Beverage brewing system with high-pressure mitigation

Abstract

Exemplarily, a method for brewing a beverage in a beverage brewing system (100) includes: measuring, with a pressure measurement device (150), a pressure of liquid in a fluid flow path in the beverage brewing system (100); assessing, with a controller (110) in the beverage brewing system (100), the pressure of the liquid; determining, with the controller (110), when there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on the pressure of the liquid; and when there is a high-pressure condition, control the heater-control circuitry (142) to cause a change in the operation of a heater (140) configured to heat the liquid.

Description

[0001] Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0002] Electronically filed on: January 14, 2025

[0003] TITLE BEVERAGE BREWING SYSTEM WITH HIGH-PRESSURE MITIGATION

[0004] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0005]

[0001] [Not Applicable]

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007]

[0002] Generally, this application relates to beverage brewing systems, such as those that brew beverages when liquid such as water flows through a cartridge containing, for example, coffee grounds or tea leaves. In particular’, embodiments disclosed herein relate to determining a high-pressure condition in a fluid flow path and responsively adjusting the mode of operation.

[0008]

[0003] Cartridges (e.g., pods) used for beverage brewing systems can contain a filter to prevent flavorant, such as coffee grounds, from exiting the cartridge and travelling downwardly, for example, into the brewed beverage container. The filter may assist in retaining the flavorant in a desired location in the cartridge. Further, the cartridge can have an upper surface that prevents the grounds from travelling out of the cartridge in the upward direction. Pressure builds up in the cartridge due to the grounds absorbing the brewing liquid and expanding. Under certain conditions, an undue amount of pressure can build up in the cartridge. Such undue pressure can lead to tearing or rupturing the filter and / or the upper surface of the cartridge, thereby potentially allowing the flavorant to travel out of the cartridge in an undesirable manner. Once the filter is tom, some amount of flavorant can exit the cartridge. The flavorant can then potentially block or impede fluid from flowing through the lower needle (described below). Once the lower needle is clogged, the heater temperature and water temperature in the fluid flow path can undesirably increase. This can lead to an increase in pressure in the fluid flow path and in the cartridge itself.

[0009]

[0004] Accordingly, a beverage brewing system is needed that is capable of mitigating high-pressure conditions such that grounds are substantially retained in a cartridge during brewing.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0010] SUMMARY

[0011] [005J According to embodiments, a beverage brewing system includes: a fluid flow path; a pump configured to control a rate of a flow of a liquid flowing through the fluid flow path; pump-control circuitry configured to control an operation of the pump; a heater configured to heat the liquid in the fluid flow path; heater-control circuitry configured to control an operation of the heater; a pressure measurement device configured to measure a pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path; and a controller configured to receive a signal from the pressure measurement device, control the pump-control circuitry, and control the heater-control circuitry, wherein the controller is further configured to: assess the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path according to the signal received from the pressure measurement device; determine when there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path; and when there is a high-pressure condition, control the heatercontrol circuitry to cause a change in the operation of the heater.

[0012]

[0006] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater comprises turning the heater OFF.

[0013]

[0007] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater further comprises subsequently turning the heater ON after a predetermined period of time.

[0014]

[0008] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater further comprises subsequently turning the heater ON after a pressure in the liquid drops below a predetermined threshold.

[0015]

[0009] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater comprises, when the heater is subsequently turned ON, supplying a reduced power to the heater as compared to a power supplied to the heater prior to the high-pressure condition.

[0016]

[0010] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater comprises reducing a power supplied to the heater.

[0017] [Oil] According to an embodiment, the controller is configured to cause beverage brewing to be completed in a same cycle during which the high-pressure condition is determined and the operation of the heater is changed.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0018] [012J According to an embodiment, the controller is further configured to, when there is a high-pressure condition, control the pump-control circuitry to cause a change in the operation of the pump.

[0019]

[0013] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the pump comprises reducing a speed of the pump.

[0020]

[0014] According to an embodiment, the controller is further configured to determine when there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on whether the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path has met or exceeded a threshold, wherein the threshold is a value between 2.5 and 4.5 psi.

[0021]

[0015] According to embodiments, a method for brewing a beverage in a beverage brewing system includes: measuring, with a pressure measurement device, a pressure of liquid in a fluid flow path in the beverage brewing system; assessing, with a controller in the beverage brewing system, the pressure of the liquid; determining, with the controller, when there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on the pressure of the liquid; and when there is a high-pressure condition, control the heater-control circuitry to cause a change in the operation of a heater configured to heat the liquid.

[0022]

[0016] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater comprises turning OFF, by the controller, the heater.

[0023]

[0017] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater further comprises subsequently turning ON, by the controller, the heater after a predetermined period of time.

[0024]

[0018] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater further comprises subsequently turning ON, by the controller, the heater after a pressure in the liquid drops below a predetermined threshold.

[0025]

[0019] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater comprises, when the heater is subsequently turned ON, supplying a reduced power to the heater as compared to a power supplied to the heater prior to the high-pressure condition.Attomey Docket No. 68766WO01

[0026] [020J According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the heater comprises reducing a power supplied to the heater.

[0027]

[0021] According to an embodiment, the method further includes causing, by the controller, beverage brewing to be completed in a same cycle during which the high-pressure condition is determined and the operation of the heater is changed.

[0028]

[0022] According to an embodiment, the method further includes, when there is a high-pressure condition, controlling, by the controller, pump-control circuitry to cause a change in an operation of a pump configured to pump liquid through the fluid flow path.

[0029]

[0023] According to an embodiment, the change in the operation of the pump comprises reducing a speed of the pump by the controller.

[0030]

[0024] According to an embodiment, the step of determining when there is a high-pressure condition further comprises determining, with the controller, when there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on whether the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path has met or exceeded a threshold, wherein the threshold is a value between 2.5 and 4.5 psi.

[0031] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032]

[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary beverage brewing system, according to embodiments.

[0033]

[0026] FIG. 2 is a flowchart for a method of mitigating high pressure in a beverage brewing system, according to embodiments.

[0034]

[0027] FIG. 3 is a graph of pressure over time as indicated by a pressure measurement device during a brew cycle, during which there is not a high-pressure condition.

[0035]

[0028] FIG. 4 is a graph of pressure over time during a brew cycle as indicated by a pressure measurement device, during which there is a high-pressure condition that is not mitigated.

