A jug and method of guiding a user to froth milk

Abstract

A method of detecting a steam wand position with respect to a vessel (100), the vessel (100) including at least one processor (218) operatively associated with a memory (218') and one or more sensors, the memory (218') has stored therein operational targets of the vessel, the method being performed by the at least one processor (218) and including the steps of: receiving (650) an input signal from the one or more sensors; determining (652) a frequency parameter based on the input signal; and generating (656) a user feedback signal based on the frequency parameter, wherein the user feedback signal is output via one or more output devices.

Description

A JUG AND METHOD OF GUIDING A USER TO FROTH MILKFIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a jug for use with a milk frothing apparatus and method of guiding a user to froth milk. In particular, the invention relates to aiding a user to froth milk and create latte art.

[0002] The invention has been developed primarily for frothing of milk, typically for milkbased coffee drinks and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use, and may also be employed in other applications involving hot chocolates, babycinos or other beverages that include frothed milk.BACKGROUND

[0003] When preparing milk-based coffee drinks, some require frothed milk, such as cappuccinos and lattes. To create frothed milk, baristas need to make a microfoam in the milk, which is an essential element of these milk-based drinks. Achieving the perfect microfoam requires a delicate balance of steaming milk to the right temperature and texture. The process involves introducing steam into milk, typically via a steam wand on an espresso machine, which transforms its proteins and fats, resulting in a smooth and velvety consistency. However, it can be difficult to achieve an ideal microfoam with tiny, uniform bubbles that can be manipulated to create intricate designs.

[0004] It has become desirable to create latte art, such as hearts, rosettas and tulips, on top of the microfoam of a milk-based coffee drink. Inconsistent microfoam can lead to difficulties in pouring and shaping latte art, as it may lack the necessary structure and fluidity. Baristas invest many hours in perfecting the steamed milk, resultant microfoam and latte art.

[0005] Accordingly, there is a need to guide makers of coffee drinks to prepare microfoam suitable for latte art.

[0006] It is an object of the present invention substantially satisfy the above need, at least to an extent.SUMMARY

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to substantially overcome, or at least ameliorate, one or more of the disadvantages of existing arrangements, or at least provide a useful alternative to existing arrangements.

[0008] There is disclosed herein a method of guiding a user to use a jug for the preparation of a beverage with a milk frothing apparatus, the jug comprising at least one processor operatively associated with a memory and one or more sensors, the memory has stored therein target data indicative of one or more operational targets of the jug, the method performed by the at least one processor and comprising the steps of: receiving at least one input signal from the one or more sensors; determining at least one operational parameter of the jug from the at least one input signal; and generating a user feedback signal based on the at least one operational parameter of the jug and one or more spatial targets, wherein the user feedback signal is output via one or more output devices.

[0009] In one embodiment, the operational parameter includes one or more selected from: a temperature parameter; and a spatial parameter.

[0010] In one embodiment, the one or more sensors are one or more selected from: a temperature sensor; an accelerometer; and a gyroscope.

[0011] In one embodiment, the temperature parameter is determined from a temperature signal from the temperature sensor.

[0012] In one embodiment, the spatial parameter is determined from an accelerometer signal and a gyroscope signal from the accelerometer and the gyroscope.

[0013] In one embodiment, the spatial parameter of the jug includes at least one of: a jug rotational parameter with respect to a first axis and a second axis, the second axisbeing orthogonal to the first axis; and a jug tilt parameter with respect to a third axis orthogonal to the first axis and the second axis.

[0014] In one embodiment, generating the user feedback signal is based on the at least one input signal and the one or more spatial targets comprises: performing a comparison of the at least one spatial parameter with the one or more spatial targets; and generating the user feedback signal based on the comparison.

[0015] In one embodiment, the user feedback signal is output via one or more output devices selected from: a haptic feedback device; and a visual feedback device.

[0016] In one embodiment, the haptic feedback device includes one or more selected from: an electric motor; a piezoelectric actuator; and a speaker.

[0017] In one embodiment, the visual feedback device is one or more selected from: a light source located on the jug and / or the milk frothing apparatus; and a user interface located on a display device.

[0018] In one embodiment, the display device is located on the milk frothing apparatus or a mobile communication device.

[0019] In one embodiment, the method further comprises displaying a representation of the jug corresponding to the at least one spatial parameter of the jug on the user interface.

[0020] In one embodiment, the method further comprises displaying the one or more spatial targets on the user interface, and guiding the user to move the jug toward the one or more spatial targets.

[0021] In one embodiment, the method further comprises activating the haptic feedback device and / or the visual feedback device to guide the user to move the jug toward a target position.

[0022] In one embodiment, the method further comprises activating the haptic feedback device and / or the visual feedback device to guide the user to move the jug in a pattern.

[0023] In one embodiment, the representation of the jug displayed on the user interface corresponds to a real time spatial position and orientation of the jug.

[0024] In one embodiment, the spatial target of the jug displayed on the user interface corresponds to a preferred spatial position and orientation of the jug.

[0025] In one embodiment, the method further comprises notifying the user by providing instructions to match the real time spatial position and spatial orientation of the jug with the preferred spatial position and spatial orientation of the jug, in response to the real time spatial position and spatial orientation not aligning with the preferred spatial position and spatial orientation.

[0026] In one embodiment, the one or more spatial targets include a milk frothing spatial target and a milk pouring spatial target.

[0027] In one embodiment, the jug includes a first communication interface and the milk frothing apparatus includes a second communication interface, the first communication interface and the second communication interface being configured for transmitting data therebetween, wherein in response to the milk frothing target being satisfied, and the method further comprises the processor transferring data from the first communication interface to the second communication interface to stop actuation of the milk frothing apparatus.

