Beverage production machines with restrictors

Machines and methods for preparing single-servings of a beverage. The machine can include a housing and a basket assembly positioned in the housing. The basket assembly defines a chamber capable of receiving a cartridge containing a beverage precursor. A screen having a plurality of openings can be positioned at a bottom portion of the chamber. A first plate having a single restricting orifice can be secured to the screen.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to at least U.S. application Ser. No. 14/205,198, titled “SINGLE-SERVE BEVERAGE PRODUCTION MACHINE,” which is filed on the same day as the present application; U.S. application Ser. No. 14,205,256, titled “BEVERAGE PRODUCTION MACHINES AND METHODS WITH MULTI-CHAMBERED BASKET UNITS,” which is filed on the same day as the present application; U.S. application Ser. No. 14/205,261 titled “CARTRIDGE EJECTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SINGLE-SERVE BEVERAGE PRODUCTION MACHINES,” which is filed on the same day as the present application; U.S. application Ser. No. 14/205,241, titled “BEVERAGE PRODUCTION MACHINES AND METHODS WITH TAMPING ASSEMBLY,” which is filed on the same day as the present application; and U.S. application Ser. No. 14/205,197, titled “POD-BASED RESTRICTORS AND METHODS,” which is filed on the same day as the present application. The entirety of each of the aforementioned applications is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a single-serve beverage machine for producing a beverage.

2. Description of the Related Art

Single-serve beverage machines are devices that are designed to produce a single serving, or sometimes a single cup, of a desired beverage. In comparison to other types of beverage machines (such as drip coffee makers having a multi-cup carafe), single-serve beverage machines can enhance convenience by reducing the time to prepare the beverage.

Some single-serve beverage machines use a cartridge or capsule containing one or more beverage components or precursors to produce the beverage. Generally, such cartridges are received in the single-serve beverage machine, are used to produce the single serving of the beverage, and are subsequently manually removed from the machine and discarded.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use one or more of the present embodiments. The general principles described herein may be applied to embodiments and applications other than those detailed below without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Indeed, the present embodiments are not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed or suggested herein.

Various restriction assembly embodiments are described below to illustrate various examples that may be employed to achieve one or more desired improvements. These examples are only illustrative and not intended in any way to restrict the general disclosure presented and the various aspects and features of the disclosure. Certain aspects, advantages, and features of the inventions have been described herein. It is not necessary that any or all such aspects, advantages, and features are achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Indeed, not all embodiments achieve the advantages described herein, but may achieve different advantages instead. Any structure, feature, or step in one example is contemplated to be used in place of or in addition to any structure, feature, or step of any other example. No features, structure, or step disclosed herein is essential or indispensable.

INTRODUCTION

Some beverages can benefit from being prepared at a specific pressure. For example, espresso can benefit from being prepared at an increased pressure in a brew chamber or cartridge. However, due to variations in the beverage component or precursor (e.g., due to variations in the grind, tamp, settling or disruption during shipping, or otherwise), it can be difficult to provide a consistent and predictable pressure in the brew chamber or cartridge.

Accordingly, some aspects of the present disclosure describe a restriction assembly that can provide or facilitate creating an increased pressure in a brew chamber or cartridge, which can aid in the production of certain beverages (e.g., espresso) and/or can aid in compensating for certain inconsistencies in the beverage component or precursor. Some implementations of the restriction assembly can provide, and/or facilitate the creation of, at least about 9 bar of pressure in the cartridge during operation of the beverage production machine.

Certain aspects of the disclosure are directed toward a machine for preparing single-servings of a beverage. The machine can include a housing and a basket assembly positioned in the housing. The basket assembly can define a chamber capable of receiving a cartridge containing a beverage precursor. A screen having a plurality of openings can be positioned at a bottom portion of the chamber. A first plate having a single restricting orifice can be secured to the screen (e.g., by welding or using screws).

In certain aspects, the machine can include a spring-loaded relief valve. The relief valve can move from a closed position to an open position when the pressure between the screen and the first plate exceeds a cracking pressure. In certain aspects, the machine can include a needle valve having a plunger secured to the screen. The tip of the plunger can extend at least partially through the restricting orifice to restrict an open area of the restricting orifice. In certain aspects, the machine can include a spring-loaded check valve positioned below the restricting orifice. The check valve can move from a closed configuration to an open configuration when the valve is rotated to an inverted position and fluid flows in a downstream direction. In certain aspects, the machine can include a leaf spring positioned across the restricting orifice. The leaf spring can move from a closed configuration to an open configuration when the leaf spring is rotated to an inverted position and fluid flows in a downstream direction. In certain aspects, the machine can include a second plate and a compression spring positioned between the first plate and the second plate. The second plate can include a plunger extending at least partially through the restricting orifice when the first plate is moved toward the second plate.

