Patent Publication Number: US-2020297009-A1

Title: Pod-based grain popping apparatus and methods of popping grains

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional of, and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/960,383, filed on Apr. 23, 2018 entitled Pod-Based Grain Popping Apparatus and Method of Popping Grans, the contents of which is incorporated herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     This invention relates to a grain popping apparatus and methods of popping grains. More particularly, the invention relates to pod-based systems and methods of preparing popcorn and other popped and puffed grains that remedy the undesirable aspects of existing popping machines and methods. 
     Popcorn is often made in bags pre-packaged with popcorn that are then heated in a microwave, or in difficult-to-use machines that require manual loading of kernels, flavoring, and oils. Both of these solutions are less than ideal and achieve inadequate results. For example, it is difficult, if not impossible, to achieve even popping or flavoring of all kernels in microwavable bags. A user must stand next to the microwave to listen for particular popping patterns to try to guess when most of the kernels have popped. As a result, microwaving popcorn results in a high number of unpopped kernels, uneven flavoring, and burning. The interior of the bag is also covered in oil and flavoring, making it undesirable and messy to eat directly from the bag. Portion sizes are also unnecessarily large, which often results in wasted, uneaten popcorn. Existing countertop popping machines are complex to use, requiring manual measuring and loading of ingredients. They are difficult to clean because several parts must be dismantled to clean the entire machine after each use. Finally, because they use bulk flavoring and cooking of kernels, flavor can be uneven and, like microwave popcorn, existing countertop machines frequently result in unpopped kernels, uneven flavoring, and burning. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention resolves the myriad problems associated with existing popcorn popping systems and methods. A grain-popping machine is described that is configured to receive a pod. Each pod includes a plurality of cells, with each cell preferably containing a single grain kernel or seed, flavoring, and a cooking medium such as oil or shortening. In a preferred embodiment, the pod is loaded into the grain-popping machine through a slot so that it is held in position below a heating element. The heating element is activated to begin a popping sequence. When each grain kernel or seed in the pod reaches popping temperature, it absorbs the flavoring in its cell and ejects through the bottom cover of the pod into a bowl positioned in a receiving area of the grain-popping machine. The pod is then removed and disposed of. 
     The system and methods described herein therefore are easier to use and clean than existing methods of popping grains, avoid burning grains, and provide even flavoring for all grains in the pod. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front view of one embodiment of a grain popping machine according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of the grain popping machine of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a grain pod according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a top perspective view of the grain pod of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a is a bottom perspective view of the grain pod of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective views of a grain pod and a heating element; 
         FIG. 7  is a front and limited interior view of a grain popping machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  is a front and limited interior view of a grain popping machine according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a is a bottom perspective view of the grain pod of  FIG. 3  illustrating kernels individually exiting the grain pod; 
         FIGS. 10A and 10B  are top perspective and cross-section views, respectively, of the grain pod of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIGS. 11A and 11B  are top perspective and cross-section views, respectively, of a grain pod according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-section view of a grain pod according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a cross-section view of a grain pod according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 14  is another cross-section view of the grain pod of  FIG. 13 ; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a grain popping machine and method of popping grains in accordance to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a grain popping machine and method of popping grains in accordance to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a grain popping machine and method of popping grains in accordance to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a perspective view of a grain pod insert or partial grain pod according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 19  is a cross-section view of a grain pod according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a grain pod according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a bottom perspective view of a grain pod according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 18  with a corresponding heating element  602 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a top perspective view of a grain pod according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 18  with a corresponding heating element  602 ; 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Turning now to the drawings, in which like reference characters indicate corresponding elements throughout the several views,  FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a grain-popping machine  100  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Grain popping machine  100  has an upper chamber  102 . Upper chamber  102  includes a pod slot  108 , which can be located at various positions on grain popping machine  100 .  FIG. 1  illustrates two locations on grain popping machine  100  on which pod slot  108  can be formed. While  FIG. 1  illustrates two pod slots  108 , it is understood that, in most embodiments, only one pod slot  108  would be required. Thus, if the upper location of pod slot  108  is chosen, the lower location would generally not be included. Pod slot  108  can receive grain pods of various shapes and sizes, as will be described in further detail herein. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , pod slot  108  is rectangular. The slot could be in various other shapes in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. For example, the slot could be square, oval, or circular. Pod slot  108  can also be formed in different lengths and widths, regardless of the shape. In other embodiments, pod slot  108  is formed in different locations on upper chamber  102 . For example, pod slot  108  could be formed higher or lower on the front face of upper chamber  102  or could be positioned on the side of upper chamber  102 . In other embodiments, pod slot  108  is formed on the top surface of upper chamber  102 . Pod slot  108  can be configured so that pods can be introduced horizontally into the grain-popping machine  100 . In other embodiments, pod slot  108  is angled slightly upward so that pods are introduced into grain popping machine  100  at an angle. Angling pod slot  108  and interior guiding system for the pods allows for gravity to pull the pod down to the desired position within grain popping machine  100 , and can also isolate heating elements inside the grain-popping machine  100  from exposure to the pod slot  108 . Pod slot  108  can also be formed on the top of grain popping machine  100 , and the pod can be inserted vertically or horizontally into the pod slot. Gravity or automated mechanism can be used to pull the pod into the appropriate position within upper chamber  102  in such embodiments, as explained in further detail herein. 
