System for producing a beverage

Abstract

The present embodiments relate to systems and methods for a capsule containing a liquid concentrate and an apparatus capable of producing a gas-infused liquid (or multi-phase gas-liquid fluid), such as a nitro-infused cold drink or nitro-infused iced coffee. The apparatus can include a chilled water tank and a refrigeration system for chilling the chilled water. The apparatus can also include a gas reservoir containing a gas. The apparatus can also include a fluid capsule connector configured to connect to the capsule and establish a pressurized chamber within a cavity of the capsule removably connected to the capsule connector, and a liquid inlet valve that can be configured to provide a flow of chilled water and gas to the pressurized chamber. The fluid capsule connector can also include a dispensing port configured to direct a flow of the gas-infused liquid from the pressurized chamber to a dispensing tap.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 429,935, entitled "AN IMPROVED SYSTEM FOR DISPENSING A BEVERAGE," filed December 2, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION This application relates to the field of producing and dispensing beverages from liquid concentrates, and in particular to a removable capsule and apparatus for making cold-brew beverages. [Background technology]

[0003] Cold coffee or iced coffee, cold espresso, and cold espresso-based beverages are increasingly popular coffee categories. To date, iced coffee is primarily made by brewing hot coffee followed by cooling with ice. This indirect method consumes more time and energy, is prone to unintended dilution, and essentially produces an aged beverage.

[0004] In contrast, cold extraction is a process in which flavor components are extracted slowly and selectively at low temperatures, which increases the relative extraction of desirable components and avoids the extraction of certain other undesirable flavors, such as those that cause bitterness. However, cold extraction can require long preparation times (often 12-24 hours) and special equipment, as well as careful filtration and dilution. Meanwhile, these true cold-brewed beverages, while becoming popular offerings in retail environments, remain largely unavailable to home consumers.

[0005] Cold brewing typically requires a batch process, where a large amount of concentrated extract is produced at once, then diluted and served in smaller portions. As a result, retailers typically do not offer a choice of coffee origin, roast profile, caffeine content, or strength.

[0006] Recent developments in commercial-scale cold extraction have resulted in high-quality, highly concentrated extracts suitable for long-term stable packaging, which has opened up the possibility of preparing cold extracts directly from concentrates.

[0007] In some instances, the availability of highly concentrated cold extracts creates the need to precisely chill and dilute beverages with water. Existing commercial and retail distribution methods do not allow for a wide variety of extract choices. Furthermore, existing nitrogenation processes do not produce the foam density required for a fully satisfying drinking experience. None of this is available in consumer kitchens. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present embodiments relate to systems and methods for a capsule containing a liquid concentrate and an apparatus capable of producing a gas-infused liquid (or multi-phase gas-liquid fluid), such as a nitro-infused cold drink or nitro-infused iced coffee. The apparatus may include a chilled water tank and a cooling system for cooling the chilled water. The apparatus may also include a gas reservoir containing a gas. The apparatus may also include a fluid capsule connector configured to connect to the capsule and establish a pressurized chamber within a cavity of the capsule removably connected to the capsule connector, a liquid inlet port that may be configured to supply a flow of chilled water to the pressurized chamber, and a gas inlet port or nitro port for delivering gas to the pressurized chamber. The fluid capsule connector may also include a liquid dispensing valve configured to direct the flow of gas-infused liquid from the pressurized chamber to a dispensing tap.

[0009] In a first exemplary embodiment, an apparatus is provided that includes a chilled water tank and a cooling system configured to chill an input of water and maintain a temperature of the chilled water stored in the chilled water tank. The apparatus also includes a gas reservoir that contains a quantity of gas.

[0010] The device may also include a fluid capsule connector configured to generate a gas-infused liquid. The fluid capsule connector may include a capsule connector configured to connect to the capsule and establish a pressurized chamber within a cavity of the capsule removably connected to the capsule connector. The fluid capsule connector may also include a liquid inlet port connected to the capsule connector and configured to provide a flow of cold water from a cold water tank and create a turbulent flow condition within the pressurized chamber. The fluid capsule connector may also include a gas inlet port connected to the gas reservoir and configured to provide a jet of gas and introduce a flow of microbubbles into the pressurized chamber. The gas-infused liquid may be formed by mixing a liquid concentrate from the capsule with the cold water and gas within the pressurized chamber. The fluid capsule connector may also include a dispensing port configured to direct the flow of gas-infused liquid from the pressurized chamber to a dispensing tap.

[0011] In some examples, the apparatus may also include an input water reservoir accessible outside the apparatus and configured to receive input water. The apparatus may also include a pump configured to pump input water from the input water reservoir to the cold water tank. The cold water tank may be insulated with insulation. The apparatus may also include one or more temperature sensors disposed within the cold water tank. The apparatus may also include a heat exchange component extending within the cold water tank. The heat exchange component may be configured to receive one or more thermoelectric coolers configured to transfer heat from a cold side to a hot side of the heat exchange component.

[0012] In some examples, the heat exchanging component includes two thermoelectric coolers positioned adjacent to one another.

[0013] In some examples, the heat exchange component includes a heat exchange coil that is cooled by a vapor compression refrigeration system.

[0014] In some examples, the capsule connector includes a protrusion extending from the capsule connector to break a knockout element of the capsule to form a pressurized chamber between the fluid capsule connector and a cavity formed in the capsule.

[0015] In some examples, the device can also include an air valve disposed adjacent to the gas reservoir. The device can also include a water valve disposed between the gas reservoir and the chilled water tank. Furthermore, during dispensing, the air valve can be closed and the water valve can be opened, forcing the pressurized mixture of gas and chilled water into the pressurized chamber through the liquid inlet valve.

[0016] In some examples, the fluid capsule connector further includes a flow restriction disposed adjacent the outlet port, the flow restriction controlling the flow of gas-infused liquid into the outlet port.

[0017] In some examples, the capsule comprises a body comprising a cavity and a liquid concentrate therein, and a lid portion comprising a hatch having a knock-out element disposed on an exterior surface of the lid portion. In some examples, the hatch comprises a circular or oval shape, and the lid portion is secured to the body using a crimp ring or a rolled seam formed around the lid portion.

[0018] In another exemplary embodiment, a capsule is provided that stores a liquid concentrate and generates a gas-infused liquid when connected to a fluid capsule connector that supplies water and gas. The capsule can include a body having a substantially cylindrical shape. A cavity can be formed in the body with the liquid concentrate disposed in the cavity. The capsule can also include a lid portion formed around a flange disposed around one end of the body, the flange forming a surface that provides a sealing surface. The lid portion can include a hatch on an outer surface. The hatch can include a knockout element extending at least partially from the outer surface of the lid portion that can be broken by force from the fluid capsule connector to allow the liquid concentrate to mix with the water and gas to generate the gas-infused liquid.

[0019] In some examples, the neck portion is disposed between the lid portion and the end of the body, and the width of the neck portion decreases toward the lid portion.

[0020] In some examples, the lid portion is secured to the body using a crimp ring formed around the lid portion or by a seam forming process. In some examples, the lid portion is secured by a seaming process.

[0021] In some examples, the hatch comprises a raised portion having a height that increases at an angle over the length of the hatch.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, a system is provided that can include a capsule containing a liquid concentrate. The capsule can include a body with a cavity and the liquid concentrate within the cavity, and a lid portion with a hatch having a knockout element disposed on an exterior surface of the lid portion.

[0023] The system can also include an apparatus for generating a gas-infused liquid. The apparatus can include a chilled water tank and a cooling system configured to chill input water and maintain a temperature of the chilled water stored in the chilled water tank. The apparatus can also include a gas reservoir containing a quantity of gas and a fluid capsule connector configured to generate the gas-infused liquid.

[0024] The fluid capsule connector can include a capsule connector configured to connect to the capsule and establish a pressurized chamber within the capsule cavity. The fluid capsule connector can also include a liquid inlet port connected to the capsule connector and configured to provide a flow of cold water from a cold water tank, and a gas inlet port configured to provide a jet of gas from a reservoir to the pressurized chamber. The gas-infused liquid can be formed by mixing a liquid concentrate from the capsule with the cold water and gas in the pressurized chamber. The fluid capsule connector can also include a dispensing port configured to direct the flow of gas-infused liquid from the pressurized chamber to a dispensing tap.

[0025] In some examples, the system can also include an input water reservoir accessible outside the apparatus and configured to receive input water. The system can also include a pump configured to pump the input water from the input water reservoir to the cold water tank. The cold water tank can be insulated with insulation. The system can also include one or more temperature sensors disposed within the cold water tank and a heat exchange component extending within the cold water tank. The heat exchange component can be configured to receive one or more thermoelectric coolers configured to transfer heat from a cold side to a hot side of the heat exchange component.

[0026] In some examples, the heat exchanging component includes two thermoelectric coolers positioned adjacent to one another.

[0027] In some examples, the heat exchange component includes a sealed refrigerant that is cooled by a vapor compression refrigeration system.

[0028] In some examples, the capsule connector includes a protrusion extending from the capsule connector to break a knockout element of the capsule to form a pressurized chamber between the fluid capsule connector and a cavity formed in the capsule.

[0029] In some examples, the system can also include an air valve disposed adjacent to the gas reservoir. The system can also include a water valve disposed between the gas reservoir and the chilled water tank. During dispensing, the air valve can be closed and the water valve can be opened, forcing the pressurized mixture of gas and chilled water into the pressurized chamber through the liquid inlet valve.

[0030] In some examples, the gas comprises nitrogen.

[0031] In some examples, the fluid capsule connector further includes a flow restriction disposed adjacent the outlet port, the flow restriction controlling the flow of gas-infused liquid into the outlet port.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, a method for producing a gas-infused liquid is provided. The method can include obtaining gas from a gas reservoir. The method can also include obtaining water from a hot water tank. The method can also include obtaining water from a cold water tank and cooling the water in the cold water tank using a cooling system.

