Beverage dispensing system

Abstract

Systems and methods for dispensing compositions such as beverages are provided SOLUTION: Systems and methods for dispensing compositions, such as beverages, are provided. The beverage dispenser may be configured to receive an input corresponding to a selection of a beverage. The beverage dispenser may receive additional inputs corresponding to adjustments to the ingredients of the selected beverage.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention relate to beverage dispensers and beverage dispensing systems for creating and dispensing custom beverages. [Background technology]

[0002] Post-mix dispensers typically allow beverages to be prepared on demand from a mixture of ingredients. An advantage of dispensing beverages in this manner is that the concentrate container and water supply typically occupy significantly less space than would otherwise be required to store the same amount of beverage in individual containers. Furthermore, this dispensing equipment eliminates the increased waste created by individual empty containers as well as additional transportation costs. These and other technological advances have enabled food and beverage vendors to offer consumers a greater variety of choices through post-mix dispensing systems.

[0003] Post-mix dispensers are typically limited to dispensing syrup or liquid concentrate from a bag-in-box package. The syrup or concentrate is introduced into the system through the use of a pump or pressurized gas tank, such as CO. A typical post-mix system requires many parts and technical understanding to install and maintain the system. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One aspect of the present invention provides a method for dispensing custom beverages, the method including providing a beverage dispenser having an electronic user interface, authenticating an electronic user profile at the beverage dispenser, receiving a first user input on the user interface to select ingredients and create an electronic custom recipe, dispensing the first custom beverage according to the electronic custom recipe, and after dispensing the first custom beverage, authenticating the electronic user profile at the beverage dispenser and dispensing a second custom beverage according to the electronic custom recipe. Before dispensing the first custom beverage, the method may include displaying a price for the electronic custom recipe. The price may be based on ingredients. After dispensing the first custom beverage and the electronic user profile, the method may include charging the electronic user profile, the electronic user profile including payment information. The method may include dispensing a free sample custom beverage according to the electronic custom recipe before charging the electronic user profile. After dispensing the second custom beverage, the method may include authenticating the electronic user profile at the beverage dispenser and dispensing the free beverage. The method can include receiving a second user input on an electronic user interface to dispense the first custom beverage prior to dispensing the first custom beverage. The method can include authenticating an electronic user profile at the second beverage dispenser and dispensing a third custom beverage from the second beverage dispenser according to the electronic custom recipe.

[0005] Another aspect of the present invention includes a method for generating custom beverages, the method including: authenticating an electronic user profile; receiving a first electronic user input to select ingredient quantities for a first electronic recipe; dispensing the first custom beverage from a beverage dispenser according to the first electronic recipe; requesting a second electronic user input associated with the first electronic recipe after dispensing the first custom beverage; modifying the first recipe based on the second electronic user input to create a second electronic recipe; authenticating the electronic user profile; and dispensing the second custom beverage according to the second electronic recipe. Modifying the first electronic recipe can include modifying ingredient quantities. Dispensing the second custom beverage according to the second electronic recipe can be performed at a second beverage dispenser. The method can include suggesting a custom recipe to a user based on electronic user profile data before receiving the first electronic user input. The electronic user profile data can include promotional information, the user's taste preferences, available ingredients, time of day, weather, the user's location, or sensed physiological data. The method can include electronically transmitting a second recipe to a second electronic user profile, authenticating the second electronic user profile, and dispensing a third custom beverage according to the second electronic recipe. Authenticating the electronic user profile can be based on electronic information associated with the reusable beverage container. Authenticating the electronic user profile can be performed at a mobile electronic device. Authenticating the user profile can be performed at a beverage dispenser. The method can include determining the presence of the beverage container using an electronic sensor connected to the beverage dispenser prior to dispensing the first custom beverage.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention may include a beverage dispensing system including a network interface coupled to an electronic network, a first beverage dispenser including a first processor coupled to the network interface, and a second beverage dispenser including a second processor coupled to the network interface. The first and second processors may be configured to authenticate an electronic user profile, receive a first electronic user input related to ingredient quantities to create an electronic beverage recipe, save the electronic beverage recipe in the user profile, and dispense a custom beverage at the first beverage dispenser or the second beverage dispenser according to the electronic beverage recipe. The beverage dispensing system may include a mobile electronic device including a third processor coupled to the network interface. The third processor may be configured to authenticate the electronic user profile, receive a second electronic user input related to ingredient quantities to create an updated electronic beverage recipe, and save the updated electronic beverage recipe in the user profile.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention includes a beverage dispensing system including a network interface coupled to an electronic network, a first beverage dispenser including a first processor coupled to the network interface, and a second beverage dispenser including a second processor coupled to the network interface. The first and second processors are configured to receive suggested beverage ingredient data, transmit authentication information to a database to authenticate an electronic user profile, suggest beverage ingredients to a user based on the suggested beverage ingredient data, receive first electronic user input related to the suggested beverage ingredients to create an electronic beverage recipe, and dispense a custom beverage at the first beverage dispenser or the second beverage dispenser according to the electronic beverage recipe. The suggested beverage ingredient data may include one or more of best-selling ingredient data, ingredient trend data, demographic data, and promotional data. The suggested beverage ingredient data may include limited-time ingredient data. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to further explain the principles of the invention and to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention.

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0010] [Figure 2] 1 is a front view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0011] [Figure 3] 1 is a side view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0012] [Figure 4]1 is an assembly diagram of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0013] [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a front view of a beverage dispenser control panel according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0014] [Figure 6] 1 is a perspective view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0015] [Figure 7] 7 is a front view of a side housing of the beverage dispenser of FIG. 6 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0016] [Figure 8] 7 is a front view of a side housing of the beverage dispenser of FIG. 6 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0017] [Figure 9] 7 is a front view of a side housing of the beverage dispenser of FIG. 6 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0018] [Figure 10] 7 is a front view of a side housing of the beverage dispenser of FIG. 6 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0019] [Figure 11] 1 is an assembly diagram of a distribution area according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0020] [Figure 12] 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing area according to various aspects of the present invention. FIG.

[0021] [Figure 13] 1 is a perspective view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0022] [Figure 14]1 is a front view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0023] [Figure 15] 1 is a side view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0024] [Figure 16] 1 is a perspective view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0025] [Figure 17] 1 is a perspective view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0026] [Figure 18] 1 is a schematic diagram of a beverage dispensing system according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0027] [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a logic system according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0028] [Figure 20] FIG. 1 is a process flow diagram of an exemplary method for dispensing a beverage according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0029] [Figure 21] FIG. 1 is a process flow diagram of an exemplary method for dispensing a beverage according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0030] [Figure 22] FIG. 1 is a process flow diagram of an exemplary method for dispensing a beverage according to various aspects of the present invention.

[0031] [Figure 23] 1 illustrates an exemplary hardware platform in accordance with various aspects of the present invention.

[0032] [Figure 24]1 is a block diagram of an exemplary communication network in accordance with various aspects of the present invention.

[0033] [Figure 25] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0034] [Figure 26] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0035] [Figure 27] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0036] [Figure 28] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0037] [Figure 29] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0038] [Figure 30] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0039] [Figure 31] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0040] [Figure 32] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0041] [Figure 33A] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 33B]1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0042] [Figure 34A] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 34B] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0043] [Figure 35] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0044] [Figure 36] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0045] [Figure 37] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0046] [Figure 38] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0047] [Figure 39] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0048] [Figure 40] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0049] [Figure 41] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0050] [Figure 42]1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0051] [Figure 43] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0052] [Figure 44] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0053] [Figure 45] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0054] [Figure 46] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0055] [Figure 47] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0056] [Figure 48] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0057] [Figure 49] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0058] [Figure 50] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0059] [Figure 51] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0060] [Figure 52] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0061] [Figure 53] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0062] [Figure 54] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0063] [Figure 55] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0064] [Figure 56] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0065] [Figure 57] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0066] [Figure 58] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0067] [Figure 59] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0068] [Figure 60] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0069] [Figure 61]1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0070] [Figure 62] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0071] [Figure 63] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0072] [Figure 64] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0073] [Figure 65] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0074] [Figure 66] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0075] [Figure 67] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0076] [Figure 68] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0077] [Figure 69] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0078] [Figure 70] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0079] [Figure 71] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0080] [Figure 72] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0081] [Figure 73] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0082] [Figure 74] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0083] [Figure 75] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0084] [Figure 76] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0085] [Figure 77] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0086] [Figure 78] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0087] [Figure 79] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0088] [Figure 80]1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0089] [Figure 81] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0090] [Figure 82] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0091] [Figure 83] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0092] [Figure 84] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0093] [Figure 85] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0094] [Figure 86] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0095] [Figure 87] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0096] [Figure 88] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0097] [Figure 89] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0098] [Figure 90] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0099] [Figure 91] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0100] [Figure 92] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0101] [Figure 93] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0102] [Figure 94] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0103] [Figure 95] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0104] [Figure 96] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0105] [Figure 97] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0106] [Figure 98] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0107] [Figure 99]1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0108] [Figure 100] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0109] [Figure 101] 1 is an exemplary graphical user interface according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0110] [Figure 102] 1 is a perspective view of a beverage dispenser according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0111] Features and advantages of the embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0112] The present invention(s) will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments of the invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. References such as "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an exemplary embodiment," and the like indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not all embodiments necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, the impact of such feature, structure, or characteristic on other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not, is intended to be within the knowledge of one skilled in the art.

[0113] One embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to Figures 1-5. Figures 1-5 illustrate a beverage dispensing system 10 including a user interface 500 that includes user input selections that can be used as part of the user interface on the user interface 500. Exemplary user input selections on the user interface 500 are discussed in more detail below with respect to Figures 53-96.

[0114] The beverage dispensing system 10 can include an outer housing 100. In some embodiments, the beverage dispensing system 10 can be a freestanding unit. The outer housing 100 can include an upper housing portion 110, a lower housing portion 130, and a door 102. The outer housing 100 can include a right housing panel 100a, a left housing panel 100b, a top panel 100c, a back panel 100d, and a front panel 100e. In one embodiment, one or more of the right housing panel 100a, the left housing panel 100b, and the back panel 100d can span the upper housing portion 110 and the lower housing portion 130. In one embodiment, the right housing panel 100a, the left housing panel 100b, the top panel 100c, the back panel 100d, and the front panel 100e can be a unitary housing. The upper housing portion 110 may be separated from the lower housing portion 130 by a horizontal surface 130a that extends along the top edge 102a of the door 102. In one aspect, each of the walls of the outer housing 100 and the door 102 may be insulated to prevent heat loss or gain through the respective wall.

[0115] In another embodiment, the door 102 may include a window 152 to allow a user to view one or more available ingredients in the beverage dispensing system 10 for use in creating a customized beverage. The window 152 may be located anywhere on the housing 100.

[0116] In another embodiment, the door 102 may be transparent to allow a user to view one or more available ingredients in the beverage dispensing system 10 .

[0117] In one embodiment, window 152 may be a video screen capable of displaying ingredients or images of ingredients utilized in beverage dispenser 10. In one embodiment, the video screen may be utilized for product descriptions, advertising, promotions, or other messaging purposes. For example, the video display may be customized for a particular product or may be customized to target a particular group of consumers or potential users of the product. In another embodiment, the video screen may simulate one or more ingredients that may be added to a beverage.

[0118] In one aspect, the door 102 can be opened in any suitable manner. For example, one side of the door 102 can be hinged to the beverage system 10 so that the door 200 swings open to allow access to the components and ingredients inside. The door 200 can include a handle for opening the door 200.

[0119] The beverage dispenser 10 may be controlled by an electronic control module that includes a programmable microprocessor that sends electronic signals to activate the pump 138 and open one or more valves 140 to dispense beverages. The electronic control module may provide intelligent control of the beverage system. The electronic control module may also monitor system conditions such as fluid temperature, number of dispensed beverages, and sensors that determine the additives, flavors, and mineral content remaining in the beverage dispensing system. The electronic control module may also provide service delivery diagnostics and the ability to remotely poll electronic conditions.

[0120] The electronic control module of the beverage dispenser 10 can track ingredients and components to determine and / or predict when ingredients and components need to be replaced. For example, the electronic control module can track gas usage, flavors, additives, and minerals, filter status, and electricity usage. Additionally, the electronic control module can suggest refilling ingredients and components based on gas usage, flavors, additives, and / or minerals and filter status. In one aspect, the electronic control module can suggest refilling ingredients and components based on upcoming events. For example, the electronic control module can suggest refilling ingredients and components based on the proximity of the beverage dispensing system 10 to upcoming public events, such as sporting events.

[0121] The beverage dispensing system 10 may include a user interface 500 for facilitating beverage selection and dispensing. The user interface 500 may include a display 502 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or light emitting diode (LED) display, which may be a touchscreen display) for displaying information to a customer. In some embodiments, the user interface 500 may include one or more actuators (e.g., a button, lever, handle, or icon on a touchscreen, which may or may not be integrated with the display screen 502) for receiving commands from a customer. In some embodiments, the actuator(s) of the user interface 500 may be configured to initiate the dispensing of a beverage from a dispensing nozzle 170 of the beverage dispensing system 10.

[0122] In another embodiment, the beverage dispensing system 10 may include a lower control panel 180 (FIG. 5) to allow a user who is unable to physically reach the user interface 500 to select and dispense a beverage. The lower control panel 180 may be located on an exterior surface of the lower housing portion 130. In one embodiment, the lower control panel 180 may be located on an exterior surface of the door 102. The lower control panel 180 may be located to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. For example, the lower control panel 180 may be located approximately 36 inches from the floor. In embodiments of the beverage dispensing system 10 that do not have the lower control panel 180, the lower housing portion 130 may include a false or dummy panel to cover an opening in the lower housing portion 130 that would otherwise house the lower control panel 180.

[0123] In some embodiments, lower control panel 180 may include one or more actuators (e.g., buttons, levers, handles, or icons on a touchscreen that may or may not be integrated with display screen 502) for receiving commands from a user. For example, lower control panel 180 may include an on button 188, a left directional button 182a, a right directional button 182b, a select button 184, and a water button 186. In one aspect, a user who cannot physically reach user interface 500 can select button 188 to place the machine in an alternate control mode. In this alternate control mode, the user can use left directional button 182a, right directional button 182b, and select button 184 to navigate through a graphical user interface on display 502 to customize and order a beverage. In one aspect, a user can still dispense water without requiring a customer payment by pressing water button 186. In one aspect, lower control panel 180 may include elements designed to improve interaction with visually impaired users. For example, lower control panel 180 may include tactile elements such as raised features representing actions or words (e.g., Braille), or the ability to interact with the user using audio input and output.

