US20060254428A1 - Coffee making apparatus - Google Patents
Coffee making apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060254428A1 US20060254428A1 US11/129,041 US12904105A US2006254428A1 US 20060254428 A1 US20060254428 A1 US 20060254428A1 US 12904105 A US12904105 A US 12904105A US 2006254428 A1 US2006254428 A1 US 2006254428A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- piston
- infusion chamber
- seal
- recited
- brewing
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/24—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure
- A47J31/34—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure
- A47J31/36—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means
- A47J31/3604—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means with a mechanism arranged to move the brewing chamber between loading, infusing and ejecting stations
- A47J31/3609—Loose coffee being employed
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/24—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure
- A47J31/34—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure
- A47J31/36—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means
- A47J31/3604—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means with a mechanism arranged to move the brewing chamber between loading, infusing and ejecting stations
- A47J31/3609—Loose coffee being employed
- A47J31/3614—Means to perform transfer from a loading position to an infusing position
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/24—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure
- A47J31/34—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure
- A47J31/36—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means
- A47J31/3604—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means with a mechanism arranged to move the brewing chamber between loading, infusing and ejecting stations
- A47J31/3623—Cartridges being employed
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
- A47J31/4403—Constructional details
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
- A47J31/4403—Constructional details
- A47J31/441—Warming devices or supports for beverage containers
- A47J31/4414—Supports for empty beverage containers while not in use, e.g. for storing extra jug or cups
- A47J31/4417—Supports for empty beverage containers while not in use, e.g. for storing extra jug or cups with heating means for pre-heating the empty beverage containers, e.g. cup-warmers
- A47J31/4421—Heated support plates
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
- A47J31/52—Alarm-clock-controlled mechanisms for coffee- or tea-making apparatus ; Timers for coffee- or tea-making apparatus; Electronic control devices for coffee- or tea-making apparatus
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
- A47J31/52—Alarm-clock-controlled mechanisms for coffee- or tea-making apparatus ; Timers for coffee- or tea-making apparatus; Electronic control devices for coffee- or tea-making apparatus
- A47J31/525—Alarm-clock-controlled mechanisms for coffee- or tea-making apparatus ; Timers for coffee- or tea-making apparatus; Electronic control devices for coffee- or tea-making apparatus the electronic control being based on monitoring of specific process parameters
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
- A47J31/52—Alarm-clock-controlled mechanisms for coffee- or tea-making apparatus ; Timers for coffee- or tea-making apparatus; Electronic control devices for coffee- or tea-making apparatus
- A47J31/525—Alarm-clock-controlled mechanisms for coffee- or tea-making apparatus ; Timers for coffee- or tea-making apparatus; Electronic control devices for coffee- or tea-making apparatus the electronic control being based on monitoring of specific process parameters
- A47J31/5253—Alarm-clock-controlled mechanisms for coffee- or tea-making apparatus ; Timers for coffee- or tea-making apparatus; Electronic control devices for coffee- or tea-making apparatus the electronic control being based on monitoring of specific process parameters of temperature
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
- A47J31/52—Alarm-clock-controlled mechanisms for coffee- or tea-making apparatus ; Timers for coffee- or tea-making apparatus; Electronic control devices for coffee- or tea-making apparatus
- A47J31/525—Alarm-clock-controlled mechanisms for coffee- or tea-making apparatus ; Timers for coffee- or tea-making apparatus; Electronic control devices for coffee- or tea-making apparatus the electronic control being based on monitoring of specific process parameters
- A47J31/5255—Alarm-clock-controlled mechanisms for coffee- or tea-making apparatus ; Timers for coffee- or tea-making apparatus; Electronic control devices for coffee- or tea-making apparatus the electronic control being based on monitoring of specific process parameters of flow rate
Definitions
- This invention generally relates to apparatus for brewing beverages by directing a liquid, such as hot water, across a compacted infusible material, such as ground coffee beans, in a sealed infusion chamber.
- a large number of commercial devices are available for brewing beverages, particularly coffee, by infusing material with a liquid.
- Prior art coffee makers have incorporated a variety of percolating, drip, steeping and other brewing approaches.
- a large number of these coffee makers were also designed to brew coffee in batches, for example, 4-cup to 12-cup batches.
- Such devices were characterized by difficulties in maintaining coffee flavor over time, in controlling waste as occurred by making excessive coffee that was then discarded, and in cleaning and maintenance of the coffee makers.
- espresso machines produce a small quantity of coffee at any given time, such as a cup of cappuccino or espresso.
- Espresso was brewed and continues to be brewed by placing an appropriate quantity of ground espresso coffee into an infusion chamber, compacting the ground coffee and closing that chamber. Hot water under pressure infuses the compacted coffee to extract its essence and directs the beverage to a cup.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,457,216 to Dremmel discloses an infusion chamber with hydraulically operated upper and lower pistons that close a scalding chamber.
- the scalding chamber contains coffee grounds and receives hot water.
- the loose coffee swells.
- the lower piston rises to compress the swollen grounds extract the brewed coffee that passes through the lower piston to a cup or other serving receptacle.
- the upper piston retracts. Then the lower piston can elevate to position the used compressed coffee grounds above the infusion chamber for removal.
- U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,796,521 and 5,255,594 to Grossi disclose infusion chambers with a piston that delivers hot water by means of a metering unit. The piston is operated to allow the introduction of a filter carrier element and for compressing the coffee powder.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,796,521 discloses a direct introduction of ground coffee from a coffee grinder into the infusion chamber.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,255,594 discloses a motor drive.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,230,277 to Bianco discloses two pistons mounted on circulating ball screw actuators for closing the top and bottom of an infusion chamber.
- the pistons are brought together to compact ground coffee after which hot water is introduced for infusion. After the brewing cycle, both pistons can be raised so the lower piston can eject the used coffee grounds.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,277,102 to Martinez discloses a vending machine with a lower piston.
- the lower piston rises to compact ground coffee against a fixed upper plunger or piston.
- an espresso machine has a vertically movable snout for supplying hot water under pressure to ground coffee held in a filter.
- a cylinder or piston moves against the action of an antagonist spring to cause the snout to penetrate the package and compress the ground coffee.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,407 to Vetterli discloses a brewing or infusion chamber with a movable piston.
- the brewing chamber has an open top.
- a closure piston opens and closes the brewing chamber. Pressurized hot water causes the movable piston to move upward to compress the ground coffee.
- an infusion chamber has a lower filter piston and an upper, two-part infuser piston.
- the infuser piston has a seal.
- One part of the upper piston slides into the other part against an opposing spring resistance.
- the seal remains in a contracted condition at a narrow diameter of a conical seat while the infusion piston enters the infusion chamber.
- the distance between the two portions of the piston decreases causing the seal to shift upward to a maximum diameter of a conical seat. This process provides a seal and eliminates brushing and scraping of the packing to minimize wear and tear.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,911,810 to Kawabata discloses a coffee brewing system in which a vertically movable cylinder receives ground coffee and has a top opening. A vertically movable, upwardly urged plunger compacts grounds after second cylinder is elevated.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,035,762 to Ruckstuhl discloses an espresso machine with a brewing chamber in which two brewing chamber parts can be displaced relative to one another. In a closed position they form a brewing chamber for filter capsules.
- One of the members has multiple nozzles for directing hot water across the coffee. This approach allows the use of coffee pods of different sizes.
- a beverage brewing apparatus includes a disposable cartridge that is initially pierced and vented by a tubular outlet probe when an arm pivots a water disposing head into a sealing relationship with the top of the removable cartridge.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,711,988 discloses an espresso machine with a variable volume infusion chamber.
- a piston with a static seal shown as an O-ring, seals against and moves relative to an infusion cylinder.
- the piston elevates underwater pressure to allow swirling.
- a frothing valve opens. The piston moves toward the frothing valve to press the coffee grounds under a spring-generated force.
- Some commercially available consumer-oriented coffee makers limit the consumer to proprietary prepackaged coffee filter pods. This can limit consumer choices. Also some consumer-oriented coffee makers are limited to making espresso. These factors and expense limit their market to consumers.
- What is needed is apparatus for brewing a beverage, such as coffee, that is economical and easy to use. Specifically, what is needed is an economical coffee brewing apparatus that eliminates manual operation of latches, facilitates the incorporation of a grinder, simplifies cleaning and maintenance and is adapted for accepting ground coffee in a variety of forms.
- Another object of this invention is to provide brewing apparatus that eliminates manual latching mechanisms.
- Still another object of this invention is to provide brewing apparatus that is adapted for use with a grinder while maintaining separation between their respective functions in order to facilitate use and maintenance.
- Still another object of this invention is to provide a coffee brewing system that is adaptable for receiving coffee grounds in a variety of forms.
- Yet still another object of this invention is to provide a coffee brewing system in which a grounds cup can be withdrawn for filling or cleaning without the need for releasing manual latches or breaking seals.
- Yet another object of this invention is to provide a coffee brewing apparatus that can be used for brewing regular coffee or espresso.
- a beverage brewing apparatus in accordance with one aspect of this invention includes a housing and a supply for liquid that infuses an infusible material thereby to produce a beverage.
- An open ending removable infusion chamber has a side wall, an open top and a perforated bottom for receiving the infusible material.
- a piston supported by the housing moves longitudinally with respect to the side wall.
- An active seal on the piston head expands into the side wall when said piston head reaches a compacting position whereby said piston and infusion chamber form a brewing chamber. Then the piston directs liquid to the infusible material under pressure.
- apparatus for brewing coffee by infusing ground coffee with hot water under pressure includes a housing that defines a brewing station.
- a infusion chamber assembly can be inserted into the housing at the brewing station.
- the infusion chamber assembly carries the ground coffee and has a dispensing port for dispensing brewed coffee.
- a piston mounted to the housing proximate the brewing station compresses the ground coffee in the infusion chamber assembly in an extended state.
- An active seal is formed with the piston.
- the piston moves the active seal between a radially contracted state wherein the seal is spaced from said infusion chamber assembly and a radially expanded state to form a seal between the piston and the infusion chamber assembly.
- Hot water is supplied under pressure to the infusion chamber assembly when the seal is in the radially expanded state and the piston means has compressed the ground coffee in said infusion chamber assembly.
- a beverage brewing apparatus in accordance with yet another aspect of this invention, includes an infusion chamber with a cylindrical side wall and a piston head movable within the infusion chamber to a brewing position.
- An active seal generates a seal between the piston head and the side wall.
- the piston head comprises a first disk, a second disk and a peripheral seal.
- the peripheral seal has a central body portion and portions that attach to the first and second disks, respectively, whereby the peripheral seal acts as a flexible coupling between the first and second disks.
- a third portion on the peripheral seal engages the cylindrical side wall when the first and second disks are compressed thereby to form a seal with the infusion chamber.
- apparatus for brewing beverages supplies liquid to an infusible material under pressure to produce a beverage.
- the apparatus includes a housing, a removable reusable infusion chamber and a piston.
- the housing carries a support at a brewing station for interacting with an engagement structure thereby to allow the infusion chamber to be inserted and withdrawn from the brewing station.
- the infusion chamber also has a side wall, an open top and a perforated bottom for receiving the infusible material.
- the piston is supported by the housing and can be displaced into the infusion chamber.
- the piston directs liquid from the liquid supply to the infusible material.
- the piston also includes a seal that is positioned intermediate the piston and the side wall for contacting the side wall when the piston enters the infusion chamber thereby to form a brewing chamber in which the material is infused.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an espresso machine incorporating this invention
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the interior portions of the espresso machine shown in FIG. 1 taken from the right front;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the espresso machine shown in FIG. 1 taken from the left rear;
- FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a compacting structure used in the espresso machine of FIGS. 1 through 3 ;
- FIG. 5 is a detail of a top disk shown in FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 6 is a view in section of a portion of the espresso machine taken along lines 6 - 6 in FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 7 is a section view of the portion of the infusion chamber taken along lines 7 - 7 in FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a infusion chamber assembly that receives ground coffee
- FIG. 9 is a cross section of the infusion chamber assembly of FIG. 8 ;
- FIG. 10 is a cross section of an active seal shown in FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 11A is a cross section that depicts the compacting structure of FIG. 4 in an intermediate position with the compacting structure located within the infusion chamber assembly;
- FIG. 11B is an enlarged detailed portion of the structure shown in FIG. 12A ;
- FIG. 12A is a cross section that depicts the compacting structure of FIG. 4 in a position that compacts the ground coffee in the infusion chamber assembly;
- FIG. 12B is an enlarged detailed portion of the structure shown in FIG. 12A ;
- FIG. 13 is a cross section that depicts the compacting structure of FIG. 4 in a fully extended position that facilitates cleaning;
- FIG. 14 is a simplified schematic view of a control system for operating the espresso machine shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 15 is a flow chart depicting one embodiment of the operation of the control system in FIG. 14 .
- FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of an apparatus of this invention for brewing beverages, such as coffee, by supplying a heated liquid, such as hot water, under pressure to an infusible material in an infusion chamber.
- FIG. 1 depicts such apparatus in the form of an espresso machine 20 with a housing 21 on a base 22 .
- the housing 21 includes a cup warmer 23 for cups, such as the cup 24 , so cups can be preheated before being filled with espresso.
- the housing includes a control panel 25 , a brewing/steam control knob 26 and a grind fineness adjustment knob 27 for any included coffee grinder.
- a water reservoir or tank 30 on the base 22 has an integral handle 31 to facilitate removal and filling.
- FIG. 1 depicts a removable, reusable, infusion chamber 32 at a brewing station 33 that includes a grounds cup holder 34 with an integral handle 35 .
- a removable drip tray assembly 36 resting on the base 22 provides a facility for supporting one or two cups 37 L or 37 R or both.
- the housing 21 also supports a steam nozzle 38 and a coffee bean hopper door 39 .
- a fill station 40 is located at a fill station door 41
- a consumer brews one or two cups of coffee by activating a power-on switch 42 and by checking the water reservoir 30 for a sufficient water level. Then the individual grasps the handle 35 to withdraw the infusion chamber assembly 32 from the brewing station 33 in a straight-forward motion to deposit preground coffee or prepackaged ground coffee into the infusion chamber assembly 32 .
- the individual inserts the infusion chamber assembly 32 into the fill station 40 through the fill station door 41 again with a straight-forward motion.
- the fill station 40 has a coffee grinder, the individual moves the fineness adjustment knob 27 to a desired position and selects either a one-cup or two-cup quantity by means of a one-cup switch 43 or a two-cup switch 44 .
- Activating the switch 45 initiates the grinding operation that deposits the appropriate quantity of ground coffee into the infusion chamber assembly 32 .
- the fill station would comprise a container for ground coffee and a dispenser for depositing pre-measured quantities of coffee into the infusion chamber assembly 32 .
- the individual When the filling operation is completed, the individual merely withdraws the infusion chamber assembly 32 from the fill station 40 , whereupon the fill chamber door 41 closes. Then the individual inserts the infusion chamber assembly back into the brewing station 33 .
- brewing switch 47 When various visual annunciators, such as LEDs or like light sources 46 , indicate brewing can begin and the brew/steam control selector 26 is in the brewing position, depressing a brewing switch 47 initiates the brewing operation. The consumer sees the result when brewed coffee begins to fill the coffee cups 37 L and 37 R. If only one cup is to be brewed, it is merely necessary to remove the cup 37 R and center the cup 37 L below the handle 35 , or vice versa.
- various visual annunciators such as LEDs or like light sources 46
- the control 27 can include an access ring 50 that can be used to remove the front burr of the grinder for cleaning.
- FIGS. 2 and 3 depict the espresso machine 20 with the housing 21 removed to view the major components including the base 22 , the water reservoir 30 , the removable drip tray assembly 36 and the cup warmer 23 .
- FIG. 2 additionally discloses the BREW/STEAM control valve 26 , the grind fineness adjustment knob 27 and the steam nozzle 38 .
- the water reservoir 30 has a hinged top 51 and rear wall 52 with a connector 53 .
- the connector 53 includes a check valve (not shown) that closes when the water reservoir 30 is removed from the espresso machine 20 for filling.
- a connector on the apparatus not shown but well known in the art, interacts with the connector 33 to open the check valve. Water is then available to a pump 54 shown in FIG. 3 .
- the pump 54 when active, pumps cold water into a boiler 55 through a conventional flow meter 56 .
- Tubing not shown for purpose of clarity, conveys hot water from the boiler 55 to an inlet hose 57 on a compacting assembly 60 that forms a brewing chamber in cooperation with the infusion chamber assembly 32 that is inserted into the brewing station 33 .
- Heat from the boiler 55 elevates the temperature of the cup warmer 23 .
- the espresso machine includes a semi-cylindrical support portion 61 and two tangential planar wall extensions 62 that carry a shelf 63 .
- the shelf 63 acts as a support for the infusion chamber assembly 32 , particularly the grounds cup holder 34 .
- An interlock 64 provides an enabling input to a brewing controller when the infusion chamber assembly 32 is fully seated and properly aligned in the brewing station 33 .
- the fill station 40 has a similar structure with a semi-cylindrical support portion 65 and two tangential planar wall portions 66 .
- a shelf 67 similar to the shelf 63 , supports the infusion chamber assembly 32 for receiving ground coffee.
- An interlock 68 provides an enabling signal to a controller when the infusion chamber assembly 32 is fully seated and aligned in the fill station 40 .
