A portable device, system and method for brewing a fermented beverage

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a portable device, system and method for brewing a fermented beverage The method can include the following. First, identifying (301) variables of preparing a fermented beverage based on a recipe, by a microcontroller. Then, dispensing (302) water, and ingredients based on the recipe for forming a mixture with a principal ingredient, by an ingredient dispensing unit, and heating (303) the mixture for performing mashing, by a heating means. Then, removing (304) residual waste to obtain wort, by a disposal means. Boiling (305) the wort based on the recipe, condensing steam generated during the boiling, and determining (306) dispensing of water and ingredients to the brewing vessel based on specific gravity and the recipe. A cooling means is provided for cooling (307) the wort. Finally, determining (309) modifications for controlling the brewing device to brew the fermented beverage based on user preference, by an artificial intelligence unit.

Description

A PORTABLE DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR BREWING A FERMENTED BEVERAGEFIELD

[0001] The embodiments herein generally relate toa device, system and method of brewing of a fermented beverage. More particularly, the disclosure relates to a portable device and system for automating the brewing of a fermented beverage and a method thereof.BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART

[0002] The preparation of fermented beverages is generally a manually intensive process requiring adequate precision for concocting the final product having a desired taste and quality. A pre-requisite amount of skill, knowledge and experience is required for brewingthe fermented beverage.

[0003] Generally, most of the fermented beverages are brewed in large scale breweries with different equipments of varying size and skilled employees for assistance. Currently, with increasing consumption and demand, small-scale devices have been developed for facilitatingbrewing of smaller quantities of the beverages and automating few of the labor-intensivesteps.

[0004] However, brewing using the available small-scale devices without sufficient expertise may result in anundesired quality, taste and other parameters of the resulting beverage, as these devices do not effectively monitor and provide control for preparing the beverage without skilled manual intervention. Furthermore, the devices constitutemultiple number of components and complex mechanisms requiring time intensive cleaning, maintenance and huge costs for manufacturing.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need fora device for automating the preparation of a fermented beverage, independent of manual intervention. Moreover, there is aneed for a cost-effective and a portabledevice, system and method for brewing a fermented beverage of required parameters.OBJECTS

[0006] Some of the objects of the present disclosure are described herein below:

[0007] The main objective of the present disclosure is to provide a portable device and method for brewing a fermented beverage.

[0008] Another objective of the present disclosure is to providea portable device for automating brewing of a fermented beverage independent of manual intervention.

[0009] Still another objective of the present disclosure is to providea cost- effective and portable device for brewing a small quantity of fermented beverage.

[0010] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to providea portable device and system for real-time monitoring and modification of the brewing of a fermented beverage.

[0011] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a portable device for continuous improvement in brewing a fermented beverage using an artificial intelligence unit.

[0012] The other objectives and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated for illustration of preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope thereof.SUMMARY

[0013] In view of the foregoing, an embodiment herein provides a portable device, system and method for brewing a fermented beverage.

[0014] In accordance with an embodiment, the portable brewing device can include but not limited to a brewing vessel for brewing and dispensing the fermented beverage, an operation monitoring system for monitoring operations by detecting variables of brewing the fermented beverage in the brewing vessel, an operation control system for performing the operation of brewing the fermented beverage, and a microcontroller including the brewing engine for controlling the operation control system based on the variables detected by the operation monitoring system.

[0015] In accordance with an embodiment, the portable brewing device can include the following. A brewing vessel for holding and preparing the beverage, an operation monitoring system operatively connected to the brewing vessel for monitoring parameters during preparation of the beverage, an operation control system including a plurality of components in communication with the brewing vessel for performing operations of preparing the beverage. The components of the operation control system can include an ingredient storage and dispensing unit for storing and dispensing a plurality of ingredients, a temperature control means connected to the brewing vessel for maintaining a predefined temperature of contents in the brewing vessel, a disposal means extending into the brewing vessel and configured to move relative to the brewing vessel for removing unwanted contents, anda condensation system in communication with the brewing vessel for condensing steam generated and draining condensate, anda beverage dispensing means for dispensing the prepared beverage from the brewing vessel. A microcontroller is connected to the operation monitoring system and the operation control system, wherein the microcontroller is configured tostore a plurality of variables of a recipe of preparing the beverage, andcontrol operation of the components of the operation control system based on the variables of the recipe for preparing the beverage.

[0016] In an embodiment, the operation control system can include a water dispensing unit, andwherein the water dispensing unit is configured to dispense water into the brewing vessel.

[0017] In an embodiment, the ingredient storage and dispensing unit can include a plurality of containers for storing the ingredients, wherein the containers are identified based on ingredients and the identified containers set in the microcontroller. The microcontroller is configured to control operation of the containers for dispensing a predefined quantity of the ingredients based on the variables of the recipe.

[0018] In an embodiment, the components in the operation control system can include a carbonating means, andwherein the carbonating means is configured to diffuse carbon-dioxide for carbonating the beverage in the brewing vessel.

[0019] In an embodiment, the operation monitoring system can include a sensor system coupled to the lid and in communication with contents of the brewing vessel, wherein the sensor system configured todetect parameters of contents of the brewing vessel and transmit the detected parameters to the microcontroller.

[0020] In an embodiment, a pumping means is provided in the brewing vessel, wherein operation of the pumping means circulating the contents in the brewing vessel for maintain a uniform temperature and imparting aeration.

[0021] In an embodiment, an external control unit is mounted on a brewing device housing the brewing vessel, wherein the external control unit includesan interface for receiving input from a user and transmitting the input to the microcontroller.