[0028] In one embodiment, the method further comprises the processor actuating the milk frothing apparatus in response to: the real time spatial position and orientation of the jug being aligned with the preferred spatial position and orientation of the jug.

[0029] In one embodiment, the method further comprises prompting the user to tap the jug a plurality of times on a surface.

[0030] In one embodiment, the method further comprises detecting, using the one or more sensors, if the user has tapped the jug a sufficient number of times and notifying the user to stop tapping the jug.

[0031] In one embodiment, the method further comprises prompting the user by providing instructions to move the jug in a manner that swirls the milk in the jug after detecting if the user has tapped the jug a sufficient number of times.

[0032] In one embodiment, the method further comprises detecting if the milk is being swirled by determining via the one or more sensors if the jug has been moved in a substantially circular or looping manner, and prompting the user to pour the milk into a cup.

[0033] In one embodiment, the one or more spatial targets includes a pouring tilt, wherein the method includes receiving a pouring angle signal; and determining if the user is pouring milk from the jug at a target pouring angle.

[0034] In one embodiment, the method further comprises providing visual and / or haptic feedback to the user based on the pouring angle signal.

[0035] In one embodiment, the haptic feedback provided to the user when the target pouring angle is reached is a continuous pulsing.

[0036] In one embodiment, the method further comprises providing visual and / or haptic feedback to the user based on the temperature signal.

[0037] Also disclosed herein is a jug for use with a milk frothing apparatus, the jug comprising: a memory having stored therein target data indicative of one or more operational targets of the jug one or more sensors; a processor in communication with the memory and the one or more sensors, wherein the processor is configured to perform the method described above.

[0038] Also disclosed herein is a method of detecting a steam wand position with respect to a vessel, the vessel including at least one processor operatively associated with a memory and one or more sensors, the memory has stored therein operational targets of the vessel, the methodbeing performed by the at least one processor and including the steps of: receiving an input signal from the one or more sensors; determining a frequency parameter based on the input signal; and generating a user feedback signal based on the frequency parameter, wherein the user feedback signal is output via one or more output devices.

[0039] In one embodiment, the one or more sensors includes a microphone.

[0040] In one embodiment, the method further comprises the step of classifying the frequency parameter into one of: a first position, in which the a tip of the steam wand is near a bottom surface of the vessel; a second position, in which the tip of the steam wand is further away from the bottom surface compared to the first position; and a third position, in which the tip of the steam wand is further away from the bottom surface compared to the second position, whereby in the first position, the second position and the third position, the tip of the steam wand is submerged in fluid contained by the vessel.

[0041] In one embodiment, when the frequency parameter is classified in the first position, the user feedback signal is such that the one or more output devices indicates to the user to move the vessel downwardly.

[0042] In one embodiment, when the frequency parameter is classified in the second position, the user feedback signal is such that the one or more output devices indicates to the user to maintain a position of the vessel.

[0043] In one embodiment, when the frequency parameter is classified in the third position, the user feedback signal is such that the one or more output devices indicates to the user to move the vessel upwardly.

[0044] In one embodiment, the step of classifying the frequency parameter in the first position includes determining if the frequency parameter is between 2,000Hz and 10,000Hz.

[0045] In one embodiment, the step of classifying the frequency parameter in the second position includes determining if the frequency parameter is about 4,000Hz.

[0046] In one embodiment, the step of classifying if the frequency parameter is at 4kHz occurs after a time interval from actuation of the steam wand.

[0047] In one embodiment, the step of classifying the frequency parameter in the third position includes determining if the frequency parameter is about 2,000Hz.

[0048] In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of applying a correction factor to the position parameter if the frequency parameter fails to be classified into the first position, the second position, or the third position.

[0049] In one embodiment, the user feedback signal is output via one or more output devices selected from: a haptic feedback device; and a visual feedback device.

[0050] In one embodiment, the haptic feedback device includes one or more selected from: an electric motor; a piezoelectric actuator; and a speaker.

[0051] In one embodiment, the visual feedback device is one or more selected from: a light source located on the vessel; and a user interface located on a display device.

[0052] In one embodiment, the display device is located on a milk frothing apparatus or a mobile communication device.

[0053] In one embodiment, the method further incudes the step of, indicating to a user via the haptic feedback device or the visual feedback device, that ideal steam wand position has been achieved when the frequency parameter is between 3,000Hz and 4,000Hz.

[0054] In one embodiment, the step of determining the frequency parameter includes performing a fast Fourier transform of the input signal.

[0055] Also disclosed herein is a jug for use with a steam wand, the jug including: a memory having stored therein target data indicative of one or more operational targets of the jug; one or more sensors; a processor in communication with the memory and the one or more sensors, wherein the processor is configured to perform the method above.

[0056] Also disclosed herein is a jug for use with a steam wand, the jug including: a memory having stored therein target data indicative of one or more operational targets of the jug; a microphone; a processor in communication with the memory and the microphone.

[0057] Also disclosed herein is a coffee machine including: a steam wand for steaming fluid in the jug above.