- the compacting assembly 60 includes a piston assembly 70 driven, in this embodiment, by a motor 71 through a speed reduction gear mechanism 72 .
- the apparatus 20 also includes a coffee grinder 73 at the fill station 40 that grinds beans to ground coffee of a selected coarseness or fineness.
- FIG. 4 depicts the piston assembly 70 . It includes a threaded rod 74 characterized by an axially extending slot 75 that engages a stationary base plate for preventing rotation. A radial arm 76 serves as a switch actuator for limit switches as described later. A threaded rod retainer 77 , overlying an upper end 80 of the threaded rod 74 , includes a plurality of clips 81 . The clips 81 engage corresponding apertures 82 in a top disk 83 as more specifically disclosed in FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view taken from above the top disk 83 .
- the top surface of the top disk 83 has a plurality of circumferential lands and grooves that provide a rigid structure while minimizing its weight and material.
- the top disk 83 additionally includes a passage 84 for enabling a connection to the inlet hose 57 in FIG. 3 that connects to the boiler 55 .
- a bottom disk 85 includes an axial shoulder 86 and a bottom labyrinth 87 .
- the labyrinth 87 facilitates the dispersal of water exiting a nipple 90 across the extent of and through a supported perforated disk 91 as described later.
- a guide ring 92 is axially coextensive with the axial shoulder 86 and provides peripheral support for the perforated disk 91 .
- a screw 93 engages a central threaded aperture 94 accessible from the bottom of the bottom disk 85 thereby to fasten the bottom disk 85 , the perforated disk 91 and guide ring 92 into a subassembly. In this assembly the free ends of axially extending walls forming the labyrinth 87 support the perforated disk 91 so it does not deform when it engages ground coffee in the infusion chamber assembly 32 .
- a wavy spring 95 lies intermediate the top disk 83 and bottom disk 85 .
- the top disk 83 and bottom disk 85 sandwich a seal 96 characterized by a radially contracted state and a radially expanded state.
- the top disk 83 , bottom disk 85 , perforated disk 91 , guide ring 92 , screw 93 , wavy spring 95 and seal 96 thereby form a piston head 97 that attaches to the threaded rod 74 and provides an active peripheral seal structure.
- the seal 96 attaches to the bottom disk 85 and to the top disk 83 .
- the wavy spring 96 exerts a force that tends to separate the top disk 83 from the bottom disk 85 . Under these conditions the seal 96 relaxes, has a minimum diameter and is radially contracted. When the axial distance between the top disk 83 and bottom disk 85 decreases, the wavy spring 95 compresses and the diameter of the seal 96 increases so the seal 96 moves to the radially expanded state.
- the seal 96 performs several functions. First, the seal 96 engages the cylindrical wall 112 of the grounds cup 102 to confine any water or brewed coffee to the brewing chamber 98 . Second, the seal 96 assures that all the hot water admitted to the labyrinth in FIG. 4 passes through the perforated disk 91 and into the ground coffee in the brewing chamber 98 . As a third function, the seal 96 acts as a flexible coupling that supports the bottom disk 85 on the piston head 97 . The specific construction of the seal 96 and its performance of these functions are described later.
- FIGS. 6 and 7 are useful in understanding the mechanical arrangements of the compacting assembly 60 and the infusion chamber assembly 32 .
- the piston head 97 When the piston head 97 is positioned in the grounds cup 102 at a position shown by dashed line 99 and sealed by the seal 96 , the area below the piston head 97 bounded by the infusion chamber assembly 32 , specifically the grounds cup 102 , becomes a brewing chamber.
- the motor 71 and gear train 72 have retracted the threaded rod 74 and the piston head 97 to an upper limit or fully retracted position as defined when the radial arm 76 on the threaded rod 74 engages an upper limit microswitch 100 .
- a lower limit microswitch 101 defines a lower-most position or range of travel.
- FIGS. 8 and 9 depict the infusion chamber assembly 32 with the grounds cup holder 34 and a grounds cup 102 .
- the grounds cup holder 34 includes a face plate 103 with the integral handle 35 and an integral cylinder 104 .
- Spaced circumferential ribs 105 on the cylinder 104 form a channel that engages the shelf 63 that acts as a supporting track at the brewing station 33 shown in FIG. 2 to position the infusion chamber assembly 34 below the compacting assembly 60 .
- the ribs 105 also engage the shelf 67 in FIG. 2 that acts as a track at the fill station 40 .
- the grounds cup holder 34 has a concave bottom 106 , a right dispensing port 107 and a left dispensing port 110 .
- coffee exits from both of these ports.
- two coffee cups such as the coffee cups 37 L and 37 R are arranged as shown in FIG. 1
- coffee is dispensed into the two cups simultaneously.
- the spacing between the ports 107 and 110 is such that when a single cup is centered about the handle 35 , coffee from both dispensing ports 107 and 110 will be directed into a single cup.
- the grounds cup 102 has a cylindrical wall 112 that extends from an open top with a lip 113 that engages a top edge 114 of the cylinder 104 , so the grounds cup 102 essentially rests in the grounds cup holder 34 .
- the grounds cup 102 has two tapered portions 115 and 116 that terminate with a perforated bottom or sieve portion 117 .
- the depth of the cylindrical wall 112 is at least equal to the depth of the grounds in the grounds cup 102 plus an amount that enables the piston head 97 to achieve a sealing relationship with the cylindrical wall 112 of the grounds cup 102 .
- This depth provides flexibility to a consumer because a single grounds cup 102 will accommodate coffee in different packages or in different quantities. There is no need to inventory different grounds cups. Further, the grounds cup 102 easily separates from the grounds cup holder 34 for cleaning. This structure also allows an accessory element, such as a crema insert, to be located intermediate the grounds cup 102 and the grounds cup holder 34 .
- FIG. 10 depicts the annular seal 96 that is a component of the active seal.
- the seal 96 has an annular body 120 that has a C-shaped cross section to form a channel 121 with an opening facing a center axis 122 .
- An annular upper lip 123 extends axially and upward to be captured in a groove 124 in the top disk 83 .
- An annular lower lip 124 extends downward axially to terminate with a free end 125 . This end is captured between the axial shoulder 86 of the bottom disk 85 and the guide ring 92 .
- the free end 125 bears against the perforated disk 91 .
- An integral obliquely extending exterior skirt 126 can flex radially with respect to the axis 122 .
- the upper lip 123 , annular body 120 and lower lip 124 form a flexible coupling that suspends the bottom disk 85 from the top disk 83 .
- the lower lip 124 particularly the surface at the free end 125 , forms a seal to confine the hot water under pressure to the volume between the perforated disk 91 and the lower disk 85 including the labyrinth 87 . This prevents any water from escaping at the periphery of the piston head 97 , particularly at the guide ring 92 .
- the skirt 126 expands into the cylindrical wall 122 thereby to form of peripheral seal that defines an upper limit of the brewing chamber 98 and that confines all the hot water under pressure and brewing coffee to the brewing chamber 98 .
- FIGS. 6 and 7 depict the espresso machine 20 with the piston 97 and threaded rod 74 retracted to an open position, the arm 76 having activated the upper limit micro switch 100 .
- the compacting apparatus 60 has retracted the piston head 97 to a position that allows the infusion chamber assembly 32 to be inserted into the brewing station 33 with coffee 130 .
- the circumferential ribs 105 engage the support provided by the shelf 63 in FIG. 2 .
- the grounds cup holder 34 engages the interlock 64 .
- the wavy spring 95 separates the top and bottom disks 83 and 85 by a maximum distance so that the seal 96 is in its radially contracted state.
- FIGS. 11A and 11B depict the piston head 97 as it first enters the grounds cup 102 .
- the seal 96 particularly the seal skirt 126 , is spaced from the grounds cup cylinder 112 .
- the guide ring 92 shown in FIGS. 4, 11A and 11 B serves to prevent any damage to the seal 96 .
- the guide ring 92 has an annular body 131 and angularly spaced, radially extending tabs 132 with outer, downwardly located chamfers 133 . Should there be any misalignment, a chamfer 133 will contact the lip 113 and center the piston head 97 within the grounds cup 102 . Thus the wall 112 does not contact the skirt 126 as the piston head 97 enters the brewing chamber 98 .
- the motor 71 continues to drive the threaded rod 74 and piston head 97 downward with the configuration shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B , until the perforated disk 91 contacts the ground coffee 130 . Further downward motion of the piston head 97 begins to compact the ground coffee 130 .
- the force exerted on the peripheral disk 91 will be greater than the force exerted by the wavy spring 95 .
- the distance between the top and bottom disks 83 and 85 decreases. Consequently the seal 96 moves to the radially expanded state and drives the skirt 126 against the cylinder wall to form the seal.
- the load on the motor 71 increases.
- the motor 71 is de-energized.
- the gear ratios lock the piston head 97 in its vertical position.
- the seal formed by the skirt 126 now defines the top of the brewing chamber 98 . This event enables hot water to pass from the boiler 55 through the hose 57 and the piston 97 and to permeate the coffee 130 under pressure.
- the water under pressure travels through the nipple 90 to emerge in the labyrinth 87 .
- the pressure required to displace the water into the labyrinth 87 is less than that needed to force the water through the perforated disk 91 and the compacted coffee grounds 134 in FIGS. 12A and 12B .
- the water initially fills the labyrinth 87 and then passes through the entire surface of the perforated disk 91 bounded by the lower lip 124 of the seal 97 thereby to permeate the ground coffee 130 uniformly.
- the brewed coffee 134 in the brewing chamber 98 above the ground coffee 130 may be under pressure. To the extent such pressure exists, it does not detract from the sealing force that drives the skirt 126 against the cylindrical wall 122 . Although such brewed coffee 134 enters a gap 135 between the seal body 120 and skirt 126 , it produces an additive pressure component that further perfects the seal. Consequently the compacting apparatus 60 provides both compacting force and a mechanism for controlling the active seal.
- the brewing cycle has another step. After the brewing cycle is completed the motor 71 is energized again to drive the threaded rod 74 downwardly thereby over compacting the coffee grounds 130 to extract additional beverage. This downward force increases motor current to a next higher threshold. When the threshold is reached, the motor 71 reverses to retract the threaded rod 74 and piston head 97 back to the position shown in 11 A.
- the seal 96 primarily the skirt 126 , undergoes only minimal sliding against the cylindrical wall 112 .
- the wavy spring 95 begins to expand to separate the top and bottom disks 83 and 85 so the seal 96 with its skirt 126 retracts radially from the cylindrical wall 112 . Consequently, the seal 96 will not wear and have a long life.
- the radial arm 76 again engages the upper limit microswitch 100 to de-energize the motor 71 and conclude the brewing cycle, so a consumer can remove a cup and drink the beverage. Also in this position, the consumer can easily remove the infusion chamber assembly 32 from the brewing station 33 for cleaning after each use and for filling with fresh ground coffee.
- the consumer When it is desired to clean the piston head 97 , the consumer initiates a cleaning cycle by activating a “clean” switch 136 in FIG. 1 while the infusion chamber assembly 32 is removed. This operation energizes the motor 71 and drives the threaded rod 74 downwardly until the arm 76 strikes the lower limit microswitch 101 . As shown in FIG. 13 , the entire piston assembly 97 is then accessible for cleaning in the brewing station 33 . Generally it is merely necessary to wipe the surface of the perforated disk 91 and guide ring 92 with a damp cloth or sponge. A more thorough cleaning might be achieved by means of a special cleaning cycle, like a brew cycle, with an infusion chamber assembly 32 inserted at the brewing station 33 .
- FIG. 14 is a block schematic that summarizes the various control inputs and outputs that can be utilized in the espresso machine 20 of FIG. 1 .
- a controller 140 has connections to the water pump 54 , the boiler 55 , the flow meter 56 , the piston motor 71 and the grinder 56 .
- the flow meter 56 produces a FLOW input signal for the controller 140 .
- a temperature sensing circuit 141 generates a TEMP input signal.
- a current sensor 142 provides a CURRENT signal to a threshold level circuit 143 .
- the threshold level circuit produces one of two outputs to a control unit 144 .
- the first is from a LEVEL 1 detector 145 that represents the current that exists as compacting assembly 60 compacts the coffee grounds to an appropriate level.
- a LEVEL 2 detector 146 is set at a higher level and serves to provide a reversing signal for the post brewing over compression sequence.
- a water level sensor 147 indicates the presence of a sufficient quantity of water for a brewing operation.
- the upper limit microswitch 100 and the lower limit microswitch 101 provide two other control inputs to the controller 140 . Still other control inputs are provided by the interlock 64 that indicates the proper alignment of the infusion chamber assembly 32 in the brewing station 33 .
- the interlock 68 indicates the proper positioning of the infusion chamber assembly 32 in the fill station 40 .
- Other inputs include the power-on switch 42 , the one-cup and two-cup switches 43 and 44 , the brewing switch 47 and the grind switch 136 .
- FIG. 15 is a basic flow diagram for outlining the logical operations that can occur within a controller 140 , including the control unit 144 .
- control unit 144 When the apparatus 20 is plugged into an outlet, control unit 144 is enabled and step 150 senses the existence of a full power status. When that condition is realized, step 151 transfers control to step 152 and may at that point also energize a power-on annunciator.
- Step 152 reads the input signal from the water level sensor 147 in FIG. 14 . If insufficient water exists, step 152 waits for water to be added by the consumer in step 153 . When that test is completed, step 154 determines whether the water temperature is above a first operating threshold, typically set at the bottom of an acceptable brewing temperature range. On initialization this typically will not be the situation, so control passes from step 154 to step 155 to energize the boiler 55 . Steps 156 and 157 also monitor the water temperatures for values in excess of an upper limit of an acceptable range for de-energizing the boiler in step 157 . As shown this control sensor enters into a loop including steps 154 through 157 thereby to constantly control the temperature of the water during the brewing cycle
- the consumer receives a notification as the illumination of a ready to brew light. This may initiate a time-out to limit the maximum interval before the brew button 47 in FIGS. 1 and 14 is actuated. The time-out interval terminates the operation of the boiler 55 .
- step 162 determines whether the infusion chamber assembly 32 is properly aligned by monitoring the interlock switch 64 shown in FIGS. 2 and 14 .
- step 163 energizes the motor 71 to extend the piston head 97 .
- the signal from the motor current sensor 142 increases until the current reaches the first threshold established by the Level 1 detector 145 .
- step 156 de-energizes the motor 71 . Now the system is ready to infuse the compacted ground coffee.
- Step 166 establishes the amount of water that must transfer through the brewing chamber 98 in response to the selection of one or two cups.
- Step 167 energizes the pump 154 so heated water flows to the brewing chamber 98 until the flow meter 56 records the specified quantity. When this occurs step 171 turns off the water.
- Step 172 then energizes the motor to produce over-compacting.
- Step 173 monitors the current from the current sensor 142 until the Level 2 detector 146 indicates that second threshold has been reached. At that point step 174 reverses the motor and begins the retraction process.
- step 175 transfers control to de-energize the motor at step 176 . As will be apparent, when step 176 de-energizes the motor, the brewing cycle has been completed.
- the espresso machine 20 of FIG. 1 specifically the structure that forms the brewing chamber 98 including the infusion chamber assembly 32 with its grounds cup 102 and the piston head 97 with its seal 96 , facilitates and simplifies an operation by which coffee grounds are compacted and then infused under pressure. Sealing is enhanced because the water pressure acts to increase, rather than decrease, the sealing force. Further, as the seal is radially contracted for most discrete piston head motion, it will have a long life.
- the espresso machine 20 allows the espresso machine 20 to be available for consumers with many of the advantages of the more expensive commercial systems. Yet this espresso machine 20 is easy to use because there is no need for a consumer to manipulate manual latching mechanisms. Moreover, owing to the fact that the seal 96 seals against the side wall 112 of the grounds cup 102 the machine can accommodate ground coffee or a variety of coffee pods of different diameters and in differing amounts and quantities up to some arbitrary maximum depending on the depth of the grounds cup 102 . As a result, the espresso machine 20 in FIG. 1 is readily adapted for accommodating a wide range of infusible materials.
- the pressure required to brew regular coffee is considerably less.
- the active seal could be replaced by a passive seal, such as an O-ring.
- the grounds cup 102 is disclosed as a deep drawn element; shallower grounds cup could be substituted. Accessory devices might be interposed between bottoms of the grounds cup 102 and the grounds cup holder 32 , all while still realizing some, if not all, the advantages of this invention.
- the specifically disclosed control sequence could be altered while still achieving the advantages of this invention. Therefore, it is the intent of the appended claims to cover all such variations and modifications as come within the true spirit and scope of this invention.
Abstract
A brewing apparatus for infusing compacted ground coffee in a grounds cup at a brewing station with heated water under pressure. At a brewing station, a piston head with an active seal that is spaced from the grounds cup wall during motion, extends into the grounds cup. When the piston head begins to compact the ground coffee it activates the seal to form a sealed upper end of a brewing chamber. Hot water is admitted to the brewing chamber to produce the coffee. When the brewing cycle is completed, the piston head displaces further to force additional coffee from the grounds. Then the piston head retracts to allow the infusion chamber assembly to be removed for cleaning.
Description
- This invention generally relates to apparatus for brewing beverages by directing a liquid, such as hot water, across a compacted infusible material, such as ground coffee beans, in a sealed infusion chamber.
