Countertop filtered water dispenser

Abstract

A beverage system is provided, comprising: a pump configured to draw fluid from a fluid source and drive the fluid through a fluid passageway to a dispensing outlet; and a filter comprising a paper filter medium configured to remove contaminants from fluid flowing therethrough, the filter being disposed on the fluid passageway and configured to receive and filter unfiltered fluid pumped through the fluid passageway by the pump.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 532,611, entitled “Water Filter Distributor,” filed February 6, 2026, and U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 532,611 claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 827,572, entitled “Water Filter Distributor,” filed June 20, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to filtered water distributors. Background Technology

[0004] Filtered water dispensers provide access to cleaner, better-tasting drinking water by removing impurities such as chlorine, sediment, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants. These dispensers are available in a variety of forms, including tanks, countertop units, undermount systems, and dispensers integrated with refrigerators, and can be combined with filtration elements such as activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis membranes, or UV sterilization units. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect, a beverage system for filtering fluid is provided, the beverage system comprising: a filtration unit; a dispensing outlet; a pump configured to pump fluid from a fluid source in fluid communication with the beverage system through the filtration unit to the dispensing outlet; at least one flow meter configured to measure the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system; and a controller including at least one processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations. Operations may include: receiving a request to dispense filtered beverage; operating the pump with a first duty cycle to pump fluid from the fluid source through the filtration unit to the dispensing outlet; receiving the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system via the at least one flow meter; comparing the flow rate to a predetermined flow rate; and operating the pump with a second duty cycle greater than the first duty cycle in response to determining that the flow rate is less than the predetermined flow rate.

[0006] In some respects, the memory can be configured to store historical data characterizing previous allocation operations, wherein a first duty cycle can be determined based on a function of one or more duty cycles of the pump during one or more previous allocation operations.

[0007] In some aspects, the preceding dispensing operations may include one or more filtered beverage dispensing operations or one or more rinsing cycle dispensing operations. In some aspects, a first duty cycle may be determined based on the average of one or more duty cycles of the pump during one or more preceding dispensing operations. In some aspects, the first duty cycle may be determined based on the ratio of one or more duty cycles of the pump during one or more preceding dispensing operations. In some aspects, the first duty cycle may be determined based on the duty cycle of the pump during the immediately preceding dispensing operation.

[0008] In some cases, the predetermined flow rate can be approximately 0.5 to 3 liters per minute.

[0009] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that further includes repeating the steps of: receiving a flow rate of fluid and comparing it with a predetermined flow rate, and iteratively increasing or decreasing the duty cycle of the pump until the flow rate is within a predetermined threshold of the predetermined flow rate. In some aspects, the predetermined threshold may be defined as a range between about 75 ml / min below the predetermined flow rate and about 75 ml / min above the predetermined flow rate.

[0010] In some respects, the at least one processor can be configured to modify the pump's duty cycle so that the flow rate does not exceed a predetermined flow rate.

[0011] In some aspects, the filtration unit may include a filter cartridge comprising a paper filter medium configured to remove contaminants from a fluid flowing through it, and the predetermined flow rate may be a flow rate in which the contact time between the fluid and the paper filter medium is between 2 seconds and 15 seconds.

[0012] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include a user interface, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to perform operations that include providing a blockage warning to the user interface in response to determining that the flow rate is below a second predetermined flow rate.

[0013] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include a first flow path defined between a fluid source, a filter unit, and a dispensing outlet, and a second flow path defined between the fluid source and the filter unit, the second flow path including a solenoid valve, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to perform an operation that includes controlling the solenoid valve to move from a closed position to an open position to release pressure within the first flow path after dispensing the filtered beverage.

[0014] In another aspect, a beverage system for filtering fluid is provided, the beverage system comprising: a filtration unit; a dispensing outlet; a pump configured to pump fluid from a fluid source through the filtration unit to the dispensing outlet; at least one flow meter configured to measure the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system; and a controller including at least one processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations. The operations may include: receiving a request to dispense filtered beverage; operating the pump with a feedforward duty cycle to pump fluid from a reservoir through the filtration unit to the dispensing outlet; receiving the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system via the at least one flow meter; calculating a flow rate deviation based on the difference between the flow rate and a target flow rate; adjusting the pump's duty cycle based on the flow rate deviation; and updating the feedforward duty cycle in response to determining that the flow rate deviation is below a threshold during a steady-state period.

[0015] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that further includes maintaining the operation of the pump at an adjusted duty cycle in response to determining that the flow rate deviation is within a dead zone threshold. In some aspects, the dead zone threshold can be defined as a range between approximately 75 ml / min below the target flow rate and approximately 75 ml / min above the target flow rate.

[0016] In some respects, the feedforward duty cycle can be stored in non-volatile memory and maintained throughout the power-on cycle of the beverage system. In other respects, the feedforward duty cycle can be determined based on the ratio of one or more duty cycles of the pump during one or more previous dispensing operations.

[0017] In some respects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that includes waiting for a predetermined time after starting pump operation and before calculating the flow rate deviation.

[0018] In some respects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform the following steps: receiving flow rate, calculating flow rate deviation, adjusting pump duty cycle, and updating feedforward duty cycle at a predetermined execution frequency.

[0019] In another aspect, a beverage system for filtering fluid is provided, the beverage system comprising: a reservoir configured to hold a volume of fluid; a filtration unit; a dispensing outlet; a user interface; a pump configured to pump fluid from the reservoir through the filtration unit to the dispensing outlet; at least one flow meter configured to measure the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system; and a controller comprising at least one processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations. The operation may include: in response to a new filter placed within the filter unit, operating a pump to pump a volume of fluid from the reservoir through the filter unit to a distribution outlet; comparing the total volume of fluid pumped from the reservoir with a predetermined volume; in response to pumping a volume of fluid from the reservoir, providing a first notification to the user interface requesting the user to refill the reservoir; and repeating the following steps: operating the pump to pump a volume of fluid from the reservoir; comparing the total volume of fluid pumped from the reservoir with a predetermined volume; and providing a first notification to the user interface requesting the user to refill the reservoir until the total volume of fluid pumped from the reservoir is greater than or equal to the predetermined volume.

[0020] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that further include: determining that a filter has been placed within a filter unit; providing a third notification to a user interface prompting the user to confirm whether the filter is new; receiving user input via the user interface, the user input indicating confirmation that the filter is new; and initiating one or more operations in response to receiving the user input.

[0021] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that further includes: receiving user input via a user interface representing a request to pause the operation, and pausing the operation in response to receiving the user input.

[0022] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that further includes: receiving second user input via a user interface representing a request to resume the operation, and resuming the operation in response to receiving the second user input.

[0023] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that also include automatically resuming operations in response to the detection of a reservoir within the beverage system.

[0024] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that also include pausing operations in response to determining the removal of the storage device.

[0025] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that further includes: receiving user input via a user interface representing a request for a recovery operation, and resuming the operation of the pump in response to receiving the user input.

[0026] In some respects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that also include automatically resuming the pump in response to determining that the user has placed the reservoir back into the beverage system.

[0027] In some respects, the predetermined volume can be between 70 and 80 ounces of fluid. In some respects, the reservoir can be configured to hold a fluid volume between 70 and 80 ounces.

[0028] In some aspects, the at least one processor may be configured to perform operations that further include: receiving the flow rate of fluid pumped through the beverage system via the at least one flow meter; comparing the flow rate with a predetermined flow rate; and iteratively increasing the pump's duty cycle until the flow rate is within a predetermined threshold of the predetermined flow rate.

[0029] In some respects, the predetermined flow rate can be from about 0.5 to 3 liters per minute. In some respects, the predetermined threshold can be defined as a range between about 75 ml per minute below the predetermined flow rate and about 75 ml per minute above the predetermined flow rate.

[0030] In some respects, the at least one processor can be configured to modify the pump's duty cycle so that the flow rate does not exceed a predetermined flow rate.

[0031] In another aspect, a beverage system for filtering fluid is provided, the beverage system comprising: a filter unit; a dispensing outlet; a pump configured to pump fluid from a fluid source through the filter unit to the dispensing outlet; a recirculation solenoid configured to selectively allow fluid to flow from the filter unit back to the fluid source; at least one flow meter configured to measure the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system; and a controller comprising at least one processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations. Operation may include: operating the pump with an initial pump duty cycle in response to receiving a new filter within the filter unit to pump fluid from the fluid source through the filter unit to the dispensing outlet; receiving the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system via the at least one flow meter; gradually increasing the pump duty cycle by a predetermined increment until the flow rate reaches a target flow rate; and applying closed-loop control of the pump duty cycle based on the received flow rate to maintain the flow rate at the target flow rate after the gradual change is complete.

[0032] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that further include: calculating a total flush volume based on the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system; comparing the calculated total flush volume with a flush cycle volume; incrementing a flush iterator when the calculated total flush volume reaches the flush cycle volume; and terminating the operation of the pump when the flush iterator exceeds a predetermined number.

[0033] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that further include: saving the calculated total flush volume to non-volatile memory; and reading the total flush volume from the non-volatile memory upon power-up to restore the pump from a previous state.

[0034] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that further include: subtracting a total flushing volume from a total volume count characterizing the accumulated volume of fluid that has flowed through the filter; and determining the remaining filter life by subtracting the total volume count from a predetermined filter capacity.

[0035] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that further include: detecting water addition status based on pump current and flow rate; pausing operations in response to detecting water addition status; and providing a notification indicating that operations have been paused.

[0036] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that further include: detecting the presence of a filter via a microswitch of the beverage system; receiving confirmation input indicating that the filter is new; and initiating one or more rinsing operations in response to receiving the confirmation input.

[0037] In another aspect, a beverage system for filtering fluid is provided, the beverage system comprising: a filter unit; a dispensing outlet; a pump configured to pump fluid from a fluid supply unit through the filter unit to the dispensing outlet; and a controller including at least one processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform an operation. The operation may include: receiving an input representing a request to remove a filter from the filter unit; and, in response to the input, operating the pump within a predetermined time period to pump excess fluid from the filter unit to the dispensing outlet.

[0038] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include a reservoir configured to hold a volume of fluid and a user interface, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to perform operations including: detecting the presence of the reservoir via a reservoir microswitch; and providing a notification to the user interface requesting the removal of the reservoir before operating the pump.

[0039] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that further include: determining that a wait timer has expired and the reservoir has not been removed; and canceling the pump operation in response to the wait timer expiring and the reservoir not being removed.

[0040] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include at least one flow meter configured to measure the flow rate of fluid pumped through the beverage system, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to perform an operation that includes receiving the flow rate of fluid pumped through the beverage system via the at least one flow meter, wherein a predetermined time amount may be based on the flow rate.

[0041] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include a user interface, wherein the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations, including stopping the pump after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed and providing the user interface with a notification indicating that the filter can be removed.

[0042] In some respects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that includes setting a filter precharge flag to true after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed.

[0043] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that further include operating a pump at an initial pump duty cycle in response to receiving a new filter within the filter unit, so as to pump fluid from a fluid source through the filter unit to a distribution outlet to precharge the new filter.

[0044] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include a reservoir configured to hold a volume of fluid, a fluid flow path from the reservoir through a filtration unit to a dispensing outlet, and a solenoid valve disposed along a recirculation flow path from the filtration unit to the reservoir, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to perform an operation that includes opening the solenoid valve after a predetermined amount of time to release pressure within the fluid flow path.

[0045] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include a dispensing solenoid disposed along a fluid flow path between the filter unit and the dispensing outlet, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to perform an operation that includes opening the dispensing solenoid prior to operating the pump.

[0046] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that further includes: receiving a second user input representing a request to pause the pump operation; and setting the pump duty cycle to zero in response to receiving the second user input.

[0047] In another aspect, a beverage system for filtering fluid is provided, the beverage system comprising: a filter unit; a dispensing outlet; a pump configured to pump fluid from a fluid supply unit through the filter unit to the dispensing outlet; a dispensing solenoid configured to control fluid flow from the filter unit to the dispensing outlet; a recirculation solenoid configured to control fluid flow from the filter unit back to the fluid supply unit along a recirculation path; and a controller comprising at least one processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform operations. Operations may include: receiving input representing a request to remove a filter from the filter unit; opening the dispensing solenoid and closing the recirculation solenoid; operating the pump for a predetermined period of time to pump excess fluid from the filter unit to the dispensing outlet; and stopping the pump in response to the elapsed predetermined period of time.

[0048] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include a reservoir configured to hold a volume of fluid, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to perform operations that further include: determining, based on a reservoir microswitch signal, that the reservoir has been removed from the beverage system; and initiating pump operation after a second predetermined period of time has elapsed since the determination that the reservoir has been removed.

[0049] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include a user interface, wherein the at least one processor may be configured to perform operations that further include: calculating a progress value for a discharge cycle based on the ratio of the pump's operating time to the sum of a predetermined time period and a second predetermined time period; and providing the progress value to the user interface for display.

[0050] In some respects, the first scheduled period can be approximately 8 seconds, and the second scheduled period can be approximately 5 seconds.

[0051] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that further includes: receiving a second input representing a request to pause the pump; and setting the pump duty cycle to zero in response to receiving the pause request.

[0052] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform an operation that further includes: receiving a third input characterizing a request to resume pump operation; and resuming pump operation in response to receiving the third input.

[0053] In some aspects, the at least one processor can be configured to perform operations that further include: shutting down the distribution solenoid in response to the expiration of a predetermined period; and setting a recycle request flag to true.

[0054] In another aspect, a filter cartridge assembly for a beverage system is provided, the filter cartridge assembly comprising: a filter cartridge configured to be removably positioned within an internal volume of a filter housing, the filter housing including a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet being located at a lower portion of the filter housing and configured to receive raw fluid, and the fluid outlet being located at an upper portion of the filter housing and configured to dispense filtered fluid; and a cover body configured to seal around a top opening of the filter housing, wherein the cover body may include a fluid port configured to be fluidly coupled to the fluid outlet of the filter housing. The fluid port may include an angled face that may be configured to engage a corresponding internal angled face of the fluid outlet of the filter housing when the cover body is placed within the filter housing, thereby providing an airtight seal between the fluid port of the cover body and the fluid outlet of the filter housing to establish a fluid path from the fluid inlet through the filter cartridge and the fluid port and exiting from the fluid outlet to the dispensing outlet.

[0055] In some aspects, the filter cartridge assembly may also include a locking shroud configured to lock the shroud body in place around the top opening of the filter housing, thereby securing the shroud body in place and further compressing the sealed connection between the shroud body and the top opening of the filter housing.

[0056] In some respects, the locking cover can be configured to lock and seal around the top opening of the filter housing via a bayonet locking mechanism.

[0057] In some aspects, the locking cover may also include a locking lug configured to engage a locking switch of the filter housing when the locking cover is locked in place around the top opening, thereby activating the locking switch to send a signal to the controller of the beverage system instructing the filter cartridge to be properly sealed within the filter housing.

[0058] In some respects, the angled surfaces inside the fluid port can be set at an angle between 30 and 60 degrees to the vertical plane.

[0059] In some respects, the fluid port can pivot on the housing body such that, after the housing body is sealed around the top opening of the filter housing, the angled surface of the fluid port can be pivoted to seal against the corresponding angled inner surface of the filter housing.

[0060] In some respects, the fluid port can slide on the housing body, such that after the housing body is sealed around the top opening of the filter housing, the angled surface of the fluid port can slide to seal against the corresponding angled inner surface of the filter housing.

[0061] In some respects, the fluid port can be rotated on the housing body such that, after the housing body is sealed around the top opening of the filter housing, the angled surface of the fluid port can be rotated to seal against the corresponding angled inner surface of the filter housing.

[0062] In some respects, the angled inner face of the fluid port facing the fluid outlet can be spring-biased such that when the cover body is placed inside the filter housing, the corresponding angled face of the fluid port is actuated to seal against the angled inner face.

[0063] In some respects, the cover body can be configured to be magnetically attached to the filter housing.

[0064] In some aspects, the angled face of the fluid port may include a magnetic component configured to interact with a corresponding magnetic component disposed in the angled face inside the fluid outlet to magnetically secure the angled face of the fluid port to the angled face inside the fluid outlet upon engagement.

[0065] In some respects, the fluid port may have an outlet that is shaped like a spoon or paddle with a rounded upper portion and a narrower lower neck region.

[0066] In another aspect, a beverage filtration unit for a beverage system is provided, the beverage filtration unit comprising: a filter housing including a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, a top opening, and a switch, the fluid inlet being located at a lower portion of the filter housing and configured to receive fluid to be filtered from a fluid supply section of the beverage system, the fluid outlet being located at an upper portion of the filter housing and configured to dispense filtered fluid from the filter housing to a dispensing outlet, the top opening being located at the upper portion of the filter housing, and the switch being configured to send a signal to a controller of the beverage system indicating that the filter assembly is properly sealed within the internal volume of the filter housing. The filter housing can be configured to removably receive a filter assembly within its internal volume via a top opening. The filter assembly includes: a filter cartridge having a filter medium configured to remove contaminants from fluid flowing therethrough; a cover body configured to seal around the top opening of the filter housing; and a locking cover configured to lockably seal around the top opening of the filter housing on the top of the cover body, wherein the locking cover includes at least one protrusion configured to actuate the switch of the filter housing when the locking cover is rotated to a locked position.

[0067] In some aspects, the switch may include a spring-biased switching element and a micro switch, wherein at least one protrusion of the locking cover may be configured to press down the spring-biased switching element when the locking cover is rotated to the locked position, thereby actuating the micro switch to send a signal to the controller of the beverage system indicating that the filter cartridge is properly installed in the filter housing.

[0068] In some aspects, the filter housing may also include a bayonet locking mechanism comprising a plurality of cutout portions formed along the upper edge of the filter housing, the cutout portions being configured to engage and secure corresponding plurality of radial protrusions disposed on a locking cover.

[0069] In some respects, the fluid outlet of the filter housing can be configured to be fluidly connected to the fluid port of the housing body to establish a fluid path from the fluid inlet through the filter cartridge and the fluid port and out of the fluid outlet to the distribution outlet.

[0070] In some aspects, the fluid outlet may include an internally angled surface configured to engage a corresponding angled surface of the fluid port to provide an airtight seal therebetween.

[0071] In some respects, the angled surface inside the fluid outlet can be set at an angle between 30 and 60 degrees to the vertical plane.

[0072] In some aspects, the angled inner surface of the fluid outlet may include a magnetic component configured to interact with a corresponding magnetic component disposed in the angled inner surface of the fluid port to magnetically secure the angled inner surface of the fluid port to the angled inner surface of the fluid outlet upon engagement.

[0073] In some respects, the fluid outlet may have a shape similar to a spoon or paddle structure with a rounded upper portion and a narrower lower neck region.

[0074] In some aspects, the filter housing may also include a recirculation outlet configured to be in fluid communication with a recirculation flow path defined between the filter housing and the fluid supply section of the beverage system.

[0075] In some respects, the recirculation outlet can be configured to be in fluid communication with a recirculation valve of the beverage system, which is configured to selectively allow fluid held in the filter housing to flow back toward the fluid supply section. Attached Figure Description

[0076] These and other features will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0077] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of one embodiment of a beverage device;

[0078] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the beverage device;

[0079] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of a pair of valves in the fluid supply reservoir of a beverage device;

[0080] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A top-view perspective view of a beverage device, showing the concealed housing and fluid supply reservoir of the beverage device;

[0081] Figure 5 It is by Figure 2 A partial three-dimensional view of the flow path defined by the beverage device;

[0082] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of the filter module and dispensing outlet of the beverage device;

[0083] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 A separate perspective view of the base volume reducer of the beverage device;

[0084] Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A separate three-dimensional view of the filter media of the filter module in the beverage device;

[0085] Figure 9 yes Figure 2 A separate perspective view of the lower end cover of the filter module of the beverage device;

[0086] Figure 10 yes Figure 2 A separate perspective view of the central core of the filter module in the beverage device;

[0087] Figure 11A yes Figure 2 A separate perspective view of the upper end cover of the filter module of the beverage device;

[0088] Figure 11B This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the upper end cover and filter seat of the filter module of the beverage device;

[0089] Figure 11C This is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the upper end cover of the filter module of the beverage device;

[0090] Figure 11D This is another embodiment of a filter holder connected to the filter module of a beverage device. Figure 11C A three-dimensional view of the upper end cover;

[0091] Figure 12A yes Figure 2 A top perspective view of the upper end cover and filter seat of the beverage device;

[0092] Figure 12B This is an exploded view of another embodiment of the upper end cover and filter seat of the beverage device;

[0093] Figure 12C yes Figure 12B A separate view of the locking mechanism of the upper end cover shown;

[0094] Figure 13A This is a cross-sectional perspective view of another embodiment of the filter module of the beverage device;

[0095] Figure 13B yes Figure 13A A separate cross-sectional view of the central core of the filter module;

[0096] Figure 13C This is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the filtering module of the beverage device;

[0097] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of another embodiment of the filter module of the beverage device;

[0098] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for monitoring the health status of the filter module in a beverage machine;

[0099] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the beverage device;

[0100] Figure 17 This is a diagram of another embodiment of the beverage device;

[0101] Figure 18 This is a diagram of another embodiment of the beverage device;

[0102] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the beverage device;

[0103] Figure 20 This is a diagram of another embodiment of the beverage device;

[0104] Figure 21A This is a side view of an embodiment of the filter medium;

[0105] Figure 21B yes Figure 21A A top-view perspective view of the filter media;

[0106] Figure 22 It is a graph showing the temperature of the beverage dispensed by beverage devices with and without a base volume reducer in their filter modules as a function of the quantity of beverage dispensed.

