HK1188100B - Capsule based system for preparing and dispensing a beverage - Google Patents

Description

Bladder-based system for brewing and mixing beverages

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application No. 61/411,786 filed on 9/11/2010.

Background

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a system for dispensing a beverage. The invention also relates to a liner for use in a system for preparing a beverage, and to a method of preparing a beverage from a liner.

Description of the Prior Art

There are many devices and techniques for dispensing a beverage, such as a cup of coffee or tea, from a liner. In one method, a disposable container is stowed atop a cup and has a compartment for receiving a beverage extract, such as coffee, and a large reservoir above the compartment into which a person must pour boiling water. These devices can be disposable, but are expensive, the coffee is exposed to air, the coffee can easily deteriorate or become contaminated in the air, and they are generally not suitable for automatic coffee brewing machines or other beverage machines. Because the flow rate of the beverage is generally slow, these devices are generally large relative to the volume of beverage dispensed. These devices can also be designed to be used upright and only the bottom area can be used for filtering the fluid and this constitutes a reason for the slow filtering process. In one configuration, the filter is provided in a sealed receptacle and a support member is included between the receptacle and the filter, the support member acting to support the filter. When the filter is wetted, it sags and follows the support member, in which there are holes to drain the filtered beverage but block the output of the filter. Such filter designs used in applications where water is injected under pressure provide low flow rates.

There are a number of well known companies that run proprietary liner-based machines in Coffee and tea spaces, including Nespresso by Nestle, Keurig by Green Mountain Coffee rotator, and Tassimo by Kraft. Mars Flavia and Britta youce are machines that utilize a pouch-type, single-use dispensing system.

Currently, there are three other machines that attempt to commercialize a single-serve point-of-use beverage system that resembles a liner/pouch based. Omnifrio uses a piercing mechanism that pierces the top and bottom of the liner to allow the juice concentrate to exit. Bevyz uses a pressure mechanism to burst the inner bladder to achieve the mixing process. Finally, Esio makes a machine that provides a single-serve beverage solution using a pouch system.

A significant challenge when dispensing cold beverages in systems where the beverage is prepared by mixing a frozen liquid, usually water, with a powder, is that the powder does not dissolve efficiently during the mixing process. This can result in poor quality output from the beverage system and unsightly and potentially unhealthy residue remaining in the machine itself. The present invention is directed to a system for providing hot, cold ambient temperature mixed beverages that is designed to enable efficient mixing of the powder with the cold liquid during dispensing, resulting in little or no residue, contamination or cross-contamination between the beverages.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a powerful alternative to bottled water or other water based ready to use (RTD) beverages. The present invention aims to provide a convenient, reliable and cost-effective point-of-use solution to the consumer's refill and beverage needs. The present invention is a single-serve beverage system that is capable of producing unlimited amounts of freeze-filtered water as well as a single serve unique beverage through a proprietary liner-based system. The invention can be cold, hot, still (no foaming), flavored, enhanced, ultra purified filtered water and flavor.

These liners contain powders or liquids that are mixed into filtered water to produce a beverage. These drinks may be "home formulations" or common mass market brands of beverages.

Various embodiments of the present invention have several advantages:

required purified water: purified water with unlimited amount of filtration. Filtering out potentially unhealthy contaminants in the water.

Customized beverages meeting the requirements: consumers can drink their favorite brands of beverages that are brewed with very pure water and frozen to the correct temperature. Optionally making a frothed beverage available in certain machine models.

Reduction of C02: there is no need to transport heavy bottled beverages to the point of consumption. Each machine in use reduces carbon emissions.

Space saving: space is saved in the refrigerator/galley/food storage compartment without the need to stack large quantities of beverage.

Health benefits: the hydration is improved due to a more convenient and better hydration option, including better concentration, better circulation and overall better health.

Financial benefit: the cost of the liner is about 2-3% of the cost of conventional bottled water and about 33% of the cost of bottled beverages.

The pop-open method of opening the liner provides an effective and efficient way to brew and deliver a beverage. And a mechanical device is adopted to tear off a part or all of the top cover of the inner container. Or the motor is driven to rotate towards the cutter so as to cut or scrape the top cover of the inner container. Alternatively, a slight crease may be included in the lip of the liner that can be used to tear the seal and allow the lid to be peeled away. When the closure is peeled (torn or scraped), the beverage mixes with a liquid mixing stream, which in many embodiments is water, cold or hot, frothy or non-frothy. Flushing beverage powder concentrate out of the liner using a water stream from a common faucet has been successful and completed in a controlled trial in a fully functional laboratory setting.

In another embodiment, the present invention includes a liner that includes one or more folds at an interface between the liner closure and the liner body. A force can be applied to the liner to open the liner at the fold to access the beverage. The beverage can be mixed in the liner using a mixing flow into the liner, vibrated to remove material in the liner from the liner for mixing outside the liner, or a combination of both. In many embodiments, a smooth stream (fining stream) is used to direct the mixed stream into a container filled with the mixed beverage.

It is beneficial to promote controlled tearing of the folds of the liner, which may ensure smooth opening of the liner. The controlled tearing can reduce the force required to open the liner and/or provide a more uniform and repeatable tear to open the liner. A raised leading edge on the mechanism for opening the liner can provide controlled tearing. The raised leading edge can be positioned so as to assist in opening the liner along the longitudinal centerline of the liner or can be spaced from the centerline of the liner so that the opening will begin off the centerline and travel along the fold to open the liner.

Particular technical achievements of the present invention may include:

easy recovery: the liner is recyclable in a common aluminum recycling stream along with the aluminum cans. Recovery does not require special handling or collection. The inner container is free of residues or contaminants (such as coffee grounds).

Bacterial control: all are mixed in the inner container, so that there is no cross contamination between the possible sugar-containing substances dispensed by the machine and the machine itself. The finished product leaves the liner and enters the consumer's glass directly.

And (4) disinfection: the mixing chamber can be self-sterilizing by heat or UV light depending on the machine make and model.