[0033] The method can also include obtaining a capsule. The capsule can include a body with a cavity and a liquid concentrate therein, and a lid portion with a hatch having a knockout element disposed on an exterior surface of the lid portion. The lid portion can be secured to the body using a crimp ring formed around the lid portion.

[0034] The method may also include generating the gas-infused liquid through a fluid capsule connector. The fluid capsule connector may include a capsule connector configured to connect to the capsule and configured to establish a pressurized chamber within a cavity of the capsule removably connected to the capsule connector. The method may also include providing a flow of cold water from a cold water tank and creating a turbulent flow condition within the pressurized chamber through a liquid inlet port connected to the capsule connector. The method may also include providing a jet of gas and introducing a flow of microbubbles into the pressurized chamber through a gas inlet port connected to a gas reservoir. The gas-infused liquid may be formed by mixing a liquid concentrate from the capsule with the cold water and gas within the pressurized chamber. The method may also include directing the flow of gas-infused liquid from the pressurized chamber through a dispensing port to a dispensing tap. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a beverage dispense system showing major components and subsystems according to some embodiments. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a system showing key exterior features, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2A] 1A-1C are diagrams of beverage concentrate capsules having crimped lids according to some embodiments. [Figure 2B] 10A-10C are diagrams of another beverage concentrate capsule having a rolled-seam lid, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system for cooling feedwater using a thermoelectric cooler. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system for cooling water using a vapor compression system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a process for nitrogenating a liquid, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5A]FIG. 2 is a diagram of a nitrification system operating in a nitrification chamber downstream of the dilution of the concentrate, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5B] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a nitration system in which nitration occurs within a beverage concentrate capsule, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5C] FIG. 2 is a diagram of another nitration system in which nitration occurs within a beverage concentrate capsule, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5D] FIG. 2 is a diagram of elements of a nitrogenation system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5E] 1 shows a first cross-sectional image depicting the interaction of a capsule with a capsule connector, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5F] 10 shows a second cross-sectional image depicting the interaction of the capsule with the capsule connector, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5G] 10 shows a third cross-sectional image depicting the interaction of the capsule with the capsule connector, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5H] 10 shows a fourth cross-sectional image depicting the interaction of a capsule with a capsule connector, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5I] 1 is an exemplary perspective view illustrating a portion of a fluid capsule connector, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5J] 1 is an exemplary perspective view illustrating a portion of a spout tap according to some embodiments. FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a fluid system for dispensing beverages, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates an exemplary networked system that may be used in the systems and methods described herein. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates an exemplary computing device that may be used in implementing the example embodiments described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The following detailed description describes embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter presented herein. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. Furthermore, the specific embodiments described herein are presented as examples and should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention to these specific embodiments. In other instances, well-known data structures, timing protocols, software operations, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] Cold Extraction and Nitrogenation

[0038] Cold brew coffee can be improved by nitration. Nitrogenation (nitro) can refer to the process of injecting fine bubbles of gas (e.g., nitrogen or any other gas) into a beverage in such a way that the bubbles remain suspended in the beverage and / or in a foam layer. This nitration can provide the following benefits to the beverage: First, but not limited to, the suspended bubbles change the physical properties of the liquid, for example, by reducing its density and by altering its viscosity and / or surface tension. This is experienced as a desirable characteristic, mouthfeel. Second, but not limited to, the presence of a gas (e.g., nitrogen or air) mixed with the beverage can alter and improve the olfactory perception of the beverage. In some instances, these sensory changes are experienced throughout the consumption of the entire beverage. Third, but not limited to, when bubbles are injected into a beverage in a certain way, the resulting cascade provides a pleasing visual effect and a clear indication that the beverage has been successfully nitrated.

[0039] Beverages may be nitrogenated primarily through a process similar to carbonation, i.e., by dissolving a gas in a liquid. The term carbonation may refer to the dissolution of carbon dioxide (CO2), and the term nitration may refer to the dissolution or infusion of nitrogen gas (N2). In the context of this disclosure, the terms nitrogen or nitro may be used to refer to either nitrogen gas or ordinary air. Ordinary air contains approximately 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen, along with trace amounts of other gases.

[0040] Gases can be dissolved in liquids to different degrees, depending on the particular gas and the temperature and pressure of the liquid. Carbon dioxide has a high solubility in water, so it can release large amounts of gas when pressure is reduced. Carbon dioxide also tends to react with water to produce carbon dioxide, a sour-tasting chemical that gives beverages a refreshing and dry sensation. This is desirable in some beverages, such as natural sparkling mineral water (seltzer), beer, or sparkling wine.

[0041] In comparison, nitrogen has different properties. It is less than 100 times more soluble than CO2, so it produces much fewer bubbles when decompressed. Importantly, nitrogen bubbles tend to be smaller than carbon dioxide bubbles. Oxygen is also relatively insoluble in water and is less abundant in air than nitrogen. However, oxygen reacts strongly with many components of beverages, a process known as oxidation, which can rapidly adversely affect flavor and aroma. Oxygen is particularly known for producing a bitter taste in coffee. However, nitrogen (referring here to its diatomic form, nitrogen N2) is chemically inert and does not acidify or oxidize beverage components.

[0042] For example, carbon dioxide is effective, and indeed preferred, for carbonating certain beverages, while nitrogen is particularly suitable for nitrating certain other beverages. Oxygen may only be suitable for limited, short-term nitration. Its limited presence in ordinary air is not considered a problem.

[0043] The properties of the nitrogen bubbles can affect the bubbles' continued suspension and the resulting formation of a creamy layer. This desirable result depends, but is not limited to, on achieving very small bubbles, e.g., less than 50 microns, and in some instances less than 10 microns. These small bubbles prevent shrinkage by redissolving in the surrounding liquid and also resist Oswald ripening, in which small bubbles are absorbed by larger, more unstable bubbles. Furthermore, these very small bubbles can participate in the well-known cascade effect, in which their small buoyancy is overcome by the viscous drag of the liquid flowing downward.

[0044] For these reasons, it is desirable to highly nitrogenate certain beverages. Nevertheless, the physicochemical behavior of nitrogen or air presents challenges when attempting to inject sufficient amounts of aeration into beverages. In some instances, beverages are nitrogenated by two commercial methods:

[0045] The first example is kegging, in which a beverage is pressurized with nitrogen, refrigerated, and stored for an extended period of time. This allows the nitrogen to slowly dissolve in the liquid until equilibrium is reached. Refrigeration increases solubility to a significant extent. This kegged beverage can then be dispensed through a tap, which depressurizes the beverage, allowing the nitrogen to come out of solution while stirring and dispersing the gas bubbles. This method is suitable for large retail or commercial establishments that have the time, space, and capital to invest in the equipment and process.

[0046] A second example is nitro-canning, which is another method that again involves pressurizing (with nitrogen) single-serving beverages in small containers such as single-serving cans. This follows a similar chemical process to kegging, but the beverage is not dispensed through a tap as in kegged systems. As a result, the degree of nitration is generally reduced.

[0047] Beverage containers can be equipped with so-called widgets similar to those used for canned draft beer. These widgets can consist of a hollow chamber with a small orifice. The beverage may be canned with nitrogen, which, when pressurized, forces a small amount of pressurized liquid and gas into the chamber. When the can is opened and thus suddenly depressurized, the widget's chamber releases a short jet of gas / liquid that agitates the liquid and causes the rapid formation of bubbles. This method can generate a larger volume of bubbles than simple pressurization with nitrogen, but the volume of the bubbles is limited to the dissolved nitrogen and the small amount of gas introduced from the chamber.

[0048] Each of the above methods may have limitations on the amount of nitrogen that can be dissolved (and then released as bubbles) or introduced into the beverage. This may generally result in an insufficient amount of bubbles or foam layer to create a completely pleasant drinking experience. In contrast, it may be possible to generate a much larger amount of bubbles to suspend in the beverage. This embodiment describes a method for doing so.

[0049] Example System Overview

[0050] The present embodiments relate to systems and methods involving capsules containing a liquid concentrate and devices that can mix the liquid concentrate with chilled water and injected air bubbles to produce a gas-infused liquid (or multi-phase gas-liquid fluid), such as a nitro-infused cold drink or nitro-infused coffee.

[0051] The apparatus can include a chilled water tank and a refrigeration system that chills the chilled water. In such an example, chilled water can be produced and refrigerated within the system. The cold drink or chilled water tank can receive a liquid and then chill the liquid to a low temperature, maintaining the liquid at a temperature below 10 degrees Celsius (°C), for example, 1°C or 5°C. The water in the chilled water tank can be maintained near freezing without freezing, and a recirculation pump in the chilled water tank can prevent the water in the chilled water tank from freezing.

[0052] The device can also include a gas reservoir for holding and dispensing gas for mixing with a liquid, as described herein. The device can also include a fluid capsule connector configured to connect to a disposable or recyclable capsule containing a liquid concentrate and establish a pressurized chamber within the capsule cavity. Such a capsule can be inserted into the system by a user, and the capsule connector can be connected thereto, with the liquid inlet port configured to provide a flow of cold water into the pressurized chamber and the gas inlet port or nitro port configured to provide a jet of gas into the pressurized chamber. The fluid capsule connector can also include a dispensing port configured to direct the flow of gas-infused liquid from the pressurized chamber out of the pressurized chamber and to a dispensing tap.

