Apparatus for brewing a beverage and related method

ES 2 589 807 T3

DESCRIPTION

Apparatus for preparing a drink and related procedure.

Countryside

The present description relates generally to apparatus for preparing a beverage, such as coffee or tea, as well as associated methods for preparing a beverage.

Description of Related Art

Many methods and apparatus for preparing beverages through a filter are known, such as coffee or tea prepared through a filter or bag. A procedure described herein as the pour-over technique has become popular with baristas for the manual preparation of personalized beverage recipes in smaller portions for consumption by the coffee or tea connoisseur. Apparatus and pour-over techniques can reduce the waste that occurs when preparing a custom recipe in a larger portion, such as a full coffee pot, and provide an artistic setting for the consumer who sees the barista providing personalized service.

One technique and apparatus for conventional over pouring typically comprises manually pouring hot water over and into a filter filled with coffee beans, thereby moistening the beans in the filter and forming a filtered coffee beverage, which is subsequently passed through the filter. filter in a single serving container. Conventional pour-over apparatus and techniques involve irregularly applied manual processes that produce cup-size portions of specialty coffee recipes. An example of a device capable of producing such small portions of coffee is described in US Patent No. 5,865,094 to Kealy. DE 4122547 A1 describes a beverage preparation apparatus and a corresponding method. The beverage preparation apparatus comprises a body, a support element comprising a filter support engaging part configured to engage a filter support and a nozzle configured to supply fluid to a filter within the filter element. medium. The nozzle and filter holder can move relative to each other. For this relative movement, mechanical connections are used that comprise a motor, a transmission, a transmission shaft, a gear transmission, a ring gear to transmit a movement to the filter support and comprising a circular disk, an eccentric pivot, a lever arm, and a movable tube to apply a movement to the nozzle.

One embodiment provides an apparatus for preparing a beverage according to the content of claim 1.

In still another embodiment, a method of preparing a beverage is provided in accordance with the content of claim 15.

For the purposes of the present description and to summarize the differences from the prior art, certain aspects of the procedures and apparatus have been described above, and will be described later. It goes without saying that it should be understood that not all of these aspects need to be present in any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the procedures and apparatus may be performed or carried out in a way that achieves or optimizes one aspect or group of aspects as described herein without necessarily obtaining other aspects such as as they can be described or suggested here.

All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the present description given here. These and other embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description with reference to the attached figures, the present description not being limited to any particular embodiment (s) described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows a side and top perspective view of an embodiment of an apparatus for preparing a beverage.

Figure 2 shows a side and top perspective view of the apparatus shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional top view of the apparatus according to lines 3-3 of Figure 1.

Figure 4 shows a top plan view of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 with the nozzle thereof retracted.

Figure 5 shows a top plan view of the apparatus shown in Figure 1 with the nozzle thereof extended to dispense water onto a filter.

Figure 6 shows a top view of the apparatus shown in Figure 1.

Figures 7A-7C show plan views of fluid flow paths in a filter.

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Figure 8 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a part of a regulation system that can be implemented in the apparatus of Figure 1

Figure 9 shows a top perspective and side view of one embodiment of an apparatus for preparing a plurality of beverages.

Figure 10 shows a top perspective side view of one embodiment of a multi-beverage preparation with an integrated grinder.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A conventional apparatus used to brew coffee using a pour-over technique is ineffective and inconsistent, due to the manual, individualized, and irregular nature of a process used to brew small amounts of coffee or tea. The manual and labor-intensive nature of conventional over pouring techniques can result in beverages that vary significantly due to the inconsistent pouring techniques and water temperatures employed by baristas. These inefficiencies and inconsistencies are exacerbated in pour over brewing routines or recipes that use multiple pour stages. Additionally, the results of manually pouring water to form a fluid flow path into the coffee filter can vary between cups, even if the same type, degree of grind, and amount of coffee beans are used, and even with the same barista, due to variations and inconsistencies in the positioning of the water supply, its time, flow path shape, temperature, etc. These problems can be further compounded when different baristas try to replicate a recipe that a consumer has previously ordered. Additionally, ergonomic and safety concerns arise due to the weight of the equipment used by the barista (for example, the hot water container), the repetitive nature of the process, and the potential burn hazards posed by manually pouring a container of water. hot. There is, therefore, a need for apparatus and methods for preparing a beverage using a pour-over technique that are reliable, repeatable, appropriate, safe, and easy to use, while providing an artistic setting.

The embodiments described herein present apparatus and procedures to reduce the labor involved in pour over preparation techniques, and / or to reduce potential ergonomic and safety issues for the barista, while providing greater consistency in the resulting drink. The filter is provided with an automatic (eg rotating) motion (eg, controlled motion) and the nozzle that delivers a liquid over the filter to enhance or optimize beverage preparation. Furthermore, the apparatus and methods are arranged to control the flow rate, time and / or temperature of the fluid or from the nozzle through the filter. In particular, the dosage of water (e.g., flow rate, amount and / or flow path to the filter), temperature, fluid delivery time, and / or hold time before or after fluid administration, any and all which can affect the taste and quality of the drink, can be controlled and / or automated. For example, the filter can be rotated automatically during the supply of liquid over the filter. The nozzle is made movable for limited variations in the liquid flow path relative to the rotating filter. In still other embodiments, the temperature of the fluid can be controlled at a point of use (eg, in the vicinity of the nozzle and / or filter holder). The flow rate and amount of fluid supplied to the filter can also be controlled. The fluid delivery time to the filter and / or the waiting time or delay between brewing steps can be controlled, depending on the brewing recipe and / or the type of beverage being made (for example, coffee, tea, or different types of coffee and / or tea). For example, fluid can be supplied to the filter through a fluid supply sequence and time delays to control the level of fluid within the filter. Controlling the level of liquid within the filter will control the pressure of the fluid in the filter, which controls the time and rate of extraction of the flavoring substance from the flavored beverage material (eg, coffee or tea). As used herein, the term "recipe" and the embodiments of the described apparatus and procedures for controlling the recipe and the beverage making process are not limited to a particular beverage category or sub-category. Therefore, the apparatus and procedures described here can be implemented to provide greater control of recipes for various categories of beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, etc.), and / or recipes for various sub-categories of beverages (e.g. , different types of coffee and / or tea beans), and / or recipes for the same category and / or subcategory (for example, the same type of coffee and / or tea beans, but with a different recipe to provide different results , controlling the various aspects of the brewing process you describe here).

