Beverage brewing system

Abstract

A beverage brewing system includes a housing, a reservoir, a pump, a heating element, and a holder. The housing defines a cup receiving compartment for receiving a cup and a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup receiving compartment. A reservoir is positioned within the housing for containing a fluid. A pump is positioned within the housing for pumping fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly. A heating element is positioned within the housing for heating the fluid as it is pumped to the nozzle assembly. The holder holds a pouring bag having an opening configured to receive a beverage precursor. The nozzle assembly pours the fluid through the opening into the pouring bag, and the fluid flows through the beverage precursor and through the pouring bag into a cup positioned within the cup receiving compartment.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications and priority claims

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 026,970, filed on March 17, 2023, which is a national phase entry application of PCT International Application Serial No. PCT / US22 / 36588, filed on July 8, 2022, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 219,569, filed on July 8, 2021. This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 424,097, filed on November 9, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 454,029, filed on March 22, 2023. The disclosures of all of the above applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to beverage brewing systems, and more particularly to single-serving, disposable, and pour-over beverage brewing systems. Background Art

[0003] Single-use beverage brewing machines typically use pre-packaged beverage precursors (such as coffee powder or tea leaves) to brew one or more beverages (such as coffee or tea). The beverage precursor is typically immersed in a fluid (typically water) until the beverage is extracted from the beverage precursor. The beverage precursor is typically stored in a sealed package inserted into the beverage brewing machine, and the beverage brewing machine enters the sealed package to brew the beverage. However, because the package is sealed, the user cannot control the amount of the beverage precursor used to brew the beverage. In addition, the sealed package prevents the user from brewing the beverage using different brewing methods (such as pouring methods), which may result in different beverage taste attributes. Third, the water delivery mechanism of the water to the beverage precursor is usually spatially limited in a manner that only discrete, limited precursor portions are exposed to high-temperature water, thereby limiting the extraction of flavor. Fourth, the sealed package can be made of non-biodegradable materials to maintain the taste and aroma of the beverage precursor. Therefore, the single-use beverage brewing system may be less flexible in operation and may be less sustainable in the environment than alternative brewing methods. Finally, sealed packaging is often composed of petroleum-based plastics, which may have leachable components that may have undesirable health effects to consumers of the beverage. Summary of the invention

[0004] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a beverage brewing system. The beverage brewing system includes a housing, a reservoir, a pump, a heating element, and a holder. The housing defines a cup receiving compartment for receiving a cup and a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup receiving compartment. The reservoir is positioned in the housing for containing a fluid. The pump is positioned in the housing for pumping the fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly. The heating element is positioned in the housing for heating the fluid to a precise temperature set point when the fluid is pumped to the nozzle assembly or by preheating the fluid in the brewing tank. The holder holds a pouring bag below the nozzle assembly. The pouring bag has an opening configured to receive the fluid. The pouring bag is suspended from the holder, and the opening is oriented toward the nozzle assembly. The nozzle assembly pours the fluid into the pouring bag through the opening, and the fluid flows through the beverage precursor in the pouring bag and flows through the pouring bag into the cup positioned in the cup receiving compartment.

[0005] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for brewing a beverage with a beverage brewing system. The method includes positioning a cup in a cup receiving compartment of the beverage brewing system. The beverage brewing system includes a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup, a holder positioned above the cup, a reservoir, a pump, and a heating element. The method also includes suspending a pouring bag on the holder. The pouring bag contains a beverage precursor and has an opening oriented toward the nozzle assembly. The method also includes pumping a fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with a pump. The method also includes heating the fluid flow or preheating the fluid in the brewing tank with a heating element. The method also includes pouring the fluid flow into the pouring bag through the opening with the nozzle assembly. The method also includes allowing the fluid flow to penetrate through the beverage precursor and the pouring bag into the cup. A key component of the method is the movement of the bag relative to the nozzle or the movement of the nozzle relative to the bag to ensure that the beverage precursor is fully exposed to the temperature-controlled fluid. Another component of the method is moving the filter bag (e.g., oscillating) in a manner that causes vortexing or mixing of the beverage precursor components to improve fluid exposure to the beverage precursor and overall extraction.

[0006] The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of examples according to the present disclosure so that the following detailed description may be better understood. Additional features and advantages will be described below. The concepts and specific examples disclosed may be readily used as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for achieving the same purposes of the present disclosure. Such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Features that are considered to be characteristic of the concepts disclosed herein (with respect to their organization and method of operation) and associated advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The purpose of providing the drawings is for illustration and description only and not as a limitation of the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] A further understanding of the nature and advantages of these embodiments may be realized with reference to the following drawings.In the accompanying drawings, similar components or features may have the same reference numerals.

[0008] Figure 1 A front view of an exemplary beverage brewing system for brewing a beverage according to the principles of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 2 A side view of an exemplary beverage brewing system according to the present disclosure is shown with internal components shown in phantom.

[0010] Figure 3 Another side view of a portion of an exemplary beverage brewing system according to the present disclosure is shown with internal components shown in phantom.

[0011] Figure 4 A top view of an exemplary oscillating mechanism according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0012] Figure 5 A side view of an exemplary motor of an oscillating mechanism according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0013] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the internal components of a beverage brewing system according to the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the internal components of a beverage brewing system according to the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 8 A side view of an exemplary dump bag according to the present disclosure is shown in a first flat configuration.

[0016] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary dump bag according to the present disclosure in a second expanded configuration.

[0017] Fig.10 is a top view of an exemplary dump bag according to the present disclosure in a second expanded configuration.

[0018] Fig.11 is a side view of an exemplary dump bag according to the present disclosure in a second expanded configuration.

[0019] Fig.12 is another side view of an exemplary dump bag according to the present disclosure in a second expanded configuration.

[0020] Fig.13 A side view of an alternative dump bag according to the present disclosure is shown in a first flat configuration.

[0021] Fig.14 is in a second expanded configuration according to the present disclosure Fig.13A perspective view of a dump bag is shown in FIG.

[0022] Fig.15 According to the present disclosure Fig.13 and 14 A side view of a portion of a dump bag is shown in FIG.

[0023] Fig.16 is in a first flat configuration during the manufacturing process according to the present disclosure Figure 13-15 A side view of multiple dump bags is shown in FIG.

[0024] Fig.17 An exemplary method of brewing a beverage using a beverage brewing system according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0025] Figures 18A-18B According to the present disclosure Fig.13 Top perspective and side views of the dump bag shown in .

