Beverage filtration presser, jug and collator holder

Abstract

A beverage filter press, preferably for pressing coffee beverages, includes a hollow cylinder, a removable filter cap, a removable piston inserted into the cylinder and pressed down to force the beverage through the filter cap, and a support for holding the press over the mouth of an open vessel. An oversized filter press for dispensing a plurality of portions of beverage is provided. A beverage press is provided that includes a hollow cylinder and a piston, both formed of plastic, including clear plastic. Alternatively, a beverage presser is provided that includes a cylinder formed from glass and a piston formed from metal, such as stainless steel or aluminum. The support and the filter cover may also be formed of plastic or metal, such as stainless steel or aluminum. A particularly shaped pot may be used, the shape of which corresponds to the support. A collator holder rack is also provided that accommodates various beverage compactors.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 497,505, filed April 21, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to beverage makers, and more specifically to beverage presses for making coffee or tea, as well as related pots and organizer racks. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the invention, a beverage filter press, typically used for filtering coffee beverages, includes a hollow cylinder having a top opening and a bottom opening, a removable filter cap sealing the bottom opening, a removable piston inserted into the top opening and pressed downward to force liquid in the cylinder through the perforated cap, and a support for holding the press above the opening of an open vessel. The support may extend radially outward from the hollow cylinder, or it may extend radially outward from the filter cap.

[0005] In a first aspect, the invention relates to an oversized beverage press, sized to have an increased capacity (e.g., 500 ml, 590 ml, 600 ml or more) for dispensing a variety of beverages. The oversized beverage press may be further configured for use with a specially shaped pitcher having vertically oriented sides and a specially shaped flat top to accommodate (adapt) a support for the oversized press. In a second aspect, the invention relates to a beverage press comprising clear components (e.g., a clear cylinder and a clear piston body), or to a clear glass cylinder having a metal base and metal piston, a support, and a cap, to improve durability and aesthetics. In a third aspect, the invention relates to a maker holder having a frame or ring with an opening supporting a piston and cylinder side-by-side, and a vertical support that may optionally be adjustable or replaceable to accommodate both standard and oversized beverage presses. The holder may further include accessory holders or cup holders, as well as filter paper and beverage cap holders.

[0006] The nature and advantages of the invention can be further understood by referring to the remainder of the specification and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figures 1A-1D The illustration shows an oversized beverage press, for pressing multiple beverage portions, such as twice the size of a conventional press, according to some embodiments.

[0008] Figures 2A-2CA super size beverage press positioned on top of a beverage pitcher specially configured for use with a super size beverage press, according to some embodiments.

[0009] Figure 3 A beverage pitcher specially configured for use with a super size beverage press, according to some embodiments.

[0010] Figures 4A-4D A premium beverage press with a metal piston and clear outer cylinder, according to some embodiments.

[0011] Figures 5A-5D Another premium beverage press with a metal piston and clear outer cylinder, according to some embodiments.

[0012] Figures 5E-5F Details of a metal base mounted on the glass cylinder of a premium beverage press of Figure 5A , according to some embodiments.

[0013] Figures 5G-5H Exploded view of the cylinder and piston of a premium beverage press of Figure 5A , according to some embodiments.

[0014] Figures 6A-6C Double walled glass cylinder of a premium beverage press of Figure 5A , according to some embodiments.

[0015] Figures 7A-7D Piston of a premium beverage press of Figure 5A , according to some embodiments.

[0016] Figure 8A and 8B Accessories of a premium beverage press of Figure 5A , according to some embodiments.

[0017] Figure 9A A beverage press according to one embodiment of the invention, positioned on a cup with a deployed stirring paddle during the initial mixing stage;

[0018] Figure 9B The press with a deployed piston during the pressing stage, according to some embodiments; and

[0019] Figure 9C Alternative version of the support portion extending radially outward from the perforated lid, according to some embodiments.

[0020] Figures 10A-13B Organizer holder rack that can be used to hold and organize various components of the described beverage presses, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] In one aspect, the present application relates to an oversized beverage press system for pressing multiple beverage servings (multiple servings of beverage) in accordance with some embodiments. Typically, beverage presses are used to press coffee beverages. In this embodiment, the beverage press is sized to provide multiple servings of beverage, each serving being about 240 milliliters. Preferably, the beverage press is sized to have a fluid capacity sufficient to provide at least two servings (e.g., about 480 milliliters, 500 milliliters) or more. In some embodiments, the press includes incremental markings on the side of the outer cylinder to allow the user to fill the cylinder to the desired amount. It should be noted that the beverage press is not simply a scaled up version of a conventional press having a capacity of 250 milliliters, as this can result in a press that is too tall for most users to comfortably and stably operate with the press and lid at counter (table top) height, but rather the width dimension is increased more than the height dimension to facilitate easy operation by a variety of users from a standard kitchen counter height and to reduce the likelihood of tilting during pressing.

