Patent Publication Number: US-2022225817-A1

Title: Apparatus and method for infusing and dispensing oils, and drying and heating infusing materials

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a Continuation in Part Application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/915,523 entitled “Apparatus And Method For Infusing And Dispensing Oils, And Drying And Heating Infusing Materials” filed Jun. 29, 2020 and is currently pending, which is a continuation in part of Ser. No. 16/013,891, entitled “Apparatus And Method For Infusing And Dispensing Oils, And Drying And Heating Infusing Materials” filed Jun. 20, 2018, which is a Continuation in Part Application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/711,242, entitled “Apparatus and Method for Infusing and Dispensing Oils” filed Sep. 21, 2017, which is a Divisional Application to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/428,765, filed Feb. 9, 2017, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/401,369 filed Sep. 29, 2016—the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. Furthermore, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/915,523 entitled “Apparatus And Method For Infusing And Dispensing Oils, And Drying And Heating Infusing Materials” filed Jun. 29, 2020 and is currently pending is also a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/188,702, entitled “Apparatus and Method for Infusing Oils”—currently pending—filed Nov. 13, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/587,011, filed Nov. 16, 2017—the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention pertains in general to an apparatus and method for the infusing, agitation, and dispensation of oils in a controlled manner to produce a desired potency of an infusion while remaining below an identified maximum temperature threshold. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Infusing is the process of transferring chemical compounds, nutrients, or flavors from plant-based material into a solvent, such as water, oil, or alcohol, by allowing the plant-based material to remain suspended in a solvent for a predetermined time and at a predetermined temperature. The resultant liquid produced from the infusion process is often called an “infusion.” Infusing commonly connotes the use of plant-based matter that dissolve quickly or release their active ingredients easily into a solvent. Examples of plant-based matter include, but are not limited to, dried herbs, seeds, flowers, cannabis, or berries. Infusing solvents is a conventional practice in many fields including homeopathic medicine, the culinary arts, skincare, aromatherapy, beauty, alternative wellness, and beverage production. 
     As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, the infusion process is often referred to as “steeping,” a method that involves heating a liquid to a desired temperature, such as its boiling point, before the introduction of the plant-based material. The infusing material soaks in the liquid for a predetermined period of time dependent on the purpose for which the infusion is being prepared and the desired infusion potency. The length of time for steeping also depends upon ingredients used in the infusion. Some infusing processes may require minutes while others require days or weeks. The infusion is often strained to remove the spent plant-based material. The infusion may be consumed immediately or be bottled and stored for future use. Infusions are used in their native state or as an ingredient in a recipe or formula. 
     Typically, a solvent is exposed to infusing material contained in metal, plastic, or paper steeping device having permeable walls. Such steeping devices are filled with material then placed in the solvent for infusing, wherein the permeable walls allow for the passage of solvent and, thus, exposure to the infusing material. Although well-suited for fluids of low viscosity, this prior art steeping technology does not allow for proper fusion of oil-based solvents. More specifically, oil-based solvents are of higher viscosity and, thus often cannot flow through permeable walls suited for water or water-based solvents. Accordingly, to facilitate infusion, oil-based infusion processes commonly must be performed at increased temperatures to reduce their viscosity. Adding heat is also often desirable as it reduces processing time, but increased heat has drawbacks related to safety concerns associated with increase burn exposure. 
     As alluded to above, infusing chambers are often associated with a heater element and agitator. Some prior is are operatively interconnected to a lid of the infusing chamber, wherein a portion of the agitator extends into the infusing chamber when the lid is closed. The agitator helps accelerate and control the infusing process, especially when heat is also applied. In operation, the user adds oil-based solvent and often plant-based material to the infusing chamber which is then exposed to high temperatures by the heater element. Concurrently, the agitator churns the liquid and infusing material, which helps circulate the infusing material into the oil-based solvent. The agitator may be configured to pulverize material to increase its surface area, which exposes more of the material to the solvent and, thus, increases processes effectivity. After the infusing process is complete, the user removes the lid with the interconnected agitator, which may expose the user to hot liquid as it inevitably drips therefrom. 
     Another drawback with traditional agitator is that filtering material particulate from the infused solvent is often rendered difficult because the agitator creates an increased number of small particulates. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that small particulate matter results in an unsightly and undesirable cloudy or dirty end product. Users must strain heated infusion, which is a cleanup issue and increases the probability of burn injuries. Some agitators used in prior art devices operatively mount to the bottom of the infusing chamber, a structure similar to that commonly found in blenders. One drawback of these types of arrangements is that residual oil-based solvent and infusing material may adhere to agitator components and make it difficult to clean the infusing chamber and agitator. Such contamination may also adversely affect future infusion processes. 
     To address this in other drawbacks with infusing systems of the prior art, some embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus and method for infusing a solvent with a contained infusing material to produce an infusion of desired character and potency. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is one aspect of some embodiments of the present invention to provide an infusing apparatus that employs an infusing chamber with an agitator component located on an interior surface thereof. The contemplated apparatus also employs a power supply, a computing device, a permeable compartment for receipt of infusing material, heating element, and a gravity-based drain. The apparatus also employs a permeable container for holding infusion material and, thus, allows for infusion while limiting the pulverization of infusing material and dispersion of spent materials in the solvent. The agitator of this embodiment is designed to permit easy removal of the infusing chamber from the infusing apparatus, which facilitates cleaning. In some embodiments of the present invention, the agitator is magnetically driven and provides churning from the bottom of the infusing chamber, which also addresses the drawbacks discussed above associated with gear or shaft-driven agitators. It may be desired in some embodiments of the present invention to limit the rotational speed of the agitator component to be below 200 rotations per minute (RPM), while in other embodiments it may be desired for the agitator component to be between about 70 and 90 RPM. Rotational speed limitation helps prevent cavitation that may result in solvent aeration and a cloudy end-product. While it is preferred that the agitator spins at a rate that to prevent aeration, it will be appreciated agitator RPM may be selectively adjusted. 
     It is another aspect of some embodiments of the present invention to provide a permeable compartment for receiving infusing material. The permeable compartment allows for solvents to flow therethrough without significant material pulverization and dispersion into the infusion. That is, the permeable compartments prevent the infusing material from escaping into the infusing chamber. 
     It will be appreciated that some embodiments of the present invention may alternatively utilize prepackaged units configured to hold infusing material, e.g., plant-based material. The contemplated prepackaged unit may comprise a permeable pod, cup, or another container that allows solvent the past therethrough. The prepackaged units may be prefilled and sold ready-to-use or packaged by the user with a desired infusing material. In some embodiments, the prepackaged unit may be selectively openable such that a user may supplement the infusing material provided by a third party. In one example, prepackaged units are filled, sealed, and delivered to a state that allows the sale of cannabinoids. Here, the end-user or secondary in-state seller has the ability to selectively open the prepackaged unit and add material that is otherwise illegal in other states. As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, the prepackaged units may alternatively employ a temporary closure that is discarded in lieu of a permanent disclosure created by a secondary provider after the original infusing material mixture is modified. The prepackaged units may be configured to fit within a permeable compartment that is mounted in the infusing chamber. Alternatively, the prepackaged unit may be supported by a mount provided in the infusing chamber. It will be appreciated that the prepackaged units as contemplated herein may be reusable or disposable and may be constructed of biodegradable material. 
     The permeable compartment may be removably affixed to an inner surface of the infusing chamber. One benefit of removably affixing a compartment is an increased ease of filling with the plant-based material, for example. An ancillary benefit is that such a compartment can be removed for easy cleaning. The permeable compartment may be selectively affixed to the infusion chamber by way of one or more permanent or temporary magnets. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a combination of magnetic and ferromagnetic materials may be used without departing from the scope of the invention. 
