Beverage raw material chamber of brewing machine

Abstract

A brewing system may include a fluid supply system, a chamber, and a fluid outlet. The fluid outlet may be configured to pierce a capsule containing a beverage material formed of solid particles. The chamber may be configured to receive and retain the solid particles from the capsule without inhibiting or restricting a flow path from the fluid supply system, through the chamber, and out of the fluid outlet. In some cases, the fluid passing through the chamber may gradually empty the chamber of solid particles.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 905,476, filed on September 25, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The disclosed embodiments relate to a brewer beverage ingredient chamber and associated methods of use. Background Art

[0004] Single-cup brewers typically receive a sealed single-cup capsule in a compartment of the brewer. The compartment typically includes one or more piercing elements, such as a thorn or needle, that pierce or otherwise open the single-cup capsule so that a fluid from the brewer can be introduced into the capsule. The fluid can be introduced into the capsule to prepare one or more beverages, including but not limited to coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and apple juice. In some cases, the capsule can include one or more beverage ingredients, which may be in powdered, granular, or finely ground granular form in some cases. Summary of the invention

[0005] In some embodiments, the brewing machine includes a fluid supply system, which includes a fluid outlet configured and arranged to pierce the capsule, and a chamber that is fluidly connected to the fluid supply system and is located upstream of the fluid outlet. The chamber includes a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, and a capture volume, wherein the capture volume is defined by a barrier between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, and the chamber is configured and arranged to capture solid particles in the capture volume. The fluid delivery line of the fluid supply system can be connected to the chamber inlet, for example, to deliver hot water to the chamber inlet. The chamber outlet can be connected to the fluid outlet, for example, to deliver hot water delivered to the chamber via the chamber inlet to the fluid outlet. Hot water can flow through the capture volume on the way to the fluid outlet and then flow into the capsule to form a beverage. In some cases, the particles in the capsule can flow into the fluid outlet in the reverse or reverse direction, for example, caused by pressure and / or turbulence in the capsule. Such particles, such as solid particles of ground coffee, can flow into the cavity from the fluid outlet via the cavity outlet and be captured in the capture volume. The capture volume can be configured so that the reverse flow or backflow of particles does not block or otherwise interfere with the normal forward or forward flow of water or other liquid through the chamber. In addition, the capture volume can be arranged so that solid particles are picked up by the forward or forward flow in the chamber, so that the solid particles can leave the chamber without blocking or otherwise interfering with the forward flow of liquid in the fluid supply system.

[0006] In some embodiments, a method of operating a brewing machine includes capturing solid particles in a capture volume of a chamber located upstream of a fluid outlet, wherein the capture volume is defined by a barrier between a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet. The method also includes generating a fluid flow through a fluid supply system of the brewing machine, wherein the fluid flow exits the fluid supply system through the fluid outlet. The solid particles in the capture volume do not interfere with the fluid flow through the fluid outlet. For example, a fluid delivery line may be connected to the chamber inlet and provide a fluid flow through the chamber from the chamber inlet to the chamber outlet. The chamber outlet may be connected to the fluid outlet so that the fluid flow through the chamber leaves the fluid outlet. The solid particles in the capture volume do not hinder the flow of fluid from the chamber inlet to the chamber outlet through the chamber, for example due to blockage.

[0007] Instead, particles may remain in the capture volume and / or be picked up by the fluid flow for discharge at the fluid outlet.

[0008] In some embodiments, a method of operating a brewing machine includes piercing a capsule containing solid particles, wherein the capsule is pressurized, and the piercing of the capsule causes at least a portion of the particles to be discharged into a fluid supply system of the brewing machine. For example, the fluid supply system may be arranged to allow fluid to enter the capsule in a downstream direction to form a beverage. However, in some cases, particles in the capsule may flow back into the fluid supply system. The method includes capturing solid particles in a capture volume in a chamber located upstream of a fluid outlet, wherein the capture volume is defined by a barrier between a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet. The method also includes generating a first fluid flow through the fluid supply system of the brewing machine, wherein the first fluid flow exits the fluid supply system through the fluid outlet and enters the capsule. The method also includes removing the capsule from the brewing machine and generating a second fluid flow through the fluid supply system to generate a fluid suspension of particles in the capture volume of the chamber, wherein the second fluid suspension exits the fluid supply system through the fluid outlet.