[0022] Figures 1A-1D An example of an oversized beverage press sized to provide multiple servings is shown. The oversized press 100 includes an outer cylinder 102, a filter lid 103 enclosing the bottom opening of the cylinder, and a piston 104 having an air-tight flexible seal 112 at the bottom, which is inserted within the cylinder to press the beverage through the cylinder and filter lid. The piston includes a stop 114 at the top to facilitate manual operation, and the cylinder includes a support 106 extending laterally from near the bottom opening that rests on the vessel (e.g., mug) in which the beverage is dispensed. In some embodiments, the support has a regular polygonal shape. In this embodiment, the support has a hexagonal shape, although it should be understood that the support can be any polygonal shape or any suitable non-polygonal shape. By way of reference, the Figures 9A-9B The press embodiment shown includes the same / similar components as the press embodiment shown in Figure 1A The cylinder 102 in Figure 9A The cylinder 2 in). The oversized beverage press 100 includes an outer cylinder 102, a filter lid 103 enclosing the bottom opening of the cylinder, and a piston 104 having an air-tight flexible seal 112 at the bottom, which is inserted within the cylinder to press the beverage through the cylinder and filter lid. The piston includes a stop 114 at the top to facilitate manual operation, and the cylinder includes a support 106 extending laterally from near the bottom opening that rests on the vessel (e.g., mug) in which the beverage is dispensed. In some embodiments, the support has a regular polygonal shape. In this embodiment, the support has a hexagonal shape, although it should be understood that the support can be any polygonal shape or any suitable non-polygonal shape. By way of reference, the Figures 9A-9CExemplary operation of a beverage press can be further understood. In some embodiments, an oversize press includes a cylinder having an overall height of 6-10 inches, typically about 7.25 inches, with an inner diameter in the range of about 2-5 inches, typically about 2.65 inches. These dimensions provide sufficient capacity (e.g., 500 ml, 590 ml, 600 ml, or more) to provide multiple (serving) portions of dispensed beverage while providing a more stable, easy-to-use press assembly. The filter cover 106 can be a cover having multiple perforations to support a filter, or can include one or more pressure-activated valve openings for dispensing beverage at higher pressures, such as any of those described in PCT / US2023 / 086509, filed December 29, 2023, which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0023] Figures 2A-2C An oversize beverage press 100 atop a beverage pitcher 200 specially configured for use with an oversize beverage press is illustrated in accordance with some embodiments. As used herein, the term “pitcher” refers to any vessel that stores multiple servings of beverage. As shown, the support portion of the beverage press and the pitcher have corresponding shapes such that the top edge 201 of the pitcher securely engages the underside of the support portion, which provides more stability during pressing, which is particularly helpful when pressing larger oversize beverage presses. In some embodiments, both the support portion and the pitcher are regular polygonal shapes. In this embodiment, both are hexagonal shapes. While certain dimensions are described above, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can be configured according to various other dimensions and capacities.