Smooth flow with excellent mixing properties: the smooth flow mixes any powder or liquid that has entered the beverage container (e.g., glass). This relatively powerful jet creates a vortex in the glass/receptor, providing additional mixing. Alternatively, some machines may have a secondary flushable mixing funnel in which additional mixing may be performed for certain beverage types.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1A is a cross-section taken along section line 1A-1A in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2 illustrates a detailed view of the insertion of the liner in the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2A is a detailed cross-section taken along section line 2A-2A in FIG. 2 with the liner inserted into the dispensing apparatus;

fig. 2B-2D illustrate the liner opening process and beverage mixing according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3A is a cross-section taken along section line 3A-3A in FIG. 3;

FIG. 4 illustrates a view of the insertion of the inner bladder in the embodiment of FIG. 3;

FIG. 4A illustrates a cross-section taken along section line 4A-4A in FIG. 4 with the liner oriented for insertion into the dispensing device;

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention with the liner in the dispenser;

FIG. 5A is a cross-section taken along section line 5A-5A in FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 illustrates a view of the insertion of the inner bladder in the embodiment of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6A is a cross-section taken along section line 6A-6A in FIG. 6 with the liner disposed in the dispensing apparatus;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a cross-section taken along section line 7A-7A in FIG. 7;

FIG. 7B illustrates in detail a possible mixing action in the present invention (specifically, for example, the embodiment of FIG. 7);

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention illustrating one manner of squeezing the inner bladder;

FIG. 8A is a cross-section taken along section line 8A-8A in FIG. 8;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart detailing an exemplary process for blending a beverage in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10 is an exemplary system schematic depicting a flow path of fluid in a beverage dispenser;

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate another embodiment of the present invention wherein vibration is used during beverage mixing and/or blending;

fig. 12A, 12B, 13A and 13B illustrate details of the liner opening process of the embodiment described in connection with fig. 5 and 7 of the present invention;

figures 14A-14F illustrate details of the liner opening process of the embodiment disclosed in figures 5 and 7;

FIGS. 15-17 illustrate top views of the side and end portions, respectively, of the liner of the present invention;

FIGS. 18-20 illustrate top views of the side and end, respectively, of another larger inner bladder of the present invention;

these drawings are illustrative of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope or scope of the invention as set forth in the present application.

Detailed Description

The present invention relates to dispensing a substance from a container by a dispensing apparatus. Specifically, exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to (1) a liner; and (2) a dispenser having a mechanism for opening the liner; and (3) automated methods of dispensing content from such containers into consumer receptacles or glasses with the optional step of ejecting the liner at the end of the beverage brewing cycle. Each of these aspects will be described in more detail below:

(1) container/liner: the inner container consists of three parts, all of which are made of aluminium in the preferred embodiment, however other materials such as biodegradable materials and plastics are also possible with the present invention:

an aluminum foil sealing the top of the inner container,

a receptacle for storing the mixture, which may be in powder form and also in liquid form. The receiver may take a variety of shapes, such as an ellipse with half cut away when the receiver is viewed from the top, an

The more rigid top edge of the receptacle may be formed of the same or different material as the receptacle and bonded to the aluminum foil by some bonding agent, such as an adhesive.

In one embodiment of the invention, the inner container comprises a preform or receptacle forming a filled cavity. The liner body has an opening and an integrally flat annular rim surrounding the opening. The opening is closed by a cover sheet, sealed to the annular rim by a surrounding sealant.

The annular rim has a flat dispensing portion on either end, which is closed by a lidding sheet (e.g. aluminium foil), which is sealed to the dispensing portion by at least two outwardly directed sealing seams on each side, the annular sealing seams being joined and extending at either end at a distance from the annular sealing seams to the edge of the dispensing portion.

The weakened sealing extends between two oriented sealing seams on the vertical side: the notch between these two points is directed towards the inner cavity and the weakened sealing seam engages the respective outwardly directed sealing seam at a distance from where the respective outwardly directed sealing member engages the circumferential sealing member.

There are two sizes of bladders, one about 20cc and the other about 40 ccs. Of course, other dimensions are contemplated in the present invention. One difference between the two sizes is the volume of the receiving portion of the inner container, which in larger versions is longer and more volume, as more mixing agent can be stored. The tops of the liners are identical, allowing them to fit within the same internal chamber feed and ejection mechanisms of the machine. The liner contains a powder or liquid concentrate. According to an embodiment of the invention, the substance of the energy drink or other drink (e.g., powder or syrup or substance) is dispensed directly from the container into a serving container (e.g., cup or bottle). Water is also dispensed into the serving container so that mixing can occur in the serving container, thereby preventing contamination of the dispensing equipment and the substance. The liner is described in more detail below in conjunction with the figures.

(2) A dispenser for opening such liners. Another aspect of the invention is a dispenser for opening such a liner. Generally, to operate a machine, a user lifts a lid located on the top of the machine. The user then inserts the aluminum liner into the bracket or custom sized opening to secure the liner and close the lid. An optional optical scanner may be used to read an optional bar code on the liner to ensure that the control system, which may include a central processing unit, activates the appropriate mixing process. The inner container is opened through the process of clamping and uncovering the inner container. In one embodiment, the liner edge is gripped proximately by the lid mechanism and a portion of the liner top is torn by the feed mechanism which grips the trailing end of the liner and tears open the seam, and then continues to pull on the lid to tear the lid off the liner. The initial portion of the seam may require the greatest force to open and may be completed by the user. When the closure breaks the seal, a servomotor producing a lower torque can be selected to reduce the cost and complexity of the machine. In this embodiment, the liner can be rotated (e.g., swung down about 45-90 from horizontal) to facilitate breaking and tearing the lid on the top of the liner.

The support surface or edge supports the lidding sheet and keeps the leading edge securely clamped, but allows the lidding sheet to be peeled down along the sealed seam located down the dispensing portion of the edge and down the side edges. The seam may be optional if the selection of the appropriate lidding material or configuration is such that the tear is consistently accomplished along the desired path with a predetermined force. This way of opening the container does not require cutting devices or other devices adapted to open the container which may be contaminated with substances, which is advantageous from the point of view of hygiene and avoiding cross-contamination. Of course, the liner can be opened along the crease by opening one or both edges, as described in alternative embodiments below. In either configuration, the liner is provided with a concave liner guide edge, which has the benefit of guiding the flow of mixed product so as to reduce or prevent splashing and contamination of the dispensing equipment.

