• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
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  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    beverage apparatus and coffee preparation method the present invention relates to a beverage apparatus which includes a housing having a liquid reservoir, a preparation station arranged within the housing and in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir, a grinding station disposed within the housing and functionally separated from said preparation station, and a preparation conveyor which is selectively movable between a first position adjacent to the grinding station and a second position adjacent to the preparation station. the movement of the preparation conveyor between the first and second positions moves a beverage ingredient in the preparation conveyor from the first position to the second position and when the preparation conveyor is in said second position, the liquid is dispensed from the liquid reservoir and directed to the preparation conveyor to produce a prepared drink.
    公开号:BR112013015350B1
    申请号:R112013015350
    申请日:2012-06-26
    公开日:2020-05-19
    发明作者:Lynn Schnabel Barbara；Frances Kreutzer Orent Jill；Fai Fung Kam；Man Lai Kin
    申请人:Conair；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    Descriptive Report of the Invention Patent for DRINKING APPLIANCE AND COFFEE PREPARATION METHOD. TECHNICAL FIELD
    [0001] The present invention relates to prepared beverage apparatus and, more particularly, to a prepared beverage apparatus adapted for preparing coffee.
    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
    [0002] Several well-known coffee makers involve adding coffee beans in one of several ways (that is, ground or unground) to a container that is part of a machine in which hot water is distributed to the container and passes through it. The container typically includes a filtering mechanism so that the hot water that comes out of the container is in the form of fresh coffee. Certain appliances require pre-ground coffee beans to be added as ground. Other devices are designed to accept whole coffee beans into a funnel or opening and include mechanisms that grind the beans to a ground form and then complete the preparation process. Sometimes it is preferred to keep whole beans on hand to make coffee so that the coffee can be ground immediately before preparation, as is believed to produce the coffee drink with the freshest flavor. Still other devices require the use of ground coffee in individual doses or prepackaged in a filter container sized to be inserted in the device. In these cases, individual doses or pre-packaged containers are limited to being filled with ground coffee. Certain pre-packaged containers require placement within a separate filter mechanism in the device, while others have built-in filter mechanisms.
    SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
    [0003] It is an objective of the present invention to provide an apparatus
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    2/31 prepared beverage and related method that includes the benefits of preparing whole grain coffee that are ground just before brewing and that are contained in a convenient disposable single-dose package.
    [0004] These and other objectives are achieved by the present invention.
    [0005] In one embodiment, a beverage apparatus includes a housing that has a liquid reservoir, a preparation station arranged within the housing and in fluid communication with the liquid reservoir, a grinding station arranged within the housing and which is functionally separate from said preparation station, and a preparation conveyor which is selectively movable between a first position adjacent to the grinding station and a second position adjacent to the preparation station. The movement of the preparation conveyor between the first and second positions moves a beverage ingredient in the preparation conveyor from the first position to the second position and when the preparation conveyor is in said second position, the liquid is dispensed from the liquid reservoir and directed to the preparation conveyor to produce a prepared drink.
    BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
    [0006] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a whole pre-packaged coffee bean filter cup according to the present invention. [0007] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the prepackaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1.
    [0008] FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the prepackaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1.
    [0009] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the prepackaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1.
    [00010] FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the filter cup
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    3/31 prepacked whole coffee bean of FIG. 1.
    [00011] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the prepackaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1.
    [00012] FIG. 7 is a side sectional view of the pre-packaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1 taken along line A-A of FIG. 6.
    [00013] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a pre-packaged whole coffee bean filter cup according to another embodiment of the present invention.
    [00014] FIG. 9 is a right side perspective view of a coffee appliance according to the present invention.
    [00015] FIG. 10 is a left side perspective view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9.
    [00016] FIG. 11 is a left side elevation view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9.
    [00017] FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9.
    [00018] FIG. 13 is a right side elevation view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9.
    [00019] FIG. 14 is a rear elevation view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9.
    [00020] FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9.
    [00021] FIG. 16 is a bottom plan view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9.
    [00022] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9 which illustrates a ready-to-use mode thereof.
    [00023] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9 illustrating the loading of the whole pre-packaged coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1.
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    4/31
    [00024] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9 illustrating the prepacked whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1 in a loading tray.
    [00025] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9 in a charged state.
    [00026] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9 in a ready-to-prepare state.
    [00027] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9 during preparation / operation.
    [00028] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9 after preparing a cup of coffee.
    [00029] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9 which illustrates the removal of a used pre-packaged filter cup after preparing.
    [00030] FIG. 25A one is a schematic view of the prepackaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1 illustrating water flowing through it during a preparation mode.
    [00031] FIG. 25B is a bottom plan view of a shower for dispensing hot water to the prepackaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1 according to the present invention.
    [00032] FIG. 26 is a first side sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 in a first mode.
    [00033] FIG. 27 is a second side sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 in a first mode.
    [00034] FIG. 28 is a first side sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 shown in a second mode.
    [00035] FIG. 29 is a second side sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 shown in a second mode.
    [00036] FIG. 30 is a detailed schematic view of a grinder motor and grinder blade assembly for the coffee apparatus
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    5/31 of FIG. 9.
    [00037] FIG. 31 is a schematic sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 in an operating mode.
    [00038] FIG. 32 is a schematic sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 in another mode of operation.
    [00039] FIG. 33 is a schematic sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 in another mode of operation.
    [00040] FIG. 34 is an enlarged detailed view of a filter cup lifting mechanism and grinding motor of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9.
    [00041] FIG. 35 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 in an operating mode.
    [00042] FIG. 36 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 in another mode of operation.
    [00043] FIG. 37 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 in an operating mode.
    [00044] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a grinding blade assembly for use with the coffee appliance of FIG. 9, according to the present invention.
    [00045] FIG. 39 is a top plan view of the grinding blade assembly of FIG. 38
    [00046] FIG. 40 is a left side elevation view of the grinding blade assembly of FIG. 38.
    [00047] FIG. 41 is a front elevation view of the grinding blade assembly of FIG. 38.
    [00048] FIG. 42 is a right side elevation view of the grinding blade assembly of FIG. 38.
    [00049] FIG. 43 is a side sectional view of the grinding blade assembly of FIG. 38, taken along line A-A of FIG. 41.
    [00050] FIG. 44 is a schematic view of the slide set
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    6/31 and the prepackaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1 shown in a first position.
    [00051] FIG. 45 is a schematic view of the slide pack and the prepackaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1 shown in a second position.
