Automatic Single Serve Beverage Brewing System

Abstract

The brewing system includes a grinder, a brewer, a capsule holder, and a controller. The grinder is configured to grind raw coffee beans into coffee powder with an adjustable coarseness. The grinder is configured to receive raw coffee beans through a first opening above the grinder and dispense coffee powder through a second opening below the grinder. The brewer is configured to dispense water for brewing coffee through a third opening below the brewer, the brewer positioned laterally relative to the grinder. The capsule dock is configured to (a) hold a capsule including a coffee filter and (b) translate the capsule from a first position below the second opening of the grinder to a second position below the third opening below the brewer. The controller is configured to control the grinder, the brewer, and the capsule dock.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Priority This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 319,723, filed March 14, 2022.

[0002] Additionally, this application is a continuation-in-part under 35 U.S.C. §120 of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 890,803, filed August 18, 2022, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 319,723, filed March 14, 2022.

[0003] Additionally, this application is a continuation-in-part under 35 U.S.C. §120 of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 890,812, filed August 18, 2022, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 319,723, filed March 14, 2022.

[0004] All applications identified above are incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] Existing capsule-based coffee machines extract coffee from coffee grounds prepackaged in capsules (or "pods") with only one or a few fixed brewing settings / options. These brewing options cannot be adjusted or optimized for the specific coffee grounds used. Thus, their ability to fully extract the flavors of many coffee varieties is limited. This limitation, combined with the lack of freshness in pre-ground coffee, contributes to the large difference in quality between black coffee served in boutique cafes and those prepared by conventional capsule-based coffee machines. For example, in boutique cafes, baristas often complete a cup of coffee with their own understanding of the coffee beans and their own selection of extraction parameters including grind size, water temperature, coffee-to-water ratio, water injection method, etc. Thus, there is no simple, low-cost, and convenient solution on the market to allow full customization of the brew recipe and to produce cafe-quality black coffee at home. It is now recognized that there is a need for a capsule-based brewer that can provide customized brew recipes to produce high-quality brewed beverages, such as coffee, in any environment where a high-quality beverage is desired. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure is directed to a single-serve beverage brewing system that includes an electronic reader that reads an identification tag that may correspond to a brew recipe, a grinder that grinds brew ingredients (e.g., coffee beans) into coffee powder (e.g., coffee grounds) with adjustable coarseness, a capsule dock that transfers the coffee powder to a pod or reusable dripper, a brewer that dispenses water to brew a single-serve beverage from the coffee powder, and a pod or reusable dripper that holds the coffee powder during the extraction process. The system is designed to provide a simple and efficient method of brewing coffee.

[0007] Certain embodiments are directed to an automatically adjustable coffee grinder including a main motor configured to provide and output a rotational motion, a main gearbox configured to output a rotational motion to be coordinated with the motion output from the main motor, a main shaft configured to transmit the coordinated motion output by the main motor and the main gearbox, and a burr assembly configured to receive the coordinated motion through the main shaft. The coffee grinder is configured to automatically grind coffee beans to produce a powder with an adjustable grind. The main gearbox includes a stepper motor, a plurality of gears, and a second shaft connecting the stepper motor and the gears. The burr assembly includes an inner burr that rotates along the axis of the main shaft, and an outer burr that is stationary and covers the inner burr. The inner burr has a conical shape, and the burr assembly is made of nitrided stainless steel. To adjust the grind, the inner burr is configured to move upwards or downwards with the main shaft, so that the gap between the inner burr and the outer burr is adjusted, and any loose particles released during the grinding process are collected by a magnetic tunnel that is enraged below the outer burr.

[0008] Certain embodiments are directed to a coffee brewing system comprising: a grinder configured for grinding raw coffee beans to adjustable coarseness into coffee grounds, the grinder configured to receive the raw coffee beans through a first opening above the grinder and dispense the coffee grounds through a second opening below the grinder; a brewer configured to dispense water for brewing coffee through a third opening below the brewer, the brewer positioned laterally relative to the grinder; (a) a capsule dock configured to hold a capsule including a coffee filter and (b) translate the capsule from a first position below the second opening of the grinder to a second position below the third opening of the brewer; and a controller configured to control the grinder, brewer, and capsule dock. In certain embodiments, the capsule dock has a tactile sensor, and the controller is configured to initiate a brewing process when the tactile sensor of the capsule dock detects a touch event. In certain embodiments, the coffee brewing system includes an electronic reader configured to read an identification tag on the capsule, and the controller is further configured to adjust one or more settings of at least one of the grinder or the brewer based on information associated with the identification tag. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more settings adjusts the coarseness of the coffee grounds produced by the grinder. In certain embodiments, at least one of the one or more settings adjusts the temperature, volume, or water pouring pattern of water dispensed by the brewer. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to translate the capsule dock from the first position to the second position based on an indication of completion of the grinding operation. In certain embodiments, the indication of completion of the grinding operation is based on a weight measured by a weight sensor of the capsule dock.In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to cause the brewer to begin a brewing process based on an indication that the capsule dock is in the second position below the brewer. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to receive instructions from a user interface configured to allow a user to specify a grind size, a water temperature, a water volume, or a coffee to water ratio. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to receive instructions from a user interface configured to present one or more brew recipes for user selection, each brew recipe specifying a predetermined brewing configuration for the coffee brewing system. In certain embodiments, the user interface is presented by an application on a user device separate from the coffee brewing system. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to receive instructions from a user interface configured to allow a user to specify brewing details associated with a plurality of water pours to be used during a brewing process. In certain embodiments, the brewing details associated with each of the plurality of water pours include a water temperature, a water volume, or a water pour pattern. In certain embodiments, the grinder has: a burr assembly including an inner burr and an outer burr, the inner burr connected to a main shaft and rotating along an axis of the main shaft, and the outer burr positioned around and covered by the inner burr; and a motor configured to control a separation between the inner burr and the outer burr. In certain embodiments, the separation between the inner burr and the outer burr affects the coarseness of the coffee grounds. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to move the inner burr upwards to reduce the separation between the inner burr and the outer burr and reduce the coarseness of the coffee grounds.In certain embodiments, the capsule dock comprises: a capsule holder configured to receive a capsule; a linear positioning stage configured to translate the capsule holder horizontally; and a connecting member connecting the capsule holder and the linear positioning stage. In certain embodiments, the capsule dock is configured to rock during the brewing process. In certain embodiments, the capsule dock comprises an integrated position sensor configured to detect whether the capsule is in the correct position to receive the coffee grounds from the grinder or water from the brewer. In certain embodiments, the brewer comprises electrodes configured to generate an electric field to bend water dispensed by the brewer.

[0009] Certain embodiments are directed to a method for grinding powder. The method includes obtaining and setting a desired grind, starting a main motor and a stepper motor, transmitting rotational and linear motion to a burr assembly, driving an inner burr to rotate and move to a predefined position relative to an outer burr, and grinding the powder with the desired grind. The inner burr can move linearly upward or downward with the main shaft based on the selected grind. The predefined position is set according to the selected grind and can be adjusted by controlling the gap between the inner and outer burrs. The position of the inner burr and the gap between the burrs are constantly measured to ensure accurate and precise grinding.

[0010] Certain embodiments are directed to a grinder for grinding raw coffee beans into coffee powder with an automatically adjustable coarseness, comprising a burr assembly for grinding raw coffee beans, the burr assembly having an inner burr with an inclined, abrasive or serrated side and an outer burr surrounding the inner burr, the side of the inner burr and the outer burr defining a gap. The grinder further comprises a main motor configured to provide a first rotational motion to the inner burr; a main shaft having one end coupled to the inner burr, the main shaft configured to transmit the first rotational motion provided by the main motor to the inner burr; a second motor configured to adjust a vertical position of the main shaft and the inner burr relative to the outer burr, where a change in the vertical position of the inner burr relative to the outer burr causes a change in the gap between the inner burr and the outer burr; and a controller configured to control the main motor and the second motor. The coarseness of the coffee powder depends on the gap between the inner burr and the outer burr. In certain embodiments, the second motor is a stepper motor configured to provide a second rotational motion used to adjust the vertical position of the main shaft and the inner burr. A plurality of gears may be configured to convert the second rotational motion into a linear motion for adjusting the vertical position of the main shaft and the inner burr. In certain embodiments, the inner burr and the main shaft rotate along the axis of the main shaft. In certain embodiments, the outer burr is stationary and fixed to a housing. In certain embodiments, the burr assembly is configured to receive the raw coffee beans from above and output the coffee grounds through an opening below the burr assembly. In certain embodiments, the inner burr is configured to move downwards relative to the outer burr to increase the coarseness of the coffee grounds. In certain embodiments, the inner burr is configured to move upwards relative to the outer burr to decrease the coarseness of the coffee grounds.In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to calibrate the grinder by returning the inner burr to a zero position where the gap is smallest. In certain embodiments, the inner burr has a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface being larger than the top surface. In certain embodiments, the inner burr has a conical shape. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to automatically adjust the vertical position of the inner burr relative to the outer burr based on a brew recipe that specifies a desired coarseness of the coffee grounds. In certain embodiments, the brew recipe is selected based on an identification tag associated with a capsule that holds the raw coffee beans. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to automatically adjust the vertical position of the inner burr relative to the outer burr based on input provided by a user through a user interface. In certain embodiments, the user interface is provided by an application installed on a user device. In certain embodiments, the burr assembly has a layer of a nitride compound. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to position a capsule dock beneath the grinder before starting a grinding operation, the capsule dock configured to hold a capsule for capturing the coffee powder output by the grinder. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to position the capsule dock beneath a water dispenser after completing the grinding operation. In certain embodiments, the grinder is integrated within a coffee brewing system. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to measure an output torque of the main motor to detect whether the gap between the inner burr and the outer burr is in a correct position.

[0011] Certain embodiments are directed to an automated dock configured to hold and translate a pod during the brewing process. It includes a capsule holder, a linear positioning stage capable of translating the pod horizontally, and a weight sensor capable of measuring the weight of the pod. The weight sensor is an integrated force sensor with a strain gauge coupled to a compliant structure of the dock, which can measure the degree of deformation of the structure due to the weight of the pod in real time. The dock system also includes a connection member connecting the capsule holder and the linear positioning stage. The linear positioning stage includes a stepper motor, a mount for coupling it to the inside of the housing of the brewer, and an integrated position sensor capable of detecting the location of the pod on the stage. The stepper motor can provide tactile feedback by rocking the holder to agitate the pod during the brewing process, either at a preset frequency, at a preset time, or for a preset period of time. The front end of the holder can also function as a button or switch to activate the brewing process. Additionally, the integrated position sensor can verify whether the pod is in the correct position for grinding and brewing.

[0012] The present disclosure is also directed to a method for controlling a capsule dock, comprising holding and translating a pod holder on a linear positioning stage during the brewing process. The pod is held in the holder and its position and weight are detected on the linear positioning stage. The pod is then translated horizontally on the stage. Position detection is performed using an integrated position sensor and weight detection is performed using an integrated force sensor with strain gauges coupled to a compliant structure on the stage. In addition, the method includes rocking and agitating the pod during the brewing process, either during or after pouring, at a preset vibration frequency for a preset time, or at preset times, by a stepper motor integrated on the linear positioning stage. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the brewing process can be activated by pressing the front end of the holder, which provides tactile feedback driven by a stepper motor of the linear positioning stage.

[0013] Certain embodiments are directed to a dock system configured to hold and translate a capsule containing ground coffee during a brewing process, the dock system comprising: a capsule dock configured to receive and hold the capsule; a linear positioning stage configured to translate the capsule dock; a mount configured to mount the linear positioning stage inside a housing of a coffee maker; and a controller configured to cause the linear positioning stage to (a) move the capsule dock to a first position beneath a grinder of the coffee maker before and during a grinding operation, and (b) move the capsule dock to a second position beneath a water dispenser of the coffee maker before and during a water dispense operation. In certain embodiments, the dock system further comprises a connecting member connecting the capsule dock and the linear positioning stage. In certain embodiments, the capsule dock has an integrated force sensor. In certain embodiments, the integrated force sensor is configured to measure a weight of the capsule. In certain embodiments, the integrated force sensor is configured to measure the weight of the capsule in real time during at least one of the grinding operation or the water dispense operation. In certain embodiments, the weight of the capsule is used by the controller of the coffee maker to control at least one of the grinding operation or the water dosing operation. In certain embodiments, the integrated force sensor is configured to detect a force applied to a front end of the capsule dock. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to initiate a brew process based on the force applied to the front end of the capsule dock. In certain embodiments, the linear positioning stage includes an integrated position sensor configured to detect a location of the capsule dock on the linear positioning stage. In certain embodiments, the linear positioning stage includes a stepper motor. In certain embodiments, the stepper motor is configured to provide tactile feedback when a force is applied to a front end of the capsule dock.In certain embodiments, the stepper motor is configured to rock the capsule dock during the water dosing operation, thereby stirring the coffee grounds in the capsule. In certain embodiments, the stepper motor is configured to rock the capsule dock at a preset vibration frequency during the water dosing operation. In certain embodiments, the stepper motor is configured to rock the capsule dock for a preset time during the water dosing operation. In certain embodiments, the stepper motor is configured to rock the capsule dock at preset times during and after pouring water during the water dosing operation. In certain embodiments, the capsule dock has a holder including an opening for receiving the capsule. In certain embodiments, the opening is circular and smaller than at least a portion of a cross section of the capsule. In certain embodiments, the controller is configured to move the capsule dock from the first position to the second position upon determining that the grinding operation is complete. In certain embodiments, the determination that the grinding operation is complete is based on time. In certain embodiments, the determination that the grinding action is complete is based on the weight of the capsule dock.