- A large number of commercial devices are available for brewing beverages, particularly coffee, by infusing material with a liquid. Prior art coffee makers have incorporated a variety of percolating, drip, steeping and other brewing approaches. A large number of these coffee makers were also designed to brew coffee in batches, for example, 4-cup to 12-cup batches. Such devices, however, were characterized by difficulties in maintaining coffee flavor over time, in controlling waste as occurred by making excessive coffee that was then discarded, and in cleaning and maintenance of the coffee makers.
- The advent of espresso machines introduced new coffee brewing concepts. Espresso machines produce a small quantity of coffee at any given time, such as a cup of cappuccino or espresso. Espresso was brewed and continues to be brewed by placing an appropriate quantity of ground espresso coffee into an infusion chamber, compacting the ground coffee and closing that chamber. Hot water under pressure infuses the compacted coffee to extract its essence and directs the beverage to a cup.
- This process has become very popular, and there are a variety of implementations primarily for use in espresso machines, but also for machines for brewing coffee. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,457,216 to Dremmel discloses an infusion chamber with hydraulically operated upper and lower pistons that close a scalding chamber. The scalding chamber contains coffee grounds and receives hot water. During the brewing process the loose coffee swells. When brewing is complete, the lower piston rises to compress the swollen grounds extract the brewed coffee that passes through the lower piston to a cup or other serving receptacle. After the brewing cycle is complete, the upper piston retracts. Then the lower piston can elevate to position the used compressed coffee grounds above the infusion chamber for removal.
- U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,796,521 and 5,255,594 to Grossi disclose infusion chambers with a piston that delivers hot water by means of a metering unit. The piston is operated to allow the introduction of a filter carrier element and for compressing the coffee powder. U.S. Pat. No. 4,796,521 discloses a direct introduction of ground coffee from a coffee grinder into the infusion chamber. U.S. Pat. No. 5,255,594 discloses a motor drive.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,230,277 to Bianco discloses two pistons mounted on circulating ball screw actuators for closing the top and bottom of an infusion chamber. The pistons are brought together to compact ground coffee after which hot water is introduced for infusion. After the brewing cycle, both pistons can be raised so the lower piston can eject the used coffee grounds.
- In U.S. Pat. No. 5,237,911 to Aebi a piston moves into an infusion chamber to compress ground coffee. The bottom of the piston comes into direct contact with the compressed ground coffee. There is no specific disclosure of a seal for preventing the escape of water from the infusion chamber past the piston.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,277,102 to Martinez discloses a vending machine with a lower piston. The lower piston rises to compact ground coffee against a fixed upper plunger or piston.
- In U.S. Pat. No. 5,280,747 to Bonneville an espresso machine has a vertically movable snout for supplying hot water under pressure to ground coffee held in a filter. A cylinder or piston moves against the action of an antagonist spring to cause the snout to penetrate the package and compress the ground coffee.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,302,407 to Vetterli discloses a brewing or infusion chamber with a movable piston. The brewing chamber has an open top. A closure piston opens and closes the brewing chamber. Pressurized hot water causes the movable piston to move upward to compress the ground coffee.
- In U.S. Pat. No. 5,402,706 to Locati an infusion chamber has a lower filter piston and an upper, two-part infuser piston. The infuser piston has a seal. One part of the upper piston slides into the other part against an opposing spring resistance. The seal remains in a contracted condition at a narrow diameter of a conical seat while the infusion piston enters the infusion chamber. During an operating stage, however, the distance between the two portions of the piston decreases causing the seal to shift upward to a maximum diameter of a conical seat. This process provides a seal and eliminates brushing and scraping of the packing to minimize wear and tear.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,911,810 to Kawabata discloses a coffee brewing system in which a vertically movable cylinder receives ground coffee and has a top opening. A vertically movable, upwardly urged plunger compacts grounds after second cylinder is elevated.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,035,762 to Ruckstuhl discloses an espresso machine with a brewing chamber in which two brewing chamber parts can be displaced relative to one another. In a closed position they form a brewing chamber for filter capsules. One of the members has multiple nozzles for directing hot water across the coffee. This approach allows the use of coffee pods of different sizes.
- In U.S. Pat. No. 6,606,938 to Taylor, a beverage brewing apparatus includes a disposable cartridge that is initially pierced and vented by a tubular outlet probe when an arm pivots a water disposing head into a sealing relationship with the top of the removable cartridge.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,711,988 discloses an espresso machine with a variable volume infusion chamber. A piston with a static seal, shown as an O-ring, seals against and moves relative to an infusion cylinder. During brewing the piston elevates underwater pressure to allow swirling. When a predetermined pressure is obtained, a frothing valve opens. The piston moves toward the frothing valve to press the coffee grounds under a spring-generated force.
- These and other features have been incorporated in a number of single-cup coffee makers, particularly for espresso machines for commercial use, as in restaurants, coffee shops and the like. However, such machines are expensive and not economically attractive to most consumers even though they may make the best coffee.
- Recently several manufactures have introduced so-called “cup-at-a-time” coffee makers. They replace such pistons with hinged top units that latch to a base. A consumer must manually unlatch the hinged top unit, open it to expose a container for receiving either proprietary coffee pods or loose coffee. Then the consumer must manually close and latch the top unit to compact the coffee and form the sealed infusion chamber.
- With cup-at-a-time coffee makers clean up requires the top to be reopened. If the coffee is made with loose grounds, the grounds cup must be removed so the used grounds can be discarded. If a pod is used, it can be lifted from a grounds cup without having to remove the grounds cup.
- In many applications consumers desire automatic systems that incorporate coffee grinders. Such systems are characterized by locating the brewing chamber at an inaccessible location so it becomes impossible or, at best, very difficult, to clean the brewing chamber. Cleaning the brewing chamber in any such coffee maker is very important. If regular cleaning is not undertaken, oils and organic acids present in coffee attack the seal materials used to define the brewing chamber. Such substances also accumulate on the walls of the brewing chamber. If the seal slides over the walls, this material produces a rough surface that can damage the seals with use.
- Some commercially available consumer-oriented coffee makers limit the consumer to proprietary prepackaged coffee filter pods. This can limit consumer choices. Also some consumer-oriented coffee makers are limited to making espresso. These factors and expense limit their market to consumers.
- What is needed is apparatus for brewing a beverage, such as coffee, that is economical and easy to use. Specifically, what is needed is an economical coffee brewing apparatus that eliminates manual operation of latches, facilitates the incorporation of a grinder, simplifies cleaning and maintenance and is adapted for accepting ground coffee in a variety of forms.
- Therefore it is an object of this invention to provide brewing apparatus for the consumers that has many of the advantages of more expensive commercial systems and that is economical, convenient to use and easy to maintain.
- Another object of this invention is to provide brewing apparatus that eliminates manual latching mechanisms.
- Still another object of this invention is to provide brewing apparatus that is adapted for use with a grinder while maintaining separation between their respective functions in order to facilitate use and maintenance.
- Still another object of this invention is to provide a coffee brewing system that is adaptable for receiving coffee grounds in a variety of forms.
- Yet still another object of this invention is to provide a coffee brewing system in which a grounds cup can be withdrawn for filling or cleaning without the need for releasing manual latches or breaking seals.
- Yet another object of this invention is to provide a coffee brewing apparatus that can be used for brewing regular coffee or espresso.
- In accordance with one aspect of this invention a beverage brewing apparatus includes a housing and a supply for liquid that infuses an infusible material thereby to produce a beverage. An open ending removable infusion chamber has a side wall, an open top and a perforated bottom for receiving the infusible material. A piston supported by the housing moves longitudinally with respect to the side wall. An active seal on the piston head expands into the side wall when said piston head reaches a compacting position whereby said piston and infusion chamber form a brewing chamber. Then the piston directs liquid to the infusible material under pressure.
- In accordance with another aspect of this invention apparatus for brewing coffee by infusing ground coffee with hot water under pressure includes a housing that defines a brewing station. A infusion chamber assembly can be inserted into the housing at the brewing station. The infusion chamber assembly carries the ground coffee and has a dispensing port for dispensing brewed coffee. A piston mounted to the housing proximate the brewing station compresses the ground coffee in the infusion chamber assembly in an extended state. An active seal is formed with the piston. The piston moves the active seal between a radially contracted state wherein the seal is spaced from said infusion chamber assembly and a radially expanded state to form a seal between the piston and the infusion chamber assembly. Hot water is supplied under pressure to the infusion chamber assembly when the seal is in the radially expanded state and the piston means has compressed the ground coffee in said infusion chamber assembly.
- In accordance with yet another aspect of this invention, a beverage brewing apparatus includes an infusion chamber with a cylindrical side wall and a piston head movable within the infusion chamber to a brewing position. An active seal generates a seal between the piston head and the side wall. The piston head comprises a first disk, a second disk and a peripheral seal. The peripheral seal has a central body portion and portions that attach to the first and second disks, respectively, whereby the peripheral seal acts as a flexible coupling between the first and second disks. A third portion on the peripheral seal engages the cylindrical side wall when the first and second disks are compressed thereby to form a seal with the infusion chamber.
- In accordance with yet another aspect of this invention, apparatus for brewing beverages supplies liquid to an infusible material under pressure to produce a beverage. The apparatus includes a housing, a removable reusable infusion chamber and a piston. The housing carries a support at a brewing station for interacting with an engagement structure thereby to allow the infusion chamber to be inserted and withdrawn from the brewing station. The infusion chamber also has a side wall, an open top and a perforated bottom for receiving the infusible material. The piston is supported by the housing and can be displaced into the infusion chamber. The piston directs liquid from the liquid supply to the infusible material. The piston also includes a seal that is positioned intermediate the piston and the side wall for contacting the side wall when the piston enters the infusion chamber thereby to form a brewing chamber in which the material is infused.
- The appended claims particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter of this invention. The various objects, advantages and novel features of this invention will be more fully apparent from a reading of the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like parts, and in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an espresso machine incorporating this invention; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the interior portions of the espresso machine shown inFIG. 1 taken from the right front; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the espresso machine shown inFIG. 1 taken from the left rear; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a compacting structure used in the espresso machine ofFIGS. 1 through 3 ; -
FIG. 5 is a detail of a top disk shown inFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 6 is a view in section of a portion of the espresso machine taken along lines 6-6 inFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 7 is a section view of the portion of the infusion chamber taken along lines 7-7 inFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a infusion chamber assembly that receives ground coffee; -
FIG. 9 is a cross section of the infusion chamber assembly ofFIG. 8 ; -
FIG. 10 is a cross section of an active seal shown inFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 11A is a cross section that depicts the compacting structure ofFIG. 4 in an intermediate position with the compacting structure located within the infusion chamber assembly; -
FIG. 11B is an enlarged detailed portion of the structure shown inFIG. 12A ; -
FIG. 12A is a cross section that depicts the compacting structure ofFIG. 4 in a position that compacts the ground coffee in the infusion chamber assembly; -
FIG. 12B is an enlarged detailed portion of the structure shown inFIG. 12A ; -
FIG. 13 is a cross section that depicts the compacting structure ofFIG. 4 in a fully extended position that facilitates cleaning; -
FIG. 14 is a simplified schematic view of a control system for operating the espresso machine shown inFIG. 1 ; and -
FIG. 15 is a flow chart depicting one embodiment of the operation of the control system inFIG. 14 . -
FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of an apparatus of this invention for brewing beverages, such as coffee, by supplying a heated liquid, such as hot water, under pressure to an infusible material in an infusion chamber. Specifically,FIG. 1 depicts such apparatus in the form of anespresso machine 20 with ahousing 21 on abase 22. Thehousing 21 includes a cup warmer 23 for cups, such as thecup 24, so cups can be preheated before being filled with espresso. The housing includes acontrol panel 25, a brewing/steam control knob 26 and a grindfineness adjustment knob 27 for any included coffee grinder. A water reservoir ortank 30 on thebase 22 has anintegral handle 31 to facilitate removal and filling. -
FIG. 1 depicts a removable, reusable,infusion chamber 32 at abrewing station 33 that includes agrounds cup holder 34 with anintegral handle 35. A removabledrip tray assembly 36 resting on thebase 22 provides a facility for supporting one or twocups housing 21 also supports asteam nozzle 38 and a coffeebean hopper door 39. Afill station 40 is located at afill station door 41 - In use a consumer brews one or two cups of coffee by activating a power-on
switch 42 and by checking thewater reservoir 30 for a sufficient water level. Then the individual grasps thehandle 35 to withdraw theinfusion chamber assembly 32 from thebrewing station 33 in a straight-forward motion to deposit preground coffee or prepackaged ground coffee into theinfusion chamber assembly 32. - If freshly ground coffee is desired, the individual inserts the
infusion chamber assembly 32 into thefill station 40 through thefill station door 41 again with a straight-forward motion. If thefill station 40 has a coffee grinder, the individual moves thefineness adjustment knob 27 to a desired position and selects either a one-cup or two-cup quantity by means of a one-cup switch 43 or a two-cup switch 44. Activating theswitch 45 initiates the grinding operation that deposits the appropriate quantity of ground coffee into theinfusion chamber assembly 32. Alternatively the fill station would comprise a container for ground coffee and a dispenser for depositing pre-measured quantities of coffee into theinfusion chamber assembly 32. - When the filling operation is completed, the individual merely withdraws the
infusion chamber assembly 32 from thefill station 40, whereupon thefill chamber door 41 closes. Then the individual inserts the infusion chamber assembly back into thebrewing station 33. These operations are achieved without any need to manipulate latches or other mechanisms. - When various visual annunciators, such as LEDs or like
light sources 46, indicate brewing can begin and the brew/steam control selector 26 is in the brewing position, depressing abrewing switch 47 initiates the brewing operation. The consumer sees the result when brewed coffee begins to fill thecoffee cups cup 37R and center thecup 37L below thehandle 35, or vice versa. - Emptying the used coffee grounds requires the individual to withdraw the
infusion chamber assembly 32 from thebrewing station 33 to dispose of the used coffee grounds and to clean the grounds cup. Periodically an individual can initiate a cleaning cycle whereby a compacting structure becomes readily accessible, as described later. Thecontrol 27 can include anaccess ring 50 that can be used to remove the front burr of the grinder for cleaning. - When it is desired to apply steam for foaming milk or for preheating a cup the consumer merely shifts the BREW/
STEAM control 26 to a steam position. Steam will be dispensed from the bottom of thesteam nozzle 38. -
FIGS. 2 and 3 depict theespresso machine 20 with thehousing 21 removed to view the major components including thebase 22, thewater reservoir 30, the removabledrip tray assembly 36 and the cup warmer 23.FIG. 2 additionally discloses the BREW/STEAM control valve 26, the grindfineness adjustment knob 27 and thesteam nozzle 38. - The
water reservoir 30 has a hingedtop 51 andrear wall 52 with aconnector 53. Theconnector 53 includes a check valve (not shown) that closes when thewater reservoir 30 is removed from theespresso machine 20 for filling. When afull water reservoir 30 is inserted and seated in theespresso machine 20, a connector on the apparatus, not shown but well known in the art, interacts with theconnector 33 to open the check valve. Water is then available to apump 54 shown inFIG. 3 . - The
pump 54, when active, pumps cold water into aboiler 55 through aconventional flow meter 56. Tubing, not shown for purpose of clarity, conveys hot water from theboiler 55 to aninlet hose 57 on a compactingassembly 60 that forms a brewing chamber in cooperation with theinfusion chamber assembly 32 that is inserted into thebrewing station 33. Heat from theboiler 55 elevates the temperature of the cup warmer 23. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , at thebrewing station 33 the espresso machine includes asemi-cylindrical support portion 61 and two tangentialplanar wall extensions 62 that carry ashelf 63. Theshelf 63 acts as a support for theinfusion chamber assembly 32, particularly thegrounds cup holder 34. Aninterlock 64 provides an enabling input to a brewing controller when theinfusion chamber assembly 32 is fully seated and properly aligned in thebrewing station 33. - The
fill station 40 has a similar structure with asemi-cylindrical support portion 65 and two tangentialplanar wall portions 66. Ashelf 67, similar to theshelf 63, supports theinfusion chamber assembly 32 for receiving ground coffee. Aninterlock 68 provides an enabling signal to a controller when theinfusion chamber assembly 32 is fully seated and aligned in thefill station 40. - Still referring to
FIGS. 2 and 3 , the compactingassembly 60 includes apiston assembly 70 driven, in this embodiment, by amotor 71 through a speedreduction gear mechanism 72. In this specific embodiment theapparatus 20 also includes acoffee grinder 73 at thefill station 40 that grinds beans to ground coffee of a selected coarseness or fineness. -
FIG. 4 depicts thepiston assembly 70. It includes a threadedrod 74 characterized by anaxially extending slot 75 that engages a stationary base plate for preventing rotation. Aradial arm 76 serves as a switch actuator for limit switches as described later. A threadedrod retainer 77, overlying anupper end 80 of the threadedrod 74, includes a plurality ofclips 81. Theclips 81 engage correspondingapertures 82 in atop disk 83 as more specifically disclosed inFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view taken from above thetop disk 83. The top surface of thetop disk 83 has a plurality of circumferential lands and grooves that provide a rigid structure while minimizing its weight and material. Thetop disk 83 additionally includes apassage 84 for enabling a connection to theinlet hose 57 inFIG. 3 that connects to theboiler 55. - Referring again to