    [00052] FIG. 46 is a schematic view of the slide pack and the prepackaged whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1 shown in a third position.
    [00053] FIG. 47 is a schematic view of the slide pack and the whole pre-packaged coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1 shown in a fourth position.
    [00054] FIG. 48 is an enlarged schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 1 in a shredding mode.
    [00055] FIG. 49 is a sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 1 in a shredding mode, taken along line B-B of FIG. 48. [00056] FIG. 50 is an enlarged schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 1 after grinding coffee beans.
    [00057] FIG. 51 is an enlarged schematic view of the grinding blade of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 1 by grinding a coffee bean according to the present invention.
    [00058] FIG. 52 is a front perspective view of an alternative grinding blade assembly for use with the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9, according to another embodiment of the present invention.
    [00059] FIG. 53 is a rear perspective view of the alternative milling blade assembly of FIG. 52.
    [00060] FIG. 54 is a top plan view of the alternative milling blade assembly of FIG. 52.
    [00061] FIG. 55 is a left side elevation view of the alternative milling blade assembly of FIG. 52.
    [00062] FIG. 56 is a front elevation view of the
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    7/31 grinding blade of FIG. 52.
    [00063] FIG. 57 is a right side elevation view of the grinding blade assembly of FIG. 52.
    [00064] FIG. 58 is a schematic sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 illustrating a flow of water from a reservoir through the prepackaged filter cup of FIG. 1.
    [00065] FIG. 59 is a schematic sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 9 illustrating a cleaning method.
    [00066] FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a water tank of the coffee apparatus according to the present invention.
    [00067] FIG. 61 is a bottom plan view of a part of the coffee appliance of FIG. 9
    [00068] FIG. 62 is a perspective view of a tray for receiving the prepacked whole coffee bean filter cup of FIG. 1. [00069] FIG. 63 is a side sectional view of the tray of FIG. 62.
    [00070] FIG. 64 is a bottom plan view of the tray of FIG.
    62, view of a tray component of an apparatus according to the present invention.
    [00071] FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a coffee apparatus having a sliding drip tray according to the present invention.
    [00072] FIG. 66 is a sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 65 showing the sliding drip tray in an extended position.
    [00073] FIG. 67 is a sectional view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 65 showing the sliding drip tray in a stowed position.
    [00074] FIG. 68 is a schematic view of a coffee appliance according to another embodiment of the present invention.
    [00075] FIG. 69 is a schematic view of a coffee machine
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    8/31 according to another embodiment of the present invention, which illustrates a milling motor in a first position.
    [00076] FIG. 70 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 69 illustrating the milling motor in a second position.
    [00077] FIG. 71 is a schematic view of a coffee machine according to another mode and in a first mode of operation. [00078] FIG. 72 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in a second mode of operation.
    [00079] FIG. 73 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in a third mode of operation.
    [00080] FIG. 74 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in a fourth mode of operation.
    [00081] FIG. 75 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in a fifth mode of operation.
    [00082] FIG. 76 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in a sixth mode of operation.
    [00083] FIG. 77 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in a seventh mode of operation.
    [00084] FIG. 78 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in an eighth operating mode.
    [00085] FIG. 79 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in a ninth mode of operation.
    [00086] FIG. 80 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in a tenth mode of operation.
    [00087] FIG. 81 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in an eleventh mode of operation.
    [00088] FIG. 82 is a schematic view of the coffee apparatus of FIG. 71, in a twelfth mode of operation.
    [00089] FIG. 83 is a perspective view of a coffee maker preparation conveyor of FIG. 71.
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    9/31
    [00090] FIG. 84 is a top plan view of the preparation cartridge of FIG. 83
    DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERENTIAL MODALITIES
    [00091] With reference to FIGURES 1 to 7, a filter cup 10 for use with an apparatus according to the present invention includes a cup12, a paper / cloth filter 14, a plastic screen 16 and a leaf cover 18. The filter 14 prevents ground coffee and / or other sediment from leaving the cup 12 during preparation, but allows the passage of liquid. The lid 18 can be formed from aluminum or other material known in the art, and is preferably heat sealed or otherwise detachable to the top rim of the cup 10. A plurality of whole coffee beans 20 are contained in the space between the lid sheet 18 and plastic screen 16. Although FIG. 1 show coffee beans housed in the filter cup 10, other types of food and substances, such as tea and the like, can be used in a manner similar to that described in this document, without departing from the broader aspects of the present invention.
    [00092] As shown further in FIG. 1, the cup 12 has an opening 22 on top of it, a circumferential side wall 24 and a bottom 26. As best shown in FIGURES 2 to 7, bottom 26 has a plurality of grooves or channels 28 that direct a flow of fluid to a depression or recess 30 that has one or more openings 32. Importantly, recess 30 is the lowest part of cup 10 so that it collects fresh coffee in recess 30 and leaves the cup through openings 32, as discussed here on. FIG. 7 illustrates cup10 in an assembled state and containing coffee beans 20. As shown therein, paper filter 14 is positioned at the bottom 26 of cup 12. Plastic screen 16 is positioned on top of paper filter 14 and protects the paper filter 14 from abrasion caused by a grinding blade and / or ground coffee. Both the filter paper
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    10/31 as the screen 16 are circular and sized to be received very close by the circumferential side wall 24 of the cup at the bottom of the same. As best shown in FIG. 7, the fabric 16 can be elastic and resistant to bending so that the fabric 16 provides a flat surface in the cup12 on top of which the coffee bean 20 can rest. Importantly, the screen 16 prevents the coffee beans 20 from falling to the bottom 26 of the cup 12 (which may be out of reach of a grinding blade) to facilitate optimal grinding by the grinding blade, as discussed in detail here on. As discussed above, the leaf lid 18 seals the filter 14, the screen 16 and the coffee beans 20 into the cup12.
    [00093] Cup 10 can be stored and transported in a separate sealed packaging or wrapper for additional protection and freshness, and the openings 32 at the bottom 26 can be covered with, for example, an adhesive label (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, the filter cup 10 is a disposable, single-use pre-packaged component. Therefore, it is sealed by the leaf lid 18 in an airtight manner to preserve freshness and flavor and to protect the coffee beans 20 from moisture and contamination. As discussed above, the filter cup 10 can be sealed by the foil cap 18 and an adhesive label, or it can be packaged in a package with or without the adhesive label. In an alternative embodiment, it is contemplated that the filter cup 10 may alternatively be a reusable cup that is refilled with each use. In one embodiment, the bottom 26 of the cup can be formed without openings 32. In this embodiment, the bottom of the cup 26 can be pierced by a needle as a result of insertion into a coffee apparatus to provide an outlet for the flow of fresh coffee.