[0022] In an embodiment, the device can include the temperature control means including a heating means for heating the contents of the brewing vessel to a predefined temperature based on the recipe, and a cooling means for cooling the contents of the brewing vessel to a predefined temperature based on the recipe.

[0023] In accordance with an embodiment, the system can include but not limited to a brewing device, a brewing engine, a user device and a communication network. The user device can be connected to the brewing device through the brewing engine using a communication network.

[0024] In accordance with an embodiment, the system for brewing a beverage using a portable device, can comprise the following. An operation monitoring system connected to a brewing vessel for detecting parameters of contents of the brewing vessel, an operation control system including a plurality of components for performing operations in the brewing vessel to prepare the beverage, a microcontroller in communication with the operation monitoring system and the operation control system, and a user device in communication with the microcontroller using a communication network. The microcontroller can include a recipe upload configured to receive and store a recipe including a plurality of variables from the user device, and a control unit configured to control the operation of the components of the operation control system based on the variables of the recipe and the detected parameters.

[0025] In an embodiment, the components is configured todispense a predefined quantity of predefined ingredients including a principal ingredient from into the brewing vessel, by an ingredient storage and dispensing unit, dispense a predefined quantity of water into the brewing vessel, by a water dispensing unit, heat a mixture formed by the ingredients and the water to a predefined temperature for performing mashing, by a heating means, remove residual waste of the ingredients from the brewing vessel to obtain a wort, by a disposal means, boil the wort to a predefined temperature, by the heating means, andcool the wort to a predefined temperature for facilitating fermentation to obtain a fermented beverage, by a cooling means. The predefined ingredients, the predefined quantity of theingredients and the water, and the predefined temperature in the recipe are based on the variables of the recipe.

[0026] In an embodiment, a recommendation unit is configured in the microcontroller to connect to the user device for receiving and storing user preference of appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel for a prepared beverage, define a reference value of the variables including ingredients, quantity of ingredients, temperature and duration of performing the operation of the fermented beverage corresponding to the user preference, by the microcontroller, anddetermine the modification by recommending changes to the variables of the recipe based on comparison between real-time variables and the reference value of the variables for obtaining the beverage as per the user preference.

[0027] In an embodiment, the microcontroller is configured to determine dispensing of water and other ingredients to the brewing vessel during the boiling based on a detection of specific gravity and variables of the recipe.

[0028] In an embodiment, an external control unit is mounted on a brewing device housing the brewing vessel, the external control unit including an interface, wherein the interface is configured toreceive an input of performing an operation of preparation of the beverage from a user anddisplay a real-time operation of preparation of the beverage. The microcontroller is connected to the external control unit and configured tocontrol the operation of the components of the operation control system based on the input.

[0029] In an embodiment, a sensor system is provided in the operation monitoring system for detecting the parameters, andwherein the parameters includehydrogen sulphide level, hydrogen level, methane level, ammonia level, carbon dioxide level, , aldehydes, ethanol level, volatile organic compound Sensor (VOC), oxygen level and specific gravity, and activity of yeast.

[0030] In an embodiment, the variables can include but not limited toingredients, quantity of ingredients, temperature and duration of performing the operation

[0031] In accordance with an embodiment, the method for brewing a fermented beverage can include but not limited to the following steps. First, identifying variables of preparing a fermented beverage based on a recipe for controlling a brewing device, by a microcontroller. Then, dispensingwater and ingredients to a brewing vessel based on a predefined quantity provided in the recipe for forming a mixture with a principal ingredient, by an ingredient dispensing unit. Next, heating the mixture to a predefined temperature for performing mashing, by a heating means. Then, removingresidual waste of the principal ingredient and the ingredients from the mixture in the brewing vessel to obtain wort after a predefined duration, by a disposal means. Next, boiling the wort to a predefined temperature based on the recipe, by the heating means. Simultaneously, condensing the steam generated during the boiling, by ventilation fans of a condensation system. Then, determining dispensing of water based on specific gravity and other ingredients based on the recipe to the brewing vessel during the boiling, by the microcontroller.Next, cooling the wort to a predefined temperature, by a cooling means. Then, determining modifications for controlling the brewing device for brewing the fermented beverage based on user preference. Then, carbonating the fermented beverage in the brewing vessel, by a carbonating means. Finally, dispensing the carbonated fermented beverage from the brewing device, by a dispensing means.

[0032] In accordance with an embodiment, the method of brewing a beverage using a portable device, can comprise the following steps. First, identifying variables of preparing a fermented beverage based on a recipe received, by a microcontroller, then controlling a plurality of components of an operation control system based on the identified variables, by the microcontroller. The componentsof the operation control system is configured for dispensing ingredients including a principal ingredient to a brewing vessel including water to obtain a mixture, by an ingredient dispensing unit, heating the mixture to a predefined temperature to perform mashing, by a heating means, positioning relative to the brewing vessel for removing residual waste of the principal ingredient and the ingredients from the mixture to obtain wort after a predefined duration, by a disposal means, boiling the wort to a predefined temperature, by the heating means, and cooling the wort to a predefined temperature for facilitating fermentation, by a cooling means, and determining modifications for controlling the brewing device to complete brewing of the fermented beverage based on user preference, by an artificial intelligence unit.

[0033] In an embodiment, the method can include monitoring parameters of the contents of the brewing vessel including the mixture, the wort and the beverage, by a sensor system, wherein the parameters including but not limited to hydrogen sulphide level, hydrogen level, methane level, ammonia level, carbon dioxide level, aldehyde level, ethanol level , volatile organic compounds level (VOC), oxygen level and specific gravity, and activity of yeast; andcontrolling the components of the operation control system based on the detected parameters, threshold parameters and the variables of the recipe.