[0053] Example Hardware System

[0054] FIG. 1A shows a general overview of an exemplary apparatus 100A for dispensing cold beverages or cold, nitrogenated beverages as described herein. In this example, a water supply system 102 may be comprised of one or more reservoirs connected to a refrigeration system 104, which can refrigerate or cool and maintain a supply of water (or any other liquid) at a low temperature ready for dispensing. In some examples, the refrigeration system may be configured to cool the water to near 0° C. In some examples, the refrigeration system may be configured to cool the water to 5° C. In some examples, the refrigeration system may be configured to cool the water to 1° C. In some examples, the refrigeration reservoir includes a recirculation pump that moves the water in the reservoir to reduce the risk of freezing.

[0055] As shown in the example, power and control system 106 may provide power to components of device 100A, such as pumps, valves, sensors, indicators, etc. Control electronic components of control system 106 can control the system components, and interfaces allow for the input / output of data to a user. All wiring or connections for the various power and control sources are not shown in FIG. 1A but follow pathways within the system for electrical connections to operate and control the system, as described herein.

[0056] As described herein, the system is configured to accept a disposable or otherwise removable capsule containing a liquid concentrate and to produce a gas-infused liquid beverage. As shown in FIG. 1A, a capsule 112 containing the liquid concentrate can be inserted into a capsule holder or capsule carrier 114. The capsule holder can be a component of a mechanism suitable for applying a high clamping force to obtain a fluid seal.

[0057] Once inserted, the nitrification system 116 can establish a fluid connection with the capsule 112 via the mechanical and fluid capsule connector 118. Once the connection between the system and the capsule is formed, chilled water and a gas jet can be injected or inserted into the capsule and then dispensed, as described herein. For example, a gas injection port can connect the gas reservoir 606 to the capsule connector 118. As described herein, when the gas is released, it can generate abundant fine bubbles, such as bubbles having a diameter of less than 50 microns (e.g., 10 microns, 20 microns, or less), within the capsule 112 through the gas reservoir 606. Furthermore, the mechanical and fluid capsule connector 118 can establish a fluid connection with the capsule. The fluid system 108 can deliver pressurized chilled water to the capsule, as described above. The nitrification system 116 can then generate abundant fine bubbles, and the beverage can be dispensed into a beverage container 122 through a dispensing tap 120.

[0058] 1B is a perspective view of an exemplary system 100B showing the main external features of the device, as described herein. Elements of the user interface 130, such as illuminated indicators, buttons, knobs, audible indicators, and graphics, may be located in a visible, accessible, and prominent location, such as on the front of the system. An example may be a button that, when pressed, sends a command to a control system to initiate operation of the system to mix and dispense a gas-infused liquid, as described herein. When a beverage is to be dispensed, the beverage container 122 may be located in a similar location, such as on the front of the system. This location may allow easy access for a user to place the container and retrieve the dispensed beverage, and may allow the user to observe the progress of the dispensing process.

[0059] A drip tray 140 may be provided to collect excess liquid generated by the beverage dispense processes described herein or liquid inadvertently spilled by a user, for example, when purging system components of residual liquid. The drip tray may be located in a location that is convenient for collecting liquid, for example, by allowing water to drain toward the bottom of systems 100A and 100B, and that is accessible to a user, for example, at the front of the system. This allows for easy monitoring of the drip tray and for easy removal and replacement of the drip tray for cleaning.

[0060] The hot or room temperature water reservoir 602 may be located in an accessible location, for example, accessible from the front of the system, so that a user can access said reservoir for purposes of providing fresh water without interference from adjacent objects. This may also allow the hot or room temperature water reservoir 602 to be located in a prominent location, such as the front of the system, so that the status of the reservoir (e.g., fill level) may be easily visible to the user.

[0061] In some embodiments, the system may have a significantly narrower ratio in one dimension, for example, width, which may be 125 mm or 150 mm or 175 mm or other dimensions, allowing the system to occupy a smaller footprint, for example, on a countertop.

[0062] The body of the system 603 may house the internal components as described in FIG. 1A.

[0063] Capsule example

[0064] As described herein, a separate capsule (e.g., 112 in FIG. 1A) can be placed, inserted, or otherwise introduced into the nitrogenation system 116 to provide the liquid concentrate used to generate the gas-infused beverage. FIGS. 2A and 2B are exemplary diagrams showing a capsule suitable for dispensing a beverage derived from a concentrated liquid. The relative dimensions shown in the examples of FIGS. 2A and 2B are merely exemplary and can be adapted to the system; for example, the length, width, and diameter of the capsule can vary depending on the amount of liquid concentrate required and the volume of the mixing chamber desired.

[0065] Such exemplary capsules contain and preserve liquid contents during transport and long-term storage, establish a robust fluid connection with a dispensing device, and can withstand dispensing pressures. The capsules may contain a variety of beverages, including nitrogenated and non-nitrated beverages, as well as beverages of different volumes and strengths.

[0066] 2A, for example, a first view of capsule 200A can include a body 202 and a lid portion 204. Capsule 200 can also include a beveled portion 206 or neck portion between body 202 and lid portion 204. In some cases, beveled portion 206 can be curved inward and have a smaller diameter than body 202 to manipulate the concentration and movement of fluid through the capsule.

[0067] The capsule may take on a variety of shapes or proportions (e.g., diameter and length) so long as it maintains sufficient internal volume. This volume may be selected to contain a sufficient amount of liquid concentrate and empty space (headspace) as desired for the nitrification process described herein. In some instances, the capsule may be lined with a coating to aid in preserving the contents. The internal shape may be shaped to allow for liquid evacuation during operation.

[0068] The capsule may have a particular shape and dimensions to provide the required volume and fit within the dispensing and mixing device. For example, the body 202 may have a diameter of 30 mm. The length may be 40 mm. The lip 210 may have a diameter of 30 mm. The narrowed neck 206 may have a diameter of 27 mm or 28 mm. These dimensions may be formed to particularly close tolerances (e.g., but not limited to, 0.1 mm or 0.2 mm or another value) to aid in alignment of the capsule with the nitrogenation system or to prevent misuse.

[0069] The capsule may be formed from aluminum, other metals, plastics, resins, composites, organic materials, paper, ceramics, or other materials, alone or in combination. An exemplary advantage of aluminum capsules is that they are suitable for recycling.

[0070] The body 202 features a chamber of suitable volume (e.g., without limitation, 15 mL, or 20 mL, or 25 mL, or 30 mL, or another volume). The body 202 may be lined or coated to aid in preserving the liquid contents. Additionally, as shown in view 200B, an opening 208 may be formed in the body 202 and enclosed via the lid portion 204.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 200B, the capsule may be fitted with a lid 204 that forms a liquid-tight seal with the body 202. The lid 204 may be made of a recyclable material, such as aluminum or plastic. The lid 204 may be attached to the capsule by, for example, but not limited to, crimping, welding, gluing, or another fastening method. The lid 204 may be lined or coated to aid in forming a seal and preserving the liquid contents. In one example, the lid portion 204 may have an external crimp 212 positioned to fit around a flange 210 of the body 202. The crimp 212 may be crimped or seamed to fasten the lid 204 to the body 202. Such crimping may occur during manufacturing of the capsule after filling with any liquid concentrate, such as, but not limited to, concentrated coffee, juice, tea, soft drinks, sports drinks, alcohol, or any other liquid concentrate.

[0072] View 200C shown in FIG. 2A allows viewing of the top of lid 204. In an exemplary embodiment, lid 204 includes a thinned or breakable knockout element, or hatch 216, which can be broken by an applied force. This hatch can be designed to open with a relatively small and / or predictable force, such as that applied by a system when inserted, as described herein. An exemplary advantage of this knockout-style hatch is that it can maintain the integrity of the matrix and, therefore, the capsule. This hatch can be designed with a hinge feature 218 that controls how the hatch opens and prevents it from detaching if it could obstruct fluid flow, interfere with mechanisms, or potentially pose a danger to the user. Keeping the hatch connected can also ensure that it can be recycled with the rest of the capsule.

[0073] The hatch may be formed by punching a thinned section in the form of a groove 220 around a preferred contour. This contour may be in the form of a circle, a partial circle, or another shape that allows for the entry of the capsule connector. The thinned section functions by locally weakening the material, thereby reducing the force required to open the hatch. Unlike similar grooves in so-called easy-open lids, this groove may be strong enough to withstand manual opening and therefore requires a specific mechanism for pushing it open.

[0074] The hatch may include a raised or shaped section 224 whose purpose is to define a contact point with the capsule connector and concentrate force or stress on the hatch so that the groove 220 breaks in the intended location or manner (see FIGS. 5C and 5E-5H). The height of this force concentration 224 may determine the timing of contact with the fluid capsule connector 116, as disclosed herein, i.e., when the two are pressed together to open the hatch and connect the capsule connector to the capsule during operation.

[0075] The force concentrator 224 may have a contour suitable for reinforcing the hatch so that it maintains its shape during push-opening and can therefore swing open under the force of the fluid connector. For example, the force concentrator 224 may be rectangular, oval, or other elongated shape. The protruding surface of the force concentrator 224 may have a height that is angled relative to the flat surface of the hatch 216. This may have the advantage of ensuring that a penetrating object, such as a capsule connector, contacts the force concentrator at the same location regardless of the orientation of the capsule 112 about its axis. The hinge 218 may be positioned so that the hatch 216 swings upward into the capsule body 202 and away from the inserted capsule connector upon push-opening (as shown below). For example, the hinge 218 may act around a line that is outside the diameter of the engaging portion of the capsule connector. The milled groove 220 may be circular or semicircular in shape with a diameter of 20 mm, 21 mm, or 22 mm, or another shape or size within the top of the lid. The grooves may have a depth that results in a residual material thickness of 0.06 mm or 0.08 mm or 0.1 mm, or another thickness to achieve the break forces described herein.

[0076] Other methods of pushing the capsule open may also be utilized, such as a membrane that is pierced by the capsule connector or a separate piece that is pushed into the capsule opening 208 .