[0009] It should be understood that the above concepts and the additional concepts discussed below can be arranged in any suitable combination, as the present disclosure is not limited in this respect. Further, other advantages and novel features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of various non-limiting embodiments when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or similar component shown in the various figures may be represented by the same reference numeral. For clarity, not every component is labeled in every figure. In the drawings:

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a brewing system of the prior art;

[0012] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a prior art brewing system in a first state;

[0013] Figure 2B yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a prior art brewing system in a second state;

[0014] Figure 2C yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a prior art brewing system in a third state;

[0015] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a brewing system;

[0016] Figure 4A yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a brewing system in a first state;

[0017] Figure 4B yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a brewing system in a second state;

[0018] Figure 4C yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a brewing system in a third state;

[0019] Figure 4D yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a brewing system in a fourth state;

[0020] Figure 4E yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a brewing system in a fifth state;

[0021] Figure 5A yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a brewing system in a sixth state;

[0022] Figure 5B yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a brewing system in a seventh state;

[0023] Figure 5C yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a brewing system in an eighth state;

[0024] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a brewing system;

[0025] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a brewing system;

[0026] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a brewing system;

[0027] Fig. 9is a bottom view of another embodiment of a brewing system;

[0028] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 A side view of a brewing system; and

[0029] Fig.11 It was cut along line 11-11 Fig. 9 Cross-sectional view of the brewing system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] In a conventional low-pressure single-serving brewer that uses one or more spikes to pierce a disposable capsule, a blockage usually occurs in a fluid supply system that provides water or other liquids to the capsule to form a beverage. Due to pressure changes between the ambient air and the inside of the capsule or other factors, solid particles (such as solid particles of ground coffee) are discharged from the capsule and enter the fluid supply system (such as a water inlet line) in a countercurrent direction. Particles flowing in the countercurrent direction may cause blockage in the fluid supply system. For example, many brewers use a puncture needle or other element that pierces the capsule to deliver water to the capsule. In many cases, the pressure inside the capsule may eject solid particles from the capsule into the fluid supply system, or pressurized water may flow back into the fluid supply system, so that particles flow back from the capsule into the puncture element and / or other upstream parts of the fluid supply system. Particles may block the puncture element or other parts of the fluid supply system, such as a delivery line connected to the puncture element, a check valve in the delivery line, etc.

[0031] In view of the above, the inventors have recognized the benefits of a chamber in series with the fluid outlet of the fluid supply system, which allows the particles to be collected without clogging any piercing elements, supply lines or other fluid supply system components. In some embodiments, such a chamber can also allow the captured particles to be gradually discharged from the fluid outlet by the downstream flow of the fluid flowing through the chamber. The inventors have also recognized the benefits of operating the brewing machine to change one or more of the fluid pressure, volume or flow rate to flush the capture volume in the chamber, so that the collected particles can be removed from the system without clogging or otherwise interfering with the flow of fluid in the supply system.

[0032] In some embodiments, the brewing system includes a fluid supply system with a beverage raw material chamber and a fluid outlet. The beverage raw material chamber includes a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, and a capture volume formed as a part of the chamber. The chamber inlet can be fluidly connected to receive a fluid from the fluid supply system, and the chamber outlet is fluidly connected to the fluid outlet to form a fluid flow path. The chamber inlet and the chamber outlet can be separated from each other in a horizontal direction relative to each other, so that at least a part of the fluid flow through the chamber is a horizontal flow. The capture volume is arranged to capture solid particles and / or provide space for collecting particles to avoid agglomeration and blockage of the fluid supply system, chamber and fluid outlet. In some embodiments, the capture volume is defined by the inclined base (e.g., barrier) of the chamber, wherein the lowermost portion of the inclined base is closer to the chamber inlet, and the uppermost portion of the inclined base is closer to the chamber outlet. In such an arrangement, the capture volume can capture particles in the capture volume, or otherwise prevent solid particles in the capture volume from flowing to the chamber outlet in a manner that may block the chamber outlet or fluid outlet. Conversely, in some embodiments, the shape of the capture volume may allow solid particles in the capture volume to be entrained in the fluid flow, where they may be discharged from the chamber via the chamber outlet and the fluid outlet without causing or resulting in a blockage. Thus, during normal operation of the brewing system, the capture volume may be self-draining or self-cleaning.