[0034] In an embodiment, the method can include receiving user preference of appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel for a prepared beverage through a user device, by the microcontroller, defining a reference value of variables including ingredients, quantity of ingredients, temperature and duration of performing the operation of the fermented beverage corresponding to the user preference, by the microcontroller, determining the modification by recommending changes based on comparison between real-time variables and the reference value of the variables for obtaining the beverage as per the user preference.

[0035] In an embodiment, the method can include circulating the wort in the brewing vessel during the heating and / or cooling for maintaining uniform temperature of the wort and aerating the work, by a pumping means.

[0036] In an embodiment, the method can include carbonating the fermented beverage by diffusing carbon dioxide, by a carbonating means, anddispensing the carbonated and fermented beverage from the brewing vessel, by a beverage dispensing means.

[0037] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0038] The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates similar or identical items.

[0039] Fig. l illustrates a block diagram of a system for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an embodiment herein;

[0040] Fig. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a portable device for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an embodiment herein;

[0041] Fig. 3a illustrates a schematic of a portable device without an enclosure for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an exemplary embodiment herein;

[0042] Fig. 3b illustrates a schematic of the portable device with an enclosure for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an exemplary embodiment herein;

[0043] Fig. 4 illustrates a schematic of a sensor systemof a system of the portable device for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an exemplary embodiment herein;

[0044] Fig. 5 illustrates a schematic of a serrated plate of the portable device for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an exemplary embodiment herein;

[0045] Fig. 6 illustrates a schematic of an ingredient storing and dispensing unit of the portable device for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an exemplary embodiment herein;

[0046] Fig. 7 illustrates a flow chart of a methodfor brewing a fermented beverage, according to anembodiment herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0047] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well- known components and processing techniques are omitted soas to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein. As mentioned above, there is a need for a device for automating the preparation of a fermented beverage, independent of manual intervention. In particular, there is a need for a cost-effective and a portable device, system and method for brewing a fermented beverage of required parameters. The embodiments herein achieve this by providing “A Portable Devicefor Brewing a Fermented Beverage and a Method Thereof ’.Ref erring now to the drawings, and more particularly to Fig.1 through Fig.3, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown preferred embodiments.

[0048] Fig. 1 illustrates a system for brewing a fermented beverage. The system can include but not limited to a brewing device 101, a user device 119 and a communication network 127.

[0049] In an embodiment, the brewing device 101 is provided for brewing the fermented beverage. The brewing device 101 can include but not limited to a brewing vessel 102, a microcontroller 105, and a brewing engine 107.

[0050] In an embodiment, the brewing vessel 102 is a single container provided in the brewing device for storing and preparing the beverage. In an exemplary embodiment, the brewing vessel 102 can include a capacity of in the range of25 to 30 litres, and a material of the brewing vessel can include but not limited to food grade stainless steel. In an embodiment, the brewing vessel 102 provides insulation for maintaining the temperature of the beverage inside the brewing vessel 102.

[0051] In an embodiment, an operation monitoring system 103 can be connected to the brewing vessel 102 for monitoring operations of fermentation of the beverage inside the brewing vessel 102. The operation control system 104 can be connected to the brewing vessel for performing operations to prepare the fermented beverage inside the brewing vessel 102.

[0052] The microcontroller 105 can be connected to the operation monitoring system 103 and the operation control system 104 of the brewing device 101 for monitoring and controlling operations for preparing the beverage.

[0053] In an embodiment, the brewing engine 107 can be configured in the microcontroller for transmitting commands to control operations for preparing thefermented beverage based on a recipe and monitor the operation of preparation of the beverage.

[0054] In an embodiment, the brewing engine 107 can include but not limited to a recipe upload 109, a control unit 111, an artificial intelligence unit 113, and a database 117.

[0055] In an embodiment, the recipe upload 109 can be provided for uploading a recipe to the microcontroller 105.

[0056] In an embodiment, the control unit 111 can be provided for processing the recipe to identify variables including but not limited to ingredients, quantity of ingredients, temperature, sequence of steps / operation and duration of each step / operation and determining commands for components of the brewing device 101 based on the identified variables. The microcontroller 105 controls the operation control system 104 based on the commands for brewing the fermented beverage based on the recipe.

[0057] In an embodiment, an external control unit 129 can be connected to the microcontroller 105 and provided on the brewing device 101 for facilitating input from a user. In an embodiment, the external control unit 129 can include but not limited to a display 131. The display 131 can be a touch screen interface provided for viewing data of preparation of the fermented beverage andreceiving input from the user including but not limited to recipe, and control of operations of the brewing device.

[0058] In an embodiment, the database 117 can store recipes and data of parameters detected in the brewing device 101. The artificial intelligence unit 113 can be configured for processing data in the database 117 and transmitting recommendations to the brewing device 101 for preparing the beverage based on user preference and user data.

[0059] In an embodiment, the user device 119 can be connected to the brewing engine 107 in the brewing device 101 through the communication network 127. The user device can facilitate a user in accessing the brewing engine 107 for monitoring and controlling the brewing device 101. The user device 119 can include but not limited to a smart phone, laptop, any electronic communication device.

[0060] In an embodiment, the user device 119 can include a user interface 121, a memory 123 and a processor 125. The user interface 121 can facilitate the user to provide input for controlling the brewing device 101 and receiving data of the brewing device for monitoring the brewing device 101.

[0061] In an embodiment, the user interface 121 facilitates the user to upload a recipe of a fermented beverage to the recipe upload 109 in the brewing engine 107. In an embodiment, the recipe can include but not limited to a sequence of steps for preparation of the beverage, ingredients, duration, quantity of the ingredients. In an embodiment, the uploaded recipe can be edited, deleted and / or a new recipe can be created by the user.