[0077] The capsule body 202 may have any shape, such as, but not limited to, a generally cylindrical shape. The capsule body 202 may be generally cylindrical or axisymmetric, or may have any desired cross-sectional shape, such as, but not limited to, a square cross-section, an elliptical cross-section, an octagonal cross-section, or any other desired geometric shape. This example may have the advantage of withstanding internal pressure or external forces using minimal material. This shape may also be useful for densely packing capsules for transportation and storage. This shape may also be useful for handling in typical liquid filling machines. Axial-shaped shapes, such as cylinders, may have the advantage of not requiring a specific orientation when inserted into a dispensing device. Any orientation of the capsule with respect to the connector when driven together may be adjusted so that the user does not have to worry about rotating the capsule to align it correctly. Any angle of the hinge portion and force concentrator will still function in operation with the connector, as shown in Figures 5C and 5E-5H.

[0078] FIG. 2B illustrates another capsule 112 having a different aspect ratio of height and diameter and that can be assembled by a seaming method. Similar to the capsule of FIG. 2A, the capsule can include a body 202 and a lid portion 204. The body can be substantially cylindrical and can include a reduced-diameter neck 206. Similarly, the lid portion 204 can include a recessed section with a hatch 216, a raised force concentrator 224, a cut line 220, and a hinge portion 218, as described above. The lid portion can include a shaped flange 230 that mates with the body flange 210. These flanges 210 and 230 can be configured to be seamed together to form an interconnecting seam 231 to create an airtight, hygienic seal. A sealant can be provided to further ensure the hygienic seal. The resulting seam 231 can provide a smooth, continuous surface, such as a rim 232 and an inner diameter 233, suitable for use in forming a seal.

[0079] Example of a chilled water refrigeration system

[0080] As mentioned above, the system is configured to inject a stream of chilled water into the capsule chamber simultaneously with the jet of gas to mix with the gas-infused liquid. As shown in Figure 1A, a cooling system 104 can chill, cool, or otherwise refrigerate water (or any other liquid) stored in a reservoir for use in the systems and methods described herein. Figures 3A and 3B are exemplary diagrams of a system 300 for efficiently generating and maintaining a supply of chilled water in other systems described herein.

[0081] For some types of dispensed beverages, it may be useful to maintain a supply of water at an easily cooled temperature (e.g., slightly above freezing). This can present challenges with respect to the maximum power required to initially cool the water supply and the steady-state power required to maintain the cooled water ready for use. Refrigeration systems are typically bulky, inefficient, and noisy, which contradicts the need for compact, quiet, and energy-efficient equipment.

[0082] The hot or room temperature water reservoir 302 can be configured to be accessible outside the dispenser and can be filled by a user. In this context, hot or room temperature water can refer to water added by a user and not temperature-controlled. Such water can include tap water at a municipal water temperature (e.g., 15°C) or water at room temperature (e.g., 22°C). As shown in FIG. 3A, the cold reservoir 304 can be comprised of a closed chamber 306 surrounded by insulation 308. This cold reservoir 304 can be sized to hold enough water to dispense a limited number of 355 mL or 235 mL beverages, such as one or two servings, perhaps three or four servings. In some examples, the reservoir may be large enough to dispense even more beverages, such as ten or fifteen servings of 355 mL beverages. Any exemplary reservoir can be connected to the system.

[0083] Still referring to FIG. 3A , one or more water level sensors 310 may detect when the cold water level is sufficient to dispense a beverage using a float sensor, liquid sensor, or other sensor appropriately positioned in a predetermined fill line. Such sensors may communicate with a command system and / or an indicator on the system user interface to indicate that the water is at a programmed temperature. If additional water is needed, a pump 312 may move water from the hot reservoir 302 to the cold reservoir 304. Alternatively, hot water may flow by gravity into the cold reservoir when released by a valve. A water temperature sensor 314 may be configured to detect the temperature of the warmest point in the cold reservoir and can be used to indicate the readiness of a portion of the water. Optionally, another temperature sensor 316 may be configured to monitor the temperature at the coldest point and can be used to control a thermoelectric cooling system. When multiple beverages are dispensed in rapid succession, it may be desirable to maintain the lowest possible temperature in this cold reservoir, even when refilled from a hot water source. In some embodiments, both the temperature and supply of the cold reservoir can be monitored, and a small but sufficient amount of (warm) water can be added gradually to supply the subsequent beverage. In this manner, long cooling times for a newly refilled cold reservoir can be avoided.

[0084] A heat exchange component, sometimes referred to as a cold sink 318, may be disposed within the cold reservoir. During use, the cold sink 318 may contact the water in the cold reservoir 304. The cold sink 318 may include numerous features to maximize its surface area, including, but not limited to, fins 320 that contact and are exposed to the water in the cold reservoir 304, and a base 322 that penetrates, extends through, or around the insulated wall of the reservoir 308. The cold sink 318 may be constructed of a highly conductive material, such as aluminum or copper, and may be designed with dimensions, such as the length and thickness of the fins, to transfer heat from the water to the base 322 of the cold sink with maximum efficiency. For example, the fins may be very long compared to their thickness, allowing them to be deeply immersed in the water, creating a large surface area for convective heat transfer and efficiently conducting heat to the base 322.

[0085] The exterior surface of the cold sink's base may be configured to accept one or more thermoelectric coolers (TECs) 333. A thermoelectric cooler (TEC), sometimes referred to as a Peltier cooler, heater, Peltier element, Peltier heat pump, solid-state refrigerator, thermoelectric battery, or thermoelectric heat pump, is a solid-state active heat pump that transfers heat from one side of a device to the other with the consumption of electrical energy, depending on the direction of electrical current. These solid-state devices function by transferring heat between parallel surfaces when energized and use a separate means to move this heat away from the "hot" side of the device. The thermoelectric cooler(s) 333 are positioned between the cold sink 318 and a thermal distribution plate 324, such that the cold sink 318 is within a cold, insulated cold reservoir and the thermal distribution plate 324 is outside the insulated reservoir. The thermal distribution plate 324 is further coupled to heat pipes that are part of a radiator 352. In this arrangement, heat is conducted from the hot side of the thermoelectric cooler 333 to the radiator. One or more fans 353 circulate air through the radiator 352 and expel the extracted heat to the local environment. The outer hot surface of the TEC may be integrated into a heat exchanger 352, for example, a heat pipe radiator system.

[0086] The cold sink 320 may be used to transfer heat from the relatively warm water 302 to the relatively cool TEC 333. The cold sink 320 may be configured to utilize the convection of large volumes of water to conduct heat across the small footprint of the TEC 333. In the illustrated example, the cold sink may house a single TEC 333. In another example, the cold sink 320 may house twin TEC 333 modules, either singly or in combination, positioned adjacent to each other. This has the advantage of allowing two or more TECs to operate at their most efficient operating levels. The TEC 333 may be configured to transfer heat from the cold side 304 to the hot side. The specific operating characteristics of the TEC allow for highest efficiency at low operating currents.

[0087] Initially, cooling the entire amount of water in the cold reservoir 304 may require a large amount of cooling power and reduce the efficiency of the TEC 333, but subsequent maintenance of the low temperature, or restoration of the low temperature after additional water is added, may require less power and thus may be achieved with greater TEC efficiency. For this reason, it may be advantageous to incorporate multiple TECs 333 in the cold sink 320. These multiple TECs may be used when delivering maximum thermal power, and then only one TEC 333 may be active when delivering lower power. This configuration may result in a versatile system capable of powerful performance and excellent energy efficiency.

[0088] In another preferred embodiment, the cold water reservoir 304 may be vertically partitioned into multiple chambers, for example, two chambers. Each of these vertically partitioned chambers may be equipped with a cold sink and a corresponding TEC. This may have the advantage of allowing the cooling system to quickly cool smaller amounts of water (e.g., enough for one serving of a beverage) without requiring time to cool the entire reservoir. Once this first vertically partitioned chamber is emptied, the cooling system is controlled to cool the second chamber, thus cooling this subsequent portion of water in a shorter time.

[0089] 3A, water from the hot reservoir 302 may be transferred to the cold reservoir 304 by a pump 312 as needed. Alternatively, the hot water reservoir may be an external reservoir, located above the cold reservoir, allowing water to be transferred by opening a valve and allowing gravity flow. A control system in conjunction with water level and temperature sensors may transfer water to replenish the cold water supply.

[0090] A water pump 312 may be arranged to draw water from a cold reservoir into the mixing system during the dispensing of the beverage, as described herein.

[0091] FIG. 3B is a diagram of another exemplary embodiment in which the cold reservoir 304 can be cooled by a vapor compression refrigeration system 360. In this embodiment, the cold reservoir 304 is cooled by direct heat exchange with a refrigerant. The refrigerant liquid can be cooled by a compressor 362 and then circulated through a tube 366 to a coil 368, which can be immersed in the cold reservoir 304. In some examples, the coil 368 can be a coil of metal tubing, such as, but not limited to, copper, steel, aluminum, or alloys of copper, aluminum, or steel. The material of the coil 368 can be thermally conductive. In this embodiment, the cold refrigerant liquid travels through the coil of tube 368, which is submerged in the water to be cooled by the system. In some exemplary embodiments, the coil of tube 368 can be further tightly wrapped around a measurement chamber 604, which can itself be immersed in the cold reservoir, as described in more detail in FIG. 6.

[0092] Heat extracted from this configuration and compressor 362 may be rejected to the local environment via radiator 364. This cooling system may be equipped with temperature and level sensors as described above. This embodiment may have the advantage of allowing the cooling mechanism to be completely shut down, for example, to minimize potential power consumption after the cold reservoir has initially cooled.

