Carbonated beverage makers, methods, and systems

A carbonated beverage maker includes a water reservoir, a carbon dioxide creation chamber, and a carbonation chamber. The water reservoir holds ice water and has a first impeller and a shroud surrounding the first impeller. The carbon dioxide creation chamber contains chemical elements and receives warm water. The chemical elements react with each other to create carbon dioxide when the warm water is introduced to the carbon dioxide creation chamber. The carbonation chamber is connected to the water reservoir and the carbon dioxide creation chamber. The carbonation chamber has a second impeller that includes a stem portion and blades. The stem portion and the blades define conduits therein. The blades create a low pressure region in a lower portion of the carbonation chamber such that carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide creation chamber flows through the conduits to the low pressure region.

BACKGROUND

Field of the Invention

Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to carbonated beverage makers, and more specifically to make-my-own carbonated beverage makers that generate CO2and utilize a pod system to carbonate and deliver individual, customizable beverages.

Background

Household appliances may be used to create beverages. However, creating homemade carbonated beverages presents difficulties beyond those of creating non-carbonated beverages. Some of these difficulties are directly related to the process of carbonation. Other difficulties are byproducts of the carbonation process.

The difficulties directly related to the process of carbonation include carbonation quality and efficiency. For example, the quality of the carbonation greatly affects the beverage taste and user experience. Drinks having low-quality carbonation are therefore undesirable and may lead to customer dissatisfaction. As a further example, efficiency of the carbonation process may be important to users. Inefficient carbonation can be costly and wasteful. Because a user needs to replenish the carbonation source, such as a CO2tank, it is desirable to increase the number of drinks that may be created with the same amount of the carbonation source. Finally, the carbonation process leads to pressurized beverages that may result in overflowing drinks and spills if not properly controlled. Not only is this wasteful, but it also negatively affects the user experience.

Additional difficulties with the carbonation process relate to the use of a CO2tank. For example, CO2tanks may require special handling and disposal. Accordingly, CO2tanks cannot be shipped to a consumer. Furthermore, CO2tanks may be costly and large, thus increasing the cost and size of the carbonated beverage maker.

In addition to difficulties directly related to the carbonation process, there are difficulties that are byproducts of carbonating beverages. For example, while users desire the ability to customize their drinks (i.e., to be healthier, to adjust carbonation, or to provide different flavors, additives, etc.), this can be difficult when carbonating the beverage. Existing systems are limited in what can be carbonated (e.g., many only carbonate water) and do not offer customizability, particularly when the system is pod-based. As such, existing systems do not provide a user experience that conveys a freshly-made drink, nor do they inspire creativity in the user's beverage-making experience. Another byproduct difficulty is that, while carbonated beverages are most enjoyable at cold temperatures, the carbonation process may increase the temperature of the beverage.

Finally, because carbonated beverages may be inexpensively purchased from a store, a household appliance that creates carbonated beverages may be too costly for users. Furthermore, a household appliance that creates carbonated beverages may be too large, taking up too much countertop space in the user's home. In light of the foregoing, further improvements in carbonated beverage makers are desirable.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention provide make-my-own carbonated beverage makers that address the need for improvements in single-serve carbonation devices and processes, such as generating and/or supplying CO2for carbonating beverages.

In some embodiments, a carbonated beverage maker includes a water reservoir, a carbon dioxide creation chamber, and a carbonation chamber. In some embodiments, the water reservoir holds ice water and has a first impeller and a shroud surrounding the first impeller. In some embodiments, the carbon dioxide creation chamber contains chemical elements and receives warm water. In some embodiments, the dry chemical elements react with each other to create carbon dioxide when the warm water is introduced to the carbon dioxide creation chamber. In some embodiments, the carbonation chamber is connected to the water reservoir and the carbon dioxide creation chamber. In some embodiments, the carbonation chamber has a second impeller that includes a stem portion and blades. In some embodiments, the stem portion and the blades define conduits therein. In some embodiments, the blades create a low pressure region in a lower portion of the carbonation chamber such that carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide creation chamber flows through the conduits to the low pressure region.

In some embodiments, the chemical elements comprise potassium carbonate and citric acid. In some embodiments, the chemical elements comprise dry chemical elements. In some embodiments, the chemical elements comprise a tablet. In some embodiments, the chemical elements are disposed in a pod. In some embodiments, the carbonated beverage maker also includes a needle to deliver the warm water to the carbon dioxide creation chamber.

In some embodiments, a method of creating a carbonated beverage includes delivering cold water to a carbonation chamber, adding warm water to a mixture of potassium carbonate and citric acid in a carbon dioxide creation chamber to create carbon dioxide, delivering the carbon dioxide to the carbonation chamber, and entraining the carbon dioxide into the cold water via an impeller disposed in the carbonation chamber to create carbonated water.

In some embodiments, the method also includes dispensing the carbonated water into a cup. In some embodiments, the method also includes mixing a flavor source with the carbonated water. In some embodiments, the flavor source is a syrup. In some embodiments, mixing the flavor source with the carbonated water includes simultaneously dispensing the carbonated water and the flavor source into a cup. In some embodiments, the flavor source includes a single serve pod.

In some embodiments, the method also includes, simultaneously with the cold water beginning to be delivered to the carbonation chamber, sending a signal to the carbon dioxide creation chamber to trigger a pre-determined time delay. In some embodiments, the warm water is added to the mixture of potassium carbonate and citric acid after the pre-determined time delay. In some embodiments, the warm water is added to the mixture of potassium carbonate and citric acid for a pre-determined amount of time beginning after the pre-determined time delay.

In some embodiments, a carbonated beverage making system includes a reservoir to hold a diluent, a carbon dioxide creation chamber to produce carbon dioxide via a chemical reaction, and a carbonation chamber to receive the diluent from the reservoir and the carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide creation chamber and to mix the diluent and the carbon dioxide to form a carbonated beverage. In some embodiments, the chemical reaction is isolated from the carbonated beverage.

In some embodiments, the carbon dioxide produced via the chemical reaction is at room temperature. In some embodiments, the chemical reaction is initiated by introducing water to a mixture of chemical elements. In some embodiments, the chemical reaction is a reaction between potassium carbonate and citric acid. In some embodiments, the carbonated beverage making system receives carbon dioxide from a gas tank in place of the carbon dioxide creation chamber.

In some embodiments, a carbonated beverage maker includes a carbonation source, a flavor source, a removable carbonation chamber configured to contain a liquid, and an impeller disposed at a bottom of the removable carbonation chamber. In some embodiments, the liquid is carbonated, cooled, and flavored in the removable carbonation chamber.

In some embodiments, a carbonation cup includes a transparent plastic layer forming a base and a cylinder, a metal sheath disposed outside the transparent plastic layer, a magnetically-driven impeller disposed at an inner side of the base of the transparent plastic layer, and an attachment member disposed at an end of the cylinder opposite the base. In some embodiments, the attachment member is configured to seal the carbonation cup when attached to a carbonated beverage maker having a carbonation source. In some embodiments, the metal sheath defines a plurality of holes so that a portion of the transparent plastic layer is visible from outside the carbonation cup.

In some embodiments, a carbonated beverage maker includes a water reservoir configured to hold ice water, a carbonation chamber connected to the water reservoir and a carbonation source. In some embodiments, the water reservoir has a first impeller and a shroud surrounding the first impeller. In some embodiments, the carbonation chamber has a second impeller. In some embodiments, the second impeller includes a stem portion and blades. In some embodiments, the stem portion and the blades define conduits therein. In some embodiments, the blades are configured to create a low pressure region in a lower portion of the carbonation chamber such that carbon-dioxide from the carbonation source flows through the conduits to the low pressure region.

In some embodiments, a water reservoir for a carbonated beverage maker includes a double-walled tank configured to hold ice water, an impeller disposed in the tank and configured to agitate the ice water, a shroud disposed around the impeller and configured to protect the impeller from ice, a cold plate disposed underneath the tank, a thermoelectric cooler disposed on the cold plate, and a heat pipe assembly configured to remove heat from the thermoelectric cooler.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Consumers may use household appliances to prepare beverages at home. For preparing carbonated beverages, a particular device (i.e., a carbonated beverage maker) may be required. It is desirable to provide an inexpensive, compact carbonated beverage maker that allows users to create customized individual beverages according to their own preferences. It is further desirable that such carbonated beverage makers efficiently produce high quality carbonated beverages.

The following disclosure relates to carbonated beverage makers. Carbonated beverage makers, according to some embodiments, may be used in a home, office, school, or other similar setting, including a small commercial setting. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may be used on a countertop or tabletop, for example, in a user's kitchen.

In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.1, a carbonated beverage maker10includes each of a cooling system20, a carbonation system30, a flavor system40, and a diluent system50. In some embodiments, a carbonated beverage maker may not have all four of these systems. In some embodiments, a carbonated beverage maker may include additional systems. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the systems may vary in the level of manual operation required to perform the function associated with the system.

Cooling system20, in some embodiments, cools a diluent from room temperature to a desired beverage temperature. In some embodiments, cooling system20cools the diluent prior to adding concentrate or other flavoring from flavor system40. In some embodiments, cooling system20cools the beverage created with the diluent and the concentrate. In some embodiments, cooling system20primarily maintains a desired beverage temperature. In some embodiments, ice is used in cooling system20.

Carbonation system30, in some embodiments, carbonates a diluent. In some embodiments, carbonation system30carbonates the diluent prior to adding concentrate or flavoring from flavor system40. In some embodiments, carbonation system30carbonates the beverage created with the diluent and the concentrate. In some embodiments, carbonation system30uses an impeller to encourage carbonation of a beverage. In some embodiments, carbonation system30carbonates the diluent or beverage using a CO2cylinder as a carbonation source. In some embodiments, other carbonation sources may be used, as described in more detail below.

Flavor system40, in some embodiments, delivers a flavor, for example, in the form of a concentrate, into a diluent. In some embodiments, flavor system40delivers the flavor prior to carbonation. In some embodiments, flavor system40delivers the flavor after the diluent is carbonated. In some embodiments, flavor system40uses pods to contain and deliver the flavor concentrate. While flavor is primarily referred to here, flavor system40is not limited solely to flavor, but instead, may include, for example, additives, nutrients, colorants, and so on. Flavor system40may provide the flavor as liquid, syrup, powder, gel, beads, or other medium.

Diluent system50, in some embodiments, delivers a diluent to be carbonated. In some embodiments, diluent system50includes a reservoir in beverage maker10to contain an amount of the diluent. In some embodiments, diluent system50may include a connection to a remote source that contains the diluent. In some embodiments, the diluent may be added manually. In some embodiments, the diluent is water. Other possible diluents include juice, milk, or other consumable liquid.

As already noted in the descriptions above, the order of these functions (cooling, carbonation, flavoring, providing diluent, etc.) may vary in some embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, flavor system40may deliver a flavor into diluent after the diluent is cooled, while in other embodiments, flavor system40may deliver a flavor into diluent before the diluent is cooled.

Some embodiments of a carbonated beverage maker will now be described with reference toFIGS.2-13. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.2, a carbonated beverage maker100includes a housing102, a carbonation source150, a flavor source160, a user interface (such as a touch screen170), a cup docking module180, and a carbonation cup110. In some embodiments, housing102provides the infrastructure to contain and/or support each of the systems of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, carbonation source150is disposed within a main portion of housing102. InFIG.2, a portion of housing102is removed to show carbonation source150within housing102. In some embodiments, touch screen170(or other types of user interfaces) is disposed on housing102. In some embodiments, cup docking module180attaches to housing102. In some embodiments, cup docking module180supports flavor source160and carbonation cup110.

In some embodiments, carbonation cup110is removable from cup docking module180. Thus, carbonation cup110, in some embodiments, may be manually removed and filled with a diluent, such as water. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110may be filled with ice in addition to a diluent. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110may be manually removed and washed after any use. This arrangement may increase the versatility and customization possible in beverage creation using carbonated beverage maker100. More specifically, carbonated beverage maker100is capable of carbonating a wide variety of beverages, such as water, milk, juice, or other drink.

Thus, in some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100provides a single chamber—carbonation cup110—for the cooling, carbonation, flavoring, and providing diluent for a beverage. In some embodiments, both the diluent (e.g., water) and the flavor are provided to carbonation cup110prior to carbonation. This arrangement may lower the operating pressure and reduce the CO2consumption of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100is capable of carbonating a wide variety of beverages.

FIG.3illustrates a schematic that provides an overview of key components of carbonated beverage maker100according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100comprises a power supply104and a control unit106. Power supply104provides adequate power to control unit106and all other components of carbonated beverage maker100in need of power. In some embodiments, power supply104provides a constant voltage to one or more components of carbonated beverage maker100(e.g., 24 volts to control unit106). In some embodiments, power supply104provides a varying voltage to one or more components of carbonated beverage maker100(e.g., varying voltage to an impeller motor130). In some embodiments, power supply104provides the varying voltage indirectly to one or more components of carbonated beverage maker100(e.g., constant 24 volts to control unit106; varying voltage from control unit106to impeller motor130). In some embodiments, power supply104provides a constant voltage (e.g., 24 volts) which may be reduced (e.g., 5 volts) before providing power to one or more components of carbonated beverage maker100(e.g., touch screen170). In some embodiments, power source104comprises a battery. For example, carbonated beverage maker100may operate solely by battery power. In some embodiments, power source104comprises a plug to be inserted into an electrical outlet of a user's home.