[0036]

[0029] FIG. 5 is a graph of pressure over time during a brew cycle as indicated by a sensor, during which a high-pressure condition is mitigated, according to embodiments.

[0037]

[0030] FIGS. 6A-6G are different views of an upper needle used to pierce an upper surface of a cartridge, according to embodiments. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the upper needle. FIG.

[0038] 6B is a front-side elevation view of the upper needle. FIG. 6C is a back-side elevation view of the upper needle. FIG. 6D is a right-side elevation view of the upper needle. FIG. 6E is a left-Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0039] side elevation view of the upper needle. FIG. 6F is a top plan view of the upper needle. FIG.

[0040] 6G is a bottom plan view of the upper needle.

[0041]

[0031] FIGS. 7A-1, 7A-2, 7A-3, and 7A-4 are illustrations of different views of a de-clogging tool, in an elevation view, a perspective view, a top plan view, and a bottom-plan view, respectively, according to embodiments.

[0042]

[0032] FIG. 7B is an illustration of a de-clogging tool mounted in a cartridge, according to embodiments.

[0043]

[0033] FIG. 7C shows an exemplary arm, needle, lower surface, and de-clogging tool, according to embodiments.

[0044]

[0034] FIG. 7D shows the system of FIG. 7C, with the arm lowered closer to its closed position, according to embodiments.

[0045]

[0035] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary beverage brewing system, according to embodiments.

[0046]

[0036] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain techniques of the present application, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes of illustration, certain techniques are shown in the drawings. It should be understood, however, that the claims are not limited to the arrangements and instrumentality shown in the attached drawings. Furthermore, the appearance shown in the drawings is one of many ornamental appearances that can be employed to achieve the stated functions of the system.

[0047] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048]

[0037] Aspects and embodiments disclosed herein include a system and method for preparing various types of brewed beverages, including both hot and cold brewed beverages. Although the disclosure is described herein with reference to preparing a brewed coffee or tea beverage, preparation of other brewed beverages is within the scope of the disclosure. As the term is used herein, “coffee” refers to a beverage including solids extracted from coffee beans and dissolved in water. Herein, coffee is primarily described, but similar principles may apply to other beverage materials contained in a cartridge, such as tea. A cartridge can be or include a capsule, a pod, a sachet, a wrapper or other container or case containing a material suitable for use with a beverage brewing system. Herein, a pod is primarily described, but the principles andAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0049] embodiments can be applicable to other types of cartridges. Herein, coffee grounds are primarily described, but the principles and embodiments can be applicable to other types of flavorants, examples of which include any suitable material capable of being used to infuse a liquid (e.g., water) to form a brewed beverage (hot or cold), such as fruit, vegetables, herbs, or other materials.

[0050]

[0038] Embodiments of a beverage brewing system are disclosed in U.S. No. 17 / 138,575, filed on December 30, 2020, and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 12,171,361, the entirety of which is incorporated herein.

[0051]

[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary beverage brewing system 100, according to embodiments. The depicted embodiment of the beverage brewing system 100 includes a controller 110, a reservoir 120, a pump 130, pump-control circuitry 132, a heater 140, heatercontrol circuitry 142, temperature sensor(s) 144, a pressure measurement device 150, a flow meter 160, a brew chamber 170, a pressure source 180, and a user interface 190. The exemplary beverage brewing system 100 is non-limiting, and components may be added, removed, and / or rearranged. All, or a portion of the components of the beverage brewing system 100 may be included in a housing (not indicated). The broken-line arrows indicate control flow, whereas the solid-line arrows illustrate a fluid flow path. The fluid flow path may be used to convey fluid, such as liquid or gas. To brew a beverage, liquid is conveyed through the fluid flow path, and optionally gas (for example, during the venting process, as further described).

[0052]

[0040] The illustrated embodiment of the fluid flow path starts from the reservoir 120, and passes through the pump 130, the heater 140, the flow meter 160, the brew chamber 170 (and through the cartridge 10, therein), and lastly into the container 20. The fluid flow path includes at least one liquid supply line or conduit extending between an outlet end of the reservoir 120 and an inlet of the brew chamber 170. The fluid flow path passes through or proximate the heater 140, which is operable to heat the liquid supplied from the reservoir 120 to a desired temperature prior to delivery to the brew chamber 170.

[0053]

[0041] The controller 110 may control all or some aspects of the beverage brewing system 100. The controller 110 may include a processor (or multiple processors), as further described below. The controller 110 may be a single, integrated controller, or may be multiple controllers operating together (e.g., communicating with each other) to achieve the same functionalityAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0054] described herein. The controller 110 receives inputs from various components and provides outputs to effect control of the beverage brewing system 100.

[0055]

[0042] The reservoir 120 is configured to retain fluid, such as water for example, for brewing a beverage including but not limited to coffee or tea. In some embodiments, the reservoir 120 is removably connectable to the housing. However, embodiments where the system 100 does not include a reservoir are also within the scope of the disclosure. In such embodiments, the system 100 may be connected to a fluid source (not shown) and configured to receive a desired amount of fluid therefrom on demand.

[0056]

[0043] The pump 130 may be operable to provide a positive pumping action to push or draw a fluid, such as water for example, from the reservoir 120 through at least one fluid supply line in the fluid flow path and, ultimately, deliver the fluid to the brew chamber 170. The pump 130 may deliver the fluid from the reservoir 120 to the heater 140 via at least one liquid supply line. The pump 130 may be or include any suitable type of pumping mechanism, including but not limited to a gear pump, peristaltic pump, piston pump, wave pump, or diaphragm pump. The pump 130 may be operable for a fixed period of time to supply a predetermined amount of liquid to the heater 140 and further to the brew chamber 170, based on the one or more parameters, such as size for example, of the beverage being prepared.

