Beverage extraction system

Abstract

The beverage extraction system includes a case, a reservoir, a pump, a heating element, and a holder. The case defines a cup receiving bay for receiving a cup and a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup receiving bay. The reservoir is positioned within the case for containing a fluid. The pump is positioned within the case and pumps the fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly. The heating element is positioned within the case for heating the fluid as the fluid is pumped to the nozzle assembly. The holder holds a pour bag having an opening configured to receive a beverage precursor. The nozzle assembly pours the fluid through the opening into the pour bag, and the fluid flows through the beverage precursor, through the pour bag, and into a cup positioned within the cup receiving bay.

Description

Cross - Reference to Related Applications and Claim of Priority

[0001]

[0001] This application is a continuation - in - part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 026,970, filed on March 17, 2023, which is a national stage entry application from PCT International Application Serial No. PCT / US22 / 36588, filed on July 08, 2022, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 219,569, filed on July 08, 2021. This application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 424,097, filed on November 09, 2022, and 63 / 454,029, filed on March 22, 2023. The entire disclosure of the foregoing applications is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

Technical Field

[0002]

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to beverage extraction systems, and more particularly, to single - serve, disposable, and pour - over beverage extraction systems.

Background Art

[0003]

[0003] Disposable beverage extraction machines typically use pre-packaged beverage precursors, such as coffee powder or tea leaves, to extract one or more beverages, such as coffee or tea. The beverage precursor is typically immersed in a fluid, typically water, until the beverage is extracted from the beverage precursor. The beverage precursor is typically stored in a sealed package that is inserted into the beverage extraction machine, and the beverage extraction machine accesses the sealed package to extract the beverage. However, because the package is sealed, the user cannot control the amount of beverage precursor used to extract the beverage. Further, the sealed package prevents the user from extracting the beverage using different extraction methods, such as a pouring method, that may result in different beverage flavor profiles. Third, the water delivery mechanism to the beverage precursor is often spatially limited such that only discrete, limited portions of the precursor are exposed to hot water, limiting flavor extraction. Fourth, the sealed package may be made of non-biodegradable materials to preserve the flavor and aroma of the beverage precursor. Thus, disposable beverage extraction systems may be less operationally flexible and less environmentally sustainable than alternative extraction methods. Finally, the sealed package is often composed of petroleum-based plastics that may have leachable components that can have undesirable health effects on consumers of the beverage.

Summary of the Invention

[0004]

[0004] Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a beverage extraction system. The beverage extraction system includes a case, a reservoir, a pump, a heating element, and a holder. The case defines a cup receiving bay for receiving a cup and a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup receiving bay. The reservoir is positioned within the case for containing a fluid. The pump is positioned within the case for pumping the fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly. The heating element is positioned within the case for heating the fluid to an accurate temperature set point when the fluid is pumped to the nozzle assembly or by preheating the fluid in a boiler tank. The holder holds a pour bag below the nozzle assembly. The pour bag has an opening configured to receive the fluid. The pour bag is suspended from the holder with the opening oriented towards the nozzle assembly. The nozzle assembly pours the fluid through the opening into the pour bag, and the fluid flows through a beverage precursor within the pour bag and through the pour bag into a cup positioned within the cup receiving bay.

[0005]

[0005] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of extracting a beverage using a beverage extraction system. The method includes positioning a cup within a cup receiving bay of the beverage extraction system. The beverage extraction system includes a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup, a holder positioned above the cup, a reservoir, a pump, and a heating element. The method also includes suspending a pour bag from the holder. The pour bag contains a beverage precursor and has an opening oriented toward the nozzle assembly. The method further includes pumping a fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly using the pump. The method also includes heating the fluid flow with the heating element or preheating the fluid within a boiler tank. The method further includes pouring the fluid flow through the opening into the pour bag using the nozzle assembly. The method also includes leaching the fluid flow into the cup through the beverage precursor and the pour bag. An important component of the method is the movement of the bag relative to the nozzle, or the nozzle relative to the bag, to ensure complete exposure of the beverage precursor to the temperature-controlled fluid. Another component of the method is moving (e.g., vibrating) the filter bag to effect swirling or mixing of the beverage precursor components to improve exposure of the beverage precursor to the fluid and overall extraction.

[0006]

[0006] The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of examples according to the present disclosure so that the following detailed description may be better understood. Additional features and advantages will be described hereinafter. The disclosed concepts and specific examples can be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. Such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. The features believed to be characteristic of the nature of the concepts disclosed herein, together with the associated advantages, will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. Each of the figures is provided for purposes of illustration and description only and is not provided as a definition of the limits of the claims.

[0007]

[0007] An even further understanding of the essence and advantages of the embodiments can be realized by reference to the following figures. In the accompanying drawings, similar components or features may have the same reference label.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of an exemplary beverage extraction system for extracting a beverage according to the principles of the present disclosure.

Figure 2

[0009] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of an exemplary beverage extraction system having internal components illustrated by dashed lines according to the present disclosure.

Figure 3

[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates another side view of a portion of an exemplary beverage extraction system having internal components illustrated by dashed lines according to the present disclosure.

Figure 4

[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of an exemplary vibration mechanism according to the present disclosure.

Figure 5

[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of an exemplary motor of a vibration mechanism according to the present disclosure.

Figure 6

[0013] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of internal components of a beverage extraction system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Figure 7

[0014] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of internal components of a beverage extraction system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Figure 8

[0015] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of an exemplary pouring bag in a first flat configuration according to the present disclosure.

Figure 9

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

Figure 10

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

Figure 11

[0018] Figure 11 is a side view of an exemplary pouring bag in a second extended configuration according to the present disclosure.