(3) Automated methods of compounding content from such containers.

The present invention contemplates a "cold fill" process, wherein the beverage in the La Vit machine is brewed by cold "fill" such that maximum mixing per liner is possible. The user introduces the individually packaged inner containers into the machine.

According to another aspect of the invention, the substance (e.g., powder, syrup, or other substance) without sugar or other beverage is dispensed directly into a serving container (e.g., such as a cup or bottle). Water is also dispensed into the serving container so that mixing can occur in the serving container, thereby preventing contamination.

Mixing the beverages: when the inner container enters the pouring angle of 45-90 degrees, water is injected into the inner container, and the powder or liquid in the inner container is mixed with the filtered water. Most or all of the mixing of the powder is completed in the inner container. The powder is granular and highly soluble in nature.

Optional secondary mixing: the water-based mixing is fed via gravity to a "funnel" or "collection tray" where secondary mixing takes place. This second mixing will be performed by means of water introduced into the side of the funnel, thereby creating a vortex in the second mixing chamber. The funnel creates a vortex, aided by a second orifice to add more water to the mix. The mix is then fed into the drink receptacle through the funnel and the dispensing spout. This step is optional and will depend on the machine model.

Pouring mass: the finished product exits the liner (or secondary mixing chamber) and is poured directly into the consumer's receptacle/glass. The main flow leaves the liner and feeds into the consumer receiver by gravity.

Smooth flow: the direct injection of a relatively pressurized secondary filtered water stream from the consumer receiver/glass causes agitation in the glass, thereby allowing any unmixed powder or liquid to be thoroughly mixed in the beverage container (e.g., glass).

Description of exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary beverage dispenser 10 of the present invention, and FIG. 1A is a cross-section taken along section line 1A-1A in FIG. 1. The beverage dispenser 10 is suitable for a home or business environment. As shown, the dispenser 10 is generally rectangular and is adapted to be located on a kitchen countertop or on a table of some suitable size. Although the overall dimensions of the device are about 30cm high, 20cm deep and 35cm wide, the specific dimensions may vary without departing from the scope of the invention set forth in this specification.

The dispenser 10 includes an optional display 12, the display 12 being used to communicate dispenser status information (such as blending, mixing, improper liner size) or other information that may be useful to a user, including information about the beverage being blended (such as calorie count, ingredients, manufacturer information) or even advertising. Advertisements may be associated with specific beverage selections so that if, for example, a person selects a drink to which vitamins are added, the advertisements may be targeted to the associated health-related product or to a store that sells the associated health-related product. Fig. 1 illustrates step 1, wherein the device provides initial instructions to the user, such as "select beverage liner", "lift handle", and "insert liner". The instructions may have a step number or a letter associated with the step number to assist during operation of the machine. Various images or icons may be used to represent steps or instructions. The icons may represent steps of a process or may represent a condition of a machine, such as available, working, etc., or may represent a condition of a beverage, such as hot, slightly hot, cold, etc.

For example, the display may be programmed to illustrate steps of the beverage blending process. Step 1 of the blending process may include a display that provides initial instructions to the user, such as "select beverage liner", "lift handle", and "insert liner". The instructions may have a step number or a letter associated with the step number to assist during operation of the machine. Various images or icons may be used to represent steps or instructions. The icons may represent steps of a process or may represent a condition of a machine, such as available, working, etc., or may represent a condition of a beverage, such as hot, slightly hot, cold, etc. Another step of the process (e.g., step 2) may include a display in which information from the device is displayed, e.g., the device senses that a step was taken, e.g., the liner has been inserted into the machine. The screen illustrates a request to "order" so that the process of ordering can begin. The user may then press a touch screen button or icon to begin the compounding process. Alternatively, buttons on the machine may be used instead of or in addition to the touch screen controls. The instructions may be separate from the icon that begins the beverage blending process or the icon may overlap the instructions. An additional step (e.g., step 3) may be to use a display to show the status of the machine during the blending process. Icons and/or words or phrases may be used to display the status of the machine. The final step (e.g., step 4) may be an exemplary screen display adapted to notify the user that the beverage is ready and the blending process is complete. Words or icons may also be used to convey the message to the user. While four steps are used to describe the process, the present invention also contemplates a touch screen beverage blending process having multiple steps as part of the blending process. Fewer steps are also contemplated and are within the scope of the present invention. Of course, other lights, such as LED lights, may be used to illustrate different portions of the machine and the dispensing compartment in a manner that may provide additional lighting and/or convey information to the user. The liner bar code enables the machine to read the liner and display information related to the liner and the correct movie. The programming may be updated using a USB key or wirelessly.

Actuator buttons 14 and 16 are provided to enable a user to select a particular beverage. For example, the button 14 may be selected to dispense hot water, and the button 14 has a suitable indication to inform the user of the dispenser what can be selected, using "H" in the figure. Alternatively, another indication may be used, such as a color (e.g., red) or a wavy line over the liquid sign. The button 16 may be used to initiate a beverage dispense cycle in which cold water is used to mix the beverage and an appropriate indication (such as the letter "C") may be used. Of course, other types of flags may be used to indicate an actuator for dispensing a cold beverage. In addition, the optional sensor 18 may be used to determine whether a beverage container (not shown in FIG. 1) is present in a suitable filling position 24 on a carrier 22 of the beverage dispenser.

The dispenser 10 includes an openable door or lid 26 that is actuated by a handle 28. The cover 26 is shown at the top of the dispenser, but may be located at the front or side of the dispenser. Access to the portion of the dispenser's liner-receiving compartment 30 is provided by a lid or door, which includes a pivot 27 that enables the door to swing open, as shown in fig. 1A. Of course, any type of mechanism may be used. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a mechanism for mixing and dispensing a beverage is described below. The side removable collection bin 40, constructed with walls 42, can be used to store used liners, as described below. The rear 44 of the dispenser 10 may be used to house a CPU and other electronic components 46, a water container (in fig. 1A), or a refrigerator for cooling the water (see fig. 9). A heater for heating water may be provided (refer to fig. 9). As an optional desired feature, the beverage dispenser may include a window that displays the actual filter or a representation of the filter that communicates to the user that water is being filtered through the system.

