by the drain container or basin. of reception. In some implementations, the operation of the nozzles is governed by the controller. For example, the controller may control the operation of a solenoid or other type of valve that opens to supply cleaning fluid to the nozzles. In some variants, the nozzles are part of the separate rinsing station and/or are manually controlled.

In some embodiments, after the container 312 has been washed, the container 312 returns to an upright orientation. In some embodiments, this is accomplished manually, such as by a user manually rotating base 336 and/or container 312 to the vertical orientation. In certain variants, the motor rotates the base 336 and/or the container 312 to the vertical orientation.

Figure 13 depicts an example of tube 316 that can be used in system 310. The example depicted is located directly below base 336, although other locations are also contemplated. As shown, the base contact 368b may be connected to a wire 374, such as an electric wire, and the drain 362 may be connected to a drain tube 376.

As shown, tube 316 can include a manifold 378. Manifold 378 can be connected to a plurality of tubes, such as two, three, four, five, or more. In some embodiments, manifold 378 connects with a tube carrying vapor and one or more tubes carrying liquid. For example, manifold 378 may be connected to a steam tube 316a, a milk tube 316b, and a water tube 316c. In some implementations, the steam tube 316a carries a mixture of steam and air. In certain variants, manifold 378 may be connected to a tube or tubes carrying other fluids, such as cold milk, hot milk, cold water, hot water, sauces, syrups, pumped ambient air (eg, pressurized), pumped heated air. , pumped cooled air, or other fluids.

Each inlet in manifold 378 may include a backflow prevention feature, such as a check valve. This can allow fluid from each of the tubes to be individually injected through the manifold. 378, through base 336, and into container 312. In various embodiments, manifold 378 and/or backflow prevention features can reduce or eliminate the possibility of fluid from a tube entering and/or contaminating the other tubes.

certain terminology

As used herein, the term "beverage" has its ordinary and customary meaning, and includes, among other things, any edible liquid or substantially liquid substance or product that has a fluid quality (for example, juices, coffee drinks, , teas, frozen yogurt, beer, wine, cocktails, liquors, spirits, cider, soft drinks, flavored water, energy drinks, soups, broths, combinations thereof, or the like).

Conditional language, such as "may," "might," "might," or "may," unless otherwise specifically stated, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended convey that certain modalities include, while other modalities do not include, certain features, elements, and/or stages. Therefore, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or stages are in any way required for one or more modalities or that one or more modalities necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without input or request. of the user, if these characteristics, elements, and/or stages are included or must be carried out in any particular modality.

Conjoint language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z”, unless otherwise specifically indicated, is otherwise understood with the context as used generally to convey that an element , term, etc it can be either X, Y, or Z. Therefore, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain modalities require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

Unless otherwise explicitly stated, items such as "a" or "an" should generally be construed to include one or more items described. Accordingly, phrases such as "a device configured for" are intended to include one or more devices mentioned. Such one or more mentioned devices can be further collectively configured to perform the indicated recitations. For example, "a processor configured to perform recitations A, B, and C" may include a first processor configured to perform recitation A working in conjunction with a second processor configured to perform recitations B and C .

The terms "comprising", "including", "having", and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended manner, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, etc. Likewise, the terms "some", "certain", and the like are synonymous and in an open-ended fashion. Furthermore, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of items, the term "or" means one, some, or all. the items in the list. The terms "about", "about" and "substantially" as used herein represent an amount close to the indicated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, in some embodiments, as the context may dictate, the terms "about", "about", and "substantially" may refer to an amount that is within less than or equal to 10% of the indicated amount. The term "generally" as used herein represents a value, quantity, or characteristic that predominantly includes, or tends toward, a particular value, quantity, or characteristic. As an example, in certain embodiments, as context may dictate, the term "generally parallel" may refer to something that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 20 degrees and/or the term "generally perpendicular" may refer to something that departs from exactly perpendicular by less than or equal to 20 degrees.

In general, the language of the claims should be interpreted broadly based on the language used in the claims. Claims should not be limited to the non-exclusive embodiments and examples that are illustrated and described in this description, or that are discussed during application processing.

