WO2021168080A1

WO2021168080A1 - Beverage dispensing apparatus and methods for preparing beverages

Info

Publication number: WO2021168080A1
Application number: PCT/US2021/018532
Authority: WO
Inventors: Angus RITTENBURG; Casey PARZYCH; Ashleigh BALDWIN; R. F. Culbertson; Michael K. BOYER
Original assignee: Good Design, Inc.
Priority date: 2020-02-20
Filing date: 2021-02-18
Publication date: 2021-08-26

Abstract

A means for ingredients that are not water-soluble into a liquid is disclosed. A means for adding ingredients that are not completely soluble into a water containing liquid such as a liquid containing alcohol and water (including distilled spirits such as whiskey, rum, gin and vodka as well as ready to drink mixtures thereof), is also disclosed. A means for generating a flavored, an active ingredient and/or effervescent beverage with non-water-soluble ingredients using a replaceable cartridge (3) and a refillable or replaceable container, is also disclosed.

Description

BEVERAGE DISPENSING APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR PREPARING

BEVERAGES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention is directed to the field of apparatus and methods for preparing and dispensing beverages.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Pre-mixed and canned or bottled beverages typically have ingredients that will not separate over time. Ingredients for beverages that are not miscible with water must be converted into emulsions that will not coalesce during the shelf life of the product. A common method for making these emulsions requires ultrasonic mixing of the non- miscible ingredient, surfactant, and water.

[0003] This pre-mixed beverage arrangement has several shortcomings. For example, sonication of ingredients is an added process that can increase the cost of manufacturing. The surfactants used to make such emulsions stable often bring their own flavors that are not desirable and must be masked with product flavoring. The masking flavors cost additional money and require additional steps during processing. In some cases, the masking flavors make it impossible to achieve a desired flavor profile. In addition, the relative quantities of ingredients are at the discretion of the manufacturer, not the customer.

[0004] Conventional beverage arrangements require a consumer to acquire a container filled with liquid and transport it to the location where it is consumed. The shortcoming to this arrangement is that packaged liquids have considerable density, volume and weight. For example, to carry enough beverages for a consumer to use throughout the day requires the consumer to transport several cans or bottles. However, the basis of most beverages is water, with a small amount of flavoring and other additives added (typically about 0.5 percent). Water is available in most places already. There is a need in the art for a portable solution that allows one to use the water that is already available at their location and add the flavoring and additives to create their beverage in a convenient manner.

[0005] Another shortcoming of present beverage packaging is the volume/weight of the goods as well as the non-renewable waste generated. Distributors incur great cost transporting final product from manufacturer to consumer. In addition, significant energy is required to transport these goods which is damaging to the environment. The majority of the weight and volume of beverage products is water, with small amounts of flavoring and additives. There is also a need in the art for a consumer product that makes it fast and convenient for consumers to mix flavoring and additives to water. Such an invention would reduce the weight and volume of beverages products by more than 99 percent - decreasing logistics and energy costs. In addition, such an invention would decrease the non-renewable waste generated because less packaging would be required for the small amount of flavoring and additives.

[0006] One conventional beverage package is disclosed by USPN7886899B2 which relates to a container closure having means for introducing an additive into the contents of the container; the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The instant invention solves problems associated with conventional apparatus and methods by providing an apparatus that can combine the contents of a pressurized gas cartridge with a liquid. One embodiment of the present invention relates to an apparatus for mixing a fluidizable material with a liquid, the apparatus comprising a pressurized cartridge having a container that contains material to be fluidized and introduced into the liquid; wherein the cartridge and the container are positioned to force the contents from the container into the liquid.

[0008] One embodiment of the invention relates to the foregoing embodiment wherein the fluidizable material comprises at least one active compound. By “active ingredient” it is meant to refer to at least one of botanical extracts, pharmaceuticals, drugs, other medicaments, nutrients, animal extracts, microbial extracts, precursors thereof, among others. Active ingredient also includes compounds having a physiological effect including caffeine, nicotine, tobacco products, cannabis, mushroom, among others.

[0009] One embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments wherein the container defines an orifice that controls the flow of the fluidizable material into the liquid.

[0010] One embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments wherein the apparatus further comprises an adapter for receiving the container.

[0011] One embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments and further comprising at least one means that adjusts the flow of fliuidizable material into the liquid.

[0012] One embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments wherein the pressurized cartridge comprises at least one of carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

[0013] One embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments wherein the cartridge and container are removably connected to the container.