Certain aspects of the disclosure are directed toward a method for preparing single-servings of a beverage. The method can include providing a beverage production machine including a basket assembly having a chamber, a screen having a plurality of openings positioned at a bottom portion of the chamber, and a first plate secured to the screen. The first plate can include a single restricting orifice. The method can also include inserting a cartridge containing a beverage precursor into the chamber. Further, the method can include introducing a liquid into communication with the beverage precursor to form the beverage; flowing the beverage through the plurality of openings of the screen; and dispensing the beverage through the single restricting orifice of the first plate to create at least 9 bar of pressure between the screen and the plate during use.

In certain aspects, the method can include limiting the beverage flow through the single restricting orifice using a spring-loaded relief valve. The method can also include moving the relief valve from a closed configuration to an open configuration when the pressure between the screen and the first plate is exceeds a cracking pressure. In certain aspects, the method can include limiting the beverage flow through the restricting orifice using a needle valve. The method can also include adjusting a needle valve to adjust an open area of the restricting orifice. In certain aspects, after directing the beverage through the restricting orifice, the method can include flowing the beverage through a passageway defined by a spring-loaded check valve. The method can also include rotating the check valve to an inverted position and moving the check valve from a closed configuration to an open configuration when fluid flows in a downstream direction. In certain variants, the check valve can move from a closed configuration to an open configuration by delivering fluid in an upstream direction (e.g., without rotating the check valve to an inverted position). In certain aspects, the method can include limiting the beverage flow through the restricting orifice using a leaf spring. The method can also include rotating a leaf spring to an inverted position and moving the leaf spring from a closed configuration to an open configuration when fluid flows in a downstream direction. In certain variants, the leaf spring can move from a closed configuration to an open configuration by delivering fluid in an upstream direction (e.g., without rotating the check valve to an inverted position). In certain aspects, the method can include moving the first plate toward a second plate such that a plunger of the second plate extends into the restricting orifice.

System Overview

FIG. 1Aillustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a beverage preparation machine100that can dispense a beverage into a cup or other vessel101. The beverage preparation machine100can include a brewer105. In some embodiments, one or more of the components of the beverage preparation machine100are housed on and/or partially in a tray120. As shown inFIG. 1B, an upper portion of the brewer105can include a top with an opening to facilitate the loading of a single-serving beverage cartridge (e.g., a single-serve cartridge) into the basket assembly170(seeFIG. 1C).

The beverage preparation machine100can include a liquid reservoir within the brewer105or external to the brewer105. For example, the liquid reservoir can be external to the brewer105and in fluid communication (e.g., via tubing or pipes) with the brewer105to provide liquid (e.g., water) stored within the liquid reservoir to a chamber within the brewer105where the beverage is prepared. In various embodiments, the liquid is pre-heated before entering the chamber. For example, the liquid may be heated within a separate storage reservoir or within fluid supply lines as the liquid travels to the chamber. The amount of liquid (e.g., water) provided to the chamber from the liquid reservoir may be determined by the beverage recipe. The liquid reservoir may include a water level sensor that can determine whether enough liquid is present in the liquid reservoir to prepare a requested beverage. In some embodiments, the beverage preparation machine100can include a frother unit (not shown) that can froth a liquid (e.g., frothed milk). After dispensing a brewed beverage into the cup101, the frothed liquid (e.g., frothed milk) can be poured into the beverage. The frother unit may include a control input to toggle the frothing on and off.

As shown inFIGS. 1C and 1D, the brewer105can include a frame125that supports a beverage production assembly160having a brew basket assembly170. As also shown, an upper portion of the brewer105can include a top130with an opening135to facilitate the loading of a single-serving beverage cartridge180(e.g., a single-serve cartridge with a porous upper and/or lower surface) into the basket assembly170. The opening135can be selectively opened and closed with a lid assembly140. Additional details regarding single-serve beverage cartridge180are disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 14/191,225, titled STRETCHABLE BEVERAGE CARTRIDGES AND METHODS, filed Feb. 26, 2014, and U.S. application Ser. No. 14/205,197, titled “POD-BASED RESTRICTORS AND METHODS,” filed on the same day as the present application, the entirety of both of which is hereby incorporated by reference and should be considered a part of this specification.

In various embodiments, the brewer105includes an input and output unit150. For example, the input and output unit150can include an indicator (e.g., a light, display, dial, or otherwise) to indicate status information, such as whether the brewer105has power, is operating, requires maintenance, etc. The input and output unit150can include a user-interface member (e.g., a button or switch) to provide instruction to the brewer105, such as a command to begin the beverage production process. The input and output unit150can be connected with a memory and/or a controller, such as a microprocessor.

