BEVERAGE BREWING DEVICES

A beverage system is provided. An adaptor assembly can be used with the beverage system and include a brew basket defining a cavity therein and having a fluid outlet. The assembly also includes a pod adapter and a filter adaptor receivable within the cavity in the brew basket. The pod adapter has at least one engagement feature arranged to be received within at least one corresponding slot in the brew basket. The filter adaptor includes a showerhead coupled to the filter body, the showerhead being arranged to receive fluid through an opening therein and to distribute fluid into the filter body. An internal storage cavity can be arranged within the housing of the beverage system for storing the adaptors. Additionally, a flow path cover can be positioned on the beverage system and configured to prevent unintentional water discharge from a brew chamber.

FIELD

Beverage brewing apparatus, and assemblies for use in beverage brewing apparatus, are provided.

BACKGROUND

Various systems and methods for brewing a beverage, such as coffee or tea, are known. These systems typically include drip brewing systems in which hot water is brewed through coffee grounds and into a carafe, or French press systems in which coffee grounds and water are mixed in a container and a water permeable plunger is pressed into the container from above to trap the ground coffee at the bottom of the container. Existing beverage brewing systems are typically designed to receive only a single format of flavorant, such as loose coffee grinds, or alternatively, a prepackaged pod or cartridge of coffee grinds.

Accordingly, in the event that a user desires to have the flexibility to use both loose coffee grinds and prepackaged pods of coffee grinds, they have to resort to purchasing two or more separate brewing systems to accommodate their desire. This can be cost prohibitive, and can take up extra space in a kitchen or café environment. Further, the maintenance that comes with cleaning and maintaining multiple brewing systems can be time consuming and cumbersome.

SUMMARY

Beverage brewing devices and adaptor storage for use therewith are provided. In one embodiment, the beverage system can include a housing having an interior storage cavity therein. The beverage system can also include an opening arranged in the housing and arranged to allow access to the interior storage cavity. The beverage system can also include a drawer defining a cavity therein, the drawer arranged to be selectively positioned within the interior storage cavity. A pod adapter can be receivable within the cavity in the drawer. A filter adaptor can also be receivable within the cavity in the drawer.

In another embodiment, the drawer can be receivable within the interior storage cavity with at least one of the pod adapter and filter adaptor positioned within the cavity. The drawer can also have at least one flexible tab arranged to engage with a corresponding detent within the interior storage cavity. The drawer can also have a first handle extending radially outward from the drawer. The drawer can also have an outer door arranged to cover the opening when the drawer is positioned within the interior storage cavity.

In some embodiments, the pod adaptor can have a second handle arranged to be positioned adjacent to the first handle when the pod adaptor is positioned within the cavity in the drawer. Further, in some embodiments, the filter adaptor has a second handle arranged to be positioned adjacent to the first handle when the filter adaptor is positioned within the cavity in the drawer.

In another embodiment, the interior storage cavity can be arranged vertically below a brew chamber of the housing. The interior storage cavity can also be partially defined by a base of the housing.

In other aspects, a beverage system is provided. In one embodiment, the beverage system can include a housing having a brew chamber and an interior storage cavity therein. The beverage system can also have an adapter arranged to hold a brewing medium for brewing a beverage, with the adapter arranged to be receivable within the brew chamber for a brewing cycle. The adaptor can also be receivable within the interior storage cavity for storage of the adapter.

In another embodiment, the interior storage cavity is arranged vertically below the brew chamber. In some embodiments, the brew chamber and interior storage cavity can be isolated from each another within the housing.

In another embodiment, the beverage system can further have a drawer defining a cavity therein, arranged to be removably positioned within the interior storage cavity.

In another embodiment, the brew chamber is accessible via a first opening positioned in a top surface of the housing, and the interior storage cavity is accessible via a second opening positioned in a side surface of the housing. In some embodiments, the first opening can be arranged perpendicular to the second opening.

In another embodiment, the beverage system can further have a second adapter, wherein the adapter can be arranged in the brew chamber simultaneously with the first adaptor arranged in the interior storage cavity.

In another aspect, another beverage system is provided. In one embodiment, the beverage system can include a housing having a brew chamber and an interior storage cavity therein. The beverage system can also have a drawer defining a cavity therein, the drawer being removably positioned within the interior storage cavity. The beverage system can also have a pod adapter selectively receivable within the cavity in the drawer and the brew chamber. The beverage system can also have a filter adaptor selectively receivable within the cavity in the drawer and the brew chamber.

In another embodiment, the pod adaptor can have a handle arranged to be positioned adjacent to a handle of the drawer when the pod adaptor is positioned within the cavity in the drawer. In some embodiments, the filter adaptor can have a handle arranged to be positioned adjacent to a handle of the drawer when the filter adaptor is positioned within the cavity in the drawer.

In another embodiment, the interior storage cavity can be arranged vertically below a brew chamber of the housing.

It is noted that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In general, a multi-format beverage system, and components for use in a beverage system, are provided. In one aspect, an adaptor assembly for use in a beverage system is provided and includes a filter adaptor to be used when brewing loose coffee grinds, and a pod adaptor to be used when brewing prepackaged pods. Both the filter adaptor and the pod adaptor are receivable in a brew basket that can be inserted into a brew chamber of the beverage system. The nesting configuration of the adaptors with the brew basket enable the flow of hot or cold water into each adaptor to be achieved utilizing the same brewing needle, which is located in a lid of the beverage system. Further, the adaptors are configured to interact with a drip stop such that the drip stop is active to prevent dripping during use of the filter adaptor and is inactivated during use of the pod adaptor.

The filter adaptor can also include a showerhead cover having a top surface with an opening into a hollow interior configured to receive the brewing needle of the lid when the lid is in a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the showerhead cover can be hingedly connected to the filter adaptor. The top surface of the showerhead cover can include a handle arranged away from the hinged connection to allow for the showerhead to be lifted off of the permanent adaptor and rotated about the hinged connection. In other embodiments, the showerhead cover can be separate from the filter adaptor. In this configuration, the top surface can also include a plurality of protrusions, each including an engagement feature configured to be received by a corresponding detent of a plurality of detents located on the lid of the beverage system.

In other embodiments, the beverage system can include a flexible flow path cover and/or a rigid flow path shield configured to redirect a flow of fluid to the brewing needle in the event that a brewing operation is terminated prematurely. In other embodiments, a storage system is provided for enabling one of the adaptors not in use to be stored within the beverage brewing apparatus.