As shown in fig. 1A, the dispenser 10 also includes an optional mixing funnel 48, which mixing funnel 48 may direct water into the beverage container and aid in the mixing process. The mixing funnel may be shaped in various ways and used to direct the beverage. The mixing funnel may optionally be provided with a nozzle 92 that dispenses the secondary mixed flow 94. In addition, other types of beverage directing structures may be used to direct fluid into the beverage container. For example, although not shown in this embodiment, the fluid may be directed along the inside or even outside of the tube or cylinder so that the flow is smoothly discharged. Smooth tubes or cylinders may be used in addition to or in place of the mixing funnel.

In lieu of, or in addition to, the mixing funnel 48, the spout 45 may provide a smooth flow of liquid 230 (e.g., water). The position of the slipstream nozzle 45 is preferably in front of the combined stream flowing from the funnel 48 (if any) or the combined stream flowing from the liner (from the perspective of the user), as described in detail below. A smooth flow may be used as a supplement to the mixing flow instead of the mixing flow (if the user only needs filtered beverage). The smooth flow allows the beverage to be mixed in the mixing container if the beverage mixture in the liner is deposited in the beverage container without a mixing flow. Furthermore, when a smooth flow is used, as described in more detail below, the turbulent (and perhaps less perceptually suboptimal) flow may be covered by a more laminar smooth flow, thus providing a more perceptually pleasing beverage dispensing experience to the user.

Fig. 2 illustrates a detailed view of the insertion of the liner in the embodiment of fig. 1, and fig. 2A illustrates a detailed cross-section taken along section line 2A-2A in fig. 2 with the liner inserted into the dispensing device. Fig. 2A also illustrates two bladders 50, 52 that may be used to contain a mixture that may be mixed by the dispenser 10. In this embodiment of the invention, the liner has a rectangular (or square) top 54, 56 and an arcuate bottom 60, 62, respectively. The arcuate surface configuration may be modified to accommodate more or less beverage mix. For example, smaller bladder 50 may contain 20ccs of material and larger bladder 52 may contain 40ccs of a mixture. A larger liner 52 may be contemplated for more mixes to make a more potent beverage, sweeter to make a sweeter beverage, or for mixing any material that may occupy a volume greater than the 20cc size. Describing the components of bladders 50, 52 in more detail, it includes a lip 68 on which is placed (typically using an adhesive, not shown) a cover 70, which in an embodiment is a foil. The lip provides rigidity to the inner container. In a preferred embodiment, a foil lid is glued or otherwise sealed to the lip so that it is securely attached to the liner, and the material is sealed within the liner until the dispenser is dispensed.

Fig. 2A-2D illustrate a liner opening process and beverage mixing according to a first embodiment of the present invention, which may be described as a piercing and uncovering process. As described in more detail below, a portion of the foil is firmly secured ("pierced"), and then the liner is mechanically swung to tear or "peel" the liner open to enable the beverage to be mixed. Thus, the method of opening the liner of this embodiment is by tearing or peeling the top foil of the liner to enable the beverage to be (optionally) mixed in the liner itself to reduce the process of contaminating the dispenser with powder or unmixed drinks that may harbor bacteria. The bladders 50, 52 are selected to mix the beverage and fit into the slots 64 in the frame 72. during the dispensing process, the frame 72 swings on the pivot 74, as described below. Once the bladders 50, 52 are slid into the slots 64 so that they are stably secured on three sides (as in FIG. 2A), the lid 26 is closed on the pivot 27 in the direction indicated by the arrow.

An optical reader 80 may be used to scan information from the liner so that information about the liner and its contents may be processed in the CPU of the electronic package 46 (shown schematically in fig. 1) containing the beverage dispenser 10. In this way, the beverage dispenser can ensure that any programmable variable (e.g., temperature, volume, mixing parameters, etc.) can be incorporated into the mixing process of the beverage dispenser for a particular beverage.

Returning to the process of opening the liner, as the user closes the lid, the lid (or some other portion of the dosing mechanism 78) catches the tail end 58 of the foil and "tears" the opening seam. This initial first portion of the seam is the most difficult to open and is achieved by the user by depressing the lid 26. Once cracked, a servo motor (not shown) rotates the gear 82, which in turn rotates the driven gear 84, causing the frame 72 to swing about the pivot 74. As the frame 72 swings downward, the portion of the lid 70 that remains stationary and the remainder of the liner swings downward as shown in fig. 2C. Optionally, the liner is "cracked" by the force of the closure rather than by a servo motor within the dispenser. This enables the use of a smaller servomotor and ensures a service life. In this mechanism, the foil is not completely punctured, thus reducing the likelihood of possible contamination on the puncturing surface. The separation of the lid sheet from the dispensing portion of the liner then proceeds along a sealing seam oriented outwardly of the weakened seal. This way of opening the liner, without the need for cutting means or other means adapted to open the liner, which may be contaminated with substances, is advantageous from the point of view of hygiene and of avoiding cross-contamination. As shown in fig. 2C, a mixing stream 86 is provided from a spout 88, which mixes the contents of the liner in the container, and then is allowed to flow into the mixing funnel 48 through auxiliary spouts 90 and 92 (fig. 2C), so that the mixed beverage may be directed (and perhaps further mixed) to the funnel as it is directed to the mixed beverage container. An optional slipstream (as is often desired) may be introduced downwardly in the direction of the beverage container 90. The smooth flow 230 from the spout 45 can help mix the beverage (exiting the liner) and direct the mixed beverage to the glass 90. The funnel may be optional if the slipstream is optimally and appropriately designed.

Once the beverage is dispensed, the liner can be placed in the used liner collection bin of the beverage dispenser, as shown in fig. 2D. The feeding mechanism releases the edge 58 of the foil from its fixed position and the liner can then fall into the container due to gravity. Preferably, the frame is oriented such that the slot directs the used liner toward the used liner container. The beverage is dispensed, the liner is discarded in the used liner collection bin, and the dispenser is ready to dispense another beverage. The optical detector 43 senses when the used liner compartment is full and prompts a message on the display 12 to empty the collection bin.