[0062] In an embodiment, the communication network 127 can include but not limited to internet, Bluetooth.

[0063] Fig.2 illustrates a block diagram of a portable brewing device for brewing a fermented beverage. In an embodiment, the brewing device 101 can include but not limited to the brewing vessel 102, the operation monitoring system 103, the operation control system 104, the microcontroller 105, and a brewing engine 107.

[0064] In an embodiment, the operation monitoring system 103 can detect parameters inside the brewing vessel 102 for monitoring preparation of the fermented beverage. In an embodiment, the operation monitoring system can include but not limited to a sensor system 205. The sensor system 205can include but not limited to a plurality of sensors for detecting a plurality of parameters ofthe beverage during the preparation in the brewing vessel 102. In an embodiment, the parameters can include but not limited to temperature, specific gravity of the beverage, quantity of water, pressure in the brewing vessel, duration of an operation, weight of the ingredients, aroma, and oxygen level. In an embodiment, the sensors can include but not limited to a temperature sensor, a water flow sensor, a specific gravity sensor device, a pressure sensor, a timer.

[0065] In an embodiment, the parameters of the beverage detected by the sensor system 205 in the brewing vessel 102 are transmitted to the microcontroller 105 and the database 117. The database 117 can store the parameters in the brewing vessel 102 detected by the sensor system 205.

[0066] In an embodiment, the control unit 111 can determine commands for facilitating the microcontroller 105 to control components of the operation control system 104 based on thedetected parameters and the variables of the recipe.

[0067] In an embodiment, the components of the operation control system 104 can include but not limited to an ingredient storage and dispensing unit 209, a temperature control 211, a water dispensing unit 217, a disposal means 219, a condensation system 221, a pumping means 223, a carbonating means 225, and a beverage dispensing means 227.

[0068] In an embodiment, the operation control system 104can control operation of the components for the preparation of the fermented beverage in the brewing vessel 102 based on commands received from the microcontroller 105.

[0069] In an embodiment, the ingredient storage and dispensing unit 209 can include but not limited to a plurality of containers for storing ingredients required for preparation of the fermented beverage. In an exemplary embodiment, all the ingredients required for preparation of the beverage in accordance with the recipe are manually filled in the containers by the user. The containers of the ingredient storage and dispensing unit 209 can be controlled by the microcontroller 105.Each of the containers of the ingredient storage and dispensing unit 209 can be identified based on their ingredients and the identification can be set in the microcontroller 105. The control unit 111 in the brewing engine can identify the ingredients for the preparation of the beverage from the recipe. In an embodiment, the microcontroller 105 can control operating the containers for dispensing the identified ingredients into the brewing vessel 102. In an embodiment, the operation can include a mechanism for dispensing the ingredients from the containers to the brewing vessel.

[0070] In an embodiment, the water dispensing unit 217 can be provided for dispensing water into the brewing vessel for preparation of the fermented beverage. In an embodiment, the water dispensing unit 217 can be connected to a water source. The water source can supply water to the water dispensing unit 217.

[0071] In an embodiment, the microcontroller 105 can control the water dispensing unit 217 for dispensing a predefined quantity of water based on the recipe. In an embodiment, the water flow sensor can be connected to the water dispensing unit 217 for measuring quantity of water being dispensed.

[0072] In an embodiment, a principal ingredient for the fermented beverage is added from an external source to the brewing vessel. The principal ingredient is provided for formulating the fermented beverage. The principal ingredient can include but not limited to malt. The ingredients stored in theingredient storage and dispensing unit 209 are added to the brewing vessel 102. The water is added to the brewing vessel 102 from the water dispensing unit. The principal ingredient, the ingredients and the water form a mixture in the brewing vessel 102.

[0073] In an embodiment, the temperature control 211 is provided for heating and / or cooling the brewing vessel 102 to a predefined temperature. The temperaturecontrol 211 can include but not limited to a heating means 213 and acooling means 215. The heating means is provided for heating the brewing vessel 102and the cooling means is provided for cooling the brewing vessel 102.

[0074] In an embodiment, the heating means 213 can include but not limited to a food grade heating coil. The cooling means 215 can include but not limited to a system including a compressor, a cooling tank, a plate heat exchanger, at least one temperature sensors, plurality of water pumps, a jacket fermenter with chambers, and a PID controller, wherein a cooling agent cooled utilizing the compressor and the plate heat exchanger is transferred to thejacket fermenter to regulate the temperature. The jacket fermenter is provided for cooling the brewing device 201 to the predefined temperature, by the PID controller.

[0075] In an embodiment, the heating means 213 heats the brewing vessel 102 to the predefined temperature for a predefined duration of time for performing mashing by heating the mixture. In an embodiment, the microcontroller 105 can control the heating means 213 for heating the mixture to the predefined temperature based on temperature of the mixture detected by the temperature sensor and the predefined temperature identified in the recipe.

[0076] In an embodiment, the disposal means 219 is capable of extracting and disposing residual waste generated during mashing in the brewing vessel 102. In an embodiment, the disposal means 219 can include but not limited to an electromechanical system including a robotic arm capable of moving relative to each other for picking residual waste generated from the mixture during mashing and disposing the residual waste outside the brewing device 101. In an embodiment, a controller is connected to the robotic arms for controlling movement for picking the residual waste from a bottom of the brewing vessel 102. The controller of the disposal means 219 can control extraction and disposal of the residual waste. The control unit 111 can transmit command for controlling the controller of the disposal means from the control unit 111. In an embodiment, theresidual waste is brewer’s spent grain (BSG) formed as a residue of the principal ingredientand the ingredients.

[0077] The disposal of residual waste from the brewing vessel 102 after mashing retains a liquid in the brewing vessel 102. The liquid is referred to as wort.