In some embodiments, control unit106controls the operation of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, control unit106is operably connected to each of the components of carbonated beverage maker100to control the beverage creation process. As noted above, control unit106utilizes power from power source104. In some embodiments, control unit106supplies power to other components of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, control unit106receives inputs from touch screen170. In some embodiments, control unit106communicates with touch screen170through a serial peripheral interface. In some embodiments, control unit106uses inputs from touch screen170to determine the operation of other components of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, control unit106communicates with components of carbonated beverage maker100with digital inputs and outputs. In some embodiments, control unit106communicates with components of carbonated beverage maker100through analog communication. In some embodiments, both digital and analog communication are utilized. Control unit106may communicate with one or more of a CO2supply solenoid valve154, a pressure sensor155, a solenoid vent valve138, an impeller motor130, a light emitting diode142at carbonation cup110, a micro switch140, a micro switch166, and an air pump162. In some embodiments, control unit106comprises a microcontroller.

As noted above, and as shown in the schematic ofFIG.3, channels from carbonation source150and flavor source160lead to carbonation cup110. Thus, carbonation cup110, in some embodiments, is designed to accommodate the various systems of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110, as shown, for example, inFIG.4, is used to provide the diluent, flavor the diluent, cool the diluent/beverage, and carbonate the beverage. In some embodiments, one or more of these functions may be accomplished simultaneously.

In some embodiments, a user fills carbonation cup110with a diluent. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110is removable from carbonated beverage maker100, which allows a user to more easily fill carbonation cup110with a diluent. In some embodiments, the diluent is water. Other diluents may also be used, including, but not limited to, milk, juice, or other drinks. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110may include a fill line indicator116for the diluent. In some embodiments, ice may be provided with the diluent. Thus, in some embodiments, fill line indicator116provides the fill line for the combination of diluent and ice. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110comprises two fill line indicators116,118—one for diluent and one for ice. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.4, ice fill line indicator118is below diluent fill line indicator116. In some embodiments, ice fill line indicator118is above diluent fill line indicator116. Fill line indicators116,118may include visual markings, tactile markings, or a combination of both. Fill line indicators116,118may include words, symbols, colors, solid lines, and/or dashed lines. In some embodiments, fill line indicators116,118are only suggestions for optimal performance. A user may elect to fill carbonation cup110in a different manner to produce a customized beverage.

As noted above, ice may also be added to carbonation cup110. In some embodiments, ice is a main aspect of the cooling system of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110comprises a material that has thermal insulation properties. For example, carbonation cup110may comprise plastic. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110includes a plastic cup112. In some embodiments, plastic cup112is transparent or semi-transparent. Additional aspects of the cooling system provided by carbonation cup110will be discussed below.

In some embodiments, carbonation cup110comprises a carbonation chamber for carbonated beverage maker100. Thus, carbonation cup110may be a pressure vessel capable of safely maintaining a pressure at which the beverage will be carbonated. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110comprises a material that can withstand high pressure. For example, carbonation cup110may comprise steel. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110includes a steel sheath114that surrounds plastic cup112. In some embodiments, steel sheath114completely surrounds plastic cup112so that plastic cup112is not visible from outside carbonation cup110. In some embodiments, steel sheath114defines one or more holes115therein. Thus, holes115in steel sheath114allow a user to see plastic cup112from outside carbonation cup110. Fill line indicators116,118may be disposed only on plastic cup112, only on steel sheath114, or both. When plastic cup112is transparent or semi-transparent, holes115in steel sheath114allow a user to see the beverage within carbonation cup110. Moreover, a user can view the process of creating the beverage through holes115. Holes115may comprise a variety of shapes, sizes, and patterns. In some embodiments, holes115are circular. In some embodiments, holes115approximate bubbles.

Carbonation cup110may attach to carbonated beverage maker100at cup docking module180(seeFIG.2). In some embodiments, carbonation cup110includes one or more attachment projections182around a top lip. For example, as shown inFIG.4, carbonation cup may include four attachment projections182. Attachment projections182may be configured to support carbonation cup110within cup docking module180. In some embodiments, cup docking module180includes a support ring184, as shown, for example inFIG.5. In some embodiments, at an inner portion of support ring184are located projection mating interfaces186corresponding to attachment projections182. In between each projection mating interface186is a gap big enough for attachment projection182to extend through. Thus, to attach carbonation cup110to cup docking module180, a user orients carbonation cup110so that attachment projections182align with the gaps and inserts carbonation cup110into support ring184until attachment projections182are above projection mating interfaces186. A user then rotates carbonation cup110so that attachment projections182are resting on projection mating interfaces186. In some embodiments, projection mating interfaces186include a detent188to prevent accidental removal of carbonation cup110from cup docking module180. For example, detent188may prevent early removal of carbonation cup110from docking module180while carbonation cup110is still pressurized. This configuration also serves to ensure that only a proper carbonation cup110is used with carbonated beverage maker100.

In some embodiments, when carbonation cup110is attached to carbonated beverage maker100, a sealed, pressure-tight chamber is formed. In some embodiments, an internal lip seal144is used to seal carbonation cup110with cup docking module180. Internal lip seal144, as shown, for example, inFIGS.6and7, may be made of rubber. In some embodiments, internal lip seal144includes spring146and inner metal case148. Spring146may adjust for any non-concentric aspect of carbonation cup110. Internal lip seal144may expand under pressure, thus, further sealing carbonation cup110with cup docking module180. In some embodiments, internal lip seal144is disposed in cup docking module180such that when carbonation cup110is attached to cup docking module180, internal lip seal144is disposed within carbonation cup110around its lip.

In some embodiments, cup docking module180includes a micro switch140, as shown inFIG.3, which may detect the presence of carbonation cup110. When carbonation cup110is detected, micro switch140closes to complete a circuit. If carbonation cup110is not detected, micro switch140remains open. An open circuit condition prevents carbonated beverage maker100from operating. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110is detected with use of light emitting diode142.

In some embodiments, when carbonation cup110is attached to carbonated beverage maker100, carbonation source150is operably connected with carbonation cup110, as shown inFIG.3. In some embodiments, carbonation source150comprises a CO2tank or cylinder. However, other carbonation sources may be used, which are described in further detail below. In some embodiments, a pressure regulator152is attached to carbonation source150. Pressure regulator152may keep carbonation source150at a particular pressure. In some embodiments, pressure regulator152keeps carbonation source150at a pressure of 3.5 bars.

In some embodiments a supply line158runs from carbonation source150to carbonation cup110. Supply line158may include CO2supply solenoid valve154. In some embodiments, CO2supply solenoid valve154is controlled by control unit106. For example, at an appropriate time during the operation of carbonated beverage maker100, control unit106may communicate with CO2supply solenoid valve154, causing CO2supply solenoid valve154to open and allow flow of CO2to carbonation cup110through supply line158. Supply line158runs through cup docking module180and ends at an inlet into carbonation cup110. After the desired amount of CO2has been used, control unit106communicates with CO2supply solenoid valve154, causing CO2supply solenoid valve154to close. In some embodiments, supply line158may also include a pressure relief valve156. Pressure relief valve156senses pressure within carbonation cup110and supply line158and is configured to open when the pressure is too high. For example, if the chamber reaches a predetermined pressure, pressure relief valve156may open to lower the pressure. In some embodiments, the predetermined pressure is 4.5 bars.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100includes a solenoid vent valve138, as shown, for example, in the schematic ofFIG.3. After carbonation of the beverage is completed, solenoid vent valve138may be used to release the pressure from carbonation cup110through a venting process. In some embodiments, the venting process through solenoid vent valve138is a stepped process to reduce expansion of the foam from the carbonated beverage. The venting process may vary based on the level of carbonation, the type of flavor or diluent, and other properties of the beverage. In some embodiments, the venting process reduces spills that may occur when removing carbonation cup110from carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, solenoid vent valve138is controlled by control unit106. Additional aspects of the carbonation system provided by carbonation cup110will be discussed below.

In addition to providing a connection to carbonation source150, cup docking module180may also provide a connection to flavor source160. Flavor source160may contain a powder, syrup, gel, liquid, beads, or other form of concentrate. In some embodiments, flavor source160is disposed within cup docking module180. In some embodiments, flavor source160comprises a pod. In some embodiments, flavor source160comprises a single-serving of flavor. In some embodiments, flavor source160contains sufficient flavoring for multiple servings. Cup docking module180may be configured to receive flavor source160. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100is configured to open flavor source160. Variations of pods and other flavor sources, and how carbonated beverage makers may open them, are described in more detail below.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100is configured to deliver the contents of flavor source160into carbonation cup110, as shown, for example, in the schematic ofFIG.3. For example, carbonated beverage maker100may include an air pump162. Air pump162may be operated by control unit106to pump the contents of flavor source160into carbonation cup110. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100includes a pressure relief valve164. Pressure relief valve164senses the pressure related to air pump162and is configured to open when the pressure is too high. For example, if a predetermined pressure is reached, pressure relief valve164may open to lower the pressure. In some embodiments, the predetermined pressure is 1 bar.

The contents of flavor source160may be provided into carbonation cup110prior to carbonation of the beverage. Providing the contents of flavor source160into carbonation cup110prior to carbonation of the beverage may assist in producing a beverage having a desirable temperature. In some embodiments, the contents of flavor source160may be provided into carbonation cup110during or after carbonation of the beverage. In some embodiments, cup docking module180includes a micro switch166, which may detect the presence of flavor source160. When flavor source160is detected, micro switch166closes to complete a circuit. If flavor source160is not detected, micro switch166remains open. An open circuit condition prevents carbonated beverage maker100from operating. Additional aspects of the flavor system provided by carbonation cup110will be discussed below.

As noted above, aspects of the cooling system, carbonation system, and flavor system, will now be discussed further. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110includes an impeller120, as shown, for example, inFIG.8. In some embodiments, impeller120includes a base121and a plurality of blades124that protrude from base121. In some embodiments, blades124protrude upwardly from the top of base121. In some embodiments, blades124may protrude outwardly. In some embodiments, impeller120includes a ring126. Ring126may have an outer circumference equal to the circumference of impeller120. Ring126is disposed at a top portion of impeller120, for example, above the blades124. In some embodiments, ring126is attached to each of the plurality of blades124. Thus, ring126may strengthen blades124so that ice moving within the beverage during operation of impeller120does not damage blades124.

Impeller120may assist in cooling, carbonating, and/or flavoring a beverage. In some embodiments, impeller120is disposed in a bottom of carbonation cup110, as shown, for example, inFIG.9. In some embodiments, impeller120attaches to carbonation cup110at a spindle122that projects from the bottom of carbonation cup110. Impeller120may include a hole128that interfaces with spindle122. In some embodiments, impeller120is removable from carbonation cup110. For example, hole128may interface with spindle122in such a way that secures impeller120to carbonation cup110to prevent unintentional detachment of impeller120, but that also allows removing impeller120, for example, for cleaning purposes.

Impeller120may be driven by an impeller motor130. In some embodiments, impeller motor130rotates around a spindle132. In some embodiments, impeller motor130includes magnets134to drive impeller120, which may include a magnetic material. Magnets134may be embedded within a pulley wheel136. Thus, as pulley wheel136rotates around spindle132, magnets135drive impeller120to also rotate. Because impeller120is magnetically driven, the pressure seal of carbonation cup110is maintained.

In some embodiments, cup docking module180attaches to carbonated beverage maker100via vertical rails176, as shown, for example, inFIG.10. In some embodiments, cup docking module180moves relative to vertical rails176. In some embodiments, springs178are disposed adjacent to vertical rails176. Cup docking module180may be attached to springs178. In this configuration, springs178operate to locate cup docking module180along vertical rails176. Thus, without the weight of carbonation cup110, cup docking module180is disposed along vertical rails176at a location that provides enough room underneath cup docking module to easily insert carbonation cup110into cup docking module180. When carbonation cup110is attached to cup docking module180, its weight pulls cup docking module180down to a lower position along vertical rails176so that impeller120is close enough to magnets134to be driven by impeller motor130.

In operation, impeller120serves the function of agitating the ice/water/flavor/CO2mixture. As a result, impeller120assists in cooling the beverage, mixing the beverage so that the flavor is homogenous in the beverage, and carbonating the beverage. In some embodiments, impeller120creates a vortex that draws the pressurized CO2near the bottom of carbonation cup110. In some embodiments, ring126of impeller120may assist in creating smaller gas bubbles that carbonate the beverage in carbonation cup110, thus improving the quality of carbonation. For example, the smaller gas bubbles may lead to a drink that maintains its carbonation for a longer period of time. As noted, the vortex also mixes the ice and water to produce a beverage at a cool temperature. In some embodiments, the ice counteracts the heat generated by the carbonation process. In some embodiments, most or all of the ice melts during the operation of impeller120.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100includes a user interface that allows a user to operate the device to make a carbonated beverage. The user interface may include, for example, dials, push buttons, switches, knobs, touch screens, display screens, lights, or a combination of these and other controls. In some embodiments, the user interface allows the user to customize the beverage. For example, the user may select a level of carbonation for the beverage (e.g., low carbonation, medium carbonation, high carbonation).