[0024] Figure 3 An oversize beverage press 100 atop a beverage pitcher 200 specially configured for use with an oversize beverage press is illustrated in accordance with some embodiments. As used herein, the term “pitcher” refers to any vessel that stores multiple servings of beverage. As shown, the support portion of the beverage press and the pitcher have corresponding shapes such that the top edge 201 of the pitcher securely engages the underside of the support portion, which provides more stability during pressing, which is particularly helpful when pressing larger oversize beverage presses. In some embodiments, both the support portion and the pitcher are regular polygonal shapes. In this embodiment, both are hexagonal shapes. While certain dimensions are described above, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can be configured according to various other dimensions and capacities. Figure 3The prism sides extend vertically in this embodiment, which provides more stability during pressing, as the top edge 201 corresponds to the bottom perimeter of the press during pressing, thereby reducing the likelihood of tilting and spilling during pressing. A recess is formed at one vertex of the top edge of the polygon, which recess forms the spout 202. In some embodiments, the spout also allows air to be released from the pitcher as it fills with beverage during pressing. Thus, the pitcher can be shaped to correspond to the support base shape of the carafe. In this embodiment, the capacity of the pitcher is at least 480 milliliters, typically about 500 milliliters, 590 milliliters, 600 milliliters or more, which corresponds to at least two servings of beverage dispensed from an extra-large size press. In some embodiments, the height of the pitcher is in the range of about 3-5 inches, typically about 4 inches (e.g., 4.288 inches), while the lateral width (e.g., distance between sides) is in the range of about 4-5 inches, typically about 4 inches (e.g., 3.86 inches between parallel sides). As noted above, in embodiments of the application, the pitcher is shaped as a regular polygon (e.g., hexagon) and includes a top edge 201 that firmly contacts the underside of the beverage press support during use. The polygonal shape of the cross-section includes a plurality of vertices 203 that extend vertically as rounded corners 202, which facilitate user handling of the pitcher. The recess 202 at one vertex forms a spout for pouring hot beverages. In some embodiments, the maximum lateral dimension of the pitcher is between 3-5 inches, preferably about 3.8 inches. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the pitcher are sized to accommodate standard and extra-large size beverage presses. In some embodiments, the height of the pitcher is between 4-6 inches, preferably about 4.2 inches. While polygonal shapes (e.g., hexagon) are described and depicted, it should be understood that various other shapes (e.g., polygons, circles, etc.) can also be used. Figure 3 The prism sides extend vertically in this embodiment, which provides more stability during pressing, as the top edge 201 corresponds to the bottom perimeter of the press during pressing, thereby reducing the likelihood of tilting and spilling during pressing. A recess is formed at one vertex of the top edge of the polygon, which recess forms the spout 202. In some embodiments, the spout also allows air to be released from the pitcher as it fills with beverage during pressing. Thus, the pitcher can be shaped to correspond to the support base shape of the carafe. In this embodiment, the capacity of the pitcher is at least 480 milliliters, typically about 500 milliliters, 590 milliliters, 600 milliliters or more, which corresponds to at least two servings of beverage dispensed from an extra-large size press. In some embodiments, the height of the pitcher is in the range of about 3-5 inches, typically about 4 inches (e.g., 4.288 inches), while the lateral width (e.g., distance between sides) is in the range of about 4-5 inches, typically about 4 inches (e.g., 3.86 inches between parallel sides). As noted above, in embodiments of the application, the pitcher is shaped as a regular polygon (e.g., hexagon) and includes a top edge 201 that firmly contacts the underside of the beverage press support during use. The polygonal shape of the cross-section includes a plurality of vertices 203 that extend vertically as rounded corners 202, which facilitate user handling of the pitcher. The recess 202 at one vertex forms a spout for pouring hot beverages. In some embodiments, the maximum lateral dimension of the pitcher is between 3-5 inches, preferably about 3.8 inches. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the pitcher are sized to accommodate standard and extra-large size beverage presses. In some embodiments, the height of the pitcher is between 4-6 inches, preferably about 4.2 inches. While polygonal shapes (e.g., hexagon) are described and depicted, it should be understood that various other shapes (e.g., polygons, circles, etc.) can also be used.

[0025] In some embodiments, the opening at the top of the pot is sized such that the stepped downward portion (recessed portion) of the press's interior is appropriately smaller, so that it does not need to contact the inner wall of the vessel when placed on top of the pot, resulting in a "loose fit" (e.g., a gap between corresponding edges). In some embodiments, this loose fit requires an additional gap between 1 and 10 millimeters, typically about 2 to 4 millimeters, between the mating parts. This prevents the press from forming a friction fit within the vessel during pressing, which can occur in some round presses if they engage with a similar round opening typically used to store multiple servings of beverages in a standard coffee pot or water jug. This loose fit is particularly advantageous when used with oversized beverage presses, as a friction fit between the press and the container could unintentionally cause it to tip over due to the increased height. Therefore, this loose fit serves as a safety feature to prevent large amounts of hot beverages, such as coffee, from spilling during or after pressing. In some embodiments, the height of the oversized press cylinder is between 4 and 10 inches, for example, between 5 and 8 inches, preferably about 6 inches (e.g., 6.5 inches). In some embodiments, the diameter of the oversized press cylinder is between 2 and 5 inches, for example, between 2 and 4 inches, preferably about 2.5 inches (e.g., 2.65 inches). Correspondingly, the piston is sized to hermetically engage the interior of the cylinder, and the filter cap is sized to seal the bottom opening of the cylinder.

