Kit for preparing and / or for use with beverages

Abstract

The invention relates to a kit for preparing and / or for use with beverages, comprising a vessel (1) for receiving a drinking liquid, at least one capsule (2) to be introduced into the vessel (1), and a handling element (3) for moving and positioning the at least one capsule (2) introduced into the vessel (1). A movement of the at least one capsule (2) brought about by a user with the aid of the handling element (3) is transmitted between said capsule and the handling element (3) by a magnetic force penetrating the vessel wall. The handling element (3) has at least one electronic functional unit and at least one radio transmission unit (4) for data exchange with computer devices, the at least one radio transmission unit being operatively connected to the electronic functional unit and at least being designed and configured, in interaction with the at least one electronic functional unit, to receive, from a computer device, control data for carrying out a function provided by the at least one electronic functional unit and / or to transmit, to a computer device, data captured by means of the at least one functional unit and relating to the vessel (1), the capsule (2) or the drinking liquid.

Description

[0001] PC 260350 F February 23, 2026

[0002] Kit for preparing and / or using with beverages

[0003] The invention relates to a kit, i.e., a multi-component technical solution, which serves to prepare beverages and / or is intended to be used by a user when consuming a beverage, i.e., in conjunction with the respective beverage. The object of the invention is therefore a solution which, depending on the configuration—namely, depending on the selection of the components forming the kit and their respective specific design—either serves to prepare a beverage, is used solely in connection with the consumption of a beverage, or is usable for both (preparation of the beverage and use during its consumption). With regard to its use with a beverage, i.e., during its consumption, a particular focus of the solution (the kit) presented below is on influencing the drinking behavior of a user of this solution.

[0004] From the perspective of individual beverage preparation, it can be desirable for a variety of reasons to allow users to purchase beverage ingredients—especially for the liquid itself, typically water, and substances to be added to that liquid—as separate products. Aside from the fact that water is the basis of virtually every beverage and is often consumed in its pure form, separately purchased substances to add to water offer several advantages. These ingredients allow users to create beverages according to their specific taste preferences and, if necessary, to accommodate changing needs over time. The freshness of beverages "composed" in this way by the user can also be a compelling argument.PC 260350 F 2 / 30 February 23, 2026.

[0005] Beyond personal taste preferences, this also allows users to add vitamins, dietary supplements, and similar substances to their drinks according to their needs and preferences. Furthermore, offering separate options for water as the base for beverages and for adding ingredients to that water can also be advantageous from a sustainability perspective in food production, particularly for beverages. This is especially true if the capsules used to ingest the substances, which are a key component of the solution presented here, are recyclable or reusable.

[0006] Regarding the other key aspect of the solution described here, namely the use of the presented kit with beverages and their consumption, the possibility of influencing people's / users' drinking habits from a health perspective is particularly noteworthy. Many people, especially older people, often drink too little throughout the day. Depending on the specific configuration of the presented solution, this problem can be effectively addressed.

[0007] Nevertheless, for many people today, beverages are often more than just a thirst quencher or something that serves to meet the body's fluid requirements for maintaining health or even survival. Rather, beverages are also indulgences and, particularly among younger consumers, sometimes even a lifestyle product. Against this backdrop, the food industry undertakes a variety of efforts to appeal to a broad customer base or, where appropriate, to specific customer groups with individual products.

[0008] The object of the invention is to provide an alternative solution for the possibilities of individual beverage preparation and a customizable beverage PC. 260350 F 3 / 30 23 February 2026

[0009] To make consumption available. For this purpose, a kit consisting of several components will be provided.

[0010] The problem is solved by a kit for preparing and / or using beverages, characterized by the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of this solution are given by the dependent claims.

[0011] The proposed kit for preparing and / or using beverages comprises a container for holding a drinking liquid, or a container that, when in use, holds a drinking liquid; at least one capsule that is inserted into the container through an opening; and a handling element. The handling element allows the at least one capsule inserted into the container to be moved through a container wall and positioned within the container. In its operational state, i.e., when the kit is in use, the at least one capsule is inserted into the container belonging to the kit. The container could be, for example, a drinking bottle, a cup, a beaker, a drinking glass, or a can.

[0012] The aforementioned at least one capsule, or possibly several capsules, can be inserted individually into the container, which is preferably a drinking bottle, or together with a capsule holder. If the at least one capsule is inserted into the container together with a capsule holder, it is secured to the capsule holder, for example by means of a plug connection, a screw connection, or a bayonet connection. The feature that the at least one capsule is secured to the capsule holder implies that various possible configurations are involved.