[0078] In an embodiment, the microcontroller 105can control the heating means 213 for boiling the wort to a predefined temperature for a predefined duration based on the recipe. In an embodiment, the heating means 213 can bring the wort to boil from a room temperature.

[0079] In an embodiment, the microcontroller 105 controls the ingredient storage and dispensing unit 209 for dispensing ingredients into the wort at a predefined duration during the boiling, based on the recipe.

[0080] In an embodiment, a hydrometer can detect parameter of specific gravity during the boiling. The specific gravity correlates to a level of the fermentable sugar in the wort that determines the fermentation of the wort.

[0081] In an embodiment, the hydrometer can be handled manually. The detected parameter can be transmitted as an input to the microcontroller 105. In an embodiment, the input can be transmitted manually by the user through the user interface 121 and / or through the display 131 of the external control unit 129.

[0082] In an embodiment, on detecting a level of the specific gravity different from the level provided in the recipe, the microcontroller 105 can control the water reservoir and dispensing unit 217 for dispensing a predefined quantity of water to maintain the level of specific gravity based on the recipe, thereby controlling the level of fermentable sugar to attain the required fermentation of the beverage. The microcontroller 101 can then control the heating means 213 for boiling the wort for a predefined duration after addition of the water, to prevent contamination from the cold unsterile water. The predefined duration can include but not limited to 5 minutes.

[0083] In an embodiment, the condensation system 221 can include ventilation fans for cooling the temperature inside the brewing vessel 102 by condensing the steam generated during the boiling. The water from the condensed steam can be drained out of the brewing device 101. The condensation of the steam can prevent formation of Dimethyl Sulphide (DMS) which causes undesirable flavour in the wort and prevent radiation of heat from the brewing device 101 to an environment where the brewing device 101 is placed. The condensation system 221 can condense a quantity of approximately 2.5 litres of water vapour during boiling of the wort for 30 to 60 minutes.

[0084] In an embodiment, the condensation system can be switched on when the wort starts to boil, by the userusing the display 131 of the external control unit 129.

[0085] In an embodiment, the microcontroller 201 can control the cooling means 215for cooling the wort to the predefined temperature after the boiling. In an embodiment, the predefined temperature maintains yeast pitching temperature for facilitating fermentation of the wort.In an embodiment, the cooling means 215 can cool the wortafter the boilingto a yeast pitching temperature of 22°C in a predefined duration of 80 minutes, when room temperature is 33°C.

[0086] In an embodiment, the pumping means 223 is provided for circulating the wort in the brewing vessel 102 during heating and / or cooling for maintaining uniform temperature of the wort and aerating the wort.

[0087] In an embodiment, a lid can be provided for closing the brewing vessel 102 in an airtight manner for facilitating fermentation of the wort to the beverage. In an embodiment, the lid can prevent contamination of the beverage during fermentation, retain aroma of the beverage by preventing leakage, maintain temperature and pressure inside the brewing vessel by preventing leakage. In an embodiment, the fermentation can be monitored in real-time by the sensor system.The sensor system can detect parameters including but not limited to aroma, oxygen level andspecific gravity, activity of yeast and alcohol levelof the wortusing the gyro sensor and transmit the detected parameters to the microcontroller 105.

[0088] In an embodiment, the level of specific gravity can be continuously determined during fermentation by a gyro sensor. The gyro sensor can float on the wort for measuringa change of angle during the fermentation, wherein the change in angle occurs due to a change in density of the wort.The change is angle is utilized for calculating the real-time specific gravity of the wort during the fermentation.

[0089] In an embodiment, the pumping means 213 can circulate the fermented beverage obtained after the fermentation in a chamber for carbonation. In an embodiment, the carbonating means 225 can be connected to the chamber for diffusing carbon-dioxide in the fermented beverage. The carbonated fermented beverage can be dispensed through a tap attached to the chamber.

[0090] In an embodiment, the artificial intelligence unit 113 can include but not limited to the recommendation unit 115. In an embodiment, the recommendation unit 115 can provide recommendations and changes during preparation of the beverage. The recommendation unit 115 can provide recommendations based on following steps. First, defining a reference value of variables of the fermented beverage based on user preference of appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel for types of fermented beverage. The variables can include but not limited to ingredients, quantity of ingredients, temperature and duration of performing the operation. Then, benchmark each type of fermented beverage to the defined reference value of the variables based on the user preference of appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel. Finally, recommend changes to the microcontrollerbased on comparison between real-time variables and reference value of the variables for achieving the fermented beverage as per the user preference.

[0091] In an embodiment, the control unit 111 can monitor working of components of the brewing device 101, and monitoring parameters of the wort for determining non-functioning and / or malfunctioning of the components. On determining non-functioning and / or malfunctioning of the components, the control unit 111 transmits an alert message to a display provided on the brewing device 101 and the user device 119. In an embodiment, the control unit 111 transmits commands to the microcontroller 105 for troubleshooting problems during fermentation. In an embodiment, the problems, parameters of the problems and solution for the problems are defined in the control unit 111. The problems can includebut not limited to stuck fermentation. The parameters can include but not limited to fermentation level, temperature. The solution can include but not limited to commands for controlling components for each of the problems. The control unit compares real-time parameters with value of parameters of problems for identifying the problems transmitting commands for troubleshooting the problems.

[0092] Inan embodiment, the microcontroller 105 performs cleaning of the brewing vessel 102 by dispensing a predefined quantity of water into the brewing vessel.