     Again, the viscosity oil-based solvents decrease as the solvent temperature increases. Thus, it is advantageous to elevate the temperature of oil-based solvents to increase the flow through the permeable surface provided by the container. As used herein, “oils” may include, but is not limited to butter, animal fat, or plant-based oils. The heating elements provided by some embodiments control and maintain elevated temperatures of the solvent but not in excess of 100° C. (212° F.). Limiting the temperature of the solvent to 100° C. (212° F.) greatly reduces the risk of injury from contact with heated solvents, particularly oil-based solvents. Additionally, certain solvents such as butter and Flaxseed oil have material properties having a boiling point slightly above 100° C. (212° F.). In maintaining the temperature of the solvent to 100° C. (212° F.) or less, boiling and aeration are avoided. 
     Limiting maximum infusing process temperature is identical when using some temperature-sensitive infusing materials. More specifically, some infusing materials or solvents have a temperature threshold at which their chemical structure changes. Examples of such chemical structure changes include, but are not limited to, denaturation, unwanted enzymatic reactions or, unwanted hydrolytic reactions. Setting the infusing process to a particular temperature reduces unwanted changes in chemical compound of those infusing materials and solvents. Still, other materials rely on exposure to heat of a predetermined temperature to effect a desired chemical change. More specifically, some materials, such as cannabinoids, benefit from a decarbonization or decarboxylation process wherein temperature is raised above about 220-240° F. Decarbonization or decarboxylation “cracks” the material to release the often-desired cannabidiol (CBD) and/or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) compounds into the solvent. 
     Some embodiments also provide a gravity-fed drain device that allows for solvent delivery after the infusing process is complete. The gravity-fed drain omits the need to pick up, tip, or otherwise handle or manipulate the infusing chamber or infusing apparatus. The gravity-fed drain device also limits the risk of injury due to contact with solvent and make cleanup easier. Other advantages of the gravity-fed drain device include aeration mitigation that can occur when solvent is dispensed from the infusing chamber. As mentioned briefly above, aeration is undesirable as it induces cloudiness into the finished product, which makes it appear cloudy or gray. Furthermore, solvent aeration is undesirable as the entrained air may accelerate spoilage. Some problems associated with air entrainment include lipid oxidation and potential microorganism growth. As such, aeration prevention within the solvent improves shelf life, quality and makes infused solvents safer for human consumption. 
     It is one aspect of some embodiments the present invention to provide an infusing apparatus that employees modular and removable components, such as the agitator component, permeable infusion material compartment, infusing chamber, and/or the gravity-fed drain for ease of cleaning. Some embodiments of the present invention of the invention use materials including, but not limited to Polyethylene (PE), copolyesters, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Melamine, Nylon, Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), Silicone, Glass, Ceramic, Stainless Steel or any other materials appreciated to be appropriate for cleaning in a dishwasher appliance. 
     It is one aspect of some embodiments of the present invention to provide a pod for receiving an infusing material, comprising: a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable member in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; and a clip having an upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion to position a portion of the open end of the permeable member between the cage and the clip. 
     It is yet another aspect of some embodiments to provide an apparatus for infusing a solvent, comprising: a housing having an infusing chamber adapted to receive the solvent; a heating element associated with the infusing chamber; a drain associated with the infusing chamber; a removable pod interconnected to an inner surface of the infusing chamber, the pod adapted to a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable pod in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having a upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion with a portion of the open end of the permeable member positioned therebetween; a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to close the permeable member; and a mount that selectively secures the pod to the infusing chamber. 
     It is still yet another aspect of some embodiments to provide a method of filling a pod with infusing material, comprising: providing a permeable member having an open end; inserting a cage within the permeable member; folding a top edge of the permeable member over an upper edge of the cage; and inserting a clip into the cage such that a lower edge of the clip is captured by the at least one protrusion, and wherein a portion of the permeable member is captured by the clip and the cage. 
     Further aspects of the present invention are provided in the following embodiments: 
     A pod for receiving an infusing material, comprising: a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable member in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having an upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion to position a portion of the open end of the permeable member between the cage and the clip; and wherein the permeable member is a flexible bag made of mesh. 
     A pod for receiving an infusing material, comprising: a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable member in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having an upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion to position a portion of the open end of the permeable member between the cage and the clip; and wherein the cage is comprised of first portion and a second portion. 
     A pod for receiving an infusing material, comprising: a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable member in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having an upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion to position a portion of the open end of the permeable member between the cage and the clip; wherein the cage is comprised of first portion and a second portion; and wherein the first portion and the second portion are separated by a non-permeable wall. 
     A pod for receiving an infusing material, comprising: a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable member in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having an upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion to position a portion of the open end of the permeable member between the cage and the clip; and further comprising a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip. 
     A pod for receiving an infusing material, comprising: a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable member in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having an upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion to position a portion of the open end of the permeable member between the cage and the clip; further comprising a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip; and wherein the cap is integrated into the clip, the cap being configured to move from an open to a closed position. 
     A pod for receiving an infusing material, comprising: a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable member in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having an upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion to position a portion of the open end of the permeable member between the cage and the clip; and wherein the cap employs a removable membrane. 
     A solvent, comprising: a housing having an infusing chamber adapted to receive the solvent; a heating element associated with the infusing chamber; a drain associated with the infusing chamber; a removable pod interconnected to an inner surface of the infusing chamber, the pod adapted to a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable pod in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having a upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion with a portion of the open end of the permeable member positioned therebetween; a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to close the permeable member; a mount that selectively secures the pod to the infusing chamber; and wherein the permeable member is a flexible bag made of mesh. 
     A solvent, comprising: a housing having an infusing chamber adapted to receive the solvent; a heating element associated with the infusing chamber; a drain associated with the infusing chamber; a removable pod interconnected to an inner surface of the infusing chamber, the pod adapted to a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable pod in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having a upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion with a portion of the open end of the permeable member positioned therebetween; a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to close the permeable member; a mount that selectively secures the pod to the infusing chamber; wherein the permeable member is a flexible bag made of mesh; and wherein the mount comprises a ring with an internal diameter of a dimension greater than a maximum outer dimension of the permeable member, and a greater than maximum outer dimension of the cage, and less than a maximum outer dimension of the clip. 
     A solvent, comprising: a housing having an infusing chamber adapted to receive the solvent; a heating element associated with the infusing chamber; a drain associated with the infusing chamber; a removable pod interconnected to an inner surface of the infusing chamber, the pod adapted to a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable pod in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having a upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion with a portion of the open end of the permeable member positioned therebetween; a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to close the permeable member; a mount that selectively secures the pod to the infusing chamber; wherein the permeable member is a flexible bag made of mesh; and wherein the mount is selectively interconnected to the infusing chamber. 
     A solvent, comprising: a housing having an infusing chamber adapted to receive the solvent; a heating element associated with the infusing chamber; a drain associated with the infusing chamber; a removable pod interconnected to an inner surface of the infusing chamber, the pod adapted to a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable pod in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having a upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion with a portion of the open end of the permeable member positioned therebetween; a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to close the permeable member; a mount that selectively secures the pod to the infusing chamber; and wherein the mount is interconnected to an internal side wall of the infusing chamber, and further comprising an agitator positioned within the infusing chamber and operatively interconnect at a center point of a bottom surface of the infusing chamber. 
     A solvent, comprising: a housing having an infusing chamber adapted to receive the solvent; a heating element associated with the infusing chamber; a drain associated with the infusing chamber; a removable pod interconnected to an inner surface of the infusing chamber, the pod adapted to a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable pod in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having a upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion with a portion of the open end of the permeable member positioned therebetween; a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to close the permeable member; a mount that selectively secures the pod to the infusing chamber; and wherein the cap is integrated into the clip, the cap being configured to move from an open to a closed position. 
     A solvent, comprising: a housing having an infusing chamber adapted to receive the solvent; a heating element associated with the infusing chamber; a drain associated with the infusing chamber; a removable pod interconnected to an inner surface of the infusing chamber, the pod adapted to a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable pod in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having a upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion with a portion of the open end of the permeable member positioned therebetween; a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to close the permeable member; a mount that selectively secures the pod to the infusing chamber; and wherein the cap employs a removable membrane. 