Figure 12

[0019] Figure 12 is another side view of an exemplary pouring bag in a second extended configuration according to the present disclosure.

Figure 13

[0020] Figure 13 illustrates a side view of an alternative pouring bag in a first flat configuration according to the present disclosure.

Figure 14

[0021] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the pouring bag illustrated in FIG. 13 in a second extended configuration according to the present disclosure.

Figure 15

[0022] Figure 15 is a side view of a portion of the pouring bag illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 according to the present disclosure.

Figure 16

[0023] Figure 16 is a side view of a plurality of pouring bags illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 15 in a first flat configuration during a manufacturing process according to the present disclosure.

Figure 17

[0024] Figure 17 illustrates an exemplary method of extracting a beverage by a beverage extraction system according to the present disclosure.

Figure 18A

[0025] Figure 18A is a top perspective view of the pouring bag illustrated in FIG. 13 according to the present disclosure.

Figure 18B

Figure 19

[0026] Figure 19 is a side view of the pouring bag illustrated in FIG. 14 according to the present disclosure.

Figure 20

[0027] Figure 20 is another side view of the pouring bag illustrated in FIG. 14 according to the present disclosure.

Figure 21

[0028] Figure 21 is a top view of the pouring bag illustrated in FIG. 14 according to the present disclosure.

Figure 22

[0029] Figure 22 is a bottom view of the pouring bag illustrated in FIG. 14 according to the present disclosure.

Figure 23A

[0030] FIG. 23A is a top perspective view of the holder assembly of the first embodiment in the folded configuration according to the present disclosure.

Figure 23B

Figure 23C

Figure 23D

Figure 24A

[0031] FIG. 24A is a top perspective view of the holder assembly of FIGS. 23A to 23D in the unfolded configuration according to the present disclosure.

Figure 24B

Figure 24C

Figure 24D

Figure 25A

[0032] FIG. 25A is a top perspective view of the pouring bag, cup, and the holder assembly of FIGS. 24A to 24D shown in FIG. 14.

Figure 25B

Figure 25C

Figure 25D

Figure 26A

[0033] FIG. 26A is a top perspective view of a holder assembly of a second embodiment according to the present disclosure.

Figure 26B

Figure 26C

Figure 26D

Figure 27A

[0034] FIG. 27A is a top perspective view of the pouring bag, cup, and holder assembly of FIGS. 26A-26D shown in FIG. 14.

Figure 27B

Figure 27C

Figure 27D

Figure 28A

[0035] FIG. 28A is a side view of an alternative embodiment of system 100 according to the present disclosure.

Figure 28B

Figure 29A

[0036] FIG. 29A is a top view of a reusable pouring bag similar to that shown in FIG. 14 according to the present disclosure.

Figure 29B

Figure 29C

Figure 29D

[0009]

[0037] While the embodiments described in the specification are subject to various modifications and alternatives, certain embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail herein. However, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the present disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010]

[0038] This description provides examples and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the following description will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description of how to implement aspects of the invention. Various changes can be made to the functions and arrangements of the elements.

[0011]

[0039] Accordingly, various embodiments may appropriately omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components. For example, it should be understood that methods may be performed in an order different from that described, and that various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Also, aspects and elements described with respect to a particular embodiment may be combined in other various embodiments. The following systems, methods, and devices may be components of a larger system, either individually or collectively, and it should also be understood here that other procedures may take precedence over these applications or, alternatively, may modify these applications.

[0012]

[0040] The detailed description of the exemplary embodiments herein refers to the accompanying drawings that illustrate the exemplary embodiments by way of example. These exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, but it is to be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that logical changes and adaptations in design and configuration may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure and the teachings of this specification. Accordingly, the detailed description of this specification is presented for purposes of illustration and not of limitation.

[0013]

[0041] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a beverage extraction system 100 for extracting a beverage. FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the beverage extraction system 100 with internal components illustrated in dashed lines. FIG. 3 illustrates another side view of a part of the beverage extraction system 100 with internal components illustrated in dashed lines. FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the vibration mechanism of the beverage extraction system 100. FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the motor of the vibration mechanism of the beverage extraction system 100.

[0014]

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

[0015]

[0043] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the internal components of the beverage extraction system 100. The beverage extraction system 100 extracts a beverage using a pouring method. Specifically, the beverage extraction system 100 pours a heating fluid into a pouring bag 102 that houses a beverage precursor. The fluid is immersed in the beverage precursor to extract a beverage such as coffee or tea. The pouring bag 102 houses a beverage precursor such as coffee powder or loose leaf tea, and the fluid oozes through the beverage precursor and the pouring bag 102. The pouring bag 102 separates the extracted beverage fluid from the beverage precursor and drips the extracted beverage fluid into a cup 104. The pouring bag 102 defines an opening 106 at the top 108 of the pouring bag 102 to allow a user to insert the beverage precursor into the pouring bag 102 and to allow the fluid to be poured into the pouring bag 102. In addition, the pouring bag 102 is made of a biodegradable or compostable material that can be better for the environment than conventional disposable extraction systems. Thus, the beverage extraction system 100 automates the process of extracting a poured beverage and is more environmentally friendly. Also, the pouring bag does not contain petroleum-based plastics that can have undesirable health effects, especially in applications involving exposure to high-temperature fluids.

[0016]

[0044] The beverage extraction system 100 includes a case 110 that defines a cup receiving bay 112 for receiving the cup 104, and a nozzle assembly 114 positioned above the cup receiving bay 112 and the cup 104. The beverage extraction system 100 includes a reservoir 116 positioned within the case 110 for containing the fluid, a pump 118 positioned within the case 110 for pumping the fluid from the reservoir 116 to the nozzle assembly 114, and a heating element 120 positioned within the case 110 for heating the fluid when the fluid is pumped to the nozzle assembly 114.

