Automated dispensing system for customized beverages

The disclosure generally relates to an automated modular dispensing platform for creating customized beverages (e.g., using various sauces, syrups, sweeteners, colors and/or flavors added to a base beverage). The automated dispensing platform may simultaneously aggregate beverage modifiers or ingredients (e.g., sweetener, flavor, and/or color) and facilitate automated, efficient cleaning cycles for modular beverage dispensers.

FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to an automated modular dispensing platform for creating customized beverages (e.g., using various sauces, syrups, sweeteners, colors and/or flavors added to a base beverage). The automated dispensing platform may simultaneously aggregate beverage modifiers or ingredients (e.g., sweetener, flavor, and/or color) and facilitate automated, efficient cleaning cycles for modular beverage dispensers.

BACKGROUND

Customized beverages can be created by adding different quantities of sauces, syrups, and flavors to a base beverage, such as coffee or tea. Sauces, syrups and flavors are currently dispensed using disposable mechanical pumps as shown inFIG. 1or reusable mechanical pumps as shown inFIG. 2. The sauce, syrup or flavor is filled in the pump containers2and4. A barista pumps the sauce, syrup or flavor by manually pushing down on the pump levers1and3to dispense fixed volumes of sauces, syrups and flavors thru the pump nozzles5and6.

Various embodiments are depicted in the accompanying drawings for illustrative purposes, and should in no way be interpreted as limiting the scope of the embodiments. Furthermore, various features of different disclosed embodiments can be combined to form additional embodiments, which are part of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Coffee or tea beverages usually have a base of coffee or tea extracts mixed with dairy enhanced by a variety of textures, tastes, flavors, colors and/or aromas. One can create different textures, tastes, flavors, colors and aromas by adding different quantities of ingredients or modifiers (e.g., sauces, syrups and flavors) or adding the same ingredients or modifiers in different sequences. For example, to create a menu offering of 70 handcrafted coffee beverages, there may be 10 flavors, 2 syrups and 7 sauces. Flavors are usually alcohol based. Examples of some flavors are vanilla, toffee nut, and hazelnut. Sauces are usually multiple ingredients blended together in a water solution. Examples of some sauces are white chocolate mocha, chai and mocha. Syrups are usually liquid forms of sugar or sugar-free substitutes.

Currently, flavors, sauces, and syrups are dispensed using disposable mechanical pumps as shown inFIG. 1or reusable mechanical pumps as shown inFIG. 2. The syrup, sauce or flavor is filled in the pump containers2and4. The barista pumps the flavor, sauce or syrup by manually pushing down on the pump levers1and2to dispense fixed volumes of flavors, sauces and syrups thru the pump nozzles5and6.

Sauces are inherently dense and viscous. Hence, it requires a lot of effort to manually push down on the pump lever. For very viscous sauces, forces in excess of 20 pounds to 30 pounds are required to dispense the sauce from a mechanical pump, such as those illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2. Each beverage may require multiple pumps for multiple shots or doses. For a barista making hundreds of beverages on a shift, pumping sauces or other ingredients frequently with this high force can lead to arm fatigue and potential injuries.

A recipe for a creamy coffee beverage could be to dispense hot espresso coffee extract into a cup, followed by two pumps of vanilla syrup, followed by a pump of white chocolate mocha sauce, followed by a fixed volume of steamed almond milk and finished with two pumps of toffee nut flavor. The recipe for a non-creamy beverage could be the same ingredients and quantities but dispensed in a different order (e.g., dispense a pump of white chocolate mocha sauce, followed by two pumps of vanilla syrup, followed by a fixed volume of steamed almond milk and followed with two pumps of toffee nut flavor and finished by dispensing a hot espresso coffee extract on top). Different beverages are made not only by varying the type and quantities of ingredients or modifiers (e.g., sauces, syrups and flavors), but also by changing the order in which they are added to the beverage.

A coffee store may offer a menu with 80-100 hand-crafted beverages. This means that each barista must memorize the recipes for each of the 80-100 beverages, including the ingredients or modifiers (e.g., sauces, syrups and flavors) in each beverage, the number of pumps, shots or doses, and the order in which the ingredients or modifiers are added. This creates a lot of complexity and memorization effort, which creates a challenge to expansion of the size and variety of the menu (e.g., variety of beverages).

If the coffee store uses disposable pumps as shown inFIG. 1, it leads to negative environmental impact due to discarding of the plastic containers once they are empty. If the coffee store uses reusable pumps as inFIG. 2, then the pumps must be disassembled and manually cleaned regularly (e.g., every week), which requires a lot of manual effort and additional time expended by employees, thereby increasing labor costs and reducing employee morale. In addition, each mechanical pump unit is customized to the sauce, syrup, or flavor being dispensed because of their unique density and viscosity. Errors (e.g., malfunctions) happen when the sauce, syrup or flavor is filled in the wrong pump container (e.g., a pump unit designed for a different sauce, syrup or flavor).

When a coffee store introduces a new beverage recipe that uses a new type of sauce, syrup, or flavor, it must procure a new pump unit or system customized to the new ingredient. This is expensive as a new container needs to be manufactured and filled for every new type of ingredient. This leads to lot of complexity in the store as the store must procure, store, and use a variety of pumps for all the different ingredients (e.g., sauces, syrups and flavors). The baristas must also be retrained on the new recipes.