Carbonated beverage maker100may include a memory that stores recipes for producing particular beverages. For example, the recipe for low carbonation may be stored in memory such that when a user selects low carbonation on the user interface, control unit controls the functions of carbonated beverage maker100based on the recipe stored in the memory. In some embodiments, a recipe may be associated with flavor source160that is inserted into carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100is configured to identify flavor source160and use the corresponding recipe.

In some embodiments, the user interface comprises a touch screen170. Touch screen170receives input from a user. In some embodiments, touch screen170is operably connected to control unit106. Thus, control unit106may control the components of carbonated beverage maker100based on input received at touch screen170. For example, as shown inFIG.11, touch screen170may display selectable options172for making a beverage. Selectable options172may include, for example, an option for low carbonation (e.g., low carb), medium carbonation (e.g., mid carb), and high carbonation (e.g., high carb). Selectable options172may include an option for manual operation of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, manual operation allows a user to specifically control the carbonation process rather than relying on a recipe stored in the memory of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, when a selectable option172is chosen, touch screen170may change to communicate the selected option. For example, as shown inFIG.12, when a user selects low carbonation, touch screen170may communicate that carbonated beverage maker100is carbonating the beverage at a low setting. In some embodiments, touch screen170includes a separate start button. In some embodiments, selectable options172operate simultaneously as a selection button and a start button.

In some embodiments, additional levels of carbonation may be options. For example, a user may select the level of carbonation on a scale from one to ten. In some embodiments, the user interface provides a continuous scale of carbonation rather than discrete options. For example, a rotating knob may be used to select a carbonation level.

A method200of using carbonated beverage maker100, as shown, for example, inFIG.13, will now be described in more detail. At operation210, filled carbonation cup110is attached to carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, a user may fill carbonation cup110with a diluent. In some embodiments, a user may add ice with the diluent. For example, in some embodiments, the user may add a pre-determined amount of ice and water to carbonation cup110. Other diluents may be used. For example, a user may fill carbonation cup110with water, juice, milk, or any other drink. In some embodiments, the user may also add other additives to carbonation cup110, such as fruit. To attach filled carbonation cup110to carbonated beverage maker at operation210, the user may fit carbonation cup110to cup docking module180and twist carbonation cup110to lock it into position.

At operation220, concentrate may be added to carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, concentrate is added by attaching a beverage concentrate source (e.g., flavor source160) to carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100includes a receptacle for directly containing concentrate. The concentrate may be in the form of powder, liquid, gel, syrup, or beads, for example. After flavor source160and carbonation cup110are attached to carbonated beverage maker100, micro switches140and166will be in a closed position, thus allowing carbonated beverage maker100to operate.

In some embodiments, a user may start carbonated beverage maker100via the user interface (e.g., touch screen170). For example, the user may select the carbonation level and push start. At operation230(after the user starts the device), impeller120is activated. In some embodiments, impeller120agitates the ice and water. In some embodiments, the ice melts to produce water at about 1° C. As described above, impeller120is magnetically coupled to impeller motor130to avoid compromising the pressure envelope of carbonation cup110.

At operation240, the beverage concentrate is added into carbonation cup100. In some embodiments, the concentrate from flavor source160is deposited into the ice/water mixture. In some embodiments, this is accomplished with use of air pump162. In some embodiments, operation230and operation240occur simultaneously (i.e., the concentrate is deposited at the same time that impeller120begins rotating).

At operation250, pressurized CO2is added into carbonation cup110. In some embodiments, CO2supply solenoid valve154is opened to add CO2into carbonation cup. In some embodiments, the headspace (the space above the beverage mixture) is filled with CO2at pressure. In some embodiments, as the temperature drops and the pressure is maintained, the beverage is carbonated. In some embodiments, impeller120creates a vortex, thus bringing the CO2to the bottom of carbonation cup110and further encouraging carbonation of the beverage. Carbonated beverage maker100may run (i.e., CO2supply solenoid valve154is open and impeller120is rotating) for a fixed time period. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100may run for between 15 and 120 seconds. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100may run for between 30 and 60 seconds. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker100may run for 45 seconds. The length of time carbonated beverage maker100runs is based, at least partially, on the desired level of carbonation. Thus, the length of time carbonated beverage maker100runs may depend on the option selected by the user with the user interface. In manual operation, the user may directly start and stop carbonated beverage maker100at whatever length of time the user desires.

At operation260, impeller120is stopped. In some embodiments, at or near the same time as stopping the impeller, the gas supply is isolated, for example by closing CO2supply solenoid valve154.

At operation270, carbonation cup110is vented. As noted above, the venting process may be a stepped process. In some embodiments, carbonation cup110is vented through solenoid vent valve138. Control unit106may open and close solenoid vent valve138repeatedly to keep the foam in carbonation cup110from expanding. This process reduces the likelihood of the beverage from overflowing and/or spilling upon removal of carbonation cup110from carbonated beverage maker100.

At operation280, carbonation cup110is removed from carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, the carbonated beverage may be poured from carbonation cup110into a serving cup. In some embodiments, the carbonated beverage may be consumed directly from carbonation cup110. To repeat the process, carbonation cup110may be rinsed and washed. Thus, carbonated beverage maker100is capable of providing back-to-back drinks.

Although the operations of method200have been described in a particular order, the order is not essential to method200. In addition, some of the described operations are not necessary. For example, in some embodiments, a user may desire to simply carbonate water, or some other diluent, in which case, there may not be a beverage concentrate to add into carbonation cup110. Finally, there may be additional operations not described here that may constitute part of method200.

Some embodiments of a carbonated beverage maker will now be described with reference toFIGS.14-36. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIGS.14and15, a carbonated beverage maker300includes a diluent system, a cooling system, a carbonation system, and a flavor system. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300includes a housing302. In some embodiments, housing302provides the infrastructure to contain and/or support each of the systems of carbonated beverage maker300.

Components of these systems and other aspects of carbonated beverage maker300may be visible from outside carbonated beverage maker300. For example, in some embodiments, a carbonation source350(seeFIG.14) and a carbonation chamber332(seeFIG.15) of the carbonation system are disposed within a main portion of housing302and may be visible from outside carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, housing302includes a viewing window308. In some embodiments, viewing window308allows a user to see the carbonation process, for example, in carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, viewing window308comprises a transparent material, such as plastic or glass. In some embodiments, viewing window308is simply a lack of material (i.e., a hole in housing302). In some embodiments, a water reservoir312and a fan321of the diluent system and the cooling system are disposed within the main portion of housing302and may be visible from outside carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, housing302supports flavor source362of the flavor system.

Thus, in some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300includes an onboard water reservoir312that allows carbonated beverage maker300to make multiple drinks. Water may be stored and maintained at a cool temperature in water reservoir312. In some embodiments, water reservoir312may supply water to carbonation chamber332, which is disposed within carbonated beverage maker300, where it is carbonated. In some embodiments, carbonation chamber332then supplies carbonated water to be dispensed directly into a drinking cup392along with concentrate from flavor source362. In some embodiments, a user interface, such as touch screen390, is disposed on housing302to allow a user to operate carbonated beverage maker300.

FIG.16illustrates a schematic that provides an overview of key components of carbonated beverage maker300according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300comprises a power supply304and a control unit306. Power supply304provides adequate power to control unit306and all other components of carbonated beverage maker300in need of power. In some embodiments, power supply304provides a constant voltage to one or more components of carbonated beverage maker300(e.g. 24 volts to control unit306). In some embodiments, power supply304provides a varying voltage to one or more components of carbonated beverage maker300(e.g., varying voltage to an impeller motor380). In some embodiments, power supply304provides the varying voltage indirectly to one or more components of carbonated beverage maker300(e.g., constant 24 volts to control unit306; varying voltage from control unit306to impeller motor380). In some embodiments, power supply304provides a constant voltage (e.g., 24 volts) which may be reduced (e.g., 5 volts) before providing power to one or more components of carbonated beverage maker300(e.g., touch screen390). In some embodiments, power source304comprises a battery. For example, carbonated beverage maker300may operate solely by battery power. In some embodiments, power source304comprises a plug to be inserted into an electrical outlet of a user's home.

In some embodiments, control unit306controls the operation of carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, control unit306is operably connected to each of the components of carbonated beverage maker300to control the beverage creation process. As noted above, control unit306utilizes power from power source304. In some embodiments, control unit306supplies power to other components of carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, control unit306receives inputs from touch screen390. In some embodiments, control unit306communicates with touch screen390through a serial peripheral interface. In some embodiments, control unit306uses inputs from touch screen390to determine the operation of other components of carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, control unit306communicates with components of carbonated beverage maker300with digital inputs and outputs. In some embodiments, control unit306communicates with components of carbonated beverage maker300through analog communication. In some embodiments, both digital and analog communication are utilized. Control unit306may communicate with one or more of a CO2supply solenoid valve354, a pressure sensor355, a solenoid vent valve348, a carbonation monitor thermistor386, an impeller motor380, a level sensor382, a reservoir temperature sensor313, a light emitting diode384at carbonation chamber332, an air pump366for pumping concentrate from flavor source362, an air pump338for pumping carbonated water from carbonation chamber332, a water fill pump340, a dispense valve344, a light emitting diode368at drinking cup392, a fan328, a cooling module320, a water fill valve342, and a micro switch369. In some embodiments, control unit106comprises a microcontroller.

As shown inFIG.16, carbonated beverage maker300includes a diluent and cooling system310, a carbonation system330, and a flavor system360. In some embodiments, these systems may overlap. For example, one component, such as water fill valve342, may be considered part of diluent and cooling system310and part of carbonation system330.

Diluent and cooling system310, carbonation system330, and flavor system360work together to create carbonated beverages. For example, a simplified schematic of carbonated beverage maker300is shown inFIG.17. Water reservoir312stores water, which may be maintained at a cool temperature by cooling module320. In some embodiments, a water fill pump340pumps water from water reservoir312into carbonation chamber332, where the water is carbonated. In some embodiments, carbonation source350supplies CO2to carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, an impeller370, magnetically driven by an impeller motor380, is disposed in carbonation chamber332and operates to encourage carbonation of water. In some embodiments, the carbonated water is dispensed into drinking cup392along with concentrate from flavor source362, which may be pumped by air pump366. Further details of embodiments of carbonated beverage maker300are described below.

In some embodiments, diluent and cooling system310, as shown, for example inFIGS.18and19, comprises water reservoir312, reservoir temperature sensor313(seeFIG.16), an impeller314, a shroud or flow conditioner316, an impeller motor318, and cooling module320. Components of cooling module320will be discussed further below.

In some embodiments, water reservoir312is configured to store water. In some embodiments, water reservoir312is configured to store enough water to prepare multiple beverages. For example, water reservoir312may be able to store enough water to prepare at least six beverages. In some embodiments, water reservoir312may be able to store at least two and a half liters of water. In some embodiments, water reservoir312is configured to store water and ice. In some embodiments, the ice cools the water down to a desirable drinking temperature. In some embodiments, a user may fill water reservoir312with water and/or ice. In some embodiments, water reservoir312is fixed relative to carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, water reservoir312is removable from carbonated beverage maker300, which may make it easier for a user to fill water reservoir312.

In some embodiments, water reservoir312is double walled, as shown, for example, inFIG.19, with an outer wall311and an inner wall315. In some embodiments, inner wall315contains water in water reservoir312and outer wall311traps air between inner wall315and outer wall315. Thus, outer wall311and inner wall315may operate to insulate water reservoir312and limit heat exchange between the water and/or ice within water reservoir312and the outside environment.

In some embodiments, water reservoir312comprises an impeller314disposed therein. In some embodiments, impeller314is disposed at a bottom of water reservoir312. In some embodiments, impeller314is magnetically coupled to and driven by an impeller motor318, similar to the relationship between impeller120and impeller motor130described above. In some embodiments, impeller314operates to agitate the water and/or ice within water reservoir312. In some embodiments, impeller314keeps ice from forming at the bottom of water reservoir312by circulating the water within water reservoir312. In some embodiments, flow conditioner316is disposed at a bottom of water reservoir312, as shown, for example, inFIGS.19and20. In some embodiments, flow conditioner316surrounds impeller314. In some embodiments, flow conditioner316is configured to assist impeller314in achieving a good flow over the bottom of reservoir312to reduce ice formation. In some embodiments, flow conditioner316is configured to prevent a vortex from forming within water reservoir312. Flow conditioner314may also protect impeller314from ice moving within water reservoir312that could damage impeller314.

In some embodiments, water reservoir312is operatively connected to cooling module320, as shown, for example, inFIGS.18-20. In some embodiments, cooling module320lowers the temperature of water within water reservoir312. In some embodiments, cooling module320simply maintains the temperature of water in water reservoir312. In some embodiments, reservoir temperature sensor313is disposed on or within water reservoir312and configured to measure the temperature of the water within water reservoir312. In some embodiments, results from reservoir temperature sensor313may affect the operation of carbonated beverage maker300. For example, the results from reservoir temperature sensor313may lead to carbonated beverage maker300turning cooling module320on or off to ensure the water is at a desirable drinking temperature. In some embodiments, the results from reservoir temperature sensor313may cause carbonated beverage maker300to display a message on touch screen390regarding the temperature of the water in water reservoir312. For example, touch screen390may inform the user that more ice needs to be added to water reservoir312.