[0107] Figure 23 This is a graph showing the change in the total volume of fluid filtered by the beverage device over time.

[0108] Figure 24A It is a graph representing the flow rate of fluid pumped through the filter module by an embodiment of the beverage device;

[0109] Figure 24B It is a graph representing the flow rate of fluid pumped by an embodiment of the beverage device through a filter module when the pump of the beverage device is operating at maximum power.

[0110] Figure 25 This is a system diagram illustrating the fluid flow structure of a beverage device;

[0111] Figures 26A to 26F These are various views of the user interface of the beverage device based on the system described in this article;

[0112] Figure 27 It is a sectional side view of a beverage device and an enlarged detail of a part thereof;

[0113] Figure 28A This is an exploded view of the filter module used in beverage equipment;

[0114] Figure 28B This is an exploded view of a filter assembly for a beverage apparatus, which includes a filter cartridge and... Figure 28A The cover body and the locking cover;

[0115] Figures 29A to 29B They are Figure 28A Front and side views of the filter module's cover body;

[0116] Figure 30 yes Figure 28A A 3D view of the top part of the filter module;

[0117] Figure 31 yes Figure 28A A top view of the filter module, in which the cover body is placed inside the filter module;

[0118] Figure 32 yes Figure 30 A top view of the filter module, showing the locking cover placed inside the filter module;

[0119] Figure 33 yes Figure 32 A top sectional view of the filter module shows the protrusion of the locking cover that actuates the switch of the filter module;

[0120] Figure 34 yes Figure 30The cross-sectional side view of the top portion of the filter module shown illustrates the actuation of the filter module's switch.

[0121] Figure 35 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of pre-filling a filter in a beverage apparatus according to the system and method described herein;

[0122] Figure 36 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for performing a rinsing cycle of a beverage filtration system according to the system and method described herein;

[0123] Figure 37 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for performing an emission cycle of a beverage filtration system according to the system and method described herein;

[0124] Figure 38 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for controlling a pump in a beverage filtration system according to the system and method described herein;

[0125] Figure 39 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for performing PID-based pump duty cycle control in a beverage filtration system, according to the system and method described herein.

[0126] Figure 40 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for processing a dispensing request with a manual mode and a precise pouring option, according to the system and method described herein;

[0127] Figure 41 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for performing depressurization after beverage dispensing, according to the system and method described herein. Detailed Implementation

[0128] Countertop filtered water dispensers offer an appealing middle ground between filtered water tanks that typically require frequent refills and dispensers integrated with refrigerators that may require a significant financial investment. However, countertop dispensers usually retain water within their filter modules / units. This retained water can be warmed to ambient room temperature when not in use. Therefore, when the dispenser is used again, even if cold water is supplied, the initially dispensed water may be undesirably warm. This can be unpleasant for users who expect cold or cool water and often undermines their confidence in the dispenser's performance. Additionally, replacing the filter media in an existing countertop dispenser is often cumbersome. Existing dispensers may not clearly indicate when the filter media needs replacing. Ordering replacement filter media can also be time-consuming, as dispensers often do not provide indication of the appropriate filter media type, burdening users with the burden of consulting other resources (such as instruction manuals, which they may have discarded or lost) to determine the exact type of filter media used in their dispenser. These issues can frustrate users and hinder proper maintenance.

[0129] A beverage device is described below, which, in various embodiments, combines a removable fluid supply reservoir, a dedicated filtration module / unit, and an automatic pumping and filtration monitoring system. This device offers enhanced user convenience, improved filtration performance, and precise temperature control, while also simplifying maintenance and filter replacement.

[0130] In some aspects, the device may include a pump that can drive unfiltered fluid along a first flow path from the reservoir through the filter module to a dispensing outlet, and can selectively drive fluid back from the filter module to the reservoir along a recirculation flow path. This fluid recirculation capability allows the device to precisely manage the temperature of the fluid retained in the reservoir, thereby allowing the device to provide chilled beverages even after long periods of inactivity.

[0131] The filtration module may include a filter medium defining a central chamber. The filter medium may be coupled to a filter housing that defines a chamber in fluid communication with an unfiltered fluid reservoir. A filter shroud may be coupled to the filter medium. The body of the shroud may define a fluid outlet connected to a dispensing outlet of the device. During operation, unfiltered fluid may enter the filtration module through the filter housing, and the filter medium may draw fluid through its exterior into the central chamber. Filtered fluid may flow from the central chamber to the fluid outlet defined by the shroud body.

[0132] In some aspects, the filter housing includes a locking mechanism rotatably coupled to the housing body. When rotated relative to the housing body and the filter media, the locking mechanism engages a microswitch that confirms proper installation of the filter module. This allows the device to detect and warn the user of improper filter installation, thereby reducing the risk of leakage and ensuring reliable operation.

[0133] To further enhance usability, the device can automatically monitor the health status of the filter module using a flow meter located upstream of the filter module. Based on data characterizing the volume of fluid passing through the filter module, the device can provide notifications regarding the remaining lifespan of the filter media. These notifications may include scannable codes, such as QR codes, that link users directly to a digital storefront to order replacement filters, simplify the maintenance process, and encourage timely filter replacement.

[0134] Certain aspects will now be described to provide a general understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the apparatuses, systems, and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these aspects are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the apparatuses, systems, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting aspects. Features illustrated or described in conjunction with an exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other aspects. These modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this subject matter.

[0135] Furthermore, in this disclosure, components with similar names in an aspect generally have similar features, and therefore, in a particular aspect, the features of components with similar names are not necessarily fully described. Additionally, if linear or circular dimensions are used in the description of the disclosed systems, apparatus, and methods, such dimensions are not intended to limit the types of shapes that can be used in conjunction with such systems, apparatus, and methods. Those skilled in the art will recognize that equivalents of such linear and circular dimensions can be readily determined for any geometry.

[0136] exist Figure 1 A diagram of a beverage device 100 is provided according to several aspects. The diagram depicts the components of the beverage device 100, which can be used to filter and dispense fluid for user consumption based on user input received by the beverage device 100. In the illustrated diagram, the device 100 includes a fluid supply reservoir 102 (also referred to herein as a fluid reservoir, sump, or raw water tank), a filtration module 104, a dispensing outlet 106, a pump 108, an outlet valve 110, a recirculation valve 112, a switch 116, a user interface 118, and a controller 120. Each of these components is described in turn.

[0137] The fluid supply reservoir 102 provides a source of unfiltered water that the beverage device 100 can draw from it. This unfiltered water can then be filtered by the beverage device 100 and dispensed to the user, as described herein. The fluid supply reservoir can be a container defining an internal volume suitable for storing unfiltered fluids (e.g., unfiltered water). The fluid supply reservoir 102 can be refillable by the user. For ease of refilling, the reservoir 102 itself can be removed from the beverage device 100. The reservoir 102 may include a removable or openable cover or cap that allows fluid to be added directly to the reservoir from some other source, such as a tap. When refilled, the user can reattach or otherwise close the reservoir 102 via the cover or cap, and, if desired, reattach the reservoir 102 to the beverage device. The reservoir 102 can be formed of food-safe plastic, stainless steel, or other suitable materials, and can be manufactured in various forms and volumetric capacities, such as 1 liter, 1.5 liters, 2 liters, 3 liters, or more, depending on the intended use. The reservoir 102 can also be available in smaller or larger capacities as needed. For example, a much larger reservoir 102 may be useful if used in an office setting or in a setting where many people rely on the beverage dispenser 100.

[0138] As described above, the reservoir 102 can be removed from the main body of the beverage device 100, allowing the user to dispense and store the reservoir independently of the rest of the beverage device 100. In a variant of the beverage device 100 lacking temperature control, the reservoir 102 can be placed in a low-temperature environment, such as a refrigerator, to cool the unfiltered fluid contained therein before filtration and dispensing. This allows the user to pump when cold water is available without relying on an active cooling mechanism within the beverage device 100 itself. In some aspects, the device 100 may be provided with more than one reservoir 102 to allow for the replacement of depleted reservoirs on demand or to otherwise expand the volumetric capacity of unfiltered fluid that the beverage device 100 can pump from it; that is, the beverage device includes a docking station to receive different reservoirs 102 and / or multiple docking stations, each capable of receiving a different reservoir 102. This can be useful in variants lacking temperature control, as the user can keep a pre-filled reservoir 102 in a low-temperature environment for use on demand.

[0139] To support temperature management, the reservoir 102 may include features for maintaining a desired temperature of the fluid stored therein. For example, the reservoir 102 may be formed of an insulating material configured to mitigate temperature variations in the fluid contained therein. Alternatively or additionally, the reservoir 102 may include a removable insulating sleeve that can be removed when the reservoir is placed in a refrigerator and reattached when the reservoir is returned to the dispenser. Modular insulation means enable efficient cooling while maintaining thermal performance during use. Other features for temperature management that may be used alone or in combination with the features described above may include a heat-absorbing cooling sleeve (e.g., an ice pack sleeve) placed around the reservoir 102, a heat-absorbing cooling core placed directly in the reservoir 102, and a vacuum insulation section. Furthermore, the beverage device 100 may include an onboard cooling system to extract heat from the fluid stored in the reservoir 102.

[0140] The reservoir 102 may include an outlet valve to selectively allow fluid to flow from the reservoir 102. In some aspects, the outlet valve may be a mechanical valve that automatically opens when the reservoir is properly positioned in the body of the distributor. In other aspects, the outlet valve may be an electronically actuated valve controlled by the controller 120.

[0141] In some aspects, reservoir 102 may include a fluid inlet with an optional inlet valve through which fluid can be supplied from device 100 to reservoir 102 when reservoir 102 is connected to device 100. As described in further detail herein, the inlet of reservoir 102 may allow fluid that has been recirculated from other components of device 100 (e.g., filter module 104) to be added back to reservoir 102 for mixing with the fluid contained in reservoir 102.

[0142] Unfiltered fluid originating from reservoir 102 can be filtered by beverage device 100 using onboard filtration module / unit 104 to provide filtered fluid to the user. Filtration module 104 can be configured to receive unfiltered fluid from reservoir 102 and remove impurities from the fluid before dispensing it for consumption. Filtration module 104 can be housed within the body of device 100 and fluidly coupled downstream of reservoir 102 and upstream of dispensing outlet 106 via one or more internal flow paths.

[0143] Filter module 104 may include one or more filter media that perform the filtration function of removing contaminants from an unfiltered fluid. In some variations, filter module 104 may be fixed within a beverage device and include a filter housing that provides structure for the filter module, and filter media located within the filter housing to perform the filtration function. In other variations, filter module 104 may include removable components for easy replacement. In these variations, beverage device 100 may include a filter holder and a filter cartridge that can be received by the filter holder. The filter cartridge may include filter media and components for retaining the filter media (e.g., a cover, a rigid core, etc.), similar to those described above. As needed, such as at the end of the filter media's service life, a user can remove the filter cartridge from the filter holder and replace it with a new filter cartridge.

[0144] Depending on the contaminants to be removed from the unfiltered fluid, the exact properties of one or more filter media can vary. In some aspects, the filter media may include paper-based filter materials, which can provide a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for removing particulate matter and certain chemical contaminants. Alternative filter media options that can be used to replace or combine with paper-based filter materials include activated carbon, ceramics, ion exchange resins, composite multistage filters, etc.

[0145] As described above, the beverage device 100 may include a filtration module 104 having a removable component in the form of a filter cartridge, comprising a filter housing and a filter medium. This removability allows the user to replace the filter element when needed, such as when the filter medium has achieved its filtration capacity.

[0146] In removable variations, the beverage device 100 may include one or more components to detect the presence or installation status of a filter cartridge within the filter holder. For example, the beverage device may include a switch 116 located near or within the filter module 104, such as within the filter holder itself. The filter cartridge may be configured to engage switch 116 when properly installed and sealed within the device 100. Switch 116 may be a microswitch, such as a lever-actuated, push-button, or quick-actuated microswitch. Switch 116 may communicate electronically with controller 120, enabling the system to detect whether the filter cartridge is correctly installed. If switch 116 is not engaged, controller 120 may warn the user of improper installation, thereby reducing the risk of leakage, malfunction, or failure to filter fluid due to an incomplete seal or misalignment of the filter cartridge.

[0147] In some respects, controller 120 can be configured to implement interrupt-based detection of the presence of a filter. Controller 120 can monitor the state of switch 116 via an interrupt routine that executes at a predetermined polling rate. When switch 116 transitions from an off state to an on state, the interrupt routine can detect the transition and set a flag indicating that the filter cartridge has been placed within filter module 104. The interrupt-based detection method allows controller 120 to respond quickly to filter installation events without continuously polling the state of switch 116 within the main control loop of controller 120. As used herein, the term "flag" refers to a binary variable stored in the controller's memory that indicates whether a specific condition or state is active within the beverage system. Flags can have values ​​of true (e.g., 1) or false (e.g., 0). Setting a flag to true signals to other parts of the controller's logic that an associated condition has been detected or that a specific action should be taken. For example, setting a flag to true within an interrupt routine can cause the main control loop to initiate the corresponding operation during its next iteration. Flags can serve as a signaling mechanism that allows the controller to coordinate actions across various operating states and interrupt routines.

[0148] The controller 120 can also be configured to implement interrupt-based detection for other conditions, including pump stall and water addition. Interrupt routines can monitor multiple input signals and set corresponding flags when a transition is detected. This combined interrupt-based approach provides efficient monitoring of multiple system conditions while reducing processing overhead in the main control loop.

[0149] In some respects, controller 120 can be configured to implement debounce logic for inputs from switch 116 to prevent false detection. Mechanical microswitches may exhibit contact bounce as they transition between states, resulting in multiple rapid transitions that could be misinterpreted as multiple installation or removal events. Debounce logic can require switch 116 to remain in a consistent state for a predetermined number of consecutive polling cycles before controller 120 registers a valid state change. Debounce logic can filter out transient fluctuations caused by contact bounce, vibration, or electrical noise, thereby ensuring that controller 120 responds only to genuine filter installation or removal events.

[0150] Filtered fluid can flow downstream from the filter module 104 to the dispensing outlet 106 for user consumption. In some aspects, the outlet 106 may be located at the front or side of the device 100 and may discharge filtered fluid downwards to be received in drinking vessels, such as drinking glasses, bottles, etc.

[0151] The device 100 may also include the outlet valve 110 described above to selectively allow fluid to flow from the outlet 106. The outlet valve 110 may be configured within or upstream of the outlet 106 and may be configured to regulate when and how fluid is distributed. The outlet valve 110 may be actuated manually, electronically, or automatically, for example, in response to user input or the occurrence of some triggering event, such as the presence of fluid. The outlet valve 110 may be implemented using any suitable type of valve, such as a solenoid valve (which may be electronically actuated by the controller 120 to open or close based on user commands or programming logic), a pinch valve (which may mechanically contract a flexible tube to control flow and can be operated manually or via an electric mechanism), or a ball valve or gate valve (which may be used in more robust designs requiring precise flow control).

[0152] Fluid can be drawn from the fluid supply reservoir 102, filtered through the filter module 104, and distributed through the distribution outlet 106, all via the pump 108. This flow path from the reservoir 102 through the filter module 104 to the distribution outlet 106 can be referred to as the first flow path. This first flow path is the main flow path for the supply and filtration of fluid for final distribution to the user.

[0153] Pump 108 can be electronically controlled by controller 120, which will be described in more detail below. The type of pump used to implement pump 108 can be selected based on variables such as desired flow rate, noise level, and energy efficiency. Examples of suitable pump types include (but are not limited to) peristaltic pumps, diaphragm pumps, centrifugal pumps, and gear pumps. In some aspects, the pumping rate of pump 108 is between approximately 0.2 liters per minute (LPM) and approximately 5 LPM in any incremental step. In some aspects, the pumping rate of pump 108 is approximately 4 LPM.

[0154] Communication from controller 120 to the user can occur in various ways, including via wired or wireless transmission and via user interface 118. Controller 120 can be coupled to user interface 118, which facilitates interaction between the user and device 100. User interface 118 may include control elements for receiving user input, such as buttons, touch-sensitive panels, rotary dials, or capacitive sensors. User interface 118 may also include a display screen, such as an LCD, OLED, or e-ink display, for presenting information about, for example, device status, alarms, and commands. Through user interface 118, controller 120 can provide visual alarms, audio alarms, or other notifications about various device conditions, such as filter health, improper filter installation, or low liquid levels.

[0155] Alarms issued by controller 120 can be designed to prompt the user to perform specific actions, such as replacing the filter cartridge of filter module 104 or refilling fluid reservoir 102. Notifications regarding filter health may include scannable codes, such as QR codes, that link the user to a digital storefront or splash screen page for ordering replacement filter cartridges or filter media. In some aspects, controller 120 may track the amount of time that has elapsed since reservoir 102 was connected to the device and use this data, along with flow meter readings from flow meter 114, to determine whether the fluid in the reservoir may have reached ambient temperature or has been depleted, and may prompt the user via user interface 118 to cool or refill the reservoir as needed.

[0156] As described above, communication from controller 120 can occur in ways other than via user interface 118, such as via a wireless network. Wireless communication capabilities enable controller 120 to interact with other devices (e.g., a user's phone, personal computer, tablet, etc.) via communication components including transmitters, receivers, and antennas, or other similar capabilities. In these aspects, controller 120 can transmit notifications (e.g., notifications about filter health) to one or more connected devices. Such wireless notifications can be, for example, Bluetooth push notifications, Wi-Fi push notifications, email notifications, SMS notifications, and / or similar notifications. In some aspects, user interface 118 allows users to order replacement filter modules or filter media directly from a digital storefront of device 100, e.g., via dedicated controls such as clickable buttons or icons on a display.

[0157] To obtain feedback from device 100 to inform its operation, controller 120 can rely on data measured by sensors other than flow meter 114 to monitor various characteristics or conditions of device 100. These sensors can enhance system performance, enable intelligent control, and improve the user experience. One particularly useful class of sensors is temperature sensors, which can be used to facilitate fluid temperature management throughout the system. For example, in some variations, device 100 may include a first temperature sensor 113 located downstream of fluid supply reservoir 102 and a second temperature sensor 115 located downstream of filter module 104 along the recirculation flow path. Suitable temperature sensors include negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors, optical temperature sensors, etc. Temperature sensors 113 and 115 can communicate electronically with controller 120. During a recirculation cycle, controller 120 can use data from both sensors to monitor the temperature difference between the fluid drawn from reservoir 102 and the fluid returned from filter module 104 to reservoir 102. The controller 102 can be configured to maintain the recirculation cycle until the temperature difference drops below a threshold amount (e.g., 5°C or other amount), which indicates that the fluid in the filter module 104 reaches a temperature close to that of the fluid in the reservoir 102.

[0158] Alternatively or additionally, controller 120 may be configured to use data from the first temperature sensor 113 to determine when the fluid in the reservoir has been warmed to ambient room temperature. Controller 102 may be configured to alert the user via user interface 118 to recool the reservoir 102 or replace the fluid in the reservoir 102 with pre-cooling fluid. These alerts may be visual, audible, or displayed on a screen and may be accompanied by actionable prompts to guide the user throughout the maintenance process.

[0159] For proper filtration to occur, the health of filter module 104 must be maintained. Filters have inherent limitations in their use, as the filter media may become saturated with contaminants, deteriorate, or otherwise lose its ability to properly filter out contaminants over time. It is desirable to monitor and measure the quality of the filter media and communicate the measured quality to the user for maintenance or replacement to ensure continued proper filtration. This monitoring and measurement can occur in various ways, such as via flow meter 114. Filters can be rated based on their construction to properly filter a certain expected total volume of fluid. The health of the filter can be measured and reported by monitoring the volume of fluid flowing through the filter, such as filter media in filter module 104. Specifically, flow meter 114 can be configured to measure the volume of fluid flowing through filter module 104. Flow meter 114 provides data to controller 120, which can determine when the filter media should be replaced. Controller 120 can then provide a notification to the user indicating that the filter media has reached the point where it must be replaced with a new filter. This process is described in more detail below.

[0160] In addition to driving the fluid along the first flow path, pump 108 can also be configured to reverse or redirect the fluid flow along a recirculation flow path different from the first flow path, thereby allowing the fluid retained in filter module 104 to return to reservoir 102. This recirculation capability allows retained fluid that has been warmed during idle periods to be circulated back to reservoir 102, where it can be mixed with cooling fluid contained in reservoir 102 to lower its temperature. This allows device 100 to consistently deliver beverages at the desired temperature, even after prolonged periods of inactivity. In the absence of recirculation, idle fluid in device 100 will initially be dispensed via outlet 106, where, although the user desires cooled fluid, warm fluid will instead be provided.