The aforementioned components and features can be utilized in a variety of beverage brewing apparatuses.FIGS.1A-2Billustrate embodiments of a beverage brewing apparatus100,200that can include any one of more of the aforementioned features. The illustrated apparatuses100,200are each operable to prepare a brewed beverage, such as coffee or tea. As shown, each beverage brewing apparatus100,200generally includes a housing110,210having a base112,212. The housing110,210and can be formed from a plastic or metal outer casing. A bottom surface112b,212bof the base112,212can be configured to be positioned on a support surface, and a drip tray112u,212uof the base112,212can define an area for positioning a container (e.g. container213ofFIG.2A) positioned below the brew chamber216and configured to receive a brewed beverage output from the beverage brewing apparatus200, as discussed in greater detail below. In some embodiments, the drip tray112u,212ucan have grates or a heating plate to collect fluid that drips from the container disposed thereon, or to keep the fluid in the container warm, respectively.

Each beverage brewing apparatus100,200can also include a reservoir114,214arranged on or coupled to the housing110,210and configured to store a desired amount of fluid therein, such as water, for brewing a beverage. Each reservoir can be formed from a plastic, glass, or metal outer casing and can include a valve arranged at the bottom which is opened when the reservoirs are placed on their respective housings. Each reservoir can also include a removable lid so that the reservoir can be filed without removal form the housing. The reservoirs114,214can be removably connectable to the housing for ease of filling. The reservoirs can be arranged on a side surface or back surface of the housing, but other configurations and positions of the reservoirs should be considered within the scope of this disclosure.

Each housing110,210can also include a brew chamber116,216within which brewing ingredients, such as coffee grinds or tea leaves, may be positioned. In some embodiments, the brew chamber116,216can include a generally cylindrical cavity with a fluid outlet extending through a chamber base or a vertex formed by a sidewall of the cavity and the chamber base. The fluid outlet can be configured to deliver fluid from the brew chamber116,216to the container positioned below the brew chamber116, on the drip tray112u,212u, e.g., a cup or carafe. The housing210of brewing apparatus200can further include a drip-stop switch221(shown inFIG.2Aonly). The drip-stop switch221can be communicatively coupled with the brew chamber216, as will be discussed in further detail below.

Each apparatus100,200can further include a lid118,218configured to open and close over the brew chamber116,216. The lid118,218can include a brewing needle120,220disposed in the center thereof and configured to deliver fluid to the brew chamber116,216, as discussed in greater detail below.

In order to prepare a beverage, each apparatus100,200can further include a fluid delivery system disposed within the housing and configured to communicate fluid from the reservoir to the brew chamber.FIG.3illustrates a schematic of a fluid delivery system20that can be used in the beverage apparatuses100,200ofFIGS.1A-1B and2A-2B. As shown, the fluid delivery system20includes at least one fluid supply line or conduit33extending between an outlet end of a reservoir114,214to an inlet of the brew chamber116,216. The fluid delivery system20can also include a heater48operable to heat the water supplied from the reservoir114,214to a desired temperature prior to delivery to the brew chamber116,216. Additionally, the fluid delivery system20can include a pumping mechanism50operable to provide a positive pumping action to push or draw a fluid, such as water, from the reservoir114,214through the at least one fluid supply line33and the heater48to deliver the fluid to the brew chamber116,216. In some embodiments, the at least one fluid supply line33can be configured to terminate at the lid118,218of the housing. As will be discussed in detail below, the lid of the housing can be configured to open and close over the brew chamber, and the fluid supply line can be configured to terminate at a brewing needle120,220disposed on the bottom surface of the lid118,218.

The beverage brewing apparatuses100and200can also include a user interface122,222for receiving one or more inputs from a user. The user interface122,222can be formed at a portion of the housing. In the apparatus100ofFIG.1A-1B, a user interference122is formed at a top surface of the lid118. In the apparatus200ofFIG.2A-2B, a user interface222is formed at a front surface of the housing210, adjacent the brew chamber216. The user interface122,222can, however, be located anywhere on the housing210and the position can vary depending on the configuration of the beverage brewing apparatus. The user interface122,222can include one or more buttons, knobs, or other control input devices. Alternatively, or in addition, the user interface can include a touch screen, or it can be configured to receive an input via from a smart device, such as a phone or tablet for example, via an “app” or other suitable connection.

Referring back toFIG.3, operation of a beverage brewing apparatus100,200can be controlled by a controller58operably coupled to the components of the beverage brewing apparatus, and configured receive one or more input signals from the user interface. The controller58can include one or more of a microprocessor, microcontroller, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any other form of electronic controller known in the art.

A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the features disclosed herein can be used in a beverage brewing apparatus having a variety of other configurations, and that the illustrated beverage brewing apparatus is merely one exemplary embodiment. Other embodiments of beverage brewing apparatuses are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 11,246,446, titled “Hybrid Receptacle Beverage Brewing System,” filed on Dec. 31, 2020, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Adaptor Assembly

As indicated above, an adaptor assembly is provided for use in a beverage brewing apparatus, such as apparatus100ofFIG.1A-1B.FIGS.4-10illustrate one exemplary embodiment of an adaptor assembly. As shown inFIGS.4and5, the beverage brewing apparatus100includes a brew basket124that is configured to separately seat a filter adaptor126and a pod adaptor128for allowing the apparatus100to selectively brew a beverage from grounds or from a pod. A pod can be any form of sealed package containing an amount of brewing ingredients, where the outer package is pieced or fluid preamble to allow fluid to enter the package and interact with the brewing ingredients to form a brewed beverage.

As shown inFIG.6A, the illustrated the brew basket124is generally cup-shaped with a generally cylindrical cavity130and a basket rim132, a basket base134, and a drip-stop valve136extending through an opening141in the basket base134. The brew basket124can further include a handle146extending radially outward from the basket rim132and configured to allow a user to easily place and remove the brew basket124into and from the brew chamber116. In some embodiments, the brew basket124can further include at least one cut-out or slot148in the basket rim132that is configured to allow at least one engagement feature of the pod adaptor to pass there through to engage with the brew chamber116, as will be discussed in greater detail below. The brew basket124can also include a first sensor plate133aand a second sensor plate133bconfigured to receive a first indication marker of the filter adaptor126and a second indication marker of the pod adaptor128second adaptor, respectively, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