[0014] Certain embodiments are directed to a brewer including a nozzle configured to dispense a stream of water downward; a holder configured to hold a container for ground coffee or tea below the nozzle to receive the stream of water; a first electrode disposed adjacent to the stream of water dispensed by the nozzle; a voltage source electrically coupled to the first electrode through an electrical circuit and configured to apply a voltage to the first electrode; and a controller communicatively coupled to the electrical circuit and configured to control a magnitude of the voltage applied to the first electrode from the voltage source, wherein varying the magnitude of the voltage applied to the first electrode creates an electric field that varies the distance of the stream of water from the first electrode.

[0015] Certain embodiments are also directed to a method for controlling a water stream output from a brewer, comprising: dispensing the water stream from a nozzle of the brewer into a container for ground coffee or tea; charging one or more electrodes surrounding the water stream dispensed by the nozzle using one or more electrical circuits coupled between the one or more electrodes and a voltage source; and controlling, via a controller, a magnitude of a voltage output to each of the one or more electrodes based on instructions received at the controller regarding a pouring pattern of the water stream; and generating an electric field using the one or more charged electrodes to bend the water stream dispensed by the nozzle according to the pouring pattern.

[0016] Certain embodiments are also directed to a non-transitory computer readable medium including instructions for controlling water pouring from a brewer, the instructions which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform a method including: receiving or accessing a water pouring pattern indicating a dynamic pattern in which a stream of water is dispensed in different directions relative to a stationary nozzle; determining that a container for ground coffee or tea is positioned under the stationary nozzle and ready to receive the stream of water; in response to the determination, causing the stationary nozzle to dispense the stream of water; and outputting control signals to one or more electrical circuits for adjusting a magnitude of a voltage applied to each of a plurality of electrodes surrounding the stream of water while the stream of water is being dispensed, the output control signals being generated based on the water pouring pattern.

[0017] Certain embodiments are directed to a single-serve coffee pod including a hollow capsule having an opening at a first end thereof and at least one smaller opening at a second end thereof opposite the first end; a filter disposed within the capsule; a plurality of coffee beans placed within the capsule; and a removable cover disposed at the opening of the capsule.

[0018] Certain embodiments are directed to a single-serve coffee pod including: a hollow capsule configured to hold raw coffee beans therein and to receive coffee grounds made from the raw coffee beans; and an identification tag disposed in the capsule, the identification tag configured to be scanned by a reader, wherein the identification tag is configured to provide or trigger access to information upon scanning of the identification tag by the reader, the information corresponding to the raw coffee beans held in the capsule, corresponding to a recipe for brewing coffee from the raw coffee beans in the capsule, or both.

[0019] Certain embodiments are directed to a single-serve beverage brewing system including a brewer including a reader; and a single-serve pod having a hollow capsule configured to hold brew ingredients therein; and an identification tag disposed in the capsule, the brewer further including a processor communicatively coupled to the reader, the processor configured to access or obtain information regarding the brew ingredients, a recipe for brewing a beverage from the brew ingredients, or both, in response to the reader reading the identification tag. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a side view of a single-serve brewing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a front view of a single-serve brewing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for brewing beverages according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] [Figure 3A]1 depicts an exemplary user interface for use with a brewer, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 1 depicts an exemplary user interface for use with a brewer, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3C] 1 depicts an exemplary user interface for use with a brewer, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cut-away view of a raw bean single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] [Figure 5A] 1 illustrates an example of a capsule dock and linear positioning stage of a brewer, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 1 illustrates an example of a capsule dock and linear positioning stage of a brewer, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] 1 illustrates an example of a capsule dock and linear positioning stage of a brewer, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a process flow diagram of a method for grinding coffee beans using a brewer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view and a perspective cutaway view of a brewer's grinder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] FIG. 1 is a perspective cutaway view of a brewer's grinder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] [Figure 7C] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a burr assembly of a brewer's grinder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7D]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a burr assembly of a brewer's grinder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a front schematic cutaway view of a solid-state water injection system for use in a brewer, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an arrangement of electrodes around a water injection nozzle, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a water dispenser for a brewer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] [Figure 11A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a water outlet of a water pouring assembly for a brewer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] FIG. 13 is a top view of a water outlet of a water pouring assembly for a brewer according to one embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 11C] FIG. 2 is a side view of a water outlet of a water fill assembly for a brewer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] [Figure 12A] FIG. 1 is a cutaway view of a water injection nozzle assembly having electrodes incorporated therein according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] FIG. 2 is a side view of a water injection nozzle assembly having an electrode incorporated therein according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the layers forming an electrode according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] [Figure 14A] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a solid-state assembly for controlling electrodes, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a solid-state assembly for controlling electrodes, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14C] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a solid-state assembly for controlling electrodes, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a process flow diagram of a method for controlling water flow output from a brewer according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0036] [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a process flow diagram of a method for controlling water pour from a brewer according to one embodiment of the disclosure.

[0037] [Figure 17A] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of an exemplary single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17C] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17D] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an exemplary single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] [Figure 18A] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of another exemplary single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18B] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of another exemplary single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18C] FIG. 2 is a top view of another exemplary single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] [Figure 19]FIG. 2 is an exploded view of another exemplary single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a side view of another exemplary single-serve coffee pod according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0041] The present disclosure describes an exemplary beverage brewing system that may be particularly suitable for brewing single-serve coffee. The disclosure includes a capsule-based brewer and an exemplary single-serve coffee pod, as well as exemplary systems and methods for automatically grinding and adjusting the coarseness of the coffee beans, controlling a capsule dock during the brewing process, and controlling the water flow output from the brewer.

[0042] Single-serve capsule-based beverage brewers (also known as "capsule" or "pod" based brewers) have become commonplace in private homes to provide single-serve coffee, tea, and other hot beverages. However, existing capsule-based brewers lack the ability to tailor the brew method to the particular type of coffee, tea, etc. being made in them. Typically, the only adjustment to the brew method is to select the volume of water output by the brewer. It is now recognized that a need exists for a capsule-based brewer that can provide customized brew recipes to produce high quality brewed beverages, such as coffee, in a home environment.

[0043] This application discloses a new category of capsule-based coffee machines and the technology they enable. The disclosed products allow several brewing conditions to be set in any combination, thereby giving the roaster or barista full control over how the coffee is prepared without their own presence. The conditions can include: grind size, brewing temperature, coffee to water ratio, brewing duration, pouring pattern, pouring speed, stirring, and / or "blooming". For the customer, the process is done at the touch of a button, preserving the simplicity of a traditional capsule machine. The machine can recognize the type of beans in the pod and search for the most suitable recipe. The recipe can be created by the roaster who produces the coffee, by a well-trained barista who has studied and tested a particular type of coffee bean, or by the coffee drinker himself. Thus, the disclosed capsule-based brewer acts as a home barista. The disclosed brewer allows high-end coffee makers to provide premium coffee drinks (not just beans) in their best form to their customers without leaving their home.

[0044] The present disclosure provides a single-serve capsule-based beverage brewing system that includes a grinder that produces coffee powder with adjustable coarseness (e.g., raw coffee beans can be ground into coffee powder of various coarseness); a capsule dock configured to hold and translate capsules filled with coffee powder during the brewing process; and a brewer with a solid-state water injection mechanism. In certain embodiments, the brewing system may further include an electronic reader that reads identification tags of beans, powders, and / or recipes for grinding and brewing, and a controller that controls the entire brewing process based on information obtained via the identification tag. The brewing system may be configured to work with single-serve coffee pods (which may be interchangeably referred to as pods, coffee capsules, or capsules in this disclosure) that can be used to brew high-quality single-serve coffee or other hot beverages using a specifically tailored water injection technique applied to the brew ingredients in the pods. The single-serve coffee pods may initially contain raw coffee beans, thus providing the raw beans to the brewer for grinding immediately prior to the brewing process. Each single-serve coffee pod may include an identification tag that can be read by the brewer and used to control the grinding / brewing process. For example, the identification tag may provide information regarding the type of brew ingredients held in the pod and / or a recipe for grinding / brewing the brew ingredients held in the pod to produce an ideal single-serve beverage for that particular brew ingredient. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the pod may be replaced with a reusable dripper that may be optionally tagged with a built-in recipe that allows the user to change or customize the recipe settings through software. In a non-limiting example, the reusable dripper is made of a food-grade biodegradable plastic material with low thermal conductivity.

[0045] The present disclosure also provides an associated method for grinding coffee beans to produce powder of adjustable size. The grind can be determined by adjusting the gap or separation between the inner and outer burrs of the burr assembly of the grinder. The gap is determined by controlling the movement of the inner burr upwards or downwards along the axis of the main shaft. The method includes the steps of a controller obtaining and setting a desired grind, starting the main motor and the stepper motor, transmitting rotational and linear motion to the burr assembly, driving the inner burr to rotate and move to a desired position relative to the outer burr, and grinding the powder with the desired grind or coarseness. The inner burr can move linearly upwards or downwards with the main shaft based on the selected grind. The position of the inner burr, which affects the coarseness of the resulting coffee powder, can be set according to the desired grind and can be adjusted by controlling the gap between the inner and outer burrs. The position of the inner burr and the gap between the burrs are constantly measured to ensure an accurate and precise grind.

[0046] The present disclosure also provides an associated method for controlling the capsule dock and translating it on a linear positioning stage during the brewing process. At the start of the process, the linear positioning stage positions the capsule dock in a first position directly below the grinder to capture ground brew ingredients (e.g., coffee grounds). The capsule is held by a holder on the capsule dock and its position and weight may be detected on the linear positioning stage. During the grinding operation, the grinder may grind raw coffee beans poured into an opening in the system, and the resulting coffee grounds may fall through another opening at the bottom of the grinder into a capsule held by the capsule dock. The controller may determine that the grinding operation is complete, which may be based on the duration of the grinding, sound, vibration, or weight of the coffee sensed by the capsule dock. Upon determining that the grinding operation is complete, the capsule is then translated (e.g., horizontally across) on the stage. The capsule dock positions the capsule beneath the brewer to receive the water dispensed by the brewer. Position detection may be controlled using an integrated position sensor, and weight detection may be achieved using an integrated force sensor with strain gauges coupled to a compliant structure on the stage. In addition, the automated brewing process may further include rocking and agitating the pod during the brewing process, either during or after water pouring, at a preset vibration frequency for a preset time, or at preset times, by a stepper motor integrated into the linear positioning stage. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the brewing process may be activated by pressing the front end of a holder providing tactile feedback driven by a stepper motor of the linear positioning stage.

[0047] The present disclosure also provides an associated method for pouring water therefrom that can be used to output water from the brewer according to a specific pouring pattern onto the grounds held in a capsule below the water output portion of the brewer. Different types of pouring patterns may be tailored to the type of coffee beans being used, similar to how a barista at a cafe pours hot water in a specific pattern to make a drip-style cup of coffee. The brewer of the present disclosure uses one or more electrodes positioned near the output nozzle of the brewer to bend the water stream in a desired direction to create a pouring pattern, in response to controlling the voltage applied to each of the electrodes.

[0048] Brewer Overview

[0049] Referring now to the drawings, Figures 1A and 1B depict an example of a brewing system 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The brewing system 100 is a capsule-based brewer configured to brew a single serve of coffee, tea, or any other beverage at a time through interaction with a single-serve pod 102. As described in more detail below, the pod 102 functions both as a container from which the brew ingredients (e.g., coffee beans, tea ingredients, etc.) are provided to the brewing system 100 and as a dripper through which hot water output from the brewer is received to contact and extract flavors from the brew ingredients in the pod 102. The term "tea" may refer to both tea made from traditional tea leaves as well as blends of other herbs, medicinal plants, and the like. The term "tea ingredients" may refer to tea leaves, herbs, spices, flowers, dried fruits, or any other materials from which tea or medicinal plants may be brewed.

[0050] In some embodiments, the pod 102 may hold raw coffee beans rather than coffee grounds. Providing raw coffee beans in the pod 102 enhances the freshness of the brewed coffee since the coffee beans are not ground until just prior to brewing a cup of coffee. Similarly, the pod 102 may hold other larger brew ingredients (e.g., raw tea ingredients) as opposed to pre-ground brew ingredients. The pod 102 may include extraction features in the form of dimples or grooves formed in the exterior or bottom wall of the pod 102. The pod 102 also includes an identification tag (e.g., RFID tag, 2D barcode, etc.) that stores information about the brew ingredients and brewing method. Additionally, the pod 102 may include a lid or other removable cover that can be removed when it is time to brew a beverage from the pod 102.

[0051] The brewing system 100 may include, among other things, a brewer (water dispenser) 104, a grinder 106, a capsule dock 108, a linear positioning stage 110, and an electronic reader 112. As discussed in detail below, the water dispenser 104 may be a solid-state, controllable water dispenser from which water can be output according to a pouring pattern either obtained automatically for a particular pod 102 or selected by a user. The water dispenser 104 may include a nozzle configured to dispense a stream of water downward, and one or more electrodes configured to bend the water stream based on their charge to create a desired pouring pattern.

[0052] The grinder 106 may include a burr grinder, a burr assembly, or any other desired type of grinder suitable for grinding coffee beans, tea ingredients, etc. The grinder 106 may be an adjustable grinder that allows adjustment of the grind of ingredients output from the grinder 106. The grinder 106 may automatically reset and adjust to a desired grind in response to receiving a command from a controller in the brewing system 100.

[0053] The capsule dock 108 may be configured to hold the pod 102. The capsule dock 108 may be configured to hold the empty pod 102 below the grinder 106 to receive a desired size of ground coffee or tea into the pod 102 prior to brewing a beverage. Similarly, the capsule dock 108 may be configured to hold the ground coffee or tea pod 102 below the nozzle of the water dispenser 104 to receive a flow of water into the pod 102. The relative position of the capsule dock 108 with respect to the rest of the brewing system 100 may be adjusted via a linear positioning stage 110. The linear positioning stage 110 may move the capsule dock 108 between a first location below the grinder 106 and a second location at the water dispenser 104.