[0058] In one embodiment, the coffee machine includes the display device above to provide user feedback for the steam wand position relative to the jug above.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0059] For a more complete understanding of the present invention, exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawing figures, in which like reference signs designate like parts and in which:

[0060] FIG 1 shows a jug according to an embodiment;

[0061] FIG 2 shows a schematic of a circuit board for use with the jug shown in Figure 1 and a schematic of a milk frothing apparatus;

[0062] FIG 3 shows a flow chart of a method of guiding a user to froth milk;

[0063] FIG 4 shows a continuation of the flow chart shown in Figure 3;

[0064] FIG 5 shows a continuation of the flow chart shown in Figure 4;

[0065] FIG 6 shows another flow chart of a method of guiding a user to froth milk and create latte art;

[0066] FIG 7 shows an embodiment of a user interface;

[0067] FIG 8 shows a schematic view of a plurality of circuits used in the jug shown in FIG 1; and

[0068] FIG 9 shows plots of frequency against time at different steam wand depths;

[0069] FIG 10 shows a flow chart of a method of detecting a steam wand position relative to a vessel; and

[0070] FIG 11 shows an embodiment of a milk frothing apparatus at a shallow position;

[0071] FIG 12 shows an embodiment of a milk frothing apparatus at a middle position; and

[0072] FIG 13 shows an embodiment of a milk frothing apparatus at a deep position.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] FIG 1 shows a jug 100 according to an embodiment. The jug 100 is substantially cylindrical and includes a base 102, a sidewall 104 extending upwardly from the base 102, a handle 106 connected to the sidewall 104 and a pouring spout 108. The base 102 and the sidewall 104 define a volume for receiving a liquid such as milk. The jug 100 includes electrical components 200, which are preferably stored in the jug 100 at or in the base 102. In a preferred embodiment, the electrical components 200 are located between two walls of the base 102 such that the electrical components 200 are located at the bottom of the jug 100 and are sealed and protected from liquid ingress. Alternately, the electrical components 200 may be under the jug 100.

[0074] FIG 2 shows an exemplary schematic of a circuit board 202 which holds the electrical components 200 located in the base 102 of the jug 200. The circuit board 202 is configured to receive components such as a power source 204, an inductive coil 206 to charge the power source 204, an inertial measurement module 208 (which may include an accelerometer 208’ and / or a gyroscope 208”), a temperature sensor 210, a haptic feedback device 212 and a visual feedback device 214. These components are operatively associated with a processor 218 and memory 218’, such as a microcontroller. FIG 2 also shows a schematic of a milk frothing apparatus 250.

[0075] Optionally, the jug 100 may include a loadcell in the base 102. The loadcell can provide weight data so that the amount of milk in the jug 100 can be determined by the microcontroller. The user can be alerted if the amount of milk in the jug 100 is above a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold may be programmed either by the user or the manufacturer. Alternatively, the same alert can be achieved by volume instead of weight. Optionally, there jug 100 may include a temperature sensor in the sidewall 104. If the user has poured too much milk for the size of the jug, the temperature sensor in the sidewall 104 can send a temperature signal to the microcontroller, indicating the temperature sensor has gotten colder, and the microcontroller would alter the user has overfilled the jug 100.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, a method 300 of guiding a user to use a jug for the preparation of a beverage with the milk frothing apparatus 250 is set out in FIGs 3 to 5. As described above, the jug 100 includes at least one processor 218 operatively associated with a memory 218’ and one or more sensors. The memory 218’ has stored therein target data indicative of one or more operational targets of the jug 100. The one or more sensors may include the inertial measurement module 208 and / or the temperature sensor 210. The method 300, is performed by the at least one processor 218 and comprises the steps of: receiving 310 at least one input signal from the one or more sensors; determining 312 at least one operational parameter of the jug 100 from the at least one input signal; and generating 314 a user feedback signal based on the at least one operational parameter of the jug 100 and one or more spatial targets. The user feedback signal can be output 316 via one or more output devices.

[0077] The step of receiving 310 the input signal may include receiving a temperature signal indicative of a temperature of milk held within the volume of the jug 100 and corresponding to atemperature parameter. The input signal may include receiving spatial signal corresponding to a spatial parameter of the jug 100. This will be described in further detail below.

[0078] The operational parameter may include the temperature parameter and the spatial parameter. The temperature parameter may be determined from a temperature signal, from the temperature sensor 210. The spatial parameter may be determined from an accelerometer signal and a gyroscope signal from the accelerometer 208’ and the gyroscope 208”. Furthermore, the spatial parameter may include a jug rotational parameter and a jug tilt parameter. The jug rotational parameter may be determined with respect to a first axis and a second axis, the second axis being orthogonal to the first axis. The jug tilt parameter may be determined with respect to a third axis that is orthogonal to the first axis and the second axis. Examples of the first, second and third axes are shown in FIG 1 and labelled 1, 2 and 3.

[0079] More specifically, the accelerometer 208’ is configured to measure movement of the jug 100 relative to the first, second and third axes, whilst the gyroscope 208” is configured to measure the angular position of the jug 100 relative to the first, second and third axes.

[0080] The user feedback signal may be generated based on the input signal and the spatial targets by performing a comparison of the spatial parameter with the spatial targets. The spatial target may be stored in the memory 218’ and may include a milk frothing spatial target and I or a milk pouring spatial target, depending on whether the user is trying to froth the milk or pour milk from the jug 100 to create latte art. The may be a plurality of spatial targets stored in the memory 218’ that are associated with different types of latte art (i.e. different shapes / patterns) that the user wishes to prepare. The spatial targets could be stored in non-volatile memory and written over later by another set of spatial targets for a different set of latter art. In other words, the spatial parameter of the jug 100 corresponds to the position and orientation of the jug 100 (and may be referred to a real time position and orientation) and the spatial target corresponds to a target position and target orientation of the jug (and may be referred to as a preferred position and orientation) that has been preset. The spatial target position of the jug could be referred to as an optimal jug position for frothing or pouring milk to create latte art. Once the comparison 315 of the spatial parameter and the spatial target occurs, the user feedback signal is generated 314 based on the comparison.