    [00094] Now with reference to FIG. 8, an alternative construction of a filter cup 50 is shown. As shown there, cup 50 is
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    11/31 substantially similar in shape and construction to cup 10, however, a metal mesh filter 52 can be used in place of the paper / cloth filter 14 and the plastic protective screen 16. In this embodiment, the mesh filter of metal 52 is thin enough that it prevents ground coffee from escaping from cup 10 and also provides a level of abrasion resistance. Although it is disclosed that the filter 34 can be formed of a metal mesh, other materials substantially resistant to abrasion of the grinding blade and / or ground coffee can also be used without departing from the broader aspects of the present invention.
    [00095] With reference to FIGURES 9 to 24, an apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The apparatus 100 is intended to be used in combination with the filter cup 10, disclosed above, in order to prepare a coffee or other beverage. As shown there, apparatus 100 is generally rectangular in shape and comprises a base 102 and a drip tray housing 104 which slidably receives a drip tray 106 which has a slotted or meshed top surface 108. The surface 108 the tray 106 is adapted to have a container, such as a cup of coffee 109, placed on it to receive fresh coffee when it is produced and emitted from the apparatus 100. As will be readily assessed, the slotted surface 108 allows liquid that can to be splashed from cup 109 or to miss cup109 during operation, pass through surface 108 and be collected in drip tray 106 for ease of cleaning.
    [00096] A housing 110 is located above, and supported by the base 102 and which slidably receives a filter cup tray / box 112 to hold and position the filter cup 10 during use. A cable 114 is pivotally mounted to the housing 110 for operation, as described below. As shown add
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    12/31 Finally in FIGURES 9 and 10, a water reservoir 116 is attached to, supported by, and otherwise forms part of the housing 17. In one embodiment, the water reservoir 116 can be mounted removably or permanently to the housing 110. Housing 110 also includes a control panel 118 for controlling operational characteristics of the apparatus, as discussed hereinafter. As best shown in FIG. 9, the base 102 includes a recess on one side for slidingly receiving a waste tank 120 for receiving water from a cleaning operation of the apparatus 100 (described below) and discarded filter cups 10 after use. In an alternative embodiment, tray 112 can be received articulated by housing 110 and movable between a first position in which housing / tray 112 is received within the housing, and a second position in which tray 112 is hinged away from the housing and towards a user to facilitate the installation of a filter cup 10. In one embodiment, tray 112 is removable from housing 110 for cleaning.
    [00097] The operation of the apparatus 100 will now be described with specific reference to FIGURES 17 to 24. First, the water reservoir 116 is filled with water. A user then selects the desired coffee settings from the control panel 118. The settings can include selectable options such as coffee concentration and serving size, time setting, automatic brewing, etc. The cable 114 is then moved upward in the direction of arrow A, as shown in FIG. 17, in order to unlock tray 112 from its seated and secured position within housing 110. Tray 112 slides out of apparatus 100 in the direction of arrow B to the position shown in FIG. 18, under the force of a spring 154. In this position, the tray 112 is ready for a filter cup 10 to be placed inside the receiving support 124 in the tray 112.
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    [00098] After cup 10 is inserted into tray 112, tray 112 is now ready to be pushed back into apparatus 100 in the direction of arrow C, as shown in FIG. 19. In particular, tray 112 is manually pushed back into apparatus 100 so that it is received by housing 110 in the locked position, as shown in FIG. 20. The cable 114 is then lowered in the direction of arrow D in order to automatically start the grinding and preparation processes.
    [00099] With reference to FIG. 21, as noted above, the grinding process starts automatically after the cable 114 is lowered. In the process, the coffee beans 20 in the filter cup 10 are ground by a grinding blade 126 which is received inside the cup 10 so that the beans 20 are transformed into ground coffee 128. After grinding is completed, hot water is distributed into cup 10 from a water outlet described hereinafter. As represented by the arrow 130 in FIG. 22, coffee is emitted from the bottom of tray 112, which has an opening to allow this emission, into the coffee cup 109 positioned below tray 112.
    [000100] After the preparation process is completed, the cable 114 is lifted from the position shown in FIG. 23 in the direction of arrow E to the position shown in FIG. 24. Again, moving the handle 114 to its upper position unlocks the tray 112 so that it slides out of the housing 110 of the apparatus 100, allowing the user to manually remove the used filter cup 10 from the tray 112. The cup 110 then it can be discarded in the waste tank 120. The filled cup 109 of coffee can be removed from the drip tray 106 before or after this step.
    [000101] In one embodiment, although tray 112 is in the external position, as shown in FIG. 24, starts automatically
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    14/31 a blade cleaning operation. In the blade cleaning operation, water is emitted from the water outlet 132. Because the cup 10 has been removed, the blade is surrounded by space to thereby allow the flowing water to wash it. In one embodiment, the blade can rotate during application of water to facilitate cleaning. Once tray 112 is in the external position, water will not be drained from the bottom of cup 10 and tray 112, as it does in preparation mode. Alternatively, the water is diverted because it falls inside the rear end 134 of tray 112 into a collection pan 136, as shown in FIG. 59. The water comes out of the collection pan 136 of tray 112 through a waste tube 138 and falls into the waste tank 120.
    [000102] In an alternative embodiment, a cup containing a cleaning liquid such as water can be used to wash the blade 166 either periodically or after each use. In this embodiment, a cleaning cup is inserted into receptacle 124 and the apparatus 100 is operated by pulling the cable 114 downwards. The apparatus 100 can then enter a normal preparation cycle. Alternatively, a button on the control panel 118 can be pressed to perform a cleaning cycle. The cleaning cycle can be configured specifically, for example, water temperature, run time, blade rotation speed, to optimize blade cleaning and sterilization. In alternative embodiments, the cleaning cup may contain ingredients from a cleaning solution or a cleaning paste. The cleaning ingredients can be liquid or dry and can be in the form of granules, powder, etc.
    [000103] In yet another embodiment, a cleaning operation may include executing a preparation cycle without actually inserting a cup of filter 10. In this embodiment, the handle 114 can be moved downwards to begin the cycle so that hot water is passed
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    15/31 on the stationary blade or turning 166 to wash the blade. Alternatively, a button on the control panel 118 can be pressed to start the cleaning cycle.
