Smart beverage preparation machine and method

Abstract

To provide a method, beverage preparation machine, and system for dispensing a beverage.SOLUTION: A beverage preparation machine 100 has: a container compartment 105 for receiving a beverage packet comprising beverage ingredients; an outlet 109 configured to dispense a beverage flavored by the beverage packet 120; a communication interface 126 configured to receive a wireless signal comprising an identifier from an electronic device; and a processor operably coupled to the communication interface, receiving the identifier of the electronic device, associating the identifier of the electronic device with a user and a beverage preference of the user, and causing the beverage dispensed by the outlet to be based on the beverage preference of the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Cross-reference to related patent applications This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 842,747, filed May 3, 2019, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] Beverage preparation machines, such as high-pressure coffee machines, are known. Conventional beverage preparation machines dispense beverages based on a user's physical interaction with the beverage preparation machine. Conventional beverage preparation machines do not provide information related to a specific user of the beverage preparation machine. Furthermore, conventional beverage preparation machines do not automatically perform actions based on information, such as the user of the beverage preparation machine or the environment in which the beverage preparation machine is located. What is desired is a beverage preparation machine that receives information from one or more electronic devices, such as a user's smartphone or tablet, to improve the user's experience with the beverage preparation machine. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure may, in one aspect, be directed to a beverage preparation machine that interacts with one or more electronic devices, such as one or more mobile devices, Internet of Things (IOT) devices, servers, and the like.

[0004] In one aspect, the beverage preparation machine may include a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients. The outlet may dispense a beverage flavored by the beverage packet. The communication interface may be configured to receive a wireless signal from an electronic device, the wireless signal including an identifier of the electronic device. A processor may be operatively coupled to the communication interface and may receive the identifier of the electronic device; associate the identifier of the electronic device with a user and the user's beverage preferences; and cause the beverage dispensed by the outlet to be based on the user's beverage preferences.

[0005] In one aspect, the beverage preparation machine may include a container compartment configured to receive a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients. The outlet may be capable of dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet. The interface may be configured to receive a beverage selection from a user and to receive a user identifier. A processor may be operatively coupled to the interface and may associate the user identifier with the user's beverage preferences so that the beverage dispensed by the outlet is based on the user's beverage preferences.

[0006] In one aspect, the beverage preparation machine may include a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients. The outlet is capable of dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet. The surface is capable of receiving a container configured to receive a beverage. The processor determines an interior volume of the container, determines an amount of beverage the container can hold based on the interior volume of the container, and causes the outlet to dispense an amount of beverage into the container that is less than the determined amount of beverage the container can hold.

[0007] In one aspect, the beverage preparation machine may include a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients. The outlet may dispense a beverage flavored by the beverage packet. The communication interface may be configured to receive wireless communications from an electronic device, the wireless communications may include information related to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine. The user interface may be configured to display information related to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine.

[0008] In one aspect, the beverage preparation machine may include a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients. The outlet may dispense a beverage flavored by the beverage packet. The communication interface may be configured to receive wireless communications from an Internet of Things device. The processor may be configured to cause the beverage preparation machine to perform an action based on an indication in the wireless communications received from the Internet of Things device.

[0009] In one aspect, the beverage preparation machine can include a container compartment configured to receive one or more beverage packets containing beverage ingredients. The outlet can be configured to dispense a beverage flavored by the one or more beverage packets. The interface can be configured to receive information related to the one or more beverage packets, the information can include the types and quantities of ingredients available to the beverage preparation machine for dispensing the beverage. The processor may be configured to use the types and amounts of ingredients available to the beverage preparation machine to identify recipes for beverages that can be made by the beverage preparation machine and cause the beverage preparation machine to produce the selected recipe.

[0010] In one aspect, a beverage preparation machine for dispensing beverages may include a container compartment for receiving one or more beverage packets containing beverage ingredients. The outlet may be configured to dispense a beverage flavored by the one or more beverage packets. The communication interface may be configured to receive information related to one or more users of the beverage preparation machine or one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine. The processor may identify users of the beverage preparation machine, associate the information with the users of the beverage preparation machine, and rank the information associated with the users of the beverage preparation machine according to one or more rules. The user interface may be configured to provide the ranked information related to the users of the beverage preparation machine via at least one of a display or a speaker.

[0011] In one aspect, the beverage preparation machine may include a processor configured to identify one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine, where the one or more faults include a need for immediate or future repair of the beverage preparation machine. The memory may store the one or more faults. The communication interface is configured to send a message to the electronic device indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults with the beverage preparation machine and receive an indication that the message indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults has been received by the electronic device and reviewed by a user of the electronic device. The user interface may be configured to indicate, via at least one of the display or speaker, that the message indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults has been received by the electronic device and reviewed by a user of the electronic device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] The present disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is an exemplary beverage preparation machine capable of communicating with one or more electronic devices.

[0014] [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is an exemplary system diagram of an exemplary beverage preparation machine in communication with an electronic device.

[0015] [Figure 3] FIG. 10 illustrates another exemplary system diagram in which a beverage preparation machine communicates with one or more devices, such as a server, a mobile device, and another beverage preparation machine.

[0016] [Figure 4] 1 is an exemplary process for recognizing a user of a beverage preparation machine via wireless communication.

[0017] [Figure 5]1 is an exemplary process for automatically dispensing a beverage from a beverage preparation machine into a container based on a determination of the container's interior volume.

[0018] [Figure 6] 1 is an exemplary process of a beverage preparation machine that affects the brewer's experience by providing and / or receiving information.

[0019] [Figure 7] 1 is an exemplary process for a beverage preparation machine that performs an action based on an input.

[0020] [Figure 8] 1 is an example of a process in which a beverage preparation machine performs an action based on an action by an electronic device.

[0021] [Figure 9] An example of a process in which a beverage preparation machine generates a selected recipe based on ingredients and / or supplies available to the beverage preparation machine.

[0022] [Figure 10] 1 is an example of a process by which a beverage preparation machine automatically reorders ingredients and / or supplies for use by the beverage preparation machine.

[0023] [Figure 11] 1 is an example of a process in which a beverage preparation machine provides content, such as audio or video content.

[0024] [Figure 12] 1 is an example of a process for managing breakdowns and maintenance associated with a beverage preparation machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] The following description of preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or inventions in any way. The description of the exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which should be considered part of the entire written description. In the description of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, references to directions or orientations are intended merely for convenience of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Relative terms such as "bottom," "upper," "horizontal," "vertical," "over," "under," "upward," "downward," "left," "right," "top," "bottom," "front," and "rear," and derivatives thereof (e.g., "horizontal," "downward," "upward," etc.), should be construed as referring to the orientation shown in the figure(s) currently being described or discussed. These relative terms are for convenience of description and do not require a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated. Terms such as "mounted," "fixed," "connected," "coupled," "interconnected," "secured," and other similar terms refer to both a relationship in which structures are fixed or attached to one another, directly or indirectly, through intervening structures, and, unless otherwise specified, a movable or fixed attachment or relationship. The discussion herein describes and illustrates several possible non-limiting combinations of features that may exist alone or in combination with other features. Furthermore, as used herein, the term "or" should be interpreted as a logical operator that is true whenever one or more of its operands are true. Furthermore, as used herein, the phrase "based on" should be interpreted to mean "based at least in part on," and therefore is not limited to the interpretation of "fully based on."

[0026] As used throughout, ranges are used as a shorthand for describing all values within a range. Any value within a range can be selected as the endpoint of the range. Additionally, all references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the event of a discrepancy between a definition in this disclosure and a definition in a reference, this disclosure controls.

[0027] Features of the present invention may be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or a combination thereof. The computer programs described herein are not limited to specific embodiments and may be implemented in an operating system, an application program, a foreground or background process, a driver, or any combination thereof. The computer programs may execute on a single computer or server processor, or on multiple computer or server processors. For example, computer programs, steps, processes, etc. may execute on one or more beverage preparation machines, electronic devices, servers, etc.

[0028] A processor as described herein may be any central processor (CPU), graphics processor (GPU), microprocessor, microcontroller, computational, programmable device, circuitry, alone or in combination, configured to execute computer program instructions (e.g., code). Various processors may be incorporated into any suitable type of computer and / or server hardware (e.g., desktop, laptop, notebook, tablet, mobile phone, etc.) and may include all the usual ancillary components necessary to form a functional data processing device, including, but not limited to, buses, software and data storage such as volatile and non-volatile memory, input / output devices, graphical user interfaces (GUIs), removable data storage, and wireless communication interface devices, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (e.g., conventional Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low Energy), LANs, etc.

[0029] The computer-executable instructions or programs (e.g., software or code) and data described herein may be programmed and tangibly embodied in a non-transitory computer-readable medium accessible to and retrievable by each processor described herein. Execution of the instructions encoded on the medium configures and directs the processor to perform the necessary functions and processes. A device embodying a programmable processor configured with such non-transitory computer-executable instructions or programs may be referred to as a "programmable device" or "device," and multiple programmable devices in communication with each other may be referred to as a "programmable system." Note that the non-transitory "computer-readable medium" described herein may include, but is not limited to, any suitable volatile or non-volatile memory, including random access memory (RAM) and its various types, read-only memory (ROM) and its various types, USB flash memory, and magnetic or optical data storage devices (e.g., internal / external hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic tape, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, optical disks, ZIP® drives, Blu-ray® disks, and others). These may be written to and / or read by a processor operatively connected to the medium.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the present invention may be embodied in the form of computer-implemented processes and apparatuses, such as processor-based data processing and communication systems or computer systems for practicing those processes. The present invention may also be embodied in the form of software or computer program code embodied in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, which, when loaded and executed in the data processing and communication system or computer system, the computer program code segments configure a processor to create specific logic circuits configured to implement the processes.

[0031] Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a beverage preparation machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 may be a residential machine or a commercial machine (e.g., located in a business or public place). The beverage preparation machine 100 may prepare one or more types of beverages, such as coffee, tea, chocolate, milk, soup, etc. The beverage preparation machine 100 may prepare a beverage by passing water (e.g., hot or cold water) or another liquid through a beverage packet, such as beverage packet 120. The beverage packet 120 may include an ingredient, such as ingredient 122. The ingredient 122 may be a flavor ingredient for preparing a beverage. By way of example, the ingredient 122 may be ground coffee, tea, chocolate, or powdered milk.

[0032] The beverage preparation machine 100 can mix two or more ingredients, such as water and milk powder. The beverage preparation machine 100 can perform an infusion of ingredients with water, such as an infusion of ground coffee or tea. One or more of the ingredients 122 can be supplied in a loose, agglomerated powder, liquid, and / or concentrated form. A carrier or diluent (e.g., water) can be mixed with one or more ingredients to form a beverage. One or more ingredients can be inserted into the beverage preparation machine 100 via a beverage packet, which can be formed, for example, from an aluminum, plastic, or paper enclosure that holds the ingredients 122.

[0033] The beverage preparation machine 100 may include a water tank 103 accessible through a lid 102 on top of the machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 may include a container compartment 105 for receiving a beverage mix pack, such as a beverage packet 120. The container compartment may have a door, such as door 104. The beverage preparation machine 100 may include an outlet, such as outlet 109 (FIG. 1) or outlet 153 (FIG. 2), for dispensing and / or holding a beverage and / or through which a beverage (e.g., a liquid) may pass. The outlet 109 / 153 may be any known structure for dispensing and / or holding a beverage, such as a nozzle, a spout, a conduit, a valve, a tube, an opening, etc. The outlet 109 / 153 may hold a beverage packet. In an example, the outlet 109 / 153 may form part of the beverage packet itself. The outlet 109 / 153 may be configured to dispense one or more beverages flavored by one or more beverage packets, such as beverage packet 120.

[0034] The beverage preparation machine 100 may include a bin 106 located below the container compartment that receives a beverage mix pack after use. The bin 106 is received in a cavity formed in the beverage preparation machine 100 and removed for emptying. A removable drip tray 108 is provided at the bottom of the beverage preparation machine 100. The drip tray 108 includes a grill that forms a support surface for supporting a container (e.g., a cup) while the machine 100 is dispensing a beverage into the container. The tray portion of the drip tray 108 is positioned below the grill to catch any spills that pass through the grill. The beverage preparation machine 100 may have a user interface 110 in the form of a display screen, speaker, etc. The beverage preparation machine 100 may include a plurality of selection buttons 112. A user may interact with the machine 100 (e.g., control functions) via the user interface 110 and / or one or more selection buttons 112. For example, a user may select beverage production parameters via softkeys presented on the display and / or the selection buttons 112.

[0035] As described herein, user interface 110 may be a display configured to display information to a user based on user preference data. In other examples, user interface 110 may be a speaker, a microphone, or one or more other elements for providing information to or receiving information from beverage preparation machine 100. Information (e.g., personalized content) presented to a user may include the user's favorite beverages available for preparation / purchase, sports content, stock content, weather content, advertisements targeted to the user of beverage preparation machine 100, etc. Content provided to a user may include information that can lighten the user's mood. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may provide fun facts and / or trivia / jokes that the user can enjoy via the user interface. In examples, beverage preparation machine 100 may provide information related to the user's workplace and / or health content (e.g., exercise information, nutritional information) that may be of interest to the user of beverage preparation machine 100.

[0036] Beverage preparation machine 100 may include a communication interface 126. Communication interface 126 may be configured to communicate (e.g., wirelessly, via wired communication) with one or more devices, such as a user device, a server, another beverage preparation machine, one or more Internet of Things (IoT) devices, etc. For example, communication interface 126 may include an antenna configured to communicate with one or more devices via NFC, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other wireless technology.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary system 200 in which a beverage preparation machine 100 (FIG. 1) communicates with an electronic device 202. The electronic device 202 may be one or more electronic devices, such as a mobile device (e.g., a cell phone or tablet) or an Internet of Things device. In an example, the electronic device 202 may be a server 250. One or more processes may be performed by the beverage preparation machine 100 and / or the electronic device 202. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may perform one or more decisions described herein, and / or the server 250 performs one or more decisions described herein. In an example in which the server 250 performs one or more decisions, the server 250 may provide the decisions to the beverage preparation machine 100. While FIG. 2 illustrates the beverage preparation machine 100 in communication with a single electronic device 202 and a single server 250, it should be understood that this is for illustrative purposes only, and the beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with one or more electronic devices and one or more servers.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 2, beverage preparation machine 100 may include an outlet, such as outlet 153 (FIG. 2) or outlet 109 (FIG. 1), as described herein. Beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with one or more servers 250 via network 220. Beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with one or more databases, such as database 160, via network 220 or without network 220. Server 250 may communicate with beverage preparation machine 100 via wireless or wired signals. Server 250 may include a processor and a computer-readable medium, such as a random access memory (RAM), coupled to the processor. The processor may execute computer-executable program instructions stored in the memory. The computer-executable program instructions may include any number of application programs.