[0054] The brewing system 100 may be equipped with an electronic reader 112 (e.g., RFID reader, barcode scanner, etc.) for obtaining data from the identification tags on the pods 102. As shown, the reader 112 of the brewing system 100 may be placed in proximity to an opening 114 of the grinder 106 through which the raw beans are input into the grinder 106 before beginning the grinding / brewing process. In that manner, the brewing system 100 may automatically read the identification tag on each pod 102 before beginning the grinding / brewing process. However, it should be noted that the reader 112 may be placed in any other location of the brewing system 100. For example, in another embodiment, the reader 112 may be placed below the grinder 106, such as near the capsule dock 108. Thus, data acquisition may occur as soon as the pod 102 is loaded onto the capsule dock 108. If there is a reader 112 in any of these locations, the user may not need to scan the pod 102 directly.

[0055] The brewing system 100 may include a user interface 116 through which a user may view information regarding the brew ingredients / brew process associated with the pod 102 and / or input information regarding the brew process. The user interface 116 may include a display. In one example, as shown in FIG. 1B, the user interface 116 may include a light-emitting diode (LED) panel. In other embodiments, the user interface 116 may include a touch screen display through which information may be selected or input via a user interacting with the touch screen. Additionally or alternatively, a user may make a selection using buttons, dials, etc. on the brewing system 100 and / or by pressing the capsule dock 108 at a particular location. In some embodiments, the brewing system 100 may not include a user interface. The brewing system 100 may instead be communicatively coupled to a user's personal device (e.g., a cell phone) to receive input and / or output information regarding the brew process to the user.

[0056] The brewing system 100 may include a combination of the water dispenser 104, grinder 106, capsule dock 108, linear positioning stage 110, reader 112, aperture 114, and user interface 116 located within or coupled to a main housing 118 of the brewing system 100. The main housing 118 may be supported on a base 120 as shown. In some embodiments, the base 120 may include a cup holder 122 on which a cup is placed to ultimately receive the brewed beverage output through the pod 102 (which functions as a dripper) beneath the water dispenser 104. In some embodiments, the dripper may be a reusable dripper tagged with a built-in recipe that allows the user to change or customize the recipe settings through software. In a non-limiting example, the reusable dripper is made of a food-grade biodegradable plastic material with low thermal conductivity.

[0057] The brewing system 100 may operate as follows: The following description discusses the use of the brewing system 100 to brew a cup of coffee from a pod 102, however, it should be understood that similar steps may be performed in brewing a cup of tea, hot chocolate, cider, or any other hot beverage prepared using the brew ingredients.

[0058] First, a user removes the pod 102 from its packaging. The pod 102 may contain raw coffee beans, a built-in filter, an identification tag, and specific brewing characteristics of a coffee dripper. The user may remove the lid or other cover from the top of the pod 102 and then empty the coffee beans from the pod 102 through the opening 114 into the grinder 106. The user may then place the empty pod 102 onto the capsule dock 108. The empty pod 102 will function as a filter and dripper once the brewing process begins.

[0059] During this process, the reader 112 of the brewing system 100 may read the identification tag on the pod 102. The reader 112 detects the type of coffee from the identification tag on the pod 102 and obtains the best recipe for the coffee beans packaged in the pod 102. The brew recipe may include brewing water temperature, water volume, flow rate, grind size, pouring pattern, brewing duration, coffee to water ratio, etc. The brewing system 100 may be turned on or "wake up" upon the reader 112 detecting the presence of and / or reading the identification tag on the pod 102.

[0060] The brewing system 100 may detect proper loading of the pod 102 on the capsule dock 108 via a force sensor integrated into the capsule dock 108. In some embodiments, a user may press down on a portion of the capsule dock 108 to initiate the grinding / brewing process. Upon detection of proper loading of the pod 102 and / or the user pressing down on the capsule dock 108, the linear positioning stage 110 automatically moves the pod 102 directly underneath the grinder 106 to receive the coffee grounds output from the grinder 106.

[0061] The grinder 106 automatically adjusts its coarseness / grind size based on recipe or user preferences. The grinder 106 may automatically recalibrate and set to zero to maintain grind accuracy during subsequent grinding / brewing operations. The coffee grounds fall into the pod 102 held by the capsule dock 108. An integrated force sensor in the capsule dock 108 may measure the exact amount of coffee to be extracted.

[0062] Upon completion of grinding, the linear positioning stage 110 then automatically moves the capsule dock 108 with the pod 102, now containing coffee grounds, to be directly underneath the water dispenser 104. The water dispenser 104 automatically adjusts the water temperature, flow rate, water pouring pattern, and coffee to water ratio based on detected recipe and / or user preferences. The water dispenser 104 dispenses a stream of water from a nozzle of the brewing system 100 into the pod 102 holding the coffee grounds. A force sensor on the capsule dock 108, in combination with a water flow sensor, monitors the real-time coffee to water ratio inside the pod 102 to gain additional control over the brewing process as well as prevent overflow. The water dispensed into the pod 102 extracts flavor and color from the coffee grounds and is filtered through the pod 102. The coffee is discharged through one or more openings at the bottom of the pod 102 and falls into a cup below.

[0063] Figure 2 depicts a system 200 for brewing a beverage, including the brewing system 100 described above. The system 200 of Figure 2 illustrates several electronic components and communication interfaces that may interact within the brewing system 100 and between the brewing system 100, the pods 102, and / or a separate user device 202 to control the grind / brew process.

[0064] The system 200 may be a single-serve beverage brewing system including a brewing system 100 and a single-serve pod 102. The brewing system 100 includes a reader 112. The pod 102 may include a hollow capsule configured to hold brew ingredients therein, and an identification tag 210 disposed on the capsule. The brewing system 100 may further include a controller 204 having one or more processors 206 and a memory 208. The memory 208 may store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors 206, determine a brew recipe for the pod 102, control the grinding / brewing process, and / or cause the controller 204 to perform one or more methods disclosed herein. For example, in response to the reader 112 reading the identification tag 210, the processor 206 may access or obtain information regarding the brew ingredients, a recipe for brewing a beverage from the brew ingredients, or both. As such, the controller 204 may be configured to determine a brew recipe for the pod 102 and control the brew process according to the brew recipe.

[0065] The brew recipe may be determined based at least in part on information obtained by the electronic reader 112. The reader 112 may scan and / or obtain data from an identification tag 210 placed on the pod 102 when the pod 102 is near a particular location of the brewing system 100. The identification tag 210 may include information stored thereon (e.g., a chip, a barcode, etc.). The information stored on the identification tag 210 may include pod information 212 related to the contents of the pod 102 (e.g., information about the coffee beans placed in the pod 102). The pod information 212 may include one or more of the following: type of coffee beans, name of the roaster, type of roaster, roast date, and flavor notes. The information stored on the identification tag 210 may also include base recipe information 214 related to one or more suitable (or preferred) recipes for brewing a beverage from the contents of the pod 102. The recipe information 214 may include one or more of the following parameters for brewing a beverage: grind, water temperature, water to coffee ratio, flow rate, and pour pattern.

[0066] In some embodiments, the identification tag 210 on the pod 102 may not include all information associated with the pod and / or brew recipe. In such cases, the identification tag 210 may include data including an address or link to information stored on an external network 216. This additional information may include any of the types of pod information 212, recipe information 214 referenced above, and / or rich media content including images, videos, recommendations, etc. The brewing system 100 may include a network interface 218 for retrieving additional information from the external network 216 based on the link read from the identification tag 210. In some embodiments, the identification tag 210 may simply be a barcode or quick response (QR) code containing a stock keeping unit (SKU) or link used to access information about the pod and / or brew recipe stored on the external network 216.

[0067] The brewing system 100 may also include pod and / or recipe information stored in the memory 208 of the controller 204. In some embodiments, the brewing system 100 may access the pod and / or recipe information from the memory 208 based on the link or SKU read from the identification tag 210. The brewing system 100 may include several different pre-defined brew recipes stored in the memory 208, with each SKU linked to one or more of the pre-defined brew recipes. Upon detection of the identification tag 210, the processor 206 may check the network interface 218 to determine if the brewing system 100 is connected to an external network 216. If the brewing system 100 is not connected to the external network 216, the processor 206 may select one or more of the pre-defined brew recipes from the memory 208 based on the information read from the identification tag 210. If the brewing system 100 is connected to an external network 216, the processor 206 may retrieve one or more brew recipes from the external network 216 via a network interface 218 based on the information read from the identification tag 210. The recipes and other information stored in both the external network 216 and the on-board memory 208 may be updated periodically, for example, when a manufacturer, partner, barista, or user uploads a new recipe for a particular pod to the external network 216.

[0068] The system 200 may allow a user to select or make updates to a brew recipe, determined based on information read from the identification tag 210 on the pod 102. In some embodiments, the brewing system 100 may include an on-board user interface 116 having one or more input / output devices for making the selection or update. For example, the user interface 116 may include a display, a touch screen, one or more buttons or dials, a keyboard, and / or any other input / output device that allows for user selection or input to the brewing system 100. The user interface 116 may allow a user to make a brew recipe selection and / or update one of the presented brew recipes. Once a selection is made, the user interface 116 may communicate the selection to the controller 204 for implementation.

[0069] In some embodiments, the brewing system 100 may include a device interface 220 configured to communicatively couple the controller 204 to a user device 202 (e.g., a cell phone) via WIFI, Bluetooth, or any other wired or wireless connection. The device interface 220 may communicate information from the reader 112 to the user device 202, which may include an application configured to receive information from the reader 112 and present one or more brew recipes to the user. The user device 202 may allow the user to select a brew recipe and / or update one of the presented brew recipes. Once a selection is made, the device interface 220 may communicate the selection from the user device 202 to the controller 204 for implementation.

[0070] The system 200 may allow a user to design an entirely new brew recipe for a particular SKU from scratch. The user interface 116 and / or application on the user device 202 may present the user with multiple brew recipe parameters that can be added, selected, adjusted, and / or removed to create a new brew recipe. The controller 204 may access the new brew recipe and control various components of the brewing system 100 to perform the grinding / brewing operations of the recipe. A user-created recipe may be stored directly in the memory 208 of the brewing system 100. A user-created recipe may be uploaded and stored on an external network 216 via the network interface 218 and / or the user device 202.

[0071] Determining a brew recipe may include accessing information stored on the identification tag 210 via the reader 112, retrieving the brew recipe directly from the information stored on the identification tag 210 or from an external network 216. Determining a brew recipe may include accessing information stored on the identification tag 210 via the reader 112, presenting one or more brew recipes to a user via the user interface 116 and / or user device 202, obtaining user input regarding the presented one or more brew recipes, and outputting a brew recipe selected and / or updated by the user. Determining a brew recipe may include allowing a user to create a new brew recipe via the user interface 116 and / or user device 202.

[0072] Upon determining the brew recipe, the controller 204 may control the brewing system 100 to brew a beverage according to the determined brew recipe. Controlling the brewing process may include controlling: the capsule dock 108, the linear positioning stage 110, the grinder 106, and / or the water dispenser (e.g., 104 in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B). Controlling the capsule dock 108 may include providing tactile feedback to a user through the capsule dock 108. Controlling the linear positioning stage 110 may include moving the capsule dock 108 from a first position below the grinder to a second position below the water dispenser, and / or imparting vibration to the capsule dock 108 if stirring is required for the brew recipe. Controlling the grinder 106 may include controlling the grind of coffee or other ingredients disposed within the grinder 106.

[0073] Controlling the water dispenser (e.g., 104 in FIGS. 1A and 1B) may include controlling one or more of: a water heater 222, a pump 224, and one or more electrodes 226 proximate to the nozzle of the water dispenser. Controlling the heater 222 may include heating the water to a desired brewing temperature via the heater 222. Controlling the pump 224 may include operating the pump to output the water from the nozzle at a desired flow rate. Controlling the one or more electrodes 226 may include controlling one or more electrical circuits to adjust the magnitude of a voltage applied to each electrode surrounding the stream of water output from the nozzle.

[0074] In addition to the components discussed above, the brewing system 100 may further include one or more sensors 228 configured to provide real-time or near real-time feedback regarding the grinding / brewing process being controlled by the controller 204. The controller 204 may receive feedback from the sensors 228 and adjust the grinding / brewing operations of the brewing system 100 in response to the sensor feedback. The sensors 228 may include, for example, force sensors on the capsule dock 108, temperature and flow rate sensors in the water dispenser, etc.

[0075] User Interface

[0076] 3A-3C depict exemplary user interfaces for use with the disclosed brewers. Although shown as the interface of an application on a user device (e.g., a cell phone), the user interface may similarly be displayed on the brewer's user interface (e.g., 116 in FIG. 2). The interface may allow a user to 1) create a new brew recipe from scratch, or 2) select and / or adjust an existing brew recipe retrieved from on-board memory or external storage.

[0077] The first page 300A of the user interface includes pod information 302, for example in the form of the name of the coffee beans in the pod ("Panama Geisha"), read from an identification tag on the pod. The first page 300A may also include a "default" recipe for the pod, determined based on recipe information associated with the pod. The "default" recipe may be a brew recipe designed by the pod's manufacturer, the most popular or highest rated recipe available from a network database for the pod, or a preferred recipe preselected for the pod by a user. The "default" recipe may indicate several primary parameters of the brew recipe, including, for example, grind size 304, water temperature 306, and coffee to water ratio 308. In other embodiments, different combinations of brewing parameters may be considered primary parameters. The first page 300A may be set up to allow the user to view and / or change the primary parameters of the "default" recipe. For example, in FIG. 3A, grind size 304, water temperature 306, and coffee to water ratio 308 are each shown via slide bars that may be adjusted by the user to create a new recipe.