[0026] Fig.19 According to the present disclosure Fig.14 Side view of the dump bag shown in .

[0027] Fig. 20 According to the present disclosure Fig.14 Another side view of the dump bag shown in .

[0028] Fig.21 According to the present disclosure Fig.14 A top view of the dump bag shown in FIG.

[0029] Fig. 22 According to the present disclosure Fig.14 Bottom view of the dump bag shown in .

[0030] Figures 23A-23D A top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view, respectively, of a retainer assembly according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure in a folded configuration.

[0031] Figures 24A-24D are respectively in the deployed configuration according to the present disclosure Figures 23A-23D A top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of a retainer assembly of .

[0032] Figures 25A-25D They are Fig.14 The pouring bags, cups and Figures 24A-24D A top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of a retainer assembly of .

[0033] Figures 26A-26D A top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view, respectively, of a retainer assembly according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figures 27A-27D They are Fig.14 The pouring bags, cups and Figures 26A-26D A top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of a retainer assembly of .

[0035] Figures 28A-28B 1 and 2 are a side view of an alternative embodiment of the system 100 and a side enlarged view of the area indicated by the circular arrow A of the system 100 according to the present disclosure, respectively.

[0036] Figures 29A-29D According to the present disclosure and Fig.14 A top view, a top perspective view, a first side view, and a second side view of a reusable dumping bag similar to that shown in FIG.

[0037] Although the embodiments described herein are susceptible to different modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown in the drawings by way of example and will be described in detail herein. However, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. On the contrary, the present disclosure encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the scope of the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] This specification provides examples and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the present invention. Instead, the following description will provide an enabling description for those skilled in the art to implement embodiments of the present invention. Various changes may be made to the functions and arrangements of the elements.

[0039] Therefore, different embodiments may omit, replace or add different processes or components when appropriate. For example, it should be understood that these methods may be performed in a different order than described, and individual steps may be added, omitted or combined. Moreover, aspects and elements described with respect to certain embodiments may be combined in different other embodiments. It should also be understood that the following systems, methods and devices may be individually or collectively components of a larger system, wherein other processes may take precedence over or otherwise modify their application.

[0040] The detailed description of the exemplary embodiments herein refers to the accompanying drawings, which show the exemplary embodiments in an illustrative manner. Although these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, it should be understood that other embodiments may be implemented without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and logical changes and adaptations of design and construction may be made in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure and this article. Therefore, the detailed description herein is presented for the purpose of illustration only and not limitation.

[0041] Figure 1A front view of a beverage brewing system 100 for brewing a beverage is shown. Figure 2 A side view of the beverage brewing system 100 is shown with the internal components shown in phantom. Figure 3 Another side view of a portion of the beverage brewing system 100 is shown with internal components shown in phantom. Figure 4 A top view of the oscillating mechanism of the beverage brewing system 100 is shown. Figure 5 A side view of a motor of an oscillating mechanism of the beverage brewing system 100 is shown.

[0042] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the internal components of the beverage brewing system 100.

[0043] Figure 7 1 is a schematic diagram of the internal components of the beverage brewing system 100. The beverage brewing system 100 uses a pouring method to brew beverages. Specifically, the beverage brewing system 100 pours a heated fluid into a pouring bag 102 containing a beverage precursor. The fluid is immersed in the beverage precursor to brew a beverage, such as coffee or tea. The pouring bag 102 contains a beverage precursor, such as coffee powder or loose leaf tea, and the fluid penetrates through the beverage precursor and the pouring bag 102. The pouring bag 102 separates the brewed beverage fluid from the beverage precursor and drips the brewed beverage fluid into a cup 104. The pouring bag 102 is defined in an opening 106 in the top 108 of the pouring bag 102 so that a user can insert a beverage precursor into the pouring bag 102 and the fluid can be poured into the pouring bag 102. In addition, the pouring bag 102 is made of a biodegradable or compostable material, which can be better for the environment than a conventional single-use brewing system. Thus, the beverage brewing system 100 automates the process of brewing a pour-over beverage and is more environmentally friendly. The pour-over bag is also free of petroleum-based plastics, which may have undesirable health effects, particularly in applications involving exposure to high temperature fluids.

[0044] The beverage brewing system 100 includes a housing 110 defining a cup receiving compartment 112 for receiving a cup 104 and a nozzle assembly 114 positioned above the cup receiving compartment 112 and the cup 104. The beverage brewing system 100 includes a reservoir 116 positioned within the housing 110 for containing a fluid, a pump 118 positioned within the housing 110 for pumping the fluid from the reservoir 116 to the nozzle assembly 114, and a heating element 120 positioned within the housing 110 for heating the fluid as it is pumped to the nozzle assembly 114.

[0045] The beverage brewing system 100 also includes a holder 122 positioned within the cup receiving compartment 112 above the cup 104 and below the nozzle assembly 114 for holding the pouring bag 102 .

[0046] The beverage brewing system 100 also includes a computing device 124 positioned within the housing 110 for controlling the beverage brewing system 100, and an interface module 126 attached to the housing 110 that enables a user to control the beverage brewing system 100. In an alternative embodiment, the beverage brewing system 100 does not include a reservoir 116. Instead, the beverage brewing system 100 is connected to a fluid source (e.g., a water system) that delivers fluid to the beverage brewing system 100 when the beverage brewing system 100 dispenses the fluid. In another alternative embodiment, the beverage brewing system 100 includes a reservoir 116 and is connected to a fluid source (e.g., a water system) that delivers fluid to the reservoir 116 when the beverage brewing system 100 dispenses the fluid.