[0026] Figures 4A-4D The illustration shows a beverage press 300 with a metal piston and a clear outer cylinder, typically made of glass, according to some embodiments. This construction provides a more advanced press with improved durability and aesthetics. The beverage press includes... Figures 1A-1DThe beverage press 300 includes an outer cylinder 302 formed of glass (e.g., borosilicate), and a piston 304 with an upper stop 314, the piston body formed of metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or a metal alloy. In this embodiment, the body of the piston 304 includes a vertical slot or ridge 205, which increases the crush strength of the metal wall to better withstand the force of the pressing piston through the cylinder. The filter cap 303 can also be formed of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel. The piston can further include a flexible seal 312 disposed at the bottom end, the flexible seal made of a flexible elastomer, such as silicone rubber or any suitable material. In this embodiment, a support 306 extends from a larger base that is sealingly coupled around the cylinder near the bottom opening. The cylinder can be sealed with sealant or any suitable means. The base includes raised outwardly expanding portions 307 that receive features that attach the base / support to the cylinder. These features can be accessed (operated) by hidden fasteners 308 (e.g., hex head screws) on the underside of the support / base. In this embodiment, the filter cap 303 can include a plurality of holes (shown here as a shaded design) that are perforated in any suitable design, and can include a drain hole 315 disposed along the perimeter. While a particular filter cap is shown, any suitable filter cap can be used. Such a premium beverage press can be configured to have a single serving beverage capacity (e.g., 250 milliliters) or to have a multiple serving beverage capacity (e.g., 500 milliliters, 590 milliliters, 600 milliliters, or more).

[0027] Figures 5A-5H Various views of another premium beverage press having a clear glass cylinder and metal base and piston are shown, according to some embodiments. In this embodiment, the premium beverage press 320 includes a clear double (layered) wall vacuum insulated glass cylinder 322 with a metal support base 326 and a metal piston 324. Figure 5A The metal piston is shown inserted at the midpoint, while Figure 5BThe metal piston 324 is shown inserted to its fully extended position, where the proximal stop 314 abuts the top edge of the outer cylinder 322. A double (layered) walled glass cylinder is advantageous because single (layered) walled glass is not as thermally insulating as plastic. In other beverage press described herein, the outer cylinder is formed of a plastic material that sufficiently insulates the heated liquid during steeping and pressing, such that a user can firmly grasp the cylinder while pressing. Because single (layered) walled glass is not as thermally insulating as plastic, more heat can be transferred to the glass cylinder, which can result in more heat loss in the fluid during steeping, and can result in the cylinder becoming uncomfortably hot when held by the user during pressing. Thus, a double (layered) walled, thermally insulated glass cylinder provides improved thermal insulation, thereby retaining heat in the fluid during steeping, and preventing the outside of the cylinder from becoming uncomfortably hot when manually grasped during pressing. While there are significant benefits to using a double (layered) walled glass cylinder, this construction and assembly of a cylinder presents some challenges. The metal support base 326 houses a mounting device mounted to the cylinder, and defines a lower side surface 326d that joins the top surface of the beverage container that receives the pressed beverage.

[0028] In a first aspect, conventional double (layered) walled glass container products generally do not have dimensional and tolerance constraints related to functional beverage press components. To overcome this challenge, the double (layered) walled glass cylinder is formed from two precisely dimensioned glass cylinders that are placed concentrically with a precise air gap between the inner and outer walls. The opposing ends at the top and bottom openings are joined by a seam (e.g., a heated glass or curable polymer seam). In some embodiments, the cylinder is joined by a seam at the top, after which the bottom end is joined by another seam, with one or more holes preserved or made. These holes allow air within the air gap to be evacuated by a vacuum source, after which the hole(s) are sealed with a plug, filler, or adhesive to form a vacuum-insulated cylinder, which improves the thermal insulation performance of the cylinder. This approach allows for the formation of a double layered walled cylinder with precise dimensions, such that the air-tight piston maintains an air-tight seal along the entire inner diameter of the cylinder during pressing to ensure successful beverage pressing. Figure 5C and Figure 5D Cross-sectional views taken along the x-z and y-z planes are shown, which illustrate that the double layered walled cylinder 322 includes an inner wall and an outer wall 322a, 322b.

[0029] In a second aspect, while plastic can be injection molded to include additional features, such as a lateral support base, these features cannot be readily incorporated into a double-walled glass jar body design. While the above approach allows for a precisely dimensioned jar body, the jar body must still be attached to a base that can firmly press against a beverage container when substantial force (significant force) is applied during pressing. This can be challenging, given the inherent brittleness of glass, as uneven force can lead to cracks or glass breakage after multiple cycles of use. To address this challenge, a plastic ring is fitted tightly on the outside of the glass jar body near the bottom end and fastened by a curable adhesive. As shown in Figures 5E-5F the base is then fastened against the jar body, with the plastic ring 327 sandwiched between the upper and lower mounting portions (326b, 326c) of the metal base, which are fastened in place by one or more fasteners 328, typically a plurality of fasteners (e.g., 4 screws) arranged circumferentially around the jar body. The metal base includes a housing 326a that defines the upper surface of the base, partially covering the upper and lower mounting portions, and defines the outer perimeter of the base. In some embodiments, the lower surface 326d of the support base is at least partially defined by the lower mounting portion 326c component. This approach distributes the mounting force, and the plastic ring 327 more evenly distributes the force and strain applied during manual pressing. Typically, there are a plurality of screws distributed around the perimeter (e.g., four screws). The fasteners can be applied from the underside of the base and covered by one or more plugs 328a. In this embodiment, the components of the base are formed of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel. The various components of the base and jar body assembly and the piston assembly can be seen in the exploded view of FIGS. 1 1 and 12. Figure 5G and Figure 5H .