[0039] As described herein, the electronic device 202 may be any device capable of communicating (e.g., electronically communicating) with the beverage preparation machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 and the electronic device 202 may communicate via wire, wirelessly, an external device (e.g., a USB device), etc. Exemplary electronic devices 202 may include a user device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet, etc.), another beverage preparation machine, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, a server, etc. An IoT device may be any device capable of transmitting data to another device (or person) over the Internet, as understood by those skilled in the art. An IoT device may include sensors (e.g., wireless sensors), software, actuators, computing devices, etc. Example IoT devices include smart lights, doors, keys, refrigerators, cabinets, water systems (e.g., water filtration systems), thermometers and / or thermostats, GPS devices, televisions, etc.

[0040] The beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with one or more electronic devices 202 to provide information to and / or receive information from the electronic devices 202. Information provided from the beverage preparation machine 100 to the electronic devices 202 may include information on the status of the beverage preparation machine 100. The status may include a fault state, a power status, etc. of the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may indicate to the electronic device 202 that the beverage preparation machine 100 is experiencing a fault and / or may develop a fault in the future. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may identify the fault. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may identify the fault via a name, a code (e.g., a code number), a type, a priority, a resolution, an estimated time to resolution, etc. The beverage preparation machine 100 may notify a user that a fault exists via one or more communication methods, such as via SMS messaging, a phone call, an email, a display (e.g., a message displayed on the user interface 156 of the beverage preparation machine 100), etc.

[0041] The beverage preparation machine 100 may take action to correct the fault (e.g., may take action automatically). For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may take action to correct the fault based on permission and / or approval provided by a user. For example, when a fault is detected, the beverage preparation machine 100 may request permission from a user to correct the fault. In other examples, the beverage preparation machine 100 may take action to correct the fault without requesting permission from a user, such as automatically correcting the fault. The user may indicate which faults can be corrected automatically and which faults require user confirmation and / or approval. The beverage preparation machine 100 may identify a method for correcting the fault. The beverage preparation machine 100 may indicate to a user, technician, etc. of the beverage preparation machine 100 how to correct the fault.

[0042] Beverage preparation machine 100 may specify which faults can be corrected by a user and which faults require a technician to be corrected. Beverage preparation machine 100 may notify one or more persons and / or entities of the status of beverage preparation machine 100, which may be specified during configuration of beverage preparation machine 100. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may be configured to transmit fault information that requests a highly technical solution only to a technician and / or a less highly technical solution (e.g., restarting the machine) only to the user of beverage preparation machine 100.

[0043] The beverage preparation machine 100 may provide an action that can correct the fault (e.g., present it to a user or technician). The beverage preparation machine 100 may store fault information, repair information, etc. in a database or another storage element, such as memory 154. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may store information related to the fault, the amount of time the fault caused the beverage preparation machine 100 to be inoperable, the severity of the fault, the party that corrected the fault, and / or the method used to correct the fault. While the examples provided herein describe the beverage preparation machine 100 providing information related to the beverage preparation machine 100, it should be understood that these examples are for illustrative purposes only. Examples may include another device, such as a server 250, providing information related to the beverage preparation machine 100.

[0044] The beverage preparation machine 100 may indicate (e.g., shown on the electronic device 202) the power status of the beverage preparation machine 100, such as whether the beverage preparation machine 100 is powered on, powered off, receiving power via a main power source (e.g., an AC circuit), or receiving power from a backup source (e.g., an AC circuit). The beverage preparation machine 100 may indicate (e.g., shown on the electronic device 202) the inventory status of the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may indicate the number of beverage packs in stock and / or purchased, the number of beverage packs used, etc. Beverage preparation machine 100 may indicate, for example, when to repurchase beverage packs based on the inventory information.

[0045] The beverage preparation machine 100 may provide information regarding its location and / or environment. The location information may be determined via location sensors 180, such as a GPS sensor 172, a geolocation sensor, etc. The location information may include the GPS location of the beverage preparation machine 100, the geolocation information of the beverage preparation machine 100, the relative location information of the beverage preparation machine 100, etc. The location information of the beverage preparation machine 100 may be determined via crowd sensing, where the locations of other devices (e.g., proximate to the beverage preparation machine 100) update the location information of the beverage preparation machine 100. The location of the beverage preparation machine 100 may be determined via geolocation methods. Geolocation may be used to determine the location of the beverage preparation machine 100 within an area, such as within a building. For example, geolocation may be used to triangulate Wi-Fi signals within a building to identify a location within the building.

[0046] The location of beverage preparation machine 100 may be associated with a room, a hallway, a building, etc. For example, when the location of beverage preparation machine 100 within a building is determined (e.g., via geolocation, GPS, crowd sensing), the location of beverage preparation machine 100 within the building may be associated with a room (e.g., a conference room, a break room, a cafeteria, a hallway, etc.). The location and / or association information may be provided to electronic device 202, server 250, etc. In other examples, location information (e.g., latitude / longitude information, address information, association information, etc.) may be determined by a device external to beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., server 250) and / or provided to electronic device 202 or another device.

[0047] Information regarding the environment in which beverage preparation machine 100 is located may be determined. Environmental information may include temperature information of the environment in which beverage preparation machine 100 is located (e.g., temperature information inside and / or outside the building in which beverage preparation machine 100 is located), humidity information, precipitation information (e.g., sun, snow, rain, etc.), etc. Environmental information may be determined via environmental sensors 182 within beverage preparation machine 100, such as temperature sensors, humidity sensors, precipitation sensors, etc. Environmental information may be determined externally from beverage preparation machine 100 via server 250, a weather forecast service, etc.

[0048] Information related to personal preferences (e.g., personal preferences of a user of the beverage preparation machine 100) may be determined. For example, a user's coffee preferences may be determined. The coffee preferences may be based on the day of the week, the time of day, etc. The preferences may be determined via user input, such as the user identifying their preferences or the beverage preparation machine 100 determining the user's preferences via the user's beverage selection. User Selection. Beverage selections may be made from one day or multiple days. For example, a user may select beverages over a seven-day period. The beverage preparation machine 100 may associate the beverage selections with the user (e.g., over a seven-day period). The beverage preparation machine 100 may list beverage preferences, for example, from most desired beverage to least desired beverage.

[0049] The beverage preparation machine 100 may associate a beverage selection with a user through the user providing the user's identity (e.g., physically providing it, such as via the user interface 156). In another example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may associate the user's identity through the electronic device 202 associated with the user. For example, when the user selects a beverage, the beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the user's identity by determining that the user's electronic device 202 was in closest proximity to the beverage preparation machine 100 when the beverage was selected. The beverage preparation machine 100 may provide identity protection for users of the beverage preparation machine 100, for example, so that the user's name can be protected. Such protection may include users being associated with a unique code (rather than the user's name). In another example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may aggregate two or more users and mask the users so that they obtain a level of anonymity.

[0050] As described herein, beverage preparation machine 100 can associate with users via the users' electronic devices 202. Beverage preparation machine 100 can, for example, receive information related to one or more users (e.g., users of beverage preparation machine 100) via electronic devices 202. Based on the information provided on the users' electronic devices 202, beverage preparation machine 100 can receive calendar information for one or more users. Based on the users' calendars, beverage preparation machine 100 can determine the date, time, type (e.g., business, personal), and / or duration of an event. Events may include business / personal meetings, arrival / departure times, etc.

[0051] The beverage preparation machine 100 can determine the type of day a user is having based on the user's calendar information. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 can determine whether a user is expected to have a busy day, a stressful day, a short / long day, etc. based on the number of meetings scheduled for the user and / or meeting participants. The beverage preparation machine 100 can suggest beverages to one or more users based on the type of day the user is expected (e.g., predicted) to have. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may identify a beverage that can relax a user who is expected to have a stressful day, a beverage that can focus the user on what the user reports and what they are expected to meet, a beverage that can energize a user who is expected to have a long day, etc.

[0052] Artificial intelligence techniques, such as machine learning techniques, can be used to determine the type of day a user is determined (e.g., predicted) to have. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 can determine that the user has back-to-back meetings. Based on artificial intelligence techniques, beverage preparation machine 100 can determine that the user is likely tired, mentally fatigued, etc., and may benefit from a functional beverage (e.g., a beverage containing caffeine, a beverage containing green tea, a beverage containing electrolytes, etc.). Beverage preparation machine 100 can suggest beverages to keep the user awake, to reduce and / or relieve stress, to energize the user, etc. In some examples, beverage preparation machine 100 can dispense (e.g., automatically dispense or brew) a beverage determined to be beneficial to the user.

[0053] In another example, beverage preparation machine 100 may activate a vending machine display mode when a user is in proximity to beverage preparation machine 100. The vending machine display mode may display elements for the user to use in selecting a beverage and / or suggest beverages to a user of beverage preparation machine 100, for example, via a user interface.

[0054] The beverage preparation machine 100 may determine that a user is in proximity via a proximity sensor, beacon signal, etc. The beverage preparation machine 100 may determine other drinking actions that may be beneficial to the user. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may recommend that the user drink a certain amount of water (e.g., if the user has consumed a large amount of coffee) because coffee is a known diuretic and multiple cups of coffee may be known to cause dehydration. The recommendation may, in an example, be provided via the beverage preparation machine 100 when the user is in proximity. In another example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may indicate to the user (e.g., via a reminder) that the user should drink a particular beverage via the user's electronic device 202. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may send an SMS message to the user via the electronic device 202 that it is time for the user's afternoon coffee, that the user should drink water, etc.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 2 and described herein, system 200 includes an electronic device 202 that communicates with beverage preparation machine 100 via network 220. Network 220 may be the Internet in some examples. In other examples, network 220 may be Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a LAN, etc. Network 220 may include one or more wired and / or wireless communication networks. For example, electronic device 202 (e.g., a user device and / or an IoT device) may communicate with beverage preparation machine 100 via a Bluetooth protocol on electronic device 202 located within a predetermined distance of beverage preparation machine 100. Electronic device 202 may communicate with beverage preparation machine 100 based on a user command and / or electronic device 202 may communicate with beverage preparation machine 100 automatically. For example, the electronic device 202 may automatically communicate with the beverage preparation machine 100 based on a schedule (e.g., hourly), based on the electronic device 202 and the beverage preparation machine 100 being in close proximity to each other (e.g., within a predetermined location of each other), or based on an event (e.g., a scheduled meeting).

[0056] As shown in FIG. 2 , the electronic device 202 may include a user interface 204 , a memory 206 , a central processor (CPU) 208 , a graphics processing unit (GPU) 210 , an image capture device 210 , and / or a display 212 . The user interface 204 may allow a user to interact with the electronic device 202. In an example, the user interface 204 may be a display. For example, the user interface 204 may be a display including soft keys for providing information to a user. In an example, the user interface 204 may include hard keys or no keys at all (e.g., the user interface 204 may be a display such as the display 212). In another example, the user interface 204 may be an external hardware keyboard configured to communicate with the IOT device 204 via a wired or wireless connection (e.g., a Bluetooth keyboard), an external mouse, or other user input device.

[0057] The memory 206 may store instructions executable on the CPU 208 and / or GPU 210. The instructions may include machine-readable instructions that, when executed by the CPU 208 and / or GPU 210, cause the CPU 208 and / or GPU 210 to perform various operations. The memory 206 may store instructions that, when executed by the CPU 208 and / or GPU 210, enable the CPU 208 and / or GPU 210 to allow the user interface 204 to interact with a user. For example, the executable instructions may enable the user interface to display one or more prompts to the user (via the display 212) and / or accept user input. The instructions stored in the memory 206 may, for example, allow a user to select a type of beverage (e.g., coffee) to be dispensed from the beverage preparation machine 100. A user may utilize the user interface 204 to schedule coffee to be brewed in the future by selecting the type of coffee to be brewed as well as the date and time of brewing. In another example, the user can utilize the user interface 204 to click, hold, or drag a cursor to define one or more coffee brewing parameters (e.g., temperature, ounces to be dispensed, etc.).

[0058] The CPU 208 and / or GPU 210 may be configured to communicate with the memory 206 to store data in and read data from the memory 206. For example, the memory 206 may be a computer-readable non-transitory storage device that may include any combination of volatile (e.g., random access memory (RAM)) or non-volatile (e.g., battery-backed RAM, FLASH®, etc.) memory. The image capture device 214 may be configured to capture an image. The image may be an identifier for the beverage preparation machine 100, such as a serial number associated with the beverage preparation machine 100 or a QR code® associated with the beverage preparation machine 100.

[0059] System 200 includes beverage preparation machine 100. As shown in Figure 2, beverage preparation machine 100 may include CPU 152, memory 154, GPU 150, user interface 156, communication interface 158, and image capture device 174. As described herein, CPU 152 and / or GPU 150 may, in combination with or independently form a processor, a microprocessor, microcontroller, computing, programmable device, or circuitry.

[0060] Memory 154 may be configured to store instructions executable on CPU 152 and / or GPU 150. The instructions may include machine-readable instructions that, when executed by CPU 152 and / or GPU 150, cause CPU 152 and / or GPU 150 to perform various operations. CPU 152 and / or GPU 150 may be configured to communicate with memory 154 to store data in and read data from memory 154. For example, memory 154 may be a computer-readable non-transitory storage device that may include any combination of volatile (e.g., random access memory (RAM)) or non-volatile memory (e.g., battery-backed RAM, FLASH, etc.) memory.

[0061] User interface 156 may be configured to allow a user of beverage preparation machine 100 to interface with beverage preparation machine 100. For example, user interface 156 may include user input devices such as interactive portions of display 110 (e.g., "soft" keys displayed on display 110), selection buttons 112, an external hardware keyboard configured to communicate with beverage preparation machine 100 via a wired or wireless connection, an external device, or any other user input device.

[0062] Communications interface 158 may be configured to allow beverage preparation machine 100 to communicate with one or more devices internal or external to beverage preparation machine 100. For example, communications interface 158 may be configured to interface beverage preparation machine 100 with electronic device 202, one or more other electronic devices (such as one or more other beverage preparation machines 100), and / or beverage dispensing database 160. Beverage dispensing database 160 may store information related to coffee consumption, such as a user's coffee preferences, the location of beverage preparation machine 100, etc. The information stored in beverage dispensing database 160 may be used to provide a unique coffee experience to one or more users of beverage preparation machine 100.

[0063] Image capture device 174 may be configured to capture an image. The image may be an identifier of beverage preparation machine 100 and / or a container receiving a beverage from beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., a serial number or QR code associated with beverage preparation machine 100 and / or the container). The image may be an identifier of a container, such as a cup, mug, or other container for holding a beverage. The image may be in the shape of a container. Image capture device 174 may be configured, for example, to capture an image of a previously brewed beverage, such that beverage preparation machine 100 can emulate the image of the previously prepared beverage. As an example, beverage preparation machine 100 may attempt to brew coffee according to color (e.g., with a defined amount of sugar or cream), fill amount, etc. based on the image. Image capture device 174 may be configured to take an image of the beverage to identify the name of the beverage, the ingredients of the beverage, the brewing time, as well as other parameters of the beverage (e.g., the temperature at which the beverage is brewed, etc.).