[0093] Fig. 3a illustrates a schematic of a portable device without an enclosure for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an exemplary embodiment. In an embodiment, the portable device 300a can include a lid secured to the brewing vessel 102. A coolant tank 305 can be provided for operating the cooling means 215 including a refrigerator. A condenser heat sink pipe 307 can be provided for conveying the condensate and heat to the water dispensing unit 207. A sleeve 309 is provided around the condenser heat sink pipe 307 for dissipating the heat. Thecondensate is generated from the condensation of steam inside the brewing vessel 102. A yeast drain valve 311 and a yeast collection tray 313 are provided.

[0094] Fig. 3b illustrates a schematic of the portable device with an enclosure for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an exemplary embodiment. In an embodiment, the portable device 300b can include an enclosure 321. A condenser access panel 327 is provided for accessing the condensation unit. A plurality of wheels 329 are provided for moving the portable device.

[0095] Fig. 4 illustrates a schematic of a sensor systemof a system of the portable device for brewing a fermented beverage. The sensor system 205 can be supported by a plurality of support plates 401. The sensor system 205 can include a hydrogen sulphide sensor 403, Volatile Organic Sensor (VOC)404, methane sensor 405, ammonia sensor 406, carbon dioxide sensor 407, formaldehyde sensor 408, temperature sensor 409, ethanol / alcohol sensor 410 and oxygen sensor 411.

[0096] Fig. 5 illustrates a schematic of a serrated plate of the portable device for brewing a fermented beverage, according to an exemplary embodiment. The serrated plate can include an outer casing 501, rotating plate 502, a serrated surface plate 503, and a spreader plate 504. A motor 505 is provided for rotating the rotating plate 502. The serrate surface plate 503 can include a plurality of serrations.

[0097] Fig. 6 illustrates a schematic of an ingredient storing and dispensing unit of the portable device for brewing a fermented beverage. The unit can include an outer surface 601, a plurality of openings 603 for adding ingredients, and a plurality of containers 607 for storing the ingredients. A servo motor is connected for operating the unit. A cap 609 is provided for closing the containers 607.

[0098] Fig. 7 illustrates a flow chart of a method for brewing a fermented beverage. In an embodiment, the method can include the following steps. First, identifyingvariables of preparing a fermented beverage based on a recipe forcontrolling a brewing device, by a brewing engine. In an embodiment, the recipe can beuploaded on the brewing engine, by the processor of the user device based on input from the user. The recipe can be processed by the control unit of the brewing engine for identifying variables of preparing the beverage and determining commands to control the components of the brewing device based on the identified variables. In an embodiment, a recipe can be added, deleted and / or edited by the user, using the user device.