Although embodiments will now be described in terms of an apparatus for preparing a coffee beverage using water and coffee beans, it will be understood that the apparatus may also be used for preparing other types of beverages, including tea, instant beverages, and any other formed beverage. pouring a fluid (e.g. cold water, hot water, syrup, etc.) into a first container, mixing (e.g. preparing) the fluid with a flavor material (e.g. tea leaves, coffee beans, etc.) to form a beverage, and provide the beverage from the first container to a second container from which the beverage can be further served or processed. Furthermore, it will be understood that the fluid can be provided through the apparatus as described without mixing the fluid with a flavored material. For example, fluid can be provided through the apparatus without interaction with a flavored material, to preheat one or more parts of the apparatus (eg, filter holder or cup) with

ES 2 589 807 T3 in order to subsequently maintain a consistent brewing temperature, to provide a rinse step, to wet the filter (for example, seal the filter), and / or to rinse filter particles to improve the flavor of the drink.

Figure 1 shows a top and side perspective view of one embodiment of a beverage preparation apparatus 100. Figure 2 shows a top and side perspective view of the apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1 with the parts in position for the preparation of coffee or other beverage. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the apparatus 100 comprises a housing body or frame 10 and a platform or support element 20 coupled to the body 10. The support member 20 comprises a filter support engagement portion 25 configured to engage a filter support 30 designed to hold a filter 60. The apparatus 100 includes a nozzle 50 configured to supply a fluid to the filter support 30. A movable member 40 of support member 20 allows the filter support engagement portion 25 to move relative to nozzle 50. Apparatus 100 is configured to facilitate a pour over brewing process that supplies a fluid from spout 50 to filter 60 and filter holder 30, allowing the fluid to moisten and derive flavor from a flavored beverage material (e.g. example, ground coffee, tea, etc.) to form a drink. The pour-over process flows the flavored fluid through filter 60 and filter holder 30, and from filter 60 and filter holder 30 to another part of apparatus 100 (e.g., to a container 70) . In the illustrated embodiment, a single serving of the beverage can thus be prepared directly in the serving container for a consumer.

The filter holder 30 can comprise any of many different shapes and materials, capable of receiving and containing a volume of fluid (eg, hot water), a flavoring material (eg, ground coffee or tea), and a filter, bag , membrane, etc., (for example, filter 60). The filter 60 can allow fluid flow, but restrict the passage of material through part of its thickness. The filter holder 30 may comprise a base 33 and one or more side walls, illustrated here as a conical side wall 36, to form an internal volume within the filter holder 30. The side wall 36 may extend from the base 33 in one or more directions, and / or may extend from an outer perimeter (eg, circumference) of base 33, or from an inner portion of base 33, as shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the side wall 36 extends upwardly from the base 33 to form an opening 31, through which fluid and flavoring material can be received, and into which the filter 60 can be inserted. It will be understood that the placement of the base 33 or a similar structure is not limited to a lower end of the filter holder 30. Base 33 can be positioned anywhere within an interior perimeter of side wall 36 that closes one end of filter holder 30 (but for an opening to allow flavored liquid to drip or flow into container 70 below) to form an internal volume. The filter holder 30 can be independent of the filter 60, or the filter holder 30 and the filter 60 can be a single integrated piece. For example, the side wall 36 of the filter holder 30 may be suitably configured to contain a fluid, with a filter element, screen, or mesh-like structure (for example, any of the materials and / or structures of the embodiments of filter 60 described herein) integrated within filter holder 30 to cover opening 34 and filter fluid flowing through opening 34.

The illustrated filter holder 30 has a substantially inverted frusto-conical shape, as is typical for filter holders, for illustrative purposes only. It will be understood that the filter holder 30 may have other shapes. The filter holder 30 may include a handle 35 to facilitate manipulation of the filter holder 30 by a user (eg, a barista). The filter holder 30 can comprise a variety of surface textures, and / or contoured shapes to facilitate handling.

The filter holder 30 can be made of any of many materials, such as metal, glass, ceramic, plastic, etc. The filter holder 30 comprises a hydrophobic (eg, impermeable) material such that the filter holder 30 can hold a liquid and stimulate flow to the opening at the bottom. In one embodiment, the filter holder 30 comprises a material suitable for use with a food product, such as a food product comprising a liquid. The filter holder 30 can comprise an opaque, translucent, or transparent material. It will be understood that the filter support 30 may comprise any combination of one or more of the aforementioned materials and / or may be coated therewith. It will be understood that the filter holder 30 may comprise any of a variety of known materials and shapes for known filter holders, cups, stemware, glasses, and the like.

Filter holder 30 may comprise a slot, groove, aperture, tube, socket, or other structure that facilitates fluid flow through a lower portion of filter holder 30. In the illustrated embodiment, an aperture 34 extends to through the base 33 to allow passage through the filter holder 30. The opening 34 is illustrated as a round hole, approximately centered on the base 33. However, it will be understood that the opening 34 may have other shapes. The opening 34 may be offset from the center of an upper cross section of the filter holder 30. On the other hand, the filter holder 30 may comprise a clamping structure for holding and / or engaging a part of the apparatus 100, such as described later.

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In some embodiments, the filter holder 30 may comprise a valve (eg, a check valve, a two-way valve, a plug release system, etc.), which can be controlled manually, semi-automatically, or automatically) or a similar mechanism that can be configured to restrict and / or allow fluid flow through the filter holder 30. For example, filter holder 30 may comprise a valve that opens (eg manually) when filter holder 30 is placed on apparatus 100 (eg to allow flow therethrough), and closes. (for example, manually) when filter holder 30 is removed from apparatus 100 (for example, to prevent any residual liquid contained within the filter holder 30 from dripping during handling of the filter holder 30 after use). In some embodiments, filter holder 30 may include a valve configured with a first closed position to restrict flow through and contain a volume of liquid within filter holder 30 (for example, to allow tea to be left within the filter holder). filter 30). The valve may be configured with a second open position to allow the volume of fluid (eg, steeped tea) to flow from filter holder 30 (eg, container 70). Movement of the valve between the first and second positions can be done manually, semi-automatically, and / or automatically and, in some embodiments, can be actuated by means of a control system 90 (Figures 1-2, 4-6), which is further described here. In some embodiments, the filter holder 30 may include a valve with a plug that restricts flow through the opening 34 of the filter 30, in which a solenoid actuator using coils can be actuated (eg, electrically actuated). electromagnetic to tilt and release the plug, and allow flow through the opening 34.