    [000104] FIGURES 62 and 63 illustrate tray 112 and collection pan 136. FIG. 64 illustrates the bottom view of tray 112 and shows openings 32 of cup 10 as viewed through an opening 140 in the bottom of tray 112 that allows fresh coffee to flow out.
    [000105] FIG. 25A schematically illustrates how ground coffee 128, which is ground from whole coffee beans 20 in a procedure described below, is infused with hot water to produce coffee. Ground coffee 128 is located in cup10 and hot water is introduced from above through a water outlet 132 as indicated by arrow 142. Hot water flows through ground coffee 128 in cup10 and exits through openings 32 in the bottom of cup 10 as shown by arrow 144.
    [000106] FIGURES 26 and 27 illustrate certain internal components of the apparatus 100. As shown therein, the water reservoir 116 is filled with water. Tray 112 is removed to allow placement of a cup10 within a receiving support 124 in tray 112, as shown in FIGURES 18 and 19. Tray 112 is then pushed back into the apparatus to the position shown in FIG. 20. The handle 113 is then moved downwards, as shown in FIGURES 21 and 22. This movement of the handle 114 causes the cup 10 to be raised to grind the coffee beans 20 in the cup 10, as described below. Apparatus 100 includes a heater 146 and pump 148 to heat water from reservoir 116 and route it through a supply line to perform a preparation operation as described with reference to FIG. 25A. As shown in FIGURES 26 to 29, a shredder motor
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    150 is positioned in the housing 110 of the apparatus 100 to perform the grinding of the coffee beans 20 in a manner described below. A hot water pipe 152 carries hot water from heater 146 to water outlet 132 located above tray 112.
    [000107] As best shown in FIGURES 27 and 29, the lifting mechanism 156 is activated by the cable 114 in order to cause the cup 10 to move between a lowered position and an elevated position. The mechanism 156 includes a connecting arm 158, a pin 160 operatively attached to the receiving support 124 of tray 112 and associated slot 162, and a plate 164 on which slot 162 is located. In operation, as a result of moving the cable 114 in the downward direction, the pin 160 follows the path of the slot 162 and causes the cup 10 and the receiving support 124 to be lifted into the grinding blade. Mark 161 is received in holes 163 of the receiving bracket to ensure proper orientation and alignment of cup 10 with the grinding blade. The lowering of the cup 10 follows the reverse process.
    [000108] With reference to FIG. 30, apparatus 100 includes a shredding blade 166 attached to and driven by a rotating output shaft 168 associated with the shredder motor 150. When the cable 112 is moved to the lower position as shown in FIG. 28, cup 10 is raised so that blade 166 engages and punctures through leaf cover 18 and enters cup 10 and contacts coffee beans 20. Cup lift / lower mechanism 156, which is activated by handle 114, moves the cup10 between this raised position for crushing, and a lowered position. The spring 154 is a user aid spring, which pushes the tray 112 out of the housing 110 when cable 114 is then raised in order to insert a cup 10.
    [000109] As shown in FIG. 31, the movement of the handle 114 to the elevated position unlocks the tray 112 so that it slides into
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    17/31 outside under the force of spring 154 in cooperation with a plate 165 (which serves as an anchoring object for the spring) in order to allow the placement of a cup 10 within the receiving support 124 of tray 112. One user then places a cup10 inside tray 112 as shown in FIG. 32. Tray 112 must be manually pushed back to the closed position as shown in FIG. 33 until it is locked in place by the latch tray 170 shown in FIG. 34.
    [000110] FIGURES 35 to 37 illustrate the drilling and grinding sequence according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 35, the filter cup 10 is raised towards the blade 166, in the direction of the arrow F when the handle 114 is lowered. FIG. 36 illustrates the position of cup 10 when it is fully raised. In this position, a sealing ring 172, like a sealing ring O, fits into a top rim of the cup 10 so that when the preparation process takes place the cup 10 can be pressurized. FIG. 37 illustrates the lowered position of the cup 10 after grinding and preparation has taken place and the handle 114 is raised.
    [000111] Importantly, the sealing ring 172 seals the top of cup 10 so that the cup can be pressurized. In the preferred embodiment, the cup is pressurized above 200 kPa (2 bars) during preparation, although other pressures can be used without departing from the broader aspects of the present invention.
    [000112] Various views of the grinding blade 166 for grinding the entire coffee beans are shown in FIGURES 38 to 43. As shown therein, the blade 166 has a V-shaped configuration. Importantly, the blade 166 has edges cutting inserts 174 so that the leaf lid 18 of the cup 10 can be perforated when the cup 10 is raised as a result of the downward movement of the handle 114. The top of the blade also includes air
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    18/31 cutting extraction points facing upwards 176 to cut through the leaf cover 18 when cup10 is lowered away from the blade after preparation, as a result of the upward movement of the handle 114. Each leg of the V is also formed with an opposite recess 178 and raised tip 180 to facilitate grinding of coffee beans 20, as described hereinafter. The blade 166 also includes a collar 182 for connection to the output shaft 168 of the milling motor 150. In this embodiment, the blade 166 can be removable for replacement and / or more thorough cleaning. In an alternative embodiment, the blade 166 is integrally formed or otherwise fixedly fixed to the output shaft 168 of the motor 150. As will be readily assessed, the thin profile of the blade 166 cuts a minimum width gap in the leaf cover 18 to prevent that the ground coffee 128 is thrown out of cup 10 during grinding. In addition, the shape and configuration of the blade 166 facilitates cleaning.
    [000113] FIG. 44 illustrates the cup 10 being raised towards the blade 166 and FIG. 45 illustrates the blade 166, through the cutting insertion edges 174, perforating the leaf lid 18 of the cup 10. In both FIGURES 44 and 45 the coffee beans 20 in the cup10 are not yet ground. After grinding, the beans 20 have been transformed into ground coffee 128, preparation takes place, as described above, and the cup 10 is then lowered as shown in FIGURES 46 and 47 so that the extraction cutting edges 176 of the blade 166 again pierce leaf cover 18, if necessary, to facilitate removal of cup 10 from blade 166.
