Beverage preparation system

Abstract

A weighing scale unit can be used in conjunction with a beverage preparation machine to efficiently prepare beverages. The weighing scale unit can provide information on the status of ingredient addition to the beverage container. The weighing scale unit can send instructions and / or data to the beverage preparation machine. In some embodiments, the beverage preparation machine sends instructions and / or data to the weighing scale unit.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese application filed on May 11, 2017, with application number 201780039445.2 (PCT / US2017 / 032159) and entitled "Beverage Preparation System".

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 335,041, filed May 11, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0004] Different beverage preparation machines prepare different types of beverages. For example, a combination of a blender and an ice handling machine is often used to prepare "frozen" drinks. A coffee maker passes hot water through ground coffee. Other machines mix flavored syrups with water and other ingredients to make a variety of beverages. Weighing scales are used in some cases to help users add the appropriate amount of ingredients according to the selected recipe. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one embodiment, a beverage preparation system includes: a weighing scale configured to weigh a beverage container and ingredients within the beverage container; a user input interface; a controller configured to receive weight data from the weighing scale; and a display. The system also includes a beverage preparation machine. The display is configured to show the status of ingredient addition to the beverage container based on the weight data. The user input interface is configured to receive selections of one or more beverage parameters from a user. The controller is configured to execute a first recipe display order from a plurality of recipe display orders on the display based on the selected beverage parameters. The controller is configured to transmit a first instruction for the first beverage preparation procedure to the beverage preparation machine from a plurality of instructions for a plurality of possible beverage preparation procedures.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a method for preparing a beverage using a beverage container, a weighing scale unit, and a beverage preparation machine is disclosed. The method includes: placing the beverage container on the weighing scale unit; inputting one or more beverage parameters to the controller of the weighing scale unit; and adding a first ingredient to the beverage container until the display of the weighing scale unit indicates that a sufficient amount of the first ingredient has been added. The method also includes adding a second ingredient to the beverage container until the display of the weighing scale unit indicates that a sufficient amount of the second ingredient has been added. The method includes actions such as removing the beverage container from the weighing scale and placing it in the beverage preparation machine to sense its position. No further input from the user is required for the beverage preparation machine to initiate a first beverage preparation program from among multiple beverage preparation programs.

[0007] According to another embodiment, a method for facilitating beverage preparation is disclosed. The method includes: receiving a beverage container on a weighing scale; receiving user input indicating the type of beverage to be prepared; indicating to the user a first ingredient type to be added to the beverage container; and indicating to the user that a sufficient amount of the first ingredient has been added to the beverage container. The method further includes indicating to the user a second ingredient type to be added to the beverage container; indicating to the user that a sufficient amount of the second ingredient has been added to the beverage container; and communicating which beverage preparation program to initiate from a plurality of possible beverage preparation programs.

[0008] According to another embodiment, a beverage preparation system includes a weighing scale unit and a beverage preparation machine. The weighing scale unit includes: a weighing scale for weighing a beverage container and the ingredients within the beverage container; a user input interface for receiving beverage parameters from a user; and a controller configured to receive weight data from the weighing scale. The weighing scale unit also includes a display configured to show the status of ingredient addition to the beverage container based on the weight data, wherein the controller is configured to execute a first recipe display order from a plurality of recipe display orders on the display based on the selected beverage parameters. The beverage preparation machine is physically separated from the weighing scale unit and is configured to receive the beverage container. The weighing scale unit and the beverage preparation machine communicate, enabling the weighing scale unit to send signals to the beverage preparation machine and / or the beverage preparation machine to send signals to the weighing scale unit.

[0009] According to another embodiment, an apparatus for facilitating beverage preparation includes: a weighing scale configured to weigh a beverage container and ingredients within the beverage container; a user input interface configured to receive beverage parameters from a user; a controller configured to receive weight data from the weighing scale; and a display configured to display the ingredient addition status of the beverage container based on the weight data. The controller is configured to execute a first recipe display order from among multiple recipe display orders on the display based on the selected beverage parameters. The controller is configured to send a first instruction for the first beverage preparation procedure from among multiple instructions for multiple possible beverage preparation procedures to the beverage preparation machine, the first instruction being based on the received beverage parameters.

[0010] According to another embodiment, a beverage preparation system includes a memory configured to store at least one recipe, wherein the recipe includes an ingredient addition step and a beverage preparation step. A weighing scale is provided, configured to weigh a beverage container and generate weight data, which is received by a controller. The system also includes a display, which may be a touchscreen display, configured to display a real-time visual representation of the ingredient addition step and the amount of ingredients added to the beverage container. The system further includes a beverage preparation machine configured to perform the beverage preparation step, wherein the weighing scale and the beverage preparation machine communicate, enabling the weighing scale to send signals to the beverage preparation machine and / or the beverage preparation machine to send signals to the weighing scale. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component illustrated in different figures is indicated by the same reference numerals. For clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. In the drawings:

[0012] Figure 1 A beverage preparation system according to one embodiment is shown, which includes a beverage preparation machine and a weighing scale unit.

[0013] Figure 2 An embodiment is shown. Figure 1 A beverage preparation system in which beverage containers are placed in a beverage preparation machine;

[0014] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a method for preparing beverages using a weighing scale unit and a beverage preparation machine;

[0015] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating how a user prepares a beverage using a weighing scale and a beverage preparation machine;

[0016] Figure 5 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0017] Figure 6 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0018] Figure 7 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0019] Figure 8 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0020] Figure 9 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0021] Figure 10A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0022] Figure 11 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0023] Figure 12 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0024] Figure 13 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0025] Figure 14 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0026] Figure 15 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0027] Figure 16 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0028] Figure 17 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0029] Figure 18 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0030] Figure 19 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0031] Figure 20 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0032] Figure 21 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0033] Figure 22 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0034] Figure 23 A display on a weighing scale unit according to one embodiment is shown;

[0035] Figure 24 An example is shown on a weighing scale, where the display guides the operator to add solid ingredients;

[0036] Figure 25 An example is illustrated where the beverage preparation machine includes a rinsing station;

[0037] Figure 26An example is illustrated in which the beverage preparation machine includes a rinsing station and a weighing unit is integrated with the beverage preparation machine.