[0078] A "default" recipe may include a particular number of water pours 310, with each pour 310 having its own set of primary parameters. For example, Figure 3A shows a first page 300A showing the primary parameters for the first water pour 310A of a brew recipe's three water pours 310A-C. The user may view or change the primary parameters for any of the other water pours 310B or 310C by selecting the pour towards the bottom of the screen.

[0079] The user may start with a "default" recipe, as shown, or may select another collected recipe 312, for example by clicking a button. The collected recipes button 312 may provide a list of previously collected recipes ("favorites") 314 from which to choose, as shown in FIG. 3B. These collected recipes may be ones the user has previously created and added to favorites, popular recipes for pods retrieved from an online database, or a combination thereof. The user may simply select one of the collected recipes to select a brew recipe. In other cases, if the user is interested in changing parameters to tailor the coffee taste to their preferences, the user may adjust primary parameters from the selected recipe to design a new brew recipe. The new brew recipe may then be stored in the user's collected recipes.

[0080] If the user wants complete freedom in designing the brew recipe, the user may select button 316 on the first screen to create a new recipe for the pod. This allows the user to adjust not only the primary parameters of the brew process, but also the secondary parameters. Figure 3C shows a second page 300B showing a more detailed list of parameters that may be adjusted by the user. The second page 300B of the user interface includes the same pod information 302 as the first page, and the same primary parameters (e.g., grind size 304, water temperature 306, and coffee to water ratio 308) and their values ​​as the first page.

[0081] Additionally, the second page 300B of the user interface includes other secondary parameters that may be selected or adjusted for the multiple water pours 330. The number of water pours 330 that may be selected for the brew method may be up to 5 pours, up to 10 pours, or more. For each water pour 330 (e.g., "Pour 1"), the secondary parameters may include, for example, volume 332A, pour pattern 334A, and agitation 336A. Additionally, the user may select the brew method to include a "blooming" water pour 338 (e.g., before the first water pour 330), with secondary parameters including volume 332B, pour pattern 334B, agitation 336B, and blooming duration 340. In other embodiments, different combinations of brewing parameters may be considered secondary parameters for different water pours.

[0082] A blooming water injection 338 may be added by toggling a switch 342 on the user interface, which allows the user to tailor the blooming water injection 338 as desired. The blooming water injection 338 allows carbon dioxide to be released from the coffee grounds before beginning the potentially larger water injection of the brewing process. Coffee grounds often contain a certain amount of CO2 trapped inside them, and once in contact with water, the CO2 tries to escape, expanding the volume of the coffee grounds. Baristas often allow the coffee time to "bloom", i.e., to allow the CO2 to escape so that it does not prevent the water from touching the coffee grounds during a later water injection. A second page 300B of the user interface allows the user to add a blooming water injection 338, select the volume 332B, water injection pattern 334B, and agitation 336B of the blooming water injection 338, and specify the amount of time (blooming period 340) for the coffee grounds to "bloom" before the next water injection 330.

[0083] The secondary parameters of both the blooming water pour 338 and the subsequent water pour 330 can be adjusted by the user. The volume 332A / B may be the volume in milliliters of water dispensed during the pour. The water pour pattern 334A / B may be selected from a predefined group of dynamic patterns in which water may be dispensed into a pod held under the water dispenser. Such dynamic patterns may include spiral patterns (either expanding spiral or inward moving spiral), circular, dotted (e.g., central pour), linear, wavy, or zigzag shapes. The dynamic pattern may also indicate whether the water pour is occurring more slowly (e.g., laminar flow regime) or more quickly (e.g., turbulent flow regime). Different water pour patterns may reveal different aspects of the flavor profile of the coffee grounds. The user may select or adjust the water pour pattern for any number of water pours 330, including the blooming water pour 338. The agitation 336A / B may be an option that includes mechanical agitation of the coffee grounds and water in the pod during the pour. For example, if mechanical agitation is selected (e.g., as shown at 336B for blooming pour 338), the linear positioning stage may vibrate the capsule dock holding the pod back and forth at a high frequency to agitate the coffee grounds in the pod during pouring. If mechanical agitation is not selected (e.g., as shown at 336A for first pour 330), the linear positioning stage maintains the capsule dock in a stationary position throughout the pouring.

[0084] The user interface of Figures 3A-3C may provide three levels of interaction a user may have with setting up a brew recipe for brewing coffee or another beverage from a pod. If the user simply wants to select a brew recipe from a favorites list associated with the pod, the user may do so using, for example, a drop-down list such as in Figure 3B. If the user wants to adjust the primary parameters of a recommended brew recipe, the user may do so using, for example, the first page 300A in Figure 3A. If the user wants to create a new brew recipe, adjusting all possible parameters including primary and secondary parameters, the user may do so using, for example, the second page 300B in Figure 3C. The user interface in Figures 3A-3C provides only one example of the types of parameters that may be selected by a user and a layout for doing so. Other versions of the user interface may enable the user to create, select, or adjust different combinations of brew recipe parameters via the brewer.

[0085] Single-serve pod overview

[0086] FIG. 4 is a detailed cutaway view of a pod 102 that may be used with the brewer of FIGS. 1A-2. In FIG. 4, the pod 102 is a single-serve coffee pod. In other embodiments, the pod 102 may be a single-serve pod for other types of beverages that may be brewed using the disclosed brewer. The pod 102 is configured to function as a holder for brew ingredients, a dripper, and a filter. To that end, the single-serve pod 102 may include a hollow capsule 400 and a filter 402 disposed within the capsule 400. The capsule 400 has an opening 404 at its first end 405 and at least one smaller opening 406 at its second end 407 opposite the first end 405. As shown, a plurality of coffee beans 408 may be placed within the capsule 400. The coffee beans 408 may be placed within the filter 402 such that they can be easily poured out of the pod 102 through an opening 404 at the top of the capsule 400. The pod 102 may include a removable cover 410 disposed over the opening 404. The pod 102 may also include an identification tag 210 disposed on the exterior of the capsule 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the identification tag 210 is disposed at the bottom of the capsule 400. However, the identification tag 210 may be located at another location on the capsule 400 in other embodiments. The capsule 400 may include a number of structural brewing features 412 (e.g., in the form of protrusions and / or indentations) that serve to strengthen the capsule 400 and prevent blockage of the pod 102 during its use as a filter / dripper.

[0087] The identification tag 210 may store information (or an address linking to such information) about the coffee beans 408 stored in the pod 102 and / or about a method or recipe for brewing the coffee beans 408 stored in the pod 102. Each pod 102 may have a specific SKU to which information about the coffee beans 408 stored therein and / or a brew recipe for the coffee beans 408 stored therein is linked. The brew recipe may be specific to achieve an optimal extraction of coffee from the coffee beans 408 of a specific SKU. Each pod / tag may be used only once and upon reading the identification tag 210 the brewer may know, by itself or via a connection to an external network, if the same pod / tag has been used before.

[0088] Capsule Dock and Linear Positioning Stage

[0089] 5A-5C depict one example of a capsule dock 108 and linear positioning stage 110 that may be used in a brewer. In certain embodiments, the capsule dock 108 and linear positioning stage 110 are designed to serve the following purposes: 1) to hold the pod 102 in a fixed position during brewing; 2) to ensure that the pod 102 is in the correct position; 3) to move the pod 102 between the grinder and the water dispenser; 4) to stir the coffee / water mixture in the pod 102 during extraction; 5) to measure the weight of the coffee and / or water inside the pod 102; and / or 6) to act as an input button or switch with tactile feedback.

[0090] The capsule dock 108 in combination with the linear positioning stage 110 forms an assembly that interfaces the grinder and the brewer's water dispenser. At the beginning of the brewing process, the controller causes the capsule dock 108 to initially position the pod 102 in a first location / position directly below the grinder 106 to receive the coffee grounds. Once the controller determines that the capsule dock 108 is in the proper location to receive the coffee grounds from the grinder, the controller may command the grinder to begin grinding. The coffee grounds will fall through a bottom opening of the grinder and into a capsule held by the capsule dock 108. The controller monitors the grinding process and determines when it is complete. Completion of the grinding process may be determined based on, for example, the amount of coffee grounds in the capsule (measured using a weight sensor), duration, vibration, sound, or any other suitable means. Once the grinding process is complete, the controller may command the linear positioning stage 110 to move the capsule dock 108 to a second position directly below the water dispenser 104 to receive water. Once the capsule dock 108 is in the desired position, the controller may begin the water dispensing process. Water from the water dispenser 104 pours into the capsule 102 and seeps through the coffee grounds to brew coffee.

[0091] The linear positioning stage 110 provides linear translation of the capsule dock 108. The linear positioning stage 110 may include a stepper motor 500 that rotates a screw guide 502 to provide linear translation. This provides precise control of the position of the capsule dock 108. The linear positioning stage 110 may also include a mount 504 for mounting the linear positioning stage 110 inside the housing of the brewer. As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the capsule dock 108 may extend to the exterior of the housing 118 of the brewing system 100. The linear positioning stage 110 may include an integrated sensor (e.g., a position or force sensor) configured to detect the location of the capsule dock 108 relative to the housing of the brewer. Data collected from this sensor may be used to ensure that the pod 102 is in the correct position for the grinding or brewing operation being performed by the brewer.

[0092] In some embodiments, the motor 500 of the linear positioning stage 110 may be controlled to "rock" the capsule dock 108, thereby stirring the contents of the pod 102 held by the capsule dock 108. This vibration can rock the coffee grounds and water to more evenly distribute the coffee and water mixture within the pod 102 during the brewing process. This can improve extraction consistency as desired for brewing a particular type of coffee. Additionally, the motor 500 may be controlled to provide agitation at a particular vibration frequency during the brewing process, for a particular amount of time, and / or only during or after a particular water pour. Providing agitation control through the linear positioning stage 110 allows the brewer to perform a specifically tailored brewing method.

[0093] The capsule dock 108 may include a capsule holder 506 configured to receive the pod 102 therein. As shown, the capsule holder 506 may include a circular opening formed therein for gripping the exterior of the frusto-conical shaped pod 102. In other embodiments, the capsule holder 506 may be other shapes. The capsule dock 108 may also include a connecting member 508 connecting the capsule holder 506 to a linear positioning stage 110. The linear positioning stage 110 may be controlled to move the connecting member 508 and the capsule holder 506 relative to the brewer housing. The connecting member 508 is cantilevered from the linear positioning stage 110 as shown.

[0094] The capsule dock 108 may further include an integrated force sensor 510. The integrated force sensor 510 may be a strain gauge coupled to a compliant structure 512 of the capsule dock 108. For example, as shown in Figures 5B and 5C, the integrated force sensor 510 may be a strain gauge coupled to a compliant structure 512 of the connection member 508. When a force (e.g., the weight of the pod 102 or a user's clicking force) is applied to the capsule holder 506, the compliant structure 512 will deform slightly due to the weight, and the strain gauge (e.g., 510) measures the degree of deformation and calculates the applied force.

[0095] The integrated force sensor 510 may enable precise brewing: based on the information received from the force sensor 510, the brewer's controller can know the exact amount of grounds deposited in the pod 102 and the exact amount of water in the pod 102 throughout the extraction process. This information allows the system to achieve unprecedented precision in brewing, as the amount of water and grounds is precisely measured in real time.

[0096] Besides monitoring the water to coffee ratio, the force sensor 510 may also help the system detect any potential defects during use of the brewer. For example, the force sensor 510 may help the brewer detect the accumulation of an incorrect amount of coffee (e.g., too many beans output from the grinder, too much grounds retained in the pod, etc.). Upon detection of the accumulation of an incorrect amount of coffee, the brewer's controller may output a notification (e.g., an alert) to the user to check the amount of coffee accumulation. The force sensor 510 may also help the system detect a blockage of the pod 102 that may result in a restriction of the coffee flow. Upon detection of a blocked pod 102, the brewer may automatically stop dispensing water into the pod 102. Furthermore, the brewer may output a notification (e.g., an alert) to the user to check the status of the pod 102.

[0097] An integrated force sensor 510 may enable the capsule dock to function as a button or switch by detecting force applied directly by a user pressing on the front 514 of the capsule holder 506, thereby allowing the user to interact with the brewer. As an example, the linear positioning stage 110 driven by the stepper motor 500 may provide tactile feedback when the system registers a "click" action from the user pressing the capsule holder 506. One use of a user activated switch could be to activate the brew process once the pod 102 is correctly installed in the capsule dock 108.

[0098] Grinder System

[0099] 6-7B, a method and assembly for grinding coffee beans or other ingredients input to a brewer will now be described.

[0100] Grinding coffee beans is an important step when brewing a cup of coffee because the grind alone can dramatically change the taste of the final cup of coffee. Additionally, grinding the coffee beans immediately before brewing ensures maximum freshness and flavor of the coffee. Coffee can begin to lose its flavor as quickly as 15 minutes after being ground.

[0101] When selecting the grind size of coffee beans, three factors of the selected brew process make the most difference: contact time, extraction rate, and water flow rate through the coffee. Grinding the coffee finer increases the surface area of ​​the coffee grounds, increasing the extraction rate and decreasing the water flow rate (thereby increasing the contact time). The higher the extraction rate, the less contact time is required. Knowing this, if using a brew method with a short contact time, the grind size should be fine. If the contact time is too high or the grind is too fine, the result can be an over-extracted brew, which can be bitter. However, if the grind is too coarse or the contact time is too short, the coffee can be weak.

[0102] The disclosed brewer may know the type of coffee bean, how the beans were roasted, and recommended brewing methods based on the information obtained from the identification tag on the pod. With this information, the grinder may adjust the grind size to grind the coffee beans just before brewing to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.