[0093] Control Unit Example

[0094] Referring again to Figure 3A, the above section describes the physical systems that transport, cool, and pressurize the water, pressurize the gas, and move and push open the capsule, as well as the control valves for directing the flow of water and gas. These operations may be automatically controlled by a computerized system to achieve the desired results. A control and power system 342 may be provided in the form of electronics, sensors, and actuators.

[0095] It may be useful to use a variety of sensors in a system such as those described herein. The sensors may detect signals such as, but are not limited to, the temperature of the cold sink, the temperature of the water in the cold water tank (e.g., a thermometer), the water level in both the hot and cold water tanks (e.g., a float sensor), the presence of the capsule in the capsule holder (e.g., a proximity sensor, a photointerrupter, a reflective sensor, a camera), the pressure of the air reservoir (e.g., a piezoelectric sensor sensing the pressure in either the capsule, the nitrification chamber, or the piping or tank, an aneroid barometer-type pressure sensor, a manometer pressure sensor, a Bourdon tube pressure sensor, a vacuum (Pirani) pressure sensor, a sealed pressure sensor, a strain gauge pressure sensor, etc.), the position of the capsule relative to the capsule connector (e.g., a proximity sensor, a flow meter across any or all of the piping or valves or chambers, etc.). These sensors are described above and may be used in any combination or permutation.

[0096] The control and power system 342 may accept inputs from a user in the form of switches or sensors, computer commands of any shape or form, for example, via the user interface 130 as shown in FIG. 1B. These inputs may allow for selection of device options, such as beverage type or quantity. Indicators may provide feedback to the user in the form of LEDs, audio signals, or images to provide information or confirmation to the user.

[0097] The control and power system 342 can provide power to the control system and various electrical devices in the system, such as motors, fans, valves, pumps, and chillers. The thermoelectric coolers 333 may be provided with their own power supplies, which may require substantial sustained power over a wide range of voltages and currents to suit their specific functions. Efficient power supplies can be used, with the goal of minimizing power consumption.

[0098] In some exemplary systems, a mechanism may be actuated to propel a new capsule onto the capsule connector to push the capsule open and establish a fluid connection, as described in FIGS. 5A-5I. Optionally, the capsule connector may be propelled into partial engagement with the capsule, such that the seal engages the sealing surface of the capsule closure. The Nitro valve 624 of FIG. 6 may be opened by automated or computerized command to begin pressurizing the space between the capsule connector and the capsule closure. A pressure sensor may be used to monitor the pressure in this space and detect leaks. Once this leak check is complete, the capsule supported by the capsule carrier may be propelled downward, which may then push open the capsule closure, as described herein, including in FIGS. 5A-5I.

[0099] Nitrogenation System Example

[0100] As described above, the system is configured to inject both a stream of chilled water as well as a jet of gas into the capsule chamber to mix with the gas-infused liquid. As shown in Figure 1A, a gas reservoir 606 may be in communication with the capsule connector 118 for use in the systems and methods described herein.

[0101] Such systems can enable the generation of persistent bubbles by utilizing the presence of substances capable of forming films. These can include lipids (fats), oils, proteins, polypeptides, surfactants, emulsifiers, etc. These substances are naturally present in many beverages or can be added to enable the desired result.

[0102] As mentioned above, there is a natural physical limit to the amount of gas that can be dissolved in a liquid and subsequently released as bubbles when depressurized, and this finite amount is simply insufficient to achieve the desired nitration.

[0103] 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary nitrogenation process that may be performed, for example, within a replaceable capsule of a system described herein. Chamber 400 may contain a liquid under pressure. In a first exemplary embodiment, chamber 400 is formed within the replaceable capsule. In another exemplary embodiment, chamber 400 is part of an apparatus configured to form a sealed connection to the capsule to produce a gas-infused liquid, as described herein.

[0104] In some examples, the gas-infused liquid may be coffee concentrate or another concentrated beverage. In some examples, the pressure may be, for example, 30 psi to 80 psi. Chamber 400 may include a liquid inlet 402 and a liquid chamber 404 to allow for continuous liquid flow. Liquid entering the chamber, such as cold water as described above, may be forced into the chamber under pressure to maintain a high internal pressure within the chamber. In some examples, the chamber may be shaped to prevent trapped volumes or vortices and promote turbulent flow. As shown in the example, orifice 406 may be connected to a pressurized gas source 408 (e.g., from gas reservoir 606 in FIG. 1A) and positioned to inject a fine jet of gas 410 (such as nitrogen or ambient air) into the liquid within chamber 400. Orifice 406 may be very small, for example, but not limited to, 0.1 mm or 0.2 mm in diameter where the gas exits. Orifice 406 may be made of, for example, a hydrophobic material (e.g., polyetheretherketone (PEEK)) and may have a length (e.g., 3 mm, 2 mm) sufficient to resist intrusion of aqueous liquids due to surface tension. A jet 410 of bubbles emanating from the pressurized gas from chamber 400 and orifice 406 may be positioned such that the gas jet 410 is fully entrained in the moving liquid without first impinging on the walls of chamber 400. Outlet 416 may include a flow restriction 412, such as an orifice, which allows a higher pressure to be maintained within chamber 400, with the pressure in outlet 416 being significantly lower than within chamber 400. Flow restriction 412 may have a hole or orifice having a dimension of, for example, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, or another size.

[0105] This arrangement can generate very small bubbles using multiple processes. When the gas jet 410 is injected into the pressurized liquid, the jet 410 can be fragmented by turbulent flow conditions (e.g., Reynolds numbers greater than 3500) to generate a continuous stream of bubbles. The turbulent flow within the chamber 400 can prevent the bubbles from coalescing. The high pressure can promote dissolution of the bubbles into the liquid concentrate within the chamber 400. The resulting multiphase flow of bubbles in the liquid can then exit the chamber through the flow restriction 412. The flow through this restriction 412 can simultaneously cause conditions of reduced pressure, acceleration, increased turbulence, and high liquid shear. This condition can continue to break the bubbles into smaller bubbles and prevent them from coalescing into larger bubbles. The reduced pressure and shear conditions encourage the dissolved gas to come out of solution and form new bubbles. The chamber 400 can have dimensions and shapes that help to create and maintain ultrafine bubbles and avoid trapping gas pockets. For example, chamber 400 may have a length sufficient to allow gas jet 410 to fully develop and collapse into bubbles without hitting the chamber walls. This length may be 40 mm, or 30 mm, or another length. Similarly, the width or diameter of chamber 400 may be wide enough to allow for the simultaneous injection of water through water port 402 and gas through nitro port 406, and the exit of gas-injected liquid through outlet port 404, without these flow paths interfering with each other.

[0106] For example, the chamber 400 may allow water entering from the water port 402 to mix with the concentrated liquid in the capsule chamber 400 without short-circuiting to the outlet port 404 before flowing out. The chamber 400 may have a width or diameter of 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, or other sizes. The shape of the chamber may help generate turbulence and avoid trapped gas pockets; for example, the shape may be generally cylindrical with rounded transitions between surfaces. The chamber 400 may also be shaped to allow natural drainage during and after the nitrification process, for example, with a generally tapered transition between the main chamber 404 and the lower portion of the chamber 404. The surfaces of the chamber 400 may be generally smooth to repel liquids and facilitate cleaning. In some examples, as described, the chamber 400 may be a disposable and removable cartridge or capsule.

[0107] This arrangement is useful for nitrifying 410 the beverage or liquid concentrate in the capsule or chamber 400 using ordinary air as the gas. This has the exemplary advantage of an unlimited supply of gas without the need for a separate supply or additional components or additional waste products. The process may be carried out using pure nitrogen as the gas. This may have the exemplary advantage of eliminating oxygen and its oxidizing effects and creating a protective layer of nitrogen bubbles on top of the beverage.

[0108] Figure 5A shows an example in which nitration occurs in a chamber 400 connected to a capsule (e.g., 112 in Figure 1A), where the beverage concentrate is first combined with water and then forced into the nitration chamber 400. This is a different example than where mixing occurs within the capsule itself. Instead, in the example of Figure 5A, the capsule is used only to deliver the concentrated liquid, not for mixing as in the other exemplary embodiments.

[0109] In the example of Figure 5A, a capsule 502 used to make a beverage may be filled with a liquid concentrate. A capsule connector 504 is inserted into the capsule 502 to establish a sealed connection to the interior of the capsule and is positioned to direct liquid and gas into and out of the capsule. In one example, the capsule may be oriented with a port or openable compartment at the bottom so that liquid can naturally drain by gravity. Other capsule embodiments are possible, for example, with fluid connections at both ends of the capsule to allow fluid to flow through the capsule (not shown).

[0110] As shown in FIG. 5A , when a capsule is placed in the exemplary device, the capsule connector 504 can penetrate the capsule 502, exposing the liquid concentrate and establishing a seal. The water valve can be opened to expose the capsule to pressurized water 506. The outlet valve 508 can be opened to allow pressurized cold water to enter the capsule, mix with the beverage concentrate in the separate chamber 404, and exit through the outlet valve 508 via a flow restriction 412. The flow restriction 412 at the chamber outlet can resist this flow, thereby maintaining high pressure within the chamber. The nitrous valve (624 in FIG. 6 ) can be opened to allow pressurized air to enter the chamber through the nitrous orifice 406. This example is configured to generate a jet of fine bubbles 410 during turbulent flow within the chamber 400. As this mixture exits the chamber through the flow restriction, further nitrification can occur, as described above. The nitrated beverage can then flow to the outlet tap 508.