FIG. 4 , abottom disk 85 includes anaxial shoulder 86 and abottom labyrinth 87. Thelabyrinth 87 facilitates the dispersal of water exiting anipple 90 across the extent of and through a supportedperforated disk 91 as described later. Aguide ring 92 is axially coextensive with theaxial shoulder 86 and provides peripheral support for theperforated disk 91. Ascrew 93 engages a central threadedaperture 94 accessible from the bottom of thebottom disk 85 thereby to fasten thebottom disk 85, theperforated disk 91 andguide ring 92 into a subassembly. In this assembly the free ends of axially extending walls forming thelabyrinth 87 support theperforated disk 91 so it does not deform when it engages ground coffee in theinfusion chamber assembly 32. - A
wavy spring 95 lies intermediate thetop disk 83 andbottom disk 85. Thetop disk 83 andbottom disk 85 sandwich aseal 96 characterized by a radially contracted state and a radially expanded state. Thetop disk 83,bottom disk 85,perforated disk 91,guide ring 92,screw 93,wavy spring 95 and seal 96 thereby form apiston head 97 that attaches to the threadedrod 74 and provides an active peripheral seal structure. As described in more detail later, theseal 96 attaches to thebottom disk 85 and to thetop disk 83. When the threadedrod 74 is in a retracted position, thewavy spring 96 exerts a force that tends to separate thetop disk 83 from thebottom disk 85. Under these conditions theseal 96 relaxes, has a minimum diameter and is radially contracted. When the axial distance between thetop disk 83 andbottom disk 85 decreases, thewavy spring 95 compresses and the diameter of theseal 96 increases so theseal 96 moves to the radially expanded state. - The
seal 96 performs several functions. First, theseal 96 engages thecylindrical wall 112 of thegrounds cup 102 to confine any water or brewed coffee to thebrewing chamber 98. Second, theseal 96 assures that all the hot water admitted to the labyrinth inFIG. 4 passes through theperforated disk 91 and into the ground coffee in thebrewing chamber 98. As a third function, theseal 96 acts as a flexible coupling that supports thebottom disk 85 on thepiston head 97. The specific construction of theseal 96 and its performance of these functions are described later. -
FIGS. 6 and 7 are useful in understanding the mechanical arrangements of the compactingassembly 60 and theinfusion chamber assembly 32. When thepiston head 97 is positioned in thegrounds cup 102 at a position shown by dashedline 99 and sealed by theseal 96, the area below thepiston head 97 bounded by theinfusion chamber assembly 32, specifically thegrounds cup 102, becomes a brewing chamber. - In these views, however, the
motor 71 andgear train 72 have retracted the threadedrod 74 and thepiston head 97 to an upper limit or fully retracted position as defined when theradial arm 76 on the threadedrod 74 engages anupper limit microswitch 100. Alower limit microswitch 101 defines a lower-most position or range of travel. When the piston is fully retracted, theinfusion chamber assembly 32 is easily removed from thebrewing station 33. -
FIGS. 8 and 9 depict theinfusion chamber assembly 32 with thegrounds cup holder 34 and agrounds cup 102. Thegrounds cup holder 34 includes aface plate 103 with theintegral handle 35 and anintegral cylinder 104. Spacedcircumferential ribs 105 on thecylinder 104 form a channel that engages theshelf 63 that acts as a supporting track at thebrewing station 33 shown inFIG. 2 to position theinfusion chamber assembly 34 below the compactingassembly 60. Theribs 105 also engage theshelf 67 inFIG. 2 that acts as a track at thefill station 40. - Still referring to
FIGS. 8 and 9 , thegrounds cup holder 34 has aconcave bottom 106, aright dispensing port 107 and a left dispensingport 110. During brewing, coffee exits from both of these ports. When two coffee cups, such as thecoffee cups FIG. 1 , coffee is dispensed into the two cups simultaneously. However, the spacing between theports handle 35, coffee from both dispensingports - Referring again to
FIGS. 8 and 9 , thegrounds cup 102 has acylindrical wall 112 that extends from an open top with alip 113 that engages atop edge 114 of thecylinder 104, so thegrounds cup 102 essentially rests in thegrounds cup holder 34. At the bottom, thegrounds cup 102 has two taperedportions sieve portion 117. - In accordance with one aspect of this invention, the depth of the
cylindrical wall 112 is at least equal to the depth of the grounds in thegrounds cup 102 plus an amount that enables thepiston head 97 to achieve a sealing relationship with thecylindrical wall 112 of thegrounds cup 102. This depth provides flexibility to a consumer because asingle grounds cup 102 will accommodate coffee in different packages or in different quantities. There is no need to inventory different grounds cups. Further, thegrounds cup 102 easily separates from thegrounds cup holder 34 for cleaning. This structure also allows an accessory element, such as a crema insert, to be located intermediate thegrounds cup 102 and thegrounds cup holder 34. -
FIG. 10 depicts theannular seal 96 that is a component of the active seal. The structures in phantom at the right ofFIG. 10 are useful in conjunction with other drawings for understanding the relationship of theseal 96 with components of thepiston head 97 and its functions. Specifically, theseal 96 has anannular body 120 that has a C-shaped cross section to form achannel 121 with an opening facing acenter axis 122. An annularupper lip 123 extends axially and upward to be captured in agroove 124 in thetop disk 83. An annularlower lip 124 extends downward axially to terminate with afree end 125. This end is captured between theaxial shoulder 86 of thebottom disk 85 and theguide ring 92. Thefree end 125 bears against theperforated disk 91. An integral obliquely extendingexterior skirt 126 can flex radially with respect to theaxis 122. - In the relaxed or radially contracted state shown in
FIG. 10 , theupper lip 123,annular body 120 andlower lip 124 form a flexible coupling that suspends thebottom disk 85 from thetop disk 83. Thelower lip 124, particularly the surface at thefree end 125, forms a seal to confine the hot water under pressure to the volume between theperforated disk 91 and thelower disk 85 including thelabyrinth 87. This prevents any water from escaping at the periphery of thepiston head 97, particularly at theguide ring 92. When theseal 96 assumes a radially expanded state due to the compression of thewavy spring 95 and movement of thebottom disk 85 toward thetop disk 83, theskirt 126 expands into thecylindrical wall 122 thereby to form of peripheral seal that defines an upper limit of thebrewing chamber 98 and that confines all the hot water under pressure and brewing coffee to thebrewing chamber 98. -
FIGS. 6 and 7 depict theespresso machine 20 with thepiston 97 and threadedrod 74 retracted to an open position, thearm 76 having activated the upper limitmicro switch 100. In this fully retracted position, the compactingapparatus 60 has retracted thepiston head 97 to a position that allows theinfusion chamber assembly 32 to be inserted into thebrewing station 33 withcoffee 130. Thecircumferential ribs 105 engage the support provided by theshelf 63 inFIG. 2 . When fully seated, thegrounds cup holder 34 engages theinterlock 64. When the structures are oriented as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7 , thewavy spring 95 separates the top andbottom disks seal 96 is in its radially contracted state. - As described later, when water temperature and other conditions are satisfied, the consumer pushes the
brewing switch 47 inFIG. 1 . Themotor 71 displaces the threadedrod 74 andpiston head 97 toward theinfusion chamber assembly 32.FIGS. 11A and 11B depict thepiston head 97 as it first enters thegrounds cup 102. Theseal 96, particularly theseal skirt 126, is spaced from thegrounds cup cylinder 112. - As will be apparent, the position of the
grounds cup 102 relative to thepiston head 97 will not be held to close tolerances. Thus, it is possible for a misalignment to exist during normal operations. In contemplation of this possibility, theguide ring 92 shown inFIGS. 4, 11A and 11B serves to prevent any damage to theseal 96. Specifically, theguide ring 92 has anannular body 131 and angularly spaced, radially extendingtabs 132 with outer, downwardly located chamfers 133. Should there be any misalignment, achamfer 133 will contact thelip 113 and center thepiston head 97 within thegrounds cup 102. Thus thewall 112 does not contact theskirt 126 as thepiston head 97 enters thebrewing chamber 98. - Consequently the
guide ring 92 protects theseal 96 from damage. Moreover there is no wear on theseal 96 during this downward motion. - The
motor 71 continues to drive the threadedrod 74 andpiston head 97 downward with the configuration shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B , until theperforated disk 91 contacts theground coffee 130. Further downward motion of thepiston head 97 begins to compact theground coffee 130. In addition at some point the force exerted on theperipheral disk 91 will be greater than the force exerted by thewavy spring 95. As a result, the distance between the top andbottom disks seal 96 moves to the radially expanded state and drives theskirt 126 against the cylinder wall to form the seal. - As the ground coffee compacts, the load on the
motor 71 increases. When the current reaches a first specified threshold, themotor 71 is de-energized. The gear ratios lock thepiston head 97 in its vertical position. The seal formed by theskirt 126 now defines the top of thebrewing chamber 98. This event enables hot water to pass from theboiler 55 through thehose 57 and thepiston 97 and to permeate thecoffee 130 under pressure. - As can be seen from
FIG. 4 , the water under pressure travels through thenipple 90 to emerge in thelabyrinth 87. The pressure required to displace the water into thelabyrinth 87 is less than that needed to force the water through theperforated disk 91 and the compactedcoffee grounds 134 inFIGS. 12A and 12B . Thus, the water initially fills thelabyrinth 87 and then passes through the entire surface of theperforated disk 91 bounded by thelower lip 124 of theseal 97 thereby to permeate theground coffee 130 uniformly. - Referring to
FIG. 12B , the brewedcoffee 134 in thebrewing chamber 98 above theground coffee 130 may be under pressure. To the extent such pressure exists, it does not detract from the sealing force that drives theskirt 126 against thecylindrical wall 122. Although such brewedcoffee 134 enters agap 135 between theseal body 120 andskirt 126, it produces an additive pressure component that further perfects the seal. Consequently the compactingapparatus 60 provides both compacting force and a mechanism for controlling the active seal. - In one embodiment of this invention, the brewing cycle has another step. After the brewing cycle is completed the
motor 71 is energized again to drive the threadedrod 74 downwardly thereby over compacting thecoffee grounds 130 to extract additional beverage. This downward force increases motor current to a next higher threshold. When the threshold is reached, themotor 71 reverses to retract the threadedrod 74 andpiston head 97 back to the position shown in 11A. - During the processes of compression and over compression and initial retraction, the
seal 96, primarily theskirt 126, undergoes only minimal sliding against thecylindrical wall 112. As soon as themotor 71 produces any significant upward displacement during retraction, thewavy spring 95 begins to expand to separate the top andbottom disks seal 96 with itsskirt 126 retracts radially from thecylindrical wall 112. Consequently, theseal 96 will not wear and have a long life. - When the
motor 71 fully retracts the threadedrod 74 and thepiston head 97, theradial arm 76 again engages theupper limit microswitch 100 to de-energize themotor 71 and conclude the brewing cycle, so a consumer can remove a cup and drink the beverage. Also in this position, the consumer can easily remove theinfusion chamber assembly 32 from thebrewing station 33 for cleaning after each use and for filling with fresh ground coffee. - Generally this per use cleaning of the
infusion chamber assembly 32 will be sufficient. Cleaning thepiston head 97 can be done less frequently because during brewing the only elements in contact with brewed coffee and coffee grounds are theinfusion chamber assembly 32 and the bottom surface of thepiston head 97, that is, theperforated disk 90 andguide ring 92 and the surface of theseal 96 at agap 135. The water under pressure prevents thebottom disk 85 including thelabyrinth 87,upper disk 83 and internal surfaces of theseal 96 from accumulating any residue. - When it is desired to clean the
piston head 97, the consumer initiates a cleaning cycle by activating a “clean”switch 136 inFIG. 1 while theinfusion chamber assembly 32 is removed. This operation energizes themotor 71 and drives the threadedrod 74 downwardly until thearm 76 strikes thelower limit microswitch 101. As shown inFIG. 13 , theentire piston assembly 97 is then accessible for cleaning in thebrewing station 33. Generally it is merely necessary to wipe the surface of theperforated disk 91 andguide ring 92 with a damp cloth or sponge. A more thorough cleaning might be achieved by means of a special cleaning cycle, like a brew cycle, with aninfusion chamber assembly 32 inserted at thebrewing station 33. -
FIG. 14 is a block schematic that summarizes the various control inputs and outputs that can be utilized in theespresso machine 20 ofFIG. 1 . In this specific embodiment, acontroller 140 has connections to thewater pump 54, theboiler 55, theflow meter 56, thepiston motor 71 and thegrinder 56. Theflow meter 56 produces a FLOW input signal for thecontroller 140. Atemperature sensing circuit 141 generates a TEMP input signal. Acurrent sensor 142 provides a CURRENT signal to athreshold level circuit 143. The threshold level circuit produces one of two outputs to acontrol unit 144. The first is from aLEVEL 1detector 145 that represents the current that exists as compactingassembly 60 compacts the coffee grounds to an appropriate level. ALEVEL 2detector 146 is set at a higher level and serves to provide a reversing signal for the post brewing over compression sequence. Awater level sensor 147 indicates the presence of a sufficient quantity of water for a brewing operation. - The
upper limit microswitch 100 and thelower limit microswitch 101 provide two other control inputs to thecontroller 140. Still other control inputs are provided by theinterlock 64 that indicates the proper alignment of theinfusion chamber assembly 32 in thebrewing station 33. Theinterlock 68 indicates the proper positioning of theinfusion chamber assembly 32 in thefill station 40. Other inputs include the power-onswitch 42, the one-cup and two-cup switches brewing switch 47 and thegrind switch 136. -
FIG. 15 is a basic flow diagram for outlining the logical operations that can occur within acontroller 140, including thecontrol unit 144. When theapparatus 20 is plugged into an outlet,control unit 144 is enabled and step 150 senses the existence of a full power status. When that condition is realized, step 151 transfers control to step 152 and may at that point also energize a power-on annunciator. - Step 152 reads the input signal from the
water level sensor 147 inFIG. 14 . If insufficient water exists, step 152 waits for water to be added by the consumer instep 153. When that test is completed,step 154 determines whether the water temperature is above a first operating threshold, typically set at the bottom of an acceptable brewing temperature range. On initialization this typically will not be the situation, so control passes fromstep 154 to step 155 to energize theboiler 55.Steps step 157. As shown this control sensor enters into aloop including steps 154 through 157 thereby to constantly control the temperature of the water during the brewing cycle - Once the water temperature is in an appropriate range, the consumer receives a notification as the illumination of a ready to brew light. This may initiate a time-out to limit the maximum interval before the
brew button 47 inFIGS. 1 and 14 is actuated. The time-out interval terminates the operation of theboiler 55. - Once the
brew button 47 is actuated, control passes to step 162 to determine whether theinfusion chamber assembly 32 is properly aligned by monitoring theinterlock switch 64 shown inFIGS. 2 and 14 . When both the conditions ofsteps 160 and 162 are met within the time-out interval,step 163 energizes themotor 71 to extend thepiston head 97. When thepiston head 97 begins to compact the ground coffee as shown inFIG. 12A , the signal from the motorcurrent sensor 142 increases until the current reaches the first threshold established by theLevel 1detector 145. When this occurs, step 156 de-energizes themotor 71. Now the system is ready to infuse the compacted ground coffee. - Next the
control unit 144 determines whether the one-cup switch 43 or the two-cup switch 44 has been actuated. As will be apparent, such switches should be ganged so only one of the two switches can be depressed at any time. Step 166 establishes the amount of water that must transfer through thebrewing chamber 98 in response to the selection of one or two cups. Step 167 energizes thepump 154 so heated water flows to thebrewing chamber 98 until theflow meter 56 records the specified quantity. When this occurs step 171 turns off the water. - Step 172 then energizes the motor to produce over-compacting. Step 173 monitors the current from the
current sensor 142 until theLevel 2detector 146 indicates that second threshold has been reached. At thatpoint step 174 reverses the motor and begins the retraction process. When theradial arm 76 engages theupper limit microswitch 100, step 175 transfers control to de-energize the motor atstep 176. As will be apparent, whenstep 176 de-energizes the motor, the brewing cycle has been completed. - In summary, the
espresso machine 20 ofFIG. 1 , specifically the structure that forms thebrewing chamber 98 including theinfusion chamber assembly 32 with itsgrounds cup 102 and thepiston head 97 with itsseal 96, facilitates and simplifies an operation by which coffee grounds are compacted and then infused under pressure. Sealing is enhanced because the water pressure acts to increase, rather than decrease, the sealing force. Further, as the seal is radially contracted for most discrete piston head motion, it will have a long life. As a result it is possible to construct a brewing chamber that is sealed across the top with a single piston and that enables theinfusion chamber assembly 32 to be removed for cleaning and to be transferred to a remote site for receiving ground coffee, such as at thefill station 40 or even some separate filling position remote from theapparatus 20. - The simplicity of this design allows the
espresso machine 20 to be available for consumers with many of the advantages of the more expensive commercial systems. Yet thisespresso machine 20 is easy to use because there is no need for a consumer to manipulate manual latching mechanisms. Moreover, owing to the fact that theseal 96 seals against theside wall 112 of thegrounds cup 102 the machine can accommodate ground coffee or a variety of coffee pods of different diameters and in differing amounts and quantities up to some arbitrary maximum depending on the depth of thegrounds cup 102. As a result, theespresso machine 20 inFIG. 1 is readily adapted for accommodating a wide range of infusible materials. - This invention has been disclosed in the form of a
particular espresso machine 20. It will be apparent, however, that variations could be incorporated or applied to the specifically enclosed embodiment without departing from the invention. For example, the compactingassembly 60 ofFIGS. 4, 6 and 7 utilizes a particular motor and drive means for producing the vertical displacement of thepiston head 97. Mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic or other mechanisms and driving structures might be utilized for displacing thepiston head 97 to its various positions. Thepiston head 97 is disclosed with a particular arrangement of top and bottom disks, an intermediate spring and a sealing structure. Alternate implementations of each of those elements could provide equivalent functions. For example, the specifically disclosed structure of theseal 96 with theskirt 126 is particularly suited for the high-pressure environment associated with espresso brewing applications. The pressure required to brew regular coffee is considerably less. In such an application a variation of theactive seal 96 with the skirt removed by be substituted. As another alternative, the active seal could be replaced by a passive seal, such as an O-ring. Thegrounds cup 102 is disclosed as a deep drawn element; shallower grounds cup could be substituted. Accessory devices might be interposed between bottoms of thegrounds cup 102 and thegrounds cup holder 32, all while still realizing some, if not all, the advantages of this invention. The specifically disclosed control sequence could be altered while still achieving the advantages of this invention. Therefore, it is the intent of the appended claims to cover all such variations and modifications as come within the true spirit and scope of this invention.