FIG.6Bis a cross-sectional view of the brew basket124taken along section D-D ofFIG.6A. As seen inFIG.6B, the illustrated drip-stop valve136includes a piston138extending through the opening141. The drip-stop valve136can further include a drip-stop seal140disposed within the cavity. The drip-stop seal140can be in the form of a circular flexible gasket configured to extend radially outward from the piston to seal an opening141that the piston passes through. The drip-stop valve136can further include a biasing end142located opposite the drip-stop seal140. The biasing end142can be in the form of circular flange extending radially outward from the piston. The biasing end142can further include a plurality of openings142aconfigured to allow fluid to pass through the bottom of the biasing end142when the drip-stop valve136is in the open configuration. In some embodiments, the piston138and the biasing end142can be formed integrally. The drip-stop valve136can further include a spring144positioned about the piston138, extending between the biasing end142and the base134of the brew basket124. The spring144can be configured to apply a biasing force between the biasing end142and the base134, to push them apart. Referring back toFIG.4, with the lid118open and the brew basket124simply sitting in the brew chamber116, the drip-stop valve136is biased by the spring to a closed configuration with the drip-stop seal140sealing off the opening141within the brew basket124. However, when a compressive force F is applied to the biasing end142, the drip-stop valve136is moved to an open position, thus allowing fluid to flow though the opening141and the openings142a.

As indicated above, the brew basket124can be configured to selectively seat the filter adaptor126and the pod adaptor128. As shown inFIGS.7A-7B, the filter adaptor126can be in the form of a generally hollow cylindrical housing having a generally cylindrical cavity150configured to hold brewing ingredients. The illustrated filter adaptor126has a filter rim152at an upper end that defines an opening to the cavity150. One or more portions of the walls154of the cavity150of the filter adaptor126can be at least partially made of a porous or perforated material to allow fluid to pass there through, while maintaining the brewing ingredients within the cavity. Additionally, the filter adaptor126can include supports154aextending downward from the filter rim152to support and provide attachment points form the wall154. The filter adaptor126can be configured to be placed within the brew basket124during a brewing operation with a lower surface of the filter rim152arranged to rest on top of one or more internal radial ribs131provided on within the cavity130. The filter adaptor126can also include a first indication marker153configured to be received by the first sensor plate133aof the brew basket124(as shown inFIG.6A). The first indication marker can be configured to be detected by a corresponding sensor disposed within the brew chamber116, as discussed in greater detail below, to indicate to the apparatus100that the filter adaptor126is being used. In some embodiments, the first indication marker153can be a magnet or a material detectable by an induction sensor.

As further shown, the filter adaptor126can include a handle156extending radially outward therefrom and positioned on the filter rim152and configured to fit symmetrically next to the handle146of the brew basket. The filter adaptor126can further include a showerhead158configured to hingedly attach to the filter rim152at a hinged connection160. The illustrated showerhead158includes a top158t, and a bottom158bspaced a distance apart from one another. In between the top158tand the bottom surface158bis a hollow interior158i(shown inFIG.8). The top158tcan include a handle162arranged away from the hinged connection160to allow for the showerhead158to be lifted up off of the rim152of the filter adaptor126and rotated about the hinged connection160. The top158tcan also include an opening164into the hollow interior158iconfigured to receive the brewing needle120of the lid118when the lid is in a closed configuration, thus allowing fluid to be delivered into the hollow interior158i. The bottom158bof the showerhead158can include a plurality of openings166extending there through. The plurality of openings166can be configured to disperse a flow of fluid delivered to the hollow interior158ifrom the brewing needle120via the opening164into the cavity150of the filter adaptor126during a brewing operation. In some embodiments, the showerhead top158tand the showerhead bottom158bcan be configured to be separated in order to clean the hollow interior158i.

FIGS.7C-7D, illustrate another embodiment for a showerhead358that can be used with the filter adaptor126. Accordingly, like components will not be described in detail. The illustrated showerhead358includes a bottom surface358band a top surface358t, spaced a distance apart from one another. In between the top surface358tand the bottom surface358bis a hollow interior. In some embodiments, the hollow interior of the showerhead358can be similar to the hollow interior158iof shown inFIG.8. The bottom surface358bof the showerhead358can include a plurality of openings366extending there through. In some embodiments, the openings366can be similar to the openings166of the showerhead158shown inFIG.7B. The showerhead bottom surface358bcan further include at least one overflow hole368located around an edge358eof the bottom surface358bof the showerhead358, radially offset from the openings366. The overflow hole(s)368can be sized larger than the openings366to allow for fluid to flow there through in the event that the openings366become blocked or clogged. In some embodiments, the showerhead top surface358tand the showerhead bottom surface358bcan be configured to be separated in order to clean the hollow interior358i.

As indicated above, the filter adaptor126is configured to be placed within the brew basket124, and the brew basket124is configured to be placed within the brew chamber116. A user can place loose brewing ingredients within the cavity150of the filter adaptor126and close the showerhead158. The user can then close the lid118to begin the brewing process.FIG.8is a cross-sectional view of the brewing apparatus100shown along section A-A ofFIG.1B, with the filter adaptor126therein. As shown inFIG.8, when the lid118is in the closed configuration, the brewing needle120is received by the opening164. A flexible gasket168can be provided around the brewing needle120to form a tight seal around the opening164. A downward pressure applied to the filter adaptor126and the brew basket124from the lid118being closed causes the filter adaptor126and the brew basket124to move toward a base of the brew chamber170. The biasing end142of the drip-stop valve136can be configured contact the base of the brew chamber170and bias the drip-stop valve136to the open position. Accordingly, when the lid118is in the closed configuration, the drip-stop valve136is maintained in the open configuration, allowing brewed fluid to flow from the brew basket124into the brew chamber116.

Still referring toFIG.8, in the closed configuration, a filter adaptor sensor171adisposed within the brew chamber116can be configured to detect the first indication marker153through the first sensor plate133a. Detection of the first indication marker153by the filter adaptor sensor171acan indicate to the controller58(as shown inFIG.3) of the apparatus that the filter adaptor126is present within the brew chamber116.

The user can activate the apparatus to begin the brewing process, whereby fluid flows from the brewing needle120, into the hollow opening158iof the showerhead, through the plurality of openings166, and into the filter adaptor126where it can interact with the loose brewing ingredients in order to brew coffee or tea. The brewed beverage can then flow from the filter adaptor126through the perforated material of the walls154and into the brew basket124. The brewed beverage present in the brew basket124then flows through the openly biased drip-stop valve136into the brew chamber116, where it can then be delivered to a container configured to receive the brewed beverage.