[0047] During operation, the user attaches the pouring bag 102 to the holder 122. In this embodiment, the pouring bag 102 is pre-filled with a beverage precursor. In an alternative embodiment, the beverage brewing system 100 may include a grinder (not shown) that grinds the beverage precursor and fills the pouring bag 102 with the beverage precursor. In another alternative embodiment, the user fills the pouring bag 102 with the beverage precursor and attaches the pouring bag 102 to the holder 122. The user then fills the cup 104 with fluid and pours the fluid from the cup 104 into the reservoir 116. In an alternative embodiment, when the beverage brewing system 100 dispenses the fluid, the fluid source is connected to the beverage brewing system 100. The user positions the cup 104 below the pouring bag 102 and uses the interface module 126 to select the type of beverage the user wants. The beverage brewing system 100 automatically brews the selected beverage. Specifically, the computing device 124 controls the pump 118, the heating element 120, and the nozzle assembly 114 to brew the selected beverage. The pump 118 pumps the fluid from the reservoir 116 through the heating element 120. In some embodiments, the pump 118 directly pumps the fluid from the reservoir 116. In an alternative embodiment, the pump 118 pressurizes the reservoir 116 with pressurized air, and the pressurized air moves the fluid through the heating element 120. The heating element 120 accurately increases the temperature of the fluid to a predetermined beverage temperature, or to a pre-boil temperature if the set point exceeds the boiling point, and the heated fluid is pumped to the nozzle assembly 114. The nozzle assembly 114 pours the heated fluid through the opening 106 onto the beverage precursor while the bag oscillates under the nozzle to increase distribution. The nozzle may be equipped with a fluid separation device that separates the fluid in a divergent direction to further increase the fluid distribution. The heated fluid is immersed in the beverage precursor and drips into the cup 104 through the pouring bag 102. Once the cup 104 has been filled, the beverage brewing system 100 stops pumping fluid to the nozzle assembly 114 and the user removes the cup 104 from the cup receiving compartment 112 .

[0048] To control the brewing process, the beverage brewing system 100 may include a level detection system 128. The level detection system 128 includes at least one level detector for detecting the level of fluid in at least one of the pour bag 102 and the cup 104. In some embodiments, the level detection system 128 detects the level of fluid in the pour bag 102 only. In other embodiments, the level detection system 128 detects the level of fluid in the cup 104 only. In further embodiments, the level detection system 128 detects the level of fluid in both the pour bag 102 and the cup 104. In alternative embodiments, the level of water in the reservoir 116 and the cup 104 can be used to determine the amount of water in the pour bag 102. In alternative embodiments, a flow sensor is positioned before the nozzle to measure the precise fluid delivery to the beverage precursor.

[0049] exist Figure 3 In another possible embodiment shown, the liquid level detection system 128 detects the liquid level of the fluid in both the pouring bag 102 and the cup 104. Specifically, in the embodiment shown, the liquid level detection system 128 includes a first liquid level detector 130 for detecting the liquid level of the fluid in the pouring bag 102, a second liquid level detector 132 for detecting the liquid level of the fluid in the pouring bag 102, and a third liquid level detector 134 for detecting the liquid level of the fluid in the cup 104. More specifically, the first liquid level detector 130 is positioned near the top 108 of the pouring bag 102 in the cup receiving compartment 112, and is used to detect the liquid level of the fluid in the pouring bag 102 near the opening 106 of the pouring bag 102. The second liquid level detector 132 is positioned near the bottom 136 of the pouring bag 102 in the cup receiving compartment 112, and is used to detect the liquid level of the fluid in the pouring bag 102 near the bottom 136 of the pouring bag 102. A third level detector 134 is positioned within the cup receiving compartment 112 near the top 138 of the cup 104 for detecting the level of fluid in the cup 104 near the top 138 of the cup 104. Various configurations are contemplated with all detectors or only individual detectors.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the first, second and third level detectors 130-134 are infrared detectors (thermopiles). Specifically, the first, second and third level detectors 130-134 are each positioned to detect the temperature of the pouring bag 102 or the cup 104. When the fluid is poured into the pouring bag 102 and the cup 104, the temperature of the pouring bag 102 and the cup 104 increases. Based on experimental data and the selected beverage, once the temperature of the pouring bag 102 or the cup 104 exceeds a predetermined temperature, the fluid has reached a predetermined level in the pouring bag 102 or the cup 104. Therefore, the first, second and third level detectors 130-134 are positioned and configured to detect the temperature of the pouring bag 102 and the cup 104 to determine the liquid level of the fluid in the pouring bag 102 and the cup 104.

[0051] For example, the first level detector 130 is positioned near the top of the dump bag 102. The first level detector 130 monitors and detects the temperature of the top 108 of the dump bag 102. The first level detector 130 is configured to shut down the pump 118 when the temperature of the dump bag 102 exceeds a first predetermined temperature. Once the temperature of the top 108 of the dump bag 102 exceeds the first predetermined temperature, the liquid level of the fluid is near the top 108 of the dump bag 102. In order to prevent the dump bag 102 from being overfilled with fluid, the computing device 124 shuts down the pump 118 until the temperature of the top 108 of the dump bag 102 is reduced to below the first predetermined temperature by a certain percentage, ratio or fixed amplitude, thereby indicating that the liquid level of the fluid is sufficiently below the top 108 of the dump bag 102 to start dumping again. Alternatively, the system can monitor the temperature change rate of the top 108 of the dump bag to determine the degree of drainage of water in the bag. Thus, the first level detector 130 enables the computing device 124 to control the brewing process and prevent the pour bag 102 from being overfilled with fluid.

[0052] The liquid level detection system 128 may also include a second liquid level detector 132. The second liquid level detector 132 is positioned near the bottom 136 of the pour bag 102. The second liquid level detector 132 monitors and detects the temperature of the bottom 136 of the pour bag 102. The second liquid level detector 132 is configured to turn on the pump 118 when the temperature of the pour bag 102 decreases below a second predetermined temperature. Once the temperature of the bottom 136 of the pour bag 102 decreases below the second predetermined temperature, the liquid level of the fluid is near the bottom 136 of the pour bag 102 and the pour bag 102 can receive more fluid, and the computing device 124 turns on the pump 118 to pour more fluid into the opening 106 and onto the beverage precursor. Therefore, the second liquid level detector 132 enables the computing device 124 to better control the brewing process and prevent the pour bag 102 from being overfilled with fluid.

[0053] The liquid level detection system 128 may also include a third liquid level detector 134. The third liquid level detector 134 is positioned near the top 138 of the cup 104. The third liquid level detector 134 monitors and detects the temperature of the top 138 of the cup 104. The third liquid level detector 134 is configured to shut down the pump 118 when the temperature of the top 138 of the cup 104 exceeds a third predetermined temperature. Once the temperature of the top 138 of the cup 104 exceeds the third predetermined temperature, the liquid level of the fluid is near the top 138 of the cup 104, and the computing device 124 shuts down the pump 118 and indicates to the user through the interface module 126 that the brewing process is complete. Therefore, the third liquid level detector 134 enables the computing device 124 to better control the brewing process and prevent the cup 104 from being overfilled with fluid.