[0064] Image capture device 174 may be configured to capture images of the exterior of the container and / or the interior of the container. For example, image capture device 174 may be configured to capture images of the interior of the container such that the images can be used to determine the interior volume of the container. For example, one or more elements (e.g., processor, server, measurement sensor 176, and / or control unit 162) can determine the volume of the interior of the container based on the images of the interior of the container. Image capture device 174 may be configured to capture images in a digital format having a number of pixels.

[0065] Although image capture device 174 is shown in FIG. 3 as internal to beverage preparation machine 100, in other examples, image capture device 174 may be internal and / or external to beverage preparation machine 100. For example, image capture device 174 may be embodied as a camera coupled to electronic device 202. Device 174 may be implemented as a webcam coupled to and configured to communicate with electronic device 202. Image capture device 214 may be implemented as a digital camera configured to transfer digital images to electronic device 202 and / or beverage preparation machine 100. Such transfer may occur, for example, via cable, wireless transmission, network 220, and / or physical memory card device transfer (e.g., SD card, flash card, etc.).

[0066] Beverage preparation machine 100 may include a control unit, such as control unit 162. Control unit 162 may be configured to control one or more beverage operations of beverage preparation machine 100. Control unit 162 may be configured to control the preparation of beverages by beverage preparation machine 100 based on inputs received from communication interface 158 and / or user interface 156. In examples, control unit 162 may be located inside beverage preparation machine 100 and / or outside beverage preparation machine 100.

[0067] FIG. 3 is an exemplary system 300 including one or more beverage preparation machines 100 and / or one or more electronic devices 202. As shown in FIG. 3, the beverage preparation machines 100 can communicate with IoT devices, such as lighting devices 203. The system 300 can include one or more servers 350 in communication with the one or more beverage preparation machines 100. The server 350 can be configured with an operating system capable of running one or more applications. The applications can be configured to provide services to the beverage preparation machines 100 and / or one or more electronic devices 202. The server 350 can be a data server, a web server, a cloud computing device, or the like. The system 300 can include one or more users 370 of the beverage preparation machines 100 (e.g., people who drink beverages, people who maintain the beverage preparation machines 100, etc.). The beverage preparation machines 100, the electronic devices 202 (e.g., user devices), and / or the server 350 can communicate with each other over a network, such as network 220.

[0068] A user 370 may interact with the beverage preparation machine 100 in one or more ways. For example, a user may interact with the beverage preparation machine 100 to receive beverages and / or content from the beverage preparation machine 100, provide input to the beverage preparation machine 100, etc. In such an example, a user 370 may interact with beverage preparation machine 100 to, for example, request maintenance on beverage preparation machine 100, request cleaning of beverage preparation machine 100, or request stocking of consumables necessary for use of beverage preparation machine 100. A user may use one or more electronic devices to interact with beverage preparation machine 100 via physically actuated buttons (soft keys or actual keys on display 112) on beverage preparation machine 100 or the like. For example, a user 370 may use one or more electronic devices to request maintenance, cleaning, stocking, etc. of beverage preparation machine 100 via physically actuated buttons on beverage preparation machine 100 or the like.

[0069] FIG. 4 illustrates an example process 400 for recognizing a person via wireless signals (e.g., wireless beacons). As described herein, the beverage preparation machine 100 may be connected to one or more electronic devices 202, such as user devices (e.g., mobile phones) or a server 250. The beverage preparation machine 100 and the electronic devices 202 may communicate via Bluetooth. At 402, the beverage preparation machine 100 may receive beacons from one or more electronic devices 202, such as via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may receive a unique identifier transmitted from the electronic device 202 via Bluetooth. At 404, the beverage preparation machine 100 may associate the unique identifier and / or the electronic device 202 with one or more users. The beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the user's preferences, schedule, etc. based on previous activity with the electronic device 202 and / or the beverage preparation machine 100. In examples, beverage preparation machine 100 may determine user preferences, schedules, etc. based on the user creating a profile (e.g., via an application, etc.). At 406, beverage preparation machine 100 may dispense a beverage based on the user preferences.

[0070] As described herein, beverage preparation machine 100 may identify a user via the user's electronic device 202 (e.g., a unique identifier provided by electronic device 202). After beverage preparation machine 100 determines that a particular user is using beverage preparation machine 100 and / or is located near beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., within a distance of 5 feet, etc.), beverage preparation machine 100 may provide recommendations to the user. Beverage preparation machine 100 may display the recommendations via user interface 156, for example. Beverage preparation machine 100 may transmit the recommendations to electronic device 202 so that the user can view the recommendations on electronic device 202. Beverage preparation machine 100 may recommend beverages (e.g., the user's favorite beverages) based on the user's past history of desired beverages, based on a profile created by the user, etc. In other examples, the beverage preparation machine 100 may recommend beverages to a user based on preferred beverage selections of colleagues, beverage groups that are popular in the user's local area or nationally / globally, the user's condition (e.g., supervisor), time of day (e.g., morning or afternoon), season (e.g., winter or summer), etc.

[0071] As described herein, a user may receive information about the beverage preparation machine 100 via the beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., via a user interface 156 of the beverage preparation machine 100) or via the electronic device 202. Beverage preferences may be provided to the user via the user's electronic device 202 and / or via an interface of the beverage preparation machine 100, such as buttons 112 and display 110 (FIG. 1). The beverage preparation machine 100 may store the user's preferences in a database (such as the beverage dispensing database 160 shown in FIG. 2). In other examples, the preferences may be provided by the electronic device 202 (e.g., via an application on the electronic device 202), or the preferences may be provided by the server 350 (e.g., a cloud server) and / or one or more other electronic devices 202.

[0072] User recognition may be provided via biometric authentication and / or emotional information. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may include a biometric sensor, such as biometric sensor 170. Biometric sensor 170 may recognize (e.g., identify) a user via the user's fingerprint (using a fingerprint reader), an image of the user (using a digital camera), an optical scan of the user, a voice scan of the user, an infrared image of the user (using an infrared camera), etc. User recognition may be provided via a beacon on the user's electronic device 202, as described herein. Beverage preparation machine 100 may identify a user as the user approaches beverage preparation machine 100, for example, via a BLE beacon emitted from user's electronic device 202 and / or by generating and / or analyzing an image of beverage preparation machine 100.

[0073] The beverage preparation machine 100 may prepare (e.g., automatically prepare) a beverage based on the user's identity. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may prepare a user's preferred beverage when the beverage preparation machine 100 identifies the user (e.g., via a beacon, fingerprint, image) and / or determines that the user is in proximity to the beverage preparation machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 may prepare a preferred beverage when the beverage preparation machine 100 determines that the user is en route to the beverage preparation machine 100. Such a determination may be based on the time of day, the direction the user is traveling, the user's speed, etc. In another example, the user may remotely instruct the beverage preparation machine 100 to prepare a beverage, and the beverage preparation machine 100 prepares the beverage so that it is ready when the user arrives at the beverage preparation machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 may make beverage recommendations to the user based on the user's past history, the past history of their colleagues, what is trending, etc. Such interaction between the user and the beverage preparation machine 100 makes the beverage preparation machine 100 appear more sympathetic to the user's beverage needs, making the beverage preparation machine 100 more interactive and creating a more appropriate experience for the user.

[0074] 5 shows an exemplary process 500 for dispensing (e.g., automatically dispensing) a beverage into a container based on a determination of the container's interior volume. At 502, beverage preparation machine 100 may receive a container configured to receive a beverage. Beverage preparation machine 100 may sense, identify, and / or determine characteristics of a container (e.g., a container, a cup, etc.) that will be provided to beverage preparation machine 100 for receiving the beverage. For example, at 504, beverage preparation machine 100 may be configured to sense, identify, and / or determine the type, size, volume, etc. of a container used to receive the beverage from beverage preparation machine 100. At 506, beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the amount of beverage the container can contain based on the container's interior volume. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the amount of beverage contained in the container based on an image of the container, an electronic device associated with the container (e.g., an RFID tag), an identification of the container (e.g., a QR code on the container or other identifying mark provided on the container and read by beverage preparation machine 100), a weight of the container, dimensions of the container (e.g., length, width, height) as identified by beverage preparation machine 100, etc. At 508, beverage preparation machine 100 may dispense an amount of beverage into the container that is less than or equal to the amount of beverage determined to be contained in the container.

[0075] The beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the volume (e.g., interior volume) of a container via measurement sensors 176, such as light transmitting and receiving sensors (e.g., lasers), audio transmitting and receiving sensors, etc. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the interior volume of a container by capturing an image of the interior (e.g., via image capture device 174), by sending light (e.g., lasers) and / or audio into the container interior, and / or via a profile (e.g., a stored profile) of the particular container. The length, width, and height of the container may be determined via one or more methods described herein. Based on the measurements of the container, a calculation of the container's volume may be determined by the beverage preparation machine 100.

[0076] After the volume of the container is determined, the amount of beverage that can be dispensed into the container (e.g., ounces of beverage) can be determined. The amount of beverage can be based on the volume of the container (e.g., the interior volume of the container) and / or the amount of beverage can be based on a user's preference. For example, if the container has a capacity that is less than the amount of beverage that the user prefers to consume, the beverage preparation machine 100 can dispense an amount of beverage into the container that fills (e.g., substantially fills) the container. If the container has a capacity greater than the amount of beverage the user prefers to consume, the beverage preparation machine 100 will not fill the container but will dispense an amount of beverage into the container that is the amount the user prefers.

[0077] In examples, beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the amount of beverage to be dispensed, while in other examples, one or more of electronic device 202 (e.g., a user device), a server (e.g., a cloud server), or the like may determine the amount of beverage to be dispensed into the container. For example, server 250 may determine the amount of beverage to be dispensed into the container based on the type, size, capacity, etc. of the container. In such examples, server 250 may indicate to beverage preparation machine 100 the amount of beverage to be dispensed by beverage preparation machine 100. Beverage preparation machine 100 may dispense (e.g., automatically dispense) the determined appropriate amount of beverage into the container, for example, when a user presents the container to beverage preparation machine 100.

[0078] 6 shows an example process 600 for influencing a brewer's experience, for example, by providing and / or receiving secondary information. At 602, beverage preparation machine 100 may receive signals (e.g., wireless signals) related to beverage preparation machine 100, a user of beverage preparation machine 100, etc. One or more electronic devices 202 may provide information to beverage preparation machine 100. The information provided to beverage preparation machine 100 may assist in the management, operation, and / or service of beverage preparation machine 100. Such information provided by electronic device 202 may improve the user's brewing experience.

[0079] The beverage preparation machine 100 may be in communication with one or more electronic devices 202 . The electronic device 202 can provide information to the beverage preparation machine 100, and / or one or more electronic devices 202 can receive information from the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, the electronic device 202 can provide temperature information, news information, location information, beverage trend information (such as beverages dispensed by the beverage preparation machine 100 that are currently popular, previously popular, and / or predicted to be popular in the future), usage information for the beverage preparation machine 100 (such as frequency of use of the beverage preparation machine 100, breakdown of users using the beverage preparation machine 100, history of beverages dispensed, etc.). For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 can receive information related to news (e.g., breaking news), sports updates, inventory updates, and other information of interest to users of the beverage preparation machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 can transmit location information, which may enable the electronic device 202 to determine which information is local to the beverage preparation machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 may determine information (e.g., news) that may be considered more important and / or more current to a user of the beverage preparation machine 100. Information deemed more important and / or more current may replace (e.g., replace on the user interface) information deemed less important and / or less current. The beverage preparation machine 100 may receive such information from the internet, a server 250, one or more electronic devices (e.g., IoT devices and / or user devices), crowdsourcing, etc.

[0080] At 604, beverage preparation machine 100 can provide (e.g., present) information so that the user can view and / or hear the information. Beverage preparation machine 100 can identify a user based on the user's mobile device and provide the user with information of interest to the particular user. The user's mobile device can be different from the electronic device that provides the information to beverage preparation machine 100. Beverage preparation machine 100 can present the information via display 110 (FIG. 1). As described herein, beverage preparation machine 100 can provide information via speaker 190 or receive information via microphone 192 or selection buttons. The information provided by beverage preparation machine 100 can be tailored to the interests of a particular user or group of users. The information may be provided in response to a user request or automatically. For example, a user may request that beverage preparation machine 100 provide a recommended beverage. In response to the request, beverage preparation machine 100 may provide a recommendation (e.g., a beverage recipe recommendation and / or a planogram recommendation). In other examples, beverage preparation machine 100 may provide recommendations in the absence of a user request. In such examples, beverage preparation machine 100 may make recommendations based on an event (e.g., new ingredient release, beverage review), based on a schedule (e.g., daily recommendations, weekly recommendations, etc.), based on requests from other users, etc.

[0081] As provided herein, information / data can be provided to and / or received from beverage preparation machine 100 via one or more electronic devices 202 and / or server 250. Electronic device 202 can provide information (e.g., weather information, temperature information, and / or calendar information) to affect the operation of beverage preparation machine 100. For example, beverage preferences can change based on weather conditions outside the building where the user is located and / or temperature conditions inside the building where the user is located. For example, a user may desire a particular beverage (e.g., iced coffee) in the heat of summer and a different beverage (e.g., hot chocolate) in the cold of winter. Beverage preparation machine 100 can identify conditions under which the user's preferences may be affected and determine the beverage to be recommended and / or dispensed based on these conditions. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 can identify the time of day and determine that the user desires a strong blend of coffee (with increased caffeine levels) in the morning and a weaker blend (or tea) in the afternoon. Beverage preparation machine 100 can provide recommendations to the user accordingly.

[0082] Beverage preparation machine 100 may receive information that enables it to predict usage of beverage preparation machine 100 and / or predict future usage of beverage preparation machine 100. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the number of users of beverage preparation machine 100 in a room (e.g., a conference room) housing beverage preparation machine 100 and / or the number of users of beverage preparation machines 100 located in close proximity to beverage preparation machine 100. Beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the number of users of beverage preparation machine 100 entering a building housing beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., in the morning), the number of users leaving the building (e.g., in the evening), the number of users in the building, etc.

[0083] The beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the number of users based on beacons (such as Bluetooth beacons), GPS location, geographic location, etc., as described herein. In other examples, beverage preparation machine 100 may determine a projected number of users of beverage preparation machine 100 based on available calendar data (e.g., Outlook calendar data for one or more users). For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may determine a number of users of beverage preparation machine 100 joining, leaving, or attending a meeting based on the users' calendar data. Beverage preparation machine 100 may determine (e.g., predict) beverage consumption based on the users' current locations and / or the users' future locations.