     A pod dock, not shown, is preferably included inside upper chamber  102  to receive a grain pod after the pod has been inserted into upper chamber through pod slot  108 . When a grain pod has been inserted into upper chamber  102  through pod slot  108 , it is received in the pod dock either through a user pushing the pod fully through the pod dock. Grain popping machine  100  can signal to a user that the pod has been fully received in the correct position in the pod dock through a variety of feedback mechanisms. For example, grain-popping machine can include haptic or audio feedback, for example, a mechanical click or other sound. Visual feedback, for example, a light indicator, could also be provided. Any combination of visual, audio, and haptic feedback can be used. Grain popping machine  100  can also include automatic means of positioning the pod properly in the pod dock. For example, an automated guide can be included inside upper chamber  102 . When a user inserts a pod into pod slot  108 , grain popping machine  100  senses that a pod has been inserted and activates the automated guide, which mechanically moves the pod into the proper position in the pod dock by, for example, actuating a clamp that grabs the pod and moves it to the proper position. 
     In other embodiments, a door or tray is provided in upper chamber  102  instead of pod slot  108 . Upon activation by a user, the door or tray opens, exposing a pod dock. A user then inserts the pod into the pod dock. When the door or tray is pushed fully closed, the pod dock will be in the proper location in upper chamber  102  below or above a heating element, as discussed in further detail herein. The door or tray may slide out horizontally from upper chamber  102 , may swing open vertically, or may swing open pivoting on the lower or upper edges of the door. 
     Grain popping machine  100  also includes a dock area  103 . A receiver  104  is preferably provided with grain popping machine  100 . Receiver  104  can be a bowl or cup as shown in  FIG. 1 , and is designed to receive popped grains exiting from upper chamber  102 , as will be described in further detail. The receiver could be made out of various materials and can be disposable or reusable. In some embodiments, receiver  104  is a disposable cup or bowl made of a paper or plastic material. In other embodiments, receiver  104  can be formed of a ceramic or other type of reusable material. Grain popping machine  100  further includes a base  106  and an activation button  110 . In a preferred embodiment, activation button  110  is centered along the front top edge of grain popping machine  100 . However, it is understood that activation button  110  can be located at other locations on grain popping machine  100 . Activation button  110  can physically displace when pressed, providing tactile feedback. In other embodiments, activation button  110  can be a static button that senses touch and provides haptic, visual, or audio feedback when touched. Preferably, grain-popping machine  100  is configured so that activation button  110  is the only physical button on the machine in order to provide for streamlined operation. Grain popping machine  100  can automatically turn on when a grain pod is inserted into pod slot  108 , or pressing the activation button  110  can turn on the machine. In either case, pushing activation button  110  after a grain pod has been inserted into pod slot  108  can initiate a popping sequence. 
     In other embodiments, grain popping machine does not feature any physical buttons and both powers on and initiates a popping sequence by sensing, either mechanically or through motion sensing technology, when a grain pod has been inserted into pod slot  108 . In still other embodiments, a physical button as described above can be included to power on the grain popping machine  100  and the popping sequence can be initiated when a grain pod is inserted into pod slot  108 . 
     Grain popping machine  100  is operated by inserting into pod slot  108  a pod of kernels or seeds of various types of poppable grains (corn, for example) or puffable grains (rice, for example). Pod slot  108  is heated inside upper chamber  102  by a heating element, as described in further detail herein. Once the desired heat is reached, the kernels and seeds in the pod pop or puff and can be released from the pod in various ways. The popped grains exit upper chamber  102  through outlet  105  into receiver  104  for consumption by a consumer. As mentioned previously, various types of grains can be popped in grain popping machine  100 . In a preferred embodiment, the grain to be popped in grain popping machine  100  is popcorn, however, other types of grains can be popped or puffed in the machine, including quinoa, wheat berries, barley, amaranth, millet, sorghum, rice, and any other grain that pops or puffs at heat or by any other activation method. As used herein, a grain is an individual fruit, kernel, grist, or seed of a cereal or grass crop, whether cultivated or wild, 
       FIG. 2  shows top view  200  of grain popping machine  100 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the top  200  of grain popping machine  100  has heat and aroma vents  202 , formed therein. The vents  202  can take various forms. In a preferred embodiment, shown in  FIG. 2 , the heat and aroma vent  202  forms a circle on the outside of top  200 . In other embodiments, the entire top  200  of grain machine  100  could have venting slots formed therein. Vents  202  can be formed in various shapes, for example, in the center of the top or along the outer edge of top  200 . Vents  202  could also be formed in addition to or in place of vent  202  on the sides of grain popping machine  100 . Vent  202  allows heat to escape the upper chamber  102  and also allows popcorn aroma to escape upper chamber  102 . In some embodiments, filters are included inside grain popping machine  100 , preferably between any heating elements included therein and vents  202 . The filters reduce escaping aroma, which is useful in environments where there is a concern that the aroma of popped grains would be distracting. Insulation is also included inside upper chamber  102  in some embodiments. Including insulation reduces the considerable heat generating during popping by isolating the exterior of grain popping machine from heating elements and lowering the temperature of heat escaping through vents  202 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, grain-popping machine  100  includes sensors (not shown) for sensing various parameters that could affect popping. For example, grain-popping machine  100  preferably includes an atmospheric pressure sensor that can provide feedback to the grain popping machine  100  so that cooking times can be adjusted as necessary based on the altitude at which a particular popping sequence is initiated. Other sensors included in grain popping machine  100  include temperature sensors for both ambient air and internal temperatures. Grain popping machine  100  can also include a processor, timer, database, and associated hardware for interpreting and acting on the information provided by the various sensors. The processor is preferably in communication with a network allowing for remote updates to software provided with the processor. This can include a wireless Internet network or cellular network. The processor can include a storage medium and machine-executable instructions stored thereon that cause the grain popping machine  100  to perform various actions, for example, shortening or lengthening popping time, based on pre-set instructions and taking into account information about the surrounding environment gathered by the various sensors. The processor can also include instructions that cause the grain popping machine  100  to vary the heat applied to grain pod  300  by a heating element, the length of time heat is applied to grain pod  300 , etc., based on indicators included on the pod or manually or remotely entered by a user. Examples of such indicators and methods of communicating the indicators to grain popping machine  100  are provided below. Grain popping machine  100  can also include audio sensors and corresponding machine-readable instructions to monitor when and how many kernels have popped and adjust the cooking temperature or time based on that audio feedback. Machine learning and artificial intelligence programs can be used to optimize the various sensors. 