Container 70 may comprise any of many various shapes and materials capable of receiving fluid flowing from filter holder 30 through an opening 71 in container 70. Container 70 may be configured to form an interior volume to contain a volume of fluid (eg brewed coffee), which can be served to a consumer or further processed. In the illustrated embodiment, the container 70 is shown with a substantially elongated frusto-conical shape, and without a handle, such as a paper take-out cup. However, any suitable liquid container can be used, for example, a common ceramic coffee mug for consumption in an establishment.

Apparatus 100 can be used with filter 60 of any suitable configuration to allow fluid to pass through while retaining flavoring material. In some embodiments, filter 60 may be in the form of a bag or sack (eg, a tea bag) to enclose the flavoring material within it. Filter 60 may be separate from filter holder 30, or filter 60 and filter holder 30 may be a single integrated piece, as further described herein. In some embodiments, filter 60 may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid screen or mesh-like structure. In still other embodiments, the filter 60 can have a constant or variable thickness. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter 60 comprises a conventional paper filter in the shape of an inverted truncated cone and with folds, grooves or corrugations 62 to facilitate insertion of the filter 60 into the filter holder 30 and / or to form outlet channels with the side wall 36 of filter holder 30.

It will be understood that, although many of the embodiments herein describe the use of the beverage preparation apparatus 100 in combination with the filter holder 30, the filter 60, and the container 70, the apparatus 100 can be independently manufactured and supplied without the holder. of filter 30, filter 60, and / or container 70. In some embodiments, the beverage preparation apparatus 100 may be supplied to a user without the filter holder 30, the filter 60, and / or the container 70, and the filter holder 30, the filter 60, and / or the container 70. they may be supplied separately for use with apparatus 100. Beverage apparatus 100 and filter holder 30, filter 60, and / or container 70 may also be supplied as a kit. Alternatively, a kit may include apparatus 100 and filter holder 30 configured for use therewith, and the user may separately supply conventional filters 60 and beverage containers 70.

It will also be understood that, although many of the embodiments herein describe the use of a beverage preparation apparatus 100 in combination with the use of fluid and a beverage flavoring material (eg, ground coffee), these ingredients will typically be supplied by the user. On the other hand, fluid, as used herein, should not be construed as consisting solely of a liquid or a liquid at a given temperature. It will be understood that some of the embodiments described herein may be employed with a fluid at a variety of temperatures, and / or that the liquid may comprise a mixture of liquid (eg, cold water, hot water, syrup, etc.) and steam ( for example, steam or boiled milk) or a gas infused or mixed into the liquid (for example, carbonation).

Apparatus 100 may comprise housing body or frame 10 configured to support and, in some embodiments, protect various components and features of apparatus 100. In some embodiments, body 10 may support one or more containers, such as the filter holder. 30 and container 70. Body 10 may be configured to support and / or protect one or more fluid, electrical, and mechanical components or systems, as further described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, body 10 includes opposite side walls 11, front wall 12, rear wall 13, top 14, and bottom 15, defining a shape.

ES 2 589 807 T3 approximately rectangular prismatic. However, the body 10 can have any suitable shape, such as cylindrical, spherical, hemispherical, other prismatic shape, etc., that can support and / or protect one or more containers and / or components. The body 10 may comprise a simple frame-like structure with one or more walls and a shelf or platform configured to support a filter support, allowing a container to be placed under the platform and receive fluid flowing from the filter support. . Body 10 may comprise a shell-like hollow or semi-hollow housing structure that substantially encloses one or more components therein (eg, a sealed enclosure). In some embodiments, the body 10 may include portions with holes, openings, mesh, cages, or other features that can protect the components within and must be suitable to support a container, without necessarily forming an enclosure. The body 10 can be formed from one integral piece, or from one or more parts configured to mate with each other. Body 10 can be formed from any suitable material, including rigid metals and / or plastics. It will be understood that the side walls 11, the front wall 12, the rear wall 13, the top 14, and the bottom 15 may comprise the same or different materials.

Apparatus 100 may comprise a base 16 configured to provide support for container 70. Base 16 may be an integral part of body 10, or it may be independent of body 10. In the illustrated embodiment, base 16 engages a lower portion of a wall (eg, front wall 12) of body 10 and extends therefrom, and has a cross-sectional shape that is approximately rectangular with one end curved (for example, roughly semicircular). However, it will be understood that the base 1 6 may be of any suitable shape or material that can provide support for the container 70. The base 16 need not be positioned near or attached to the lower end of the body 10, and can be positioned anywhere on the body 10 suitable to support the container 70, and to allow fluid to flow from filter support 30 to container 70. Base 16 and container 70 may comprise one or more mating clamping structures, as further described herein, to secure container 70 in position relative to base 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 16 comprises a pad 72 on an upper surface of the base 16 that can serve as a position indicator for the placement of the container 70 (eg, a base of the container 70). The base 16 can be a hollow, semi-hollow, solid or semi-solid shell-like structure, and can include portions with holes, openings, mesh, cages, or other features that can provide support to the filter support 30. Base 16 can be formed from one integral piece, or from one or more parts configured to mate with each other. Base 16 can be formed of any suitable material, such as those described for body 10.

It will also be understood that the base 16 is optional, and that the container 70 may be supported by a separate surface from the apparatus 100, such as a sliding surface on which the apparatus 100 rests while in operation.

Base 16 may comprise a reservoir or drain portion 18 (or a combined reservoir and drain) that allows fluid to be collected and / or drained from apparatus 100, while still providing support to container 70. Drain 18 may comprise any of the many structures, including a screen, screen, openings, grooves, etc., that allow fluid to drain through. The drain 18 is illustrated herein comprising a plurality of openings 17 extending through a top plate of the base 16. The drain 18 may be in fluid communication with an external drain system, to conduct fluid out of the apparatus. 100.

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of apparatus 100 along lines 3-3 of Figure 1. Referring to Figures 1-3, support member 20 is configured to join or engage (eg, movably coupled) to body 10. Support member 20 may comprise a number of shapes and materials. In the illustrated embodiment, support member 20 has a cross-sectional shape that is approximately rectangular with a curved end (eg, approximately semicircular).