Claims (36)
1. Apparatus for brewing beverages including a housing and means for supplying a liquid to an infusible material under pressure thereby to produce a beverage, said apparatus comprising:
A) infusion chamber means supported by said housing including a side wall, an open top and a perforated bottom for receiving the infusible material,
B) piston means supported by said housing for being displaced into said infusion chamber means, said piston means including means for directing the liquid from the liquid supply means to the infusible material,
C) active sealing means mounted on said piston means intermediate said piston means and side wall means, said active sealing means including a seal, means for displacing said seal into an expanded state wherein said seal contacts said side wall when said piston means compacts the infusible material whereby said piston means and infusion chamber means form a brewing chamber in which the material is infused.
2. Apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said infusion chamber means includes:
i) grounds cup means for receiving the infusible material and including said perforated bottom and a cylindrical side wall as said side wall, and
ii) grounds cup holder means for supporting said grounds cup means in the housing in alignment with said piston means.
3. Apparatus as recited in claim 2 including complementary means for removably supporting said grounds cup means in said grounds cup holder means.
4. Apparatus as recited in claim 2 wherein said piston means includes piston head means for compressing the infusible material in said grounds cup means.
5. Apparatus as recited in claim 4 wherein said cylindrical side wall has a height that is at least equal to the depth of the infusible material in said grounds cup means plus an amount that enables said piston head means to achieve a sealing relationship about said cylindrical side wall.
6. Apparatus as recited in claim 4 wherein said perforated bottom constitutes a central sieve and includes at least one annular tapered section supporting said central sieve from said cylindrical wall.
7. Apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said piston means includes:
i) a piston rod
ii) drive means for moving said piston rod between retracted and extended positions, and
iii) piston head means attached to said piston rod including said active sealing means for compressing the infusible material in said infusion chamber.
8. Apparatus as recited in claim 7 wherein said displacement means includes spaced top and bottom disks and intermediate biasing means for applying a force thereto whereby said top and bottom disks are displaced away from each other and said active sealing means is in its radially contracted state.
9. Apparatus as recited in claim 8 wherein said bottom disk includes a labyrinth facing said brewing chamber and said piston includes a perforated disk overlying said labyrinth thereby to distribute the liquid evenly over the infusible material during brewing.
10. Apparatus as recited in claim 9 wherein said seal in said active sealing means includes a peripheral sealing portion for sealing the periphery of said perforated disk and said bottom disk to confined liquid to emerge from said piston head means into the infusible material through said perforated disk.
11. Apparatus as recited in claim 1 wherein said seal in said active sealing means includes an annular flexible body portion with a first and second lip means and a peripheral skirt for forming a seal with said infusion chamber means in a radially expanded state of said sealing means.
12. Apparatus as recited in claim 11 wherein said piston means includes spaced top and bottom disks and intermediate biasing means for applying a force thereto whereby said top and bottom disks are displaced away from each other, said top and bottom disks having first and second attachment means for attaching to said first and second lip means, respectively, whereby said sealing means supports said bottom disk from said top disk and whereby compressing said bottom disk against said top disk displaces said seal to the radially expanded state.
13. Apparatus as recited in claim 12 wherein said seal includes a skirt portion extending from the periphery of said annular flexible body portion.
14. Apparatus as recited in claim 13 wherein said piston means additionally includes guiding means for aligning said piston means with said infusion chamber means thereby to protect said skirt from damage when said piston means moves in said infusion chamber means.
15. Apparatus for brewing coffee by infusing ground coffee with hot water under pressure comprising:
A) a housing,
B) means for defining a brewing station in said housing,
C) a infusion chamber assembly for being inserted into said housing at said brewing station, said infusion chamber assembly carrying the ground coffee and having dispensing port means for dispensing brewed coffee,
D) piston means mounted to said housing proximate said brewing station for compressing the ground coffee in said infusion chamber assembly in an extended state.
E) active sealing means formed with said piston means, said piston means including means for moving said active sealing means between a radially contracted state wherein said sealing means is spaced from said infusion chamber assembly and a radially expanded state wherein said sealing means forms a seal between said piston means and said infusion chamber assembly, and
D) means for supplying hot water under pressure to said infusion chamber assembly when the sealing means is in the radially expanded state and said piston means has compressed the ground coffee.
16. Apparatus as recited in claim 15 wherein said water Supply means includes:
i) a water reservoir for containing water to be brewed,
ii) a pump for pressurizing the water for delivery to said infusion chamber assembly,
iii) a boiler for heating the water, and iv) means for interconnecting said water reservoir, pump and boiler in an operative relationship thereby to supply heated water to said infusion chamber assembly under pressure.
17. Apparatus as recited in claim 16 including a control panel and control means responsive to the inputs from said control panel and said water supply means for controlling the movement of said piston means relative to said infusion chamber assembly.
18. Apparatus as recited in claim 17 wherein said piston means includes electric drive means and said control means includes means for controlling the energization of said electric drive means.
19. Apparatus as recited in claim 17 wherein said control means includes means for controlling the temperature and quantity of the water from said water supply means.
20. Apparatus as recited in claim 15 wherein said piston means includes a piston head with a bottom disk having a lower labyrinth and with a perforated disk overlying said labyrinth whereby heated water under pressure passes through said labyrinth and perforated disk to infuse the ground coffee, said bottom disk including means for conveying the heated water under pressure to said labyrinth.
21. Apparatus as recited in claim 15 wherein said active sealing means includes a seal with an annular body portion and an outer skirt that forms a continuous seal around the periphery of said infusion chamber assembly.
22. Apparatus as recited in claim 15 wherein said housing includes means for defining a brewing station and said infusion chamber assembly includes:
i) a grounds cup holder with means for being supported in said housing at said brewing station including said dispensing port means, and
ii) a grounds cup having a cylindrical side wall and perforated bottom for passing brewed coffee to said grounds cup holder dispensing port, said active sealing means in its radially expanded state forming an upper limit of the brewing chamber.
23. Apparatus as recited in claim 22 wherein said active sealing means includes a seal with an annular body portion and an outer, downwardly extending skirt whereby said skirt contacts said grounds cup cylindrical wall to form a continuous seal around the circumference of said grounds cup when said seal is in its expanded state.
24. Apparatus as recited in claim 23 wherein said piston means includes top and bottom disks with an intermediate spring for biasing said top and bottom disks apart, said top and bottom disks being attached to upper and lower portions, respectively, of said seal whereby continued extension of said piston means into ground coffee in said grounds cup overcomes the bias of said spring thereby to decrease the separation between said top and bottom disks and cause said sealing means to expand radially into said grounds cup cylindrical wall.
25. Apparatus as recited in claim 14 wherein said housing includes:
i) means for defining a fill station,
ii) means for supporting said infusion chamber assembly in said fill station,
ii) means for dispensing ground coffee into said infusion chamber assembly at said fill station whereby the infusion chamber assembly with the ground coffee can be transferred from said fill station to said brewing station.
26. Apparatus as recited in claim 25 wherein said ground coffee dispensing means includes:
a) a grinder for grinding coffee beans, and
b) a hopper for directing coffee beans into said grinder.
27. In a beverage brewing apparatus including an infusion chamber with a cylindrical side wall and a piston head movable within said infusion chamber to a brewing position, an active seal for generating a seal between said piston head and said side wall, said piston head comprising:
A) a first disk,
B) a second disk,
C) a peripheral seal having a central body portion and first and second means for attachment to said first and second disks, respectively, whereby said peripheral seal acts as a flexible coupling between said first and second disks, said peripheral seal having a third portion for engaging said cylindrical side wall when said first and second disks are compressed thereby to form a seal with the infusion chamber.
28. An active seal as recited in claim 27 including means for biasing said first and second disks apart whereby said peripheral seal is spaced from said side wall.
29. An active seal as recited in claim 28 wherein said central body portion has a C-shape that radially expands when the first and second disks overcome said biasing means and the distance between said disks decreases.
30. An active seal as recited in claim 29 wherein said peripheral seal includes a skirt about the periphery of said central body portion for contacting the surface of said infusion chamber in the expanded state of said active seal.
31. Apparatus for brewing beverages including means for supplying a liquid to an infusible material under pressure thereby to produce a beverage, said apparatus comprising:
A) a housing with support means at a brewing station,
B) removable reusable infusion chamber means slidably supported by said housing including a side wall, an open top, and a perforated bottom for receiving the infusible material and engagement means for interacting with said support means whereby said infusion chamber means can be inserted and withdrawn from said brewing station, and
C) piston means supported by said housing for being displaced into said infusion chamber means, said piston means including:
i) means for directing the liquid from the liquid supply means to the infusible material, and
ii) sealing means intermediate said piston means and side wall means for contacting, said sealing means including a seal, wherein said seal contacts said side wall when said piston means enters said infusion chamber compacts the infusible material whereby said piston means and infusion chamber means thereby to form a brewing chamber in which the material is infused.
32. Apparatus as recited in claim 31 including means in said housing for detecting an alignment between said infusion chamber means and said piston means.
33. Apparatus as recited in claim 32 wherein said support means includes a track for interacting with said engagement means.
34. Apparatus as recited in claim 31 wherein said support means includes a track for interacting with said engagement means.
35. Apparatus as recited in claim 31 wherein said apparatus includes fill station means for dispensing ground coffee into said infusion chamber means, said fill station means including fill station support means for interacting with said engagement means.
36. Apparatus as recited in claim 32 wherein said fill station support means includes a track corresponding to the track at said brewing station thereby to facilitate the transfer of said infusion chamber means between said fill and brewing stations.
Priority Applications (8)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/129,041 US20060254428A1 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2005-05-14 | Coffee making apparatus |
PCT/US2006/018338 WO2006124542A2 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2006-05-11 | Coffee making apparatus |
CA2608312A CA2608312C (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2006-05-11 | Coffee making apparatus |
EP06759624.7A EP1890579B1 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2006-05-11 | Coffee making apparatus |
RU2007145096/12A RU2007145096A (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2006-05-11 | COFFEE MAKER |
CN200680025316XA CN101232829B (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2006-05-11 | Coffee making apparatus |
US11/566,419 US20070062378A1 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2006-12-04 | Beverage making apparatus |
US11/734,804 US7270050B2 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2007-04-13 | Beverage making apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/129,041 US20060254428A1 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2005-05-14 | Coffee making apparatus |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/566,419 Continuation US20070062378A1 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2006-12-04 | Beverage making apparatus |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060254428A1 true US20060254428A1 (en) | 2006-11-16 |
Family
ID=37417828
Family Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/129,041 Abandoned US20060254428A1 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2005-05-14 | Coffee making apparatus |
US11/566,419 Abandoned US20070062378A1 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2006-12-04 | Beverage making apparatus |
US11/734,804 Expired - Fee Related US7270050B2 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2007-04-13 | Beverage making apparatus |
Family Applications After (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/566,419 Abandoned US20070062378A1 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2006-12-04 | Beverage making apparatus |
US11/734,804 Expired - Fee Related US7270050B2 (en) | 2005-05-14 | 2007-04-13 | Beverage making apparatus |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (3) | US20060254428A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1890579B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN101232829B (en) |
CA (1) | CA2608312C (en) |
RU (1) | RU2007145096A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006124542A2 (en) |
Cited By (40)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070169640A1 (en) * | 2006-01-24 | 2007-07-26 | Sanden Corporation | Beverage extractor |
US20080190297A1 (en) * | 2007-02-08 | 2008-08-14 | Wmf Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ag | Coffee machine |
US7673555B2 (en) | 2005-04-11 | 2010-03-09 | Starbucks Corporation | Machine for brewing a beverage such as coffee and related method |
US20100162898A1 (en) * | 2007-06-21 | 2010-07-01 | Eugster/Frismag Ag | Brewing unit of a device for preparing beverages |
US20100282091A1 (en) * | 2006-06-06 | 2010-11-11 | Doleac Frederic | Capsule with reduced dripping |
US20110100228A1 (en) * | 2009-10-30 | 2011-05-05 | Adrian Rivera | Coffee Maker With Multi and Single Cup Modes |
US20110154993A1 (en) * | 2008-05-20 | 2011-06-30 | Sgl Italia S.R.L. Con Unico Socio | Automatic machine for producing beverages |