[0103] Figure 6 shows a method 600 for grinding raw coffee beans (or other ingredients) using a brewer, and Figures 7A and 7B depict the grinder 106 performing one or more steps of the method 600. In step 602, the method 600 may include reading an identification tag of a pod from which coffee beans are being supplied to the grinder 106. An electronic reader of the brewer may read the identification tag. In step 604, the method 600 may include receiving a corresponding grind size from a database via a controller of the brewer, as described above with reference to Figure 2.

[0104] The grinder 106 may automatically adjust the grind (e.g., coarseness level) of the coffee beans based on a recipe detected from an identification tag on the pod and / or based on user preferences (which may be learned by the brewer over time). The grinder 106 may automatically recalibrate and zero before and after each brewing operation or a specific operating cycle to ensure grind accuracy. In certain embodiments, the system may recalibrate the burrs after a certain number of grinds (e.g., 1, 5, 10, or 50 grinds), or the user may initiate a recalibration as needed. 7A-7D, the grinder 106 may include a main motor 700, a main gearbox 702, a main shaft 704, a burr assembly 706 having an inner burr 716 and an outer burr 718 disposed within a housing 720, a stepper motor 708 for adjusting the grind, and a magnetic tunnel 722 mounted below the outer burr to collect any loose particles released during the grinding process. As shown, the stepper motor 708 may be disposed within the main gearbox 702.

[0105] The stepper motor 708 is a drive mechanism that transfers the rotational motion of the second shaft 710 along its axis to linear motion 714 of the main shaft 704 through a number of gears 712. In certain embodiments, the upper end of the main shaft 704 may be coupled to a screw that, when rotated by the gears 712, moves the main shaft 704 upwards or downwards. The other end of the main shaft 704 may be coupled to an inner burr 716, such that the linear motion 714 of the main shaft in turn adjusts the vertical position of the inner burr 716 relative to the outer burr 718.

[0106] 7C and 7D show one embodiment of a burr assembly including an inner burr 716 and an outer burr 718. The inner burr 716 generally has a truncated cone shape (or a frustum of a cone) with an axis of rotation aligned with that of the main shaft 704. The inner burr 716 may have a topmost surface 716A, a bottom surface 716B, and an inclined side surface 716C. The side surface 716C of the inner burr 716 may be abrasive or serrated. The inner burr 716 may move up and down with the main shaft 704, while the outer burr 716 is stationary and fixed to the main structure of the burr assembly 706. The outer burr 718 may surround the inner burr 716 and may have an abrasive or serrated surface 718A. During the grinding operation, the grinder's main motor 700 may rotate the main shaft 704, thereby rotating the inner burr 716 relative to the outer burr 718. The coffee beans will fall into a space 716D formed between the abrasive / serrated surface 716A of the inner burr 716 and the abrasive / serrated surface 718A of the outer burr 718. The rotation of the inner burr 716 relative to the outer burr 718 grinds the coffee beans into coffee powder.

[0107] If a finer grind is selected, the inner burr 716 moves upward and the separation or gap 716D between the inner burr 716 and outer burr 718 is reduced. If a coarser grind is selected, the inner burr moves downward and the gap between the inner and outer burrs is increased. FIG. 7D shows the inner burr in a "zero position". In this position, the separation 716D between the inner burr 716 and outer burr 718 is at its minimum (i.e., the finest coffee ground grind). In certain embodiments, the inner burr 716 may extend downward from the zero position to increase the separation / gap 716D between the inner burr 716 and outer burr 718. Doing so will result in a relatively coarser coffee ground grind.

[0108] To stabilize the burr rotation and prevent or reduce wobble that may cause uneven grinding, the main shaft connecting the main gearbox and the burr assembly is a double-bearing shaft system to coaxially align the rotational motion of the main shaft and the inner burr, resulting in a tight and stable grind. The burrs may have various types of surface treatments. For example, the burr assembly may be nitrided, which creates a thin, hard layer of nitride compound on the surface of the burr to improve its mechanical properties, such as wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and fatigue strength of the burr assembly. Besides adding a coating layer such as a nitride compound, the surface of the burr may be polished for sharpness and durability.

[0109] Returning to FIG. 6, after obtaining the desired grind from the database and / or user settings in step 606, the method 600 includes the stepper motor 708 moving the main shaft 704 axially such that the gap 716D between the inner burr 716 and the outer burr 718 of the burr assembly 706 is closed. In this manner, the grinder 106 may self-calibrate to a "zero" position setting to ensure grind accuracy and consistency. The main shaft 704 and inner burr 716 may move upward until the gap between the inner burr 716 and the outer burr 718 is closed (zero), and this position may be set as the "zero" position. In other embodiments, instead of performing this step of returning to the zero position at the beginning of the current grinding operation, this step may alternatively be performed after the previous grinding operation.

[0110] In step 608, the method 600 next includes the stepper motor 708 lowering the main shaft 704 and the associated inner burr 716 to a predetermined position according to the desired recipe to set the gap 716D for the desired grind from step 604. The method 600 then proceeds to grind the coffee beans in the burr assembly 706 of the grinder 106. This includes the main motor 700 rotating the main shaft 704 and the associated inner burr 716 to grind the coffee beans between the inner 716 and outer 718 burrs in the burr assembly 706. In step 610, a cutoff torque from the stepper motor 708 and the gear assembly in the main gearbox 702 resists perturbations during grinding. The system may constantly measure the output torque of the main motor 700 (e.g., via a sensor) to detect if the gap between the outer and inner burrs is in the correct position.

[0111] Solid State Water Injection System

[0112] 8 and 9, a solid state water injection system for use in the water dispenser portion of a brewer will now be described.

[0113] The best way to prepare black coffee is the drip method because it brings out the complex flavors when compared to other brewing methods. For this reason, it has become a popular choice for single origin coffee because it allows the flavors and aromas to shine. For the drip method, the choreography of the water pour (or pour pattern) directly affects the final outcome of the cup of coffee. Therefore, the disclosed brewer offers complete control over how each pour is performed. The brewer can reproduce the precision, sophistication, and nuance of each pour pattern. To achieve such results, the brewer may include a solid-state water pour assembly that can control the course of the free water stream being dispensed without the use of any moving parts.

[0114] Water (H2O) is a polar covalent molecule, which means that the molecules are attracted to nearby net charges, regardless of the sign of the charge. The force of attraction can be great enough to pull the water flow towards the charge carriers. Thus, the direction of water flow can be changed by controlling the distribution of charge in the water's immediate vicinity.

[0115] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a solid-state water injection system 800 that may be used to control a water stream 802 output from a brewer. The solid-state water injection system 800 includes a water dispenser nozzle 804 configured to dispense a water stream 802, one or more electrodes 226 disposed adjacent to the water stream 802 dispensed by the nozzle 804, and at least one voltage source 806 electrically coupled to the one or more electrodes 226 through an electrical circuit (e.g., on a printed circuit board (PCB) 808). The nozzle 804 may be shaped or otherwise configured to output the water stream 802 in a laminar flow regime that allows for tighter control of the water stream 802. The electrodes 226 are positioned near the stream to generate and control a charge distribution to apply a desired amount of force to the water stream 802, causing the water stream 802 to bend according to a water injection pattern. The electrodes 226 may each include an electrical conductor covered with an electrically insulating material. The electrode 226 may also include a hydrophobic coating surrounding the electrically insulating material that insulates the conductive material from the environment and prevents liquid droplets from adhering to the surface of the electrode 226.

[0116] The voltage source 806 may include a high voltage generator or a charge generator. The voltage source 806 may be used to control the charge density on each electrode 226. The force exerted by the electrodes 226 on the water stream 802 may increase (or decrease) with increasing (or decreasing) charge density. Each electrode 226 may be controlled separately by either an analog input signal or a pulse width modulated (PWM) digital signal. The electrode activation pattern (e.g., duration, frequency, sequence, amplitude, etc.) can be set to achieve any desired drip pattern choreography. The solid-state water injection system 800 may include a housing 810 that insulates the high voltage circuitry from the rest of the system as well as providing structural support for the system.

[0117] Because the disclosed solid-state water pouring system 800 uses charges on electrodes 226 to bend the water stream 802, the system can mechanically manipulate the water stream 802 without the use of any moving parts in the brewer. The solid-state water pouring system 800 may enable the brewer to output each pour from the water dispenser according to a desired pour pattern. The brewer's water dispenser may control the pour pattern, among other parameters (e.g., water volume, number of pours, water temperature, etc.), to ensure that the water and coffee are well mixed.

[0118] 9 depicts an example of a two-dimensional configuration of electrodes 226 around the nozzle 804 and / or the water stream dispensed from the nozzle 804, viewed from a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the nozzle 804. The solid-state water injection system may include four electrodes 226 arranged around the water stream. Each of the electrodes 226 may be spaced equidistantly from the water stream, with two electrodes (226A and 226C) on opposite sides of the nozzle 804 from each other in a direction parallel to the X-axis, and the other two electrodes (226B and 226D) on opposite sides of the nozzle 804 from each other in a direction parallel to the Y-axis. Such an arrangement of the electrodes 226 with respect to the nozzle 804 allows the brewer to control the water stream by controlling force vectors in orthogonal directions. That is, the system may control the charge applied to each of the four electrodes 226 via vector control (e.g., in the X-axis and Y-axis directions) to control the direction in which the water stream bends during each water injection. This configuration of electrodes 226 allows the solid-state water injection system to control the 360 ​​degree radial orientation of the water stream around the axis of the nozzle 804. The solid-state water injection system may also control the amplitude of the water stream away from the center (e.g., the longitudinal axis of the nozzle 804). The solid-state water injection system may provide time sequence control of the electrodes 226 to control the shape of the water injection with respect to time. The solid-state water injection system may provide any desired water injection pattern, such as, for example, a spiral water injection pattern for each water injection (e.g., larger from the center to the outside or vice versa), and output at any desired speed.

[0119] Solid-State Water Injection System Embodiments

[0120] Further details regarding the brewer's solid-state water injection system are now provided. With reference to both Figures 8 and 9, the brewer (e.g., 100 in Figures 1A and 1B) may include a water dispenser (e.g., 104 in Figures 1A and 1B) having a nozzle 804 configured to dispense a stream of water 802 downward. As discussed above with reference to Figures 1A and 1B, the brewer (e.g., 100) may also include a holder (e.g., capsule dock 108) configured to hold a container for ground coffee or tea (e.g., pod 102) below the nozzle 804 to receive the stream of water 802. The brewer may include a first electrode 226A disposed adjacent the stream of water 802 dispensed by the nozzle 804, and a voltage source 806 electrically coupled to the first electrode 226A through an electrical circuit (e.g., on a PCB 808). Additionally, the brewer controller 204 may be communicatively coupled to the electrical circuit and configured to control the magnitude of the voltage applied to the first electrode 226A from the voltage source 806. Varying the magnitude of the voltage applied to the first electrode 226A creates an electric field that varies the distance of the water stream 802 from the first electrode 226A.

[0121] Similarly, the brewer may include a second electrode 226B disposed adjacent to the stream of water 802 dispensed by the nozzle 804 and electrically coupled to a voltage source 806 through a second electronic circuit (e.g., on a PCB 808). The controller 204 may be communicatively coupled to the second electronic circuit and configured to control the magnitude of the voltage applied from the voltage source 806 to the second electrode 226B.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 9, the brewer may further include a third electrode 226C and a fourth electrode 226D. The third electrode 226C may be disposed adjacent to the flow of water dispensed by the nozzle 804 and may be electrically coupled to the voltage source 806 through a third electronic circuit (e.g., on the PCB 808). Furthermore, the fourth electrode 226D may be disposed adjacent to the flow of water dispensed by the nozzle 804 and may be electrically coupled to the voltage source 806 through a fourth electronic circuit (e.g., on the PCB 808). The controller 204 may be communicatively coupled to the third electronic circuit and the fourth electronic circuit and may be configured to control the magnitude of the voltage applied from the voltage source 806 to the third electrode 226C and the magnitude of the voltage applied to the fourth electrode 226D. As shown in FIG. 9, the four electrodes 226A-D may be circumferentially equidistant from one another around the axis of the nozzle 804.

[0123] It should be noted that while Figure 8 illustrates two electrodes 226 and Figure 9 illustrates four electrodes 226A-D, the solid-state water injection system 800 may include any other desired number of electrodes 226, for example, 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more. Additionally, it should be noted that while Figure 9 illustrates four electrodes 226A-D arranged in a two-dimensional array about the water flow output by the nozzle 804, in other embodiments, multiple electrodes 226 may be arranged in three dimensions with respect to each other and the water flow to provide the desired water injection control.

[0124] The electrodes 226 in the solid state water injection system 800 may be connected to a voltage source 806 through one or more electrical circuits, which may include a transformer 812. The electrical circuits may be capable of supplying a voltage to the electrodes 226 on the order of 5,000 volts or more. The electrical circuits may be controlled to provide a high voltage signal to the electrodes 226 at a very low current, on the order of microamperes, to charge the electrodes 226. Once the electrodes 226 are fully charged, the density of charge is 100% at the electrodes 226, which attracts water through the charge on the electrodes 226. However, the charge can be adjusted anywhere from 0-100% to change the charge density, thereby adjusting how far the water moves towards the electrodes 226. The controller 204 may control an electrical circuit connecting the voltage source 806 and the electrodes 226 to adjust the charge on one or more electrodes 226 surrounding the water flow 802 over time, thereby varying the position of the water flow 802 according to a desired water injection pattern. For example, the controller 204 may adjust the magnitude of the voltage applied to the electrodes 226 according to a sinusoidal curve, a Gaussian curve, a linear function, etc. The controller 204 may include instructions in memory for adjusting the charge on one or more electrodes 226 according to a group of pre-defined waveforms (e.g., associated with a common water injection pattern).