In some variants, the input and output unit150includes a reader. The reader can read a code (e.g., optical code, bar code, quick response (QR) code, etc.) and/or a tag (e.g., an radio frequency identification (RFID) tag) on the cartridge or associated packaging. This can allow the brewer105to identify the type of beverage to be produced. For example, reading a cartridge containing espresso coffee grounds can identify to the brewer105that an espresso beverage is to be produced. In several implementations, the beverage production assembly160is adjusted based on the type of beverage to be produced, as is discussed in more detail below. Additional details regarding the reader are disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 14/205,198, titled “SINGLE-SERVE BEVERAGE PRODUCTION MACHINE,” filed on the same day as the present application, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference and should be considered a part of this specification.

In some implementations, when the cartridge180has been loaded into the basket assembly170and the lid assembly140has been closed, a beverage preparation process can begin. In some embodiments of the beverage preparation process, liquid (e.g., hot water) is introduced into the cartridge180to produce a beverage. The beverage can exit the cartridge180and be conveyed through portions of the brewer105to the cup101. For example, the beverage can be conveyed through a dispensing assembly190. In some embodiments the dispensing assembly190includes a pivoting member192, a catch member194, and a dispensing nozzle196.

As noted above and shown inFIGS. 1C and 1D, the beverage production assembly160can include the brew basket assembly170. The beverage production assembly160can also include a ratchet assembly162and a collar164. Engagement between the ratchet assembly162and the collar164can facilitate movement (e.g., rotation) of the basket assembly170. The basket assembly170can be selectively positioned to provide access to a desired chamber in the basket assembly170, such as for loading a cartridge. Additional details regarding the basket assembly170are disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 14/205,256, titled “BEVERAGE PRODUCTION MACHINES AND METHODS WITH MULTI-CHAMBERED BASKET UNITS,” filed on the same day as the present application, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference and should be considered a part of this specification.

In some embodiments, a tamping mechanism (e.g., in the lid assembly140) depresses the cartridge180positioned in the basket assembly170. Additional details regarding the tamping mechanism can be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 14/205,241, titled “BEVERAGE PRODUCTION MACHINES AND METHODS WITH TAMPING ASSEMBLY,” filed on the same day as the present application, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

In some embodiments, rotation of the basket assembly170can aid in ejecting or otherwise removing a used or unwanted cartridge180from the basket assembly170. More details about cartridge ejection mechanisms and features can be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 14/205,261, titled “CARTRIDGE EJECTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SINGLE-SERVE BEVERAGE PRODUCTION MACHINES,” filed on the same day as the present application, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Although the basket assembly170described above includes multiple chambers, the restriction assemblies described below can be used in connection with a basket assembly having a single chamber that can be removed from or fixed to the beverage production assembly160.

Restriction Assembly with Pressure Relief Valve

As shown inFIG. 2, the basket assembly170can include a chamber172for receiving a beverage precursor alone or a cartridge180containing the beverage precursor. A restriction assembly200can be disposed at a bottom portion of the chamber172. The restriction assembly200can facilitate creating or providing an increase in pressure in the chamber172during the beverage production process. This can be beneficial in producing certain types of beverages. For example, producing espresso under elevated pressure conditions (e.g., about at least 9 bar) can yield an improved beverage.

The restriction assembly200can include a screen202having a generally planar surface (e.g., flat) and a downward extending flange203. The screen202can include a plurality of openings204that allow beverage to flow through the screen202while preventing beverage precursor from escaping the chamber172. Further, the screen202can support the cartridge180and displace the cartridge180from a restricting orifice208(seeFIG. 2). In some embodiments, the screen202has a diameter greater than or equal to about 10 mm and/or less than or equal to about 100 mm, for example, between about 20 mm and about 80 mm. Some embodiments have a diameter between about 30 mm and about 70 mm, such as about: 30 mm, 35 mm, 40 mm, 45 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, or values between the aforementioned values. Certain variants have a diameter greater than or equal to about 30 mm and/or less than or equal to about 50 mm.

The plurality of openings204can include at least about 100 holes, at least about 125 holes, at least about 150 holes, at least about 175 holes, at least about 200 holes, at least about 250 holes, at least about 300 holes, or more. The plurality of openings204can be evenly distributed across a number of rows or concentric rings. The ratio of the diameter of each hole compared to the diameter of the screen202can be at least about: 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, 1:25, 1:30, 1:40, 1:50, 1:100, 1:125, 1:150, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, or otherwise. For example, each of the plurality of openings204can include a diameter of less than or equal to about 1.0 mm, such as about 0.75 mm, about 0.50 mm, about 0.25 mm, or about 0.20 mm. The ratio of the total amount of open area to the surface area of the screen202can be at least about: 1:50, 1:60, 1:70, 1:80, 1:90, 1:100, ratios between the aforementioned ratios, or otherwise. Each of the openings can have a substantially uniform diameter from a top surface of the espresso screen to a bottom surface of the espresso screen. Further, each of the openings can be generally aligned along an axis that is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the beverage production machine. Further, the outermost openings204can be separated from an edge of the screen202by at least 10% of the screen radius, at least about 20% of the screen radius, at least about 30% of the screen radius, or at least about 40% of the screen radius.