    [000114] Now with reference to FIGURES 48 to 50, the actual grinding process is illustrated. As a result of the action of the grinding motor 150, the grinding blade 166 rotates at a frequency high enough to grind the coffee beans 20 in the filter cup 20 to transform the coffee beans 20 into whole beans, as shown
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    19/31 shown in FIG. 48, for ground, as shown in FIG. 60. In particular, blade 166 is rotated in one direction (see FIG. 49) which causes tip 180 of blade 166 to hit / impact coffee beans 20 to cause them to break. Over time, several impacts of the blade itself, and more importantly, of the 180 tips, gradually reduce the size of the coffee beans to ground fine enough for preparation. In one embodiment, blade 166 may continue to rotate at a predetermined frequency during the preparation process, that is, during the time that hot water is passed through cup 12. The rotation frequency during preparation may be the same , or different from the frequency used to grind coffee beans 20. In other embodiments, blade 166 can be used to stir beverage ingredients during preparation, as well as to facilitate the dissolution of beverage ingredients in the water that passes through the cup 10 (for example, when using iced tea drink ingredients instead of whole coffee beans). As will be readily assessed, mixing beverage ingredients / coffee beans into cup 10 during preparation can produce a better tasting drink. In particular, mixing during preparation can improve the contact between ground coffee 128 and hot water, which can improve the quality and / or concentration of the coffee.
    [000115] In an alternative embodiment, the filter cup 10 can be retracted from the grinding blade 166 before dispensing hot water to the cup 10. As will be readily assessed, this ensures that the grinding blade 166 touches the coffee only when the even if it is dry (ie when it grinds the coffee beans 20 before preparation). Consequently, ground coffee is not as susceptible to cutting by blade 166 as it would be if blade 166 and ground coffee 128 were present together in a wet environment and, like this,
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    20/31 keeps the blade substantially free of ground coffee without having to wash the blade.
    [000116] FIGURES 52 to 57 illustrate an alternative configuration for a shredding blade 184 that can be used with the apparatus 100. As shown therein, the blade has a V-shaped configuration and has a perforating edge 186 to pierce the leaf lid 18 of cup 10. Blade 184 also has two horizontally extending flanges 188, 190 to facilitate grinding of coffee beans 20 and two upward edges 192, 194 to cut back through leaf 18 when cup10 is lowered away from blade 184. As with blade 166 of the preferred embodiment, blade 184 can be removably attached to the output shaft 168 of the grinding motor 150, or it can be formed integrally or otherwise permanently attached to the same.
    [000117] The water path used in the process of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 58. First, reservoir 116 is filled with water. In one embodiment, reservoir 116 can be removably received in housing 110 so that a user can remove reservoir 116 to fill it with water and then place it in housing 110. As will be readily assessed, this configuration can be easier than bringing a water source into the reservoir itself. Reservoir 116 may have a removable cover 194 as shown in FIG. 60 to facilitate filling with water. A water outlet 196, best shown in FIGURES 17 to 24, allows water to flow from reservoir 116 under the force of gravity. Outlet 196 can be equipped with a valve 198 of a type commonly known to those skilled in the art, where the valve can be activated electronically and controlled by means of a conventional controller from an open position to a closed position, and vice versa. versa. During preparation, water leaves the reservoir
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 24/45
    21/31 river 116 through outlet 196 and travels through a first pipe 200 until it reaches pump 148. Pump 148 pumps water through heater 146 in order to heat water to a desired predetermined temperature. The water passes from the heater 146 through the hot water supply pipe 152 to the water outlet 132.
    [000118] In one embodiment, at the end of the preparation process, the water flow will be turned off before the heater so that the steam is generated to push or blow the excess liquid remaining in the cup10. As will be readily assessed, this puff of steam ensures that the last few drops of coffee do not remain in cup 10 and prevents dripping.
    [000119] As shown in FIG. 25B, in one embodiment, the water outlet 132 is a shower in the form of a tube or ring ring 208 that has a plurality of openings 210 formed therein to distribute hot water. The hot water emitted from the openings 210 of shower 132 is used both for preparing coffee and for washing the blade 166 in the cleaning operation. During preparation, the hot water coming out of the water / shower outlet 132 enters the cup10 which, at this point in the process, contains ground coffee 128. The water, now fresh coffee, comes out of the cup10 through the openings 32 in the bottom 26 of the cup
    10. When it leaves the cup through the openings 32, it moves down through an outlet duct in tray 112 before being emitted through the output tray 202. In one embodiment, the tray may include a smoothing member of flow 204 directly below the openings 32 of the filter cup 10. The flow smoothing member slows the direct flow of fresh coffee into the coffee cup 109 so that fresh coffee gushes and splashes a user or creates a problem. After leaving exit 202, the water, which has now become fresh coffee, falls into coffee cup 109. The volume of
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 25/45
    22/31 selected liquid, which corresponds to the dose size, is preselected using the controls 118, and the pump 148 and the water outlet 196 are consequently controlled to allow the flow of only the selected quantity to flow before turning off the flow.
    [000120] FIGURES 65 to 67 illustrate an alternative drip tray 106 configuration according to another embodiment of the present invention. As shown therein, the drip tray is movable between a first position, as shown in FIG.
    66, in which tray 106 is positioned below the fresh coffee outlet 202, and a second position, as shown in FIG. 7, in which the drip tray 106 is housed within the base 102 of the apparatus 100. With the drip tray 106 in the position shown in FIG.
    67, taller cups / mugs 206 can be accommodated.
    [000121] FIG. 68 illustrates a coffee apparatus 300 having an alternative configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown therein, as an alternative the cup 10 being installed vertically and the grinding blade 166, preparation shower 132 and motor 150 are in a vertical position above the cup 10, these elements are oriented horizontally. In particular, as shown there, the filter cup 10 is installed in a horizontal orientation within the housing 110. In addition, the grinding motor 150, shower 132 and blade 166 are positioned to the side of the cup 10 in a horizontal position. In this embodiment, apparatus 300 includes a conduit 302 in communication with the bottom of cup 10 so that fresh coffee leaves the cup and is routed through conduit 302 to outlet 202 for distribution to a cup of user 109.
    [000122] FIGURES 69 and 70 illustrate a coffee apparatus 400 in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention. The coffee machine 400 is similar in configuration to that of the coffee machine 100
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 26/45
    23/31 of the above, with a few notable differences. As shown in the figure, as an alternative to engine 150, blade 166 and shower 132 are stationary and cup 10 being raised to fit with blade 166, in this embodiment, the preparation shower 132, motor 150 and blade 166 are configured to move in the direction and away from a stationary cup 10. FIG. 69 illustrates a first position of the motor 150, blade 166 and preparation shower 132 above the stationary filter cup 10. Motor 150, blade 166 and preparation shower 132 are movable from the vertical direction to a second position, shown in FIG. 70, in which the blade is arranged inside the cup 10. The vertical movement of the motor 150, blade 166 and shower 132 can be performed using actuators with mechanical or electrical action. The coffee machine 400 according to this modality can be characterized as having an active preparation set (motor 150, grinding blade 166 and shower 132) and a passive filter cup 10, opposite to an active filter cup 10 and set passive preparation.