[0081] The user feedback signal can be output 316 to the haptic feedback device 212 and / or the visual feedback device 214. The haptic feedback device 212 may include an electric motor, a piezo electric actuator, a speaker or any combination of these or other suitable means to vibrate the jug 100 or at least provide a sensation to the user that the jug 100 is vibrating. The haptic feedback device 212 serves to indicate to the user how close the user is to achieving the spatial target and to prompt the user to reorientate or reposition the jug 100. Additionally, the haptic feedback device 212 may indicate to the user how close the user is to reaching a temperature target when steaming milk. The method 300 may further comprise the step of activating 317 the haptic feedback device 212 and / or the visual feedback device 214 in order to guide the user to move the jug 100 toward a target position (i.e. the spatial target).

[0082] The visual feedback device 214 may include a light source (not shown) such as a light emitting diode (LED) located on the jug 100. The LED on the jug 100 may be used to guide the user to move the jug toward the spatial target. Alternatively or in addition, the light source may be located on the milk frothing apparatus 250. Alternatively or in addition, the visual feedback device 214 may be a user interface located on a display device. The milk frothing apparatus 250 may be a coffee machine that includes a steam wand, or the milk frothing apparatus 250 may be a stand-alone steam wand. The display device may be located on the milk frothing apparatus 250, or the display device may be on a mobile communication device such as a mobile phone, tablet or wearable. The milk jug 100 may transmit and receive data with the display device. An exemplary user interface 400 that may be associated with the display device is shown in FIG 5.

[0083] The method 300 may further comprise the step of displaying 318 a representation of the jug 100 corresponding to the spatial parameter of the jug 100 on the user interface 400. The method 300 may further comprise the step of displaying 319 one or more spatial targets on the user interface 400 to guide the user to move the jug toward the spatial target. The spatial target displayed on the user interface 400 may be in the form of displaying a schematic or an image of the milk jug 100 on the user interface 400.

[0084] The temperature sensor 210 is preferably a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) sensor which is configured to be in direct contact with fluid in the jug 100 for accurate temperature readings. The processor 218 is configured to receive the temperature signal from the NTC sensor and display a temperature reading on the user interface 400. Alternatively, if there is no user interface 400 associated with the milk frothing apparatus 250, the processor canactivate 317 the haptic feedback device 212 and / or the light source to indicate to the user when the target temperature of the milk has been reached. The user may then be notified to stop the milk frothing apparatus 250 from steaming the milk, or the milk frothing apparatus 250 may receive a signal from the processor 218 to stop steaming.

[0085] The method 300 serves to guide the user to steam milk in the jug 100 using a steam wand of a coffee machine or a standalone steam wand machine by providing haptic and / or visual feedback to the user to position and orientate the jug 100 such that the milk is steamed correctly. When jug 100 is orientated to the target position and the spatial position (i.e., the real time spatial position) of the jug 100 matches the target position, the steam function of the steam wand may be actuated to begin steaming. The target position in this instance may be when the jug is held at an angle relative to the first, second and third axes and may be referred to as a milk frothing spatial target. Once the jug 100 is moved to correspond to the target position, the haptic feedback device 212 may be activated 317 by the processor 218 to provide haptic feedback to the user. The haptic feedback provided to the user may be in the form of a regular pulse or constant vibration.

[0086] If there is a user interface 400 associated with the milk frothing device, then the target position of the jug can be displayed to show the user the correct or optimal angle the jug 100 should be held at to steam / texture the milk. Accordingly, the method 300 may further comprise the step of overlaying 320 the spatial position of the jug and the target position of the jug on the user interface 400, as shown in FIG 4. This allows the user to compare how they currently have their jug orientated with a preferred jug orientation so that the milk can be steamed / textured correctly. In this way, the real time spatial position is visually comparable with the target position for the user to make any necessary adjustments to the real time spatial position, as the representation of the jug displayed on the user interface 400 may correspond to the real time spatial position and orientation of the jug 100.

[0087] In one embodiment, the method 300 may further comprise notifying 322 the user by providing instructions to match the spatial position and spatial orientation of the jug 100 with the target (or preferred) spatial position and orientation of the jug when the spatial position and spatial orientation are not aligned with the target spatial position and spatial orientation.

[0088] The jug 100 may include a first communication interface 220 and the milk frothing apparatus 250 may include a second communication interface 222. The first communication interface 220 and the second communication interface 222 are configured for transmitting data therebetween using a suitable wireless protocol such as Bluetooth ®. For example, in response to the milk frothing spatial target being satisfied, the processor 218 may transfer data from the first communication interface 220 to the second communication interface 222 to start actuation 324 of the milk frothing apparatus 250. Actuation of the milk frothing apparatus 250 may be ended once a time criterion or a temperature criterion has been satisfied. The time criterion may be between, for example 30 and 60 seconds, or as defined by the user via the user interface 400. This time criterion largely depends on the temperature and amount of steam exiting the steam wand. Alternatively, the actuation of the milk frothing apparatus 250 may be ended 326 when the temperature of the milk being frothed reaches the temperature criterion. The temperature criterion may be set by the user via the user interface 400, or the temperature criterion may be preset, depending on the type of beverage the frothed milk is to be used for. For instance, the temperature criterion may be set to between 45 degrees Celsius and 65 degrees Celsius. A standard Proportional - Integral - Derivative (PID) controller may be used, if desired, to prevent significant overshoot in milk temperature.

[0089] The method 300 may further comprise steps to guide the user to pour latte art. For example, once the frothing apparatus 250 has ceased operation, the user may be prompted 328 to tap the jug 100 a plurality of times on a surface. This step serves to remove large unwanted bubbles that may have formed during milk frothing. Using the one or more sensors, preferably the inertial measurement unit 208, or alternatively a microphone electrically connected to the processor 218, the processor 218 may detect 330 if the user has tapped the jug 100 a sufficient number of times (i.e. anywhere between 2 to 5 taps on a surface) and notify 332 the user to stop tapping the jug 100. The user may then be prompted 334, via haptic and / or visual feedback to move the jug 100 in a manner that swirls the milk in the jug 100 or in a particular movement pattern to distribute the foam created during frothing / steaming of the milk. The inertial measurement module 208 can determine 336 if the milk is being swirled in the jug 100 by determining if the jug 100 has been moved in a substantially circular manner or a looping manner. Once a circular motion or a looping motion has been detected, the processor 218 can prompt 338 the user to pour the milk from the jug 100 into a cup.