As shown inFIG. 2, the restriction assembly202can include a plate218secured to the screen202(e.g., by welding or using screws). For example, the flange203can be secured to the plate218using a number of fasteners (e.g., screws206). The screen202and the plate218can be shaped to define a holding chamber201. For example, the plate218can be slanted downward from a periphery of the plate218to the center of the plate218, such that the beverage can flow towards a centrally disposed nozzle220. The nozzle220can define a restricting orifice208that can restrict, hamper, or otherwise limit the discharge of liquid through the brew basket assembly170. Limiting the discharge of liquid can facilitate creating a pressure increase in the holding chamber201, which can aid in the production of certain beverages (e.g., espresso) and/or can aid in compensating for certain inconsistencies in the beverage component or precursor (e.g., due to variations in the grind, tamping, settling or disruption during shipping, or otherwise). Some implementations of the restricting orifice208can provide, and/or facilitate the creation of, at least about 6 bar and/or less than or equal to about 12 bar of pressure in the holding chamber201, preferably at least about 9 bar during operation of the beverage production machine, such as about 9 bar, 10 bar, 11 bar, or 12 bar of pressure. In some embodiments, the restricting orifice208can achieve the desired pressure in less than or equal to about 25 seconds after introducing liquid into the cartridge180, often less than or equal to about 10 seconds, such as less than or equal to about 8 seconds or less than or equal to about 5 seconds. Further, the percentage of total dissolved solids (i.e., an indicator of coffee strength) can be less than about 5.0%, such as between about 4.5% and about 5.0%. In some embodiments, the percentage of total dissolved solids can be greater than about 5.0%.

According to some embodiments, the restricting orifice208is positioned in the generally radial center of the plate218. In certain embodiments, the restricting orifice208is positioned off-center. As shown inFIG. 2, the restricting orifice208can be aligned with (e.g., extend about) a longitudinal axis of the chamber172. However, in other implementations, the restricting orifice208can be positioned at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis. In certain embodiments, the restricting orifice208can be substantially smaller (e.g., in diameter) than a diameter of the chamber172. For example, the ratio of the diameter of the restricting orifice208compared to the diameter of the screen202can be between about 1:215 and about 1:5, such as no more than about: 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, 1:25, 1:30, 1:40, 1:50, 1:60, 1:100, 1:120, 1:140, 1:160, 1:180, or 1:200 and/or at least about 1:215. The restricting orifice208can have a diameter of at least about 0.20 mm and less than or equal to about 6 mm, such as at least about 0.2 mm, about 0.5 mm, about 1.0 mm, about 1.5 mm, about 2.0 mm, about 2.5 mm, about 3.0 mm, about 3.5 mm, about 4.0 mm, about 4.5 mm, or about 5 mm.

In some embodiments, the restriction assembly200can include a valve positioned in the nozzle220. As shown inFIG. 2, the valve can be a spring-loaded pressure relief valve210having a screw212, a spring214, and a plunger216. The plunger216can limit the flow area through the restricting orifice208to provide or facilitate the creation of a pressure increase in the holding chamber201. For example, the open area can be at least about 0.25 mm2and/or less than or equal to about 3 mm2, such as at least about 2.5 mm2, about 2.0 mm2, about 1.5 mm2, about 1.0 mm2, about 0.5 mm2, or about 0.25 mm2.

If the pressure in the holding chamber201exceeds a cracking pressure (e.g., if the restriction orifice208gets clogged), the relief valve210can release the pressure that builds up behind the valve210. When the pressure exceeds the cracking pressure, the valve210can moved to an open configuration to increase the open area of the restriction orifice208to clear debris. In some embodiments, the cracking pressure can be between about 100 psi and 150 psi, for example, about 110 psi, about 120 psi, about 130 psi, 140 psi, or values in between the aforementioned values. The cracking pressure can be adjusted by adjusting the pressure adjusting screw212.

Restriction Assembly with Single Orifice

With reference toFIGS. 3A-3C, another illustrative embodiment of a restriction assembly300is shown. The restriction assembly300resembles or is identical to the restriction assembly200discussed above in many respects. Accordingly, numerals used to identify features of the restriction assembly200are incremented by one hundred (100) to identify like features of the restriction assembly300. This numbering convention generally applies to the remainder of the figures. Any component or step disclosed in any embodiment in this specification can be used in other embodiments.

As shown inFIG. 3A, the restriction assembly can include a screen302permanently secured to a plate318having a single restricting orifice308. The screen302can resemble or is identical to the screen202. For example, the screen302can have a generally planar surface (e.g., flat) and a downward extending flange303. The screen302can include a plurality of openings304that allow beverage to flow through the screen302while preventing beverage precursor from escaping the chamber172. Further, the screen302can support the cartridge180and displace the cartridge180from a restricting orifice308.