[0124] The user interface 500 can be disposed on an exterior surface of the upper housing portion 110. The user interface 500 can include a receptacle spotlight 114 disposed on a lower portion of the user interface housing. The receptacle spotlight 114 can provide receptacle lighting 115 ( FIG. 2 ) that shines downward and illuminates the dispensing area 116. The illumination of the dispensing area 116 is aesthetically pleasing and makes it easy for a user to find a receptacle, place it in the appropriate position on the receptacle rest 116, and receive a beverage from the nozzle 170. In another embodiment, the receptacle spotlight 114 can be disposed on an exterior surface of the upper housing portion 110.

[0125] In one embodiment, user interface 500 may include ambient light 112 for projecting ambient lighting 113 onto the front of front panel 100e. In one embodiment, ambient lighting 113 may be a series of lights surrounding the periphery of the housing of user interface 500. Ambient lighting 113 is aesthetically pleasing and makes it easier for a user to find and utilize user interface 500.

[0126] In one aspect, the beverage dispensing system 10 may include a proximity sensor 120. The proximity sensor 120 may determine when a user approaches the beverage dispensing system 10. Upon determining that a user is approaching, the beverage dispensing system 10 may illuminate one or more of the container spotlight 114 and / or ambient lights 112 to draw the user to the user interface 500 and the dispensing area 116. In one aspect, the proximity sensor may be incorporated within the housing of the user interface 500. In another aspect, the proximity sensor 120 may be located on an exterior surface of the upper housing 110.

[0127] The beverage dispensing system 10 may also include an ambient light sensor 108. The beverage dispensing system 10 may illuminate the container spotlight 114 and / or the ambient light 112 based in part on the amount of ambient light sensed by the ambient light sensor 108. For example, in dark, low light conditions where the ambient light sensor 108 determines that the ambient light is below a threshold level, the beverage dispensing system 10 may reduce the light intensity of the ambient light 112 and / or the container spotlight 114. Conversely, in bright, high light conditions where the ambient light sensor 108 determines that the ambient light is above a threshold level, the beverage dispensing system 10 may increase the light intensity of the ambient light 112 and / or the container spotlight 114.

[0128] In one embodiment, one or more dispensing nozzles 170 can be located directly below the user interface 500. In one embodiment, the dispensing nozzles 170 can be located on an exterior portion of the upper housing portion 110. In another embodiment, the dispensing nozzles 170 can be integrated into the housing for the user interface 500. Ingredients selected on the user interface 500 can be mixed through the dispensing nozzles 170 and within the user's container to create a customized beverage.

[0129] The beverage dispensing system 10 can authenticate the user in order to track the user's preferences and recipes, suggest custom beverages, and facilitate payment for custom beverages. For example, the user can be authenticated via user input on the user interface 500 or via one or more sensors, readers, or scanners incorporated into the beverage dispenser 10. In one aspect, the user can be authenticated as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 943,395, filed April 2, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0130] In some embodiments, the user interface 500 may allow a customer to enter a user code (e.g., a username or phone number) that identifies a particular customer. In some embodiments, the upper housing portion 110 may include an authentication sensor 104 positioned on an exterior surface. As discussed below with respect to FIGS. 11-16 , the authentication sensor 104 may be utilized to identify a user and / or a user container to enable selection and dispensing of a custom beverage and / or to enable signing in to a user account on the beverage dispensing system 10. In one aspect, the authentication sensor 104 may include one or more readers or scanners that read a machine-readable item to identify the customer. The machine-readable item may include, but is not limited to, a barcode, a magnetic strip, a quick response (QR) code, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, a Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., a cell phone), a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) device, an acoustic communication device, or an ultrasonic communication device (e.g., a device with LISNR® ultrasonic technology). In one aspect, the authentication sensor 104 may include one or more biometric sensors to identify one or more biometric characteristics of the customer. The biometric sensor(s) may include, but are not limited to, a fingerprint reader, a finger vein scanner, a retina scanner, an iris scanner, a camera (for taking pictures and / or recording video), a face scanner, or a microphone. The customer's biometric characteristic(s) may include a fingerprint, a finger vein pattern, a retina profile, an iris profile, a face profile, and a voice profile.

[0131] In one aspect, the authentication sensor 104 may be a video sensor and may identify a user and / or make one or more ingredients available by recognizing a series of user movements. For example, the authentication sensor 104 may recognize a user's dancing to identify a user and / or make one or more ingredients available. The authentication sensor 104 may recognize a user's movement to identify a user and / or make one or more ingredients available. In one aspect, the beverage dispenser 10 may provide a discounted beverage or discounted ingredients based on dancing and / or movement performed in front of the beverage dispenser 10 and recognized by the authentication sensor 104.

[0132] In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 10 may allow any user to dispense pure water, i.e., filtered water, without any additional ingredients, additives, or flavorings, without identifying or authenticating the user. In such embodiments, the user interface 500 of the dispenser 10 may allow the user to select pure water, and the beverage dispenser 10 may begin dispensing without identifying or authenticating the customer. If the customer desires to dispense beverage(s) other than pure water, the beverage dispenser 10 may request identification and authentication of the customer.

[0133] The lower housing portion 130 can house portions of the refrigeration system 160, including, for example, an evaporator coil, an evaporator fan motor and fan, a compressor, a condenser coil, and a condenser fan motor and fan. In one aspect, the refrigeration system 160 can reduce the temperature within one or both of the lower housing portion 130 and the upper housing portion 110. The refrigeration system 160 can operate in a conventional vapor compression cycle to maintain the fluid diluent and fluid concentrate at a desired temperature. In a vapor compression cycle, a gas-phase refrigerant is compressed in a compressor, increasing its temperature and pressure. The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant is then circulated through a heat exchanger (condenser), where it is cooled by heat transfer to the surrounding air. Due to the heat transfer to the surrounding air, the refrigerant condenses back from the gas phase into a liquid. The refrigerant then passes through a throttling device, which reduces the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant. The cooler refrigerant exits the throttling device and enters a second heat exchanger (evaporator), which provides cooled air to the area to be refrigerated. Heat transfer between the evaporator and the area to be refrigerated causes the refrigerant to evaporate, or change from a saturated mixture of liquid and vapor to a superheated vapor. The vapor leaving the evaporator is then returned to the compressor to repeat the cycle.

[0134] In one aspect, the refrigeration system 160 can include a chiller 162 for chilling the fluid in one or more of the refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a and the refrigerated non-foam diluent conduit 144a. The chiller 162 can be located in the lower housing portion 130 or in the upper housing portion 110. In one aspect, the chiller 162 can be a cold plate or a coil chiller. In another aspect, the chiller 162 can be a water bath 118, and a portion of the refrigeration system 160 can generate an ice bank within the water bath 118.

[0135] Refrigeration system 160 may use any suitable type of refrigerant to cool the interior of outer housing 100, including, for example, one or both of lower housing portion 130 and upper housing portion 110. For example, R134A (tetrafluoroethane), CO2 (carbon dioxide), or a hydrocarbon may be used. The refrigeration components of refrigeration unit 160 may be disposed within lower housing portion 130 and separated by insulation, if necessary. Alternatively, some of the components of refrigeration system 160 may be disposed in upper housing portion 110.

[0136] In one aspect, the beverage dispenser 10 can include a heater 135 for rapidly heating the liquid in one or more of the heated sparkling diluent conduit 146c and the heated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144c. The heater can be located in the lower housing portion 130 or in the upper housing portion 110. In one aspect, the heater can include a boiler, an electric heating element, a hot plate, a microwave, or other rapid heating means.

[0137] The lower housing portion 130 can also include ingredients that can be used to create a custom beverage recipe. As discussed herein, the ingredients can include one or more of still water at an ambient temperature, e.g., 76°F, still water cooled to, e.g., 32°F, still water reheated to, e.g., 180°F, sparkling water at an ambient temperature, e.g., 76°F, sparkling water cooled to, e.g., 32°F, or sparkling water heated to, e.g., 180°F. The ingredients can include branded beverage concentrates, flavorings such as plum, blueberry, mango, cherry, grape, kiwi, strawberry, lemon, lime, passion fruit, apple, melon, tangerine, raspberry, orange, pomegranate, pineapple, coconut, grapefruit, acai, watermelon, peach, or any combination thereof. Additionally, flavorings can include herbs, spices, or vegetables, such as mint, black tea, green tea, red tea, white tea, celery, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender, carrot, cucumber, barbamate, cocca extract, ginger, chlorophyll, aloe, cinnamon, ginseng, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, one or more flavorings can include fresh ingredients that do not contain preservatives. Additionally, ingredients can include minerals such as boron, phosphorus, titanium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, cadmium, and aluminum. In one embodiment, the mineral component can simulate the taste profile of mineral water from a specific region. For example, the mineral component can simulate the taste profile of water from the German Alps, Italian Alps, or French Alps. The ingredients can also include additives such as vitamins, electrolytes, energy, calm, protein, fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, sweeteners, and other functional ingredients such as calcium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, magnesium, caffeine, fiber, protein, taurine, ribose, omega-3, or any combination thereof.

[0138] As discussed herein, "sparkling" is defined as dissolved or infused gas bubbles. The infused gas can be carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or a mixture of gases. For example, "sparkling water" is water with infused gas bubbles.

[0139] 2-3 , the lower housing portion 130 can house a gas tank 136, one or more filters 154, an additive source 148, a mineral source 150, a flavoring source 134, a pump 138, and a valve 140. As discussed in more detail below, the gas tank 136, the filter 154, the additive source 148, the mineral source 150, and the flavoring source 134 can be utilized to provide one or more ingredients that can be combined to create a custom beverage. In one aspect, the one or more additive sources 148, the mineral source 150, and / or the flavoring source 134 can be positioned near a window 152 so that they are visible to a user of the beverage dispenser 10.

[0140] The flavoring sources 134 may contain flavoring concentrates for mixing with a diluent to produce a beverage. Each of the flavoring sources 134 may include a valve 140 for connection to the beverage dispensing system 10. For example, a flavoring conduit may be fluidly connected to each of the flavoring sources 134 through the concentrate source valve 140. Each of the flavoring conduits may be fluidly connected to a dispensing nozzle 170. A flavoring pump 138 may engage each of the concentrate conduits to move the flavoring concentrate through the flavoring conduits. The flavoring pump 138 may be a gas or electric diaphragm pump. In another aspect, the flavoring pump 138 may be a peristaltic pump.

[0141] Peristaltic pumps require lower durometer tubing to move fluid through their respective conduits. Therefore, when the flavor pump 138 is a peristaltic pump, the lower durometer tubing may need to be replaced more frequently than typical beverage dispensing system tubing. In one aspect, the flavor source 134 may include integrated tubing to make it easier for a user to replace the flavor source and tubing in the beverage dispenser 10. For example, a user can simply remove an empty flavor source 134, including its integrated tubing, and replace it with a full flavor source 134 with a new integrated tubing. A flavor source 134 with an integrated tubing also prevents flavor contamination when the empty flavor source 134 is replaced with a new flavor source. For example, an end user may forget to flush the conduits and / or replace the tubing when replacing an empty flavor source 134 with a new flavor source 134 of a different flavor. The integral tube can protect the user from such contamination.

[0142] In one aspect of the present invention, one or more flavoring sources 134 can be disposable containers that can be removed from the beverage dispensing system 10 when empty, for example, after the beverage flavor has been completely dispensed. In another aspect, one or more flavoring sources 134 can be reusable containers that can be refilled with flavoring on a regular basis or as needed. For example, one or more flavoring sources 134 can be containers or cartridges that are emptied and refilled daily with fresh ingredients. In one aspect, one or more flavoring sources 134 can be vacuum-sealed cartridges containing fresh ingredients.

[0143] The flavoring source 134 can be a self-pressurized concentrate, such as a bag-in-box concentrate or a bag-on-valve concentrate source, as described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 9,873,606, issued January 23, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In one aspect, the flavoring source 134 can be a non-pressurized bag-on-valve concentrate source. Because it is not pressurized, the non-pressurized bag-on-valve concentrate source can be shipped through the U.S. Postal System, making it particularly suitable for e-commerce.

[0144] In one embodiment, one or more flavoring sources 134 may include quick connect couplings for connecting the flavoring sources 134 to tubing within the beverage dispenser 10 .

[0145] The valve 140 can control the rate at which the flavor concentrate enters the beverage dispensing system 10 and ultimately the nozzle 170. In one embodiment of the present invention, the valve 140 can limit the flow rate of the flavor concentrate to approximately 0.1 ounces per second, thus a 46:1 capacity. The flow rate of the flavor concentrate can be modified by the valve 140 based on the concentration ratio of the flavor concentrates in the respective flavor sources 134. The flavor concentrates can be in any concentration ratio. In one embodiment of the present invention, the flavor concentrates can be in up to a dilution ratio of approximately 100:1 by volume, allowing for storage of highly concentrated beverages in a relatively small space. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the flavor concentrates can be in up to a dilution ratio of approximately 30:1 by volume. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the flavor concentrates can be in up to a dilution ratio of approximately 80:1 by volume.

[0146] In one embodiment, the beverage dispensing system 10 can include a pressurized diluent source for supplying diluent, such as water, to the beverage dispensing system 10. In one embodiment, the diluent can be at typical household water pressure, e.g., approximately 50 to 300 pounds per square inch (psi). The diluent source can provide the diluent to a pump that dispenses the diluent throughout the beverage dispensing system 10. In one embodiment, the pump can be located within the lower housing portion 130. The diluent can pass through a filter 154 and enter one or more diluent conduits. For example, the beverage dispensing system 10 can include diluent conduits entering the coil pack 118 to provide still water at ambient temperature, chilled still water, heated still water, ambient sparkling water, chilled sparkling water, and heated sparkling water. In one aspect, one or more of the diluents (ambient still water, chilled still water, heated still water, ambient sparkling water, chilled sparkling water, and heated sparkling water) can be mixed to dispense cold still water, slightly chilled still water, ambient still water, slightly hot still water, hot still water, cold sparkling water, slightly chilled sparkling water, ambient sparkling water, slightly hot sparkling water, and hot sparkling water as requested by the user for the custom beverage recipe. The water can be mixed with one or more additives, one or more flavorings, and / or one or more minerals to create a custom beverage.