[0111] Figure 5B illustrates an example in which nitrification occurs within the beverage concentrate capsule itself, rather than in a separate mixing tank, as described in Figure 5A. In the example of Figure 5B, the capsule 112 may be filled with liquid concentrate and a substantial volume of headspace (e.g., purged with an inert gas such as nitrogen). The headspace may be 25% of the total capsule volume, or another size sufficient to compress when pressurized, thus allowing for the introduction of nitrification gas. Capsule connectors 510, 612, 116, as described herein, may be inserted into the capsule 112 and configured to establish a liquid seal with the capsule and direct liquid and gas into and out of the capsule 112.

[0112] The capsule carrier 114 may be shaped to receive the capsule 112 and allow its insertion and removal by a user within the overall body of the system for operation. The capsule carrier 114 may be configured to be propelled by a mechanism that engages the capsule connector, the capsule carrier and mechanism being capable of withstanding the hydrostatic pressure generated by pressurization of the capsule. In FIG. 5B, the capsule 112 is shown already engaged with the capsule connector 510 and ready for mixing and dispensing.

[0113] In some examples, the water valve may be opened to expose the capsule 112 to pressurized water. The dispensing valve 508 may be opened to allow pressurized cold water supply to enter the capsule, mix with the beverage concentrate, and exit through the dispensing outlet. Similarly, opening the dispensing valve 508 may allow compressed gas to flow from the pneumatic reservoir through the gas line 408 and the nitrous orifice 406. The flow restriction 412 may resist this flow, thereby maintaining high pressure within the capsule. The flow of gas through the nitrous orifice 406 may create a jet of gas bubbles 410 in the turbulent flow exiting the capsule through the dispensing port 404 and the flow restriction 412.

[0114] FIG. 5C illustrates an exemplary interaction between the capsule 112 and the fluid connector 116. The capsule 112 may be pressed against the fluid connector by a mechanical mechanism. As depicted in FIG. 2B illustrating the capsule, the seal 512 may contact the sealing surface 232 or the sealing surface 233 of the capsule lid portion 204. In a preferred embodiment, the seal 512 may be movable relative to the capsule connector 116 to allow the seal 512 to form a sealing connection with the capsule before further movement of the capsule. Further movement of the capsule relative to the capsule connector may contact and push open the hatch 216, as depicted in FIG. 2B illustrating a capsule described herein.

[0115] The seal 512 may be shaped to contact the rim surface 232 of the capsule lid portion 204, as depicted in Figure 2B, which shows the capsule. In another embodiment, the seal 512 may be shaped to contact the inner surface 233 of the capsule lid portion 204, as depicted in Figure 2B, which shows the capsule. In either embodiment, the seal 512 may include a funnel-shaped inner surface to allow for the drainage of liquid toward the dispensing port of the capsule connector 116.

[0116] FIG. 5D illustrates the capsule propulsion mechanism and key elements of the nitrogenation system. As shown in the example, capsule 112 can be placed within capsule carrier 114, which is configured to move, e.g., translate, to connect with capsule connector 520. This movement can be achieved by capsule propulsion mechanism 414, which can apply a force high enough to engage capsule 112 with seal 512 and counteract forces such as those generated by internal pressure of capsule 112. Mechanism 414 can also incorporate sensors to verify the presence of capsule 112, the correct position of capsule 112, and proper compression of the seal. Once capsule 112 is placed within the device, capsule 112 can be propelled into engagement with capsule connector 510 by operation of propulsion mechanism 414. The seal 512 may be spring-biased toward the capsule and positioned such that the seal engages with the sealing surface 232 or 233 (see FIG. 2A ) of the capsule lid portion before the protrusion 520 contacts the breakaway section (see FIG. 2A ) of the hatch 216. As the mechanism 414 continues to urge the capsule 112 into position, the protrusion 520 may break through the hatch 216 (see FIG. 2A ), establishing a sealed chamber between the capsule interior 112 and the capsule connector 118 and releasing the contents of the capsule, such as a liquid concentrate. The seal 512 may be fully compressed against the body of the capsule connector with a force high enough to maintain a liquid seal when subjected to the internal pressure of the capsule 112.

[0117] The propulsion mechanism 414 may be a geared system that allows for automatic or manual operation of the clamps that secure the capsule 112 to the sealing device 512 and capsule connector 118. Thus, as described herein, due to the high forces inherent in pressurizing the capsule 112 and the force required to push open the seal (e.g., as depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B), the propulsion mechanism may include force multipliers, such as gear reducers, lead screws, or levers, to generate high forces from a compact motor. This may have the advantage of applying higher forces than a user can satisfactorily apply manually. A mechanism with high mechanical advantage may also have the advantage of being non-back-propulsive (i.e., it will hold its position and not back down when subjected to high applied forces, such as hydrostatic pressure from a pressurized capsule). The propulsion mechanism 414 may include relatively high stiffness components to prevent them from deflecting an amount that would reduce engagement with the seal on the fluid capsule connector 118 when subjected to the hydrostatic pressure of a nitrogenation system. A motorized mechanism may also have the advantage of allowing sensors to verify high clamping forces, which may be beneficial to the correct operation of the system. While mechanical drive as described may provide significant force and secure capsule engagement, due to its superior mechanical advantage, it may move slowly and require a significant amount of time to move the capsule into position. Thus, the movement of the capsule mechanism 414, in some embodiments, may include manually driven operating portions and mechanically driven portions, the manually driven portions being actuated by a user at a user-selected speed and time, and the mechanically driven portions being actuated automatically by the control system 106 according to an encoded algorithm and associated signals. The mechanism 414 may include sensors (e.g., reflective sensors, photointerrupters, mechanical switches, force sensors, etc.) to detect the presence of a capsule, the position of the capsule within the mechanism, the position of mechanism components, the force exerted by the mechanism, or other parameters of the mechanism 414. This may have the advantage of confirming correct placement of the capsule, correct operation of the mechanism 414, and system readiness to proceed with the dispensing process.

[0118] Figures 5E to 5H are sequence diagrams showing cross-sectional images at different angles illustrating the interaction of capsule 112 and capsule connector 520 when engaged by the action of mechanism 414 to form a chamber that can be pressurized to mix gas and liquid as described, to dispense gas-infused liquid.

[0119] When capsule 112 is initially inserted into the device, e.g., by a user, capsule 112 may be held by capsule carrier 114 and propelled by mechanism 414 (from FIG. 5D). In some embodiments, initial insertion of capsule 112 (e.g., by a user) may be in a lateral direction perpendicular to the capsule's axis, such that the inserted capsule may be restrained from subsequent axial movement relative to capsule carrier 114. In some embodiments, the mechanism may move in a linear direction parallel to the capsule's 112 axis.

[0120] The propulsion mechanism (414 in FIG. 5D) can have a manual actuation motion and / or a mechanical propulsion motion, as described above, which can allow a user clear access, for example, to insert a capsule into the capsule carrier and move the capsule carrier into tight engagement with the capsule connector.

[0121] As mentioned above, an axisymmetric shape, such as a cartridge cylinder, can have the advantage of not requiring a specific orientation when inserted into a dispensing device. Any orientation of the capsule relative to the connector when driven together may be adjusted so that the user does not need to worry about rotating the capsule to align it correctly. Because the force concentrator 224 in Figures 2A and 2B provides a surface that contacts and interacts with the capsule connector during operation, as described, to flip open or otherwise unseal the cartridge, any angle of the hinge and force concentrator will still function during operation with the connector, as shown in Figures 5C and 5E-5H.

[0122] As shown in Figure 5E, capsule 112 is positioned within capsule carrier 114, and the combination is adjacent capsule connector 520 before the hatch is broken or opened by the connector. Further, in Figure 5F, capsule 112 is propelled or moved until contact occurs between the capsule's sealing surface (e.g., surface 232 or 233, Figures 2A, 2B, etc.) and seal 512 on the capsule connector before being broken or opened. Seal 512 may be held in a spring-loaded connection to a fixed portion of the capsule connector while protrusion 520 remains stationary.

[0123] In FIG. 5G, when the protrusion 520 can contact the raised section 224 of the lid portion 204 of the capsule 112, the capsule can continue to be urged into contact with the capsule connector. In FIG. 5H, the force of this contact increases until the groove 220 in the lid portion 204 breaks, as described herein, opening the hatch 216 inward (see FIGS. 2A, 2B, etc.), exposing the liquid contents of the capsule and forming a sealed chamber between the capsule 112 and the fluid capsule connector 118. Movement of the capsule 112, held by the capsule carrier and driven by the mechanism 414, can bring the spring-loaded seal into contact with a hard stop on the fixed portion of the capsule connector. Subsequent small movements of the capsule can then compress the seal, forming a very tight seal against the capsule's sealing surface. In some examples, the capsule is urged onto the capsule connector as described, while in other examples, the capsule may remain stationary and the capsule connector can move to push the lid open and form a mixing chamber as described.

[0124] 51 is an exemplary perspective view showing a portion of the fluid capsule connector without the capsule. It can be seen that the water inlet port 406, the gas inlet port 402, and the dispensing port 404 are positioned on the protrusion 520 of the capsule connector in a manner consistent with the desired mix of beverage concentrate, water, and gas, as described herein. Connections to fluid lines 408 and 506 can be seen on the other end of the capsule connector.

[0125] 5J shows an exemplary dispense tap that can be used in a system as described herein to further condition the beverage and direct it to a beverage container. As described, the gas-infused beverage produced in the mixing chamber may contain undesirable air pockets and / or may be dispensed in an irregular manner. Because maximizing the suspended air bubbles and the fine texture of the resulting foam layer on the beverage is a stated objective, it is desirable to prevent a reduction in flow during final dispensing. The dispense tap may perform this function while directing the flow from the dispensing port 404 of the capsule connector 118 into the beverage container 122.