       FIG. 3  shows a preferred embodiment of a grain pod  300 . Grain pod  300  includes kernels or seeds of one or more types of grains, as described previously. Although not shown in  FIG. 3 , in a preferred embodiment the grains are contained in individual cells inside grain pod  300 . Grain pod  300  has a top cover  302 , a bottom cover  306 , and a sidewall  304 . Grain pod  300  can be formed of various materials. In a preferred embodiment, grain pod  300  is formed of a high temperature tolerant plastic. In alternate embodiments, grain pod  300  can be formed of various metals, preferably a lightweight metal, for example, aluminum. Grain pod  300  could also be formed of a non-flammable, paper based material or any other natural or manufactured material that is resistant to high temperatures. In one embodiment, grain pod  300  is between  7  and 12 millimeters tall as measured from the top cover  302  to bottom cover  306 . In other embodiments, grain pod  300  is either 9 or 10 millimeters tall between top cover  302  and bottom cover  306 . Grain pod  300  can also be formed with additional insulating material between millimeters tall between top cover  302  and bottom cover  306 . The insulating material can aid in stacking the pods for storage and shipment and helps to reduce the heat transmitted to the outside of grain pod  300  when it is removed from grain popping machine after a popping sequence has concluded. Grain pod  300  can also be formed with extended tabs on its periphery to aid in handling grain pod  300 . 
     Top cover  302  of grain pod  300  is preferably formed of a heat conductive material. In a preferred embodiment, the top cover  302  is formed of a thin aluminum material or other heat conductive material. Although grain pod  300  is shown in a circular shape, it is understood that various pod shapes could be used to achieve similar results. For example, grain pod  300  could take a square or oval or rectangular form instead of the circular form showed in  FIG. 3 . However, the circular form shown in  FIG. 3  is conducive to even heating of the grain kernels or seeds contained in grain pod  300  and may also provide for easy packaging and transportation of grouped packages of multiple grain pods. Grain pod  300 , as shown in  FIG. 3 , also includes a channel  308  between a raised outer lip  310  and an inner wall  312 . Both top cover  302  and bottom cover  306  are sealed to grain pod  300  in order to seal in the grain kernels, flavoring, cooking medium (for example, cooking oils, shortening, lard, etc.) and other edible materials contained inside grain pod  300 , as will be shown in further detail herein. 
     Grain pod  300  can include numerous combinations of poppable or puffable grains and various flavorings, or can include kernels or seeds of only one particular type of grain. In preferred embodiments, grain pod  300  includes text, coloring, or graphics, or a combination thereof, to indicate the particular grain or grains inside the grain pod  300  and the flavoring and cooking medium included therein. In other embodiments, grain pod  300  includes a variety of grains, with each grain included having the same flavoring or with different grains in the grain pod  300  having different flavorings. Although not shown in  FIG. 3 , grain pod  300  may include machine-readable indicators that can communicate to grain popping machine  100  the type of grain or grains in grain pod  300 , the flavor or flavors included in grain pod  300 , and the type or types of oil, shortening, or other cooking medium included in grain pod  300 . In a preferred embodiment, grain pod  300  includes a bar code, QR code, or other type of machine-readable coding pattern that serves as the machine-readable indicator discussed previously. In such embodiments, grain popping machine  100  includes a reader (not shown) for reading the coding pattern included on grain pod  300 . The reader can be positioned inside upper chamber  102  or at the entry to pod slot  108 . In other embodiments, the reader can be positioned on the outside of grain popping machine  100  so that a user can scan the code on the reader prior to inserting grain pod  300  into grain popping machine  100 . The code can be printed on the grain pod  300 , can be a textured pattern elevated off the surface of grain pod  300 , or could simply be a color pattern on the grain pod. It is understood that the machine-readable code can be positioned anywhere on grain pod  300 . However, in a preferred embodiment, the machine-readable code is formed on the bottom of grain pod  300 . 
     In other embodiments, grain pod  300  includes spaced notches or indentations along the periphery thereof that serve as an indicator to grain popping machine  100  of the type of grain or grains in grain pod  300 , the flavor or flavors included in grain pod  300 , and the type or types of oil, shortening, or other cooking facilitator included in grain pod  300 . The notches or indentations can be provided on grain pod  300  in a particular number, with specific distances between each notch or indentation, or in different widths, depths, or shapes, all of which, or a combination of which, can serve as the indicator discussed previously. Similar to the previous embodiment, grain-popping machine  100  can include a reader configured to read and interpret the machine-readable code formed by the notches or indentations, either mechanically, optically, or using any of a variety of sensing methods. 