[0147] The filter 154 may be any desired type of filter system. For example, the filter 154 may include one or more particulate filters and a charcoal filter. In other aspects, the filter 154 may include a reverse osmosis filtration system or a distillation system that produces distilled water as a dilution liquid. In one aspect, the beverage dispenser 10 may include a filter sensor system for determining when the filter 154 needs replacement. For example, the filter sensor system may include pressure sensors each upstream and downstream of the filter 154. When the pressure difference between these pressure sensors exceeds a preset value, the beverage dispenser may change the system operator and / or prevent further dispensing until the filter 154 is replaced.

[0148] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18 , the diluent passes through a diluent source conduit 142 that connects to components of the beverage dispenser 10 within the housing 100. The diluent source conduit 142 within the housing 100 is fluidly connected to a filter 154 to clean the diluent flowing therethrough. After the filter 154, the diluent conduit may split into two lines: a still diluent conduit 144 and a sparkling diluent conduit 146. The diluent (water) is mixed with pressurized gas to form sparkling water or soda. The sparkling diluent conduit 146 may be fluidly connected to a gas mixing chamber 137, where pressurized gas is supplied to the diluent from a gas tank 136. The resulting sparkling diluent exits the gas mixing chamber 137 and enters the conduit 146.

[0149] In one embodiment, the gas tank 136 can be a carbon dioxide gas tank, and the carbon dioxide can be mixed with a diluent in the gas mixing chamber 137 .

[0150] In another embodiment, the gas tank 136 can be a nitrogen gas tank, and nitrogen can be mixed into the diluent in the gas mixing chamber 137. The nitrogen-infused diluent can provide syrup and sweetened beverages with or without additional additives and / or flavorings. In this embodiment, nitrogen gas can be mixed into the diluent in the gas mixing chamber 137 at a pressure higher than that required for carbon dioxide, as it may be more difficult to dissolve in water. In one embodiment, the gas mixing chamber 137 and / or the nozzle 170 can include a restrictor plate for squeezing the beverage through small holes to inject the nitrogen gas in the diluent. The nozzle 170 can be a slow-pour water tap designed to dispense the nitrogen-infused diluent at a controlled rate to allow foam formation upon dispensing and to provide a unique flavor and appearance. Such a slow-pour nozzle 170 can maintain the pressure required to mix the nitro-sparkling diluent.

[0151] In one embodiment, the gas mixing chamber 137 can include a liquid / gas contactor membrane unit including a cylindrical tube containing hollow fiber membranes. The diluent can be pumped into the surrounding space outside the hollow fiber membranes. Nitrogen gas or nitrogen dioxide / carbon dioxide gas can be passed through the inside of the hollow fiber membranes at a set pressure determined by a supply regulator, and the permeated nitrogen or nitrogen dioxide / carbon dioxide contacts the diluent outside the membrane and is injected into the diluent. In one embodiment, nitrogen or a nitrogen mixture can be passed through the hollow fiber membranes, while the diluent is passed into the fluid space surrounding the hollow fiber membranes. In another embodiment, the diluent can be passed through the hollow fiber membranes while nitrogen or a nitrogen mixture is passed into the fluid space.

[0152] Varying and controlling the gas pressure inside the hollow fiber membrane relative to the pressure of the diluent outside the hollow fiber membrane allows for different degrees of gas injection into the water. The gas-injected diluent (nitrogen-injected diluent) can be transferred from the liquid, gas contactor membrane through a flow control needle valve or Brix valve and then transferred to, for example, a nozzle 170.

[0153] In one embodiment, the gas tank 136 can contain a flavoring gas such that the flavoring gas can alter the taste of the beverage. In another embodiment, the beverage dispenser 10 can include multiple gas tanks 136. In some embodiments of the beverage dispenser 10 having multiple gas tanks 136, each gas tank 136 can contain a flavoring gas such that each gas can alter the taste of the beverage. In these embodiments, each gas tank 136 can contain a different flavoring gas. Each gas tank 136 can include a respective gas mixing chamber 137 and a respective sparkling conduit for mixing at the nozzle 170. In one embodiment, the flavoring gas can be released as an aroma to induce a user to order a beverage.

[0154] In another embodiment, the beverage dispenser 10 can utilize a tankless gas system. For example, the beverage dispenser 10 can include a nitrogen membrane separator to extract nitrogen from ambient air for infusion in the diluent.

[0155] In one embodiment, the beverage dispenser 10 can controllably inject gas into the diluent without the gas mixing chamber 137. For example, the beverage dispenser 10 can dispense gas directly into the diluent conduit. In one embodiment, the beverage dispenser 10 can utilize pulse width modulation to dispense gas into the diluent conduit at a specific ratio.

[0156] The sparkling diluent conduit 146 may split into multiple conduits. For example, the sparkling diluent conduit 146 may split into a refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a and an ambient sparkling diluent conduit 146b to supply cold sparkling diluent and ambient temperature sparkling diluent, respectively, to the nozzle 170. In another embodiment, the sparkling diluent conduit 146 may split into a refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a, an ambient sparkling diluent conduit 146b, and a heated sparkling diluent conduit 146c to supply cold sparkling diluent, ambient temperature sparkling diluent, and hot sparkling diluent, respectively, to the nozzle 170. The refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a may pass through a water bath 118 to reduce the temperature of the diluent in the refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a. The heated sparkling diluent conduit 146c may pass through a portion of the heater 135 to increase the temperature of the diluent in the heated sparkling diluent conduit 146c. In one aspect, the surrounding sparkling diluent conduit 146b does not pass through a portion of the water bath 118 or the heater 135, allowing the diluent in the surrounding sparkling diluent conduit 146b to be at ambient temperature.

[0157] The non-sparkling diluent conduit 144 can be split into multiple conduits. For example, the diluent conduit 144 can still be split into a refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 146a and an ambient non-sparkling diluent conduit 144b to supply cold non-sparkling diluent and ambient temperature non-sparkling diluent to the nozzle 170, respectively. In another embodiment, the non-sparkling diluent conduit 144 can be split into a refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a, an ambient non-sparkling diluent conduit 144b, and a heated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144c to supply cold non-sparkling diluent, ambient temperature non-sparkling diluent, and hot non-sparkling diluent to the nozzle 170, respectively. The refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 146a can be passed through a water bath 118 to lower the temperature of the diluent in the refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a. The heated non-foaming diluent conduit 144c may pass through a portion of the heater 135 to increase the temperature of the diluent in the heated non-foaming diluent conduit 144c. In one embodiment, the surrounding non-foaming diluent conduit 144b does not pass through a portion of the water bath 118 or heater 135, and the diluent in the surrounding non-foaming diluent conduit 144b may be at ambient temperature.

[0158] Flavoring source 134 may be fluidly connected to nozzle 170 via flavoring conduit 155, such that the respective flavoring may be dispensed with a non-sparkling or sparkling diluent into a user's container, cup, or pitcher to dispense a beverage. Flavoring conduit 155 may also be connected to valve 140 and engage pump 138.

[0159] In one aspect, one or more of the refrigerated sparkling conduit 146a, the ambient sparkling conduit 146b, the heated sparkling conduit 146c, the refrigerated non-sparkling conduit 144a, the ambient non-sparkling conduit 144b, and / or the heated non-sparkling conduit 144c may pass through one or more of the flavoring sources 134 such that one or more flavorings are added to the respective dilutions prior to the nozzle 170. In another aspect, the beverage dispensing system 10 may include a flavoring source 134 conduit bypass. For example, one or more of the non-sparkling diluent conduits 144a, 144b, or 144c or the sparkling diluent conduits 146a, 146b, or 146c can be connected to the valve so that when the valve is actuated, the respective diluents are directed through one or more flavor sources 134 to the flavor conduit 155, allowing one or more flavorants to be added to the respective diluents before the nozzle 170.

[0160] The additive source 148 may be fluidly connected to the nozzle 170 via an additive conduit 156 so that the respective additive may be dispensed with a non-sparkling or sparkling diluent into a user's container, cup, or pitcher to dispense the beverage. The additive conduit 156 may be engaged with the pump 138.

[0161] In one embodiment, one or more of the refrigerated sparkling conduit 146a, the ambient sparkling conduit 146b, the heated sparkling conduit 146c, the refrigerated still conduit 144a, the ambient still conduit 144b, and / or the heated still conduit 144c can pass through the mineral source 150 so that minerals are added to the respective diluents before the nozzles 170. In another embodiment, the beverage dispensing system 10 can include a mineral source 150 conduit bypass. For example, one or more of the still diluent conduits 144a, 144b, or 144c or the sparkling diluent conduits 146a, 146b, or 146c can be connected to a valve such that, when the valve is actuated, the respective diluents are directed through the mineral source 150 and into the mineral conduit 157 so that minerals are added to the respective diluents before the nozzles 170.

[0162] In another aspect, the mineral source 150 can be fluidly connected to the nozzle 170 via a mineral conduit 157, with the respective minerals being dispensed with a non-sparkling or sparkling diluent into a user's container, cup, or pitcher to dispense a beverage. The mineral conduit 157 can be engaged with the pump 138. In one aspect, the beverage dispensing system 10 can include a pressure transducer for pressure regulating the diluent through one or more of the non-sparkling diluent conduits 144, 144a, 144b, and 144c, and the nozzle 170 for proper water flow management.

[0163] In one embodiment, the refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a and the refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a can pass through a water bath 118 and a coil pack disposed within the water bath 118, where the respective sparkling and non-sparkling diluents are cooled to a low temperature, for example, about 32°F. In one embodiment, the refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a and the refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a can have multiple closely spaced turns within the coil pack to increase the volume of the sparkling and non-sparkling diluents within the coil pack. The refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a and the refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a can exit the coil pack 118 and deliver the cooled diluent to a nozzle 170, where the sparkling and / or non-sparkling diluent can be dispensed into a user's container, cup, or pitcher to dispense the beverage. In some embodiments, the refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a may be connected to a diluent storage tank 139 after exiting the water bath 118. The diluent storage tank 139 may be configured to store the chilled diluent and maintain it at a desired temperature prior to dispensing, thereby allowing the beverage dispensing system 10 to dispense larger volumes of chilled diluent during times of peak demand. In some embodiments, the diluent storage tank 139 may be connected to both the non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a and the sparkling diluent conduit 146a and configured to separately store both the non-sparkling diluent and the sparkling diluent that have passed through the water bath 118.

[0164] Because dissolved gas levels depend on water temperature and gas pressure, the lower the water temperature, the more effectively gas is entrained and maintained in the diluent. In one embodiment, a portion of the sparkling diluent conduit 146 can be placed within a coil pack within the water bath 118 before connecting to the gas mixing chamber 137. The sparkling diluent conduit 146 can have multiple closely spaced turns within the coil pack to increase the volume of diluent within the coil pack. The cooled diluent can exit the water bath 118 and enter the gas mixing chamber 137. The coil within the coil pack can ensure that the gas mixing chamber 137, into which the diluent enters, is at a desired temperature, approximately 35°F.

[0165] The water bath 118 can include an ice bank. In one embodiment, the water bath 118 can be filled with water such that the water has a level above the top of the evaporator coil disposed within the water bath 118.

[0166] As shown in FIG. 6, the beverage dispenser 10 can include a side housing 220. The side housing 220 can be integral with the housing 100 or can be an add-on unit attached to the exterior of the housing 100. In one embodiment, the side housing 220 can include an identification sticker dispenser that dispenses pre-printed identification stickers to be placed on a user's beverage container. In another embodiment, the side housing 220 can include a printer for printing identification stickers on demand. As shown and discussed in connection with FIGS. 7-10, the side housing 220 can also include one or more of a container dispenser 220a, a cartridge dispenser 220b, a garnish dispenser 220c, and / or a bottle cleaner 220d.

[0167] The side housing 220 may include a container dispenser 220a for dispensing containers 216 to a user. For example, a user wishing to dispense a beverage from the beverage dispenser 10 may first need a beverage container. The container dispenser 220a may include a container 216 that may be purchased from the user's account and / or via a user interface 500 on the beverage dispenser 10. After purchase, the container 216 may be passed to the user through a dispensing slot 222. In one embodiment, the container dispenser 220a may include a transparent front 224 for making the container 216 visible within the container dispenser 220a. In one embodiment, the container dispenser 220a may dispense reusable containers 216, such as plastic, metal, or glass containers 216. In one embodiment, the container dispenser 220a may dispense biodegradable containers 216, such as paper containers 216.

[0168] The side housing 220 can include a cartridge dispenser 220b for dispensing ingredient cartridges 1516, such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 9,272,827, issued March 1, 2016, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The cartridge dispenser 220b can accommodate multiple cartridges 1516, each containing a different beverage flavor or ingredient, providing consumers with additional beverage options. The cartridges 1516 can hold one or more beverage ingredients, which can be selected from a list including syrups, pastes, powders, granules, or other compositions. Additionally, the cartridges 1516 can hold other ingredients or flavors, such as nutrients or vitamins. In another embodiment, the cartridges 1516 can contain different liquid flavors / ingredients. The liquid flavors / ingredients can be generated by condensed liquids, packing the essence of the beverage with the full power of healthy ingredients and nutrients. The liquid flavoring / ingredient may include a fruit and / or flavor base such as plum, blueberry, mango, cherry, grape, kiwi, strawberry, lemon, lime, passion fruit, apple, melon, tangerine, raspberry, orange, pomegranate, pineapple, coconut, grapefruit, acai, watermelon, peach, or any combination thereof. Additionally, the liquid flavoring / ingredient may include functional ingredients including herbs and spices or vegetables such as mint, black tea, green tea, red tea, white tea, celery, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender, carrot, cucumber, barbamate, cocca extract, ginger, chlorophyll, aloe, cinnamon, ginseng, or any combination thereof. Additionally, the liquid flavoring / ingredient may include functional ingredients including minerals, vitamins, electrolytes, energy, caramel, protein, fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, sweeteners, and other additives, as well as calcium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, magnesium, caffeine, fiber, protein, taurine, ribose, omega-3, or any combination thereof. Additionally, the liquid flavoring / ingredient may include any combination of functional ingredients having a fruit or flavoring base, herbs and spices or vegetables, or functional ingredients including minerals and / or vitamins, without departing from this invention.

[0169] In one aspect, the cartridges 1516 can be arranged in an array with product information related to the cartridges readily visible to the consumer, which creates an aesthetically pleasing consumer impression. The cartridge dispenser 220b can include a variety of eye-catching colors and advertising to attract the consumer's attention.