Customers like to adjust the amount of ingredients, modifiers, or enhancers (e.g., sauce, syrup, and flavor) in their beverages to suit their individual taste and health needs. For example, a customer may want half the sugar and twice the amount of vanilla flavor of the normal recipe for a particular beverage. The current pump systems allow for a reduction in a discrete number of manual pumps, but do not allow for a fraction of a pump of an ingredient (e.g., syrup, sauce, or flavor) to be pumped. This is inherently problematic to the customer experience as customers want more customization with precise control. In addition, baristas may want to simplify the mental and physical efforts required in the beverage preparation process.

In accordance with several embodiments, the systems described herein advantageously automate the dispensing of ingredients, modifiers or enhancers (e.g., sauces, syrups, flavors, tastes, colors, reductions). The systems include modular dispensers, or dispenser modules, that can dispense any type of ingredient without any force (e.g., any manual pumping force) exerted by the barista. A user interface may guide the barista through the sequence of dispensing (including the recipes for various beverages), thereby avoiding memorization of recipes, while also doing away with the complexity of cleaning (e.g., of manually cleaning multiple reusable pump containers or units on a regular basis).

FIG. 3shows an automated dispensing system9according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Coffee espresso machines7,8extract coffee liquor out of coffee beans. The automated dispensing system9may be located or positioned to sit between two espresso machines for easy access by two baristas working on each of the coffee espresso machines. The automated dispensing system9comprises one or more individual modular dispensers, or dispenser modules10-16. The automated dispensing system9may include a shelf17, for example between modular dispensers15,16of the dispensing system9, to store one or more manual pumps for less frequently-used flavors or other ingredients, modifiers, or enhancers. The individual modular dispensers10-16are modular (meaning, for example, they can be added to or removed from the system9quickly and easily in different configurations without impacting other modular dispensers or operation of the system9). The individual modular dispensers10-16may be controlled from, or by, one or more controllers. For example, the individual modular dispensers10-16may be controlled from, or by, a single centralized controller that supplies power and control signals (which may include data or other information, such as recipe information) to each of the modular dispensers10-16. In other configurations, each modular dispenser may be controlled by its own dedicated local controller or subgroups of modular dispensers may be controlled by a controller.

FIG. 3Ashows another embodiment of the automated dispensing system9with bottles, cartridges, and/or pouches instead of manual pumps as shown inFIG. 3. The automated dispensing system9ofFIG. 3Amay replace a shelf with an integrated flavor holding portion. The system9may include a central display screen100as an alternative to, or in addition to, individual display screens on the modular dispensers10-16. The display screen100may comprise a touchscreen display configured to receive user input based on pressing of graphical buttons or icons on a graphical user interface of the display screen100in addition to displaying graphics, animations, and alphanumeric textual information to the barista. The automated dispensing system9may also include a centralized dispenser spout105. The dispenser spout105may dispense water (either hot or cold water) or a prepared beverage. In some implementations, the automated dispensing system includes a centralized water dispensation system to dispense water. The display screen100may also display information or instructions to the barista or other user (e.g., to prompt action or to indicate errors, warnings or alerts).

Individual modular dispensers10-16may replace conventional manual pump systems with an electrical pump system to alleviate arm fatigue and mind fatigue. The automated dispensing system9may also advantageously increase throughput and reduce errors in beverage preparation, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and experience. As explained further below, the dispense instructions (e.g., number of pumps or shots or doses) may be input by an individual barista through a user input device (e.g., touchscreen display or user interface buttons) on the modular dispenser or remote from the modular dispenser, especially if the dispense instructions deviate from a standard recipe for the beverage. Alternatively, the dispense instructions may be automatically received by the automated dispensing system9from a point of sale system or remote server. Even when the dispense instructions are received from a point of sale system or other remote system, the user (e.g., barista) may be able to modify the dispense instructions manually (e.g., if a customer changes their mind after an initial time of sale).

FIG. 4shows an embodiment of one of the modular dispensers10-16having a housing18that houses internal components of a respective modular dispenser10-16. As shown inFIG. 4, each modular dispenser10-16may include a display19that shows operational dispensing information for that modular dispenser10-16to the barista. The information can include number of pumps (e.g., shots or doses) being dispensed, volume being dispensed, amount of sauce or other ingredient left in the modular dispenser, cleaning status, etc. The display19showing the operational status of the modular dispenser10-16enables the barista to react and change the settings, if required and/or desired. The display19can be in the form of light indicators, LEDs, LCD displays, OLED displays or any other form of display. Each modular dispenser10-16may include input devices20, such as a lighted button input device. A barista can click or press the button or other input device to change the status/value on any of the icons on the display19. This can also be accomplished by making the display19a touch screen, so that the barista can directly change values on the display19by touching them with his or her finger. The display19may have the capability to show multiple languages. The desired language may be selected by the barista or other user. Other types of input devices20may include a switch, knob, wheel, slide key, capacitive touch sensor, voice recognition input devices (e.g., a microphone), remote input devices, etc. Each modular dispenser10-16also includes a dispensing spout21positioned sufficiently high to allow a cup or other vessel to be placed beneath it.

Each modular dispenser10-16can be changed or adapted to dispense any ingredient by changing certain pump characteristics or dispensing parameters (e.g., the pump speed, timing, volumetric dispensation, and algorithm of dispensing). This changing or adjustment can be performed remotely in a digital twin or can be performed at the local machine unit. For example, the ingredient in a particular modular dispenser can be identified (or selected) using the user interface (e.g., button20and/or display19) on the particular modular dispenser or the ingredient in the particular modular dispenser can be identified (or selected) in the remote server. Once the appropriate ingredient is selected, the particular modular dispenser may be automatically programmed with the necessary pump characteristics.