In some embodiments, cooling module320may include a thermoelectric cooler321, a cold plate324, a heat pipe assembly326, fins327, and a fan328. In some embodiments, cold plate324forms a base of water reservoir312. In some embodiments, thermoelectric cooler321is disposed on cold plate324. In some embodiments, cold plate324extends beyond water reservoir312and thermoelectric cooler321is disposed on that portion of cold plate324adjacent to water reservoir312, as shown, for example, inFIGS.18-20.

In some embodiments, thermoelectric cooler321, as shown, for example inFIGS.21-23, includes two terminals325. When a voltage is applied across terminals325, one side of thermoelectric cooler321becomes cold (i.e., cold side323) while the other side of thermoelectric cooler becomes hot (i.e., hot side322). In some embodiments, cold side322is disposed closest to cold plate324(seeFIGS.18-20) and may operate to cool cold plate324, which in turn cools and/or maintains a cool temperature of water in water reservoir312.

In some embodiments, hot side322of thermoelectric cooler321is operably connected to heat pipe assembly326(seeFIGS.18-20). In some embodiments, heat pipe assembly326, as shown, for example, inFIG.24, moves heat energy away from hot side322. For example, heat pipe assembly326may move heat energy away from hot side322by maintaining a thermal gradient across heat pipe assembly326. In some embodiments, the end of heat pipe assembly326opposite from thermoelectric cooler321includes an array of heat exchanger fins327. In some embodiments, heat exchanger fins327are part of heat pipe assembly326and are not removable. In some embodiments, fan328is disposed near heat exchanger fins327to remove excess heat and maintain the thermal gradient across heat pipe assembly326(seeFIGS.18-20).

As noted above, in some embodiments, water reservoir312is removable. In some embodiments, a portion of cooling module320is a part of water reservoir312and therefore also removable from carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.25, only a portion of cold plate324is removable with water reservoir312, while the rest of cold plate324, and the remainder of cooling module320is not removable from carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.26, cold plate324, thermoelectric cooler321, heat pipe assembly326, and heat exchanger fins327are all removable with water reservoir312. In some embodiments, fan328is not removable from carbonated beverage maker300with water reservoir312.

In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.16, water is fed into carbonation system330(e.g., into carbonation chamber332) from diluent and cooling system310. In some embodiments, diluent and cooling system310further comprises water fill pump340. In some embodiments, water fill pump340is configured to pump water from water reservoir312through a water fill valve342into carbonation system330.

In some embodiments, carbonation system330comprises carbonation chamber332disposed within carbonated beverage maker300and operatively connected to carbonation source350and diluent and cooling system310. In some embodiments, carbonation source350comprises a CO2tank or cylinder. However, other carbonation sources may be used, which are described in further detail below. In some embodiments, a pressure regulator352is attached to carbonation source350. Pressure regulator352may keep carbonation source350at a particular pressure. In some embodiments, pressure regulator352keeps carbonation source350at a pressure of 3.5 bars. In some embodiments, the water and CO2gas enter carbonation chamber332simultaneously. In some embodiments, water enters carbonation chamber332before the CO2gas.

In some embodiments a supply line358runs from carbonation source350to carbonation chamber332. Supply line358may include CO2supply solenoid valve354. In some embodiments, CO2supply solenoid valve354is controlled by control unit306. For example, at an appropriate time during the operation of carbonated beverage maker300, control unit306may communicate with CO2supply solenoid valve354, causing CO2supply solenoid valve354to open and allow flow of CO2to carbonation chamber332through supply line358. After the desired amount of CO2has been used, control unit306communicates with CO2supply solenoid valve354, causing CO2supply solenoid valve354to close. In some embodiments, supply line358may also include a pressure relief valve356. Pressure relief valve356senses pressure within carbonation chamber332and supply line358and is configured to open when the pressure is too high. For example, if carbonation chamber332reaches a predetermined pressure, pressure relief valve356may open to lower the pressure. In some embodiments, the predetermined pressure is 4.5 bars.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300includes a solenoid vent valve348, as shown, for example, in the schematic ofFIG.16. After carbonation of the water is completed, solenoid vent valve348may be used to release the pressure from carbonation chamber332through a venting process. In some embodiments, the venting process through solenoid vent valve348is a stepped process. The venting process may vary based on the level of carbonation and other properties of the beverage. In some embodiments, solenoid vent valve348is controlled by control unit306.

In some embodiments, carbonation chamber332includes one or more sensors to detect an appropriate level of water within carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, water fill pump340operates and water fill valve342remains open until the sensor detects the appropriate level of water is within carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.16, the sensor may be an optical sensor382. In some embodiments, optical sensor382receives a signal from a light emitting diode383disposed on an opposite side of carbonation chamber332. Thus, when water reaches the appropriate level, it interrupts the beam of light passing between light emitting diode383and optical sensor382. In some embodiments, optical sensor382communicates with control unit306that carbonation chamber332is full and control unit306may then communicate with water fill valve342and water fill pump340to cause water fill valve342to close and to cause water fill pump340to stop pumping.

Other types of sensors may also be used. For example, in some embodiments, a pressure sensor may be used to detect the water level. A pressure sensor may operate by, after closing solenoid vent valve348to fix the volume of a headspace346in carbonation chamber332, monitoring the pressure of headspace346as carbonation chamber332is filled with water. Once the pressure associated with the appropriate level of water has been reached, the pressure sensor may communicate with control unit306so that control unit306may close water fill valve342and stop water fill pump340.

In some embodiments, carbonation chamber332is double walled, as shown, for example, inFIG.27, with an outer wall336and an inner wall334. In some embodiments, inner wall334contains water and CO2in carbonation chamber332, thus maintaining the pressure of carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, outer wall336traps air between inner wall334and outer wall336. Thus, outer wall336and inner wall334may operate to insulate carbonation chamber332and limit heat exchange between the water CO2within carbonation chamber332and the outside environment. This insulation assists in preparing a carbonated beverage that has a desirable drinking temperature. In some embodiments, carbonation chamber332may be pre-chilled. For example, water from water reservoir312may cycle through carbonation chamber332and back to water reservoir312to cool carbonation chamber332.

In some embodiments, carbonation chamber332may have additional features. For example, in some embodiments, carbonation chambers may have additional monitoring sensors (seeFIG.16), such as, for example, a carbonation monitor thermistor386or a temperature sensor (not shown) for carbonation chamber332. Such monitoring sensors may be used in some embodiments to check for the quality of carbonated beverage (e.g., carbonation level, temperature, etc.). In addition, in some embodiments, carbonation chamber332may include one or more light emitting diodes384disposed around carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, light emitting diodes384may be used to allow a user to better see the carbonation process in carbonation chamber332through viewing window308.

In some embodiments, carbonation chamber332includes impeller370. In some embodiments, impeller370is disposed at the bottom of carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, impeller370is magnetically coupled to and driven by an impeller motor380, similar to the relationship between impeller120and impeller motor130described above.

In some embodiments, impeller370, as shown, for example, inFIGS.28and29, includes a stem portion372and one or more blades374. In some embodiments, impeller370has two blades (seeFIG.28). In some embodiments, impeller370has four blades (seeFIG.29). Impeller370may have a different number of blades. In some embodiments, stem portion372is hollow. In some embodiments, a conduit376extends through at least a portion of stem portion372. In some embodiments, conduit376extends from a top portion of stem portion372to blades374. In some embodiments, portions of blades374are also hollow. In some embodiments, blades374include one or more holes378. Holes378may be fluidly connected to conduit376.

In some embodiments, blades374are shaped aerodynamically. For example, blades374may be shaped such that when impeller370is rotating, blades374create a low pressure region379around blades374. In some embodiments, impeller370draws pressurized CO2gas through conduit376and holes378into low pressure region379. As CO2gas is drawn near the bottom of carbonation chamber332by low pressure region379, the gas begins to carbonate the water (i.e., becomes entrained gas371).

One benefit of impeller370having stem portion372and aerodynamic blades374creating low pressure region379is shown inFIGS.29and30.FIG.29illustrates carbonation chamber332using impeller370not having stem portion372. In this embodiment, while impeller370leads to entrained gas371, headspace346is large and a vortex is formed, which leads to higher and inefficient consumption of CO2gas. In contrast,FIG.30illustrates carbonation chamber332using impeller370having stem portion372. In this embodiment, impeller370more efficiently produces entrained gas371because headspace346is smaller, thus consuming less CO2gas. Thus, in some embodiments, forming a vortex is not desirable because it may lead to less efficient use of carbonation source350. In some embodiments, carbonation chamber332includes fixed baffles (not shown) within carbonation chamber332to discourage water rotation and thereby reduce the likelihood of a vortex forming.

In some embodiments, carbonation system330includes an air pump338, a check valve339, and a dispense valve344. In some embodiments, after carbonation chamber332has carbonated the water, air pump338operates to pump the carbonated water out of carbonation chamber332and into drinking cup392, as shown, for example, in the schematic ofFIG.16. In some embodiments, check valve339allows air pumped from air pump338into supply line358and/or carbonation chamber332, but does not allow air to escape from supply line358and/or carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, dispense valve344opens while air pump338is pumping to allow the carbonated water to exit carbonation chamber332and dispense into drinking cup392. In some embodiments, the flow path from carbonation chamber332to drinking cup392is configured to minimize decarbonation of the carbonated water. For example, the material and finishes of components forming the flow path are selected to be as gentle as possible. In some embodiments, the flow path may be made of nylon pipe formed into a shape that minimizes directional changes, sharp corners, and cross-sectional area steps to minimize decarbonation.

As shown inFIG.16, and described thus far, in some embodiments, carbonated water may be dispensed into drinking cup392without any flavoring or other additives. Thus, in some embodiments, flavor system360may be separate from other systems of carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, flavor system360dispenses flavoring in the form of concentrate, such as syrup, for example, at the same time that carbonated water is being dispensed into drinking cup392. In some embodiments, flavor system360includes a flavor source362, an air pump366, a light emitting diode368, and a micro switch369.

In some embodiments, flavor source362may contain a powder, syrup, gel, liquid, beads, or other form of concentrate. In some embodiments, flavor source362comprises a pod. In some embodiments, flavor source362is an integral part of carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, flavor source362comprises a single-serving of flavor. In some embodiments, flavor source362contains sufficient flavoring for multiple servings. Housing302of carbonated beverage maker300may be configured to receive flavor source362. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300is configured to open flavor source362. Variations of pods and other flavor sources, and how carbonated beverage makers may open them, are described in more detail below.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300is configured to deliver the contents of flavor source362into drinking cup392, as shown, for example, in the schematic ofFIG.16. For example, carbonated beverage maker300may include an air pump366. Air pump366may be operated by control unit306to pump the contents of flavor source362into drinking cup392.

In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.32, flavor source362includes an umbrella valve363. In some embodiments, umbrella valve363prevents concentrate from leaking out of flavor source362. In some embodiments, pressure from air pump366causes umbrella valve363to open to allow concentrate to flow from flavor source362into drinking cup392. In some embodiments, flavor source362includes a flow conditioning element364. In some embodiments, flow conditioning element364comprises a projection that extends from flavor source362. Flow conditioning element364may cause the stream of flavor from flavor source362to be smooth as it dispenses into drinking cup392. In some embodiments, flow conditioning element364is part of a pod. In some embodiments, flow conditioning element364is part of carbonated beverage maker300itself. In some embodiments, flavor system360dispenses concentrate from flavor source362directly into drinking cup392, thus eliminating the need to flush carbonated beverage maker300when a different flavor is subsequently used.

In some embodiments, flavor system360includes a micro switch369, which may detect the presence of flavor source362. When flavor source362is detected, micro switch369closes to complete a circuit. If flavor source362is not detected, micro switch369remains open. An open circuit condition may prevent carbonated beverage maker300from operating.

In some embodiments, carbonated water from carbonation chamber332and concentrate from flavor source362are dispensed into drinking cup392to prepare carbonated beverage. In some embodiments, carbonated water and concentrate are dispensed simultaneously. In some embodiments, carbonated water and concentrate mix in drinking cup392after being dispensed.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300includes features that convey a feeling of a freshly made beverage to a user. For example, a user may feel that the carbonated beverage is more freshly made, and feel more involvement in the creation of the carbonated beverage, if the user can see at least a portion of the beverage creation process. Thus, in some embodiments, viewing window308, as discussed above, is included in housing302to allow a user to see the carbonation process. In some embodiments, a light emitting diode368is disposed near drinking cup392. Light emitting diode368may, for example, illuminate the mixing process within drinking cup392. In some embodiments, light emitting diode368may illuminate other aspects of the dispensing area or other areas of carbonated beverage maker300.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300provides other ways for a user to see aspects of the beverage creation process. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.33, carbonated beverage maker300includes a clear mixing nozzle396. For example, clear mixing nozzle may be disposed on housing302just above the location of drinking cup392. In some embodiments, flavor source362may be disposed within clear mixing nozzle396. In some embodiments, flavor and carbonated water mix within clear mixing nozzle396before entering drinking cup392. Thus, a user can see the mixing process through clear mixing nozzle396. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300includes a flush of clear mixing nozzle396as part of its dispensing process so that any residue of concentrate from flavor source362does not cross-contaminate the next drink that may include a different flavor.