    [000123] Although the preferred modality includes grinding and preparing coffee from whole coffee beans, the present invention is not intended to be limited in this regard. In particular, it is contemplated that the apparatus and method of the present invention are not limited to cups containing whole coffee bean, per se, and the invention can be used with cups containing ground coffee, partially ground coffee, tea leaves, ground tea, or mix of beverage ingredients. In addition, the apparatus according to the modalities of the present invention can make / prepare drinks from any ingredients contained within the filter cup, and the preparation of coffee from whole coffee beans is not limited.
    [000124] FIGURES 71 to 82 illustrate a coffee apparatus 500 in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention. The device
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 27/45
    24/31 coffee 500 is generally similar to, and contains many of the same components as, the coffee apparatus 100, disclosed above, with a few notable differences. As with the coffee apparatus 100, the coffee apparatus 500 is intended to be used in combination with the filter cup 10, disclosed above, in order to prepare a coffee or other beverage. Preferably, the filter cup 10 contains whole coffee beans.
    [000125] As shown in FIG. 71, the coffee apparatus 500 includes a base 502 and a housing 504 connected and supported by the base 502. The base 502 defines a drip tray housing 506 that slidably receives a drip tray 508. As with the drip tray 106, described above, drip tray 508 may have a slotted or meshed top surface to allow liquid that can be splashed during operation to pass through and be collected in drip tray 508 for ease of cleaning. As shown there, a waste box 510 is removably attached to the base 502 to receive used filter cups, as discussed hereinafter.
    [000126] As best shown in FIGURES 71 and 72, housing 504 includes a bottom part 512, a top part 514 and a front part 516 hingedly connected to the top part 514. The front part 16 is pivotable in the direction of arrow A, between a closed position, as shown in FIG. 71, in which the front part 516 is engaged with the bottom part 512, and an open position, as shown in FIG. 72, in which the interior of housing 504 can be accessed to insert or remove a filter cup 10, as discussed below. In the closed position, the top surface of the front part 516 and the top surface of the top part 514 of the housing 504 form a generally planar top surface of the apparatus 500.
    [000127] As shown further in FIG. 72, the bottom part
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 28/45
    25/31
    512 of housing 504 supports a preparation conveyor 518 on a linearly moving track 519. As shown in FIGURES 83 and 84, preparation conveyor 518 generally takes the form of a conical cup 520 sized and shaped to receive a cup of filter very close by. 10 inside. In particular, the conveyor 518 is opened at the top of it to allow insertion of the filter cup 10, and has an opening 522 at the bottom of it to allow fresh coffee or other prepared drink to exit the apparatus 500 through the conveyor 518. One flange 524 extends outside the side walls of the cup and may have one or more sprockets or protrusions (not shown) that extend from the bottom of the cup to fit the moving track linearly 519. The preparation conveyor is separable in the middle for allow automatic removal of filter cup 10 after use, as discussed below.
    [000128] In one embodiment, the linearly moving track 519 can be a chain. In operation, the wheel / protruding tooth on the bottom side of the flange 524 of the preparation conveyor 518 can engage with one of the chain links so that the linear movement of the chain causes the linear movement of the preparation conveyor 518 between a position of crunching and a position of preparation, as discussed hereinafter. Alternatively, the linearly movable track may be a tape, such as plastic or rubber, which has a plurality of teeth for engaging at least one additionally formed recess in the preparation conveyor 518 to effect its linear movement. In other embodiments, other means can also be used to linearly move the preparation conveyor between a preparation position and a crushing position without departing from the broader aspects of the present invention.
    [000129] With reference in addition to FIG. 71, the
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 29/45
    26/31 coffee 500 also includes a water reservoir 526 that is fixed, supported, and / or otherwise forms part of housing 504. In one embodiment, water reservoir 526 can be removable from housing 504 to facilitate filling of Water. The apparatus 500 additionally includes a boiler 528 which has a heater to heat water from the reservoir 526 which passes through it, and a pump 530 to pump water from the reservoir 526, through the boiler 528, through a hot water supply line 532 , and for a hot water outlet. In one embodiment, pump 530 is a solenoid pump. The water outlet is preferably in the form of a shower 534 and is arranged above the filter cup 10 in a preparation position, as described in detail below. The boiler / heater 528 and pump 530 can be of the type commonly used in the art. As with the shower 132 of the coffee apparatus 100, the shower 534 is preferably ring-shaped and has a plurality of openings on one bottom side of it to distribute hot water to the filter cup 10 in the preparation position within the housing 504 As will be readily assessed, the flow path of water and components for dispensing hot water to the filter cup 10 are substantially similar to the flow path and components of the coffee apparatus 100.
    [000130] As shown in FIGURES 71 to 82, and as mentioned above, the apparatus 500 additionally includes a grinding station 536 and a preparation station 538. The grinding station 538 includes a grinding motor 540 for rotatingly driving an axle. output 542 connected thereto, and a shredding blade 544 operationally connected to output shaft 542. The shredding blade 544 and motor 540 can be housed within a cylindrical sleeve 546 and motor 540, shaft 542 and blade 544 are vertically movable between a first position, in which the blade 544 is adjacent or
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 30/45
    27/31 housed within the sleeve 546, as shown in FIG. 71, and a second position in which blade 544 is extended from sleeve 546, as shown in FIG. 75. The grinding station 536 additionally includes a motor 548 for moving the grinding motor 540 and blade 544 between the first position and the second position.
    [000131] As shown there, preparation station 538 includes a cylindrical sleeve 550 and a piston 552 slidably received in the cylindrical sleeve 550. The piston 552 is fixedly attached to shower 534 and has a passage through which the supply line hot water 532 is routed. Importantly, piston 552 and shower 534 are movable vertically within the cylindrical sleeve 550. In particular, preparation station 538 also includes a motor 554 to move piston 552 and shower 534 between a first position, in which shower 534 is positioned adjacent to the cylindrical sleeve 550, as shown in FIG. 71, and a second position in which shower 534 is extended away from cylindrical sleeve 550, as shown in FIG. 79. Preparation station 538 can be attached to the front part 516 of housing 504 and thereby be movable between the open and closed positions.
