Patent Description:
Customer expectations have radically changed over the past years and have shown a strong demand for water, low-calorie beverages, and functional beverages; while in the meantime, a part of the population wants to live an eco-friendly lifestyle and refuses to buy single-use bottled water.

There is also an increasing concern about the integrity of the public's municipal water quality and whether ordinary tap water is always safe to drink. In response to these concerns, people commonly buy bottled water as an alternative to tap water.

Most of the beverage dispensers, coffee machines and tea brewers on the market use single servings pods, which are often costly and criticized by the consumers who are aware of the massive pollution generated by single use containers. A growing number of consumers are therefore willing to use reusable or multi servings containers.

Viscous liquids, such as drink concentrates and syrups, often need to be measured out fairly precisely. Too much concentrate may make a drink too strong, while too little concentrate may make the drink too weak. For example, it is often hard to ascertain exactly how much syrup needs to be added due to the different viscosities. The ideal amount for one flavor may not be so optimal for another. Also, it is often difficult to assess how much syrup has been dispensed, especially when a bottle or container is almost empty and the last drops are being shaken out. Furthermore, if a bottle containing syrup is shaken too hard, too much syrup is released.

The manual addition of syrups may also be messy, especially when adding them to a vessel with a small opening, such as the addition of syrup to water. Particularly viscous liquid concentrates may not just flow through the mouth of a bottle, but might also flow down the sides of the bottles.

Therefore, there is a need for a new container, cap and multi-servings beverage dispensing system. A container according to the preamble of claim <NUM> is known from <CIT>. A container according to the preamble of claim <NUM> is known from <CIT>.

According to a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a container for storing a liquid and allowing extraction of the liquid on-demand. The container comprises a casing for storing the liquid, the casing defining an aperture. The container comprises a resealable membrane covering the aperture of the casing. The resealable membrane is adapted for receiving a liquid extraction tube therethrough for on-demand liquid extraction from the casing. The resealable membrane automatically reseals the aperture upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube. The container comprises an air permeable membrane for balancing a pressure in the casing upon extracting liquid by the liquid extraction tube.

According to a particular aspect of the container, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are provided as a cap for closing the aperture of the casing.

According to another particular aspect of the container, the casing, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are provided as a capsule.

According to still another particular aspect of the container, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane form a single membrane.

According to yet another particular aspect of the container, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are concentric.

According to another aspect of the container, the casing comprises an outlet port, the outlet port being adapted for releasable engagement into a corresponding inlet port of a beverage dispensing system, the aperture being defined by the outlet port.

According to still another aspect of the container, the container comprises a tag storing data related to the container, the tag allowing reading and optionally writing of the data by a contactless data reader.

According to a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a cap for a container. The cap comprises a body adapted for being affixed to the container. The body defines a complementary aperture, the complementary aperture covering an aperture of the container when the body is affixed to the container. The cap comprises a resealable membrane covering the complementary aperture of the body, the resealable membrane being adapted for receiving a liquid extraction tube therethrough for on-demand liquid extraction of a liquid stored in the container, the resealable membrane automatically resealing the complementary aperture upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube. The cap comprises an air permeable membrane for balancing a pressure in the container upon extracting liquid by the liquid extraction tube.

According to a particular aspect of the cap, the body defines a second complementary aperture, the air permeable membrane covering the second complementary aperture of the body.

According to another particular aspect of the cap, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane form a single membrane.

According to still another particular aspect of the cap, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are concentric.

According to yet another particular aspect of the cap, the cap comprises a tag storing data related to the container, the tag allowing reading and optionally writing of the data by a contactless data reader.

According to a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a multi-servings beverage dispensing system. The beverage dispensing system comprises a container engaging inlet port adapted for removably engaging a container. The beverage dispensing system comprises the container engaged in the container engaging inlet port. The container comprises a casing storing an ingredient liquid, the casing defining an aperture. The container comprises a resealable membrane covering the aperture of the casing, the resealable membrane being adapted for receiving a liquid extraction tube therethrough for on-demand ingredient liquid extraction from the casing, the resealable membrane automatically resealing the aperture upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube. The container comprises an air permeable membrane for balancing a pressure in the casing upon extracting ingredient liquid by the liquid extraction tube. The beverage dispensing system further comprises the liquid extraction tube slidably movable between a retracted position and an extended position, the liquid extraction tube not being in contact with the resealable membrane when in the retracted position, an end portion of the liquid extraction tube being received through the resealable membrane when in the extended position. The beverage dispensing system comprises an actuator adapted for moving the liquid extraction tube between the retracted position and the extended position. The beverage dispensing system also comprises means for transferring the ingredient liquid extracted from the casing by the liquid extraction tube to a mixing unit, a tank for storing another liquid, and means for transferring the other liquid from the tank to the mixing unit. The beverage dispensing system comprises the mixing unit for receiving and mixing the ingredient liquid transferred to the mixing unit and the other liquid transferred to the mixing unit. The beverage dispensing system also comprises a mixing unit outlet for pouring a content of the mixing unit.