When the brewing process is finished the lid118can be opened, relieving the pressure on the filter adaptor126and the brew basket124, allowing the drip-stop valve136to bias back to a closed configuration so that fluid is prevented from flowing through the valve136. Similarly, if the lid118is opened before the brewing process is complete, the drip-stop valve136can be configured to bias back to a closed configuration. In this case, any fluid that is present in the filter adaptor126can be configured to filter into the brew basket124and be held there until the either the lid118is closed, or the brew basket124is removed for cleaning.

As indicated above, the brew basket124can also be configured to receive a pod adaptor128. As illustrated inFIG.9, the pod adaptor128is in the form of a generally cylindrical housing having a generally cylindrical cavity172configured to hold a prepackaged pod of brewing ingredients. The pod adaptor128can have a rim174in the form of a radially projecting flange on an upper end thereof to facilitate placement of the pod adaptor128within the brew basket124. The pod adaptor128can be configured to be placed within the brew basket124during a brewing operation with an underside surface of the rim174arranged to rest on the basket rim132. The pod adaptor128can also include a second indication marker175configured to be received by the second sensor plate133bof the brew basket124(as shown inFIG.6A). In some embodiments, the second indication marker175can be a magnet or similarly to the filter adaptor sensor171a(as shown inFIG.8), a pod adaptor sensor171bis disposed within the brew chamber116(located adjacent to the filter adaptor sensor171a) and can be configured to detect a second indication marker of the pod adaptor128through the second sensor plate133b.

As illustrated inFIG.10, in some embodiments, a cavity of the pod adaptor can include a pod puncturing apparatus176configured to puncture a bottom surface of a prepackaged pod placed therein. The pod puncturing apparatus176includes a needle176ahaving a hollow lumen therethrough that allows fluid within a punctured pod to pass through the outer surface128aof the pod adaptor128and into the brew chamber116.

Referring back toFIG.9, the pod adaptor128can further include a handle178placed near the rim174and configured to fit symmetrically next to the handle146of the brew basket124. As shown, the handle178can project radially outward from the rim174. As further shown inFIG.9, the pod adaptor rim can further include one or more openings180around the outside of the cavity172that extend through the pod adaptor128to the cavity130of the brew basket124when inserted in the brew basket. The one or more openings180can be configured to funnel any excess or errand fluid that may accumulate on the pod adaptor rim174into the brew basket124.

The pod adaptor128can further include at least one engagement182feature configured to be received by a corresponding detent184provided within the brew chamber116. The detents184are provided within the brew chamber116in order to lock the pod adaptor128relative to the brew chamber116. As shown inFIG.9, the at least one engagement feature182can be disposed beneath the pod adaptor rim174, outside of the cylindrical cavity172, and extend radially outward from the outer surface128aof the pod adaptor128. The at least one engagement feature182can be arranged to pass through the corresponding slot148cut out on the basket rim132of the brew basket124and engage with the corresponding detent184.

As shown inFIG.10, the pod adaptor128includes first and second engagement features182arranged opposite one another around the outside of the cavity172. Each engagement feature is in the form of a spring-loaded projection that is configured to engage a corresponding detent184of the brew chamber. Each detent in the brew chamber can be in the form of a small hole extending partially through the sidewall of the brew chamber and arranged near the upper rim of the brew chamber. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that any number of engagement features can be utilized, and that the projection and detent can be reversed, and further that other engagement features can be used.

To perform a brewing operation with the pod adaptor128, the brew basket124can be placed within the brew chamber116with slots148aligned with the corresponding detents184of the brew chamber. The pod adaptor128can be placed within the brew basket124with the engagement features182aligned with the corresponding slots148and detents184. By applying a downward pressure on the pod adaptor128and brew basket124while they are within the brew chamber116, the engagement features182can pass through slots148and be received by the corresponding detents184, thereby retaining the pod adaptor128within the brew chamber116in a locked configuration. By locking the pod adaptor128and the brew basket124relative to the brew chamber116, the drip-stop valve136of the brew basket can also be locked in an open configuration. In some embodiments, a brewing operation can be performed with the pod adaptor128without using the brew basket124. Similarly, in this embodiment, the pod adaptor128can be placed within the brew chamber116with the engagement features182aligned with the corresponding detents184.

Additionally, in the locked configuration, the pod adaptor sensor171b(as shown inFIG.8) can be configured to detect the second indication marker175(as shown inFIG.9) through the second sensor plate133b(as shown inFIG.4A) and indicate to the controller58(as shown inFIG.3) of the apparatus, that the pod adaptor128is being used. The user interface display122can be configured to change based on which indication marker, of the first indication marker153and the second indication marker175, is detected by the filter adaptor sensor171aor the pod adaptor sensor171b, respectively.

In use, a prepackaged pod can be placed within the cavity172of the pod adaptor128, either prior to or after insertion of the pod adaptor128and the brew basket124into the brew chamber116. The lid118can then be closed and the brewing needle120can be configured to puncture a top side of the prepackaged pod. The downward force applied to the top of the pod can push the pod downward within the cavity172of the pod adaptor, into the puncturing apparatus176. It can be advantageous for the pod adaptor128to be in a locked configuration relative to the brew chamber116so that the brewing needle120can reliably puncture that same location on the top of the prepackaged pod as the lid is closed. The user can then activate a brewing process, and fluid can flow out of the brewing needle120and into the prepackaged pod to prepare the brewed beverage. Once properly brewed, the brewed beverage can flow out of the puncturing apparatus176, through the open drip-stop valve136into the brew chamber116, where it can then be delivered to a container configured to receive the brewed beverage.

FIGS.11-17illustrate another exemplary embodiment of an adaptor assembly for use with a beverage brewing apparatus, such as apparatus200ofFIG.2A-2B. As shown inFIGS.11and12, the beverage brewing apparatus200includes a brew basket224that is configured to separately operate with a showerhead258and a pod adaptor228for allowing the apparatus200to selectively brew a beverage from grounds or from a pod.