Summary

Although this description describes certain embodiments and examples of beverage dispensing systems and methods, many aspects of the systems and methods described above can be differently combined and/or modified to form yet additional acceptable embodiments or examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this description. In fact, a wide variety of designs and approaches are possible and are within the scope of this description. For example, although the dispensing units shown in the figures have one or two dispensing units, certain other embodiments include additional dispensing units. Some embodiments have three, four, five, or more dispensing units, as well as one or more appropriate control and/or selector valves to direct the flow of beverage to the various dispensing units, such as instead of or in addition to the valves. controller and three-way selectors shown in Figure 4. As another example, although the controller is illustrated as having has wired connections to other components, in some embodiments the controller communicates wirelessly with one or more of the components, such as through radio frequency transmissions. As a further example, although some embodiments have discussed cleaning the dispensing unit in the inverted position, some embodiments are configured to clean the dispensing unit in a non-inverted position. For example, cleaning fluid can be introduced into the dispensing unit in the upright position and the dispensing unit can then be rotated to discharge cleaning fluid out of the dispensing unit. As yet another example, while some embodiments described above include a cleaning operation, certain embodiments do not include a cleaning operation. For example, the dispensing unit can be configured such that substantially all of the liquid (eg, at least 99.99% by volume) is discharged out of the dispensing unit, thereby reducing or eliminating a need to clean the dispensing unit. dispensing unit. In some implementations, the dispensing unit includes a surface treatment (eg, a hydrophobic and/or oleophobic coating) on the interior of the dispensing unit. Additionally, while some modalities are described as using steam to heat, aerate, and/or mix the liquid in the container, some modalities include other heating mechanisms (for example, electrical resistive heaters, electromagnetic induction coils, or whatever). otherwise), other aeration mechanisms (eg, rotating or vibrating members immersed in the liquid, etc.), and/or other mixing mechanisms (eg, stirrers, etc.). Although illustrative modalities have been described herein, the scope of all modalities having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (eg, of aspects across various modalities), adaptations, and/or alterations as would be appreciated by those skilled in the art in the art are based on the present description.

Furthermore, while there may be some embodiments within the scope of this description that are not expressly mentioned above or elsewhere in the present description, this description contemplates and includes all embodiments within the scope of what is shown and described in this description. Furthermore, this description contemplates and includes embodiments comprising any combination of any structure, material, stage, or other feature described in the present description anywhere with any other structure, material, stage, or other feature described in the present description anywhere. place.

Furthermore, certain features that are described in this description in the context of separate implementations may be further implemented in combination in a single implementation 27 . Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation may be further implemented in multiple implementations of separately or in any suitable subcombination. Furthermore, while features may be described above as operating in certain combinations, one or more features of a claimed combination may, in some cases, be removed from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as a sub-combination or variation of a sub-combination.

For purposes of this description, certain aspects, advantages, and features are described in the present description. Not necessarily all such aspects, advantages, and features can be achieved according to any particular modality. For example, some embodiments of any of the various systems described include the container and/or include pluralities of the container; some modes do not include the container. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure can be practiced or carried out in a manner that achieves an advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. description.

Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. Figures are drawn to scale where appropriate, but such scale should not be construed as limiting. Distances, angles, etc. they are merely illustrative and do not necessarily bear an exact relationship to the actual dimensions and designs of the illustrated devices. Components can be added, removed, and/or rearranged. In addition, the description in the present description of any feature, aspect, method, property, feature, quality, attribute, element, or the like in connection with various modalities may be used in all other modalities set forth in the present description. Furthermore, any of the methods described in the present description can be practiced by using any suitable device to perform the mentioned steps.

In addition, while components and operations may be shown on the drawings or described in the description in a particular arrangement or order, such components and operations need not be arranged and performed in the particular arrangement and order shown, or in sequential order, or include the totality of the components and operations, to achieve convenient results. Other components and operations that are not represented or described may be incorporated into the embodiments and examples. For example, one or more additional operations may be performed before, after, simultaneously with, or between any of the described operations. In addition, operations can be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. In addition, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above is not to be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it is to be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together into a single product or packaged into multiple products.