[0017]

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

[0018]

[0046] The beverage extraction system 100 further includes a computing device 124 positioned within a case 110 for controlling the beverage extraction system 100 and an interface module 126 attached to the case 110 that enables a user to control the beverage extraction system 100. In an alternative embodiment, the beverage extraction system 100 does not include a reservoir 116. Rather, the beverage extraction system 100 is connected to a source of fluid (such as a water system) that delivers fluid to the beverage extraction system 100 when the beverage extraction system 100 dispenses fluid. In another alternative embodiment, the beverage extraction system 100 includes a reservoir 116 and is connected to a source of fluid (such as a water system) that delivers fluid to the reservoir 116 when the beverage extraction system 100 dispenses fluid.

[0019]

[0047] During operation, the user attaches the dispensing bag 102 to the holder 122. In this embodiment, the dispensing bag 102 is pre-filled with a beverage precursor. In an alternative embodiment, the beverage extraction system 100 can include a grinder (not shown) that grinds the beverage precursor and fills the dispensing bag 102 with the beverage precursor. In another alternative embodiment, the user fills the dispensing bag 102 with the beverage precursor and attaches the dispensing bag 102 to the holder 122. Next, the user fills the cup 104 with fluid and pours the fluid from the cup 104 into the reservoir 116. In an alternative embodiment, when the beverage extraction system 100 dispenses fluid, a fluid source is connected to the beverage extraction system 100. The user positions the cup 104 under the dispensing bag 102 and selects the type of beverage the user desires using the interface module 126. The beverage extraction system 100 automatically extracts the selected beverage. Specifically, the computing device 124 controls the pump 118, the heating element 120, and the nozzle assembly 114 to extract the selected beverage. The pump 118 pumps fluid from the reservoir 116 through the heating element 120. In some embodiments, the pump 118 pumps fluid directly from the reservoir 116. In an alternative embodiment, the pump 118 pressurizes the reservoir 116 with pressurized air, and the pressurized air moves the fluid through the heating element 120. The heating element 120 accurately raises the temperature of the fluid to a predetermined beverage temperature or, if the set point exceeds the boiling point, to a pre-boiling temperature, and the heated fluid is pumped to the nozzle assembly 114. The nozzle assembly 114 pours the heated fluid onto the beverage precursor through the opening 106, during which time the bag vibrates under the nozzle to increase dispensing. The nozzle may include a fluid splitting device that splits the fluid in a branched direction to further increase fluid dispensing. The heated fluid is immersed in the beverage precursor and drips into the cup 104 through the dispensing bag 102. When the cup 104 is filled, the beverage extraction system 100 stops pumping fluid to the nozzle assembly 114, and the user removes the cup 104 from the cup receiving bay 112.

[0020]

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

[0021]

[0049] In another possible embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the level detection system 128 detects the level of fluid in both the pouring bag 102 and the cup 104. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the level detection system 128 includes a first level detector 130 for detecting the level of fluid in the pouring bag 102, a second level detector 132 for detecting the level of fluid in the pouring bag 102, and a third level detector 134 for detecting the level of fluid in the cup 104. More specifically, the first level detector 130 is positioned proximate to the top 108 of the pouring bag 102 within the cup receiving bay 112 near the opening 106 of the pouring bag 102 to detect the level of fluid in the pouring bag 102. The second level detector 132 is positioned proximate to the bottom 136 of the pouring bag 102 within the cup receiving bay 112 near the bottom 136 of the pouring bag 102 to detect the level of fluid in the pouring bag 102. The third level detector 134 is positioned within the cup receiving bay 112 proximate to the top 138 of the cup 104 to detect the level of fluid in the cup 104 near the top 138 of the cup 104. Multiple configurations having all detectors or only individual detectors are envisioned.

[0022]

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

[0023]

[0051] For example, the first level detector 130 is positioned proximate to the top of the pour bag 102. The first level detector 130 monitors and detects the temperature of the top 108 of the pour bag 102. The first level detector 130 is configured to turn off the pump 118 when the temperature of the pour bag 102 exceeds a first predetermined temperature. Once the temperature of the top 108 of the pour bag 102 exceeds the first predetermined temperature, the fluid level is proximate to the top 108 of the pour bag 102. To prevent the pour bag 102 from being overfilled with fluid, the computing device 124 turns off the pump 118 until the temperature of the top 108 of the pour bag 102 decreases by a certain percentage, ratio, or fixed magnitude from the first predetermined temperature, indicating that the fluid level has dropped sufficiently below the top 108 of the pour bag 102 to start pouring again. Alternatively, the system can monitor the rate of change of the temperature of the top 108 of the pour bag to determine the extent of water drainage within the bag. Thus, the first level detector 130 enables the computing device 124 to control the extraction process and prevent the pour bag 102 from being overfilled with fluid.

[0024]

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

[0025]

[0053] The level detection system 128 may also include a third level detector 134. The third level detector 134 is positioned proximate to the top 138 of the cup 104. The third level detector 134 monitors and detects the temperature of the top 138 of the cup 104. The third level detector 134 is configured to turn off the pump 118 when the temperature of the top 138 of the cup 104 exceeds a third predetermined temperature. When the temperature of the top 138 of the cup 104 exceeds the third predetermined temperature, the fluid level is proximate to the top 138 of the cup 104, and the computing device 124 turns off the pump 118 and indicates to the user via the interface module 126 that the extraction process is complete. Thus, the third level detector 134 enables the computing device 124 to better control the extraction process and prevent the cup 104 from being overfilled with fluid.