FIG.13Ashows the brew basket224in more detail. As shown, the brew basket224has a generally conical cavity230with a basket rim232and a basket base234. In some embodiments, the shape of the cavity230can resemble the shape of a traditional paper coffee filter. The brew basket224can further include a handle246projecting radially outward from the basket rim232and configured to allow a user to easily place and remove the brew basket224within and from the brew chamber216. In some embodiments, the brew basket224can further include at least one cut-out or slot248in the basket rim of the brew basket configured to allow at least one engagement feature of the pod adaptor to pass there through to engage with the brew chamber216, as will be discussed in greater detail below. The brew basket224can also include drip-stop valve236, which, together with the drip-stop switch221, form a drip-stop assembly237. The drip-stop valve236can include a biasing end242including at least one tab242aconfigured to interact with the drip-stop switch221to move the drip-stop valve236as discussed below. The illustrated drip-stop switch221includes a lever233and at least one ramp235formed thereon configured to move the drip-stop valve236vertically to seal and unseal the drip-stop valve236. The lever233can be rotated back and forth along path A to rotate the drip-stop switch221. As the drip-stop switch221rotates, the ramp235can be configured to come into contact with the tab242a. As the tab242acontacts the ramp235, it can be configured to slide up the ramp235, thereby moving the biasing end242in a vertical direction to seal and unseal the drip-stop valve236.

FIG.13Bis a cross sectional view of the brew basket224taken along section E-E ofFIG.13A. As shown inFIG.13B, the base of the brew basket224can include an opening241. The drip-stop valve236can further include a piston238extending through the opening241. The piston238can include a fluid passage239configured to allow fluid to pass through the piston238when the drip-stop valve236is in an open configuration. The drip-stop valve236can further include a drip-stop seal240disposed within the cavity, and the biasing end242located opposite the drip-stop seal240, similar to drip-stop valve136. The drip-stop seal240can be in the form of a circular flexible gasket configured to extend radially outward from the piston238to seal the opening241when the drip-stop valve236is in a closed configuration. As discussed above, the biasing end242can further include tabs242aconfigured to be moved vertically by the force F, generated by the ramps235as the drip-stop switch221is rotated in the direction A (as shown inFIG.13A). In some embodiments, the piston238and the biasing end242can be formed integrally. The drip-stop valve236can further include at least one spring244wrapped around the piston238in between the drip-stop seal240and the biasing end242. When a compressive force F is applied to the biasing end242, the drip-stop valve236can be biased to an open position, and fluid can flow though the opening.

As indicated above, the brew basket224can be configured to selectively seat the filter adaptor226and the pod adaptor228. As shown inFIG.14, the filter adaptor226can be in the form of a generally conical housing having a generally conical cavity250configured to hold loose brewing ingredients. The filter adaptor226can have a filter rim252at an upper end that defines an opening to the cavity250. The walls254of the filter adaptor226can be at least partially made of a porous or perforated material to allow fluid to pass through the cavity, while maintaining the brewing ingredients within the cavity. The filter adaptor226can be configured to be placed within the brew basket224during a brewing operation. It should be noted that a brewing operation can also be performed using a traditional paper coffee filter, or the like, in place of the filter adaptor226. In some embodiments, the filter adaptor226can include a handle256mounted on an inner surface of the filter rim252by two pins257. The handle256can be configured to rotate about pins257. The handle256can be rotated upward to pull the filter adaptor226out of the brew basket224, or can be nested within the filter adaptor226(as shown inFIG.14) during a brewing operation.

The filter adaptor226can further include a showerhead258configured to be used in combination with the filter adaptor226during a brewing operation. The illustrated showerhead258includes a top surface258tand a bottom surface258b(as shown inFIG.15B) that are spaced a distance apart from one another. In between the top surface258tand the bottom surface258bis a hollow interior258i(as shown inFIG.16). The top surface258tcan include a handle262to allow for the showerhead258to be lifted up off of the rim252of the filter adaptor226. The handle262can be configured to fit symmetrically next to the handle246of the brew basket. The top surface258tcan also include protrusion portions247configured to engage with lid clips219(as shown inFIG.11), as will be discussed in greater detail below. The top surface258tcan also include an opening264into the hollow interior258iconfigured to receive the brewing needle220of the lid218when the lid is in a closed configuration, thus allowing fluid to be delivered into the hollow interior258i. As shown inFIG.15B, the bottom surface258bof the showerhead258can include a plurality of openings266extending through the bottom surface258b. The plurality of openings266can be configured to disperse a flow of fluid delivered to the hollow interior258ifrom the brewing needle220via the opening264into to the cavity250of the filter adaptor226during a brewing operation. The showerhead bottom surface258bcan further include at least one overflow hole267. The overflow hole(s)267can be sized larger than the openings266to allow for fluid to flow there through in the event that the openings266become blocked or clogged. In some embodiments, the showerhead top surface258tand the showerhead bottom surface258bcan be configured to be separated in order to clean the hollow interior258i.

The showerhead258can further include a first indication marker253configured to be received by the filter adaptor sensor271a(as shown inFIG.11), as will be discussed in greater detail below.

The filter adaptor226is configured to be placed within the brew basket224, and the brew basket224can be placed within the brew chamber216. A user can place loose brewing ingredients within the cavity250of the filter adaptor226and position the showerhead258over the filter adapter226. The user can then close the lid218to begin the brewing process.FIG.16is a cross-sectional view of the brewing apparatus200shown along section C-C ofFIG.2B. As shown inFIG.16, when the lid218is in the closed configuration, the brewing needle220is received by the opening264. A flexible gasket268can be provided around the brewing needle220to form a tight seal around the opening264. A downward pressure applied to the filter adaptor226and the brew basket224from the lid218being closed causes the filter adaptor226and the brew basket224to move toward a base of the brew chamber270and to come into contact with an angled portion270aof the brew chamber270. With the lid218in the closed configuration and the brew basket224in contact with the angled portion270aof the brew chamber270, a user can move the lever233back and forth along path A (as shown inFIG.13A). By moving the lever233back and forth along path A, the at least one ramp235can progressively move the biasing end242of the drip-stop valve236vertically relative to the rest of the brew basket224to seal and unseal the drip-stop valve236.

Referring back toFIG.11, the filter adaptor sensor271acan be configured to detect the first indication marker253to indicate to the controller of the apparatus200that the filter adaptor226is present in the brew chamber216. The user can activate the apparatus to begin the brewing process, whereby fluid flows from the brewing needle220, into the hollow interior258iof the showerhead, through the plurality of openings266, and into the filter adaptor226where it can interact with the loose brewing ingredients in order to brew coffee or tea. The brewed beverage can then flow from the filter adaptor226through the perforated material254into the brew basket224. The user can then move the lever233back and forth along path A to open and close drip-stop valve236to control the flow of fluid into the brew chamber216, where it can then be delivered to a container configured to receive the brewed beverage.

When the brewing process is finished the user can move the lever233to close the drip-stop valve236so that fluid is retained within the brew basket224. In this case, any fluid that is present in the filter adaptor226can be configured to filter into the brew basket224and be held there until the either the lid218is closed, or the brew basket224is removed for cleaning. In the event that the lid218is opened before the brewing process is complete, the brewing system can be configured to enter a controlled ramp down process, rather than an immediate shutdown, to protect the brewing system equipment.