[0030] Figures 6A-6C A detailed view of the outer jar body 322 with metal base 326 is shown in accordance with some embodiments. Figure 6A and Figure 6B A perspective view of the outer jar body 322 is shown from the upper and lower portions, with the metal base 326 mounted along the bottom portion. As described herein, the metal base 326 extends laterally outward from the bottom portion proximate the bottom opening and defines a lateral support surface 326d that engages the top surface (upper surface) of the beverage container during pressing. In this embodiment, the base is formed of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel, although it should be understood that any suitable material can be used. Figure 6CA cross-sectional view along the x-z midplane is shown, illustrating the walls of the double-walled cylinder, which is shown formed by the inner wall 322a of the inner cylinder and the outer wall 322b of the outer cylinder, which are concentric and sealed along the top and bottom openings with a gap in between that can be filled with air or an inert gas, or can be evacuated to enhance the insulating properties of the cylinder. In some embodiments, the cylinders are sealed together at the top by a seam 322c-1 and at the bottom by a seam 322c-2. The sealing seams can be formed of glass or curable polymer, or any suitable material. In some embodiments, the inner cylinder has a diameter of 2.647 inches and the outer cylinder has a diameter of about 2.874 inches, such that the air gap is in the range of about 0.2-0.3 inches, typically about 0.23 inches. This configuration provides the size and tolerances needed for the plunger to maintain an air-tight seal across the length of the cylinder when producing a beverage with the press through the filter lid at the desired pressure.

[0031] Figures 7A-7D A detailed view of an example plunger 324 suitable for use in an advanced press assembly is shown, according to some embodiments. In this embodiment, the plunger is formed primarily of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel. As in previous embodiments, the plunger includes a proximal stop 314 and a distal plunger 316. The proximal stop 316 extends laterally to act as a stop when the plunger is pressed through the cylinder, and the upper surface has a flattened surface to facilitate manual pressing of the plunger. The body 324a of the plunger can include a groove or ridge 325 to increase the compression strength of the plunger to withstand the force from pressing. Figure 7C FIG. 6D is a cross-sectional view along the x-y midplane, showing the ridge 325 along the main plunger body 324a.

[0032] Figures 8A-8B An accessory for use with a beverage press is shown, according to some embodiments. Figure 8A A scoop 330 for filling the cylinder with coffee grounds is shown. Figure 8B A stir paddle 332 configured for use in stirring heated water and coffee grounds during steeping is shown. The stir paddle 332 includes a portion that extends laterally at the proximal end for holding the stirrer during use, and a longitudinal stirrer portion for stirring the coffee grounds and heated water in the cylinder. In some embodiments, the length of the stirrer portion to the laterally extending handle portion is less than the height of the cylinder, such that the distal end of the stirrer does not contact the filter in the beverage lid held at the distal end of the cylinder.

[0033] Figures 9A-9BA coffee or tea press 1 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown. It should be understood that these aspects are exemplary to illustrate how the corresponding components function during use, and that these aspects can be involved with any of the presses described herein. The press 1 includes a hollow cylinder 2 having a top opening and a bottom opening. A removable filter lid 3 encloses the bottom opening. The lid can support a removable filter, such as a metal or paper filter therein. A filter 8 can be clamped between the lid 3 and the cylinder 2 to filter particles from the liquid. Alternatively, the filter can be integrated into the lid structure. A removable plunger 4 is inserted into the top opening and pressed down to force the liquid 5 in the cylinder through the filter lid. While a perforated filter lid with multiple holes is shown, it should be understood that any filter lid can be used (e.g., a pressure activated valve lid). The press has a support 6 to hold it over the mouth of an open vessel 7. Figure 9A A stirrer or stir paddle 9 is shown having an upper stop 10 and having a length measured from its distal / lower end 11 to the stop 10 that is slightly less than the length of the cylinder 2. The stop prevents the tip 11 of the paddle from contacting the lid 3 or filter 8 during stirring. This aspect can be utilized in any of the stir paddles described herein.