[0038] Figure 27 An embodiment is illustrated where the weighing scale unit holds a container used in a conventional mixer assembly;

[0039] Figure 28 A block diagram illustrating a beverage preparation machine, a weighing scale, and certain components of the beverage preparation machine and the weighing scale is shown.

[0040] Figure 29 A flowchart illustrating how the system can manage over-perfusion conditions based on user instructions is shown; and

[0041] Figure 30A and Figure 30B Flowcharts are illustrated for some embodiments in which a user can create or modify a recipe on an electronic device and transfer the created / modified recipe to a beverage preparation system.

[0042] Figure 31A An angled view of a beverage preparation machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0043] Figure 31B Another angled view of a beverage preparation machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0044] Figure 31C A front view of a beverage preparation machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0045] Figure 31D A side view of a beverage preparation machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0046] Figure 31E A rear view of a beverage preparation machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0047] Figure 31F A top view of a beverage preparation machine according to one embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0048] While weighing scales and various recipe display technologies facilitate the addition of ingredients to beverages, the applicant has recognized that strategically providing instructions and / or information from the weighing scale unit to the associated beverage preparation machine and / or strategically receiving information and / or instructions from the beverage preparation machine can improve the beverage preparation process in a variety of ways.

[0049] According to some embodiments disclosed herein, a weighing scale is used to measure the amount of one or more ingredients when added to a container. The presence of a certain ingredient and, in some cases, the amount of that ingredient, is communicated to the beverage preparation machine, allowing the machine to initiate certain processes before all ingredients are added to the container. For example, when an operator selects a frozen beverage recipe and a threshold amount of ingredient measured by the weighing scale is added to the container, the machine can be instructed to begin shaving ice. Doing so reduces the total time required to prepare the beverage. If the amount of added ingredient exceeds the amount required by the recipe, the machine can shave off the excess ice upon receiving a signal from the weighing scale unit or another controller associated with the weighing scale unit.

[0050] According to another embodiment, the beverage preparation machine can provide information to a weighing unit and / or a controller associated with the weighing unit. For example, the milkshake machine may include a blender, a flavoring dispenser, and a sweetener dispenser. If the supply of a certain flavoring is insufficient, the beverage machine can signal the weighing unit controller to indicate to the operator that only a limited quantity of milkshake can be prepared. The display can be adjusted by the controller to show the proportionally reduced amount of ingredient to be added, so that the appropriate proportion of ingredients can still be obtained using the limited amount of flavoring. Alternatively, the display can signal to the operator that a certain beverage cannot be prepared until more supply is added to the machine.

[0051] Once the presence of a beverage container is detected in the beverage preparation machine, the weighing unit can instruct the machine to begin the beverage preparation program. In some cases, the weighing unit can pre-select a program for the beverage preparation machine from among several available programs based on beverage parameters input by the user. In this way, the user does not need to press any buttons or other controls on the beverage preparation machine. In some cases, the user does not need to select a beverage preparation program at all; the selection of the beverage recipe and / or beverage parameters can cause the weighing unit to send instructions to the beverage preparation machine regarding which program to use. For example, after selecting a frozen beverage recipe on the weighing unit and adding the appropriate ingredients, the user can simply move the container from the weighing unit to the beverage preparation machine, and the machine can automatically begin operation. In other embodiments, a display on the weighing unit can indicate to the user which button or other control on the beverage preparation machine should be activated.

[0052] For the purposes of this discussion, instructions or signals that are at least partially based on beverage parameters are considered to be based on beverage parameters.

[0053] In some embodiments, the display is located on the same unit as the weighing scale, and based on information provided by the beverage preparation machine regarding the machine's supply level or operational capacity, the display may show a subset of available recipes selected from it.

[0054] The inventive concept described herein can be implemented in any of a variety of ways and is not limited to any particular implementation technique. Therefore, although examples of specific implementation techniques are described below, it should be understood that the examples are provided for illustrative purposes only, and other implementations are possible.

[0055] Switch to the attached image. Figure 1 A beverage preparation system 1 according to one embodiment is shown. The beverage preparation system 1 includes a beverage preparation machine 10 and a weighing unit 12. A beverage container 14 is shown positioned on the weighing unit 12, and in the illustrated embodiment, the container is shown as a stirrer can. Other suitable containers, such as cups, single-serving stirrer cans, or any other suitable beverage container, can be used. The beverage container can be configured so that a person can drink directly from the beverage container, or the beverage container can be a vessel designed for pouring the beverage into individual serving containers.

[0056] As discussed herein, the weighing scale unit 12 may include a display 16 for beverage preparation. Alternatively, the display may be attached to or detached from the weighing scale and beverage preparation machine. The display may communicate with the weighing scale and beverage preparation unit via a wired or wireless connection. The display may be a touch-sensitive screen, which may also serve as a user input interface. In some embodiments, a touch-sensitive screen detached from the display 16 may be used, or other suitable user input interfaces may be used, such as physical buttons and / or switches, or a keyboard layout.

[0057] The beverage preparation machine 10 may include a display 18, which, like the display of the weighing scale unit 12, can also be used as an input device. In some embodiments, one or both of the displays 16 and 18 may be LEDs associated with printed symbols or text on the respective units, or LCD, OLED, or other display types. In some embodiments, one or both of the displays may be screens configured to display various graphics and text. The beverage preparation machine 10 or the weighing scale 12 may also include or be connected to a speaker for conveying audible information to the user.