     A solvent, comprising: a housing having an infusing chamber adapted to receive the solvent; a heating element associated with the infusing chamber; a drain associated with the infusing chamber; a removable pod interconnected to an inner surface of the infusing chamber, the pod adapted to a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable pod in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having a upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion with a portion of the open end of the permeable member positioned therebetween; a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to close the permeable member; a mount that selectively secures the pod to the infusing chamber; and wherein the cage is comprised of first portion and a second portion. 
     A solvent, comprising: a housing having an infusing chamber adapted to receive the solvent; a heating element associated with the infusing chamber; a drain associated with the infusing chamber; a removable pod interconnected to an inner surface of the infusing chamber, the pod adapted to a permeable member having an open end; a cage configured to fit within the permeable member and generally maintain the permeable pod in an expanded configuration, the cage having a plurality of openings and an upper portion with at least one inwardly-extending protrusion; a clip having a upper surface and a lower surface configured to fit within the upper portion of the cage, wherein the lower surface engages the at least one protrusion with a portion of the open end of the permeable member positioned therebetween; a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to close the permeable member; a mount that selectively secures the pod to the infusing chamber; wherein the cage is comprised of first portion and a second portion; and wherein the first portion and the second portion are separated by a non-permeable wall. 
     A method of filling a pod with infusing material, comprising: providing a permeable member having an open end; inserting a cage within the permeable member; folding a top edge of the permeable member over an upper edge of the cage; and inserting a clip into the cage such that a lower edge of the clip is captured by the at least one protrusion, wherein a portion of the permeable member is captured by the clip and the cage; and wherein the pod further comprises a cap with a portion configured to be inserted within the clip to seal the permeable member. 
     A method of filling a pod with infusing material, comprising: providing a permeable member having an open end; inserting a cage within the permeable member; folding a top edge of the permeable member over an upper edge of the cage; and inserting a clip into the cage such that a lower edge of the clip is captured by the at least one protrusion, wherein a portion of the permeable member is captured by the clip and the cage; and wherein the cage is comprised of a first portion and a second portion, and wherein the first portion is filled with a first infusing material at one geographic location and the second portion is filled with a second infusing material at a second geographic location. 
     A method of filling a pod with infusing material, comprising: providing a permeable member having an open end; inserting a cage within the permeable member; folding a top edge of the permeable member over an upper edge of the cage; and inserting a clip into the cage such that a lower edge of the clip is captured by the at least one protrusion, wherein a portion of the permeable member is captured by the clip and the cage; and wherein the cage is comprised of a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is filled with a first infusing material at one geographic location and the second portion is filled with a second infusing material at a second geographic location; and wherein the second infusing material is illegal in the first geographic location. 
     It is an aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a drying process wherein a user is able to deposit fresh plant-based material, or other material which the user wishes to dehydrate, within the unit for drying. In certain embodiments the drying process functionality includes an air circulating device, such as a fan, configured to provide air exchange to accelerate the drying process. 
     Due to the variety of liquids that can be used to infuse plant-based material, a unit configured to dispense a low viscosity liquid would not be ideal for the dispensation of a high liquid. For example, the dispensing of an infused aqueous solution, an infused oil-based solution, and an infused honey would require different apertures for gravity-fed dispensing. Accordingly, it is an aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention to adjust settings, such as an aperture diameter or aperture cross-sectional area to provide a user with appropriate dispensing capabilities and appropriate dispensing of liquids in a desired amount of time. 
     It is an aspect of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a plurality of dispensing modes wherein each dispensing mode is configured for a different viscosity range wherein the aperture cross-section is limited dependent upon the viscosity of the liquid being dispensed. 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that although a heating and agitating method of infusing is appropriate for many compounds, it may be desired to infuse a liquid without the use of heat in relation to safety considerations, or concern surrounding affecting the taste or chemical nature of the liquid or plant-based material used for infusing the liquid. It is an aspect of certain embodiments to comprise ultrasonic agitation for purposes of infusing a fluid with plant-based material. In certain embodiments, the ultrasonic agitation allows the infusion of a liquid with plant-based material without added heat and without an agitator. Thereby reducing the possibility of chemically affecting the liquid or plant-based material and reducing the chances of entraining air-bubbles within the fluid. 
     In certain scenarios, it may be desired for a user to infuse a liquid without the use of heat as the application of heat may denature or otherwise negatively affect the liquid or the plant-based material resulting in less than desirable results. 
     The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present invention. That is, these and other aspects and advantages will be apparent from the disclosure of the invention(s) described herein. Further, the above-described embodiments, aspects, objectives, and configurations are neither complete nor exhaustive. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the invention are possible using, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described below. Moreover, references made herein to “the present invention” or aspects thereof should be understood to mean some embodiments of the present invention and should not necessarily be construed as limiting all embodiments to a particular description. The present invention is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary of the Invention as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description of the Invention and no limitation as to the scope of the present invention is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary of the Invention. Additional aspects of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the Detailed Description, particularly when taken together with the drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these inventions. 
         FIG. 1A —Perspective view of certain embodiments of a front of an infusing apparatus 
         FIG. 1B —Perspective overhead view of certain embodiments of an infusing apparatus in an open configuration 
         FIG. 2 —Perspective overhead view of certain embodiments of an infusing apparatus in an open configuration 
         FIG. 3A —Side view of certain embodiments of an infusing apparatus 
         FIG. 3B —Perspective Cross-sectional view of certain embodiments of an infusing apparatus 
         FIG. 4A —Side view of certain embodiments of an infusing apparatus 
         FIG. 4B —Front Cross-sectional view of certain embodiments of an infusing apparatus 
         FIG. 5 —Certain embodiments of a temperature control loop 
         FIG. 6A —Transparent perspective view of certain embodiments of an infusing chamber 
         FIG. 6B —Perspective view of an infusing apparatus showing a drain device and actuating mechanism 
         FIG. 7A —Exploded view of certain embodiments of a gravity-fed drain device 
         FIG. 7B —Assembled view of certain embodiments of a gravity-fed drain device 
         FIG. 8 —Perspective cross-sectional view of certain embodiments of an infusing apparatus 
         FIG. 9A —Perspective view of certain embodiments of a closure mechanism in a closed-state 
         FIG. 9B —Perspective view of certain embodiments of a closure mechanism in an open-state 
         FIG. 10 —Perspective transparent view of an infusing chamber 
         FIG. 11 —Embodiments of a method for infusing a solvent 
         FIG. 12A —A perspective view of an agitator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 12B —A top view of an agitator of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 13 —A process flow diagram for the control for the operation of an apparatus in certain embodiments 
         FIG. 14A —A cross sectional front view of an apparatus of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 14B —An enlarged cross sectional front view of an apparatus of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 15A —A perspective view of an oblong permeable container of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 15B —A top view of an oblong permeable container of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 15C —A top view of an apparatus of certain embodiments comprising an oblong permeable container 
         FIG. 16A —A perspective view of a rack of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 16B —A perspective view of a rack of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 17 —A perspective front view of an apparatus of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 18A —A perspective front view of an apparatus of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 18B —A perspective rear view of an apparatus of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 19 —An exploded view a pod for storing infusing material used by certain embodiments of the present invention 
         FIG. 20 —The pod shown in  FIG. 19  shown in a semi-assembled state 
         FIG. 21 —A cage used in the pod shown in  FIG. 19   
         FIG. 22 —A clip ring used by the pod show in  FIG. 19   
         FIG. 23 —A cross-sectional view of  FIG. 22   
         FIG. 24 —A cap used to seal the pod shown in  FIG. 19   
         FIG. 25 —A cross-sectional view  FIG. 24   
         FIG. 26 —A mount used to support the pod shown  FIG. 19   
         FIG. 27A —A perspective view of a pod of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 27B —A side view of a pod of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 27C —A perspective view of a pod of certain embodiments in a semi-assembled state 
         FIG. 27D —An exploded perspective view of a pod of certain embodiments 
         FIG. 28 —A perspective view of certain embodiments of the present invention 
         FIG. 29A —An isolated perspective view of an infusing chamber of certain embodiments of the present invention 
         FIG. 29B —A front isolated view of an infusing chamber of certain embodiments of the present invention 
         FIG. 29C —A section view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in  FIG. 29B   
         FIG. 29D —A section view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in  FIG. 29B  demonstrating air-flow patterns 
         FIG. 30 —A perspective exploded view of a permeable container of certain embodiments of the present invention 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Certain embodiments of an infusing apparatus  100 , seen in  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B , are configured for the infusing of solvents, including oil-based solvents. Such embodiments comprise a user interface panel  610 , a hinged lid  105 , and a dispensing area  112  for draining solvent after an infusing process. Certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 1B  further comprise a lid-release mechanism  108  and an infusing chamber  110 . It will be appreciated that in certain embodiments a user interface panel  610  comprises a printed circuit board (PCB), central processing unit (CPU), or other computing device to provide control, sensing, and programming capabilities to the infusing apparatus  100 . 