[0054] In alternative embodiments, the first, second, and third level detectors 130-134 may be any type of detector that detects the level of the fluid in the pour bag 102 or cup 104. For example, in some embodiments, the first, second, and third level detectors 130-134 may be sonic, ultrasonic, optical, capacitive, and / or electrical impedance level detectors. Additionally, the first, second, and third level detectors 130-134 may detect the level of the fluid in the pour bag 102 or cup 104 by other indirect methods. For example, the first, second, and third level detectors 130-134 may be weight detectors that detect the weight of the fluid in the pour bag 102 or cup 104 and calculate the level of the fluid in the pour bag 102 or cup 104 based on the weight. The first, second, and third level detectors 130-134 may detect the level of the fluid in the pour bag 102 or cup 104 using any method that enables the beverage brewing system 100 to operate as described herein. Additionally, in an alternative embodiment, the beverage brewing system 100 does not include the first, second, and third level detectors 130-134. Instead, the beverage brewing system 100 includes a flow meter that measures the volume of fluid dispensed by the beverage brewing system 100, which controls the level of the fluid within the pouring bag 102 or cup 104 based on the flow rate of the fluid. In alternative embodiments, the level detectors can be used in conjunction with alternative methods (such as flow meters) to achieve precise control of fluid delivery.

[0055] In order to brew the best quality beverage, the nozzle assembly 114 can include an oscillating mechanism 140 to oscillate all or part of the retainer 122 when the fluid is poured into the opening 106 onto the beverage precursor. Oscillating the retainer 122 when the fluid is poured into the opening 106 ensures that the fluid more completely covers the beverage precursor and that the fluid is immersed in substantially all of the beverage precursor. For example, if the retainer 122 is stationary, some beverage precursors may not contact the fluid during the immersion process. Therefore, the oscillating mechanism 140 ensures that the highest quality beverage is brewed. In an alternative embodiment, the nozzle assembly (fluid delivery system) can oscillate relative to the beverage precursor so as to similarly achieve improved fluid delivery.

[0056] The oscillating mechanism 140 includes a motor 142, a crank 144 attached to the motor 142, and a crank shaft 146 attached to the crank 144. The holder 122 is attached to the crank shaft 146. Figure 4As shown, the crank 144 has a circular base 150, an oscillation pin 152 extending from the circular base 150, and a motor pin 154 extending from the center 156 of the circular base 150. The oscillation pin 152 is attached to the circular base 150 at an off-center position. The crank shaft 146 is sized and shaped to interface with the crank 144 so that the retainer 122 oscillates when the fluid is poured into the opening 106. Specifically, the crank shaft 146 includes a first end 158 attached to the crank 144 and a second end 160 attached to the retainer 122. The first end 158 defines a slot 162 for receiving the oscillation pin 152. The second end 160 at least partially defines the retainer 122.

[0057] During operation, the oscillation mechanism 140 converts the rotational motion of the motor 142 into a linear reciprocating motion of the holder 122 to ensure that the fluid completely covers the beverage precursor and brews a high-quality beverage. Specifically, the motor 142 rotates a crank 144 including an oscillation pin 152. Because the oscillation pin 152 is positioned at an off-center position on the circular base 150, the oscillation pin 152 rotates around the center 156 of the circular base 150. The oscillation pin 152 is movably positioned in the slot 162 so that the oscillation pin 152 is slidably attached to the first end 158 of the crank shaft 146. When the oscillation pin 152 rotates around the center 156 of the circular base 150, the oscillation pin 152 slides in the slot 162 and causes the first end 158 of the crank shaft 146 to oscillate. The oscillation of the first end 158 of the crank shaft 146 also causes the second end 160 of the crank shaft 146 and the holder 122 to oscillate. When the holder 122 oscillates from side to side, the fluid is poured into the opening 106 and poured onto all beverage precursors, thereby ensuring that the fluid completely covers the beverage precursors and the fluid is immersed in all beverage precursors. Therefore, the oscillation mechanism 140 increases the quality of the beverage brewed by the beverage brewing system 100.

[0058] In alternative embodiments, the oscillating mechanism 140 can be any mechanism that causes the holder 122 and / or the outlet tube 148 of the nozzle assembly 114 to oscillate. For example, in alternative embodiments, the oscillating mechanism 140 can include a pedal linkage, a bolt and slot linkage, a rack and pinion, a crank, a connecting rod and slider system, a cam and follower system, and / or any mechanism that produces linear reciprocating motion of the holder 122 and / or the outlet tube 148. Additionally, in another alternative embodiment, the outlet tube 148 can be designed to evenly cover the beverage precursor when the fluid is poured into the pouring bag 102 through the opening 106. For example, the outlet tube 148 can include a plurality of outlets arranged in a pattern to more evenly distribute the fluid and / or cover the beverage precursor when the fluid is poured into the pouring bag 102 through the opening 106.

[0059] The holder 122 includes a first arm 164 and a second arm 166 extending from the housing 110 in the cup receiving compartment 112, the combination of which may be referred to herein as an arm assembly. The first arm 164 and the second arm 166 each include a pin 168 extending upward toward the nozzle assembly 114. The size and shape of the pin 168 are determined to interface with the pouring bag 102 so as to position the pouring bag 102 above the cup 104 when brewing a beverage. Specifically, the pin 168 has a tapered shape extending into a portion of the pouring bag 102 to hold the pouring bag 102 in a proper position above the cup 104 and below the nozzle assembly 114. In alternative embodiments, the first arm 164 and the second arm 166 and the pin 168 may have any shape that enables the first arm 164 and the second arm 166 and the pin 168 to hold the pouring bag 102 in position in the cup receiving compartment 112 when brewing a beverage. As described above, and in one embodiment, the arm assembly is configured to move the pour bag 102 under the nozzle assembly 114 (e.g., rotationally about a vertical axis) to evenly distribute water over the contents of the pour bag to stir / mix the water from the nozzle assembly and the contents of the pour bag. In one or more embodiments, the water dispensed by the nozzle assembly 114 can be intermittently distributed (i.e., stopping and starting water distribution at intervals) over the contents of the pour bag 102 to simulate a manual "pour-over" coffee method until a desired amount of water is dispensed.