[0084] The beverage preparation machine 100 may perform actions (e.g., start up, shut down, etc.) based on the location and / or future location of users of the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may warm up the beverage preparation machine 100, cool the beverage preparation machine 100, begin heating water, etc. based on the number of users expected to be within a predetermined distance of the beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., within a predetermined time period). The beverage preparation machine 100 may begin warming up when the number of users begins to appear within a predetermined distance of the beverage preparation machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 may begin cooling when the number of users within a predetermined distance of the beverage preparation machine 100 decreases or when users leave a location (e.g., a room in which the beverage preparation machine 100 is located). The beverage preparation machine 100 may dispense a particular beverage (e.g., coffee, etc.) based on the preferences of one or more (e.g., a majority) of users of the beverage preparation machine 100 who are proximate to the beverage preparation machine 100. By performing beverage preparation (e.g., coffee brewing) tasks based on a user's presence (including predicted presence) and / or preferences, the beverage preparation machine 100 can anticipate the user's beverage needs, resulting in happier beverage consumers, which is expected to result in fewer consumer complaints about the brewer's performance.

[0085] FIG. 7 illustrates an example process 700 of the beverage preparation machine 100 performing an action based on an input. At 702, the beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with one or more electronic devices 202 (e.g., IoT devices, mobile devices, servers, etc.). Communication with the electronic devices 202, servers, etc. may enable the beverage preparation machine 100 to integrate with one or more data sources and / or IoT devices. The IoT devices may be present, for example, in a work environment, a home environment, and any other environment where a beverage provided by the beverage preparation machine 100 may be consumed. As an example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with one or more other beverage preparation machines 100. In another example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with one or more IoT devices in a room, such as a printer, a room (e.g., a bathroom, kitchen, living room, conference room, cafeteria, etc.), a smart toilet, a smart sink, a refrigerator, a water filtration system, lighting systems, electricity, etc.

[0086] As one example, beverage preparation machine 100 can communicate with smart lighting devices. Beverage preparation machine 100 can receive notifications from smart lighting devices when the lighting devices are turned on or off. At 704, beverage preparation machine 100 can perform an action (e.g., an action based on the notification and / or information). For example, beverage preparation machine 100 can power up when a lighting device is turned on, and beverage preparation machine 100 can power down when the lighting device is turned off. As another example, beverage preparation machine 100 can determine the time a light is turned on, the typical time a light is turned on / off, the time since the light was turned on, and the time a user of beverage preparation machine 100 requests a beverage. Based on the light information and the correlation between the light data and the user's consumption habits, beverage preparation machine 100 can perform an action accordingly. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 can begin preparing a beverage when the light is on as the user typically desires a beverage. At 706, the communication interface may send a signal to the electronic device 202 (e.g., a user's mobile device). For example, upon execution of an operation, the communication interface may send a signal to the electronic device 202 confirming that the operation was performed.

[0087] The beverage preparation machine 100 may aggregate (e.g., group) data received from one or more electronic devices 202 and a server. By aggregating data from one or more electronic devices (such as IoT devices), the beverage preparation machine 100 may provide an ecosystem that can help streamline the responsibilities of those typically responsible for obtaining beverages (e.g., coffee). For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the consumption habits of one or more users of the beverage preparation machine 100. By predicting and / or streamlining the users' consumption habits, the beverage preparation machine 100 may provide a time-saving experience when obtaining beverages from the beverage preparation machine 100.

[0088] FIG. 8 illustrates an example process 800 by which beverage preparation machine 100 performs an operation based on an action (e.g., an action by electronic device 202). At 802, beverage preparation machine 100 may exchange (e.g., receive and / or transmit) information with one or more electronic devices 202. Beverage preparation machine 100 may exchange (e.g., receive and / or transmit) information with one or more electronic devices 202. Beverage preparation machine 100 may receive, transmit, and / or store large amounts of information. Such information may be used by beverage preparation machine 100 to predict future consumption habits of users of beverage preparation machine 100, costs of ingredients and materials used by beverage preparation machine 100, inventory of ingredients and materials used by beverage preparation machine 100, and / or locations associated with beverage preparation machine 100. Information received, transmitted, and / or stored by beverage preparation machine 100 may be used by beverage preparation machine 100 (or an external device, such as electronic device 202 and / or a server) to program (e.g., automatically program) energy saving schedules.

[0089] The energy saving schedule may be related to the operation of the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may use historical data of beverage preparation (e.g., brewing) and / or dispensing by the beverage preparation machine 100 to determine future energy saving schedules. The energy saving schedule may be related to heating or cooling schedules so that the beverage preparation machine 100 can operate at optimal energy levels during peak and / or slow beverage consumption times. The beverage preparation machine 100's historical data may be used to provide energy saving schedules for devices other than the beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., electronic device 202). For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may determine that a user begins drinking a beverage (e.g., coffee) at a particular time in the morning. The beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with a light fixture to turn the light fixture on (e.g., ensure that the light fixture is on) within a predetermined time before the user drinks the beverage. In another example, a user may typically drink a beverage before leaving for work or before going to bed. In such an example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with the lighting fixture to turn the lighting fixture off within a predetermined time after a user normally consumes such beverage.

[0090] The beverage preparation machine 100 may make decisions (e.g., predictions) based on historical data. In other examples, the decisions (e.g., predictions) may be made via machine learning and / or artificial intelligence approaches. For example, the predictions may be made via machine learning models using supervised learning approaches. In such examples, the beverage preparation machine 100 may store information relating beverage preparation machine location to consumption levels, weather to consumption levels, thermostat temperatures to consumption levels, etc.

[0091] The information stored by beverage preparation machine 100 may be used to train a machine learning model to provide a future prediction of a user's coffee consumption level. For example, based on information (such as consumption information and / or refill / order information associated with beverage preparation machine 100, location information for beverage preparation machine 100, etc.) and a machine learning model trained using the consumption level, the user models their desired consumption level. Upon receiving the desired consumption level, the trained model can provide the user with one or more locations predicted to result in such desired consumption level. Such results, in conjunction with indicators of beverage consumers' past foot traffic, can predict future ingress and egress of beverage consumers to result in a desirable (e.g., optimal) placement of beverage preparation machines 100 within a building and / or placement of related types of beverage preparation machines 100 in desired locations within the building.

[0092] The machine learning model can be trained using user consumption information (e.g., the user's coffee preference information). Once the machine learning model is trained using the user consumption information, the user can input the user's ID into the trained model. The user's beverage (e.g., coffee) preferences may be based on time of day, day of the week, season, month, etc. For example, the user's coffee preferences may include extra caffeinated coffee consumed in the morning and on Mondays. Upon receiving the user's ID, the trained model may recommend coffee options to the user, such as a more caffeinated coffee in the morning. In some examples, the user can manually input information used to interact with (e.g., train) the model. In other examples, the machine learning model may be trained using information automatically provided to the beverage preparation machine 100, for example, via one or more electronic devices 202.

[0093] Beverage preparation machine 100 may generate and / or print reports regarding the status of one or more beverage preparation machines. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may generate and / or print reports describing malfunctions experienced by beverage preparation machine 100, on / off periods of beverage preparation machine 100, consumption levels of beverage preparation machine 100, etc. Consumption levels may be categorized based on time of day, day of the week, etc.

[0094] Based on the generated report, the beverage preparation machine 100 may provide recommendations for modifying the usage of the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, at 804, the beverage preparation machine 100 may identify the electronic device 202 (e.g., a particular electronic device) to perform an action, such as turning a lighting device on or off. At 806, the beverage preparation machine 100 can perform an action, such as dispensing a beverage or providing a beverage recommendation, based on the operation of the electronic device 202. The recommendation may be directed to a user of the beverage preparation machine 100, a supplier of the beverage preparation machine 100, a provider of ingredients and / or materials used by the beverage preparation machine 100, etc. For example, the recommendation may include a recommended location (different and / or additional location) where the beverage preparation machine 100 should be located. The recommended location of the beverage preparation machine 100 may be to optimize consumption levels of beverages served by the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, the recommended locations may be used to reduce wait times for beverages served by beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., to reduce or eliminate lines using beverage preparation machine 100), to allow for more efficient use of beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., by ordering / stocking favorite extractors before ingredients used by beverage preparation machine 100 expire), and to reduce walking distances to beverage preparation machine 100. As a result, users of beverage preparation machine 100, owners of beverage preparation machine 100, and / or suppliers of ingredients / materials used by beverage preparation machine 100 may best utilize beverage preparation machine 100. For example, users, owners, and suppliers of beverage preparation machine 100 may be provided with a better return on their investment (e.g., in terms of purchased equipment and products).

[0095] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary process 900 by which beverage preparation machine 100 generates a selected recipe. Information regarding the amount of product (e.g., ingredients, materials, etc.) provided to beverage preparation machine 100, dispensed by beverage preparation machine 100, and / or remaining in beverage preparation machine 100 may be determined and / or stored. For example, SKU information for products used by beverage preparation machine 100 may be identified and / or stored. The SKU information may be used to identify which products have been dispensed by beverage preparation machine 100 and which products have not been consumed. Beverage preparation machine 100 may determine the rate at which products are dispensed, for example, to determine when a product should be replenished and / or to determine that a product should not be replenished (e.g., if an ingredient is available to a particular beverage preparation machine 100 user and / or if the product is sufficiently stocked by beverage preparation machine 100). Beverage preparation machine 100 may determine whether a product is in stock (and available) and when the product will be available at beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., based on an estimated shipping time provided by the product's vendor).

[0096] At 902, beverage preparation machine 100 may identify the amount of product (e.g., ingredient) available to beverage preparation machine 100 and / or the type of product available. At 904, based on the identity and / or type of product available, beverage preparation machine 100 may determine custom recipes for beverages that can be produced by beverage preparation machine 100. Beverage preparation machine 100 may categorize recipes that can be produced based on, for example, popularity of recipes or similarity to recipes preferred by users of beverage preparation machine 100. For example, the display of beverage preparation machine 100 may be updated (e.g., automatically updated) with custom recipes and custom categorizations of brewed coffee. As an example, if beverage preparation machine 100 determines that peppermint tea and hot chocolate are popular choices among users, the display of beverage preparation machine 100 may provide a recommendation to prepare a Peppermint Patty recipe. In another example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may make a Peppermint Patty recipe available to a user (e.g., automatically create one). At 906, the beverage preparation machine 100 may receive the selected recipe, for example, via a user interface and / or a communications interface. The beverage preparation machine 100 may receive the selected recipe based on the identity and / or type of available products. At 908, the beverage preparation machine 100 may produce a beverage having the selected recipe.

[0097] The beverage preparation machine 100 may identify custom creations based on use of the beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., a particular beverage preparation machine). For example, a user of the beverage preparation machine 100 may create a custom creation of chocolate and raspberry tea. A user of the beverage preparation machine 100 may create a custom beverage by combining, for example, a chocolate pack and a raspberry pack. If one or more users of the beverage preparation machine 100 repeatedly create such a custom combination, the beverage preparation machine 100 may determine that the custom creation is a popular beverage and offer the custom creation to other users of the beverage preparation machine 100. In another example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may indicate that the custom creation should be offered to others other than the user of the beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., offering or selling the custom creation to users worldwide).

[0098] Beverage preparation machine 100 may provide beverage recommendations based on beverage attributes other than the beverage's taste. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may provide beverage recommendations based on the time it takes to prepare beverage preparation machine 100, how busy a user of beverage preparation machine 100 is determined to be (e.g., based on the user's calendar). For example, lemon herbal tea is brewed at a very low throughput, so it takes beverage preparation machine 100 a long time to prepare lemon herbal tea. As a result of the preparation time, the lemon herbal tea option may be placed last (e.g., at the bottom) of a menu of available options. Such a feature of beverage preparation machine 100 may result in a more appropriate user experience for users of beverage preparation machine 100.

[0099] Information regarding the products (e.g., ingredients) dispensed and / or sold by beverage preparation machine 100 may be determined based on factors external to beverage preparation machine 100. For example, information regarding the products dispensed and / or sold by beverage preparation machine 100 may be determined based on weather, time of day, season, etc. Weather may be the weather in the area where beverage preparation machine 100 is located, weather that is predicted to occur, and / or weather that has occurred in the past. For example, a beverage typically consumed during cold weather (e.g., hot chocolate) may be produced by beverage preparation machine 100 when the weather is cold or is predicted to be cold. A beverage typically consumed during hot weather may be produced by beverage preparation machine 100 when the weather is hot or is predicted to be hot. A beverage typically consumed during a certain time of day (e.g., morning) may be produced by beverage preparation machine 100 during that time of day (e.g., morning), etc.

[0100] The beverage preparation machine 100 may provide audio content based on factors external to the beverage preparation machine 100, such as the weather, the time of day, the time of year, etc. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may provide upbeat music in the afternoon when the weather is cloudy. Such content may be intended to improve the mood of a user during weather, times (e.g., afternoon or morning), or days (e.g., Monday) when a depressed mood is expected or when the user is expected to be low on energy.

[0101] FIG. 10 illustrates an example process 1000 by which ingredients for a beverage preparation machine 100 are reordered. The beverage preparation machine 100 may communicate with (e.g., receive information from) one or more marketplaces (e.g., online marketplaces) and information systems. At 1002, the beverage preparation machine 100 may receive information regarding the type and / or quantity of ingredients available to the beverage preparation machine 100 for dispensing a beverage. The beverage preparation machine 100 may receive the information via a user interface and / or a communication interface of the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, a user may provide information regarding the available types and / or ingredients to the beverage preparation machine 100 via a user interface and / or an electronic device. The beverage preparation machine 100 may receive the ingredient information via an external tag associated with the ingredient, such as an RFID tag. The external tag may communicate the presence and / or type of the ingredient to the beverage preparation machine 100.

[0102] The beverage preparation machine 100 can communicate with an online marketplace via the internet to reorder products. The products can be ingredients of a recipe dispensed by the beverage preparation machine 100 or other materials (e.g., cups, straws, etc.) used by the beverage preparation machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 can determine to communicate with the online marketplace to reorder a product (e.g., a coffee product) based on the market from which one or more (e.g., each) user wishes to order (e.g., through a particular merchant), an existing relationship with the user, price (e.g., lowest price for the product), market ratings, etc.

[0103] At 1004, the beverage preparation machine 100 can order a product based on the amount of product in stock and the rate of consumption of the product. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 can determine the amount of an ingredient available to the beverage preparation machine 100 and the typical consumption of the ingredient so that the ingredient is ordered and delivered to the beverage preparation machine 100 before the ingredient runs out of stock. For example, at 1006, the beverage preparation machine 100 can order a product earlier than when the ingredient is expected to run out, so that the product is ready to be dispensed via the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 , a user 370 can stock the beverage preparation machine 100 with a product, indicate the amount of product available to the beverage preparation machine 100, etc. As a product is consumed, the beverage preparation machine 100 can order additional product so that the product arrives before it runs out. In some examples, the beverage preparation machine 100 can incorporate an average delivery time so that the product is received before it is completely depleted. Such features may result in ease of ordering products for users of the beverage preparation machine 100 and / or ease of processing orders for merchants.