The restriction assembly300can include a plate318secured to the screen302(e.g., the flange303can be welded to the plate318). The screen302and the plate318can be shaped to define a holding chamber301. For example, the plate318can be slanted downward from a periphery of the plate318to the center of the plate318, such that the beverage can flow towards the centrally disposed restricting orifice308. The restricting orifice308can restrict, hamper, or otherwise limit the discharge of liquid from the holding chamber301. Limiting the discharge of liquid can facilitate creating a pressure increase inside the chamber172, which can aid in the production of certain beverages (e.g., espresso) and/or can aid in compensating for certain inconsistencies in the beverage component or precursor (e.g., due to variations in the grind, tamping, settling or disruption during shipping, or otherwise). Some implementations of the restricting orifice308can provide, and/or facilitate the creation of, at least about 6 bar of pressure and/or less than or equal to about 12 bar of pressure, preferably at least about 9 bar of pressure, such as about 9 bar, about 10 bar, about 11 bar, or about 12 bar of pressure in the holding chamber301during use. The restricting orifice208can achieve the desired pressure in less than or equal to about 25 seconds after liquid is introduced into the cartridge180, often less than or equal to about 10 seconds, such as less than or equal to about 8 seconds or less than or equal to about 5 seconds. Further, the percentage of total dissolved solids can be less than about 5.0%, such as between about 4.0% and about 5.0%.

The restricting orifice308can be substantially smaller (e.g., in diameter) than a diameter of the chamber172. For example, the ratio of the diameter of the restricting orifice308compared to the diameter of the chamber172can be between about 1:220 and about 1:5, such as no more than about: 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, 1:25, 1:30, 1:40, 1:50, 1:60, 1:100, 1:120, 1:140, 1:160, 1:180, or 1:200 and/or at least about 1:220. For example, the restricting orifice208can have a diameter of at least about 0.005 inches and/or less than or equal to about 0.03 inches, for example, at least about 0.008 inches, about 0.009 inches, 0.012 inches, about 0.014 inches, about 0.016 inches, about 0.018 inches, about 0.02 inches, about 0.022 inches, about 0.024 inches, about 0.026 inches, about 0.028 inches, or values between the aforementioned values.

According to some embodiments, the restricting orifice308is positioned in the generally radial center of the plate318. In certain embodiments, the restricting orifice308is positioned off-center. As shown inFIG. 3A, the restricting orifice308can be aligned with (e.g., extend about) a longitudinal axis of the chamber172. However, in other implementations, the restricting orifice308can be positioned at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis.

In some scenarios, it can be desirable for the screen302to be removable from the plate318so the plate318can be thoroughly cleaned or to clear the restricting orifice308. For example, as shown inFIG. 3B, the screen302and the plate318can include a number of openings322for receiving one or more fasteners (e.g., screws) to secure the screen302to the plate318.

In another example, as shown inFIG. 3C, the screen302and the plate318can be integrally formed in a basket configuration324that can be positioned in the chamber172. In certain variants, the screen302and the plate318can be integrally formed with the chamber172.

Restriction Assembly with Needle Valve

With reference toFIG. 4, another illustrative embodiment of a restriction assembly400is shown. The restriction assembly400resembles or is identical to the restriction assembly300discussed above in many respects. Accordingly, numerals used to identify features of the restriction assembly300are incremented by one hundred (100) to identify like features of the restriction assembly400. This numbering convention generally applies to the remainder of the figures. Any component or step disclosed in any embodiment in this specification can be used in other embodiments.

As shown inFIG. 4, the restriction assembly400can include a screen402secured to a plate418having a single restricting orifice408(e.g., by welding or using screws). The screen402can have a generally planar surface (e.g., flat) and a downward extending flange403. The screen402can include a plurality of openings404that allow beverage to flow through the screen402while preventing beverage precursor from escaping the chamber172. Further, the screen402can support the cartridge180and displace the cartridge180from a restricting orifice408.

The plate418can resemble or is identical to the screen318. For example, the plate418can be slanted downward from a periphery of the plate418to the center of the plate418, such that the beverage can flow towards the centrally disposed restricting orifice408. The restricting orifice408can restrict, hamper, or otherwise limit the discharge of liquid from the holding chamber401. Limiting the discharge of liquid can facilitate creating a pressure increase inside the holding chamber401, which can aid in the production of certain beverages (e.g., espresso) and/or can aid in compensating for certain inconsistencies in the beverage component or precursor (e.g., due to variations in the grind, tamping, settling or disruption during shipping, or otherwise).