    [000132] Importantly, apparatus 500 includes a track 556 motor connected to track 519. Motor 556 is operable to move track 519 to thereby move preparation conveyor 518 from a position directly below shower 534 from the preparation station 538 to a position directly below the grinding blade 544 of the grinding station 536.
    [000133] Each of boiler 528, pump 530, grinding motor 540, preparation station motor 554 and motor 556 is electrically connected to a controller (not shown) to control its operation. A control panel (not shown) in housing 504 is electrically connected to the controller and provides a
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 31/45
    28/31 interface for a user to control the operation of the device 500, such as the number of cups to prepare, preparation and timing characteristics, etc.
    [000134] The operation of the coffee apparatus 500 will now be described with reference to FIGURES 71 to 82. As shown in FIGURES 71 to 73, first, a user selects a pre-packaged filter cup 10 containing a plurality of whole coffee beans 20. A user then lifts the front part 516 of housing 504 in the direction of arrow A to the position shown in FIG. 72 to gain access to the preparation conveyor 518. The user then inserts the filter cup 10 into that of the conveyor 519, as shown in FIG. 72. The user then closes the front part 516 of the housing 504 so that it fits with the bottom part 512. In one embodiment, a sensor can either detect that the front part 516 is closed and / or that a filter cup 10 is properly positioned on the preparation conveyor 518. As a result of the detection of the filter cup 10 received on the preparation conveyor 518 and / or the front part 516 being in a closed position, the controller will start the track 556 motor. In another mode , a user can press a START button on the control panel to manually start the preparation process, which starts with the runway 556 engine running.
    [000135] As shown in FIG. 73, the motor of the track 556 will move the track 519 so that the track 519 engages the preparation conveyor 518 and move the conveyor in the direction of arrow B to the crushing position shown in FIG. 74, directly below the grinding blade 544. Once in the grinding position, the grinding station 548 motor will start, causing grinding motor 540 and grinding blade 544 to move downwards towards the filter cup 10 in the direction of arrow C so that blade 544 punctures leaf cover 18 of filter cup 10 and enters cup 10.
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 32/45
    29/31
    Once the blade 544 is positioned inside the cup, the motor 540 is activated, causing the blade 544 to rotate at the predetermined frequency, in order to grind the whole coffee beans 20 or otherwise mix the beverage ingredients inside the cup. cup 10, as shown in FIG. 75.
    [000136] Now with reference to FIG. 76, once the coffee beans 20 have been transformed into ground coffee 558, the grinding motor 540 and the grinding blade 544 are retracted from the filter cup 10 by means of the motor 548. After the grinding blade 544 has been retracted from cup 10, the engine of lane 556 is turned on again to move preparation conveyor 518 in the direction of arrow D to the preparation position below preparation station 538. FIG. 78 illustrates filter cup 10 and preparation conveyor 518 in the preparation position.
    [000137] As shown further in FIG. 78, engine preparation station 554 is turned on to move piston 552 and shower 534 down towards filter cup 10 in the direction of arrow E. In one embodiment, shower 534 can be moved to very close association with the cup filter 10 to dispense hot water into the filter cup 10, that is, low pressure preparation. In another embodiment, shower 534 may include a sealing ring, such as an O-ring. In this embodiment, shower 534 is moved downward until the sealing ring presses against the upper rim of the filter cup 10 to create an airtight seal. The filter cup 10 can then be pressurized during the preparation step, as discussed in connection with the apparatus 100.
    [000138] In any mode, after shower 534 is moved to the position shown in FIG. 79, pump 530 pumps water from reservoir 526 through boiler 528, which heats the water to a predetermined temperature. The water then continues from the boiler
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 33/45
    30/31
    528, through the supply pipe 532 and to the water / shower outlet 534. The hot water is then passed through the filter cup 10 and the ground coffee 558 inside to produce fresh coffee. Fresh coffee leaves filter cup 10 through openings 32 at the bottom 26 of it, leaves preparation brewer 518 through opening 522 at the bottom of the same, is collected in a coffee cup 560 positioned on drip tray 508.
    [000139] Next, an optional post-preparation step includes purging the system to remove any water remaining in the lines. In the purge step, near or at the end of the preparation step, the pump 530 will stop before the boiler heater (s) 528 is (are) switched off. This results in excess water remaining in boiler 528 being converted to steam. The steam then travels through the supply line 532 and forces the hot water out into the preparation subset (line 532, shower 534, etc.) and into the filter cup 10. As will be readily assessed, this ensures that substantially all of the coffee in cup10 comes out without substantial drip. In addition, this also ensures that the cup10 is dry and does not drip when it is removed to be discarded.
    [000140] Now with reference to FIG. 80, once coffee cup 560 has been filled with fresh coffee and the brewing process has been completed, piston 552 and shower 534 retract into cylindrical sleeve 550 by means of engine 554. After the shower has been retracted to the position shown in FIGURES 80 and 81, the track 556 motor is activated again to move the preparation conveyor 518 and the used filter cup towards preparation station 536, in the direction of arrow F, to a disposal position . After moving a predetermined distance, the preparation carrier 518 separates in the middle, as shown in FIG. 82, so that the used filter cup 10 falls off the conveyor 518 and into the
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 34/45
    31/31 discard 510. In one embodiment, as a result of moving a predetermined distance, a hook can fit into a projection on the preparation conveyor 518 so that the movement of the rear half of the conveyor 518 stops while the front half of the conveyor is separated . Other mechanisms for separating the preparation carrier can also be used without departing from the broader aspects of the present invention. Optionally, shower 534 and components adjacent to the shower can be washed between uses.
    [000141] Although the preferred embodiment contemplates the use of the coffee apparatus 500 with a filter cup 10 containing whole coffee beans 20, the present invention is not intended to be limited in this regard. In particular, the coffee apparatus 500 can be used with a filter cup 10 or another similar cup containing beverage ingredients of any kind.
    [000142] Although this invention has been shown and described with respect to its detailed modalities, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made and equivalents can be replaced by elements of the same without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its essential scope. Therefore, it is understood that the invention is not limited to the particular modalities disclosed in the detailed description above, but that the invention will include all modalities that fall within the scope of this description.