US7997187B2 (en) | 2007-03-09 | 2011-08-16 | Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc | Brewed beverage maker |
US20120000933A1 (en) * | 2005-06-07 | 2012-01-05 | Nestec S.A. | Beverage machine with drip tray device for recipients of different heights |
ITTO20100591A1 (en) * | 2010-07-08 | 2012-01-09 | Sgl Italia S R L Con Unico Socio | INFUSER GROUP |
US20120207896A1 (en) * | 2007-07-13 | 2012-08-16 | Adrian Rivera | Single Serving Reusable Brewing Material Holder With Offset Passage for Offset Bottom Needle |
CN102655793A (en) * | 2009-12-21 | 2012-09-05 | 皇家飞利浦电子股份有限公司 | Infusion unit for drinks with hydraulic closing system |
ITUD20110052A1 (en) * | 2011-04-06 | 2012-10-07 | Eis Cafe San Marco | "COFFEE MAKING MACHINE" |
US20120260806A1 (en) * | 2011-04-13 | 2012-10-18 | Rolfes Patrick J | Pre-packaged beverage brewer press |
US8371211B2 (en) | 2005-04-11 | 2013-02-12 | Starbucks Corporation | Machine for brewing a beverage such as coffee and related method |
EP2570058A1 (en) * | 2011-09-19 | 2013-03-20 | Wmf Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ag | Espresso machine |
ITVR20110240A1 (en) * | 2011-12-30 | 2013-07-01 | Componenti Vending S P A | INFUSION GROUP FOR COFFEE MACHINES |
CH706100A1 (en) * | 2012-02-08 | 2013-08-15 | Wmf Wuerttemberg Metallwaren | Coffee grinder and removable filter holder and method for operating such a coffee maker. |
US20130233175A1 (en) * | 2010-11-12 | 2013-09-12 | Lorenzo Giacomin | Ac and/or dc voltage powered machine for preparing espresso coffee and other infused drinks and beverages |
EP2647318A1 (en) * | 2012-04-05 | 2013-10-09 | Seb Sa | Piston device for liquid food, operating method thereof and brewing machine provided with same |
US20140041527A1 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2014-02-13 | BRAVILOR HOLDING b.v | Beverage preparation device |
WO2014164088A1 (en) * | 2013-03-12 | 2014-10-09 | Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. | Beverage apparatus waste bin level detection |
EP2157895B1 (en) * | 2007-06-21 | 2015-07-29 | Eugster/Frismag AG | Drinks preparation device |
US9113747B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2015-08-25 | Adrian Rivera | Single and multi-cup coffee maker |
US20160200463A1 (en) * | 2013-08-30 | 2016-07-14 | Nicoventures Holdings Limited | Apparatus and method for dispensing liquids into a container |
IT201600122741A1 (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2018-06-02 | Gruppo Cimbali Spa | Equipment for pressing a dose of coffee into the filter holder. |
US10004354B2 (en) * | 2015-12-30 | 2018-06-26 | Conair Corporation | Coffee making appliance for brewing coffee |
US10154751B2 (en) | 2011-05-09 | 2018-12-18 | Eko Brands, Llc | Beverage brewing device |
US10251509B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2019-04-09 | Adrian Rivera | Coffee maker with multi and single cup modes |
US10542839B2 (en) | 2015-12-30 | 2020-01-28 | Conair Corporation | Coffee making appliance |
WO2020115650A1 (en) * | 2018-12-03 | 2020-06-11 | Cma Macchine Per Caffe' S.R.L. | Machine for beverage preparation |
US20200329899A1 (en) * | 2017-12-29 | 2020-10-22 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | A drinks machine with hot water and steam delivery and a method of use |
EP3741269A1 (en) * | 2019-05-21 | 2020-11-25 | Delica AG | Brewing chamber, brewing unit, machine and system for preparing a liquid food product from a capsule |
EP3841932A1 (en) * | 2019-12-27 | 2021-06-30 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Coffee machine |
USD927250S1 (en) | 2020-03-23 | 2021-08-10 | Eko Brands, Llc | Reusable filter cartridge |
CN113795181A (en) * | 2019-05-06 | 2021-12-14 | 皇家飞利浦有限公司 | Mixing device for producing frothed milk |
US11337543B2 (en) | 2007-07-13 | 2022-05-24 | Adrian Rivera | Brewing material holder |
US11464357B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2022-10-11 | Adrian Rivera | Beverage brewer with multi- and single-cup modes |
US11805934B1 (en) | 2020-10-21 | 2023-11-07 | Adrian Rivera | Brewing material lid and container for a beverage brewer |
US11832755B2 (en) | 2007-07-13 | 2023-12-05 | Adrian Rivera | Brewing material container for a beverage brewer |
Families Citing this family (57)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
ATE463989T1 (en) * | 2004-05-18 | 2010-04-15 | Nestec Sa | DEVICE FOR FROTHING MILK WITH EXTERNAL MILK SUCTION |
NL1028460C2 (en) * | 2005-03-04 | 2006-09-06 | Sara Lee De Nv | Device for preparing and dispensing beverages, whether or not at least partially foamed. |
US7673560B2 (en) * | 2006-02-13 | 2010-03-09 | Eldom Rothrist Ag | Brewing apparatus for a coffee machine |
PT2189087E (en) | 2006-06-16 | 2014-04-14 | Nestec Sa | Beverage distribution apparatus with support system and droplet recuperation for containers with different sizes |
EP2070454B1 (en) * | 2007-12-12 | 2015-07-15 | Nestec S.A. | Beverage production machines comprising a plurality of core units |
RU2488335C2 (en) * | 2007-12-12 | 2013-07-27 | Нестек С.А. | Receptacle for used capsules or containers of machines for liquid food or beverages preparation |
EP2098143A1 (en) * | 2008-03-06 | 2009-09-09 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Set of articles which are suitable to be used in a process of making a beverage |
CA2719757A1 (en) * | 2008-03-24 | 2009-10-01 | Bunn-O-Matic Corporation | Brewer system with active brewing mechanism and buffer reservoir piston compression of brewing substance |
PT2276380E (en) * | 2008-05-07 | 2013-08-23 | Nestec Sa | Used capsule collector for beverage devices |
CN102118992B (en) | 2008-08-08 | 2014-12-03 | 雀巢产品技术援助有限公司 | Beverage machine with carrying handle and configurable appearance & side functions |
WO2010033023A2 (en) * | 2008-09-17 | 2010-03-25 | Sara Lee/De N.V. | System for preparing coffee beverage |
RU2530373C2 (en) | 2008-10-03 | 2014-10-10 | Нестек С.А. | User-friendly interface of beverage preparation machine |
EP2208450A1 (en) * | 2009-01-14 | 2010-07-21 | Nestec S.A. | Modular system with small footprint autonomous module |
CA2950519C (en) | 2009-02-17 | 2019-07-16 | Koninklijke Douwe Egberts B.V. | Coffee bean packaging cartridge and coffee beverage system including same |
US8511220B2 (en) * | 2009-03-12 | 2013-08-20 | Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. | Cleaning cycle indicator and cleaning process for beverage maker |
US20100275785A1 (en) * | 2009-04-29 | 2010-11-04 | Michael Weissman | Automatic french press |
US9351600B2 (en) | 2009-05-06 | 2016-05-31 | Nestec S.A. | Beverage machines with simplified servicing |
US20100294135A1 (en) * | 2009-05-22 | 2010-11-25 | Michael Weissman | Automatic French Press |
ITPO20090011U1 (en) * | 2009-10-23 | 2011-04-25 | Marzocco Srl | PERFECT ESPRESSO COFFEE MACHINE |
MX2012005742A (en) * | 2009-12-02 | 2012-06-13 | Nestec Sa | Beverage preparation machine supporting a remote service functionality. |
US8528466B2 (en) * | 2010-02-05 | 2013-09-10 | Bobbi J Sweet | Liquid overflow platform and container for small appliances |
WO2011102714A2 (en) * | 2010-02-17 | 2011-08-25 | Sara Lee/De N.V. | A system for preparing a coffee beverage, ground coffee packaging cartridge for use with such a system, method of preparing a beverage by means of said system, and method of supplying ground coffee from said ground coffee packaging cartridge |
CN102843937B (en) * | 2010-03-01 | 2015-03-25 | 康克迪亚咖啡有限公司 | Accelerated low pressure brewer |
WO2011111287A1 (en) * | 2010-03-08 | 2011-09-15 | パナソニック株式会社 | Coffee maker |
US8895095B2 (en) | 2010-03-11 | 2014-11-25 | Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc. | Beverage brewing apparatus with a filter carrier receiver |
WO2011143483A1 (en) * | 2010-05-12 | 2011-11-17 | Crane Merchandising Systems, Inc. | High pressure coffee brewer |
PT2571408E (en) | 2010-05-21 | 2014-06-12 | Nestec Sa | Beverage machine with ergonomic water management |
AU2011254528B2 (en) | 2010-05-21 | 2015-04-23 | Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. | Ergonomic dispenser interface |
EP2401945A1 (en) * | 2010-07-01 | 2012-01-04 | Nestec S.A. | A device for adapting a food capsule into a capsule holder |
DK2409608T3 (en) * | 2010-07-19 | 2013-07-22 | Nestec Sa | Device for sensing a capsule in a beverage maker |
FR2963332B1 (en) | 2010-07-28 | 2012-08-31 | Andre Luciani | MICROPOROUS OR MICROPERFORIZED FLEXIBLE COFFEE PACK |
CN103025215B (en) * | 2010-08-13 | 2016-08-03 | 皇家飞利浦电子股份有限公司 | For preparing the brewing devices of food product |
PT2645913E (en) | 2010-12-01 | 2014-07-16 | Nestec Sa | Ergonomic user-interface for motorised ingredient chamber |
RU2013129941A (en) | 2010-12-01 | 2015-01-10 | Нестек С.А. | DRINKER WITH A RELIABLE USER INDICATOR |
EP2474254A1 (en) * | 2011-01-07 | 2012-07-11 | Nestec S.A. | Modular beverage dispensing system |
DE102011008095A1 (en) * | 2011-01-07 | 2011-06-22 | Severin Elektrogeräte GmbH, 59846 | Brewing module for coffee machine for preparing espresso, has adapter intervening in coiled groove such that rotation movement of piston is overlaid by axial sliding movement of piston caused by control drive |
JP2012170989A (en) * | 2011-02-22 | 2012-09-10 | Suzuki Motor Corp | Laser lap welding method |
US9289093B2 (en) * | 2011-02-25 | 2016-03-22 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Brewing assembly and beverages production machine comprising said assembly |
ES2603575T3 (en) | 2011-05-26 | 2017-02-28 | The Richards Corporation | Universal espresso coffee machine |
EP2543290A1 (en) * | 2011-07-08 | 2013-01-09 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Brewing unit with a water heater |
CN104066364B (en) | 2012-01-24 | 2019-07-30 | 班奥麦迪克公司 | Automatic-ejecting for grinder is adjusted |
CN103519692A (en) * | 2012-07-05 | 2014-01-22 | 苏州工业园区咖乐美电器有限公司 | Residue ejector rod for coffee machine |
US9289092B2 (en) * | 2012-08-07 | 2016-03-22 | Les Entreprises Cafection Inc. | Piston head for french press coffee maker |
ITPN20120050A1 (en) * | 2012-09-07 | 2014-03-08 | Cma Macchine Per Caffe S R L | AUTOMATIC COFFEE MACHINE ¿FOR PREPARATION OF COFFEE uro EXPRESS |
CN103735169A (en) * | 2012-10-17 | 2014-04-23 | 苏州工业园区咖乐美电器有限公司 | Device for brewing coffee |
US10765255B2 (en) * | 2013-04-02 | 2020-09-08 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Jug for beverages and beverage producing machine comprising said jug |
EP3785577B1 (en) * | 2013-04-08 | 2022-10-19 | Breville Pty Limited | Improvements to coffee grinder |
WO2015006367A2 (en) * | 2013-07-10 | 2015-01-15 | Dyer Michael Paul | Containers having a portioned amount of cleaning composition; methods for cleaning residue from beverage making machines |
CN103799873A (en) * | 2014-01-02 | 2014-05-21 | 宁波贝仕迪电器有限公司 | Manual pressing coffee capsule maker provided with water tank |
GB2529662B (en) * | 2014-08-28 | 2016-07-13 | Kraft Foods R&D Inc | Improvements in machines for the preparation of beverage and liquid food products |
CN104433812A (en) * | 2014-12-26 | 2015-03-25 | 张小亚 | Coffee machine |
EP3273827B1 (en) * | 2015-03-25 | 2019-06-26 | CMA Macchine per caffè S.r.l. | An automatic coffee machine for preparing espresso coffee |
CN105395067B (en) * | 2015-04-28 | 2018-06-29 | 周林斌 | Grind the method for work of the crushing filter device of bean coffee pot machine |
CN205018849U (en) * | 2015-10-09 | 2016-02-10 | 林诺锋 | Beam -grinding coffee maker |
US10517421B2 (en) | 2016-02-15 | 2019-12-31 | Leann Habram | Coffee and tea brewing system and method |
DE102018218506B4 (en) * | 2018-10-29 | 2020-09-17 | BSH Hausgeräte GmbH | Method for adapting a compression force acting on a grist in a coffee machine and a coffee machine |
US20220240711A1 (en) * | 2019-06-28 | 2022-08-04 | Breville Pty Limited | Ground coffee dosing and packing |
Citations (91)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2205290A (en) * | 1938-09-13 | 1940-06-18 | Herrera Juan Hernandez | Infusion strainer device |
US2798423A (en) * | 1952-11-28 | 1957-07-09 | Carimali S P A | Infusion apparatus, particularly for express coffee machines |
US3470812A (en) * | 1968-03-18 | 1969-10-07 | David J Levinson | Coffee brewing head |
US3793933A (en) * | 1971-11-19 | 1974-02-26 | R Weber | Coffee infusion apparatus and method |
US3878772A (en) * | 1974-03-01 | 1975-04-22 | Nordskog Co Inc | Reusable coffee maker container |
US4029003A (en) * | 1976-02-24 | 1977-06-14 | Adriana Manaresi | Device for the extemporary preparation of beverages |
US4056050A (en) * | 1976-12-22 | 1977-11-01 | General Electric Company | Coffeemaker with brew strength control |
US4147097A (en) * | 1976-09-23 | 1979-04-03 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Method of and apparatus for making drip-type coffee |
US4280401A (en) * | 1979-11-13 | 1981-07-28 | Cleland Robert K | Brew rail adapter |
US4287817A (en) * | 1978-06-05 | 1981-09-08 | Salton, Inc. | Apparatus for use in preparing infusions |
US4343232A (en) * | 1979-11-15 | 1982-08-10 | U.S. Philips Corporation | Coffee maker |
US4429623A (en) * | 1981-07-16 | 1984-02-07 | Ernesto Illy | Coffee-making machine |
US4457216A (en) * | 1980-03-10 | 1984-07-03 | Kurt Rost | Method for producing coffee and coffee machine for carrying out the method |
US4497243A (en) * | 1982-06-11 | 1985-02-05 | Alfredo Cavalli | Percolator assembly supporting structure, particularly for domestic automatic coffee percolators |
US4505191A (en) * | 1983-04-14 | 1985-03-19 | Nuova Faema S.P.A. | Dispensing unit for espresso coffee machines |
US4583449A (en) * | 1983-05-03 | 1986-04-22 | Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ag | Coffee percolator for selectively making normal coffee or espresso |
US4644856A (en) * | 1984-01-10 | 1987-02-24 | Robert Krups Stiftung & Co. Kg. | Apparatus for brewing espresso coffee |
US4660466A (en) * | 1984-04-21 | 1987-04-28 | Poccino-Expresso Import- und Export GmbH | Espresso coffee machine |
US4715270A (en) * | 1984-12-28 | 1987-12-29 | Sanden Corporation | Beverage brewing apparatus for vending machines |
US4784050A (en) * | 1984-11-21 | 1988-11-15 | Cavalli Alfredo | Apparatus for preparing espresso coffee in a household environment |
US4796521A (en) * | 1986-10-31 | 1989-01-10 | Lucio Grossi | Compact automatic coffee-making machine more particularly for domestic use |
US4840287A (en) * | 1988-04-29 | 1989-06-20 | Henny Penny Corporation | Locking mechanism for a pressure cooker |
US4852472A (en) * | 1987-07-17 | 1989-08-01 | In Albon Jean Paul | Apparatus for preparing coffee |
US4947738A (en) * | 1987-09-16 | 1990-08-14 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Apparatus for preparing hot beverages |
US5113752A (en) * | 1990-12-20 | 1992-05-19 | Bunn-O-Matic Corporation | Bypass basket structure for iced tea makers |
US5144886A (en) * | 1990-02-20 | 1992-09-08 | Wmf Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik Aktiengesellschaft | Coffee machine |
US5197373A (en) * | 1989-07-28 | 1993-03-30 | J. M. De Jong Duke Automatenfabriek B.V. | Apparatus for preparing beverages, such as coffee or tea, by extraction |
US5230277A (en) * | 1991-01-25 | 1993-07-27 | Ricerca Elettromeccanica S.R.L. | Device for making coffee |
US5237911A (en) * | 1991-12-03 | 1993-08-24 | Cis Elektrogerate Ag | Coffee brewing machine |
USRE34382E (en) * | 1989-04-20 | 1993-09-21 | Grindmaster Corporation | Bean and ground coffee carrier member for use in coffee systems |
US5255594A (en) * | 1991-07-03 | 1993-10-26 | Lucio Grossi | Automatic coffee-making machine with direct-current motor drive and worm screws |
US5259296A (en) * | 1992-03-02 | 1993-11-09 | Jura Elektroapparate Ag | Brewing apparatus |
US5274736A (en) * | 1990-10-18 | 1993-12-28 | Rohr Jr Edward J | Pressurized heating apparatus for making coffee in an automobile |
US5275089A (en) * | 1990-10-25 | 1994-01-04 | Hermes Armellin | Automatic machine for the preparation of coffee infusions and process for operation |
US5277102A (en) * | 1991-05-13 | 1994-01-11 | Azkoyen Hosteleria, S.A. | Automatic coffee dispensing machine for producing coffee infusions |
US5280747A (en) * | 1991-11-20 | 1994-01-25 | Seb S.A. | Espresso coffee machine |
US5302407A (en) * | 1992-03-19 | 1994-04-12 | Cosmec S.R.L. | Method and apparatus for preparing coffee beverages |
US5312637A (en) * | 1993-06-21 | 1994-05-17 | Bunn-O-Matic Corporation | One-cup brewer |