As indicated above, the brew basket can also be configured to receive a pod adaptor228. As shown inFIG.17, the illustrated pod adaptor228is in the form of a generally cylindrical housing having a generally cylindrical cavity272configured to hold a prepackaged pod of brewing ingredients. The pod adaptor228can have a rim274on an upper end thereof to facilitate placement of the pod adaptor228within the brew basket224. The pod adaptor228can be configured to be placed within the brew basket224during a brewing operation with an underneath of the filter rim274arranged to rest on the basket rim232. In some embodiments, the cavity of the pod adaptor228can include a pod puncturing apparatus276(as shown inFIG.18) configured to puncture a bottom surface of a prepackaged pod placed therein. The pod puncturing apparatus276is similar to the pod puncturing apparatus176, as described above. The pod adaptor228can further include a handle278placed near the rim274and configured to fit symmetrically next to the handle246of the brew basket224. As shown, the handle278can project radially outward from the rim274. As shown inFIG.17, the pod adaptor rim274can include one or more openings280around the outside of the cavity272that extend through the pod adaptor228to the cavity230of the brew basket224when inserted in the brew basket. The one or more openings280can be configured to funnel any excess or errand fluid that may accumulate on the pod adaptor rim274into the brew basket224.

The pod adaptor228can further include a second indication marker275. The second indication marker275can be similar to the first indication marker253(as shown inFIG.14). The second indication marker275can be configured to be received by a pod adaptor sensor271b, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

The pod adaptor228can further include at least one engagement282feature configured to be received by a corresponding detent284provided within the brew chamber216. The detents284are provided within the brew chamber216in order to lock the pod adaptor228relative to the brew chamber216. As shown, the at least one engagement feature282can be disposed beneath the pod adaptor rim274, outside of the cylindrical cavity272. The at least one engagement feature can be arranged to pass through the corresponding slot248cut out on the upper rim232of the brew basket224and engage with the corresponding detent284. The at least one engagement282feature can be configured to engage with the detents284similarly to how the at least one engagement feature182interacts with the detents184of apparatus100(as shown inFIG.10). In use, the pod adaptor228can be placed within the brew basket224with the engagement features282aligned with the corresponding slots248. The brew basket224can be placed within the brew chamber216with slots248aligned with the corresponding detents284of the brew chamber, and the engagement features282can be configured to engage with the corresponding detents284as discussed in greater detail below.

FIG.18is a cross-sectional view of the brewing apparatus200shown along section C-C ofFIG.2B. As seen in the embodiment shown inFIG.18, the pod adaptor228includes first and second engagement features282arranged opposite one another around the outside of the cavity272. The engagement features282are sustainably similar to engagement features182, and interact with the brew chamber216in the same fashion that engagement features182interact with the brew chamber116. Each engagement feature282is in the form of a spring-loaded projection that is configured to engage a corresponding detent284of the brew chamber. Each detent in the brew chamber can be in the form of a small hole extending partially through the sidewall of the brew chamber and arranged near the upper rim of the brew chamber. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that any number of engagement features can be utilized, and that the projection and detent can be reversed, and further that other engagement features can be used.

To perform a brewing operation, the pod adaptor228and brew basket224can be place within the brew chamber216, as discussed above. By applying a downward pressure on the pod adaptor228and brew basket224while they are within the brew chamber216, the engagement features282can pass through slots248and be received by the corresponding detents284, thereby retaining the pod adaptor228within the brew chamber216in a locked configuration. By locking the pod adaptor228and the brew basket224relative to the brew chamber216, the drip-stop valve236of the brew basket can also be locked in an open configuration. Additionally, in the locked configuration, the pod adaptor sensor271b(not shown) can be configured to detect the second indication marker275(not shown) and indicate to the controller of the apparatus, that the pod adaptor228is being used. In some embodiments, the user interface display222can be configured to change based on the indication marker that is detected by the filter adaptor sensor271aor the pod adaptor sensor271b. In some embodiments, a brewing operation can be performed with the pod adaptor228without using the brew basket224. Similarly, in this embodiment, the pod adaptor228can be placed within the brew chamber216with the engagement features282aligned with the corresponding detents184.

In use, a prepackaged pod can be placed within the cavity272of the pod adaptor228, either prior to or after insertion of the pod adaptor228and the brew basket224into the brew chamber216. The lid218can then be closed and the brewing needle220can be configured to puncture a top side of the prepackaged pod. The downward force applied to the top of the pod can push the pod downward within the cavity272of the pod adaptor, into the puncturing apparatus276. It can be advantageous for the pod adaptor228to be in a locked configuration relative to the brew chamber216so that the brewing needle220can reliably puncture that same location on the top of the prepackaged pod as the lid is closed. The user can then activate a brewing process, and fluid can flow out of the brewing needle220and into the prepackaged pod to prepare the brewed beverage. Once properly brewed, the brewed beverage can flow out of the puncturing apparatus276, through the open drip-stop valve236into the brew chamber216, where it can then be delivered to a container configured to receive the brewed beverage.

Adaptor Storage

As described above, the aforementioned brewing apparatuses100,200each include a filter adaptor126,226and a pod adaptor128,228to be used separately for unique brewing operations, with only one of the filter adaptor126,226or the pod adaptor128,228being used during any given brewing operation. Accordingly, it can be advantageous to provide a storage location for the adaptor that is not being used.