     Certain embodiments, as seen in  FIG. 2 , comprise an infusing chamber  110 , an agitator component  120 , and a gravity-fed drain device. In such embodiments, the infusing chamber  110  is configured as a shell form to receive a volume of solvent for the infusing process. The agitator component  120 , disposed on a bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber  110  provides churning through rotational movement about an axis  135 . The gravity-fed drain device of the infusing apparatus  100  is configured to allow the dispensation of a solvent held within the infusing apparatus  100  without the need to pick up, tip over or otherwise manipulate the infusing apparatus  100 . 
     In certain embodiments of an infusing apparatus  100  comprising an agitator component  200 , referencing  FIG. 3A  and  FIG. 3B , the agitator component  200  further comprises a magnetically actuated agitator. The magnetically actuated agitator comprises an agitator component  200  having magnetic characteristics. The agitator component  200  is spun using a rotating magnetic field proximal to the agitator component  200 . In certain embodiments, the agitator component  200  rests on the internal bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber  110  while a rotating magnetic field component  210  rests on an external side of a bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber  110 . Such an agitator component  200 , is configured to mix and induce a rotational flow of solvent without the pulverization of the infusing material. Furthermore, such an agitator component  200  may be coated with a chemically inert coating, such as a polymer or ceramic material. It will be appreciated to those skilled in the art that an agitator component  200  may be spun using a rotating magnet in close proximity to the agitator component as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,350,534 (“the &#39;534 Patent”) to Rosinger, herein incorporated by reference. Alternatively, it will be further appreciated by those skilled in the art that an agitator component  200  may be spun using a stationary electromagnet with a rotating electromagnetic field as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 1,242,493 (“the &#39;493 Patent”) to Stringham, herein incorporated by reference. 
     In certain embodiments of the present invention, shown in  FIG. 12A - FIG. 12B , an agitator component  200  comprises fins  1100  having a radial curvature. The fins  1100 , affixed to a top surface  1110  of the agitator component, are distributed radially around the agitator component  200 . The agitator component  200  is rotated in a direction such that the convex curvature  1120  of each fin  1100  is presented as a leading edge, and the concave curvature  1130  of the fins are presented as a trailing edge. The curvature of the fins  1100  of the agitator is configured to allow increased stirring speeds with increased stirring and agitation ability while mitigating cavitation and air entrainment into an infusing solvent. Certain embodiments comprise an agitator component  200  with fins  1100  having a radial curvature, with fins  1100  extending to a side surface  1140  or perimetral surface of the agitator component. 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention, as shown in  FIG. 3A and 3B  further comprise a heater component  220  to provide heat to a solvent held by an infusing chamber. The heater component  220  serves to provide thermal energy to a solvent during the infusing process. It will be appreciated that such a heater component  220  may provide heat directly to a solvent held within the infusing chamber  110 . It will be further appreciated that alternative forms of such a heater component  220 , as seen in  FIG. 4A  and  FIG. 4B , may provide heat to the solvent  230  indirectly by providing heating energy external to the infusing chamber  110 . In certain embodiments, the heater component  220  is external to the infusing chamber  110  in close proximity to or in contact with the bottom external surface  240  of the infusing chamber  110 . In such embodiments the heater component  220  applies heat energy to the infusing chamber  110  which transfers through infusing chamber  110  to the solvent  230  by way of conduction, convection, and/or radiation. 
     Certain embodiments, as seen in  FIG. 2 , comprise a temperature measuring device  150  that measures the temperature of a solvent held within the infusing chamber  110 . It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that the measurement of temperature may be output to a temperature controller such as a thermostat. In certain embodiments, a temperature controller  300 , as seen in  FIG. 5 , receives temperature input  350  in the form of an electrical signal from the temperature measuring device  150  shown in  FIG. 2 . The temperature input  350  by the temperature controller  300  to determine the error  310  between the temperature input  350  and the desired set-point  320 . The temperature controller  300  then performs control calculations  330  to determine the electrical output to control the heater output  340 . It will be appreciated that a device maintaining the temperature of a solvent  230  may comprise a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller, thermostat or other temperature control devices known to those known in the art. It will be appreciated that a PID controller in such embodiments continuously calculates an error value as the difference between a desired set point temperature and a measured temperature. The PID controller then attempts to minimize the error value over time by adjustment of the power supplied to the heater component. 
     It will be appreciated that a first temperature measuring device  150 , as seen in  FIG. 2  may comprise different forms including but not limited to an infrared thermometer, a thermistor, a thermocouple or other temperature measuring devices known to those skilled in the art. In certain embodiments, a first temperature measuring device and a second temperature device provide increased controllability of the internal volume of the infusing chamber  110 . 
     Certain embodiments, shown in  FIG. 14A - FIG. 14B  comprise a first temperature measuring device  150  in communication with a first temperature controller, and a second temperature measuring device  150  in communication with a second temperature controller. In certain embodiments, the first temperature measuring device  150  (not shown) is in thermal communication with the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber, while the second temperature measuring device  150  is in communication with the internal volume of the infusing chamber  110 . 
     In certain embodiments as shown in  FIG. 13 , for use of the apparatus—a user powers on  1210  infusing apparatus. The user then provides input  1220  as to determine if the apparatus will operate in the dry process  1221 , activation process  1222 , or infusing process  1223  mode. The user is then prompted for desired temperature input  1230  based upon the process selected to set the desired air or solvent temperature for the selected process. For a dry process  1221 , the available temperature range is 49° C.-115° C. (120° F.-240° F.). For the activation process  1222 , the available temperature range is 49° C.-115° C. (120° F.-240° F.). For the infusing process  1223 , the available temperature range is 49° C.-93° C. (120° F.-240° F.). During a calculation step  1240 , the temperature controller  300 —such as shown in  FIG. 5 —receives the temperature as measured by the second temperature measuring device  150  ( FIG. 14A ) to determine whether the heater component  220  ( FIG. 14A ) should be actuated to provide additional heat or not. During a dry process  1221 , a 10° F. offset is used to account for temperature lag. Thus, if a user has selected a dry process with a 93° C. (200° F.) setpoint, if the probe measures 85° C. (185° F.), the temperature controller  300  treats this input as (91° C.) 195° F. and provides heat with the heater component  220 . When the second temperature measuring device provides a reading of 88° C. (190 ° F.), with a 10° offset, the temperature controller  300  treats this input as 93° C. (200° F.) and thus switches the heater component  220  off If at any point, the first temperature measuring device  150  (not shown), provides a reading exceeding a predetermined limit  1250 , the temperature controller  300  switches the heater component  220  off to prevent damage to the infusing apparatus. 