[0014] One embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments and wherein the fluidized material comprises at least one active compound.

[0015] One embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments and further comprising at least one means that adjusts the flow of the fluidized material (comprising the active compound) into the liquid.

[0016] One embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments wherein the pressurized material comprises at least one of carbon dioxide and nitrogen. [0017] A further embodiment of the invention relates to a method for dispensing a beverage using any combination of the foregoing apparatus.

[0018] One embodiment of the invention relates to the foregoing method wherein the fluidized material is mixed with the liquid before dispensing the beverage.

[0019] One embodiment of the invention relates to combining degassed oils to degassed liquids to create a stable emulsion without surfactants.

[0020] One embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments carbonating or creating effervescence in a beverage by filling the cartridge with a suitable gas in gas or liquid form.

[0021] The various embodiments of the invention can be used alone or in combinations with each other along with other features disclosed herein and within the scope of the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1 is an elevation view of an exemplary apparatus with a lid and cartridge. [0023] FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0024] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the apparatus of FIG. 1.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a elevation view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 prior to insertion of the cartridge.

[0026] FIGS. 5A and 5B are cross sections of an exemplary injection device in a respective upper position (prior to puncturing cartridge seal) and a lower position (punctured cartridge seal).

[0027] FIG. 6 is a cross section taken along lines 5-5 of the apparatus of FIG. 2.

[0028] FIG. 7 is an enlarged, partial elevation view taken from region 7 of the apparatus of FIG. 6. [0029] FIG. 8 is a cross section taken along lines 5-5 of the apparatus of FIG. 2.

[0030] FIG. 9 is an enlarged, partial elevation view taken from region 9 of the apparatus of FIG. 8.

[0031] FIG. 10 is a cross section taken along lines 5-5 of the apparatus of FIG. 2.

[0032] FIG. 11 is an enlarged, partial elevation view taken from region 11 of the apparatus of FIG. 10.

[0033] FIG. 12 is a cross section taken along lines 5-5 of the apparatus of FIG. 2.

[0034] FIG. 13 is an enlarged, partial elevation view taken from region 13 of the apparatus of FIG. 12.

[0035] FIG. 14 is a cross section taken along lines 5-5 of the apparatus of FIG. 2 showing additional storage space for cartridges or other components.

[0036] FIG. 15A is an exploded upper perspective view of the injection device of FIG. 5A.

[0037] FIG. 15B is an exploded elevation view of the injection device of FIG. 15A.

[0038] FIG. 16A is an elevation view of the injection device prior to puncturing the cartridge seal, including showing the cartridge.

[0039] FIG. 16B is a cross section taken along lines 16-16 of the outer housing of the injection device of FIG. 16A.

[0040] FIG. 16C is an elevation view of an inner housing of the injection device of FIG. 16A.

[0041] FIG. 17A is an elevation view of the injection device in an upper position after puncturing the cartridge seal, including showing the cartridge.

[0042] FIG. 17B is a cross section taken along lines 17-17 of the outer housing of the injection device of FIG. 17A. [0043] FIG. 17C is an elevation view of an inner housing of the injection device of FIG. 17A.

[0044] FIG. 18A is an elevation view of the injection device in a middle position after puncturing the cartridge seal, including showing the cartridge.

[0045] FIG. 18B is a cross section taken along lines 18-18 of the outer housing of the injection device of FIG. 18A.

[0046] FIG. 18C is an elevation view of an inner housing of the injection device of FIG. 18A.

[0047] FIG. 19A is an elevation view of the injection device in a lower position after puncturing the cartridge seal, including showing the cartridge.

[0048] FIG. 19B is a cross section taken along lines 19-19 of the outer housing of the injection device of FIG. 19A.

[0049] FIG. 19C is an elevation view of an inner housing of the injection device of FIG. 19A.

[0050] FIG. 20 is a side view of the injection device and lid in a cleaning configuration.

[0051] Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to represent the same parts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0052] This invention provides a means for adding flavoring and/or ingredients that are not water-soluble into a liquid. The invention also provides a means for adding active ingredients flavoring and/or ingredients that are not completely soluble into a water containing liquid such as a liquid containing alcohol and water (including distilled spirits such as whiskey, rum, gin and vodka as well as ready to drink mixtures thereof). In addition, this invention provides a means for adding active ingredients, flavoring and combinations thereof to water to make a beverage that is more desirable to the consumer. In this way, a consumer can carry portable cartridges and a refillable container and use a beverage selected by the consumer from the location of consumption instead of carrying prepacked beverages with them. This invention is novel in that it provides a means for generating a beverage with non-water-soluble ingredients using a refillable or replaceable cartridge and a refillable or replaceable container. Unlike existing apparatus, the entire device is portable and can be refilled anywhere. The device includes a dispensing system, a liquid to be prepared, and a cartridge containing gas, flavor, and other ingredients (which can be soluble and non-water-soluble). The cartridge can be made to comply with the filling requirements of 49 CFR 173.304 (2016) as well as the shipment requirements of 49 CFR 173.301 (2002); hereby incorporated by reference.