[0057]

[0044] The pump-control circuitry 132 controls the operation of the pump 130. The pumpcontrol circuitry 132 is controlled by the controller 110. The pump-control circuitry 132 may further receive signals from the pump 130 and responsively adjust the operation of the pump 130 and / or provide the signals to the controller 110. The pump-control circuitry 132 can turn the pump 130 ON and OFF in response to a signal provided by the controller 110. The pumpcontrol circuitry 132 may also be able to control the speed of the pump 130 or the rate at which fluid passes through or out of the outlet of the pump 130. For example, the pump 130 may be controlled such that the rate of fluid flow out of the outlet is some percentage of the maximum rate, such as any percentage in the range of zero to 100%, or any subrange therein. Information about this percentage (e.g., the percentage itself) may be received at the pump-control circuitry 132 in a signal from the controller 110, and the pump-control circuitry 132 can responsively control the pump 130 in accordance with this information. The pump-control circuitry 132 mayAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0058] apply a duty cycle, such as an adjustable duty cycle to control the rate of flow through the pump 130.

[0059]

[0045] The pump-control circuitry 132 (e.g., together with the controller 110) may cause the pump 130 be operable for a period of time to supply a predetermined amount of fluid to the brew chamber 170, based on one or more parameters, such as size of the beverage being prepared or a time period for brewing the beverage. Some or all of such parameters may be determined by the controller 110 in response to input via the user interface 190.

[0060]

[0046] Downstream in the fluid flow path from the pump 130, the flow meter 160 may be provided. The flow meter 160 may be used to monitor the amount or rate of fluid that passes through the fluid flow path. The flow meter 160 can communicate this information to the controller 110, which may responsively cause the pump-control circuitry 132 to control the pump 130 in an adjusted or adapted manner (e.g., change the speed of the pump 130 in accordance with the measured rate of flow of the liquid through the fluid flow path). As shown in FIG. 1, the flow meter 160 is located between the heater 140 and the brew chamber 170, but the flow meter 160 may be located at any suitable location along the fluid flow path (e.g., between the pump 130 and the heater 140, between the reservoir 120 and the pump 130, or the like). The amount of fluid that passes through the flow meter 160 may correspond to the amount of fluid provided to the brew chamber 170.

[0061]

[0047] The heater 140 may be a flow-through heater or boiler configured to heat liquid within an adjacent liquid supply line in the fluid flow path as it passes through the heater 140, for example. However, it should be understood that any suitable type of heater 140, such as one including a cavity for retaining liquid and a heating element for heating the liquid retained within the cavity for example, may be included in the fluid flow path.

[0062]

[0048] The heater-control circuitry 142 can be controlled by the controller 110 to cause the heater 140 to operate in a desired manner. The heater-control circuitry 142 can adjust the temperature of the heater 140 and / or the duration of heating. The heater-control circuitry 142 may include a power supply to provide power to the heater 140. Examples of such a power supply include AC / AC, AC / DC, DC / AC, or DC / DC power supplies. The power supply may be a constant power supply or a variable power supply.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0063] [049J According to one embodiment, the heater-control circuitry 142 includes a relay (e.g., mechanical relay or a solid-state relay, such as one including a triac) and a resistive load. The relay can be controlled by the controller 110 to selectively switch current supplied to the heater 140 through the resistive load before reaching the heater 140. When the relay is switched into one state, some of the power, then, can be dissipated through the resistive load, and less power is provided to the heater 140 (thereby causing the heater 140 to operate at lower temperature(s)). In this embodiment, when the relay is switched into a different state, the current supplied to the heater 140 does not flow through the resistive load, and more power is provided to the heater 140 (thereby causing the heater 140 to operate at higher temperature(s)).

[0064]

[0050] The temperature sensor(s) 144 include one or more sensors that measure the temperature of the heater 140 and / or the liquid flowing through the fluid flow path. Temperature sensor(s) 144 that measure the temperature of the liquid can be located at any suitable location along the fluid flow path, such as location(s) inside or downstream from the heater 140. The temperature sensor(s) 144 provide signal(s) that correspond to the sensed temperature(s) to the controller 110.

[0065]

[0051] The pressure measurement device 150 may measure the pressure of the liquid flowing through the fluid flow path. The pressure measurement device 150 may include a pressure sensor, a pressure switch, or the like. As used herein, the pressure measurement device 150 can encompass multiple pressure measurement devices 150. The pressure measurement device 150 may be arranged to sense the pressure of the liquid between the heater 140 and the flow meter 160 as illustrated, but the pressure measurement device(s) 150 may be arranged to sense the pressure of the liquid at any suitable location(s) along the fluid flow path. The pressure measurement device 150 provides signal(s) that correspond to the sensed pressure to the controller 110. In the case that the pressure measurement device 150 includes a pressure switch, the pressure switch may be configured to change states at predetermined pressure threshold(s). For example, if the pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold, the switch can close or open. If the pressure is less than a predetermined threshold, the switch can close or open. The state change of a pressure switch can be sensed by the controller 110, and appropriate action can be taken by the controller 110, as described herein.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0066] [052J The flow meter 160 may be provided with or associated with the fluid flow path and measure the volume or rate of flow of the flowing liquid therein. The flow meter 160 may be located between the heater 140 and the brew chamber 170, as shown in FIG. 1. The flow meter 160 may alternatively be located between the reservoir 120 and the pump 130, or alternatively, at another location along the fluid flow path. The amount of liquid that passes through the flow meter 160 may correspond to the amount of fluid provided to the brew chamber 170. The flow meter 160 communicates a signal corresponding to the volume or rate of the flow of the liquid to the controller 110.

[0067]

[0053] The brew chamber 170 can accommodate a cartridge 10 (e.g., pod), which may contain coffee grinds or tea leaves. A user may place the cartridge 10 in the brew chamber 170. An upper needle (in an embodiment, a plurality of upper needles) may pierce an upper surface of the cartridge 10 (e.g., a pod with a foil-type upper surface). When the user closes the brew chamber 170, the upper needle may pierce the upper surface of the cartridge 10. Liquid from the fluid flow path passes through the upper needle and into the cartridge 10, where the liquid steeps in the flavorant. An example of an upper needle is described herein with respect to FIGS.

[0068] 6A-6G (upper needle 600).

[0069]

[0054] The brew chamber 170 may further include a lower needle (in an embodiment, a plurality of needles) that pierces the lower surface of the cartridge 10. Liquid that has been steeped in the cartridge 10 flows through the lower needle and is directed into an adjacent container 20 cither directly or through one or more conduits or chambers. Examples of containers 20 suitable for use with the beverage brewing system 100, include, but are not limited to, a carafe, a half-carafe, a travel mug, and a cup or mug for example.