[0090] The one or more spatial targets may also include a pouring tilt target. The method 300 may further comprise receiving 340 a pouring angle signal and determining 342 if the user is pouring milk from the jug 100 at a target pouring angle, to further guide the user in preparing latte art.

[0091] The method 300 may further comprise providing 344 haptic feedback and / or visual feedback to the user based on the pouring angle signal. The haptic feedback is provided via the haptic feedback device 212 as described above. In one embodiment, the haptic feedback device 212 may include two motors which, when activated, spin and in turn, vibrate the jug 100 to provide haptic feedback to the user when, for example, frothing or steaming milk, or pouring milk into an espresso shot to create latte art. The haptic feedback provided to the user may be a continuous pulsing when the target pouring angle is reached. Alternately or in addition, the haptic feedback provided to the user may be a regular pulse once the target pouring angle is reached. The light source or visual feedback device 214 can also be used to indicate to the user that they have, for example, achieved the target pouring angle or that the milk temperature criterion has been satisfied.

[0092] As described above, the jug 100 includes the memory 218’. The memory 218’ has stored therein the target data indicated of the one or more operational targets of the jug 100. The operational targets of the jug 100 the temperature parameter and I or spatial parameter. The jug 100 also includes the one or more sensors , such as the temperature sensor 210, and the inertial measurement module 208. The jug 100 also includes the processor 218 in communication with the memory 218’ and the one or more sensors. The processor 218, as described above, is configured to perform any one of the method steps 300.

[0093] Use of the jug 100 will now be described.

[0094] The first communication interface 220 is initialised to establish a connection with the microcontroller. Subsequently, the inertial measurement module 208 is initialized to establish communication with the microcontroller. The microcontroller checks whether the power source 204 is receiving any power (i.e. being charged). If the power source 204 is receiving power, the microcontroller may assume the jug 100 is stationary, being charged and not in use. If no power is being received by the power source, the microcontroller may assume the jug 100 is in use.

[0095] When in use, the microcontroller may perform a check of several variables / parameters. The check may occur every 50, 100 or 200 milliseconds, for example. The check may occur continuously, however doing so may place unnecessary load on the microcontroller.

[0096] Once the user has poured liquid such as milk into the jug 100, the microcontroller may perform a check to either: determine the weight of milk in the jug 100 via the loadcell; or determine the volume of milk in the jug 100 via the temperature sensor in the milk jug sidewall 104. If the user has overfilled the jug 100, then the user may be alerted by haptic or visual feedback. This step is shown most clearly in FIG 6.

[0097] One variable is the temperature data, which the microcontroller receives from the temperature sensor 210. The microcontroller then compares the current temperature with the target temperature to determine the time needed to heat the milk in the jug 100.

[0098] Another variable is the data from the inertial measurement module 208, from which the microcontroller calculates the tilt angle of the jug. Any drift as a result of non-zero movement data can be compensated for. The microcontroller may continuously check that the milk jug 100 is being held in the preferred position by the user for steaming the milk. Continually checking for the correct position allows the microcontroller to prompt the user to make “live” adjustments to the angle and position of the jug 100 to begin steaming the milk or whilst steaming the milk.

[0099] Another variable checked by the microcontroller is the power source voltage to determine the amount of electrical charge remaining in the battery during use. If the voltage is determined to have dipped below a threshold voltage, the user may be notified via the haptic feedback device 212 or the visual feedback device 214.

[0100] Based on the above variable checks, the microcontroller may send a signal to the visual feedback device 212. If the visual feedback device 212 is an LED, the LED may change colour to indicate to the user the milk has reached the target temperature. For example, the LED may be blue in colour if the detected temperature is below the target temperature, and red if the temperature is at the target temperature.

[0101] Additionally, based on the above variable checks, the microcontroller may send a signal to the haptic feedback device 214. For example, if the temperature of the milk is approaching the target temperature set by the user, more vigorous haptic feedback will be provided to theuser. If haptic feedback device 212 includes a motor, then the motor will spin continuously at greater revolutions per minute. Alternatively, if the detected temperature is lower than the target temperature set by the user, the haptic feedback device 212 provide less or gentle haptic feedback.

[0102] It is envisaged that the above variables I data may be displayed on the user interface 400 of the coffee machine (if the coffee machine includes a user interface) or the mobile communication device, by sending the data via the first communication interface 220 to the second communication interface 222 or to a second communication interface associated with the mobile communication device.

[0103] When the jug 100 is receiving electrical charge via the inductive coil 206, the microcontroller checks the voltage level of the power source 204. The voltage level may be displayed on the user interface 400 by wirelessly transmitting said data voltage level. It is assumed by the microcontroller that when the power source 204 is receiving charge, the jug 100 is stationary and horizontal. This allows for calibration or reset of the inertial measurement module 208 with reference to the horizontal.

[0104] It is further envisaged that in other embodiments, to prevent overheating of the electrical components 200, the temperature sensor 210 may be positioned adjacent or on the power source 204, allowing the microcontroller to receive temperature data indicative of the temperature of the power source 204 or the circuit board 202.

[0105] The user feedback is provided through the user interface 400 as shown in FIG 7. In this exemplary user interface 400, a reading of the current temperature 402 of the liquid in the jug 100 is displayed. The current temperature reading 402 is obtained from the temperature sensor 210. A target temperature reading 404 is also displayed to indicate to the user the ideal temperature required for frothing milk. Other target temperatures as desired may be set by the user.