[0053] Plant extracts are one example of non-water-soluble active ingredients that are often mixed into beverages. Extracts and active ingredients will be referred to throughout this disclosure. It is to be understood that extract can include, without limitation, any botanical or other plant based ingredient that is to be mixed into a liquid.

[0054] Caffeine is one example of an additive that is often mixed with beverages. Additives will be referred to throughout this disclosure. It is to be understood that additives can include, without limitation, any ingredient that is to be mixed into a liquid.

[0055] This invention also provides a means for mixing the contents of the cartridge with the beverage. The additives, active ingredients, extracts, combinations thereof, among other compositions stored in the gas cartridge can be injected into the beverage by puncturing a puncturable seal in the cartridge, causing the pressurized gas to urge or push the contents into the liquid in a high velocity stream which encourages mixing. In this way, a user can simply fill the bottle with a beverage (for example, water) and add a desired composition by inserting a cartridge. A puncturable seal is just one way that the contents of the cartridge can be released - it is to be understood that this disclosure includes any means of releasing the contents including, for example, opening a valve. While any suitable cartridge can be employed, one example of a suitable cartridge is disclosed in the previously identified and related patent application entitled “A CARTRIDGE FOR DISPENSING PRODUCTS AND METHODS FOR THEIR MANUFACTURE.”

[0056] The invention further provides a method for adding a desired composition to a beverage and a method for dispensing the foregoing into liquid in the bottle without creating effervescence. This can be achieved by using a gas that does not dissolve in the liquid. While any suitable gas can be employed, in one example, nitrogen could be used for delivering the desired composition to a beverage (for example, water-based beverage). The liquid will not be made as effervescent because the gas is not as soluble in the liquid. In this case, the gas is useful for urging or pushing the flavoring and extracts from a pressurized cartridge into the beverages in a turbulent manner favorable for homogeneous mixing. The gas also adds pressure which can be used to force the liquid out of the bottle for dispensing.

[0057] The invention further provides a method for emptying a gas cartridge with any phase of gas as well as flavor and extracts into a liquid. As one example, the gas cartridge could be filled with a combination of liquified C02, fruit flavor, and CBD oil extracts and discharged into a water solution to create a fruit flavored CBD beverage. In a particular application, 3 grams of hemp extract could be put in a cartridge containing 2 ml of C02 gas at 100 psi. The cartridge could be used to add hemp extract to 1 liter of beverage liquid using the inventive apparatus. The inventive apparatus could then be used to dispense a hemp infused beverage.

[0058] The invention further provides a means for masking unfavorable flavors using gasses that change the nature of the liquid. As one example, Nitrogen is known to change the “mouthfeel” of beverages in a way that can change the way that flavors are perceived.

[0059] The invention also provides for using an inventive dispenser and cartridge with existing bottles by way of either a direct connection or an adapter or a coupler including via snap-fit and threaded connections (e.g., the dispenser is removably connected to the existing bottle and can be reused with another bottle). As just one example, an inventive dispenser and cartridge could be used to add flavoring and extracts to liquid by installing it on a common 2 liter soda bottle. The dispenser could have a standard bottle threads such as PCO1810 or PC01881; hereby incorporated by reference.

[0060] The invention also provides for using degassed ingredients in a cartridge and degassed liquid in a separate container. The cartridge could combine the degassed ingredients and the degassed liquid at the time of consumption. An advantage to this method is that ingredients that are not miscible in the liquid (such as essential oils) could be mixed (generally homogenously) in the liquid and stable for several hours. Without such an invention, one would have to create an emulsification using surfactants to create a stable oil in liquid emulsion. Surfactants are not desired because they negatively affect flavor and bioavailability. As one example, degassed oil could be injected into degassed water to create a mixture containing, for example, approximately 100 micron oil droplets for more than 3 hours.