[0033] Turning to the drawings, specific non-limiting embodiments are described in further detail. It should be understood that the various systems, components, features, and methods described with respect to these embodiments may be used alone and / or in any desired combination, as the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein.

[0034] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a prior art brewing system 100, showing a typical arrangement of a fluid supply system. Figure 1 As shown, the brewing system includes a brew head 102, in which a fluid supply system is provided. The fluid supply system includes a first pipe 104, a check valve 106, a second pipe 108 and a fluid outlet 110. The first pipe 104 can be connected to a pump, a water storage portion or other fluid storage portion that can provide a fluid flow through the fluid supply system. The check valve 106 can prevent the backflow from the fluid outlet 110 from further entering the fluid supply system. The second pipe 108 connects the check valve fluid to the fluid outlet 110, which may include a puncture element. In certain embodiments, the check valve can be arranged closer to the fluid outlet 110 (for example, the check valve can be directly connected to the fluid outlet). In many prior art systems, the check valve is usually used to try to suppress the accumulation of solid particles in the fluid supply system by suppressing backflow. However, the inventor has realized that such an arrangement may cause particles to accumulate on the check valve and cause blockage.

[0035] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the prior art brewing system 100 in a first state. Figure 2A As shown, the brew head 102 is used in conjunction with a capsule compartment 112 that has received a capsule 150 containing beverage material 154 (e.g., solid particles such as solid particles of ground coffee). Figure 2A In the system shown, the brew head includes a hinge 103 that allows the fluid outlet 110 to move into and out of engagement with the capsule 150 . Figure 2A The fluid outlet 110 is configured as a spike that is arranged to pierce the seal 152 of the capsule 150 . Figure 2A The state may be a typical state of a prior art brewing system during use.

[0036] Figure 2B yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a prior art brewing system in a second state, wherein the seal 152 has been pierced by the fluid outlet 110. Figure 2B As shown, the bladder 150 may contain a pressurized gas that causes a plurality of solid particles 155 to flow upwardly into the fluid supply system along the fluid outlet 110. The solid particles 155 may be prevented from moving deeper into the fluid supply system by the check valve 106. Thus, the particles may coalesce or adhere together near the check valve preventing them from moving further into the fluid supply system. Figure 2C yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a prior art brewing system in a third state, showing solid particles agglomerated together to form a plug 156. Figure 2B In the state shown, the plurality of particles 155 discharged into the fluid supply system may partially adhere to each other and / or to some parts of the fluid supply system. In addition, the fluid flow through the fluid supply system may cause the particles to add to the blockage over time. For example, pressurizing water into the capsule may cause turbulence and / or pressure in the capsule, thereby causing the particles to flow back into the fluid outlet 110, the second tube 108, etc. The obstruction 256 that may be located upstream of the fluid outlet 110, such as in the tube 108 and / or the check valve 106, may inhibit or change the flow rate and / or flow pressure through the fluid outlet 110, which may in turn affect the taste of the beverage prepared from the capsule 150.

[0037] As described above, the inventors have realized that placing a check valve adjacent to or near a fluid outlet does not effectively manage the discharge of particles into the fluid supply system. According to the exemplary embodiments described below, the fluid supply system includes a beverage ingredient chamber that allows solid particles to spread out to avoid forming a blockage and / or allows solid particles that have been placed in the fluid supply system to be flushed out during normal use.