[0026]

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

[0027]

[0055] To extract the highest quality beverage, the nozzle assembly 114 can include a vibration mechanism 140 that vibrates all or a portion of the holder 122 when fluid is poured onto the beverage precursor within the opening 106. By vibrating the holder 122 when fluid is poured into the opening 106, the fluid more completely covers the beverage precursor and ensures that the fluid is immersed in substantially all of the beverage precursor. For example, if the holder 122 is stationary, a portion of the beverage precursor may not come into contact with the fluid during the immersion process. Thus, the vibration mechanism 140 ensures that the highest quality beverage is extracted. In an alternative embodiment, the nozzle assembly (fluid delivery system) can be vibrated relative to the beverage precursor to achieve a similar improvement in fluid delivery.

[0028]

[0056] The vibration mechanism 140 includes a motor 142, a crank 144 attached to the motor 142, and a crankshaft 146 attached to the crank 144. The holder 122 is attached to the crankshaft 146. As shown in FIG. 4 illustrating a top view of the vibration mechanism 140, the crank 144 has a circular base 150, a vibration pin 152 extending from the circular base 150, and a motor pin 154 extending from the center 156 of the circular base 150. The vibration pin 152 is attached at a position offset from the center of the circular base 150. The crankshaft 146 is sized and shaped to interface with the crank 144 such that the holder 122 vibrates while fluid is being injected into the opening 106. Specifically, the crankshaft 146 includes a first end 158 attached to the crank 144 and a second end 160 attached to the holder 122. The first end 158 defines a slot 162 for receiving the vibration pin 152. The second end 160 at least partially defines the holder 122.

[0029]

[0057] During operation, the vibration mechanism 140 converts the rotational motion of the motor 142 into a linear reciprocating motion of the holder 122 to ensure that the fluid completely covers the beverage precursor and high-quality beverages are extracted. Specifically, the motor 142 rotates a crank 144 that includes a vibration pin 152. Since the vibration pin 152 is positioned at a location offset from the center on the circular base 150, the vibration pin 152 rotates around the center 156 of the circular base 150. The vibration pin 152 is movably positioned within a slot 162 such that the vibration pin 152 is slidably attached to the first end 158 of the crankshaft 146. As the vibration pin 152 rotates around the center 156 of the circular base 150, the vibration pin 152 slides within the slot 162 and vibrates the first end 158 of the crankshaft 146. The vibration of the first end 158 of the crankshaft 146 also vibrates the second end 160 of the crankshaft 146 and the holder 122. When the holder 122 vibrates left and right, the fluid is poured into the opening 106, poured onto all the beverage precursors, ensuring that the fluid completely covers the beverage precursors and that the fluid is immersed in all the beverage precursors. Accordingly, the vibration mechanism 140 enhances the quality of the beverages extracted by the beverage extraction system 100.

[0030]

[0058] In an alternative embodiment, the vibration mechanism 140 may be any mechanism that vibrates the holder 122 and / or the outlet tube 148 of the nozzle assembly 114. For example, in an alternative embodiment, the vibration mechanism 140 may include a pedal link mechanism, a peg and slot link mechanism, a rack and pinion gear, a crank, a link, and a slider system, a cam and follower system, and / or any mechanism that generates a linear reciprocating motion of the holder 122 and / or the outlet tube 148. Further, in another alternative embodiment, the outlet tube 148 may be designed to uniformly cover the beverage precursor when the fluid is poured through the opening 106 into the pour bag 102. For example, the outlet tube 148 may include a plurality of outlets arranged in a pattern for more uniformly distributing the fluid and / or covering the beverage precursor with the fluid when the fluid is poured through the opening 106 into the pour bag 102.

[0031]

[0059] The holder 122 includes a first arm 164 and a second arm 166, and their combination is referred to herein as the arm assembly and extends from the case 110 within the cup receiving bay 112. The first arm 164 and the second arm 166 each include a pin 168 that extends upwardly toward the nozzle assembly 114. The pins 168 are sized and shaped to interface with the pour bag 102 to position the pour bag 102 above the cup 104 when the beverage is extracted. Specifically, the pins 168 have a conical shape that extends into a portion of the pour bag 102 to maintain the pour bag 102 in a position above the cup 104 and below the nozzle assembly 114. In an alternative embodiment, the first arm 164, the second arm 166, and the pins 168 may have any shape that allows the first arm 164, the second arm 166, and the pins 168 to maintain the position of the pour bag 102 within the cup receiving bay 112 when the beverage is extracted. As suggested above herein, in one embodiment, the arm assembly is configured to move the pour bag 102 under the nozzle assembly 114 (e.g., rotate about a vertical axis) such that water is evenly distributed across the contents of the pour bag and the water from the nozzle assembly is agitated / mixed with the contents of the pour bag. In one or more embodiments, the water dispensed by the nozzle assembly 114 can be dispensed intermittently (i.e., stop and start water dispensing at intervals) across the contents of the pour bag 102 to mimic a manual "pour over" coffee method until a desired volume of water is dispensed.