[0061] Various embodiments of the invention are illustrated by Figures 1-20. Referring now to FIG. 1, FIG. 1 illustrates an apparatus 23) comprising a container (1) with a removeable lid (2) that houses a removeable cartridge (3). The lid (2) can be removably affixed to the container (1) by a connection system (46) or adapter including a threaded, snap, adhesive, compressible seal or ribs, among connections. The container (1) can be of any construction including plastic, metal, glass, among other suitable materials with single or multiple walls. Improved insulation can be achieved with thermally resistant materials, or by creating a hollow volume between the walls and removing any air to essentially eliminate heat transfer by convection and conduction.

[0062] Referring now to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 illustrates a button (5) in lid (2) which can be pressed to selectively release the contents of the container (1) through an opening or orifice defined upon the lid (2) (e.g., mouth spout (26)). Unless the button (5) is pressed, the container (1) with lid (2) is sealed so there are no fluid paths out of the container (1). The lid (2) also defines a receptacle (4) for receiving the cartridge (3) to be inserted into the lid (2). The interaction of the cartridge (3) with the container (1 ) and interior components of lid (2) is discussed in further detail in FIGS. 6-19C.

[0063] Referring now to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of one embodiment of the invention. An injection device (6) or mechanism can be connected to any lid (2) by any suitable connection means. In this embodiment, the injection device (6) is connected to the lid (2) by a snap fit. The injection device (6) is discussed in further detail in FIGS. 5-19C.

[0064] Referring now to FIG. 4, FIG. 4 illustrates the cartridge (3) which can be removed and/or inserted into the lid (2).

[0065] Referring now to FIGS. 5A and 5B, FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the injection device (6) separated from the lid (2). A cartridge (3) containing a liquid (9) and pressurized gas (8) is placed into the injection device (6). The injection device (6) includes a moveable inner housing (14) or moveable housing or receptacle relative to an outer housing (38), which moveable housing (14) receives the cartridge (3). The moveable housing (14) is spring loaded and biased vertically upward or away from a base (47) of outer housing (38) by a spring (15). The inside of the injection device (6) is hermetically sealed by a pivoting door (11 ) with a seal (12) in contact with the base (47). When the cartridge (3) is urged or pressed downward or toward base (47) of outer housing (38), the spring (15) compresses, and the moveable housing (14) urges or pushes the door (11 ) and seal (12) toward an open position by a sliding contact between an end (51 ) of moveable housing (14) and door (11 ), resulting in rotational movement (52) of door (11 ) relative to moveable housing (14). A seal (48) creates a hermetic seal against the cartridge (3) thereby preventing liquid from outside the injection device (6) to flow past the seal (48). Simultaneously with the door (11 ) being urged toward an open position, a sharp hollow member (10) punctures a puncturable seal (7) in the cartridge (3). When the puncturable seal (7) is fully penetrated or punctured, liquid (9) from within the cartridge (3) is free to flow through the hollow sharp member (10) in a concentrated stream (16). A sliding locking mechanism (13) having a sliding lock device (18) having sliding lock features or lock features engages a circumferential groove feature (19) formed in the cartridge (3). When the injection device (6) is in the upper position or position (50) FIG. 5A, the sliding lock feature (18) is spring loaded or biased radially outward against an angled feature (17). When the cartridge (3) is pressed down, the sliding lock device (18) is urged or pushed radially inward by the angled feature (17) until seating against or engaging the groove feature (19). In the lower position (FIG. 5A), the cartridge (3) is vertically constrained by the injection device (6) by the locking features of lock device (18). While a groove is shown in this embodiment, it is to be understood that any appropriate interface or engagement could be used between the sliding lock device and the cartridge. Additionally, the sliding lock device having a sliding lock feature could be spring loaded by any appropriate means including a spring, flexure, or any other form of a spring or biasing member. The sliding lock device having sliding lock features could also be a unitary piece such as a c-clip, snap ring, among other unitary structures providing a locking feature and biasing force. It is to be noted that the entire internal mechanism of the injection device (6) is hermetically sealed from the environment by seals (53) and (54) (e.g., reducing or eliminating need for cleaning of the mechanism itself). The mechanism is discussed in further detail in FIGS. 15A, 15B, 15C, 16A, 16B, 16C, 17A, 17B, 17C, 18A, 18B, 18C, 19A, 19B, 19C.