[0099] In an embodiment, the recipe can be uploaded through the external control unit 129 provided on the brewing device 101.[000100] Then, dispensing702 water by a water dispensing unit to a brewing vessel based on a predefined quantity provided in the recipe and dispensing ingredients to a brewing vessel based on a predefined quantity provided in the recipe for forming a mixture of water and the ingredients, by an ingredient dispensing unit.. Themicrocontroller 105 can control the ingredient dispensing unit and the water dispensing unit 217 for dispensing the predefined quantity of the ingredient based on the recipe.[000101] Next, heating 703 the mixture to a predefined temperature for performing mashing, by a heating means. In an embodiment, the temperature can be measured by a temperature sensor. The microcontroller 105 can control the heating means for heating the mixture for maintaining the predefined temperature. In an embodiment, the predefined temperature can include more than one temperature that may be maintained at different durations of time.[000102] Then, removing704 residual waste of the principal ingredient and the ingredients from the mixture in the brewing vessel to obtain wort after a predefined duration, by a disposal means.[000103] Next, boiling 705 the wort to a predefined temperature based on the recipe, by the heating means. In an embodiment, the steam generated during theboiling can be condensed by a condensation system including but not limited to ventilation fans. The water from the condensed steam can be drained out of the brewing device. The condensation system can be switched on manually by the user when the wort starts to boil, thereby preventing undesirable flavour due to formation of Dimethyl Sulphide and preventing radiation due to the steam.[000104] Then, determining 706 dispensing of water based on specific gravityand other ingredients based on the recipe to the brewing vessel during the boiling, by the microcontroller. In an embodiment, a predefined quantity of water can be dispensed based on determination of the level of specific gravity. After dispensing of water, the wort can be boiled again to prevent contamination.[000105] In an embodiment, the specific gravity of the wort can be measured during the boiling, and the measured specific gravity can be transmitted as an input to the microcontroller. The specific gravity can be measured using a hydrometer. Then, the microcontroller can determine dispensing of water based on the level of the specific gravity, for adjusting the specific gravity to achieving desired taste, aroma of the beverage.[000106] Then, cooling 707 the wort to a predefined temperature, by a cooling means. The cooling means can cool the wort to the predefined temperature for facilitating fermentation.[000107] Next, determining 708modifications for controlling the brewing device for completing the brewing of the fermented beverage based on user preference of appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel, by an artificial intelligence unit.[000108] Then, carbonating the fermented beverage in the brewing vessel, by a carbonating means. Finally, dispensing the carbonated fermented beverage from the brewing device, by a dispensing means.[000109] In an exemplary embodiment, the method of operating the portable device can include the following steps. Cleaning the portable device can includethe following steps. First, required water is added automatically via a pump and flow sensor. A required brewing sanitizer is added manually. Automatically temperature is raised, and the water is circulated continuously to sanitize the brewing vessel. Aftercompletion of the above steps, water can be dispensed via the dispensing mechanism 227. During mashing, the recipe can be chosen by a user using the user device or define parameters of mashing includingbatch size, starting mashing volume and pre boil gravity. Required water is automatically sent using pumping means or manually and connectedto a provided mashing bag. [000110] A ‘start mashing’ switch is provided in the display of the interface for facilitating a user to provide input by pressing the switch. The ingredients are added to the brewing vessel through theingredient dispensing unit, to automatically dispense the ingredients. Otherwise, the user can also add the mashing ingredients manually by following the instructions. The portable device is capable of notifying completion of the mashing process after a predefined duration. If it is a custom recipe, then it is recommended that the user record a pre boil specific gravity using a hydrometer and input the data via the device display. [000111] The mashing ingredients (spent grain) after mashing are removed, wherein a mashing bag is connected along with boil ingredients to linear actuator to be able to automatically lift the heavy spent grain and dispense.[000112] The boiling process can include connecting the steam condenser pipe system to the lid, and boiling ingredient dispenser loaded with required boil ingredients such as hops and spices as per the recipe. When the user can select to dispense boil ingredients manually, notifications are triggered through the user device, letting the user know when, what and how much of the boil ingredients to be added as per the recipe.Begin boiling by selecting ‘Start Boiling’ from the portable device display .When the boiling is completed, a notification is triggeredto the user both via mobile application and through device display.lt is optional for the user to check the post boil gravity, at this point.[000113] In the fermentation process, to bring down the boiling wort temperature to the yeast pitching desired temperature as per the recipe, the user can simply select ‘cool wort’, remove the condensing pipe system and the boil ingredients dispensing system. The process can include connecting the sensor system to the lid to be able to measure the aroma and other gases during the fermentation. After reaching the yeast pitching temperature, the yeast is manually added to the wort. A floating hydrometersensor can be washed and sanitized by the user and placed in the wort. Next, a start ‘fermentation’ switch in the display is required to be actuates. Track the gravity and temperature via mobile / device app[000114] User notification is triggered, if there are any ingredients that are required to be added manually during fermentation as per the recipe.[000115] When the primary fermentation is completed, the ‘floating hydrometer’ will notify the user.The Yeast can be slowly removed from the bottom via the yeast drain valve.[000116] Aging can include a switch ‘Start aging’ to automatically bring the temperature to the required aging temperature as per the recipe. A user notification is triggered, if there are any ingredients that are required to be added manually during aging as per the recipe. The user is notified when the fermented beverage is ready for carbonation.[000117] Carbonation can include three methods to carbonate the fermented beverage depending on the user comfort, type of fermented beverage and the user knowledge of brewing and carbonation. First Method: Add required priming sugar as per the recipe and can be left to ferment and produce natural carbonation. Second Method: Connect a Spunding Valve during secondaryfermentation / Aging and control the level of Co2 that can escape and thereby carbonating the beverage.[000118] Third Method: Add food grade Co2 through the gas portal in the lid, and carbonate to the desired level by controlling the volume of Co2, temperature and duration.[000119] Dispensing can include after reaching the desired level of carbonation, the finished beverage can be dispensed via the main tap provided in the equipment.In another embodiment, the alcohol after fermentation is transferred to keg for adding CO2 to carbonate and to dispense.[000120] A main advantage of the present disclosure is thatthe portable device, system and method provide automated brewing of a fermented beverage.[000121] Another advantage of the present disclosure is thatthe portable device, system and method providebrewing of a fermented beverage independent of manual intervention.[000122] Still another advantage of the present disclosure is thattheportable device is cost-effective for brewing fermented beverages of smaller quantities.[000123] Yet another advantage of the present disclosure is that the portable device, system and method utilizes artificial intelligence provides real-time monitoring and modifications for brewing a fermented beverage based on user preference.[000124] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for thepurpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodimentsherein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.

Claims

Claim:

1. A portable device for brewing a beverage, comprising: a brewing vessel (102) for holding and preparing the beverage, an operation monitoring system (103) operatively connected to the brewing vessel for monitoring parameters during preparation of the beverage; an operation control system (104) including a plurality of components in communication with the brewing vessel for performing operations of preparing the beverage, wherein the components of the operation control system (104) including: an ingredient storage and dispensing unit (209) for storing and dispensing a plurality of ingredients, a temperature control means (213) connected to the brewing vessel (102) for maintaining a predefined temperature of contents in the brewing vessel, a disposal means (219) extending into the brewing vessel and configured to move relative to the brewing vessel for removing unwanted contents, and a condensation system (221) in communication with the brewing vessel for condensing steam generated and draining condensate, and a beverage dispensing means (227) for dispensing the prepared beverage from the brewing vessel; a microcontroller (105) connected to the operation monitoring system (103) and the operation control system (104), wherein the microcontroller configured to: store a plurality of variables of a recipe of preparing the beverage, and control operation of the components of the operation control system (104) based on the variables of the recipe for preparing the beverage.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the operation control system (104) including a water dispensing unit (217), and wherein the water dispensing unit (217) configured to dispense water into the brewing vessel (102).

3. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ingredient storage and dispensing unit (205) including a plurality of containers for storing the ingredients, wherein containers identified based on ingredients and the identified containers set in the microcontroller (105), and wherein the microcontroller (105) configured to control operation of the containers for dispensing a predefined quantity of the ingredients based on the variables of the recipe.

4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the components in the operation control system (104) including a carbonating means (225), and wherein the carbonating means (225) configured to diffuse carbon-dioxide for carbonating the beverage in the brewing vessel (102).

5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the operation monitoring system wherein a sensor system (205) coupled to the lid (301) and in communication with contents of the brewing vessel (102), wherein the sensor system (205) configured to: detect parameters of contents of the brewing vessel, and transmit the detected parameters to the microcontroller (105).

6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a pumping means (223) provided in the brewing vessel (102), wherein operation of the pumping means (223) circulating the contents in the brewing vessel (102) for maintain a uniform temperature and imparting aeration.