[0032]

[0060] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the reservoir 116 includes a level detector 161 for detecting the level of the fluid within the reservoir 116. In some embodiments, the level detector 161 is an IR sensor that detects the level of the fluid within the reservoir 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the level detector 161 includes a float 163 positioned within the reservoir 116 and a detector 165 positioned proximate to the reservoir 116 for detecting the float 163 within the reservoir 116. Specifically, the reservoir 116 is made of a transparent material, and the detector 165 is an optical detector that optically detects the float 163 and the level of the fluid within the reservoir 116. The float 163 floats within the fluid in the reservoir 116, and the float 163 has a marker or other indicator 167 that is detected by the optical detector 165. The optical detector 165 transmits the level of the fluid to the computing device 124, and the computing device 124 transmits the level of the fluid to the interface module 126. The interface module 126 may display the fluid level to the user or indicate when the fluid level is low. In an alternative embodiment, the level detector 161 may be any level detection device that enables the beverage extraction system 100 to operate as described herein. In one or more embodiments, as best shown in FIG. 6, the heating element 120 may be positioned within the boiler element 121 where a level detection device (not shown) may be disposed. Such a level detection device may include two metal conductive rods, a high frequency AC signal is driven between the two rods, and the output signal is proportional to the water level within the boiler element 121. A single rod may also be used if the signal is driven between the rod and the metal boiler element 121. Alternatively, multiple rods of varying lengths may be used to determine the change in current or voltage detected when the water level contacts any of the rods, thereby indicating the volume of water at each rod position. Other level sensing methods may include measuring the weight of the boiler element 121 and including IR sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and / or capacitive sensors appropriately positioned within the boiler element. In one embodiment, the system 100 includes a tube (not shown) coupled to the boiler element 121 that forces air to descend to approximately the bottom of the boiler element during heating, thereby mixing the water within the boiler element and maintaining the water at a uniform temperature.

[0033]

[0061] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of a first, flat configuration of the spout bag 102. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second, expanded configuration of the spout bag 102. FIG. 10 is a plan view of a second, expanded configuration of the spout bag 102. FIG. 11 is a side view of a second, expanded configuration of the spout bag 102. FIG. 12 is another side view of a second, expanded configuration of the spout bag 102. The spout bag 102 includes a filter portion 170, a first hanger 172 attached to a first side portion 174 of the filter portion 170, and a second hanger 176 attached to a second side portion 178 of the filter portion 170. As shown in FIG. 8, in the first, flat configuration, the spout bag 102 is folded such that the filter portion 170 and the first and second hangers 172 and 176 are substantially flat for storage. As shown in FIGS. 9-12, in the second, expanded configuration, the spout bag is expanded such that the filter portion 170 defines an opening 106 and the first hanger 172 and the second hanger 176 extend from the first side portion 174 and the second side portion 178 of the filter portion 172.

[0034]

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

[0035]

[0063] In addition, the first and second hangers 172 and 176 are sized and shaped such that the first and second hangers 172 and 176 define pin receiving holes 180 when the first and second hangers 172 and 176 extend from the first and second side portions 174 and 178 of the filter portion 172. The pin receiving holes 180 are sized and shaped to receive a pin 168 when the spout bag 102 is suspended from the holder 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the first hanger 172, the second hanger 176, and the filter portion 170 define the pin receiving holes 180.

[0036]

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter portion 170, the first hanger 172, and the second hanger 176 are made from environmentally friendly, biodegradable, or compostable materials. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the filter portion 170 is a bag made from an environmentally friendly flexible material, such as a fiber blend that includes organically derived polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, or a mixture of various plant materials (e.g., manila hemp, cellulose) and PLA, that holds the beverage precursor within the pour bag 102 while allowing the beverage fluid to leach through the bag. The first and second hangers 172 and 176 are made from an environmentally friendly rigid material that maintains the position of the pour bag 102 above the cup 104 during the extraction process. In an alternative embodiment, the filter portion 170, the first hanger 172, and the second hanger 176 are made from any material (preferably, biodegradable, or compostable environmentally friendly cupstock) that allows the pour bag 102 to operate as described herein.

[0037]

[0065] Figures 13 through 16 and Figures 18A through 22 illustrate an alternative pour spout bag 182 according to the present disclosure. Figure 13 illustrates a side view of a first, flat configuration of the alternative pour spout bag 182. Figure 14 is a perspective view of the pour spout bag 182 in a second, expanded configuration. Figure 15 is a side view of a portion of the pour spout bag 182. Figure 16 is a side view of a plurality of pour spout bags 182 in a first, flat configuration during a manufacturing process. The pour spout bag 182 includes a filter portion 184, a first hanger 186 attached to a first side portion 188 of the filter portion 184, and a second hanger 190 attached to a second side portion 192 of the filter portion 184. As shown in Figure 13, in the first, flat configuration, the pour spout bag 182 is folded so that the filter portion 184 and the first and second hangers 186 and 190 are substantially flat for storage. As shown in Figure 14, in the second, expanded configuration, the pour spout bag is expanded such that the filter portion 184 defines an opening 106 and the first hanger 186 and the second hanger 190 extend from the first side portion 188 and the second side portion 192 of the filter portion 184. Specifically, the first hanger 186 and the second hanger 190 are configured to extend substantially perpendicular from the first side portion 188 and the second side portion 192 of the filter portion 184.

[0038]

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

[0039]

[0067] Also, the first hanger 186 and the second hanger 190 each include at least one vertical support 196 and at least one horizontal support 198. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second hangers 186 and 190 each include two vertical supports 196 and two horizontal supports 198. The vertical support 196 supports the pouring bag 182 in a second, expanded configuration. The horizontal support 198 is configured to extend to the side of the pouring bag 182 when the pouring bag 182 is in the second, expanded configuration and to hold the pouring bag 182 in an open state when the pouring bag 182 is in the second, expanded configuration.