[0066] Referring now to FIG. 7, FIG. 7 illustrates the injection device (6) installed into lid

(2), which in turn is connected to container (1 ). In the embodiment shown, the cartridge

(3) is not discharged and the container (1 ) is hermetically sealed. In this embodiment, the injection device (6) is used to combine liquid (9) in the cartridge (3) with liquid (20) in the container (1 ) (e.g., liquid (20) can be any beverage or liquid selected by the user). The injection device (6) is connected to the lid (2) using multiple features such as snap features (21 ). The fluid path of liquid (20) from the inside of the lid (2) to the outside of the lid (2) through the injection device (6) is hermetically sealed using a face seal (12) on the door (11 ). The fluid path of liquid (20) from the inside of the lid (2) to the outside of the lid (2) through a mouth spout (26) of lid (2) is hermetically sealed using a radial o-ring (22). In this way, once installed (i.e., once the container (1 ) an the injection device (6) including the lid (2) has been interconnected), no liquid (20) inside the container (1 ) can flow out of the container through the injection device (6) which includes lid (2). The container (1 ) is further hermetically sealed by a face seal (25) between the lid (2) and the container (1 ). The mouth spout (26) is hermetically sealed by seal (22) which is mounted on an end (55) of a pivoting member (27), which is urged to a sealed position or seal by a spring (24) that biases or pushes up on the end (55) of pivoting member (27) against a corresponding inner surface (56) of lid (2). The button (5) is hermetically sealed by an upper seal (28) and a lower seal (29). A spring (30) imparts an outward force on the button (5) which keeps the button (5) positioned outward against a hard stop created by a clip feature (31 ) secured to lid (2). When the button (5) is pushed inward, the spring (30) is compressed and a wedge feature (32) on the button (5) forces an end (57) of the pivoting member (27) upward. This is further discussed in FIGS. 10-13.

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 9 which is taken from region 9 of FIG. 8, FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of FIG. 7 where the cartridge (3) is in a downward position discharging its contents. The sharp hollow member (10) has penetrated the puncturable seal (7) creating a fluid path via sharp hollow member (10) from within the cartridge (3) into the container (1 ). The pressurized gas (8) in the cartridge (3) causes the liquid (9) inside the cartridge (3) to flow through the sharp hollow member (10) and into the container (1 ) at high velocity which encourages homogenous mixing with the liquid (20) in the container (1). It can also be seen that the door (11 ) and door seal (12) are opened by the moveable housing (14) as a result of being urged into pivoting rotational movement (52) by end (51 ) of moveable housing (14), which creates an unobstructed flow path for the liquid (9) from within the cartridge (3) to the liquid (20) in the container (1 ).

[0068] Referring now to FIG. 11 which is taken from region 11 of FIG. 10, FIG. 11 illustrates the invention configured with the mouth spout (26) in the opened position (58). The button (5) is pressed inward causing or urging the spring (30) to compress. The upper seal (28) also moves inwardly, creating a path (59) for air to flow between the button (5) and the lid (2) interior of lid (2) and in fluid communication with the opening of mouth spout (26) This airflow is critical for allowing liquid from within the container (20) to flow freely out of the mouth spout (26) without creating a vacuum in the container (1 ). When the button (5) is pressed, a wedge feature (32) moves inward, forcing the end (55) of pivoting member (27) upwards. The axis of rotation (33) formed through a portion of pivoting member (27) (the portion of pivoting member (27) through which the axis of rotation (33) extends is shown in dashed line for purposes of clarity) causes the end (55) of pivoting member (27) and mouth seal (22) to move downward and away from corresponding inner sealing surface (56) of lid (2), compressing the spring (24) and releasing or disengaging the seal (22) on the mouth spout (26). When the button (5) is released, the spring (30) urges or pushes the button (5) outward. Simultaneously, the spring (24) pushes the pivoting member (27) and seal (22) upwards against sealing surface (56) of lid (2), again creating a hermetic seal against the mouth spout (26).

[0069] Referring now to FIG. 13 which is taken from region 13 of FIG 12, FIG. 13 illustrates the axis of rotation (33) of the pivoting member (27) (Note FIG. 13 is a perpendicular cross section to FIG. 11 ). The pivoting member (27) is constrained by the injection device (6) below, and the lid (2) above. The injection device (6) is positioned between and connected to the lid (2) by features such as snap features (21 ). The pivoting member (27) is thereby horizontally and vertically constrained. A gap (34) is maintained between the injection device (6), pivoting member (27) and lid (2) allowing the pivoting member (27) to rotate freely about the axis of rotation (33).