[0170] The side housing 220 can include a garnish dispenser 220c. The garnish dispenser 220c can include one or more receptacles 230 for holding fresh ingredients 232. For example, the fresh ingredients 232 can include oranges, bananas, and limes. When a garnish is selected by a user on the user interface 500, a mechanism 234 can transfer the one or more fresh ingredients 232 to a slicer 236 or a juicer 238 for dispensing through a dispensing slot 222 at the bottom of the garnish dispenser 220c. The garnish dispenser 220c can include a transparent front surface so that the fresh ingredients 232 are visible to the user.

[0171] The side housing 220 can include a bottle cleaner 220d. In one embodiment, the bottle cleaner 220d can include a nozzle 244 for dispensing a sanitizing fluid into a user's bottle for cleaning. For example, a user can present a bottle to the bottle cleaner 220 and orient the bottle over the nozzle 244. In one embodiment, the nozzle 244 can dispense a sanitizing gas, such as air containing ozone. In this embodiment, the bottle cleaner 220d can include a door 240 for retaining the sanitizing gas within the bottle cleaner 220d. In another embodiment, the nozzle 244 can dispense hot water with or without soap. In another embodiment, the nozzle 244 can dispense water containing ozone or chlorine. After contacting the user's bottle, the water from the nozzle 244 can exit the bottle cleaner 220d through a drain 242. In one embodiment, the drain 242 can include a disposal unit for grinding up food waste without clogging the drain 242.

[0172] The bottle cleaner 220d may also include one or more ultraviolet lights 246 for sanitizing user bottles directed into the bottle cleaner 220d. The ultraviolet lights 246 may be utilized in conjunction with or instead of the nozzles 244 for bottle cleaning.

[0173] In one aspect, the bottle cleaner 220 and / or the beverage dispensing system 10 may include a sanitizing system such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 9,107,538, issued August 18, 2015, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0174] As shown in FIGS. 11-12 , the dispensing area 116 can include a cup rest 190, a drip tray 192, and a drain pan 194. In one embodiment, the drain pan 194 can be sized to hold a substantial amount of liquid, such as 65 ounces. The cup rest 190 can include multiple openings that allow fluid to flow through the cup rest 190 and into the drip tray 192. In some embodiments, the cup rest 190 can include a vessel centering system 191 configured to assist a user in centering a beverage container under the dispensing nozzle 170. For example, the vessel centering system 191 can include physical features designed to mate with the bottom of the vessel, including a groove, recess, or raised protrusion. In other embodiments, the vessel centering system 191 can include a magnet configured to attract a corresponding magnetic material to the center of the bottom of the user's vessel. The position of the magnet and the resulting attraction to the user's vessel centers the vessel under the dispensing nozzle 170. The cup rest 190 and drip tray 192 can snap together for easy emptying by removing the single unit from the beverage dispenser 10. A rear outlet 193 on the drip tray 192 can provide a controlled outflow into a drain pan 194, providing a controlled method of emptying the drip tray 192 into a drain or sink. The drip tray 192 can include one or more clips 196 that engage with an edge 197 of the drain pan 194.

[0175] In one aspect, the beverage dispenser 10 can be hooked to a drain so that waste fluid in the drip tray 192 drains into the drain. In another aspect, the beverage dispenser 10 can include a waste receptacle 198 (FIG. 1) so that waste fluid in the drip tray 192 drains into the waste receptacle 198. In one aspect, the beverage dispenser 10 can include a sensor in the waste receptacle 198 to determine when the waste receptacle 198 is full and needs to be emptied.

[0176] In one embodiment, the beverage dispenser 10 can emit an aroma to attract a user. For example, the beverage dispenser 10 can emit a coffee or tea aroma to entice a user to order a beverage. In another embodiment, the beverage dispenser 10 can emit a fruit aroma to entice a user to order a beverage.

[0177] 13 to 15 show a beverage dispenser 1010. The beverage dispenser 1010 has a paragraph

[0178] ~

[0179] 1 includes all of the features and components of beverage dispenser 10 as discussed above. However, beverage dispenser 10 can be a stand-alone unit, while beverage dispenser 1010 can be a countertop unit. For example, beverage dispenser 1010 includes outer housing 1100. Outer housing 1100 is positioned on counter 2. In one aspect, outer housing 1100 includes a

[0180] ~

[0181] The cabinet 2 may include all of the components and features of the upper housing portion 110 discussed above in paragraphs

[0113] through

[0176] . The cabinet 2 may include all of the components and features of the lower housing portion 130 discussed above in paragraphs

[0113] through

[0176] .

[0178] In aspects of the beverage dispenser 1010 that locate all components and features below the countertop within the cabinet 2, the outer housing 1100 may be configured to include only the dispensing nozzle 170 and the user interface 500 in a compact, minimal form factor that maximizes available countertop space. For example, as shown in FIG. 102, the outer housing 1100 may be formed as a dispensing tower that supports the dispensing nozzle 170 and the user interface 500. These aspects of the beverage dispenser 1010 may otherwise be functionally similar to aspects from the beverage dispenser 1010 discussed above in paragraphs

[0113] through

[0176] .

[0179] The countertop embodiment of the beverage dispenser 1010 may be configured to be a modular unit that can be easily installed. For example, the cabinet 2 may be sized to fit into a standard-sized opening found in a countertop, similar to the sizing of kitchen appliances such as dishwashers or ovens. Thus, the cabinet 2 may have an appropriate width, depth, and height to seamlessly integrate with an existing opening. This allows the beverage dispenser 1010 to be placed within the opening without requiring complex installation procedures. Once placed, the beverage dispenser 1010 can be connected to an external supply of necessary power and diluents and placed in operation. These embodiments of the beverage dispenser 1010 allow for rapid deployment of the beverage dispenser 1010.

[0180] The beverage dispenser 1010 may be controlled by an electronic control module that includes a programmable microprocessor that sends electronic signals to activate the pump 138 and open one or more valves 140 to dispense beverages. The electronic control module may provide intelligent control of the beverage system. The electronic control module may also monitor system conditions such as fluid temperature, number of dispensed beverages, and sensors that determine additives, flavors, and mineral content remaining in the beverage dispensing system. The electronic control module may also provide service delivery diagnostics and the ability to remotely poll electronic conditions.

[0181] The beverage dispensing system 1010 may include a user interface 500 to facilitate beverage selection and dispensing. The user interface 500 may include a display 502 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or light emitting diode (LED) display, which may be a touchscreen display) for displaying information to a customer. In some embodiments, the user interface 500 may include one or more actuators (e.g., a button, lever, handle, or icon on a touchscreen, which may or may not be integrated with the display screen 502) for receiving commands from a customer. In some embodiments, the actuator(s) of the user interface 500 may be configured to initiate the dispensing of a beverage from a dispensing nozzle 170 of the beverage dispensing system 1010.

[0182] In another aspect, the beverage dispensing system 1010 may include a lower control panel 180 (FIG. 5) to allow a user who is unable to physically reach the user interface 500 to select and dispense a beverage. The lower control panel 180 may be located on an exterior surface of the lower housing portion 130. In one aspect, the lower control panel 180 may be located on an exterior surface of the door 102. The lower control panel 180 may be located to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. For example, the lower control panel 180 may be located approximately 36 inches from the floor.

[0183] In some embodiments, lower control panel 180 may include one or more actuators (e.g., buttons, levers, handles, or icons on a touchscreen that may or may not be integrated with display screen 502) for receiving commands from a user. For example, lower control panel 180 may include an on button 188, a left directional button 182a, a right directional button 182b, a select button 184, and a water button 186. In one aspect, a user who cannot physically reach user interface 500 can select button 188 to place the machine in an alternate control mode. In this alternate control mode, the user can use left directional button 182a, right directional button 182b, and select button 184 to navigate through a graphical user interface on display 502 to customize and order a beverage. In one aspect, a user can still dispense water without requiring a customer payment by pressing water button 186. In one aspect, lower control panel 180 may include elements designed to improve interaction with visually impaired users. For example, lower control panel 180 may include tactile elements such as raised features representing actions or words (e.g., Braille), or the ability to interact with the user using audio input and output.

[0184] The beverage dispensing system 1010 can authenticate the user in order to track the user's preferences and recipes, suggest custom beverages, and facilitate payment for custom beverages. For example, the user can be authenticated via user input on the user interface 500 or via one or more sensors, readers, or scanners incorporated into the beverage dispenser 1010. In one aspect, the user can be authenticated as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 943,395, filed April 2, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0185] In some embodiments, the user interface 500 may allow a customer to enter a user code (e.g., a username or phone number) that identifies a particular customer. In some embodiments, the upper housing portion 110 may include an authentication sensor 104 positioned on an exterior surface. As discussed below with respect to FIGS. 1-12 , the authentication sensor 104 may be utilized to identify a user and / or a user container to enable selection and dispensing of a custom beverage and / or to enable signing in to a user account on the beverage dispensing system 10. In one aspect, the authentication sensor 104 may include one or more readers or scanners that read a machine-readable item to identify the customer. The machine-readable item may include, but is not limited to, a barcode, a magnetic strip, a quick response (QR) code, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, a Bluetooth-enabled device (e.g., a cell phone), a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) device, or an ultrasonic communication device (e.g., a device with LISNR® ultrasonic technology). In one aspect, the authentication sensor 104 may include one or more biometric sensors to identify one or more biometric characteristics of the customer. The biometric sensor(s) may include, but are not limited to, a fingerprint reader, a finger vein scanner, a retina scanner, an iris scanner, a camera (for taking pictures and / or recording video), or a microphone. The customer's biometric characteristic(s) may include a fingerprint, a finger vein pattern, a retina profile, an iris profile, a face profile, and a voice profile.

[0186] Cabinet 2 may house portions of a refrigeration system 160 including, for example, an evaporator coil, an evaporator fan motor and fan, a compressor, a condenser coil, and a condenser fan motor and fan. In one aspect, refrigeration system 160 may reduce the temperature inside cabinet 2. Refrigeration system 160 may operate on a conventional vapor compression cycle to maintain a fluid at a desired temperature. In one aspect, refrigeration system 160 may cool water bath 118 and generate an ice bank within water bath 118.

[0187] Cabinet 2 may also contain ingredients that can be used to create custom beverage recipes. As discussed herein, the ingredients may include one or more of still water at ambient temperature, chilled still water, heated still water, ambient sparkling water, chilled sparkling water, heated sparkling water, branded beverage concentrates, and flavorings such as plum, blueberry, mango, cherry, grape, kiwi, strawberry, lemon, lime, passion fruit, apple, melon, tangerine, raspberry, orange, pomegranate, pineapple, coconut, grapefruit, acai, watermelon, peach, or any combination thereof. In addition, flavorings may include herbs and spices or vegetables such as mint, black tea, green tea, red tea, white tea, celery, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender, carrot, cucumber, barbamate, cocca extract, ginger, chlorophyll, aloe, cinnamon, ginseng, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, one or more flavorings can include fresh ingredients that do not contain preservatives. Additionally, the ingredients can include minerals such as boron, phosphorus, titanium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, cadmium, and aluminum. In one embodiment, the mineral ingredients can simulate the taste profile of mineral water from a particular region. For example, the mineral ingredients can simulate the taste profile of water from the German Alps, Italian Alps, or French Alps. The ingredients can also include additives such as vitamins, electrolytes, energy, calming agents, protein, fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, and sweeteners, as well as other functional ingredients such as calcium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, magnesium, caffeine, fiber, protein, taurine, ribose, omega-3, or any combination thereof.

[0188] 13-15 , cabinet 2 can house gas tank 136, one or more filters 154, additive source 148, mineral source 150, flavoring source 134, pump 138, and valve 140. As discussed in more detail below, gas tank 136, filter 154, additive source 148, mineral source 150, and flavoring source 134 can be utilized to provide one or more ingredients that can be combined to create a custom beverage. In one aspect, one or more additive sources 148, mineral source 150, and / or flavoring source 134 can be positioned near window 152 so that they are visible to a user of beverage dispenser 10.

[0189] Like the beverage dispensing system 10, the beverage dispensing system 1010 can include a pressurized diluent source for supplying diluent, e.g., water, to the beverage dispensing system 1010. In one embodiment, the diluent can be at typical household water pressure, e.g., approximately 50 to 300 pounds per square inch (psi). The diluent source can provide the diluent to a pump that dispenses the diluent throughout the beverage dispensing system 1010. In one embodiment, the pump can be located within the lower housing portion 130. The diluent can pass through a filter 154 and enter one or more diluent conduits. For example, the beverage dispensing system 1010 can include diluent conduits entering the coil pack 118 to provide still water at ambient temperature, chilled still water, heated still water, ambient temperature sparkling water, chilled sparkling water, and heated sparkling water. In one aspect, one or more of the diluents (ambient still water, chilled still water, heated still water, ambient sparkling water, chilled sparkling water, and heated sparkling water) can be mixed to dispense cold still water, slightly chilled still water, ambient still water, slightly hot still water, hot still water, cold sparkling water, slightly chilled sparkling water, ambient sparkling water, slightly hot sparkling water, and hot sparkling water as requested by the user for the custom beverage recipe. The water can be mixed with one or more additives, one or more flavorings, and / or one or more minerals to create a custom beverage.

[0190] The conduits of the beverage dispensing system 1010 may be identical to the conduits of the beverage dispensing system 10, as depicted in FIG. 10. The diluent passes through a diluent source conduit 142 that connects to the components of the beverage dispenser 1010 within the housing 1100 and cabinet 2. Within cabinet 2, the diluent source conduit 142 is fluidly connected to a filter 154 to clean the diluent flowing therethrough. After the filter 154, the diluent conduit may split into two lines: a still diluent conduit 144 and a sparkling diluent conduit 146. The diluent (water) is mixed with pressurized gas to form sparkling water or soda. The sparkling diluent conduit 146 may be fluidly connected to a gas mixing chamber 137, where pressurized gas is supplied to the diluent from a gas tank 136. The resulting sparkling diluent exits the gas mixing chamber 137 and enters conduit 146.

[0191] The sparkling diluent conduit 146 may split into multiple conduits. For example, the sparkling diluent conduit 146 may split into a refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a and an ambient sparkling diluent conduit 146b to supply cold sparkling diluent and ambient temperature sparkling diluent, respectively, to the nozzle 170. In another embodiment, the sparkling diluent conduit 146 may split into a refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a, an ambient sparkling diluent conduit 146b, and a heated sparkling diluent conduit 146c to supply cold sparkling diluent, ambient temperature sparkling diluent, and hot sparkling diluent, respectively, to the nozzle 170. The refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a may pass through a water bath 118 to reduce the temperature of the diluent in the refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a. The heated sparkling diluent conduit 146c may pass through a portion of the heater 135 to increase the temperature of the diluent in the heated sparkling diluent conduit 146c. In one aspect, the surrounding sparkling diluent conduit 146b does not pass through a portion of the water bath 118 or the heater 135, allowing the diluent in the surrounding sparkling diluent conduit 146b to be at ambient temperature.