     In certain embodiments, if the air temperature is below the desired set-point, the controller can provide additional heat using the heater component  220  ( FIG. 14A ). However, if the air temperature is below the desired set-point and the first temperature measuring device indicates a temperature above a predetermined maximum temperature, the heater will not provide additional heat until the temperature of the first temperature measuring device indicates a temperature below the predetermined maximum temperature. Furthermore, in certain embodiments a mechanical temperature regulator device, such as a bi-metallic strip thermostat, is configured to open the electrical circuit to further prevent further heating and potential overheating and damage of the infusion apparatus. Certain embodiments of the present invention comprise a first temperature measuring device and a second temperature measuring device in communication with a central processing module, such as a micro-controller, to control the temperature within the apparatus as desired by the user. 
     In certain embodiments, the apparatus comprises materials including, but not limited to polysulfone, liquid-crystal polymer (LCP), and Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). Such polymer compositions are known for their high performance in many categories associated with manufacture and use, including their high heat resistance—withstanding temperatures in excess of 204° C. (400° F.) in some cases. Such polymers provide a high-temperatures to heat without degradation of form or material properties. 
     Certain embodiments, as seen in  FIG. 6A , comprise a gravity-fed drain device  130 . In certain embodiments, a gravity-fed drain device  130  is connected to a bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber  110  and interfaces with an aperture  400  through the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber  110 . In certain embodiments, seen in  FIG. 14A , the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber comprises a contour  1200  directing the solvent toward the aperture  400  in the bottom surface for purposes of complete draining. In certain embodiments, the contour comprises an angle sloping downward toward the aperture in the bottom surface. The angle of the bottom surface, for the purposes of draining, directs the solvent toward the aperture. Although an angled surface of certain embodiments comprises an angle of  3  degrees, the angle is not limited thereto. Furthermore, a contour of is not limited to an angled surface. A contour, in the scope and spirit of the present application, surrounds a configuration which induces the flow of solvents toward the aperture in the bottom surface of the infusing chamber. 
     Such an aperture  400  is held closed by the gravity-fed drain device  130 , preventing the passage of solvent held within an infusing chamber  110 . If desired, a user may actuate the gravity-fed drain device  130  it to an open-state, to dispense a solvent held within the infusing chamber  110 . It will be appreciated that any state that allows the passage of any amount of solvent through a gravity-fed drain device  130  is considered an open-state. It will be also appreciated that any state that prevents the passage of a solvent through a gravity-fed drain device  130  is considered a closed-state. It will be further appreciated that the actuation of the gravity-fed drain device  130  may be a mechanically actuated or electro-mechanically actuated depending on the nature of the actuation mechanism. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, a gravity-fed drain device  130  is not limited to use in conjunction with an aperture  400  in the bottom surface  140  of an infusing chamber  110 . It will be further appreciated that a gravity-fed drain device  130  generally provides dispensing functionality through an aperture located below the surface level of a liquid. 
     In certain embodiments, a gravity-fed drain device  130 , seen in  FIG. 6B , is mechanically actuated and comprises an actuation mechanism  410  comprising a push-button  420  connected to the gravity-fed drain device  130  through a series of mechanical linkages. The push-button  420  extends through an external surface  430  of an infusing apparatus  100 . The bottom of the push-button  420  is attached to a first distal end  441  of a rigid linkage  440 , which is directed toward a pivoting linkage  450 . A second distal end  442  of the rigid linkage  440  is affixed to a first distal end  451  of a pivoting linkage  450 . A second distal end  452  of the pivoting linkage  450 , is on opposite side of a pivot point  460 , which disposed between the first distal end  451  and the second distal end  452  of the pivoting linkage  450 . The pivot point  460  of the pivoting linkage  450  is constrained by a rod feature  461  extending which affixes to a planar surface  470  of the infusing apparatus  100 . When the first distal end  451  of the pivoting linkage  450  traverses in a first direction, the second distal end  452  of the pivoting linkage  450  traverses in a second direction. When the second distal end  452  of the pivoting linkage  450 , having connection to a gravity-fed drain device  130 , traverses in a second direction, the gravity-fed drain device  130  actuates to an open-state. 
     In certain embodiments, a gravity-fed drain device  130 , seen in  FIG. 7A , comprises a cylindrical form  500  having a plurality of supports  510  extending radially inward from the circumference of the cylindrical form  500  toward the central axis  520  of the cylindrical form. The supports  510  meet centrally, where they affix to a first distal end  531  of a push-rod  530  extending vertically upward from the supports  510 . A second distal end  532  of the push-rod  530  is affixed to an aperture seal  540 . The aperture seal  540 , disposed substantially perpendicular to the push-rod  530 , comprises a form configured to mate with an aperture  400 , as seen in  FIG. 6A , and extends through the bottom surface of an infusing chamber  110 . This creates a seal between the aperture seal  540  and the aperture  400  to prevent the passage of solvent through the aperture  400 . Referring now to  FIG. 7A and 7B , a collapsible cylindrical device  550  extends between the cylindrical form  500  of the gravity-fed drain device  130  and the perimeter of the aperture  400  in  FIG. 6A  to form a seal. When the seal between the aperture  400  and the aperture seal  540 , is released, solvent is permitted to flow through the aperture  400 . The solvent may then flow through the collapsible cylindrical device  550 , once again referencing  FIG. 7B , and through the cylindrical form  500 . 
     It will be appreciated that, the actuation of a electromechanically actuated gravity-fed drain device  130 , shown in  FIG. 8 , may be performed with an electric actuator  600  such as a linear actuator, stepper motor, servo motor or other electrically actuated device known to those skilled in the art. Certain embodiments, as seen in  FIG. 8 , comprise an electric actuator  600  with a closure mechanism  705  to a gravity-fed drain device  130  such that when the electric actuator  600  is actuated, it actuates the gravity-fed drain device  130  into an open-state. In certain embodiments, control of the electric actuator  600  is located on a user interface panel  610 , seen in  FIG. 1A - FIG. 1B , located on an external surface of the infusing apparatus  100 . 
     Certain embodiments of a gravity-fed drain device  130 , as seen in  FIG. 8 , comprise a tube  700  having a first distal end  710  configured to interface with an aperture  400  on bottom surface  140  of an infusing chamber  110  creating a seal. Such tube  700  has a second distal end  720  which is directed toward a dispensing area  112  for the dispensing of an infused oil. The tube  700 , has a pathway  730  from the first distal end  710  to the second distal end  720  for the flow of infused solvent. In certain embodiments a tube  700 , as shown in  FIG. 8 , comprises elastic or semi-elastic material properties such that the tube may be deformed by an applied force and rebound to original or substantially original form upon the removal of such an applied force. In certain embodiments, the tube  700  may be deformed by lateral deflection thereby constricting or closing the pathway. 
     Certain embodiments, seen in  FIG. 14B , comprise a tube  700  having a female threaded feature  1300  at the first distal end  710  of the tube for fixation to the underside  1320  of the infusing chamber. In such embodiments, a threaded male feature  1310 , having a pathway  730  therethrough, is consistent with the aperture  400  of the infusing chamber. The female threaded feature  1300  is configured to mate with the male threaded feature  1310 , thus affixing the tube  700  to the infusing chamber  110  and preventing unintentional disconnection. In certain embodiments, the tube comprises a polymeric composition such as silicone, which is overmolded over a female threaded feature  1310  having attachment features  1330  configured to retain the tube to the female threaded feature  1300 . In certain embodiments, the attachment features  1330  comprise knurling or other friction modifying features, while certain embodiments comprise annular rings resulting in undercut features as shown in  FIG. 14B . 
     In certain embodiments, seen in  FIG. 14A - FIG. 14B , an outer shell  1340  surrounds the infusing chamber  140 , creating an airgap  1350  between the infusing chamber  140  and the outer shell  1340 . The airgap  1350  provides insulative properties in order to maintain consistent temperatures as desired within the infusing chamber  140 . The insulative characteristics also allow the maintenance of higher temperatures requiring lower energy consumption due to lower heat transfer rates to the ambient environment. In certain embodiments, the airgap is filled with a material having insulative properties. 