[0161] The recirculation flow path can be defined between the filter module 104 and the reservoir 102. The recirculation flow path can be configured to deliver fluid from a first flow path to the fluid supply reservoir 102 via a recirculation valve 112 disposed between the filter module 104 and the reservoir 102. In some aspects, the recirculation valve 112 is disposed within or upstream of the inlet of the fluid supply reservoir 102. In some aspects, the recirculation valve 112 is disposed within or downstream of the outlet of the filter module 104. The recirculation valve 112 can be implemented using any suitable valve type, such as a solenoid valve, pinch valve, ball valve, or gate valve. The recirculation process is further described in detail below.

[0162] The controller 120 can be configured to manage various operational aspects of the device 100. The controller 120 may include at least one processor 122 and a memory 124, and can be implemented using various hardware platforms, such as microcontrollers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). The memory 124 may store instructions that, when executed by the processor 122, enable the controller 120 to operate components including the pump 108 and, in some aspects, an outlet valve 110 and / or a recirculation valve 112.

[0163] In some aspects, controller 120 may be configured to store historical data associated with device 100 in memory 124. For example, controller 120 may be configured to store historical allocated volume data provided by flow meter 114 in memory 124 for tracking the use of filter module 104 over time. In variations of device 100 that rely on removable filter cartridges, controller 120 may rely on historical allocated volume data as a means of monitoring filter health and transmitting it to the user.

[0164] In some aspects, controller 120 may be configured to control components such as pump 108, outlet valve 110, and recirculation valve 112 to prevent pressure build-up within beverage device 100 (e.g., pressure build-up within filter module 104). For example, during filtration and dispensing operations, controller 120 may be configured to operate pump 108 and outlet valve 110 such that there is a deliberate delay between (i) the opening or closing of pump 108 and (ii) the opening or closing of outlet valve 110. In some aspects, when dispensing is initiated, controller 120 first opens outlet valve 110 after a predetermined delay following pump start-up to avoid pressure spikes and entrained air release at the outlet. Conversely, when dispensing is terminated, controller 120 may close outlet valve 110 and, after a controlled delay, stop pump 108 to prevent sudden pressure drops and reverse flow through filter module 104.

[0165] To further mitigate pressure buildup across filter module 104 during outlet valve closure, controller 120 may be configured to selectively open recirculation valve 112 to establish a bypass path for pressure release away from distribution outlet 106. In some aspects, controller 120 may monitor the attachment / removal status of fluid supply reservoir 102 (e.g., via mechanical switches, magnetic sensors, or pressure transducer signals) and, during pressure release events, such as when reservoir removal is detected at the end of a distribution cycle, may automatically close recirculation valve 112 to suspend pressure release and prevent recirculated fluid from being sprayed from valve 112, or open a port at the interface between fluid supply reservoir 102 and device 100. When reservoir 102 is reattached, controller 120 may restart the pressure release process by reopening recirculation valve 112.

[0166] It should be understood that Figure 1 The combinations of beverage device components shown are provided as examples only and should not be construed as limiting. Different aspects of the beverage device may include alternative constructions, additional components, or omissions of certain elements, depending on the intended use, manufacturing constraints, or design preferences. For example, some aspects may omit recirculation flow paths, use different types of valves or pumps, or implement filtration monitoring via time-based tracking instead of flow measurement. Similarly, the configuration and type of sensors, user interface elements, and controller hardware may vary across implementations.

[0167] exist Figures 2 to 1 Figure 2 provides various views and components of the example beverage apparatus 200. Generally, components of the beverage apparatus 200 share features and functions with similarly named and numbered components of the beverage apparatus 100, as shown in reference... Figure 1 As described. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, references to specific parts of beverage device 200 should be understood to cover corresponding parts of beverage device 100. For the sake of brevity, certain details of the parts of beverage device 100 will not be repeated, but these details apply to corresponding and similar parts of beverage device 200.

[0168] like Figure 2 As shown, the device 200 may include a housing 201, a fluid supply reservoir 202, a dispensing outlet 206, a user interface 218, a drip tray 228, and a slotted support surface 230. Each of these components is described in further detail below.

[0169] The housing 201 can enclose and support various components of the device 200. The housing 201 can be formed from a variety of materials, including injection-molded plastics (e.g., ABS, polycarbonate), stainless steel, aluminum, or composite materials, which are selected based on factors such as durability, thermal performance, cost, and aesthetic appeal.

[0170] The housing 201 defines the total coverage area of ​​the device 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the coverage area defined by the housing 201 is a generally narrow, elliptical shape with rounded edges. This shape factor can contribute to a pleasing decorative and aesthetic appearance and allows the device 200 to be positioned in areas with limited available space, such as small kitchen countertops, lounges, or dormitories. Therefore, the device 200 can be ideally suited for users with compact living environments or minimal countertop space, providing functional and visual integration into modern home and workspace settings.

[0171] In some aspects, the length of a first dimension of device 200 (e.g., the length between the front and rear portions of device 200) can be between 300 and 500 mm, for example, approximately 325 mm, approximately 340 mm, approximately 350 mm, approximately 365 mm, or approximately 375 mm. In some aspects, the length of a second dimension of device 200 (e.g., the width of device 200) can be between 100 and 300 mm, for example, approximately 125 mm, approximately 127 mm, approximately 129 mm, or approximately 131 mm. In some aspects, the length of a third dimension of device 200 (e.g., the height of device 200) can be between 325 and 525 mm, for example, approximately 350 mm, approximately 352 mm, approximately 354 mm, approximately 358 mm, or approximately 360 mm.

[0172] like Figure 2 As shown, the housing 201 may include a base portion 201a, a rear portion 201b, and an elongated front portion 201c. The base portion 201a may be disposed at the lower ends of the rear portion 201b and the front portion 201c, and may be configured to support the device 200 on a support surface, such as a table or desktop. The rear portion 201b may be configured to support the fluid supply reservoir 202. The front portion 201c may be generally cylindrical in shape and may extend from the base portion 201a to a height above the rear portion 201b.

[0173] The fluid supply reservoir 202 can be removably coupled to the rear portion 201b. (Refer to reference...) Figure 1 Similar to the reservoir 102 of the described beverage device 100, the reservoir 202 is generally capable of storing unfiltered fluid that the device 200 can draw. The reservoir 202 may have an elongated shape with a rounded outer surface. When connected to the rear portion 201b, as... Figure 2 As shown, the outer surface of the water reservoir can be flush with the outer surface of the rear portion 201b. This ensures that the coverage area of ​​the device 200 does not change when the water reservoir is connected to the housing 201.

[0174] The reservoir 202 may have an open upper end through which fluid can be added to the internal volume of the reservoir 202. The open upper end 202a may be covered by a cover 203, which may be attached to the reservoir 202 by any suitable means (e.g., by hinge, by snap-fit ​​mechanism, by press-fit mechanism, etc.). In some aspects, the cover 203 and / or the reservoir 202 may include sealing features to prevent fluid leakage from the open upper end and to mitigate heat transfer into the internal volume of the reservoir 202.

[0175] To facilitate handling (e.g., during removal for refilling and / or cooling), the outer surface of reservoir 202 or any other part of reservoir 202 may include one or more features, such as the depicted indentation 205, to facilitate user handling. The indentation 205 can be gripped by the user and can reduce the risk of the water reservoir 202 falling. Other such features for ease of handling may include various handles, grips, textured surfaces, etc.

[0176] The upper end of the front side of the front portion 201c can support the dispensing outlet 206. Typically, the dispensing outlet 206 can be connected to a reference... Figure 1 The beverage device 100 described shares features and functions with the dispensing outlet 106. The device 200 can be configured to dispense fluid for consumption by a user through the dispensing outlet 206. A user of the device 200 can collect the fluid dispensed by the device 200 through the dispensing outlet 206 into a vessel such as a cup or bottle by placing the vessel below the dispensing outlet 206.

[0177] The user interface 218 can be supported on the upper front end of the front portion 201c in front of the dispensing outlet 206. Typically, the user interface 218 can be used with a reference... Figure 1 The user interface 118 of the described beverage device 100 shares features and functions. That is, the user interface 218 can be coupled to the controller of the beverage machine 200 and facilitates interaction between the user and the device 200. In some aspects, the user interface 218 may include a display screen, such as an LCD, OLED, or e-ink display, for presenting information about, for example, device status, alarms, and instructions.

[0178] The lower end of the front side of the front portion 201c can support the drip tray 228 and the slotted support surface 230. This configuration of the drip tray 228 relative to the dispensing outlet 206 allows the drip tray 228 to collect excess fluid that may drip or spill during or after dispensing, thereby helping to maintain the cleanliness around the device 200 and protecting the surrounding surfaces from moisture damage.

[0179] In some aspects, the drip tray 228 can be detached from the housing 201, allowing the user to easily empty and clean it as needed. For example, the drip tray 228 can be magnetically attached or snap-fitted into the base 226c of the housing 201, or in other cases attached to the rest of the device 200 in a manner that facilitates easy removal. In some aspects, the drip tray 228 may include a fill level indicator to notify the user when the fluid collected in the drip tray 228 has reached a level that guarantees emptying; or it may include an overflow protection feature to prevent excessive fluid from entering the drip tray 228 beyond its capacity. The drip tray 228 may be formed of a material such as plastic, stainless steel, or a composite polymer, chosen for durability, ease of cleaning, and / or aesthetic compatibility with the device housing.

[0180] The slotted support surface 230 can cover the drip tray 228 and can be configured to support a cup or container below the dispensing outlet 206 while allowing fluid to drain into its lower manifold. The slotted support surface 230 can be removed from the drip tray 228 to facilitate cleaning of the support surface 230 and emptying and cleaning of the drip tray 228. The slotted support surface 230 can be formed of materials such as plastic, stainless steel, composite polymers, and / or the like.

[0181] In order to fluidly connect reservoir 202 to the rest of the device, reservoir 202 may include features such as selectively allowing and preventing fluid transfer to and from reservoir 202 when reservoir 202 is removed and transported by the user, compared to when water is drawn from reservoir 202 during operation of the device. Figure 3 As shown, the bottom surface of the reservoir 202 may include a pair of openings 207, 209 extending therethrough. A first check valve 244 may be disposed in opening 207, and a second check valve 246 may be disposed in opening 209. Check valves 244, 246 may be spring-biased to a closed configuration. The rear portion 201b of the housing 201 may support a corresponding pair of valve seats 232, 234. When the reservoir 202 is connected to the housing 201, valve seat 232 may abut with the first check valve 244 to force valve 244 into an open configuration. Similarly, when the reservoir is connected to the housing 201, valve seat 234 may abut with the second check valve 246 to force valve 246 into an open configuration. When the reservoir 202 is disconnected from the housing 201, valves 244, 246 may be configured to automatically return to their closed configuration upon disengagement from their respective valve seats 232, 234. Although described as a stop valve, valves 244 and 246 can be any valve or similar structure capable of selectively closing openings 207 and 209.

[0182] Similar to a reference Figure 1The beverage device 100 and beverage device 200 described herein can filter unfiltered fluid originating from a fluid reservoir 202 and provide the filtered fluid to a user of the device 200 via a dispensing outlet 206. Additionally, like beverage device 100, beverage device 200 can recirculate fluid received from the fluid reservoir and retained in other (non-reservoir) components of the beverage device 200 back to the reservoir 202 to manage the temperature of the filtered and dispensed fluid. As described further below, housing 201 can accommodate components of the device 200 that allow unfiltered fluid to be drawn from the reservoir 202, filtered, and dispensed via the outlet 206, as well as components that allow fluid to be recirculated back to the reservoir 202.

[0183] Now for reference Figures 4 to 5 The housing 201 can accommodate the pump 208, flow meter 214, first flow tube 236, filter module 204, second flow tube 241, recirculation valve 212, and third flow tube 242. Each of these components is described in further detail below.

[0184] Pump 208 can be configured to drive fluid through various components of the beverage device 200. Typically, pump 208 can be used with reference to... Figure 1 The pump 108 of the beverage device 100 described shares features and functions. As described herein, the controller of the beverage device 200 may be configured to operate the pump to, for example, draw unfiltered fluid from the reservoir 202 for filtration and dispensing through the dispensing outlet 206, or to recirculate fluid previously removed from the reservoir 202 back to the reservoir 202 for fluid temperature management.

[0185] Flow meter 214 can be configured to measure the rate at which fluid is drawn from fluid reservoir 202 by pump 208. Typically, flow meter 214 can be used with a reference... Figure 1 The flow meter 114 of the beverage device 100 described shares features and functions. The flow meter 214 can be coupled to the controller of the beverage device 200, which can be configured to use the data provided by the flow meter 214 to, for example, determine the health status of consumable components (e.g., filter components) of the beverage device 200, as described herein.

[0186] A first flow tube 236 provides a flow path between the flow meter 214 and the pump 208. The first flow tube 236 may include a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a channel defined therebetween. Fluid may enter the flow tube 236 through the fluid inlet, flow along the channel, and exit the flow tube 236 through the fluid outlet. The flow tube 236 may be implemented using rigid piping (e.g., plastic or metal piping), flexible piping (e.g., rubber piping), or a combination thereof. In some aspects, one or more valves may be configured within the flow tube 236 to provide additional control over the flow of fluid through the flow tube 236.

[0187] The filter module 204 can be configured to receive unfiltered fluid from the reservoir 202 and remove impurities from the fluid before dispensing it for consumption. Typically, the filter module 204 can be used with reference to... Figure 1 The described beverage apparatus 100 shares features and functions with its filtration module 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the filtration module 204 includes a filter holder 204a. Figure 4 As shown, filter holder 204a can be an elongated cylindrical container configured to receive the removable filter element of filter module 204, as described herein. A removable cover 240 can cover the upper end of filter holder 204a to receive the removable filter element of filter module 204 therein.

[0188] The second flow tube 241 can provide a flow path between the pump 208 and the filter module 204. Specifically, as Figure 5 As shown, the second flow conduit 241 can provide a flow path between the pump 208 and the inlet 243 of the filter seat 204a. Like the first flow conduit 236, the second flow conduit 241 may include a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a channel defining therebetween. Fluid can enter the flow conduit 241 through the fluid inlet, flow along the channel, and exit the flow conduit 241 through the fluid outlet. The flow conduit 241 can be implemented using rigid piping (e.g., plastic or metal piping), flexible piping (e.g., rubber piping), or a combination thereof. In some aspects, one or more valves may be configured within the flow conduit 241 to provide additional control over the flow of fluid through the flow conduit 241.

[0189] During the filtration operation, unfiltered fluid can be drawn from the fluid reservoir 202 by pump 208 via valve seat 232. This unfiltered fluid can be drawn from valve seat 232, pass through flow meter 214, and enter pump 208 via first flow tube 236. Pump 208 can then drive the unfiltered fluid through inlet 243 to the filter module 204 and to filter seat 204a via second flow tube 241.

[0190] In addition to driving fluid from reservoir 202 to filter module 204 for filtration, pump 208 can also be configured to recirculate fluid contained in filter module 204 back to reservoir 202, thereby allowing fluid retained in filter module 204 to return to reservoir 202. This recirculation capability allows retained fluid that has become warm during idle periods to be circulated back to reservoir 202, where it can be mixed with cooling fluid contained in reservoir 202 to lower its temperature. This allows device 200 to consistently deliver beverages at the desired temperature, even after prolonged periods of non-use.

[0191] The recirculation valve 212 can be configured to facilitate fluid recirculation by controlling the fluid flow through the valve seat 234 back to the fluid reservoir 202. Typically, the recirculation valve 212 can be used with reference to... Figure 1 The recirculation valve 112 of the beverage device 100 described shares features and functions. In the illustrated embodiment, the recirculation valve 212 is a solenoid valve. The recirculation valve 212 can be coupled to a controller of the beverage device 200, which can be configured to selectively open and close the valve 212 to control the recirculation of fluid back to the fluid reservoir 202, as described herein.

[0192] The third flow pipe 242 can provide a flow path between the filter module 204 and the recirculation valve 212. Specifically, as Figure 4 As shown, the third flow tube 242 can provide a flow path between the outlet 247 of the filter seat 204a and the recirculation valve 212. Like the first flow tube 236 and the second flow tube 241, the third flow tube 242 can include a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a channel defined therebetween. Fluid can enter the flow tube 242 through the fluid inlet, flow along the channel, and exit the flow tube 242 through the fluid outlet. The flow tube 242 can be implemented using rigid conduit (e.g., plastic or metal conduit), flexible conduit (e.g., rubber conduit), or a combination thereof. In some aspects, one or more valves can be configured within the flow tube 242 to provide additional control over the flow of fluid through the flow tube 242.

[0193] During recirculation operation, the fluid contained in the filter module 204 can be driven out of the fluid module 204 by the pump 208 through the outlet 247 of the filter seat 204a. The pump 208 can then drive the fluid through the third flow tube 242 to the recirculation valve 212. The controller of the beverage device 200 can open the recirculation valve 212 to allow the fluid to pass through the recirculation valve to the valve seat 234, where the fluid can be received by the fluid reservoir 202.

[0194] As described, the filter module 204 can be configured to remove impurities from the unfiltered fluid received by the fluid reservoir 202. (See below for reference.) Figures 6 to 1 2. The components of the filter module 204 are described in further detail. Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the filter module 204 is shown; Figures 7 to 1 2. The various components of the filter module 204 are described separately.

[0195] As mentioned above, and as Figure 6 As shown, filter holder 204a may define chamber 252 therein. Inlet 243 may be an opening formed in the bottom surface of filter holder 204a. Unfiltered fluid may enter chamber 252 through inlet 243.

[0196] The lower portion of chamber 252 adjacent to entrance 243 can accommodate the base volume reducer 256. For example... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the base volume reducer 256 can be substantially cylindrical, having a closed upper surface 256a and an open lower end 256b. A cavity 256c can be formed in the upper surface 256a. The cavity 256c can have a truncated conical shape. Figure 6 A recess 256d extending along the entire length of the base volume reducer 256 may be formed in one side of the base volume reducer 256. The base volume reducer 256 may be disposed in the chamber 252 such that the recess 256d is adjacent to the inlet 243. Fluid entering the chamber 252 via the inlet 243 may first fill the portion of the chamber 252 surrounding the base volume reducer 256. When the fluid reaches the upper surface 256a of the base volume reducer 256, it may begin to fill the cavity 256c. The bottom edge of the defined open lower end 256b of the element 256 may be sealed to the bottom surface of the chamber 252 such that no fluid enters the portion of the chamber 252 below the element 256. This empty portion of the chamber 252 may insulate the fluid contained within the chamber 252 to mitigate heat transfer to the fluid.

[0197] supply Figure 6 and Figure 7 The base volume reducer aspect shown in the diagram is an example. Other base volume reducer aspects may omit features of base volume reducer 256, or include features other than those of base volume reducer 256, or features different from those of base volume reducer 256. For example, in some aspects, the base volume reducer may not include a cavity, such as cavity 256c. In some aspects, the base volume reducer may be secured by compression ribs. In some aspects, the base volume reducer may be configured to be removable from the filter seat by a user and may include a gripping feature to facilitate user removal. In some aspects, the base volume reducer may have a base welded to its bottom, which defines a sealed volume within the base volume reducer.

[0198] Chamber 252 may be configured to receive a removable filter cartridge 204b. Filter cartridge 204b may be configured to remove impurities from unfiltered fluid that is pumped into chamber 252 via inlet 243 and reaches filter housing 204a. Filter cartridge 204b may be configured to be detached from filter housing 204a, for example, at the end of its service life, and replaced with other unused filter cartridges as needed.

[0199] like Figure 6As shown, the filter cartridge 204b may include a filter medium 249, a lower end cover 246, a central core 248, and an upper end cover 250U. Each of these components is described in further detail below.

[0200] The filter media 249 can be configured to remove contaminants, such as particles, from unfiltered fluid received in the filter housing 204a. Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the filter medium 249 may have a hollow cylindrical structure defining a central channel 244b therethrough. The filter medium 249 may be configured to receive unfiltered fluid at its outer surface 244a. The fluid received at the outer surface 244a may be drawn into the filter medium 249 toward the central channel 244b.

[0201] The lower end of the filter medium 249 can be connected to a lower end cover 246. The lower end cover 246 can be configured to hold the filter medium 249 thereon. Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, the lower end cover 246 may include an outer wall 246a and a central inner wall 246b. An annular region 246c defined between the outer wall 246a and the inner wall 246b may provide a seat for the filter medium 249. The inner wall 246b may be configured to extend through the lower end of the central channel 244b. When the filter medium 249 is connected to the cover 246, the central region 246d of the cover 246 surrounded by the inner wall 246b may cover the open lower end of the central channel 244b.

[0202] The filter media 249 can be attached to the lower end cap 246 using an adhesive (e.g., glue). Figure 9 As shown, the surface of the lower end cover 246 may have a ribbed texture. This ribbed texture can increase the contact surface of the adhesive, thereby facilitating and strengthening the adhesion between the filter medium and the lower end cover 246.

[0203] The central core 248 can be disposed within the central channel 244b of the filter medium 249 and can be configured to prevent the filter medium 249 (which may be formed of a non-rigid material) from collapsing inward or otherwise deforming. The central core 248 can have a hollow cylindrical structure, such as... Figure 6 and Figure 10 As shown. The side surface of the central core 248 may be perforated with multiple through holes 248a. The lower edge of the central core 248 may surround the inner wall 246b of the lower end cover 246.