US5335588A (en) * | 1992-06-26 | 1994-08-09 | Arthur Eugster Ag Elektrohaushaltsgerate | Device for preparing milk froth for cappuccino |
US5337652A (en) * | 1991-07-19 | 1994-08-16 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Espresso machine |
US5357848A (en) * | 1992-02-18 | 1994-10-25 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Coffee machine |
US5388502A (en) * | 1990-08-22 | 1995-02-14 | Braun Aktiengesellschaft | Espresso coffee machine |
US5402706A (en) * | 1993-01-27 | 1995-04-04 | Cimbali S.P.A. | Automatic machine for coffee beverage, in which the ground coffee is compressed in an infusion chamber |
US5431088A (en) * | 1992-12-23 | 1995-07-11 | Azkoyen Hosteleria, S.A. | Automatic machines dispensing coffee infusions |
US5443555A (en) * | 1993-07-16 | 1995-08-22 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Insertion aid for the strainer holder and an espresso machine |
US5447631A (en) * | 1994-06-17 | 1995-09-05 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Filter element for espresso makers |
US5454293A (en) * | 1993-03-17 | 1995-10-03 | Euromatik S.R.L. | Filter-holder box to load a dose of coffee into the brewing chamber of a coffee brewing machine |
US5464574A (en) * | 1993-12-29 | 1995-11-07 | Arthur Eugster Ag Elektrohaushaltsgerate | Device for the preparation of frothed milk for cappuccino |
US5479848A (en) * | 1992-04-06 | 1996-01-02 | Versini; Rolland | Device for the instant, automatic, pressurized percolation of food liquids |
US5490447A (en) * | 1989-07-05 | 1996-02-13 | Faema S.P.A. | Automatic espresso and cappuccino machine |
US5492054A (en) * | 1993-08-11 | 1996-02-20 | Prodiana Ag | Coffee maker with a metering device |
US5520093A (en) * | 1993-11-14 | 1996-05-28 | Cosmec S.R.L. | Method for preparing a coffee beverage and a coffee machine for performing the method |
US5526733A (en) * | 1992-04-11 | 1996-06-18 | Braun Aktiengesellschaft | Brewing device for a household expresso coffee machine |
US5531152A (en) * | 1995-01-05 | 1996-07-02 | Grimac Royal Falcon Corp. | Platen assembly for coffee maker using pre-dosaged coffee filter packets |
US5622099A (en) * | 1995-07-31 | 1997-04-22 | Eugster/Frismag Ag | Brewing head of an espresso maker |
US5638740A (en) * | 1995-02-24 | 1997-06-17 | Cai; Zhihua | Apparatus for brewing espresso and cappuccino |
US5638741A (en) * | 1996-05-06 | 1997-06-17 | Cisaria; Salvatore | Group module for coffee machine |
US5649472A (en) * | 1992-07-20 | 1997-07-22 | Nestec S.A. | Extraction of a substance contained sachet |
US5657683A (en) * | 1993-06-07 | 1997-08-19 | Sandei; Pietro | Hot beverage brewing apparatus |
US5755149A (en) * | 1993-12-20 | 1998-05-26 | Compagnie Mediterraneenne Des Cafes S.A. | Automatic machine for the preparation of hot beverage infusions |
US5776527A (en) * | 1993-09-06 | 1998-07-07 | Compagnie Mediterraneene Des Cafes S.A. | Package of ground coffee of the prefilled tablet type and espresso coffee machine using such a package |
US5794519A (en) * | 1994-09-22 | 1998-08-18 | Eugster/Frismag Ag | Brewing head for coffee portion capsules of an espresso machine |
US5911810A (en) * | 1997-06-23 | 1999-06-15 | Sanden Corp. | Coffee brewing apparatus and method of brewing coffee by the apparatus |
US5921168A (en) * | 1997-02-05 | 1999-07-13 | C.M.A. S. P. A. | Express-coffee-machine loadable with wafers |
US5964142A (en) * | 1997-11-03 | 1999-10-12 | San Remo S.R.L. | Coffee dispensing device |
US5974949A (en) * | 1997-02-18 | 1999-11-02 | Eldom Rothrist Ag | Espresso machine |
US6009792A (en) * | 1997-09-30 | 2000-01-04 | Sara Lee/De N.V. | Apparatus for preparing coffee |
US6026732A (en) * | 1997-07-14 | 2000-02-22 | Nestec S.A. | Holder and housing devices for containing and releasing capsules for drink preparation |
US6035762A (en) * | 1997-06-27 | 2000-03-14 | Eldom Rothrist Ag | Espresso machine |
US6044754A (en) * | 1998-01-27 | 2000-04-04 | Oficina De Investigacion Agrupada, S.A. | Coffee maker filter holder system |
US6047630A (en) * | 1998-02-16 | 2000-04-11 | Be Aerospace, Inc. | Beverage brewing device having an integral beverage server locking apparatus |
US6105809A (en) * | 1997-05-19 | 2000-08-22 | Peacock Company, Limited | Lid mounting structure of vessel |
US6119582A (en) * | 1997-05-13 | 2000-09-19 | Sara Lee/De N.V. | Apparatus for preparing coffee having a small-bubbled foam layer |
US6192786B1 (en) * | 1998-07-16 | 2001-02-27 | Maxs Ag | Espresso brewing head unit |
US6227101B1 (en) * | 1999-12-10 | 2001-05-08 | Masoud Rabadi | Coffeemaker with automated interlocks |
US6240832B1 (en) * | 1999-04-23 | 2001-06-05 | Fianara International B.V. | Assembly for feeding prepackaged coffee portions to a brewing unit of a coffee machine |
US20020035929A1 (en) * | 2000-09-28 | 2002-03-28 | Takao Kanba | Coffee maker |
US20020121198A1 (en) * | 1999-08-31 | 2002-09-05 | Alexandre Kollep | Device for extracting a substance for the preparation of a drink |
US20020124736A1 (en) * | 1999-10-28 | 2002-09-12 | Alexandre Kollep | Cartridge ejection device |
US20020129712A1 (en) * | 2001-03-16 | 2002-09-19 | The Procter & Gamble Co. | Beverage brewing system |
US6490966B2 (en) * | 1998-11-16 | 2002-12-10 | Nestec S.A. | Method and device for extracting the contents of a capsule |
US6510783B1 (en) * | 1999-02-22 | 2003-01-28 | Simac-Vetrella Spa | Machine to produce espresso coffee |
US20030056655A1 (en) * | 2000-05-04 | 2003-03-27 | Alexandre Kollep | Device for the extraction of a substance having a moveable component |
US6557458B1 (en) * | 1999-04-27 | 2003-05-06 | Compagnie Mediterraneenne Des Cafes | Device and method for controlling the closing and opening of an extraction chamber of a coffee maker |
US6584888B2 (en) * | 2000-12-29 | 2003-07-01 | Sgl Italia S.R.L. | Coffee machine |
US6595108B1 (en) * | 1998-12-24 | 2003-07-22 | Compagnie Mediterraneene Des Cafes | Extraction chamber for an automatic machine preparing hot drinks |
US6606938B2 (en) * | 2001-04-06 | 2003-08-19 | Keurig, Incorporated | Two step puncturing and venting of single serve filter cartridge in a beverage brewer |
US6612224B2 (en) * | 2001-02-12 | 2003-09-02 | Les Thes Du Monde Enr. | Method and apparatus for the preparation of hot beverages |
US6626086B2 (en) * | 2001-02-06 | 2003-09-30 | Eugster Frismag Ag | Safety device of a steam-frothing device for producing a frothy beverage |
US6655260B2 (en) * | 2001-04-11 | 2003-12-02 | Keurig, Incorporated | Beverage filter cartridge holder |
US6711988B1 (en) * | 1999-10-06 | 2004-03-30 | Eugster Frismag Ag | Espresso machine with an infusion piston displaceable in an infusion cylinder |
Family Cites Families (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US51741A (en) * | 1865-12-26 | Coffee-percolator | ||
US2157039A (en) * | 1938-04-28 | 1939-05-02 | John E Smith S Sons Company | Piston construction |
US3292526A (en) * | 1965-10-15 | 1966-12-20 | Melikian Inc Rudd | Brewing apparatus |
US3657993A (en) * | 1970-10-15 | 1972-04-25 | Edward S Close | Coffee brewer |
FR2573298B2 (en) * | 1984-11-19 | 1987-09-25 | Bondanini Faliero | FILTER FOR FILTERING AND PREPARING INFUSIONS |
DK162918C (en) * | 1989-09-21 | 1992-05-25 | Wittenborg As | APPLICATION FOR PORTFOLIOUS USE OF BEVERAGES, ESPECIALLY COFFEE |
ATE97560T1 (en) * | 1990-02-08 | 1993-12-15 | Wmf Wuerttemberg Metallwaren | BREWING DEVICE FOR A COFFEE MACHINE. |
DE4436080A1 (en) * | 1994-10-10 | 1996-04-11 | Braun Ag | Brewing device for a household espresso machine |
US5887510A (en) * | 1997-08-06 | 1999-03-30 | Porter; Mark D. | Device for making coffee |
DE69812378T2 (en) * | 1997-09-05 | 2003-12-11 | Seb Sa | INFUSION GROUP FOR BEVERAGE DISPENSERS OF AROMATIC BEVERAGES |
CN2305927Y (en) * | 1997-09-19 | 1999-02-03 | 施春宏 | Automatic coffee making apparatus |
EP1532903A1 (en) * | 2003-11-20 | 2005-05-25 | Steiner AG Weggis | Exractiondevice for making coffee for a coffee machine |
ATE344631T1 (en) | 2004-01-09 | 2006-11-15 | Rancilio Macchine Caffe | PISTON FOR AN AUTOMATIC BEVERAGE INFUSION DEVICE |
-
2005
- 2005-05-14 US US11/129,041 patent/US20060254428A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2006
- 2006-05-11 EP EP06759624.7A patent/EP1890579B1/en active Active
- 2006-05-11 CA CA2608312A patent/CA2608312C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2006-05-11 RU RU2007145096/12A patent/RU2007145096A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2006-05-11 CN CN200680025316XA patent/CN101232829B/en active Active
- 2006-05-11 WO PCT/US2006/018338 patent/WO2006124542A2/en active Application Filing
- 2006-12-04 US US11/566,419 patent/US20070062378A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2007
- 2007-04-13 US US11/734,804 patent/US7270050B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (93)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2205290A (en) * | 1938-09-13 | 1940-06-18 | Herrera Juan Hernandez | Infusion strainer device |
US2798423A (en) * | 1952-11-28 | 1957-07-09 | Carimali S P A | Infusion apparatus, particularly for express coffee machines |
US3470812A (en) * | 1968-03-18 | 1969-10-07 | David J Levinson | Coffee brewing head |
US3793933A (en) * | 1971-11-19 | 1974-02-26 | R Weber | Coffee infusion apparatus and method |
US3878772A (en) * | 1974-03-01 | 1975-04-22 | Nordskog Co Inc | Reusable coffee maker container |
US4029003A (en) * | 1976-02-24 | 1977-06-14 | Adriana Manaresi | Device for the extemporary preparation of beverages |
US4147097A (en) * | 1976-09-23 | 1979-04-03 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Method of and apparatus for making drip-type coffee |
US4056050A (en) * | 1976-12-22 | 1977-11-01 | General Electric Company | Coffeemaker with brew strength control |
US4287817A (en) * | 1978-06-05 | 1981-09-08 | Salton, Inc. | Apparatus for use in preparing infusions |
US4280401A (en) * | 1979-11-13 | 1981-07-28 | Cleland Robert K | Brew rail adapter |
US4343232A (en) * | 1979-11-15 | 1982-08-10 | U.S. Philips Corporation | Coffee maker |
US4457216A (en) * | 1980-03-10 | 1984-07-03 | Kurt Rost | Method for producing coffee and coffee machine for carrying out the method |
US4429623A (en) * | 1981-07-16 | 1984-02-07 | Ernesto Illy | Coffee-making machine |
US4497243A (en) * | 1982-06-11 | 1985-02-05 | Alfredo Cavalli | Percolator assembly supporting structure, particularly for domestic automatic coffee percolators |
US4505191A (en) * | 1983-04-14 | 1985-03-19 | Nuova Faema S.P.A. | Dispensing unit for espresso coffee machines |
US4583449A (en) * | 1983-05-03 | 1986-04-22 | Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ag | Coffee percolator for selectively making normal coffee or espresso |
US4644856A (en) * | 1984-01-10 | 1987-02-24 | Robert Krups Stiftung & Co. Kg. | Apparatus for brewing espresso coffee |
US4660466A (en) * | 1984-04-21 | 1987-04-28 | Poccino-Expresso Import- und Export GmbH | Espresso coffee machine |
US4784050A (en) * | 1984-11-21 | 1988-11-15 | Cavalli Alfredo | Apparatus for preparing espresso coffee in a household environment |
US4715270A (en) * | 1984-12-28 | 1987-12-29 | Sanden Corporation | Beverage brewing apparatus for vending machines |
US4796521A (en) * | 1986-10-31 | 1989-01-10 | Lucio Grossi | Compact automatic coffee-making machine more particularly for domestic use |
US4852472A (en) * | 1987-07-17 | 1989-08-01 | In Albon Jean Paul | Apparatus for preparing coffee |
US4947738A (en) * | 1987-09-16 | 1990-08-14 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Apparatus for preparing hot beverages |
US4840287A (en) * | 1988-04-29 | 1989-06-20 | Henny Penny Corporation | Locking mechanism for a pressure cooker |
USRE34382E (en) * | 1989-04-20 | 1993-09-21 | Grindmaster Corporation | Bean and ground coffee carrier member for use in coffee systems |
US5490447A (en) * | 1989-07-05 | 1996-02-13 | Faema S.P.A. | Automatic espresso and cappuccino machine |
US5197373A (en) * | 1989-07-28 | 1993-03-30 | J. M. De Jong Duke Automatenfabriek B.V. | Apparatus for preparing beverages, such as coffee or tea, by extraction |
US5144886A (en) * | 1990-02-20 | 1992-09-08 | Wmf Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik Aktiengesellschaft | Coffee machine |
US5388502A (en) * | 1990-08-22 | 1995-02-14 | Braun Aktiengesellschaft | Espresso coffee machine |
US5274736A (en) * | 1990-10-18 | 1993-12-28 | Rohr Jr Edward J | Pressurized heating apparatus for making coffee in an automobile |
US5275089A (en) * | 1990-10-25 | 1994-01-04 | Hermes Armellin | Automatic machine for the preparation of coffee infusions and process for operation |
US5113752A (en) * | 1990-12-20 | 1992-05-19 | Bunn-O-Matic Corporation | Bypass basket structure for iced tea makers |
US5230277A (en) * | 1991-01-25 | 1993-07-27 | Ricerca Elettromeccanica S.R.L. | Device for making coffee |
US5277102A (en) * | 1991-05-13 | 1994-01-11 | Azkoyen Hosteleria, S.A. | Automatic coffee dispensing machine for producing coffee infusions |
US5255594A (en) * | 1991-07-03 | 1993-10-26 | Lucio Grossi | Automatic coffee-making machine with direct-current motor drive and worm screws |
US5337652A (en) * | 1991-07-19 | 1994-08-16 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Espresso machine |
US5280747A (en) * | 1991-11-20 | 1994-01-25 | Seb S.A. | Espresso coffee machine |
US5237911A (en) * | 1991-12-03 | 1993-08-24 | Cis Elektrogerate Ag | Coffee brewing machine |
US5357848A (en) * | 1992-02-18 | 1994-10-25 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Coffee machine |
US5259296A (en) * | 1992-03-02 | 1993-11-09 | Jura Elektroapparate Ag | Brewing apparatus |
US5302407A (en) * | 1992-03-19 | 1994-04-12 | Cosmec S.R.L. | Method and apparatus for preparing coffee beverages |
US5479848A (en) * | 1992-04-06 | 1996-01-02 | Versini; Rolland | Device for the instant, automatic, pressurized percolation of food liquids |
US5526733A (en) * | 1992-04-11 | 1996-06-18 | Braun Aktiengesellschaft | Brewing device for a household expresso coffee machine |
US5335588A (en) * | 1992-06-26 | 1994-08-09 | Arthur Eugster Ag Elektrohaushaltsgerate | Device for preparing milk froth for cappuccino |
US5649472A (en) * | 1992-07-20 | 1997-07-22 | Nestec S.A. | Extraction of a substance contained sachet |
US5762987A (en) * | 1992-07-20 | 1998-06-09 | Nestec S.A. | Process for extracting a substance contained in a sachet |
US5431088A (en) * | 1992-12-23 | 1995-07-11 | Azkoyen Hosteleria, S.A. | Automatic machines dispensing coffee infusions |
US5402706A (en) * | 1993-01-27 | 1995-04-04 | Cimbali S.P.A. | Automatic machine for coffee beverage, in which the ground coffee is compressed in an infusion chamber |
US5454293A (en) * | 1993-03-17 | 1995-10-03 | Euromatik S.R.L. | Filter-holder box to load a dose of coffee into the brewing chamber of a coffee brewing machine |
US5657683A (en) * | 1993-06-07 | 1997-08-19 | Sandei; Pietro | Hot beverage brewing apparatus |
US5312637A (en) * | 1993-06-21 | 1994-05-17 | Bunn-O-Matic Corporation | One-cup brewer |
US5443555A (en) * | 1993-07-16 | 1995-08-22 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Insertion aid for the strainer holder and an espresso machine |
US5492054A (en) * | 1993-08-11 | 1996-02-20 | Prodiana Ag | Coffee maker with a metering device |
US5776527A (en) * | 1993-09-06 | 1998-07-07 | Compagnie Mediterraneene Des Cafes S.A. | Package of ground coffee of the prefilled tablet type and espresso coffee machine using such a package |
US5520093A (en) * | 1993-11-14 | 1996-05-28 | Cosmec S.R.L. | Method for preparing a coffee beverage and a coffee machine for performing the method |
US5755149A (en) * | 1993-12-20 | 1998-05-26 | Compagnie Mediterraneenne Des Cafes S.A. | Automatic machine for the preparation of hot beverage infusions |
US5464574A (en) * | 1993-12-29 | 1995-11-07 | Arthur Eugster Ag Elektrohaushaltsgerate | Device for the preparation of frothed milk for cappuccino |
US5447631A (en) * | 1994-06-17 | 1995-09-05 | Arthur Eugster Ag | Filter element for espresso makers |
US5794519A (en) * | 1994-09-22 | 1998-08-18 | Eugster/Frismag Ag | Brewing head for coffee portion capsules of an espresso machine |
US5531152A (en) * | 1995-01-05 | 1996-07-02 | Grimac Royal Falcon Corp. | Platen assembly for coffee maker using pre-dosaged coffee filter packets |