[0070] Referring now to FIG. 14, FIG. 14 illustrates one embodiment of the invention wherein a compartment (37) is located in the base of the container (1 ) which can be used to store additional cartridges (36). The container (1 ) is made with a connection means for a removeable cap (35). When removed, the removeable cap (35) exposes a storage area (37) which can be used to store additional cartridges (36). The space can be used to store anything, but useful applications are storing extra unused cartridges, or storing used cartridges. It is to be noted that while the preferred embodiment shown has the cartridge injecting from the top of the container and the spare cartridges being stored at the bottom of the container, any suitable arrangement could be employed. For example, the injection device could be located at the base of the container, and spare cartridges could be stored in the lid. In such an embodiment, a charged cartridge would be inserted into the base of the container and the contents could be injected into the liquid in the container. This would be advantageous for injecting and mixing into viscous liquids in the container such as smoothies or soups. Injection from the base could also be advantageous for carbonating beverages, where significant bubbling encourages faster carbonation by increasing surface area between the carbonating gas and the liquid to be carbonated. In summary, this disclosure teaches that the cartridge could be inserted anywhere on the container to inject its contents into the container.

[0071] Referring now to FIGS. 15A and 15B, FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate differently oriented exploded views of the injection device (6). The injection device (6) comprises the cartridge (3) which is inserted into the moveable housing (14). The sliding lock features (13) are installed into the moveable housing (14). A cam (39) or cam body is installed on the moveable housing (14) and permanently restrained when a retainer (44) such as a c- clip or c-clip feature 44) is installed in a groove (49) on the moveable housing (14). The moveable housing (14) is then installed into the injection device outer housing (38) which is shown as a cross section in FIG. 15B. The cross section reveals internal follower features (43) which interface with the cam features (40) on the cam body (39). This interaction is further discussed in FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C, 17A, 17B, 17C, 18A, 18B, 18C, 19A, 19B, 19C. An end (60) of the sharp hollow member (10) is installed in a corresponding feature (61 ) in the injection device outer housing (38) by any suitable means including a snap fit, press fit, weld, bond, among others. The spring (15) is placed between the moveable housing (14) and the injection device outer housing (38). The door seal (12) is snapped into the door (11 ). Any suitable connection means between the door and door seal is taught including bond, weld, snap fit, press fit, among others. The door (11 ) is connected to the injection device outer housing (38) by any suitable connection means including snap fit, press fit, fastener, among others.

[0072] Referring now to FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C, 17A, 17B, 17C, 18A, 18B, 18C, 19A, 19B, 19C, FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C, 17A, 17B, 17C, 18A, 18B, 18C, 19A, 19B, 19C illustrate an embodiment of the invention wherein injection device (6) where the cartridge (3) remains in the lower position after being pushed a first time, and then returns to the upper position after being pushed a second time. Each progressive downwards push on the cartridge (3) causes the injection device (6) to move between 4 distinct positions - an upper position (50) (FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C), a lower position (63) (FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C), a middle position (64) (FIGS. 18A, 18B, 18C), and a second lower position (65) (FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C). In this way, a cartridge (3) can be inserted into the injection device (6) and pressed once to insert and lock the cartridge (3) into the injection device (6), then pressed again to release the cartridge (3) from the injection device (6).