[0013] Accordingly, exactly one capsule can be attached to such a capsule holder and inserted into the container, for example, the drinking bottle. PC 260350 F 4 / 30 23 February 2026

[0014] It is also possible that several capsules with different properties are attached to such a capsule holder inserted into the container or bottle. Finally, this also includes the combination of both of the aforementioned scenarios, i.e., the possibility that one or more capsule holders, each with one capsule attached, as well as one or more capsule holders, each with several capsules attached, are inserted into the container. Furthermore, one or more capsules attached to one or more capsule holders, as well as one or more capsules without a corresponding capsule holder, can be inserted into the container simultaneously. In this respect, any combination is conceivable.The at least one capsule may preferably, but need not necessarily, contain at least one substance and be designed to release this at least one substance contained in it to the drinking liquid taken up by the vessel after piercing or removing a preferably existing seal and inserting the capsule into the vessel.

[0015] As explained above, the at least one capsule in the container can be moved and positioned through the container wall by means of the handling element. Movement of the at least one capsule, initiated by a user with the help of the handling element, is mediated between the capsule and the handling element by a magnetic force penetrating the container wall. This magnetic force acts between at least one magnet and at least one complementary element, either metallic or also designed as a magnet. The at least one magnet is either located on the handling element and the at least one complementary magnetic element is located on the capsule or the capsule holder, or vice versa.An arrangement of the at least one magnet or the at least one complementary element on the at least one capsule expressly includes the possibility of arranging the at least one magnet or the at least one complementary element inside the at least one capsule. PC 260350 F 5 / 30 23 February 2026.

[0016] Taking into account the fact that the container holding the drinking liquid and the handling element can be combined with a wide variety of capsules of varying numbers to form the kit, the magnet (a permanent magnet or an electromagnet) will preferably be arranged in or on the handling element, whereas a simple metallic element, such as a metal strip, is typically arranged as a complementary element in or on a respective capsule or on the capsule holder.

[0017] According to the solution proposed here, the handling element of the kit solving the problem is further characterized by the fact that it has at least one electronic functional unit and at least one radio transmission unit in operative communication with it for data exchange with computer systems. The at least one radio transmission unit is designed and configured to receive control data from a computer system in interaction with the at least one electronic functional unit for the execution of a function provided by the at least one electronic functional unit and / or to transmit data acquired by the at least one electronic functional unit concerning the container, the at least one capsule, or the drinking liquid to a computer system.

[0018] For the power supply of its at least one electronic functional unit and at least one radio transmission unit, the handling element is also designed to accommodate at least one battery or at least one rechargeable battery, or alternatively or cumulatively, it includes a solar cell. For charging a battery or rechargeable battery that may be accommodated by the handling element, the handling element may also have a connection for linking to a charging device plug, a unit for inductive charging of the battery, or at least one solar cell. PC 260350 F 6 / 30 February 23, 2026

[0019] The at least one radio transmission unit is a transmission unit that can support one of the currently used radio transmission technologies or standards, such as mobile communications, Bluetooth, WLAN, WiFi, or even satellite telephony, or a future radio transmission technology. Given that the handling element, as stated, has "at least" one radio transmission unit, the handling element itself can, depending on its specific features and configuration, support multiple radio transmission technologies and / or standards.

[0020] The handling element is described in this way in the context of the description of the invention and its various embodiments, since the handling of at least one capsule inserted into the container with the drinking liquid (mediated by a magnetic force) is certainly one of the essential functions of this element. Its specific inventive design, however, additionally confers upon this element one or more significantly further functionalities, which could also be described as "handling".

[0021] The kit presented to solve the problem differs considerably from other prior art solutions that work with one or more capsule(s) to be inserted into a drinking vessel, in particular also from the solution known from EP 4 108592 B1, by virtue of the two aforementioned units of the handling element, namely the at least one radio transmission unit and the at least one electronic functional unit that works together with it.

[0022] However, it is precisely this difference that gives the solution presented here added value, which goes far beyond the mere possibility of preparing beverages using a capsule placed in a container. The existing possibilities and corresponding, pre-existing PC 260350 F 7 / 30 23 February 2026

[0023] Further details of the proposed embodiments of the kit according to the invention will follow below, whereby the possibilities described here can only be presented as examples and not exhaustively. The feature of equipping the handling element with at least one radio transmission unit and with at least one cooperating electronic functional unit opens up virtually countless possibilities without departing from the basic principle of the solution and thus the scope of the invention.It should also be expressly noted here that the equipping of the handling element with at least one electronic functional unit means that the handling element can have several different electronic functional units that provide various functionalities (shown below only as examples) and can be combined with each other or interact / work together in any way within the handling element. The same applies to the at least one radio transmission unit.

[0024] As explained above, the at least one capsule preferably forms a volume containing at least one substance to be added to the drinking liquid. The at least one capsule is preferably equipped with at least one pierceable or removable seal. Furthermore, it is designed to release the at least one substance contained in the capsule into the drinking liquid, or to release it within the drinking liquid, after this preferably present at least one seal has been pierced or removed and the capsule has been inserted into the container receiving the drinking liquid (in particular, a drinking bottle).

[0025] With regard to the statement that at least one capsule contains at least one substance, it should be clarified here that a (single) corresponding capsule may also contain a mixture of substances or be divided into several chambers, each containing different substances to be added to a drinking liquid. In the latter case, for each of the volume segments formed in the capsule, PC 260350 F 8 / 30 23 February 2026

[0026] Each chamber of the capsule must have at least one opening, sealed by a seal until it is placed in the container, for the release of the substance taken up.

[0027] Regarding the substance(s) already mentioned, preferably ingested via at least one capsule, these can be substances of a wide variety. In particular, they could include vitamins added to a beverage such as pure water, various flavorings, or different types of dietary supplements. Flavorings, for example, could be additives that give the prepared beverage a fruity note. Other possibilities include flavorings such as various sweeteners, like stevia, vegetable powders, or caffeine. This list is also not exhaustive.

[0028] A capsule equipped with multiple chambers offers the possibility of infusing the drinking liquid with a mixture of different substances, such as various flavors, or even with a vitamin on one side and a flavoring on the other. Given the wide range of taste preferences and varying needs regarding vitamins, dietary supplements, and the like, there are essentially no limits to this.

[0029] For the sake of completeness, it should be noted here that the drinking liquid, or the beverage prepared by adding an additive to the drinking liquid, could also be a beverage for a pet. Naturally, the pet owner is responsible for preparing the beverage, handling the capsule if necessary, and using any other features provided by the kit according to the invention. PC 260350 F 9 / 30 February 23, 2026

[0030] With regard to the aspect of viewing a beverage prepared or consumed using the kit as a lifestyle product, but also with regard to the aspect of information transfer, a multitude of possibilities exist for the at least one electronic functional unit comprised of the handling element and its configuration. Against this background, there are also various ways to activate functions provided by one or more electronic functional units of the handling element in this way, or to give a user of the kit the opportunity to influence or control such functions in their specific form / design or with regard to the processes associated with them.

[0031] For this purpose, the handling element may be equipped with at least one user-operated control element for one or more electronic functional units. Depending on the nature of the electronic functional unit(s) encompassed by the handling element, the handling element may also be equipped with at least one loudspeaker and / or a microphone. A display for outputting visual information may also be provided on the handling element. As is common today, such a display may also be a touch display or touchscreen, which, in addition to its function of outputting visual information, can also serve as a control element for the electronic functional unit(s).Furthermore (alternatively or cumulatively), the handling element can be equipped with at least one vibration element to output a haptic confirmation signal or a warning signal.

[0032] The solution described above in various facets of its form also includes training methods in which the handling element itself is a computer device with storage means and with an operating system processing and for processing in the storage PC 260350 F 10 / 30 23 February 2026

[0033] The handling element is a central processing unit (CPU or microcontroller) equipped with software loaded with program applications, comprising at least one electronic functional unit and at least one radio transmission unit. In such a case, the handling element may also include at least one microphone for receiving voice commands interpreted and processed by the computer system. In addition to its function of moving and positioning a capsule placed inside the container, the handling element thus constitutes a microcomputer, which, for example, may be designed to resemble a smartwatch in its external appearance.

[0034] The handling element can also be equipped with a camera and, if configured as a (more or less independent) computer device, be designed and configured to recognize gestures for controlling functions provided by the handling element and to execute them accordingly. If the handling element itself is configured as a computer device, this computer device should preferably be set up in such a way that a user authenticates themselves to the computer device for its use, i.e., logs in to it, for example by entering a code or PIN or using biometric features, thus unlocking the corresponding computer device.

[0035] Regardless of whether the handling element, as described above, is itself designed as a microcomputer or includes one, the kit may include a mobile device equipped with a program application. This device, when running the aforementioned program application, is configured for data exchange with the handling element's at least one radio transmission unit and for using functions provided by the handling element's at least one electronic functional unit. This refers in particular to a PC equipped with a corresponding program application or mini-program application (app). (PC 260350 F 11 / 30 23 February 2026)

[0036] tes as well as a smartphone or smartwatch set up for interaction with the handling element.

[0037] As previously explained, the at least one radio transmission unit of the handling element, which interacts with the at least one electronic functional unit, can be designed and configured to transmit data acquired by the aforementioned functional unit concerning the container, the at least one capsule, or the drinking liquid or beverage itself to a computer system. The radio transmission unit can be configured to transmit data of the aforementioned type to a server on the internet via a mobile device belonging to the kit (e.g., smartphone or smartwatch) or using a SIM module integrated into the handling element itself via the mobile network.

[0038] This provides suppliers of kits or their components according to the invention, as well as beverage manufacturers and bottlers, with the opportunity to collect statistical data on the drinking behavior of kit users (preferably anonymized) and on substances (flavorings, vitamins, and the like) that users particularly like to add to the drinking liquid via corresponding capsules, and to evaluate this data for marketing purposes. In this context, the at least one electronic functional unit of the handling element can be configured to read a code present on or in the at least one capsule inserted into the container. Such a code can, in particular, contain coded information about one or more substances absorbed by the capsule.

[0039] Data relating to the code read by the at least one functional unit of a suitably designed handling element can be transmitted, in interaction with the at least one transmission unit of the handling element, for example to a previously mentioned server of a manufacturer of components for the kit or a beverage manufacturer. JePC 260350 F 12 / 30 February 23, 2026

[0040] Depending on the specific design of the at least one functional unit, corresponding data can also be pre-processed by it and only then transmitted to such a server via the at least one radio transmission unit. In this context, "data" refers to the code itself or to information obtained from it through decoding and appropriate processing.

[0041] There are also different possibilities for the method of applying a code for the aforementioned purposes in or on the at least one capsule, as well as for the technical means required for this purpose by the functional unit of the handling element and, if applicable, also in the at least one capsule. According to a preferred embodiment in this respect, the corresponding electronic functional unit of the handling element is equipped with an optical receiving unit for reading the code of the at least one capsule, for example, with a CCD element or a camera, wherein the vessel wall of the vessel containing the capsule is at least partially transparent with respect to light with a receiving wavelength of the respective receiving unit.Using a suitable electronic functional unit of the handling element, for example a barcode or QR code attached to the outside of the at least one capsule can be read.

[0042] It is also conceivable that at least one functional unit of the handling element is equipped with a radio-based transmitter and receiver (not to be confused with, nor identical to, the previously mentioned radio transmission unit of the handling element) and that at least one capsule contains a passive transponder or tag bearing a code readable by the radio-based transmitter and receiver. However, considering costs and the desire to keep them as low as possible, a variant with a barcode or QR code on the capsule and an optical receiver as part of the electronic functional unit would likely be preferable. PC 260350 F 13 / 30 February 23, 2026

[0043] With regard to the previously mentioned possibility of influencing the drinking behavior of the kit's users, i.e., encouraging them to drink sufficiently, the handling element can also include a timer as an electronic functional unit. This timer is designed to be set and started using controls on the handling element itself or on a mobile device belonging to the kit, which exchanges data with the handling element's at least one radio transmission unit. Furthermore, such a timer is designed to output an acoustic and / or visual signal and / or a vibration signal upon its expiration via a designated output device on the handling element itself and / or on a mobile device belonging to the kit.Consequently, when the timer expires, a user of the kit would be reminded by a corresponding signal to consume some of the drinking liquid contained in the container.

[0044] The acoustic signal emitted when the timer expires could, for example, be a voice prompt reminding the user to drink. Given that the device itself, as explained above, may have a microphone and storage capacity, this includes the possibility that such a reminder could be recorded by a person familiar to the user, stored in the device's memory, and then played back through the device's speaker when the timer expires. The timer can also be configured to automatically reset to a preset time after it expires and restart.

[0045] An alternative possibility is that the handling element includes an electronic functional unit comprising at least one motion sensor. This functional unit is designed to evaluate the sensor signals from this at least one motion sensor and to generate an acoustic and / or visual signal. PC 260350 F 14 / 30 23 February 2026

[0046] and / or to emit a vibration signal on a designated output device of the handling element and / or on a mobile device belonging to the kit, provided that the container holding the drinking liquid has not been tilted at least at a specific angle to the vertical for a defined period of time, an angle typical when drinking from the container. The corresponding angle is preferably stored in the relevant electronic functional unit by the manufacturer of the kit or the handling element. Regarding the aforementioned period of time, this can, for example, be set by the user of the kit using controls provided for this purpose on the handling element.

[0047] Another embodiment of the kit, designed to accommodate different configurations of the handling element, consists of a handling element comprising at least one temperature sensor in contact with the wall of the container holding the drinking liquid and an electronic functional unit for evaluating the sensor signals from the temperature sensor belonging to this functional unit. In this way, the user can be informed about the temperature of the drinking liquid or beverage. The at least one functional unit of the handling element can be configured to calculate the temperature of the drinking liquid from the sensor signals, taking into account the thermal conductivity of the container wall.

[0048] Another possible design of the handling element is that it includes an electronic functional unit which has at least one light source for emitting light into the interior of the container (through its wall, which in this case is also transparent in at least a designated area). The aforementioned at least one light source can, for example, emit light in preferably different selectable colors and thereby convey different effects to a consumer of the drinking liquid and / or their surroundings. PC 260350 F 15 / 30 February 23, 2026

[0049] Furthermore, the at least one light source, or at least one of potentially several light sources of the handling element, may also be a light source that emits UV light, in particular UVC light (wavelength approximately 100 nm to 280 nm), to kill any germs in the drinking liquid absorbed by the container. Moreover, in connection with the presence of at least one light source shining into the container, it is also possible that the at least one capsule inserted into the container is designed to release a substance into the drinking liquid, on which a glittering effect is caused by the light shining into the container.

[0050] In a further embodiment of the presented solution, the handling element can include an electronic functional unit designed to emit a signal tone via a speaker on the handling element in response to contact initiated by a mobile device included in the kit via the handling element's transmission unit. This enables the user to locate the handling element, particularly if it is not attached to the vessel wall due to magnetic interaction with a capsule or if it has been misplaced.

[0051] Another possible configuration for the presented kit is provided by the handling element incorporating an electronic functional unit. This unit is designed to establish an ad hoc network with similarly configured kits located within range of the radio transmission unit, thus enabling communication between users of these kits. Users of a suitably configured or equipped kit can, for example, connect with multiple other users in a shared environment, such as a gym or club, and essentially form a (at least temporary) community. Users can communicate directly with each other via the respective handling element of their kit. - PC 260350 F 16 / 30 23 February 2026

[0052] They communicate with each other, similar to a smartwatch. This communication can take place via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. In this context, the device can also be equipped with a camera (selfie camera) on its front, i.e., the side facing the user.

[0053] With reference to the drawings, some possible embodiments of the kit according to the invention will be briefly discussed below, which correspond to the embodiments already mentioned in principle. It should be emphasized that the corresponding embodiments are only symbolically represented in the drawings, particularly with regard to possible functional units of the handling element. It should also be noted again that the possibilities of the invention are not exhausted by these embodiments and that several electronic functional groups can optionally be combined in a handling element, as shown in the individual examples.

[0054] Essential elements of the kit according to the invention – and therefore also depicted in all figures and provided with the same reference numerals – are a container for holding a drinking liquid (in all examples shown, this is a drinking bottle, although other containers are also possible), at least one capsule placed in such a container, and a handling element connected to this at least one capsule or capsule holder through a container wall in a magnetically effective manner. All embodiments also have in common that said handling element comprises at least one radio transmission unit, illustrated by corresponding symbols representing the respective means included (in particular, input and / or output means), and at least one electronic functional unit.

[0055] Of the reference symbols designating the relevant means / elements, such as input and output means or the radio transmission unit, the following are therefore relevant: LinePC 260350 F 17 / 30 23 February 2026

[0056] The symbols illustrating these means / elements guide the user to the handling element that encompasses / receives them. It should be added that handling elements in very different configurations, as described above, can be combined with the container (for example, a drinking bottle) and at least one capsule to form a kit. This means that the user can purchase handling elements with different features—for example, a handling element incorporating a computer device or a significantly simpler handling element with less complex functionality—at different prices and use them together with a suitable container and a capsule to be inserted into the container and the drinking liquid as a kit within the meaning of the invention.

[0057] In the drawings explained below, the dashed wavy line symbolizes a drinking liquid, such as water, that has been absorbed by the container or drinking bottle. The four circular segments (reference symbol 4) each symbolize at least one radio transmission unit.

[0058] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment in which the at least one electronic functional unit comprises several light sources (for example, laser diodes, see Fig. 2) and an optical receiver. In this embodiment, a code (code 11) arranged on the outside or inside the (then preferably transparent) capsule 2 can be read by means of the light sources and the optical receiver. Information encoded by means of the relevant code can be transmitted by means of the radio transmission unit 4 of the handling element 3, for example, to the server of a beverage bottler on the internet for statistical or other evaluation purposes. It should be noted that a light source (light source 5) n(in Fig. 2) for example, it may also be arranged in the center of the handling element 3 and can radiate into the capsule 2 through an opening for ventilation, which is released by removing a seal. PC 260350 F 18 / 30 23 February 2026

[0059] Fig. 2 shows the embodiment according to Fig. 1 again in a view looking at the side of the vessel 1, or the transparent drinking bottle, opposite the handling element 3. From this viewpoint, the light sources 5i-5 shown in the example are visible. nof the handling element 3 through the drinking bottle. Apart from the possibility of reading a code (code 11) explained in Fig. 1, light sources encompassed by the handling element 3, controlled either on the element itself or by means of a coupled (part of the kit, not shown here) mobile device 10, can also be designed and used to shine into the drinking liquid and illuminate it in different colors to create mood images. It is also conceivable that a substance released into the drinking liquid from the capsule 2 is stimulated to glitter by means of corresponding light sources of the handling element 3. In addition, the light sources 5i - 5 n but also light sources 5i - 5 n These devices emit UV light to kill any germs that may be present in the drinking liquid.

[0060] Figure 3 shows a configuration in which the handling element 3 is equipped with a microphone 7, a loudspeaker 8, a camera 9, and a SIM module 6 (SIM card) for mobile communication. As mentioned, the aforementioned elements are represented here only by appropriate symbols. In this embodiment, the kit, or rather its handling element 3, is suitable, for example, for enabling its user to communicate with another user who has a similar kit. The recess for the SIM module 6 and the microphone 7 are, for example, arranged on the circumference of the preferably, but not necessarily, circular handling element 3, whereas the loudspeaker 8 and the camera 9 are located on the front of the handling element 3.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 4, a display 12 can also be arranged on the front of the handling element 3, which, for example, shows the user the current PC 260350 F 19 / 30 23 February 2026

[0062] The temperature of the drinking liquid is displayed. In this case, the handling element 3 has a corresponding temperature sensor and an electronic functional unit that evaluates its sensor data. The display 12 may also be a touch display.

[0063] According to another embodiment, or another function provided by the handling element 3 as shown in Fig. 4, a clock, for example a timer clock, can also be displayed on a display 12 of the handling element 3, as shown in Fig. 5. The handling element 3 can also have a manually operated control element 13, as indicated in the figure. Using this control element 13, the user can, for example, set the timer (Aquatimer) and be reminded to drink at the appropriate time. The timer's expiration can be signaled to the user acoustically and / or visually and / or by vibration, either on the handling element 3 itself or on a mobile device 10 (not shown) belonging to the kit and connected to the handling element.

[0064] Figure 6 shows a symbolic representation of an embodiment in which the handling element 3 has one or more electronic functional units that can detect if the handling element 3 falls off the bottle and thus interrupts the magnetic connection between the capsule 2 and the handling element. Using the radio transmission unit 4, a user of the kit can, for example, receive a notification on a mobile device 10 (not shown) belonging to the kit, alerting them to this. The mobile device 10 belonging to the kit (also not shown) is equipped with a program application (app) that alerts the user to an impending loss of the handling element.The impending loss of the handling element can also be signaled, for example, by a beep emitted from the loudspeaker 8 of the handling element 3. PC 260350 F 20 / 30 23 February 2026.

[0065] Consider, for example, situations where a user engaged in sports, such as during running training, loses the handling element 3. Such a training configuration of the kit is particularly advantageous because, depending on its features, the handling element 3 can be quite expensive and therefore should ideally not be lost. Within this configuration of the solution presented here, the at least one electronic functional unit of the handling element 3 can also be configured to trigger an alarm or issue a corresponding message only when the at least one capsule 2 and the handling element 3 are a certain distance apart.If necessary, this distance can also be adjusted by the user on the handling element 3 using the operating means 13 provided for this purpose or using a mobile device 10 belonging to the kit and coupled to the handling element 3.

[0066] Figure 7 shows an embodiment in which, as mentioned above, the kit according to the invention comprises a mobile device 10 equipped with a corresponding app. It should be noted that, alternatively or cumulatively, the handling element 3 itself can also be designed in the manner of a computer device, for example comparable to a smartwatch.

[0067] Figure 8 illustrates an embodiment in which the handling element 3 of a kit according to the invention can be configured to establish an ad hoc network with the handling element of a comparably configured kit (belonging to another user). For example, WLAN or Bluetooth can be used as the connection technology.

[0068] Fig. 9 relates to an embodiment in which the handling element 3 itself is designed as a computer device with storage means and a central processing unit and, as already described in smartwatches, PC 260350 F 21 / 30 23 February 2026

[0069] known, can be used to initiate electronic payment transactions. The electronic functional unit of the handling element 3, or the handling element 3 configured as a computer device, is designed and configured to manage a software wallet 14 that accepts various virtual payment methods and to use it for payment transactions. In this particular configuration, it will be necessary for the user to authenticate themselves to the handling element 3 by entering a PIN or using a biometric feature in order to use the payment function. The PIN and / or the biometric feature may differ from the features used to unlock the handling element 3 configured as a computer device.

[0070] Figure 10 shows an embodiment in which the radio transmission unit 4 is configured for data exchange with a satellite system 15. A corresponding configuration can, for example, enable GPS data to be received by the handling element 3, processed, and, if necessary, forwarded to a mobile terminal 10 belonging to the kit (not shown here). However, a configuration is also conceivable that (again, cumulatively or alternatively) enables the use of the handling element 3 for satellite telephony. In this case, application scenarios in which the kit is part of survival equipment used for expeditions are also conceivable.

[0071] Figure 11 illustrates again, with a view to the front of the handling element 3, the possibility of receiving and processing GPS data discussed in relation to Figure 10. This data can be used to provide the user with information about their current location on the display 12, similar to a navigation system. Depending on the design and features of the display 12, the position can also be displayed as a map.

Claims

PC 260350 F 22 / 30 February 23, 2026 Patent claims 1. Kit for preparing and / or using with beverages, comprising a vessel (1) for holding a drinking liquid, at least one capsule (2) to be inserted into the vessel (1) through an opening in the vessel (1), and a handling element (3) by means of which the at least one capsule (2) inserted into the vessel (1) can be moved and positioned through a vessel wall, wherein the at least one capsule (2) is inserted into the vessel (1) individually or together with a capsule holder to which the at least one capsule (2) is fixed, and wherein a movement of the at least one capsule (2) effected by a user by means of the handling element (3) between the capsule and the handling element (3) is mediated by a magnetic force penetrating the vessel wall and acting between at least one magnet and at least one metallic or complementary element also designed as a magnet, wherein the at least one magnet is arranged on the handling element (3) and the at least one complementary element is arranged on the at least one capsule (2) or the capsule holder or the at least one magnet is arranged on the at least one capsule (2) or the capsule holder and the at least one complementary element is arranged on the handling element (3), characterized in that the handling element (3) has at least one electronic functional unit and at least one radio transmission unit (4) operatively connected to it for data exchange, which is at least designed and configured to receive control data from a computer device for the execution of a function provided by the at least one electronic functional unit and / or to transmit data acquired by means of the at least one electronic functional unit to a computer device relating to the vessel (1), to the at least one capsule (2) or to a drinking liquid received by the vessel (1), wo-PC 260350 F 23 / 30 23 February 2026 where the handling element (3) is designed to accommodate at least one battery or at least one rechargeable accumulator or has at least one solar element for the power supply of the at least one electronic functional unit and the at least one radio transmission unit (4).

2. Kit according to claim 1, characterized in that the handling element (3) for charging a battery received by it is equipped with one or more of the following elements, namely: a connection for connecting to a plug of a charging device; a unit for inductive charging; at least one solar element.

3. Kit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one capsule (2) contains at least one substance and is equipped with at least one pierceable or removable seal and is designed to release the at least one substance contained therein to the drinking liquid taken up by the vessel (1) after its at least one seal has been pierced or removed and the capsule (2) has been placed in the vessel (1).

4. Kit according to claim one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the handling element (3) is equipped with at least one operating element (13) for the at least one electronic functional unit which can be operated manually by a user.

5. Kit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the handling element (3) is equipped with at least one loudspeaker (8). PC 260350 F 24 / 30 23 February 2026 6. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the handling element (3) is equipped with at least one microphone (7).

7. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the handling element (3) is equipped with at least one display (12).

8. Kit according to claim 7, characterized in that the at least one display (12) of the handling element (3) is designed as a touch display.

9. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the handling element (3) is equipped with at least one camera (9).

10. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the handling element (3) is equipped with at least one vibration element for outputting a haptic confirmation signal or a warning signal.

11. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the handling element (3) itself is a computer device equipped with storage means and with a central unit that processes an operating system and is designed to process program applications loaded into the storage means, which comprises at least one electronic functional unit and at least one radio transmission unit (4).

12. Kit according to claim 11, characterized in that the handling element (3) includes an electronic functional unit configured to establish an ad hoc network with the handling element (3) of another kit within range of the at least one radio transmission unit (4) and to enable communication via this network between the users of the kits connected to the ad hoc network with their handling elements (3). PC 260350 F 25 / 30 February 23, 2026 13. Kit according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the at least one handling element (3) is equipped with at least one microphone (7), characterized in that the computer device for controlling the at least one electronic functional unit is designed and configured in accordance with the voice commands received by means of the at least one microphone (7) and interpreted by the computer device.

14. Kit according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the at least one handling element (3) is equipped with at least one camera (9), characterized in that the computer device for controlling the at least one electronic functional unit is designed and configured in accordance with gestures received by means of the at least one camera (9) and interpreted by the computer device.

15. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that it comprises a mobile terminal device (10) equipped with a program application, which is set up by executing this program application for data exchange with the at least one radio transmission unit (4) of the handling element (3) and for using functions provided by the at least one electronic functional unit of the handling element (3).

16. Kit according to claim 1 or 15, characterized in that the at least one radio transmission unit (4) of the handling element (3) is configured to transmit data acquired from the vessel (1), the at least one capsule (2), or the drinking liquid via its at least one electronic functional unit to a server on the Internet via a mobile terminal device (10) belonging to the kit or using a SIM module (6) incorporated by the handling element (3) via the mobile network. PC 260350 F 26 / 30 February 23, 2026 17. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the handling element (3) comprises an electronic functional unit which is equipped with a receiving unit or with a transmitting and receiving unit and is configured to read a code (11) on or in the at least one capsule (2) arranged inside the vessel (1) by means of the receiving unit or the transmitting and receiving unit, and a.) to transmit this code (11) to a computer system using at least one radio transmission unit (4) or b.) to decode the information contained in the code (11) and to display this information on a display (12) of the handling element (3) or to transmit it to a computer device using the at least one radio transmission unit (4).

18. Kit according to claim 17, characterized in that the electronic functional unit for reading the code (11) of the at least one capsule (2) is equipped with an optical receiving unit, wherein the vessel wall is at least partially transparent with respect to light with a receiving wavelength of the at least one receiving unit.

19. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that handling element (3) comprises a timer as an electronic functional unit, which is configured to to be set and started by means of operating elements on the handling element (3) or on a mobile terminal device (10) belonging to the kit, which exchanges data with the at least one radio transmission unit (4) of the handling element (3) and During its execution, an acoustic and / or a visual signal and / or a vibration signal is emitted via a specially designed output device of the handling element (3) and / or a mobile device (10) belonging to the kit. PC 260350 F 27 / 30 23 February 2026 20. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the handling element (3) includes an electronic functional unit which comprises at least one motion sensor and is configured to evaluate the sensor signals of this at least one motion sensor and to output an acoustic and / or a visual signal to a corresponding output means of the handling element (3) and / or to a mobile device (10) belonging to the kit which exchanges data with the at least one radio transmission unit (4) of the handling element (3), provided that the container (1) receiving the drinking liquid has not been inclined at least at an angle stored in this electronic functional unit for a specified period of time, wherein the aforementioned period of time can be set by means of operating elements on the handling element (3) or on a mobile device (10) belonging to the kit.

21. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the handling element (3) comprises at least one temperature sensor brought into contact with the vessel wall of the vessel (1) receiving the drinking liquid and an electronic functional unit for calculating a temperature from the sensor signals of the at least one temperature sensor, which is configured to output the calculated temperature on a display (12) of the handling element (3) or to transmit it to a mobile terminal device (10) belonging to the kit, which exchanges data with the at least one radio transmission unit (4) of the handling element (3), for visualization on a display of this mobile terminal device (10).

22. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the handling element (3) includes an electronic functional unit which contains at least one light source (5i - 5 n) for emitting light into the interior of the vessel (1) through its vessel wall, which is transparent at least in a designated area. PC 260350 F 28 / 30 23 February 2026 23. Kit according to claim 15, characterized in that the handling element (3) includes an electronic functional unit which is designed to emit a signal tone via a loudspeaker (8) of the handling element (3) in response to contact being made by means of the mobile terminal (10) comprising the kit which processes the program application via the transmission unit of the handling element (3).

24. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the at least one electronic functional unit of the handling element (3) is configured to detect an interruption of the magnetic functional connection existing between it and the at least one capsule (2) or the capsule holder and to signal such an interruption at at least one output means of the handling element (3) and / or to transmit a control signal by means of the at least one radio transmission unit (4) of the handling element (3) to a mobile terminal device (10) comprised of the kit and equipped with a program application for the output of a warning signal.

25. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that the at least one electronic functional unit of the handling element (3) is configured to receive position data relating to the current position of the handling element (3) from a position determination system and a.) to process the position data and to display information about the current position of the handling element (3) on a display (12) of the handling element or b.) to transmit the position data by means of the at least one radio transmission unit (4) of the handling element (3) to a mobile terminal (10) included in the kit and equipped with a software application for further use. PC 260350 F 29 / 30 23 February 2026 26. Kit according to claim 22, characterized in that the at least one light source (5i - 5) is n ) or in the case of at least one of several light sources around a UV light emitting light source (5i - 5 n ) is about.

27. Kit according to claim 22, characterized in that the at least one capsule (2) inserted into the vessel (1) is designed to release a substance contained in this capsule (2) into the drinking liquid, on which a glitter effect is caused by the light shining into the vessel (1).

28. Kit according to one of claims 1 to 27, characterized in that the at least one capsule (2) placed in the vessel (1) and in the drinking liquid absorbed by it is recyclable.

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