Support member 20 can be attached to body 10 in a variety of ways, for example, by welding, fasteners, adhesive, gluing, and the like. The support member 20 is illustrated extending outwardly from the front 12 of the body 10 and extending approximately horizontally from an approximate center (eg, horizontal and vertical center) of the front 12 of the body 10. However, it will be understood that the support member 20 may extend outwardly from various parts of the body 10, in an appropriate centered or offset position, provided that fluid can flow from the nozzle 50 into the filter support 30 and from the support. from filter 30 to container 70.

Support member 20 may be formed integrally or independently of a portion of body 10. In the illustrated embodiment, support member 20 extends through front wall 12 of body 10, and may be attached or coupled to an additional support structure within body 10 (Figure 3).

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Support member 20 may comprise a slot, groove, opening, tube, socket, or other structure that facilitates fluid flow through a portion of support member 20 (eg, through its thickness). In the illustrated embodiment, an opening 41 extends through the support member 20 to allow fluid to flow therethrough. In some embodiments, the aperture 41 may be configured to engage a portion of a movable member 40 and / or a portion of the filter holder engagement portion 25, further described herein. Support member 20 may be configured to restrict or facilitate free flow of fluid from filter support 30 to container 70 and / or drain 18.

In some embodiments, the support member 20 may comprise a valve (eg, a check valve, a two-way valve, a plug release system, etc.) or a similar mechanism that may be configured to restrain and / or allow fluid flow through support member 20, similar to the aforementioned mechanism which can be implemented to restrict and / or allow fluid flow through filter support 30. Said valve can be manually actuated or managed by control system 90 (Figures 1-2, 4-6), to open, for example, when fluid is being dispensed and / or when a container 70 is subsequently detected.

Referring again to Figures 1-3, the support member 20 comprises the filter support engagement portion 25 configured to engage a support member 20 with the filter support 30. Coupling portion 25 engages filter holder 30 to transmit movement to filter holder 30 relative to nozzle 50 and / or to provide alignment between opening 41 through support element 20 and opening 34 through the filter holder 30. The filter holder engagement portion 25 is distally positioned on the support member 20 to allow the filter holder engagement portion 25 to move (eg, rotate) relative to the nozzle 50 while the filter holder 30 it engages the filter holder coupling portion 25, without interfering with other parts of apparatus 100 (eg, body 10). The filter holder engaging portion may extend, be flush, or recessed, with respect to a surface of the support member 20. Although the filter holder engaging portion 25 may be integrated with the rest of the support member 20 , the part of coupling to the filter support is independent of the remaining parts of the support element 20, to facilitate relative movement.

The filter holder engaging portion 25 may comprise any of many different shapes and configurations suitable for engaging the filter holder 30. The filter holder engaging portion 25 may be configured such that the filter holder 30 engages accordingly. removably to apparatus 100, to facilitate cleaning of filter holder 30, and removal and insertion of filter 60 and flavoring material to and from filter holder 30. The filter support coupling portion 25 may comprise one or more coupling or clamping structures (eg, projections, recesses, grooves, grooves, locks, clips, pivots, mechanical seals, threads, snaps, etc.) configured to engage. to one or more corresponding matching filter support structures 30. Such paired fastening structures can be coupled to each other (eg, form a snap fit, friction fit, snap, etc.), to at least limit the horizontal movement of the filter holder 30 relative to the holder mating portion. of the filter 25, and allowing the filter holder engagement portion 25 to transmit a movement (eg, rotary) to the filter holder 30. In some embodiments, the paired fastening structures align the opening 34 with the opening 41. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter holder engagement portion 25 may comprise a fastening structure 25a configured to form a press fit with a filter structure. corresponding mating attachment 37 on filter holder 30 (FIG. 1). For illustrative purposes, the clamping structure 25a is a protrusion (eg, an annular ring) extending from the upper surface of the remainder of the filter holder engagement portion 25, and the matching clamping structure 37 is a recess. extending towards the base 33 of the filter holder 30 which can receive the clamping structure 25a. However, it will be understood that any suitable configuration may be used to couple the filter holder 30 with the filter holder coupling portion 25 so as to facilitate transmission of a movement to the filter holder 30.

The apparatus 100 is configured so that the filter holder coupling part 25 and the filter holder 30 (when coupled to the filter holder coupling part 25) can move relative to the nozzle 50, the body 10, and / or the rest of the support element 20. Such movement can be facilitated with one or more mobile elements. As used herein, movable element is used to describe a component or system that is configured to cause relative movement (eg, rotary, linear, tilt motion) between two or more components (eg, between the filter holder 30 and nozzle 50). As used herein, a moving member may comprise, one or more of, or a combination of, for example, a bushing, bearing, hinge, pin, ball and pinion, shaft, rotary joint, clutch, disc, gear, belt. , motor, linear slide, linear actuator, rack, groove, groove, cam, etc. An apparatus 100 comprises a control system, as further described herein (eg, control system 90; Figures 1-2, 4-6.), Wherein the movable member may be configured to move in response to a signal (eg, an electronic signal) provided by the control system.

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Continuing with reference to Figures 1-3, the apparatus 100 comprises the movable member 40 configured so that the filter holder coupling part 25 and the filter holder 30 (when coupled to the filter holder coupling part 25), it can move relative to the nozzle 50, the body 10, and / or the rest of the support element 20. The movable element 40 can rotate about an axis 501 to transmit a rotational movement of the coupling part to the filter holder 25 with respect to the nozzle 50, the body 10, and / or the rest of the support element 20. Such rotary motion can transmit a rotary motion to filter holder 30 about axis 501, and may be used, for example, to provide a patterned fluid flow path as it is supplied from nozzle 50 to filter 60. (See, for example, Figures 7A-7C). Movable member 40 is configured in combination with movement of nozzle 50, to provide a pattern of a spiral-shaped flow path relative to filter 60 (FIG. 7A). In embodiments not in accordance with the invention, the movable member 40 may be configured to provide an annular or wave-shaped flow path (Figure 7B, 7C). In some embodiments, the coupling between the filter holder 30 and the filter holder coupling portion 25 may be offset, such that the filter holder 30 performs an orbital motion about axis 501 in response to rotational motion of the filter. filter holder coupling part 25. In some embodiments, the movable member 40 and the filter holder engagement portion 25 may be integrally formed (eg, one-piece, integrated). For example, a circular rod or tube extending above a surface of the support member 20 may be employed to engage the filter support 30 and to facilitate rotation of the filter support 30 around the bar.