In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.34, carbonated beverage maker300is configured to receive flavor source362as a pod that is visible to a user during the beverage creation process. For example, flavor source362may be a clear pod partially disposed in a top of housing302. As concentrate from flavor source362is flushed out and mixed with carbonated water, the user may see the mixing process through the clear pod. In some embodiments, inserting flavor source362into housing302may automatically begin the process of creating the beverage.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300includes a user interface. For example, user interface may include touch screen390. Features of the user interface of carbonated beverage maker300may be the same as or similar to those described for the user interface of carbonated beverage maker100. In some embodiments, the user interface may be a button394(seeFIG.33) that allows a user to select a carbonation level and/or begin the beverage creation process. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300may include a memory that stores recipes for producing particular beverages. For example, the recipe for low carbonation may be stored in memory such that when a user selects low carbonation on the user interface, control unit controls the functions of carbonated beverage maker300based on the recipe stored in the memory. In some embodiments, a recipe may be associated with flavor source362that is inserted into carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300is configured to identify flavor source362and use the corresponding recipe.

A method400of using carbonated beverage maker300, as shown, for example, inFIG.35, will now be described in more detail. At operation410, water reservoir312is filled with water and ice. In some embodiments, a user removes water reservoir312from carbonated beverage maker300to fill it with water and ice. After water reservoir312is filled, the user may reattach water reservoir312to carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, a user fills water reservoir312as it remains attached to carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, before carbonated beverage maker300can operate, the water temperature in water reservoir312stabilizes. In some embodiments, the water temperature stabilizes in less than twenty minutes. In some embodiments, the water temperature stabilizes in less than ten minutes. In some embodiments, the water temperature stabilizes in less than five minutes.

At operation420, concentrate may be added to carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, concentrate is added by attaching a beverage concentrate source (e.g., flavor source362) to carbonated beverage maker300. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300includes a receptacle for directly containing concentrate. The concentrate may be in the form of powder, liquid, gel, syrup, or beads, for example. After flavor source362is attached to carbonated beverage maker300, micro switch369will be in a closed position, thus allowing carbonated beverage maker300to operate.

At operation430, a cup (e.g., drinking cup392) is placed at carbonated beverage maker300where the carbonated beverage will dispense.

At operation440, a drink type and/or desired carbonation level are selected. In some embodiments, a user may select the drink type and/or desired carbonation level via the user interface (e.g., touch screen390or button394). In some embodiments, a user may also start the carbonated beverage maker300using the user interface. For example, the user may select the carbonation level and push start. In some embodiments, selecting the carbonation level may simultaneously start carbonated beverage maker300.

Once the drink type and/or desired carbonation level are selected and the process (as described, for example, inFIG.36in relation to process500) started, a user will wait until the process of carbonated beverage maker300is complete. At operation450, a user may remove the dispensing cup392, which is now filled with carbonated beverage.

Although the operations of method400have been described in a particular order, the order is not essential to method400. In addition, some of the described operations are not necessary. For example, in some embodiments, a user may desire to simply carbonate water, or some other diluent, in which case, there may not be a need to attach beverage concentrate source, as described for operation420. Finally, there may be additional operations not described here that may constitute part of method400.

In some embodiments, process500of carbonated beverage maker300operates in parallel with method400to create a carbonated beverage. At operation510, carbonated beverage maker300powers up cooling system310to stabilize the water temperature in water reservoir312. In some embodiments, operation510occurs after a user fills water reservoir312with water and ice (i.e., operation410of method400). In some embodiments, operation510takes less than twenty minutes, less than ten minutes, or less than five minutes.

In some embodiments, the remainder of the operations of process500may occur after operation440and before operation450of method400. At operation520, carbonated beverage maker300pumps cold water into carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, water fill pump340operates to pump cold water into carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, water fill pump340pumps cold water into carbonation chamber332until level sensor382determines that the appropriate amount of water is in carbonation chamber332.

At operation540, carbonated beverage maker300carbonates water with impeller370. In some embodiments, impeller370is magnetically coupled to impeller motor380to avoid compromising the pressure envelope of carbonation chamber332. Impeller370may be activated at operation540so that as it rotates, it creates a low pressure region379, which draws the pressurized CO2gas to the bottom of carbonation chamber332and entrains it into the water, thus producing carbonated water. In some embodiments, operation540and operation530occur at least partially simultaneously.

At operation550, carbonated beverage maker300stops impeller370after the carbonation process is complete. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300stops impeller370after a certain amount of time has passed. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300stops impeller370after the pressure in carbonation chamber332has stabilized. In some embodiments, impeller370runs for less than one minute. In some embodiments, impeller370runs for less than forty-five seconds. In some embodiments, impeller370runs for less than thirty seconds. In some embodiments, the amount of time that impeller370runs depends on the selected carbonation level.

At operation560, carbonated beverage maker300vents excess gas from carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, CO2supply solenoid valve354closes during operation560, thus shutting off carbonation source350. In some embodiments, solenoid vent valve348opens to vent excess gas from carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, the carbonated water settles as excess gas is vented.

At operation570, carbonated beverage maker300dispenses carbonated water from carbonation chamber332. In some embodiments, air pump338pumps carbonated water out of carbonation chamber332and dispenses it into drinking cup392.

At operation580, carbonated beverage maker300dispenses concentrate from flavor source362. In some embodiments, air pump366pumps concentrate out of flavor source362and dispenses it into drinking cup392. In some embodiments, air pump366pumps concentrate out of flavor source362simultaneously and synchronously with air pump338pumping carbonated water out of carbonation chamber332. Thus, operation580and operation570may occur simultaneously.

Although the operations of process500have been described in a particular order, the order is not essential to process500. In addition, some of the described operations are not necessary. Finally, there may be additional operations not described here that may constitute part of process500. For example, in some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300performs an operation to cool carbonation chamber332. Specifically, carbonation chamber332can be filled with water from water reservoir312to cool carbonation chamber332. This water can then be emptied from carbonation chamber332back into water reservoir312. This operation allows the carbonation cycle (i.e., operation540) to occur in a pre-chilled vessel, for example, to reach desired carbonation levels.

As noted above, flavor sources160and362may comprise a pod. A variety of configurations of pods may be used as flavor source160, flavor source362, and the flavor source for other embodiments of carbonated beverage makers. In some embodiments, a pod may be single-chambered. In some embodiments, a pod may have two chambers. For example, a pod may include a chamber for concentrate and another chamber for a carbonation source. In some embodiments, a pod may include structure to assist in opening the pod for dispensing concentrate into the systems of a carbonated beverage maker. For example, a pod may include a piercer configured to puncture a portion of the pod. Several variations of pods are discussed below. However, these variations only provide examples and other pods or flavor sources may also be used with carbonated beverage makers in some embodiments. Furthermore, characteristics of the embodiments discussed below may be utilized in other embodiments discussed below, even if not expressly described with respect to a particular embodiment.

In some embodiments, a pod600, as shown, for example, inFIGS.37-41B, includes a container601and a lid605. In some embodiments, container601includes a base602and a side603. In some embodiments, container601and lid605are circular. In some embodiments, pod600may be made of a material that provides a long shelf life for concentrate within pod600. In some embodiments, pod600may be made of a material that is recyclable. For example, pod600may be made of a recyclable plastic. For example, pod600, including container601and lid605, may be made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In some embodiments, container601and lid605are welded together.

In some embodiments, a piercer604is disposed within container601extending from base602. In some embodiments, piercer604extends from base602and ends in a tip near lid605that is sharp enough to pierce lid605. In some embodiments, the sharp tip of piercer604is disposed on a central axis of piercer604. The sharp tip may alternatively be disposed on an edge of piercer604. In some embodiments, there may be multiple sharp tips along the edge of piercer604(seeFIGS.42-44B). In some embodiments, piercer604is made of the same material as container601. For example, piercer604may be made of PET. In some embodiments, container601, lid605, and piercer604are injection molded.

In some embodiments, base602is configured to allow extension of piercer604. For example, base602may be an uneven surface, thus forming a rolling diaphragm. In some embodiments, base602is thin in some portions to add flexibility to base602. In some embodiments, when piercer604is extended, piercer604may pierce through lid605. In some embodiments, lid605includes a projection606in its center. Projection606may help prevent contamination of a dispensing location of carbonated beverage makers. In some embodiments, projection606includes a thin section607. Thin section607may enable a controlled breakthrough when piercer604pierces lid605. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.39, thin section607extends across the middle of projection606and substantially around the circumference of projection606. Thus, when piercer604contacts lid605in the middle of projection606, lid605is designed to break along thin section607, allowing concentrate to flow out of pod600. In some embodiments, pod600further includes a powder chamber608disposed within projection606, as shown, for example, inFIG.40. In some embodiments, a film609separates powder chamber608from the rest of pod600. In some embodiments, piercer604pierces through film609and lid605.

In some embodiments, portions of a carbonated beverage maker may contribute to opening of the pod (e.g., pod600). For example, a carbonated beverage maker may include a pod support680. In some embodiments, pod support680may define an aperture682. As shown, for example, inFIGS.41A and41B, pod600may rest on pod support680. In some embodiments, projection606is sized to fit through aperture682. Thus, when lid605is pierced, the concentrate within pod600will not contaminate the dispense location of the carbonated beverage maker. In some embodiments, a push rod681is disposed above base602. Push rod681may extend, as shown, for example, inFIG.41B, to push base602, which in turn extends piercer604to pierce lid605. In some embodiments, push rod681is actuated by a manual operation, such as inserting pod600or closing a portion of a carbonated beverage maker around pod600. In some embodiments, push rod681is actuated by a solenoid when a user interacts with a user interface of a carbonated beverage maker, such as pressing a start button. After lid605is pierced, concentrate from pod600is delivered by gravity into, for example, a drinking cup or other chamber.

In some embodiments, a pod610, as shown, for example, inFIGS.42-44B, includes a container611and a film615. In some embodiments, container611includes a base612and a side613. In some embodiments, container611and film615are circular. In some embodiments, pod610may be made of a material that is recyclable. For example, pod610may be made of a recyclable plastic. For example, pod610, including container611and film615, may be made of PET. Film615may be a thin layer of PET. In some embodiments, film615may be easier to pierce and cheaper than lid605of pod600. But film615may cause pod610to have a lower shelf life than pod600. In some embodiments, film615is welded to container611.

In some embodiments, a piercer614is disposed within container611extending from base612. In some embodiments, piercer614extends from base612and ends in multiple tips near film615that are sharp enough to pierce film615. In some embodiments, the multiple sharp tips of piercer614are disposed around the circumference of piercer614. In some embodiments, piercer614is made of the same material as container611. For example, piercer614may be made of PET. In some embodiments, container601and piercer604are injection molded. For example, container601and piercer604may be injection molded as a single part.

In some embodiments, base612is configured to allow extension of piercer614. For example, base612may be an uneven surface, thus forming a rolling diaphragm. In some embodiments, base612is thin in some portions to add flexibility to base612. In some embodiments, when piercer614is extended, piercer614may pierce through film615. In some embodiments, container611includes a flange616disposed on side613. In some embodiments, flange616is disposed near film615. Flange616may completely surround pod610.

In some embodiments, flange616interacts with pod support680in carbonated beverage makers. In some embodiments, pod support680may define aperture682. As shown, for example, inFIGS.44A and44B, pod610may rest on pod support680. In some embodiments, flange616rests on pod support680. Thus, in some embodiments, film615is sized to fit through aperture682. Thus, when film615is pierced, the concentrate within pod610will not contaminate the dispense location of the carbonated beverage maker. In some embodiments, a push rod681is disposed above base612. Push rod681may extend, as shown, for example, inFIG.44B, to push base612, which in turn extends piercer614to pierce film615. In some embodiments, push rod681is actuated by a manual operation, such as inserting pod610or closing a portion of a carbonated beverage maker around pod610. In some embodiments, push rod681is actuated by a solenoid when a user interacts with a user interface of a carbonated beverage maker, such as pressing a start button. After film615is pierced, concentrate from pod610is delivered by gravity into, for example, a drinking cup or other chamber.

In some embodiments, a pod620, as shown, for example, inFIGS.45-49B, includes a pouch621and a frame622. In some embodiments, pouch621, as shown, for example, inFIG.47, is semi rigid. For example, pouch621may be made of two thin PET shells welded together. In some embodiments, the two thin PET shells are vacuum formed. In some embodiments, pouch621may be made as one part in a blow-fill-seal process. In some embodiments, pouch621includes a nozzle623for filling pouch621with concentrate. In some embodiments, nozzle621may also operate as the fluid outlet to dispense concentrate from within pouch621. In some embodiments, nozzle621is heat sealed.

In some embodiments, pouch621includes a peripheral edge624. In some embodiments, peripheral edge624is where the two thin PET shells may be welded together. In some embodiments, pouch621includes a tip625. Tip625may be a wider portion of peripheral edge624. In some embodiments, tip625is disposed adjacent to nozzle623. In some embodiments, tip625is configured to detach from pouch621, thus opening nozzle623for dispensing of concentrate within pouch621.