[0125] As shown in Figure 9, a first pair of electrodes 226A and 226C may be used to control the magnitude of the force vector in the X direction. A second pair of electrodes 226B and 226D may be used to control the magnitude of the force vector in the Y direction. By controlling the direction and magnitude of the force vector at any given time, it is possible to create a water flow pattern. For example, the electrodes may be charged with a sinusoidal curve, a Gaussian curve, etc. to create a spiral or circular motion, etc. The same principle can be applied in three dimensional applications.

[0126] Figure 10 illustrates one example of a water dispenser 104 that may use the solid-state water injection system of Figure 8. As shown, the water dispenser 104 includes a water reservoir 1000, a heater 222, a pump 224, and a water injection nozzle assembly 1002 that includes the components of the solid-state water injection system (e.g., nozzles and electrodes) through which water is output from the water dispenser 104. These and other components of the solid-state water injection system may be enclosed within a housing (not shown), which may include a plastic enclosure, a metal Faraday cage with an insulating coating, and / or a thick insulating coating or mold that covers the entire module.

[0127] The water tank 1000 may include one or more reservoirs having one or more inlets and outlets. In the illustrated embodiment, the water tank 1000 includes a main water tank 1004, an intermediate water tank 1006, and a top cover 1008. The top cover 1008 may be removed to refill the main water tank 1004, which functions as a reservoir for water used for the brewing operation. The intermediate water tank 1006 may hold heated water that is dispensed through a water outlet 1010 to the water injection nozzle assembly 1002 during the brewing operation.

[0128] A pump 224 and a heater 222 may be fluidly connected between the main water tank 1004 and the intermediate water tank 1006 for simultaneously pumping and heating the water being supplied to the intermediate tank 1006. The pump 224 may be controlled to regulate the flow rate of water being dispensed from the brewer in a particular pour, as well as to control the volume of a particular pour. The pump 224 may be part of a flow module that includes a flow meter 1012 and a one-way valve 1014. A water inlet 1016 provides the pumped water to the heater 222. The heater 222 may be an "instant heater" in the form of a heat pipe that gently heats the water to a precise temperature as it is being pumped through the heater 222 and into the intermediate tank 1006. Water flows from the intermediate tank 1006 through a water outlet 1010 to a nozzle outlet 1001, which then outputs the heated water from the water dispenser 104 according to the pour pattern. Other components and configurations thereof may be used in the water dispenser 104 than those described herein.

[0129] 11A-11C depict an example of a water bath 1100 that may function as an intermediate tank (e.g., 1006 in FIG. 10). The water bath 1100 may be specially designed to output a laminar flow of water from its nozzle 1102. Turbulent heated water may be input to the water bath 1100 via a hot water inlet 1104 from a heater (e.g., 222 in FIG. 10), and the sloped inner wall 1106 of the water bath 1100, together with a protrusion 1108 surrounding the nozzle 1102, may change the flow regime of the heated water from turbulent to laminar while maintaining a desired flow rate of water from the nozzle 1102.

[0130] 12A and 12B depict one example of the water injection nozzle assembly 1002 of FIG. 10. The water injection nozzle assembly 1002 may include a mounting base 1200, a support shaft 1202, a nozzle 804, and a number of electrodes 226. The mounting base 1200 may mount the water injection nozzle assembly 1002 to a brewer such that the nozzle 804 extends downward from a water dispenser of the brewer. The support shaft 1202 may be coupled to a water outlet of the water dispenser (e.g., 1010 of FIG. 10). The support shaft 1202 may be aligned with the longitudinal axis 1204 of the nozzle 804 and may direct water from the water outlet through the nozzle 804 in this axial direction.

[0131] In FIG. 12A, two electrodes 226 are shown, one on each side of the nozzle 804. Note that similar to FIG. 9, the water injection nozzle assembly 1002 may also include two other electrodes 226 surrounding the nozzle 804. Each electrode 226 may extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 1204 of the nozzle 804 and may be equidistant from the longitudinal axis 1204. The electrodes 226 may be precisely positioned in the XY plane with respect to the longitudinal axis 1204 of the nozzle and precisely positioned perpendicularly in the Z direction with respect to the end of the nozzle 804 to exert a desired force to alter the water flow output from the nozzle 804. For example, as shown, the electrodes 226 may extend downwardly below the bottom end of the nozzle 804. In one example, the electrodes 226 may be separate and spaced apart from the nozzle 804, for example as shown in FIG. 8. 12A and 12B, the electrode 226 may be integrated into the outer edge of the nozzle 804. This proximity of the electrode 226 to the nozzle 804 may improve the efficiency of the solid-state water injection system.

[0132] On top of each electrode 226, a conductive pad 1206 may be positioned to electrically contact components of an electrical circuit used to control the charge on the electrode 226. As shown, the conductive pads 1206 may be positioned on the opposite side of the mount 1200 from where the nozzles 804 output the water, thereby preventing water from contacting the conductive pads 1206.

[0133] FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view of one example of an electrode 226, viewed in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the nozzle. As shown in FIG. 13, the "top" layer (PSA 1300) may form the side of the electrode 226 that is placed furthest from the water flow output by the nozzle when the water dispenser is assembled, and the "bottom" layer (hydrophobic coating 1302) may form the side of the electrode 226 that is placed closest to the water flow output by the nozzle when the water dispenser is assembled. Although the cross-section shows various layers that may be present in the electrode 226, other embodiments of the electrode 226 may have other numbers, different types of materials, and / or configurations of layers different from those shown in FIG. 13. This is merely an exemplary embodiment, and variations of the electrode 226 may be possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0134] The electrode 226 may include a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) 1300 on one side for coupling the electrode 226 to a structure of the brewer (e.g., the mount 1200 in FIG. 12A). The electrode 226 generally includes a conductor 1304 to which a high voltage electric current signal is applied to charge the electrode 226. The conductor 1304 may include any metallic material (e.g., copper, indium tin oxide, etc.), a conductive ink or paint applied to another layer of the electrode 226, or a conductive thin film sandwiched between two other layers of the electrode 226. The electrode 226 may also include a passivation layer 1306 disposed around at least one side of the conductor 1304 to remove surface contaminants and provide resistance to corrosion.

[0135] The conductor 1304 may be covered by at least one electrically insulating material. For example, the conductor 1304 may be sandwiched on both sides by electrically insulating layers 1308, 1310. These electrically insulating layers 1308, 1310 may insulate the conductor 1304 from the environment, for example to prevent arcing. The conductor 1304 / passivation layer 1306 may be coupled to one or both of the electrically insulating layers 1308, 1310 by one or more adhesive layers 1312. The electrically insulating layers 1308, 1310 may be composed of glass, thermoplastic or other polymeric materials, or any other material capable of providing electrical insulation. In the illustrated embodiment, one electrically insulating layer 1308 is made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), while the other electrically insulating layer 1310 is made from glass. Glass offers improved structural stability compared to PET and other similar polymers, but glass can be more expensive. In other embodiments, both electrically insulating layers 1308 and 1310 may be constructed from the same material (glass, PET, etc.).

[0136] The electrode 226 may include a hydrophobic coating 1302 provided on at least the side of the electrode 226 facing the water stream output from the nozzle. In FIG. 13, for example, the hydrophobic coating 1302 surrounds the electrically insulating layer 1310 closest to the water stream. The hydrophobic coating 1302 prevents water from entering the electrode 226 from the water stream so that the water does not create microchannels and / or short out the device. The hydrophobic coating 1302 may include, for example, a fluorinated polymer coating, or a coating that includes nanomaterials or nanostructures. Although shown as being placed on only one side of the electrode 226, in other embodiments, the hydrophobic coating 1302 may extend around additional sides of the electrode 226, up to 360 degrees around the entire electrode structure.

[0137] FIG. 14A illustrates an electronic assembly 1400 that may be used to control the charge applied to the electrodes 226 of a solid-state water injection system. The assembly 1400 may include, for example, a power source (e.g., an AC voltage port) 1402, a current limiter 1404, and a number of switches 1406, each corresponding to one of the electrodes 226 present in the solid-state water injection system. It should be noted that the assembly 1400 may be used in a solid-state water injection system having any desired number of electrodes 226. The assembly 1400 also includes a number of electrical circuits 1408 (e.g., high voltage generation circuits), each corresponding to one of the electrodes 226. Each of the electrical circuits 1408 may include a high voltage transformer (e.g., 812 in FIG. 8) configured to amplify an electrical signal transmitted from a voltage source (e.g., 806 in FIG. 8) to a corresponding electrode 226. The high voltage transformer may be a piezoelectric or electromagnetic transformer.

[0138] Figures 14B and 14C show two examples of an electrical circuit 1408 that may be used between an AC voltage input and a DC high voltage output to the electrodes 226. In Figure 14B, the electrical circuit 1408 includes an electromagnetic transformer 1410 and a voltage multiplier 1412. In Figure 14C, the electrical circuit 1408 includes a piezoelectric transformer 1414.

[0139] Returning to Figure 14A, the brewer's controller may output control signals to switches 1406 to control which electrodes 226 are charged at different times. Additionally, the controller may output control signals to electrical circuitry 1408 to control the charge amplitude of the electrodes 226 being charged over time. The controller may output control signals to open and close switches 1406 and control electrical circuitry 1408 according to a pre-set vector control scheme that corresponds to a water pouring pattern stored in memory.

[0140] FIG. 15 depicts a method 1500 for controlling a water flow output from a brewer. Step 1502 of the method 1500 includes dispensing a water flow from a nozzle of the brewer into a container for ground coffee or tea. The water flow may be a laminar flow of water output from the nozzle of the brewer. In step 1504, the method 1500 includes charging one or more electrodes surrounding the water flow dispensed by the nozzle using one or more electrical circuits coupled between the one or more electrodes and a voltage source. This may include, for example, amplifying a voltage output from the voltage source via a transformer placed in one of the electrical circuits. In step 1506, the method 1500 includes controlling a magnitude of a voltage output to each of the one or more electrodes via the controller based on instructions received at the controller regarding a water pouring pattern of the water flow. In step 1508, the method includes generating an electric field using the one or more charged electrodes to bend the water flow dispensed by the nozzle according to the water pouring pattern. In one embodiment, the method 1500 may include dispensing a water stream from a nozzle of a brewer into a container for ground coffee and generating an electric field to bend the water stream dispensed by the nozzle according to a drip coffee pouring pattern.

[0141] FIG. 16 illustrates a method 1600 for controlling the pouring of water from a brewer. One or more steps of the method 1600 may be computer-implemented steps. The computer may include one or more processors and a non-transitory computer-readable medium having instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the computer to perform one or more steps of the method 1600. In step 1602, the method 1600 includes receiving or accessing a pouring pattern indicating a dynamic pattern in which a stream of water should be dispensed in different directions relative to a stationary nozzle. In step 1604, the method 1600 includes determining that a container for ground coffee or tea is positioned under the stationary nozzle and is ready to receive a stream of water. In step 1606, the method 1600 includes dispensing a stream of water by the stationary nozzle in response to determining that the container is ready. In step 1608, the method 1600 includes outputting control signals to one or more electrical circuits (e.g., four electrical circuits) to adjust the magnitude of a voltage applied to each of a plurality of electrodes (e.g., four electrodes) surrounding the water flow while the water flow is being dispensed. The output control signals are generated based on a water injection pattern, which may be an expanding spiral, an inward moving spiral, a circle, a dot, a line, a wave, or a zigzag. In this method 1600, at least one of the control signals output to the electrical circuits may cause an adjustment of the magnitude of the voltage applied to the corresponding electrode according to a sinusoidal curve, a Gaussian curve, or a linear function.

[0142] The disclosed solid-state water injection system provides a highly integrated system for controlling water flow according to a pouring pattern without the use of any moving parts, motors, or actuators, providing a quiet, compact, durable, and highly precise method for outputting hot water in a pattern specifically tailored for brewing high quality beverages.

[0143] Single-serve pod embodiment

[0144] Further details regarding single-serve pods that can be fitted with the disclosed brewer are now provided. Returning to FIG. 4, the single-serve pod 102 shown includes a plurality of coffee beans 408 disposed within a capsule 400. The plurality of coffee beans 408 may include a sufficient number of raw coffee beans to brew a single cup of coffee. The capsule 400 is configured to hold the raw coffee beans 408 therein and to later receive coffee grounds made from the raw coffee beans 408.

[0145] Figures 17A-17D are additional views of the single-serve pod 102 of Figure 4. Figure 18A shows another example of a single-serve pod 102, and Figures 18B-18C depict a corresponding capsule 400 for that pod 102. Figure 19 shows another example of a single-serve pod 102, and Figure 20 shows yet another example of a single-serve pod 102. Similar elements of each pod 102 in Figures 17A-17D are labeled with similar element numbers as in Figure 4.

[0146] Generally, the hollow capsule 400 holding the brew ingredients is frusto-conical in shape. The capsule 400 may include brewing features to provide more efficient extraction of flavors during the brewing process. For example, the capsule 400 may feature a combination of specially designed ribs, grooves, indentations, protrusions, and drip holes to optimize brewing efficiency and results. This design may reduce blockages caused by the coffee grounds and filter 402 that may otherwise result in over-extraction and bitterness in the coffee.