The modular dispenser10-16can also have a sensing or reading device that can identify the ingredient (e.g., sauce, syrup, or flavor) being loaded into the modular dispenser and automatically program itself to dispense the ingredient (for example, the specific speed or timing needed for optimal dispensation). As one example, the modular dispenser can have a load cell to sense the ingredient based on weight or mass. As another example, the identification of the ingredient can be a barcode, RFID tag, NFC tag, QR code or any other identifiable information on the packaging containing the ingredient.

The modular dispenser10-16can be hot swapped with another modular dispenser, for example if a modular dispenser malfunctions, runs out of ingredient, or is in low demand. The new modular dispenser can adopt (e.g., automatically or based on user interaction) the dispensing characteristics of the replaced modular dispenser. The modular dispenser may include the same or different ingredient. The system9can recognize the ingredient in the modular dispenser regardless of the location of the modular dispenser within the system9. Accordingly, the modular dispensers may be positioned in any order or stackable configuration preferred by a store manager or by individual baristas.

FIGS. 5 and 6show one possible construction of the modular dispensers10-16. The modular dispenser10-16may include a tray22to hold the ingredient, modifier, or enhancer (e.g., sauce, syrup or flavor) to be dispensed. The ingredient can be poured into the tray22or can be loaded into the tray22in a bag holding the ingredient (e.g., sauce, syrup or flavor). The tray22can be made from metal, plastic or a biodegradable material. The tray22may include a pull feature24to facilitate pulling out of the tray22from the housing18. As shown, the pull feature24can include a cutout or notch at the bottom of a front surface of a front panel of the tray22. The pull feature24may alternatively include a knob or other protruding member that can be grabbed and pulled by one or more fingers. The tray22may comprise an injection molded enclosure having about a 3 liter capacity. The capacity of the tray22may range from 1.5 liters to 5 liters (e.g., 1.5 liters to 4.5 liters, 2 liters to 4 liters, 2.5 liters to 3.5 liters, 3 liters to 5 liters, overlapping ranges thereof, or any value within the recited ranges).

The tray22may be removably positioned (e.g., inserted) in a housing18. The modular dispenser housing18may include guiding features23incorporated into the housing18and/or tray22so that the tray22can be easily pushed in and pulled out of the housing18. The guiding features23may comprise guide rails stamped into the housing18or grooves formed in the housing floor. The housing18may comprise a sheet metal enclosure in one configuration. The housing18may be formed of a metal, plastic or other polymeric material. The housing18may include one or more detents110on an upper surface to facilitate stacking of modular dispensers10-16on top of each other. The detents110may be positioned, sized, and shaped to receive locking features34(e.g., feet or pegs) disposed on a bottom surface of another modular dispenser.

In some implementations, the ingredient (e.g., syrup, sauce, or flavor) can be packaged into a bag25with a valve26that can be easily loaded into (e.g., lowered in a vertical direction into an upper opening of) the dispensing tray22.FIG. 7shows an ingredient bag25having a valve26that slides into a locating feature27on a rear surface of the tray22. The locating feature27may include a tray keying slot configured to receive a valve cap of the valve26. A rear surface of the tray may include a drip catch feature designed to catch any drips from the valve26.FIG. 7Ais a cross-section view showing the bag25loaded inside the tray22. The capacity of the bag25may range from 1.5 liters to 5 liters (e.g., 1.5 liters to 4.5 liters, 2 liters to 4 liters, 2.5 liters to 3.5 liters, 3 liters to 5 liters, overlapping ranges thereof, or any value within the recited ranges, such as 3 liters).

As shown inFIG. 8, each modular dispenser housing18may hold a removable pump frame112that can slide in and out of the housing18. The pump frame112includes a pump28, such as a positive displacement pump (including but not limited to a peristaltic pump), attached at the rear of the pump frame112. Various type of pumps28can be used within the dispensing system9to pump the ingredients. For example, the dispensing system9may include individual modular dispensers10-16with two or more different types of pumps. For example, a first set of modular dispensers may include a first type of pump for low viscosity and low density ingredients, and a second set of modular dispensers may include a second type of pump for high viscosity and high density ingredients.

The pump28draws in the ingredient (e.g., syrup, sauce, flavor) through an inlet tube29B and pumps the ingredient out through an outlet tube29A into a cup or pitcher thru the dispenser spout21. The outlet tube29A may include a flow meter to measure a volumetric dispensation of the ingredient. The dispenser spout21may have special features to incorporate air or water into the pumped ingredient as the ingredient exits the spout21(e.g., to generate froth). The inlet tube29B terminates in a fluid connector30.

The fluid connector30may be a quick connect fitting or coupling, e.g., the connector30should seal to the bag25in a leak-proof manner as soon as the bag25is attached to the connector30. The connector30may include a self-sealing valve. The connector30may alternatively comprise a threaded or flanged connection.

The pump28, the display19and the input device20are connected to a main controller38through an electrical wire harness31that terminates in an electrical connector32. The harness31and connector32have the requisite conductors to transmit power and two-way communications (e.g., data) to/from the pump28, display19, and input device20. The pump28, display19, and input device20may or may not have embedded software to make these devices function. All the functional hardware and software to make these devices function could be built into the main controller in some configurations.

The individual modular dispenser may have a self-priming mechanism that may be actuated by the user interface. Priming may only need to be initiated after a cleaning cycle and upon refilling supply lines. Once the pump has been primed, the ingredients can be changed without losing prime.