[0192] The non-sparkling diluent conduit 144 can be split into multiple conduits. For example, the diluent conduit 144 can still be split into a refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 146a and an ambient non-sparkling diluent conduit 144b to supply cold non-sparkling diluent and ambient temperature non-sparkling diluent to the nozzle 170, respectively. In another embodiment, the non-sparkling diluent conduit 144 can be split into a refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a, an ambient non-sparkling diluent conduit 144b, and a heated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144c to supply cold non-sparkling diluent, ambient temperature non-sparkling diluent, and hot non-sparkling diluent to the nozzle 170, respectively. The refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 146a can be passed through a water bath 118 to lower the temperature of the diluent in the refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a. The heated non-foaming diluent conduit 144c may pass through a portion of the heater 135 to increase the temperature of the diluent in the heated non-foaming diluent conduit 144c. In one embodiment, the surrounding non-foaming diluent conduit 144b does not pass through a portion of the water bath 118 or heater 135, and the diluent in the surrounding non-foaming diluent conduit 144b may be at ambient temperature.

[0193] Flavoring source 134 may be fluidly connected to nozzle 170 via flavoring conduit 155, such that the respective flavoring may be dispensed with a non-sparkling or sparkling diluent into a user's container, cup, or pitcher to dispense a beverage. Flavoring conduit 155 may also be connected to valve 140 and engage pump 138.

[0194] In one aspect, one or more of the refrigerated sparkling conduit 146a, the ambient sparkling conduit 146b, the heated sparkling conduit 146c, the refrigerated non-sparkling conduit 144a, the ambient non-sparkling conduit 144b, and / or the heated non-sparkling conduit 144c may pass through one or more of the flavoring sources 134 such that one or more flavorings are added to the respective dilutions prior to the nozzle 170. In another aspect, the beverage dispensing system 10 may include a flavoring source 134 conduit bypass. For example, one or more of the non-sparkling diluent conduits 144a, 144b, or 144c or the sparkling diluent conduits 146a, 146b, or 146c can be connected to the valve so that when the valve is actuated, the respective diluents are directed through one or more flavor sources 134 to the flavor conduit 155, allowing one or more flavorants to be added to the respective diluents before the nozzle 170.

[0195] The additive source 148 may be fluidly connected to the nozzle 170 via an additive conduit 156 so that the respective additive may be dispensed with a non-sparkling or sparkling diluent into a user's container, cup, or pitcher to dispense the beverage. The additive conduit 156 may be engaged with the pump 138.

[0196] In one embodiment, one or more of the refrigerated sparkling conduit 146a, the ambient sparkling conduit 146b, the heated sparkling conduit 146c, the refrigerated still conduit 144a, the ambient still conduit 144b, and / or the heated still conduit 144c can pass through the mineral source 150 so that minerals are added to the respective diluents before the nozzles 170. In another embodiment, the beverage dispensing system 10 can include a mineral source 150 conduit bypass. For example, one or more of the still diluent conduits 144a, 144b, or 144c or the sparkling diluent conduits 146a, 146b, or 146c can be connected to a valve such that, when the valve is actuated, the respective diluents are directed through the mineral source 150 and into the mineral conduit 157 so that minerals are added to the respective diluents before the nozzles 170. In another embodiment, mineral source 150 can be fluidly connected to nozzle 170 via mineral conduit 157, such that the respective minerals can be dispensed with a non-sparkling or sparkling diluent into a user's container, cup, or pitcher to dispense a beverage. Mineral conduit 157 can be engaged with pump 138.

[0197] In one aspect, the beverage dispensing system 1010 may include a pressure transducer for regulating the pressure of the diluent through one or more of the non-foaming diluent conduits 144 144a 144b and 144c and the nozzle 170 for proper water flow management.

[0198] In one embodiment, the refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a and the refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a can pass through a water bath 118 and a coil pack disposed within the water bath 118, where the respective sparkling and non-sparkling diluents are cooled to a low temperature, for example, about 32°F. In one embodiment, the refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a and the refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a can have multiple closely spaced turns within the coil pack to increase the volume of the sparkling and non-sparkling diluents within the coil pack. The refrigerated sparkling diluent conduit 146a and the refrigerated non-sparkling diluent conduit 144a can exit the coil pack 118 and deliver the cooled diluent to a nozzle 170, where the sparkling and / or non-sparkling diluent can be dispensed into a user's container, cup, or pitcher to dispense the beverage.

[0199] In one embodiment, a portion of the sparkling diluent conduit 146 can be placed within a coil pack within the water bath 118 before connecting to the gas mixing chamber 137. The sparkling diluent conduit 146 can have multiple closely spaced turns within the coil pack to increase the volume of diluent within the coil pack. The cooled diluent can exit the water bath 118 and enter the gas mixing chamber 137. The coil within the coil pack can ensure that the gas mixing chamber 137, into which the diluent enters, is at a desired temperature, approximately 35 degrees Fahrenheit.

[0200] The water bath 118 can include an ice bank. In one embodiment, the water bath 118 can be filled with water such that the water has a level above the top of the evaporator coil disposed within the water bath 118.

[0201] In one aspect, the beverage dispensing system 1010 can be a dispenser tower including a user interface 500 and a dispensing nozzle 170. In this aspect, a water bath 1118 can be located within the cabinet 2, and fluid cooled within the water bath 1118 can be provided to the dispenser tower through a Python connection.

[0202] As shown in Figure 16, in one aspect, the beverage dispensing system 2010 can be wall-mounted. The beverage dispensing system 2010 can include a housing 2500 and a nozzle assembly 170. The beverage dispenser 2010 can include all of the features and components as the beverage dispenser 10 as discussed above in paragraphs

[0113] through

[0176] . However, while the beverage dispenser 10 can be a stand-alone unit, the beverage dispenser 2010 can be a wall unit.

[0203] In one aspect, the user interface 2500 does not include a display screen. In another aspect, the beverage dispensing system 2010 can dispense water or sparkling water. In another aspect, a user can select a custom beverage from the beverage dispensing system 2010 using an application on a mobile phone.

[0204] As shown in FIG. 17 , the beverage dispensing system 10 can include a user interface 2500 and a dispensing nozzle 170. In one embodiment, the user interface 2500 does not include a display screen. In one embodiment, the user interface 2500 can interact with a user's mobile device to utilize the screen. In another embodiment, the beverage dispensing system 2010 can dispense water or sparkling water. In another embodiment, a user can select a custom beverage from the beverage dispensing system 2010 using an application on a mobile phone.

[0205] This section provides an overview of various features of the beverage management system with reference to Figures 19 to 22. Subsequent sections describe various aspects of the beverage management system in more detail.

[0206] 19 is a functional block diagram illustrating a beverage management system 200, according to various embodiments. The beverage management system 200 includes a plurality of customer devices 2021, 2022, ... and 202 N(collectively and generically referred to as “customer devices 202”). According to an embodiment, customer devices 202 may include mobile electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, tablet computers, laptop computers), personal computers, etc., and may be configured to connect to communications network 210.

[0207] The beverage management system 200 also includes a plurality of beverage dispensers 2041, 204 2、 ...and 204 N (collectively and generally referred to as “beverage dispensers 204”). According to an embodiment, beverage dispensers 204 may be post-mix beverage dispensers and may be configured to connect to communications network 210.

[0208] The beverage management system 200 may also include a control system 206 connected to a communications network 210. The control system may include one or more computer systems (e.g., a computer system such as that described with reference to FIG. 16 below) and may be communicatively coupled to a data storage element 208. The data storage element may, according to some embodiments, include a conventional database system. Alternatively, the data storage element 208 may include a portion of or be integral with the control system 206.

[0209] In some embodiments, the data storage element 208 may contain user account information, including beverage purchase history, beverage ratings, beverage preferences, usage statistics, payment information, and bottle information. For example, the data store 208 may include the number and types of beverages purchased, including the ingredients of those beverages. In one aspect, the user account information may include user data from other sources. For example, the user account information may include user physiological data, such as athletic data and / or hydration data. In some aspects, the purchase history may be stored in the data storage element 208 separate from the user account. In these aspects, a user may be identified by a set of characteristics and their purchase history associated with those characteristics. These characteristics may include, for example, the user's age, gender, physical attributes, demographic information, and other characteristics. The beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 may be configured to identify a user based on one or more of these characteristics and recall the purchase history associated with that user. In this manner, a user may view their purchase history without requiring access to a user account.

[0210] In some embodiments, the customer device 202, on which the mobile device application is stored, may access the data storage element 208 to track user dispenses at beverage dispensers such as beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. In such embodiments, a customer may open the mobile device application and select ingredients to create a customized beverage. Then, after selecting a customized beverage recipe, the customer may identify a particular beverage dispenser to dispense the beverage.

[0211] Communications network 210 may include any suitable communications network. For example, according to some embodiments, the communications network may include the Internet, a WiFi LAN, a WLAN, a WAN, a PAN, etc.

[0212] In one aspect, users may be associated into groups according to their common characteristics. For example, users who work for the same organization or attend the same school may be grouped together. In some aspects, groups of users may compete against each other in various games related to the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. For example, groups of users may compete to save the most plastic bottles by using reusable containers with the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 over a set period of time. In another example, groups may compete to maintain the highest average hydration level. These games may be conducted using beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 that are remotely located from each other through the use of the communications network 210, allowing groups of users to compete even if they are not physically located in the same place. The results of these competitions may be displayed on the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 and / or the customer device 202 in any desired format, such as a “leaderboard” format. In some aspects, individual users may also compete against other individual users, similar to the above.

[0213] In some aspects, a user may be able to gift a beverage to another user. For example, a user may be able to purchase a beverage using the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 and then use the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 to send the beverage as a gift to another user. The other user may receive a notification on the customer device 202 with the gift beverage. The gift beverage may then be redeemed for a beverage on any beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010, regardless of the physical location of the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010. In some aspects, a user may gift a beverage to another user solely through the customer device 202, without requiring interaction with the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010. For example, a user may send the other user a link to a QR code containing the gift beverage via email or text message. In some aspects, a user may purchase the gift and then gift the beverage to another user by placing the gift on a machine-readable item, such as a QR code. This allows users to physically transfer gifts, for example, by emailing or texting a QR code, without requiring the gift recipient to be connected to a network. This method of gifting beverages can also allow gift beverages to be given to a group of users, for example, as part of a promotion at a sporting event. In some aspects, gift beverages can also be associated with existing items. For example, a user may purchase tickets to a sporting event that can also be used to receive a gift beverage from the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010.

[0214] In some aspects, a user account may also be associated with a rewards account. The rewards account may track a user's consumption of beverages and provide rewards associated with the beverages. For example, after a certain number of beverages are purchased, a user may receive a free beverage redeemable at the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. The rewards account may also provide the user with exclusive or early access to exclusive beverage flavors or special beverage additives. In some aspects, the rewards account may be integrated with other applications or systems that track the user's physical health. For example, a user may integrate a calorie-counting application with the rewards account and receive rewards for achieving goals in the calorie-counting application, such as consuming only a certain number of calories in a set period of time.

[0215] In some aspects, separate items may be associated with the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. Examples of such items include sporting event tickets, airline boarding passes, movie tickets, or consumer apparel. These items may include machine-readable items that can be scanned by the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 or the customer device 202. For example, as discussed above, a sporting event ticket may include a scannable element that provides the user with a free beverage.

[0216] In one embodiment, an airline boarding pass may be scanned by a user at beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 located within an airport terminal to give the user access to special beverage flavors or additives. In embodiments, a user account associated with beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 may also be associated with an airline loyalty program. Items with scannable elements may also add beverage credits to a user account when scanned. In some embodiments, a user may purchase an item and then receive beverage credits equal to the purchase price of the item in the user account.

[0217] In some embodiments, a user may invite other users to download an application on the customer device 202 that allows the user to interact with the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010.

[0218] In some aspects, the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 may be configured to receive information from machine-readable items on replacement parts used to repair or refill the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. For example, when a beverage dispenser 10, 1010, and 2010 runs out of flavor, a service technician replaces the flavor source 134 corresponding to that flavor. During the replacement process, the machine-readable items on the replacement flavor source 134 may be scanned by the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, and 2010, which then verifies that the empty flavor source 134 has been replaced with a full flavor source 134. This can make service and repair of the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 more efficient and reduce service errors by verifying that replacement parts are being used properly.

[0219] In some embodiments, as discussed above, the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 may be configured to monitor system status and report this status using the network 210. System status may include, for example, the levels of various consumables in the system, such as the gas tank 136, the filter 154, the additive source 148, the mineral source 150, and the flavoring source 134. When these consumables need replacement, the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 may be configured to automatically send an alert to an operator. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 may be configured to automatically order replacement consumables using the network 210. System status may also include monitoring the system for faults and reporting of faults using the network 210. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 is configured to automatically order service to correct the fault using the network 210.

[0220] Various components of the beverage management system 200 can be used to manage beverage recipes and user account information. Figures 20-22 are flowcharts illustrating various ways in which the components of the beverage management system 200 can operate together to create and dispense a desired beverage. While the flowcharts of Figures 20-22 are described with reference to Figure 19, it should be understood that this is for illustrative purposes only and the principles outlined in Figures 20-22 are not limited to the specific embodiment of Figure 19. Additionally, Figures 25-101 depict various user interface icons on the customer device 202 and / or beverage dispenser 204.

[0221] The manner in which a user interacts with the beverage distribution system's interface to select and / or dispense a beverage may vary. Figure 20 illustrates an exemplary method for dispensing available products according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0222] At step 302, a beverage dispenser, such as beverage dispenser 10, 1010, and / or 2010, can authenticate a user. This may include scanning the user's QR code, such as a QR code attached to a beverage container or displayed on a customer device 202. In one aspect, the beverage dispenser can authenticate a user as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 943,395, filed April 2, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In aspects, the proximity sensor 120 may include a camera configured to scan the QR code. In these aspects, the user interface 500 is configured to display a view from the camera of the proximity sensor 120 when a user brings the QR code close to the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 to facilitate scanning the QR code. In this manner, in embodiments, the proximity sensor 120 may be configured to sense or display objects at two different distances. As shown in FIG. 53, the display screen 502 can display one or more screens to attract a user to the beverage dispenser. The attractor screen may display initial user input selections such as a “Sign up for an account” icon 504 and a “Get a drink” icon 506 .