[0038] Figure 32 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a brewing system 200 including a beverage material chamber 212 configured to capture solid particles and inhibit blockage formation. Figure 3 As shown, the brewing system 200 includes a first tube or other delivery line 204, which can be connected to a pump, a water reservoir or other fluid storage portion capable of generating a fluid flow through the brewing system. The brewing system also includes a check valve 206 and a second tube 208. The beverage material chamber 212 is fluidly located between the second tube 208 and the check valve 206. The chamber 212 includes a chamber inlet 214 and a chamber outlet 216, which are respectively connected to the check valve 206 and the second tube 208. In this embodiment, the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet are horizontally spaced from each other so that at least a portion of the horizontal flow or at least a horizontal flow component passes through the chamber 212. The second tube 208 is connected to the fluid outlet 210, which is arranged as a spike in the embodiment shown.

[0039] according to Figure 3 In an embodiment, the beverage raw material chamber 212 defines a capture volume that receives and at least partially captures solid particles that may enter the fluid supply system (e.g., from a capsule). The beverage raw material chamber includes an inclined base 218. The lowermost portion 219A of the inclined base is disposed closer to the chamber inlet 214, while the uppermost portion 219B of the inclined base is disposed closer to the chamber outlet 216. The inclined base 218 defines a capture volume 220, which is disposed below the chamber outlet 216. The capture volume 220 is also disposed below the chamber inlet 214, such that the capture volume can capture or contain solid particles while maintaining a flow path between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet. However, in other embodiments, the capture volume may not be disposed at the chamber outlet and / or below the chamber inlet. The capture volume may be defined by a barrier (e.g., the inclined base 218) located between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet. In some embodiments, the barrier may be configured as an inclined base (e.g., a ramp). In other embodiments, the barrier may be configured as a vertical wall. According to Figure 3 In some embodiments, the inclined base 218 can be inclined at an appropriate angle to allow fluid to flow from the chamber inlet 214 to the chamber outlet 216, thereby entraining solid particles located in the capture volume in the fluid flow. The fluid suspension of solid particles can gradually move the solid particles above the inclined base 218 and through the chamber outlet, so that the capture volume can slowly self-clean during normal use of the brewing system. In some embodiments, the brewing system can have a cleaning mode, in which fluid flows through the chamber 212 to entrain solid particles and clean the capture volume 220. In some embodiments, the chamber 212 can have a separate drain or cleaning port through which solid particles in the capture volume 220 can be removed. Figure 3 As shown, the chamber inlet 214 is disposed on the top surface of the cavity, while the cavity outlet is disposed on the bottom surface of the cavity.

[0040] like Figure 3 As shown, the beverage raw material chamber 212 provides a large volume, and solid particles and fluid flow can pass through the volume, thereby inhibiting the formation of solid particle blockage. That is, the volume of the chamber 212 is greater than the volume of the second tube 208 and the fluid outlet 210. In other words, the cross-sectional area of ​​the chamber 212 through which the flow passes is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second tube 208, the fluid outlet 210, and other fluid supply system components disposed downstream of the check valve 206 and / or the chamber 212. (The cross-sectional area can be determined as the area of ​​a cross section of the chamber or other flow space, which is generally perpendicular to the liquid flow passing through the cross section.) In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the chamber is at least 2 times, 3 times, 4 times, 5 times, 10 times, 15 times, or 20 times larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​any part of the fluid supply system downstream of the chamber. Accordingly, the cross-sectional area of ​​the chamber can be 25 times, 20 times, 15 times, 10 times, 5 times, 4 times, or 3 times smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​any part of the fluid supply system downstream of the chamber. Combinations of the above ranges are contemplated, including chamber cross-sectional areas that are 2 to 10 times greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​any portion of the fluid supply system downstream of chamber 212 , including fluid outlet 210 .

[0041] according to Figure 3 In the embodiment of the present invention, the chamber 212 is positioned so that solid particles passing through the fluid outlet 210 can be captured in the chamber 212. In addition, the interface between the chamber 212 and the second tube 208 and the fluid outlet 210 does not include any angled walls that are inclined toward the second tube or the fluid outlet to form a funnel shape. Figure 3 In some embodiments, the second tube 208 extends vertically from the chamber 212. In some embodiments, the chamber 212 can be directly connected to the fluid outlet 210, which can also extend vertically from the chamber outlet 216. In some embodiments, the chamber outlet can be positioned within 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, or 4 inches of the fluid outlet 210.