In some scenarios, it can be desirable to adjust an open area of the restricting orifice408(e.g., depending on the type of beverage precursor or to clear debris). Accordingly, as shown inFIG. 4, the restriction assembly400can include a needle valve428having a body portion426and a plunger430secured to the body portion426. The body portion426can be integrally formed with or secured to a bottom surface of the screen402. The body portion426can be substantially aligned with the restricting orifice408such that the tip of the plunger430can extend into the restricting orifice408to at least partially restrict the open area of the restricting orifice408. Adjusting (e.g., manually adjusting) the axial position of the plunger408adjusts the open area of the restricting orifice408. During the brewing process, the amount of open area can be at least about 0.25 mm2and/or less than or equal to about 3 mm2, such as at least about 2.5 mm2, about 2.0 mm2, about 1.5 mm2, about 1.0 mm2, about 0.5 mm2, or about 0.25 mm2. Advantageously, the plunger430can be unscrewed and removed to facilitate the cleaning of the restriction assembly400and clearing of any debris.

Restriction Assembly with Check Valve

With reference toFIG. 5A, another illustrative embodiment of a restriction assembly500is shown. The restriction assembly500resembles or is identical to the restriction assembly300discussed above in many respects. Accordingly, numerals used to identify features of the restriction assembly300are incremented by two hundred (200) to identify like features of the restriction assembly500. This numbering convention generally applies to the remainder of the figures. Any component or step disclosed in any embodiment in this specification can be used in other embodiments.

As shown inFIG. 5A, the restriction assembly500can include a screen502secured to a plate518having a single restricting orifice508(e.g., by welding or using screws). The screen502can resemble or is identical to the screen302. For example, the screen502can have a generally planar surface (e.g., flat) and a downward extending flange503. The screen502can include a plurality of openings504that allow beverage to flow through the screen502while preventing beverage precursor from escaping the chamber172. Further, the screen502can support the cartridge180and displace the cartridge180from a restricting orifice508.

The plate518can be slanted downward from a periphery of the plate518to the center of the plate518, such that the beverage can flow towards the centrally disposed restricting orifice508. The restricting orifice508can restrict, hamper, or otherwise limit the discharge of liquid from the holding chamber501. Limiting the discharge of liquid can facilitate creating a pressure increase inside the holding chamber501, which can aid in the production of certain beverages (e.g., espresso) and/or can aid in compensating for certain inconsistencies in the beverage component or precursor (e.g., due to variations in the grind, tamping, settling or disruption during shipping, or otherwise).

As shown inFIG. 5A, the restriction assembly500can include a check valve532positioned below the restricting orifice508. The check valve532can include a body portion534, a spring536, and a cone-shaped plunger538. The body portion534can define a valve seat542and a valve outlet544, and the body portion534can be integrally formed with or secured to a bottom surface of the plate518. The cone-shaped plunger538can have a first portion538ahaving a first diameter at one axial location and a second portion538bhaving a second diameter greater than the first diameter at a second axial location different than the first axial location. The plunger538can also include a passageway540extending along a length of the plunger538. The diameter of the passageway540can be generally the same as the diameter of the restricting orifice508. Further, as shown inFIG. 5A, the plunger538can also be positioned in the body portion534such that the second portion538bof the plunger538is closer to the plate518than the first portion538a.

During the brewing process, the check valve532can be in a closed configuration in which the first portion538aof the plunger538can be seated on the valve seat542, thereby closing the valve outlet544and forcing the beverage to flow through the passageway540extending through the plunger538. During the rinse cycle, the check valve532can be rotated from an upright position to an inverted position, such that the first portion of the plunger538ais closer to a fluid source than the second portion of the plunger538b. Fluid flowing downstream from the fluid source can move the check valve532from the closed configuration to an open configuration, so that debris can be cleared from the restriction assembly500. In an alternative embodiment, the check valve532can move from a closed configuration to an open configuration by delivering fluid in an upstream direction while the check valve532is in the upright position (i.e., as shown inFIG. 5A).

FIG. 5Billustrates an alternate orientation for the check valve532′ in which the first portion of the plunger538a′ is closer to the plate518′ than the second portion of the plunger538b′, and the first portion538a′ can be seated in the restricting orifice508′. During the brewing process, the check valve532′ can be in a closed configuration in which the first portion of the plunger538a′ can close the restricting orifice508′ such that fluid only flows through the passageway540′ and out through the outlet544′. When the pressure exceeds a threshold pressure (e.g., due to a clog), the plunger538′ can be forced downward such that beverage can flow through the restricting orifice508′ and around the plunger538′. In some embodiments, the threshold pressure can be between about 100 psi and 150 psi, for example, about 110 psi, about 120 psi, about 130 psi, 140 psi, or values in between the aforementioned values.

Restriction Assembly with Leaf Spring Valve

With reference toFIG. 6, another illustrative embodiment of a restriction assembly600is shown. The restriction assembly600resembles or is identical to the restriction assembly300discussed above in many respects. Accordingly, numerals used to identify features of the restriction assembly300are incremented by three hundred (300) to identify like features of the restriction assembly600. This numbering convention generally applies to the remainder of the figures. Any component or step disclosed in any embodiment in this specification can be used in other embodiments.