[0223] At step 304, the beverage dispenser may present beverage recipe options to the user based on user account information associated with the authenticated user. For example, the user account information may include a history of beverages ordered by the user, favorite beverage recipes, and promotional beverage recipes. In another aspect, the beverage dispenser may present beverage recipe options to the user based on the user account information and other predictive factors. These predictive factors may include one or more of the beverage dispenser's location, the time of day, the user's exercise history, the outside weather, the amount of fluid consumed by the user during the day, the average amount of fluid consumed by the user during the day, the amount of calories consumed by the user during the day, the user's nutrient or electrolyte deficiencies, recorded user exercise, and recorded user sleep. For example, at step 304, the beverage dispenser may present the user's most frequently selected beverage recipes as primary icons on the display 502. If the user has a most frequently selected morning beverage recipe that is different from the most frequently selected midday beverage recipe, the beverage dispenser may present the user's most frequently selected morning beverage recipe as a primary icon on the display 502 in the morning and the user's most frequently selected midday beverage recipe as a primary icon on the display 502 in the afternoon. If the beverage dispenser receives information that the weather outside is hot, the beverage dispenser may present the user with beverage recipes that have low temperatures.

[0224] In step 306, the beverage dispenser may receive a selection of the presented beverage recipe.

[0225] In step 308, the beverage dispenser may display the cost of the selected beverage on the display 502. In one embodiment, the cost may be displayed as a cost per ounce. In another embodiment, the cost may be displayed as a cost for a fixed beverage volume.

[0226] In step 310, the beverage dispenser may receive confirmation that the user wishes to proceed with dispensing the beverage at the displayed cost. For example, a command to dispense a custom beverage may be received via an input in which the user confirms the beverage selection. For example, the user may select user input selection 28 (e.g., a pour icon) to dispense a custom beverage.

[0227] In step 312, the interface can send an electronic signal to the valve to cause the dispenser to dispense the custom beverage according to the recipe selected from step 306. A predetermined volume of beverage can be dispensed, or the beverage can be dispensed as long as the user activates a user input (e.g., a pour icon). The predetermined volume can correspond to a known volume of the container, which can be stored in the user's account. In some embodiments, the use of a predetermined fill volume can allow the user to confirm the dispensing of the beverage in step 310 and then wait while the container is automatically filled according to the predetermined volume. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 can also automatically determine whether one or more ingredients in the beverage cause foaming and take steps to ensure the beverage is dispensed at the appropriate volume while minimizing overflow due to foaming. For example, the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 can determine that the selected beverage will be foamy because it contains a predetermined beverage ingredient that causes foaming, and then fill the container in multiple stages with a pause between each stage to allow any foam to subside. In some other embodiments, the beverage dispenser 10, 1010, or 2010 may include one or more sensors that automatically detect the amount of beverage in the container and enable the container to be automatically filled without knowing the predetermined volume. These sensors may include, for example, an optical sensor configured to visually detect the level of the beverage in the container or an optical sensor configured to detect the sound of the beverage being poured and determine when the beverage is near the top of the container.

[0228] The beverage dispenser may save the dispensed beverage to the user account in step 314. The updated user account information may be saved in the data storage element 208, for example.

[0229] 20 shows a particular order of steps, the exact order of the steps may vary (e.g., step 308 occurs before step 306), and the dispenser may receive additional input from the user before, after, and during particular steps of the above example method. The order of steps and / or which inputs are received during the course of a user's interaction with the dispenser may depend on the configuration of the user interface.

[0230] 20 may be streamlined for minimal user interaction. For example, step 310 "Verify Beverage" may occur immediately after step 302 "Authenticate User." For example, a user may enable a setting on their user account to allow the beverage dispenser to dispense a favorite or pre-selected beverage without the user having to select a custom beverage recipe.

[0231] 20 may be streamlined for minimal user interaction. For example, step 312 "Dispense Beverage" may occur immediately after step 302 "Authenticate User." For example, a user may enable a setting on their user account to allow the beverage dispenser to dispense a favorite or pre-selected beverage without requiring the user to select or confirm a custom beverage recipe. In this aspect, after authentication, the beverage dispenser may begin dispensing the beverage once it recognizes, using a sensor, for example, that the user's beverage container has been placed under the nozzle 170. In another aspect, after authentication, the beverage dispenser may begin dispensing the beverage after a set period of time, such as five seconds, to allow the user to position the beverage dispenser under the nozzle 170.

[0232] The manner in which a user interacts with the beverage distribution system's interface to select and / or dispense a beverage may vary. Figure 22 illustrates an exemplary method for modifying a customized beverage recipe after dispensing a beverage.

[0233] At step 340, the beverage dispenser, such as beverage dispenser 10, 1010, and / or 2010, may authenticate the user. This may include scanning the user's QR code, such as a QR code attached to the beverage container or displayed on the customer device 202. In one aspect, the beverage dispenser may authenticate the user as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 943,395, filed April 2, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0234] In step 322, the beverage dispenser may present beverage recipe options to the user based on user account information associated with the authenticated user. For example, the user account information may include a history of beverages ordered by the user, favorite beverage recipes, and promotional beverage recipes. In another aspect, the beverage dispenser may present beverage recipe options to the user based on the user account information and other predictive factors. These predictive factors may include one or more of the beverage dispenser's location, the time of day, the user's exercise history, the outside weather, the amount of fluid consumed by the user during the day, the average amount of fluid consumed by the user during the day, the amount of calories consumed by the user during the day, the user's nutrient or electrolyte deficiencies, recorded user exercise, and recorded user sleep. For example, in step 322, the beverage dispenser may present the user's most frequently selected beverage recipes as primary icons on the display 502. These recipes may be known as "soft favorites" because they are "favorite" recipes selected by the system based, for example, on the frequency of beverage purchases. If the user has a most frequently selected morning beverage recipe that is different from the most frequently selected midday beverage recipe, the beverage dispenser may present the user's most frequently selected morning beverage recipe as a primary icon on the display 502 in the morning and the user's most frequently selected midday beverage recipe as a primary icon on the display 502 in the afternoon. If the beverage dispenser receives information that the weather outside is hot, the beverage dispenser may present the user with beverage recipes that have low temperatures.

[0235] At step 324, the beverage dispenser may receive a diluent selection for the new custom recipe. For example, the beverage dispenser may receive a diluent selection of still water or sparkling water.

[0236] In step 326, a selection of one or more custom ingredients for the beverage may be received via input from a user. The custom ingredients may include, for example, one or more of still water at ambient temperature, chilled still water, heated still water, sparkling water at ambient temperature, chilled sparkling water, heated sparkling water, a branded beverage concentrate, a flavoring such as plum, blueberry, mango, cherry, grape, kiwi, strawberry, lemon, lime, passion fruit, apple, melon, tangerine, raspberry, orange, pomegranate, pineapple, coconut, grapefruit, acai, watermelon, peach, or any combination thereof. Additionally, the flavoring may include herbs and spices or vegetables such as mint, black tea, green tea, red tea, white tea, celery, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender, carrot, cucumber, barbamate, cocca extract, ginger, chlorophyll, aloe, cinnamon, ginseng, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, one or more flavorings can include fresh ingredients that do not contain preservatives. Additionally, the ingredients can include minerals such as boron, phosphorus, titanium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, cadmium, and aluminum. In one embodiment, the mineral ingredients can simulate the taste profile of mineral water from a particular region. For example, the mineral ingredients can simulate the taste profile of water from the German Alps, Italian Alps, or French Alps. The ingredients can also include additives such as vitamins, electrolytes, energy, calming agents, protein, fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, and sweeteners, as well as other functional ingredients such as calcium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, magnesium, caffeine, fiber, protein, taurine, ribose, omega-3, or any combination thereof.

[0237] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 57 , a user can select a flavor by pressing one or more of user input selections 528. The user can select orange grapefruit flavor by selecting user input selection 528a, the user can select lemon mint flavor by selecting user input selection 528b, the user can select raspberry lime flavor by selecting user input selection 528c, the user can select cucumber flavor by selecting user input selection 528d, the user can select lemon lime flavor by selecting user input selection 528e, and the user can select peach flavor by selecting 528f. In response to a selection, the interface can highlight the selected icon to indicate that the selected flavor will be added. After selecting a flavor, the user can select a flavor strength. For example, a user may select user input selection 528aa for light flavor, user input selection 528bb for regular flavor, or user input selection 528cc for strong flavor. When a user selects light flavor, the beverage dispenser dispenses less flavor concentrate than when a user selects regular flavor. When a user selects strong flavor, the beverage dispenser dispenses more flavor concentrate than when a user selects regular flavor.

[0238] 88-89, a user may select a flavor by pressing one or more of user input selections 1528. The user may select user input selection 1511a "carbonated water," user input selection 1528b "carbonated lemon lime," user input selection 1528c "carbonated orange grapefruit," user input selection 1528d "carbonated cucumber," user input selection 1528e "carbonated raspberry lime," user input selection 1528f "carbonated lemon mint," and user input selection 1528g "carbonated blueberry pomegranate." The user may select user input selection 1511 “Water,” user input selection 1529b “Lemon Lime,” user input selection 1529c “Orange Grapefruit,” user input selection 1529d “Cucumber,” user input selection 1529e “Raspberry Lime,” user input selection 1529f “Lemon Mint,” and user input selection 1529g “Blueberry Pomegranate.” In response to the selection, the beverage dispenser 204 may highlight the selected icon to indicate that the selected flavor will be added.

[0239] In the embodiment shown in Figure 59, a user can select the amount of carbonation by pressing one of user input selections 520. The user can select no carbonation by selecting user input selection 520d, the user can select weak carbonation by selecting user input selection 520c, the user can select medium carbonation by selecting user input selection 520b, and the user can select maximum carbonation by selecting user input selection 520a.

[0240] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 82, a user can select the amount of carbonation by pressing one of the user input selections 1520. The user can select no carbonation by selecting user input selection 1520d, the user can select weak carbonation by selecting user input selection 1520c, the user can select medium carbonation by selecting user input selection 1520b, and the user can select maximum carbonation by selecting user input selection 1520a.

[0241] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 67, a user can select a beverage temperature by pressing one of user input selections 524. The user can select cold water by selecting user input selection 524a, the user can select slightly cold water by selecting user input selection 524b, and the user can select ambient temperature water by selecting user input selection 524c.

[0242] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 82, a user can select a beverage temperature by pressing one of the user input selections 1524. The user can select cold water by selecting user input selection 1524a, the user can select slightly cold water by selecting user input selection 1524b, and the user can select ambient temperature water by selecting user input selection 1524c.

[0243] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 82, a user can select the amount of flavor by pressing one of the user input selections 1529. The user can select a light flavor by selecting user input selection 1528aa, the user can select a regular flavor by selecting user input selection 1528bb, and the user can select a strong flavor by selecting user input selection 1528cc. When the user selects a light flavor, the beverage dispenser dispenses less flavor concentrate than when the user selects a regular flavor. When the user selects a strong flavor, the beverage dispenser dispenses more flavor concentrate than when the user selects a regular flavor.

[0244] In step 328, the beverage dispenser may display the cost of the selected beverage on the display 502. The cost may be continually updated as ingredients are added to or subtracted from the custom beverage recipe. In one aspect, the cost may be displayed as a cost per ounce. In another aspect, the cost may be displayed as a cost for a fixed beverage volume.

[0245] In step 330, if the user has completed the ingredients in the custom beverage recipe, the beverage dispenser may receive confirmation that the user wishes to proceed with dispensing the custom beverage at the displayed cost. For example, a command to dispense the custom beverage may be received via an input in which the user confirmed the beverage selection. For example, the user may select user input selection 28 (e.g., a pour icon) to dispense the custom beverage.

[0246] In step 332 , the interface can send electronic signals to the valve to cause the dispenser to dispense the custom beverage according to the recipe selected from step 306 .

[0247] The beverage dispenser may save the dispensed beverage to the user account in step 334. The updated user account information may be saved in the data storage element 208, for example.

[0248] 21 shows a particular order of steps, the exact order of the steps may vary (e.g., step 328 occurs before step 326), and the dispenser may receive additional input from the user before, after, and during particular steps of the above example method. The order of steps and / or which inputs are received during the course of a user's interaction with the dispenser may depend on the configuration of the user interface.

[0249] The manner in which a user interacts with the beverage distribution system's interface to select and / or dispense a beverage may vary. Figure 22 illustrates an exemplary method for modifying a customized beverage recipe after dispensing a beverage.

[0250] In step 340, the beverage dispensing system may prompt the user regarding beverage satisfaction. For example, the beverage dispensing system may prompt the user on the customer device 202 after dispensing the beverage, as shown in FIG. 46. The beverage dispensing system may display a feedback pop 610 on the custom device 202, which may include a description of the dispensed beverage along with the query, for example, "How was the beverage?" The beverage dispensing system may display feedback icons to the user, such as a positive icon 612, which may be labeled "Great" or "Great, will definitely get it again," an adjustment icon 614, which may be labeled "Adjust" or "Good, but I'd like to tweak it," and a negative icon 616, which may be labeled "Bad" or "No, won't try it again."

[0251] In step 342, the beverage dispensing system may receive, via input from a user, a selection of one of the positive icon 612, the adjustment icon 614, or the negative icon 616. In one aspect, if the user selects the positive icon 612, the customer device 202 may also display a "like" pop-up 632. The "like" pop-up 632 may include a favorite button 632, such as "add to favorites for quick access," a share button 636, such as "share this flavor," and a "no thanks" decline button 638 to return to the previous screen. In another aspect, if the beverage dispensing system receives a selection of the positive icon 612 or the negative icon 616, the beverage dispensing system may skip step 344 and proceed directly to step 346. If the beverage dispensing system receives a selection of the adjustment icon 614, indicating the user's desire to modify the custom beverage, the beverage dispensing system may proceed to step 344.

[0252] In step 344, one or more custom ingredient modifications to the beverage may be received via input from a user. The custom ingredients may include, for example, one or more of still water at ambient temperature, chilled still water, heated still water, sparkling water at ambient temperature, chilled sparkling water, heated sparkling water, a branded beverage concentrate, a flavoring such as plum, blueberry, mango, cherry, grape, kiwi, strawberry, lemon, lime, passion fruit, apple, melon, tangerine, raspberry, orange, pomegranate, pineapple, coconut, grapefruit, acai, watermelon, peach, or any combination thereof. Additionally, the flavoring may include herbs and spices or vegetables such as mint, black tea, green tea, red tea, white tea, celery, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender, carrot, cucumber, barbamate, cocca extract, ginger, chlorophyll, aloe, cinnamon, ginseng, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, one or more flavorings can include fresh ingredients that do not contain preservatives. Additionally, the ingredients can include minerals such as boron, phosphorus, titanium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, cadmium, and aluminum. In one embodiment, the mineral ingredients can simulate the taste profile of mineral water from a particular region. For example, the mineral ingredients can simulate the taste profile of water from the German Alps, Italian Alps, or French Alps. The ingredients can also include additives such as vitamins, electrolytes, energy, calm, protein, fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, sweeteners, and other functional ingredients such as calcium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, magnesium, caffeine, fiber, protein, taurine, ribose, omega-3, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, in step 344, the user can modify the temperature, flavor and / or flavor intensity, and / or carbonation level of the custom beverage.