[0204] The filter medium 249, the inner wall 246b of the lower end cover 246, the central region 246d, and the central core 248 together define the central cavity of the filter cartridge 204b. During filtration operation, unfiltered fluid can be driven through the inlet 243 of the filter seat 204a and into the chamber 252. As previously described, the fluid can first fill the lower portion of the adjacent element 256 in the chamber 252. When the cavity 256c of element 256 is completely filled, the liquid level in the chamber 252 can continue to rise until it passes over the outer wall 246a of the lower end cover 246 of the filter cartridge 204b. At this point, the unfiltered fluid can be received by the filter medium 249 at its outer surface 244a and drawn through the filter medium to produce filtered fluid. Then, the filtered fluid can flow through the through-hole 248a in the central core 248 into the central cavity defined by the central channel 244b of the filter medium 249, the inner wall 246b and central region 246d of the lower end cover 246, and the central core 248.

[0205] The upper end cap 250U can be attached to the upper end of the filter medium 249. As described in further detail below, the upper end cap 250U can be configured to fluidly connect the filter cartridge 204b to the dispensing outlet 206 of the beverage device 200. The upper end cap 250U may include a locking mechanism 253 and a cap body 255. The cap body 255 may define a fluid passage 251. Figure 6 and Figure 11A As shown, the inlet 251a of the fluid passage 251 can extend into the central chamber of the filter module 204. For example, Figure 11A The cover body 255 is depicted, wherein the filter medium is removed to more easily highlight the structure of the cover body 255.

[0206] The outlet 251b of the fluid passage 251 can be configured to be fluidly connected to the inlet 245 formed at the upper end of the filter housing 204a. The inlet 245 can in turn be in fluid communication with the fluid passage 262 leading to the dispensing outlet 206. To prevent leakage, the outlet 251b on the inlet 245 and / or the housing 250 may include a sealing feature (e.g., a gasket, O-ring, etc.) configured to provide a face seal at the interface between the outlet 251b and the inlet 245.

[0207] During the distribution cycle, the filtered fluid collected in the central chamber of filter cartridge 204b can be driven into fluid passage 251 through inlet 251a. The filtered fluid can flow along fluid passage 251 until it exits the shroud body 255 through outlet 251b, passes through outlet 245, and enters fluid passage 262. Figure 11A In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 251b of the fluid passage 251 has a generally rounded trapezoidal geometry. Other outlet geometries may be implemented in other respects.

[0208] Figure 11B Another embodiment of the upper end cap 250U' connected to another embodiment of the filter seat 204a' is depicted. Typically, the upper end cap 250U' and the filter seat 204a' may share features and functions with each other. As shown, the upper end cap 250U' may include an outlet 251b' configured to connect to an inlet 245' of the filter seat 204a'. In the illustrated embodiment, both the outlet 251b' and the inlet 245' have a recessed circular (e.g., bean-shaped or apple-shaped) geometry.

[0209] Figures 11C to 11D Another embodiment of the upper end cap 250U'' and another embodiment of the filter holder 204a'' are shown. Typically, the upper end cap 250U'' and the filter holder 204a'' may share features and functions with the upper end cap 250U and the filter holder 204a. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper end cap 250U'' includes a pair of outlets 251b'' configured to connect to a corresponding pair of outlets 245'' of the filter holder 204a''.

[0210] It should be understood that Figure 11A , Figure 11B , Figure 11C and Figure 11D The illustrated shapes of outlets 251b, 251b' and 251b'' are exemplary and can be modified based on factors such as durability, flow performance, cost, aesthetics, and appeal to include both regular and irregular shapes to meet the requirements for proper connection between the device and the filter described herein.

[0211] like Figure 6 As shown, the device 200 may include an outlet valve 210 disposed in a fluid passage 262 upstream of the dispensing outlet 206. Typically, the outlet valve 210 may be connected to a reference... Figure 1 The outlet valve 110 of the described device 100 shares features and functions. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet valve 210 is a solenoid valve. The outlet valve 210 may be coupled to a controller of the device 200, which may be configured to selectively open and close the valve 210 (e.g., in response to user input provided via user interface 218) to control the distribution of filtered fluid through the dispensing outlet 206.

[0212] The locking mechanism 253 of the upper end cover 250U can be configured to selectively lock the filter cartridge 204b to the filter seat 204a within the chamber 252. The locking mechanism 253 may include a bayonet mechanism consisting of one or more radial protrusions. In the illustrated aspects, as... Figure 12AAs shown, the locking mechanism 253 includes a first radial protrusion 253a and a second radial protrusion 253b. The first radial protrusion 253a may be configured to engage a complementary cutout portion 254a formed along the upper edge of the filter seat 204a. Similarly, the second radial protrusion 253b may be configured to engage a complementary cutout portion 254b formed along the upper edge of the filter seat 204a. A first stop element 256a may be formed at one end of the cutout portion 254a, and a second stop element 256b may be formed at one end of the cutout portion 254b.

[0213] The locking mechanism 253 is rotatable relative to the filter medium 249 and the housing body 255 between a first position and a second position. When the locking mechanism 253 is rotated to the first position, the radial protrusions 253a and 253b can slide along the cut portions 254a and 254b away from the stop elements 256a and 256b, respectively, and the filter cartridge 204b can be unlocked from the filter holder 204a. Unlocking the filter cartridge 204b allows the filter cartridge to be separated from the filter module 204 and removed from the device 200, for example, for replacement or cleaning. When the locking mechanism 253 is rotated to the second position, the radial protrusions 253a and 253b can slide along the cut portions 254a and 254b toward the stop elements 256a and 256b, respectively, and the filter cartridge 204b can be locked to the filter holder 204a.

[0214] In some aspects, one or both of the stop elements 256a and 256b may include microswitches. One or more microswitches may be triggered when the locking mechanism 253 is properly rotated to the second position to lock the filter cartridge 204b to the filter holder 204a. If the filter cartridge 204b is improperly installed, the locking mechanism 253 may not trigger one or more microswitches. In some aspects, if the controller of the device 200 determines that one or more microswitches are disengaged, the device 200 may provide an alarm indicating that the filter cartridge 204b is improperly locked to the filter holder 204a.

[0215] Figure 12B The figure illustrates an alternative embodiment of filter module 204''' with another locking mechanism implementation. Typically, filter module 204''' (and its components) can share features and functions with filter module 204 (and its components). Like filter module 204, filter module 204''' may include a filter housing 204a'' and an upper end cover 250U''', which includes a locking mechanism 253''' and a cover body 255'''.

[0216] exist Figure 12BIn the illustrated aspect, the locking mechanism 253''' includes an inclined protrusion 253a''' extending radially from its outer edge. The filter seat 204a''' includes a corresponding groove 254a''' configured to engage with the protrusion 253a''' to connect the upper end cover 250U''' to the filter seat 204a'''.

[0217] Figure 12C A separate view of the locking mechanism 253''' is provided. As shown, the locking mechanism 253''' may include one or more ribs 281''' extending from its underside. The ribs 281''' may be configured to interact with an inclined boss on the top of the cover body 255''' to apply downward pressure as the locking mechanism 253''' rotates. In some aspects, the inclined boss may have a flat section such that when the locking mechanism 253''' is fully rotated, the ribs 281''' on the underside of the locking mechanism 253''' rest on the flat section of the inclined boss. The locking mechanism 253''' may be configured to remain at the same height within the groove 254a''' while the inclined boss pushes the cover body 255''' downward against the O-ring to compress the O-ring and form a seal. The inclined boss on the cover body 255''' may be arranged in a circular pattern concentric with and not concentric with the locking mechanism 253'''.

[0218] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 Between distribution cycles, fluid that has entered chamber 252 of filter seat 204a but has not yet been distributed through distribution outlet 206 can be retained in chamber 252. To prevent the retained fluid from becoming excessively hot, device 200 can be configured to recirculate the retained water back to fluid reservoir 202. During the recirculation cycle, the fluid contained in chamber 252 can be driven through outlet 247 of filter seat 204a, which may be formed near the upper end of filter seat 204a. Figure 6 Fluid exiting 247 can enter the third flow pipe 242 and then the solenoid valve 212. The solenoid valve 212 can open during recirculation to allow fluid to pass through. The fluid can then pass through opening 209 (…). Figure 5 Then it enters the fluid reservoir 202.

[0219] As explained herein, fluid can remain stagnant within the device between uses, such as in fluid lines, filter modules, etc. Once cooled, this fluid will eventually return to ambient temperature. When a user initiates fluid dispensing, even if drawn from a cooled reservoir, ambient temperature fluid will be dispensed first before the cooled fluid, thus raising the overall temperature of the cooled fluid to an undesirable level. Recirculation via a recirculation line can help circulate the ambient temperature fluid along with the cooled fluid to ensure the dispensed fluid is cooled as much as possible; however, mixing the cooled fluid with the ambient temperature fluid will result in a lower degree of cooling than in other cases. This recirculation process can be further improved by reducing or minimizing the amount of idle fluid to be recirculated, thus keeping the cooled fluid as cool as possible. For example, the negative effects of large amounts of ambient temperature water can be mitigated by reducing the total volume of space within the device where fluid might otherwise settle and reach ambient temperature. This can be achieved in several ways, as described below.

[0220] Figures 13A to 13B An embodiment of a filter module 1304 for a beverage apparatus is illustrated, wherein the fluid lines and passages have reduced internal volumes to minimize the influence of idle ambient temperature fluid on the cooling fluid. Typically, components of the filter module 1304 are similarly named and numbered to components of the filter module 204 of the beverage apparatus 200 (see reference...). Figures 2 to 1 (as described in 2) and components with similar names and numbers to filter module 104 (as referred to in reference 2). Figure 1 The features and functions described are shared. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, references to specific components of filter module 1304 should be understood to cover the corresponding components of filter modules 104 and / or 204.

[0221] Note that the illustrated shape of filter module 1304 is exemplary and can be modified based on factors such as durability, filtration performance, cost, aesthetics, and appeal.

[0222] like Figure 13A As shown, module 1304 may include a filter medium 1344 defining a central cavity. A central core 1348 may be disposed within the central cavity of the filter medium 1344. Figure 13BAs shown, the central core 1348 may include a first hollow support 1348a and a second hollow support 1348b disposed within the first hollow support 1348a. The first hollow support 1348a may be a hollow cylindrical surface with multiple through holes. The second hollow support 1348b may be configured to reduce the volume of the central cavity defined by the filter medium 1344, thereby limiting the amount of filtered water that the module 1304 can retain between dispensing cycles. By reducing the total volume of the space within the central cavity where fluid can otherwise settle and reach ambient temperature, the second hollow support 1348b can reduce or minimize the amount of idle fluid that needs to be recirculated.

[0223] In some aspects, fluid can flow into the filter module 1304 through an inlet at the upper end of the module 1304, through the filter 1344, through the first hollow support 1348a, and into a channel defined between the first hollow support 1348a and the second hollow support 1348b. During dispensing operations, the fluid can travel along this channel and enter an outlet port at the bottom end of the filter module 1304. During recirculation operations, the fluid can travel along the channel and exit through another outlet port formed on one side of the filter module 1304.

[0224] Figure 13C Another embodiment of a filter module 1304' for a beverage apparatus is shown, wherein the fluid lines and passages have reduced internal volumes to minimize the influence of idle ambient temperature fluid on the cooling fluid. Typically, filter module 1304' may share features and functions with filter module 1304. Like filter module 1304, filter module 1304' may include a filter medium 1344' and a central core formed by a first hollow support 1348a' and a second hollow support 1348b'.

[0225] The fluid channel 1348c' can be defined between the first hollow support 1348a' and the second hollow support 1348b'. Fluid passing through the filter medium 1344' can be received in the channel 1348e' and transported along the channel 1348e' to be delivered from the filter module 1304'.

[0226] The second hollow support 1348b' may include a first outer radial surface 1348d' extending to a first radius r1 and a second outer radial surface 1348e' extending to a second radius r2. The first outer radial surface 1348d' may be further away from the end of the filter medium 1344' than the second outer radial surface 1348e'.

[0227] As described, the filtration module of a beverage device may include a removable filter cartridge that can be detached from the beverage device and replaced with the same filtration module. By enabling the filter cartridge to be replaced as needed (e.g., when the filter media of a filter cartridge reaches the end of its service life), the described filtration module facilitates regular filter replacement.

[0228] In some aspects, filter modules may incorporate one or more fragile components, structurally designed to break or permanently deform when the filter cartridge is detached from the filter module. This intentional breakage mechanism serves as a tamper-proof and anti-reuse feature, effectively preventing the reinstallation of expired or previously used filter cartridges that may no longer meet performance or safety standards. Additionally, the fragile feature can prevent the use of unauthorized or non-compliant replacement cartridges by rendering the module inoperable should non-compliant components be introduced. This approach enhances the integrity of the filter module, ensures consistent water quality, and supports maintenance protocols that comply with regulatory or manufacturer-specified protocols.

[0229] Figure 14 An embodiment of a filter module 1404 is illustrated, incorporating fragile components designed to reduce tampering, filter media reuse, and unauthorized filter replacement. The filter module 1404 (and its components) can generally be used with other filter modules described herein, such as... Figure 13A The filter module 1304 shown shares features and functions.

[0230] As shown in the figure, the filter module 1404 may include a filter holder 1404 and a filter cartridge 1404b. The filter cartridge 1404b may be removably coupled to the filter holder 1404a and may include a filter medium 1444 surrounding a central core 1448 formed by an outer hollow support 1448a and an inner hollow support 1448b. An upper end cap 1450 may lock the filter cartridge 1404b to the filter holder 1404a.

[0231] In some aspects, the filter module 1404 may include a protrusion 1457 extending from the bottom surface of the filter housing 1404 and through an opening in the lower end of the inner hollow support 1448b. The protrusion 1457 can prevent the filter cartridge 1404b from being replaced by another filter device having a flat bottom surface.

[0232] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper end cap 1450 is attached to the filter cartridge 1404b via a pair of fragile snap-fit ​​features 1458f. Each fragile feature 1448f extends from the upper end of the inner hollow support 1448b and is connected to the upper end cap 1450 via the snap-fit ​​mechanism. When the filter cartridge 1404b is disengaged from the filter holder 1404, or in some aspects, when the filter cartridge 1404b is disassembled sequentially after removal (e.g., for disposal or recycling), the fragile features 1458f can be configured to break or be permanently deformed. This prevents the filter cartridge 1404b from being reattached to the filter holder 1404, and thus prevents the filter media 1444 from being reused.

[0233] The described beverage device can be configured to automatically monitor the health of its filter module, for example, to alert the user when the module requires maintenance, cleaning, or replacement, as previously described. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways. Figure 15 A filter module for monitoring beverage devices is provided (e.g., Figure 1 The filter module 104 shown Figure 6 An exemplary method 1500 describes the health status of the filter module 204 shown in Figure 13, the filter module 1304 shown in Figure 13, etc., and provides a notification characterizing that health status. The operation of method 1500 can be performed using a controller of the beverage device (e.g., Figure 1 This is achieved using the controller 120 shown.

[0234] At 1505, it can be accessed via a flow meter (e.g., Figure 1 The flow meter 114 shown Figure 3 The flow meter 214 shown receives data indicating the dispensing volume. This flow meter is configured to measure the volume of fluid flowing through the filter module. The dispensing volume characterizes the volume of fluid flowing through the filter module during a dispensing cycle.

[0235] At point 1510, the global allocation volume variable can be updated based on the received allocation volume. The global allocation volume variable can be stored in the controller's memory (e.g., ...). Figure 1 The memory 124 shown stores this information. In some aspects, the globally allocated volume variable can characterize the total volume of fluid that has flowed through the filter module during its lifetime (e.g., from the time the filter module is initially installed).

[0236] The globally allocated volume variable can be updated periodically or continuously until it exceeds a predetermined threshold. In some aspects, the predetermined threshold is based on the recommended maximum fluid volume that can be filtered by the filter module before replacement is required. In other aspects, the globally allocated volume variable exceeding the predetermined threshold can indicate the filter medium (e.g., Figure 6The filter medium 249 shown is no longer available and will likely become unavailable in the near future (e.g., within 24 hours, within a week, etc.).

[0237] At 1515, when the global allocation volume exceeds a predetermined threshold, it can be controlled by the display (e.g., Figure 1 The user interface 118 shown is... Figure 2 The user interface 218 (display shown) provides notifications characterizing the health status of the filter module. In some aspects, the notification characterizing the health status may include an indication of the time (e.g., date) when the filter module should be replaced. In some aspects, the notification may include a scannable code (e.g., a QR code) configured to link to a digital storefront through which replacement filter modules can be ordered, or may include push notifications or links provided to devices that communicate wirelessly with the controller, such as computers, mobile phones, etc.

[0238] In some aspects, the global allocation volume variable can be reset after replacing the filter module. In some aspects, the controller can automatically reset the global allocation volume variable when, for example, a microswitch associated with the filter module is detected to have disengaged and subsequently re-engaged, indicating that the old filter module has been removed and the new filter module has been installed. In some aspects, the controller can reset the global allocation volume variable upon receiving user input confirming via the user interface that the new filter module has been installed.

[0239] In some aspects, beverage devices can be configured to dock with one or more dedicated vessels specifically designed to attach to the device and receive filtered water dispensed from it. These vessels may include mechanical or magnetic alignment features, sealing interfaces, or locking mechanisms to ensure a secure and leak-free engagement with the dispensing outlet. Using dedicated vessels offers numerous advantages. Dedicated vessels enable manual operation of the beverage device by reducing or eliminating the need for manual positioning and minimizing the risk of spills. Additionally, dedicated vessels allow for optimized fluid flow and filling control, as the device can be calibrated to dispense a precise volume appropriate for the vessel's capacity. Third, dedicated vessels can be designed with features that enhance the user experience, such as heat insulation, lids, or portability. Finally, this configuration supports aesthetic and functional integration, allowing users to maintain a clean and tidy countertop while benefiting from a simplified and efficient dispensing process.

[0240] Figure 16 An exemplary beverage apparatus 1600 is illustrated, which includes a vessel 1660 for receiving filtered fluid dispensed from the apparatus 1600. Typically, components of the beverage apparatus 1600 can be used with, as shown in the reference... Figure 1 The beverage device 100 described and / or as referred to Figures 2 to 1Components of the beverage apparatus 200 described herein share similar names and numbers and features and functions. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, references to specific components of beverage apparatus 1600 should be understood to cover corresponding components of beverage apparatus 100 and / or beverage apparatus 200. For the sake of brevity, certain details of the components of beverage apparatus 1600 are not repeated, but these details apply to corresponding and similar components of beverage apparatus 100 and / or beverage apparatus 200.

[0241] The vessel 1660 may be a bottle or other reservoir configured to be removably attached to the beverage device 1600 to receive filtered fluid dispensed therefrom. In various aspects, the vessel 1660 may have a capacity of 0.5L, 1L, 1.5L, or different amounts. The vessel 1660 may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials, such as plastic, aluminum, glass, and / or the like. In some aspects, the vessel 1660 may include an opening through which the fluid contained in the vessel 1660 may be poured when the vessel 1660 is detached from the beverage device 1600.

[0242] In some aspects, the beverage apparatus 1600 may consist only of the vessel 1660. In other aspects, the beverage apparatus 1600 may include the vessel 1660 and one or more additional vessels configured, like the vessel 1660, to be removably attached to the beverage apparatus 1600 to receive filtered fluid dispensed therefrom. The additional vessels may be the same as or different from the vessel 1660. For example, the additional vessels may be vessels with a different capacity than the vessel 1660, or vessels made of a different material than the vessel 1660.

[0243] like Figure 16 As shown, the beverage device 1600 may include a fluid reservoir 1602, a filter module 1604, a dispensing outlet 1606, and a pump 1608. The fluid reservoir 1602, filter module 1604, dispensing outlet 1606, and pump 1608 are typically compatible with reference to... Figure 1 The beverage device 100 described and referenced Figures 2 to 1 The beverage apparatus 200 described in section 2 shares features and functions with similarly named and numbered components. For the sake of brevity, these components are not described in detail.

[0244] The beverage device 1600 may additionally include a level sensor 1611, a vessel holder 1670, a vessel sensor 1664, and a fill sensor 1666. Each of these components is described in detail below.

[0245] The level sensor 1611 enables the controller of device 1600 to automatically monitor the amount of fluid contained in reservoir 1602 at any given time. Figure 16As shown, a level sensor 1611 can be configured within the internal volume of the reservoir, in which fluid is configured to be contained. The level sensor 1611 can be coupled to a controller of the device 1600, which can be configured to detect when the reservoir 1602 needs refilling based on data provided by the level sensor 1611. The controller 1600 can be configured to provide an alarm or notification regarding the amount of water contained in the reservoir 1602 (e.g., via a user interface of the device 1600), for example, to notify the user when the reservoir 1602 is empty or nearly empty.

[0246] The level sensor 1611 can be implemented using any suitable device or combination of devices. In some aspects, the level sensor 1611 includes one or more floats and a sensor configured to detect the movement of the one or more floats. For example, the level sensor 1611 can be implemented using one or more magnetic seesaw floats and a Hall effect sensor.

[0247] The vessel holder 1670 can be configured to receive the vessel 1660 thereon. For example... Figure 16 As shown, the dispensing outlet 1606 may extend through the vessel seat 1670. In some aspects, the vessel seat 1670 may be configured to dock with a valve of the vessel 1660 to open a fluid flow path between the vessel 1660 and the dispensing outlet 1606.