Fig. 3 is an isometric view of a second exemplary embodiment of the invention, and fig. 3A is a cross-section taken along section line 3A-3A in fig. 3. In this embodiment, one or both of the front and rear edges of the specially configured liner are "split" along the seam to allow the beverage appliance (optionally) to mix within the liner. The overall shape and profile of the dispenser may be the same (and similar features of dispenser housings with similar numbers are identical), with the process of opening the liner being different.

In the second embodiment, the dispenser 100 includes a lid 126 configured to close about a pivot 127. A sensor 80 may be provided in the housing to read the flag command on the bladder. The liner as shown in fig. 4A can be two sizes, 20cc and 40 cc. The main difference between the dimensions is the volume of the lower part of the inner container. Fig. 4A also illustrates two bladders 150, 152 that may be used to contain a mixture that the dispenser 100 may mix. In this embodiment of the invention, the liners have a rectangular (or square) top 154, 156 and a concave bottom 160, 162, respectively. The concave surface configuration may be modified to accommodate more or less beverage mix. For example, smaller bladder 150 may contain 20ccs of material and larger bladder 152 may contain 40ccs of a mixture. A larger liner can be expected for more mix to make a more potent beverage, sweeter to make a sweeter beverage, or for mixing any material that may occupy a volume greater than the 20cc size. Describing the elements of the liner 50 in more detail, it includes a lip 168 on which a cover 170 is placed (typically using an adhesive, not shown), in an embodiment, the cover 170 is a foil. The lip or rolled edge provides rigidity to the liner. In a preferred embodiment, the foil lid is adhered to the lip so that it is securely attached to the liner, and the material is sealed within the liner. Liners 150 and 152 are described in more detail in conjunction with fig. 15-20.

Fig. 5 is an isometric view of a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention with liner 150 in dispenser 100, and fig. 5A is a cross-section taken along section line 5A-5A in fig. 5. Figure 6 illustrates a view of the liner of the embodiment of figure 5 inserted, and figure 6A illustrates a cross-section of figure 6 taken along section line 6A-6A with the liner disposed in the dispensing device. The liner 150 or 152 is placed in an opening in the frame 200, and the frame 200 is sized to receive the liner at the base of the lip 168. Once placed in the frame 200 as shown in fig. 5 and 5A, the lid closes on the pivot 127, the pivot 127 closing the lid to the dispenser. As shown in fig. 6 and 6A, the closure includes a portion 129 disposed toward the top of the liner in the frame 200. The optical reader 80 in section 129 scans the information from the internal bladder and sends it to the CPU (not shown in this figure).

Frame 200 includes three sections 202, 204, and 206. Section 204 is a middle portion of the frame and forms a seat to securely hold the liner when the ends of the liner are open. The section 202 is located at the front of the liner and the section 206 is attached at the rear to the middle portion 204 by pivot members 210 and 212, respectively. The pivot member 210 allows the front section 202 to swing upward relative to the middle portion 204. Likewise, the pivot member 212 allows the rear section to swing upward relative to the middle portion 204.

In the positions shown in fig. 6A and 6, the frame 200 may be considered to be in a "stop" position, in which the front, middle and rear sections are aligned in planar relationship by springs or the like (not shown). The front section 202 is located on the side rails of the guide 214. The track 214 functions as both a cam and a stop, as described below. Yet another cam 216 is located directly below the lower surface of the rear section 206, as best shown in fig. 6A. From the position shown in fig. 6A, the user manually presses down on the front of the bladder lip 168 to pivot counterclockwise about pivot 212. When the end of the bladder has been completely ruptured, the track 214 acts as a stop, as shown in FIG. 7A. The user can then release the lid during the mixing and dispensing cycle because a mechanism (not shown) holds the lid and frame in their fully downward position until after the squeeze cycle. As described in detail in connection with figures 17-20, the inner bladder includes a crease that allows for controlled splitting and opening of the end of the inner bladder, as shown in figures 7 and 7A. Relative movement between the middle portion 204 and the front and rear portions 202 and 206 is permitted by pivots 210 and 212 to open the bladder. Of course, a variety of mechanisms may be used to generate the relative motion between the front and rear sections and the intermediate section. For example, the intermediate section may be lowered by a servo mechanism, or the front and rear sections may be moved relative to the intermediate section by a servo mechanism, thereby enabling pivotal movement between the front and intermediate sections and between the rear and intermediate sections. Furthermore, although there are two pivoting members, it is within the scope of the invention to include a single pivoting member and only open one side of the liner to allow the mixture to pour. Also, the terms front and back are for orientation purposes and should not be construed to limit the description of the invention. It is possible that the inner container may be oriented at a different angle than the front to back orientation shown and that the pouring mechanism may be adjusted accordingly. Also, the opening and mixing may be front to back.

In one embodiment of the invention, as shown in figure 7A, the mixture in the liner is allowed to exit the liner before liquid is added. In this embodiment, the mixing may be performed in a mixing funnel and/or in the beverage container itself. Fig. 7B illustrates an alternative mixing possibility. A spout 218 secured within the rear section 206 provides a mixed flow 220 to flow water into the bladder. As shown, the mixed flow 220 is secured within the frame 200. Alternatively, it may be oriented outside the receptacle and in a manner that allows flow into the top of the liner so that water can mix with the beverage mixture. The amount, force and temperature of the mixing stream can be adjusted according to the specific mixture or it can be kept fixed in the apparatus. In addition, the smooth flow 230 from the nozzle 45 can be used to add additional water that does not need to be mixed with the beverage mix. For example, in an 8oz. service, a beverage may be mixed using 3 ounces of water, and may contain 5oz in a smooth stream. This allows mixing with a suitable amount of water without unduly delaying the time required to complete the mixing and beverage dispensing process. Further, because the smooth flow may be different from the mixing flow, the temperature of the mixing flow may be increased to ensure that the beverage mixture is completely dissolved. Chilled water may be used as a slipstream to ensure that the overall temperature of the beverage is at the desired chilled temperature. Another benefit of using an optional smooth flow is that it can help to create a laminar flow of beverage out of the machine so that the user of the beverage dispenser obtains a more pleasing perception of the laminar flow exiting the dispenser rather than a turbulent flow of mixed beverage. Such a smooth flow may help ensure that the use of the device is a pleasant and calm experience, enabling the user to enjoy the process of brewing a beverage.