In some embodiments, frame622surrounds peripheral edge624and other portions of pouch621. In some embodiments, frame622is rigid. In some embodiments, frame622is made of a rigid plastic. Frame622may include a break-off portion626. In some embodiments, break-off portion626is disposed at tip625and nozzle623. In some embodiments, break-off portion626is configured to detach from the rest of frame622, thus opening nozzle623by breaking off tip625from pouch621. For example, break-off portion may be perforated or be otherwise partially delineated from the rest of frame622with a slot.

In some embodiments, a carbonated beverage maker may operate to open pod620. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIG.49A, carbonated beverage makers may snap break-off portion626off of frame622. This may be done, for example, with a push rod. After break-off portion626has been removed, concentrate from within pod620may dispense. In some embodiments, concentrate dispenses based on gravity. In some embodiment, a carbonated beverage maker may assist in dispensing concentrate from pod620, as shown, for example, inFIG.49B. For example, carbonated beverage makers may use air pressure to squeeze concentrate out of pod620, such as with air pump162or air pump166. Alternatively, carbonated beverage makers may use mechanical force to squeeze concentrate out of pod620, such as with a push rod on one or both sides of pod620.

In some embodiments, a pod630, as shown, for example, inFIG.50, includes a plurality of tubes631. In some embodiments, pod630includes at least three tubes631. In some embodiments, pod630includes at least five tubes631. In some embodiments, each tube631may contain an amount of concentrate equal to a single serving. In some embodiments, tubes631may be connected to each other via links632. In some embodiments, each tube631includes a nozzle633. Links632may have a break-off portion634. In some embodiments, break-off portion634is disposed at nozzle633. Thus, when break-off portion634is snapped away from tube631, nozzle633is opened for dispensing of concentrate from within tube631. In some embodiments, links632hold break-off portion634after it is snapped off to prevent break-off portion from falling into a drink with the concentrate. In some embodiments, pod630is molded through a blow-fill-seal process.

In some embodiments, a carbonated beverage maker may operate to open each tube631of pod630. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may snap break-off portion634off of tube631. This may be done, for example, with a push rod or a clamping and pulling mechanism. After break-off portion634has been removed, concentrate from within pod630may dispense. In some embodiments, concentrate dispenses based on gravity. In some embodiment, a carbonated beverage maker may assist in dispensing concentrate from pod630. For example, carbonated beverage makers may use air pressure to squeeze concentrate out of pod630, such as with air pump162or air pump166. Alternatively, carbonated beverage makers may use mechanical force to squeeze concentrate out of pod630, such as with a push rod on one or both sides of pod630. In some embodiments, a user may separate one tube631from the other tubes631for insertion into a carbonated beverage maker. In some embodiments, a user may insert an entire pod630into a carbonated beverage maker, which may automatically cycle through each tube631in preparing beverages. When all tubes631have been consumed, a carbonated beverage maker may alert a user to insert another pod630.

In some embodiments, a pod640, as shown, for example, inFIGS.51-53B, includes a container641and a film645. In some embodiments, container641includes a base642and a side643. In some embodiments, container641and film645are circular. In some embodiments, pod640may be made of a material that is recyclable. For example, pod640may be primarily made of a recyclable plastic. For example, pod640, including container641and film645, may be primarily made of PET. Film645may be a thin layer of PET. In some embodiments, film645may be easier to pierce and cheaper than lid605of pod600. But film645may cause pod640to have a lower shelf life than pod600. In some embodiments, film645is welded to container641.

In some embodiments, a piercer644is disposed within container641extending from a projection646in base642. For example, piercer644may be disposed within projection646starting lower than base642. In some embodiments, piercer644extends from projection646in base642and ends in a tip near film645that is sharp enough to pierce film645. In some embodiments, the sharp tip of piercer644is disposed on a central axis of piercer644. The sharp tip may alternatively be disposed on an edge of piercer644. In some embodiments, there may be multiple sharp tips along the edge of piercer644(seeFIGS.42-44B). In some embodiments, piercer644is made of the same material as container641. For example, piercer644may be made of PET. In some embodiments, container641and piercer644are injection molded.

In some embodiments, projection646contains a portion of piercer644(as noted above), a metal piece647, and a seal648. In some embodiments, metal piece647is part of piercer644. In some embodiments, metal piece647is magnetic. For example, metal piece647may be a ferrite metal. In some embodiments, the magnetic properties of metal piece647may cause piercer644to move upwards and pierce film645. In some embodiments, seal648seals pod640. For example, seal648may seal an outlet649at the bottom of projection646. In some embodiments, seal648surrounds metal piece647. In some embodiments, seal648is part of piercer644. In some embodiments, seal648, metal piece647, and piercer644are fixed relative to each other and may move together relative to container641. In some embodiments, seal648is rubber.

In some embodiments, pod640is disposed below a portion of pod support680in carbonated beverage makers, as shown, for example, inFIGS.53A and53B. In some embodiments, pod support680may define aperture682. In some embodiments, aperture682aligns with piercer644. In some embodiments, aperture682assists in regulating the cutting pattern of film645. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may include a magnet683. In some embodiments, magnet683comprises a magnet ring. Magnet683may surround projection646, as shown, for example, inFIGS.53A and53B. In some embodiments, magnet ring683drives metal piece647upwards, thus driving piercer644upwards to pierce film645and removing seal648from outlet649, as shown, for example, inFIG.53B. After film645is pierced and outlet649is unsealed, concentrate from pod640is delivered by air pressure (e.g., from an air pump) through the cut film645to dispense through outlet649into, for example, a drinking cup or other chamber.

In some embodiments, a pod650, as shown, for example, inFIGS.54-58B, includes a container651and a film655. In some embodiments, container651includes a base652and a side653. In some embodiments, container651and film655are circular. In some embodiments, pod650may be made of a material that is recyclable. For example, pod650may be primarily made of a recyclable plastic. For example, pod650, including container651and film655, may be primarily made of PET. Film655may be a thin layer of PET. In some embodiments, film655may be easier to pierce and cheaper than lid605of pod600. But film655may cause pod650to have a lower shelf life than pod600. In some embodiments, film655is welded to container651.

As an alternative to film655, pod650may have a lid659, as shown, for example, inFIGS.56and57. Lid659may be welded to container651. In some embodiments, lid659may be made of PET. In some embodiments, lid659is injection molded. In some embodiments, lid659may include weak points to aid in piercing lid659. While the remainder of the description discuss film655, the same principles may be applied when pod650utilizes lid659.

In some embodiments, a piercer654is disposed within container651extending from a projection656in base652. For example, piercer654may be disposed within projection656starting lower than base652. In some embodiments, piercer654extends from projection656in base652to film655. In some embodiments, piercer654is welded to film655. In some embodiments, piercer654includes sharp blades to pierce film655. In some embodiments, piercer654is made of the same material as container651. For example, piercer654may be made of PET. In some embodiments, container651and piercer654are injection molded.

In some embodiments, pod650includes a pull feature657disposed on an outside of film655. In some embodiments, pull feature657is operatively connected to piercer654. For example, pull feature657may be a part of piercer654. In some embodiments, pull feature657comprises a projection that rises above film655. Pull feature657may be configured such that a portion of a carbonated beverage maker can secure and pull upwards on pull feature657to cause the blades of piercer654to cut film655.

In some embodiments, projection646contains a portion of piercer654(as noted above) and a seal658. In some embodiments, seal658seals pod650. For example, seal658may seal an outlet649at the bottom of projection656. In some embodiments, seal658is part of piercer654. In some embodiments, seal658and piercer654are fixed relative to each other and may move together relative to container651. In some embodiments, seal658is rubber.

In some embodiments, pod650is disposed below a portion of pod support680in carbonated beverage makers, as shown, for example, inFIGS.58A and58B. In some embodiments, pod support680may define aperture682. In some embodiments, aperture682aligns with piercer644. In some embodiments, pull feature657extends through aperture682, as shown, for example, inFIG.58A. In some embodiments, aperture682assists in regulating the cutting pattern of film655. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may include a mechanism, such as a movable clamp, to secure and pull upwards on pull feature657, thus pulling piercer654upwards to pierce film655and remove seal658from outlet649, as shown, for example, inFIG.58B. After film655is pierced and outlet649is unsealed, concentrate from pod650is delivered by air pressure (e.g., from an air pump) through the cut film655to dispense through outlet649into, for example, a drinking cup or other chamber.

In some embodiments, a pod660, as shown, for example, inFIGS.59-61C, includes a container661and a first film665. In some embodiments, container661includes a base662and a side663. In some embodiments, container661and first film665are circular. In some embodiments, pod660may be made of a material that is recyclable. For example, pod660may be primarily made of a recyclable plastic. For example, pod660, including container661and first film665, may be primarily made of PET. First film665may be a thin layer of PET. In some embodiments, first film665may be easier to pierce and cheaper than lid605of pod600. But first film665may cause pod660to have a lower shelf life than pod600. In some embodiments, first film665is welded to container661.

In some embodiments, a first piercer664is disposed within container661extending from a projection666in base662. For example, first piercer664may be disposed within projection666lower than base662. In some embodiments, first piercer664extends from projection666in base662to first film665. In some embodiments, first piercer664is welded to first film665. In some embodiments, first piercer664includes sharp blades to pierce first film665. In some embodiments, first piercer664is made of the same material as container661. For example, first piercer664may be made of PET. In some embodiments, container661and first piercer664are injection molded.

In some embodiments, pod660includes a pull feature667disposed on an outside of first film665. In some embodiments, pull feature667is operatively connected to first piercer664. For example, pull feature667may be a part of first piercer664. In some embodiments, pull feature667comprises a projection that rises above first film665. Pull feature667may be configured such that a portion of a carbonated beverage maker can secure and pull upwards on pull feature667to cause the blades of first piercer664to cut first film665.

In some embodiments, projection666includes a second film669disposed at its bottom surface. In some embodiments, second film669is made of PET. In some embodiments, second film669is a thin layer of PET. In some embodiments, second film669is welded to projection666. In some embodiments, projection666contains a portion of first piercer664(as noted above). In some embodiments, the portion of first piercer664in projection666includes a second piercer668. In some embodiments, second piercer668comprises a sharp tip configured to pierce second film669. In some embodiments, the sharp tip of second piercer668is located on a central axis of second piercer668. In some embodiments, second piercer668is part of first piercer664. In some embodiments, second piercer668and first piercer664are fixed relative to each other and may move together relative to container661.

In some embodiments, pod660includes a casing690disposed within container661. In some embodiments, casing690surrounds a portion of first piercer664and second piercer668. In some embodiments, casing690is fixed relative to container661. In some embodiments, casing690includes holes691disposed at base662. In some embodiments, holes691allow concentrate to flow out of pod660when pod660is opened.

In some embodiments, pod660is disposed below a portion of pod support680in carbonated beverage makers, as shown, for example, inFIGS.61A-61C. In some embodiments, pod support680may define aperture682. In some embodiments, aperture682aligns with first piercer664. In some embodiments, pull feature667extends through aperture682, as shown, for example, inFIG.61A. In some embodiments, aperture682assists in regulating the cutting pattern of first film665. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may include a mechanism, such as a movable clamp, to secure and pull upwards on pull feature667, thus pulling first piercer664upwards to pierce first film665, as shown, for example, inFIG.61B. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may include a mechanism, such as a movable clamp or a push rod, to push pull feature667down, thus pushing second piercer668downwards to pierce second film669, as shown, for example, inFIG.61C. After first film665and second film669are pierced, concentrate from pod650is delivered by air pressure (e.g., from an air pump) through the cut first film665to dispense through holes691of casing690and through the cut second film669into, for example, a drinking cup or other chamber.

In some embodiments, a pod670, as shown, for example, inFIGS.62-64B, includes a container671and a first film675. In some embodiments, container671includes a base672and a side673. In some embodiments, container671and first film675are circular. In some embodiments, pod670may be made of a material that is recyclable. For example, pod670may be primarily made of a recyclable plastic. For example, pod670, including container671and first film675, may be primarily made of PET. First film675may be a thin layer of PET. In some embodiments, first film675may be easier to pierce and cheaper than lid605of pod600. But first film675may cause pod670to have a lower shelf life than pod600. In some embodiments, first film675is welded to container671.

In some embodiments, a piercer674is disposed within container661extending from a projection676in base672. For example, piercer674may be disposed within projection676lower than base672. In some embodiments, piercer674extends from projection676in base672to first film675. In some embodiments, piercer674includes a sharp tip in projection676. In some embodiments, piercer674is made of the same material as container671. For example, piercer674may be made of PET. In some embodiments, container671and piercer674are injection molded.

In some embodiments, projection676includes a second film679disposed at its bottom surface. In some embodiments, second film679is made of PET. In some embodiments, second film679is a thin layer of PET. In some embodiments, second film679is welded to projection676. In some embodiments, projection676contains a portion of piercer674, including a sharp tip (as noted above). In some embodiments, the sharp tip of piercer674is configured to pierce second film679. In some embodiments, the sharp tip of piercer674is located on an edge of piercer674.

In some embodiment, piercer674is hollow. For example, piercer674may include an air pipe677that extends through its length. In some embodiments, piercer674includes a plurality of holes678. For example, piercer674may include two holes678near first film675and two holes678near base672. In some embodiments, pod670includes a casing692that surrounds piercer674. In some embodiments, casing692is fixed relative to container671. In some embodiments, casing692includes holes693. For example, casing692may include two holes693near first film675and two holes693near base672. In some embodiments, holes678do not align with holes693. This may prevent concentrate from entering air pipe677. In some embodiments, casing692includes one or more seals694disposed between casing692and piercer674. Seals694may prevent concentrate from entering between casing692and piercer674.