[0248] The vessel sensor 1664 can be configured to detect when the vessel 1660 is properly connected to the vessel holder 1670. The vessel sensor 1664 can be implemented using any suitable means or combination of means. For example, the vessel sensor 1664 may include a microswitch configured to engage when the vessel 1660 is connected to the vessel holder 1670.

[0249] In some aspects, if device 1600 is provided with multiple containers (e.g., container 1660 and one or more additional containers), container sensor 1664 may be configured to identify which of the containers is attached to device 1600. In some aspects, each container may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag configured to uniquely identify the container, and container sensor 1664 may include a radio frequency (RF) sensor configured to detect various RFID tags. In some aspects, each container may include a different color feature, and container sensor 1664 may include a color sensor (e.g., an RGB sensor) configured to identify said color.

[0250] The dish sensor 1664 can be coupled to the controller of the beverage machine 1600. In some aspects, the controller can be configured to initiate and terminate fluid dispensing through the fluid outlet 1606 based on whether the data provided by the dish sensor 1664 indicates that the dish 1660 is coupled to the dish holder 1670. In some aspects, the controller can be configured to determine the amount of fluid to be dispensed into the dish 1660 based on the data provided by the dish sensor 1664.

[0251] The fill sensor 1666 can be configured to measure the fill level of the vessel 1660. In the illustrated embodiment, the fill sensor 1666 includes a load cell disposed below the vessel holder 1670. The load cell can be configured to measure the weight of the vessel 1660 and any fluid contained therein. As filtered fluid is pumped into the vessel 1660, the load cell can measure the increase in weight of the vessel 1660. In other aspects, the fill sensor 1666 can be a flow meter. The fill sensor 1666 can be coupled to a controller of the beverage machine 1600, which can be configured to control the amount of fluid dispensed from the beverage machine 1600 by continuously monitoring the data provided by the fill sensor 1666.

[0252] In some respects, beverage devices can be constructed without recirculation functionality. By omitting the components and control logic required for fluid recirculation (e.g., additional valves, flow paths, etc.), beverage devices can achieve a simplified architecture that reduces manufacturing complexity and cost. This minimalist design also allows for a smaller overall coverage area, making the device more suitable for compact environments such as kitchenettes, dorm rooms, or desks.

[0253] Figure 17 A diagram of a non-recycled beverage device 1700 is shown. Typically, components of the beverage device 1700 can be used with other beverage devices described herein (e.g., as referenced). Figure 1 The beverage device 100 described herein, as referred to Figures 2 to 1 Components of the beverage apparatus 200 (etc.) described in 2, which share similar names and numbers, share features and functions. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, references to specific components of the beverage apparatus 1700 should be understood to cover corresponding components of other described beverage apparatuses. For the sake of brevity, certain details of the components of the beverage apparatus 1700 will not be repeated, but these details apply to corresponding and similar components of other beverage apparatuses.

[0254] like Figure 17 As shown, the beverage device 1700 may include a fluid reservoir 1702, a flow meter 1714, a pump 1708, a filter module 1704, and an outlet valve 1710. The fluid reservoir 1702, flow meter 1714, pump 1708, filter module 1704, and outlet valve 1710 can typically be used with, for example, referenced... Figure 1 The beverage device 100 described and referenced Figures 2 to 1 The beverage apparatus 200 described in section 2 shares features and functions with similarly named and numbered components. For the sake of brevity, these components are not described in detail.

[0255] Device 1700 may additionally include check valve 1780. For example... Figure 17 As shown, check valve 1780 can be configured upstream of pump 1708 and downstream of filter module 1704. Check valve 1780 can be configured to control the flow of fluid from pump 1708 to filter module 1704. Check valve 1780 can be implemented using any suitable type of valve, such as a solenoid valve (which can be electronically actuated by the controller of device 1700 to open or close based on user commands or programming logic), pinch valve, ball valve, or gate valve.

[0256] In some aspects, beverage devices may include a heating element configured to heat filtered water prior to dispensing, enabling the device to deliver filtered water for heating beverages such as tea, instant coffee, or soup, in addition to (or alternatively to) cooled or ambient temperature water for drinking. These aspects eliminate the need for a separate water heater, such as a kettle, thus saving space and streamlining kitchen workflows. The heating function can be precisely controlled by the device's controller, allowing for target temperature settings and energy-efficient operation. Additionally, because the water is filtered before heating, users can benefit from improved taste and safety, particularly in areas with poor tap water quality.

[0257] Figure 18 The diagram illustrates a beverage apparatus 1800 configured to dispense heated and unheated filtered fluids. Typically, components of the beverage apparatus 1800 can be used with other beverage apparatuses described herein (e.g., as referenced). Figure 1 The beverage device 100 described herein, as referred to Figures 2 to 1 Components of the beverage apparatus 200 (etc.) described in 2, which share similar names and numbers, share features and functions. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, references to specific components of the beverage apparatus 1800 should be understood to cover corresponding components of other described beverage apparatuses. For the sake of brevity, certain details of the components of the beverage apparatus 1800 will not be repeated, but these details apply to corresponding and similar components of other beverage apparatuses.

[0258] like Figure 18 As shown, the beverage device 1800 may include a fluid reservoir 1802, a flow meter 1814, a filter module 1804, and an outlet valve 1810. The fluid reservoir 1802, flow meter 1814, filter module 1804, and outlet valve 1810 can typically be used with, for example, referenced... Figure 1 The beverage device 100 described and referenced Figures 2 to 1The beverage apparatus 200 described in section 2 shares features and functions with similarly named and numbered components. For the sake of brevity, these components are not described in detail.

[0259] Additionally, the beverage device 1800 may include a reservoir valve 1844, a pair of pumps 1808a and 1808b, a filter seal 1882, a fluid heater 1890, a hot water valve 1884, and a sealed conduit 1886. Each of these components is described in further detail below.

[0260] The reservoir valve 1844 can be configured to control the outflow of unfiltered fluid from the fluid reservoir 1802. Typically, the reservoir valve 1844 can be referenced above. Figure 3 The valves 244 and / or 246 of the described device 200 share a common feature. In some aspects, when valve 1844 is open, fluid can flow into and out of reservoir 1802 through an opening in reservoir 1802.

[0261] The pumps 1808a and 1808b can be configured to drive fluid throughout the beverage device 1800. Each pump 1808a and 1808b can share features and functions with pumps of other beverage devices described herein, such as pump 108 of beverage device 100. Figure 1 ) and / or the pump 208 of the beverage device 200 Figures 2 to 1 2) Due to the pair of pumps 1808a and 1808b, device 1800 provides enhanced fluid control and operational flexibility compared to devices with a single pump. Multiple pumps can contribute to redundancy and reliability, ensuring continued operation even if one pump requires maintenance.

[0262] Filter seal 1882 may be configured to prevent fluid leakage from filter module 1804. In some aspects, filter seal 1882 may include an O-ring disposed on the filter and an outlet surrounding a top cover of the filter module (e.g., see reference 1804). Figure 11A The seal of the outlet 251b of the top cover 250 is described.

[0263] The fluid heater 1890 can be configured to heat filtered water to a temperature above ambient temperature. For example... Figure 18 As shown, the fluid heater 1890 can be configured downstream of the filter module 1804 and can be configured to receive filtered fluid from the filter module 1804. The filtered water supplied to the fluid heater 1890 can be heated by the fluid heater 1890 and then distributed from the device 1800 via the outlet of the fluid heater 1890.

[0264] Various types of heating technologies can be used to implement the fluid heater 1890, including resistance heaters (e.g., nickel-chromium alloy coils), PTC (positive temperature coefficient) ceramic heaters, and induction heating elements. The fluid heater 1890 can be controlled by the controller of the device 1800 to maintain a target temperature range, thereby enabling the dispenser to deliver heated beverages, such as tea, coffee, or soup, with consistent thermal performance.

[0265] Hot water valve 1884 can be configured upstream of filter module 1804 and downstream of filter module fluid heater 1890 and outlet valve 1810. Hot water valve 1844 can be configured to control whether fluid from filter module 1804 flows to fluid heater 1890 to be heated before being dispensed, or flows to outlet valve 1810 to be dispensed without heating. Hot water valve 1844 can be implemented using any suitable type of valve, such as a solenoid valve (which can be electronically actuated by the controller of device 1800 to open or close based on user commands or programmed logic), pinch valve, ball valve, or gate valve.

[0266] The sealed conduit 1886 can connect to one or more components of the device 1800. In some aspects, the sealed conduit 1886 can be a platinum-cured silicone conduit. Platinum curing enhances the oxygen barrier properties of the conduit, reducing the amount of gas that can pass through the silicone resin, thereby preventing contamination. Additionally, compared to unplatinum-cured silicone conduit, platinum-cured silicone conduit can have a smoother surface, which can reduce microbial growth on the conduit.

[0267] In some aspects, device 1800 may include a pressure relief / air venting passage 1895. Passage 1895 may be configured to release air from filter module 1804 to reduce the pressure level within filter module 1804. Figure 18 As shown, passage 1895 allows the filter module 1804 to be connected downstream of the fluid reservoir 1802 and upstream of the flow meter 1814. In some aspects, air released from the filter module 1804 can be pumped into the fluid reservoir.

[0268] In some aspects, a beverage device may include one or more controls configured to provide a user with additional control over the device's automated functions. For example, a beverage device may include controls configured to allow a user to manually reset or adjust values ​​stored by the device's controller. Such controls enable fine-grained troubleshooting and maintenance and allow the user to customize the device's automated functions to their specific needs.

[0269] Figure 19 An exemplary beverage device 1900 is illustrated. Typically, components of the beverage device 1900 can be used with other beverage devices described herein (e.g., as referenced). Figure 1The beverage device 100 described herein, as referred to Figures 2 to 1 Components of the beverage apparatus 200 (e.g., described in 2) with similar names and numbers share features and functions. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, references to specific components of beverage apparatus 1900 should be understood to cover corresponding components of other described beverage apparatuses. For the sake of brevity, certain details of the components of beverage apparatus 1900 are not repeated, but these details apply to corresponding and similar components of other beverage apparatuses.

[0270] like Figure 19 As shown, the beverage device 1900 may include a fluid reservoir 1902, a pump 1908, a filter module 1904, a fill sensor 1966, and an outlet valve 1910. The fluid reservoir 1902 includes a reservoir valve 1944 and a level sensor 1911. These components are typically compatible with, for example, referenced in the figure. Figure 1 The beverage device 100 described and referenced Figures 2 to 1 The beverage apparatus 200 described in section 2 shares features and functions with similarly named and numbered components. For the sake of brevity, these components are not described in detail.

[0271] Additionally, the beverage device 1900 may include a filter module detection sensor 1996 and a filter reset control 1998. Each of these components is described in further detail below.

[0272] The filter module detection sensor 1996 can be configured to be adjacent to the filter module 1904 and can be configured to detect when the filter module 1904 is properly installed within the device 1900. The filter module detection sensor 1996 can include any suitable combination of devices. In some aspects, the filter module detection sensor 1996 can include one or more microswitches configured to be activated by the filter module 1904 when the filter module 1904 is properly installed.

[0273] The filter reset control 1998 can be configured to reset the value of a globally allocated volume variable, which represents the total volume of fluid that has flowed through the filter module 1904 during its service life (e.g., from the time the filter module is initially installed). The globally allocated volume variable can be stored in the memory of the controller of the device 1900. When the filter reset control 1998 is engaged, the value of the globally allocated volume variable can be updated to an initial value corresponding to the start of the service life of the filter module 1904. The filter reset control 1998 can be implemented using a button, switch, capacitive touch sensor, and / or the like. In some aspects, the filter reset control 1998 can be provided as a component of the user interface of the device 1900. In some aspects, the filter reset control 1998 can be housed within an internal area of ​​the device 1900, for example, to mitigate the risk of accidental reset of the globally allocated volume variable.

[0274] Figure 20 A diagram of a beverage device 2000 is illustrated, which is configured to recirculate retained fluids (e.g., air and / or water) to manage fluid temperature and pressure within the device 2000. Typically, components of the beverage device 2000 can be used with other beverage devices described herein (e.g., as referenced). Figure 1 The beverage device 100 described herein, as referred to Figures 2 to 1 Components of the beverage apparatus 2000 (e.g., the beverage apparatus described in 2000) with similar names and similar numbers share features and functions. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, references to specific components of the beverage apparatus 2000 should be understood to cover corresponding components of other described beverage apparatuses. For the sake of brevity, certain details of the components of the beverage apparatus 2000 will not be repeated, but these details apply to corresponding and similar components of other beverage apparatuses.

[0275] like Figure 20 As shown, the beverage device 2000 may include a fluid reservoir 2002, a flow meter 2014, a pump 2008, a filter module 2004, an outlet valve 2010, and a recirculation valve 2012. The fluid reservoir 2002, flow meter 2014, pump 2008, filter module 2004, outlet valve 2010, and recirculation valve 2012 can typically be used with, for example, referenced... Figure 1 The described beverage device 100 and reference Figures 2 to 1 The beverage apparatus 200 described in section 2 shares features and functions with similarly named and numbered components. For the sake of brevity, these components are not described in detail.

[0276] A recirculation valve 2012 can be configured in the flow path between the filter module 2004 and the fluid reservoir 2002. During recirculation operation, fluid (e.g., air or water) retained by the filter module 2004 can be pumped from the filter module 2004 to the recirculation valve 2012. The recirculation valve 2012 can be opened to allow this fluid to flow into the water reservoir 2002.

[0277] The recirculation valve 2012 can be any suitable type of valve (or combination of valves). In some aspects, the recirculation valve 2012 can be a solenoid valve. In these aspects, the recirculation valve 2012 can be operatively coupled to a controller of the device 2000. During recirculation operation, the controller can open the recirculation valve 2012 to allow recirculated fluid to flow from the filter module 2004 to the reservoir 2002. During filtration / dispensing operation, the controller can close the recirculation valve 2012.

[0278] As described, the filtration module of a beverage apparatus may include one or more filter media that perform a filtration function to remove contaminants from an unfiltered fluid. The filter media may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials and may have any suitable structure.

[0279] Figures 21A to 21B An exemplary filter medium 2144 is depicted. In the depicted embodiment, the filter medium 2144 includes multiple layers of pleated sheets 2144a wrapped to form a generally cylindrical structure defining a hollow core 2144b therethrough. Each layered sheet may be formed of a material configured to remove contaminants from an unfiltered fluid. In some aspects, each sheet may be formed of paper. In some aspects, the filter medium 2144 may include at least two different types of layers 2144a. For example, the filter medium 2144 may include a first layer formed of a first material and a second layer formed of a second material, or a first layer having a first thickness and a second layer having a second thickness.

[0280] Figures 22 to 24B Graphs representing the performance of various beverage devices are provided. Each of these graphs is described in further detail below.

[0281] Figure 22This is graph 2200, showing the temperature of the beverage dispensed as a function of the quantity of beverage dispensed, with and without a base volume reducer in the beverage device's filter module. Each line 2200a to 2200f in graph 2200 indicates, for a given recirculation cycle duration (30 seconds, 45 seconds, 60 seconds) and a given filter module configuration (with or without a base volume reducer), the temperature of the dispensed 12 ounces of beverage changes as the quantity of 12 ounces of beverage dispensed increases. As shown, a temperature decrease occurs between approximately 5°F and approximately 10°F between the first and second dispensed beverages.

[0282] Figure 23 This is graph 2300 showing the total volume of the fluid filtered by the beverage device as a function of time. As described, the beverage device can be configured to monitor the total volume of the filtered fluid, for example, using data provided by a flow meter, to track the health status of the filtration module.

[0283] Figure 24A Graph 2400 is a graph characterizing the flow rate of fluid pumped through the filtration module by an embodiment of the beverage device. During operation, the beverage device can be configured to control the pump such that the flow rate of fluid through the filtration module is maintained at approximately a predetermined target flow rate (2500 mL / min in the depicted example).

[0284] Figure 24B This is graph 2450, which characterizes the flow rate at which the beverage apparatus pumps fluid through the filter module when the pump operates at maximum power. As shown, when the pump operates at its maximum capacity, fluid can be driven through the filter module at a rate exceeding the target flow rate during normal operation (2500 mL / min in this example). The beverage apparatus can be configured to increase the operating power of the pump above the target flow rate (thus increasing the flow rate of fluid through the filter module) to prevent a decrease in flow rate due to, for example, clogging of the filter module by deposits.

[0285] Figure 25 A beverage system 2500 for filtering fluids is illustrated. In some respects, the components and functions of the beverage system 2500 may be similar to those of the beverage system constructed as described above. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, references to specific components / functions of the beverage system 2500 should be understood to cover corresponding components of other described beverage devices. For the sake of brevity, certain details of the components of the beverage system 2500 are not repeated, but these details apply to corresponding and similar components of other beverage devices.

[0286] like Figure 25As shown, the beverage system 2500 may include a raw water tank 2502, a flow meter 2504, a water pump 2506, a recirculation solenoid 2508, a pressure relief valve 2510, a filter module 2512, a check valve 2514, and a distribution solenoid 2516 configured to distribute filtered fluid into a vessel 2518. The beverage system 2500 may also include a reservoir microswitch (not shown) and a filter detection microswitch (not shown), the reservoir microswitch being configured to detect the presence and proper installation of the raw water tank 2502 in the beverage system 2500, and the filter detection microswitch being configured to detect the presence or absence of the filter module 2512. The raw water tank 2502 serves as a fluid supply reservoir, configured to hold unfiltered fluid from which the beverage system 2500 can draw, similar to the reference designation. Figure 18 The fluid reservoir 1802 is described. A flow meter 2504 can be configured downstream of the raw water tank 2502 to measure the volume of fluid flowing through the beverage system 2500, similar to the reference. Figure 18 The flow meter 1814 is described. The water pump 2506 can be configured to draw fluid from the raw water tank 2502 through the flow meter 2504 and drive the fluid through the beverage system 2500, similar to the above reference. Figure 18 The described dual-pump system.

[0287] The recirculation solenoid 2508 controls the fluid to flow back to the original water tank 2502 along the recirculation path, similar to that described above. In the illustrated embodiment, the recirculation solenoid 2508 is a normally closed solenoid valve connected to a controller that selectively opens and closes the recirculation solenoid 2508 to control the fluid recirculation back to the original water tank 2502, similar to the referenced... Figure 1 The described recirculation valve 112 and reference Figures 2 to 1 2. The recirculation valve 212 is described. The pressure relief valve 2510 regulates the pressure within the fluid passage of the beverage system 2500. (As described in section 2) Figure 25 As shown, an air venting path extends from the pressure relief valve 2510 toward the raw water tank 2502, thereby allowing the pressure relief valve 2510 to release air from the filter module 2512 and reduce the pressure level within the filter module 2512. Based on data provided by the filter detection microswitch, the controller determines whether the filter module 2512 is properly installed, and can provide an alarm if the filter module 2512 is missing or improperly installed.

[0288] Filter module 2512 receives unfiltered fluid from raw water tank 2502 and removes impurities from the fluid before dispensing, similar to reference [reference]. Figure 18The described filter module 1804. A check valve 2514, located downstream of the filter module 2512, controls the direction of fluid flow within the beverage system 2500 and prevents backflow of fluid toward the filter module 2512 during certain operating conditions. A dispensing solenoid 2516 controls the release of filtered water from the beverage system 2500 to a dispensing outlet. In the illustrated embodiment, the dispensing solenoid 2516 is a normally closed solenoid valve coupled to a controller that selectively opens and closes the dispensing solenoid 2516 to control the dispensing of filtered fluid to containers such as glass bottles or tanks for user consumption.

[0289] The beverage system 2500 may also include a controller 2520, which is also referred to herein as, for example, at least one processor, and is configured to control the operation of the system 2500. In some aspects, the controller 2520 may be similar to Figure 1 The controller 120 can operate similarly. See below for reference. Figures 35 to 41 The operations performed by controller 2520 are described in more detail. In some aspects, controller 2520 can store system variables (such as filter change counts, total distribution volume, remaining filter lifetime, and timing parameters) in non-volatile memory, so that beverage system 2500 can resume operation after a power outage without losing usage data or configuration settings. In some aspects, the controller's main control loop can operate at fixed intervals (e.g., 200 milliseconds) to provide consistent timing for monitoring sensors, updating system status, and controlling output devices (such as pump 2506, recirculation solenoid 2508, and distribution solenoid 2516). In other aspects, the control loop can be executed in response to specific events, such as the installation of a new filter or a sudden drop in flow rate. Other timing intervals may be used depending on the controller's processing capacity and the system's responsiveness requirements.

[0290] refer to Figure 26A and Figure 26B The diagram illustrates the user interface (UI) 2600 of the beverage device in both active and inactive states. UI 2600 receives user input representing a request to dispense filtered beverage and displays system status information to the user, similar to the diagram. Figure 1 The user interface 118 described and referenced Figure 2The user interface 218 described herein, UI 2600, can be implemented using an LCD, OLED, or e-ink display configured to present information about device status, alarms, and instructions. UI 2600 includes a dispensing button 2602 configured to initiate or terminate a dispensing operation in response to receiving user input. UI 2600 may also include a volume selection area 2604 comprising indicators of multiple volume selection options 2604a and a volume selection button 2604b. In the illustrated embodiment, the volume selection options 2604a may indicate various beverage volume options to be dispensed by the system (e.g., 1L option, 16oz option, 8oz option, manual option, etc.). In some aspects, the user can switch between different options 2604a by interacting with the volume selection button 2604b. For example, when the user interacts with the volume selection button 2604b to switch the system to select the 1L option, the beverage system described herein may be configured to dispense 1L of filtered fluid during the next dispensing operation. Alternatively, when the user interacts with the volume selection button 2604b to switch the system to the manual option, the user can continuously dispense fluid when the dispensing button 2602 is engaged, instead of dispensing a predetermined volume.