[0034] In operation, the press 1 is placed over an open vessel 7. Ground coffee or tea leaves are placed into the cylinder 2. Hot water is added, and the mixture is stirred with the paddle 9. The paddle is then removed, and the plunger 4 is inserted into the top opening and pressed down to force the liquid 5 through the filter and perforated lid into the vessel. The plunger pressurizes the air 20 above the liquid, and it is this pressurized air that forces the liquid 5 through the lid. When the liquid is drained, the press is lifted from the vessel and the lid 3 is removed. Finally, the plunger 4 is pressed further to expel the used coffee or tea puck 21 into a waste material receptacle. The plunger 4 is sheathed with a flexible seal 12 to engage the inside of the cylinder. The seal preferably has its greatest diameter 13 at its lowest point so as to wipe clean the inside of the cylinder when the greatest diameter is pushed completely through the cylinder with the lid removed during expulsion of the used puck. The plunger 4 has a stop 14 that limits the maximum travel of the plunger but allows the greatest diameter 13 of the seal to extend beyond the bottom opening of the cylinder when the lid is removed to expel the used puck. The perforated lid 3 has one or more holes on the bottom. In some embodiments, the lid includes a single central opening with a pressure activated valve. In the embodiment shown, the lid includes multiple holes to allow beverage to flow therethrough. In the embodiment shown, the lid further includes a plurality of drainage holes 15 that are adjacent to and radially outward of a perimeter line defined by the outer perimeter of the bottom of the cylinder 2. The drainage holes relieve pressure between the outer wall of the cylinder and the inner wall of the lid, and prevent leakage from the top edge of the lid.

[0035] In Figures 9A-9BIn this case, the perforated lid 3 is attached to the cylinder 2 by a twist lock 16. Such a twist lock can include four ramped grooves in the support / base that receive correspondingly shaped tabs in the filter lid. Such an attachment can be used to attach the filter lid in any of the beverage presses described herein. Alternatively, various other attachment means

[0036] Figure 9C An alternative version of the invention is illustrated, in which the support 6A extends radially outward from the perforated lid 3A. This figure also illustrates an alternative attachment method, in which the perforated lid is attached to the cylinder by threads 17. Another alternative would be to fasten the perforated lid to the cylinder with a latch. Figure 9C The alternative lid and support of FIG. 6 also has an upper cavity 19 to collect liquid that leaks between the cylinder 2 and the lid 3A. Figures 9A-9C A central bottom step 18 is also illustrated, which extends below the open vessel rim in order to prevent the press from sliding off the vessel. In Figures 9A-9B This bottom step is the lower portion of the lid 3. In Figure 9C The bottom step 18 is an extension below the lower surface of the lid 3A. This central bottom step can or can not contact the inner wall of the vessel, depending on the size of the opening of the vessel. The supports 6 and 6A are shaped to allow air to easily exit the open vessel when the press is resting on the vessel and liquid enters the vessel. Figure 9A And Figure 9B The twist lock 16 of FIG. 6 has a through hole 22 that accomplishes this. In the alternative embodiment of FIG. 7, the bottom surface (lower surface) of the support 6A is roughened or grooved to accomplish the same result.

[0037] While the cylinder can be made of a variety of materials, the preferred material is transparent so that the user can observe the pressing process. Glass and clear plastic are suitable. The plunger can also be made transparent, clear, or opaque (e.g., metal). In some embodiments, both the cylinder and the plunger body are made of clear plastic so that the user can see the coffee grounds infuse in the heated water and be pressed. In some embodiments, the clear plastic is a copolymer made of three monomers: dimethyl terephthalate (DMT), cyclohexane dimethanol (CHDM), and 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-l,3-cyclobutanediol (CBDO). Preferably, the clear plastic is also BPA-free. It should be understood that the cylinder and plunger body (except for the elastomeric plunger) can be made entirely of clear plastic. In some embodiments, only portions of the cylinder and / or plunger can be made of clear plastic. In some embodiments, the cylinder body is made of clear plastic, while the support base can be formed of another type of plastic or metal.

[0038] It should be understood that a variety of sizes can be suitable for the present application. In some embodiments, it has been found that a cylinder having an inner diameter of about 2.25 inches and a length of about 5 inches performs very well in pressing a volume of beverage suitable for a single serving of beverage, e.g., 250 milliliter capacity, e.g., dispensing a volume suitable for a standard cup of coffee or tea. In some embodiments, e.g. Figures 1A-1D those shown, a cylinder having a larger diameter and height is used to dispense a larger volume of beverage, e.g., double capacity (e.g., 500 milliliter, 600 milliliter or more), as previously discussed.