[0042] Figure 4A yes Figure 3 The brewing system 200 is a schematic diagram of a first state corresponding to a pre-brew state. Figure 4A As shown, the brew head 202 is tilted relative to the capsule compartment 222 . Figure 4A The brew head can rotate around the hinge 203 to allow the user to perform access operations on the compartment (e.g., put the capsule 150 into or remove it from the compartment). Figure 4A As shown, the compartment includes a capsule 150 containing a beverage material 154. The beverage material is sealed in the capsule 150 by a seal 152. Figure 4AIn an embodiment, the beverage raw material may be composed of solid particles, such as solid particles of ground coffee, tea leaves, powdered beverage mixtures, etc. When the brew head 202 is rotated downward toward the compartment 222, the fluid outlet 210 can pierce the seal 152, thereby placing the capsule 150 in fluid communication with the fluid supply system of the brewing system.

[0043] Figure 4B yes Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the brewing system 200 in the second state, which corresponds to the state in which the capsule 150 is initially pierced. Figure 4B As shown, the brew head 202 has been rotated downward to engage the compartment 222. The fluid outlet 210 has pierced the seal 152 of the capsule 150. Figure 4B The capsule 150 shown may contain pressurized gas that forces a plurality of solid particles to flow back into the fluid supply system of the brewing system 200. The particles 155 are discharged upward from the capsule 150, through the fluid outlet 210, the second tube 208, and into the chamber 212. Depending on the pressure inside the capsule, some particles may reach the chamber inlet 214 or the check valve 206. However, because the chamber 212 provides additional volume to allow the particles 155 to spread out, the particles will not adhere or form together and cause a blockage. In addition, as will be described with reference to FIG. Figure 4C As discussed, the chamber 212 provides a volume to allow particles to settle in the capture volume so that any fluid flow has an unobstructed flow path to the chamber outlet even in the presence of a large number of solid particles 155.

[0044] Figure 4C yes Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the brewing system 200 in the third state, which corresponds to the pre-brew state. Figure 4C As shown, solid particles settle into the particle layer 156 disposed in the capture volume. The inclined base 218 maintains the particle layer in the capture volume and simultaneously inhibits the movement of the entire particle layer toward the chamber. In addition, since the capture volume is disposed below the chamber inlet 214 and the chamber outlet 216 (or otherwise maintains an open flow path on the inclined base 218), even if there is a particle layer 156, the fluid can flow freely through the chamber 212.

[0045] Figure 4D yes Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the brewing system in a fourth state, which corresponds to the brewing state. Figure 4DAs shown, a fluid 224 (e.g., water) flows from the first tube 204 through the check valve 206, into the chamber 212, and into the capsule 150 through the fluid outlet 210. The fluid may come from a fluid reservoir or supply source, and may be pumped to the brew head 202 via the first tube 204 by a pump of the brewing system. The check valve 206 allows one-way flow, such that the fluid flow may enter the chamber 212 but may not flow backward through the check valve 206. The chamber 212 provides a free flow path for the fluid 224 from the chamber inlet 214 to the chamber outlet 216, even when a particle layer 156 is disposed in the chamber. As shown in FIG. Figure 4D As shown, the fluid stream can entrain some particles of the particle layer to form a fluid suspension 157. The fluid suspension can gradually move the particles from the particle layer from the chamber 212 through the chamber outlet 216 and eventually back into the capsule 150. Therefore, the particle layer 125 can be emptied or partially emptied during normal brewing. The fluid stream 114 can enter the capsule 150 and combine with the beverage material 154 to form a beverage, which can be dispensed into a cup or other container.

[0046] In some cases, the brewing process may introduce additional solid particles into the fluid supply system of the brewing system 200. That is, the fluid flow 224 may flow into the capsule 150 at a sufficiently high flow rate or pressure to cause the particles in the fluid suspension 157 to flow back into the fluid outlet 210. In such cases, a flushing or cleaning process may be required, an example of which will be described in detail in the accompanying drawings. Figures 5A to 5C Have a discussion.