[0291] In some aspects, UI2600 also includes one or more filter status indicators 2606, 2608, configured to provide the user with information about the status of filters on the system. For example, filter status indicator 2606 may simply provide the user with a simple indication of whether the filter is "clean," while indicator 2608 may provide the user with a dynamic bar indicator illustrating the remaining lifespan of the filter (e.g., between a full filter status "F" and an empty or depleted filter status "E"). Filter lifespan indicator 2608 includes a lit arc portion indicating the remaining filter lifespan. As the filter module processes fluid over time, the length of the lit arc portion decreases to visually convey the remaining filter capacity to the user. In some aspects, a controller (e.g., controller 2520) may track and display filter lifespan in a continuous or individual jump (e.g., by dividing the total filter lifespan into 10 or any other number of individual segments). UI2600 may also include a system performance indicator 2610, configured to display information related to how well the system is performing or whether there are errors in the system. The UI may also include a “add water” indicator 2612, which is configured to illuminate when the controller determines that the fluid tank of the system is low on fluid or is emptied.

[0292] Figure 26B The UI2600 is shown in an inactive or off state. In the inactive state, the display elements of the UI2600 are dimmed or disabled. The allocation button 2602, the volume selection option 2604b, and other interface elements remain visible but are not lit, and no other lit indicators are displayed.

[0293] In some aspects, the UI2600 may also include a progress bar (not shown) configured to display the progress of various operating cycles of the beverage apparatus. For example, in some aspects, the controller can calculate and display the progress of different operations, including filter pre-charge cycles, filter rinsing cycles, filter discharge cycles, etc. The details of the various cycles of the beverage system described herein are discussed in more detail below.

[0294] Figures 26C to 26F The illustration shows a variant of UI2600, referred to herein as UI2600', which provides additional display modes for presenting information to the user. In some aspects, the user can cycle through various display modes or select a preferred display mode via UI2600', for example, by interacting with UI2600' through swipe or tap gestures. Figures 26C to 26F As shown, UI 2600' may include a central display area 2601', which is configured to display different information to the user based on the selected mode. UI 2600' may also include an allocation button 2602', a size / volume button 2604', and a filter button 2606'. Although the central display area 2601', allocation button 2602', size / volume button 2604', and filter button 2606' are in Figures 26C to 26F While shown in a specific configuration relative to each other, other positional configurations are also envisioned herein. It is also envisioned that any of the following buttons—the allocation button 2602', the size / volume button 2604', and the filter button 2606'—could be included as an optional mode for display by the central display area 2601', rather than being provided as distinct buttons.

[0295] like Figure 26C As shown, in some aspects, the central display area 2601' can be configured to display the filter life as a percentage. In this case, the central display area 2601' displays a percentage value 2608' (e.g., "80%) corresponding to the remaining lifespan of the filter. Figure 26D UI2600' is shown, which displays the filter lifespan as an estimated remaining time. In this case, the central display area shows an approximate time value 2610' with a filter lifespan label above it (e.g., "Approximately 6 months remaining"), thus providing the user with a time-based estimate of when the filter will need to be replaced. Figure 26E UI2600' is shown, which displays filter life as remaining volume. In this case, the central display area shows a volume value of 2612' (e.g., "200 gallons remaining"), thus providing the user with a volume-based estimate of the remaining filter capacity. Figure 26FThe UI2600' is shown displaying average usage statistics. In this case, the central display area shows a bar graph 2614' that provides users with a visual representation of their water consumption patterns over the previous seven-day period, allowing users to track their drinking habits. For example, in some aspects, the controller can be configured to maintain a daily volume buffer array and calculate average weekly consumption for display on the UI2600'. The daily volume buffer array stores allocated volume data for each day of a given period (e.g., a seven-day period), and the controller calculates the average weekly consumption value based on the stored data. This consumption information provides users with insight into their water consumption patterns. In some aspects, the controller can also be configured to implement a goal tracking feature, whereby the system or user can set a target consumption amount (e.g., over a week or a month), and the UI2600' can be adapted to display progress toward the goal to encourage users to maintain adequate water intake.

[0296] In some aspects, the controller can be configured to track filter life based on a predetermined filter capacity, which defines the total volume of fluid that the filter module is rated to filter before recommended replacement. In some aspects, the predetermined filter capacity may be approximately 150 gallons, but other capacity values, such as 240 gallons, are also conceivable. The controller can store the predetermined filter capacity as a constructible parameter in memory, allowing the filter capacity value to be adjusted based on the specific filter cartridge type installed in the beverage system. The controller can maintain a total per-filter volume count variable, which tracks the cumulative volume of fluid that has flowed through the currently installed filter module. Upon completion of each dispensing operation, the controller can add the total per-filter volume count to the volume dispensed during that operation. The controller can calculate the remaining filter life by subtracting the total per-filter volume count from the predetermined filter capacity. This remaining filter life value can be stored in non-volatile memory and can be displayed on the user interface to inform the user of the current filter status.

[0297] In some aspects, the buttons on UI2600 and 2600' can be capacitive touch buttons configured to detect user contact, or they can be mechanical / electromechanical buttons. As mentioned above, in some aspects, UI2600 can be implemented using an LCD, OLED, or e-ink display configured to present information about device status, alarms, and commands. Therefore, in some aspects, some or all of the indicators discussed above can be backlit indicators configured to be illuminated by the display when activated. In some aspects, the indicators can be a combination of text-based and LED-based indicators. In some aspects, the indicators may also include tactile portions configured to be distinguishable by the user through touch.

[0298] Figure 27A cross-sectional side view of a beverage system 2700 and an enlarged detail view of a portion thereof are shown. The beverage system 2700 includes components similar to those described above, including a reservoir 2702 configured to store unfiltered fluid, a pumping system 2704, an electronics unit 2706, a user interface 2708, a filtered fluid dispensing outlet 2714, and a filtration unit 2720. The beverage system 2700 can operate similarly to the systems described above, wherein the pumping system 2704 is configured to draw fluid from the reservoir 2702, drive the fluid through the filtration unit 2720 for filtration, and dispense the filtered fluid through the dispensing outlet 2714. Referring below to Figures 28 to... Figure 34 The components of filter unit 2720 will be discussed in more detail.

[0299] Figure 28A An exploded view of the filter unit 2720 is shown. The filter unit 2720 includes a filter housing 2721, a cover body 2730, a locking cover 2740, and an aesthetically pleasing top cover 2750. The filter housing 2721 is an elongated cylindrical housing configured to receive a filter cartridge 2760 within its internal volume, such as... Figure 28B As shown. However, in some aspects, system 2700 can be configured to receive any of the filter cartridges described above. Filter housing 2721 includes a fluid inlet 2722 and a fluid outlet 2723. The fluid inlet is located in the lower portion of filter housing 2721 and is configured to receive fluid to be filtered from reservoir 2702. The fluid outlet is located in the upper portion of filter housing 2721 and is configured to dispense filtered fluid from filter housing 2721 to dispensing outlet 2714. Cover body 2730 is configured to seal around the top opening 2724 of filter housing 2721. Locking cover 2740 is configured to lockably seal around the top opening 2724 on the top of cover body 2730 to lock cover body 2730 in place. Aesthetically pleasing top cover 2750 is a circular cap configured to provide a final appearance for the upper end of filter unit 2720 during assembly.

[0300] Figure 28B An exploded view of a filter assembly 2720' for a beverage apparatus is shown, which includes a filter cartridge 2760 and Figure 28A The filter cartridge 2760 consists of a cover body 2730 and a locking cover 2740. Typically, the filter cartridge 2760 can be used with other filter cartridges described herein, such as those referenced. Figures 6 to 1 The filter cartridge 204b described in section 2 shares the same features and functions. The filter cartridge 2760 is configured to be removably positioned within the internal volume of the filter housing 2721. (As...) Figure 28BAs shown, the filter cartridge 2760 may include a filter medium 2761, a lower end cap 2762, a central core 2763, and a housing 2764 having airflow channels 2765 disposed at its top and bottom or along its length to provide improved airflow during pre-filling of the filter. The housing 2764 may surround the filter medium 2761 and may provide structural support while allowing air to escape through the airflow channels 2765 during pre-filling operation. The filter medium 2761 may have a hollow cylindrical structure defining a central channel therethrough. The filter medium 2761 may be configured to receive unfiltered fluid at its outer surface, and the fluid received at the outer surface may be drawn into the filter medium 2761 toward the central channel. The lower end cap 2762 may be coupled to the lower end of the filter medium 2761 and may be configured to hold the filter medium 2761 thereon. The central core 2763 can be disposed within the central channel of the filter medium 2761 and can be configured to prevent the filter medium 2761 from collapsing inward or otherwise deforming during operation.

[0301] Figure 29A and Figure 29B The front and side views of the cover body 2730 are shown respectively. Figure 29A As shown in the front view, the cover body 2730 includes a fluid port 2731 with an outlet whose shape resembles a spoon or paddle construction with a rounded upper portion and a narrower lower neck region (e.g., similar to the head of a lacrosse stick). However, other outlet shapes are also envisioned herein, as discussed above regarding various regular and irregular outlet geometries, including rounded trapezoidal geometries, concave circular geometries, dual-outlet constructions, etc. Figure 29B As shown in the side view, the fluid port 2731 includes an angled surface 2732, which is set at an angle θ to the vertical plane and configured to sealably engage with the corresponding internal angled surface 2723a of the fluid outlet 2723 of the filter housing 2721, as... Figure 27 An enlarged view of a portion of the system is shown. In some aspects, the angle θ can be between, for example, 30 degrees and 60 degrees (e.g., 45 degrees). It should also be understood that the angled surface 2732 can be... Figure 29BThe angle is formed in the opposite direction shown. In this configuration, the bottom edge of the angled face 2732 will be designed to protrude further from the cover body 2730 than the top edge of the angled face 2732. The cover body 2730 also includes a gasket seal 2735 arranged around its lower portion, which is configured to provide a fluid-impermeable seal between the cover body 2730 and the top opening 2724 of the filter housing 2721. The cover body 2730 also includes a button handle 2736 extending from the upper surface of the cover body, which is configured to be gripped by a user and pushed or pulled to position the cover body 2730 into a sealing engagement with the filter housing 2721 and to remove the cover body 2730 from the sealing engagement with the filter housing 2721.

[0302] The cover body 2730 and the locking cover 2740 are configured to lock in a nested manner within the filter housing 2721. The locking cover 2740 is configured to lock securely seal around the top opening 2724 via a bayonet locking mechanism 2741. Figure 30 As shown, the bayonet locking mechanism 2741 includes one or more lugs 2744 on the locking cover 2740, which engage with corresponding receiving grooves 2728s formed along the upper edge of the filter housing 2721. When the locking cover 2740 is initially placed on the filter housing 2721, the lugs 2744 can pass through a cutout portion 2728c provided around the periphery of the top opening 2724. As the locking cover 2740 rotates, the lugs 2744 can be configured to slide downward along the grooves 2728s to secure the locking cover 2740 and the cover body 2730 within the filter housing 2721. Due to the downward angle of the grooves 2728s, as the locking cover 2740 is secured, if the cover body 2730 is further compressed downward into the filter housing 2721, the gasket seal 2735 of the cover body 2730 is further sealed to the top opening 2724 of the housing.

[0303] Figure 31 The illustration shows a top view of the filter unit 2720, illustrating a housing body 2730 positioned within a top opening of the filter housing 2721. As shown, the fluid port 2731 of the housing body 2730 is aligned with the fluid outlet 2723 of the filter housing 2721. In some aspects, the filter unit 2720 may also include a filter switch 2726 configured to be actuated when the filter is properly locked within the unit and to communicate to a controller that the filter is properly positioned. In some aspects, the filter switch includes a spring-biased switching element 2726a configured to protrude through the housing body, such as... Figure 31 As shown, and configured to move radially in direction D1 when actuated by locking cover 2740, as discussed below.

[0304] Figure 32 and Figure 33 The diagrams show a top view and a top sectional view of the filter unit 2720, with a locking cover 2740 housed within the filter housing 2721. As the locking cover 2740 rotates clockwise in the radial direction D1, during the locking operation, as... Figure 32 As shown, the locking lug 2742 of the locking cover 2740 is designed to contact and actuate the spring-biased switching element 2726a of the filter switch 2726, as... Figure 33 The cross-sectional view is shown. This actuation notification system filter is properly locked. The locking cover 2740 can be unlocked by rotating the locking cover 2740 counterclockwise D2, as shown. Figure 32 As shown.

[0305] Figure 34 This is a partial cross-sectional view further illustrating the actuation of the filter switch 2726. As shown, when the locking lug 2742 of the locking cover 2740 interacts with the spring-biased switching element 2726a, the spring-biased switching element 2726a is biased in direction D1 against the bias of the spring element 2726a. This actuates the microswitch 2736b of the filter switch 2726, which communicates with the controller of the beverage system 2700. When the locking cover 2740 is in the locked position, the locking lug 2742 continuously engages with the spring-biased switching element 2726a, keeping the microswitch 2726b actuated, as shown, thereby indicating that the filter cartridge is properly sealed within the filter housing 2721. If the locking cover 2740 is not properly rotated to the locked position, the locking lug 2742 does not engage the spring-biased switching element 2726a, and the switching element 2726a does not engage the microswitch 2726b. In this inactive state, the controller does not receive signals indicating proper sealing and can provide the user with an alarm indicating improper installation of the filter cartridge via the user interface 2708.

[0306] In some respects, the fluid port 2731 can be configured to move relative to the housing body 2730 to facilitate a sealing engagement with the fluid outlet 2723 of the filter housing 2721. Various moving configurations are possible such that, after the housing body 2730 is sealed around the top opening 2724, the corresponding angled face of the fluid port can engage with the inner angled face 2723a of the fluid outlet 2723, as discussed below.

[0307] For example, in some aspects, the fluid port can be pivotable. In this case, the fluid port may include a pivot axis defined on the housing body, about which the fluid port rotates. When the housing body is initially positioned within the filter housing, the fluid port can be oriented in a first angular position providing clearance for insertion. After the housing body is positioned around the top opening, the fluid port can pivot about the pivot axis to a second angular position, in which the corresponding angled face contacts and abuts against the inner angled face for sealing. The pivoting movement can be manually actuated by the user, automatically actuated by engagement with a feature of the filter housing during locking rotation, or actuated by a spring mechanism that actuates the fluid port toward the sealing position once the housing body has passed an obstacle during installation. In some aspects, the pivotable fluid port can operate in a manner similar to a dispensing lever on a water cooler, wherein a user-actuated lever pivots between a closed position and an open position to control fluid flow. In this configuration, the fluid port may include a lever arm extending from the pivot axis, which the user can grasp and rotate to move the fluid port between the first and second angular positions. The lever arm can be configured to provide a mechanical advantage, thereby reducing the force required to pivot the fluid port to the sealing engagement. In some variations, the lever arm may include a pawl or eccentric mechanism that provides tactile feedback when the fluid port reaches the sealing position and resists unintentional movement away from the sealing position during operation.

[0308] In a sliding configuration, the fluid port may include a track or channel defined on the housing body, along which the fluid port translates. The track may be oriented to guide the fluid port in a direction toward the fluid outlet. When the housing body is initially positioned within the filter housing, the fluid port may be in a retracted position along the track. After the housing body is positioned around the top opening, the fluid port may slide along the track to an extended position, where the corresponding angled face contacts and abuts against the inner angled face for sealing. The sliding movement may be manually actuated by a cam mechanism engaged during rotation of the locking housing or by a spring that actuates the fluid port toward the extended sealing position.

[0309] In a rotatable configuration, the fluid port may include a swivel interface between the fluid port and the housing body, allowing the fluid port to rotate about an axis. The axis of rotation may be oriented vertically, horizontally, or at an angle relative to the housing body. When the housing body is initially positioned within the filter housing, the fluid port may be oriented in a first rotational position. After the housing body is positioned around the top opening, the fluid port may be rotated to a second rotational position where the corresponding angled surface aligns with and abuts against the inner angled surface for sealing. Rotational movement may be associated with the rotation of a locking cover, such that rotating the locking cover to a locked position simultaneously rotates the fluid port to a sealing engagement.

[0310] The spring bias configuration using a spring element can be combined with any of the pivotable, sliding, or rotatable configurations described above. For example, the spring can actuate a pivotable fluid port toward a sealed position, a spring can actuate a sliding fluid port toward an extended position, or a spring can actuate a rotatable fluid port toward an aligned sealed position. The spring bias can accommodate manufacturing tolerances and thermal expansion while maintaining an hermetically tight seal during operation.

[0311] Similarly, magnetic coupling can be combined with any of pivotable, sliding, or rotatable constructions to help draw the fluid port to its final sealed position and maintain sealing pressure. For example, in some aspects, the angled face of the fluid port and the inner angled face of the fluid outlet may include corresponding magnetic components, such as magnets or ferromagnetic materials, configured to magnetically secure the angled face of the fluid port to the inner angled face of the fluid outlet upon engagement, thereby maintaining an hermetically tight seal during operation. Alternatively or additionally, an adhesive, such as a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a curable adhesive, or a gasket molding compound, may be applied between the corresponding angled face and the inner angled face to provide a fluid-impermeable seal at the interface between the fluid port and the fluid outlet.

[0312] refer to Figure 35 This illustrates a method 2800 for pre-charging a filter in a beverage apparatus. Method 2800 can be implemented by a controller of any of the beverage apparatuses described herein, for example, referring to... Figure 1 The controller 120 is described. Filter precharging prepares a newly installed filter cartridge for operation by removing air from the filter module and establishing a fluid flow through the filter media. Method 2800 can be initiated in response to the detection of a new filter cartridge installation or in response to user input requesting filter precharging via a user interface. References below... Figure 25 The system 2500 describes method 2800 in more detail.

[0313] At step 2802, the controller may initialize precharge parameters and open the recirculation solenoid. Precharge parameters may include a pump timer variable, a timer off variable, and a timer index variable. The pump timer variable tracks the elapsed time during pump operation within a given precharge cycle. The timer off variable tracks the elapsed time during pump discharge within a given precharge cycle. The timer index variable tracks which precharge cycle is currently being executed. Opening the recirculation solenoid at the start of the precharge sequence establishes a flow path from the filter module (e.g., filter module 2512) back to the fluid reservoir, allowing air displaced from the filter module during precharge to escape through the recirculation path.

[0314] At step 2804, the controller may determine whether a water addition flag is activated. The water addition flag can indicate that the fluid in the fluid reservoir is insufficient to continue the pre-charge operation. In some aspects, the water addition flag can be set by an interrupt routine that monitors pump current, flow rate, and other sensor inputs to detect a low water level condition. If the water addition flag is activated, method 2800 may proceed to step 2806.

[0315] At step 2806, the controller can precharge the filter for a configurable duration defined by the precharge on-time parameter. For example, in some aspects, the precharge on-time parameter can be set to approximately 3 seconds. After performing step 2806, method 2800 can proceed to step 2808, where the controller can set the state to idle and return. In some aspects, when the add water flag becomes active during filter precharging, the controller can reset the filter precharging flag to true, such that the precharging sequence only begins after the user refills the fluid reservoir and presses the start / stop button on the user interface.

[0316] If the water flag added at step 2804 is not active, method 2800 can proceed to step 2810. At step 2810, the controller can operate the pump with a configurable pre-charge pump duty cycle. In some aspects, the pre-charge pump duty cycle can be defined by configurable pre-charge pump duty parameters stored in memory. The configurable pre-charge pump duty cycle parameter can be set to a value such as 80% duty cycle, but other duty cycle values ​​are also conceivable. Operating the pump with a configurable pre-charge pump duty cycle can drive fluid from the fluid reservoir through the filter module to displace air and establish a fluid flow through the filter media.

[0317] At step 2812, the controller can increment the pump timer and calculate the average flow rate. The pump timer can be incremented at each iteration of the main control loop to track the elapsed time during pump operation. The average flow rate calculation can provide feedback on the progress of the precharge operation.

[0318] At step 2814, the controller can determine whether the timer index exceeds the maximum timer value. The maximum timer value can limit the total number of precharge cycles to be executed during the precharge sequence. In some aspects, the controller can be configured to implement a filter precharge sequence having configurable on-time and off-time arrays that define multiple precharge cycles, each cycle having a different duration. The on-time array can be stored as a pump on-time array parameter and can define the pump on-time duration for each precharge cycle. The off-time array can be stored as a pump off-time array parameter and can define the pump off-time duration for each precharge cycle. For example, in some aspects, the pump on-time array can be set to [4, 4, 4, 4, 4] seconds, and the pump off-time array can be set to [0, 0, 0, 0, 0] seconds, thereby defining five precharge cycles, each precharge cycle having a 4-second pump on-time duration and a 0-second pump off-time duration. Other array values ​​and array lengths are also envisioned.