[0058] The beverage preparation machine 10 includes a beverage container support area 20 and may include sensors for detecting the presence or absence of beverage containers in the machine. For example, a weighing sensor can sense the weight of the beverage container, an optical sensor can be used to sense the presence of the container, a physical switch can be positioned to be triggered when a beverage container is placed in the machine, or any other suitable sensor may be used. Figure 2In the diagram, beverage container 14 is shown positioned within beverage preparation machine 10. In some embodiments, by incorporating sensors on the beverage preparation machine, a container receiving area of ​​the beverage preparation machine is formed, creating an area where the beverage container can be placed at a beverage container sensing location. The beverage preparation system may also include a controller and / or memory (e.g., random access memory) or storage (e.g., a solid-state drive for storing recipes and / or control software for performing various functions). Alternatively, the memory or storage for storing recipes may be located remotely, such as in a remote server, USB drive, smartphone, or other device with storage media, and the weighing scale or beverage preparation device may download recipes from a remote location. The beverage preparation system may have one or more communication ports or wireless communication capabilities, such as Wi-Fi, 3G, LTE, Bluetooth, millimeter wave, or NFC, for communication with remote storage and with the weighing scale.

[0059] Beverage preparation machine 10 may include an ice bucket and a reservoir for various ingredients (such as flavorings, sweeteners, powders, water, and / or other ingredients) or items to be added to the beverage. Alternatively, the ice bucket and / or reservoir may be placed separately from the beverage preparation machine and the weighing scale. Sensors (such as weight sensors) that measure the amount of flavorings, sweeteners, powders, water, or other ingredients may be included, enabling this information to be transmitted to the beverage preparation machine or the weighing scale. For example, a controller may be located in the beverage preparation machine or the weighing scale to receive information from internal sensors and transmit this information to the beverage preparation machine and / or the weighing scale. Beverage preparation machine 10 may include a stirrer, a water heater, an ice shaver, an ice dispenser and ice chute, a powder dispenser, a mixer, and / or any other suitable mechanical system for preparing the beverage. For example, the beverage preparation machine may include a TAYLOR MAGNABLEND or ISLAND OASIS SB2100, SB2150, DD2100, DD2150 shaver / stirrer unit. Alternatively, these components can be set up separately, in which case they are preferably controlled by a common controller in the beverage preparation machine.

[0060] A beverage preparation system, preferably beverage preparation machine 10, may include a refrigeration compartment for storing chilled ingredients to facilitate the preparation of cold drinks. The system may also include a freezer compartment for producing or storing ice or other frozen ingredients to facilitate the preparation of cold drinks. However, the system can also be implemented without a freezer compartment or ice tray, in which case the user manually adds ice to the prepared beverage. The ice may be an ingredient from a selected recipe and may be displayed on a weighing scale for the user to add to a container placed on the scale.

[0061] Beverage preparation systems may also include, for example: Figure 25The door 11 shown, for example, surrounds the beverage container support area 20 when the container 14 is placed on the beverage support area. Additionally, the beverage preparation machine 10 may include sound insulation, such as sound-absorbing foam along at least a portion of the interior of the beverage preparation machine, or even on the inner surface of the door, to reduce the amount of noise generated by the beverage preparation machine 10.

[0062] The weighing scale unit 12 includes a weighing scale 22 for weighing the amount of ingredients added to a beverage container. As ingredients are added to the container, the weighing scale 22 can provide weight data to a controller, which instructs a display 16 to show the status of the amount of ingredients added. In some embodiments, the amount of ingredients added is displayed relative to a desired amount. In this way, the user can track how much ingredient has been added and can simplify the process of adding the correct amount of various ingredients. The weighing scale unit 12 may also include a speaker or be associated with a speaker for conveying audible information to the user.

[0063] By weighing each ingredient directly as it is added to the beverage container, the use of measuring cups or other specialized measuring equipment can be reduced or eliminated. Furthermore, by providing interactive recipes on a display, users no longer necessarily need reference manuals, books, posters, or other printed materials. Therefore, users do not need to search for recipes, and recipes can be updated more easily. For example, updated or additional recipes can be downloaded periodically via a computer network, or in some embodiments, recipes can be retrieved from a database via a computer network or the Internet each time a recipe is selected.

[0064] According to some embodiments disclosed herein, the weighing scale unit 12 sends one or more instructions to the beverage preparation machine 10, which facilitates beverage preparation. The weighing scale unit 12 can be connected to the beverage preparation machine 10 via a cable 24, which provides a data link (e.g., USB connection) between the weighing scale unit 12 and the beverage preparation machine 10. Alternatively, the weighing scale unit 12 and the beverage preparation machine 10 can be wirelessly connected via Wi-Fi, 3G, LTE, Bluetooth, millimeter wave, NFC, or other suitable wireless standards. In addition to or instead of a data link, the cable 24 may also provide a power link.

[0065] The weighing scale unit 12 and / or the beverage preparation machine 10 may include wired or wireless communication circuitry for communication via wireless protocols such as Wi-Fi, 3G, LTE, Bluetooth, millimeter wave, NFC, or other wireless communication protocols for external communication. The weighing scale unit 12 may also include memory (such as random access memory) or storage (such as a solid-state drive for storing recipes and / or control software for performing various functions).

[0066] A weighing scale can measure weight or mass and is considered a weighing scale.