The system9can pump and dispense enough ingredient to fill all the input and output lines (e.g., outlet tube29A and inlet tube29B) for the pump28in order to prevent air pockets in the ingredient that could make dispensation inaccurate. When there is air in the outlet tube29A, it is easier to pump and the motor runs faster. The modular dispenser10-16can sense the motor speed to prime the pumping system. If motor speed is high, it means there is air in the pumping system, and the pump28keeps pumping until the air pockets are pushed out and the speed of the motor drops to the normal operating limits.

Each modular dispenser can include a load cell at a bottom of the modular dispenser or of the tray22so that the modular dispenser can sense a weight or mass of ingredient in the bag25or tray22and alert a barista to change out the bag25when ingredient is low without losing priming.

The modular dispenser10-16may be designed so that the ingredient can be easily dispensed into a pitcher, cups and glasses as shown inFIG. 9. For example, a height and angle of the dispenser spout21may be positioned to facilitate dispensation of the ingredient. A length of the housing18may range from 350 mm to 600 mm (e.g., between 350 mm and 500 mm, between 400 mm and 500 mm, between 450 mm and 600 mm, overlapping ranges thereof, or any value within the recited ranges). A height of the housing18may range from 175 mm to 350 mm (e.g., between 175 mm and 250 mm, between 200 mm and 250 mm, between 250 mm and 350 mm, overlapping ranges thereof, or any value within the recited ranges). A counter height from counter to dispenser spout21may range from 125 mm to 200 mm (e.g., from 125 mm to 150 mm, from 140 mm to 160 mm, from 150 mm to 200 mm, overlapping ranges thereof, or any value within the recited ranges, such as about 150 mm).

As shown inFIG. 10, the modular dispensers10-16may be designed so that two or more modular dispensers10-16can be stacked on top of each other using locating and locking features34. The modular dispensers10-16may be stacked such that the dispenser spout21of an upper modular dispenser is offset from the dispenser spout21of a lower modular dispenser by a drip bypass offset (DBO) distance. For example, the spout21of the lower modular dispenser may be rearward of the spout21of the upper modular dispenser. This may be accomplished by staggering the position of the upper modular dispenser relative to the lower modular dispenser. The offset (DBO) prevents the spout21of the upper modular dispenser from dripping onto the spout21of the lower modular dispenser.

Each modular dispenser can include a badge35to show the ingredient currently stored in that particular modular dispenser, as shown inFIG. 11. The badge35can be fastened (e.g., removably fastened) to the modular dispenser using magnets, adhesives or screws. The badge35may be positioned above the dispensing spout21and below the display19(or user input device20if there is no display19). The badge35may comprise a label or plate.

FIG. 12shows a perspective rear view of the dispensing system9. InFIG. 12, the individual modular dispensers37(e.g., modular dispensers10-16) are controlled by a main, or central, controller unit36. The central controller unit36has the processing capability and power required to run the individual modular dispensers37. This centralized control makes the design cost-efficient and easily upgradeable. In this modular design, the controller36can be upgraded for features and functionality without upgrading the individual modular dispensers37.

FIG. 13shows a schematic block diagram illustrating an example controller architecture that can be used with the dispensing system9. The main controller38(which may include the structural and function features described in connection with controller36) can house a power supply39to power all the modular dispensers, or dispenser modules, described herein (e.g., modular dispensers10-16,37,45), a microprocessor41to process all algorithms or execute stored program instructions, memory40to store recipes and algorithms (e.g., program instructions, sequences, cleaning algorithms), and motor driver hardware42to control operation of the motor(s) in the modular dispensers45. The main controller38is connected to the individual modular dispensers45thru electrical wire harnesses43with enough conductors to transmit power and communicate (e.g., two-way communications) with the modular dispensers45. The harness43terminates in a sealed connector44. The modular dispensers45have corresponding harnesses44and connectors to interface with the main controller38. In other implementations, the communicative coupling may occur via wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi, or other wireless communication protocol connections).

The housing18may hold a common power supply and logic board separate from the individual modular dispensers45. Each modular dispenser may simply connects to the common control system through an electrical connector. The modular dispensers45may be powered by a household plug in the country of use (e.g., 110 V or 220 V). The main controller38for the dispensing system also has a port for battery power, so that the system9can be run on battery, when the main power is shut down. Each modular dispenser45can be manually operated, for example hand cranked, to dispense ingredient in case of electronic malfunction or power outage (seeFIG. 20).

In certain embodiments, the main controller38not only makes the individual modular dispensers45dispense as per the recipes, but also keeps track of the system9health and communicates with a remote server for recipe updates and software upgrades. The main controller38can also schedule cleaning of the individual modular dispensers45(e.g., based on the ingredient, based on an amount of ingredient dispensed, or based on a regular time schedule). The main controller38can be able to decode modular dispensers45running simultaneously as well as be able to use a plurality of communication channels to communicate to pump modular dispensers45.

The main controller (or dispensing equipment controller)38ofFIG. 13has a Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and/or other communication interface to communicate with various devices (e.g., a remote server) over the Internet or other communications network to receive information on new recipes and software updates and also to transmit information on consumption of sauces and beverages being made to a remote server.

The main controller38can query the Wi-Fi or Ethernet access point in the location to find the store identity or location and store it in memory40. This way, the main controller38can transmit store specific information to a remote server. Recipes, software updates, or other information can also be sent from the remote server to the memory40of the main controller38of the dispensing system9.