As mentioned above, in the case of any one embodiment, there are several alternatives that may be employed in the mixing process. All the liquid that produces the beverage can be introduced by the mixing stream. This will ensure that the entire beverage is mixed and minimise the need for alternative mixing arrangements. Without a smooth flow, the dispenser is simplified. Based on the advantages of smooth flow, the currently contemplated use of beverage dispensers is to utilize both a mixing flow and a smooth flow. The ratio of usage of the slipstream to the mixing stream can be varied and can even be adjusted to the beverage. Another alternative design contemplated is to use a combination of "smooth flow" and beverage mix that is allowed to exit the liner due to gravitational forces.

The origin and orientation of the slipstream may also be varied. The smooth flow orientation may be set to enter the beverage container from an oblique angle and assist in the mixing process in the beverage container. A pleasant vortex can be created in the glass, which can contribute to the perceptually pleasing properties of the dispenser. A smooth flow may be introduced into the mixed flow below the opening (and along the sides) below the bladder. In this regard, the orientation of the mixing flow remains consistent with the smooth flow, and the smooth flow may introduce laminar flow quality into the beverage mixing flow and contribute to another type of pleasing appearance of the dispensed beverage. Finally, the smooth flow can be oriented such that it merges with the mixed flow as it exits the liner. This allows a laminar flow to be further introduced into the beverage preparation flow. This allows mixing to equilibrate the temperature to the desired temperature if different temperatures are used for the mixed stream and the smooth stream. Since warmer water causes the beverage mixture to dissolve more evenly, it is likely that the beverage will be mixed using warm/hot water and mixed with chilled or cooler water so that the overall temperature of the beverage is at the desired temperature. The use of warmer water in the mixing stream may also allow less water to pass through the mixing bladder and speed up the delivery of the mixed beverage. Of course, it is also possible to use cooler water in the mixing bladder and warmer water in the slipstream.

Figure 8 is an isometric view of another exemplary embodiment of the present invention illustrating one manner of squeezing the bladder, and figure 8A is a cross-section taken along section line 8A-8A in figure 8. In this embodiment, the beverage has been dispensed and the liner must be removed from the housing to allow the beverage dispenser to be used to receive another liner and dispense another beverage. In this embodiment, the middle section 204 includes two movable fingers, a left finger 204a and a right finger 204 b. The left and right fingers slide laterally toward the inner bladder so that the inner bladder is squeezed. The left and right arms 204a and 204b pass through slots in the sidewall of the liner-receiving compartment 30 and are actuated by a linear actuator (not shown). The liner is preferably made of a light and squeezable material, such as an aluminum sheet. Once the bladder is squeezed, it will fall through the opening in the frame.

An optional mechanism 240 is shown to open the empty liner container to allow it to fall into the container. This mechanism 240 can be controlled mechanically or by the CPU, the mechanism 240 including a linear actuator motor that moves a wall 242 so that it faces the receiving bladder, as shown in fig. 8A. The CPU may also control the receiver to orient the process for dispensing another beverage. Of course, a spring (not shown) may be provided to return the intermediate portions 204a and 204b to a position to accommodate the other bladder.

Fig. 9 details a flow chart illustrating an exemplary process for dispensing a beverage in accordance with the present invention. The exemplary process includes step 300 of a coordinator workflow, which may be displayed on a touch screen on the housing 10. In step 305, the device senses whether a beverage container (such as a glass) is present and what size the container is. The device reads the code on the liner (or packet) and determines the proportional size of each container according to step 310. In step 315, the device prompts the user to press a handle or otherwise initiate tearing of the bladder seal. In step 320, the dispenser requests the user to activate a hot or cold water beverage selection. It is also possible to initiate the beverage mixing process by pressing the closure to tear the inner container. Various automation features may be included to facilitate starting and automating the various mixing processes.

In step 325, the display screen displays the status of the dispensed beverage. In step 330, the liquid being dispensed is displayed and timed. In step 335, the device prompts the user that the beverage has been dispensed and asks the user to remove the beverage container from the dispenser. When the device senses that the beverage container has been removed, the recovery process is initiated in step 340 and the fingers of the intermediate portions 204a and 204b move to squeeze the liner. In step 340, the recovery tank door is also opened. In step 345, the liner is dropped into the recovery bin, then in step 350, the recovery bin is closed, and the system can be cleaned in step 355.

Words or icons may be used in the system to convey other system functions. May be executed by the machine and displayed on a touch screen to inform the user of steps that should be taken or possible functions to inform the user of the machine's status. For example, a touch screen may be used to instruct the user to clean the system. Further, the exemplary screen alerts the user that the trash bin is full and needs to be emptied. The dispenser may alert the user when the cold water tank is empty and water needs to be added. Of course, the machine may be connected to a water source, such as drinking water, in which case the user may be alerted to the issue of water replenishment or a problem with the connection. A hot and cold water source may be provided. Finally, if a filter is used in the device, a screen may be provided that instructs the user to replace the filter at the appropriate time. The appropriate timing for replacing the filter (e.g., number of uses, number of days of use, etc.) can be built into the programming. If desired, the screen can be customized to allow periodic cleaning or replacement of the "prefilter" and "depth filter" at different cycle times. Various images or icons may be used to inform and pleasure the user during the brewing and deployment cycle. The images and icons may be still or moving.