    权利要求:
    Claims (12)
    [1]
    1. Beverage apparatus (500), comprising:
    a housing (504), said housing (504) including a liquid reservoir (526);
    a preparation station (538) disposed within said housing (504) and in fluid communication with said liquid reservoir (526);
    a grinding station (536) disposed within said housing (504), said grinding station (536) being functionally separated from said preparation station (538); and a preparation conveyor (518), said preparation conveyor (518) being selectively movable between a first position adjacent to said shredding station (536) and a second position adjacent to said preparation station (538);
    wherein the movement of said preparation carrier (518) between said first and second positions moves a beverage ingredient in said preparation carrier (518) from said first position to said second position, said beverage ingredient including particles of a first size;
    wherein when in said second position, liquid is dispensed from said liquid reservoir (526) and directed to said preparation carrier (518); and wherein said beverage ingredient is in said preparation carrier (518) and in a first physical state when said preparation carrier (518) is in said first position, and is in a second physical state when said beverage carrier preparation (518) is in said second position, wherein said first physical state is different from said second physical state;
    wherein said grinding station (536) includes a mechanism for transforming said particles of said beverage ingredient
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 36/45
    [2]
    2/4 of that of said first size to one second, said second size being smaller than said first size, and said mechanism being a grinding blade (544) rotatably driven by a motor (540); and characterized by the fact that said grinding blade (544) and said motor (540) are selectively movable towards and away from said preparation conveyor (518) when said preparation conveyor (518) is in said first position.
    2. Beverage apparatus (500) according to claim
    1, characterized by the fact that:
    said particles of said first size of said drink are whole coffee beans (20).
    [3]
    3. Beverage apparatus (500) according to claim
    1 or 2, characterized by the fact that it still comprises:
    a linearly moving track (519); and a motor (556) operationally connected to said linearly moving track (519);
    wherein said preparation conveyor (518) is operatively connected to said moving track linearly (519); and wherein the actuation of said motor (5556) causes said preparation conveyor (518) to move between said preparation station (538) and said grinding station (536) on said linearly moving track (519) .
    [4]
    Beverage apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the fact that:
    said preparation station (538) includes a liquid outlet (534), wherein said liquid outlet (534) is movable towards and away from said preparation conveyor (518) when said preparation conveyor (518) ) is in said second position.
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 37/45
    3/4
    [5]
    5. Beverage apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that it still comprises:
    a pump (530) for pumping water from said liquid reservoir (526) and directing it to said liquid outlet (534); and a boiler (528) to heat said water received from said pump (530).
    [6]
    6. Beverage apparatus (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the fact that:
    said preparation conveyor (518) includes a first half and a second half, said second half being separable from said first half as a result of the movement of said preparation conveyor (518) from said preparation station (538) to said milling station (536).
    [7]
    7. Coffee preparation method, characterized by the fact that said method comprises the steps of:
    providing a coffee apparatus having a brewing station (538), a grinding station (536) and a brewing conveyor (518);
    inserting a container containing whole coffee beans into said brewing conveyor (518); and moving said brewing conveyor (518) between said grinding station (536) and said brewing station (538).
    [8]
    8. Method of preparing coffee, according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that it still comprises the stage of:
    converting said whole coffee beans into ground coffee within said container at said grinding station (536).
    [9]
    9. Coffee preparation method according to claim 8, characterized by the fact that it still comprises the stage
    Petition 870200000508, of 03/01/2020, p. 38/45
    4/4 of:
    moving said preparation conveyor (518) to said preparation station (538); and distributing water through said container to produce fresh coffee.
    [10]
    10. Coffee preparation method according to claim 9, characterized by the fact that it still comprises the stage of:
    separating a first half of said preparation conveyor (518) from said second half of said preparation conveyor (518) to eject said container from it, and still preferably comprises directing a stream of steam into a container to clean said container of liquid.
    [11]
    11. Coffee preparation method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized by the fact that:
    said step of transforming said whole coffee beans into said ground coffee includes moving a grinding blade (544) into said container;
    actuating a motor to turn said grinding blade (544) at a predetermined frequency; and removing said grinding blade (544) from said container.
    [12]
    12. Method of preparing coffee according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by the fact that:
    said step of distributing water through said container includes moving a shower (534) in communication with said container; and retracting said shower (534) from said container after distributing water through said container.
    类似技术:
    公开号 | 公开日 | 专利标题
    BR112013015350B1|2020-05-19|beverage apparatus and coffee preparation method
    JP5696255B2|2015-04-08|Drink container
    JP5548831B2|2014-07-16|Formulated beverage equipment and method
    BR112013018736B1|2019-05-07|PREPARED DRINKING METHOD AND APPARATUS
    BR112013023444B1|2020-06-02|DRINK APPARATUS AND DRINK FERMENTATION METHOD
    AU2013245524B2|2016-11-24|Brewed beverage appliance and method
    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    US20120121780A1|2012-05-17|
    KR20140011427A|2014-01-28|
    ES2523943T3|2014-12-02|
    CR20130316A|2013-10-17|
    AU2012309159A8|2013-08-01|
    KR20150058560A|2015-05-28|
    CO6761307A2|2013-09-30|
    EP2640233B1|2014-10-01|
    AU2012309159B2|2014-09-25|
    CA2817511A1|2013-03-21|
    JP2014506820A|2014-03-20|
    KR101442126B1|2014-11-04|
    EP2662001B1|2014-11-19|
    HK1187220A1|2014-04-04|
    CA2817511C|2014-06-03|
    KR101925375B1|2019-02-27|
    EP2662001A1|2013-11-13|
    US8646379B2|2014-02-11|
    CO6761308A2|2013-09-30|
    MX2013007397A|2013-10-30|
    BR112013015350A2|2016-09-20|
    AU2012309159A1|2013-06-27|
    CN103402407A|2013-11-20|
    JP5599125B2|2014-10-01|
    EP2640233A4|2013-11-06|
    DK2640233T3|2014-10-27|
    ECSP13012885A|2013-10-31|
    KR101786497B1|2017-10-18|
    MX337452B|2016-03-07|
    DK2662001T3|2014-12-15|
    ES2529027T3|2015-02-16|
    KR20130079651A|2013-07-10|
    WO2013039588A1|2013-03-21|
    EP2640233A1|2013-09-25|
    CN103402407B|2016-08-17|
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    法律状态:
    2018-12-11| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2019-10-08| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-03-10| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2020-05-19| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 26/06/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US13/231,035|US8646379B2|2010-11-15|2011-09-13|Brewed beverage appliance and method|
    PCT/US2012/044100|WO2013039588A1|2011-09-13|2012-06-26|Brewed beverage appliance and method|
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