     In certain embodiments of a gravity-fed drain device, as shown in  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B , a closure mechanism  705  comprises a pivoting lever  750  and a spring  740 . It will be appreciated that a spring  740  as disclosed, has a first end connected to said pivoting lever  750  and a second end affixed to a static element  741  to provide tensile force to said closure mechanism  705 . In some embodiments, the spring  740  and pivoting lever  750  are configured to rest in a closed-state, shown in  FIG. 9A  such that the pathway  730  of the tube  700  is deformed to restrict the flow of liquid. In such embodiments, when force is applied, the pivoting lever  750  is drawn away from the tube  700  allowing the pathway  730  to rebound and allow the flow of liquid in an open-state shown in  FIG. 9B . 
     In certain embodiments, a gravity-fed drain device  130 , as shown in  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B , that comprises a tube  700 , a pivoting lever  750  and a spring  740 , further comprises an electric actuator  600 . An electric actuator  600  in such embodiments applies a force to the pivoting lever  750  to draw the pivoting lever  750  toward or away from the tube  700 . It will be appreciated that in certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B , the electric actuator provides rotational motion to a cam element  760 . It will be appreciated to those skilled in the art that a cam element  760  is a rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical linkage use in transforming rotary motion into linear motion, or vice versa. In such embodiments as shown in  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B , the cam element  760  comprises a plate cam form to translate rotational motion from the electric actuator  600  to linear motion and apply force to a surface of a push plate  765 . The push plate  765  is affixed to the pivoting lever  750 , as such a force applied to the push plate  765  acts to apply force to the pivoting lever  765 . It will be appreciated to those skilled in the art that the embodiment of a closure mechanism  705  shown in  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B  rests in a closed-state ( FIG. 9A ) due to residual tension applied by the spring  740 . Such embodiments change to an open-state ( FIG. 9B ) when a force is applied through the actuation of the electric actuator  600 . 
     Certain embodiments of a closure mechanism  750  further comprises a contact switch  770 , shown in  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B . Such a contact switch  770  has electrical connection to a user interface panel  610 , seen in  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B . In such embodiments, once again referencing  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B , when a cam element  760  applies a force to a surface of the push plate  765 , the pivoting lever  750  is drawn toward the tube  700 . When the pivoting lever  750  reaches a predetermined position, a surface of the push plate  765  contacts the contact switch  770 , which sends an electrical signal back to the user interface panel  610 , seen in  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B . Such a signal indicates a status change of a pivoting lever  750 , shown in  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B , such as a closed-state ( FIG. 9A ) or an open-state ( FIG. 9B ). 
     In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 9A - FIG. 9B  for instance, the electric actuator  600  comprises a stepper motor, servo motor, or other type of electric actuator capable of being positioned in intermediate positions between a closed configuration ( FIG. 9A ) and an open configuration ( FIG. 9B ). The electric actuator  600  is configured to allow a closed configuration, an open configuration, and at least one intermediate configuration wherein the tube is deformed to partially constrict the pathway of the tube. A closed configuration comprises deforms the tube  700  such that the pathway  730  of the tube is 0% of that of an open configuration. An open configuration comprises the pathway  730  being undeformed, resulting in unobstructed flow through the pathway  730  and allowing maximal fluid flow therethrough. In certain embodiments, the electric actuator  600  is configured to place the pathway  730  in an open configuration, a closed configuration, a first intermediate configuration, and a second intermediate configuration wherein the intermediate configurations result in a partially restricted pathway  730 . The intermediate configurations can be configured to result in the cross-section of the pathway being between 1% and 99% of that of an open configuration. In certain embodiments the gravity-fed drain device can be configured wherein, a first intermediate state results in the pathway being restricted to 25% of an open configuration, and a second intermediate state results in the pathway being restricted to 50% of the open configuration. 
     In certain embodiments, a user is able to configure the mode of dispensing as desired based upon the viscosity of the liquid being infused. A first dispensing mode configures the closure mechanism to open the pathway to 25% of an open configuration when the electric actuator is actuated, a second dispensing mode configures the closure mechanism to open the pathway to 50% of an open configuration when the electric actuator is actuated, and a third dispensing mode configures the closure mechanism to open to a fully open configuration. The dispensing modes can be selected with a button interconnected with the user interface panel. 
     Certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 28  for instance, comprise a plurality of dispensing mode buttons wherein a first button  2501  configures the closure mechanism to a first dispensing mode, a second button  2502  configures the closure mechanism to a second dispensing mode, and a third button  2503  configures the closure mechanism to a third dispensing mode. Certain embodiments comprise a dispensing button  2510  wherein the dispensing button is depressed following the dispensing mode selection by a user. 
     Certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 10 , comprise a permeable container  620  that may be placed into an infusing chamber  110 . The permeable container  620  is configured to hold infusing material such that when placed into the infusing chamber  110 , solvent held within the infusing chamber is able to flow through the walls of the permeable container  620 . In certain embodiments, the permeable container is disposed away from a central axis  630  of the infusing chamber  110 . The flow of solvent held within the infusing chamber  110 , when churned by an agitator component  120  located at a central axis  630 , is higher when offset from the central axis  630 . It will be appreciated that infusing material as discussed herein may refer to loose infusing material or infusing material prepackaged in forms able to be deposited within the infusing chamber  110  or alternatively within a permeable container  620 . Certain embodiments of the permeable container comprise an oblong shape, such as a kidney shape, as shown in  FIG. 15A - FIG. 15B . The oblong shape provides increased laminar around the permeable container  1400  which results in more efficient flow dynamics, and allows for a faster recirculating rate of flow  1405 . The oblong shape of the permeable container also increases the active infusion time, or the duration which solvent is in direct contact with the infusion material. The oblong shape provides an increased length consistent with the direction of flow of the solvent when agitated, thus increasing the active infusion time. Providing an increased active infusion time provides a more effective infusing process. 
     Certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 10 , comprise a permeable container  620  having a cap  625 . Such a permeable container  620  may be removably affixed to the interior of the infusing chamber  110 . In such embodiments, the permeable container  620  further comprises a first magnetic fixation element  780  affixed to the exterior of the permeable container. A second magnetic fixation element  790  is affixed to the exterior of the infusing chamber  110 . It will be appreciated that removable fixation is achieved when the first magnetic fixation element  780  and the second magnetic fixation element  790  are brought in proximity to each other. It will be further appreciated that magnetic removable fixation may be achieved with a magnet element and a ferromagnetic element, or a plurality of magnets. 
     Certain embodiments of a method of infusing a solvent, shown in  FIG. 11 , as discussed herein comprises the placing of infusing material. This step involves the placing of infusing material into a permeable container  620 , seen in  FIG. 2 . The step of installing  1010 , as shown in  FIG. 11 , involves the installation of the permeable container  620 , seen in  FIG. 2 , within an infusing chamber  110  of an infusing apparatus  100 . The step of filling  1020 , shown in  FIG. 11 , involves adding a solvent for infusing to the infusing chamber  110  shown in  FIG. 2 . The infusion step  1030 , shown in  FIG. 11 , involves the infusing apparatus  100  set to an infusing mode by user input through a user interface panel  610 , seen in  FIG. 1A . The infusing step  1030 , shown in  FIG. 11 , involves churning  1040  and heating  1050  steps. The churning step  1040 , churns the solvent through the spinning of an agitator component  200  as seen in  FIG. 2 . In certain embodiments, the spinning of the agitator component  200 , is maintained between 50 and 150 RPM while in other embodiments the rotational speed of the agitator component  200  is maintained between 70 and 90 RPM. In certain embodiments comprising an agitator component further comprising fins having a radial curvature, the agitator component rotational speed can be operated at speeds of 400 RPM without the entrainment of air within the solvent. 
     In certain embodiments, an agitator component is configured to provide mixing of air within the volume of the infusing chamber, thus providing a more consistent temperature throughout the volume of the infusing chamber. In certain embodiments, the mixing functionality results in a forced convective flow within the volume. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that a forced convective flow provides a more homogenous temperature profile throughout the volume of the infusing chamber. 