Movable member 40 and / or filter holder engagement portion 25 may be configured with a slot, groove, aperture, etc., extending through its thickness, illustrated here as aperture 26, to allow the Fluid flows from filter holder 30 to container 70, similar to opening 41 through support member 20, and opening 34 through filter holder 30. Apertures 41, 34 and / or 26 may be substantially aligned, as shown (for example, through axis 501, extending through their centers), or may be substantially offset from each other, provided they are configured to allow fluid to flow through them.

Support member 20 may itself be movable relative to nozzle 50 in a variety of directions. For example, the distal end of support member 20 can pivot in an arc (arrows 902, 903) about an axis 502 spaced from the distal end of support member 20 (Figure 3). Support member 20 may also be made movable relative to body 10 and / or nozzle 50 in one or more of the linear directions shown by directional arrows 904-907. It will be understood that any movement of the support member can replace the movement of the nozzle during operation.

Figure 4 shows a top view of apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figures 1, 2, and 4, apparatus 100 may comprise nozzle 50 configured to supply fluid to filter holder 30 so that fluid can flow through filter 60 positioned within filter holder 30 and into container 70 or drain 16. Nozzle 50 may extend from body 10 and is coupled (eg, movably coupled) thereto. The nozzle 50 may comprise an outlet 51 from which fluid can be supplied to the holder of the filter 30 and / or the filter 60. The nozzle 50 may comprise any of many different shapes and / or materials suitable for the holder of the outlet 51 and that allows movement of the nozzle 50 which is further described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle 50 comprises an arm 53 movably coupled to a portion of the body 10 (eg, the upper portion 14), and a handle 52, which a user can grasp when operating the apparatus 100. The Fluid can be supplied to outlet 51 through a portion of arm 53 and / or handle 52, or through a tube mounted externally to arm 53 and / or handle 52. It will be understood that the nozzle 50 (eg, arm 53 and / or handle 52) may comprise one or more curved, angular, or substantially non-horizontal or non-vertical portions along its surface, along its length. and / or width, and / or along its longitudinal cross sections.

The nozzle 50 can be movably coupled to the body 10 in a variety of ways, such as through the use of one or more of the movable elements mentioned above. The nozzle 50 is configured to move automatically (eg, with a motor, actuator, robot, or other automation component). The nozzle 50 may be movably coupled to the body 10 through any rigid or semi-rigid structure that may be configured to supply fluid from the outlet 51 and provide support thereto. The nozzle 50 may comprise a flexible, but semi-rigid, structure that can be moved by an external force (eg, flex or bend), and then maintain position when the force is removed (such as a gooseneck lamp). The nozzle 50 may comprise a tubing or tubing (eg, a rigid tubing or tubing), with a movable coupling (eg, rocker or rotary) attached at its proximal end to a portion of the body 10 (eg, the upper part 14).

The nozzle 50 is movably coupled to the body 10 to facilitate movement of the nozzle 50 relative to the body 10 and / or the support member 20 (for example, relative to the filter support engagement portion 25, and / or the filter holder 30 and / or the filter 60, when the filter holder 30 is coupled to the coupling part to the

ES 2 589 807 T3 filter holder 25). In the illustrated embodiment, nozzle 50 employs linear motion along a rack, linear actuator, slide, and the like, which allows nozzle 50 to move approximately linearly a distance L1 relative to body 10 and / or the support member 20 (eg, in the directions shown by directional arrows 913-914). As such, nozzle 50 can be extended and retracted relative to body 10. The mouthpiece 50 can be extended and retracted to provide flexibility in positioning the mouthpiece 50 relative to the filter holder engagement portion 25, to place the apparatus 100 in an activated or deactivated state, and / or to provide greater access to the filter. filter holder 30 and / or filter 60 (eg, for cleaning, removal and / or replacement of filter holder 30, filter 60, and / or beverage material). Figure 4 illustrates a position of apparatus 100 with nozzle 50 in a retracted position, and Figure 5 illustrates nozzle 50 in an extended position. In the illustrated embodiment, nozzle 50 is movably coupled to body 10 within a rack 19 (Figures 2 and 5).

A portion, most, or all of the nozzle 50 may be configured to be adjacent, proximal, extending, recessed, flush, and / or enclosed within a portion of the body 10 (e.g., relative to any one or more of the sides 11, front 12, top 14, and rear 13). For example, nozzle 50 can extend through a wall (eg, front wall 12) of body 10, and move away from and closer to body 10 as nozzle 50 extends and retracts. The nozzle 50 is illustrated extending and sliding along a zipper in the upper part 14 of the body 10.

The center of the nozzle outlet 51 (and shaft 503) are typically located outside the perimeter of filter holder 30 and filter 60 when nozzle 50 is in a retracted position (FIG. 4). However, it will be understood that the nozzle 50 may be in a retracted position when the outlet of the nozzle 51 is located outside or within the perimeter of filter holder 30 and filter 60. In some embodiments, apparatus 100 is in an off state when nozzle 50 is in a retracted position. As used herein, "off state" refers to an electronic or mechanical means that prevents a portion of apparatus 100 from operating. For example, apparatus 100 may be configured to prevent fluid flow to nozzle 50 and / or may prevent movement of the filter holder engagement portion 25 when apparatus 100 is in a deactivated state. As used herein, "on" refers to an electronic or mechanical means that enables a portion of apparatus 100 to function. Apparatus 100 may be configured to allow fluid flow to nozzle 50 and / or may allow movement of the portion engaging the filter holder 25 when apparatus 100 is in the activated state. Apparatus 100 may be configured to change from a deactivated state to an activated state when nozzle 50 is moved from a retracted position to an extended position.

Referring to Figures 4 and 5, nozzle 50 can be configured to be movable along rack 19, in the directions shown by arrow 914, to an extended position a distance L1 from the retracted position. It will be understood that, in use, the nozzle 50 can extend a variety of distances L1 above the filter 60, including any intermediate position between a fully retracted and fully extended state. For example, the nozzle 50 can be moved to an extended position by moving the nozzle outlet 51 over the filter 60 and the filter holder 30 so that the shaft 503 is within the perimeter of the filter 60 and the filter holder 30. The nozzle 50 may be moved to a substantially aligned extended position and / or a position substantially offset (eg, radially offset) from one or more of the center of the filter 60, the filter holder 30, and / or the bracket engaging portion. filter 25. Referring to Figure 5, the nozzle 50 can be extended so that the centers of the filter 60, the filter holder 30, and the filter holder coupling portion 25 (eg, the shaft 503) can be aligned with the outlet of nozzle 51 (eg shaft 501). It will be understood that the movement of the nozzle 50 is not limited to the extended position shown in Figure 5, and may extend beyond the center of the filter 60, the filter holder 30, and the filter holder engagement portion 25, to the outermost end of filter 60. In some embodiments, when the nozzle 50 is moved from a retracted position to an extended position, an electronic signal or other signal or mechanism is activated to arrange one or more features within the apparatus 100 in an on state from an off state. In some embodiments, one or more indicator lights are activated to illustrate whether apparatus 100 is in an on or off state.

