Method and Apparatus for Optimizing Variable Liquid Temperatures

Abstract

A method apparatus (100), and related beverage profiles for on-demand heating of liquid used for beverage dispensing where such heating is dynamically variable according to the applicable profile. The apparatus (100) includes a heating unit (160), electronic controller (140), and sensing devices (150, 180). A water tank (110) supplies the heating unit (160) via a water pump (120) controlled by the controller (140) that also controls the heating unit. Feedback control loops provide control data to the controller (140) to optimize liquid temperatures for a given beverage type in accordance with predetermined profiles.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates generally to on-demand heating of liquid. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus related to on-demand heating for beverage dispensing where such heating is dynamically variable. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Within the self-service vending machine industry, many machines exist to prepare heated mixtures. Often, repetitive preparation of multiple, varied beverages and soups occurs using a single serve package from the same machine. Each single serve package is typically in the form of a capsule that contains a measured amount of a dry substance. One such capsule is shown by Denisart et al. within International Publication Number WO 03 / 059778 A2 published on Jul. 24, 2003. [0003] When a liquid, typically hot water, is introduced to contents of a capsule, a food liquid such as a beverage or soup is thus formed. Different food liquids have different requirements to produce the best drink...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an apparatus and method for optimizing variable liquid temperatures within a beverage machine. The apparatus includes a heating unit for heating a liquid, a power supply for activating the heating unit, an electronic controller for controlling the flow rate and input power of the liquid, feedback means for providing sensed data to the electronic controller, and the electronic controller for varying the flow rate and input power in response to the sensed data. The method involves initiating a profile related to a predetermined beverage type, obtaining the temperature and flow rate of the heated liquid, and modifying the temperature and flow rate over time in accordance with the profile. The invention also provides a profile for optimizing the characteristics of a soluble component by varying liquid temperatures, which includes different temperatures for increasing dissolution, brewing, and evacuating residuals of the soluble component. The technical effects of the invention include improved beverage quality, efficiency, and consistent results."

Problems solved by technology

Often, repetitive preparation of multiple, varied beverages and soups occurs using a single serve package from the same machine.

Existing liquid heating technology used often in such self-service vending machines is typically only able to deliver hot liquid at one fixed temperature for all products.

Heating water to a fixed temperature for all products limits the possibility to prepare different beverages each with the best quality.

In addition, such self-service vending machines cool down during idle periods.

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