[0040]

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter portion 184, the first hanger 186, and the second hanger 190 are made of an environmentally friendly, biodegradable, or compostable material. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the filter portion 184 is a bag made of an environmentally friendly material that holds the beverage precursor within the pourable bag 182 while allowing the beverage fluid to leach through the bag. The first and second hangers 186 and 190 are made of an environmentally friendly rigid material, such as wood pulp or cellulose-based cup stock board, coated on one or both sides with PLA (or other environmentally friendly flexible fluid-resistant and sealable material), and maintain the position of the pourable bag 182 above the cup 104 during the extraction process. In an alternative embodiment, the filter portion 184, the first hanger 186, and the second hanger 190 are made of any material that allows the pourable bag 182 to operate as described herein. In various embodiments, the pourable bags 102, 182 can be constructed using two layers of a flexible, preferably environmentally friendly filter material that are heat-sealed or ultrasonically welded together (or any other bonding method) to form the pourable bag to allow the formation of the opening 106. Further, in various embodiments, each of the first and second hangers can be heat-sealed or ultrasonically welded to both sides of the filter portion. Each hanger extends outwardly and can be constructed to mate with a separate element of the extraction system 100 or with another device that holds the pourable bag open, for example, using pins, clips, adhesives, etc. The holding device can be an arm of a coffee machine or a device that holds the pourable bag open to assist in adding powder (e.g., manually or under a coffee grinder) or a device that holds the pourable bag open while positioned over a coffee cup to allow water to be poured into the pourable bag to directly extract into the cup.

[0041]

[0069] The pouring bag 182 is substantially the same as the pouring bag 102, except that the filter portion 170 of the pouring bag 102 has a rectangular shape while the filter portion 184 of the pouring bag 182 has a conical shape. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, a pouring bag having functionality similar to that of the pouring bags 102, 182 can have a "V" shape or a trapezoidal shape. In one embodiment, the pouring bag can have an isosceles trapezoidal shape with hangers attached to each angled (i.e., creased) portion of the pouring bag. The conical shape of the filter portion 184 of the pouring bag 182 improves the coating of the beverage precursor by the fluid by exposing more of the beverage precursor to the nozzle assembly 114. Further, as shown in FIG. 16, the conical shape of the filter portion 184 of the pouring bag 182 enables the filter portion 184 of the pouring bag 182 to be manufactured as a sheet and separated during the manufacturing process. Thus, the conical shape of the filter portion 184 of the pouring bag 182 can reduce the cost of the manufacturing process and improve the quality of the beverage extracted by the beverage extraction system 100.

[0042]

[0070] FIGS. 29A through 29D illustrate a reusable pouring bag that is structurally and functionally similar to that illustrated in FIG. 14 according to the present disclosure, and for the sake of brevity, the same reference numerals used in FIG. 14 are used to number similar structural elements. In such an embodiment, the first and second sides 188 and 192 of the filter portion 184 may be a durable washable material such as, for example, metal (such as gold or stainless steel) or mesh fabric, and the hangers 186, 190 may be a durable washable material such as, for example, plastic.

[0043]

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

[0044]

[0072] The level detection system 128 and the plurality of sensors enable the computing device 124 to control the extraction process. Specifically, the computing device 124 is configured to execute a fluid delivery algorithm with precisely timed to optimize the extraction process. More specifically, the computing device 124 controls the pump 118 to control the initial fluid delivery into the pour bag 102 and generate a bloom or expansion of the beverage precursor. For example, when the beverage precursor is coffee powder and the extracted beverage is coffee, the computing device 124 controls the initial fluid delivery into the pour bag 102 to generate a coffee bloom or expansion of the coffee powder before complete fluid pouring. In addition, after the first delivery of the fluid, the computing device 124 pauses the flow of the fluid into the pour bag 102 before complete pouring to allow time for the carbon dioxide trapped in the coffee powder to be fully released during the roasting process. Then, the computing device 124 controls the pour-overflow rate into the pour bag 102 to optimize flavor extraction from the beverage precursor. In addition, the computing device 124 evenly distributes the fluid over the beverage precursor during pouring to optimize flavor extraction from the beverage precursor. Thus, the level detection system 128, the plurality of sensors, and the computing device 124 accurately control the extraction process to optimize flavor extraction from the beverage precursor.

[0045]

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

[0046]

[0074] Specifically, computing device 124 controls pump 118, heating element 120, nozzle assembly 114, and level detection system 128 to extract a selected beverage. Pump 118 pumps fluid from reservoir 116 through heating element 120. Heating element 120 raises the temperature of the fluid to a predetermined beverage temperature. Beverage extraction system 100 can also include a pressure sensor, a vibration sensor, or other sensors for detecting a pre-boiling state of the water within heating element 120 to prevent boiling of the water when the set point exceeds the boiling point at higher altitudes or the like. The heated fluid is pumped to nozzle assembly 114. Nozzle assembly 114 pours the heated fluid onto the beverage precursor through opening 106 while vibrating holder 122 with vibration mechanism 140 as described above. Level detection system 128 detects the level of the fluid and / or beverage fluid in at least one of pouring bag 102 and cup 104 as described above. The heated fluid is immersed in the beverage precursor and drips into cup 104 through pouring bag 102. When level detection system 128 detects that the level of the fluid in pouring bag 102 is close to the top 108 of pouring bag 102, computing device 124 temporarily stops pouring the fluid onto the beverage precursor. When level detection system 128 detects that the level of the fluid in pouring bag 102 is close to the bottom 136 of pouring bag 102, that the temperature of the top 108 of the bag has decreased by a certain percentage or amount, or by monitoring the rate of change of the temperature of the top 108 or bottom 136 of pouring bag 102, computing device 124 resumes pouring the fluid onto the beverage precursor. When cup 104 is filled or it is determined that the boiler has been drained as detected by a change in the pressure sensor, the absolute value of the pressure sensor, or the water level electrode within boiler element 121, beverage extraction system 100 stops pumping fluid to nozzle assembly 114 and the user removes cup 104 from cup receiving bay 112.