The dispensing equipment can also maintain a digital version—the digital twin—of its functionality on a remote server. Changes to this digital twin can result in changes in software functionality in the main controller (dispensing system controller)38.

More modular dispensers can be added to the automated dispensing system9by daisy-chaining several controllers (e.g., main controllers38or separate individual or group controllers) in series and connecting modular dispensers to them.

Location-specific dispensing algorithms can be incorporated into the dispensing controller (e.g., main controller38). For example, a sauce dispense volume in one location could be half the dispense volume in another location.

In a simple manual mode, a barista can use the dispensing system9inFIG. 3. The number of pumps of the ingredient, modifier, or enhancer being dispensed or the volume of ingredient being dispensed is shown on the display19as inFIG. 4. Using the input device20, the barista can toggle to decrease or increase the number of pumps (e.g., shots or doses) or volume being dispensed. When the barista has made the selection, a cup or other vessel is placed below the dispensing spout21. The main controller38retrieves the algorithm for dispensation from its memory40and sends the power, dispense and display signals to the respective modular dispenser45. The pump28in the modular dispenser45then dispenses the exact volume of ingredient into the vessel through the dispensing spout21when activated by the barista or upon detecting the vessel (e.g., upon detecting a vessel placed underneath the spout using a proximity sensor). Each actuation of a user input device (e.g., input device20) may be equivalent to one dose or all the doses needed for that particular beverage recipe. Light indicators (e.g., light indicators in input devices20or light indicators, such as LED icons or indicators, on the display20) may also alert the barista that the bag is empty or maintenance is needed. Audible alerts may additionally or alternatively be generated.

In the automated mode shown inFIG. 14, the barista scans in a bar code or QR code46(or other identification element, such as an alphanumeric textual label or NFC tag) through an optical or digital scanner47. The identification element may be located, for example, on a cup or other vessel. The beverage information is then transmitted to the main controller38of the automated dispensing system9. The main controller38retrieves the recipe from its memory40or from a remote server, and then supplies power and the appropriate dispensing algorithm to the modular dispenser45to dispense the right amount of ingredient(s) when activated by the barista or upon detecting the vessel positioned beneath the dispensing spout21.

With reference toFIGS. 15A-15D, the barista can adjust the amount of the ingredient (e.g., syrup, sauce or flavor) based on the customer preference. For example, light indicators120integrated into the display19or positioned surrounding the display19(e.g., below, above, or to a side of the display19) may show the number of pumps (e.g., shots or doses) of ingredients desired by the customer. For example,FIG. 15Ashows one pump or dose as indicated by a slash in a first circle of the light indicators indicating that the light is lit up.FIG. 15Bshows three pumps or doses (corresponding to three lit-up light indicators) andFIG. 15Cshows seven pumps or doses (corresponding to seven lit-up light indicators), which is a maximum queue amount in the illustrated embodiment. However, other maximum pump (or dose) amounts may be implemented (e.g., fewer than seven or greater than seven as desired and/or required). The light indicators120or other indicator (e.g., alphanumeric LED indicator) may indicate the number of pumps to be dispensed automatically or may instruct the barista of the number of pumps to be dispensed manually. Each actuation of a user input device (e.g., input device20) may be equivalent to one dose or all the doses needed for that particular beverage. As the doses are dispensed, the display19may decrease the number of remaining doses (e.g., by darkening or turning off a light indicator or decreasing a number value). With reference toFIG. 15D, one or more of the light indicators120may also alert the barista that the bag25in a tray22of a particular modular dispenser is empty or that maintenance is needed. For example, a first one of the light indicators120may be lit up with a different color (e.g., red color indicated by the filled-in dark first light indicator inFIG. 15D) to indicate that the bag is empty or that maintenance is needed. In some implementations, the light indicator may flash in addition or as an alternative to a different color. An audible, graphical, or textual alert may also be generated. A first light indicator may also be used to indicate power is on for the modular dispenser.

FIG. 15Eshows a schematic side cross-section/block diagram of an embodiment of an individual modular dispenser45similar to that shown inFIGS. 15A-15D, although certain components may be repositioned inFIG. 15E. The modular dispenser45includes a housing18that houses internal components. A removable tray22can be inserted and removed from the housing18as described previously. The modular dispenser also includes a user input device20(e.g., press button) and/or display19(e.g., touchscreen display) and a dispensing spout21as previously described. The light indicators120(which may comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more than 7 discrete light indicators) may be positioned as shown to be seen from a front side of the modular dispenser45. The light indicators120may be positioned above or below the display19and/or user input device20.

The modular dispenser45includes electronic circuitry (e.g., a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA)) configured to facilitate operation of (electrical connection or communication to and/or from) the light indicators120, display19, user input device20. Power and/or data signals may be communicated between various components via wire harnesses121. A supply line124facilitates transfer of contents from the tray22(or a bag25in the tray22) to the dispensing spout21. The supply line124may be comprised of separate sections connected by a tube fitment or coupler126(e.g., to help navigate sharp turns).

The modular dispenser45may include an access panel125that may be removed to access the pump28and/or pump motor127(e.g., DC motor) and/or supply line124for maintenance purposes. The motor127and/or pump may be electrically connected to a master power and logic housing128(e.g., main controller38or individual modular controller) configured to supply power signals and data communications to the modular dispenser45via a wire harness121. The master power and logic housing128may be electrically coupled to a standard power socket or electrical outlet129on a wall of a coffee store. In some configurations, the power may alternatively or additionally be provided by a battery (e.g., rechargeable battery or replaceable battery) such that power can be maintained even during a power outage or to make the system more portable.