It will be understood that the apparatus 100 may be configured to facilitate one or more of the movements of the nozzle 50 and the movement of the filter support engagement portion 25 (and the filter support 30 and filter 60, if attached thereto). described here. Furthermore, the movement of the nozzle 50 and the movement of the part of coupling to the filter holder 25 can be carried out independently or simultaneously. In addition, the supply of fluid from the nozzle 50 can be programmed with respect to one or more of the movements of the nozzle 50 and the movement of the part engaging the filter holder 25 to form a variety of continuous or intermittent flow circuits with a variety of flow path patterns on filter 60. In some embodiments, a first portion of liquid may be supplied to filter 60, and then a second portion of fluid may be supplied to filter 60 after a delay, to allow the first portion to be prepared and drained into container 70.

ES 2 589 807 T3

In some embodiments, the first and second fluid portions may have the same or different flow paths. For example, a different flavor could result from a center pour, donut pour, roll pour, and / or edge pour (e.g., dispensed near an outer circumferential edge of filter 60) at different stages of the brew cycle. In some embodiments, a rinse cycle may be implemented prior to placing the coffee beans in filter 60, for example, to seal filter 60 to filter holder 30, and / or to remove any particles (eg, paper) in filter 60 that can provide an undesirable taste to the finished beverage.

Figures 7A-7C show plan views of fluid flow paths in filter 60. Figure 7A illustrates an example of a spiral-shaped flow path formed in filter 60. The spiral-shaped flow path may formed by introducing fluid to nozzle 50, when nozzle 50 is positioned near an outer edge of filter 60 or the central axis 501 of filter 60. After the fluid has been introduced, the nozzle 50 can move linearly in one direction as the filter 60 rotates, as described above, to form the illustrated spiral-shaped flow path.

Figure 7B illustrates a wavy-shaped flow path, not in accordance with the invention, formed in the filter 60. The wavy-shaped flow path can be formed by supplying a fluid to a portion of the filter 60, and alternately moving the nozzle 50 several times while rotating filter 60 through 360 °, as described above, to form the illustrated wavy-shaped flow path.

Figure 7C illustrates a donut or annular flow path, not in accordance with the invention, formed in filter 60. The annular or donut-shaped flow path can be formed by positioning the nozzle 50 to supply a fluid to a portion of the filter 60 between the outer edge of the filter 60 and the center of the filter 60 (i.e., laterally spaced from the center; such as shown in Figure 6 and as described below, and with the outlet of the nozzle 51 positioned on the filter 60), and rotating the filter 60 without moving the nozzle 50. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the donut-shaped flow path can also be formed by moving the nozzle 50 over the filter 60 to a position between the retracted and extended position, and subsequently supplying fluid to the filter 60 while holding the nozzle. in that position and turning the filter 60.

Referring again to Figures 4 and 6, it will be understood that although the nozzle 50 is shown in Figure 4 approximately laterally centered relative to one side of the body 10 (eg, upper side 14), it will be understood that the nozzle 50 it may be positioned so that the nozzle 50 is offset by a distance L2 from the center of one side of the body 10 (eg, upper side 14; FIG. 6). The embodiment shown in Figure 6 can provide either the donut-shaped or wavy-shaped flow paths described herein (Figures 7B and 7C).

It will also be understood that the nozzle 50 can be configured to move in any of many different directions. For example, nozzle 50 can be configured to tilt in an arc (arrows 911, 912) about an axis 504 spaced from the distal end of nozzle 50 (FIG. 2). Nozzle 50 can be configured to move in one or more of the linear directions shown by directional arrows 913-916 (Figure 2). Desirably, the movement of the nozzle 50 is, however, limited to remaining on the filter 60 during dispensing.

Referring again to FIG. 1, a fluid distribution and / or temperature regulation system of fluid 80 may be employed to regulate the distribution and / or temperature of the fluid being supplied to nozzle 50. System 80 You can control, for example, the flow rate and / or time of the fluid being supplied from the nozzle 50 to the filter holder 30 and to the filter 60. For example, system 80 may control the sequence and steps in the supply of fluid to filter 60 to control the level of fluid within filter 60 and / or to control the time and rate of extraction of the flavoring substance from the brewing material. scented beverage (for example, coffee or tea).

Regulating system 80 may comprise one or more of a heater, cooler, manifold, valves, pipes, tubes, timers, thermostats, flow controls, pressure regulators, sensors (e.g., from pressure, flow and / or transducers). temperature), etc. Regulating system 80 may further comprise a kettle in fluid communication with nozzle 50 and configured to provide hot fluid to nozzle 50. In some embodiments, various aspects of regulating system 80 may be integrated within other components of apparatus 100. For example, heaters may be integrated into filter holder 30 to provide point-of-use fluid temperature control. inside filter holder 30. The heaters can communicate with a control system (eg, a remote control system) separate from the filter holder 30 through a connector or a plurality of contacts located at the base 33 of the filter holder 30 that are connected or are in contact with a corresponding connector or a plurality of contacts located on the support member 20. In another embodiment, a temperature regulation system may be

ES 2 589 807 T3 integrated within an upper part of the apparatus 100 (for example, an upper part of the body 10, and / or within the nozzle 50) to provide temperature control by temperature on demand of the fluid being supplied to filter holder 30. Such on-demand temperature control of the temperature can provide greater control of the temperature of the brewing (or steeping) process, providing greater control over the quality of the coffee or tea recipe. One or more temperature sensors may be implemented within apparatus 100 (eg, near the point of fluid use, eg, within nozzle 50 and / or filter holder 30) for any of the temperature control systems. described here. The one or more temperature sensors can provide information to a temperature regulation system (eg, system 80), in an open or closed loop configuration, to provide better control of the temperature of apparatus 100. Other embodiments of temperature control by temperature on demand and other apparatus and methods for preparing beverages that may be implemented with embodiments of the apparatus and procedures described herein are described in US Patent No. US 7,673,555 to Nosler et al.