[0126] The dispense tap 120 may include a nozzle 125 to which a restrictor plate 127 may be attached. This restrictor plate 127 may include one or more orifices configured to allow the flow of the gassed beverage containing fine bubbles, block or retard the passage of large bubbles or air pockets (e.g., those larger than 0.5 mm in size), and create end conditions of liquid shear that may fragment the larger bubbles and thus generate finer bubbles, as described herein. The dispense tap 120 may also include a flow conditioner 126 that may function to mitigate fluctuations in flow rate, thus preventing disturbances to the dispensed beverage and the overlying foam.

[0127] Fluid System Example

[0128] As mentioned above, the dilution and nitration of the desired liquid concentrate can be accomplished using the flow of introduced water and pressurized gas into a mixing chamber to produce a gas-infused liquid beverage under controlled conditions of flow and pressure.

[0129] 6 illustrates elements of an exemplary fluid system 600 configured to provide these conditions, as described herein. As previously described, a cold reservoir 616 can provide a supply of chilled water. Water can be drawn from this reservoir into a specific volume metering chamber 604. This can have the advantage of directly metering the appropriate amount of water to dilute a liquid beverage concentrate to produce a particular dispensed beverage.

[0130] Simultaneous control of water flow, measurement, and pressure is inherently difficult. As an exemplary solution, an air pressure reservoir 606 may be used to pump a pre-allocated amount of water within the measuring chamber 604. This has the added benefit of utilizing a single air pump for multiple purposes. This air reservoir 606 may be pressurized using an air pump 608 and a valve 610 to reach the required operating pressure. When the system is called upon to dispense a beverage, the air valve 610 is opened and the water valve 612 is opened, at which point pressurized air may force the previously measured portion of water from the measuring chamber 604 through the capsule connector during the dispensing process. This has the added benefit of purging the fluid system of residual water at the end of the dispensing process. While the pressure within the combined air and water chambers may naturally decrease during the dispensing process, the initial high pressure of the air reservoir may be selected to provide appropriate starting and ending pressures depending on the needs of the dispensing and nitrification systems.

[0131] A hot or room temperature water reservoir 602 containing water at ambient temperature may be pumped by a pump 618 to a cold water reservoir 616. A second pump 620 may pump water from the reservoir 616 to the measurement chamber 604. This transfer flow may proceed through a three-way valve 622. The pump 620, in combination with the valve 622, may serve to recirculate the cold water in the cold reservoir 616, as described above. A gas, such as nitrogen, may also be flowed through a valve 624 to the gas inlet port 406. The outlet port 508 may output the output liquid to the outlet tap 120.

[0132] When a particular type of beverage is to be dispensed, a measured amount of water may be drawn from the cold reservoir 616 and pumped into the measuring chamber 604. This may have the exemplary advantage of portioning out a controlled amount appropriate for the desired beverage preparation and isolating the remainder of the cold reservoir from the dispense process. The portion of water may be metered by flow control of a water pump, by a sensor configured to detect any number of optional volumes, by a fixed volume of the chamber 604, or by another method.

[0133] While the measured volume of water is being moved into the measurement chamber, the air pump 608 may be activated and the air valve 610 closed to pressurize the reservoir 606 .

[0134] After the capsule is broken, the water valve 612 may be opened to connect the air reservoir to the measurement chamber. As the measurement chamber becomes pressurized, water may be forced into the capsule through the capsule connector 118. The nitro valve 624 may be opened to allow pressurized gas to flow through the nitro jet orifice. The dispense valve may also be opened to allow flow through the capsule connector and through the flow restriction. As noted above, the flow restriction 412 may have the primary function of resisting flow and thereby maintaining high pressure within the capsule, e.g., by having a smaller orifice or opening than the chamber. This flow restriction 412 may have the exemplary advantage of maintaining high local pressure within the liquid being insufflated by the nitro jet of gas. In instances where the dispense valve is opened, the beverage may pass through the flow restriction at high pressure and velocity. If a nitrated beverage is selected, the flow through the flow restriction may create high turbulence and high shear conditions that may generate additional bubbles and shear existing bubbles into smaller bubbles.

[0135] The beverage can then continue to flow under residual system pressure and gravity through the flow restriction 412 and out the dispensing tap 120. This flow continues under the trapped pressure of the air reservoir until all the water in the measuring chamber has been expelled.

[0136] As the water and gas are forced into the capsule 112, they combine with the liquid concentrate, and this resulting mixture can be forced out through the dispensing port 404 in FIG. 5I. As fresh water continues to enter the capsule, the capsule contents may continually decrease in concentration. By the time the last of the metered water enters the capsule, the liquid concentrate may have been largely washed away, leaving only a small residue. The pressurized air can continue to flow into the capsule through both the water inlet port and the nitrous jet orifice, and can exit relatively unimpeded through the flow restriction and dispensing tap 120. This has the advantage of purging any remaining liquid fluid components and reducing the possibility of buildup, clogging, or transfer of residual flavors to subsequent beverages.

[0137] After a predetermined period of this purging, first with water and then with gas, the dispense valve 120 may be closed to terminate the dispense process and prevent further discharge into the receiver. In one example, the dispense valve may divert residual flow to an alternate drain path for disposal.

[0138] At this point, the dispense may be considered complete. The water valve 612 and the nitrous valve 624 may be closed to release the pressure on the measurement chamber. Once the pressure is released, the capsule connector mechanism may be actuated to disconnect from the capsule (disconnecting the capsule connector and seal). The capsule may now be removed from the system.

[0139] A portion of the cold water drawn from the cold reservoir, valves and / or pump 618 may be activated to transfer water from the hot water reservoir 602 to the cold reservoir 616. As described above, the control system, in conjunction with temperature and water level sensors, may issue commands to the cooling system to cool the contents of the cold reservoir to the required temperature.

[0140] The pump 620 may be combined with a valve 622 that may allow for recirculation of the chilled water through the cryogenic tank 616. This may have the advantage of mixing the chilled water and preventing over-cooling and possible freezing of the water in contact with the cooling element.

[0141] In another exemplary dispense cycle, either alone or in combination, if a non-nitrated beverage is desired and the appropriate user selection is made, the above process can be repeated except for omitting the nitration air input. In this normal dispense mode, the nitro valve 624 would remain closed during the dispense cycle. Chilled water would be metered and forced into the capsule in the same manner as described above. This non-nitrated beverage may also be dispensed under vacuum to reduce turbulence and aeration, thus minimizing foam generation.

[0142] In yet another exemplary dispensing process, beverages of different strengths may be dispensed. In this mode, different amounts of chilled water may be metered into measuring chamber 604, after which the dispensing process may proceed as described above. Any type of concentrated material may be used in the systems and methods described herein to undergo nitrification as described, and the example of coffee is not intended to be limiting.

[0143] Examples of Computers and Computer Networks

[0144] In the exemplary systems described herein, various computing components may be utilized to perform system operations, including turning components such as pumps and compressors on and off, opening valves, and dispensing beverages. These operations may be accomplished by automated components communicating with the computer components to send and receive messages to the automated components. In some examples, alternatively or additionally, the system may be networked for control or data storage purposes, linked by a communication system such as, but not limited to, a WiFi system, a cellular system, a Bluetooth system, or any other communication system with an appropriate antenna system, processor, and memory may be used on a subassembly, as described herein. In some embodiments, alternatively or additionally, the hardware may include a single integrated circuit containing a processor core, memory, and programmable input / output peripherals.

[0145] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary networked system that can be used with the systems and methods described herein. In FIG. 7, a computer system 702 described herein processes any image data from various sensors, including a camera capturing an image of a beverage cup, capsule, or dispensing component part. Such image data may include pixel data of the captured image. The computer 702 can be any number of types of computer, such as those included in the camera itself, an automated valve, pump, system, proximity sensor system, and / or any other computing device, examples of which are described in FIG. 8.

[0146] As shown in Figure 7, various computing systems may communicate with a back-end computing system 730 and / or data storage 732 to send and receive data as described herein. For example, as shown in Figure 7, captured image data may be transmitted to a back-end computer system 730 and associated data storage 732 for storage and analysis. In some examples, communication may be wireless transmission 710 via radio, cellular, or WiFi transmission with associated routers and hubs. In some examples, transmission may be via a wired connection 712.

[0147] In some examples, transmission of data may include transmission over a network such as the Internet 720 to a remote operator, a backend server computer 730 and associated data storage 732 .

[0148] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary computing device 800 that can be used to implement the exemplary embodiments described herein. FIG. 8 may illustrate a computer or other system, such as 702 or 730, described in FIG. 7 . In FIG. 8 , the computing device may be a smartphone, laptop, tablet computer, server computer, or any other type of computing device. This example illustrates a processor CPU 810, which may be any number of processors communicating via a bus 812 or other communication means with a user interface 814. The user interface 814 may include any number of display devices 818, such as a screen. The user interface also includes input means, such as a touchscreen, keyboard, mouse, pointer, buttons, joystick, or other input device. Also included is a network interface 820, which may be used to interface with any wireless or wired network to transmit and receive data. Such an interface may enable the smartphone to interface, for example, to a cellular network and / or a WiFi network, and thereby to the Internet. The exemplary computing device 800 also illustrates peripherals 824, which may include any number of other additional features, such as, but not limited to, a camera, sensors 825, and / or antenna 826 for wireless communication, such as via cellular, WiFi, NFC, Bluetooth, infrared, or any combination of these or other wireless communications. The computing device 800 also includes memory 822, which may include any number of processes executable by the processor 810. The memory in FIG. 8 illustrates instructions for an operating system 832, a network communication module 834, other tasks 838 and applications 838, such as sending / receiving message data 840 and / or an SMS text message application 842. Also included in this example is data storage 858. Such data storage may include data tables 860, transaction logs 862, user data 864, and / or encrypted data 870.Computing device 800 also includes one or more graphical processing units (GPUs) for the purpose of accelerating computationally intensive tasks in hardware, such as the execution and / or evaluation of neural network engines and augmented image utilization algorithms operating on the collected multimodal images. Computing device 800 may also include one or more reconfigurable hardware elements, such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), for the purpose of hardware acceleration of computationally intensive tasks.