Fig. 10 is an exemplary system schematic 450 depicting a flow path of fluid in a beverage dispenser. Water may be provided through potable water conduit 452 and/or refillable water tank 454. The refillable water tank may have a capacity of about 2-5 liters. The water tank should have sufficient capacity to allow several beverages to be brewed in succession without the long delay of freezing or refilling the water tank. A pump 456 may be used to move water from the water tank 454 via a conduit 458 to a system valve 460, the system valve 460 controlling the source of water to be used in the dispensing. The system valve 458 may be used to shut off the water supply to the dispenser. Prefilter 430 is disposed along conduit line 462. The pre-filter may be a commercially available filter suitable for purifying water and removing impurities. Conduit valve 464 is a valve that controls smooth water circuit 466 and purge circuit 490. A dispense pump 470 is also provided along conduit 466 to provide fluid dispensed from the dispenser.

In a unit that provides heated and chilled beverages, the unit may be configured as shown with a hot water tank 472 and a refrigeration/chiller 474. Valves 476, 478, and 480 and conduits 464, 482, 484, 486, 488 are connected to these components. The dispenser outlets 494, 496 are used to dispense water from the system.

The dispenser according to the invention may comprise a "disinfection loop" which disinfects all post-filter chlorine-free conduits, so that bacteria in the conduits and the assembly are treated in an efficient manner. For example, the conduit may be purged by opening valves 480, 478, and 476 to allow the conduit to circulate hot water. Other types of cleaning/disinfecting designs may be used, for example the ducts may have internal and external fluid ducts that allow circulation of cleaning fluids.

Fig. 11A and 11B illustrate another embodiment of the present invention wherein vibration is used during beverage mixing and/or blending. In this embodiment, the inner bladder 150 is provided in the middle portion 504 of the frame 500, twisting the frame front section 502 and the frame rear section 506 (at 510 and 512), as described in earlier embodiments. Here, the inner bladder 152 is oriented adjacent to the vibration mechanism 520, and the vibration mechanism 520 is an eccentric weight arm 522 connected to a rotary motor (not shown) via a shaft 524. As the rotary motor rotates the eccentric weight, the vibrations generated in the bladder 152 mix with the beverage mixture in the bladder. The location of the vibrating device may be anywhere along the recess of the bladder. This may help to facilitate the beverage mixing process and make it easier. In addition, the vibration may help facilitate the removal of the beverage mixture from the liner and into the mixing area. In the preferred form illustrated in fig. 11B, vibration is combined when mixing is performed to ensure that the mixture is sufficiently wet and dissolved into the mixing water.

Vibration may be used with the mixed flow as shown. Vibration may also be used with mixed and smooth flows. Finally, the possible vibrations can be designed such that a sufficient amount of the material in the inner container is vibrated and can be mixed in the beverage container or in the mixing funnel.

Also shown in fig. 11A and 11B is an additional feature of the frame 500 that enables a more consistent opening of the liner during the opening process. A raised portion 540 at the front end of the frame 502 provides a focal location for initiating a crack in the seal of the liner. Once the starting opening occurs, the opening will follow the folds of the front and rear ends of the liner and ensure a smooth and consistent opening process, including the minimum force required and the most predictable pattern through the front and rear ends of the liner. As shown in fig. 11B, the liner is oriented at an angle during mixing such that mixing is promoted and pouring from the liner is facilitated. The sides of the liner (concave sections) may be oriented at an angle from horizontal as indicated by the horizontal line at the bottom of the liner.

Fig. 12A, 12B, 13A and 13B illustrate details of the liner opening process of the embodiment described in connection with fig. 5-7 and 11A and 11B of the present invention. Specifically, the front section of the frame includes a raised portion 540 along the center of symmetry of the liner. Of course, the protruding portions may be located at the front and rear ends of the portion of the frame body. As shown in fig. 12B, which illustrates an open liner using a frame with raised portions, the open sections 520 are smooth and continuous along the liner folds. For comparison, the resulting opening 522 is illustrated without the raised portion 540. Fig. 13A and 13B illustrate an alternative embodiment of a projection 550 on a frame. In this embodiment, the raised portion 550 is positioned a distance away from the centerline of the liner. This will facilitate opening of the bladder along the fold through the front (or rear) end of the bladder. As shown in fig. 13B, the liner is opened at 524 using the off-center tab 550.

Fig. 14A-14F illustrate details of the liner opening process of the embodiment disclosed in fig. 5, 7, and 11A and 11B, illustrating folds in the liner. In the liner 600 illustrated in fig. 14A, the liner includes a bottom portion 602 and a lip 604. The edge of the foil cover 606 overhangs the lip slightly. The bladder 600 is configured to have creases 610, 612 along the underside of the lip 604 at the front and rear ends, respectively. The crease is used to create a predetermined path for opening the liner. As shown in fig. 14B, fig. 14C and 14D illustrate specific locations of the crease or weakened section 610. The tear line is located directly below the lip 604 and creates an opening as shown in fig. 14D. The opening may have smoother edges depending on the type of material from which the liner is constructed and the type of groove or weakened section in the liner. Fig. 14E and 14F illustrate alternative positions of the crease 620. A crease or break edge is located in the lip 604 so that the break and open mechanism can smoothly remove the lid from the edge of the liner, as shown in the open liner in fig. 14F. In this configuration, the opening may be located between the foil and the lip (e.g., separated by an adhesive or attachment point between the lip and the foil) or it may be located below the upper surface of the lip, and a portion of the lip may rupture with the foil.

Figures 15-17 illustrate top and side views, respectively, of an inner bladder 700 of the present invention that may be used with a second embodiment of the present invention. The liner 700 includes a foil cover 702, a lip or wrap 704 and a concave body 706. The concave body is used to store the mixed material. The bottom of the concave body may include a flat section 710. The flat sections can help secure the liners on the table and stack the liners in columns. The sides of the concave body may be shaped in such a way that the material can be properly compressed to create a concave material. The lip 704 may be formed during the same process as the body. Alternatively, the lip portion may be added in the sub-assembly process after the body portion forming process, and the sub-assembly process may constitute a line with the formation of the body portion. A foil cover seals the beverage mix within the inner container. An adhesive or some other material may be used to form the seal. The seal can be flat as shown, or it can have a different profile or orientation relative to the edge of the liner. The crease or weakened sections 712, 714 can be provided to the lip or body adjacent the lip. The weakened section may be a perforated section or a thin section of material. The edge of the weakened section may extend around the bladder for some portion, as shown, which may be along a portion of the bladder up to about one quarter of the longitudinal direction of the bladder, as shown in figure 15 with reference to distances a and b. Different sizes for a and b may be provided as required for the opening feature. The liner may be sized such that only a particular liner is usable in the machine, and the liner may have an irregular orientation such that only a particular oriented liner is usable in the case.