[0073] Referring now specifically to FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C, FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C illustrate the injection device (6) and cartridge (3) in upper position (50). FIG. 16A shows the injection device (6), including cartridge (3). FIG. 16B shows a cross section of the outer housing (38) of the injection device (6) with all other components hidden. FIG. 16C shows the injection device (6) with the outer housing (38) hidden. Referring first to FIG. 16A, the moveable housing (14) holds the cartridge (3) and is forced into an upward position by the spring (15) (FIGS. 5, 15B). As shown in FIG. 16C, cam body (39) or member is concentric with the moveable housing (14) and is free to rotate about a vertical axis(62), but constrained vertically by the teeth features (41 ) of the moveable housing (14) above, and the c-clip (44) below. The cam body (39) is free to move down relative to the moveable housing (14) enough to provide clearance between the cam teeth (42) and moveable housing teeth (41 ) such that the cam body (39) rotates freely relative to moveable housing (14). In this initial upper position (50), the teeth (42) on the cam body (39) are rotationally offset slightly from the teeth (41 ) on the moveable housing (14) such that a downward force on the cam body (39) relative to the moveable housing (14) causes a torque on the cam body (39) about axis (62). Referring now to FIG. 16B, a phantom outline of the cam features (40) of the cam body (39) illustrate the initial position of the cam body (39) relative to the outer housing (38). The outer housing (38) of the injection device (6) has follower features (43) that initially constrain the cam rotationally, but not vertically. When the cartridge (3) positioned in moveable housing (14) is pushed downward, the force imparted on the cartridge (3) is also imparted on the moveable housing (14) causing both the cartridge (3) and the moveable housing (14) to move downwardly in unison. The rotationally offset teeth (41 ,42) between the downwardly forced moveable housing (14) and the cam body (39) results in a rotational force or torque on the cam body (39) that urges the cam body (39) to rotate. However, the follower features (43) limit rotation of the cam body (39). As a result, the cartridge (3), moveable housing (14), and cam body (39) all move downwards together, with no rotation relative to one another. FIG. 16B illustrates the effect as the cam features (40) are brought into engagement with the follower features (43). [0074] Referring now specifically to FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C illustrate the injection device (6) and cartridge (3) in a lower position (63) which is caused by pushing the cartridge (3) downwards past upper position (50) (FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C). FIG. 17Ashows the injection device (6), including cartridge (3). FIG. 17B shows a cross section of the outer housing (38) of the injection device (6) with all other components hidden. FIG. 17C shows the injection device (6) with the outer housing (38) hidden. Referring first to FIG. 17A, the moveable housing (14) holds the cartridge (3) and is in downward position (63) compressing the spring (15) (FIGS. 5, 15B). As shown in FIG. 17C, the cam body (39) has rotated slightly so the teeth (41 ,42) between the cam body (39) and moveable housing (14) are meshed. This slight rotation occurs when the cam features (40) drop below the follower features (43) (as shown in FIG. 17B). When the cam features (40) drop below the follower features (43), there is nothing to counter the torque created by the rotationally offset teeth (41 ,42) of FIG. 11 , causing the cam body (39) (FIG. 17C) to rotate slightly. As shown in FIG. 17B, the cam features (40) of the cam body (39) (FIG. 17C) are now underneath the follower features (43). It is important to note that there is nothing to prevent the cartridge (3), moveable housing (14), and cam body (39) from moving upward due to the force of the compressed spring (15) (FIG. 5, 15B) when the downward vertical force on the cartridge (3) is removed. The resulting motion is described in FIGS. 18A, 18B, 18C.

[0075] Referring specifically to FIG. 18A, 18B, 18C, FIG. 18A, 18B, 18C illustrate the injection device (6) and cartridge (3) in a middle position (64) which is caused by pushing the cartridge (3) downwards to lower position (63) (FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C) and releasing. FIG. 18A shows the injection device (6), including cartridge (3). FIG. 18B shows a cross section of the outer housing (38) of the injection device (6) with all other components hidden. FIG. 18C shows the injection device (6) with the outer housing (38) hidden. Referring first to FIG. 18B, the cam features (40) on the cam body (39) (FIG. 18C) have moved upward to contact the follower features (43) on the outer housing (38). The sloped nature of the bottom surface of follower features (43) have caused the cam body (39) (FIG. 18C) to rotate slightly again. Referring now to FIG. 18C, the moveable housing (14) and cartridge (3) have moved upwards from lower position (63) (FIG. 17B). The cam body (39) has also moved upwards relative to the outer housing (38), but has moved downwards relative to the moveable housing (14). In the present position (64), the spring (15) (FIG. 18C) is pushing the moveable housing (14) upwards, but the cam body (39) is vertically constraining the moveable housing (14) because the cam features (40) of the cam body (39) are contacting the lower surface of the follower features (43) of the outer housing (38). The c-clip (44) on the moveable housing (14) is now contacting the cam body (39), which vertically constrains the moveable housing (14). The slight rotation of the cam body (39) has again caused a slight rotational offset between the upper cam teeth (42) and the moveable housing teeth (41 ). The injection device is now fixed in this middle position (64) until the cartridge (3) is pressed again. This offset of teeth (41 ,42) causes further rotation of the cam body (39) when a force is applied to the cartridge (3) again. It is worth noting that the locking features (13) described in FIG. 5 cause the cartridge (3) to be completely constrained in this middle position (64). That is, the cartridge (3) cannot be removed from the injection device (6) in this position.