[0149] conclusion

[0150] As disclosed herein, features consistent with the present invention may be implemented using computer hardware, software, and / or firmware. For example, the systems and methods disclosed herein may be embodied in various forms, including, for example, databases, digital electronic circuitry, firmware, software, computer networks, data processors such as computers, including servers, or combinations thereof. Furthermore, while some of the disclosed implementations describe specific hardware components, systems, and methods consistent with the innovations herein, any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware may be implemented. Furthermore, the above-described features and other aspects and principles of the innovations herein may be implemented in a variety of environments. Such environments and associated applications may include general-purpose computers or computing platforms that are specially constructed to execute various routines, processes, and / or steps consistent with the present invention, or that are selectively activated or reconfigured by code to provide the required functionality. The processes disclosed herein are not inherently related to any particular computer, network, architecture, environment, or other apparatus, and may be implemented by any suitable combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. For example, various general-purpose machines may be used with programs written in accordance with the teachings of the invention, or it may be more convenient to construct a specialized apparatus or system to perform the required methods and techniques.

[0151] Aspects of the methods and systems described herein, such as logic, may be implemented as a function programmed into any of a variety of circuits, including programmable logic devices (“PLDs”) such as field programmable gate arrays (“FPGAs”), programmable array logic (“PAL”) devices, electrically programmable logic and memory devices, and standard cell-based devices, as well as application-specific integrated circuits. Some other possibilities for implementing aspects include memory devices, microcontrollers with memory (such as PROMs), embedded microprocessors, graphics processing units (GPUs), firmware, software, and the like. Additionally, aspects may be embodied in microprocessors with software-based circuit emulation, discrete logic (sequential and combinational logic), custom devices, fuzzy (neural) logic, quantum devices, and hybrids of any of the above device types. The underlying device technology may be provided in a variety of component types, including, for example, metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor ("MOSFET") technologies such as complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor ("CMOS"), bipolar technologies such as emitter-coupled logic ("ECL"), polymer technologies (e.g., silicon-conjugated polymer and metal-conjugated polymer-metal structures), and mixed analog and digital technologies.

[0152] It should also be noted that the various logic and / or functions disclosed herein, in terms of their behavior, register transfers, logic components, and / or other characteristics, may be enabled using any number of combinations of hardware, firmware, and / or as data and / or instructions embodied in various machine-readable or computer-readable media. Computer-readable media in which such formatted data and / or instructions may be embodied include, but are not limited to, various forms of non-volatile storage media (e.g., optical, magnetic, or semiconductor storage media), as well as carrier waves that may be used to transfer such formatted data and / or instructions via wireless, optical, or wired signal media, or any combination thereof. Examples of transfer of such formatted data and / or instructions via a carrier wave include, but are not limited to, transfer (upload, download, email, etc.) over the Internet and / or other computer networks via one or more data transfer protocols (e.g., HTTP, FTP, SMTP, etc.).

[0153] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, words such as "comprise," "comprising," "include," "including," and the like, are to be construed in the inclusive sense, i.e., "including, but not limited to," as opposed to the exclusive or exhaustive sense. Words using the singular or plural also include the plural or singular, respectively. Furthermore, the words "herein," "hereunder," "above," "below," and words of similar import, refer to this application as a whole and not to particular portions of this application. The word "or" in connection with a list of two or more items is intended to cover all of the following interpretations of that word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

[0154] While certain presently preferred embodiments of the invention have been specifically described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains that changes and modifications of the various embodiments shown and described herein can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the invention be limited only to the extent required by the rules of applicable law.

[0155] The foregoing has been described with reference to specific embodiments for purposes of explanation. However, the above illustrative description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments have been chosen and described to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments, with various modifications suited to the particular applications contemplated. The foregoing has been described with reference to specific embodiments for purposes of explanation. However, the above illustrative description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments have been chosen and described to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments, with various modifications suited to the particular applications contemplated. And so forth.

Claims

1. A cold water tank and a cooling system that cools the input water and maintains the temperature of the cold water stored in the cold water tank; a gas reservoir configured to contain a quantity of pressurized gas; a fluid capsule connector configured to generate a gas-infused liquid; An apparatus comprising: The fluid capsule connector a capsule connector configured to connect to a capsule and to establish a pressurized chamber within a cavity of the capsule removably connected to the capsule connector; a liquid inlet port connected to the capsule connector and configured to provide a flow of cold water from the cold water tank to create a turbulent flow condition within the pressurized chamber; a gas inlet port connected to the gas reservoir and configured to provide a jet of gas and introduce a stream of fine bubbles into the pressurized chamber, wherein a gas-infused liquid is formed by mixing liquid concentrate from the capsule with the cold water and the gas in the pressurized chamber; and a dispensing port configured to direct the flow of the gas-infused liquid from the pressurized chamber to a dispensing tap; An apparatus comprising:

2. an input water reservoir accessible outside the device and configured to receive input water; a pump configured to pump the input water from the input water reservoir to the cold water tank, the cold water tank being insulated by a thermal insulator; and one or more temperature sensors located in the cold water tank; one or more level sensors disposed within the chilled water tank; a heat exchange element extending within the chilled water tank, the heat exchange element configured to transfer heat from a cold side to a hot side of the heat exchange element; The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:

3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the heat exchanging component comprises two thermoelectric coolers positioned adjacent to one another.

4. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the capsule connector comprises a protrusion extending from the capsule connector to break a knockout element of the capsule to form the pressurized chamber between the fluid capsule connector and the cavity formed in the capsule.

5. an air valve disposed adjacent to the gas reservoir; a water valve disposed between the gas reservoir and the cold water tank, wherein, during dispensing, the air valve is closed and the water valve is opened to force a pressurized mixture of gas and cold water through a liquid inlet valve and into the pressurized chamber; The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising:

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the gas comprises nitrogen.

7. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the fluid capsule connector further comprises a flow restriction disposed adjacent the outlet port, the flow restriction controlling the flow of the gas-infused liquid into the outlet port.

8. The capsule is a body containing a cavity and the liquid concentrate within the cavity; a lid portion including a hatch having a knockout element disposed on an exterior surface of the lid portion; The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising:

9. The device of claim 8 , wherein the lid portion is secured to the body using a crimp ring formed around the lid portion.

10. 1. A capsule configured to store a liquid concentrate and configured to produce a gas-infused liquid when connected to a fluid capsule connector supplying water and gas, the capsule comprising: a generally cylindrical body having a cavity formed therein, the cavity having a liquid concentrate disposed therein; a lid portion formed around a flange disposed around one end of the body, the flange forming a surface that provides a sealing surface, a hatch disposed on an outer surface of the lid portion, the hatch including a knock-out element extending at least partially from the outer surface of the lid portion, the knock-out element being broken by a force from a fluid capsule connector to allow the liquid concentrate to mix with water and gas to produce a gas-infused liquid; A capsule comprising:

11. 11. The capsule of claim 10, wherein a neck portion is disposed between the lid portion and the end of the body, the neck portion including a width that decreases toward the lid portion.

12. 11. The capsule of claim 10, wherein the lid portion is secured to the body using a crimp ring formed around the lid portion or by a seam forming process.

13. 11. The capsule of claim 10, wherein the hatch comprises a height that increases at an angle over the length of the hatch.

14. A capsule containing a liquid concentrate, a body containing a cavity and the liquid concentrate within the cavity; and a lid portion comprising a hatch having a knockout element disposed on an exterior surface of the lid portion; a capsule comprising:

1. An apparatus for producing a gas-infused liquid, comprising: Cold water tank, a cooling system for cooling the input water and maintaining the temperature of the cold water stored in the cold water tank; a gas reservoir containing a quantity of gas; and a fluid capsule connector configured to generate a gas-infused liquid; an apparatus comprising: A system comprising: The fluid capsule connector a capsule connector configured to connect to a capsule and establish a pressurized chamber within a cavity of the capsule; a liquid inlet valve connected to the capsule connector and configured to supply a flow of cold water from the cold water tank and the gas from the reservoir to the pressurized chamber, wherein a gas-infused liquid is formed by mixing a liquid concentrate from the capsule with the cold water and the gas in the pressurized chamber; and a dispensing port configured to direct the flow of the gas-infused liquid from the pressurized chamber to a dispensing tap; A system comprising:

15. an input water reservoir accessible outside the device and configured to receive input water; a pump configured to pump the input water from the input water reservoir to the cold water tank, the cold water tank being insulated by a thermal insulator; and one or more temperature sensors located in the cold water tank; a heat exchange component extending within the chilled water tank, the heat exchange component configured to receive one or more thermoelectric coolers configured to transfer heat from a cold side to a hot side of the heat exchange component; The system of claim 14 further comprising:

16. The system of claim 15 , wherein the heat exchanging component comprises two thermoelectric coolers positioned adjacent to one another.

17. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the capsule connector extends from the capsule connector to break a knockout element of the capsule to form the pressurized chamber between the fluid capsule connector and the cavity formed in the capsule.

18. an air valve disposed adjacent to the gas reservoir; a water valve disposed between the gas reservoir and the cold water tank, wherein, during dispensing, the air valve is closed and the water valve is opened to force a pressurized mixture of gas and cold water through the liquid inlet valve and into the pressurized chamber; The system of claim 14 further comprising:

19. The system of claim 14 , wherein the gas comprises nitrogen.

20. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the fluid capsule connector further comprises a flow restriction disposed adjacent the outlet port, the flow restriction controlling the flow of the gas-infused liquid into the outlet port.

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