[0060] like Figure 6 and 7 As shown, the reservoir 116 includes a level detector 161 for detecting the level of the fluid in the reservoir 116. In some embodiments, the level detector 161 is an IR sensor that detects the level of the fluid in the reservoir 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the level detector 161 includes a float 163 positioned within the reservoir 116 and a detector 165 positioned near the reservoir 116 for detecting the float 163 in the reservoir 116. Specifically, the reservoir 116 is made of a transparent material, and the detector 165 is an optical detector that optically detects the float 163 and the level of the fluid in the reservoir 116. The float 163 floats in the fluid in the reservoir 116 and the float 163 has a mark or other indicator 167 that is detected by the optical detector 165. The optical detector 165 transmits the level of the fluid to the computing device 124, and the computing device 124 transmits the level of the fluid to the interface module 126. The interface module 126 can display the level of the fluid to the user or indicate when the level of the fluid is low. In alternative embodiments, the level detector 161 can be any level detection device that enables the beverage brewing system 100 to operate as described herein. In one or more embodiments, and preferably as Figure 6As shown, the heating element 120 can be positioned in the cooking element 121, and a liquid level detection device (not shown) can be provided in the cooking element. Such a liquid level detection device can include two metal conductive rods to which a high frequency AC signal is driven between the two rods, wherein the output signal is proportional to the water level in the cooking element 121. A single rod can also be used if the signal is driven between the rod and the metal cooking element 121. Alternatively, multiple rods of different lengths can also be used to determine the current or voltage change detected when the water level contacts any rod, thereby indicating the amount of water at each rod position. Other liquid level sensing methods may include weighing the cooking element 121, and infrared sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and / or capacitive sensors appropriately positioned in the cooking element. In one embodiment, the system 100 includes a duct (not shown) coupled to the cooking element 121, which drives air downward to near the bottom of the cooking element during heating to mix the water in the cooking element to keep the water at a uniform temperature.

[0061] Figure 8 A side view of the dump bag 102 is shown in a first flat configuration. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the dump bag 102 in the second expanded configuration. Fig.10 is a top view of the dump bag 102 in the second expanded configuration. Fig.11 is a side view of the dump bag 102 in the second expanded configuration. Fig.12 1 is another side view of the dump bag 102 in the second expanded configuration. The dump bag 102 includes a filter portion 170, a first hanger 172 attached to a first side 174 of the filter portion 170, and a second hanger 176 attached to a second side 178 of the filter portion 170. Figure 8 As shown, in the first flat configuration, the dump bag 102 is folded such that the filter portion 170 and the first and second hanging members 172, 176 are substantially flat for storage. Figure 9-12 As shown, in the second expanded configuration, the dump bag is expanded such that the filter portion 170 defines the opening 106 and the first and second hangers 172 , 176 extend from the first and second sides 174 , 178 of the filter portion 172 .

[0062] Specifically, the first hanger 172 and the second hanger 176 are configured to extend substantially perpendicularly from the first side 174 and the second side 178 of the filter portion 172 .

[0063] In addition, the first and second hangers 172, 176 are sized and shaped to define a pin receiving aperture 180 when the first and second hangers 172, 176 extend from the first and second sides 174, 178 of the filter portion 172. The pin receiving aperture 180 is sized and shaped to receive the pin 168 therein when the dump bag 102 is suspended from the holder 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second hangers 172, 176 and the filter portion 170 define the pin receiving aperture 180.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter portion 170, the first hanger 172, and the second hanger 176 are made of environmentally friendly, biodegradable or compostable materials. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the filter portion 170 is a bag made of an environmentally friendly flexible material (such as organically derived polylactic acid (PLA) fiber or a fiber blend having different mixtures of plant materials (e.g., abaca, cellulose) and PLA) that holds the beverage precursor within the pour bag 102 while allowing the beverage fluid to permeate through the bag. The first hanger 172 and the second hanger 176 are made of an environmentally friendly rigid material that holds the pour bag 102 in place above the cup 104 during the brewing process. In alternative embodiments, the filter portion 170, the first hanger 172, and the second hanger 176 are made of any material that enables the pour bag 102 to operate as described herein (preferably made of a biodegradable, or compostable environmentally friendly cup stock).

[0065] Figure 13-16 and Figure 18A-22 An alternative dump bag 182 according to the present disclosure is shown. Fig.13 A side view of an alternative dump bag 182 is shown in a first flat configuration. Fig.14 is a perspective view of the dump bag 182 in the second expanded configuration. Fig.15 is a side view of a portion of dump bag 182. Fig.16 1 is a side view of a plurality of dump bags 182 in a first flat configuration during the manufacturing process. The dump bags 182 include a filter portion 184, a first hanger 186 attached to a first side 188 of the filter portion 184, and a second hanger 190 attached to a second side 192 of the filter portion 184. Fig.13 As shown, in the first flat configuration, the dump bag 182 is folded such that the filter portion 184 and the first and second hanging members 186, 190 are substantially flat for storage. Fig.14As shown, in the second expanded configuration, the dump bag is expanded so that the filter portion 184 defines the opening 106, and the first hanging member 186 and the second hanging member 190 extend from the first side 188 and the second side 192 of the filter portion 184. Specifically, the first hanging member 186 and the second hanging member 190 are configured to extend substantially vertically from the first side 188 and the second side 192 of the filter portion 184.

[0066] In addition, the first and second hangers 186, 190 are sized and shaped to define a pin receiving aperture 194 when the first and second hangers 186, 190 extend from the first and second sides 188, 192 of the filter portion 186. The pin receiving aperture 194 is sized and shaped to receive the pin 168 therein when the dump bag 182 is suspended from the holder 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second hangers 186, 190 and the filter portion 184 define the pin receiving aperture 194.