[0104] FIG. 11 illustrates an example process 1100 for beverage preparation machine 100 to provide information (e.g., information provided as audio content, video content, text content). The information (e.g., content) may be stored in beverage preparation machine 100, received by beverage preparation machine 100, displayed by beverage preparation machine 100, transmitted from beverage preparation machine 100, etc. The content stored, received, displayed, and / or transmitted may be determined via rules. For example, the content may be determined by rules using one or more parameters such as time of day, beverages dispensed (e.g., sold), beverages not dispensed, beverages dispensed frequently or infrequently, etc. The rules may be priority-based (e.g., ranked). For example, content may be prioritized according to time of day and beverage dispensed. Using this example, priority "1" may include content "A" to be displayed between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM when tea is served. Priority "2" may include content "B" to be displayed between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM when hot chocolate is served. Priority "3" may include content "C" to be displayed between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM when any beverage is served. Priority "4" may include content "D" to be displayed between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM when any beverage is served. Priority "5" may include content "E" to be displayed when the beverage preparation machine 100 is idle and when the beverage preparation machine 100 is in a power saving mode.

[0105] The content may be created and / or provided by the manufacturer of beverage preparation machine 100, a distributor of beverage preparation machine 100, a user of beverage preparation machine 100, a source unrelated to the manufacturer of beverage preparation machine 100, etc. At 1102, beverage preparation machine 100 may receive content information related to one or more users of beverage preparation machine 100 and / or one or more products related to beverage preparation machine 100. The content may be received from and / or transmitted to beverage preparation machine 100 via wired or wireless communication. The content may be displayed by beverage preparation machine 100, for example, via a display. Audio may be provided by beverage preparation machine 100 via one or more speakers, such as speaker 190. The speaker may be internal to beverage preparation machine 100 and / or the speaker may be external to beverage preparation machine 100. Beverage preparation machine 100 may provide audio information to an external speaker capable of providing audio sounds.

[0106] At 1104, the beverage preparation machine 100 may identify a user of the beverage preparation machine 100 and associate content information with the user of the beverage preparation machine 100. Content stored, received, and / or transmitted to the beverage preparation machine 100 may enable the beverage preparation machine 100 to function as an information area, such as a central bulletin board. A user may access the beverage preparation machine 100 physically and / or remotely to receive content stored and / or provided by the beverage preparation machine 100. At 1106, the beverage preparation machine 100 may provide information via a user interface and / or a communication interface. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may provide job-related information (e.g., visual information, audio information) (e.g., information related to the hiring of a new employee) and / or information related to the brew dispenser. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 may provide information regarding product launches of the beverage preparation machine 100, information regarding the use of the beverage preparation machine 100, favorite recipes available for use with the beverage preparation machine 100, etc.

[0107] A user can physically visit beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., when picking up a beverage) and / or the user can remotely log in to a central information board at beverage preparation machine 100. The remote information can be accessed by a user who is physically located in the building where beverage preparation machine 100 is located and / or who is remote from beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., a user working remotely, etc.). The user can select the amount of information they want to receive, the type of information they want to receive, etc. Beverage preparation machine 100 can provide notifications (e.g., push notifications) to the user based on the user's selection.

[0108] At 1108, beverage preparation machine 100 may receive input related to content (e.g., related content), such as feedback. For example, a user of beverage preparation machine 100 may provide feedback of beverage preparation machine 100 to beverage preparation machine 100. The feedback may be provided by physically interacting with beverage preparation machine 100 and / or by remotely interacting with beverage preparation machine 100. For example, while beverage preparation machine 100 is preparing a beverage for the user, beverage preparation machine 100 may request the user to provide feedback of beverage preparation machine 100. Such feedback may be about the ease of use of beverage preparation machine 100, improvements the user believes beverage preparation machine 100 could make useful, the user's satisfaction with beverage preparation machine 100, etc.

[0109] Content may be transmitted to beverage preparation machine 100 via, for example, a content management application. Content may be transmitted from beverage preparation machine 100 to one or more electronic devices 202. Content may be transmitted to electronic device 202 when a user of electronic device 202 is in proximity to beverage preparation machine 100 and / or when the user is away from a beverage. As described herein, content provided by beverage preparation machine 100 may enable a user, owner, and / or technician of beverage preparation machine 100 to provide feedback. For example, a user may suggest categories of content that the user, owner, and / or technician may add, or requests for additions. A user, owner, and / or technician may provide an indication of whether they are enjoying the content provided by beverage preparation machine 100 or whether there are other types of content that beverage preparation machine 100 should provide. Beverage preparation machine 100 may update the provided content based on, for example, user preferences. In other examples, content may be based on the selected beverage (e.g., coffee), coffee pack type, SKU provided, etc. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 can determine that consumers of a particular beverage have similar interests. Based on the beverages consumed by the user, content can be dynamically and intelligently (e.g., automatically) updated. As a result, beverage preparation machine 100 can provide similar content to people who consume similar beverages.

[0110] FIG. 12 illustrates an example process 1200 for case management for beverage preparation machine 100. At 1202, beverage preparation machine 100 may identify one or more faults occurring with beverage preparation machine 100. The faults may require immediate and / or future repair of beverage preparation machine 100. The faults may be tracked. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may track one or more faults of beverage preparation machine 100, and / or the faults may be tracked externally to beverage preparation machine 100, such as via a server or other electronic device. Response times, such as the time a fault occurred and the time to resolve the fault, may be calculated and / or tracked. Response times may be calculated and / or tracked by beverage preparation machine 100 or externally to beverage preparation machine 100, as described herein. Faults may be cleared. For example, a fault may be cleared when it is resolved (e.g., fully resolved and / or partially resolved). The fault may be cleared via a user interface (e.g., soft / hard buttons found on the beverage preparation machine 100) and / or the fault may be cleared remotely via an electronic device in communication with the beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., a technician's electronic device).

[0111] Faults can be classified, for example, they can be classified as soft or hard faults. A soft fault may be less serious than a hard fault. For example, a soft fault may indicate that beverage preparation machine 100 needs to be maintained (e.g., cleaned, such as by cleaning around the outlet of beverage preparation machine 100). A soft fault may be indicated by a user of beverage preparation machine 100. A hard fault may indicate that beverage preparation machine 100 is not functioning properly, such as that beverage preparation machine 100 requires repair and / or reset. A hard fault may be generated and / or detected by beverage preparation machine 100. Beverage preparation machine 100 may (e.g., automatically) determine the presence of a hard fault and / or resolve the hard fault.

[0112] At 1204, beverage preparation machine 100 may store the fault occurring by beverage preparation machine 100 and / or transmit (e.g., to a mobile device and / or a server) an indication of the fault occurring by beverage preparation machine 100. At 1206, beverage preparation machine 100 may receive an indication that the transmitted indication of the fault has been received by an electronic device and / or reviewed by a user of the electronic device. At 1208, beverage preparation machine 100 may provide (e.g., via a user interface) an indication that the transmitted indication of the fault has been received by an electronic device and / or reviewed by a user of the electronic device.

[0113] As provided herein, beverage preparation machine 100 may provide and / or store information regarding the use, maintenance, malfunctions, and / or inventory of beverage preparation machine 100. For example, beverage preparation machine 100 may provide and / or store information regarding the need to service beverage preparation machine 100. Such information may relate to malfunction data for beverage preparation machine 100. Usage, maintenance, fault, and / or inventory information may be provided to a technician. The technician may receive information (e.g., fault data) remotely (e.g., via the Internet), via a display on beverage preparation machine 100, and / or via a wired connection to beverage preparation machine 100. The fault data may provide a code identifying the fault. For example, a code may identify that a door of beverage preparation machine 100 is open, a code may identify that one or more parts of beverage preparation machine 100 need repair, a code may identify that beverage preparation machine 100 should undergo routine maintenance, a code may identify that a product accommodated by beverage preparation machine 100 is old or expired, etc.

[0114] Providing the information described herein (e.g., fault data) can maximize the amount of time the beverage preparation machine 100 is functioning properly. The information may be provided to a user, owner, and / or technician via an alert. For example, because the beverage preparation machine 100 is maintained (as a result of the beverage preparation machine 100 providing a maintenance indication), the beverage preparation machine 100 may be out of service for a shorter period of time. Furthermore, providing information regarding a malfunction of the beverage preparation machine 100 can reduce the time it takes to repair the beverage preparation machine 100. The information may be provided to a user of the beverage preparation machine 100 and / or a technician of the beverage preparation machine 100 so they can determine the best way to repair the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, if the repair is minor, the user may be able to repair the beverage preparation machine 100. Alternatively, if the repair is major, a technician may be notified. The beverage preparation machine 100 can determine which party (e.g., the user or the technician) is best suited to perform the repair.

[0115] A history of use, repair, and / or maintenance of one or more beverage preparation machines 100 may be kept. The information may be stored on beverage preparation machine 100 and / or on another device, such as server 250. Based on this information, a sequence of operation of a particular beverage preparation machine and / or a sequence of operation of a line of beverage preparation machines may be determined. Based on this information, a determination may be made as to whether a particular beverage preparation machine 100 should be scrapped or whether an entire line of beverage preparation machines 100 should be discontinued. Alternatively, a beverage preparation machine 100 may be determined to be high performing (e.g., requiring little or no repairs). This information may be used to make the features of the highest performing devices available to lower performing devices.

[0116] As provided herein, providing information about beverage preparation machine 100 to a technician servicing beverage preparation machine 100 can optimize the process of repairing and / or maintaining beverage preparation machine 100. In instances where a technician is needed to service beverage preparation machine 100, service may be requested for beverage preparation machine 100 (e.g., remotely via SMS, email, phone, etc.). Repairs may be ticketed to available technicians and / or suppliers, and tickets for repairs may be routed (e.g., automatically) to an office manager, technician, designated department of a distributor, etc. Such functionality may result in less downtime for beverage preparation machine 100.

[0117] The beverage preparation machine 100 can be restarted via touch buttons on the beverage preparation machine 100 and / or via signals received by a communication interface. The beverage preparation machine 100 can be remotely controlled. For example, the beverage preparation machine 100 can be remotely operated by a user and / or a technician. By remotely controlling the beverage preparation machine 100, a technician can remotely perform diagnostic processes on the beverage preparation machine 100 to troubleshoot and correct problems with the beverage preparation machine 100. For example, a technician can remotely restart the beverage preparation machine 100. The beverage preparation machine 100 can be restarted, for example, to correct one or more faults, to install software (including firmware) updates, to refresh memory, etc. The beverage preparation machine 100 can be restarted via a web-based portal and / or a mobile application. Restarting the beverage preparation machine 100 can be restricted, for example, so that an administrator (e.g., only an administrator) can restart the beverage preparation machine 100.

[0118] The software and / or settings (eg, configuration settings) of the beverage preparation machine 100 may be copied (eg, cloned) from one beverage preparation machine 100 to another beverage preparation machine 100. For example, the software and / or settings of the beverage preparation machine 100 may be copied from a first beverage preparation machine to a second beverage preparation machine 100 upon installation of the second beverage preparation machine 100 and / or after the second beverage preparation machine 100 has been installed. The copied settings may include one or more data, as described herein. For example, the copied settings may include a user's favorite beverages, typical times for beverage consumption, user calendar information, etc. In another example, the copied settings may be configuration information for the beverage preparation machine 100. The configuration information may include one or more passwords for the user of the beverage preparation machine 100; beverage SKUs available on the beverage preparation machine 100; beverage settings for each SKU; required energy saving settings; payment settings; pricing settings for each SKU; clock settings; contact details (such as contact information to use in the event of a machine issue); audit information; error logs; operation logs; and timed events (such as the time / date a filter needs to be changed, the number of discounted beverages, etc.). The settings may be copied via wired and / or wireless methods. For example, an administrator may remotely copy settings from a first beverage preparation machine 100 to a second beverage preparation machine 100 .

[0119] While the present invention has been described in terms of specific examples, including presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above-described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural and functional modifications may be made, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims. Exemplary Claim Set

[0120] Exemplary Claim 1 1. A beverage preparation machine comprising: a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; a communication interface configured to receive a wireless signal from an electronic device, the wireless signal including an identifier of the electronic device; and a processor operably coupled to the communication interface and configured to receive the identifier of the electronic device and associate the identifier of the electronic device with a user and the user's beverage preferences; and to cause the beverage dispensed by the outlet to be based on the user's beverage preferences.

[0121] Exemplary Claim 2 10. The beverage preparation machine of claim 1, wherein the communication interface is configured to automatically receive a wireless signal from an electronic device when the electronic device determines that the electronic device is in proximity to the beverage preparation machine.

[0122] Exemplary Claim 3 10. The beverage preparation machine of any preceding exemplary claim, wherein the wireless signal of the electronic device is a Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy signal.

[0123] Exemplary Claim 4 10. The beverage preparation machine of any one of the preceding exemplary claims, wherein the processor is configured to determine a beverage preference based on a user's beverage preference, the beverage preference being different from the beverage preference, and cause the communication interface to transmit an indication signal to the electronic device, whereby the electronic device displays the beverage recommendation.

[0124] Exemplary Claim 5 10. The beverage preparation machine of any one of the preceding exemplary claims, wherein the user's beverage preferences are based on at least one of the time of day, the season, the user's schedule, the preferences of the user's colleagues, or beverage trends.

[0125] Exemplary Claim 6 10. The beverage preparation machine of any one of the preceding exemplary claims, wherein the user's beverage preferences are based on a history of beverages dispensed for the user or a profile created by the user.

[0126] Exemplary Claim 7 10. The beverage preparation machine of any one of the preceding exemplary claims, comprising a user interface configured to receive biometric information associated with a user, the processor configured to associate the biometric information associated with the user with the user's beverage preferences.

[0127] Exemplary Claim 8 8. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 7, wherein the biometric information includes a fingerprint of the user, an image of the user, or a voice of the user.

[0128] Exemplary Claim 9 1. A beverage preparation system comprising: a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; a communication interface configured to receive a wireless signal from an electronic device, the wireless signal including an identifier of the electronic device; and a processor operably coupled to the communication interface and configured to receive the identifier of the electronic device and associate the identifier of the electronic device with a user and the user's beverage preferences, such that a beverage dispensed by the outlet is based on the user's beverage preferences.

[0129] Exemplary Claim 10 10. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 9, wherein the communication interface is configured to automatically receive a wireless signal from the electronic device upon determining that the electronic device is in proximity to the beverage preparation machine.

[0130] Exemplary Claim 11 11. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 9 or 10, wherein the wireless signal of the electronic device is a Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy signal.

[0131] Exemplary Claim 12 12. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 9 to 11, wherein the processor is configured to determine the beverage preference based on the user's beverage preference, and when the beverage preference differs from the beverage preference, cause the communication interface to send an indication signal to the electronic device, and the indication signal causes the electronic device to display the beverage recommendation.