[0047] according to Figure 4DIn the illustrated embodiment, the inclined base 218 of the chamber can have an appropriate inclination and / or height to entrain an appropriate number of particles in the fluid flow 224 without entraining too many particles to form a blockage when the particles pass through the second tube 208 and the fluid outlet 210. Gravity can cause the particles on the inclined base 218 to move toward the capture volume. Therefore, in order to entrain particles in the flow, the gravity on the particles must be overcome by the flow of the fluid 224. A steeper inclination and / or additional height of the inclined base 218 can reduce the number of particles entrained, while a smaller inclination and / or height can increase the number of particles entrained. In some embodiments, the angle of the inclined base relative to the horizontal plane can be greater than or equal to 15°, 25°, 30°, 45°, 60°, or any other suitable angle, depending on factors such as the volume flow rate and the cross-sectional size of the chamber. Accordingly, the angle of the inclined base relative to the horizontal plane can be less than or equal to 90°, 60°, 45°, 30°, 20°, or any other suitable angle. Combinations of the above ranges are contemplated, including between 15° and 45° and between 15° and 30°. Of course, any suitable angle of the inclined base may be used, as the invention is not so limited. In some embodiments, the height difference between the lowermost portion of the capture volume (e.g., the lowermost portion of the inclined base 218) and the uppermost portion of the capture volume (e.g., the uppermost portion of the inclined base 218) may be greater than or equal to 0.25 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.75 inches, 1 inch, 1.5 inches, 2 inches, or any other suitable distance. Accordingly, the height difference between the lowermost portion of the capture volume and the chamber outlet may be less than or equal to 2.5 inches, 2 inches, 1.5 inches, 1 inch, 0.75 inches, 0.5 inches, or any other suitable distance.

[0048] Figure 4E yes Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the brewing system of FIG. 1 in a fifth state, which may correspond to a post-brewing state. Figure 4E As shown, the particles in cavity 212 have been emptied. Figure 4D During the brewing process shown, the fluid may gradually entrain all particles placed in the capture volume throughout the brewing process and move the particles out of the fluid outlet 210. In some embodiments, the particle layer 156 may remain in the capture volume even after the brewing cycle, which will be referred to as Figure 5A Nevertheless, the presence of the particle layer 156 does not inhibit the flow path from the chamber inlet 214 to the chamber outlet 216 and therefore does not alter the fluid flow rate or pressure of the brewing process.

[0049] Figure 5A yes Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the brewing system of FIG. 21 in a sixth state, which corresponds to a post-brewing state, wherein the particle layer 156 remains in the capture volume of the chamber 212. Figure 5AAs shown, after the brewing process, the brew head 202 can be rotated upward to allow the user to gain access to the compartment 222. Once the user has access to the capsule 150, the capsule can be removed from the compartment 222 as shown by the arrow.

[0050] Figure 5B yes Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the brewing system of in the seventh state, which corresponds to the cleaning state. Figure 5A In the state shown, when no capsule is set in the compartment, the brew head 202 can be rotated downward toward the compartment 222. Therefore, when the brew head is engaged with the compartment, no particles will be discharged into the fluid supply system because there is no capsule pierced by the fluid outlet. Therefore, in this state, the brewing system can generate a fluid flow 224 through the chamber to entrain particles in the fluid suspension 157 and reduce or eliminate the particle layer in the capture volume of the chamber. In some embodiments, the flow rate, flow pressure or volume of the fluid flow during the cleaning process can be greater than that during the normal brewing process. Figure 5C yes Figure 3 1 is a schematic diagram of a brewing system in an eighth state, showing the brewing system 200 having been cleared of the particle layer 156. That is, the chamber 212 has been emptied of solid particles.