[0070]

[0055] The pressure source 180, if included in the beverage brewing system 100, may be arranged in fluid communication with the brew chamber 170 or another suitable location along the fluid flow path, and is operable to force the infused liquid from the brew chamber 170. Examples of the pressure source 180 include but are not limited to a motorized air pump or pressure pump for example, operable to pressurize the interior of the brew chamber 170 or the fluid flow path. The pressure source 180 may be controlled by the controller 110.

[0071]

[0056] In combination with the pressure source 180, a valve or other venting mechanism may be operated to vent or release pressure from the brew chamber 170 or fluid flow path to theAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0072] atmospheric pressure. Such a venting mechanism may be operably coupled to the pressure source 180 and / or under control of the controller 110.

[0073]

[0057] In an embodiment, the beverage brewing system 100 may include a steeping valve operable to retain liquid within the brew chamber 170, for example to allow the flavorant to steep within the liquid. The steeping valve may be movable between an open and closed position by any suitable means, such as an actuator (not shown) for example. The steeping valve may operate under control of the controller 110.

[0074]

[0058] The user interface 190, if provided, receives one or more inputs from a user, which are then provided to the controller 110. The user interface 190 may be located at a portion of the housing at a suitable location. The user interface 190 may include one or more buttons, knobs, or other control input devices. Alternatively, or in addition, the user interface 190 may include a touch screen, or may be configured to receive an input via from a smart device, such as a phone or tablet for example, via an “app” or other suitable connection. The user interface 190 may receive an input from a user to select one of a plurality of sizes associated with a beverage to be brewed. In an embodiment, these sizes of beverages to be brewed may be based on a size of the container 20 for receiving the brewed beverage. For example, the selectable brew sizes may include one or more of a first size associated with a mug (between about 6 and about 10 ounces), a second size associated with an extra-large mug (between about 8 and about 12 ounces), a third size associated with a travel mug (between about 12 and about 16 ounces), a fourth size associated with an extra-large travel mug (between about 16 and about 24 ounces), a fifth size associated with a half-carafe (between approximately 24 and 34 ounces), and / or a sixth size associated with carafe (between about 44 and about 54 ounces). The user interface 190 may receive an input from a user to select a type of beverage to be brewed, such as coffee or tea (teas may include black, herbal, oolong, white, green, and delicate), and / or for selecting a brew style, such as classic, rich, over ice, cold brewed, and / or specialty. The user interface 190 may receive an input from a user to select the temperature of the brewed beverage (e.g., cool, medium, or hot). It should be understood that the various inputs described herein are intended as an example only, and that other selectable parameters and options within the disclosed parameters are also within the scope of the disclosure.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0075] [059J The controller 110 receives inputs from sensors and inputs (e.g., temperature sensor(s) 144, pressure measurement device 150, flow meter 160, and / or user interface 190) and responsively controls the beverage brewing system 110 through its various components (e.g., pump 130, pump-control circuitry 132, heater 140, heater-control circuitry 142, pressure source 180, user interface 190 (e.g., display or other visual and / or audio indicators), venting mechanism, and / or steep valve). The controller 110 may control a component directly and / or indirectly. For example, the controller can control the pump-control circuitry 132, which in turn controls the pump 130. In such a case, the controller 110 indirectly controls the pump 130, but still controls the pump 130. The controller 110 may control in response to one or more input signals received from the user interface 190.

[0076]

[0060] The controller 110 may include one or more of a microprocessor, microcontroller, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any other form of electronic controller known in the art. In the case of multiple components, they may be co-located or distributed at various locations. The controller 110 may also include associated circuitry, such as analog-to-digital converters) and digital-to-analog converter(s) to convert the signals into machine-readable data (analog-to-digital converter) and analog signals (digital-to-analog converter).

[0077]

[0061] One example of control by the controller 110 is ensuring that the liquid used for brewing has a desired temperature before it is steeped in the container 10. The controller 110 can control the heater-control circuitry 142, and therefore the heater 140. The controller 110 can receive feedback from the temperature scnsor(s) 144 (e.g., in real time) as to the temperature of the heater 140 and / or liquid in the fluid flow path. The controller 110 may then responsively adjust the control of the heater-control circuitry 142 to cause the heater 140 to increase or decrease its temperature according to whether the temperature of the liquid is too low or too high, respectively.

[0078]

[0062] Another example of control by the controller 110 is operating the pump 130 and / or heater 140 for a variable time according to input received from the user interface 190. For example, if a larger volume is to be brewed as specified by input from the user interface 190, the controller can operate the pump 130 and / or heater 140 for a longer time, as compared to a smaller volume to be brewed (as would otherwise be specified by input from the user interface 190).Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0079]

[0063] The system 100 may have various arrangements aside from the one shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 8 shows another example of the system 100. In this example, the fluid flow path extends from the reservoir 120, through the flow meter 160, to the pump 130, to the heater 140, and into the brew chamber 170. The pressure measurement device 150 may sense pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path between the pump 130 and the heater 140. Even though arranged differently, the various components of the system 100 may have similar features and functions as described above. According to one embodiment, the valve to relieve pressure from the fluid flow path is arranged to relieve pressure at a location between the pump 130 and the heater 140, although such relief may affect the pressure throughout the fluid flow path.

[0080]

[0064] FIG. 2 is a flowchart 200 for a method of mitigating high pressure in a beverage brewing system, according to embodiments. Additional or fewer steps may be performed. Certain steps may be performed in a different order, simultaneously, and / or overlappingly. Some steps, as will be understood, may be performed by a processor executing a set of instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., transient memory, non-transient memory, RAM, ROM, flash, EEPROM, hard disk, cache, and / or the like). The flowchart 200 is described herein with respect to beverage brewing system 100, but is not so limited.