[0039] In yet another aspect, the present application relates to a beverage press organizer rack that supports and organizes beverage press components, e.g., any of the components described herein, as well as various accessories, which can include a stirring paddle, a spoon, and a filter(s), e.g., those shown in Figures 8A-8B In some embodiments, the height of the beverage press organizer rack is adjustable so that the beverage press supports both standard and oversized (super capacity) beverage press models. In another aspect, the beverage press holder includes a frame having an enclosed perimeter that defines an opening shaped to support a side-by-side piston and cylinder. In some embodiments, the opening of the holder frame is sized to support both a standard beverage press and an oversized beverage press. In any embodiment, the rack can be formed from a plurality of components coupled together, or some or all of the components can be integrally formed.

[0040] Figures 10A-13B Exemplary beverage press organizer racks are shown that are configured to hold components of a beverage press before and after use. In these embodiments, the organizer rack includes a single ring that holds a side-by-side cylinder and piston and one or more vertical supports that suspend the ring holder. In some embodiments, the ring includes a single opening for the cylinder and piston and separate openings for accessories, e.g., a spoon and a stirring paddle. These racks can be formed from plastic, metal, or a combination of materials.

[0041] Figures 10A-10CThe organizer rack holder 400 is shown to include a base 401 and a vertical support 405 that extends to a holder frame 406 that defines a single enclosed opening 407 shaped to include specially sized areas 408a, 408b that receive the cylinder and piston in a side-by-side configuration. The opening can further include notches 409 near the middle sized to receive the top of the stirrer between the cylinder and piston. The base can include a drain recess or depression 402 for capturing any drips from the cylinder and piston after flushing / cleaning and placement in the holder; a filter holder 404 for holding a stack of paper filters; and a beverage lid holder 403 (e.g., a circular protrusion) for holding a filter lid thereon; and a hole for supporting the proximal handle of a coffee scoop. Figure 10D The holder 400 is shown with the above-described components supported thereon.

[0042] Figure 11 Another organizer holder rack 400' is shown having the same or similar components as Figure 10A except that the vertical support 405' has an adjustable length, which can be achieved by a replaceable / removable vertical support or by an adjuster or any suitable means.

[0043] Figures 12A-12B Another organizer holder rack 400" is shown having the same or similar components as the embodiment in Figure 10A except that the holder is configured to support a jumbo size presser assembly, such as shown in Figure 10B The holder 400" can be provided in a fixed configuration sized for a jumbo size presser assembly, or can be adjustable by replacing the vertical support of the holder in Figure 10A with a vertical support 405" of a longer length. In some embodiments, the holder is provided with two vertical supports of different lengths so that the user can adjust the holder to accommodate either a standard beverage press or a jumbo size (jumbo capacity) beverage press, such as that in Figure 1A

[0044] Figures 13A-13B Another organizer holder rack 500 is shown having the same or similar components as the embodiment in Figure 10A ​similar components as in the embodiment of FIG. 1. The organizer rack holder 500 includes a base 501 from which extends a vertical support 505 to a holder frame 506. In this embodiment, the frame 506 includes a single opening 507 configured to hold a side-by-side cylinder and piston, and includes another opening that supports a holder cup 509 for accessories such as a stirrer paddle and spoon. In this embodiment, the single opening is oblong or pill shaped. In this embodiment, the base includes a drain recess 502 for collecting any drips from the cylinder and piston after rinsing; a beverage lid holder 503 and a filter paper holder 504. In this embodiment, the vertical support also houses the holder cup 509 and partially encloses the filter paper holder 504, which helps protect the stack of filter papers from drips or splashes when placing the cylinder and piston in the holder after rinsing. In this embodiment, the organizer rack is formed of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel or metal alloy, to match the aesthetic and durability of the premium presser in FIG. 1. Figure 5A the premium presser in FIG. 1. Figure 13B The components of the premium presser assembly of FIG. 1 are shown supported in the premium organizer rack of FIG. 2. Figure 5A The components of the premium presser assembly of FIG. 1 are shown supported in the premium organizer rack of FIG. 2. Figure 13A In this embodiment, the holder cup 509 is configured with a ridge similar to the piston, so that the assembly has a more symmetrical appearance as shown in FIG. 3. Figure 13B In this embodiment, the holder cup 509 is configured with a ridge similar to the piston, so that the assembly has a more symmetrical appearance as shown in FIG. 3.