     In still other embodiments, grain pod  300  could be formed in different shapes, thicknesses, diameters, widths, and lengths. Small variations in these variables can indicate to a reader on or inside grain popping machine  100  the type of grain or grains in grain pod  300 , the flavor or flavors included in grain pod  300 , and the type or types of oil, shortening, or other cooking facilitator included in grain pod  300 . Alternately, or in addition to, using machine-readable indicators as described above, grain pod  300  can be formed with a simple human-readable code thereon. A human-readable code could also be provided on the packaging of a group of grain pods  300  and recorded at a central web site or user guide provided with grain pod  300 . In such embodiments, grain-popping machine  100  includes a user interface that allows a user to enter the human-readable code. Alternately, a mobile device application or remote control is provided to allow a user to interface with grain popping machine  100 . The mobile device application or remote control could allow the user to perform a variety of functions, including powering on/off grain popping machine  100 , initiating a popping sequence, emergency power off, indicating the type of grain or grains in grain pod  300 , the flavor or flavors included in grain pod  300 , and the type or types of oil, shortening, or other cooking facilitator included in grain pod  300 , ordering additional grain pods  300 , submitting a help request, submitting a service call, etc. 
       FIG. 4  shows an exploded view of grain pod  300  with the top cover  302  hovering above the grain pod  300 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , numerous cells  402  are formed on the interior of grain pod  300 . Each cell  402  is designed to hold a kernel or seed of a grain, for example, corn. In addition to the kernels, cells  402  hold flavoring and a cooking medium to facilitate popping of the corn when exposed to heat for a prolonged period. As shown in  FIG. 4 , cells  402  are formed in a generally honeycombed pattern at even distances from each other. As will be described in other embodiments herein, cells  402  could also be formed in a circular, square, oval, octagonal, or other shapes.  FIG. 4  also shows cell walls  404 , which separate cells  402 . In other embodiments, cell walls  404  could be thinner or thicker than shown in  FIG. 4 . In addition, grain pod  300  could be formed without cells and cell walls and instead have one layer of kernels or seeds distributed roughly equally across the interior surface area of grain pod  300 . For example, grain pod  300  could be formed with a flat chamber therein to hold kernels in a single layer or multiple layers inside grain pod  300 . During manufacturing, grain kernels are placed within cells  402  along with flavoring and cooking medium and any other desired ingredient to enhance the flavor, appearance, or popping qualities of the grain. Once the kernels are inside cells  402 , the top  302  is sealed onto grain pod  300 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, grain pod  300  includes approximately 1.5 to 3.5 tablespoons of grains or kernels, with each cell including a single kernel or grain. More preferably, each grain pod  300  includes 2.5 tablespoons of grains or kernels, with that result that each popping sequence produces between 4.5 and 5 ounces of popped grains. However, in other embodiments larger pods containing more kernels or grains can be provided while still retaining the benefits of pod-based popping. 
       FIG. 5  shows an exploded view from below grain pod  300 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , bottom cover  306  has not yet been affixed to grain pod  300 . Bottom cover  306  can be formed of a variety of materials. In a preferred embodiment, bottom cover  306  is formed of a high temperature compatible paper that will allow for easy exit of popped kernels from cells  402 . In other embodiments, bottom cover  306  is formed of a lightweight metal foil, preferably aluminum foil. As described in further detail herein, bottom cover  306  can be formed with perforations or other mechanically weakened points to facilitate escape of popped kernels from grain pod  300 . Bottom cover  306  could also be formed of a material that weakens as it gets hotter so that the material is weakened once grains reach a certain temperature, thereby allowing the grains to escape from cells  402 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , the sidewall  304  of grain pod  300  may have an inner lip  502  formed on the bottom side thereof. Grain pod  300  may also include a notch  504  on the bottom side of sidewall  304 . The mechanical use of inner lip  502  and bottom  504  will be explained in further detail herein. 
       FIG. 6  shows a heating element  602  positioned above a grain pod  300 . Heating element  602  can be formed of a metal ceramic polymer or composite material. Heating element  602  could also be formed of a combination of any of the previously mentioned types of heating elements. In a preferred embodiment, heating element  602  is formed of a metal material such as nichrome. In other embodiments, heating element  602  can be formed of metal such as kanthal or cupronickel. Heating element  602  may also be formed of an etched foil. While heating element  602  is shown as a solid circular slab in  FIG. 6 , in some embodiments of the invention, heating element  602  could be formed as a collection of wires, ribbons, or strips. 
     Heating element  602 , regardless of the material from which it is made, can also be formed in different shapes. For example, it could be a square element, it could be in a rectangular shape, could be in an oval shape, and it could have various thicknesses. Preferably, the shape of heating element  602  matches that of grain pod  300 . This configuration allows for even heating across the surface of grain pod  300 , resulting in more even popping of the kernels or grains therein. In addition, heating element  602  could be formed to wrap around grain pod  300  so that grain pod  300  nests within heating element  602 , or a second heating element could be provided underneath grain pod  300  for all or a portion of the popping sequence. In such embodiments, the second, lower heating element could be automatically removed at a designated time or point during the popping sequence so as not to interfere with the popped kernels or grains as they exit grain pod  300 . 