[0106] The user interface 400 may also display a power level indicator 406 of the power source 204. The power source is preferably a battery and can be recharged by receiving electrical charge from the inductive mechanism / coil 206. In another embodiment, the power source 204 can be charged using a flexible solar cell wrapped around the sidewall 104 or integrated into thesidewall 104. It is envisaged that the solar cells convert ambient light to electricity which, in turn, charges the power source 104.

[0107] The user interface 400 also displays the live or current orientation and position of the jug 100. When guiding the user to froth / texture or pour milk from the jug, the display 400 can overlay the live orientation and the preferred orientation of the jug 100.

[0108] FIG 8 shows several circuit diagrams for use with the jug 100. The circuit diagrams show how the electrical components 200 are electrically connected. Circuit 500 shows a NTC temperature sensor circuit. Circuit 510 shows an orientation module circuit. Circuit 520 shows an inductive charging mechanism circuit. Circuit 530 shows a power supply circuit. Circuit 540 shows a microcontroller circuit. Circuit 550 shows light source circuit. Circuit 560 shows a vibration module circuit.

[0109] In an alternative embodiment, the jug 100 may also include a microphone or piezo sensor (represented by electrical components 200 in FIGs 11 to 13), which can be attached to the base 102. The piezo sensor serves to detect sound inside of the volume of the jug 100 or vibration of the jug 100 during texturing of the milk. The piezo sensor is operatively coupled to the processor 218 and provides a piezo signal. The processor 218 can use the piezo signal to determine the progress of milk steaming or bubble formation and deduce if the jug is correctly orientated with respect to the steam wand of an espresso machine. Visual and / or audible and / or haptic feedback can be provided to the user as described above, to instruct the user to move the jug 100 to the preferred orientation.

[0110] FIGs 9 and 10 relate to the use of a microphone to detect a steam wand position with respect to a vessel or a jug 100 containing a liquid. FIG 9, shows a first plot 600 of frequency against time for a steam wand tip positioned near the bottom of the vessel (a first position). FIG 9 also shows a second plot 610 of frequency against time for a steam wand positioned above the first position (i.e. a second position). FIG 9 also shows a third plot 620 of frequency against time samples for a steam wand positioned above the second position (i.e. a third position). The system takes Fourier transform samples every 0.5 second steps for 30 seconds, hence 60-time samples shown in FIG 9. The position of the tip of the steam wand may be with reference to the vessel or the liquid contained in the vessel. The first position may be said to be a deep position, the second position may be said to be a middle position and the third position may be said to bea shallow position. The shallow, middle and deep positions of the milk frothing apparatus 250 (i.e. a steam wand) are shown in FIGs 11 to 13 respectively.

[0111] In the shallow position or the third position, the steam wand tip is preferably just below the liquid level or just submerged below the surface of the liquid in the vessel. In the middle position or the second position, the steam wand tip is preferably halfway between the bottom of the vessel and the surface of the liquid. In the deep position or the first position, the steam wand tip is close to the base of the vessel.

[0112] As shown in plot 620, when the steam wand tip is at the shallow position and the steam wand is actuated for 30 time samples, persistent low frequencies of about 2,000Hz were recorded. Notably, the plot 620 shows a persistent high power at 2,000Hz in the shallow position with no significant change over time.

[0113] As shown in plot 610, when the steam wand tip is at the middle position and the steam wand is actuated for 30 time samples, frequencies of about 4,000Hz were recorded. Notably, the plot 610 shows high power at about 4,000Hz in the first few time samples when the liquid in the vessel begins to swirl. The power drops off once swirling of the liquid in the vessel is established before high power at 4,000Hz returns toward the end of the 30 time samples as the temperature of the liquid increases.

[0114] As shown in plot 600, when the steam wand tip is in the deep position and the steam wand is actuated for 30 time samples, substantial frequencies in the 2,000Hz to 10,000Hz range were recorded. Notably, the power is persistently high in the 4,000Hz to 8,000Hz range with no significant change in power over time.

[0115] In view of these results, it may be said that a particular frequency band corresponds to the shallow, middle and deep steam wand tip positions in the vessel. Accordingly, a method of detecting a steam wand position with respect to a vessel is disclosed. The vessel includes at least one processor operatively associated with a memory and one or more sensors, as described above. Additionally, the memory has stored therein operational targets of the vessel, as described above. With reference to FIG 10, the method performed by the processor includes the steps of receiving 650 an input signal from the one or more sensors such as a microphone; determining 652 a frequency parameter based on the input signal; and generating 656 a userfeedback signal based on the frequency parameter, wherein the user feedback signal is output 658 via one or more output devices.

[0116] The method of detecting a steam wand position with respect to a vessel may further comprise the step of classifying 654 the frequency parameter into one of the first position, the second position or the third position. As described above, the first position is preferably when the tip of the steam wand is near or at the bottom surface of the vessel. In the first position, persistent high power in the 4,000Hz to 8,000Hz range is likely to be detected. If frequencies in this range are detected, then the steam wand will be classified as being in the first position. As described above, the second position is preferably when the tip of the steam wand is further away from the bottom surface compared to the first position or in the middle of the liquid contained in the vessel. In the second position, a frequency of about 4,000Hz is likely to be detected. If frequencies in this range are detected, then the steam wand will be classified as being in the second position. As described above, the third position is preferably when the tip of the steam wand is further away from the bottom surface compared to the second position, or otherwise known as the shallow position where the tip of the steam wand is just below the surface of the liquid in the vessel. In the third position, persistent high power in the 2,000Hz band is likely to be detected. If frequencies in this range are detected, then the steam wand will be classified as being in the third position.