[0147] As an example, in Figs. 17A-17D, the capsule 400 each includes a pattern of indentations and / or protrusions 1000 formed along the sidewall of the capsule 400. The indentations and / or protrusions 1000 along the sidewall of the capsule 400 may introduce airflow between the edge of the capsule 400 and the filter 402, thereby aiding in the extraction of the coffee. The indentations and / or protrusions 1000 along the sidewall of the capsule 400 may also increase the structural stability of the single-serve pod 102 so that the pod 102 does not deform during transportation. The indentations and / or protrusions 1000 may be of different sizes or shapes in different embodiments, as shown in Figs. 17A-17D. The indentations and / or protrusions 1000 may extend vertically along the sidewall of the capsule 400 and may extend only partially from the lower end 407 of the capsule 400 towards the upper end 405 of the capsule 400.

[0148] As another example, in Figures 18B and 18C, the capsule 400 includes a pattern of indentations and / or protrusions 1100 formed on the second end 407 of the capsule 400. Such indentations and / or protrusions 1100 may add some distance between the bottom of the filter (not shown) and the bottom of the capsule 400 to provide increased water flow and therefore better extraction. Furthermore, the indentations and / or protrusions 1100 may increase the structural stability of the single-serve pod 102 so that the pod 102 does not deform during shipping. The openings 406 at the bottom of the capsule 400 may be arranged in a specific pattern around the indentations and / or protrusions 1100 to aid in extraction and smooth dripping.

[0149] As shown in Figures 4, 17A, 17D, and 18A, the single-serve pod 102 may include an identification tag 210 disposed on the capsule 400. The identification tag 210 is configured to be scanned by a reader (e.g., of a brewer). The identification tag 210 is configured to provide information or trigger access to information upon scanning of the identification tag by the reader. This information may correspond to the raw coffee beans held within the capsule 400, to a recipe for brewing coffee from the raw coffee beans in the capsule 400, or both. In this manner, the identification tag 210 may represent or include information stored thereon about the raw coffee beans and / or about a method for brewing coffee from the beans. The information corresponding to the coffee beans may include, for example, the name of the bean, the type of bean, the region where the beans are grown, the grower, the roaster, the processing method, the roast date, the packing plant, the package date, or a best-by date. The information corresponding to a recipe for brewing coffee from the beans may include, for example, grind size, water temperature, water volume, pouring pattern, pour times, or stirring instructions. The identification tag 210 may include a radio frequency identification tag (RFID tag). As discussed at length above, the identification tag 210 may have a SKU stored therein that can be used by the brewer to access additional information corresponding to the coffee beans and / or brew recipe from an external network.

[0150] 4, 17A, and 17D, the identification tag 210 may be disposed on the second end 407 of the capsule 400. As shown in FIG 17A, the drip opening 406 at the second end 407 of the capsule 400 may be specially shaped and / or positioned around the perimeter of the identification tag 210. In another example, as shown in FIG 18A, the identification tag may be disposed along a sidewall of the capsule 400.

[0151] As shown in Figures 4, 17C, 17D, 18A, 19, and 20, the capsule 400 may be sealed at the top end 405 by a removable cover 410. The removable cover 410 may be sealed to a flange 430 surrounding the opening 404 at the top end 405 by application of heat such that no adhesive material is left on the capsule 400 when the cover 410 is removed. In other embodiments, the cover 410 may be applied via an adhesive or may include a removable lid. The removable cover 410 may function as a label for the single-serve pod 102, as shown in Figures 17C and 17D.

[0152] In some embodiments, the lower end 407 of the capsule 400 may also be sealed. For example, as shown in FIG. 18A, the single-serve pod 102 may include a second removable cover 1102 disposed over at least one smaller opening in the second end 407 of the capsule 400. The second removable cover 1102 may help completely seal the capsule 400 by covering the hole in the lower end of the capsule 400. This ensures that the beans are completely sealed against air inside the capsule 400, preserving their freshness. This second removable cover 1102 needs to be removed along with the removable cover 410 before the pod 102 can be used as a dripper.

[0153] In other embodiments, the bottom end 407 of the capsule 400 may be left unsealed, without a cover over the drip hole. To seal in the freshness of the coffee beans therein, the single-serve pod 102 may be packaged in a sealed bag with multiple other single-serve pods for storage and transport to a user. This configuration means that the user only needs to remove the single cover 410 when brewing coffee.

[0154] Each pod 102 of Figures 4 and 17A-17D includes a filter 402 (e.g., a coffee filter). For example, the capsule 400 and / or the filter 402 may be made of renewable, biodegradable, and / or compostable, 100% environmentally friendly materials. As an example, the capsule 400 and / or the filter 402 may be made of 100% biodegradable materials, such as sugarcane fiber or another plant-derived fiber. As such, the single-serve pod 102 may impose a much smaller environmental impact compared to plastic or metal coffee capsules.

[0155] As shown in Figure 4, a plurality of coffee beans 408 may be placed inside the coffee filter 402. Similarly, in the embodiment of Figure 18A, the filter 402 is configured to also retain raw coffee beans therein.

[0156] In the embodiment of FIG. 19, the single-serve pod 102 includes a removable container 1200 disposed within the capsule 400 and covered by a removable cover 410. The coffee beans of the pod 102 may be placed in this removable container 1200 instead of being loose in the filter 402 below. The removable container 1200 serves as a separate compartment for storing the beans and sealing them from moisture and oxygen. This allows the pod 102 to completely seal the coffee beans from air without the need for an additional removable cover at the bottom end of the capsule 400. The removable container 1200 may include a septum 1202 configured to allow a user to easily grasp the removable container 1200 with their fingers and lift the removable container 1200 out of the capsule 400 to pour the beans into the brewer.