[0319] If the timer index exceeds the maximum timer value at step 2814, the precharge sequence is complete, and method 2800 can proceed to step 2818. At step 2818, the controller can shut off the recirculation solenoid and return success, indicating that the filter precharge operation was successfully completed.

[0320] If the timer index does not exceed the maximum timer value at step 2814, method 2800 can proceed to step 2816. At step 2816, the controller can reset the pump timer and turn it off, and update the time block. Updating the time block may involve incrementing the timer index to proceed to the next precharge cycle and loading the corresponding on and off time values ​​from a configurable array. After step 2816, method 2800 can return to step 2810 to continue operating the pump with a configurable precharge pump duty cycle for the next precharge cycle.

[0321] In some aspects, the controller can be configured to calculate and display a progress bar during the filter precharge period based on the timer index and the total precharge time. The progress bar calculation can determine the percentage of completion based on the current timer index relative to the maximum timer value. For example, if the maximum timer value is 5 and the current timer index is 2, the progress bar could show 40% completion. In some aspects, the progress bar calculation can also take into account the elapsed time within the current precharge period relative to the on and off time values ​​for that period, to provide a more granular progress indication. The progress bar can be displayed on the user interface to notify the user of the precharge operation status.

[0322] refer to Figure 36The illustration depicts a method 2900 for performing a rinsing cycle for a beverage filtration system. Method 2900 can be implemented by a controller of any of the beverage apparatuses described herein, for example, referring to... Figure 1 The controller 120 is described. A flushing cycle prepares a newly installed filter cartridge for normal operation by flushing a predetermined volume of fluid through the filter module to remove manufacturing residues, carbon particles, or other contaminants that may be present in the new filter media. As described above, the beverage system may include a reservoir configured to hold a volume of fluid, a filter unit, a dispensing outlet, a user interface, a pump configured to pump fluid from the reservoir through the filter unit to the dispensing outlet, and at least one flow meter configured to measure the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system. Reference is made below. Figure 25 The system 2500 describes method 2900 in more detail.

[0323] In some aspects, the controller can be configured to initiate a flushing cycle in response to the placement of a new filter within the filter unit. The controller can determine that a filter has been placed within the filter unit based on data provided by a filter-detecting microswitch or other sensors configured to detect filter installation. In some aspects, the controller can provide a notification to the user interface prompting the user to confirm whether the filter is new. The controller can receive user input indicating that the filter is new via the user interface and can initiate a flushing cycle in response to receiving the user input. In some aspects, the controller can be configured to require the user to complete the flushing cycle before allowing normal dispensing operations when installing a new filter, thereby preventing the user from skipping flushing after pre-charging is complete.

[0324] At step 2902, the controller may initialize the flushing cycle and open the system's distribution solenoid (e.g., distribution solenoid 2516). Initializing the flushing cycle may include reading the total distribution volume variable from non-volatile memory to determine if a previous flushing cycle was interrupted and to resume from the correct point. Opening the distribution solenoid establishes a flow path from the filter module to the distribution outlet, thereby allowing fluid to be distributed during the flushing operation.

[0325] At step 2904, the controller can determine whether the add water flag is activated. The add water flag indicates that the fluid reservoir does not contain enough fluid to continue the flushing operation. If the add water flag is activated, method 2900 can proceed to step 2906.

[0326] At step 2906, the controller may pause the rinsing cycle and set a pause flag. In some aspects, the controller may be configured to pause the rinsing cycle in response to determining that the user has removed the reservoir. The controller may provide a first notification to the user interface requesting the user to refill the reservoir in response to pumping a volume of fluid from the reservoir. The pause flag may indicate to the system that the rinsing cycle is temporarily suspended pending user action. In some aspects, the controller may be configured to receive user input via the user interface indicating a request to pause the rinsing cycle, and may pause the rinsing cycle in response to receiving the user input. After step 2906, once the situation allows for resumption, method 2900 may return to step 2902 to reinitialize the rinsing cycle. In some aspects, the controller may be configured to receive user input via the user interface indicating a request to resume the rinsing cycle, and may resume the rinsing cycle in response to receiving the user input. In some aspects, the controller may be configured to automatically resume the rinsing cycle in response to determining that the user has placed the reservoir back into the beverage system.

[0327] In some aspects, the controller can be configured to implement a hold-flush operation that requires the user to press and hold the dispensing button during a flush cycle. Releasing the dispensing button pauses the flush cycle, and re-engaging the button resumes the cycle. This hold-flush interaction provides the user with continuous control over the flush operation.

[0328] If the water flag added at step 2904 is not activated, method 2900 can proceed to step 2908. At step 2908, the controller can operate the pump using PID flow rate control to drive fluid through the filtration unit. The controller can receive the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system via at least one flow meter. The controller can compare the flow rate to a predetermined flow rate and can iteratively increase the pump's duty cycle until the flow rate is within a predetermined threshold of the predetermined flow rate. In some aspects, the predetermined flow rate can be about 1.5 to 3 liters per minute, for example, about 2500 milliliters per minute. In some aspects, the predetermined threshold can be ±75 milliliters per minute of the predetermined flow rate. In some aspects, the controller can be configured to modify the pump's duty cycle such that the flow rate does not exceed the predetermined flow rate.

[0329] In some respects, the controller can be configured to implement a pump ramp function during the flushing cycle, where the pump duty cycle begins slightly above the stall limit and gradually increases until it reaches 100% duty cycle to determine the initial feedforward term. The pump ramp function can be executed when the flushing iterator variable equals 1 (indicating the first flushing cycle iteration). During the ramp function, the controller can monitor the velocity deviation at each duty cycle increment and select the duty cycle that produces the minimum velocity deviation as the initial PID feedforward term for subsequent flushing cycle iterations.

[0330] At step 2910, the controller can calculate the total allocated volume and update the flush iterator to track the flush cycle progress. The total allocated volume can be calculated based on the flow meter pulse count multiplied by a flow meter coefficient that defines the volume of each pulse. The flush iterator can increment each time the flush cycle volume for each cycle is allocated. In some aspects, the flush cycle volume for each cycle can be between 70 ounces and 80 ounces of fluid (e.g., 74 ounces of fluid) before prompting the user to refill the reservoir.

[0331] At step 2912, the controller may determine whether the flushing iterator has exceeded the configurable number of flushing cycles. The configurable number of flushing cycles may define how many times the reservoir must be emptied and refilled to complete a flushing cycle. The controller may compare the total volume of fluid pumped from the reservoir with a predetermined volume. In some aspects, the predetermined volume may be between 70 and 80 ounces of fluid. The controller may repeat the following steps: operating the pump to pump a certain volume of fluid from the reservoir, comparing the total volume of fluid pumped from the reservoir with the predetermined volume, and providing a first notification to the user interface requesting the user to refill the reservoir, until the total volume of fluid pumped from the reservoir is greater than or equal to the predetermined volume.

[0332] If, at step 2912, the flushing iterator exceeds the configurable number of flushing cycles, the flushing cycle is complete, and method 2900 can proceed to step 2914. At step 2914, the controller can subtract the flushing volume from the total volume and set a pre-flushing completion flag to indicate the completion of the flushing cycle. The controller can be configured to subtract the flushing cycle volume from the total dispensing volume such that the flushing cycle does not affect filter life calculations. This subtraction ensures that the volume of fluid dispensed during the flushing cycle is not included in filter life tracking because the flushing cycle fluid is not consumed by the user and should not reduce the reported remaining filter capacity. The controller can provide a second notification to the user interface indicating the completion of the flushing cycle.

[0333] If the flushing iterator does not exceed the configurable number of flushing cycles at step 2912, method 2900 can proceed to step 2916. At step 2916, the controller can save the total allocation volume to non-volatile memory to maintain the flushing cycle progress across power cycles. The controller can be configured to save allocation progress data to non-volatile memory during a flushing cycle so that the flushing cycle can resume from the correct point after the power cycle. This non-volatile memory ensures that if power is interrupted during a flushing cycle, the controller can read the stored total allocation volume upon restarting and continue the flushing cycle from where it was interrupted, rather than restarting from the beginning. After step 2916, method 2900 can return to step 2908 to continue pump operation with PID flow rate control for the next flushing iteration.

[0334] refer to Figure 37 The illustration depicts a method 3000 for performing a discharge cycle for a beverage filtration system. Method 3000 can be implemented by a controller of any of the beverage apparatuses described herein, for example, referring to... Figure 1 The controller 120 is described. As described above, the beverage system may include a reservoir configured to maintain a volume of fluid, a filter unit, a dispensing outlet, a user interface, and a pump configured to pump fluid from the reservoir through the filter unit to the dispensing outlet. The controller may include at least one processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform the operation of method 3000. A discharge cycle can remove excess fluid from the filter unit before filter replacement, thereby allowing the user to replace the filter cartridge without spillage. Reference is made below. Figure 25 The system 2500 describes the method 3000 in more detail.

[0335] In some aspects, the controller can be configured to determine the need to replace the filter within the filter unit based on filter life tracking data. The controller can provide a notification to the user interface requesting the user to remove the reservoir before initiating a discharge cycle. This notification can prompt the user to remove the reservoir from the beverage system before initiating the discharge operation to prevent fluid from being drawn from the reservoir during discharge.

[0336] At step 3002, the controller may initialize the discharge cycle and open the system's distribution solenoid (e.g., distribution solenoid 2516). The controller may receive user input via a user interface indicating a request to run the discharge cycle. Opening the distribution solenoid establishes a flow path from the filter module to the distribution outlet, thereby allowing excess fluid retained in the filter module to be pumped out during discharge operations.

[0337] At step 3004, the controller can determine whether the reservoir microswitch indicates that the reservoir has been removed. The reservoir microswitch can detect the presence of the reservoir and ensure it is properly installed in the beverage system. If the reservoir microswitch indicates that the reservoir has not been removed, method 3000 can proceed to step 3006.

[0338] At step 3006, the controller may decrement the wait timer and perform a timeout check. The wait timer tracks the elapsed time while waiting for the user to remove the reservoir. If the wait timer reaches zero and the reservoir has not been removed, the discharge cycle may time out. In some aspects, the reservoir wait time may be approximately 300 seconds; however, longer or shorter wait times are also envisioned herein. If the reservoir is not removed within the reservoir wait time, the controller may cancel the discharge operation and provide a notification indicating that the discharge cycle has been canceled. If the discharge cycle times out before completion, the filter precharge flag may not be set, and the controller may provide an appropriate notification indicating that the discharge operation has not completed successfully. In some aspects, the controller may provide a notification to the user interface indicating that the discharge cycle has completed.

[0339] If the accumulator microswitch indicates at step 3004 that the accumulator has been removed, method 3000 can proceed to step 3008. At step 3008, the controller can determine whether the user has pressed the pause button. The controller can be configured to implement a pause function during the emission cycle, which allows the user to pause and resume emission operation by pressing a button on the user interface. If the user presses the pause button, method 3000 can proceed to step 3010.

[0340] At step 3010, the controller can set the pump duty cycle to zero and pause the discharge cycle. Pausing the discharge cycle temporarily halts pump operation while maintaining the current discharge progress. After step 3010, method 3000 can return to step 3004 to continue checking the reservoir microswitch status. The user can resume the discharge cycle by pressing the button again, at which point the controller can resume the discharge operation from its paused position.

[0341] If the user does not press the pause button at step 3008, method 3000 can proceed to step 3012. At step 3012, the controller can operate the pump with a configurable discharge pump duty cycle to pump excess fluid from the filter unit to the distribution outlet. The discharge cycle is time-based (configurable pumping time and idle time parameters), not based solely on volume or flow rate, as discussed below. The controller can operate the pump for a predetermined amount of time to pump excess fluid from the filter unit to the distribution outlet. In some aspects, the configurable discharge pump duty cycle can be set to approximately 70% duty cycle, but other duty cycle values ​​are also conceivable. In some aspects, the method may also include a step prior to step 3012, wherein, in response to determining based on a reservoir microswitch signal that the reservoir has been removed from the beverage system, the controller can wait at 3012 for the pump to start operation until a second predetermined period has elapsed since the reservoir was removed. In some respects, this second scheduled period may be referred to as the emission idle time and may be approximately 5 seconds; however, other emission idle times are also envisioned in this paper.

[0342] In some aspects, the beverage system may also include at least one flow meter configured to measure the flow rate of fluid pumped through the beverage system. A controller may be configured to receive the flow rate of fluid pumped through the beverage system during a discharge cycle via the at least one flow meter. In some aspects, a predetermined time interval may be set based on the flow rate.

[0343] At step 3014, the controller may determine whether the discharge timer has exceeded a configurable discharge pump time parameter. The configurable discharge pump time parameter defines how long the pump operates during the discharge cycle. If the discharge timer exceeds the configurable discharge pump time parameter, the controller may stop the pump operation, and method 3000 may proceed to step 3016. In some aspects, the discharge pump time may be approximately 8 seconds; however, other pump times are also contemplated herein. In some aspects, as described above, the system described herein may also include a user interface. In this case, method 3000 may also include an optional step (not shown) whereby the controller calculates a progress value for the discharge cycle and provides the progress value to the user interface for display. In some aspects, the progress value of the discharge cycle may be calculated based on the ratio of the discharge pump time (e.g., 8 seconds) to the sum of the discharge pump time (e.g., 8 seconds) and the aforementioned discharge idle time (e.g., 5 seconds). Thus, in some aspects, the progress value may be based on a total discharge cycle time of approximately 13 seconds; however, other discharge cycle times are also contemplated herein.

[0344] At step 3016, the controller can set both the success flag and the filter precharge flag to true. The controller can be configured to set the filter precharge flag to true when a discharge cycle completes without timeout, thereby triggering a filter precharge sequence after discharge. Setting the filter precharge flag to true allows the controller to initiate a filter precharge operation after the user installs a new filter cartridge, thus preparing the new filter for normal operation. In some aspects, the controller can also be configured to set a recirculation request flag to true upon completion of a discharge cycle, thereby triggering a post-discharge recirculation operation to release pressure within the fluid passage.

[0345] In some implementations, the controller can be configured to calculate and display a progress bar during the emission cycle based on an emission timer that is the sum of the emission idle time and the emission pump time. In some implementations, the emission idle time can be approximately 5 seconds. The progress bar can be displayed on the user interface to notify the user of the emission operation status.

[0346] In some aspects, the controller can be configured to implement a delay between opening the distribution solenoid and operating the pump during the discharge cycle to prevent pressure buildup in the system. The controller can wait for a configurable pump delay period after the distribution solenoid opens and before starting pump operation. This solenoid delay period allows for fluid path stabilization and can prevent pressure spikes that could lead to leaks or affect system performance. In some aspects, the configurable pump delay period can be stored as a system parameter in memory, allowing the delay duration to be adjusted based on system characteristics or operational requirements.

[0347] If the discharge timer has not exceeded the configurable discharge pump time parameter at step 3014, method 3000 can return to step 3012 to continue operating the pump with the configurable discharge pump duty cycle. The controller can continue operating the pump until a predetermined amount of time has elapsed.

[0348] In some implementations, the controller can be configured to stop pump operation upon determining that a predetermined amount of time has elapsed, and to provide a notification to the user interface indicating the completion of the discharge cycle. This notification could inform the user that the filter module has been discharged and the filter cartridge can be safely removed and replaced. For example, in some implementations, the notification could display information to the user such as "Please remove the filter."

[0349] The controller of a beverage system can be configured to implement a pump duty cycle control algorithm for controlling the pump during dispensing operations. The overall goal of the pump duty cycle control algorithm can be to iteratively control the pump duty cycle to achieve optimal filtration contact time for the fluid during filtration. Filtration contact time refers to the duration for which each molecule of the fluid remains in contact with the filter media as it passes through the filter module. Because filtration contact time is a function of the flow rate of the fluid through the filter media, the controller can adjust the flow rate through the filter module by adjusting the pump duty cycle to achieve the desired contact time. Sufficient contact time allows the filter media to effectively capture and remove contaminants from the fluid. In some respects, the optimal filtration contact time can be between 4 and 5 seconds, but the optimal contact time can vary based on the size and type of the filter, the characteristics of the filter media, and the type of contaminants being removed.

[0350] refer to Figure 38 The illustration shows a method 3100 for pump control using flow rate feedback control during beverage dispensing. Method 3100 can be implemented by the controller of any of the beverage apparatuses described herein, for example, referring to... Figure 1 The controller 120 is described. As described above, the beverage system may include a reservoir configured to hold fluid, a filter unit, a dispensing outlet, a user interface configured to receive user input representing a request to dispense filtered beverage, a pump configured to pump fluid from the reservoir through the filter unit to the dispensing outlet, and at least one flow meter configured to measure the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system. The controller may include at least one processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform the operation of method 3100. Reference is made below. Figure 25 The system 2500 describes the method 3100 in more detail.

[0351] At step 3102, the controller may receive a request to dispense filtered beverage via a user interface. The controller may initialize pump control parameters and open the system's dispensing solenoid (e.g., dispensing solenoid 2516). Opening the dispensing solenoid establishes a flow path from the filter module to the dispensing outlet, thereby allowing the dispensing of filtered fluid during pump-controlled operation.

[0352] At step 3104, the controller can determine whether the add water flag is activated. The add water flag can indicate that the fluid reservoir does not hold enough fluid to continue the dispensing operation. If the add water flag is activated, method 3100 can proceed to step 3106.

[0353] At step 3106, the controller can cancel the allocation cycle and return to idle. The controller can be configured to cancel the allocation operation when a water addition error is detected, regardless of whether the allocation is manual or preset. This cancellation behavior ensures that the pump will not continue to operate when the fluid available in the reservoir is insufficient (which could lead to pump damage or introduce air into the fluid path).

[0354] If the water flag added at step 3104 is not active, method 3100 can proceed to step 3108. At step 3108, the controller can operate the pump with a first duty cycle to pump fluid from the reservoir through the filter unit to the dispensing outlet. The first duty cycle can be a feedforward duty cycle that provides an initial pump power level based on historical operating conditions. The memory can be configured to store historical data characterizing previous dispensing operations and can be determined based on one or more duty cycles of the pump during one or more previous dispensing operations. In some aspects, previous dispensing operations may include one or more filter beverage dispensing operations or one or more rinsing cycle dispensing operations. In some aspects, the first duty cycle can be determined based on the average of one or more duty cycles of the pump during one or more previous dispensing operations. In some aspects, the first duty cycle can be determined based on the ratio of one or more duty cycles of the pump during one or more previous dispensing operations. This ratio can be a learning rate parameter that controls the rate at which the feedforward term is adjusted based on observed performance. The learning rate parameter can define a proportion of the current pump duty cycle value incorporated into the updated feedforward term, wherein a remaining proportion is retained from previous feedforward term values. For example, with a learning rate of 70%, the updated feedforward term can be calculated as 0.7 times the current pump duty cycle plus 0.3 times the previous feedforward term. In this way, the ratio defines how the duty cycle from the previous allocation operation is weighted relative to the current pump duty cycle when calculating the updated feedforward term for subsequent allocation operations. In some aspects, the first duty cycle can be determined based on the pump duty cycle during the immediately preceding allocation operation.

[0355] The controller can be configured to use an adaptive feedforward term updated based on steady-state error conditions in pump control. The feedforward term can be learned and updated once per allocation cycle when the error falls below a threshold within a specified steady-state time. In some respects, the specified steady-state time can be approximately 1000 milliseconds, but other values ​​are also conceivable. This adaptive feedforward approach allows the controller to learn the appropriate pump duty cycle for achieving a target flow rate based on actual system performance, considering variations in filter resistance, fluid viscosity, and other factors that may affect the flow rate.

[0356] At step 3110, the controller may receive the flow rate of the fluid pumped through the beverage system via the at least one flow meter. The controller may compare this flow rate with a predetermined flow rate. In some aspects, the predetermined flow rate may be about 1.5 to 3 liters per minute, for example, about 2600 milliliters per minute for a high flow rate or about 1500 milliliters per minute for a low flow rate. In some aspects, the filtration unit may include a filter cartridge comprising a paper filter medium configured to remove contaminants from the fluid flowing through it, and the predetermined flow rate may be a flow rate in which each molecule of fluid remains in contact with the paper filter medium for between 4 and 5 seconds.

[0357] In some respects, the controller can be configured to bias towards a lower pump duty cycle, rather than exceeding the target flow rate. By limiting the maximum flow rate to a predetermined flow rate, the controller can ensure that fluid passes through the filter media at a rate that provides sufficient contact time for effective filtration. If the measured flow rate exceeds the predetermined flow rate, the controller can reduce the pump duty cycle to bring the flow rate back within an acceptable range.

[0358] At step 3112, the controller may adjust the pump duty cycle via a PID controller based on a comparison between the measured flow rate and a predetermined flow rate. In response to determining that the flow rate is less than the predetermined flow rate, the controller may operate the pump at a second duty cycle greater than the first duty cycle. The controller may be configured to repeatedly receive the fluid flow rate and compare it with the predetermined flow rate, and iteratively increase the pump duty cycle until the flow rate is within a predetermined threshold of the predetermined flow rate. In some aspects, the predetermined threshold may be ±75 ml / min of the predetermined flow rate. In some aspects, the controller may be configured to modify the pump duty cycle such that the flow rate does not exceed the predetermined flow rate.