With reference toFIG. 16, the automated dispensing system9can also prompt the barista to follow a particular dispensing sequence by lighting up display lights46-49(which are shown positioned within an area of the user input device20) in a sequential manner. When a particular display light is on, the barista takes the cup to that modular dispenser to automatically or manually dispense ingredient (e.g., syrup, sauce or flavor) stored in that particular modular dispenser. Multiple baristas can work with the automated dispensing system9simultaneously, for example, by changing the color of the light or another aspect of the indicator (e.g., providing multiple different light indicators on each modular dispenser) for each separate order. That way, two or more baristas can be prompted on a beverage sequence at the same time.

As shown inFIG. 17, the display19for the modular dispensers (e.g., any of modular dispensers10-16,37,45) can have multiple icons or indicators to indicate different operational parameters. For example, a cleaning icon or indicator50A may prompt a barista or other user that a cleaning cycle should be performed or is being performed. As another example, an error indicator50B (illustrated as an exclamation mark as one example icon) may indicate that an error has occurred that requires attention (such as erroneous bag loading). As a further example, a third icon or indicator52may include a visual gauge or series of lights or other indicators to indicate an amount of ingredient (e.g., sauce, syrup or flavor) remaining modular dispenser in order to prompt the barista to change out the ingredient bag before it is depleted to avoid having to re-prime the supply line or pump. The display19may also include a numerical indicator51(e.g., alphanumeric LED indicator) to indicate a number of pumps, shots or doses to be dispensed (which can be adjusted by the barista) as described above by pressing the user input device20.

With reference toFIG. 18, the order of the dispensing sequence can also originate remote from the dispensing system9. The order can originate in a remote server53or in an order management system or point of sale system54and communicated to the controller55(e.g., main controller38) that can retrieve the recipe from memory (e.g., memory40) and prompt the modular dispenser56(e.g., any of modular dispensers10-16,37,45) to dispense an appropriate amount of ingredient (e.g., sauce, syrup or flavor).

In accordance with several embodiments, cleaning is an important part of the automated dispensing system9as this equipment is used to dispense food or beverage substances. Cleaning can be prompted in a timely manner (e.g., periodically according to a predetermined schedule or based on actual usage).FIG. 19illustrates a schematic flow diagram of a cleaning process. The cleaning prompt can originate remotely at Block57(e.g., from a remote server) or from a controller (e.g., main controller38, controller55) at Block59or the cleaning prompt can also be manually initiated by the barista at Block58. The controller can send an individual modular dispenser a prompt or instruction to display the cleaning icon50A on the display at Block59. The barista then loads a cleaning solution in the dispenser tray (e.g., tray22) at Block60and directs (e.g., by pressing a user input) the modular dispenser to go into a cleaning mode at Block61. In some implementations, the cleaning mode may be entered automatically upon loading of the cleaning solution and pressing the tray back into modular dispenser. The modular dispenser completes the cleaning cycle and prompts the barista to reload the ingredient at Block62. The capability to have a cleaning cycle for each individual modular dispenser without any disassembly of the equipment is useful as each ingredient may have different cleaning requirements. In addition, the other modular dispensers connected to the dispensing system9may still be used while one or more modular dispensers are being cleaned.

FIG. 20shows a block diagram of a manually-operable modular dispenser130. The manual operation may be incorporated into any of the modular dispensers described herein. The manual operation mechanism comprises a ratcheting system that includes a hand crank132that is operably coupled to a drive shaft133. Rotation of the hand crank132causes corresponding rotation of the drive shaft133. The drive shaft133is mechanically and operably coupled to one or more gears. Rotation of the drive shaft133may rotate a first gear134A attached to the drive shaft133. The first gear134A may be mechanically and operably coupled to a second gear134B that in turn is mechanically and operably coupled to a motor/pump assembly of the modular dispenser130. The hand crank132may be located at various locations (e.g., a front surface of the housing18below or adjacent the dispensing spout21). The manual operation mechanism may advantageously facilitate operation of the modular dispenser130even when power is lost. Other manual operation mechanisms may be implemented as well (e.g., more than two or fewer than two gears).

FIGS. 21-27illustrate another embodiment of a modular dispenser135without a display screen19. The modular dispenser135may include structural and functional features similar to the modular dispensers described herein (e.g., housing18, a user input device20, a dispensing spout21, a tray22, guiding features23, pump28, a label plate35, light indicators120). The tray22may include similar tray features as described herein (e.g., pull feature24, bag25, valve26, locating feature27, drip catch feature111). The modular dispenser135may include a simplified user interface that includes an enlarged user input device20. As shown inFIGS. 26 and 27, the pump frame112(e.g., an access panel of the pump frame112) may be removed to access the pump28for maintenance.

FIGS. 28A-28Dschematically illustrate a sample workflow or operation and show an example embodiment of an aggregator63that can be incorporated into or can be communicatively and operably coupled to the automated dispensing systems9described herein. The aggregator63may be configured to efficiently process customer orders to facilitate high throughput while maintaining quality control and accuracy of customer orders communicated to the automated dispensing system.

With reference toFIG. 28A, customer orders may be received by the order management or point of sale system54from (1) a barista entering a customer order locally at a coffee store in response to oral instructions from a customer ordering at an in-store counter or via a drive-thru ordering system, (2) a customer entering a customer order locally via an in-store self-service kiosk, (3) a customer using a mobile order and pay software application, (4) a customer using an online ordering method, and/or other source.FIG. 28Ashows an example customer order64and example data or information that may be captured and received by the point of sale system54. The customer order information may include, for example, a date, time, customer name, and the beverage and/or food items ordered by the customer, along with any modifiers or ingredients (e.g., flavors, sauces, or syrups, or reduction of sugar).