[0067] In addition, the first hanger 186 and the second hanger 190 each include at least one vertical support 196 and at least one liquid level support 198. In the illustrated embodiment, the first hanger 186 and the second hanger 190 each include two vertical supports 196 and two horizontal supports 198. The vertical supports 196 support the dump bag 182 in the second expanded configuration. The horizontal supports 198 extend to the sides of the dump bag 182 when the dump bag 182 is in the second expanded configuration and are configured to keep the dump bag 182 open when the dump bag 182 is in the second expanded configuration.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter portion 184, the first hanger 186, and the second hanger 190 are made of environmentally friendly, biodegradable or compostable materials. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the filter portion 184 is a bag made of environmentally friendly materials that holds the beverage precursor within the pour bag 182 while allowing the beverage fluid to permeate through the bag. The first hanger 186 and the second hanger 190 are made of environmentally friendly rigid materials, such as wood pulp or cellulose-based cup stock boards, one or both sides of which are coated with PLA (or other environmentally friendly, flexible fluid-proof and sealable materials that maintain the pour bag 182 in position above the cup 104 during the brewing process). In alternative embodiments, the filter portion 184, the first hanger 186 and the second hanger 190 are made of any material that enables the pour bag 182 to operate as described herein. In various embodiments, the pour bag 102, 182 can be constructed using two layers of flexible (preferably environmentally friendly) filter material that are heat sealed or ultrasonically welded (or any other bonding method) together to form a pour bag, thereby enabling the formation of the opening 106. In addition, and in various embodiments, each of the first and second hangers can be heat sealed or ultrasonically welded to opposite sides of the filter portion. Each hanger can be configured to extend outwardly and cooperate with a separate element of the brewing system 100 or other device that holds the pour bag open, such as using pins, clips, adhesives, etc. The holding device can be an arm of the coffee machine, or a device that holds the pour bag open to help add powder (e.g., manually or under a coffee grinder), or a device that holds the pour bag open and is simultaneously placed on a coffee cup to allow water to be poured into the pour bag for direct brewing into the cup.

[0069] The pour bag 182 is substantially similar to the pour bag 102, except that the filter portion 184 of the pour bag 182 has a conical shape while the filter portion 170 of the pour bag 102 has a rectangular shape. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, a pour bag that functions similarly to the pour bags 102 and 182 may have a "V" shape or a trapezoidal shape. In one embodiment, the pour bag may have an isosceles trapezoidal shape, and a hanger is attached to each inclined (i.e., creased) portion of the pour bag. The conical shape of the filter portion 184 of the pour bag 182 improves coverage of the beverage precursor by the fluid by exposing more of the beverage precursor to the nozzle assembly 114. Additionally, as Fig.16 As shown, the conical shape of the filter portion 184 of the pouring bag 182 enables the filter portion 184 of the pouring bag 182 to be manufactured as a sheet and separated during the manufacturing process. Therefore, the conical shape of the filter portion 184 of the pouring bag 182 can reduce the cost of the manufacturing process and can improve the quality of the beverage brewed by the beverage brewing system 100.

[0070] Figures 29A-29DThe structure and function of the present invention are similar to Fig.14 The reusable dumping bag shown, wherein similar structural elements are used for simplicity Fig.14 In such an embodiment, the first side 188 and the second side 192 of the filter portion 184 can be a durable, washable material, such as a metal (such as gold or stainless steel) or a mesh fabric, and the suspension members 186 and 190 can be a durable and washable material, such as plastic.

[0071] In addition, the beverage brewing system 100 may include a plurality of sensors that enable the computing device 124 to control the brewing process. For example, the beverage brewing system 100 may include a sensor that detects whether the pouring bag 106 is positioned on the holder 122. In addition, the beverage brewing system 100 may also include a sensor for detecting the presence of the cup 104 in the cup receiving compartment 112. The beverage brewing system 100 may also include a sensor for detecting the temperature of the fluid in the heating element 120, the presence of the reservoir 116 in the housing 110 (if the reservoir 116 is removable from the housing 110), and / or the waste fluid in the waste fluid reservoir (not shown). The beverage brewing system 100 may also include a pressure sensor, a vibration sensor, or other sensor for detecting the pre-boiling state of the water in the heating element 120 to prevent the water from boiling when the set point exceeds the boiling point (e.g., at a higher altitude). Additional sensors enable the beverage brewing system 100 to detect and handle user error conditions.

[0072] The liquid level detection system 128 and multiple sensors enable the computing device 124 to control the brewing process. Specifically, the computing device 124 is configured to execute a precisely timed fluid delivery algorithm to optimize the brewing process. More specifically, the computing device 124 controls the pump 118 to control the initial fluid delivery to the pour bag 102, thereby generating a bloom or expansion of the beverage precursor. For example, if the beverage precursor is coffee powder and the brewed beverage is coffee, the computing device 124 controls the initial fluid delivery to the pour bag 102 to generate a coffee bloom or expansion of the coffee powder before the complete pouring of the fluid. In addition, after the initial delivery of the fluid, the computing device 124 pauses the flow of fluid into the pour bag 102 before the complete pouring to allow time for the carbon dioxide entrained in the coffee powder to be completely released during the roasting process. The computing device 124 then controls the pouring overflow rate into the pour bag 102 to optimize the flavor extraction from the beverage precursor. In addition, the computing device 124 evenly distributes the fluid on the beverage precursor during pouring to optimize the flavor extraction from the beverage precursor. Thus, the liquid level detection system 128, the plurality of sensors, and the computing device 124 precisely control the brewing process to optimize flavor extraction from the beverage precursor.

[0073] During operation, the user unfolds the pouring bag 102 from the first flat configuration to the second expanded configuration, thereby defining the opening 106. The user then extends the first and second hanging members 172, 176 so that the first and second hanging members 172, 176 extend substantially vertically from the first and second sides 174, 178 of the filter portion 172. In the illustrated embodiment, the pouring bag 102 is pre-filled with a beverage precursor (such as coffee, tea, etc.). In one embodiment, such a pre-filled pouring bag can be heat-sealed or ultrasonically welded / sealed at the top to form the bag, and such a seal can be easily broken to expose the precursor. In such an embodiment, the pouring bag can be configured so that the user can open the bag by pulling each hanging member, thereby breaking the seal at the top of the bag. In an alternative embodiment, the pre-filled pouring bag has a closed top with a hole, which can be easily removed to open the pouring bag. In an alternative embodiment, the beverage brewing system 100 may include a grinder (not shown) that grinds the beverage precursor and fills the pouring bag 102 with the beverage precursor. In another alternative embodiment, the user pours the beverage precursor into the opening 106 and hangs the pouring bag 102 on the hanger 122. Specifically, the user places the pouring bag 102 on the holder 122 by inserting the pin 168 into the pin receiving hole 180 so that the pouring bag 102 hangs on the first arm 164 and the second arm 166 above the cup 104 and below the nozzle assembly 114. The user positions the cup 104 under the pouring bag 102 and selects the type of beverage the user wants using the interface module 126. The beverage brewing system 100 automatically brews the selected beverage.