The regulating system 80 may be supplied with fluid from a fluid source 81 and may supply fluid to the nozzle 50 through one or more hoses 82. The one or more hoses 82 may be flexible, or may include one or more couplings. of flexible tubing, to allow nozzle 50 to move relative to system 80. Apparatus 100 may also include one or more valves and / or flow regulators (eg, flow limiters) in fluid communication with regulating system 80 and the one or more hoses 82 to provide a variable flow rate of fluid to nozzle 50.

Figure 8 shows a schematic view of one embodiment of a portion of the regulation system 80 that can be implemented in the apparatus of Figure 1. The regulation system 80 may comprise a hose 182 that is similar to the hose 82. In this embodiment, hose 182 may branch or split into two flow paths (eg, hose sections) 82a and 82b through a tee fitting, a Y fitting, a distribution manifold, or the like, located course below system 80. One or more valves 83 may be implemented within hose sections 82a and / or 82b, downstream of system 80 and the tee or Y connection, to restrict and / or allow flow through hose sections 82a and / or 82b. One or more flow regulators (e.g., flow limiters) may be implemented within hose sections 82a and / or 82b (upstream or downstream of valves 83) to allow flow rates of fluid flowing through the hose sections 82a, 82b, respectively, are controlled relative to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the hose section 82b includes a flow regulator 84 to allow the flow rate of the fluid through the hose section 82b to be regulated at a different flow rate (eg, lower) than the flow rate of the flowing fluid. through hose section 82a. One or optional tee or Y connection may be implemented downstream of hose sections 82a and 82b to allow a single flow of fluid to flow through nozzle 50. In some embodiments, hose sections 82a and 82b terminate within nozzle 50, without a tee or Y connection. During use, valves 83 can be turned on or off to allow fluid to flow through system 80 to the nozzle 50 is supplied at various discrete flow rates depending on whether one or both of the valves 83 are activated. Therefore, the embodiment shown in Figure 8 can facilitate, for example, the use of a higher flow rate in a wash sequence by allowing flow through valve 83 in hose section 82a and restricting flow through valve 83 in hose section 82b. A lower flow rate may be provided for use, for example, in a prep or soak sequence by allowing flow through valve 83 in hose section 82b and restricting flow through valve 83 in hose section 82a.

A part, most, or all of the regulating system 80 may be positioned within the body 10 as shown (Figure 1) and / or separated from the body 10. In another embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises a cold water source and a source of hot water to the nozzle 50 that can be mixed in the vicinity of the nozzle 50 to provide an on-demand temperature in the water flowing from the nozzle 50.

Returning to Figure 1, the regulation system 80 can be controlled by means of a control system 90 to control various features of the overflow process provided by the apparatus 100. The control system 90 can be electronically controlled, but can understand other types of control systems such as pneumatic or hydraulic. Control system 90 can comprise any of many configurations known in the art, and can include any of a variety of controllers, user interfaces, buttons (eg, buttons 91), switches, circuitry, and the like. The control system 90 can control the power to the apparatus 100, the timing, timing, and / or temperature of the fluid that is supplied to the nozzle 50, and any other valves, motors, heaters, coolers, timers, thermostats, and controls. flow, pressure regulators, sensors (eg, pressure, flow and temperature transducers) and the like used in the overflow process. Control system 90 may be wired to apparatus 100 and its components, or it may be configured to control apparatus 100 and its components wirelessly. The control system 90 may be coupled to a portion of the body 10 (eg, the top 14, the sides 11, the front 12, or the rear 13), or it may be detached from the body 10. The control system 90 can be configured to control various aspects of the apparatus 100 remotely (for example, through a system

ES 2 589 807 T3 telecommunications, wirelessly, and / or an additional control system that sends a control signal to control system 90, etc.), allowing a user to remotely interact and control one or more appliances 100 and their components, for example, from a central station. In some embodiments, control system 90 can be used to program and save various coffee recipes, based on the sequence, time, and / or movement of the fluid supply to filter 60 from spout 50, and / or on based on specific types of coffee and / or grind size.

Figure 9 shows a top, side perspective view of one embodiment of an apparatus 200 for preparing a plurality of beverages. Apparatus 200 may comprise two or more of single service apparatus 100 (Figures 1-6) joined or integrated with each other. Apparatus 200 may be configured so that each of single service appliances 100 can be controlled through a single user interface and / or control system, or through a common user interface and / or control system. The multi-service apparatus 200 may be configured to include controllers, fluid distribution and / or temperature control systems, drains, fluid supplies, support elements, and / or individual housings, or it may share a controller, fluid distribution system. and / or temperature control, drain, fluid supply, support element and / or common housing. Apparatus 200 may be configured to include individual nozzles to supply fluid to each of apparatus 100, or it may be configured with a single nozzle configured to move horizontally along apparatus 200 to supply fluid to two or more of a single apparatus. Service 100. Appliance 200 can be configured to provide the same or different processes for each of the appliances in a single service 100.

Figure 10 shows a top and side perspective view of one embodiment of an apparatus 300 for preparing a plurality of beverages. Apparatus 300 may be substantially similar to apparatus 100 (Figures 1-6) and 200 (Figure 7) and may function substantially similarly to this with a few exceptions, as described below. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the apparatus 300 comprises two of the single service apparatus 100 (FIGS. 1-6) coupled and integrated with each other to form a lower body portion 360. The apparatus 300 further comprises a integrated grinder 310 with a body 305 attached to the lower part of the body 360. The grinder 310 may be operated under the control of one or more control systems of the apparatus 300. The grinder 310 can also be configured to receive a material (eg, coffee beans) through a bin or hopper 330, grind the material in a grinding mechanism 340 to form a ground material (eg, ground coffee), and supplying the ground material to the grinder 310 through an outlet 350. The hopper 330 may have any of many configurations suitable for containing one or more types of coffee beans (eg, a single, double or other divided hopper), and supplying them to the grinding mechanism 340. The grinding mechanism 340 may include any of many components and configurations, such as motor, blades, and / or various other mechanical and electrical devices, or combinations thereof, suitable for grinding a material, automatically, in a semi-automatic manner. automatically, and / or manually. The outlet 350 may comprise one or more weirs, funnels, etc., suitable for supplying the ground material from the grinder 310. For example, the grinder 310 may comprise a separate conduit for supplying ground material to each of the filter holders 30. In some embodiments, a single outlet 350 can be configured to supply the ground material to two or more of the filter holders 30, moving (eg, rocking) outlet 350 (manually, semi-automatically, or automatically) from a position above one of the filter holders 30 to a position above another of the filter holders 30. The sequences and operation of the grinder 310 can be controlled automatically and sequenced throughout the remainder of the brew cycle, and can be controlled separately from, or in combination with, the other pour over sequences, controls, and coffee recipes that They are described here for devices 100 and / or 200. For example, some brew sequences may include a rinse element (to wash filter 60, Figure 1), a ground element to grind and supply ground material to filter holder 30 (Figure 9), and a brew cycle, such as as further described here.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 10, the apparatus 300 includes two nozzles 50a each corresponding to one of the integrated single service apparatus 100. The nozzles 50a are shown fixed relative to the bottom 350 of the apparatus 300 for illustrative purposes only. However, it will be understood that apparatus 300 may comprise any of the embodiments described herein for nozzles 50.