[0132] Exemplary Claim 13 13. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 9 to 12, wherein the user's beverage preferences are based on at least one of the time of day, the season, the user's schedule, the preferences of the user's colleagues, or beverage trends.

[0133] Exemplary Claim 14 14. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 9 to 13, wherein the user's beverage preferences are based on a history of beverages dispensed for the user or a profile created by the user.

[0134] Exemplary Claim 15 15. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 9 to 14, including a user interface configured to receive biometric information associated with a user, and the processor configured to associate the biometric information associated with the user with the user's beverage preferences.

[0135] Exemplary Claim 16 16. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 15, wherein the biometric information includes a fingerprint of the user, an image of the user, or a voice of the user.

[0136] Exemplary Claim 17 1. A method for dispensing beverages, the method comprising the steps of: receiving a wireless signal from an electronic device, the wireless signal including an identifier of the electronic device; associating, via a processor, the identifier of the electronic device with a user and the user's beverage preferences; and dispensing a beverage flavored with a beverage packet, the dispensed beverage being based on the user's beverage preferences.

[0137] Exemplary Claim 18 20. The method of exemplary claim 17, including automatically receiving a wireless signal from the electronic device when the electronic device determines that the electronic device is in proximity to the beverage preparation machine.

[0138] The method according to any of exemplary claims 17-18, wherein the wireless signal of the electronic device is a Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy signal.

[0139] Exemplary Claim 20 20. The method of any one of exemplary claims 17-19, including the steps of: determining, via a processor, beverage recommendations based on the user's beverage preferences, wherein the beverage recommendations are different from the beverage preferences; and transmitting a display signal to the electronic device, wherein the display signal causes the electronic device to display the beverage recommendations.

[0140] Exemplary Claim 21 21. The method of any of exemplary claims 17-20, wherein the user's beverage preference is based on at least one of time of day, season, the user's schedule, the preferences of the user's colleagues, or beverage trends.

[0141] Exemplary Claim 22 22. The method according to any of exemplary claims 17 to 21, wherein the user's beverage preferences are based on a history of beverages dispensed for the user or a profile created by the user.

[0142] Exemplary Claim 23 23. The method of any one of exemplary claims 17-22, comprising receiving biometric information associated with a user and associating the biometric information associated with the user with the user's beverage preferences.

[0143] Exemplary Claim 24 24. The method of exemplary claim 23, wherein the biometric information includes a fingerprint of the user, an image of the user, or a voice of the user.

[0144] Exemplary Claim 25 A beverage preparation machine comprising: a container compartment configured to receive a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; an interface that receives a beverage selection from a user and receives a user identifier; and a beverage preparation machine operably coupled to the interface and configured to associate the user identifier with the user's beverage preferences and such that the beverage dispensed by the outlet is based on the user's beverage preferences.

[0145] Exemplary Claim 26 26. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 25, wherein the interface is a user interface including selection buttons for receiving a beverage selection from a user.

[0146] Exemplary Claim 27 27. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 26, wherein the user identifier is determined based on user biometric information received by the user interface.

[0147] Exemplary Claim 28 28. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 27, wherein the biometric information includes a fingerprint of the user, an image of the user, or an optical scan of the user.

[0148] Exemplary Claim 29 29. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 25 to 28, wherein the user's identifier is determined based on a signal received from the user's electronic device.

[0149] Exemplary Claim 30 30. The beverage preparation machine of any of exemplary claims 25 to 29, wherein the processor is configured to determine beverage recommendations based on beverage preferences, and wherein the beverage recommendations are distinct from the beverage preferences.

[0150] Exemplary Claim 31 231. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 25 to 230, wherein the interface is configured to display beverage recommendations.

[0151] Exemplary Claim 32 32. The beverage preparation machine of any of exemplary claims 25 to 31, wherein the user's beverage preference is based on at least one of the time of day, the season, the user's schedule, the preferences of the user's colleagues, or beverage trends.

[0152] Exemplary Claim 33 1. A beverage preparation system comprising: a container compartment configured to receive a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; an interface configured to receive a beverage selection from a user and to receive an identifier of the user; and a processor operably coupled to the interface and configured to associate the user identifier with the user's beverage preferences and such that the beverage dispensed by the outlet is based on the user's beverage preferences.

[0153] Exemplary Claim 34 34. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 33, wherein the interface is a user interface including selection buttons for receiving a beverage selection from a user.

[0154] Exemplary Claim 35 35. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 34, wherein the user identifier is determined based on biometric information of the user received by the user interface.

[0155] Exemplary Claim 36 36. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 35, wherein the biometric information includes a fingerprint of the user, an image of the user, or an optical scan of the user.

[0156] Exemplary Claim 37 37. The beverage preparation system of any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein the user's identifier is determined based on a received signal from the user's electronic device.

[0157] Exemplary Claim 38 38. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 33-37, wherein the processor is configured to determine beverage recommendations based on beverage preferences, and wherein the beverage recommendations are distinct from the beverage preferences.

[0158] Exemplary Claim 39 39. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 33-38, wherein the interface is configured to display beverage recommendations.

[0159] Exemplary Claim 40 40. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 33-39, wherein the user's beverage preferences are based on at least one of the time of day, the season, the user's schedule, the preferences of the user's colleagues, or beverage trends.

[0160] Exemplary Claim 41 A beverage preparation machine comprising: a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; a surface for receiving a container configured to receive the beverage; and a processor configured to determine an internal volume of the container, determine an amount of beverage the container can hold based on the internal volume of the container, and cause the outlet to dispense an amount of beverage into the container that is less than the determined amount of beverage the container can hold.

[0161] Exemplary Claim 42 42. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 41, including at least one of an image capture device or a light emitting and receiving device that provides information to a processor, wherein the processor determines an interior volume of the container based on the information provided by the image capture device or the light emitting and receiving device.

[0162] Exemplary Claim 43 43. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 41 to 42, further comprising an interface configured to receive a quantity of beverage preferred by a user, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether the quantity of beverage preferred by the user is equal to or less than a determined quantity of beverage that the container can hold, and if the quantity of beverage preferred by the user is equal to or less than the determined quantity of beverage that the container can hold, dispense the quantity of beverage preferred by the user, and if not, dispense the quantity of beverage that the container can hold.

[0163] Exemplary Claim 44 44. The beverage preparation machine according to any one of exemplary claims 41 to 43, wherein the interface is a communication interface that receives the user's preferred amount of beverage via an electronic device.

[0164] 45. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 44, wherein the electronic device is at least one of a mobile phone, an Internet of Things device, or a server.

[0165] Exemplary Claim 46 44. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 41 to 43, wherein the interface is a user interface that receives a user-preferred amount of beverage via a button provided on the beverage preparation machine.

[0166] Exemplary Claim 47 47. A beverage preparation machine as described in any one of exemplary claims 41 to 46, wherein the processor is configured to determine the length, width, and height of the interior of the container, and the processor determines the interior volume of the container based on the determined length, width, and height of the interior of the container.

[0167] Exemplary Claim 48 48. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 41 to 47, wherein the processor automatically causes a quantity of beverage to be dispensed into the container that is less than the determined quantity of beverage that the container can hold when the surface receives the container.

[0168] Exemplary Claim 49 A beverage preparation system comprising: a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; a surface for receiving a container configured to receive the beverage; and a processor configured to determine an internal volume of the container, determine an amount of beverage the container can hold based on the internal volume of the container, and cause the outlet to dispense an amount of beverage into the container that is less than the determined amount of beverage the container can hold.

[0169] Exemplary Claim 50 50. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 49, including at least one of an image capture device or an optical emission and receiving device that provides information to a processor, wherein the processor determines the internal volume of the container based on the information provided by the image capture device or the optical emission and receiving device.

[0170] Exemplary Claim 51 51. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 49 to 50, further comprising an interface configured to receive a quantity of beverage preferred by a user, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether the quantity of beverage preferred by the user is less than or equal to a determined quantity of beverage that the container can hold, and if the quantity of beverage preferred by the user is less than or equal to the determined quantity of beverage that the container can hold, dispense the quantity of beverage preferred by the user, and if not, dispense the quantity of beverage that the container can hold.

[0171] Exemplary Claim 52 52. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 49 to 51, wherein the interface is a communication interface that receives the user's preferred amount of beverage via an electronic device.

[0172] Exemplary Claim 53 53. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 52, wherein the electronic device is at least one of a mobile phone, an Internet of Things device, or a server.

[0173] Exemplary Claim 54 52. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 49 to 51, wherein the interface is a user interface that receives a user-preferred amount of beverage via a button provided on the beverage preparation machine.

[0174] Exemplary Claim 55 A beverage preparation system as described in any of exemplary claims 49 to 54, wherein the processor is configured to determine the length, width, and height of the interior of the container, and the processor determines the interior volume of the container based on the determined length, width, and height of the interior of the container.

[0175] Exemplary Claim 56 56. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 49 to 55, wherein the processor causes the outlet to automatically dispense an amount of beverage into the container that is less than a determined amount that the container can hold when the surface receives the container.

[0176] Exemplary Claim 57 A method of dispensing a beverage, the method comprising the steps of receiving a container configured to receive a beverage; determining, via a processor, an internal volume of the container; determining an amount of beverage the container can hold based on the internal volume of the container; and causing an outlet to dispense an amount of beverage into the container that is less than the determined amount of beverage the container can hold, wherein the beverage is flavored by a beverage packet.

[0177] Exemplary Claim 58 58. The method of exemplary claim 57, comprising providing information via an image capture device or a light emitting and receiving device, and determining, via a processor, an interior volume of the container based on the information provided by the image capture device or the light emitting and receiving device.

[0178] Exemplary Claim 59 59. The method of any one of exemplary claims 57-58, comprising the steps of receiving a quantity of beverage preferred by a user, determining via a processor whether the quantity of beverage preferred by the user is less than or equal to a determined quantity of beverage that the container can hold, and dispensing the quantity of beverage preferred by the user if the quantity of beverage preferred by the user is less than or equal to the determined quantity of beverage that the container can hold, or otherwise dispensing the quantity of beverage that the container can hold.

[0179] Exemplary Claim 60 60. The method of any one of claims 57 to 59, comprising receiving a user's preferred beverage quantity via an electronic device.

[0180] Exemplary Claim 61 61. The method of exemplary claim 60, wherein the electronic device is at least one of a mobile phone, an Internet of Things device, or a server.

[0181] Exemplary Claim 62 59. The method of any one of exemplary claims 57-58, comprising receiving the amount of beverage preferred by the user via a button provided on the beverage preparation machine.

[0182] Exemplary Claim 63 63. The method of any one of exemplary claims 57 to 62, comprising determining the length, width, and height of the interior of the container, and determining the interior volume of the container based on the determined length, width, and height of the interior of the container.

[0183] Exemplary Claim 64 59. The method of any of exemplary claims 57-58, including automatically dispensing a quantity of beverage into the container that is less than a determined quantity of beverage the container can hold when the surface receives the container.

[0184] Exemplary Claim 65 1. A beverage preparation machine comprising: a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; a communication interface configured to receive wireless communications from an electronic device, the wireless communications including information related to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine; and a user interface configured to display information related to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine.

[0185] Exemplary Claim 66 66. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 65, wherein the user interface is configured to display beverage recommendations based on a temperature, day of the week, or time of day local to the beverage preparation machine.

[0186] Exemplary Claim 67 67. The beverage preparation machine of any of exemplary claims 65-66, wherein a user of the beverage preparation machine is identified via a unique identifier of the user's mobile device, the mobile device being different from the electronic device.

[0187] Exemplary Claim 68 68. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 65 to 67, wherein the user interface is configured to display information relevant to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine based on the preferences of the user of the beverage preparation machine.

[0188] Exemplary Claim 69 69. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 65 to 68, wherein a user selects the type of information displayed by the user interface or the frequency of information displayed by the user interface.

[0189] Exemplary Claim 70 70. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 65 to 69, wherein the electronic device is a server, a user device, or an Internet of Things device.

[0190] Exemplary Claim 71 71. The beverage preparation machine of any of exemplary claims 65 to 70, wherein the information about the beverage preparation machine includes at least one of popular beverages that can be dispensed by the beverage preparation machine, or a history of beverages dispensed by the beverage preparation machine.

[0191] Exemplary Claim 72 72. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 65 to 71, wherein the information relating to the beverage preparation machine comprises temperature information local to the beverage preparation machine or sports information local to the beverage preparation machine.

[0192] Exemplary Claim 73 73. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 65 to 72, wherein the wireless communication received from the communication interface includes at least one of inventory information or latest news information.

[0193] Exemplary Claim 74 74. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 65 to 73, wherein the communication interface is configured to transmit information relating to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine to a mobile device of the user.

[0194] Exemplary Claim 75 1. A beverage preparation system comprising: a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; a communication interface configured to receive wireless communications from an electronic device, the wireless communications including information related to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine; and a user interface configured to display information related to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine.

[0195] Exemplary Claim 76 76. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 75, wherein the user interface is configured to display beverage recommendations based on a temperature, a day of the week, or a time of day local to the beverage preparation machine.

[0196] Exemplary Claim 77 77. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 75-76, wherein a user of the beverage preparation device is identified via a unique identifier of the user's mobile device, the mobile device being different from the electronic device.

[0197] Exemplary Claim 78 78. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 75 to 77, wherein the user interface is configured to display information relevant to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine based on the preferences of the user of the beverage preparation machine.

[0198] Exemplary Claim 79 79. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 75 to 78, wherein a user selects the type of information displayed by the user interface or the frequency of information displayed by the user interface.

[0199] Exemplary Claim 80 80. The beverage preparation system of any one of claims 75 to 79, wherein the electronic device is a server, a user device, or an Internet of Things device.

[0200] Exemplary Claim 81 81. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 75 to 80, wherein the information about the beverage preparation machine includes at least one of popular beverages that can be dispensed by the beverage preparation machine or a history of beverages dispensed by the beverage preparation machine.

[0201] Exemplary Claim 82 82. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 75 to 81, wherein the information relating to the beverage preparation machine includes temperature information local to the beverage preparation machine or sports information local to the beverage preparation machine.

[0202] Exemplary Claim 83 83. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 75-82, wherein the wireless communication received from the communication interface includes at least one of inventory information or latest news information.

[0203] Exemplary Claim 84 84. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 75 to 83, wherein the communication interface is configured to transmit information related to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine to a mobile device of the user.

[0204] Exemplary Claim 85 1. A method for providing information via a beverage preparation machine, the method comprising: receiving wireless communication from an electronic device, the wireless communication including information related to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine; displaying information related to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine via a display; and dispensing a beverage flavored with a beverage packet.

[0205] Exemplary Claim 86 86. The method of exemplary claim 85, including displaying beverage recommendations based on temperature, day of the week, or time of day local to the beverage preparation machine.

[0206] Exemplary Claim 87 87. The method of any one of exemplary claims 85-86, wherein a user of the beverage preparation machine is identified via a unique identifier of a mobile device of the user of the beverage preparation machine, said mobile device being different from the electronic device.