[0074] Specifically, the computing device 124 controls the pump 118, the heating element 120, the nozzle assembly 114, and the liquid level detection system 128 to brew the selected beverage. The pump 118 pumps the fluid from the reservoir 116 through the heating element 120. The heating element 120 increases the temperature of the fluid to a predetermined beverage temperature. The beverage brewing system 100 may also include a pressure sensor, a vibration sensor, or other sensor for detecting the pre-boiling state of the water in the heating element 120 to prevent the water from boiling when the set point exceeds the boiling point (for example, at a higher altitude). The heated fluid is pumped to the nozzle assembly 114. The nozzle assembly 114 pours the heated fluid through the opening 106 onto the beverage precursor while oscillating the holder 122 using the oscillation mechanism 140 as described above. The liquid level detection system 128 detects the liquid level of the fluid and / or beverage fluid in at least one of the pouring bag 102 and the cup 104, as described above. The heated fluid is immersed in the beverage precursor and drips into the cup 104 through the pouring bag 102. If the liquid level detection system 128 detects that the liquid level in the pouring bag 102 is near the top 108 of the pouring bag 102, the computing device 124 pauses pouring the fluid onto the beverage precursor. If the liquid level detection system 128 detects that the liquid level of the fluid in the pouring bag 102 drops by a certain percentage or amount near the bottom 136 of the pouring bag 102, at the top 108 of the bag, or by monitoring the rate of change of temperature at the top 108 or bottom 136 of the pouring bag 102, the computing device 124 resumes pouring the fluid onto the beverage precursor. Once the cup 104 has been filled, or the boiler has been emptied as determined by a pressure sensor change in the boiling element 121, a pressure sensor absolute value, or detection of a water level electrode, the beverage brewing system 100 stops pumping the fluid to the nozzle assembly 114 and the user removes the cup 104 from the cup receiving compartment 112.

[0075] Fig.17 A method 200 for brewing a beverage with a beverage brewing system is shown. The method 200 includes positioning 202 a cup in a cup receiving compartment of the beverage brewing system. The beverage brewing system includes a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup, a holder positioned above the cup, a reservoir, a pump, and a heating element. The method 200 also includes hanging 204 a pouring bag on the holder. The pouring bag contains a beverage precursor and has an opening directed toward the nozzle assembly. The method also includes pumping 206 a fluid stream from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with a pump. The method 200 also includes heating 208 the fluid stream with a heating element. The method 200 also includes pouring 210 the fluid stream into the pouring bag through the opening with the nozzle assembly. The method 200 also includes allowing the fluid stream to penetrate 212 through the beverage precursor and the pouring bag into the cup.

[0076] The method 200 may also include pausing 214 the initial fluid flow to allow the beverage precursor to expand. The method 200 may also include pumping 216 a second fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with a pump. The second fluid flow has a predetermined flow rate. The method 200 may also include detecting 218 the level of the fluid in the pour bag using a first level detector. The first level detector includes at least one infrared temperature detector or any other temperature sensor, such as a thermistor. The method 200 may also include shutting off 220 the pump when the level of the fluid exceeds a predetermined temperature. In addition, pumping 206 the fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with a pump may include pumping 222 the initial fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with a pump. The method 200 may also include repeating 224 the method 200 until the beverage is brewed.

[0077] Figures 23A-23D 1 and 2 are a top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view, respectively, of a holder assembly 230 in a folded configuration according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The holder assembly 230 includes a base 235 through which a hole 240 is formed. A pair of support arms 245 are attached to the base 235 by a pivot mechanism (e.g., a pair of pins 250).

[0078] Figures 24A-24D are respectively in the deployed configuration according to the present disclosure Figures 23A-23D 2. A top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of the retainer assembly 230 of FIG. As can be best seen from these figures, each support arm 245 includes a kink 255 formed on a surface of the support arm away from the pin 250.

[0079] Figures 25A-25D They are Fig.14 The pouring bag 182, cup 260 and Figures 24A-24D 2, a top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of the holder assembly 230. As can be best seen in these figures, a user can prepare a beverage from the contents of the pouring bag 182 by setting the base 235 of the unfolded holder assembly 230 on the upper edge of the cup 260, hooking or otherwise securing the first and second hangers 186, 190 to the corresponding kinks 255, thereby hanging the pouring bag 182 on the hole 240 and pouring the liquid into the opening 106.

[0080] Figures 26A-26D 1 and 2 are a top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of a retainer assembly 330 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. The retainer assembly 330 includes a base 335 through which a hole 340 is formed. A pair of support arms 345 are attached to the base 335. Each support arm 345 includes a kink 350 formed on a surface of the support arm away from the base 335.

[0081] Figures 27A-27D They are Fig.14 The pouring bag 182, cup 260 and Figures 26A-26D 340 and pouring liquid into the opening 106. As can be best seen in these figures, the user can prepare a beverage from the contents of the pouring bag 182 by setting the base 335 of the unfolded holder assembly 330 on the upper edge of the cup 260, hooking or otherwise securing the first and second hangers 186, 190 to the corresponding kinks 350, thereby hanging the pouring bag 182 on the hole 340 and pouring the liquid into the opening 106.

[0082] Figures 28A-28B 100 and an enlarged side view of the area indicated by the circular arrow A of the system 100, respectively. In this embodiment, a sensor 400 positioned to look down into the opening 106 is mounted on or near the nozzle assembly 114. The sensor 400 can be infrared, thermal or ultrasonically operated. The sensor 400 is configured to provide feedback to the water level / coffee level in the pouring bag 102, 182. In one embodiment, instead of using two or more thermopiles to measure the water level in the pouring bag 102, 182 from directly behind the pouring bag 102, 182 (i.e., horizontally), only one thermopile is positioned above the pouring bag and mounted on or near the nozzle assembly 114. In other words, the sensor 400 looks directly down into the pouring bag 102, 182 and is able to "see" the temperature changes associated with the rising water in the pouring bag. According to one or more alternative embodiments, one or more temperature probes, such as thermistors, thermocouples, or other instruments suitable for measuring temperature, may be positioned near the top of the pour bag and may be used to determine when the pour bag is approaching full hot water capacity.