     In other embodiments, heating element  602  is formed of ceramic heating element such as molybdenum disilicide or various PTC ceramic elements. Heating element  602  could also be formed of polymer PTC heating elements including PTC rubber materials. Heating element  602  may also be a radiative heating element, such as a high-powered incandescent lamp or other type of radiant heating elements, for example, an R40 reflector lamp or similar lamps. In operation, heating element  602  is placed directly above or in contact with top cover  302  of grain pod  300 . As heating element  602  heats to an appropriate temperature depending on the type of grain and other factors, the kernels inside grain pod  300  heat, eventually heating to a temperature at which the specific grain pops and the grains then exit the grain pod  300 . In some embodiments, a conductor material, for example, copper, is positioned between heating element  602  and grain pod  300 . The conductor material ensures that heat from heating element  602  is evenly applied across the top surface of grain pod  300 , and also helps moderate the speed at which maximum cooking temperature is reached. 
     Positioning heating element  602  above grain pod  300  and configuring grain pod  300  so that popped grains escape grain pod  300  through the bottom cover  306  provides several advantages. For example, allowing the popped grains to exit the bottom cover  306  directly into receiver  104  greatly reduces the surface area of grain popping machine  100  that requires cleaning. Only the relatively small portion of upper chamber  102  between the bottom of grain pod  300  and receiver  104  is contacted by popped grains. That portion of upper chamber is easily reached for cleaning without disassembling grain popping machine  100 . In contrast, in prior art systems using free loaded grains instead of pods, the heating element was placed below the grains, so that when the grains popped they would exit up and around a heating element to fall into a bowl. In doing so, the grains contact almost the entire interior surface area of a machine, which must then be dismantled regularly for detailed cleaning and disinfecting. In addition, positioning grain pod  300  below heating element  602  ensures that no popped grains fall back into or on top of grain pod  300  after being popped, thereby reducing the risk of overcooked or burnt kernels, which negatively affect a user&#39;s experience. Popped grains exit their particular cell  402  immediately upon popping and are removed from the area of heating element  602  to receiver  104 , reducing the chance of overcooking or burning and accommodating for slight variances in popping times between individual grains. 
       FIG. 7  shows grain-popping machine  100  with heating element  602  and grain pod  300  positioned within upper chamber  102 . The circular opening shown in  FIG. 7  is included as a window to the inside of upper chamber  102  for purposes of illustration. In preferred embodiments, only pod slot  108  is formed on the exterior of upper chamber  102  so that heating element  602  and grain pod  300  are not visible from the exterior of upper chamber  102 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , heating element  602  is positioned directly above, and in some embodiments, in contact with the top of grain pod  300  inside upper chamber  102 . As heating element  602  heats the kernels inside grain pod  300  to a target temperature for a prolonged time, both of which vary depending on the type of grain used, flavoring, cooking medium, and other environmental conditions such as pressure and altitude, the kernels pop and the popping of the kernels causes them to eject from the bottom of grain pod  300  through bottom cover  306 , out of upper chamber  102 , and into receiver  104 . By having the kernels exit grain pod  300  through the bottom, the surface area of upper chamber  102  contacted by popped grains and liquids is kept at a minimum because the popped kernels do not contact any of the other surfaces of upper chamber, which reduces cleaning time and difficulty and makes grain popping machine  100  operate more cleanly than prior art machines. After popping, grain pod  300  is ejected from grain popping machine  100  and can be disposed of in a trash receptacle so that the machine is immediately able to receive another grain pod. The popped kernels can be removed from the grain-popping machine by removing receiver  104 , which can serve as a bowl for serving the popped kernels. Preferably, each grain pod  300  includes only enough popped kernels to form a single serving of the particular popped grain chosen. As detailed above the respective  FIG. 1 , the popped kernels exit upper chamber  102  through outlet  105 , which is open to the bottom of grain pod  300 . 
     Ideal cooking times and temperatures for a particular grain pod  300  vary based on the types of grains, flavorings, and cooking medium included in cells  402 , as well as ambient temperature, pressure, altitude, and other variables. As detailed above, grain popping machine  100  can include a processor and associated hardware and software to account for these variables and automatically alter cooking times and temperatures accordingly. However, in preferred embodiments, heating element  602  is heated to between approximately 325 degrees Fahrenheit and 600 degrees Fahrenheit, and more preferably to a constant temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit, with a variance of plus or minus 10 degrees. In other embodiments, heating element  602  can vary temperatures during the popping sequence to achieve a max temperature earlier or later in the sequence. 
     Temperature sensors can also be provided to directly sense the temperature inside cells  402  and the processor can include instructions to dynamically alter the temperature of heating element  602  during a popping sequence to optimize the temperature reached by grains in the cells  402  and ensure that no grains are overcooked or burned. Humidity sensors can also be included in grain popping machine  100 , either to measure ambient humidity outside or inside upper chamber  102 , or more preferably to measure humidity inside cells  402  to determine whether a predetermined cooking time and temperature should be altered to optimize popping of grains in a particular grain pod  300 . In a preferred embodiment, the entire popping sequence is completed in less than one hundred and twenty seconds. More preferably, the popping sequence from insertion of grain pod  300  to the time at which all grains have popped and entered receiver  104  is completed in approximately sixty seconds, or less. In other embodiments, the popping sequence is completed in approximately one hundred and eighty seconds, that is, one hundred eighty seconds plus or minus thirty seconds to accommodate for variables. 