[0051] Figures 6 to 8 An alternative embodiment of a brewing system including a beverage ingredient chamber is described. Figure 6 In an embodiment of the invention, the chamber 312 of the brewing system 300 includes a chamber inlet 314 disposed on a chamber side wall (e.g., a vertically oriented wall). The chamber outlet 316 is disposed on a chamber bottom wall (e.g., a horizontal wall). The chamber inlet 314 and the chamber outlet 316 are disposed on approximately the same horizontal plane, with the chamber inlet being slightly above the chamber outlet. However, the capture volume 320 is disposed below the chamber inlet and outlet and is defined by a barrier 317 (e.g., a ramp) between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet. Figure 7 In the embodiment of the present invention, the chamber 412 of the brewing system 400 includes a chamber inlet 414 and a chamber outlet 416, both of which are located on opposite side walls (e.g., vertically oriented walls) of the chamber. Figure 6 In an embodiment of the present invention, the chamber inlet 414 and the chamber outlet 416 are disposed at substantially the same level. The capture volume 420 is disposed below the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet and is defined by a barrier 417 (e.g., a ramp) between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet. Figure 8 In the embodiment of the present invention, the chamber 512 of the brewing system 500 includes a chamber inlet 514 disposed on a side wall of the chamber and a chamber outlet disposed on an opposite side wall of the chamber. Figure 8In some embodiments, the chamber outlet 516 is disposed above the chamber inlet 514. The capture volume 520 is located below the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet and is defined by a barrier 517 (e.g., a ramp) between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet. As previously described, in some embodiments, the capture volume may be disposed above or flush with the chamber inlet and / or outlet.

[0052] Figure 9 to Figure 10 1 and 2 are respectively a bottom view and a side view of a brewing system 600 according to another embodiment. Figure 9 to Figure 10 As shown, the brewing system includes a brew head 602 . Figure 9 to Figure 10 The brew head can be formed of injection molded plastic, but other materials are also contemplated. The brew head includes an integrated fluid supply system that terminates in a fluid outlet 604 configured as a spike. The brew head includes a hinge 603 about which the brew head rotates into or out of engagement with the associated compartment.

[0053] Fig.11 It was cut along line 11-11 Fig. 9 600, showing the fluid supply system of the brew head 602. Fig.11 As shown, the fluid outlet 604 is connected to a beverage material chamber 606, which is configured to capture and / or allow solid particles to disperse. The fluid outlet is connected to a chamber outlet 608 formed on the bottom wall of the chamber 606. The chamber inlet 610 is connected to a check valve 616 at the other end of the chamber. The chamber inlet 610 is formed on the top wall of the chamber. Fig.11 In the embodiment of the present invention, the chamber inlet and the outlet are located at approximately the same level, and the chamber inlet is located slightly lower than the chamber outlet. The check valve 616 is connected to a channel (eg, a pipe) 612, which can be fluidly connected to a pump of the brewing system 600.

[0054] like Fig.11 As shown, the chamber 606 includes an inclined base 614 that defines a capture volume 618 adjacent the chamber inlet 610. The capture volume 618 is defined by the inclined base 614 (e.g., a barrier) located between the chamber outlet 608 and the chamber inlet 610, which allows the capture volume to effectively capture solid particles that may be discharged into the chamber 606 when the fluid outlet 604 pierces the associated capsule.

[0055] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, it is not intended to limit the present invention to these embodiments or examples. On the contrary, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the present invention encompasses various alternatives, modifications and equivalents. Therefore, the above description and accompanying drawings are intended only as examples.

Claims

1. A brewing machine, comprising: a fluid supply system including a fluid outlet constructed and arranged to pierce the capsule; as well as a chamber in fluid communication with the fluid supply system and upstream of the fluid outlet, the chamber comprising a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, and a capture volume, wherein the capture volume is defined by a barrier between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, and Wherein the chamber is constructed and arranged to capture solid particles in the capture volume.

2. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The chamber is configured to receive solid particles from the capsule when the capsule is pierced by the fluid outlet.

3. The brewing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that: The pressure within the capsule forces the solid particles from the capsule into the chamber.

4. The brewing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that: Water from the fluid supply system forces the solid particles from the capsule into the chamber.

5. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The capture volume is further constructed and arranged to generate a fluid suspension of solid particles in a fluid flow from the chamber inlet to the chamber outlet, wherein the fluid suspension exits the fluid supply system through the fluid outlet.

6. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The barrier is an inclined base, wherein a lowermost portion of the inclined base is closer to the chamber entrance than an uppermost portion of the inclined base.

7. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The barrier is a vertical wall located between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet.

8. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The capture volume is located below both the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet.

9. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The chamber outlet is located above the chamber inlet.

10. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The chamber inlet is located above the chamber outlet.

11. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: The chamber inlet is positioned flush with the chamber outlet.

12. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also included is a balloon compartment disposed downstream of the fluid outlet, wherein the fluid outlet is configured to pierce a balloon disposed in the balloon compartment.

13. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that Also included is a check valve disposed upstream of the chamber inlet, wherein the check valve inhibits flow from the chamber through the chamber inlet.

14. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that Also included is a liquid reservoir containing a volume of water, wherein the liquid reservoir is fluidically connected to the chamber inlet.

15. The brewing machine according to claim 14, characterized in that Also included is a pump configured to move water from the reservoir into the capture volume via the chamber inlet and out of the chamber outlet to the fluid outlet.

16. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The cross-sectional area of ​​the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the capture volume.

17. The brewing machine according to claim 16, characterized in that The capture volume has a cross-sectional area that is greater than a cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid outlet.

18. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The chamber inlet is arranged at the top side of the chamber, and the chamber outlet is arranged at the bottom side of the chamber.

19. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The fluid outlet includes at least one spike.

20. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The chamber inlet is horizontally spaced from the chamber outlet such that fluid flows horizontally through at least a portion of the chamber.

21. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The volume of the chamber is 2 to 10 times that of the fluid outlet.

22. The brewing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that The fluid outlet is located less than 2 inches from the chamber outlet.

23. A method for operating a brewing machine, comprising: allowing solid particles of beverage material to flow into a fluid outlet of a fluid supply system; capturing the solid particles in a capture volume of the chamber upstream of the fluid outlet, wherein the capture volume is defined by a barrier between a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet; and A fluid flow is generated through the chamber from the chamber inlet to the chamber outlet, wherein the fluid flow exits the fluid supply system via the fluid outlet.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that The capture volume is located below both the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet.

25. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that Flowing the solid particles of beverage material comprises piercing a capsule containing the solid particles with the fluid outlet.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that The pressure in the bladder forces the solid particles into the fluid outlet and into the chamber.

27. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that Generating the fluid flow through a chamber includes generating a fluid suspension of solid particles in the capture volume of the chamber, wherein the fluid suspension exits the fluid supply system through the fluid outlet.

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that The fluid suspension flows from the capture volume, over the inclined base, and through the chamber outlet.

29. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that Flowing the solid particles of beverage material comprises piercing a capsule containing the solid particles of ground coffee.

30. The method according to claim 29, characterized in that The capsule is pressurized, wherein piercing the capsule causes at least a portion of the solid particles of the ground coffee to be expelled into the fluid outlet.

31. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that Generating the fluid flow includes pumping water from a water reservoir of the brewing machine.

32. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that Also included is preventing backflow in the fluid supply system using a check valve located upstream of the chamber.

33. A method for operating a brewing machine, comprising: piercing a capsule containing solid particles, wherein the capsule is pressurized, and wherein piercing the capsule causes at least a portion of the particles to be discharged into a fluid outlet of a fluid supply system of the brewing machine; capturing particles in a capture volume of a chamber upstream of a fluid outlet, wherein the capture volume is defined by a barrier between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet of the chamber; generating a first fluid flow that exits the fluid supply system through the fluid outlet and enters the bladder; removing the capsule from the brewing machine; and A second fluid flow is generated through the fluid supply system to generate a fluid suspension of particles in the capture volume of the chamber, wherein the fluid suspension exits the fluid supply system via the fluid outlet.

34. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that The capture volume is located below both the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet.

35. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that The fluid suspension flows from the capture volume, over the inclined base, and through the fluid outlet.

36. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that The second fluid flow is greater than the first fluid flow in at least one selected from the group of pressure, volume, and flow rate.

37. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that Generating the first and second fluid flows includes pumping water from a reservoir of the brewing machine.

38. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that Also included is preventing backflow in the fluid supply system using a check valve.

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