[0047]

[0075] Figure 17 illustrates a method 200 for extracting a beverage using a beverage extraction system. The method 200 includes positioning a cup within a cup receiving bay of the beverage extraction system 202. The beverage extraction system includes a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup, a holder positioned above the cup, a reservoir, a pump, and a heating element. The method 200 also includes suspending a pourable bag on the holder 204. The pourable bag contains a beverage precursor and has an opening oriented towards the nozzle assembly. The method further includes pumping a fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly using the pump 206. The method 200 also includes heating the fluid flow using the heating element 208. The method 200 further includes pouring the fluid flow through the opening into the pourable bag using the nozzle assembly 210. The method 200 also includes leaching the fluid flow into the cup through the beverage precursor and the pourable bag 212.

[0048]

[0076] The method 200 may also include temporarily stopping an initial flow of fluid to allow the beverage precursor to expand 214. The method 200 may further include pumping a second flow of fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly using the pump 216. The second flow of fluid has a predetermined flow rate. The method 200 may also include detecting a level of fluid within the pourable bag using a first level detector 218. The first level detector includes at least one infrared temperature detector or any other temperature sensor such as a thermistor. The method 200 may further include turning off the pump when the level of fluid exceeds a predetermined temperature 220. Additionally, pumping a fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly using the pump 206 may include pumping an initial flow of fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly using the pump 222. The method 200 may also include repeating the method 200 until the beverage is extracted 224.

[0049]

[0077] Figures 23A through 23D are, respectively, a top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of a holder assembly 230 in a folded configuration according to the present disclosure. The holder assembly 230 includes a base 235 in which an aperture 240 is formed. A pair of support arms 245 are attached to the base 235 by a pivot mechanism such as a pair of pins 250.

[0050]

[0078] Figures 24A through 24D are, respectively, a top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of the holder assembly 230 of Figures 23A through 23D in an unfolded configuration according to the present disclosure. As best seen in these figures, each of the support arms 245 includes a knob 255 formed on the surface of the support arm distal from the pin 250.

[0051]

[0079] Figures 25A through 25D are, respectively, a top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of the pour bag 182, cup 260, and the holder assembly 230 of Figures 24A through 24D shown in Figure 14. As best seen from these figures, the user sets the base 235 of the holder assembly 230 deployed over the upper edge of the cup 260 and hooks or otherwise secures the first and second hangers 186 and 190 to respective ones of the knobs 255, thereby suspending the pour bag 182 over the aperture 240 and preparing a beverage from the contents of the pour bag 182 by pouring liquid into the opening 106.

[0052]

[0080] Figures 26A through 26D are, respectively, a top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of a holder assembly 330 in a second embodiment according to the present disclosure. The holder assembly 330 includes a base 335 in which an aperture 340 is formed. A pair of support arms 345 are attached to the base 335. Each of the support arms 345 includes a knob 350 formed on the surface of the support arm distal from the base 335.

[0053]

[0081] Figures 27A through 27D are, respectively, a top perspective view, a top view, a first side view, and a second side view of the pour bag 182, cup 260, and holder assembly 330 of FIGS. 26A through 26D, as shown in FIG. 14. As best seen from these figures, the user sets the base 335 of the holder assembly 330 deployed on the upper edge of the cup 260 and hangs or otherwise secures the first and second hangers 186 and 190 to respective ones of the knobs 350, thereby suspending the pour bag 182 over the aperture 340 and preparing a beverage from the contents of the pour bag 182 by pouring a liquid into the opening 106.

[0054]

[0082] Figures 28A and 28B are, respectively, a side view of an alternative embodiment of the system 100 and an enlarged side view of a region of the system 100 indicated by the circular arrow A. In this embodiment, a sensor 400 positioned to look down into the opening 106 is mounted on or near the nozzle assembly 114. The sensor 400 can be IR, thermal, or ultrasonic in operation. The sensor 400 is configured to provide feedback regarding the level of water / coffee in the pour bags 102, 182. In one embodiment, instead of using two or more thermocouple arrays to measure the water level in the pour bags 102, 182 from directly behind (i.e., horizontally) the pour bags, only one thermocouple array is positioned above the pour bags and mounted on or in the vicinity of the nozzle assembly 114. In other words, the sensor 400 can look directly down into the pour bags 102, 182 and "see" the temperature changes associated with the rising water in the pour bags. According to one or more alternative embodiments, one or more temperature probes, such as a thermistor, a thermocouple, or other device suitable for measuring temperature, can be positioned near the top of the pour bag and used to determine when the pour bag is approaching its maximum capacity of warm water.

[0055]

[0083] The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration and description with respect to specific embodiments. However, the above exemplary description is not intended to be limiting or exhaustive of the disclosure in the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. For example, in one embodiment, each dispensing bag can be marked or labeled with a machine-readable display such as a barcode, QR code (registered trademark), or can incorporate a machine-readable wireless chip. In such an embodiment, the extraction system 100 can be equipped with a suitable scanning device, and the respective positioning of the indicia / chip on the dispensing bag and the scan device on the extraction system is such that when the dispensing bag is placed in the extraction position, the scan device can interrogate / read the indicia / chip. Thus, the scan device can, for example, verify the dispensing bag and / or retrieve information from the indicia / chip that sets the extraction parameters of the extraction system 100. Embodiments are chosen or described to best illustrate the system and method and their practical applications, and those skilled in the art can make various modifications to suit the particular uses contemplated and best utilize the system and method and various embodiments.