7. The device as claimed in the claim 1, wherein an external control unit (129) mounted on a brewing device (101) housing the brewing vessel (102), the external control unit (129) including: an interface for receiving input from a user and transmitting the input to the microcontroller (105).

8. The device as claimed in the claim 1, wherein the temperature control means (211) including: a heating means (213) for heating the contents of the brewing vessel (102) to a predefined temperature based on the recipe, and a cooling means (215) for cooling the contents of the brewing vessel (102) to a predefined temperature based on the recipe.

9. A system for brewing a beverage using a portable device, comprising: an operation monitoring system (103) connected to a brewing vessel (102) for detecting parameters of contents of the brewing vessel (102), an operation control system (104) including a plurality of components for performing operations in the brewing vessel (102) to prepare the beverage, a microcontroller (105) in communication with the operation monitoring system (103) and the operation control system (104), a user device (119) in communication with the microcontroller (105) using a communication network (127), wherein the microcontroller (105) including: a recipe upload (109) configured to receive and store a recipe including a plurality of variables from the user device (119), a control unit (111) configured to control the operation of the components of the operation control system (104) based on the variables of the recipe and the detected parameters.

10. The system as claimed in claim9, wherein the components configured to:dispense a predefined quantity of predefined ingredients including a principal ingredient from into the brewing vessel (102), by an ingredient storage and dispensing unit (209), dispense a predefined quantity of water into the brewing vessel (102), by a water dispensing unit (217), heat a mixture formed by the ingredients and the water to a predefined temperature for performing mashing, by a heating means (213); remove residual waste of the ingredients from the brewing vessel (102) to obtain a wort, by a disposal means (219); boil the wort to a predefined temperature, by the heating means (213); and cool the wort to a predefined temperature for facilitating fermentation to obtain a fermented beverage, by a cooling means (215); wherein the predefined ingredients, the predefined quantity of the ingredients and the water, and the predefined temperature in the recipe based on the variables of the recipe.

11. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein a recommendation unit (115) configured in the microcontroller (105) to: connect to the user device (119) for receiving and storing user preference of appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel for a prepared beverage, define a reference value of the variables including ingredients, quantity of ingredients, temperature and duration of performing the operation of the fermented beverage corresponding to the user preference, by the microcontroller, and determine the modification by recommending changes to the variables of the recipe based on comparison between real-time variables and the reference value of the variables for obtaining the beverage as per the user preference.

12. The system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the microcontroller (105) configured to determine dispensing of water and other ingredients to the brewing vessel during the boiling based on a detection of specific gravity and variables of the recipe.

13. The system as claimed in claim 9, wherein an external control unit (129) mounted on a brewing device (101) housing the brewing vessel (102), the external control unit (129) including an interface, wherein the interface configured to: receive an input of performing an operation of preparation of the beverage from a user, and display a real-time operation of preparation of the beverage; and wherein the microcontroller (105) connected to the external control unit (129) and configured to: control the operation of the components of the operation control system (104) based on the input.

14. The system as claimed in claim 9, wherein a sensor system (205) provided in the operation monitoring system (103) for detecting the parameters, and wherein the parameters including hydrogen sulphide level, hydrogen level, methane level, ammonia level, carbon dioxide level, aldehyde level, ethanol level, volatile organic compounds level (VOC), oxygen level and specific gravity, and activity of yeast.

15. The system as claimed in claim 9, wherein the variables including ingredients, quantity of ingredients, temperature and duration of performing the operation16. A method of brewing a beverage using a portable device, comprising the steps of: identifying (701) variables of preparing a fermented beverage based on a recipe received, by a microcontroller;controlling a plurality of components of an operation control system based on the identified variables, by the microcontroller; wherein the components of the operation control system configured for: dispensing (702) ingredients including a principal ingredient to a brewing vessel including water to obtain a mixture, by an ingredient dispensing unit; heating (703) the mixture to a predefined temperature to perform mashing, by a heating means; positioning (704) relative to the brewing vessel for removing residual waste of the principal ingredient and the ingredients from the mixture to obtain wort after a predefined duration, by a disposal means; boiling (705) the wort to a predefined temperature, by the heating means; and cooling (707) the wort to a predefined temperature for facilitating fermentation, by a cooling means; determining (706) dispensing of waterand other ingredients to the brewing vessel based on measured specific gravityand based on variables of the recipe during the boiling, by the microcontroller or by the user; and determining (708) modifications for controlling the brewing device to complete brewing of the fermented beverage based on user preference, by an artificial intelligence unit.

17. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the method including monitoring parameters of the contents of the brewing vessel including the mixture, the wort and the beverage, by a sensor system, wherein the parameters including hydrogen sulphide level, hydrogen level, methane level, ammonia level, carbon dioxide level, aldehyde level, ethanollevel , volatile organic level (VOC), oxygen level and specific gravity, and activity of yeast; and controlling the components of the operation control system based on the detected parameters, threshold parameters and the variables of the recipe.

18. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the method including: receiving user preference of appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel for a prepared beverage through a user device, by the microcontroller, defining a reference value of variables including ingredients, quantity of ingredients, temperature and duration of performing the operation of the fermented beverage corresponding to the user preference, by the microcontroller, determining the modification by recommending changes based on comparison between real-time variables and the reference value of the variables for obtaining the beverage as per the user preference.

19. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the method including circulating the wort in the brewing vessel during the heating and / or cooling for maintaining uniform temperature of the wort and aerating the work, by a pumping means.

20. The method as claimed in claim 16, wherein the method including carbonating the fermented beverage by diffusing carbon dioxide, by a carbonating means, and dispensing the carbonated and fermented beverage from the brewing vessel, by a beverage dispensing means.

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