The point of sale system54may then send the customer order data or information to a server or store production controller65. The server or store production controller65may be located in the coffee store and may be communicatively coupled to the point of sale system54via a communication cable (e.g., Ethernet cable) or via a wireless connection (e.g., Wi-Fi connection via a wireless network such as a local area network or a Bluetooth connection). In some implementations, the server or store production controller65may not be located in the coffee store and may be located at a remote location (e.g., a remote server) and communicatively coupled to the point of sale system54via a telecommunications network (e.g., the Internet, Telex network, wireless radio network, etc.).

The store production controller65is configured to, upon execution of instructions stored on a non-transitory storage medium, disaggregate the customer order data into separate, individual food or beverage item orders66. Each individual item order66includes a customer order number, a customer name, a name of the food and/or beverage items, and a list of any requested modifiers or ingredients (e.g., sauce, syrup, flavor, or reduction of sugar) for each food and/or beverage item.

With reference toFIG. 28B, each disaggregated individual item order66is sent to the aggregator63in sequence. In several implementations, the individual item orders66may be published as webhooks (e.g., messages or notifications with information sent between network resources). The aggregator63includes software instructions stored in memory that are executed to cause an icon67associated with each individual item order66(at least the beverage item orders) to appear on a display screen68of the aggregator63. The icons may be customized to look like particular beverages or types of beverages.

Turning toFIG. 28C, the display screen68may comprise a touch screen display (e.g., LCD or OLED display) that allows a barista or operator to both visualize output on the display screen68and to provide input to cause the aggregator63to send control signals to the modular dispensers (e.g., modular dispensers10-16,37,45,56,135) of the automated dispensing system9(e.g., to the main controller38,55). For example, a barista may select a beverage to be made by touching the display screen68at the location of the icon67corresponding to the beverage with his or her finger. The display screen68may be configured to have two pages or tabs. A first page or tab69may be configured to display pending customer orders and a second page or tab70may be configured to display completed orders. A barista may toggle between the two tabs using the touch screen display or a user input device (e.g., button).

Upon selection of an icon by the barista, the aggregator63is configured to send the beverage item data or information (e.g., beverage name and ingredients or modifiers) corresponding to the selected icon to the modular dispensers10-16,37,45,56,135(e.g., to the main controller38,55of an automated dispensing system9including the modular dispensers10-16,37,45,56,135). The main controller38,55may then execute instructions to prepare the beverage based on the beverage item data or information received from the individual beverage item order66and based on recipe information for the particular beverage stored in memory (e.g., memory40). The aggregator63may also send the beverage item data or information for each individual item order66to a label printer71(e.g., which may be communicatively coupled via a wired or wireless connection, such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection) so that a label can be automatically printed with the individual item order information and placed on a beverage cup or other vessel.

With reference toFIG. 28D, the aggregator63is a standalone unit or module having its own local processor or controller, memory, and display. The aggregator63may be implemented using hardware, software, and/or firmware. The aggregator63includes communications network interface hardware72(e.g., a wired Ethernet network interface card and/or one or more wireless network interface cards, such as a Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth network interface card) to enable wired and/or wireless communications with the store production controller53or a remote server. The aggregator63also includes serial communications interface hardware73to facilitate one-way or two-way communication (e.g., data transmission, control signals) with the main controller38,55of the automated dispensing system9over a serial bus link. A parallel bus link may be used in alternative embodiments.

The aggregator63further includes local memory74. The local memory74may store a backup copy of beverage recipes for the automated dispensing system9and may store firmware of the aggregator63. The local memory may include, for example, RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, and/or the like. The aggregator63may include user experience/user interface software75stored in memory to be executed by one or more processors (e.g., digital signal processor, microprocessor, graphics processing unit, special-purpose processor). The user experience/user interface software74may be executed to generate icons for display on the display screen68corresponding to various beverages, to generate the two pages or tabs of pending orders and past orders, to react to touch screen input received from the barista, and to display and adjust content on the display screen68(e.g., display brightness, alerts, notices, etc.).

Turning toFIGS. 29A-29C, in accordance with several embodiments, an automated modular dispensing system or unit76(e.g., automated dispensing systems9described herein) can advantageously comprise a system or unit adapted and configured to aggregate ingredients or modifiers (e.g., sweetener, flavor and color) simultaneously.FIGS. 29A-29Cshow a front, top and side view, respectively, of the modular dispensing system76. The modular dispensing system76comprises a series of pump and motor assemblies77, supply lines78, a display79, sweetener, sauce or syrup cartridges80and color or flavor concentrate cartridges81. The pump and motor assemblies77may be various sizes and can be combined to create endless combinations and permutations of customized beverages. The size of the pump may be dependent, for example, on a liquid viscosity and a desired dose of the ingredient or modifier.

With reference toFIG. 30, the modular dispensing system or unit76can work independently or in series with other modular dispensers (e.g., modular dispensers10-16,37,45,56,135) described herein.FIG. 30show various configurations of modular systems in which modular dispensers may be stacked vertically and/or placed horizontally adjacent to each other (e.g., depending on a particular space or area of a coffee store and surrounding equipment). The system is adaptable and modular to suit the needs or desires of a particular coffee store manager or baristas.