[0207] Exemplary Claim 88 88. A method according to any one of exemplary claims 85 to 87, comprising displaying information about the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine based on preferences of the user of the beverage preparation machine.

[0208] Exemplary Claim 89 89. A method according to any one of exemplary claims 85 to 88, comprising selecting, via a user, the type of information to be displayed by the user interface or the frequency of information to be displayed by the user interface.

[0209] Exemplary Claim 90 90. The method of any of exemplary claims 85-89, wherein the electronic device is a server, a user device, or an Internet of Things device.

[0210] Exemplary Claim 91 91. The method of any of exemplary claims 85-90, wherein the information about the beverage preparation machine includes at least one of popular beverages that may be dispensed by the beverage preparation machine or a history of beverages dispensed by the beverage preparation machine.

[0211] Exemplary Claim 92 92. The method of any of exemplary claims 85 to 91, wherein the information relating to the beverage preparation machine comprises temperature information local to the beverage preparation machine or sports information local to the beverage preparation machine.

[0212] Exemplary Claim 93 93. The method of any of exemplary claims 85-92, wherein the wireless communication received from the communication interface includes at least one of stock quotes or breaking news information.

[0213] Exemplary Claim 94 94. The method according to any of exemplary claims 85 to 93, wherein the communication interface is configured to transmit information relating to the beverage preparation machine or a user of the beverage preparation machine to a mobile device of the user.

[0214] Exemplary Claim 95 A beverage preparation machine comprising: a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; a communication interface configured to receive wireless communications from an Internet of Things device; and a processor configured to cause the beverage preparation machine to perform operations based on instructions in the wireless communications received from the Internet of Things device.

[0215] Exemplary Claim 96 96. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 95, wherein the processor is configured to cause the beverage preparation machine to perform an action based on instructions in a wireless communication received from an Internet of Things device and a predetermined time.

[0216] Exemplary Claim 97 96. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 95, wherein the instructions indicate that the Internet of Things device is activated, and the processor is configured to power on the beverage preparation machine based on the instructions that the Internet of Things device is activated and to power off the beverage preparation machine based on the instructions that the Internet of Things device is deactivated.

[0217] Exemplary Claim 98 98. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 95 to 97, wherein the Internet of Things device is a smart lighting device.

[0218] Exemplary Claim 99 96. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 95, wherein the action performed by the beverage preparation machine is dispensing a beverage based on an indication that the Internet of Things device is activated.

[0219] Exemplary Claim 100 100. The beverage preparation machine of any one of claims 95 to 99, wherein the Internet of Things device is a sensor.

[0220] Exemplary Claim 101 96. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 95, wherein the action performed by the beverage preparation machine is dispensing a beverage based on both an indication that the Internet of Things device is activated and the user's habits.

[0221] Exemplary Claim 102 102. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 101, wherein a user's habit is to request a beverage from the beverage preparation machine after a predetermined time period in which the Internet of Things device is activated.

[0222] Exemplary Claim 103 103. Exemplary beverage preparation machine according to any one of claims 95 to 102, comprising a user interface, said user interface configured to indicate that said action has been performed.

[0223] Exemplary Claim 104 104. The beverage preparation machine of any of exemplary claims 95 to 103, wherein the communication interface is configured to send a wireless communication to a user's mobile device indicating that the beverage preparation machine has performed an action.

[0224] Exemplary Claim 105 105. The beverage preparation machine of any of exemplary claims 95-104, wherein the processor is configured to determine an operation based on instructions in wireless communications received from an Internet of Things device and a machine learning algorithm.

[0225] Exemplary claim 106 106. The beverage preparation machine of any of exemplary claims 95 to 105, wherein the processor is configured to cause the beverage preparation machine to perform operations based on an energy saving schedule.

[0226] Exemplary Claim 107 107. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 95 to 106, wherein the processor is configured to cause the beverage preparation machine to perform an action based on a user's beverage consumption history.

[0227] Exemplary claim 108 A beverage preparation system comprising: a container compartment for receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients; an outlet for dispensing a beverage flavored by the beverage packet; a communication interface configured to receive wireless communications from an Internet of Things device; and a processor configured to cause a beverage preparation machine to perform an operation based on instructions in the wireless communications received from the Internet of Things device.

[0228] Exemplary Claim 109 109. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 108, wherein the processor is configured to cause the beverage preparation machine to perform an action based on instructions in a wireless communication received from an Internet of Things device and a predetermined time.

[0229] Exemplary Claim 110 The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 108, wherein the instructions indicate that the Internet of Things device is activated, and the processor powers on the beverage preparation machine based on an indication that the Internet of Things device is activated and powers off the beverage preparation machine based on an indication that the Internet of Things device is deactivated.

[0230] Exemplary Claim 111 111. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 108-110, wherein the Internet of Things device is a smart lighting device.

[0231] Exemplary Claim 112 109. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 108, wherein the action performed by the beverage preparation machine is dispensing a beverage based on an indication that the Internet of Things device is activated.

[0232] Exemplary Claim 113 109. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 108, wherein the action performed by the beverage preparation machine is dispensing a beverage based on both an indication that the Internet of Things device is activated and the user's habits.

[0233] Exemplary Claim 114 114. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 113, wherein the user's habits are to request a beverage from the beverage preparation machine after a predetermined time period in which the Internet of Things device is activated.

[0234] Exemplary Claim 115 115. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 108 to 114, including a user interface, the user interface configured to indicate that the action has been performed.

[0235] Exemplary Claim 116 116. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 108-115, wherein the communication interface is configured to send a wireless communication to a user's mobile device indicating that the beverage preparation machine has performed an action.

[0236] Exemplary Claim 117 117. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 108-116, wherein the processor is configured to determine an action based on instructions in wireless communications received from an Internet of Things device and a machine learning algorithm.

[0237] Exemplary Claim 118 118. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 108-117, wherein the processor is configured to cause the beverage preparation machine to perform operations based on an energy saving schedule.

[0238] Exemplary Claim 119 119. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 108 to 118, wherein the processor is configured to cause the beverage preparation machine to perform an action based on a user's beverage consumption history.

[0239] Exemplary Claim 120 1. A method for causing a beverage preparation machine to perform an operation, the method comprising: receiving a beverage packet containing beverage ingredients, the beverage being flavored by the beverage packet; receiving a wireless communication from an Internet of Things device; and causing the beverage preparation machine to perform an operation based on instructions in the wireless communication received from the Internet of Things device.

[0240] Exemplary Claim 121 121. The method of example claim 120, including causing the beverage preparation machine to perform an action based on instructions in a wireless communication received from the Internet of Things device and a predetermined time.

[0241] Exemplary Claim 122 121. The method of example claim 120, wherein the instructions indicate that the Internet of Things device is to be activated, and the processor includes powering on the beverage preparation machine based on the indication that the Internet of Things device is activated, and powering off the beverage preparation machine based on the indication that the Internet of Things device is deactivated.

[0242] 123. The method of any of exemplary claims 120-122, wherein the Internet of Things device is a smart lighting device.

[0243] Exemplary Claim 124 121. The method of example claim 120, wherein the action performed by the beverage preparation machine is dispensing a beverage based on an indication that the Internet of Things device is activated.

[0244] Exemplary Claim 125 121. The method of exemplary claim 120, wherein the action performed by the beverage preparation machine is dispensing a beverage based on both an indication that the Internet of Things device is activated and user habits.

[0245] Exemplary Claim 126 126. The method of exemplary claim 125, wherein the user's habits are requesting a beverage from the beverage preparation machine after a predetermined time period in which the Internet of Things device is activated.

[0246] Exemplary Claim 127 127. The method of any of exemplary claims 120-126, including indicating via a user interface that the action has been performed.

[0247] Exemplary Claim 128 129. The method of any one of exemplary claims 120-128, comprising sending a wireless communication to a user's mobile device indicating that the beverage preparation machine has performed an action.

[0248] Exemplary Claim 129 129. The method of any one of exemplary claims 120-128, comprising determining an action based on instructions in wireless communications received from an Internet of Things device and a machine learning algorithm.

[0249] Exemplary Claim 130 130. The method of any one of exemplary claims 120 to 129, comprising causing the beverage preparation machine to perform operations based on an energy saving schedule.

[0250] Exemplary Claim 131 131. The method of any of exemplary claims 120 to 130, comprising causing the beverage preparation machine to perform an action based on a user's beverage consumption history.

[0251] Exemplary Claim 132 A beverage preparation machine comprising: a container compartment configured to receive one or more beverage packets containing beverage ingredients; an outlet configured to dispense a beverage flavored by the one or more beverage packets; an interface configured to receive information related to the one or more beverage packets, the information including types and quantities of ingredients available to the beverage preparation machine to dispense the beverage; and a processor configured to use the types and quantities of ingredients available to the beverage preparation machine to identify recipes for beverages that can be made by the beverage preparation machine and cause the beverage preparation machine to generate the selected recipe.

[0252] Exemplary Claim 133 133. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 132, wherein the interface is a communications interface configured to receive a wireless signal containing information regarding a beverage packet containing ingredients for preparing the beverage.

[0253] Exemplary Claim 134 A beverage preparation machine as described in any of exemplary claims 132 to 133, wherein the interface is at least one of a user interface through which a user provides input via touch and a communication interface configured to receive wireless signals from an electronic device.

[0254] Exemplary Claim 135 135. A beverage preparation machine as described in any one of exemplary claims 132 to 134, wherein the interface is a user interface configured to receive user input including information regarding a beverage packet containing ingredients for preparing a beverage.

[0255] Exemplary Claim 136 136. The beverage preparation machine of any of exemplary claims 132-135, wherein the processor is configured to categorize the identified recipes based on popularity of the recipe based on preferences of users of the recipes.

[0256] Exemplary Claim 137 137. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 132 to 136, wherein the processor is configured to determine a rate at which ingredients are dispensed by the beverage preparation machine and a time frame within which the ingredients are reordered.

[0257] Exemplary Claim 138 138. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 132 to 137, wherein the processor is configured to identify recipes for beverages that can be produced by the beverage preparation machine using a plurality of different types of beverage packs.

[0258] Exemplary Claim 139 139. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 132 to 138, wherein the processor is configured to identify recipes for beverages that can be produced by the beverage preparation machine based on at least one of weather local to the beverage preparation machine, time of year, or time of day.

[0259] Exemplary Claim 140 1. A beverage preparation system comprising: a container compartment configured to receive one or more beverage packets containing beverage ingredients; an outlet configured to dispense a beverage flavored by the one or more beverage packets; an interface configured to receive information related to the one or more beverage packets, the information including types and quantities of ingredients available to a beverage preparation machine for dispensing the beverage; and a processor configured to use the types and quantities of ingredients available to the beverage preparation machine to identify recipes for beverages that can be made by the beverage preparation machine and cause the beverage preparation machine to generate the selected recipe.

[0260] Exemplary Claim 141 141. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 140, wherein the interface is a communications interface configured to receive a wireless signal containing information about a beverage packet containing ingredients for preparing a beverage.

[0261] Exemplary Claim 142 142. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 140-141, wherein the interface is at least one of a user interface through which a user provides input via touch and a communication interface configured to receive wireless signals from an electronic device.

[0262] An exemplary beverage preparation system as described in any of claims 140 to 142, wherein the interface is a user interface configured to receive user input including information regarding a beverage packet containing ingredients for preparing a beverage.

[0263] Exemplary Claim 143 144. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 140-143, wherein the processor is configured to categorize the identified recipes based on popularity of the recipe based on preferences of users of the recipes.

[0264] Exemplary Claim 144 144. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 140 to 143, wherein the processor is configured to determine a rate at which ingredients are dispensed by the beverage preparation machine and a time frame within which the ingredients are reordered.

[0265] Exemplary Claim 145 145. The beverage preparation system of any of exemplary claims 140-144, wherein the processor is configured to identify recipes for beverages that can be produced by the beverage preparation machine using a plurality of different types of beverage packs.

[0266] Exemplary Claim 146 146. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 140-145, wherein the processor is configured to identify recipes for beverages that can be produced by the beverage preparation machine based on at least one of weather local to the beverage preparation machine, time of year, or time of day.

[0267] Exemplary Claim 147 A beverage preparation machine method for generating recipes, the method comprising the steps of receiving information regarding one or more beverage packets containing ingredients for preparing a beverage, the information including the types and quantities of ingredients available to the beverage preparation machine for dispensing the beverage; and, via a processor, using the types and quantities of ingredients available to the beverage preparation machine to identify recipes for beverages that can be made by the beverage preparation machine, and causing the beverage preparation machine to generate a selected one of the identified recipes.

[0268] Exemplary Claim 148 148. The method of exemplary claim 147, wherein a wireless signal containing information relating to one or more beverage packets is received via a communication interface of the beverage preparation machine.

[0269] Exemplary Claim 149 148. The method of exemplary claim 147, wherein the wireless signal containing information related to one or more beverage packets is received via a user interface to which a user provides input via a touch or a communication interface configured to receive wireless signals from an electronic device.

[0270] Exemplary Claim 150 148. The method of exemplary claim 147, wherein the wireless signal including information related to one or more beverage packets is received via a user interface configured to receive user input.

[0271] Exemplary Claim 151 151. The method of any of exemplary claims 147-150, including categorizing the identified recipes based on popularity of the recipe based on recipe user preferences.

[0272] Exemplary Claim 152 152. The method of any of exemplary claims 147-151, comprising determining a rate at which ingredients are dispensed by the beverage preparation machine and a time frame within which ingredients are to be reordered.

[0273] Exemplary Claim 153 151. The method of any one of exemplary claims 147 to 150, comprising identifying recipes for beverages that can be produced by a beverage preparation machine using a plurality of different types of beverage packs.

[0274] Exemplary Claim 154 151. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 147 to 150, including a step of identifying recipes for beverages that can be produced by the beverage preparation machine based on at least one of weather local to the beverage preparation machine, time of year, or time of day.

[0275] Exemplary Claim 155 1. A beverage preparation machine for dispensing beverages, comprising: an outlet configured to dispense beverages flavored by one or more beverage packets; a communications interface configured to receive information related to one or more users of the beverage preparation machine or one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine; a processor configured to identify users of the beverage preparation machine, associate the information with the users of the beverage preparation machine, and rank information associated with the users of the beverage preparation machine according to one or more rules; and a user interface configured to provide ranked information associated with the users of the beverage preparation machine via at least one of a display or a speaker.

[0276] Exemplary Claim 156 156. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 155, wherein the information received by the communications interface is based on preferences of a user of the beverage preparation machine.

[0277] Exemplary Claim 157 157. A beverage preparation machine as described in any one of exemplary claims 155 to 156, wherein the user interface is configured to receive input from a user of the beverage preparation machine, the input including feedback information related to use of the beverage preparation machine.

[0278] Exemplary Claim 158 158. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 155 to 157, wherein the rules relate to time of day and beverage to be dispensed.