In some embodiments, pod670is disposed within carbonated beverage makers. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers include piercer684as shown, for example, inFIGS.64A-64B. Thus, piercer684is external to pod670. In some embodiments, piercer684is hollow. For example, piercer684may include an air pipe685. In some embodiments, air pipe685is operably connected to an air pump. In some embodiments, pod670is disposed adjacent to piercer684, as shown, for example inFIG.64A. In some embodiments, piercer684extends downward to pierce through first film675and simultaneously push down on piercer674, which in turn pierces through second film679, as shown, for example, inFIG.64B. As also seen inFIG.64B, the movement of piercer674aligns holes678with holes693. After first film675and second film679are pierced and holes678align with holes693, concentrate from pod650is delivered by air pressure (e.g., from an air pump) which flows through air pipe685, into air pipe677, through holes678and693near first film675, and into pod670to dispense concentrate through holes678and693near base672, into air pipe677and through the cut second film679into, for example, a drinking cup or other chamber.

While several embodiments of pods have been described, other variations and embodiments are also within the scope of and may be used with carbonated beverage makers described herein. In addition, while some interactions between carbonated beverage makers and pods have been described, other interactions are also within the scope of this disclosure. For example,FIGS.65-85illustrate example embodiments of pods being inserted into carbonated beverage makers.

As noted above, carbonated beverage makers as described herein may include a carbonation source. In some embodiments, the carbonation source may be a CO2cylinder or tank. For example, as shown inFIG.86, carbonated beverage maker300uses carbonation source350that is a CO2tank. In some embodiments, the CO2tank may hold up to 425 grams of CO2. CO2tanks contain CO2in a pressurized condition, which can require special handling, transport, refill, and delivery. These requirements can be costly and inconvenient for a consumer. For example, CO2tanks may not be shipped directly to a consumer. Disposal of the CO2tank may also be inconvenient for the consumer. Accordingly, in some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers utilize other sources of carbonation.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300(or carbonated beverage maker100) may include a CO2generation system, such as CO2generation system700, in place of a CO2tank, as shown, for example, inFIG.86. Incorporating a CO2generation system into a carbonated beverage maker eliminates the need to transport CO2and the special requirements for doing so. Thus, the elements used in CO2generation system700may be elements that can safely be delivered to a consumer (e.g., shipped) and that can safely be disposed of after being used to generate or create CO2in carbonated beverage maker300. In other words, the raw materials or reactants may be elements that can be safely shipped and the byproducts may be byproducts that can be safely disposed of.

In some embodiments, the elements may be chemical elements that react to create CO2as a product of the reaction. In some embodiments, the elements may be dry chemical elements. Dry chemical elements may be provided for CO2generation system700in various forms.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may use tablets containing dry chemical elements as a carbonation source. In some embodiments, pods may include a carbonation source, for example, in the form of beads, loose powder, or tablets. In some embodiments, the elements may be wet chemical elements.

In some embodiments, tablets may comprise sodium bicarbonate. In some embodiments, heat may be applied to a sodium bicarbonate tablet, such as through microwave radiation, which may produce gases to carbonate beverages.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may use effervescent technologies (i.e., the evolution of bubbles from a liquid due to a chemical reaction) to provide carbonation in beverages. In some embodiments, the gas is carbon dioxide which may be liberated by the reaction between a food grade acid (e.g., citric, tartaric, oxalic acid, etc., or a combination of these acids) and a source of carbonate (such as sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, or a mixture thereof). In some embodiments, the acid and the carbonate are combined dry, such as in a loose powder form or in a tablet form. In some embodiments, the acid and carbonate mixture is formed into granules, which may comprise particles ranging in size from about 4 to about 10 mesh. The granules may be made by blending the powders together and moistening the mixture to form a pasty mass, which may be passed through a sieve and dried in open air or in an oven. In some embodiments, the granules may be used as an intermediate step in preparing capsules or tablets because granules may flow more smoothly and predictably than small powder particles. In some embodiments, water is added to the acid and carbonate mixture in, for example, a tablet form, which causes production of effervescence.

In some embodiments, the acid used to produce effervescence is based on how soluble the acid is in water. The more soluble the acid is in water, the faster CO2will be produced. For example, the solubility of citric acid in water at 20° C. is 1.5 g/ml of water while the solubility of tartaric acid and oxalic acid are 1.3 and 0.14 g/ml of water, respectively. Furthermore, the molar ratio of acid to carbonate will also affect the reaction rate and yield. In general, the higher ratios of acid to carbonate will yield faster reactions. Also, higher ratios of acid will assure that the carbonate is completely reacted.

As an example, in some embodiments, potassium carbonate and citric acid are combined, such as in a powder or a tablet form, in a reaction chamber. As dry elements, the potassium carbonate and citric acid do not react with each other. In some embodiments, water may be added to the potassium carbonate and citric acid to initiate a reaction between them. The potassium carbonate and citric acid may react to generate CO2, as shown below. The other products of the chemical reaction are water and potassium citrate in the aqueous phase. The CO2may then be provided to a carbonation chamber of the carbonated beverage maker to carbonate the beverage.

In some embodiments, the reaction between elements (e.g., potassium carbonate and citric acid) may produce CO2that is at or near room temperature. In some embodiments, the reaction is isolated from the beverage that will be consumed. In some embodiments, the reaction may be accelerated by adding heated water. In some embodiments, the reaction may be accelerated by including dehydrated zeolite with the other chemical elements. In some embodiments, the reaction may be accelerated by including a chemical source of heat.

In some embodiments, tablets may include coating to reduce the effect of water in the atmosphere from initiating a reaction between the elements. In some embodiments, the coating comprises a sugar. In some embodiments, the coating comprises polyvinyl acetate. In some embodiments, the coating comprises polylactic acid.

In some embodiments, tablets may rely on the heat generated from other chemical reactions to decompose carbonate or bicarbonate salt(s) and/or accelerate the effervescent reaction(s). For example, in some embodiments, a tablet may comprise alkaline earth metal oxides, sodium bicarbonate, and dehydrated zeolites. In some embodiments, a metal oxide (e.g., calcium oxide) is combined with dehydrated zeolites, but is isolated from sodium bicarbonate. When water is added, heat is produced and the sodium bicarbonate reacts with the heat to produce CO2. In some embodiments, a tablet may comprise dehydrated zeolites, an acid-base composition, and sodium bicarbonate. In some embodiments, the acid-base composition allows for less water consumption because the acid-base reaction generates water itself. This then leads to an exothermic reaction of dehydrated zeolites. Thus, heat is produced and the sodium bicarbonate reacts with the heat to produce CO2. Other embodiments may utilize other chemical reactions to produce carbonation for beverages.

In some embodiments, instead of adding water to a mixture of acid and carbonate, water may be added to an acid (e.g., citric acid) and a carbonate powder (e.g., potassium carbonate) may be subsequently added.

In some embodiments, CO2generation system700facilitates the chemical reaction that produces CO2. In some embodiments, CO2generation system700, as shown, for example, inFIG.87, comprises a power and control system710, an output system720, a reservoir730, and a reaction chamber740. In some embodiments, CO2generation system700, as shown, for example, inFIGS.88and89, comprises an activation button702, a pressure indicator704, and an activity indicator706to facilitate use of CO2generation system700. In some embodiments, activation button702turns CO2generation system700on. In some embodiments, instead of activation button702, CO2generation system700may be turned on by receiving a signal from carbonated beverage maker300that it is time to generate CO2. In some embodiments, pressure indicator704indicates the current pressure within reaction chamber740to ensure safe operation of CO2generation system700. In some embodiments, activity indicator706indicates when CO2generation system700is actively generating CO2. In some embodiments, activity indicator706comprises an LED.

In some embodiments, reservoir730stores water to be added to the chemicals (e.g., potassium carbonate and citric acid in powder form) to initiate the chemical reaction between the chemicals. In some embodiments, the chemicals may be added to reservoir730instead of the water from reservoir730being added to the chemicals. In some embodiments, reservoir730includes one or more cartridge heaters732to heat the water in reservoir730. In some embodiments, reservoir730includes four cartridge heaters732. In some embodiments, cartridge heaters732may bring the water stored in reservoir730to a temperature of 55-60 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, cartridge heaters732constantly heat the water stored in reservoir730. In some embodiments, reservoir730is not always heated. In some embodiments, cartridge heaters732only heat the water stored in reservoir730when a signal is received. In some embodiments, reservoir730holds enough water for several cycles of CO2generation. For example, reservoir730may hold enough water for three cycles of CO2generation (i.e., to produce CO2for three beverages).

In some embodiments, a water exit passageway734(seeFIG.91), a pump736(seeFIG.91), and water delivery tubing738are configured to deliver water from reservoir730to reaction chamber740. In some embodiments, water exit passageway734is connected to reservoir730. In some embodiments, pump736is operably connected to water exit passageway734. Pump736is configured to pump water from reservoir730through water exit passageway734and into water delivery tubing738. In some embodiments, pump736comprises a high pressure solenoid pump.

In some embodiments, pump736operates intermittently to introduce water into reaction chamber740. For example, as shown inFIG.98, pump profile800may include pulses in which pump736turns on and off several times. In some embodiments, pump profile800affects the generation rate of CO2gas. Thus, a desired generation rate can be achieved by modifying pump profile800. In some embodiments, pump profile800prevents over-foaming in reaction chamber740. In some embodiments, pump profile800is configured to correspond the CO2generation with the carbonation process. In some embodiments, pump profile800may include a delay so that CO2is not generated too early.

In some embodiments, pump profile800may include a few medium length pulses to deliver a bulk of the water to be used to activate the reaction between the dry elements within reaction chamber740. In some embodiments, pump profile800may include one or two shorter pulses after the medium length pulses. The shorter pulses may facilitate continued mixing of the dry chemical elements towards the end of CO2generation. Other pump profiles are also possible.

In some embodiments, reaction chamber740comprises a water connection742and a gas connection744. In some embodiments, water delivery tubing738brings water to water connection742, which introduces the water into reaction chamber740. Chemical elements may be disposed within reaction chamber740. In some embodiments, the water initiates a reaction to produce CO2, which may exit reaction chamber740through gas connection744. In some embodiments, gas connection744is connected to gas delivery tubing746. In some embodiments, gas delivery tubing746delivers the gas to output system720.

In some embodiments, power and control system710for CO2generation system700comprises a power connector712and a control connector714, as shown, for example, inFIG.90. In some embodiments, power connector712supplies power to the components of CO2generation system700in need of power. In some embodiments, control connector714connects the components of CO2generation system700to a main controller. In some embodiments, power and control system710is a power and control system for all of carbonated beverage maker300, rather than just CO2generation system700. In other words, CO2generation system700can share some components with other systems within carbonated beverage maker300.

In some embodiments, output system720comprises a manual vent outlet722, a pressure relief valve724, an exit solenoid valve726, and exit tubing728. In some embodiments, manual vent outlet722allows a user to manually vent CO2generation system700. In some embodiments, pressure relief valve724helps regulate the pressure in CO2generation system700. For example, if the pressure in CO2generation system700exceeds a pre-determined pressure, pressure relief valve724will open to release some of the pressure. In some embodiments, exit solenoid valve726and exit tubing728facilitate the transport of generated CO2from CO2generation system700to a carbonation tank in carbonated beverage maker300. As will be discussed in more detail below, carbonated beverage maker300may communicate with exit solenoid valve726for the timing of opening and closing of exit solenoid valve726so that carbonated beverage maker300gets the right amount of CO2and at the right time.

In some embodiments, output system720may be used for other aspects of carbonated beverage maker300, rather than just CO2generation system700. For example, manual vent outlet722may allow a user to manually vent carbonated beverage maker300as a whole. Similarly, pressure relief valve724may help regulate the pressure of carbonated beverage maker300as a whole. Because CO2generation system700can share some components with other systems within carbonated beverage maker300, the addition of CO2generation system700into carbonated beverage maker300does not require as many additional components and the size of carbonated beverage maker300can be kept to a minimum. In some embodiments, other components of CO2generation system700, such as reservoir730, may also be shared with other aspects of carbonated beverage maker300.

In some embodiments, reaction chamber740is configured to hold dry chemical elements. In some embodiments, reaction chamber740is configured to receive a chemical pod760, as shown, for example, inFIGS.91and92. In some embodiments, chemical pod760is a reusable pod. In some embodiments, chemical pod760is a disposable pod. In some embodiments, chemical pod760holds the mixture of dry chemical elements (e.g., potassium carbonate and citric acid).

In some embodiments, water from reservoir730may be delivered into chemical pod760to initiate the chemical reaction between the chemical elements. In some embodiments, water from reservoir730is delivered into chemical pod760via water delivery tubing738through water connection742. In some embodiments, a needle750is inserted into chemical pod760to inject the water into chemical pod760. In some embodiments, needle750may protrude from water connection742into reaction chamber740. For example, needle750may protrude into chemical pod760.