Various methods of preparing a beverage may be employed employing embodiments of the beverage preparing apparatus described herein and shown in the figures. In one embodiment, a beverage can be prepared using the following elements: placing a filter within the filter holder; coupling the filter holder with the filter coupling part of the holder element; supplying a fluid to the filter holder from the nozzle so that the fluid contacts the filter; and moving the nozzle and the filter holder engaging portion relative to each other so that fluid in contact with the filter forms a flow path along a surface of the filter.

ES 2 589 807 T3

In some embodiments, the movable member comprises rotating the filter holder engaging portion, to thereby rotate the filter.

The movable element is such that the flow path produces a substantially spiral shape. The movable element also includes relative movement between the nozzle and the rotating filter holder coupling part, such that the flow path moves in and out radially along the rotating filter, adding a simple spiral shape (figure 7A).

In some embodiments, the movable element is such that the flow path includes a portion offset from the center of the filter.

In some embodiments, the movable member comprises reciprocating the at least one nozzle and the filter holder engagement portion relative to the other of the nozzle and the filter holder engagement portion.

The movable element comprises moving both the nozzle and the part of coupling to the filter holder with respect to the body.

In some embodiments, the movable member comprises rotating the filter holder engagement portion. The movable element comprises automatically moving the coupling part to the filter holder. In some embodiments, the movable member further comprises linearly moving the nozzle relative to the support member. The movable element further comprises automatically moving the nozzle. In some embodiments, the movable member further comprises reciprocating the nozzle.

In some embodiments, supplying a fluid to the filter support member comprises washing the filter at a first flow rate. In some embodiments, the supply element further comprises placing coffee beans in the filter after the washing element, and supplying a fluid to the filter holder at a second flow rate, in which the second flow rate is less than the first flow rate. .

In some embodiments, the method further comprises retracting the at least one of the nozzle and the filter holder engagement portion to provide a user access to the filter holder and filter engagement portion.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises placing coffee beans in the filter before the supply element. In some embodiments, the supply element comprises supplying a first predetermined quantity of fluid to the filter holder and waiting a predetermined period of time before supplying a second predetermined quantity of fluid to the filter holder.

The method further comprises providing a control system that provides a signal to the one or more moving elements, and wherein moving comprises moving at least one of the nozzle and the part of coupling to the filter holder in response to the signal. .

In one embodiment, a beverage can be prepared using apparatus 100 and using a method comprising the following elements: placing a filter on the filter holder, attaching the filter holder to the filter-engaging portion of the holder element, and dispensing a fluid into the filter holder from the nozzle so that the fluid is in contact with the filter. The supply element comprises supplying a first predetermined quantity of fluid to the holder. The supply element further comprises waiting a predetermined period of time, and then supplying a second predetermined quantity of fluid to the filter holder. In some embodiments, the method further comprises adding make-up material to the filter.

In an illustrative embodiment, a 12 fluid ounce beverage can be prepared using apparatus 100 shown in Figure 1 and using a method comprising the following elements: placing a filter on the filter holder, attaching the filter holder to the part of coupling to the filter of the support element, and adding a beverage material to the filter. The method further comprises a pre-infusion element comprising supplying a predetermined first quantity of fluid to the filter holder from the nozzle such that the fluid is in contact with the filter and the beverage material. In one embodiment, the first predetermined amount of fluid comprises 4 fluid ounces of fluid. The method further comprises waiting a first predetermined period of time for the first predetermined amount of fluid for the pre-infusion of the filter and the beverage material, and allowing at least a portion of the first predetermined amount of fluid to flow through. through the filter. In one embodiment, the first predetermined period of time is 45 seconds. The method further comprises supplying a second predetermined quantity of fluid to the filter holder from the nozzle. In one embodiment, the second predetermined amount of fluid comprises 0.3 fluid ounces of fluid. The method further comprises waiting a second predetermined period of time for at least

ES 2 589 807 T3 part of the second predetermined amount of fluid to contact the beverage material and flow through the filter. In one embodiment, the second predetermined period of time is 3 seconds.

In this illustrative embodiment, the method may further comprise repeating the element delivering a second predetermined amount of fluid and waiting for a second predetermined period of time for a third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh fluid and time periods, wherein each of the third to the seventh fluid portion comprises 0.3 ounces, and each of the third to the seventh time period comprises 3 seconds.

In this illustrative embodiment, the method may further comprise supplying a predetermined eighth amount of fluid to the filter holder. In one embodiment, the eighth predetermined amount of fluid comprises 6.8 fluid ounces. In this illustrative embodiment, the method may further comprise waiting an eighth predetermined period of time for the eighth predetermined amount of fluid, and any remaining fluid in the filter holder that is not in water stress relative to the beverage material, and / or filter, flow through the filter holder. In one embodiment, the eighth predetermined period of time is 60 seconds. In some embodiments, the method further comprises moving at least one of the nozzle and the filter holder coupling portion relative to each other so that the fluid in contact with the filter forms a flow path along of a filter surface during one or more of the above elements. In some embodiments, one or more of the predetermined supply quantity of fluid elements may further comprise moving at least one of the nozzle and the filter holder engagement portion relative to each other such that the remaining fluid is in contact. with the filter form a flow path along one surface of the filter.

Conditional language, such as, but not limited to, may, could, or could, unless otherwise specified, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include certain features, elements, and / or stages, while other embodiments do not include them. Therefore, this type of conditional language is generally not intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are not required in any way for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without input from user or indications, if these characteristics, elements and / or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

It should be emphasized that many variations and modifications can be made to the embodiments described above, the elements of which are to be understood as being among other acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this description and are protected by the following claims.