[0081]

[0065] At step 210, the controller 110 controls the pump 130 (e.g., via the pump-control circuitry 132) to control a rate of flow of liquid flowing through the fluid flow path according to a default mode. In the default mode or any mode of operation, the controller 110 may dynamically control the pump 130, such that the rate of flow of the liquid changes during the brew cycle. In an embodiment, the controller 110 controls the pump 130 in accordance with measured temperature(s) from the temperature sensor(s) 144. The flow rate effected by the pump 130 may vary according to feedback received from the temperature sensor(s). The rate of flow of the liquid may be between 0 and 1,200 mL / min, such as 250 mL / min. The controller 110 may receive a feedback signal from the flow sensor 160 indicating the rate of flow of the liquid through the fluid flow path, and may adapt the operation of the pump 130 to maintain the rate of flow within an acceptable range. The controller 110 may adjust the rate of flow of the liquid by controlling the pump 130 in an adaptive manner. The controller 110 may vary the rate of the flow of the liquid according to a predetermined program during a brew cycle.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0082] [066J Further at step 210, the controller 110 controls the heater 140 (either directly or through the heater-control circuitry 142) to heat the liquid as it flows through the fluid flow path. In the default mode or any mode of operation, the controller 110 may dynamically control the heater 140, such that the temperature of the liquid is intended to change during the brew cycle. The temperature of the liquid proximate the heater 140 may be between 34 and 100 degrees C, such as 91 degrees C. The temperature of an element in the heater 140 may be between 33 and 140 degrees C, such as 98 degrees C. The controller 110 may receive a feedback signal from the temperature sensor(s) 144 indicating the temperature of the heater 140 and / or liquid, and may adapt the operation of the heater 140 to maintain the temperature within an acceptable range. The controller 110 may adjust the temperature by controlling the heater 140 in an adaptive manner. The controller 140 may vary the rate of the temperature liquid according to a predetermined program during a brew cycle.

[0083]

[0067] The controller 110 may control the pump 130 and the heater 140 in response to an input through the user interface 190. There may be multiple default modes, but only one may be selected. For example, a given default mode of operation may result in the brewed beverage being hotter / colder and / or greater / lesser in volume. For example, one default mode of operation may result in a cooler (e.g., 40 degrees C), 10 oz. beverage, while another default mode of operation may result in a hotter (e.g., 98 degrees C), 6 oz. beverage. Through the user interface 190, the user may specify the temperature and / or volume of the brewed beverage.

[0084]

[0068] At step 220, the controller 110 controls the beverage brewing system 100 according to a mode of operation (e.g., the default mode or an adjusted mode as will be further described) while the beverage is being brewed during the brew cycle. Any given mode of operation may dynamically adjust the beverage brewing system 100 during the brew cycle.

[0085]

[0069] At step 230, the controller 110 receives data according to a signal received from the pressure measurement device 150. The controller 110 can assess the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path according to the received signal from the pressure measurement device 150. As described above, the pressure of the liquid that is measured can be at any suitable location along the fluid flow path. As discussed above, the controller 110 can also continue to assess the flow rate of the liquid in the fluid flow path, as well as the tcmpcraturc(s) of the liquid and / or the heater 140 throughout all or at least a portion of the brew cycle. From the data fromAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0086] the pressure measurement device 150, the controller 110 may determine if there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path. The controller 110 may also or independently assess the flow rate and / or temperature(s) of the liquid and / or the heater 140 and use this data as well to determine if there is a high-pressure condition.

[0087] [070J As discussed, a high-pressure condition may result in an undesirable operation of the beverage brewing system 100 during the brew cycle. For example, a high-pressure condition may result in tearing of a filter in a pod. The controller 110 can determine whether a high-pressure condition exists according to an algorithm. Such an algorithm can account for the pressure, liquid flow rate, and / or temperature(s) of the liquid and / or heater 140.

[0088]

[0071] According to one exemplary algorithm, the pressure measured by the pressure measurement device 150 is compared to a predetermined threshold (e.g., between 2.5 and 4.5 psi, such as 3.3 psi). If the pressure meets or exceeds the threshold for a period of time (e.g., 0.7 seconds), a high-pressure condition is determined to exist.

[0089]

[0072] If there is a high-pressure condition determined by the controller 110 at step 230, the flowchart 200 proceeds from step 230 to step 240. If there is not a high-pressure condition, the flowchart 200 proceeds from step 230 to step 250.

[0090]

[0073] At step 240, the controller 110 changes the mode of operation of the beverage brewing system 100. Such a changed mode of operation may include the controller 110 controlling the heater 140 and / or the pump 130 according to the changed mode of operation. Such a changed mode of operation may include controlling the heater 140 to reduce the temperature(s) of the heater 140 and / or the liquid in the fluid flow path. Such a changed mode of operation may include controlling the pump 130 to reduce the rate of flow of the liquid through the fluid flow path. Such a changed mode of operation may include the controller 110 controlling the pump 130 to reduce the temperature(s) and / or the rate of the flow of the liquid through the fluid flow path.

[0091]

[0074] According to one embodiment of a changed mode of operation, the controller 110 causes the heater 140 to be turned OFF for at least a period of time. The period of time can be predetermined (e.g., between 5 and 30 seconds, such as 10 seconds), or the period of time canAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0092] be determined according to dynamic factors, such as the pressure, temperature(s), and / or flow rate.

[0093]

[0075] According to another embodiment of a changed mode of operation, the controller 110 causes the heater 140 to reduce the level of heat by reducing the power that is supplied via the heater-control circuitry 142 (e.g., by reducing voltage and / or reducing duty cycle of the supplied voltage). This reduction may be static or dynamic over a period of time. A temperature of the heater 140 may be reduced from a default level (e.g., between 33 and 140 degrees C, such as 98 degrees C) to an adjusted level (e.g., between 33 and 90 degrees C, such as 80 degrees C). The reduced level of heat may be caused for a predetermined period of time (e.g., between 5 and 20 seconds, such as 10 seconds), or the period of time can be determined according to dynamic factors, such as the pressure, temperature(s), and / or flow rate. The reduction may be temporary, and the temperature may be increased to the default temperature or a higher temperature (e.g., after a pre-determined period of time).

[0094]

[0076] In the changed mode of operation, the heater 140 may be first turned OFF for a period of time, and subsequently supplied with a reduced power. In another embodiment, in the changed mode of operation, the heater 140 may be first supplied with reduced power and then turned OFF. In the changed mode of operation, there may be any suitable sequence of turning the heater 140 OFF, turning the heater 140 OFF for a period of time (e.g., predetermined), turning the heater 140 ON, turning the heater 140 ON for a period of time (e.g., predetermined), supplying reduced power to the heater 140, and / or supplying reduced power to the heater 140 for a period of time (e.g., predetermined), not necessarily in this sequence (i.e., in a different sequence), and for any suitable number of times.

[0095]

[0077] The temperature sensor(s) 144 can indicate by how much the temperature of the liquid pressure has been reduced, and the controller 110 can appropriately control the beverage brewing system 100 in view of this feedback. For example, if the temperature sensor(s) 144 continue to indicate a pressure in the fluid flow path that is too high, then the heater 140 can be adjusted to further reducing its supplied power and / or turning the heater 140 OFF.

[0096]

[0078] By lowering the temperature of the heater 140, a high pressure condition can be mitigated. As the temperature of the liquid is reduced, the reaction with the flavorant in the cartridge 10 may become less pronounced, which may lower the pressure in the cartridge 10.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0097] [079J According to another embodiment of a changed mode of operation, the controller 110 causes the pump 130 to reduce the rate of flow of the liquid through the fluid flow path to effect a changed mode of operation of the beverage brewing system 100. This reduction may be static or dynamic over a period of time. The reduced level of liquid flow may be caused for a predetermined period of time (e.g., between 5 and 30 seconds, such as 10 seconds), or the period of time can be determined according to dynamic factors, such as the pressure, temperature(s), and / or flow rate. The reduction may be temporary, and the flow rate or volume may be increased to the default flow or a higher flow (e.g., after a pre-determined period of time). The pressure measurement device 150 can indicate by how much the liquid pressure has been reduced, and the controller 110 can appropriately control the beverage brewing system 100 in view of this feedback. For example, if the pressure measurement device 150 continues to indicate a pressure in the fluid flow path that is too high, then the pump 130 can be adjusted to further reduce the rate of flow of the liquid through the fluid flow path. For example, the speed of the pump 130 can be adjusted by a variable amount, or the pump 130 can be turned OFF (e.g., for a period of time, such as a predetermined period of time). The period of time can be predetermined (e.g., between 5 and 30 seconds, such as 10 seconds), or the period of time can be determined according to dynamic factors, such as the pressure, temperature(s), and / or flow rate. By lowering the pressure provided by the pump 130, the pressure in the cartridge can be reduced, and as such, a high pressure condition can be mitigated.

[0098]

[0080] According to an embodiment, both the operation of the heater 140 and the operation of the pump 130 are adjusted according to a changed mode of operation.

[0099] [081| As with the default mode of operation, the changed mode of operation may be static over time or dynamic over time. According to one embodiment, the changed mode of operation may persist for a duration of time (predetermined or otherwise) and then the mode of operation may return to the default mode of operation (or at least a relevant phase thereof).

[0100]

[0082] At step 250, the controller 110 determines if the brew cycle is complete. The controller 110 may make such a determination based on a timer that starts when the brew cycle begins. The timer may have a value based on the volume of beverage to be brewed. For example, if a beverage to be brewed is 10 oz (e.g., as specified through the user interface 190), the brewing time may be between ninety and one hundred and twenty seconds, such as one hundredAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0101] seconds. If brewing is not complete, the flowchart returns to step 220. If the brewing is complete (e.g., the timer has expired or reached a predetermined value), the flowchart proceeds to step 260.

[0102]

[0083] At step 260, the brew cycle ends. The controller 110 may cause a ventilation phase to occur by controlling the pressure source 180 to ventilate all or a portion of the fluid flow path to atmospheric pressure. The controller 110 may control the pump 130 and / or the heater 140 to turn OFF, if they have not already been turned OFF as part of a given mode of operation. The controller 110 may cause an indication (visual or audio) to be provided through the user interface 190 that brewing is complete.

[0103]

[0084] According to embodiments, after a high-pressure condition is determined by the controller 110, the changed mode of operation may proceed as follows. The controller 110 can turn the heater 140 OFF or provide it with lower power. The pump 130 can then be controlled to run at a fixed flow rate. The temperature of the liquid in the fluid flow path downstream from the heater 140 can be measured by a temperature sensor 144 and assessed by the controller 110. The controller 110 can determine whether the liquid temperature is decreasing by a sufficient amount and / or rate. If the temperature reaches or drops below a target threshold for a period of time (e.g., ten seconds) and / or if the rate of the temperature change is sufficient, then the controller can turn OFF the pump 130 for a period of time, after which the pump 130 can be turned back ON and can run at a rate such as its previous rate (or a new rate).

[0104]

[0085] The beverage brewing system 100 can subsequently return to its original mode of operation under control of the controller 110, for example, if additional condition(s) have been satisfied. One such condition is if the water temperature has dropped to or below a target temperature (e.g., the target threshold described above) and the pressure as measured by the pressure measurement device 150 has dropped to or below a target pressure. Another condition is if the pressure is at or below a target pressure and the amount of liquid that has flowed through the flow meter 160 has reached a target level (e.g., close to the complete beverage volume after accounting for cooling-related adjustments).

[0105]

[0086] According to embodiments, the controller 110 detects if there has been a tear in a filter in the cartridge 10. When, through the pressure monitor 150, the controller detects a precipitous drop in pressure, the controller 110 can infer that there has been a tear in a filter. For example,Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0106] if the pressure drops by a threshold amount within a given period of time (e.g., 3.5 psi drop within one second), the controller 110 may make such an inference. Upon such a detection, the controller 110 can stop the brew cycle altogether. The controller 110 may further cause the user interface 190 to indicate that there has been an event.

[0107]

[0087] FIG. 3 is a graph of pressure over time as indicated by the pressure measurement device 150 in a brew cycle, during which there is not an event that damages the cartridge 10. The graph is exemplary, and the data was generated using a beverage brewing system 100. Throughout the brew cycle (indicated as being about eighty seconds in duration), the pressure (as measured by the pressure measurement device 150 in the fluid flow path between the heater 140 and the flow meter 160, as illustrated in FIG. 1) remains relatively low — reaching a maximum of about 2.3 psi. This is lower than the level required for identifying a high-pressure condition or the level at which an exemplary cartridge 10 could be damaged (shown by the broken line at about 5.5 psi), as described above. The momentary spike in pressure at around sixty-two seconds is a result of ventilation, embodiments of which are described above.

[0108]

[0088] FIG. 4 is similar to FIG. 3, and the data is taken with the same beverage brewing system 100 under the same conditions (e.g., beverage volume setting) used to generate the data in FIG.

[0109] 3. In FIG. 4, there is an event where the filter in a cartridge 10 is torn due to high pressure at about 5.5 psi. The precipitous drop after reaching the peak corresponds to a cartridge 10 experiencing a filter tear. There has been no mitigation of high pressure in FIG. 4.

[0110]

[0089] FIG. 5 is a graph of pressure over time as indicated by the pressure measurement device 150, during which damaging pressure is mitigated, according to embodiments. The data for the graph in FIG. 5 was generated with the same beverage brewing system 100 under the same conditions (e.g., beverage volume setting) used to generate the data for FIGS. 3 and 4. A threshold to mitigate a high-pressure condition has been set at about three psi. The threshold is exceeded at about thirty-five seconds into the brew cycle. Thus, a high-pressure condition is determined (for example, as described above with respect to step 230 in flowchart 200. The heater 140 was then turned OFF for a period of five seconds. Turning the heater 140 OFF reduces the pressure in the fluid flow path (reduces the rate of flow of the liquid). The time at which the heater 140 turns off coincides with the time at which the high-pressure condition is determined. This can be seen as the curvature of the curve inflects from a negative curvatureAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0111] prior to thirty-five seconds and a positive curvature after thirty-five seconds. The brew cycle continues, and after about five seconds, the heater 140 is turned back ON. The effect of the heater 140 being turned back ON (pressure increasing in the fluid flow path) can be seen where the curvature inflects from a positive curvature to a negative curvature at around forty-five seconds. Because the flow volume was reduced for a period of time, this caused the brew cycle to be extended to about one-hundred seconds.

[0112]

[0090] FIGS. 6A-6G are different views of an upper needle 600 used to pierce an upper surface (e.g., foil-type surface) of a cartridge (e.g., cartridge 10), according to embodiments. FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the upper needle 600. FIG. 6B is a front-side elevation view of the upper needle 600. FIG. 6C is a back-side elevation view of the upper needle. FIG. 6D is a rightside elevation view of the upper needle 600. FIG. 6E is a left-side elevation view of the upper needle 600. FIG. 6F is a top plan view of the upper needle 600. FIG. 6G is a bottom plan view of the upper needle 600.

[0113]

[0091] The upper needle 600 includes an upper region 610 having an upper aperture 612 and a hollow interior region 614 extending downwardly therefrom. The upper aperture 612 is in fluid communication or part of the fluid flow path, such that fluid (e.g., liquid) can flow through the upper aperture 612 and through the hollow interior region 614. The upper needle 600 further includes a lower region 620 that pierces the upper surface of the cartridge 10. The upper needle 600 further includes one or more vertically-extending members 630 (e.g., one to three members, such as two members) that mechanically couple the upper region 610 with the lower region 620 (directly or indirectly couples). The spaces between the vertically-extending members 630 are lateral apertures 632. Fluid continues to flow from the hollow interior region 614 and out through the lateral apertures 632 into the cartridge 10, where the fluid steeps in the flavorant. The surface(s) extending downwardly along the vertically-extending members 630 may be sloped regions 634 (e.g., sloped at an angle between 45 and 75 degrees from a horizontal reference plane, such as 65 degrees).

[0114]

[0092] Unlike certain known upper needles, the upper needle 600 does not have a horizontal surface (or a substantial horizontal surface) between or proximate the vertically-extending members 630. As such, flavorant from the cartridge may not substantially accumulate within the vertically-extending members 630. Such accumulation may tend to block or impede theAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0115] flow of liquid out of the lateral apertures 632 into the cartridge 10, thereby resulting in an undesirable brew cycle and / or resulting beverage. Such accumulation may also lead to flavorant being pushed back into the fluid flow path, potentially clogging the fluid flow path. Also, elimination or substantial reduction of the horizontal surface may tend to make the lateral apertures 632 larger than what certain known upper needles have. Further, the sloped regions 634 may facilitate any accumulated flavorant within the needle to run off into the cartridge 10 with the fluid flow.

[0116]

[0093] FIGS. 7A-1, 7A-2, 7A-3, and 7A-4 are illustrations of different views of a de-clogging tool 700, in an elevation view, a perspective view, a top plan view, and a bottom-plan view, respectively, according to embodiments. FIG. 7B illustrates the de-clogging tool 700 seated in a cartridge 10, according to embodiments. In a condition when there is a clog in the fluid flow path, the de-clogging tool 700 can be used to dislodge the clog. The de-clogging tool 700 essentially acts as a plunger to create negative and positive pressure in the fluid flow path upwardly through the outlet of the upper needle 600.

[0117]

[0094] The de-clogging tool 700 can have a basket shape with an upper end 710, a lower end 730, and a sidewall 720 therebetween. The upper end 710 can form an aperture (or multiple apertures) allowing access to the interior of the de-clogging tool 700. The lower end 730 may be sealed, such that the only aperture(s) into the interior of the de-clogging tool 700 is defined by the upper end 710. The sidewall 720 can include a flexible or elastic material, such as silicone. The material of the sidewall 720 may have memory, such that it automatically returns to its original shape after it has been bent or compressed.

[0118]

[0095] As shown in FIG. 7B, the lower end 730 (and optionally an insertion region above) can be seated in or into a lower surface. The lower surface may be a cartridge 10, as depicted, or it may be a different surface. The de-clogging tool 700 may have a feature in the seating region (shown as a flange in a lower region in FIG. 7A-1, for example) that tends to maintain the de-clogging tool 700 seated in or into the lower surface.

[0119]

[0096] As shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D, the needle (e.g., the upper needle 600) can be positioned on an arm that rotates, such that the outlet of the needle is exposed below or to the side of the arm. As the arm rotates (as shown from a comparison of FIG. 7C with 7D), the needle moves from a substantially horizontal orientation (when the arm is raised) to a substantially verticalAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0120] orientation (when the arm is closed). As the arm closes, the exposed end of the needle (which includes the outlet) becomes aligned with an aperture in the upper region of the de-clogging tool 700. As the arm closes, the upper end 710 of the de-clogging tool 700 engages with the lower surface of the arm. A seal or a partial seal is formed between the upper end 710 of the de-clogging tool 700 and the lower surface of the arm. As the arm continues to be lowered, the sidewall 720 of the de-clogging tool 700 compresses, and air from within the de-clogging tool 700 is forced upwardly towards the outlet of the needle. The fluid flow path, then, experiences positive pressure from the direction of the outlet of the needle, and the positive pressure may help break up the clog.

[0121]

[0097] Further, the upper end 710 may form a suction with the lower surface of the arm when the arm is lowered. In such a case, when the arm is subsequently raised, it pulls back open the compressed de-clogging tool 700. This causes negative pressure in the fluid flow path from the direction of the outlet of the needle. This may further assist in breaking up the clog.

[0122]

[0098] As another example, the upper end 710 may not form a suction with the lower surface of the arm, but the sidewall 720 of the de-clogging tool 700 may decompress automatically after it has been compressed. As the user raises the arm, the sidewall 720 can decompress, and when the user subsequently lowers the arm, positive pressure can again be imparted into the fluid flow path. Thus, the user can inject positive pressure into the fluid flow path multiple times until the clog resolves.

[0123]

[0099] As will be understood, particular ones of the calculations or operations described herein may be performed using a processor (e.g., computer, microcontroller, microprocessor, digital signal processor, programmed logic array, etc.) having hardware, software, and / or firmware. Such a processor can be included in the controller 110. The various flowchart steps may be performed by modules, and the modules may comprise any of a wide variety of digital and / or analog data processing hardware and / or software arranged to perform the method steps described herein. The modules optionally comprising data processing hardware adapted to perform one or more of these steps by having appropriate machine programming code associated therewith, the modules for two or more steps (or portions of two or more steps) being integrated into a single processor board or separated into different processor boards in any of a wide variety of integrated and / or distributed processing architectures. These methodsAttorney Docket No. 68766WO01

[0124] and systems will often employ a tangible media embodying machine-readable code with instructions for performing the method steps described above. Suitable tangible media may comprise a memory (including a volatile memory and / or a non-volatile memory), a storage media (such as a magnetic recording on a floppy disk, a hard disk, a tape, or the like; on an optical memory such as a CD, a CD-R / W, a CD-ROM, a DVD, or the like; or any other digital or analog storage media), or the like.

[0125]

[0100] All patents, patent publications, patent applications, journal articles, books, technical references, and the like discussed in the instant disclosure are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

[0126]

[0101] Different arrangements of the components depicted in the drawings or described above, as well as components and steps not shown or described are possible. Similarly, some features and sub-combinations are useful and may be employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations. Embodiments of the invention have been described for illustrative and not restrictive purposes, and alternative embodiments will become apparent to readers of this patent. In certain cases, method steps or operations may be performed or executed in differing order, or operations may be added, deleted or modified. It can be appreciated that, in certain aspects of the invention, a single component may be replaced by multiple components, and multiple components may be replaced by a single component, to provide an element or structure or to perform a given function or functions.

[0127]

[0102] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the novel techniques disclosed in this application. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the novel techniques without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the novel techniques not be limited to the particular techniques disclosed, but that they will include all techniques falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 68766WO01CLAIMS1. A beverage brewing system, comprising:a fluid flow path;a pump configured to control a rate of a flow of a liquid flowing through the fluid flow path;pump-control circuitry configured to control an operation of the pump;a heater configured to heat the liquid in the fluid flow path;heater-control circuitry configured to control an operation of the heater;a pressure measurement device configured to measure a pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path; anda controller configured to receive a signal from the pressure measurement device, control the pump-control circuitry, and control the heater-control circuitry, wherein the controller is further configured to:assess the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path according to the signal received from the pressure measurement device;determine when there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path; and when there is a high-pressure condition, control the heater-control circuitry to cause a change in the operation of the heater.

2. The beverage brewing system of claim 1, wherein the change in the operation of the heater comprises turning the heater OFF.

3. The beverage brewing system of claim 2, wherein the change in the operation of the heater further comprises subsequently turning the heater ON after a predetermined period of time.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO014. The beverage brewing system of claim 2, wherein the change in the operation of the heater further comprises subsequently turning the heater ON after a pressure in the liquid drops below a predetermined threshold.

5. The beverage brewing system of claim 3, wherein the change in the operation of the heater comprises, when the heater is subsequently turned ON, supplying a reduced power to the heater as compared to a power supplied to the heater prior to the high-pressure condition.

6. The beverage brewing system of claim 1, wherein the change in the operation of the heater comprises reducing a power supplied to the heater.

7. The beverage brewing system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to cause beverage brewing to be completed in a same cycle during which the high-pressure condition is determined and the operation of the heater is changed.

8. The beverage brewing system of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to, when there is a high-pressure condition, control the pump-control circuitry to cause a change in the operation of the pump.

9. The beverage brewing system of claim 8, wherein the change in the operation of the pump comprises reducing a speed of the pump.

10. The beverage brewing system of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to determine when there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on whether the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path has met or exceeded a threshold, wherein the threshold is a value between 2.5 and 4.5 psi.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO0111. A method for brewing a beverage in a beverage brewing system, the method comprising:measuring, with a pressure measurement device, a pressure of liquid in a fluid flow path in the beverage brewing system;assessing, with a controller in the beverage brewing system, the pressure of the liquid; determining, with the controller, when there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on the pressure of the liquid; andwhen there is a high-pressure condition, control the heater-control circuitry to cause a change in the operation of a heater configured to heat the liquid.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the change in the operation of the heater comprises turning OFF, by the controller, the heater.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the change in the operation of the heater further comprises subsequently turning ON, by the controller, the heater after a predetermined period of time.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the change in the operation of the heater further comprises subsequently turning ON, by the controller, the heater after a pressure in the liquid drops below a predetermined threshold.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the change in the operation of the heater comprises, when the heater is subsequently turned ON, supplying a reduced power to the heater as compared to a power supplied to the heater prior to the high-pressure condition.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein the change in the operation of the heater comprises reducing a power supplied to the heater.Attorney Docket No. 68766WO0117. The method of claim 11, further comprising causing, by the controller, beverage brewing to be completed in a same cycle during which the high-pressure condition is determined and the operation of the heater is changed.

18. The method of claim 11, further comprising, when there is a high-pressure condition, controlling, by the controller, pump-control circuitry to cause a change in an operation of a pump configured to pump liquid through the fluid flow path.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the change in the operation of the pump comprises reducing a speed of the pump by the controller.

20. The method of claim 11, wherein said determining when there is a high-pressure condition further comprises determining, with the controller, when there is a high-pressure condition based at least in part on whether the pressure of the liquid in the fluid flow path has met or exceeded a threshold, wherein the threshold is a value between 2.5 and 4.5 psi.

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