In some embodiments, needle750operates as a water distribution needle. For example, needle750may spray water directly into the chemical elements (e.g., potassium carbonate and citric acid). In some embodiments, needle750may be configured to assist in ensuring that all chemical elements are wetted to increase the reaction between the chemical elements. In some embodiments, needle750may be configured to provide agitation to better mix the chemical elements and water. For example, needle750may be provided with holes (e.g., water injection holes) to contribute to wetting and agitation of chemical elements. In addition, pulses of water from pump736according to pump profile800, as discussed above, may also contribute to wetting and agitation of chemical elements.

In some embodiments, the pulses of water through needle750may contribute to preventing over-foaming within reaction chamber740. In some embodiments, greater quantities of water help collapse bubbles generated in the effervescent reaction. In some embodiments, when more hot water is added into reaction chamber740, the chemical reaction is faster and less foam and bubbles are generated. In some embodiments, other ways of managing foam and bubbles generated by the effervescent reaction may be used (e.g., glass beads, plastic beads, silicon oil, chemical de-foamers, mechanical foam breakers, etc.). In some embodiments, managing foam and bubbles generated by the effervescent reaction allows for faster generation of CO2.

In some embodiments, needle750comprises a plurality of holes, as shown, for example, inFIGS.93and94. In some embodiments, needle750comprises a plurality of holes752disposed in a line along a length of needle750. In some embodiments, holes752are disposed in an alternating fashion with a second plurality of holes754, as shown inFIG.93. In some embodiments, the placement of holes, such as holes752and holes754encourages the mixing of water with the dry chemical elements, which may help generate CO2more efficiently. In some embodiments, needle750includes holes756at a bottom part of needle750, for example, near a piercer758, as shown inFIG.94. In some embodiments, needle750comprises four holes756. In some embodiments, holes756spray water in four directions near the bottom of chemical pod760to maximize reaction between the chemical elements. For example, this configuration may keep the chemical elements moving.

In some embodiments, holes752, holes754, and/or holes756have a diameter of 1 millimeter. In some embodiments, holes752, holes754, and/or holes756have a diameter of 0.5 millimeters. In some embodiments, holes752, holes754, and holes756may have different diameters. In some embodiments, holes752, holes754, and holes756may have the same diameter. Holes752, holes754, and holes756have other diameters (e.g., greater than 1 millimeter, between 0.5 and 1 millimeter, or less than 0.5 millimeters). In some embodiments, needle750comprises six holes. In some embodiments, each hole has a diameter of 0.3 millimeters. In some embodiments, the diameter size ensures proper velocity and flow rate to dose the water in a desired amount of time (e.g., 10 seconds). The design of needle750may be different for different chemical elements disposed in reaction chamber740. In some embodiments, needle750is configured to provide continuous mixing throughout the pumping period.

In some embodiments, needle750injects 70 milliliters of water into reaction chamber740. In some embodiments, needle750injects water into reaction chamber740at a rate of 5.5 milliliters per second.

In some embodiments, reaction chamber740may be configured to receive chemical pods760of different sizes. For example, reaction chamber740may include a spacer741to accommodate chemical pods760of different sizes, as shown inFIGS.91and92. In some embodiments, reaction chamber740may be sized to accommodate more than one chemical pod760or tablet at a time. In some embodiments, the number of chemical pods760or tablets inserted into reaction chamber740may affect the amount of carbonation in the carbonated beverage. For example, one chemical pod760or tablet may equate to low carbonation, two chemical pods760or tablets may equate to medium carbonation, and three chemical pods760or tablets may equate to high carbonation.

In some embodiments, reaction chamber740comprises a pressure vessel. In some embodiments, reaction chamber740can be opened and sealed reliably. In some embodiments, reaction chamber740is sealed to other portions of carbonated beverage maker300to allow for reaction chamber740to be pressurized. In some embodiments, reaction chamber740comprises a chamber seal743. In some embodiments, chamber seal743comprises the same locking mechanisms as described above relating to the connection of a carbonation cup to a carbonated beverage maker.

In some embodiments, after water is introduced into reaction chamber740, CO2gas is produced. As the CO2gas is produced it is delivered through gas connection744and gas delivery tubing746to output system720, as described above, which will deliver CO2gas to a carbonation chamber to carbonate a beverage. The remaining products remain in chemical pod760and/or reaction chamber740. In some embodiments, the remaining products are safe for disposal without special treatment (e.g., the remaining products may be poured down the drain in a consumer's home).

In some embodiments, the water that is delivered to chemical pod760is heated. In some embodiments, the water that is delivered to chemical pod760is between 40 and 90 degrees Celsius (i.e., warm water; as used herein, warm water includes hot water). For example, the water that is delivered to chemical pod760may be between 55 and 60 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, additional heating may facilitate the reaction within chemical pod760. In some embodiments, inductive heating may be used to heat chemical pod760. For example, as shown inFIG.95, a primary coil770may surround chemical pod760. In some embodiments, chemical pod760contains susceptors772that are heated by induction caused by primary coil770. In some embodiments, the inductive heating may be affected by the geometry of susceptor772, the geometry of primary coil770, the associated magnetic circuit, and the apparatus used for removing heat from primary coil770. In some embodiments, susceptor772comprises metal particles (e.g., rings, discs, hollow cylinders, spheres, etc.). In some embodiments, the metal particles have a diameter that is less than four times of their skin depth. In some embodiments, susceptor772comprises a mesh, as shown inFIG.96. In some embodiments, the mesh is irregular.

In some embodiments, the primary field created by primary coil770is primarily disposed in chemical pod760to interact with susceptors772. In some embodiments, a magnetic circuit774ensures that the primary field is disposed in chemical pod760. In some embodiments, magnetic circuit774is made of ferrite. In some embodiments, the geometry of primary coil770may also influence the primary field to be disposed in chemical pod760. In some embodiments, primary coil770comprises a pancake coil, as shown inFIG.97. In some embodiments, magnetic circuit774provides a ferrite backing for primary coil770.

In some embodiments, a heat exchanger776is included with primary coil770. In some embodiments, heat exchanger776keeps primary coil770from getting too hot. In some embodiments, heat exchanger776transfers heat to surrounding air by convection. For example, heat exchanger776may comprise a finned heat exchanger.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300may utilize CO2generation system700to produce a carbonated beverage as shown, for example, in diagram900ofFIG.99. Diagram900illustrates the operations of CO2generation system700in some embodiments at the bottom portion of diagram900. Diagram900illustrates the operations of other portions of carbonated beverage maker300at the top portion of diagram900.

In some embodiments, a user starts carbonated beverage maker300at a first time910. In some embodiments, when the user starts carbonated beverage maker300, a pre-cooling cycle905begins. In some embodiments, pre-cooling cycle905comprises cycling cold water from a cold water reservoir through a carbonation chamber to cool the carbonation chamber. In some embodiments, pre-cooling cycle905continues through a second time920and ends at a third time930. In some embodiments, for example, pre-cooling cycle905lasts for 20 seconds. In some embodiments, at third time930, carbonated beverage maker300begins to fill the carbonation chamber with water to be carbonated in operation915. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage maker300fills the carbonation chamber in operation915from third time930through a fourth time940(e.g., just beyond fourth time940). For example, carbonated beverage maker300may fill the carbonation chamber for 10-12 seconds.

In some embodiments, at third time930carbonated beverage maker300also sends a signal to CO2generation system700in operation932and CO2generation system700receives the signal from carbonated beverage maker300in operation934. In some embodiments, in response to the signal from carbonated beverage maker300, CO2generation system700starts a first delay945. In some embodiments, first delay945begins at third time930and ends before fourth time940. In some embodiments, first delay945lasts between five and ten seconds. In some embodiments, at the end of first delay945, CO2generation system700begins the CO2generation process955. In some embodiments, CO2generation process955is the process of using CO2generation system700as described above. In some embodiments, CO2generation process955begins before fourth time940and ends after a fifth time950. In some embodiments, CO2generation process955lasts for 12-20 seconds.

In some embodiments, after CO2generation process955ends, CO2generation system700starts a second delay965. In some embodiments, second delay965begins after fifth time950. In some embodiments, second delay965extends through sixth time960and ends at seventh time970. In some embodiments, seventh time970ends all operations for carbonated beverage maker300and CO2generation system700. In some embodiments, CO2generation system700is vented at seventh time970. In some embodiments, second delay965lasts for 15-20 seconds.

In some embodiments, carbonation process925ends during second delay965. In some embodiments, carbonation process925ends just before sixth time960. In some embodiments, once carbonation process925is complete, carbonated beverage maker300vents the carbonation chamber and dispenses a carbonated beverage at operation935. In some embodiments, operation935of venting and dispensing lasts for ten seconds. In some embodiments, operation935of venting and dispensing begins and ends during second delay965. The timing of the operations shown in diagram900ofFIG.99may facilitate optimum CO2generation and carbonation.

A variety of chemical pods760may be utilized for CO2generation system700. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, inFIGS.100-103, chemical pod760may be coupled with a flavor pod762containing a flavor source (e.g., a powder, syrup, etc.). In some embodiments, as shown inFIG.100, chemical pod760may be a tablet made up of the dry chemical elements and flavor pod762may be a separate pod. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG.101, flavor pod762may be embedded within chemical pod760. The dry chemical elements may be in loose powder form within chemical pod760(e.g., underneath flavor pod762). In some embodiments, as shown inFIG.102, flavor pod762may be linked to chemical pod760. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG.103, flavor pod762may be separated from chemical pod760. Flavor pod762may be disposed in a portion of carbonated beverage maker300associated with dispensing. Chemical pod760may be disposed in a portion of carbonated beverage maker300associated with CO2generation (i.e., in reaction chamber740of CO2generation system700).

Carbonated beverage makers may have one or more of the features disclosed above. Moreover, any of the carbonated beverage makers described herein may utilize the CO2generation system described herein.

As noted above, in some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers are configured to identify a flavor source that will be used in the carbonated beverage maker. For example, in some embodiments, pods containing a flavor source may be provided with an RFID tag or identifier. In some embodiments, the RFID tag may contain information regarding the pod, such as flavor, size, expiration date, and other product information. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may include an RFID reader positioned to read the information from the RFID tag on the pod when the pod is inserted into the carbonated beverage maker.

In some embodiments, the carbonated beverage maker operates differently based on information from the RFID tag. For example, certain flavors may be associated with a carbonation level. When the carbonated beverage maker reads information from the RFID tag, it may automatically operate at the associated carbonation level. Alternatively, the carbonated beverage maker may display a message to the user based on information from the RFID tag, such as providing the suggested carbonation level. As another example, in some embodiments, the carbonated beverage maker may display a message that the pod has expired.

In some embodiments, other types of identification may be included on the pods. These other types of identification may include, for example, barcodes, QR codes, or mechanical identification means.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may be equipped with smart technology that allows for transmission and reception of data. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may wirelessly communicate with other devices, such as smart phones, personal computers, tablets, or other electronic devices. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may wirelessly communicate with other household appliances. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may connect to the internet, for example, via a wireless local area network (e.g., a home network). For example, carbonated beverage makers may include a wireless network interface controller. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may communicate with other devices over a personal area network (e.g., via the Bluetooth protocol).

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may be controlled remotely, for example, via an electronic device. For example, there may be an app associated with the carbonated beverage maker. The app may allow a user to customize or start the beverage making process remotely. In some embodiments, the user may select a flavor, carbonation level, and other settings remotely. For example, in some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may have a plurality of pods of different flavors pre-loaded into a storage chamber of the carbonated beverage maker. The process of loading the selected flavor into a dispensing position may be automated. In some embodiments, disposable cups may also be pre-loaded into the carbonated beverage maker. The process of positioning a disposable cup into a beverage receiving position may be automated. Accordingly, the entire beverage making process may be controlled remotely so that the beverage is ready for consumption when the user enters the room.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may provide information to a remote device. For example, carbonated beverage makers can send usage data, such as preferred settings, number of drinks, top flavors, etc. to a remote device. In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may notify the user via a remote device that a beverage is ready for consumption.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may send other alerts to users. For example, carbonated beverage makers may send an alert that it is time to fill up a water reservoir, replenish the CO2source, or purchase more flavor pods. As another example, the carbonated beverage maker may send an alert that maintenance is required. Other types of alerts may also be sent to a user via a remote device. In addition to or as an alternative to alerts to a remote device, carbonated beverage makers may also provide visual and/or audible alerts on the carbonated beverage maker itself, such as lights, text, voice messages, bells, beeps, and so on.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may receive information from a remote device. After tasting a beverage created with the carbonated beverage maker, a user may use a remote device (e.g., through an app on a smartphone) to send information to the carbonated beverage maker. For example, if the user created a new beverage and particularly enjoyed the beverage, the user may send instructions via a remote device to the carbonated beverage maker to store the recipe for the last-made drink in the carbonated beverage maker's memory. The user may also use a remote device to send instructions to the carbonated beverage maker to delete a recipe from its memory. Other types of information may also be sent to the carbonated beverage maker.

In some embodiments, carbonated beverage makers may include features of the beverage dispensing systems disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 12/982,374 filed Dec. 30, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,272,827, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. For example, carbonated beverage makers may include a needle at the end of a water supply line for piercing a cartridge and introducing water (carbonated or non-carbonated) into the cartridge. As another example, carbonated beverage makers may include a button or switch to activate the carbonated beverage maker. Other features disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 12/982,374, although not specifically discussed here, may be included in carbonated beverage makers.