       FIG. 8  shows an alternate embodiment of grain popping machine  100 . In this embodiment, heating element  602  is positioned below grain pod  300 . The circular opening shown in  FIG. 8  is included as a window to the inside of upper chamber  102  for purposes of illustration. As heating element  602  reaches the temperature to pop the kernels in grain pod  300 , the kernels pop and exit the grain pod  300  and are funneled back down by gravity through outlet  105  and into receiver  104 , as shown by the arrows in  FIG. 8 . 
       FIG. 9  illustrates popped kernels  902  exiting through bottom cover  306  of grain pod  300 . The orientation of heating element  602  above grain pod  300  is similar to the orientation shown in the grain-popping machine of  FIG. 7 . Because each cell  402  contains a single kernel, each kernel is free to pop when that particular kernel reaches the appropriate temperature for the particular kernel. This allows for slight variations in the popping time for different kernels in the same grain pod  300  so that kernels that might pop earlier than other kernels are not burned by being kept in contact with a heat source after popping. 
       FIGS. 10A and 10B  illustrate a preferred embodiment of grain pod  300 . As shown in  FIG. 10A , grain pod  300  is formed in a generally circular or cylindrical shape with cells  402  and cell walls  404 . The cells of the grain pod shown in  FIG. 10A  are formed in a hexagonal shape similar to a honeycomb. In a preferred embodiment, the cells  402  shown in  FIG. 10A  are sized to hold a single grain seed or kernel in addition to any desired flavoring or cooking medium. As the kernels heat and pop, they absorb the flavoring placed in a particular cell.  FIG. 10B  shows a cross-section of  FIG. 10A , showing the vertical shape of cell walls  404 . As shown in  FIG. 10B , each cell is formed so that it is narrower towards the top cover  302  of grain pod  300  and becomes wider moving towards bottom cover  306 . As the kernel is heated by heating element  602  and eventually reaches its popping temperature, the kernel expands, or pops. As the kernel expands, the shape of cells  402  in  FIG. 10B  apply pressure to the portion of the kernel towards top cover  302 , thereby ejecting the popped kernel through the bottom cover  306  of grain pod  300 . The change in diameter or width of cells  404  from the top of grain pod  300  to the bottom of grain pod  300  can be altered to achieve more or less pressure on the kernel in the pod upon popping. The vertical angle of cell walls  404 , shown in  FIG. 10B , are preferably between 1 and 45 degrees. More preferably, the angle is between 2 and 10 degrees, and most preferably approximately 4 degrees. Cells  404  can also be formed to have the same, or substantially the same, that is, within acceptable manufacturing variations, diameters and widths from the top of the grain pod  300  to the bottom of grain pod  300 . 
       FIG. 10B  also illustrates an alternate embodiment of sidewall  304 . As shown in  FIG. 10B , raised lip  310  of sidewall  304  extends upward from the top of grain pod  300 . Sidewall  304  is formed with a notch  1002  towards the bottom thereof. When grain pods  300  are stacked in a package containing multiple grain pods, upper lip  310  rests inside notch  1002  to secure the stacked grain pods together and to provide a resting surface for the pods so that the top and bottom covers of grain pods  300  stacked together in a package remain slightly apart from each other. This helps prevent breakage or damage to of the top and bottom cover during shipping, delivery, and storage of grain pods  300 . 
       FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate another embodiment of grain pod  300 . As shown in  FIG. 11A , the cells  402  are circular when viewed from the top. Cell walls  404  divide the cells  402 .  FIG. 11B  shows a cross-section of the grain pod  300  illustrated in  FIG. 11A . As with the grain pod  300  shown in  FIGS. 10A and 10B , the cells  402  of the  FIG. 11B  grain pod are wider towards the bottom of the grain pod than they are at the top. The cell walls  404  are slightly curved so that each cell is generally in the shape an inverted U with the open part of the U facing the bottom of grain pod  300  and being wider than the diameter of the bottom of the U, which is positioned near or in contact with top cover  302  of the grain pod. As with the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 10A and 10B , the grain pod  300  shown in  FIGS. 11A and 11B  feature a raised upper lip  310  and a notch  1002  in the bottom of the sidewall. These features, as described above, aid in stacking packaging and delivering the grain pods. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a cross-section of another embodiment of grain pod  300 . The grain pod shown in  FIG. 12  is similar to the previously described grain pods, with the exception that the cells are approximately half as high as the cells of the previous embodiments. As a result, the grains or kernels placed in each cell protrude, at least partially, from the cell out from the bottom of the grain pod  300 . The grains are still sealed into the cells by a bottom cover, but in this embodiment the bottom cover is, preferably, a flexible membrane  1204  that holds the grain kernels in their cells  402  and seals each cell off from other cells  402 , but that conforms to the shape of the kernels protruding from the cells  402 . The grain pod  300  shown in  FIG. 12  also features an extended inner lip  1202 , which extends slightly beyond the lowest point of flexible membrane  1204 . The extended inner lip  1202  rests on the top of the sidewall so that when the pods are stacked, the membrane cover  1204  does not make contact with the top cover  302  of grain pod  300 . In doing so, the extended inner lip  1202  prevents unwanted tearing or damage to the flexible membrane  1204  or top cover  302  during packaging, shipment, delivery, and storage. Configuring the cells so that they are less deep than the height required to accommodate a full kernel aids in ejecting the kernels from the cells as they pop. Because they are already partially out, the pressure created by the open cells facilitates the kernels breaking through the flexible membrane  1204  as they pop. The cells  402  may also be shaped so that they have a wider diameter towards the flexible membrane  1204  of grain pod  300  than towards the top cover  302 . It is understood that various cell shapes and sizes can be used with the flexible membrane shown in  1204 . 
       FIG. 13  illustrates another embodiment of grain pod  300 . As shown in  FIG. 13 , the cells  402  have a bulbous shape, but still with the top portion of the cells  402  closest to top cover  302  being narrower than the bottom portion of cells  402 . Again, as in previous embodiments, this encourages the kernel to exit the pod downward as it pops. Also shown in  FIG. 13  are a series of perforations or weakened areas  1306  in the bottom cover  306  of grain pod  300 . In a preferred embodiment, these perforations allow the bottom cover  306  to tear as the kernel pops and exits the bottom cover  306 . As shown in  FIG. 14 , for example, the bottom cover is easier to pierce by the kernel than if it did not have a perforation. Embodiments of these weakened areas will be described in further detail with respect to  FIG. 14 . Also shown in  FIG. 13  is an alternate embodiment of the stacking and mating systems described earlier. As seen in  FIG. 13 , inner lip  502  extends downward, creating a male mating end, and channel  308  on the top portion of grain pod  300  is adapted to receive the inner lip  502 . 
       FIG. 14  illustrates various methods of weakening bottom cover  306  of grain pod  300  so that the kernels can more easily break through the bottom cover  306 . The kernel designated as  1404  has exited through the bottom cover  306 . The portion of bottom cover  306  next to the cell that kernel  1404  is exiting from has been weakened, either mechanically or by other means, approximately in the center of the cell  402 , so that when the kernel breaks through bottom cover  306 , the bottom cover  306  splits approximately in the middle of the cell and the edges of the bottom cover  306  remain attached to the top of cell walls  404  so that the material that forms the bottom cover  306  does not exit into the receiver  104 . The material of the bottom cover  306  thereby stays attached to the grain pod  300  instead of falling into the receiver  104  with the popped grain. Similar results are achieved if a flexible membrane  1204  is used. 
     In another embodiment, as shown with reference to kernel  1402  in  FIG. 14 , the bottom cover  306  can be weakened, for example, by physical perforations or other weakening, along only one side or portion of a cell  402 . In operation, this is similar to the perforation described with respect to kernel  1404 , except that instead of the ripped pieces of the bottom cover  306  remaining attached to all sides of the cell walls  404 , the bottom cover  306  may be held to only a portion of the top of cell walls  404 . For example, one half of the bottom cover corresponding to a particular cell  402  may remain attached to the cell walls  404 , while the other half may be pre-perforated or otherwise weakened so that it breaks off, easily allowing the kernel to escape when it pops. Although thus far discussion of weakening the bottom cover  306  has focused mostly on physical perforation of the bottom cover  306 , that is merely one example of potential ways to weaken portions of the bottom cover  306  to facilitate escape of a kernel. Instead of perforating at particular locations, the bottom cover could be formed of a thinner material at those particular locations or it could be formed of a different material at those locations that weakens faster than the main body of bottom cover  306  as temperature increases. In other embodiments, the material that fastens bottom cover  306  to the top of cell walls  404  may be varied at certain locations in order to facilitate breaking of the bottom cover  306 . For example, a portion of the material bonding bottom cover  306  to the cell walls  404  could be a different bonding material than other portions. The bonding material in the weakened portions might be chosen so that it melts and creates a weaker bond at higher temperature than other portions of the bonding material to achieve similar results to perforation or mechanical weakening. For embodiments that feature mechanical perforation, or some other type of mechanical weakening of bottom cover  306 , various methods can be used to achieve that perforation. For example, the bottom cover  306  could be pre-perforated during manufacturing and before shipment. In alternate embodiments the grain-popping machine  100  can be formed with a mechanical perforator or weakener inside, so that when a user inserts grain pod  300  into grain popping machine  100 , the bottom cover  306  of grain pod  300  is perforated in grain popping machine  100  or during insertion into the grain-popping machine  100 . 
       FIGS. 15-17  illustrate alternate embodiments of grain popping machine  100  according to the present invention. In  FIG. 15 , grain pod  300  is positioned inside grain popping machine  100  so that it is above heating element  602  instead of below heating element  602 . Grain pod  300  is flipped from the configuration shown in previous embodiments where the kernel exits from the bottom of grain pod  300 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 15  of the grain pod  300 , the kernels exit towards the top of the grain-popping machine  100  instead of straight down. As heating element  602  heats the kernels within grain pod  300  to the appropriate temperature for that particular grain, the grains would pop; exiting the grain pod  300 , and gravity causes the popped kernels to fall down into receiver  104 , as shown in step  1504 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 15 , a fan, preferably a silent fan, could be used to help the kernels exit the grain pod  300  and filter down to receiver  104 . Once the receiver  104  is full of the popped grains, it can be removed from dock  103  as shown in step  1506 . 
       FIG. 16  shows another embodiment of grain popping machine  100 . In the embodiment in  FIG. 16 , grain pod  300  is positioned inside the machine above heating element  602  instead of below. As shown in step  1602 , grain pod  300  is configured so that as the grains pop, the grain pod expands and the sidewall  304  of the grain pod expands. Once the grains have popped, the heating element is mechanically removed, preferably automatically, from underneath grain pod  300 . The bottom of grain pod  300  is pulled with heating element and the popped kernels are pulled by gravity into the receiver  104  and can then be removed from the dock  103 , as shown in step  1608 . 
       FIG. 17  shows another embodiment of grain popping machine  100  according to the present invention. In  FIG. 17 , grain pod  300  is inserted into grain popping machine  100  so that it is positioned above heating element  602 . As heating element  602  heats the kernels in grain pod  300  to the popping temperature, grain pod  300  expands into a bucket shape. The bucket formed by the grain pod  300  in this embodiment serves as a receiver  104  and grain pod  300  itself, in its bucket shape, can be removed from grain popping machine  100  for serving the popped grains. As shown in step  1706 , heating element  602  is mechanically moved, in some embodiments, from the bottom of grain pod  300 , and a cooling fan can cool the expanded grain pod  300  so that it is safe for handling by a consumer. It is understood that grain pod  300  shown in  FIG. 17  could take various shapes on expansion and is not strictly confined to the shape shown in  FIG. 17 . 
       FIG. 18  illustrates a portion of a portion of a grain pod insert  401 . Grain pod insert  401  is preferably formed of a thermoplastic polymer, although other materials compatible with use in the food industry can be used. Various types of polymers are contemplated for grain pod insert  401 , including natural polymers and synthetic thermoplastic polymers, including but not limited to nylon. Additives can be included in the polymers used to form grain pod insert  401 . 
     Grain pod insert  401  includes cells  402  and cell walls  404  similar to those described with respect to other embodiments of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 18 , cells  402  are formed with a generally circular cross section and a rounded bottom. However, it is understood that cells  402  could be formed in a variety of cross-sectional shapes, including, but not limited to, the hexagonal and square cross-sectional shapes described with respect to other embodiments herein. Cells  402  could also be formed with a flat bottom instead of the rounded bottom shown in  FIG. 18 . Because grain pod insert  401  is preferably formed of a polymer, e.g., a nylon material, it can be formed by heating a flat sheet of polymer to a temperature at which the polymer can be stretched into the form shown in  FIG. 18  by application of mechanical force to the polymer sheet. Forming grain pod insert  401  in this manner simplifies manufacturing. In addition, polymers such as nylon are known to weaken as they are heated, and through polymer compounding, which involves mixing or blending polymers and additives to alter certain properties of the resulting material, the polymers can be engineered to reach a desired weakness at desired temperatures. As a result, a grain pod  300  constructed with grain pod insert  401  does not require a bottom cover  306 . The cells  402  of grain pod insert  401  are closed at the bottom portion thereof, which serves to retain grains, flavoring, and cooking medium within the cells  402 . The polymer forming grain pod insert  401  is engineered to weaken to near breaking point at the ambient temperature at which grains contained in cells  402  will being to pop. As a result, the popping grains can easily break through the bottom of cells  402 , while unpopped grains remain in their cell  402  until they begin to pop. It is understood that grain pod insert  401  could also be formed using extrusion or injection molding. 
       FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional view of a grain pod  300  formed with grain pod insert  401 . After it is formed, grain pod insert  401  can be attached to a sidewall  304  by various methods known in the art. Grain pod  300  as shown in  FIG. 19  can also be formed as a single piece using the same methods detailed with respect to grain pod insert  401 , that is, by heating and mechanically manipulating a polymer, or by extrusion or injection molding. Attaching grain pod insert  401  to a separately formed sidewall  304  in order to form grain pod  300  allows for a different material to be used for the sidewall  304 . It can be desirable to use a stronger and less heat-sensitive material for the sidewall  304 , which is subject to forces during shipping and user manipulation that grain pod insert  401  may not experience.  FIG. 20  is a top perspective view of the grain pod  300  described with respect to  FIGS. 18 and 19 . As noted above, grain pod insert  401  may be formed separately and attached to sidewall  304 , or the entire grain pod  300  can be formed as a single unit. As shown in  FIG. 20 , grain pod  300  can include a tab  2001  formed with or attached to sidewall  304 . Tab  2001  facilitates user handling of grain pod  300 . 
       FIG. 21  illustrates grain pod  300  as described with respect to  FIGS. 18-20  with a heating element  602 . As shown, heating element  602  has protrusions  2101  extending from its bottom surface. Protrusions  2101  provide targeted heating to cells  302 . Preferably, protrusions  2101  match the cross-sectional shape of cells  402 , here, a circular shape. In addition, protrusions  2101  are arranged on heating element  602  such that, when grain pod  300  is positioned in a pod dock, described herein, protrusions  2101  are positioned so that each protrusion  2101  is centered on a cell  402 , thereby providing targeted heat to the opening at the top of each cell  402 . In operation, heating element  602  can be mechanically lowered onto the top of grain pod  300  so that protrusions  2101  press down onto top cover  302  (not shown). The portions of top cover  302  directly above each cell  402  can be formed to depress into the cell  402  as the protrusions  2101  on heating element  602  apply pressure to top cover  302 . This provides more focused and direct heat transfer from heating element  602  because heat is applied in closer proximity to the grains and cooking medium in each cell  402 . The contents of cells  402  can also be vacuum sealed, so that heat from protrusions  2101  transfers direct through top cover  302  and is applied directly to the grains and cooking medium in the cells  402 .  FIG. 22  illustrates heating element  602  positioned above grain pod  300 , with the top cover  302  covering the top of cells  402 . 
     Systems, methods and apparatus are provided herein. References to “preferred embodiments,” “another embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art how to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiments. 
     Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.” As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.