As shown inFIG. 6, the restriction assembly600can include a screen602secured to a plate618having a single restricting orifice608(e.g., by welding or using screws). The screen602can resemble or is identical to the screen302. For example, the screen602can have a generally planar surface (e.g., flat) and a downward extending flange603. The screen602can include a plurality of openings604that allow beverage to flow through the screen602while preventing beverage precursor from escaping the chamber172. Further, the screen602can support the cartridge180and displace the cartridge180from a restricting orifice608.

The plate618can have a generally planar surface (e.g., flat) and an upward extending flange619that is secured to the screen flange603. The restricting orifice608can restrict, hamper, or otherwise limit the discharge of liquid from the holding chamber601. Limiting the discharge of liquid can facilitate creating a pressure increase inside the holding chamber601, which can aid in the production of certain beverages (e.g., espresso) and/or can aid in compensating for certain inconsistencies in the beverage component or precursor (e.g., due to variations in the grind, tamping, settling or disruption during shipping, or otherwise).

As shown inFIG. 6, the restriction assembly600can include a leaf spring valve646positioned across the restricting orifice608along an upper surface of the plate618. The leaf spring646can include a number of flaps648(e.g., two flaps). During the brewing process, the flaps648can restrict the open area of the restricting orifice608to provide or facilitate the creation of an increased dispensing pressure. The restricted open area can be at least about 0.25 mm2and/or less than or equal to about 3 mm2, such as at least about 2.5 mm2, about 2.0 mm2, about 1.5 mm2, about 1.0 mm2, about 0.5 mm2, or about 0.25 mm2. In some embodiments, the leaf spring646can have a different spring constant in each direction.

In some embodiments, during the rinse cycle, the leaf spring646can be rotated from an upright position to an inverted position, such that the plate618is closer to a fluid source than the leaf spring646. Fluid flowing downstream from the fluid source can move the flaps648downward to open the restricting orifice608, so that debris can be cleared from the restriction assembly600. In an alternative embodiment, the leaf spring646can move from a closed configuration to an open configuration by delivering fluid in an upstream direction while the leaf spring646is in the upright position (i.e., as shown inFIG. 6).

Restriction Assembly with Translating Plate

With reference toFIG. 7A, another illustrative embodiment of a restriction assembly700is shown. The restriction assembly700resembles or is identical to the restriction assembly300discussed above in many respects. Accordingly, numerals used to identify features of the restriction assembly300are incremented by four hundred (400) to identify like features of the restriction assembly700. This numbering convention generally applies to the remainder of the figures. Any component or step disclosed in any embodiment in this specification can be used in other embodiments.

As shown inFIG. 7A, the restriction assembly700can include a screen702secured to a first plate718having a single restricting orifice708(e.g., by welding or using screws). The screen702can resemble or is identical to the screen302. For example, the screen702can have a generally planar surface (e.g., flat) and a downward extending flange703. The screen702can include a plurality of openings704that allow beverage to flow through the screen702while preventing beverage precursor from escaping the chamber172. Further, the screen702can support the cartridge180and displace the cartridge180from a restricting orifice708.

The first plate718can resemble or is identical to the screen318. For example, the first plate718can be slanted downward from a periphery of the first plate718to the center of the first plate718, such that the beverage can flow towards the centrally disposed restricting orifice708. The restricting orifice708can restrict, hamper, or otherwise limit the discharge of liquid from the holding chamber701. Limiting the discharge of liquid can facilitate creating a pressure increase inside the holding chamber701, which can aid in the production of certain beverages (e.g., espresso) and/or can aid in compensating for certain inconsistencies in the beverage component or precursor (e.g., due to variations in the grind, tamping, settling or disruption during shipping, or otherwise).

As shown inFIG. 7A, the restriction assembly700can include a second plate752separated from the first plate718by a compression spring750. The second plate752can include an upward extending needle-shaped plunger754. The plunger754can be sized to fit within the restricting orifice708. Further, the plunger754can be surrounded by a number of openings756through which the beverage can flow. The openings756can be positioned in a ring configuration surrounding the plunger754.

During the brewing process, the first plate718can be pushed against the second plate752to restrict (e.g., at least partially restrict) the open area of the restricting orifice708to provide or facilitate the creation of an increased dispensing pressure (seeFIG. 7A). The restricted open area can be at least about 0.25 mm2and/or less than or equal to about 3 mm2, such as at least about 2.5 mm2, about 2.0 mm2, about 1.5 mm2, about 1.0 mm2, about 0.5 mm2, or about 0.25 mm2. To rinse the restriction assembly700, fluid can flow in a reverse direction (i.e., upstream) to force the first plate718away from the second plate752to increase the size of the restricting orifice708to clear debris (seeFIG. 7B). In certain variants, the restriction assembly700can be inverted such that fluid flowing downstream can increase the pressure and cause the first plate718to move away from the second plate752to increase the size of the restricting orifice708to clear debris during the rinse cycle.