     In certain embodiments, shown in  FIG. 16A - FIG. 16B , a rack  1500  is suspended above the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber. The rack  1500  allows a user to place dry material upon the rack, thus preventing direct contact of the dry material with the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber. The bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber of certain embodiments is in direct conductive thermal communication with the heater component  220  ( FIG. 3B ). Resultantly, the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber is at a temperature much higher than that of the air within the infusing chamber  110 . Contact of the dry material with the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber may result in burning of the dry material, or uneven drying of the dry material during a dry process. Suspension of the dry material away from the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber provides a more even heating and drying of the material. Furthermore, offsetting the material from the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber allows for a more consistent airflow throughout the volume of the infusing chamber  110 . A more consistent airflow provides a more homogenous temperature profile through the infusing chamber  110 . In certain embodiments the rack  1400  comprises a perforated surface allowing airflow through the rack  1400 , while other embodiments (as shown in  FIG. 16A - FIG. 16B ) comprise a solid surface. In certain embodiments, the rack  1400  comprises a first portion  1410  and a second portion  1410 , interconnected with a hinged element  1420 . The hinged element  1420  of certain embodiments comprises a living hinge comprised of a flexible material such as silicone, thus the rack can be folded and unfolded for use, placement, and removal from the infusing chamber  140 . In certain embodiments, the rack  1400  further comprises handles, while certain embodiments comprise recesses  1440  within the infusing chamber  140  configured to mate with the rack  1400  to offset the rack from the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber. 
     Considering certain embodiments, seen in  FIG. 17 , which comprise a dry process and infusing process, a first temperature measuring device  150  (not shown) is disposed in contact with the external bottom surface of the infusing chamber  140 , and a second temperature measuring device  150  is disposed within the volume of the infusing chamber  140 . The first temperature measuring device  150  monitors the temperature of the bottom surface of the infusing chamber. The second temperature measuring device  150  monitors the air temperature within the infusing chamber during a drying process, and monitors the solvent temperature during an infusing process. 
     In certain embodiments, the second temperature measuring device  150  is configured to pivot from a vertical configuration—hanging downward into the volume of the infusing chamber  110 , to a horizontal configuration—adjacently parallel to the bottom surface of the lid  105 . It will be appreciated that in a dry process mode, the hot air will preferentially reside toward the upper portions of the volume of the infusing chamber  110 . The disposition of the second temperature measuring device  150  as adjacently parallel to the bottom surface of the lid  105  allows a user to place more dry material within the infusing chamber. Thus, in a dry process mode, it is desired in certain embodiments for the second temperature measuring device  150  to be adjacently parallel to the bottom surface of the lid  105 . In an infusion mode, it will be appreciated that the higher heat transfer properties of the solvent will result in a more homogenous temperature profile. However, it will be further appreciated that the solvent closest to the bottom surface  140  of the infusing chamber—or the surface which is in nearest proximity to the heating component—will exhibit the highest temperatures. Thus, it is advantageous to measure the temperature of the solvent in close proximity to the bottom surface of the infusing chamber  110 , or the surface which is in nearest proximity to the heating element. 
     During a heating step  1050  ( FIG. 11 ), the infusing apparatus  100 , shown in  FIG. 3B , heats the solvent using a heater component  220  and maintains the solvent at a consistent set-point temperature. In some embodiments, the heating  1050 , seen in  FIG. 11 , maintains a solvent temperature below the boiling point of the solvent. After a predetermined time, the step of terminating  1060  the infusing  1030  step is executed. The predetermined time of infusion is based upon variables such as the infusing material and solvent used in addition to the user&#39;s preference surrounding the potency of resulting infusion. The predetermined time may span only minutes, or may extend beyond several hours. Then the step of dispensing  1070  is then performed by activating a dispensing  1070  step through the user interface panel  610  seen in  FIG. 1A . When activating the dispensing  1070  step, shown in  FIG. 11 , infusion flows through an aperture  400 , shown in  FIG. 8  through a gravity-fed drain device  130  and into a dispensing area  112 . 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention, seen in  FIG. 18A  further comprise audible notifications, delivered through a speaker oriented in the housing of the infusing apparatus  100 , oriented above the dispensing area  112 . Certain embodiments further comprise apertures  1500  permitting the increased attenuation of the audible notifications. The audible notifications may be used to alert a user of the initiation or termination of certain processes, such as a dry process or an infusing process involving solvents. 
       FIG. 19 - FIG. 26  show a pod  1502 , which is alternative to the permeable container described above. The pod comprises a flexible, permeable bag  1504 , a cage  1508  that maintains the shape of the bag, a bag clip  1516  that secures the bag to the cage, and a cap  1532  that seals the pod  1502 . The bag  1504  is collapsible, which facilitates storage, and is also configured to selectively expand if needed to accept additional infusing material. Accordingly, the bag may be pleated. The bag&#39;s  1504  expanded shape is at least partially maintained by the cage  1508  inserted into the bag before receiving infusing material. Because the cage  1508  has a plurality of openings  1512 , solvent can pass freely through the permeable bag  1504  and the cage  1508 . The bag will facilitate solvent infusion when partially filled, for example, 25% filled or more. 
     The bag clip  1516  interconnects the bag  1504  to the cage  1508 , wherein an upper edge  1518  of the bag  1504  is positioned between a lower ridge  1520  of the bag clip  1516  and at least one protrusion  1524  that extends from the upper, inner surface  1528  of the cage. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other methods of interconnecting the bag clip  1516 , bag  1504 , and/or cage  1508  may be employed without departing from the scope of the invention. A cap  1532 , which may have a ring  1536  at its lower surface, is used to close the pod. The cage  1508 , bag clip  1516 , and cap  1532  of certain embodiments of the present invention are reusable. 
     The pod  1502  is selectively inserted and maintained by a mount  1540  selectively interconnected to an inside surface of the infusing chamber as in the embodiments described above. The mount  1540  may be selectively interconnected to the inner surface of the infusing chamber with a magnet housing  1544  as shown in  FIG. 26 . 
     The cage shown in  FIG. 21  has a plurality of openings  1512  that allow solvent to pass therethrough. The openings can be of any size to facilitate the flow of solvent. In operation, the permeability of the bag, which may be made entirely or partially of a screen or mesh, will dictate exposure of the infusing material  1564  placed in the pod. In some embodiments, the cage openings  1512  are blocked with a permeable material or mesh wherein the bag is not necessarily required. In other embodiments, the size of the openings  1512  may be selectively altered to make them larger, for example. Other embodiments of the cage  1508  employ internal ridges or other means that allow for walls to be selectively provided to divide the cage into different zones for holding different types of plant-based material, for example. Further, portion(s) of the bag or cage may be constructed of a plant-based material that is effectively dissolved by the solvent material during the infusing process. 
     The cage of certain embodiments possesses more than one compartment adapted to receive infusing material of differing forms, characteristics, etc. In this example, one or more compartments can be filled by different co-packers perhaps at different times. Filling of a pod contemplated by this embodiment is performed by a first co-packer that fills a first compartment with a first infusing material, i.e., an herb blend, and the second compartment is filled by a second co-packer with a second infusing material, i.e., cannabis. The cap used in this pod may comprise two sealable portions. Alternatively, the first co-packer seals the pod with a cap that is later removed and perhaps destroyed by the second co-packer who adds a final cap, which may only be removed upon destruction thereof. The cap of some embodiments can only be removed after installation by destroying a portion thereof, which may serve as a safety feature. That is, the caps of some embodiments can only be removed after installation by destroying a portion thereof, which serves as a safety feature. 