[0076] Referring specifically to FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C, FIG. 19A, 19B, 19C illustrates the injection device (6) and cartridge (3) in a lower position (65) which is caused by pushing the cartridge (3) downwards. FIG. 19A shows the injection device (6), including cartridge (3). FIG. 19B shows a cross section of the outer housing (38) of the injection device (6) with all other components hidden. FIG. 19C shows the injection device (6) with the outer housing (38) hidden. Referring now to FIG. 19C, the cam body (39) has rotated slightly so the teeth (41,42) between the cam body (39) and moveable housing (14) are meshed. This slight rotation occurs when the cam features (40) drop below the follower features (43) as shown in FIG. 19B. When the cam features (40) drop below the follower features (43), there is nothing to counter the torque created by the rotationally offset teeth (41 ,42) of FIG. 17C, causing the cam body (39) to rotate slightly. As shown in FIG. 19B, the cam features (40) of the cam body (39) are now underneath the follower features (43). In the present position (65), the cam features (40) are positioned beneath a sloped surface on the follower features (43). In this lower position (65), the spring (15) (FIG. 5B) is compressed imparting an upwards force on the moveable housing (14). This upward force caused the cam body (39), moveable housing (14), and cartridge (3) to move upwards when the downwards force on the cartridge is removed. As the cam body (39), moveable housing (14), and cartridge (3) move upwards, the sloped surface on the follower features (43) cause the cam (3) to rotate and move upwards, bringing the entire system back to original upper position (50) shown in FIG. 16A.

[0077] Referring now to FIG. 20, FIG. 20 illustrates a feature that makes it easy to clean and maintain the apparatus. The injection device (6) is shown installed in lid (2). A feature such as snap feature (45) allows one to manually open the door (11 ) and lock it in the open position. During normal operation, the door (11 ) does not open far enough to engage the snap feature (45) so door (11 ) naturally returns to its closed position. However, by manually opening the door (11 ) and rotating to 90 degrees relative to the closed position, the snap feature (45) engages the door (11 ) and holds it open. In this way, the device can easily and thoroughly be cleaned. When ready for normal operation, the user simply needs to manually close the door (11 ), releasing it from the snap (45).

[0078] In the present disclosure, other than where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities or characteristics are to be understood as being prefaced and modified in all instances by the term "about." Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, any numerical parameters set forth in the following description may vary depending on the desired properties one seeks to obtain in the embodiments according to the present disclosure. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter described in the present description should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0079] Also, any numerical range recited herein is intended to include all sub-ranges subsumed therein. For example, a range of "1 to 10" is intended to include all sub-ranges between (and including) the recited minimum value of 1 and the recited maximum value of 10, that is, having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value of equal to or less than 10. Any maximum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all lower numerical limitations subsumed therein and any minimum numerical limitation recited herein is intended to include all higher numerical limitations subsumed therein. Accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to amend the present disclosure, including the claims, to expressly recite any sub-range subsumed within the ranges expressly recited herein. All such ranges are intended to be inherently disclosed herein such that amending to expressly recite any such sub-ranges would comply with the requirements of 35 U.S.C. .sctn.112, first paragraph, and 35 U.S.C. .sctn.132(a).

[0080] The grammatical articles "one," "a," "an," and "the," as used herein, are intended to include "at least one" or "one or more," unless otherwise indicated. Thus, the articles are used herein to refer to one or more than one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical objects of the article. By way of example, "a component" means one or more components, and thus, possibly, more than one component is contemplated and may be employed or used in an implementation of the described embodiments.

[0081] Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, is incorporated herein in its entirety, but only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material expressly set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the express disclosure as set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein is only incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

[0082] While the invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

The following is claimed:

1) An apparatus for mixing a fluidizable material with a liquid, the apparatus comprising a puncturable and pressurized cartridge that contains material to be fluidized and introduced into the liquid and a lid for receiving the cartridge; wherein the cartridge and the lid are positioned to force the contents from the cartridge into the liquid.

2) The apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the fluidizable material comprises at least one active ingredient.

3) The apparatus of Claim 2, wherein the lid defines a hollow member that is configured to puncture the cartridge and to control a flow of the active ingredient into the liquid.

4) The apparatus of Claim 1, wherein the puncturable and pressurized cartridge comprises at least one of carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

5) The apparatus of Claim 1 , wherein the liquid is contained in a removable container.

6) An apparatus for dispensing a liquid comprising a pressurized and puncturable cartridge that contains a material to be fluidized and introduced into the liquid, and a lid for receiving the cartridge; wherein the cartridge and the lid are positioned to force the contents from the cartridge into the liquid within a container wherein the lid controls the flow from the pressurized cartridge through the lid to create the fluidized material and to force the fluidized material downwardly into the liquid.

7) The apparatus of Claim 6, wherein the lid is removably connected to the container.

8) The apparatus of Claim 6, wherein the fluidized material comprises at least one active ingredient.

9) The apparatus of Claim 6, wherein the pressurized material comprises at least one of carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

10) The apparatus of Claim 6, wherein the lid comprises an injection device for puncturing the cartridge.

11) A method for dispensing a beverage using the apparatus of any of Claims 1 to 10.