[0056]

[0084] Unless otherwise specified, the terms "a" or "an" as used in this specification and the claims are to be construed to mean "at least one." In addition, for ease of use, the words "including" and "having" as used in this specification and the claims are interchangeable with the word "comprising" and have the same meaning. Further, the term "based on" as used in this specification and the claims is to be construed to mean "based at least in part on."

Claims

**Claim 1** A beverage extraction system, a case, a reservoir positioned within the case for containing a fluid, a pump positioned within the case for moving the fluid from the reservoir to a nozzle assembly, a heating element positioned within the case for heating the fluid, and a holder for holding a pouring bag beneath the nozzle assembly, the pouring bag having an opening configured to receive a beverage precursor, wherein the pouring bag hangs from the holder with the opening oriented toward the nozzle assembly, and the nozzle assembly pours the fluid through the opening into the pouring bag, and the fluid passes through the beverage precursor and through the pouring bag and flows into a cup positioned beneath the pouring bag. A beverage extraction system. **Claim 2** The beverage extraction system according to claim 1, further comprising a first level detector for detecting a level of the fluid within the pouring bag. **Claim 3** The beverage extraction system according to claim 2, wherein the first level detector comprises at least one temperature detector. **Claim 4** The at least one temperature detector is positioned proximate to a top of the pouring bag and is configured to detect a temperature of the pouring bag when the nozzle assembly pours the fluid into the pouring bag, wherein the at least one temperature detector is configured to turn off the pump when the temperature of the pouring bag exceeds a first predetermined temperature. The beverage extraction system according to claim 3. **Claim 5** The at least one temperature detector comprises a first temperature detector, and the first level detector further comprises a second temperature detector positioned proximate to a bottom of the pouring bag and configured to detect a temperature of the pouring bag when the nozzle assembly pours the fluid into the pouring bag, wherein the second temperature detector is configured to turn on the pump when the temperature of the pouring bag drops below a second predetermined temperature. The beverage extraction system according to claim 4. **Claim 6** The beverage extraction system according to claim 5, wherein the first temperature detector is positioned above the holder. **Claim 7** The beverage extraction system according to claim 5, wherein the second temperature detector is positioned below the holder.

8. The beverage extraction system according to claim 5, wherein at least one of the first and second temperature detectors comprises a thermopile infrared sensor, a thermistor, or a thermocouple.

9. The nozzle assembly includes a movable outlet nozzle and a cam system attached to the movable outlet nozzle, wherein the cam system vibrates the movable outlet nozzle above the opening of the pouring bag when the movable outlet nozzle pours the fluid through the opening into the pouring bag, so as to uniformly cover the beverage precursor with the fluid. The beverage extraction system according to claim 1.

10. The nozzle assembly includes a fixed outlet pipe and a nozzle attached to the fixed outlet pipe, and the nozzle is provided with a plurality of outlets arranged in a pattern such that when the nozzle pours the fluid into the pouring bag through the opening, the beverage precursor is uniformly covered with the fluid. The beverage extraction system according to claim 1.

11. The beverage extraction system according to claim 1, further comprising a cup detector positioned within the case for detecting the cup below the outlet nozzle.

12. The beverage extraction system according to claim 1, further comprising a case defining a cup receiving bay for receiving a cup, and a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup receiving bay. The beverage extraction system according to claim 1, further comprising a cup detector positioned within the cup receiving bay for detecting the cup within the cup receiving bay.

13. The beverage extraction system according to claim 1, further comprising a second level detector for detecting the level of the fluid within the cup.

14. The beverage extraction system according to claim 13, wherein the second level detector comprises at least one temperature detector.

15. The at least one temperature detector is positioned proximate to the top of the cup and configured to detect the temperature of the cup when the nozzle assembly injects the fluid into the pourable bag and the cup, wherein the at least one temperature detector is configured to turn off the pump when the temperature of the cup exceeds a third predetermined temperature. The beverage extraction system according to claim 14.

16. The pourable bag is biodegradable, compostable, and / or reusable. The beverage extraction system according to claim 1.

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

18. The flow meter includes an in-line flow meter. The beverage extraction system according to claim 17.

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

20. The flow meter is configured to measure the time the fluid flows from the reservoir and determine the volume of the dispensed fluid based on the measured time. The beverage extraction system according to claim 17.

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

22. A method of extracting a beverage using a beverage extraction system, positioning a cup within the beverage extraction system, the beverage extraction system comprising a nozzle assembly positioned above the cup, a holder positioned above the cup, a reservoir, a pump, and a heating element; suspending a pourable bag in the holder, wherein the pourable bag contains a beverage precursor and has an opening oriented towards the nozzle assembly; pumping a fluid flow from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly with the pump by pumping the fluid with the pump or pressurizing the reservoir with air pressure within the reservoir; heating the fluid flow using the heating element; Using the nozzle assembly, injecting a flow of the fluid through the opening into the pouring bag; A method comprising leaching the flow of the fluid into the cup through the beverage precursor and the pouring bag. **Claim 23** Pumping a flow of fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly using the pump, the pumping of the fluid being by pumping the fluid or by pressurizing the reservoir with air pressure in the reservoir, and the method according to claim 22, comprising pumping an initial flow of the fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly using the pump. **Claim 24** Temporarily stopping the initial flow of the fluid to inflate the beverage precursor; The method according to claim 23, further comprising pumping a second flow of the fluid from the reservoir to the nozzle assembly using the pump, the second flow of the fluid having a predetermined flow rate. **Claim 25** Detecting a level of the fluid in the pouring bag using a first level detector, wherein the first level detector comprises at least one temperature detector; The method according to claim 22, further comprising turning off the pump when the level of the fluid exceeds a predetermined temperature.

Images