FIG. 7Cillustrates an alternative configuration of the plunger754′ having a generally uniform diameter and a hemispherical tip. The restricting orifice708′ can be nozzle-shaped with the reduced-size portion (e.g., the throat) disposed at a surface of the first plate718facing the screen702.

Plurality of Flow Restrictors

FIG. 8illustrates an alternative embodiment of a screen802having a plurality of flow restrictors808. The screen802can be used alone or replace any of the plates218,318,418,518, or618described above. The flow restrictors808can facilitate creating or providing an increase in pressure in the chamber172during the beverage production process (e.g., at least about 9 bar of pressure). Further, the plurality of flow restrictors808permit beverage to flow uniformly through the screen808with minimal friction. Even if particulate clogs some of the flow restrictors808, the particulate will have a negligible effect on the overall flow rate through the screen802and pressure in the chamber172.

The plurality of flow restrictors808can include at least about 100 restrictors, at least about 125 restrictors, at least about 150 restrictors, at least about 175 restrictors, at least about 200 restrictors, at least about 250 restrictors, at least about 300 restrictors, or more. As shown inFIG. 8, the plurality of restrictors808can be evenly distributed across a number of rows or concentric rings. The outermost restrictors808can be separated from an edge of the screen802by at least 10% of the screen radius, at least about 20% of the screen radius, at least about 30% of the screen radius, or at least about 40% of the screen radius.

In some embodiments, each flow restrictor808can be generally conical or nozzle-shaped. In certain such variants, a reduced-size portion (e.g., the throat) of the generally conical or nozzle-shaped flow restrictor808can generally abut the chamber172. Each flow restrictor808can be aligned with (e.g., extend about) an axis that is generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the beverage production machine100. However, in other implementations, the flow restrictors808can be positioned at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis, such as at least about 1 degree and/or less than about 90 degrees. For example, the angle can be between about 1 degree and 15 degrees (e.g., about 1 degree, about 3 degrees, about 5 degrees, about 7 degrees, or about 10 degrees), between about 15 degrees and 30 degrees, between about 30 degrees and about 45 degrees, between about 45 degrees and about 60 degrees, between about 60 degrees and about 75 degrees, or between about 75 degrees and about 90 degrees.

Various methods of forming the plurality of flow restrictors808in the screen802are contemplated. For example, the plurality of flow restrictors808formed by sintering or by laser cutting a metal screen802.

Some implementations of the cartridge180include additional or other pressure facilitating features. For example, some embodiments of the cartridge180include a valve (e.g., a flap or duckbill valve) that can be opened, closed, or modulated to generate pressure in the cartridge180. In some embodiments, the valve can generate the desired pressure in the cartridge200. Certain embodiments of the valve can be actively adjusted, such as based on liquid flow rate, pressure in the cartridge or brew system, or otherwise. Some variants of the valve can include a spring-loaded valve that opens and closes, or adjusts, as the pressure in the cartridge increases and decreases. In various embodiments, the valve can be opened for cleaning, rinsing, flushing, and/or to increase the flow rate out of the cartridge180and/or through the single-serve beverage machine.

Although certain embodiments and examples of beverage production machines have been described herein with respect to coffee, the beverage production machines described herein can be configured to receive other particulate materials or components for producing many other types of beverages, such as a chocolate based product (e.g., hot cocoa), tea, juice, and other beverages. Further, although some embodiments have been disclosed in which liquid is introduced into the cartridge, the introduction of other phases is contemplated. For example, in some embodiments, steam or a combination of steam and liquid water is introduced into the cartridge. Additionally, although certain embodiments have been disclosed that include a single beverage component or precursor, the term “beverage component or precursor” is not limited to only a single component. Rather, the beverage component or precursor can comprise one component (e.g., coffee) or a plurality of components (e.g., coffee and a sweetener).

Although this disclosure describes certain embodiments and examples of restriction assemblies, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that many aspects of the methods and devices shown and described in the present disclosure may be differently combined and/or modified to form still further embodiments or acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure. Indeed, a wide variety of designs and approaches are possible and are within the scope of this disclosure. No feature, structure, or step disclosed herein is essential or indispensible. Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been described herein, the scope of any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the present disclosure.

Conditional language, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.

The language of the claims is to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to the examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive.

In summary, various illustrative embodiments and examples of restriction assemblies have been disclosed. Although the restriction assemblies have been disclosed in the context of those embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that this disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or other uses of the embodiments, as well as to certain modifications and equivalents thereof. This disclosure expressly contemplates that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with, or substituted for, one another. Accordingly, the scope of this disclosure should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow as well as their full scope of equivalents.