FIG.19illustrates one exemplary embodiment of an adaptor storage container186for use with the beverage brewing apparatus100ofFIG.1A-1B. As shown inFIG.19, the adaptor storage container186includes an outer facing surface186aand a generally cylindrical cavity187configured to separately seat a filter adaptor (i.e., filter adaptor126ofFIG.7) and a pod adaptor (i.e., pod adaptor128ofFIG.9). The adaptor storage container186can further include a handle188configured to allow a user to easily place and remove the adaptor storage container186within and from a storage opening190of the housing110of the brewing apparatus100(as shown inFIGS.20-21). In some embodiments, the handle188can be configured to fit symmetrically next to the handle156of the filter adaptor126(as shown inFIG.7) when the filter adaptor126is disposed within the storage container186. The handle188can also be configured to fit symmetrically next to the handle179of the pod adaptor128(as shown inFIG.9) when the pod adaptor128is disposed within the storage container186. In some embodiments, the handle188can be vertically aligned with the handle146of the brew basket124(as shown inFIG.6) when the brew basket124is disposed with the brew chamber116, and the adaptor storage container186is disposed within the storage opening190. The adaptor storage container186can further include one or more flexible tabs189configured to engage with one or more corresponding storage detents191on the interior wall of the storage opening190(shown inFIGS.20-21). In some embodiments, the flexible tabs189can include an elastically deformable portion189aand a button portion189bprotruding from a side of the adaptor storage container186, the functionality of which will be described in greater detail below. In some embodiments, the flexible tabs189can be formed integrally with the adaptor storage container186by stamping out one or more C-shaped cuts in a sidewall of the adaptor storage container186. As shown inFIG.19, after making a C-shaped cut in a sidewall of the adaptor storage container186, the deformable portion189acan be seen as the narrow portion of material left between the arms of the C-shaped cut. Additionally, the button portion189bcan be formed by the center of the C-shaped cut, connected to the rest of the adaptor storage container186by the deformable portion189a.

As seen in bothFIG.20AandFIG.20B, the storage opening190can be configured to receive the adaptor storage container186containing either the filter adaptor126or pod adaptor128therein. The storage opening190can include an outer edge190a. When the adaptor storage container186is disposed within storage opening190the housing110, the outer facing surface186aof the adaptor storage container186can be flush with the housing110, and the edge of the outer facing surface186acan be configured to make flush contact with the outer edge190aof the storage opening190.

The storage opening190can further include storage detents191configured engage with the flexible tabs189when the adaptor storage container186is disposed within storage opening190. In operation, a user can slide the container186into the opening190. When the protruding button portions189bof the flexible tabs189contact the outer edge190aof the opening190, the elastically deformable portions189aof the flexible tabs189can be configured deflect inward toward the cavity187to allow the button portions189bto pass into the opening190. Once the container186is fully inserted into the opening, the elastically deformable portions189acan be configured to deflect back to their original positions as the button portions189bengage with the storage detents191to lock the adaptor storage container186within the opening190.

In some embodiments, the base of the storage opening190can be defined by the base112of the apparatus100. In some embodiments, the base of the storage opening190can further include guide rails192configured to minimize friction as the adaptor storage container186is inserted into the opening190.

FIG.21illustrates another exemplary embodiment of an adaptor storage container286for use with the beverage brewing apparatus200ofFIG.2A-2B. As shown inFIG.21, the adaptor storage container286includes a cavity287configured to separately seat the showerhead258for the filter adaptor226(as shown inFIG.14) and the pod adaptor228(as shown inFIG.17). In some embodiments, the cavity287of the adaptor storage container286can be half-moon shaped, with a C-shaped base, and vertical sidewalls. The adaptor storage container286can include at least one handle288configured to allow a user to easily connect and disconnect the adaptor storage container286from the back of the housing210of the brewing apparatus200, as discussed in greater detail below. In some embodiments, the handle288can be formed integrally with an outer facing surface286aof the adaptor storage container286, and can be configured to extend from the outer facing surface286aat a first angle. The adaptor storage container286can further include pins289configured to engage with corresponding openings290(as shown inFIG.22A) provided in a back210aof the housing210of the beverage apparatus200, as discussed in greater detail below. In some embodiments, the pins289can formed integrally with an inward facing surface286bof the adaptor storage container286. As illustrated inFIG.21, the pins289can be cylindrical in shape and can be configured to protrude perpendicularly from the inward facing surface286b, in a direction away from the cavity287. In some embodiments, the pins289can resemble any other viable prismatic shape.

In use, as illustrated inFIG.22A, the adaptor storage container286can be connected to the back210aof the housing210by inserting the pins289into the corresponding openings290provided in the back210aof the housing210. As illustrated inFIG.22A, the openings290can be cylindrical holes, configured to tightly receive the pins289. As illustrated inFIGS.22B and22C, the cavity287of the adaptor storage container286can be configured to receive a portion of the pod adaptor228and the showerhead258, respectively, therein. Once placed within the cavity287, the pod adaptor228and the showerhead258can be configured to rest within the adaptor storage container286in a vertical orientation, parallel to the back210aof the housing210.

Lid Clips

During a brewing operation using a filter adaptor (e.g. filter adaptor226) it can be advantageous for the showerhead258to automatically be lifted off of the filter adaptor226, but kept within the apparatus200. Such a feature would eliminate the need for a user to have to manually remove the showerhead258, while also allowing any excess fluid in the showerhead258to drain back into the apparatus, rather than dripping on a countertop, etc. The lid218can include cavities219which are arranged on either side of the brewing needle220. The cavities219extend inward to the lid218for receiving corresponding engagement features from the showerhead258.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the top surface258tof the showerhead258can include at least one protrusion portion247configured to protrude into a corresponding cavity219within the lid218(as shown inFIG.15A). The protrusion portion247can further include a detent249, and the cavity219can further include a corresponding engagement feature219aconfigured to be received the detent249when the lid218is closed over the showerhead258. Each engagement feature219ais in the form of a spring-loaded projection that is configured to engage a corresponding detent249of the showerhead258. Each detent249of the showerhead258can be in the form of a small hole extending partially through the sidewall of the protrusion portion247. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that any number of engagement features can be utilized, and that the projection and detent can be reversed, and further that other engagement features can be used.

FIG.23is a cross-sectional view of the brewing apparatus200with the lid218in the closed configuration, the cross-sectional view shown along section F-F ofFIG.2B. The engagement feature(s)219aare provided within the cavity219such that when the lid218is closed over the showerhead258, the protrusion portions247enter the cavities219and the engagement feature(s)219aare received by the detents249. Once the engagement feature(s)219aare received by the detents249, the showerhead258can be in a locked configuration relative to the lid218. Accordingly, when the lid218is moved from a closed configuration to an opened configuration, the lid218can be configured to lift the showerhead258off of the filter adaptor226, as seen inFIG.15B.

Flow Path Covers

As indicated above, during a brewing operation using apparatus100,200, a filter adaptor or a pod adaptor can be placed within the brew chamber116,216, and the lid118,218can be closed over the brew chamber116,216, and a user can initiate a brewing process. In the event that the lid118,218is opened before the brewing process is complete, a flow path between the reservoir114,214and the brewing needle120,220can be disconnected at the upper portion of the flow path and the lower portion of the flow path, as discussed in greater detail below. In this case, the beverage apparatus100,200can be configured to enter a controlled ramp down process, rather than an immediate shutdown, to protect the brewing system equipment. During the ramp down process, however, fluid can continue to flow from the reservoir114,214out of the lower portion of the disconnected flow path, as discussed in greater detail below. Traditionally, this can be hazardous, as the fluid that flows out of the lower portion of the disconnected flow path can be directed toward the user, and in many cases, the flowing fluid can be hot water. Accordingly, it can be advantageous to provide a flow path cover for use in a beverage apparatus, e.g. beverage apparatus100,200.