In summary, several illustrative modalities and examples of systems and methods for dispensing drinks. Although the systems and methods have been described in the context of those embodiments and examples, this description extends beyond the specifically described embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or other uses of the embodiments, as well as certain modifications and equivalents of are. This description expressly contemplates that various features and aspects of the described embodiments may be combined with, or substituted for, each other. Accordingly, the scope of this description should not be limited by the particular embodiments described above, but should only be determined by the claims that follow.

Claims (9)

1. A beverage preparation system comprising: a tube set (316) configured to convey a first fluid and a second fluid, wherein the first fluid comprises liquid and the second fluid comprises vapor; a base (336) connected to the tube set (316), the base (336) comprising a base port (372); and a container (312) configured to removably engage with the base (336), the container comprising an interior, a top end (318), and a bottom end (320), the bottom end (318) comprising a port of the container (370); the system that is configured such that, when the container (312) mates with the base (336), the first fluid and the second fluid are capable of passing through the port of the base (372) and the port of the container (370) and enter the interior of the container (312); where one or both of: i) the base port (372) is not radially centered relative to the base, and ii) the container port (370) is not radially centered relative to the container; and wherein the container (312) and the base (336) each comprise one or more magnetic elements (366), such that the arrangement and polarity of the magnetic elements (366) control the orientation of the container (312) relative to the base (336). 2. The system according to Claim 1, wherein the first fluid comprises milk. 3. The system according to any of Claims 1-2, wherein the port of the container (370) is placed in a lower part of the container (312). 4. A method of producing a heated and aerated liquid, the method comprising: receiving a container (312) in a base (336), the container having a container port (370) and the base having a base port (372); opening a fluid passage, the fluid passage extending through the base (336) and through the bottom end (320) of the container (312); introducing a liquid through the fluid passage; collecting the liquid in the container (312); introducing a gas through the fluid passage; passing the gas generally vertically upward into and through the first fluid collected in the container; heating the liquid with the second fluid; aerate the liquid with the gas; and close the fluid passage, wherein the fluid passage is formed through the container port (370) and the base port (372), and one or both of: i) the base port (372) is not radially centered relative to the base, and ii) the container port (370) is not radially centered relative to the container; and wherein the container (312) and the base (336) each comprise one or more magnetic elements (366), such that the arrangement and polarity of the magnetic elements (366) control the orientation of the container (312) relative to the base (336). 5. The method according to Claim 4, wherein the liquid comprises milk and the gas comprises a mixture of steam and air. 6. The method according to Claim 4 or Claim 5, wherein opening the fluid passage comprises opening the base port (372) and opening the container port (370). 7. The method according to any of Claims 4-6, wherein opening the fluid passage occurs automatically and substantially simultaneously with receiving the container (312) in the base (336). 8. The method according to any of Claims 4-7, wherein closing the fluid passage occurs automatically in response to the container (312) being withdrawn from the base (336). 9. A beverage preparation system comprising: a tube set (316) configured to convey a first fluid and a second fluid wherein the first fluid comprises liquid and the second fluid comprises vapor; a base (336) connected to the tube set (316), the base (336) comprising a first base port and a second base port; and a container (312) comprising an upper end (318), a lower end (320), and an interior configured to receive a volume of fluid, the lower end (320) comprising a first port of the container and a second container port, the container (312) being configured to mate with the base (336); the system which is configured such that, when the container (312) is mated with the base (336): the first fluid can pass through the first port of the base and the first port of the container and can enter the interior of the container (312); and the second fluid can pass through the second port of the base and the second port of the container and can enter the interior of the container (312); where one or both of: i) the first port of the base is not radially centered relative to the base, and ii) the first port of the container is not radially centered relative to the container; and wherein the container (312) and the base (336) each comprise one or more magnetic elements (366), such that the arrangement and polarity of the magnetic elements (366) control the orientation of the container (312) relative to to the base (336).