When the modular dispensing system76is connected to a motherboard or centralized processing unit (e.g., main controller38), the modular dispensing system76can advantageously prepare any color drink via color or flavor concentrate cartridges81of any or all of the primary colors or most common coffee or tea beverage colors. Additionally, endless flavor mixing profiles are possible when connected to the motherboard or centralized processing unit (e.g., main controller38). The flavors are dispensed simultaneously and dispense at a single point (e.g., a central dispenser spout150), as shown inFIG. 31. The central dispenser spout150may be fluidically coupled to one or more of the dispenser modules, or modular dispensers. As shown, the central dispenser spout150may include multiple outlet orifices to facilitate simultaneous delivery of ingredients or modifiers (e.g., syrups, sauces, flavors, color concentrates, sweeteners) along with a base beverage. Larger central outlets140may facilitate delivery of the base beverage (including water) into a cup or other vessel and smaller outer outlets145may facilitate delivery of the ingredients or modifiers. As one example, smoked flavor plus caramel syrup may result in a customized smoked caramel coffee beverage. The modular dispensing system76may incorporate any or all of the structural and functional components and features of the dispensing systems9described herein, and vice-versa.

FIGS. 32-34schematically illustrate cleaning configurations or implementations of the automated modular dispensing systems9,76. With reference toFIGS. 32 and 33, the dispensing systems9,76may be cleaned using an automated process utilizing a granular cleaning cartridge84(schematically illustrated inFIG. 32) and a designated cleaning tray85(schematically illustrated inFIG. 33). The granular cleaning cartridge84is refillable and includes a one-way fluid flow path as illustrated. The granular cleaning cartridge84includes a one-way inlet valve86at an inlet end of the granular cleaning cartridge84. An outlet end of the granular cleaning cartridge84may include a female fitment88for a male probe or tubing fitment/connector to transport cleaning solution out of the granular cleaning cartridge84and through tubing or supply lines of the pumping assembly and then out the dispenser spout21. Granular cleaning product87may be inserted within the granular cleaning cartridge84. The granular cleaning product87may be concentrated as required and/or desired by a unit volume and/or sanitation target.

Turning toFIG. 33, the designated cleaning trays85may comprise a two-compartment system or unit, with one compartment or chamber for clean (or fresh) water and one compartment or chamber for waste water. The two compartments or chambers may be physically and fluidically isolated from each other to avoid contamination. The granular cleaning cartridge84is configured to be positioned inside the clean water compartment or chamber of the cleaning tray85. The granular cleaning cartridge84may be mechanically coupled to an outlet mechanism of the cleaning tray85.

The cleaning trays85may be sized and adapted to be inserted after removal of an ingredient tray22from a modular dispenser45. When the cleaning trays85are correctly inserted into the modular dispenser45, a sensor and/or switch of the modular dispenser45may recognize or detect the cleaning tray85as a unique or dedicated cleaning tray instead of an ingredient tray22to prevent a barista from accidentally serving cleaner to a customer. The sensor and/or switch may also trigger a “clean mode” activation option on the display screen of the dispenser module. With one touch press of button (e.g., user input device20), a barista may turn on, or activate, cleaning.

FIG. 34schematically illustrates an embodiment of a cleaning cycle using the granular cleaning cartridge84positioned in a designated cleaning tray85. The cleaning cycle starts with all of the water in the fresh water compartment or chamber. As the cleaning cycle proceeds, enough fresh, clean water may flow through the granular cleaning cartridge84(which includes the granular cleaning product87) to create a desired cleaning solution and then into the modular dispenser unit45(e.g., through the pump and tubing (e.g., supply lines) of the pump assembly) for cleaning. The fluid then exits the dispenser spout21of the modular dispenser45and into the waste water compartment or chamber of the cleaning tray85. After a certain period of time (e.g., after about 50% of the fresh water in the fresh water compartment chamber has been drained out), the granular cleaning product87is depleted and any remaining fresh, clean water may flow through the modular dispenser unit45as part of a rinsing cycle (as shown in the middle figure ofFIG. 34). Eventually, all the liquid may end up in the waste water compartment or chamber of the cleaning tray85(as shown at the bottom ofFIG. 34), which triggers an end of a cleaning cycle and a beginning of a dry cycle. A barista may then be prompted (e.g., via a textual prompt or graphical icon on the display or via an indicator light) to remove the cleaning tray85and replace it with a new ingredient tank22.

Although certain embodiments have been described herein in connection with flavors, sauces, or syrups for coffee or tea beverages, the systems described herein can be used for any type of ingredient or food product. For example, in some embodiments, the systems herein can be used to deliver fluid or solid ingredients, such as ketchup, mustard, barbecue sauce, cheese sauce, relish, onions, etc. In some embodiments, the systems herein can be used to produce other types of beverages such as sodas, juices, smoothies, milkshakes, etc.

Depending on the embodiment, certain acts, events, or functions of any of the processes or algorithms described herein can be performed in a different sequence, can be added, merged, or left out altogether (e.g., not all described operations or events are necessary for the practice of the algorithm). Moreover, in certain embodiments, operations or events can be performed concurrently.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various embodiments, it can be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices or algorithms illustrated can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, although different numbers have been used for similar components or features in different figures (e.g., different numbers have been used for the dispenser modules, displays, controllers, etc.), the structural and functional features described in connection with one figure, embodiment, or numbered element may be incorporated into the different-numbered components or features, and vice-versa. As can be recognized, certain embodiments described herein can be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practiced separately from others. The scope of certain embodiments disclosed herein is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.