FIG.24illustrates an embodiment of a flexible flow path cover194for use with the beverage brewing apparatus100with a rigid flow path cover196removed for clarity. As shown inFIG.24, the flexible flow path cover194can be disposed in between the lid118and the housing110, and configured extend over the lower portion193bof the flow path193(as shown inFIG.26) when the lid118is opened.

FIG.25illustrates an embodiment of a rigid flow path cover196for use with the beverage brewing apparatus100. As shown inFIG.25, the rigid flow path cover196can be coupled to the lid118at hinge197, and configured extend over the upper portion193aand the lower portion193bof the flow path193(as shown inFIG.26) and the flexible flow path cover194when the lid118is opened.

FIG.26is a cross-sectional view of the brewing apparatus ofFIG.1Btaken along section A-A. As illustrated inFIG.26. With the lid118is in the closed configuration, the upper and lower portions193a,193bof the flow path193, respectively, can be connected to allow fluid to flow from the reservoir114to the brewing needle120. As illustrated inFIG.26, the flexible flow path cover194can include a connection end194aconfigured to couple the flexible flow path cover194to the beverage brewing apparatus100. The flexible flow path cover194can also include a covering end194bconfigured to cover the lower portion193bof the flow path193when the lid118is in the open configuration. The lid can be configured to open and close by pivoting around hinge198. When the lid118is opened, the lid118can be configured to rotate the hinge198in the direction B, causing the retracted flexible flow path cover194to extend in direction C to cover the lower portion193bof the flow path193as the upper portion193adisconnects therefrom. In some embodiments, the flexible flow path cover194can be made from rubber, or any other viable flexible, heat resistant material. Additionally, when the lid118is in the closed configuration, the rigid flow path cover196can be configured to nest in a vertical position within cavity195. When the lid118is opened, the lid118can be configured to rotate the hinge198in the direction B, causing the retracted rigid flow path cover196to lift out of the cavity195to cover the upper portion193aand the lower portion193bof the flow path193, and the flexible flow path cover194.

During a brewing operation, fluid can be configured to flow from the reservoir114to the brewing needle120as discussed above, through the connected upper portion193aand lower portion193bof the flow path193. In the event that the lid118is opened, during the ramp down process, fluid can continue to flow from the reservoir114out of the lower portion193bof the disconnected flow path193. In order to prevent the fluid flowing out of the lower portion193bfrom being directed at the user, the retracted flexible flow path cover194can be configured to rotate about hinge198in direction B, and extend in direction C to cover the lower portion193bof the flow path193as the upper portion193adisconnects therefrom. Fluid in a portion193cof the flow path193can be prevented from flowing back into a portion193dof the flow path193by a check valve199. In some embodiments, the check valve199can also be configured to mitigate any back pressure in the system that may cause loose coffee grounds to be pulled up through the needle120into the portion193cand potentially causing a needle blockage. However, in the event that the lid118is opened, fluid in portion193dcan flow back toward the disconnected upper portion193a. In order to prevent the fluid flowing out of the upper portion193afrom being directed at the user, the retracted rigid flow path cover196can be configured to lift out of the cavity195to cover the upper portion193aand direct the fluid down into the cavity195and into the brew chamber116(not shown).

In this embodiment, the beverage apparatus can further include a fluid run-off channels196aconfigured to direct fluid from the flow path193, over the brew chamber116and into the brew basket124. In some embodiments, the fluid run-off channel196acan be made from rubber, or any other viable heat resistant material, or integral with the housing110.

In another embodiment, referring back toFIG.2A, a flow path cover294, for use in beverage apparatus200is provided. In this embodiment, as illustrated inFIG.16, the flow path293between the reservoir214and the brewing needle220can remain connected in the event that the lid218is opened. As shown inFIG.16, a flow path cover294can include a covering portion294aand a coupling portion294b. The flow path cover294can be coupled to the lid218at coupling portion294b. Further, when the lid218is in the closed configuration, the covering portion294aof the flow path cover294can be configured to be clamped in between the lid218and the housing210, creating a seal to prevent fluid from flowing out of portion293aof the flow path293. By preventing the flow of fluid out of the portion293aof the flow path293, all of the fluid flowing from the reservoir214(as discussed above as shown inFIG.3) can be configured to flow into a portion293bof the flow path293, through a check valve298and into a portion293cof the flow path293to the brewing needle220. In some embodiments, the flow path cover294can be made from rubber, or any other viable, heat resistant material.

In this embodiment, the beverage apparatus can further include a fluid run-off channel296configured to direct fluid from the portion293aof the flow path293, over the brew chamber216and into the brew basket224. In some embodiments, the fluid run-off channel296can be made from rubber, or any other viable, heat resistant material, or can be integral with the housing210.

In the event that the lid218is opened, the clamped seal formed between lid218and the housing210by the flow path cover294can be broken as the flow path cover294moves with the lid218into a vertical position. In this case, fluid in a region293cof the flow path293can be prevented from flowing back into a portion293bof the flow path293by the check valve298. In some embodiments, the check valve299can also be configured to mitigate any back pressure in the system that may cause loose coffee grounds to be pulled up through the needle220into the portion293cand potentially causing a needle blockage. However, during the ramp down process, fluid can remain in portion293band can continue to flow from the reservoir214into the portion293bof the flow path293. This can lead to a buildup of fluid in portions293aand293bof the flow path293. In order to prevent the fluid built up in portions293aand293bfrom being directed at the user, the fluid can be configured to flow out of the portion294aand come into contact with the covering portion294aof the flow path cover294. The fluid that contacts the covering portion294acan be directed downward toward the housing and can be then be configured to flow across the fluid run-off channel296, over the brew chamber216and into the brew basket224.

Certain exemplary implementations have been described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these implementations have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, devices, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary implementations and that the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary implementation may be combined with the features of other implementations. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. Further, in the present disclosure, like-named components of the implementations generally have similar features, and thus within a particular implementation each feature of each like-named component is not necessarily fully elaborated upon.

One skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the invention based on the above-described implementations. Accordingly, the present application is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.