[0117] It is envisaged that when the frequency parameter is classified 654 in the first position, the user feedback signal output to an output device is such that the one or more output devices indicates to the user to move the vessel downwardly. The indication to the user may be via a user interface on a coffee machine or mobile device, or an interface on the vessel such as an illuminated arrow pointing down.

[0118] It is also envisaged that when the frequency parameter is classified 654 in the second position, the user feedback signal is such that the one or more output devices indicates to the user to maintain a position of the vessel. The indication to the user may be via the user interface on the coffee machine or mobile device, or the interface on the vessel such as an illuminated arrow pointing horizontally. Alternately, there may be no indication at all meaning the user does not need to make any changes to the vessel’s position relative to the steam wand.

[0119] It is also envisaged that when the frequency parameter is classified 654 in the third position, the user feedback signal is such that the one or more output devices indicates to the user to move the vessel upwardly. The indication to the user may be via the user interface on the coffee machine or mobile device, or the interface on the vessel such as an illuminated arrow pointing up.

[0120] The classification of the steam wand position may be determined after a period of time has elapsed. In one embodiment, the period of time may be 10 seconds. In another embodiment, the period of time may be 30 seconds. Further, it is envisaged that the method further includes the step of applying a correction factor to the position parameter if the frequency parameter fails to be classified into the first position, the second position, or the third position. For example, if the frequency parameter is outside of the ranges mentioned above, a correction factor is calculated by determining which of the frequency bands mentioned above is closest and classifying the steam wand position accordingly.

[0121] It is envisaged that the user may be guided to move the vessel or jug 100 up, down or maintain a current position via one of the haptic feedback devices or visual feedback devices mentioned above. The microphone may be in electrical communication with the memory 218’ and processor 218 which facilitate communication of instructions to the user via a display device such as a coffee machine with a display or a mobile communication device. It is further envisaged that the microphone may be located in the same space as the electrical components described above with reference to the jug 100 (i.e. between two walls of the base 102).

[0122] Various forms of the jug described above may have one or more of the following advantages.

[0123] The temperature sensor allows for the milk frothing device, such as the espresso machine, to control the milk texturing in both an automatic setting and a manual setting.

[0124] The inertial measurement module, including the accelerometer and gyroscope, allows the milk frothing device, or a separate mobile app on a smartphone or wearable device to guide users with real-time interaction and haptic feedback to texture milk manually and / or create latte art.

[0125] The microphone or piezo sensor allows for the steam wand position to be classified into various positions relative to the vessel and the user can be guided to move the vessel to a more preferred position for steaming and frothing milk.CLAUSES1. A method of guiding a user to use a jug for the preparation of a beverage with a milk frothing apparatus, the jug comprising at least one processor operatively associated with a memory and one or more sensors, the memory has stored therein target data indicative of one or more operational targets of the jug, the method performed by the at least one processor and comprising the steps of: receiving at least one input signal from the one or more sensors; determining at least one operational parameter of the jug from the at least one input signal; and generating a user feedback signal based on the at least one operational parameter of the jug and one or more spatial targets, wherein the user feedback signal is output via one or more output devices.2. The method of clause 1, wherein the operational parameter includes one or more selected from: a temperature parameter; and a spatial parameter.3. The method of clause 2, wherein the one or more sensors are one or more selected from: a temperature sensor; an accelerometer; and a gyroscope.4. The method of clause 3, wherein the temperature parameter is determined from a temperature signal from the temperature sensor.5. The method of clause 4, wherein the spatial parameter is determined from an accelerometer signal and a gyroscope signal from the accelerometer and the gyroscope.6. The method of clause 5, wherein the spatial parameter of the jug includes at least one of: a jug rotational parameter with respect to a first axis and a second axis, the second axis being orthogonal to the first axis; anda jug tilt parameter with respect to a third axis orthogonal to the first axis and the second axis. The method of clause 6, wherein generating the user feedback signal based on the at least one input signal and the one or more spatial targets comprises: performing a comparison of the at least one spatial parameter with the one or more spatial targets; and generating the user feedback signal based on the comparison. The method of clause 6, wherein the user feedback signal is output via one or more output devices selected from: a haptic feedback device; and a visual feedback device. The method of clause 8, wherein the haptic feedback device includes one or more selected from: an electric motor; a piezoelectric actuator; and a speaker. The method of clause 9, wherein the visual feedback device is one or more selected from: a light source located on the jug and / or the milk frothing apparatus; and a user interface located on a display device. The method of clause 10, wherein the display device is located on the milk frothing apparatus or a mobile communication device. The method of clause 10, further comprising displaying a representation of the jug corresponding to the at least one spatial parameter of the jug on the user interface. The method of clause 10, further comprising displaying the one or more spatial targets on the user interface, and guiding the user to move the jug toward the one or more spatial targets.The method of clause 8, further comprising activating the haptic feedback device and I or the visual feedback device to guide the user to move the jug toward a target position. The method of clause 8, further comprising activating the haptic feedback device and I or the visual feedback device to guide the user to move the jug in a pattern. The method of clause 12 and 13, wherein the representation of the jug displayed on the user interface corresponds to a real time spatial position and orientation of the jug. The method of clause 12 and 13, wherein the spatial target of the jug displayed on the user interface corresponds to a preferred spatial position and orientation of the jug. The method of clause 1, further comprising notifying the user by providing instructions to match the real time spatial position and spatial orientation of the jug with the preferred spatial position and spatial orientation of the jug, in response to the real time spatial position and spatial orientation not aligning with the preferred spatial position and spatial orientation. The method of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the one or more spatial targets include a milk frothing spatial target and a milk pouring spatial target. The method of clause 19, wherein the jug includes a first communication interface and the milk frothing apparatus includes a second communication interface, the first communication interface and the second communication interface being configured for transmitting data therebetween, wherein in response to the milk frothing target being satisfied, and the method further comprises the processor transferring data from the first communication interface to the second communication interface to stop actuation of the milk frothing apparatus. The method of clause 20, further comprising the processor actuating the milk frothing apparatus in response to: the real time spatial position and orientation of the jug being aligned with the preferred spatial position and orientation of the jug. The method of clause 21, further comprising prompting the user to tap the jug a plurality of times on a surface.23. The method of clause 22, further comprising detecting, using the one or more sensors, if the user has tapped the jug a sufficient number of times and notifying the user to stop tapping the jug.24. The method of clause 23, further comprising prompting the user by providing instructions to move the jug in a manner that swirls the milk in the jug after detecting if the user has tapped the jug a sufficient number of times.25. The method of clause 24, further comprising detecting if the milk is being swirled by determining via the one or more sensors if the jug has been moved in a substantially circular or looping manner, and prompting the user to pour the milk into a cup.26. The method of clause 25, wherein the one or more spatial targets includes a pouring tilt, wherein the method includes receiving a pouring angle signal; and determining if the user is pouring milk from clause jug at a target pouring angle.27. The method of clause 26, further comprising providing visual and / or haptic feedback to the user based on the pouring angle signal.28. The method of clause 27, wherein the haptic feedback provided to the user when the target pouring angle is reached is a continuous pulsing.29. The method of clause 28, further comprising providing visual and I or haptic feedback to the user based on the temperature signal.30. A jug for use with a milk frothing apparatus, the jug comprising: a memory having stored therein target data indicative of one or more operational targets of the jug; one or more sensors; a processor in communication with the memory and the one or more sensors, wherein the processor is configured to perform the method according to any one of clauses 1 to 29.