[0359] In some aspects, the controller can be configured to provide a clogging warning to the user interface in response to determining that the flow rate is below a second predetermined flow rate. The second predetermined flow rate may be a flow rate threshold indicating that the filter module may be clogged with contaminants. In some aspects, the second predetermined flow rate may be approximately 1500 ml / min for the clogging warning condition, but other values ​​are also conceivable. In some aspects, the controller can be configured to detect filter clogging based on multiple parameters to provide comprehensive monitoring of filtration performance. The controller can monitor both the flow rate of the fluid through the filter module during operation and the current used by the pump to determine various clogging conditions. Various clogging conditions can include clogging warnings and clogging errors. A clogging warning may indicate that the filter is experiencing reduced flow capacity due to partial clogging or deposit accumulation, but the filter remains functional and does not yet require replacement. A clogging error may indicate that the filter has reached a sufficiently severe level of clogging that it has reached the end of its service life and should be replaced to restore proper filtration performance. A clogging warning flow limit (e.g., approximately 1500 ml / min) may define a first threshold below which the controller determines that the filter is experiencing reduced flow capacity that would lead to a clogging warning notification. The filter clogging flow limit can define a second threshold below which the controller determines the filter has reached a clogging level requiring replacement. The filter clogging flow limit can also be lower than the clogging warning flow limit, allowing a clogging warning to provide an early indication of filter performance degradation before the filter reaches end-of-life conditions. The clogging current limit (e.g., approximately 700 mA) can define a threshold for the pump current above which the controller determines the pump is working harder than expected to drive fluid through the filter. The controller can implement debounce logic for filter clogging detection to prevent false notifications caused by transient fluctuations in flow rate or pump current. An error debounce parameter (e.g., approximately 20) can limit the number of consecutive measurement cycles that satisfy the clogging condition before the controller generates a notification. The controller can track clogging warnings and clogging error events by incrementing a counter variable stored in non-volatile memory.

[0360] In some respects, the controller can be configured to detect pump stall conditions based on pump current measurements obtained during pump operation. A flow rate stall limit (e.g., approximately 400 ml / min) can define a threshold below which the system detects a stall condition. The controller can implement a stall debounce count (e.g., approximately 16) to prevent erroneous stall detections caused by transient fluctuations in pump current or flow rate.

[0361] In some aspects, the controller can be configured to detect low water conditions using a software-based approach that evaluates multiple parameters rather than relying solely on a float switch or other dedicated level sensor. A pump current threshold (e.g., approximately 500 mA) can define a pump current value below which the controller determines the pump is operating without fluid. A flow rate limit (e.g., approximately 200 ml / min) can define a flow rate value below which the controller determines that fluid is not flowing through the system despite pump operation. The controller can evaluate the pump duty cycle, pump current value, and flow rate measurement together to determine water availability. When the pump operates with a duty cycle that would normally produce fluid flow, but the measured pump current is below the pump current threshold and the measured flow rate is below the flow rate limit, the controller can determine that a water addition condition exists. In response to detecting a water addition condition, the controller can set a water addition flag, pause current operation, and provide a notification via the user interface requesting the user to refill the reservoir. Even when the float switch indicates the presence of water in the reservoir, software-based water detection methods can provide additional checks to resolve situations where the float switch is stuck or is providing incorrect readings.

[0362] Controllers can be configured to calculate the allocated volume based on flow meter pulse counts rather than flow velocity measurements to improve accuracy. As fluid passes through the flow meter, it generates pulses, each pulse corresponding to a known fluid volume. The controller can multiply the count of the passed pulses by a flow meter coefficient that defines the volume of each pulse to determine the total allocated volume. In some cases, the flow meter coefficient can be approximately 1.07 ml per pulse, but other coefficient values ​​can be envisioned based on specific flow meter characteristics.

[0363] In some respects, the controller can be configured to calculate the flow rate using a filter that averages multiple previous flow rate measurements (e.g., the last five flow rate measurements). By maintaining a buffer of the most recent flow rate measurements and calculating the average based on the buffered measurements, the controller can reduce noise and transient fluctuations in the flow rate signal, thereby providing a more stable flow rate value for the PID control algorithm. The controller can also use an alpha coefficient to implement an exponential moving average filter for flow rate calculation, which determines the weight applied to new measurements relative to previous filtered values. For example, with an alpha coefficient of 0.8, each new flow rate measurement could contribute 80% weight to the filtered output, while previous filtered values ​​could contribute 20% weight.

[0364] At step 3114, the controller can determine whether the dispensed volume meets the target volume. The target volume can be a preset dispensed size selected by the user via a user interface, such as 8 ounces, 16 ounces, or 1 liter. If the dispensed volume meets the target volume, method 3100 can proceed to step 3116.

[0365] At step 3116, the controller may stop the pump and close the distribution solenoid. In some aspects, the controller may be configured to implement a delay between stopping the pump and closing the distribution solenoid to prevent pressure buildup in the system. After step 3116, the controller may open the recirculation solenoid to release pressure within the fluid passage, as described above with reference to the depressurization operation.

[0366] If the allocated volume at step 3114 does not meet the target volume, method 3100 can return to step 3108 to continue operating the pump with a feedforward duty cycle and iteratively adjusting the pump duty cycle until the target allocated volume is reached.

[0367] refer to Figure 39 The illustration shows a method 3200 for PID-based pump duty cycle control in a beverage system. Method 3200 can be implemented by the controller of any of the beverage apparatuses described herein, for example, referring to... Figure 1 The controller 120 is described. Method 3200 can provide closed-loop control of the pump duty cycle based on flow rate feedback to maintain a target flow rate during distribution operations. See below for reference. Figure 25 The system 2500 describes the method 3200 in more detail.

[0368] The controller can be configured to implement a PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control algorithm for controlling the pump's duty cycle. PID control may include a proportional gain (Kp) term, an integral gain (Ki) term, and a derivative gain (Kd) term to adjust pump operation based on flow rate deviations. In some aspects, the proportional gain may be set to approximately 0.03, the integral gain to approximately 0.0001, and the derivative gain to approximately 0.0, but other gain values ​​are also conceivable. The controller can be configured to execute the PID control algorithm at a configurable frequency defined by a PID execution frequency parameter. In some aspects, the PID execution frequency parameter may be set to a value such as 3, indicating that the PID control executes once every three iterations of the main control loop.

[0369] At step 3202, the controller can check the PID timer for the PID execution frequency parameter. The PID timer tracks the time elapsed since the last PID calculation. If the PID timer has not yet reached the PID execution frequency parameter, the controller can skip the current iteration of the PID calculation and return. If the PID timer has reached the PID execution frequency parameter, method 3200 can proceed to step 3204.

[0370] At step 3204, the controller can determine whether the PID initialization wait time has elapsed. The PID initialization wait time can be defined as a delay period after the feedforward term is executed, before the PID controller begins adjustment. The controller can be configured to implement a PID catch-up timer that waits a specified time after the feedforward term is executed before resuming PID adjustment to allow the flow rate to stabilize. In some respects, the PID initialization wait time can be set to approximately 2000 milliseconds, but other values ​​are also conceivable. This wait period allows the flow rate to increase and stabilize in response to the feedforward term before the PID controller begins correction.

[0371] If the PID initialization wait time has not yet elapsed at step 3204, method 3200 can proceed to step 3208. At step 3208, the controller can wait and return without performing PID adjustments. The controller can continue to monitor the PID timer and check the PID initialization wait time until the wait period has elapsed.

[0372] If the PID initialization wait time has elapsed at step 3204, method 3200 can proceed to step 3206. At step 3206, the controller can calculate the flow rate deviation. The flow rate deviation can be calculated as the difference between the target flow rate and the measured flow rate received from the flow meter. The flow rate deviation can be positive when the measured flow rate is lower than the target flow rate, and negative when the measured flow rate exceeds the target flow rate.

[0373] At step 3210, the controller can determine whether the flow rate deviation is within a dead zone threshold. The controller can be configured to implement a dead zone in PID control, where the PID controller does not adjust the pump duty cycle when the flow rate deviation is below the threshold. In some respects, the dead zone threshold can be set to approximately 75 ml / min, but other thresholds are also conceivable. When the flow rate is sufficiently close to the target flow rate, the dead zone prevents the PID controller from making unnecessary adjustments, thereby reducing pump duty cycle oscillations and improving system stability.

[0374] If the flow rate deviation is within the dead zone threshold at step 3210, method 3200 can proceed to step 3212. At step 3212, the controller can skip PID adjustment. When the flow rate deviation is within the dead zone, the controller can maintain the current pump duty cycle without modification.

[0375] If the flow rate deviation is not within the dead zone threshold at step 3210, method 3200 can proceed to step 3214. At step 3214, the controller can calculate the PID term and update the pump duty cycle. The controller can calculate the proportional term by multiplying the flow rate deviation by the proportional gain (Kp). The controller can calculate the integral term by accumulating the flow rate deviation over time and multiplying it by the integral gain (Ki). In some respects, the integral term can be delimited by a minimum and a maximum value to prevent integral saturation. The controller can calculate the derivative term by determining the rate of change of the flow rate deviation and multiplying it by the derivative gain (Kd). The controller can sum the proportional, integral, and derivative terms to determine the PID adjustment value and can add the PID adjustment value to the current pump duty cycle to determine the updated pump duty cycle.

[0376] The controller can be configured to adjust the proportional gain (Kp) value of the PID controller based on the flow rate measured during pump operation. In some respects, the controller can increase the proportional gain to provide more aggressive correction when the measured flow rate is significantly below the target flow rate, and decrease the proportional gain to provide finer control and reduce overshoot when the measured flow rate is close to the target flow rate. This adaptive proportional gain adjustment can improve the responsiveness of the PID controller across different operating conditions.

[0377] From both steps 3212 and 3214, method 3200 can proceed to step 3216. At step 3216, if a steady state has been reached, the controller can update the feedforward term. The controller can determine that a steady state has been reached when the flow rate deviation remains below a dead zone threshold for a specified steady-state time. In some respects, the specified steady-state time can be approximately 1000 milliseconds, but other values ​​are also conceivable. When a steady state is reached, the controller can update the feedforward term based on the current pump duty cycle, storing the updated feedforward term in non-volatile memory for subsequent allocation operations. This adaptive feedforward update allows the controller to learn the appropriate pump duty cycle for achieving the target flow rate based on actual system performance.

[0378] In some respects, the feedforward learning rate parameter (e.g., approximately 70%) can control the rate at which the feedforward is adjusted based on observed performance. The learning rate parameter can limit the proportion of the current pump duty cycle value incorporated into the updated feedforward, with the remaining proportion retained from the previous feedforward value.

[0379] refer to Figure 40 The illustration depicts a method 3300 for handling dispensing requests in a beverage system with manual mode and a precise pouring option. Method 3300 can be implemented by the controller of any of the beverage apparatuses described herein, for example, referring to... Figure 1 The controller 120 is described. Method 3300 can determine the appropriate target flow rate and feedforward term based on the user-selected allocation mode. See below for reference. Figure 25 The system 2500 describes method 3300 in more detail.

[0380] The controller can be configured to store and use different feedforwards for high-flow-rate and low-flow-rate allocation modes. Each feedforward can be learned and updated individually based on the operational conditions encountered during the respective allocation mode. In some aspects, the controller can store the high-flow-rate feedforward in non-volatile memory for use during high-flow-rate allocation operations, and can store the low-flow-rate feedforward in non-volatile memory for use during low-flow-rate allocation operations. The high-flow-rate feedforward can be set to an initial value, such as 70% duty cycle, and the low-flow-rate feedforward can be set to an initial value, such as 40% duty cycle, but other initial values ​​are also conceivable.

[0381] At step 3302, the controller may receive a dispensing request from the user interface. The dispensing request may represent user input indicating that the user wishes to dispense filtered fluid from the beverage system. The dispensing request may be received in response to the user pressing a dispensing button on the user interface or interacting with another control element configured to initiate dispensing.

[0382] At step 3304, the controller may determine whether manual mode is selected. Manual mode allows the user to continuously dispense fluid when the dispensing button is engaged, rather than dispensing a predetermined volume. The controller may determine whether manual mode is selected based on a manual flag variable set by the user interface in response to user input. If manual mode is not selected at step 3304, method 3300 may proceed to step 3308.

[0383] At step 3308, the controller can perform a dispensing operation using a preset size with a high flow rate. When the user selects a preset dispensing size such as 8 ounces, 16 ounces, or 1 liter, the controller can be configured to perform the dispensing operation using a high flow rate target and a high flow rate feedforward. In some respects, the high flow rate target could be approximately 2600 ml per minute, but other target values ​​are also conceivable. Using a high flow rate for preset size dispensing can reduce the time required to dispensing the selected volume.

[0384] If manual mode is selected at step 3304, method 3300 can proceed to step 3306. At step 3306, the controller can determine whether precision pouring is selected. The controller can be configured to implement a precision pouring mode with a lower target flow rate to more accurately dispense the preset volume. The precision pouring mode provides finer control over the dispensed volume by reducing the flow rate, which allows the controller to stop dispensing more precisely when the target volume is reached. The controller can determine whether precision pouring is selected based on a dispensing speed control flag set by the user interface in response to user input. In some aspects, the dispensing speed control flag can be set to zero to indicate precision pouring mode, and a value can be set to one to indicate a high flow rate mode.

[0385] If precise pouring is selected at step 3306, method 3300 can proceed to step 3310. At step 3310, the controller can use a low flow rate target and a low flow rate feedforward for the dispensing operation. In some respects, the low flow rate target may be approximately 1500 ml / min, but other target values ​​are also conceivable. The low flow rate feedforward can provide an initial pump duty cycle suitable for achieving the lower target flow rate. Using a low flow rate target and feedforward during precise pouring mode allows for more precise dispensing by providing finer control over the fluid flow through the beverage system.

[0386] If precise pouring is not selected at step 3306, method 3300 can proceed to step 3312. At step 3312, the controller can use a high flow rate target and a high flow rate feedforward for the dispensing operation. When the user selects a manual mode without precise pouring, the controller can use the high flow rate setting to provide faster fluid delivery during manual dispensing operations.

[0387] In some respects, the controller can be configured to update the feedforward term for the selected distribution mode at the end of each distribution cycle when a steady-state condition is reached. The controller can update the high-flow-rate feedforward term when distributing in a high-flow-rate mode, and update the low-flow-rate feedforward term when distributing in a low-flow-rate mode. This separate update of the feedforward term for each mode allows the controller to independently learn the appropriate pump duty cycle for both high-flow-rate and low-flow-rate operating conditions.

[0388] In some respects, the controller can be configured to implement a backoff mechanism when the flow rate does not reach near the target flow rate throughout the dispensing cycle. In these situations, the controller can update the pump feedforward to 100% duty cycle to maximize pump output for subsequent dispensing operations. This backoff mechanism can address situations where filter clogging, increased fluid viscosity, or other factors have reduced the flow rate below acceptable levels. In some respects, the backoff mechanism can be disabled when the beverage system operates in precision pouring mode, as the lower target flow rate in precision pouring mode may not require maximum pump output to achieve acceptable performance.

[0389] refer to Figure 41 The illustration shows a method 3400 for depressurization after dispensing in a beverage system. Method 3400 can be implemented by the controller of any of the beverage apparatuses described herein, for example, referring to... Figure 1 The controller 120 is described. Method 3400 can release pressure in the fluid passage after the dispensing operation is completed, thereby preventing pressure buildup that could lead to leakage or affect subsequent dispensing operations. See below for reference. Figure 25 The system 2500 describes the method in more detail 3400.

[0390] As described above, the fluid flow from the reservoir through the filtration unit to the dispensing outlet defines a first fluid flow path. The beverage system may also include a solenoid valve disposed along a second fluid flow path from the filtration unit to the reservoir. The controller may be configured to move the solenoid valve from a closed position to an open position after dispensing the filtered beverage to release pressure within the first fluid flow path.

[0391] At step 3402, the target allocation volume is reached. The controller can determine that the target allocation volume has been reached based on the flow meter pulse count multiplied by the flow meter coefficient, as described above with reference to pump control method 3300.

[0392] At step 3404, the controller can set the pump duty cycle to zero. Setting the pump duty cycle to zero stops the pump from driving additional fluid through the beverage system. The controller can be configured to implement a delay between pump activation and solenoid valve activation to prevent pressure buildup in the system.

[0393] At step 3406, the controller may wait for a pump-solenoid delay period. The pump-solenoid delay period may define the time interval between stopping the pump and closing the distribution solenoid. In some aspects, the pump-solenoid delay period may be configured as a system parameter stored in memory. This delay may allow residual fluid in the fluid path to be discharged through the distribution outlet before the distribution solenoid is closed, thereby reducing pressure buildup in the first fluid flow path. In some aspects, the controller may implement a distribution end delay (e.g., approximately 8000 milliseconds) after the distribution operation is completed, during which the controller performs post-distribution operations, such as depressurization. The controller may also implement a recirculation solenoid closing time (e.g., approximately 20 seconds), which defines the duration for which the recirculation valve remains open during the depressurization operation.

[0394] At step 3408, the controller can close the distribution solenoid. Closing the distribution solenoid terminates the flow of fluid through the distribution outlet, thereby completing the distribution portion of the operation.

[0395] At step 3410, the controller can open the recirculation solenoid for pressure relief. The controller can be configured to open the recirculation valve after the pump is shut down to distribute residual water in the fluid path back to the reservoir and release pressure back to the reservoir. Opening the recirculation solenoid establishes a second fluid flow path from the filter unit to the reservoir, thereby allowing any residual pressure in the first fluid flow path to be released through the recirculation path instead of remaining trapped in the filter module or fluid lines.

[0396] At step 3412, the controller can determine whether a reservoir is present. The controller can monitor the attachment / removal status of the fluid supply reservoir via a reservoir microswitch or other sensors configured to detect the presence of a reservoir. If a reservoir is present, method 3400 can proceed to step 3414.

[0397] At step 3414, the controller can continue the depressurization operation. The controller can maintain the recirculation solenoid in the open position to allow continued pressure release back to the reservoir through the second fluid flow path. The depressurization operation can continue for a configurable duration or until the controller determines that the pressure has been adequately released.

[0398] If the reservoir is not present at step 3412, method 3400 may proceed to step 3416. At step 3416, the controller may close the recirculation solenoid and return to idle. The controller may be configured to automatically close the recirculation solenoid upon detection of reservoir disassembly during a depressurization event to prevent the spraying of recirculated fluid from the recirculation valve or opening of the port at the interface between the fluid supply reservoir and the device. When the reservoir 102 is reattached, the controller may restart the depressurization process by reopening the recirculation solenoid.

[0399] While the beverage systems described above are generally described as including a fluid reservoir or raw water tank, it should be understood that in some aspects, the beverage systems described herein can be configured to receive unfiltered fluid from an external fluid supply source, either in place of a reservoir / raw water tank or in addition to a reservoir / raw water tank. For example, in some aspects, the beverage systems described herein can be connected to an external fluid supply via an external piping system, a direct water line connection, or similar fluid supply infrastructure. In such a configuration, the beverage systems described herein may omit the reservoir / raw water tank, or may include both a reservoir / raw water tank and a connection to an external fluid supply source, thereby allowing the user to select between fluid sources as needed.

[0400] Certain illustrative embodiments have been described to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the methods and systems, apparatuses disclosed herein. One or more examples of these aspects have been shown in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, apparatuses, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting illustrative embodiments, and the scope of the invention is defined only by the claims. Features shown or described in conjunction with one illustrative embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such variations and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, in this disclosure, components with similar names in embodiments generally have similar features, and therefore, within a particular embodiment, it is not necessary to describe every feature of every component with a similar name in detail. It should also be understood that the shapes of the illustrations of the foregoing embodiments depicted in the drawings are exemplary and may be modified based on factors such as durability, performance, aesthetics, and / or other similar factors.

[0401] The approximate language used throughout the specification and claims may be applied to modify any quantitative expression that may permissibly vary without altering its associated essential function. Accordingly, values ​​modified by one or more terms such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially” are not limited to specified precise values. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. In this document and throughout the specification and claims, scope limitations may be combined and / or interchanged, such scopes being identified and including all subscopes contained herein, unless otherwise indicated by context or language. For example, in some aspects, such as when referring to flow rate, dimensional measurements, or duration, the terms “about” or “approximately” may indicate a tolerance of plus or minus 10% of the value.

[0402] Those skilled in the art will understand further features and advantages of the invention based on the above embodiments. Therefore, this application is not limited to the content specifically illustrated and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated in their entirety by reference.

Claims

1. A beverage system, comprising: A pump configured to draw fluid from a fluid source and drive the fluid through a fluid passage to a distribution outlet; and A filter comprising a paper filter medium configured to remove contaminants from a fluid flowing therethrough, the filter being disposed on the fluid passage and configured to receive and filter unfiltered fluid pumped through the fluid passage by the pump.

2. A beverage apparatus, comprising: A housing defining a filter holder configured to receive a filter cartridge, the housing including a connection surface configured to mate with a corresponding fluid outlet of the filter cartridge disposed within the filter holder, the connection surface including: A flow path inlet, configured to receive fluid filtered by the disposed filter cartridge; and A protrusion that extends from the connecting surface and is arranged adjacent to the inlet of the flow path.

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