       FIG. 24 - FIG. 25  show the cap  1532  of certain embodiments of the present invention. As briefly mentioned above, some embodiments the present invention contemplate a pod that is sealed with contained infusing material before delivery to the user. In this example, the cap is ultrasonically welded to the bag clip, which will be apparent upon review of  FIG. 15 . In other embodiments, however, the cap can be freely removed to open the pod such so that the end user can fill the bag with the desired mixture of plant-based materials or to augment pre-packaged infusing materials. In other embodiments, the top surface of the cap includes at least one aperture that is selectively sealed by a bio-friendly sealing element, such as a sticker seal. This embodiment contemplates situations wherein the pod is filled with infusing material in a first location, shipped to a second location, and subsequently filled with additional infusing material. The secondary infusing material is added by way of removing the sticker, augmenting the infusing material already in the pod, and then resealing the cap with the existing sticker or new closure device. The secondary closure device may include tamper resistant or tamper evident means. 
     With specific reference to  FIG. 19 - FIG. 20 , in operation, the cage  1508  is inserted into the bag  1504 , which prevents collapse of the bag  1504  and provides a volume that receives infusing material  1564 . An upper edge  1518  of the bag is folded into the cage, wherein the upper edge  1518  extends adjacent to, or below a lower ridge  1520  of the bag clip  1516 . Next, the bag clip  1516  is inserted into the cage  1508 , wherein at least a portion of the bag  1504  is positioned between an external surface of the bag clip at least one protrusion  1524  provided by the cage  1508 . Further insertion of the bag clip  1516  into the cage will eventually locate the lower ridge  1520  of the bag clip  1516  under at least one protrusion  1524 , thereby locking the bag clip  1516  to the cage  1508 . The user or packager may then add material to the bag  1504 . If desired, the cap  1532  is used to seal the pod  1502  and, thus, may be made to snugly fit within the bag clip  1516  to prevent contamination from entering the pod  1502 . This is also safety feature that prevents children from opening the pod  1502 . In certain embodiments of the pod is disposable and is delivered to the user with a proprietary mixture of botanicals, herbs, spices, leaves, and other plant-based materials. The mixture of infusing material are optimized for infusion of particular volumes of product and sold in multipacks at commercial retailers. Finally, the pod  1502  is inserted in the mount  1540 , which employs a ring  1560  having a diameter less than a portion of the cage  1508 , bag clip  1516 , or cap  1532 . This dimensional arrangement maintains preferred location of the pod  1502  within the infusing chamber. In certain embodiments, the bag clip employs an outer ridge  1570  that rests on the ring  1560 . 
     Components of the pod may be injection molded or made be additive manufacturing processes. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the pod may be configured in size and shape to be used in many infusing apparatus, not just the apparatus described herein. The pod does not absorb more than a negligible amount of solvent. However, in certain embodiments, portions of the cage can be made of infusing material that will at least partially dissolve into particulates captured by the bag during the infusing process. The pod of certain embodiments is temperature resistant up to 250° F. when immersed in oil without degradation for at least about 10 hours. 
     The bag of certain embodiments is made of biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) mesh. For example, PLA mesh manufactured by Yamanaka Industry Co., Ltd., commonly known as Tearoad® Soilon®. Such material is capable of remaining in a heated vegetable oil bath for 10 hours, which make it ideal for the contemplated applications. The mesh may also be made of food grade stainless steel. 
     Certain embodiments, such as those shown in  FIG. 27A - FIG. 27D  for example, comprise a pod  2000  having a first side  2010  and a second side  2020 , wherein the sides comprise a permeable surface. The first side  2010  and the second side  2020  of the pod are interconnected to create a volume  2100  therebetween. Within the volume  2100  of the pod, a user is able to place infusing material  1564  prior to interconnecting the first side  2010  and the second side  2020 , thereby constraining the first side  2010  to the second side  2020 , containing the volume  2100 , and preventing the infusing material  1564  from exiting the pod. 
     In certain embodiments, such as those shown in  FIG. 27A - FIG. 27D  for example, a pod  2000  having a first side  2010  and a second side  2020  comprises a hollow form having an open aspect  2150  and a rib  2200  along the perimeter of the first side  2010  and along the perimeter of the second side  2020 . When assembled, the ribs  2200  are placed against each other resulting in an adjoined ribs  2210 . Certain embodiments comprise a retainer  2300 , the retainer  2300  comprises a channel  2310  configured to receive the adjoined rib  2210 , thereby keeping first side  2010  and second side  2020  interconnected. In certain embodiments a retainer comprises a U-shape. Certain embodiments comprise a straight retainer. It will be appreciated that although embodiments shown disclose a U-channel profile, other profiles such as a C-channel, slot-wall, and J-channel profiles are in keeping with the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     It will be appreciated that a user may optionally place infusing material  1564  between the first side  2010  and the second side  2020  of the pod prior to closing the pod  2000  by mating the ribs  2200  of the first side  2010  with the ribs  2200  of the second side  2020  thereby resulting in an adjoined ribs  2210  prior to sliding at least one retainer  2300  over an aspect of the adjoined ribs. 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention, as shown in  FIG. 29A - FIG. 29D  for instance, comprise a fan  2600  interconnected with the lid  105  wherein the fan is configured to provide ventilation between the environment and the permeable container  1400  held within the infusing chamber  110 . The fan  2600  can be configured to extract air from the infusing chamber, or supply air into the infusing chamber  110  and as desired, and directed toward or into the permeable container  1400 . Certain embodiments of the present invention further comprise vent-holes  2610  wherethrough make-up air is permitted to enter or exit the infusing chamber to allow for constant airflow. 
     Certain embodiments of the present invention, as shown in  FIG. 29D  for instance, comprise a permeable container  1400  having a cap  2700  which is configured to interconnect with the top aspect  1402  of the permeable container and interface with the bottom aspect  106  of the lid. The cap  2700  is configured to direct the flow of air directly to or from the permeable container  1400  with the fan  2600  interconnected with the lid  105  operating. In certain embodiments, a bottom portion  2710  of the cap is configured to index within the top aspect  1402  of the permeable container. However, embodiments wherein the bottom portion of the cap is configured as a sleeve wherein the sleeve is configured to receive the top aspect  1402  of the permeable container  1400  therein, are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The cap  2700  as shown in  FIG. 30  for example, is configured to interconnect with the bottom aspect  106  of the lid wherein a top aspect of the cap creates a seal or partial seal between the top aspect  2720  of the cap and the bottom aspect of the lid. Accordingly, when the cap  2700  is interconnected with the top aspect  1402  of the permeable container and interconnected with the bottom aspect  106  of the lid, a fan  2600  interconnected with the lid  105  is more capable of directing air toward or from the environment  9000  in relation to the permeable container  1400 . In certain embodiments the cap  2700  comprises a surface  2730  offset downward from the top aspect  2720  of the cap thereby creating a recess  2740  between the top aspect  2720  of the cap and the bottom  2710  aspect of the cap. The surface  2730  comprises a plurality of apertures  2750  therethrough allowing air to pass between the permeable container  1400  and the fan  2600  when the cap is interconnected with the permeable container. 
     In certain embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 29D  for instance, when the apparatus is placed in a drying mode, the fan  2600  is configured to draw air through the cap  2700 , thereby drawing air from the infusion chamber  110 , through the perforated surface  1450  of the permeable container  1400 , through the cap  2700  and exhausting it to the environment  9000 . In certain embodiments, when the apparatus is placed in a drying mode, the gravity-fed drain device  130  is placed in an open configuration thereby allowing make-up air to be drawn through the tube  700  and into the infusing chamber  110  thereby avoiding a low-pressure state within the infusing chamber  110 . 
     While various embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. It is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present invention, as set forth in the following claims. Further, it is to be understood that the invention(s) described herein is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the preceding description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. 
     Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central characteristics thereof. The present examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. 
     The terms “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” etc., as used herein, are intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments in any way. Additionally, the term “plurality,” as used herein, indicates any number greater than one, either disjunctively or conjunctively, as necessary, up to an infinite number. Further, “Providing” an article or apparatus, as used herein, refers broadly to making the article available or accessible for future actions to be performed on the article, and does not connote that the party providing the article has manufactured, produced, or supplied the article or that the party providing the article has ownership or control of the article. Accordingly, while specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the accompanying Claims.