[0126] It will also be appreciated that in this document the terms “comprise”, “comprising”, “include”, “including”, “contain”, “containing”, “have”, “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to be understood in an inclusive (i.e. non-exclusive) sense, such that the process,method, device, apparatus or system described herein is not limited to those features or parts or elements or steps recited but may include other elements, features, parts or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, the terms “a” and “an” used herein are intended to be understood as meaning one or more unless explicitly stated otherwise. Moreover, the terms “first”, “second”, etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on or to establish a certain ranking of importance of their objects.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method of detecting a steam wand position with respect to a vessel, the vessel including at least one processor operatively associated with a memory and one or more sensors, the memory has stored therein operational targets of the vessel, the method being performed by the at least one processor and including the steps of: receiving an input signal from the one or more sensors; determining a frequency parameter based on the input signal; and generating a user feedback signal based on the frequency parameter, wherein the user feedback signal is output via one or more output devices.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors includes a microphone.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the method further comprises the step of classifying the frequency parameter into one of: a first position, in which the a tip of the steam wand is near a bottom surface of the vessel; a second position, in which the tip of the steam wand is further away from the bottom surface compared to the first position; and a third position, in which the tip of the steam wand is further away from the bottom surface compared to the second position, whereby in the first position, the second position and the third position, the tip of the steam wand is submerged in fluid contained by the vessel.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein when the frequency parameter is classified in the first position, the user feedback signal is such that the one or more output devices indicates to the user to move the vessel downwardly.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein when the frequency parameter is classified in the second position, the user feedback signal is such that the one or more output devices indicates to the user to maintain a position of the vessel.

6. The method of claim 3, wherein when the frequency parameter is classified in the third position, the user feedback signal is such that the one or more output devices indicates to the user to move the vessel upwardly.

7. The method of claim 3, wherein the step of classifying the frequency parameter in the first position includes determining if the frequency parameter is between 2,000Hz and 10,000Hz.

8. The method of claim 3, wherein the step of classifying the frequency parameter in the second position includes determining if the frequency parameter is about 4,000Hz.

9. The method of claim 3, wherein the step of classifying if the frequency parameter is at 4kHz occurs after a time interval from actuation of the steam wand.

10. The method of claim 3, wherein the step of classifying the frequency parameter in the third position includes determining if the frequency parameter is about 2,000Hz.

11. The method of any one of claims 3 to 10, wherein the method further includes the step of applying a correction factor to the position parameter if the frequency parameter fails to be classified into the first position, the second position, or the third position.

12. The method of any one of claims 3 to 10, wherein the user feedback signal is output via one or more output devices selected from: a haptic feedback device; and a visual feedback device.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the haptic feedback device includes one or more selected from: an electric motor; a piezoelectric actuator; and a speaker.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the visual feedback device is one or more selected from: a light source located on the vessel; and a user interface located on a display device.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the display device is located on a milk frothing apparatus or a mobile communication device.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein the method further incudes the step of, indicating to a user via the haptic feedback device or the visual feedback device, that ideal steam wand position has been achieved when the frequency parameter is between 3,000Hz and 4,000Hz.

17. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of determining the frequency parameter includes performing a fast Fourier transform of the input signal.

18. A jug for use with a steam wand, the jug including: a memory having stored therein target data indicative of one or more operational targets of the jug; one or more sensors; a processor in communication with the memory and the one or more sensors, wherein the processor is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

19. A jug for use with a steam wand, the jug including: a memory having stored therein target data indicative of one or more operational targets of the jug; a microphone; a processor in communication with the memory and the microphone.

20. A coffee machine including: a steam wand to steam fluid in the jug of claim 18 or claim 19.

21. The coffee machine of claim 20, wherein the coffee machine includes the display device of claim 14 to provide user feedback for the steam wand position relative to the jug of claim 18 or claim 19.Breville Pty Limited Patent Attorneys for the Applicant / Nominated Person GLMR

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