[0083] For the purpose of explanation, the above description has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the above illustrative discussion is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise form disclosed. In view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations are possible. For example, and in one embodiment, each dump bag can be marked or annotated with a machine-readable indicator, such as a bar code, a QR code, or a machine-readable wireless chip can be integrated. In such an embodiment, the brewing system 100 can be equipped with a suitable scanning device, and the corresponding positioning of the indicator / chip on the dump bag and the scanning device on the brewing system makes it possible to inquire / read the indicator / chip once the dump bag is placed in the brewing position. Therefore, the scanning device can retrieve information from the indicator / chip, for example, verify the dump bag and / or set the brewing parameters for the brewing system 100. These embodiments are selected and described in order to best explain the principles of the present system and method and its practical application, so that other technical personnel in the art can best utilize the present system and method and different embodiments with different modifications as may be suitable for the intended specific purpose.

[0084] Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "a" or "an" as used in the specification and claims should be interpreted as meaning "at least one". Furthermore, for ease of use, the words "including" and "having" as used in the specification and claims are interchangeable with the word "comprising" and have the same meaning as the word "comprising". Furthermore, the term "based on" as used in the specification and claims should be interpreted as meaning "based on at least".

Claims

1. A beverage brewing system, comprising: case; a reservoir positioned within the housing and configured to contain a fluid; a pump positioned within the housing for moving fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly; a heating element positioned within the housing for heating a fluid; a holder for holding a pour bag below the nozzle assembly, the pour bag having an opening configured to receive a beverage precursor, wherein the pour bag is suspended from the holder and the opening is oriented toward the nozzle assembly, the nozzle assembly pours a fluid into the pour bag through the opening, and the fluid flows through the beverage precursor and through the pour bag into a cup positioned below the pour bag.

2. The beverage brewing system according to claim 1, further comprising a first level detector for detecting a level of the fluid in the pouring bag.

3. The beverage brewing system according to claim 2, wherein: The first liquid level detector includes at least one temperature detector.

4. The beverage brewing system according to claim 3, wherein: The at least one temperature detector is positioned near the top of the dump bag and is configured to detect the temperature of the dump bag as the nozzle assembly pours fluid into the dump bag, and wherein the at least one temperature detector is configured to shut off the pump when the temperature of the dump bag exceeds a first predetermined temperature.

5. The beverage brewing system according to claim 4, wherein: At least one temperature detector includes a first temperature detector, and the first liquid level detector also includes a second temperature detector, the second temperature detector is positioned near the bottom of the dump bag and is configured to detect the temperature of the dump bag when the nozzle assembly pours fluid into the dump bag, and wherein the second temperature detector is configured to turn on the pump when the temperature of the dump bag drops below a second predetermined temperature.

6. The beverage brewing system according to claim 5, wherein: The first temperature detector is positioned above the holder.

7. The beverage brewing system according to claim 5, wherein: The second temperature detector is positioned below the holder.

8. The beverage brewing system according to claim 5, wherein: At least one of the first temperature detector and the second temperature detector includes a thermopile infrared sensor, a thermistor, or a thermocouple.

9. The beverage brewing system according to claim 1, wherein: The nozzle assembly includes a movable outlet nozzle and a cam system attached to the movable outlet nozzle, and wherein the cam system causes the movable outlet nozzle to oscillate over the opening of the pouring bag so that the fluid evenly covers the beverage precursor as the movable outlet nozzle pours the fluid into the pouring bag through the opening.

10. The beverage brewing system according to claim 1, wherein: The nozzle assembly includes a fixed outlet tube and a nozzle attached to the fixed outlet tube, the nozzle including a plurality of outlets arranged in a pattern to uniformly coat the beverage precursor with fluid when the nozzle pours the fluid through the opening into the pour bag.

11. The beverage brewing system of claim 1 , further comprising a cup detector positioned within the housing for detecting the cup beneath the outlet nozzle.

12. The beverage brewing system according to claim 1 further includes a housing defining a cup receiving compartment for receiving a cup and a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup receiving compartment, and further includes a cup detector positioned in the cup receiving compartment for detecting the cup in the cup receiving compartment.

13. The beverage brewing system of claim 1, further comprising a second level detector for detecting a level of fluid in the cup.

14. The beverage brewing system according to claim 13, wherein: The second liquid level detector includes at least one temperature detector.

15. The beverage brewing system according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one temperature detector is positioned near the top of the cup and is configured to detect the temperature of the cup as the nozzle assembly pours fluid into the pouring bag and the cup, and wherein the at least one temperature detector is configured to shut off the pump when the temperature of the cup exceeds a third predetermined temperature.

16. The beverage brewing system according to claim 1, wherein: The dump bag is biodegradable, compostable and / or reusable.

17. The beverage brewing system of claim 1, further comprising a flow meter for measuring the volume of fluid dispensed.

18. The beverage brewing system according to claim 17, wherein: The flow meter comprises an inline flow meter.

19. The beverage brewing system according to claim 17, wherein: The flow meter is configured to measure a level of fluid in the reservoir and determine a volume of fluid dispensed based on the measured level.

20. The beverage brewing system of claim 17, wherein: The flow meter is configured to time the flow of fluid from the reservoir and determine a volume of fluid dispensed based on the measured time.

21. The beverage brewing system of claim 17, wherein: The flow meter is configured to weigh the holder and determine the volume of fluid dispensed based on the measured weight.

22. A method for brewing a beverage using a beverage brewing system, the method comprising: positioning a cup within the beverage brewing system, the beverage brewing system comprising a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup, a holder positioned above the cup, a reservoir, a pump, and a heating element; suspending a pour bag on the holder, wherein the pour bag contains a beverage precursor and has an opening oriented toward the nozzle assembly; pumping a fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with the pump by pumping the fluid or by pressurizing the reservoir with air pressure in the reservoir; heating a fluid stream with the heating element; pouring a fluid stream through the opening into the pour bag with the nozzle assembly; and A fluid flow is caused to permeate through the beverage precursor and the pour bag into the cup.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein: Pumping the fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with the pump includes pumping an initial fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with the pump by pumping fluid or by pressurizing the reservoir with air pressure in the reservoir.

24. The method according to claim 23, further comprising: pausing the initial fluid flow to allow the beverage precursor to expand; as well as A second fluid flow is pumped from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with the pump, wherein the second fluid flow has a predetermined flow rate.

25. The method according to claim 22, further comprising: detecting a level of the fluid in the dump bag using a first level detector, wherein the first level detector comprises at least one temperature detector; and The pump is shut off when the level of the fluid exceeds a predetermined temperature.

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