US5638740A (en) * | 1995-02-24 | 1997-06-17 | Cai; Zhihua | Apparatus for brewing espresso and cappuccino |
US5622099A (en) * | 1995-07-31 | 1997-04-22 | Eugster/Frismag Ag | Brewing head of an espresso maker |
US5638741A (en) * | 1996-05-06 | 1997-06-17 | Cisaria; Salvatore | Group module for coffee machine |
US5921168A (en) * | 1997-02-05 | 1999-07-13 | C.M.A. S. P. A. | Express-coffee-machine loadable with wafers |
US5974949A (en) * | 1997-02-18 | 1999-11-02 | Eldom Rothrist Ag | Espresso machine |
US6119582A (en) * | 1997-05-13 | 2000-09-19 | Sara Lee/De N.V. | Apparatus for preparing coffee having a small-bubbled foam layer |
US6105809A (en) * | 1997-05-19 | 2000-08-22 | Peacock Company, Limited | Lid mounting structure of vessel |
US5911810A (en) * | 1997-06-23 | 1999-06-15 | Sanden Corp. | Coffee brewing apparatus and method of brewing coffee by the apparatus |
US6035762A (en) * | 1997-06-27 | 2000-03-14 | Eldom Rothrist Ag | Espresso machine |
US6026732A (en) * | 1997-07-14 | 2000-02-22 | Nestec S.A. | Holder and housing devices for containing and releasing capsules for drink preparation |
US6009792A (en) * | 1997-09-30 | 2000-01-04 | Sara Lee/De N.V. | Apparatus for preparing coffee |
US5964142A (en) * | 1997-11-03 | 1999-10-12 | San Remo S.R.L. | Coffee dispensing device |
US6044754A (en) * | 1998-01-27 | 2000-04-04 | Oficina De Investigacion Agrupada, S.A. | Coffee maker filter holder system |
US6047630A (en) * | 1998-02-16 | 2000-04-11 | Be Aerospace, Inc. | Beverage brewing device having an integral beverage server locking apparatus |
US6050175A (en) * | 1998-02-16 | 2000-04-18 | Be Aerospace, Inc. | Beverage brewing device having an integral beverage server locking apparatus |
US6192786B1 (en) * | 1998-07-16 | 2001-02-27 | Maxs Ag | Espresso brewing head unit |
US6490966B2 (en) * | 1998-11-16 | 2002-12-10 | Nestec S.A. | Method and device for extracting the contents of a capsule |
US6595108B1 (en) * | 1998-12-24 | 2003-07-22 | Compagnie Mediterraneene Des Cafes | Extraction chamber for an automatic machine preparing hot drinks |
US6510783B1 (en) * | 1999-02-22 | 2003-01-28 | Simac-Vetrella Spa | Machine to produce espresso coffee |
US6240832B1 (en) * | 1999-04-23 | 2001-06-05 | Fianara International B.V. | Assembly for feeding prepackaged coffee portions to a brewing unit of a coffee machine |
US6557458B1 (en) * | 1999-04-27 | 2003-05-06 | Compagnie Mediterraneenne Des Cafes | Device and method for controlling the closing and opening of an extraction chamber of a coffee maker |
US20020121198A1 (en) * | 1999-08-31 | 2002-09-05 | Alexandre Kollep | Device for extracting a substance for the preparation of a drink |
US6711988B1 (en) * | 1999-10-06 | 2004-03-30 | Eugster Frismag Ag | Espresso machine with an infusion piston displaceable in an infusion cylinder |
US20020124736A1 (en) * | 1999-10-28 | 2002-09-12 | Alexandre Kollep | Cartridge ejection device |
US6227101B1 (en) * | 1999-12-10 | 2001-05-08 | Masoud Rabadi | Coffeemaker with automated interlocks |
US20030056655A1 (en) * | 2000-05-04 | 2003-03-27 | Alexandre Kollep | Device for the extraction of a substance having a moveable component |
US20020035929A1 (en) * | 2000-09-28 | 2002-03-28 | Takao Kanba | Coffee maker |
US6584888B2 (en) * | 2000-12-29 | 2003-07-01 | Sgl Italia S.R.L. | Coffee machine |
US6626086B2 (en) * | 2001-02-06 | 2003-09-30 | Eugster Frismag Ag | Safety device of a steam-frothing device for producing a frothy beverage |
US6612224B2 (en) * | 2001-02-12 | 2003-09-02 | Les Thes Du Monde Enr. | Method and apparatus for the preparation of hot beverages |
US20020129712A1 (en) * | 2001-03-16 | 2002-09-19 | The Procter & Gamble Co. | Beverage brewing system |
US6606938B2 (en) * | 2001-04-06 | 2003-08-19 | Keurig, Incorporated | Two step puncturing and venting of single serve filter cartridge in a beverage brewer |
US6655260B2 (en) * | 2001-04-11 | 2003-12-02 | Keurig, Incorporated | Beverage filter cartridge holder |
Cited By (80)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9402406B2 (en) | 2005-04-11 | 2016-08-02 | Starbucks Corporation | Beverage brewer with flavor base removal |
US8621982B2 (en) | 2005-04-11 | 2014-01-07 | Starbucks Corporation | Temperature-controlled beverage brewing |
US7673555B2 (en) | 2005-04-11 | 2010-03-09 | Starbucks Corporation | Machine for brewing a beverage such as coffee and related method |
US8371211B2 (en) | 2005-04-11 | 2013-02-12 | Starbucks Corporation | Machine for brewing a beverage such as coffee and related method |
US20120000933A1 (en) * | 2005-06-07 | 2012-01-05 | Nestec S.A. | Beverage machine with drip tray device for recipients of different heights |
US8770093B2 (en) * | 2005-06-07 | 2014-07-08 | Nestec S.A. | Beverage machine with drip tray device for recipients of different heights |
US10667642B2 (en) | 2005-09-20 | 2020-06-02 | Starbucks Corporation | Machine for brewing a beverage such as coffee and related method |
US8794127B2 (en) | 2005-09-20 | 2014-08-05 | Starbucks Corporation | Machine for brewing a beverage such as coffee and related method |
US20070169640A1 (en) * | 2006-01-24 | 2007-07-26 | Sanden Corporation | Beverage extractor |
US7717027B2 (en) * | 2006-01-24 | 2010-05-18 | Sanden Corporation | Beverage extractor |
US20100282091A1 (en) * | 2006-06-06 | 2010-11-11 | Doleac Frederic | Capsule with reduced dripping |
US8807018B2 (en) * | 2006-06-06 | 2014-08-19 | Nestec S.A. | Capsule with reduced dripping |
US20080190297A1 (en) * | 2007-02-08 | 2008-08-14 | Wmf Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ag | Coffee machine |
US8833237B2 (en) * | 2007-02-08 | 2014-09-16 | Wmf Wuerttembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ag | Coffee machine |
US7997187B2 (en) | 2007-03-09 | 2011-08-16 | Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc | Brewed beverage maker |
EP2157895B1 (en) * | 2007-06-21 | 2015-07-29 | Eugster/Frismag AG | Drinks preparation device |
US20100162898A1 (en) * | 2007-06-21 | 2010-07-01 | Eugster/Frismag Ag | Brewing unit of a device for preparing beverages |
US20120207896A1 (en) * | 2007-07-13 | 2012-08-16 | Adrian Rivera | Single Serving Reusable Brewing Material Holder With Offset Passage for Offset Bottom Needle |
US9271597B2 (en) * | 2007-07-13 | 2016-03-01 | ARM Enterprises | Single serving reusable brewing material holder |
US11337543B2 (en) | 2007-07-13 | 2022-05-24 | Adrian Rivera | Brewing material holder |
US20120207895A1 (en) * | 2007-07-13 | 2012-08-16 | Adrian Rivera | Single Serving Reusable Brewing Material Holder |
US11832755B2 (en) | 2007-07-13 | 2023-12-05 | Adrian Rivera | Brewing material container for a beverage brewer |
US9232871B2 (en) * | 2007-07-13 | 2016-01-12 | ARM Enterprises | Single serving reusable brewing material holder with offset passage for offset bottom needle |
US20110154993A1 (en) * | 2008-05-20 | 2011-06-30 | Sgl Italia S.R.L. Con Unico Socio | Automatic machine for producing beverages |
US20110100228A1 (en) * | 2009-10-30 | 2011-05-05 | Adrian Rivera | Coffee Maker With Multi and Single Cup Modes |
US11737597B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2023-08-29 | Adrian Rivera | Coffee holder |
US9844292B2 (en) * | 2009-10-30 | 2017-12-19 | Adrian Rivera | Coffee maker with multi and single cup modes |
US11534020B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2022-12-27 | Adrian Rivera | Coffee holder and coffee maker combination for tamping coffee |
US9113747B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2015-08-25 | Adrian Rivera | Single and multi-cup coffee maker |
US10251509B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2019-04-09 | Adrian Rivera | Coffee maker with multi and single cup modes |
US11903518B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2024-02-20 | Adrian Rivera | Coffee holder |
US11464357B2 (en) | 2009-10-30 | 2022-10-11 | Adrian Rivera | Beverage brewer with multi- and single-cup modes |
CN102655793A (en) * | 2009-12-21 | 2012-09-05 | 皇家飞利浦电子股份有限公司 | Infusion unit for drinks with hydraulic closing system |
WO2012004660A1 (en) * | 2010-07-08 | 2012-01-12 | Sgl Italia S.R.L. Con Unico Socio | Infusion unit |
ITTO20100591A1 (en) * | 2010-07-08 | 2012-01-09 | Sgl Italia S R L Con Unico Socio | INFUSER GROUP |
US20130233175A1 (en) * | 2010-11-12 | 2013-09-12 | Lorenzo Giacomin | Ac and/or dc voltage powered machine for preparing espresso coffee and other infused drinks and beverages |
US9629492B2 (en) * | 2010-11-12 | 2017-04-25 | Lorenzo Giacomin | AC and/or DC voltage powered machine for preparing espresso coffee and other infused drinks and beverages |
US9560929B2 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2017-02-07 | Bravilor Holding B.V. | Beverage preparation device |
KR20140026453A (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2014-03-05 | 브라빌로 홀딩 베.베. | Beverage preparation device |
US20140041527A1 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2014-02-13 | BRAVILOR HOLDING b.v | Beverage preparation device |
KR102049980B1 (en) | 2011-03-31 | 2020-01-08 | 브라빌로 홀딩 베.베. | Beverage preparation device |
ITUD20110052A1 (en) * | 2011-04-06 | 2012-10-07 | Eis Cafe San Marco | "COFFEE MAKING MACHINE" |
US9510705B2 (en) * | 2011-04-13 | 2016-12-06 | Patrick J. Rolfes | Pre-packaged beverage brewer press |
US20120260806A1 (en) * | 2011-04-13 | 2012-10-18 | Rolfes Patrick J | Pre-packaged beverage brewer press |
US11684198B2 (en) | 2011-05-09 | 2023-06-27 | Eko Brands, Llc | Beverage brewing device |
US11534017B2 (en) | 2011-05-09 | 2022-12-27 | Eko Brands, Llc | Beverage brewing device |
US10154751B2 (en) | 2011-05-09 | 2018-12-18 | Eko Brands, Llc | Beverage brewing device |
EP2570058A1 (en) * | 2011-09-19 | 2013-03-20 | Wmf Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ag | Espresso machine |
WO2013098241A1 (en) * | 2011-12-30 | 2013-07-04 | Componenti Vending S.P.A. | Infusion assembly for coffee machines |
ITVR20110240A1 (en) * | 2011-12-30 | 2013-07-01 | Componenti Vending S P A | INFUSION GROUP FOR COFFEE MACHINES |
US9125519B2 (en) * | 2012-02-08 | 2015-09-08 | Wmf Wuerttembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ag | Coffee maker and method for operating same |
CH706100A1 (en) * | 2012-02-08 | 2013-08-15 | Wmf Wuerttemberg Metallwaren | Coffee grinder and removable filter holder and method for operating such a coffee maker. |
US20140356502A1 (en) * | 2012-02-08 | 2014-12-04 | Wmf Wuerttembergische Metallwarenfabrik Ag | Coffee maker and method for operating same |
EP2647318A1 (en) * | 2012-04-05 | 2013-10-09 | Seb Sa | Piston device for liquid food, operating method thereof and brewing machine provided with same |
FR2988987A1 (en) * | 2012-04-05 | 2013-10-11 | Seb Sa | PISTON DEVICE FOR FOOD LIQUID, METHOD FOR OPERATING SAME, AND PERCOLATION MACHINE THUS PROVIDED WITH |
CN103356071A (en) * | 2012-04-05 | 2013-10-23 | Seb公司 | Device with piston used for edible liquid, operating method for same, and infiltration machine with device |
WO2014164088A1 (en) * | 2013-03-12 | 2014-10-09 | Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. | Beverage apparatus waste bin level detection |
US8863987B2 (en) | 2013-03-12 | 2014-10-21 | Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. | Beverage apparatus waste bin level detection |
US11189125B2 (en) * | 2013-08-20 | 2021-11-30 | Nicoventures Trading Limited | Apparatus and method for dispensing liquids into a container |
US20160200463A1 (en) * | 2013-08-30 | 2016-07-14 | Nicoventures Holdings Limited | Apparatus and method for dispensing liquids into a container |
US20220172551A1 (en) * | 2013-08-30 | 2022-06-02 | Nicoventures Holdings Limited | Apparatus and method for dispensing liquids into a container |
US10542839B2 (en) | 2015-12-30 | 2020-01-28 | Conair Corporation | Coffee making appliance |
US10004354B2 (en) * | 2015-12-30 | 2018-06-26 | Conair Corporation | Coffee making appliance for brewing coffee |
TWI733953B (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2021-07-21 | 義大利商辛巴利集團公司 | Apparatus for pressing a dose of coffee within the portafilter |
JP2018108349A (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2018-07-12 | グルッポ チンバリ ソチエタ ペル アツィオニ | Device for pressing coffee inputted into portafilter |
RU2757189C2 (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2021-10-11 | Группо Чимбали С.П.А. | Device for compressing a coffee portion in a filter holder |
EP3329812A1 (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2018-06-06 | Gruppo Cimbali S.p.A. | Apparatus for pressing a dose of coffee within the portafilter |
US10856688B2 (en) | 2016-12-02 | 2020-12-08 | Gruppo Cimbali S.P.A. | Apparatus for pressing a dose of coffee within the portafilter |
IT201600122741A1 (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2018-06-02 | Gruppo Cimbali Spa | Equipment for pressing a dose of coffee into the filter holder. |
US11903515B2 (en) * | 2017-12-29 | 2024-02-20 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Drinks machine with hot water and steam delivery and a method of use |
US20200329899A1 (en) * | 2017-12-29 | 2020-10-22 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | A drinks machine with hot water and steam delivery and a method of use |
WO2020115650A1 (en) * | 2018-12-03 | 2020-06-11 | Cma Macchine Per Caffe' S.R.L. | Machine for beverage preparation |
CN113163972A (en) * | 2018-12-03 | 2021-07-23 | Cma佩尔咖啡机有限责任公司 | Machine for beverage preparation |
CN113795181A (en) * | 2019-05-06 | 2021-12-14 | 皇家飞利浦有限公司 | Mixing device for producing frothed milk |
EP3741269A1 (en) * | 2019-05-21 | 2020-11-25 | Delica AG | Brewing chamber, brewing unit, machine and system for preparing a liquid food product from a capsule |
WO2020233874A1 (en) * | 2019-05-21 | 2020-11-26 | Delica Ag | Brewing chamber, brewing unit, machine and system for preparing a liquid foodstuff from a capsule |
EP3841932A1 (en) * | 2019-12-27 | 2021-06-30 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Coffee machine |
WO2021130354A1 (en) * | 2019-12-27 | 2021-07-01 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Coffee machine |
USD927250S1 (en) | 2020-03-23 | 2021-08-10 | Eko Brands, Llc | Reusable filter cartridge |
US11805934B1 (en) | 2020-10-21 | 2023-11-07 | Adrian Rivera | Brewing material lid and container for a beverage brewer |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2608312C (en) | 2014-11-25 |
WO2006124542A3 (en) | 2007-12-06 |
EP1890579A2 (en) | 2008-02-27 |
CN101232829B (en) | 2010-12-22 |
US7270050B2 (en) | 2007-09-18 |
CN101232829A (en) | 2008-07-30 |
EP1890579B1 (en) | 2013-04-24 |
US20070175338A1 (en) | 2007-08-02 |
CA2608312A1 (en) | 2006-11-23 |
WO2006124542A2 (en) | 2006-11-23 |
US20070062378A1 (en) | 2007-03-22 |
RU2007145096A (en) | 2009-06-20 |
EP1890579A4 (en) | 2010-02-17 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
CA2608312C (en) | Coffee making apparatus | |
EP3157395B1 (en) | Single serve brewing machine | |
KR101424208B1 (en) | Brewed beverage appliance and method | |
EP2542127B1 (en) | Accelerated low pressure brewer | |
EP2262402B1 (en) | Brewer system with active brewing mechanism and buffer reservoir piston compression of brewing substance | |
US8663724B1 (en) | Automated beverage brewing method | |
WO2006127113A1 (en) | Single serve beverage maker with adjustable sealed showerhead | |
JP2014524811A (en) | Beverage production method and beverage production apparatus | |
US20220061584A1 (en) | A coffee machine | |
US20230044801A1 (en) | Coffee machine and valve arrangement suitable for use in a coffee machine | |
CN114845607A (en) | Coffee machine, closing and/or filling system and valve arrangement suitable for a coffee machine | |
MX2015004589A (en) | A food preparation system. | |
RU2805680C2 (en) | Coffee machine | |
EP4081083B1 (en) | Coffee machine | |
CN114867392A (en) | Coffee machine, filling system and valve arrangement suitable for a coffee machine | |
CN116997277A (en) | Coffee machine |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: APPLIANCE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, MASSACHUSETTS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:GLUCKSMAN, DOV Z;MCGONAGLE, GARY P;NICKERSON, LAURA J;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:016380/0407 Effective date: 20050622 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |