Patent Publication Number: US-2009229472-A1

Title: Brewing system and packaging

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
     The present invention generally relates to a beverage brewing system and packaging, and more particularly to a self-contained, disposable beverage brewing system and packaging. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
     There are a variety of methods for making a brewed beverage, such as coffee or tea, for both mass consumption and individual consumption. Traditionally, large pots of coffee can be brewed for servicing several people. A full pot of coffee, however, is often too much coffee for one individual or even a few people. Once prepared, coffee gets cold from sitting around, and drinkers prefer to have a brand new pot of hot coffee brewed, so any excess in the original pot is typically discarded. Devices have been developed for brewing single servings of coffee for individual consumption. Such devices are especially useful for the on-the-go coffee drinker. Moreover, as the types and flavors of coffee have become more varied and readily available, individuals often desire to have a single serving of a specific brewed beverage on demand, which may differ from the desired beverage of another person. Accordingly, such devices have been developed to accommodate the individual tastes of consumers and therefore supply a single serving of a beverage for the desired tastes of the individual consumer. 
     Coffee makers, both for mass consumption and single servings, generally are divided into devices that use either a drip/pressure method or an infusion method. Drip coffee makers usually have internal heating elements that heat water applied to coffee grounds. Heating elements may be positioned above a carafe to heat the water as it mixes with the coffee grounds, such that after the heated water is mixed with the coffee grounds, the brewed coffee will drip into the carafe. Alternatively, heating elements may be positioned below the carafe to heat the mixed water and coffee grounds after the mixture drips into the carafe. Once brewed, the coffee can be poured into a cup for consumption. 
     Infusion coffee makers, by comparison, usually use an external heating element. That is, the water typically is pre-heated before it is added to the coffee maker. A popular manual coffee maker is the press pot, or the French press coffee maker, which comprises a carafe and a plunging device with a filter attached. The filter is usually a mesh screen mounted on a disk that is attached to a metal rod extending out of the carafe. Coffee grounds are placed in the carafe in the desired amount. Hot water is added to the carafe and the plunging device is mounted on and in the carafe. The rod is plunged up and down several times to agitate the coffee grounds. When the coffee has been sufficiently brewed, the plunging device is placed at its lowest position within the carafe to trap the coffee grounds beneath the filter so that the brewed coffee can be poured into a separate coffee cup for drinking. Press pot coffee makers are desirable for making single cup servings of coffee, but can also be used to make batches of 4 to 8 cups of coffee. Similar infusion-style devices are also used for making tea. 
     Based on consumer testing and professional coffee grading practices, the infusion method has been considered to be the best method for making coffee. However, with existing press pot designs, the coffee is brewed in the press pot and then poured into a separate coffee cup for drinking with the coffee grounds sifted out by the press pot filter. After use, the used grounds must be disposed of and the used pot must be cleaned before reuse. Additionally, such devices are more suited to home use, and do not lend themselves well for travel or for purchase or use in convenience store or restaurant settings. 
     In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a beverage brewing system and packaging that permits quick and easy brewing for individual consumption that provides a self-contained brewing method, including a pre-packaged beverage material in a desirable amount, so that one does not need both a brewing device and a separate drinking cup. Additionally, there is a need for such a beverage brewing system and packaging that is disposable after use, such that the used grounds are disposed with the system. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
     In one aspect of the present invention, a beverage brewing system for making a brewed beverage, comprises a first outer container and a second inner container positionable therein. The first outer container has a top end defining an opening and an upper rim region, a closed bottom end, and a generally upstanding sidewall connecting the upper rim region and the closed bottom end, said sidewall extending around the perimeter of said first outer container and defining an interior volume of said first outer container. The second inner container has a top end defining an opening and an upper rim region, a bottom end defining an opening and a lower rim region, and a generally upstanding sidewall connecting the upper rim region and the lower rim region, said sidewall extending around the perimeter of said second inner container and defining an interior volume of said second inner container. A filter is positioned between the open bottom end of the second inner container and the closed bottom end of the first outer container. A beverage material is disposed between the filter and the closed bottom end of the second outer container. The second inner container is movable with respect to the first outer container between a drinking position where the second inner container is positionable in the interior volume of the first outer container such that the respective upper rim regions of the first inner container and the second outer container are generally adjacent to one another, and a brewing position where the second inner container is telescoped out of the interior volume of the first outer container. The filter similarly moves with the second inner container so that when the second inner container is positioned in the brewing position a liquid can pass through the second inner container and the filter and into the interior volume of the first outer container for brewing of the beverage material housed therein. 
     In another aspect of the present invention, the beverage brewing system may include a flexible seal connecting the respective upper rim regions of the first outer container and the second inner container. The flexible seal is preferably extended, unfolded or stretched when the second inner container is telescoped out of the interior volume of the first outer container, and thus positioned in the brewing position. The flexible seal is also preferably collapsed, compressed, folded or relaxed when the second inner container is positioned in the drinking position within the interior volume of the first outer container. The seal helps in maintaining the positioning of the second inner container as it is moved, as well as providing a closure to the space between the inside wall of the first outer container and the outside wall of the second inner container to keep loose beverage material in the space between the two containers and prevent displacement of water when the second inner container is pressed into the first outer container after water has been added to the beverage brewing system. 
     In another aspect of the present invention, the beverage brewing system may include a flexible seal in the form of a collapsible sleeve disposed within the interior volume of the first outer container and connecting the bottom end or exterior surface of the second inner container to the first outer container. The collapsible sleeve defines an interior volume for storing the beverage material, typically in combination with a portion of the outer surface of the second inner container and a portion of the inner surface of the first outer container. The sleeve is collapsible such that when the second inner container is positioned with respect to the first outer container at a drinking position the sleeve is compressed, and when the second inner container is positioned with respect to the first outer container at a brewing position the sleeve is extended. 
     In another aspect of the present invention, the collapsible sleeve of the beverage brewing system may take the form of a collapsible bellows disposed within the interior volume and movable between a compressed position and an extended position in conjunction with movement of the second inner container relative to the first outer container. 
     In another aspect of the present invention, the beverage brewing system may include a beverage module for storing the beverage material to be brewed. The beverage module is supported by a support structure and includes a lower seal, a filter positioned atop the beverage module, and a cover seal disposed atop said filter. The support structure, the filter and the beverage module are moveable with the second inner container so that when the second inner container is positioned in the brewing position a liquid can pass through the second inner container, the support structure, the filter and the beverage module and into the interior volume of the first outer container for brewing of the beverage material housed in the beverage module after the cover seal and the lower seal have been breached to expose the beverage material. 
     In another aspect of the present invention, the beverage brewing system may include a beverage module attached to the interior bottom end of the first outer container. The beverage module includes a cover seal for maintaining the beverage material within the beverage module when the beverage brewing system is not in use, wherein removal of the cover seal from the module exposes the beverage material to facilitate brewing of a beverage. Movement of the second inner container relative to the first outer container may effect removal of the cover seal. 
     The present invention provides a beverage brewing system that permits quick and easy brewing of a beverage without the need for both a brewing device and a separate drinking container. The design of the system provides a self-contained brewing device, including a pre-packaged beverage material in a desirable amount. Additional advantages include easy stackability of numerous devices for sale to the public, adaptability to distinct beverage tastes by varying the pre-packaged beverage material contained within the brewing system, adaptability to varying beverage sizes, and capacity of easy disposability after use, including disposal of used beverage material. 
     These and other features of the present invention are described with reference to the drawings of preferred embodiments of a beverage brewing system and packaging. The illustrated embodiments of the beverage brewing systems of the present invention are intended to illustrate, but not limit the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a beverage brewing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention with an inner cup positioned within an outer cup at a storage/drinking position. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 1  with the inner cup telescoped out of the outer cup to a brewing position. 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional side view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 1  with the inner cup in the storage/drinking position and using a flexible seal to connect respective upper rim regions of the inner cup and the outer cup. 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional side view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 3  with the inner cup in the brewing position. 
         FIG. 5  is a partial cross-sectional side view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 3  illustrating use of a shroud on the inner cup. 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional side view of an alternate embodiment of a beverage brewing system in accordance with the present invention with an inner cup positioned within an outer cup at a storage position and using an inner flexible sleeve to contain beverage material. 
         FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional side view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 6  with the inner cup in the brewing position. 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional side view of an alternate embodiment of a beverage brewing system in accordance with the present invention with an inner cup positioned within an outer cup at a storage position and using a beverage module to contain beverage material. 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional side view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 8  with the inner cup positioned at a preferred drinking position within the outer cup. 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional side view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 8  with the inner cup telescoped out of the outer cup to a brewing position. 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 12A  is a close-up cross-sectional side view of a beverage module and support structure assembly for use in the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 12B  is a close-up cross-sectional side view of a collapsed beverage module and support structure assembly in accordance with an intended use the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 13  is a cross-sectional side view of an alternate embodiment of a beverage brewing system in accordance with the present invention, with an inner cup positioned within an outer cup at a storage position, and using a beverage module to contain beverage material. 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional side view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 13  with the inner cup telescoped out of the outer cup to a brewing position. 
         FIG. 15A  is a cross-sectional top view of the beverage module of  FIG. 13  taken along line  15 A- 15 A of  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 15B  is a cross-sectional top view of the beverage module of  FIG. 13  taken along line  15 B- 15 B of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional side view of an alternate embodiment of a beverage brewing system in accordance with the present invention with an inner cup positioned within an outer cup at a storage and drinking position and using bellows to contain beverage material. 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional side view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 17  with the inner cup telescoped out of the outer cup to a brewing position. 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional side view of an alternate embodiment of a beverage brewing system in accordance with the present invention with an inner cup positioned within an outer cup at a storage and drinking position and using bellows to contain beverage material. 
         FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional side view of the beverage brewing system of  FIG. 19  with the inner cup telescoped out of the outer cup to a brewing position. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-2 , a beverage brewing system in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention is generally shown as reference numeral  10 . The system  10  generally comprises two containers (such as first outer cup  12  and second inner cup  14 ) that telescope relative to one another to brew a beverage using the infusion method. The first outer cup  12  and the second inner cup  14  each preferably have substantially identical size and configuration. In use, the inner cup  14 , is positioned within the outer cup  12 . As shown in more detail in  FIGS. 3-4 , the system  10  further comprises a filter layer  16  positioned between the outer cup  12  and the inner cup  14 , a lip  18  on the inner cup  14  to facilitate drinking of a brewed beverage, and a resilient retention surface  19  provided on the inner surface of the lip  18  for holding the second inner cup  14  and the first out cup  12  together, as shown in  FIG. 3  and described in more detail below. 
     The system  10  may also comprise many additional features for containing a beverage material within the system  10  and for facilitating brewing of a beverage using such material, as will be described herein with reference to the Figures. For example,  FIGS. 3-4  illustrate a flexible seal  20  connecting the outer cup  12  and the inner cup  14  for maintaining the positioning of the inner cup  14  as it is moved relative to the outer cup  12 , as well as keeping loose beverage material in the space between the two cups and preventing displacement of water, or other liquid, when the beverage is brewed through the infusion method. 
     The outer cup  12  includes a top end  22  defining an opening  23  and an upper rim region  24 , a closed bottom end  26 , and a generally upstanding sidewall  28  connecting the upper rim region  24  and the bottom end  26 . The perimeters defined by the top end  22  and the bottom end  26  may have the same size or different sizes. In accordance with common disposable cup designs, the top end  22  and the bottom end  26  have generally circular perimeter shapes and the sidewall  28  extends circumferentially around the cup connecting the respective circular perimeters defined by the top end  22  and the bottom end  26 . Where the top end  22  has a larger circumference than the bottom end  26 , the sidewall  28  defines a generally frustoconical shape, as generally illustrated in  FIGS. 1-2 . Where the top end  22  and the bottom end  26  have identical circumferences, the sidewall  28  defines a generally cylindrical shape. 
     The inner cup  14  preferably has substantially similar size and configuration as the outer cup  12  and is designed to fit therein, as shown in  FIG. 1 . Accordingly, the inner cup  14  comprises a top end  30  defining an opening  31  and an upper rim region  32 , a bottom end  34  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 3 ), and a generally upstanding sidewall  36  connecting the upper rim region  32  and the bottom end  34  and extending circumferentially around the cup. When the inner cup  14  is positioned within the outer cup  12 , the outer surface of the sidewall  36  of the inner cup  14  is generally complementary to the inner surface of the sidewall  28  of the outer cup  12 , and the respective upper rim regions  24  and  32  are generally adjacent to one another. The lip  18 , as illustrated, is formed at the upper rim region  32 , extending downwardly towards the bottom end of the cups. As designed, the lip  18  envelops the upper rim region  24  of the outer cup  12  when the inner cup  14  is positioned therein, and thus facilitates drinking of a brewed beverage when the cups are pressed together. More specifically, the resilient retention surface  19  on the lip  18  is press-fit around the upper rim region  24  of the outer cup  12  to hold the cups together. In order to dislodge the inner cup  14  so as to move it to the position shown in  FIG. 4 , upward force on the lip  18  should be sufficient to disengage the resilient retention surface  19  from the upper rim region  24 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , the inner cup  14  is shown inside the interior volume of the outer cup  12  in a storage position (i.e., the preferred respective positions of the cups prior to use of the beverage brewing system  10 ), and ultimately a drinking position (i.e., the preferred respective positions of the cups during drinking, after the beverage has been brewed). Referring to  FIG. 2 , the inner cup  14  is shown telescoped out of the interior volume of the outer cup  12  through the opening  23 . The inner cup  14  is thus in a preferred brewing position whereby the desired beverage can be brewed for consumption. In use of the beverage brewing system  10  of the present invention, the cups are preferably stored in the storage position where unused beverage material is stored between the cups. When a user wants to brew a beverage, the user moves the inner cup  14  to the brewing position and adds hot liquid, such as water, through the opening  31  of the inner cup  14 . After the beverage has been brewed, the user returns the inner cup  14  to the drinking position so that the respective upper rim regions  24  and  32  are generally adjacent one another and preferably the resilient retention surface  19  fits around the upper rim region  24  of the outer cup  12  to hold the two cups in the drinking position. Though the brewing process is described herein with respect to water, the present invention can be used with any liquid capable of brewing a beverage material, preferably a hot liquid. 
     Whereas the outer cup  12  has a closed bottom end  26 , the inner cup  14  preferably has a bottom end  34  defining an opening  37  and a lower rim region  38  to facilitate brewing of beverage materials contained within the beverage brewing system  10 . That is, to brew a beverage, the inner cup  14  is raised to the telescoped brewing position illustrated in  FIG. 2  so that water, at a desired brewing temperature, can be poured into the inner cup  14  and through its open bottom end  34  into a brewing volume defined mostly by the interior volume of the outer cup  12  where it can mix with beverage material, such as coffee grounds, tealeaves or the like, stored therein. The inner cup  14  is preferably maintained in the telescoped brewing position for a desired period of time to allow the beverage to properly brew (typically between about thirty seconds and one minute if the water is at an appropriate temperature). To drink the beverage, the inner cup  14  is lowered back into the outer cup  12  to the drinking position, avoiding unwanted displacement of the liquid contained therein. 
     To prevent loose beverage material from passing into the interior volume of the inner cup  14  when it is retracted to the drinking position, the filter layer  16  is provided between the beverage material and the interior volume of the inner cup  14 . The filter layer  16  also filters the brewed beverage from the loose beverage material, in accordance with traditional infusion-style brewing techniques, as the inner cup  14  is moved relative to the outer cup  12  to the drinking position. As shown in more detail in  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the filter layer  16  comprises a lower filter portion  40  mounted on the lower rim region  38  of the inner cup  14  and side filter portions  42  disposed in the sidewall  36  of the inner cup  14 . As also shown, a seal layer  44  covers the filter portions  40  and  42  to prevent water or foreign materials from prematurely mixing with beverage material stored within the beverage brewing system  10 , especially during storage. When the beverage brewing system  10  is to be used, the seal layer  44  is removed to expose the brewing material. However, the brewing material is still maintained behind the filter layer  16  so that loose brewing material cannot pass into the interior volume of the inner cup  14 . When water is poured into the inner cup  14 , it will pass through the lower filter portion  40  and the side filter portions  42  and interact with the brewing material so that the beverage can be brewed. 
     As shown, the beverage material is loosely contained within the interior volume of the outer cup  12 . The filter layer  16  and the seal layer  44  protect loose beverage material from being contaminated or from spilling out of the beverage brewing system  10 , especially if stored upside down, such as in a stack of cups. It is desirable to keep the beverage material fresh when it is stored so that when it is used, the beverage will have maximum taste and flavor. It is envisioned that the beverage brewing system  10  of the present invention be used in stores, restaurants and cafeterias where the cups will be stacked for individual use and may be stored for undetermined periods of time. Accordingly, the beverage material is pre-packed to withstand unknown periods of storage. The entire beverage brewing system  10  is preferably sealed using a nitrogen gas sealing method after the beverage material has been added. For example, coffee can be packaged in a nitrogen atmosphere to keep it fresh over a long period of time. The seal layer  44  is preferably made from materials, such as shrink film or aluminum coated with polyethylene, that are impervious to aroma and oils from the packed beverage to keep the beverage material fresh while being stored. Similarly, the flexible seal  20  connected the upper portions of the outer cup  12  and the inner cup  14  is made from an elastomeric material that preserves the vacuum seal of the system  10  until it is used to brew a beverage. In order to use the system  10 , the user removes the seal layer  44 , preferably by reaching into the inner cup  14  and pulling a tab  46  provided on the seal layer  44  to facilitate its removal. Alternatively, the seal layer  44  can envelope the entire system  10  to seal both containers and the beverage material inside to make the system  10  a total sealed and contained unit. 
     Alternatively, the beverage material can be stored within a beverage module, which is also made from materials that are impervious to aroma and oils, stored between the respective bottom ends  26  and  34  of the outer and inner cups  12  and  14 . The seal layer  44  can be provided on the upper end of the module, beneath the filter layer  16 , and attached to the inner cup  14  so that when the inner cup  14  is moved with respect to the outer cup  12  (e.g., telescoped or twisted), the seal layer  44  is removed from the beverage module to expose the beverage material and allow it to be dispersed within the brewing volume. Still alternatively, the seal layer  44  could be made from a material that will dissolve or degrade in hot water so as to combine the step of exposing the beverage material with the act of adding hot water to the beverage brewing system  10 . 
     Examples of suitable filter material include polyethylene, nylon or other synthetic mesh or screen, permeable cloth materials, or paper materials with openings or perforations, provided any such openings are sufficiently small so that coffee grounds, tea leaves or the like do not pass through. The filter material used in the present invention is preferably a porous polyethylene material, such as SAATIFIL® polyester, with a mesh opening of sufficient size—e.g., on the order of about 4 to 7 microns—to allow passage of water without undesirable build-up while also preventing loose beverage materials from leaking into the beverage when the user is drinking it. 
     Though the preferred embodiment of the inner cup  14  is to have a lower filter portion  40  and side filter portions  42  mounted to the inner cup  14 , alternate embodiments may utilize an inner cup  14  having a porous bottom end that incorporates or acts as a filter layer through which the water can pass but which also prevents beverage material from passing into the interior of the inner cup  14  once it is retracted to the drinking position. Further, though filters are used on both the bottom end  34  of the inner cup  14  and on the sidewall  36 , the beverage brewing system  10  can be designed with a filter layer on just the bottom end  34  or just the sidewall  36 . 
     In a preferred design of the beverage brewing system  10  illustrated in  FIGS. 3-4 , a flexible seal  20  is mounted to the respective upper rim regions  24  and  32  of the outer cup  12  and the inner cup  14  to limit movement of the inner cup  14 , to prevent the inner cup  14  from being completely removed from the outer cup  12 , to provide stability to the inner cup  14  as it is moved between the storage/drinking position and the brewing position, and to prevent spilling or displacement of loose beverage material or water, especially when the inner cup  14  is moved back into the outer cup  12  after a beverage has been brewed. Preferably, the flexible seal  20  is in the form of a sleeve that provides a closure to the space between the inside wall of the outer cup  12  and the outside wall of the inner cup  14 . As illustrated in  FIG. 5 , a shroud  48  can be mounted on the lip  18  to provide added protection for the flexible seal  20 , as well as to hide the seal from view. 
     The seal  20  is extended when the inner cup  14  is telescoped out of the interior volume of the outer cup  12  and collapsed when the inner cup  14  is at the drinking position within the interior volume of the outer cup  12 . Depending on the material and design of the seal  20 , the seal  20  may be extended and collapsed in various manners. For example, the seal  20  may be made from an elastomeric material that allows it to stretch as the inner cup  14  is telescoped to a brewing position and to relax to a compressed state when the inner cup  14  is returned to the drinking position. In this sense, the seal  20  biases the inner cup  14  towards the drinking position. 
     Alternatively, the seal  20  can be a loose sleeve that folds and unfolds between collapsed and extended states with the respective movement of the inner cup  14 . In a preferred embodiment, the seal  20  forms a compression sleeve around the sidewall  36  of the inner cup  14  as it is telescoped out from the outer cup  12 . That is, the seal  20  tightly fits around the circumference of the inner cup  14 , and as the inner cup  14  extends away from the outer cup  12 , the seal material lies essentially flush against the sidewall  36 . At the lower end of the seal  20 , the material extends essentially radially outwardly towards the upper rim region  24  of the outer cup  12  where it is attached. If no pressure is applied to the inner cup  14  when telescoped to the brewing position, the seal material lies essentially parallel to the planar surface of the cups, as seen in  FIG. 4 , and the inner cup  14  can be held in place by the resiliency of the seal material. As the inner cup  14  is pressed into the outer cup  12 , the seal remains snug against the sidewall  36  and slides into the space between the respective sidewalls  28  and  36  until there is an upward tugging force from the connection point between the seal  20  and the upper rim region  24  of the outer cup  12 . When the tugging force is applied, the seal  20  starts to peel away from sidewall  36 . In the drinking position of the cups, the seal is in its collapsed state, as shown in  FIG. 3 . In this state, the seal material may be folded upon itself. 
     When using the flexible seal  20  with the beverage brewing system  10  of the present invention, air may be entrapped in the space between the outer cup  12  and the inner cup  14 , especially where the seal  20  is made from a material with lower air permeability. For example, the telescoping movement of the inner cup  14  with respect to the outer cup  12  to the brewing position, coupled with the flexing of the seal  20  between a relaxed position and an extended position, can trap an air bubble in the interior volume of the outer cup  12 . The air bubble may affect the ability of the user to press the inner cup  14  back into the outer cup  12  after the beverage has been brewed. Accordingly, the side filter portions  42  disposed in the sidewall  36  of the inner cup aid in alleviating the affect of such an air bubble. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6-7 , an alternate beverage brewing system in accordance with the present invention is generally shown as reference numeral  110 . The system  110  generally comprises a first outer cup  112  and a second inner cup  114  that each preferably have substantially identical size and configuration, much in the same manner as the beverage brewing system  10  described above. In use, the inner cup  114  is positioned within the outer cup  112 . For convenience, similar components in the cups  112  and  114  utilize similar reference numerals as used with respect to beverage brewing system  10 , described above. The system  110  further comprises a filter layer  116 , and an interiorly disposed flexible sleeve  120  for facilitating brewing of a beverage in the system  110 , as will be described in more detail below. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , the inner cup  114  is shown inside the interior volume of the outer cup  112  in a storage position and ultimately a drinking position. Referring to  FIG. 7 , the inner cup  114  is shown telescoped out of the interior volume of the outer cup  112 , and is thus in a preferred brewing position whereby the desired beverage can be brewed for consumption. In use of the beverage brewing system  110 , the cups are preferably stored in the storage position where unused beverage material is contained within a space defined between the cups by the sleeve  120 . When a used wants to brew a beverage, the user raises the inner cup  114  to the telescoped brewing position so that water, as a desired brewing temperature, can be poured into the inner cup  114  and through the filter layer  116  into a brewing volume defined mostly by the sleeve, where the water can mix with beverage material. 
     To prevent loose beverage material from passing into the interior volume of the inner cup  114  when it is retracted to the drinking position, the filter layer  116  is provided between the beverage material and the interior volume of the inner cup  114 , preferably at a bottom end  134  of the inner cup  114 . As shown in more detail in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the filter layer  116  comprises a lower filter portion  140  and side filter portions  142 . A seal layer  144  with a removal tab  146  is provided over the lower filter portion  140  and the side filter portions  142  to prevent water or foreign materials from prematurely mixing with beverage material stored within the interior volume defined, in part, by the sleeve  120 , especially during storage of the beverage brewing system  110 . When the beverage brewing system  110  is to be used, the seal layer  144  is removed to expose the brewing material. However, the brewing material is still maintained behind the filter layer  116  so that loose brewing material cannot pass into the interior volume of the inner cup  114 . When water is poured into the inner cup  114 , it will pass through the filter layer  116  and interact with the brewing material so that the beverage can be brewed. 
     The sleeve  120  is mounted to the outer surface of the inner cup  114  and the inner surface of the outer cup  112 , so as to define an interior space between the cups that is sealed, by the sleeve  120 . As shown in  FIGS. 6-7 , one end of the sleeve  120  is attached to the inner surface of the outer cup  112  about mid-way up the sidewall. The other end of the sleeve  120  is attached to the outer surface of the inner cup  114  about mid-way up the sidewall, preferably at a position above the side filter portions  142 . Alternatively, the sleeve  120  may be attached between the respective bottom ends of the outer and inner cups  112  and  114 , much in the manner illustrated in  FIGS. 16-19  of the present invention. The attachments are preferably by means of ultrasonic weld or heat and water resistant adhesive, such as hot glue. The sleeve  120  is preferably constructed from a flexible, heat-proof polymeric material so that it can be collapsed and stretched with the telescoping movement of the inner cup  114  with respect to the outer cup  112  without undue wear. Thus, with reference to  FIG. 6 , when the inner cup  114  is in the storage/drinking position, the sleeve  120  is collapsed in the annular space between the inner cup  114  and the outer cup  112 . During storage, the seal layer  144  is positioned over the filter layer  116  and the beverage material is maintained within the interior space between the cups and topped off by the sleeve  120 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 7 , when the inner cup  114  is telescoped to the brewing position, the sleeve  120  is stretched to define a brewing volume sealed off by the sleeve  120  in which the beverage material is free to mix with water once the seal layer  144  is removed and the water is poured into the inner cup  114  and through the filter layer  116 . After the beverage has been brewed, the inner cup  114  is returned to the drinking position within the outer cup  112 , where brewed beverage will seep through the filter layer  116  and into the interior volume of the inner cup  114 , the loose beverage material will be restrained by the filter layer  116  and the sleeve  120  will collapse between the inner cup  114  and the outer cup  112 . As the inner cup  114  is moved into the outer cup  112 , the sleeve  120  also acts to prevent displacement of beverage between respective sidewalls  128  and  136  of the outer and inner cups  112  and  114 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 8-11 , a beverage brewing system in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention is generally shown as reference numeral  210 . The system  210  generally comprises a first outer cup  212  and a second inner cup  214  that each preferably have substantially identical size and configuration, much in the same manner as the beverage brewing systems  10  and  110  described above. In use, the inner cup  214  is positioned within the outer cup  212 . For convenience, similar components in the cups  212  and  214  utilize similar reference numerals as used with respect to beverage brewing system  10 , described above. The system  210  further comprises a filter  216 , a beverage module  218 , and a support structure  220  for holding the beverage module  218  in a desired position between the outer cup  212  and the inner cup  214 , as will be described in more detail below. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 , the inner cup  214  is shown inside the interior volume of the outer cup  212  in a storage position (i.e., the preferred respective positions of the cups prior to use of the beverage brewing system  210 ). Referring to  FIG. 9 , the inner cup  214  is shown in a desirable drinking position (i.e., the preferred respective positions of the cups after a beverage has been brewed). Due to the design of the components inside the system  210 , as discussed in more detail below, the cups  212  and  214  are compressed together to such a drinking position, albeit slightly, to facilitate the brewing process. Thereafter, the inner cup can be moved to a preferred brewing position whereby the desired beverage can be brewed for consumption. Referring to  FIG. 10 , the inner cup  214  is shown telescoped out of the interior volume of the outer cup  212 . Referring again to  FIG. 9 , the inner cup  214  is returned to the drinking position after brewing, namely, to a position within the outer cup  212 . 
     In use of the beverage brewing system  210  of the present invention, the cups are preferably stored in the storage position where unused beverage material is maintained with the beverage module  218 . Generally, when a user wants to brew a beverage, the user moves the inner cup  214  to the brewing position and adds water. After the beverage has been brewed, the user moves the inner cup  214  to the drinking position. A flexible, annular gasket  248  is mounted on an upper rim region  224  of the outer cup  212  to limit movement and maintain the position of the inner cup  214 , to prevent the inner cup  214  from being completely removed from the outer cup  212 , and to provide stability to the inner cup  214  as it is moved between the storage/drinking position and the brewing position, as well as to prevent spilling or displacement of beverage material or water. Alternatively, the flexible seal  20  shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4  or sleeve  120  shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7  may be used on the beverage brewing system  210 . 
     The inner cup  214  preferably has a bottom end  234  defining an opening  237  and a lower rim region  238  to facilitate brewing of beverage materials contained within the beverage module  218 . That is, to brew a beverage, the inner cup  214  is raised to the telescoped brewing position illustrated in  FIG. 10  so that water, at desired brewing temperature, can be poured into the inner cup  214  and through the opening  237  in its bottom end  234 , and the filter layer  216  into a brewing volume defined mostly by the outer cup  212  where it can mix with beverage material from the beverage module  218 . The beverage material contained in the beverage module  218 , such as coffee grounds, tea leaves or the like, is distributed into the brewing volume in one of many ways discussed below. The inner cup  214  is preferably maintained in the telescoped brewing position for a desired period of time to allow the beverage to properly brew (typically between about thirty seconds and one minute if the water is at an appropriate temperature). To drink the beverage, the inner cup is lowered back into the outer cup  212  to the drinking position, avoiding unwanted displacement of the liquid contained therein. 
     The filter layer  216  is provided between the beverage material and the interior volume of the inner cup  214  to prevent loose beverage material from passing into the interior volume of the inner cup  214  when it is retracted to the drinking position. As shown in more detail in  FIG. 11 , the beverage material, generally designated by reference numeral  250 , is maintained within an interior cavity  252  of the beverage module  218 . The beverage module  218  comprises an upper seal  244  to contain the beverage material  250  within the module  218  when the beverage brewing system  210  is not in use. The filter layer  216  is preferably disposed in the upper end of the module  218  beneath the upper seal  244 . When the beverage brewing system  210  is to be used, the upper seal  244  is removed to expose the beverage material  250 . However, the beverage material  250  is still maintained behind the filter so that loose beverage material  250  cannot pass into the interior volume of the inner cup  214 . When water is poured into the inner cup  214 , it will pass through the filter layer  216  and interact with the beverage material  250  so that the beverage can be brewed. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , the beverage module  218  is mounted at the bottom end of the inner cup  214 . The upper seal  244  preferably has a tab  246  for removing the seal  244  so that the beverage material  250  can be exposed and brewed when water is introduced to the brewing system  210 . That is, when the user wants to brew a beverage, the user can reach into the interior volume of the inner cup  214  and pull the tab  246  to remove the upper seal  244 . The beverage material  250  is accordingly exposed but maintained behind the filter layer  216 . 
     In making a beverage using the infusion method, it is desirable to increase the volume in which the beverage material  250  is contained for interaction and mixing with water, and thus improving the brewing of the beverage. In the brewing system  210  of the present invention, the interior volume of the outer cup  212  effectively acts as the brewing volume for the beverage when the inner cup  214  is telescoped out to the brewing position. It is similarly desirable to spread the beverage material  250  throughout the brewing volume once mixed with hot water to improve the flavor and strength of the brewed beverage. However, the beverage material  250  is tightly packed in the beverage module  218  for storage. Accordingly, the beverage module  218  must be manipulated to facilitate the spreading of the beverage material  250  into and throughout the brewing volume. 
     As shown in  FIG. 12A , the beverage module  218  is mounted within the support structure  220  which may also be mounted at the bottom end  234  of the inner cup  214  so that the beverage module  218  and the support structure  220  move with the inner cup  214  (as illustrated in  FIGS. 8 and 10 ). The beverage module  218  includes a lower seal  254  that maintains the beverage material  250  inside the beverage module  218  when the brewing system  210  is not in use, and accordingly prevents dry beverage material  250  from spilling should the beverage module  218  be accidentally removed from the brewing system  210  before use. Prior to adding water to the brewing system  210  as described above, the lower seal  254  is breached so that the loose beverage material  250  can spread throughout the brewing volume. Once water is added, further spreading of the beverage material  250  is achieved as the water passes through the inner cup  214  and the filter layer  216  and into the beverage module  218 . The water will then interact with the beverage material contained within the beverage module  218  and pass out of the breached lower end thereof. The combination water and beverage material will then fill the brewing volume defined by the interior volume of the outer cup  212  where the beverage will be brewed. The beverage module  218  can further include a water flow diverting means, such as frustoconical member  256  illustrated in  FIG. 11 , to further assist in spreading the beverage material  250  by diverting the path of the water as it passes through the beverage module  218  and indeed causing the water to agitate or swirl to mix the water with the beverage material as the flow of the water is redirected within the brewing space. 
     As illustrated more closely in  FIGS. 12A-12B , the lower seal is breached by the support structure  220 . Preferably, the support structure  220  includes a plurality of projections or teeth  258  that perforate the lower seal  254 . As noted, the support structure  220  is mounted at the bottom end  234  of the inner cup  214  with the beverage module  218  maintained between the support structure  220  and the inner cup  214 . When the beverage brewing system  210  is being stored, prior to use, the lower end of the support structure  220  abuts the inner surface of the closed bottom end  226  of the outer cup  212 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . Accordingly, the inner cup  214  is slightly displaced out of the outer cup  212 . When the user wants to brew a beverage using the brewing system  210 , the user presses down on the inner cup, with upward resistance on the outer cup, so that the respective bottom ends  226  and  234  of the cups, and similarly, the respective upper rim regions  224  and  232 , move towards one another. Due to this compressive action, frangible flanges  260  on the support structure  120  fracture so that it collapses, as shown in  FIGS. 9 and 12B . As the support structure  120  collapses, with a lower portion  262  of the support structure  220  moving into an upper portion  264  of the support structure  220 , the teeth  258  in the support structure  220  perforate the lower seal  254  on the beverage module  218 . The teeth  258  are prevented from breaching the filter layer  216  due to the movement of the lower portion  262  of the support structure  220  being restricted by the upper portion  264  of the support structure  220  and/or the structure of the beverage module  218  housed in the upper portion  264 . After the lower seal  254  has been breached, the user can remove the upper seal  244  from the beverage module  218 , raise the inner cup  214  out of the outer cup  212  to the telescoped brewing position, add the desired amount of water, and wait the desired time for the beverage to brew. After the beverage has been sufficiently brewed, the user can push the inner cup  214  down within the outer cup  212  as far as it can go to the drinking position. The filter layer  216  will allow the brewed beverage to pass through into the interior volume of the inner cup  214  while keeping the used beverage material—i.e., coffee grounds, tea leaves or the like—in the space between the filter layer  216  and the outer cup  212 . The user can then drink the beverage. 
     The support structure  220  preferably has centrally located openings so that water and beverage material can pass through into the brew volume of the outer cup  212 . In the illustrated embodiment, the teeth  258  are arranged in a circle and are supported by an annular ring  268  that is provided with a plurality of openings  270  so that water and beverage material can pass through the ring and do not build up on the support structure  220 . Alternate designs of the support structure and the projections for breaching the lower seal  254  of the beverage module  218  may be used, provided the lower seal is adequately breached to facilitate spreading of beverage material and water into and throughout the brewing volume. 
     An alternative beverage brewing system  310  in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in  FIGS. 13-14 . The system  310  generally comprises a first outer cup  312  and a second inner cup  314 , each preferably having substantially identical size and configuration, much in the same manner as the beverage brewing systems  10 ,  110  and  210  described above. For convenience, similar components in the cups  312  and  314  utilize similar reference numerals to the cups described in other embodiments above. 
     In use, the second inner cup  314  is positioned within the first outer cup  312 . The system  310  further comprises a filter  316 , a beverage module  318  and a support structure  320  for facilitating the brewing process. The beverage module  318  contains a beverage material to be brewed, and is positioned within the system  310  such that manipulation of the inner cup  314  with respect to the outer cup  312 , such as by telescoping the inner cup  314  out from the outer cup  312  to a brewing position ( FIG. 14 ) or by twisting the inner cup  314  with respect to the outer cup  312 , will open the beverage module  318  to expose beverage material contained therein for brewing. 
     As shown in  FIG. 13 , the filter  316  is positioned between an open bottom end  334  of the inner cup  312  and a closed bottom end  326  of the outer cup  314 . In the embodiment shown, the filter  316  has a generally planar, circular shape and is held in position by the support structure  320 . The circumference of the filter  316  generally corresponds to the circular opening defined by the open bottom end  334  of the inner cup  314 . The filter  316  may be made of any suitable material and design that allows liquid to flow through the filter while keeping the material to be brewed, such as coffee grounds, tea leaves, or the like, separated and maintained behind the filter  316  so that loose beverage material does not contaminate the brewed beverage during drinking. 
     In alternative embodiments, the filter  316  could be attached to the bottom end  334  of the inner cup  314 , or even be part of the inner cup  314 , such as in the form of openings of perforations in a closed bottom end of the cup, the sidewall  336  of the inner cup  314 , or a combination of both. In further embodiments, the filter  316  could be shaped and contoured to cover both the bottom end  334  as well as portions of the sidewall  336  of the inner cup  314  (as illustrated in  FIGS. 3 and 4 ). In still further embodiments, the filter  316  could be a band that is positioned around just the sidewall  336  of the inner cup  314 , with which design, the bottom end  334  of the inner cup  314  could be closed. 
     The material to be brewed is contained within an interior cavity  340  defined by the beverage module  318 . In a preferred embodiment, the beverage module  318  is secured to the inner surface of the closed bottom end  326  of the outer cup  312 . As shown, the beverage module  318  has a recess  342  formed in its bottom side  344  and is secured to the outer cup  312  by an adhesive material  346  positioned within the recess  342 . The support structure  320  also braces the beverage module  318  in position against the bottom end  326  of the outer cup  312  when the inner cup  314  is positioned within the outer cup, such as when the brewing system  310  is being stored prior to use or when the inner cup  314  is in the drinking position. 
     Alternative means for securing or otherwise holding the beverage module  318  in position within the system  310  may be used. For example, the beverage module  318  may be formed as a pocket into the bottom end  326  of the outer cup  312 . Alternatively, a bellows (as shown in  FIGS. 16-19 ) may be used to hold the beverage module  318 . Still alternatively, mechanical means for bracing the beverage module  318  may be used. Such mechanical means may be preferred if the beverage brewing system  310  is intended to be reusable—i.e., a used beverage module can be “unlocked” from its mechanical support and discarded and then replaced by a new beverage module that simply “locks” into place on the support. 
     Brewing of a beverage using the system  310  is accomplished by exposing the beverage material contained within the beverage module  318 . Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 15A , a top surface  348  of the beverage module  318  is provided with a cover seal  350  that, when in sealed position, encloses beverage module  318  so that beverage material is stored therein and prevented from spilling from the system  310  when not in use (e.g., when the cups  312  and  314  are stacked and/or stored upside down). When the cover seal  350  is removed, the beverage module  318  is opened to expose the beverage material stored therein. An opening  352 , illustrated in  FIG. 15B  in the form of a cross, is defined in the top surface  348  of the beverage module  318 . The cover seal  350  is provided in the form of strips  354  attached on one end to the inner cup  314  or the support structure  320 , and which, when in sealed position, cover the opening  352  in the beverage module  318 . In order to brew a beverage in the system  310 , the inner cup  314  is preferably telescoped from its storage position inside the outer cup  312 . As the inner cup  314  is pulled upwardly out of the outer cup  312 , the strips  354  are pulled with the inner cup  314  so that they detach from the beverage module  318  and uncover the opening  352 , as is shown in  FIG. 14 . The cover seal  350  can be disengaged from the beverage module  318  by alternative means, such as by twisting the inner cup  314  relative to the outer cup  312 . 
     The strips  354  may be attached to the beverage module  318  in the storage position using an adhesive that is forcibly disengaged so as to open the beverage module  318  and expose the beverage material for brewing. Alternatively, the strips  354  can be formed as part of the module&#39;s top surface  348  and separable via perforations defining the opening  352  that tear when a sufficient pulling force is applied to the cover seal  350 . Still alternatively, the cover seal  350  can be manufactured from a material that will dissolve or degrade when exposed to water. In such an embodiment, the inner cup  314  would be telescoped so that water can be added to the brewing system  310 , at which time the cover seal on the packet will dissolve and the beverage material can mix with the water to brew the beverage. 
     As noted, the support structure  320  preferably is attached to the bottom end  334  of the inner cup  314  and thus maintains the filter  316  in a constant relative position at the bottom end  334  of the inner cup  314 . When the inner cup  314  is telescoped out from the outer cup  312 , the support structure  320  and the filter  316  move with the inner cup  314 . When the inner cup  314  is retracted within the outer cup  312  to the drinking position, the support structure  320  braces the beverage module  318 . 
     An additional annular seal (much in the form shown for the embodiment of  FIGS. 18 and 19 ) can be used to support the beverage module  318  in its position at the bottom of the outer cup  312 , especially when the inner cup  314  and the support structure  320  are pulled away from the beverage module  318 . The seal preferably could be a flexible annular ring conforming to the interior cross-sectional space at the base of the outer cup  312  that radially extends between the support structure  320  and the inner sidewall of the outer cup  312  to prevent jostling of the inner cup  314  when the system  310  is being stored prior to use. That is, the inner cup  314  can be prevented from accidental removal from the outer cup  312 , which in turn prevents premature release of the beverage material from the beverage module  318 . Moreover, in order to pull the inner cup  314  from within the outer cup  312  to disengage the cover seal  350  from the beverage module  318  and begin the brewing process, the user can be required to apply some pulling force to counter the grasp of the additional annular seal. Additionally, when the system  310  is being used to drink a brewed beverage—i.e., after water has been added and the inner cup  314  has been returned to a position within the outer cup  312 —the additional annular seal prevents loose beverage material from leaking through any space between the outer cup  312  and the inner cup  314 . 
     Additional embodiments of a beverage brewing system in accordance with the present invention are illustrated in  FIGS. 16-19 . A beverage brewing system  410  generally comprises a first outer cup  412  and a second inner cup  414  positioned therein for telescoping movement, each cup preferably having similar configuration, with a filter layer  416  disposed therebetween for infusion brewing of a beverage. For convenience, similar components in the cups  412  and  414  utilize similar reference numerals to the cups described in other embodiments above. 
     The inner cup  414  is connected to the outer cup  412  via a bellows  418  that can be extended and retracted in conjunction with movement of the inner cup  414  with respect to the outer cup  412 . The inner cup  414  further includes an extended lip  420  that essentially folds over and engulfs an upper rim region  424  of the outer cup  412  so as to prevent displacement and spillage of the brewed material when the inner cup  414  is returned to its drinking position within the outer cup  412 . The extended lip  420  also provides a smooth surface for drinking of the brewed beverage. 
     As illustrated, the outer cup  412  comprises a top end  422  defining an opening  423  and the upper rim region  424 , a closed bottom end  426 , and a generally upstanding sidewall  428  extending circumferentially around the cup and connecting the upper rim region  424  and the bottom end  426 . The inner cup  414  comprises a generally upstanding sidewall  436  extending circumferentially around the cup and connecting a top end  430  defining an opening  431  and an upper rim region  432  with a generally open bottom end  434  that generally complements the inner surface of the sidewall of the outer cup  412 . The bellows  418  is connected to the respective bottom ends  426  and  434  of the outer and inner cups  412  and  414 . As shown in the embodiment of  FIGS. 16-17 , a lower end  440  of the bellows  418  is attached to the closed bottom end  426  of the outer cup  412 , preferably with an adhesive. As shown in the embodiment of  FIGS. 18-19 , the lower end  440  of the bellows  418  is snap-fit into the outer cup  412  using mechanical attachment means, preferably radially projecting tabs  442  that engage recesses  444  provided in the sidewall  428  of the outer cup  412 . 
     The bellows  418  define an interior cavity in which beverage material to be brewed is stored. The interior cavity defines a maximum brewing volume when the inner cup  414  is telescoped out from the outer cup  412  and the bellows  418  are accordingly extended, as shown in  FIGS. 17 and 19 . The filter layer  416  is disposed in an upper end  446  of the bellows  418  proximate the bottom end  434  of the inner cup  414 . As the inner cup  414  is raised out of the outer cup  412  to the brewing position, the filter layer  416  preferably maintains a constant position relative to the bottom end  434  of the inner cup  414 . To brew the desired beverage, water is poured into the inner cup  414  and passes through the filter layer  416  into the interior cavity of the bellows  418 . In this design, the water does not contact the outer cup  412 . After sufficient time has elapsed for the beverage to be brewed, the inner cup  414  can be returned to the drinking position within the outer cup  412 . The brewed beverage passes through the filter layer  416  into the interior volume of the inner cup  414 . The filter layer  416  prevents loose beverage material, such as coffee grounds, tea leaves, or the like, from passing into the interior volume of the inner cup  414  when the beverage is being consumed. 
     Accordingly, the bellows  418  provide a sealed cavity between the cups where used beverage material can be maintained and prevented from leaking between the cups and/or into the drinkable beverage. Additionally, the bellows  418  prevents the inner cup  414  from being separated from the outer cup  412 , which is useful where several beverage brewing systems  410  are stacked together for storage. Though illustrated as being mounted to the bottom end  434  of the inner cup  414 , the bellows  418  may be integrally manufactured as part of the inner cup  414 . Further, a flexible annular flange, generally illustrated as reference numeral  448 , may be included to form a seal against the inner wall of the outer cup  412  as the inner cup  414  and the bellows  418  rise and lower during use of the beverage brewing system. 
     A beverage module  450  may be stored within the interior cavity of the bellows  418 , as is shown, for example, in  FIG. 16 . Alternatively, the beverage material can be loosely stored in the bellows  418 . Either way, a cover seal  452  is preferably provided to prevent premature exposure or spillage of loose beverage materials prior to use of the beverage brewing system  410 . For example, the cover seal  452  can be provided as a top layer on the bellows  418  above the filter layer  416 , and include a tab  454  accessible in the interior volume of the inner cup  414  and removable by the user&#39;s hand. Alternatively, if a beverage module  450  is used and positioned within the bellows  418  at the base thereof, the cover seal  452  can be attached to the interior wall of the bellows upper portion  446  so that when the inner cup  414  is telescoped out from the outer cup  412  and the bellows  418  is extended, the cover seal  452  will be removed from the beverage module  450  to expose the beverage material contained therein. Still alternatively, the beverage module  450  can be mounted to move with the inner cup  414  and the bellows  418 , and have a lower seal that is disengaged from the beverage module  450  as it moves away from the bottom end  426  of the outer cup  412 , and an upper seal that can be removed by the user&#39;s hand. Still alternatively, the cover seal  452  can be manufactured form a material that dissolves or degrades in hot water so that when water passes through the filter into the brewing volume within the bellows  418 , the beverage material will be exposed once the cover seal dissolves or degrades. 
     As illustrated and described, the present invention provides a self-contained beverage brewing system that can make a single cup of the material to be brewed, such as coffee or tea, by an infusion brewing method. Preferably, the system is disposable, meaning that after the beverage is brewed and consumed, the system, including cups, filter layer, beverage module, used beverage material and other components can be discarded. In such a disposable embodiment, the cups may each be constructed from a suitable disposable material, such as cardboard, paperboard, plastic-coated paperboard, or polystyrene. Alternatively, the beverage brewing system can be manufactured for more than one use, such as by accommodating replaceable beverage modules. In such embodiments, the cups should be constructed from a durable material that will withstand multiple uses and fluctuations in temperatures of the liquid contained therein. Further the cups should be constructed from a material that will not be damaged or warped when, for example, the cups are separated to replace the beverage module. 
     The flexible seal  20  or  120  (e.g.,  FIGS. 3-4  and  6 - 7 ), flexible gasket  248  (e.g.,  FIG. 11 ), extended lip  18  or  420  (e.g.,  FIGS. 1 and 16 ), or flexible annular flange  448  (e.g.,  FIGS. 18-19 ) components described herein can be used with any of the various embodiments shown or described, and are not limited for use with the specific embodiments with which they are illustrated. Moreover, the aforementioned embodiments of the present invention can be designed to accommodate a cover or lid to prevent spills of brewed beverages, such as during travel. 
     The foregoing description of embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purpose of illustration and description, it is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the form disclosed. Obvious modifications and variations are possible in light of the above disclosure. The embodiments described were chosen to best illustrate the principals of the invention and practical applications thereof to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto.