Cold Brew Coffee Maker with Variable-Temperature Infusion Cycles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage brewing systems are inefficient in preparing both hot and cold beverages with varied flavor profiles, often taking hours to achieve desired flavors and lacking flexibility in temperature control and infusion cycles.
Innovation Solution
A beverage brewing apparatus that varies fluid temperature and infusion cycle parameters based on flavorant type, beverage style, and size, using interchangeable brew baskets and a controller to optimize brewing processes for both hot and cold beverages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If cold brewing processes use extended steeping time to achieve desired flavor, then flavor extraction is improved, but preparation time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the temperature of the fluid provided to the flavorant across multiple infusion cycles. Specifically, the system alternates between hot water infusions (higher temperature) and cold water infusions (lower temperature) to extract different components from coffee grounds. This temperature parameter variation enables the system to achieve comprehensive flavor extraction in a much shorter time compared to traditional cold brewing, while still capturing the benefits of both hot and cold extraction methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through multiple sequential infusion cycles that alternate between hot and cold water treatments. The system performs a series of discrete infusion steps where hot water is used in some cycles and cold water in others, creating a periodic pattern of temperature application. This periodic alternation allows the brewing process to systematically extract different flavor compounds over time, achieving superior flavor profiles without requiring the extended steeping time of traditional cold brewing methods
2Adaptability or versatility
If a beverage brewing system is designed to handle multiple beverage types and styles, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single beverage brewing system capable of performing multiple functions: it can prepare both hot and cold beverages, handle various beverage styles (such as coffee, tea, and other infusions), and accommodate different flavorant types. The system achieves this multi-functionality through a unified brewing chamber and controller that can adjust parameters like temperature and infusion cycle duration, eliminating the need for separate dedicated devices for different beverage types
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the brewing system adjustable and adaptable through programmable infusion cycles. The controller can dynamically modify brewing parameters including temperature, water volume, and infusion duration based on the selected beverage type and style. This dynamic configurability allows the system to optimize its operation for different beverage requirements without requiring physical reconfiguration or multiple fixed-function devices, thereby managing complexity through software control rather than hardware multiplication
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid preparation of beverages with tailored flavor profiles by adjusting temperature and infusion cycles, enhancing flavor extraction and consistency across different types and sizes of beverages.
Implementation Method 1
heating said fluid within a heating mechanism prior to providing said fluid to said flavorant
Implementation Method 2
performing said infusion cycles, wherein said performing of said infusion cycles includes providing fluid to said flavorant, and varying a temperature of said fluid provided to said flavorant between a plurality of infusion cycles
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of preparing a brewed beverage using a beverage brewing apparatus includes providing a flavorant, identifying a process cycle including one or more infusion cycles for preparing the brewed beverage, performing said one or more infusion cycles, wherein said performing of said one or more infusion cycles includes providing fluid to said flavorant, and varying a temperature of said fluid provided to said flavorant during a single infusion cycle of said one or more infusion cycles, or between a plurality of infusion cycles of said one or more infusion cycles.