[0157] Many modifications, variations, and variations to the described embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. The invention is not intended to be limited to the described embodiments, but rather its full scope is intended to be defined by the language of the following claims and their equivalents. [Item 1] A grinder configured for grinding raw coffee beans into coffee powder with adjustable coarseness, said grinder configured to receive the raw coffee beans through a first opening above said grinder and to dispense the coffee powder through a second opening below said grinder; a brewer configured to dispense water for brewing coffee through a third opening below the brewer, wherein the brewer is positioned transversely to the grinder; a capsule dock configured to (a) hold a capsule including a coffee filter and (b) translate the capsule from a first position below the second opening of the grinder to a second position below the third opening of the brewer; and a controller configured to control the grinder, the brewer, and the capsule dock; Equipped with a coffee brew system. [Item 2] 2. The coffee brew system of claim 1, wherein the capsule dock has a tactile sensor, and the controller is configured to initiate a brew process when the tactile sensor of the capsule dock detects a touch event. [Item 3] 2. The coffee brewing system of claim 1, further comprising an electronic reader configured to read an identification tag on the capsule, the controller further configured to adjust one or more settings of at least one of the grinder or the brewer based on information associated with the identification tag. [Item 4] 4. The coffee brew system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the one or more settings adjusts the coarseness of the coffee grounds produced by the grinder. [Item 5] 4. The coffee brew system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the one or more settings adjusts the temperature, volume, or pouring pattern of water dispensed by the brewer. [Item 6] 2. The coffee brew system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to translate the capsule dock from the first position to the second position based on an indication of completion of a grinding operation. [Item 7] 7. The coffee brew system of claim 6, wherein the indication of the completion of the grinding operation is based on a weight measured by a weight sensor in the capsule dock. [Item 8] 2. The coffee brewing system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to cause the brewer to begin a brewing process upon an indication that the capsule dock is in the second position below the brewer. [Item 9] Item 1. The coffee brew system of item 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive instructions from a user interface configured to allow a user to specify grind size, water temperature, water volume, or coffee to water ratio. [Item 10] 2. The coffee brew system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive instructions from a user interface configured to present one or more brew recipes for user selection, each brew recipe specifying a predetermined brewing configuration of the coffee brew system. [Item 11] 11. The coffee brew system of claim 10, wherein the user interface is presented by an application on a user device separate from the coffee brew system. [Item 12] 2. The coffee brewing system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive instructions from a user interface configured to enable a user to specify brewing details associated with multiple water pours to be used during the brewing process. [Item 13] Item 13. The coffee brew system of item 12, wherein the brewing details associated with each of the plurality of water pours include water temperature, water volume, or water pouring pattern. [Item 14] The grinder comprises: a burr assembly including an inner burr and an outer burr, the inner burr being connected to a main shaft and rotating along an axis of the main shaft, and the outer burr being positioned around and covered by the inner burr; and a motor configured to control the separation between the inner burr and the outer burr 2. The coffee brew system according to item 1, comprising: [Item 15] 15. The coffee brew system according to claim 14, wherein the separation between the inner burr and the outer burr affects the coarseness of the coffee grounds. [Item 16] Item 16. The coffee brew system of item 15, wherein the controller is configured to move the inner burr upwardly to reduce a separation between the inner burr and the outer burr and reduce coarseness of the coffee grounds. [Item 17] The capsule dock comprises: a capsule holder configured to receive the capsule; A linear positioning stage configured to translate the capsule holder horizontally; and A connecting member connecting the capsule holder and the linear positioning stage. 2. The coffee brew system according to item 1, comprising: [Item 18] 2. The coffee brew system of claim 1, wherein the capsule dock is configured to rock during the brewing process. [Item 19] 2. The coffee brew system of claim 1, wherein the capsule dock has an integrated position sensor configured to detect whether the capsule is in the correct position to receive the coffee grounds from the grinder or water from the brewer. [Item 20] Item 1. The coffee brewing system of item 1, wherein the brewer has electrodes configured to generate an electric field to bend water dispensed by the brewer. [Item 21] 1. A grinder for grinding raw coffee beans into coffee powder with automatically adjustable coarseness, comprising: An internal burr having beveled, abrasive or serrated sides; and An outer burr surrounding the inner burr a burr assembly for grinding raw coffee beans, the burr assembly having a side surface of the inner burr and the outer burr defining a gap; a main motor configured to provide a first rotational motion to the inner burr; a main shaft having one end coupled to the inner burr, wherein the main shaft is configured to transmit the first rotational motion provided by the main motor to the inner burr; a second motor configured to adjust a vertical position of the main shaft and the inner burr relative to the outer burr, where a change in the vertical position of the inner burr relative to the outer burr causes a change in a gap between the inner burr and the outer burr; and A controller configured to control the main motor and the second motor. wherein the coarseness of the coffee powder depends on the gap between the inner and outer burrs. grinder. [Item 22] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the second motor is a stepper motor configured to provide a second rotational motion used to adjust a vertical position of the main shaft and the inner burr. [Item 23] a plurality of gears configured to convert the second rotational motion into linear motion for adjusting the vertical position of the main shaft and the inner burr; 23. The grinder of claim 22, further comprising: [Item 24] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the inner burr and the main shaft rotate along an axis of the main shaft. [Item 25] 22. The grinder according to item 21, wherein the outer burrs are stationary and fixed to the housing. [Item 26] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the burr assembly is configured to receive the raw coffee beans from above and output the coffee powder through an opening below the burr assembly. [Item 27] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the inner burr is configured to move downwardly relative to the outer burr to increase the coarseness of the coffee grounds. [Item 28] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the inner burrs are configured to move upwardly relative to the outer burrs to reduce the coarseness of the coffee grounds. [Item 29] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the controller is configured to calibrate the grinder by causing the inner burrs to return to a zero position where the gap is minimum. [Item 30] Item 22. The grinder of item 21, wherein the inner burr has a top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface being larger than the top surface. [Item 31] 22. The grinder according to item 21, wherein the inner burr has a conical shape. [Item 32] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the controller is configured to automatically adjust the vertical position of the inner burr relative to the outer burr based on a brew recipe specifying a desired coarseness of the coffee grounds. [Item 33] Item 33. The grinder of item 32, wherein the brew recipe is selected based on an identification tag associated with a capsule holding the raw coffee beans. [Item 34] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the controller is configured to automatically adjust the vertical position of the inner burr relative to the outer burr based on input provided by a user through a user interface. [Item 35] Item 35. The grinder of item 34, wherein the user interface is provided by an application installed on a user device. [Item 36] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the burr assembly has a layer of a nitride compound. [Item 37] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the controller is configured to position a capsule dock beneath the grinder prior to commencing a grinding operation, the capsule dock configured to hold a capsule for capturing the coffee grounds output by the grinder. [Item 38] Item 38. The grinder of item 37, wherein the controller is configured to position the capsule dock beneath a water dispenser after completion of the grinding operation. [Item 39] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the grinder is integrated into a coffee brewing system. [Item 40] 22. The grinder of claim 21, wherein the controller is configured to measure an output torque of the main motor to detect whether the gap between the inner burr and the outer burr is in a correct position. [Item 41] 1. A dock system configured to hold and translate a capsule containing coffee grounds during a brewing process, comprising: a capsule dock configured to receive and hold said capsule; a linear positioning stage configured to translate the capsule dock; a mount configured to mount the linear positioning stage within a housing of a coffee maker; and a controller configured to cause the linear positioning stage to (a) move the capsule dock to a first position beneath a grinder of the coffee maker before and during a grinding operation, and (b) move the capsule dock to a second position beneath a water dispenser of the coffee maker before and during a water dispense operation. A dock system comprising: [Item 42] A connecting member connecting the capsule dock and the linear positioning stage. Item 42. The dock system of item 41, further comprising: [Item 43] Item 42. The dock system of item 41, wherein the capsule dock has an integrated force sensor. [Item 44] Item 44. The dock system of item 43, wherein the integrated force sensor is configured to measure a weight of the capsule. [Item 45] Item 45. The dock system of item 44, wherein the integrated force sensor is configured to measure the weight of the capsule in real time during at least one of the grinding operation or the water dispensing operation. [Item 46] Item 46. The dock system of item 45, wherein the weight of the capsule is used by the controller of the coffee maker to control at least one of the grinding operation or the water dosing operation. [Item 47] Item 44. The dock system of item 43, wherein the integrated force sensor is configured to detect a force applied to a front end of the capsule dock. [Item 48] Item 48. The dock system of item 47, wherein the controller is configured to initiate a brew process based on the force applied to the front end of the capsule dock. [Item 49] Item 42. The dock system of item 41, wherein the linear positioning stage includes an integrated position sensor configured to detect a location of the capsule dock on the linear positioning stage. [Item 50] Item 42. The dock system of item 41, wherein the linear positioning stage includes a stepper motor. [Item 51] Item 51. The dock system of item 50, wherein the stepper motor is configured to provide tactile feedback when a force is applied to a front end of the capsule dock. [Item 52] 51. The dock system of claim 50, wherein the stepper motor is configured to rock the capsule dock during the water dosing operation, thereby stirring the coffee grounds in the capsule. [Item 53] Item 53. The dock system of item 52, wherein the stepper motor is configured to rock the capsule dock at a preset vibration frequency during the water dispensing operation. [Item 54] Item 53. The dock system of item 52, wherein the stepper motor is configured to rock the capsule dock for a preset time during the water dispense operation. [Item 55] Item 53. The dock system of item 52, wherein the stepper motor is configured to rock the capsule dock during the water pouring operation at preset times during and after pouring. [Item 56] Item 42. The dock system of item 41, wherein the capsule dock has a holder including an opening for receiving the capsule. [Item 57] Item 57. The dock system of item 56, wherein the opening is circular and smaller than at least a portion of a cross-section of the capsule. [Item 58] Item 42. The dock system of item 41, wherein the controller is configured to move the capsule dock from the first position to the second position upon determining that the grinding operation is completed. [Item 59] Item 59. The dock system of item 58, wherein the determination that the grinding operation is complete is based on time. [Item 60] Item 59. The dock system of item 58, wherein the determination that the grinding operation is complete is based on a weight of the capsule dock. [Item 61] a nozzle configured to dispense a stream of water downward; a holder configured to hold a container for ground coffee or tea below said nozzle to receive said stream of water; a first electrode disposed adjacent to the stream of water dispensed by the nozzle; a voltage source electrically coupled to the first electrode through an electrical circuit and configured to apply a voltage to the first electrode; and A controller communicatively coupled to the electrical circuit and configured to control the magnitude of the voltage applied from the voltage source to the first electrode. Varying the magnitude of the voltage applied to the first electrode creates an electric field that varies the distance of the water flow from the first electrode. Brewer. [Item 62] a second electrode disposed adjacent the stream of water dispensed by the nozzle and electrically coupled to the voltage source through a second electronic circuit; Item 62. The brewer of item 61, wherein the controller is communicatively coupled to the second electronic circuit and configured to control the magnitude of the voltage applied from the voltage source to the second electrode. [Item 63] a third electrode disposed adjacent the stream of water dispensed by the nozzle and electrically coupled to the voltage source through a third electronic circuit; and a fourth electrode disposed adjacent the stream of water dispensed by the nozzle and electrically coupled to the voltage source through a fourth electronic circuit; The controller is communicatively coupled to the third electronic circuit and the fourth electronic circuit and configured to control the magnitude of the voltage applied from the voltage source to the third electrode and the magnitude of the voltage applied to the fourth electrode. Brewer as described in item 62. [Item 64] Item 64. The brewer of item 63, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth electrodes are circumferentially positioned equidistant from one another about the axis of the nozzle. [Item 65] 62. The brewer of claim 61, wherein the first electrode comprises a conductor covered with an electrically insulating material. [Item 66] 66. The brewer of claim 65, wherein the first electrode has a hydrophobic coating surrounding the electrically insulating material. [Item 67] Item 62. The brewer of item 61, wherein the electrical circuit comprises a transformer configured to amplify an electrical signal transmitted from the voltage source to the first electrode. [Item 68] 68. The brewer of claim 67, wherein the transformer is a piezoelectric transformer. [Item 69] 68. The brewer of claim 67, wherein the transformer is an electromagnetic transformer. [Item 70] Item 62. The brewer of item 61, wherein the first electrode is separate and spaced apart from the nozzle. [Item 71] Item 62. The brewer of item 61, wherein the first electrode is integrated into an outer edge of the nozzle. [Item 72] Item 62. The brewer of item 61, wherein the nozzle is configured to output the water stream in a laminar flow regime. [Item 73] 1. A method for controlling water flow output from a brewer, comprising: Dispensing the water stream from a nozzle of the brewer into a container for ground coffee or tea; charging one or more electrodes surrounding the water stream dispensed by the nozzle using one or more electrical circuits coupled between the one or more electrodes and a voltage source; and controlling, via a controller, a magnitude of a voltage output to each of the one or more electrodes based on instructions received at the controller regarding a water injection pattern of the water flow; and generating an electric field using the one or more charged electrodes to deflect the water stream dispensed by the nozzle according to the water pouring pattern. A method comprising: [Item 74] Item 74. The method of item 73, wherein the water flow is a laminar flow of water output from the nozzle of the brewer. [Item 75] amplifying a voltage output from the voltage source through a transformer located in one of the electrical circuits. 74. The method of claim 73, further comprising: [Item 76] dispensing said water stream from a nozzle of said brewer into a container for ground coffee; and generating the electric field to bend the water stream dispensed by the nozzle according to a water pouring pattern of drip coffee; Item 74. The method of item 73, comprising: [Item 77] 1. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions for controlling water pouring from a brewer, the instructions, when executed by a processor, causing the processor to: receiving or accessing a water injection pattern that indicates a dynamic pattern in which the water stream is dispensed in different directions relative to a stationary nozzle; determining that a container for ground coffee or tea is positioned under the stationary nozzle and is ready to receive the flow of water; dispensing said stream of water with said stationary nozzle in response to said determining; outputting a control signal to one or more electrical circuits for adjusting a magnitude of a voltage applied to each of a plurality of electrodes surrounding the water stream while the water stream is being dispensed, the outputted control signal being generated based on the water pouring pattern. A non-transitory computer readable medium for performing a method having the steps of: [Item 78] Item 78. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of item 77, wherein the water injection pattern comprises an expanding spiral, an inward moving spiral, a circle, a dot, a line, a wave shape, or a zigzag. [Item 79] The instructions to the processor: outputting control signals to four electrical circuits to adjust the magnitude of a voltage applied to each of four electrodes surrounding said water stream while said water stream is being dispensed; Item 78. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of item 77. [Item 80] Item 78. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of item 77, wherein at least one of the control signals causes adjustment of the magnitude of the voltage applied to the electrode according to a sinusoidal curve, a Gaussian curve, or a linear function. [Item 81] a hollow capsule having an opening at a first end thereof and at least one smaller opening at a second end thereof opposite said first end; a filter disposed within the capsule; A plurality of coffee beans located within the capsule; and a removable cover disposed over the opening of the capsule; Equipped with single-serve coffee pods. [Item 82] Item 82. The single-serve coffee pod of item 81, wherein the plurality of coffee beans comprises a sufficient number of raw coffee beans to brew one cup of coffee. [Item 83] Item 82. The single-serve coffee pod of item 81, further comprising a second removable cover disposed over the at least one smaller opening at the second end of the capsule. [Item 84] Item 82. The single-serve coffee pod of item 81, wherein the plurality of coffee beans are located inside the coffee filter. [Item 85] 82. The single-serve coffee pod according to item 81, wherein the capsule, the coffee filter, or both are made of a biodegradable material. [Item 86] Item 82. The single-serve coffee pod of item 81, further comprising a removable container disposed within the capsule and covered by the removable cover, the plurality of coffee beans being located in the removable container. [Item 87] Item 87. The single-serve coffee pod of item 86, wherein the removable container has a septum configured to allow a user to lift the removable container out of the capsule. [Item 88] Item 82. The single-serve coffee pod of item 81, further comprising an identification tag that represents or stores information about the raw coffee beans and / or about a method for brewing coffee from the raw coffee beans. [Item 89] Item 89. The single-serve coffee pod of item 88, wherein the identification tag is disposed along a sidewall of the capsule or on the second end of the capsule. [Item 90] Item 82. The single-serve coffee pod according to item 81, wherein the capsule includes a pattern of indentations and / or protrusions along a sidewall of the capsule. [Item 91] Item 82. The single-serve coffee pod of item 81, wherein the capsule includes a pattern of indentations and / or protrusions on the second end of the capsule. [Item 92] 82. The single-serve coffee pod according to item 81, wherein the capsule is frusto-conical in shape. [Item 93] a hollow capsule configured to hold raw coffee beans therein and to receive coffee grounds made from the raw coffee beans; and an identification tag disposed in the capsule, the identification tag configured to be scanned by a reader, where the identification tag is configured to provide or trigger access to information upon scanning of the identification tag by the reader, the information corresponding to the raw coffee beans held in the capsule, corresponding to a recipe for brewing coffee from the raw coffee beans in the capsule, or both. Equipped with single-serve coffee pods. [Item 94] Item 94. The single-serve coffee pod of item 93, wherein the information corresponding to the coffee bean includes bean name, bean type, bean growing region, grower, roaster, package date, or expiration date. [Item 95] Item 94. The single-serve coffee pod of item 93, wherein the information corresponding to the recipe for brewing coffee from the coffee beans includes grind size, water temperature, water amount, pouring pattern, number of pours, or stirring instructions. [Item 96] Item 94. The single-serve coffee pod of item 93, wherein the identification tag is a radio frequency identification tag (RFID tag). [Item 97] a filter disposed within the capsule; an opening disposed at a first end of the capsule; and a smaller opening disposed at a second end of the capsule opposite the first end Item 94. The single-serve coffee pod of item 93, further comprising: [Item 98] Item 98. The single-serve coffee pod of item 97, wherein the identification tag is disposed at the second end of the capsule. [Item 99] Item 94. The single-serve coffee pod of item 93, wherein the identification tag is disposed along a side wall of the capsule. [Item 100] A brewer having a reader; and A hollow capsule configured to hold the brew ingredients therein; and An identification tag disposed on the capsule a single-serve pod having The brewer further comprises a processor communicatively coupled to the reader, wherein in response to the reader reading the identification tag, the processor is configured to access or obtain information regarding the brew ingredients, a recipe for brewing a beverage from the brew ingredients, or both. Single Serve Beverage Brewing System.

Claims

1. a grinder configured for grinding raw coffee beans into coffee powder with adjustable coarseness, said grinder configured to receive the raw coffee beans through a first opening above said grinder and to dispense the coffee powder through a second opening below said grinder; a brewer configured to dispense water for brewing coffee through a third opening below the brewer, wherein the brewer is positioned transversely to the grinder; (a) a capsule dock configured to hold a capsule including a coffee filter and (b) translate the capsule from a first position below the second opening of the grinder to a second position below the third opening of the brewer; and a controller configured to control the grinder, the brewer, and the capsule dock; Equipped with a coffee brew system.

2. 2. The coffee brew system of claim 1, wherein the capsule dock includes a tactile sensor, and the controller is configured to initiate a brew process when the tactile sensor of the capsule dock detects a touch event.

3. 3. The coffee brewing system of claim 1 or 2, further comprising an electronic reader configured to read an identification tag on the capsule, and the controller is further configured to adjust one or more settings of at least one of the grinder or the brewer based on information associated with the identification tag.

4. 4. The coffee brew system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the one or more settings adjusts the coarseness of the coffee grounds produced by the grinder.

5. 4. The coffee brew system of claim 3, wherein at least one of the one or more settings adjusts a temperature, a volume, or a water pouring pattern of water dispensed by the brewer.

6. 3. The coffee brew system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller is configured to translate the capsule dock from the first position to the second position based on an indication of completion of a grinding operation.

7. 7. The coffee brew system of claim 6, wherein the indication of the completion of the grinding operation is based on a weight measured by a weight sensor in the capsule dock.

8. 2. The coffee brewing system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to cause the brewer to begin a brewing process upon an indication that the capsule dock is in the second position below the brewer.

9. 3. The coffee brew system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller is configured to receive instructions from a user interface configured to allow a user to specify grind size, water temperature, water volume, or coffee to water ratio.

10. 3. The coffee brew system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller is configured to receive instructions from a user interface configured to present one or more brew recipes for user selection, each brew recipe specifying a predetermined brewing configuration of the coffee brew system.

11. The coffee brew system of claim 10 , wherein the user interface is presented by an application on a user device separate from the coffee brew system.

12. 3. The coffee brewing system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller is configured to receive instructions from a user interface configured to enable a user to specify brewing details associated with multiple water pours to be used during the brewing process.

13. The coffee brew system of claim 12 , wherein brewing details associated with each of the plurality of water pours include water temperature, water volume, or water pouring pattern.

14. The grinder comprises: a burr assembly including an inner burr and an outer burr, the inner burr being connected to a main shaft and rotating along an axis of the main shaft, and the outer burr being positioned around and covered by the inner burr; and a motor configured to control the separation between the inner burr and the outer burr 3. A coffee brew system according to claim 1 or 2, comprising:

15. 15. The coffee brew system of claim 14, wherein the separation between the inner and outer burrs affects the coarseness of the coffee grounds.

16. 16. The coffee brew system of claim 15, wherein the controller is configured to move the inner burr upwardly to reduce a separation between the inner burr and the outer burr to reduce coarseness of the coffee grounds.

17. The capsule dock comprises: a capsule holder configured to receive a capsule; A linear positioning stage configured to translate the capsule-holder horizontally; and A connecting member connecting the capsule holder and the linear positioning stage.

3. A coffee brew system according to claim 1 or 2, comprising:

18. 3. The coffee brew system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the capsule dock is configured to rock during the brewing process.

19. 3. The coffee brewing system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the capsule dock has an integrated position sensor configured to detect whether the capsule is in the correct position to receive the coffee grounds from the grinder or water from the brewer.

20. 3. The coffee brewing system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the brewer has electrodes configured to generate an electric field to bend water dispensed by the brewer.

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