[0067] Similarly, in some embodiments, the beverage preparation machine 10 can send data and / or instructions to the weighing scale unit 12. By enabling the beverage preparation machine 10 and the weighing scale unit 12 to communicate with each other, various efficiencies and other benefits can be achieved. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiments, the beverage preparation machine and the weighing unit are physically separate, but in some embodiments, the beverage preparation machine and the weighing unit may be part of the same physical device.

[0068] Figure 3 A method 100 for facilitating beverage preparation by using a weighing scale unit and a beverage preparation machine is illustrated. At action 102, a beverage container is received on the scale. At action 104, the weighing scale unit receives user input indicating the type of beverage. This indication may specify a particular type of beverage and may include a general beverage type (e.g., smoothie, milkshake, or coffee) and a specific flavor (e.g., strawberry). Alternatively, in some embodiments, the initial input may be simply a general beverage type, and this selection may lead to a menu of different flavor options from which the user can choose. These selections may be received by a weighing scale unit controller.

[0069] At action 106, the weighing unit indicates the type of ingredient to be added to the beverage container. This indication can be in the form of a visual display. For example, the display may show the word "yogurt" and / or a graphic symbol representing yogurt. In some embodiments, the display may be an auditory display, such as spoken words.

[0070] At action 108, once a sufficient amount of ingredients has been added to the beverage container based on the weight measurement of the weighing scale, the weighing scale unit indicates that a sufficient amount of ingredients has been added. At decision action 110, the controller checks whether the recipe requires the addition of ingredients; if so, actions 106 and 108 are repeated.

[0071] After all ingredients have been added in sufficient quantities, at action 112, the weighing unit communicates which beverage preparation program to initiate from among several possible programs. For example, the weighing unit may instruct the beverage preparation machine to use a specific stirring cycle and add a certain amount of shaved ice. For different recipes, the weighing unit may instruct the beverage preparation machine to add sugar and water to the beverage and use different stirring cycles. In some embodiments, instead of instructing the beverage preparation machine, the weighing unit may indicate to the user that a button on the beverage preparation machine should be pressed after the beverage container is moved to the machine.

[0072] Figure 4 A flowchart of a method 200 for preparing a beverage using a weighing scale unit and a beverage preparation machine is shown. At action 202, the user places a beverage container on the weighing scale. At action 204, the user inputs one or more beverage parameters. Using a display associated with the weighing scale unit, the user adds ingredients to the beverage container until an indication is received that a sufficient amount of ingredients has been added. At action 208, the user uses the display to determine whether additional ingredients need to be added. If yes, action 206 is repeated. If no, at action 210, the user removes the beverage container from the scale and places it in the beverage preparation machine. At action 212, the user places the beverage container at the beverage container sensing position in the beverage preparation machine, causing the first beverage preparation program of the beverage preparation machine to start without further input from the user. In this way, the user does not need to know or decide which button or other input control to activate on the beverage preparation machine.

[0073] Additionally, in some embodiments, the weighing unit communicates with the beverage preparation machine to perform pretreatment via the beverage preparation machine. For example, the weighing unit can send instructions to the beverage preparation machine before ingredient addition is complete, causing the beverage preparation machine to initiate one or more pretreatment steps. Such pretreatment steps can be based on a stored recipe, which instructs the slicer / stirrer to adjust the following: shaving time (shaving time is based on ingredient ratios, beverage size, quantity of beverage produced, etc., to produce approximately the same amount of shaved ice); stirring time (stirring time allows the user to determine the consistency of the beverage; longer stirring time provides a smoother beverage); addition of water (some recipes may require the addition of additional water, where the recipe in the scale indicates, based on time, how much water the slicer / stirrer should add—the longer the valve is open, the more water is added); addition of other liquid ingredients (some recipes may require the addition of liquid sweeteners or flavorings, where the recipe in the scale instructs the slicer / stirrer to turn on the pump to dispense these liquid ingredients—the longer the pump operates, the more product is dispensed); and heating of the liquid to be added to the beverage. The recipe can be programmed into the weighing scale / touchscreen to prompt the slicer / mixer to perform the above functions.

[0074] In some embodiments, the user can select a specific amount of time or the amount of ice that the beverage preparation machine 10 will shave and dispense into container 14. For example, the user can select a small amount of ice, a medium amount of ice, or a large amount of ice. The beverage preparation machine 10 can then operate the ice shaver at a corresponding low, medium, or high time to prepare one of three different amounts of shaved ice into the container. The user can select the specific amount of time for shaving ice by selecting a virtual button on display 16 or a virtual button on display 18. The ice shaver agitator of the beverage preparation machine 10 can be calibrated to ensure that the dispensed amount of shaved ice corresponds to the recipe. Indications for calibrating the ice shaver agitator can be made via a scale / display system. As some examples, items that can be calibrated are not limited to shaved ice and may also include the amount of water and liquid ingredients (e.g., sweeteners / flavorings).

[0075] The shaved ice calibration procedure may include the following steps involving communication between the weighing scale and the beverage preparation machine: (1) the stirrer cup is placed on the scale (tare scale); (2) the display instructs the user to place the stirrer cup into the shaver / stirrer; (3) the scale / display unit instructs the shaver / stirrer to perform a calibration cycle and dispenses an amount of ice of “X”; (4) the display instructs the user to place the (full) stirrer cup back on the scale; (5) the scale determines whether the weight of the shaved ice is correct; (6) if the weight is correct, the calibration is complete; (7) if the weight is incorrect, the scale / display unit determines how much shaving time needs to be adjusted to achieve the appropriate amount of shaved ice and updates the shaver / stirrer accordingly. Once the adjustment is saved, the system prompts the user to run another calibration cycle to verify whether the change has achieved the desired result.

[0076] refer to Figure 5 The display 16 of the weighing scale unit 12 can present a recipe menu from which the operator can select the desired beverage recipe. Once a recipe is selected, the display 16 provides the operator with sequential instructions on which ingredients to add to the beverage container 14. While adding ingredients, the display 16 indicates the product level in the beverage container 14 and notifies the operator when a sufficient amount of ingredient has been added. The display 16 then informs the operator whether additional ingredients should be added to the beverage container. If one or more additional ingredients are needed, the display 16 informs the operator which ingredients to add and, again, notifies the operator when a sufficient amount of ingredient has been added. After all ingredients have been added, the display 16 indicates to the operator that the recipe is complete.

[0077] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the display 16 of the weighing scale unit 12 can be configured to display multiple beverage recipes, each represented by an abbreviation of the specific recipe. (See reference...) Figures 6 to 9 Users can select from a few options, such as "VB" for vanilla bean puree, "SC" for strawberry puree, "OC" for orange puree, "CC" for coffee puree, "CS" for chocolate milkshake, "VS" for vanilla milkshake, "SS" for strawberry milkshake, "SB" for strawberry banana milkshake, "TM" for tropical mango milkshake, "FC" for frozen coffee, "WB" for winter drinks, and "FF" for frozen fun puree drinks. It should be understood that the display 16 can be configured to include any number of recipes and can also be configured to be operated by the operator to add additional recipes to the recipe group.

[0078] Users can select one or more beverage parameters. For example, the operator can select the type of beverage as a parameter, such as "SB" representing a strawberry banana milkshake, and can additionally select the beverage size as a second parameter. (See reference...) Figure 10 Users can select "S" for small drinks, "M" for medium drinks, and "L" for large drinks. Different or additional size options can be set. For example, an extra-large drink option can be set, or a "double small" or "double medium" option can be set to prepare sufficient ingredients for two small or two medium drinks. In some embodiments, a custom size option can be set, where the user can limit a certain volume or weight of the drink. In some embodiments, other parameters can be selected, such as the drink temperature, or whether crushed or diced ice should be used.

[0079] refer to Figure 11 After selecting a beverage size, display 16 shows the user the ingredients associated with the selected beverage. In the illustrated embodiment, the selected beverage—a strawberry banana smoothie—includes a strawberry banana smoothie base, yogurt, and individually frozen (“IQF”) strawberries. If the ingredients are acceptable, the operator touches the “OK” button to continue the process.

[0080] refer to Figure 12 The display 16 instructs the operator to place the beverage container 14 on the support 22 of the weighing scale. Different beverage container types can be indicated to help the user understand which container to use. For example, in Figure 12 The image shows a mixer jar 30, while... Figure 13 In the display 16, cup 32 is shown.

[0081] Once the beverage container 14 is properly positioned on the support 22 of the weighing scale 12, the display 16 of the weighing scale instructs or otherwise directs the user to add a certain amount of the first ingredient. For example, in Figure 14In the illustrated embodiment, the user is instructed to add four ounces of smoothie base. Because the weighing scale 12 is configured to weigh the beverage container and its contents, the scale's display 16 can be configured to notify the user of the status of the first ingredient being added by schematically displaying the level of the first ingredient. For example, the color of the schematically displayed inside the blender container can change in relation to the amount of the first ingredient that has been added to the beverage container. Figure 15 A schematically filled stirrer container 34 is shown, representing the near completion of depositing the first ingredient into the beverage container 14.

[0082] Other methods can be used to display the ingredient addition process. For example, in some embodiments, a pie chart can be filled with a scan radius line. In other embodiments, the symbol can advance from the start point to the end point based on the amount of the first ingredient added. In other embodiments, displays other than schematic representations can be used. For example, the percentage of ingredients added can be simply shown as a numerical percentage. Alternatively, the color of the entire screen can change from light to dark as ingredients are added. In some embodiments, a line graph can be used to show that the ingredient level increases over time. With this arrangement, in some embodiments, time can be shown on the x-axis and the percentage of completion can be shown on the y-axis.

[0083] like Figure 16 As shown, once the desired amount of the first ingredient is added to the beverage container, the display can instruct the user to stop adding the first ingredient by displaying the word "Stop," or otherwise instruct the user to stop adding the first ingredient.

[0084] Once the desired amount of the first ingredient has been deposited, if a second ingredient is to be added, the display 16 instructs the operator to add the desired amount of the second ingredient. In the illustrated embodiment, the display 16 indicates that the recipe requires eight ounces of yogurt. Similar to the case of the first ingredient, the display 16 is configured to show the status of the second ingredient addition through a schematic representation of the amount of the second ingredient already added. Figure 17 It shows that yogurt has not yet been added, and Figure 18 It shows that almost all of the yogurt has been added. Figure 19 Includes a "stop" command to instruct the user to stop adding the second ingredient.

[0085] A similar process can be used for other ingredients, such as Figure 20 and Figure 21 The IGF strawberry shown. Reference. Figure 22 The display 16 can be configured to warn the operator that the desired amount of a certain ingredient in the recipe has been exceeded. In some embodiments, as discussed further below, the display 16 can be configured to provide the operator with the option to continue preparing the beverage using a "Continue" button or to restart the process using a "Restart" button.

[0086] refer to Figure 23 Once all the ingredients for a specific recipe have been added to the beverage container, the display 16 can instruct the operator to place the beverage container into the beverage preparation machine 10. Once the beverage container 14 is moved onto the beverage preparation machine, sensors on the machine can detect its presence and initiate a beverage preparation process, such as one or more of the following: adding shaved ice; stirring ingredients; heating ingredients; adding sweeteners or flavorings; or any other suitable operation.

[0087] As described herein, in some embodiments, the weighing unit 12 sends one or more instructions to the beverage preparation machine to instruct which beverage preparation program to initiate from among a plurality of beverage preparation programs. In some embodiments, the weighing unit sends a single instruction instructing which process to initiate. In other embodiments, the weighing unit may send multiple specific instructions regarding each of several individual operations. For example, the weighing unit may instruct the beverage preparation machine by sending individual instructions that specifically instruct the beverage preparation machine to add a cup of shaved ice, mix for 30 seconds, and add 4 grams of sweetener. By sending one or more instructions to the beverage preparation machine, the weighing unit allows the user to prepare beverages using a limited number of input instructions. For example, after selecting a recipe and / or other beverage parameters, the user does not need to press any buttons or otherwise provide input to the beverage preparation system. This arrangement can improve efficiency and limit the amount of cleaning required.

[0088] like Figures 6 to 23 As shown, the display 16 of the weighing scale 12 may be configured with an "X" button, which instructs the operator to cancel a specific recipe. In some embodiments, the "X" button may be configured to move the operator to the last screenshot shown on the display 16. It should be understood that the preparation of the strawberry banana smoothie is for illustrative purposes only, and the display 16 may be configured to facilitate the preparation of any suitable recipe. The weighing scale unit may be configured to allow the operator to input new recipes into the weighing scale unit.

[0089] While the appropriate amount of all ingredients can be determined by weight, it is more convenient for the system to also indicate to the operator the appropriate amount of certain solid ingredients to be added by counting. In such an embodiment, the system can convert weight to quantity or simply register the count in response to operator input. For example, as Figure 24As shown, display 16 can be displayed on the screen to guide the operator in adding specific amounts of certain solid ingredients (such as biscuits) by counting. In this embodiment, the display can show images of two biscuits. After the operator adds the first biscuit, the display indicates that the first biscuit has been added. After the operator adds the second biscuit, the display indicates that the second biscuit has been added, and the display can then show the next step in beverage preparation.

[0090] like Figure 25 As shown, the beverage preparation machine may include a rinsing station 251. The rinsing station includes a sprayer 253 that disperses a cleaning fluid, such as water or other cleaning solution, in an upward direction. The rinsing station may also include a recessed base plate 255 having one or more drain holes 257. In practice, the operator inverts the beverage container 14' in the rinsing station such that the upper part of the beverage container 14' contacts the recessed base plate. The sprayer then disperses the cleaning fluid, which washes away any residue remaining inside the beverage container 14' after the beverage preparation machine 10' has prepared the beverage and dispensed it into the beverage container 14'. The cleaning fluid and any residue remaining on the beverage container then flow through one or more drain holes. The system also includes the beverage preparation machine 10', a weighing unit 12', and a weighing scale 22'. The beverage preparation machine 10' may also include a door 11.

[0091] In some embodiments, the beverage preparation machine can be configured to perform multiple functions simultaneously. For example, the beverage preparation machine may include an ice shaver, a stirring / mixing mechanism, and a rinsing station. The beverage preparation machine can be configured to operate at least two of the ice shaver, stirring / mixing mechanism, and rinsing station simultaneously to enhance the system's beverage preparation capacity.

[0092] Figure 26 The embodiment shown also includes a rinsing station 251', referenced above. Figure 25 It has already been described. The rinsing station 251' may also include, for example... Figure 25 The sprayer 253, base plate 255, and drain hole 257 are shown. However, Figure 26 The embodiment shown is configured such that the weighing scale 22" is integrated with the beverage preparation machine 10". Conversely, in Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the weighing scale unit and the beverage preparation machine are separate structures. Container 14" and beverage preparation machine 10" are also shown.

[0093] Figure 27 An embodiment is illustrated where the weighing scale unit holds the container 271 used for a conventional stirrer assembly 273. In this embodiment, for example, [details omitted]. Figure 1The beverage preparation machine 10 is illustrated in the diagram. As a result, if the operator already possesses a conventional blender assembly, the operator can place the container 271 on top of the weighing scale unit, follow the instructions on the display 16, transfer the container 271 and connect it to the conventional blender assembly 273, and blend the ingredients within the container 271 to prepare the beverage. Weighing scale unit 12"' and weighing scale 22"' are also shown. The weighing scale may include a support base 274 for supporting the blender container on the weighing scale.

[0094] Figure 28 A schematic block diagram 2821 of a beverage preparation machine and a schematic block diagram 2822 of a weighing scale are shown. The beverage preparation machine includes a memory or storage device 2801, a weight sensor 2802 for measuring the amount of ingredients, and a controller 2803.

[0095] The beverage preparation machine also includes a liquid dispenser 2804 for dispensing liquid ingredients, such as water, flavorings, or liquid mixtures. It also includes a powder dispenser 2805 for dispensing materials, such as protein powder, sugar, or powdered flavorings.

[0096] The beverage preparation machine also includes a stirring / mixing mechanism 2806, which may consist of a blade or a set of blades inserted into a container and can rotate, vibrate, or otherwise move to stir or mix beverage ingredients. Alternatively, the container may include a blade or a set of blades to stir or mix beverage ingredients. An electric motor may drive the stirring / mixing mechanism. A beverage container sensor 2807 is also included, which can sense the presence of a container when it is placed on / inside the beverage preparation machine. At least one ingredient storage compartment 2814 is also included.

[0097] The beverage preparation machine may also include an ice bucket 2808, or a freezer or refrigerator 2809 and / or an ice shaver / dispenser 2810.

[0098] The beverage preparation machine also includes a communication link 2811 for communicating with the weighing scale. The communication link can be implemented as a wired communication link or a wireless communication link.

[0099] The beverage preparation machine also includes a display 2812 and may include a speaker 2813.

[0100] The weighing scale may include a memory or storage device 2815, a controller 2816, a display 2817, and a speaker 2818. The weighing scale includes a communication link 2819 and a weight sensor 2820. The communication link may be implemented as a wired communication link or a wireless communication link.

[0101] Figure 28 The arrangement of components illustrated herein is merely exemplary. It is possible to arrange them without... Figure 28The system is implemented in the case of some of the components shown.

[0102] According to yet another embodiment, such as Figure 29 As shown, if the weighing scale detects that the user has poured too much ingredient into the container (“overfilling”), the beverage preparation system can assist the user. Overfilling can be accidental or intentional. For example, the user may accidentally pour too much of an ingredient into the beverage container. Alternatively, the user may expect to have a larger quantity of an ingredient than required by the recipe, in which case the overfilling is intentional.

[0103] In the event of overfilling, the system can ask the user whether they want to 1) continue without making any further modifications to the recipe, 2) continue with modifications to the recipe so that the final ingredients are in the same proportions as the original recipe, or 3) restart beverage preparation. If the user chooses to continue with modifications to the recipe so that the final ingredients are in the same proportions as the original recipe, the system can calculate the amount of prefilled ingredients and the amount of unfilled ingredients that need to be added, and instruct the user accordingly. On the other hand, allowing the user to continue without modifying the recipe would allow them to add one or more ingredients, thereby customizing the beverage according to the consumer's preferences. The system can also allow the user to perform low-volume filling, for example, by including a cover command to continue even if the weighed ingredients are less than required by the recipe.

[0104] As described below and as Figure 29 As shown, an algorithm can be used to assist the user. If overfilling is detected (2901), the display on the beverage preparation system located on the weighing scale or the beverage preparation machine can display a message after detecting overfilling of a specific ingredient, notifying the user of the overfill and asking the user whether they would like to: 1) continue without modifying other ingredients, 2) continue with modifications to retain the same proportion of ingredients according to the original recipe, or 3) restart beverage preparation, in which case the user will discard the contents of the container (2902).

[0105] If the user selects option 1), the beverage preparation system can continue with the remaining beverage preparation steps normally. If the user wishes to increase the amount of only one ingredient compared to the stored beverage recipe, he / she can select option (2903).

[0106] If the user selects option 2), the beverage preparation system can recalculate the appropriate amounts of pre-filled and unfilled ingredients (2904). The system can also guide the user through the steps of adding pre-filled and unfilled ingredients from start to finish (2905).

[0107] If the user selects option 3), the beverage preparation system can instruct the user to pour out the overfilled ingredients and restart the beverage preparation sequence (2906).

[0108] The embodiments disclosed herein can also be connected to electronic devices (such as smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, wearable electronic devices, laptops, desktop computers, etc.) and allow customers to download pre-selected recipes or new custom recipes, which can be used to prepare beverages from a predetermined set of available ingredients in the beverage preparation system. Users can browse beverage recipes on electronic devices and then control the weighing scale unit or beverage preparation unit to download certain selected recipes to expand the range of beverages the system can make.

[0109] like Figure 30A As shown, a user can create a new recipe using an electronic device by interacting with it to select one or more ingredients and specify the amount or ratio of each ingredient (3001). Ingredients can be selected from a pre-defined database or manually entered by the user. For example, a user can create a recipe including protein powder, yogurt, and frozen strawberries. In this example, the user can then specify the amount of protein powder (e.g., 30 grams), the amount of yogurt (e.g., 10 ounces), and the number of strawberries (e.g., 10 strawberries). After creating the recipe on the electronic device, the user can enter a command that causes the user-created recipe to be sent to the beverage preparation system for storage in memory or storage, and / or causes the beverage preparation system to display the user-created recipe (3002). The beverage preparation system can then guide the user to fill a container placed on a weighing scale and prepare the beverage using the beverage preparation machine (3003).

[0110] according to Figure 30B In another embodiment shown, a user can use an electronic device to modify an existing recipe. For example, a user can browse existing recipes on the electronic device and change the amount or proportion of at least one ingredient (3004). According to one example, a user can modify the amount of sugar in a beverage to make a low-sugar drink. Alternatively, for a beverage recipe consisting of a strawberry banana smoothie mixture, yogurt, and frozen strawberries, a user can increase the amount of yogurt or the number of strawberries to suit their preference. For a beverage recipe consisting of a half iced tea and half lemonade mixture, a user can change the proportion to 70% iced tea and 30% lemonade. After the user modifies the recipe on the electronic device, the user can enter a command on the electronic device that causes the modified recipe to be sent to the beverage preparation system for storage in memory or storage, and / or causes the beverage preparation system to display the modified recipe (3005). The beverage preparation system can then guide the user to fill a container placed on a weighing scale and prepare the beverage using the beverage preparation machine (3006).

[0111] Alternatively, users can create or modify the beverages described above by interacting directly with the beverage preparation system, rather than through electronic devices. Users can interact with the beverage preparation system by selecting menu items displayed on the scale or the beverage preparation machine's monitor.

[0112] According to another embodiment, the beverage preparation system can calculate pricing information via a controller based on information stored in a pricing database. The pricing database can be stored locally within the beverage preparation system. Alternatively, the pricing database can be stored at a remote location (e.g., on a remote server), and the beverage preparation system can access or download the pricing information from the remote location / server. The pricing information can be associated with a specific recipe, specific ingredients, or both.

[0113] For example, if a beverage preparation system is used in a retail environment, the user would first select a pre-defined recipe and beverage size. The beverage preparation system would then access a pricing database containing prices for the selected beverage. The system could then display the price of the selected recipe and request payment from the user.

[0114] The beverage preparation system can also recalculate pricing information that takes into account user modifications to the recipe. For example, if a user selects a pre-selected recipe containing protein powder, they might want to add extra protein powder. The user can modify the recipe to include, for example, 20 grams of additional protein. The beverage preparation system will then determine the price per gram of protein by accessing a pricing database and increase the price of the prepared beverage accordingly.