[0253] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 47 , a user can modify the custom beverage flavor intensity by pressing one or more of user input selections 622. User input selections 622 can be slider icons. A user can select a reduced amount of flavor or “light” flavor by selecting user input selection 622a, a user can select a regular amount of flavor by selecting user input selection 622b, and a user can select an increased amount of flavor or “strong” flavor by selecting user input selection 622c. When a user selects light flavor, the beverage dispenser dispenses less flavor concentrate than when the user selects regular flavor. When a user selects strong flavor, the beverage dispenser dispenses more flavor concentrate than when the user selects regular flavor.

[0254] The user can modify the amount of carbonation by pressing one of the user input selections 624. The user can select reduced carbonation or "weak" carbonation by selecting user input selection 624a, the user can select regular carbonation by selecting user input selection 624b, and the user can select increased carbonation or "extra" carbonation by selecting user input selection 624c.

[0255] The user can modify the drink temperature by pressing one of the user input selections 626. The user can select ambient or "room" temperature water by selecting user input selection 626a, the user can select slightly cooler water by selecting user input selection 626b, and the user can select cold water by selecting user input selection 626c.

[0256] In step 346, the beverage dispensing system may save the dispensed beverage rating and / or the modified custom recipe to the user account. The dispensed beverage rating and the modified custom recipe may be saved, for example, in the data storage element 208. The user may select the "Save" icon 628 to save the modified custom recipe to the user account. If the user changes their mind and does not want to save the modified custom recipe, the user may select the delete icon 630.

[0257] In one aspect, the beverage dispensing system can prompt a user on the beverage dispenser 204 to modify a customized beverage recipe after dispensing a custom beverage, such as a sample beverage. FIG. 87 illustrates a graphical user interface through which a user can pour a sample of that beverage recipe. In one aspect, the beverage dispenser can show the custom recipe and user input selections for modifying the custom beverage in display 502 before, during, or after dispensing the sample custom beverage. A user can modify the flavor intensity by pressing one or more of user input selections 1529 (FIG. 82). User input selections 1529 can be slider icons. A user can select a reduced amount of flavor or “light” flavor by selecting user input selection 1528aa, a user can select a regular amount of flavor by selecting user input selection 1528bb, and a user can select an increased amount of flavor or “strong” flavor by selecting user input selection 1528cc. When a user selects a light flavor, the beverage dispenser dispenses less flavor concentrate than when the user selects a regular flavor, and when a user selects a strong flavor, the beverage dispenser dispenses more flavor concentrate than when the user selects a regular flavor.

[0258] The user can modify the amount of carbonation by pressing one of the user input selections 1520 (FIG. 82). The user can select reduced carbonation or "weak" carbonation by selecting user input selection 1520a, the user can select regular carbonation by selecting user input selection 1520b, and the user can select increased carbonation or "extra" carbonation by selecting user input selection 1520c.

[0259] The user can modify the drink temperature by pressing one of the user input selections 1524 (FIG. 82). The user can select ambient or "room" temperature water by selecting user input selection 1524a, the user can select slightly cooler water by selecting user input selection 1524b, and the user can select cold water by selecting user input selection 1524c.

[0260] 25-101 illustrate different displays of an exemplary embodiment of a graphical user interface displayed on the display screen customer device 202 or beverage dispenser 204. A user may make desired selections, such as selecting beverage ingredients that can be used in a custom beverage. The touch screen 502 may present all of the information necessary to select and dispense a custom beverage to the user. While some of the graphical user interface icons are discussed in terms of carbonation, other infusion gases, such as nitrogen, may also be utilized. For example, the graphical user interface may utilize "nitrogenated" instead of "carbonated" and "nitrogen" instead of "carbonated."

[0261] 25-32 illustrate exemplary graphical user interfaces that enable a user to create a user account for use with one or more of the beverage dispensing systems 10, 1010, and 2010. The user account may enable the user to create and save custom recipes, dispense beverages, locate beverage dispensers, receive beverage promotions, track beverage consumption, and share favorite beverages with other users. In one aspect, a user may interact with one or more icons within the graphical user interfaces shown in FIGS. 25-32 on the customer device 202.

[0262] As shown in FIG. 25 , the customer device 202 can present the user with an initial login screen that can include icons for creating a new account, such as "Log in with Facebook," "Log in with Google," or "Sign up with email." The customer device 202 can also present the user with an initial promotion for beverage credits to create an account and use the beverage dispenser, such as "Sign up now and get a $10 credit to try premium water at over 1,456 locations." If the user selects the icon for "Sign up with email," the customer device 202 can present the user with the sign-up screen shown in FIG. 26 . The user can enter their name, email, and account password into the customer device. The user can select the next icon to proceed to the next screen.

[0263] As shown in FIG. 27 , the customer device 202 can display an instruction screen to explain how the user should attach the identification information to the user's container. For example, the customer device 202 can instruct the user to "align the sticker with the bottom rim or your bottle or cup." In one embodiment, the identification information can include a QR code. Stickers containing the identification information can be available at or near the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. In one embodiment, the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 can include a printer for printing identification stickers for users to attach to their beverage containers. In one embodiment, the side unit 220 ( FIG. 6 ) can include an identification sticker dispenser that dispenses pre-printed identification stickers. In another embodiment, the side unit 220 can include a printer for printing identification stickers on demand. Alternatively, the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 can include a slot or holder for dispensing identification stickers for customer use. Once a user attaches an identification sticker to a beverage container, as shown in FIG. 27, the user can select the next icon to proceed to the next screen. Stickers may also be attached to other items, such as security badges, jewelry, employee identification, identification cards, lanyards, or other convenient items. These items may also have QR codes configured to be scanned by the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. This allows users to purchase beverages using items they already own. For example, a student identification card may be linked to the student's account and include a QR code that can be scanned by the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. QR codes may also be incorporated into certain beverage containers that can be used to purchase beverages from the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. In some aspects, these items may be associated with a user account associated with an organization.For example, a business may provide its employees with beverage containers equipped with QR codes linked to the business account, thereby allowing the employees to receive beverages from beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 without having to use their own user account. In one embodiment, the identification information may include a temporary tattoo of a QR code indicating the user account.

[0264] 28, the customer device 202 may display an "Add Bottle" instruction screen to explain how the user should add a bottle to their user account, for example, by scanning identification information on an identification sticker attached to the beverage container. In one embodiment, the customer device 202 may show the user how to scan a QR code on the beverage container. When ready, the user may select an "Open Camera" icon to activate the camera on the customer device 202.

[0265] 29, the customer device 202 can recognize and capture identification information on an identification sticker attached to a beverage container. For example, the customer device 202 can scan a QR code on the beverage container.

[0266] 30, the customer device 202 may present an "Add Credit Card" instruction screen to explain how the user should add payment information to their account, for example, by scanning their credit card. When ready, the user may select the "Open Camera" icon to launch the camera on the customer device 202.

[0267] As shown in FIG. 31, the customer device 202 is capable of recognizing and capturing credit card information.

[0268] As shown in FIG. 32, the customer device may present the user with an account confirmation screen, which may display text such as, "You're all set! Your account now has a $10 credit to try premium water at over 1,456 locations." The customer device 202 may present icons that allow the user to receive additional information on the beverage dispensing system and beverage dispenser 10, 1010, and 2010, such as a "See how it works" icon. The customer device 202 may also present a "Start Now" icon that allows the user to begin customizing a beverage recipe and / or dispensing a beverage.

[0269] After a user account is created, the customer device 202 can provide information about beverage consumption to the user. For example, the customer device 202 can provide a "Status" screen, as shown in FIGS. 33A-B. The customer device 202 can display a comparison of the user's hydration compared to their activity level. The hydration information can be determined by tracking the beverages dispensed by the user using the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010, or can be entered into the customer device 202 by the user. The customer device 202 can display environmental information, such as one or more of "bottles saved from landfill," "gallons of gasoline saved," "kg of CO2 not emitted," and "gallons of water saved." The customer device 202 can display environmental information for the user and / or groups of users. The customer device 202 can allow the user to share their environmental information with other beverage dispensing system users who have user accounts or via social media, such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. The customer device 202 may also display water quality information for a particular area, such as the amount of one or more of aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, chloride, chromium, copper, cyanide, fluoride, iron, lead, manganese, mercury, nitrogen, silver, sulfate, thallium, and zinc in the water.

[0270] 34A-34B, the customer device 202 may provide nutritional information for the selected beverage recipe and / or dispensed beverage. The nutritional information may be automatically updated based on the ingredients selected and the amount of the dispensed beverage.

[0271] 35, the customer device 202 may track and display a user's beverage consumption, for example, in a "daily log." The customer device 202 may display beverages dispensed from one or more of the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010, including one or more of the ingredients, the amount of beverage dispensed, and the time the beverage was dispensed.

[0272] As shown in FIG. 36 , the customer device 202 can track and display a user's daily beverage consumption goal, for example, in a "Daily Goal." The customer device 202 can display the amount of beverages dispensed from one or more of the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010 and can compare the amount of beverages dispensed to a daily goal set by the user. The customer device 202 can provide a goal screen that can include a goal icon and / or a goal slider button. The goal icon can be a beverage container, and the amount of fluid shown in the goal icon can increase based on the amount of beverage dispensed. The user can move the goal slider button to increase or decrease the user's daily goal.

[0273] 37, the customer device 202 may display a summary menu screen that may include, for example, a goal summary button such as "50 fluid ounces remaining," an environmental summary button such as "125 bottles saved," a container summary button such as "Your Bottle ID," and a payment summary button such as "Balance $12.50." In one aspect, a user may select a goal summary button, environmental summary button, container summary button, or payment summary button to be taken to a new screen associated with that button.

[0274] As shown in FIG. 38, the customer device 202 may display an edit user account or "profile" screen. The user may edit their name or email contact information and save changes to their user account by selecting a save button. The user may also log out of their user account on the customer device 202 by selecting a "log out" button. The user may also deactivate their user account by selecting a "deactivate account" button.

[0275] As shown in Figure 39, the customer device 202 may display the user's beverage containers that are linked to the user's account. The user may select one of the linked beverage containers shown on the customer device 202, and the customer device 202 may display identification information for the selected beverage container, such as a QR code (Figure 40).

[0276] As shown in FIG. 40 , the customer device 202 can display identifying information for a selected beverage container, such as a QR code. In some embodiments, the QR code displayed by the customer device 202 can be a dynamic QR code. This means that the QR code can be modified by the customer device 202 to change the information encoded in the QR code. This can enable the customer device 202 to transmit customized information about the user to the beverage dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010. For example, the dynamic QR code can include the user's identification number, the user's name, and one or more customizable beverage recipes. For example, these recipes can be recipes for the user's three favorite beverages, the last three beverages poured by the user, or any other beverage selected as desired. The QR code can be updated to reflect changes to these recipes, for example, if the user customizes one or more ingredients of the recipe.

[0277] As shown in FIG. 41, the customer device 202 may display an account summary or "account screen." The user may select an "Edit Profile" button to edit the user account (e.g., FIG. 38). The user may select a "Payment" button to edit the payment method(s) associated with the user account (e.g., FIG. 42). These payment methods may include paying directly for a single beverage when dispensing a beverage using a credit card or another suitable digital payment account. This single-beverage payment may be linked to a set volume of beverage, e.g., 12 ounces for a set price. The user account may also be linked to a subscription model that allows a limited or unlimited number of beverages to be poured for a set period of time. For example, a user may pay a flat rate to receive unlimited beverages for any desired period of time, such as one month or one year. Subscription models may also be linked to external events, such as unlimited beverages for the duration of a sporting event or unlimited beverages for a college semester or year. The user may select a "Purchase History" button to view their dispensed beverages (e.g., FIG. 43). A user can select the "My Bottles" button to view beverage containers associated with the user's account (e.g., FIG. 39). A user can select the "Drinks" button to view one or more favorite customized beverage recipes (e.g., FIG. 44).

[0278] As shown in FIG. 44, the customer device 202 may display a "My Drinks" screen 620 showing the user's favorite beverage recipes. The user may select a "Like" button 601 to indicate whether the user liked the dispensed beverage and would like to order it again in the future. If the user selects the "Like" button 601, the customer device may display an icon 602 within the "Like" button 601. If the user selects the "Like" button 601, the customer device 202 may also display a "Like" pop-up 632. The "Like" pop-up 632 may include a favorite button 633, such as "Add to favorites for quick access," a share button 636, such as "Share this flavoring," and a "No, thanks" decline button 638 to return to the previous screen.

[0279] As shown in FIG. 45, the customer device 202 may display a transaction pop-up 608 to indicate the dispensed custom beverage ingredients, such as "Lemon Mint Water," and the user account balance, such as "Account Balance $8.88."

[0280] As shown in FIGS. 49-52, the customer device 202 can display a beverage dispenser location screen "Location" to indicate the physical location of one or more beverage dispensers 204. A user can select one or more of the beverage dispenser pins to display additional location information, beverage dispenser ratings, and / or flavorings, additives, and energizers available at the selected beverage dispenser (FIGS. 50-51). The customer device 202 can be configured to display the location of one or more of the nearest beverage dispensers 204. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 204 can be configured to transmit its location to the customer device 202 using the network 210 or directly to the customer device 202 using an appropriate transmitting device, such as a wireless transmitter. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser 204 can be configured to send a notification to a user's customer device 202 when the user is within a certain distance of the beverage dispenser 204.

[0281] 53, the beverage dispenser 204 may display one or more screens to attract users to the beverage dispenser. The attractor screen may display initial user input selections such as a "Sign Up for an Account" button 504 and a "Get a Beverage" button 506.

[0282] 54, the beverage dispenser 204 can display recipe buttons for a user to select. The recipe buttons can include, for example, a non-sparkling water button 511, a sparkling water button 512, a custom recipe button 514 such as "Lemon Mint Water," and a custom recipe button 516 such as "Raspberry Lime." In one aspect, the beverage dispenser 204 can increase the size of one of the one or more recipe buttons to indicate that the enlarged button is the selected recipe button 510.