Figures 18-20 illustrate top and side views, respectively, of another larger inner container 800 of the present invention that may be used with the second embodiment of the present invention. The liner 800 includes a foil cover 802, a lip or wrap 804, and a concave body 806. The concave body is used to store the mixed material. The bottom of the concave body may include a flat section 810. The flattened section can help facilitate securing the liner on the countertop and stacking the liners in a column. The sides of the concave body may be shaped in such a way that the material can be properly compressed to create a concave material. The lip 804 may be formed during the same process as the body portion. Alternatively, the lip portion may be added in the sub-assembly process after the body portion forming process, and the sub-assembly process may constitute a line with the formation of the body portion. A foil cover seals the beverage mix within the inner container. An adhesive or some other material may be used to form the seal.

The seal can be flat as shown, or it can have a different profile or orientation relative to the edge of the liner. The crease or weakened sections 812, 814 may be provided to the lip or body adjacent the lip. The weakened section may be a perforated section or a thin section of material. The edge of the weakened section may extend around the bladder for some portion, as shown, which may be along a portion of the bladder up to about one quarter of the longitudinal direction of the bladder, as shown in figure 18 with reference to distances c and d. Different sizes for c and d may be provided as required for the opening feature. The liner may be sized such that only a particular liner is usable in the machine, and the liner may have an irregular orientation such that only a particular oriented liner is usable in the case.

Additional details of the invention

Opening the liner using the opening mechanism is a unique and desirable way to open the liner. Uncovering the liner enlarges the space inside the liner, allowing more room for the particulate powder to mix with the filtered water. The edge gripping method may be used in conjunction with any embodiment of the present invention. In the liner mixing method, the liner mixing allows the mixed solution to quickly exit the liner, allowing fresh water to constantly mix with the new dry powder layer so that the powder does not become wet and form clots. When tightly packed, granular powders are not easily mixed. The inner container can be filled with powder or liquid. Optionally, a powder or liquid is used in the liner. In either case, vibration may be used to mix the material in the bladder with water.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the exterior of the liner does not contact the beverage. The finished product does not come into contact with the outside of the liner because the foil lip or liner base does not penetrate into the beverage. In most machines, the outer side of the liner comes into contact with the beverage being made, which is unhygienic. The outer side of the inner container is treated in an unsterile mode. The automated bladder ejection prevents the used bladder from forming and growing bacteria within the mixing chamber. Emptying the mixing chamber enables the mixing chamber to be sterilized.

Color screen: providing a branded beverage experience for consumers

The inner container is very eco-friendly and easy to recycle.

High quality appearance and feel of the liner and machine

While there are a variety of piercing mechanisms for brewing and delivering beverages, the La Vit uncovering mechanism is believed to be a new way to brew and deliver beverages. By exposing the inside of the liner to the water jet, this mechanism avoids powder from building up or agglomerating on any part of the liner, as the mixture easily rushes out of the liner, allowing for complete and uniform mixing of the substances. Future developments may include introducing different ways of uncovering or opening the liner, different liner shapes, and different ways of mixing reagents with water. When mixed and emptied in the liner, it does not mold or grow bacteria as easily as other liner-based systems that do not flush the liner.

Commercial applications of the product include primarily offices and homes, but also any environment where hospitals, institutions, schools, hotels, cruise ships, and point of use beverage machines are more convenient and beneficial.

Claims (11)

1. A dispenser for mixing a beverage from a liner, the liner having a body with a rim and a lid, the dispenser comprising: a frame for accommodating the inner container such that the inner container is stably located in the frame; a mechanism for opening at least one edge of the lid of the liner by breaking the lid away from the body along a weakened portion of the body below the edge of the liner to open the at least one edge of the lid; the frame positions the liner such that upon opening the liner, a mixed flow can be directed into the liner and configured to be poured out of an opening edge of the liner, the frame further comprising a pivot such that the mechanism can swing on the pivot to effect opening of the liner, wherein the liner comprises a thin material on top of a body of the liner and forming a weakened portion immediately below the edge, the mechanism further comprising means for securing a side of the edge such that the mechanism swings the frame on the pivot to effect opening of the liner while securing the edge.

2. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the frame is adapted to position the liner such that a mixing flow can mix the beverage in the liner.

3. The dispenser of claim 2, further comprising a smooth flow that is not directed into the liner, but is directed toward a beverage container.

4. The dispenser of claim 1, further comprising:

a bar code reader on the dispenser for reading a bar code on the liner, and

and the dispenser is provided with a computer for making the beverage according to a group of instructions based on the bar code on the inner container.

5. The dispenser of claim 4, further comprising a mixing flow spout adapted to provide a mixed flow of water into the liner when the forward end of the at least one end of the liner is pivoted is open.

6. The dispenser of claim 5, further comprising a second nozzle adapted to provide a smooth flow of water in addition to the mixing flow, wherein the smooth flow is directed to the beverage container without passing through the liner.

7. The dispenser of claim 6, wherein the frame is adapted to position the liner such that the mixing flow can mix the beverage in the liner.

8. The dispenser of claim 7, wherein the frame is adapted to position the liner such that the slipstream can further mix the beverage in the beverage container.

9. A liner for use in a beverage dispenser, comprising:

a concave receptacle for containing a mixture;

an edge forming an opening in the outer receptacle, the edge having a flat section; and

a cover adapted to be placed over the flat section of the rim;

wherein the liner is adapted to open along a weakened portion of the liner immediately below the rim by separating the rim and the lid from the concave receptacle and the liner is adapted to enable mixing of the beverage in the receptacle of the liner by injecting a mixing stream into the liner.

10. The liner of claim 9, further comprising a crease along an edge of the liner below the edge, wherein the liner is adapted to open along a weakened portion of the liner created by the crease.

11. The liner of claim 10, wherein the liner includes an axisymmetric top.