[0279] Exemplary Claim 159 159. The beverage preparation machine of any of exemplary claims 155-158, wherein the information relating to one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine includes information relating to a product release of another beverage preparation machine, operating instructions for the beverage preparation machine, or favorite recipes available for use with the beverage preparation machine.

[0280] Exemplary Claim 160 A beverage preparation machine as described in any of exemplary claims 155 to 159, wherein the user interface is configured to receive instructions including the amount of information to be provided by the user interface and the type of content to be provided, and to provide the amount and type of content on the display or speaker based on the received instructions.

[0281] Exemplary Claim 161 1. A beverage preparation system for dispensing beverages, comprising: a container compartment for receiving one or more beverage packets containing beverage ingredients; an outlet configured to dispense a beverage flavored by the one or more beverage packets; a communications interface configured to receive information related to one or more users of the beverage preparation machine or one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine; a processor configured to identify users of the beverage preparation machine, associate information with users of the beverage preparation machine, and rank information associated with users of the beverage preparation machine according to one or more rules; and a user interface configured to provide ranked information associated with users of the beverage preparation machine via at least one of a display or a speaker.

[0282] Exemplary Claim 162 162. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 161, wherein the information received by the communication interface is based on preferences of a user of the beverage preparation machine.

[0283] Exemplary Claim 163 A beverage preparation system as described in any of exemplary claims 161 to 162, wherein the user interface is configured to receive input from a user of the beverage preparation machine, the input including feedback information regarding use of the beverage preparation machine.

[0284] Exemplary Claim 164 164. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 161 to 163, wherein the rules relate to time of day and beverage to be dispensed.

[0285] Exemplary Claim 165 A beverage preparation system as described in any of exemplary claims 161 to 164, wherein the information related to one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine includes information related to a product release of another beverage preparation machine, operating instructions for the beverage preparation machine, or favorite recipes available for use with the beverage preparation machine.

[0286] Exemplary Claim 166 A beverage preparation system as described in any of exemplary claims 161 to 165, wherein the user interface is configured to receive instructions including the amount of information to be provided by the user interface and the type of content to be provided, and to provide the amount of content and the type of content on the display or speaker based on the received instructions.

[0287] Exemplary Claim 167 A method of providing information via a beverage preparation machine, the method comprising: dispensing a beverage flavored with one or more beverage packets via an outlet; receiving information related to one or more users of the beverage preparation machine or one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine; identifying a user of the beverage preparation machine via a processor and associating the information with the user of the beverage preparation machine; ranking the information associated with the user of the beverage preparation machine according to one or more rules; and providing the ranked information related to the user of the beverage preparation machine via at least one of a display or a speaker.

[0288] Exemplary Claim 168 168. The method of exemplary claim 167, wherein the information received by the communications interface is based on preferences of a user of the beverage preparation machine.

[0289] Exemplary Claim 169 169. The method of any of exemplary claims 167-168, comprising receiving input from a user of the beverage preparation machine, the input comprising feedback information related to use of the beverage preparation machine.

[0290] Exemplary Claim 170 170. The method of any of exemplary claims 167-169, wherein the rules relate to time of day and beverages to be dispensed.

[0291] Exemplary Claim 171 The method of any of exemplary claims 167-170, wherein the information relating to one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine includes information relating to a product release of another beverage preparation machine, operating instructions for the beverage preparation machine, or favorite recipes that can be used with the beverage preparation machine.

[0292] Exemplary Claim 172 A method according to any of exemplary claims 167-171, comprising receiving instructions including the amount of information to be provided by a user interface and the type of content to be provided, and providing the amount and type of content on a display or speaker based on the received instructions.

[0293] Exemplary Claim 173 1. A beverage preparation machine for dispensing beverages, comprising: a processor configured to identify one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine, the one or more faults including the need for immediate or future repair of the beverage preparation machine; a memory for storing the one or more faults; a communications interface configured to send a message to an electronic device indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults with the beverage preparation machine and to receive an indication that the message indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults has been received by the electronic device and reviewed by a user of the electronic device; and a user interface configured to indicate, via at least one of a display or a speaker, that the message indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults has been received by the electronic device and reviewed by a user of the electronic device.

[0294] Exemplary Claim 174 174. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 173, wherein the memory is configured to store a maintenance history of the beverage preparation machine, and the processor is configured to determine next maintenance based on the stored maintenance history.

[0295] Exemplary Claim 175 175. The beverage preparation machine of exemplary claim 174, wherein one or more faults and upcoming maintenance are identified by a unique code.

[0296] Exemplary Claim 176 A beverage preparation machine as described in any one of exemplary claims 173 to 175, wherein the processor is configured to determine a solution for repairing the one or more faults based on the nature of the one or more faults, and the user interface is configured to provide the solution for repairing the one or more faults via at least one of a display or a speaker.

[0297] Exemplary Claim 177 A beverage preparation machine as described in any one of exemplary claims 173 to 176, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether the one or more faults can be repaired by a technician or a user of the beverage preparation machine based on the characteristics of the one or more faults, and the user interface is configured to provide the technician or user with a solution for repairing the one or more faults based on the processor's determination via at least one of the display or speaker.

[0298] Exemplary Claim 178 178. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 173 to 177, wherein the communication interface transmits one or more faults generated by the beverage preparation machine to a server for storage.

[0299] Exemplary Claim 179 179. The beverage preparation machine of any one of exemplary claims 173 to 178, wherein the communications interface receives proposed fixes for one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine.

[0300] Exemplary Claim 180 A beverage preparation machine as described in any one of exemplary claims 179, wherein the processor is configured to automatically perform steps of correcting one or more faults occurring in the beverage preparation machine based on received correction suggestions for the one or more faults.

[0301] Exemplary Claim 181 A beverage preparation machine as described in any of exemplary claims 179 to 180, wherein the user interface provides, via a display or speaker, steps for correcting one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine based on received correction suggestions for the one or more faults.

[0302] Exemplary Claim 182 An exemplary beverage preparation machine as described in any one of claims 179 to 180, wherein the communication interface provides an electronic device with steps for correcting one or more faults occurring in the beverage preparation machine based on received correction suggestions for the one or more faults, and the electronic device is a user's mobile device.

[0303] Exemplary Claim 183 1. A beverage preparation system for dispensing beverages, comprising: a processor configured to identify one or more faults occurring with a beverage preparation machine, the one or more faults including a need for immediate or future repair of the beverage preparation machine; a memory for storing the one or more faults; a communication interface configured to send a message to an electronic device indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults with the beverage preparation machine and to receive an indication that the message indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults has been received by the electronic device and reviewed by a user of the electronic device; and a user interface configured to provide an indication via at least one of a display or a speaker that the message indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults has been received by the electronic device and reviewed by a user of the electronic device.

[0304] Exemplary Claim 184 184. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 183, wherein the memory is configured to store the maintenance history of the beverage preparation machine, and the processor is configured to determine the next maintenance based on the stored maintenance history.

[0305] Exemplary Claim 185 185. The beverage preparation system of exemplary claim 184, wherein one or more faults and upcoming maintenance are identified by a unique code.

[0306] Exemplary Claim 186 A beverage preparation system as described in any one of exemplary claims 183 to 185, wherein the processor is configured to determine a solution for repairing the one or more faults based on the nature of the one or more faults, and the user interface is configured to provide the solution for repairing the one or more faults via at least one of the display or speaker.

[0307] Exemplary Claim 187 A beverage preparation system as described in any one of exemplary claims 183 to 186, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether the one or more faults can be repaired by a technician or a user of the beverage preparation machine based on the characteristics of the one or more faults, and the user interface is configured to provide a solution for repairing the one or more faults to the technician or user via at least one of the display or speaker based on the processor's determination.

[0308] Exemplary Claim 188 188. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 183-187, wherein the communication interface transmits one or more faults generated by the beverage preparation machine to a server for storage.

[0309] Exemplary Claim 189 189. The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 183-188, wherein the communications interface receives proposed fixes for one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine.

[0310] Exemplary Claim 190 The beverage preparation system of any one of exemplary claims 189, wherein the processor is configured to automatically perform steps of correcting one or more faults occurring in the beverage preparation machine based on suggestions received for the one or more faults.

[0311] Exemplary Claim 191 A beverage preparation system as described in any of exemplary claims 189 to 190, wherein the user interface provides, via a display or speaker, steps for correcting one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine based on correction suggestions received for the one or more faults.

[0312] Exemplary Claim 192 A beverage preparation system as described in any one of exemplary claims 189 to 191, wherein the communication interface provides an electronic device with steps for correcting one or more faults occurring in the beverage preparation machine based on received correction suggestions for the one or more faults, and the electronic device is a user's mobile device.

[0313] Exemplary Claim 193 1. A method for handling a fault in a beverage preparation machine, comprising: dispensing a beverage flavored with one or more beverage packets via an outlet; identifying, via a processor, one or more faults, the one or more faults including the need for immediate or future repair of the beverage preparation machine; storing one or more faults generated by the beverage preparation machine; sending a message to an electronic device indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults by the beverage preparation machine; receiving an indication that the message indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults has been received by the electronic device and reviewed by a user of the electronic device; and providing, via at least one of a display or a speaker, an indication that the message indicating the occurrence of the one or more faults has been received by the electronic device and reviewed by a user of the electronic device.

[0314] Exemplary Claim 194 194. The method of exemplary claim 193, including storing a maintenance history of the beverage preparation machine and determining next maintenance based on the stored maintenance history.

[0315] Exemplary Claim 195 195. The method of any of exemplary claims 193-194, wherein one or more faults and upcoming maintenance are identified by a unique code.

[0316] Exemplary Claim 196 A method as described in any one of exemplary claims 193 to 195, comprising determining a solution for repairing the one or more faults based on aspects of the one or more faults, and providing the solution for repairing the one or more faults via at least one of a display or a speaker.

[0317] Exemplary Claim 197 The method of any one of exemplary claims 193 to 196, comprising determining whether the one or more faults can be repaired by a technician or a user of the beverage preparation machine based on the characteristics of the one or more faults, and providing a solution for repairing the one or more faults to the technician or user via at least one of the display or speaker based on the processor's determination.

[0318] Exemplary Claim 198 202. The method of any one of exemplary claims 193-198, comprising transmitting one or more faults generated by the beverage preparation machine to a server for storage.

[0319] Exemplary Claim 199 202. The method of any one of exemplary claims 193-198, comprising receiving proposed fixes for one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine.

[0320] Exemplary Claim 200 200. The method of exemplary claim 199, including automatically performing steps to correct one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine based on received correction suggestions for the one or more faults.

[0321] Exemplary Claim 201 200. The method of exemplary claim 199, including providing, via a display or speaker, correcting one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine based on received correction suggestions for the one or more faults.

[0322] Exemplary Claim 202 200. The method of exemplary claim 199, including providing an electronic device to correct one or more faults occurring with the beverage preparation machine based on received correction suggestions for the one or more faults, wherein the electronic device is a user's mobile device.

Claims

1. 1. A beverage preparation machine for dispensing a beverage, comprising: a container compartment for receiving one or more beverage packets containing beverage ingredients; an outlet configured to dispense a beverage flavored by the one or more beverage packets; a communications interface configured to receive information related to one or more users of the beverage preparation machine or one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine; 1. A processor, comprising: a processor that identifies a user of the beverage preparation machine, associates the information with the user of the beverage preparation machine, and ranks the information associated with the user of the beverage preparation machine according to one or more rules; a user interface configured to provide the ranked information associated with the user of the beverage preparation machine via at least one of a display or a speaker; and 1. A beverage preparation machine comprising:

2. 10. The beverage preparation machine of claim 1, wherein the information received by the communication interface is based on preferences of the user of the beverage preparation machine.

3. 10. The beverage preparation machine of claim 1, wherein the user interface is configured to receive input from a user of the beverage preparation machine, the input including feedback information regarding use of the beverage preparation machine.

4. 10. The beverage preparation machine of claim 1, wherein the rules relate to time of day and beverage to be dispensed.

5. 10. The beverage preparation machine of claim 1, wherein the information related to one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine includes information related to another beverage preparation machine product release, operating instructions for the beverage preparation machine, or favorite recipes available for use with the beverage preparation machine.

6. The user interface includes:

2. The beverage preparation machine of claim 1, configured to receive instructions including information to be provided by the user interface and a type of content to be provided, and to provide the content and the type of content on the display or the speaker based on the received instructions.

7. 1. A beverage preparation system for dispensing a beverage, comprising: a container compartment for receiving one or more beverage packets containing beverage ingredients; an outlet configured to dispense a beverage flavored by the one or more beverage packets; a communications interface configured to receive information related to one or more users of the beverage preparation machine or one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine; 1. A processor, comprising: a processor that identifies a user of the beverage preparation machine, associates the information with the user of the beverage preparation machine, and ranks the information associated with the user of the beverage preparation machine according to one or more rules; a user interface configured to provide the ranked information associated with the user of the beverage preparation machine via at least one of a display or a speaker; and 1. A beverage preparation system comprising:

8. 8. The beverage preparation system of claim 7, wherein the information received by the communication interface is based on preferences of the user of the beverage preparation machine.

9. 8. The beverage preparation system of claim 7, wherein the user interface is configured to receive input from a user of the beverage preparation machine, the input including feedback information regarding use of the beverage preparation machine.

10. The beverage preparation system of claim 7 , wherein the rules relate to time of day and beverage to be dispensed.

11. 10. The beverage preparation system of claim 7, wherein the information related to one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine includes information related to another beverage preparation machine product release, operating instructions for the beverage preparation machine, or favorite recipes available for use with the beverage preparation machine.

12. The user interface includes:

8. The beverage preparation machine of claim 7, configured to receive instructions including information to be provided by the user interface and a type of content to be provided, and to provide the content and the type of content on the display or the speaker based on the received instructions.

13. 1. A method of providing information via a beverage preparation machine, comprising the steps of: dispensing a beverage flavored with one or more beverage packets via an outlet; receiving information related to one or more users of the beverage preparation machine or one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine; via a processor, identifying a user of the beverage preparation machine and associating the information with the user of the beverage preparation machine; ranking information associated with the user of the beverage preparation machine according to one or more rules; providing ranked information relevant to the user of the beverage preparation machine via at least one of a display or a speaker; A method comprising:

14. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the information received by the communication interface is based on preferences of the user of the beverage preparation machine.

15. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising receiving input from a user of the beverage preparation machine, the input comprising feedback information regarding use of the beverage preparation machine.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the rules relate to time of day and beverage to be dispensed.

17. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the information related to one or more products associated with the beverage preparation machine includes information related to another beverage preparation machine product release, operating instructions for the beverage preparation machine, or favorite recipes available for use with the beverage preparation machine.

18. receiving instructions including information to be provided by the user interface and the type of content to be provided; providing the content and the type of content to the display or the speaker based on the received instructions; 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:

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