[0045] While the above is a complete description of the specific embodiments of the application, the above description is not intended to limit the scope of the application as defined by the claims. While specific dimensions and shapes are shown and described with respect to the beverage presser components and carafe, it is understood that various other dimensions can also be utilized. Various features, embodiments and aspects of the above inventions can be used individually or jointly. Further, the application can be utilized in any number of environments and applications beyond the specific description herein, without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the specification. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

Claims

1. A beverage preparation system comprising: a beverage filter press comprising: a hollow cylinder having a first opening at a first end and a bottom opening at a second end, wherein a support portion extends laterally outward from an exterior of the hollow cylinder at the first end, and the hollow cylinder is sized to correspond to a liquid volume equivalent to at least twice a single serving beverage portion, wherein a perimeter of the support portion forms a polygon, a removable piston configured to be inserted into the cylinder and form an air-tight seal when coupled with the hollow cylinder; and a removable filter cover couplable to the cylinder or support portion so as to enclose the bottom opening.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein, The height of the cylinder ranges between 5-8 inches.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein, The diameter of the cylinder ranges between 2-4 inches.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein, Further comprising: a vessel having a polygonal cross-sectional shape corresponding to the support portion of the hollow cylinder, wherein the vessel has an opening at an upper side and a top edge extending around the opening, wherein the jug is sized such that the support portion of the hollow cylinder extends substantially beyond the top edge of the vessel during pressing to securely engage the support portion.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein, The polygonal shape of the support portion and the vessel comprises a hexagon.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein, The vessel top opening is configured to loosely mate with the filter press.

7. The system of claim 4, wherein, The polygonal cross-section of the vessel includes a plurality of vertices, wherein each vertex where a vertical plane of the exterior of the vessel intersects is rounded.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein, The vessel has a recess at at least one vertex along the top edge, defining a spout through which filtered beverage is poured from the jug.

9. The system of claim 4, wherein, The height of the vessel ranges between 4-6 inches.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein, The maximum lateral dimension of the vessel ranges between 3-5 inches.

11. A beverage preparation system comprising: a beverage filter press comprising: a hollow cylinder having a first opening at a top opening and having a bottom opening, wherein the hollow cylinder is formed of glass; a support base extending laterally outward from an exterior of the hollow cylinder at the first end; a removable piston configured to be inserted into the cylinder and form an air-tight seal when coupled with the hollow cylinder; wherein a body of the piston is formed of metal; and a removable filter cover couplable to the cylinder or support portion to enclose the bottom opening of the hollow cylinder.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein, The hollow cylinder is double-walled and vacuum insulated.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein, The double-walled cylinder includes concentric glass cylinders that are sealed along the top and bottom openings.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein, The support base is formed of metal and is securely mounted to the hollow cylinder.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein, Further comprising: a plastic ring attached to the hollow cylinder proximate an exterior of the bottom opening by a curable adhesive, wherein the plastic ring engages between an upper mounting portion and a lower mounting portion of the support base, thereby securing the support base to the hollow cylinder.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein, The upper and lower mounting portions include metal rings that are pulled together by one or more fasteners.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein, The one or more fasteners include a plurality of screws distributed around a perimeter of the cylinder.

18. The system of claim 11, wherein, The piston body is grooved or ridged.

19. The system of claim 11, wherein, The metal is aluminum or stainless steel.

20. A beverage press organizer rack comprising: a base; a vertical support extending between a bottom end and a top end, the vertical support coupled to the base at its bottom end; and a holder frame extending horizontally and coupled to the top end of the vertical support, wherein the holder frame is attached to a top portion of the vertical support and has a first opening sized to accommodate a cylinder and a piston of a side-by-side beverage press.

21. The organizer of claim 20, wherein, The vertical support is a support for the holder frame and is the only support.

22. The organizer of claim 20 wherein, The height of the holder frame is adjustable by a user to accommodate different sizes of filter presses.

23. The organizer of claim 20 wherein, The height of the holder frame is adjustable by replacing the vertical support with another vertical support having a different height.

24. The organizer of claim 20, wherein, The holder is provided with at least two vertical supports of different lengths, one defining a height of the organizer frame suitable for a standard size beverage press and the other defining a height of the organizer frame for an oversized beverage press.

25. The organizer of claim 20, wherein, The base includes a paper filter holder, a beverage cap holder, and a drain recess.

26. The organizer of claim 20, wherein, The first opening is oblong or pill shaped, sized to support the cylinder and piston at opposite ends.

27. The organizer of claim 26 wherein, The frame includes a second opening supporting a holder cup for one or more accessories.

28. The organizer of claim 27 wherein, The base includes a paper filter holder, a beverage cap holder, and a drain recess.

29. The organizer of claim 28 wherein, The vertical support accommodates the holder cup and partially encloses the paper filter holder.

30. The organizer of claim 20, wherein, The base, vertical support, and frame are formed of metal.

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