[0283] After the user selects the recipe button, the beverage dispenser 204 may display a customization screen as shown in Figures 55, 57-60, 67, 68, 74, 82, 87, 88, and 89. The beverage dispenser 204 may display a carbonation button 520, a temperature button 524, a flavoring button 528, and a pour button 530. If the user does not wish to customize the selected beverage recipe, the user may select the pour button 530 without pressing any of the carbonation button 520, temperature button 524, or flavoring button 528.

[0284] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 57, after receiving a selection of the flavor button 528, the beverage dispenser 204 may display user input selection 528a "Orange Grapefruit," user input selection 528b "Lemon Mint," user input selection 528c "Raspberry Lime," user input selection 528d "Cucumber," user input selection 528e "Lemon Lime," and user input selection 528f "Peach." In response to the selection, the beverage dispenser 204 may highlight the selected icon to indicate that the selected flavor will be added. After selecting a flavor, the beverage dispenser 204 may display flavor intensity buttons to allow the user to adjust the flavor intensity ( FIG. 60 ). For example, the beverage dispenser 204 may display user input selection 528a for a light flavor, user input selection 528b for a medium flavor, or user input selection 528c for a strong flavor.

[0285] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 59, after receiving a selection of the carbonation button 520, the beverage dispenser 204 may display user input selection 520d "No Carbonation," user input selection 520c "Weak Carbonation," user input selection 520b "Regular Carbonation," and user input selection 520a "Maximum Carbonation."

[0286] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 67, after receiving a selection of the temperature button 524, the beverage dispenser 204 may display the temperatures of user input selection 524a "Cold Water," user input selection 524b "Slightly Cold Water," and user input selection 524c "Room."

[0287] As shown in FIG. 78, the beverage dispenser 204 may display a suggested custom beverage recipe 515, such as "carbonated lemon mint water." The suggested custom beverage recipe 515 may be a favorite or frequently selected beverage recipe and may include a favorite icon 534. The beverage dispenser 204 may display a quick pour button 532 to allow the user to dispense the suggested custom beverage recipe 515 without requiring further user interaction and ingredient selection. In another aspect, the beverage dispenser 204 may suggest food items or food flavorings to accompany the suggested custom beverage recipe 515.

[0288] 83, the beverage dispenser 204 may display recipe buttons for a user to select. The recipe buttons may include, for example, a non-sparkling water button 1511, a custom recipe button 1514 such as "carbonated blueberry pomegranate," and a custom recipe button 1516 such as "carbonated lemon mint." In one aspect, the beverage dispenser 204 may increase the size of one of the one or more recipe buttons to indicate that the enlarged button is the selected recipe button.

[0289] After the user selects the recipe button, the beverage dispenser 204 may display a customization screen (FIG. 82). The beverage dispenser 204 may display a carbonation slider switch 1520, a temperature slider switch 1524, a flavor slider switch 1529, and a quick pour button 530b. If the user does not wish to customize the selected beverage recipe, the user may select the quick pour button 530b without changing any of the carbonation slider switch 1520, the temperature slider switch 1524, or the flavor slider switch 1529. The flavor slider switch may include a first position 1528aa for light flavor, a second position 1528bb for medium flavor, and a third position 1528cc for strong flavor. The carbonation slider switch 1520 can include a first position 1520a for light carbonation, a second position 1520b for regular carbonation, and a third position 1520c for extra carbonation. The temperature slider switch 1524 can include a first position 1524a for cold, a second position 1524b for slightly cold, and a third position 1524c for room temperature.

[0290] 88-89, the beverage dispenser 204 may display a "sparkling" toggle switch 1521 to allow a user to add or remove carbonation from a beverage recipe. When the "sparkling" toggle switch is in the "on" position 1521a, the beverage dispenser 204 may display user input selection 1511a "carbonated water," user input selection 1528b "carbonated lemon lime," user input selection 1528c "carbonated orange grapefruit," user input selection 1528d "carbonated cucumber," user input selection 1528e "carbonated raspberry lime," user input selection 1528f "carbonated lemon mint," and user input selection 1528g "carbonated blueberry pomegranate." When the “Sparling” toggle switch is in the “Off” position 1521b, the beverage dispenser 204 may display user input selection 1511 “Water,” user input selection 1529b “Lemon Lime,” user input selection 1529c “Orange Grapefruit,” user input selection 1529d “Cucumber,” user input selection 1529e “Raspberry Lime,” user input selection 1529f “Lemon Mint,” and user input selection 1529g “Blueberry Pomegranate.” In response to a selection, the beverage dispenser 204 may highlight the selected icon to indicate that the selected flavoring will be added.

[0291] FIG. 23 illustrates an exemplary computing device in which at least some of the various elements described herein may be implemented, including, but not limited to, various components of a dispenser system (e.g., dispensers 10, 1010, and 2010). The computing device 1500 may include one or more processors 1501 capable of executing computer program instructions to perform or cause to be performed any of the steps or functions described herein. The instructions may be stored in any type of computer-readable medium or memory to configure the operation of the processor 1501. For example, the instructions may be stored in read-only memory (ROM) 1502, random access memory (RAM) 1503, removable media 1504 such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) drive, a compact disk (CD) or digital versatile disk (DVD), a floppy disk drive, a flash card, or any other desired electronic storage medium. The instructions may also be stored on an attached (or internal) hard drive 1505.

[0292] Computing device 1500 may include one or more output devices, such as a display 1506, and may include one or more output device controllers 1507, such as a video processor. There may be one or more user input devices 1508, such as a touch screen, remote control, keyboard, mouse, microphone, card reader, RFID reader, etc. Computing device 1500 may also include one or more network interfaces, such as input / output circuitry 1509, for communicating with an external network 1510. The network interface may be a wired interface, a wireless interface, or a combination of the two. In some embodiments, interface 1509 includes a modem (e.g., a cable modem), and network 1510 may include the communications lines of the network shown in FIG. 15 or any other desired network.

[0293] The example in Figure 23 is an exemplary hardware configuration. Modifications may be made to add, remove, combine, divide, etc. components as desired. Additionally, the components shown may be implemented using basic computing devices and components, and the same components (e.g., processor 1501, memory device 1502, user input device 1508, etc.) may be used to implement any of the other computing devices and components described herein.

[0294] One or more aspects of the present disclosure may be embodied as computer-usable data and / or computer-executable instructions, such as one or more program modules, executed by one or more computers or other devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types when executed by a computer processor or other data processing device. The computer-executable instructions may be stored on one or more computer-readable media, such as hard disks, optical disks, removable storage media, solid-state memory, RAM, etc. The functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments. In addition, functionality may be embodied, in whole or in part, in firmware or hardware equivalents, such as integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICS), or combinations of hardware / firmware / software. Certain data structures may be used to more effectively implement one or more aspects of the present invention, and such data structures are contemplated within the scope of the computer-executable instructions and computer-usable data described herein.

[0295] 24 shows a block diagram of an exemplary communications network in which one or more embodiments can be implemented. A dispensing system, such as beverage dispensing system 10, can be configured to dispense a product at a user's selection. For example, a user can approach a dispenser 1604 and interact with the dispenser 1604 to make a selection (e.g., enter a code or press a button corresponding to the desired product). In response, the dispenser 1604 can dispense the selected product. Generally, although embodiments of the present disclosure relate to beverage dispensing systems, various aspects of the present disclosure can be used with dispensers for other types of products (e.g., candy or snack dispensers).

[0296] The distribution systems can be located at different locations or throughout the store. For example, Figure 24 shows three distribution systems: distribution system 1604, distribution system 1606, and distribution system 1608.

[0297] In further aspects, the dispensing systems may be connected to a controller. The controller may be centrally located and / or a separate controller may be incorporated into each dispenser. As shown in FIG. 24 , dispensing systems 1606 and 1608 are connected to controller 1605. Controller 1605 may be configured to receive instructions from dispensing systems 1606 and / or 1608 and cause the appropriate dispensing system to dispense the appropriate amount of the selected product. For example, if dispensing system 1606 is a beverage dispenser, a user may interact with the dispenser to select a beverage (e.g., via a touchpad, touchscreen, keypad, etc.), and the instructions for the selected beverage may be transmitted to controller 1605, which may be configured to dispense the appropriate amount of the selected beverage in response to the instructions.

[0298] The components of the dispensing system may include a processor 1620, a memory 1630, software 1640, and / or additional components suitable for implementing the functions and methods of the dispensing system. The software 1640 may be stored in a computer-readable memory 1630, such as a read-only memory or a random-access memory, within the dispenser 1604, and may include instructions that cause one or more components (e.g., the processor 1620, the display, etc.) of the dispenser (e.g., the dispenser 1604) to perform various functions and methods, including those described herein.

[0299] Dispensers can communicate with other devices using one or more networks. For example, as shown in Figure 24, dispensing systems 1604, 1606, and 1608 can communicate with server 1600 via network 1602 and / or network 1603. Network 1602 and network 1603 can include multiple networks that couple to provide interconnected network communications. Such networks can include one or more private or public packet-switched networks (e.g., the Internet), one or more private or public circuit-switched networks (e.g., the Public Switched Telephone Network), cellular networks, short- or medium-range wireless communication connections (e.g., Bluetooth, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), infrared, WiBree, Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) according to one or more versions of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Standard No. 802.11), and any other suitable networks. Devices communicating with each other (e.g., distribution systems 1604, 1606, and 1608, server 1600, and / or data repository 1601) may use various communication protocols, such as Internet Protocol (IP), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP), File Transfer Protocol (FTP), among others known in the art.

[0300] The server 1600, the controller 1605, and the dispensing systems 1604, 1606, and 1608 may be configured to interact with each other and with other devices. In one example, the dispenser 1604 may include software 1600 configured to coordinate the sending and receiving of information to and from the server 1640. In one configuration, the software 1640 may include an application or server-specific protocol for requesting and receiving data from the server 1600. For example, the software 1640 may include a browser or a variation thereof, and the server 1600 may include a web server. In some configurations, the server 1600 may transmit application data to the dispensing system, such as software updates to various components of the dispensing system (e.g., updates to the user interface, updates to the dispensing system firmware, updates to the dispensing system drivers, etc.). In one or more configurations, server 1600 may receive data from the dispensing system, such as data describing the dispenser's current inventory (e.g., a list of products and the number remaining in the dispenser), the dispenser's operational history and / or usage metrics (e.g., a counter tracking user selections of the machine), and the status of the dispenser (e.g., whether any parts are not working properly). Server 1600 may be configured to access and store data in data repository 1601, such as data received and transmitted by data repository 1601. Data repository 1601 may also include other data accessible to server 1600, such as recipes for different drinks that can be downloaded to the dispenser.

[0301] It is understood that the Detailed Description section, and not the Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the invention as contemplated by the inventor(s), but in no way limit the scope of the invention and the appended claims.

[0302] The present invention has been described above with the aid of functional building blocks that illustrate the performance of certain functions and their relationships. The boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and their relationships are properly performed.

[0303] The foregoing description of specific embodiments will make fully apparent the general nature of the present invention, as will be apparent to others who, by applying their knowledge, are skilled in the art and can readily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments to various uses without undue experimentation and without departing from the general concept of the present invention. Such adaptations and modifications are therefore intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, and therefore should be interpreted by those skilled in the art in the light of teaching and guidance.

[0304] The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. Upper housing and a lower housing disposed below the upper housing; Flavoring sources and a nozzle disposed outside the upper housing; a diluent source disposed in one of the upper housing and the lower housing and configured to supply diluent to the beverage; a user interface disposed outside the upper housing and configured to receive a first input; Equipped with a processor, The processor: A first electronic beverage recipe is created based at least partially on the first input received by the user interface. creating a second electronic beverage recipe based at least in part on the second input received from the mobile electronic device; Dispensing a beverage through the nozzle according to one or more of the first electronic beverage recipe and the second electronic beverage recipe; The beverage dispenser, wherein the beverage is formed from at least the diluent.

2. A beverage dispenser as described in claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to authenticate a user before dispensing the beverage.

3. A beverage dispenser as described in claim 2, wherein the second input includes a user identifier associated with the user.

4. A beverage dispenser as described in claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to receive information related to an electronic user profile from a database containing a plurality of electronic user profiles.

5. A beverage dispenser as described in claim 4, wherein the information includes settings that enable the processor to dispense the beverage without requiring further input from a user.

6. The beverage dispenser according to claim 5, wherein the setting includes a pre-selected beverage preference.

7. The beverage dispenser according to claim 4, wherein the information includes payment information.

8. The processor is configured to associate one or more of the first electronic beverage recipe and the second electronic beverage recipe with an electronic user profile stored in a database; The beverage dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the database includes a plurality of electronic user profiles.

9. The beverage dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to create a third electronic beverage recipe based at least in part on a third input received from a network interface coupled to the processor.

10. A beverage dispenser as described in claim 1, wherein the first electronic beverage recipe and the second electronic beverage recipe are the same beverage recipe.

11. A control panel disposed outside the lower housing, The beverage dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to receive input from the control panel and adjust the output of the graphical user interface (GUI) of the user interface based on the input.

12. The beverage dispenser according to claim 11, wherein the control panel comprises a plurality of buttons.

13. The beverage dispenser according to claim 12, wherein the processor is configured to bypass payment authentication and dispense water when any of the plurality of buttons is pressed.

14. comprising a plurality of gas tanks arranged in the lower housing, The beverage dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the beverage dispenser is configured to produce a beverage using gas contained in one or more of the plurality of gas tanks.

15. The beverage dispenser according to claim 14, wherein at least one of the plurality of gas tanks contains a flavoring gas.

16. comprising a side housing disposed on the outside of the upper housing, The beverage dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the side housing comprises a condiment dispenser configured to supply at least one fresh ingredient for the beverage.

17. The beverage dispenser according to claim 16, wherein the condiment dispenser has a transparent surface so that at least one of the fresh ingredients is visible when it is placed inside.

18. comprising an authentication sensor located on the outside of the upper housing, The processor is configured to receive readings from the authentication sensor in order to authenticate the user before dispensing the beverage. The beverage dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the reading includes scanning a QR code.

19. A container centering system disposed below the nozzle, The beverage dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the container centering system comprises a magnet configured to attract a corresponding magnetic material disposed on a bottom of the container.

20. The processor is coupled to a network interface; The beverage dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the network interface is coupled to an electronic network that includes a plurality of beverage dispensers.

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