[0115] The beverage preparation system may also include hardware that facilitates commercial transactions, such as a credit card reader or scanner that can scan membership cards with barcodes or other identifying information indicating a specific person associated with the membership card. The pricing database may include the amount stored on the membership cards.

[0116] Figures 31A to 31F Various views of a system including a beverage preparation machine 10" and a weighing scale 22" integrated with the beverage preparation machine 10" are illustrated. Containers / serving dishes 14", a rinsing station 251" as previously described, and a display 311 are also shown in these figures.

[0117] The features disclosed in certain embodiments may also be added to other embodiments disclosed herein. In other words, different aspects of different beverage preparation embodiments may be combined.

[0118] The controllers described in the above embodiments can be implemented in any of a variety of ways. For example, the embodiments can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination thereof. When implemented in software, the software code can be executed on any suitable processor or set of processors, whether located in a single computer or distributed across multiple computers. It should be understood that any component or set of components performing the functions described above can generally be considered as one or more controllers controlling the functions discussed above. The one or more controllers can be implemented in various ways, such as using dedicated hardware or using non-dedicated hardware (e.g., one or more processors) programmed with microcode or software to perform the functions described above.

[0119] In this regard, it should be understood that one implementation includes at least one computer-readable storage medium (i.e., at least one tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as computer memory (e.g., hard disk drive, flash memory, processor working memory, etc.), floppy disk, optical disk, magnetic tape, or other tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium) encoded using a computer program (i.e., a plurality of instructions), which, when executed on one or more processors, performs the functions described above. The computer-readable storage medium may be removable, such that a program stored thereon can be loaded onto any computer resource to implement the functions discussed herein. Furthermore, it should be understood that, when executed, the computer program performing the functions discussed above is not limited to an application running on a host computer. Rather, the term "computer program" is used herein in a general sense to refer to any type of computer code (e.g., software or microcode) that can be used to program one or more processors to implement the techniques discussed above.

[0120] The wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting. The use of “comprising,” “including,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof is intended to include the articles and appendages listed thereafter. The use of ordinal terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., in the claims to modify the claim elements themselves does not imply any preference, priority, or order of one claim element relative to another, or the chronological order of actions of the methods. Ordinal terms are used only as markers to distinguish one claim element having a specific name from another element having the same name (but for distinguishing claim elements by using ordinal terms).

[0121] Given that several embodiments have been described in detail, various modifications and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. It is intended that these modifications and improvements be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the foregoing description is merely exemplary and not intended to be restrictive. The invention is limited only by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for preparing a beverage using a beverage preparation system, the beverage preparation system comprising a beverage container, a weighing unit, and a beverage preparation machine in communication with the weighing unit, the method comprising: (a) Initiate communication between the beverage preparation machine and the weighing scale unit; (b) Place the beverage container on the weighing scale of the weighing scale unit; (c) Input one or more beverage parameters into the controller of the weighing scale unit; (d) Add the first ingredient to the beverage container until the display of the weighing scale unit indicates that a sufficient amount of the first ingredient has been added; (e) Add the second ingredient to the beverage container until the display of the weighing scale unit indicates that a sufficient amount of the second ingredient has been added; (f) When the amounts of the first ingredient and the second ingredient differ from the desired amounts of each ingredient in the formula, a message is displayed on the weighing scale unit or the display of the beverage preparation machine, notifying the user of overfilling and asking the user whether they wish to: continue without modifying other ingredients; continue with modifications to make the final ingredients the same as the original formula; or restart beverage preparation, in which case the user will discard the contents of the container. (g) Remove the beverage container from the weighing scale and place the beverage container at the beverage container sensing position in the beverage preparation machine; as well as (h) Start the first beverage preparation program from among the multiple beverage preparation programs using the beverage preparation machine.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein inputting one or more beverage parameters includes indicating beverage size and beverage type.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the sufficient amount of the first ingredient and the sufficient amount of the second ingredient are determined according to the beverage formula stored in the beverage preparation system.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the sufficient amount of the first ingredient and the sufficient amount of the second ingredient are determined based on the beverage formula transmitted from a remote location to the beverage preparation system.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first beverage preparation procedure is initiated without further input from the user.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising automatically adjusting the amount of the first ingredient and the amount of the second ingredient to be added when the beverage preparation system determines that the supply of the first ingredient and the second ingredient is insufficient.

7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: (i) If you choose to continue with modifications, restart the ingredient addition steps for each ingredient in the recipe.

8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: (j) If the supply of the first ingredient or the second ingredient is insufficient, the operator shall be notified that only beverages of limited size can be prepared.

9. A method for facilitating beverage preparation, the method comprising: (a) Receiving beverage containers on a weighing scale; (b) Receive user input indicating the type of beverage to be prepared; (c) Indicate to the user the first ingredient type to be added to the beverage container; (d) Instruct the user that a sufficient amount of the first ingredient has been added to the beverage container; (e) Indicate to the user the second ingredient type to be added to the beverage container; (f) Instructing the user that a sufficient amount of the second ingredient has been added to the beverage container; as well as (g) When the amounts of the first and second ingredients added differ from the desired amounts of each ingredient in the formula, a message is displayed to the user on the weighing scale or associated display, notifying the user of overfilling and asking the user whether they wish to: continue without modifying other ingredients; continue with modifications to ensure the final ingredients are in the same proportions as the original formula; or restart beverage preparation, in which case the user will discard the contents of the container; and (h) The beverage preparation program is communicated from among several possible beverage preparation programs by instructing the user to activate which user input interface on the beverage preparation machine.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein informing which beverage preparation process to initiate comprises sending a signal to the beverage preparation machine.

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