According to a particular aspect of the multi-servings beverage dispensing system, the means for transferring the ingredient liquid extracted from the casing by the liquid extraction tube to the mixing unit and the means for transferring the other liquid from the tank to the mixing unit respectively comprise an ingredient pump and another pump.

According to another particular aspect of the multi-servings beverage dispensing system, the beverage dispensing system comprises a controller, the controller comprising electronic means for controlling operations of the beverage dispensing unit.

According to still another particular aspect of the multi-servings beverage dispensing system, the means for transferring the ingredient liquid extracted from the casing by the liquid extraction tube to the mixing unit and the means for transferring the other liquid from the tank to the mixing unit respectively comprise an ingredient pump and another pump. The controller automatically calculates respective time and speed of operation of the other pump, and respective time and speed of operation of the ingredient pump.

According to yet another particular aspect of the multi-servings beverage dispensing system, the controller is adapted to exchange information with a remote computing device via a communication interface of the controller.

According to another particular aspect of the multi-servings beverage dispensing system, the container further comprises a tag storing data related to the container, the beverage dispensing system further comprising a contactless data reader adapted for reading and optionally writing the data stored by the tag.

According to still another particular aspect of the multi-servings beverage dispensing system, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are provided as a cap for closing the aperture of the casing; or the casing, the resealable membrane and the air permeable membrane are provided as a capsule.

Embodiments of the disclosure will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

The foregoing and other features will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of illustrative embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The present disclosure aims at providing a compelling alternative to bottled water and other water-based ready-to-drink beverages, by disclosing a new multi-servings beverage dispensing system. The beverage dispensing system is meant to offer a convenient, reliable, and cost-effective beverage solution to consumers' beverage needs. The beverage dispensing system is adapted to produce filtered water, as well as other unique beverages, through a container adapted for storing a liquid and allowing extraction of the liquid on-demand. For example, the container stores a liquid concentrate, which is mixed (by the beverage dispensing system) with filtered water, to produce a beverage. Instead of filtered water, the liquid concentrate may be mixed with any of the following: still (not sparkling) water, flavored water, enhanced water, infused water, and an alcoholic drink.

The beverage dispensing system is adapted to offer the following functionalities and benefits. Providing on-demand filtered water, by filtering the eventual bad taste, unhealthy contaminants or particles present in water. Providing on-demand custom beverages, by preparing a variety of appealing beverages, produced with filtered water, the consumer having the option to control the level of infusion of each beverage. Reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, by avoiding transport of heavy bottled beverages to the point of consumption. Saving space, by avoiding stockage of voluminous beverage containers (e.g. in a fridge at home or an the office). Providing health benefit, resulting from more convenient and improved hydration options, including better concentration. Providing distribution benefit, the containers being light and valuable enough to be shipped directly to consumers at low shipping costs.

Reference is now made concurrently to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>. <FIG> and <FIG> are respective top and front views of a beverage dispensing system <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view comprising additional components of the beverage dispensing system <NUM> not represented in <FIG> and <FIG> for simplification purposes. <FIG> and <FIG> are functionals view of interactions between components of the beverage dispensing system <NUM>.

The beverage dispensing system <NUM> comprises a housing <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>), a water tank <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>), a water pump <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>), a filter <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>), an ingredient container <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>), an ingredient pump <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>), a mixing unit <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>), a mixing unit outlet <NUM> (illustrated as a faucet in <FIG>, <FIG> and also illustrated in <FIG>), a controller <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>), a user control interface <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>), a liquid extraction tube <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) and an actuator <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>).

The beverage dispensing system <NUM> is multi-servings and is adapted for preparing and dispensing a custom beverage. The beverage is prepared by mixing water contained in the water tank <NUM> and a liquid contained in the ingredient container <NUM>. Examples of liquids contained in the ingredient container <NUM> have been provided previously. The container <NUM> is referred to as the ingredient container, since the liquid contained in the container <NUM> is an ingredient which is mixed with the liquid (generally water) contained in the water tank <NUM>, to dispense a customized beverage (e. g a beverage having a customized flavor due to the flavor of the ingredient). Thus, the liquid contained in the ingredient container <NUM> will also be referred to as the ingredient liquid. Furthermore, as mentioned previously, the water tank <NUM> is not limited to containing water, but may also contain an alcoholic beverage, etc. Thus, although the liquid contained in the water tank <NUM> is referred to as water in the rest of the description, the beverage dispensing system <NUM> is adapted to process other types of liquids contained in the water tank <NUM>.

The arrows in <FIG> and <FIG> schematically illustrate the respective flows of water and ingredient liquid between components of the beverage dispensing system <NUM>. Similarly, the arrows in <FIG> schematically illustrate the respective flows of water, ingredient liquid and beverage involving the water pump <NUM>, the ingredient pump <NUM> and the mixing unit <NUM>.

The water tank <NUM> is generally a removable and refillable water tank, the housing <NUM> being adapted for receiving and removing the water tank <NUM>, as is well known in the art (e.g. in a manner similar to water tanks used for pod based coffee infusers).

In an exemplary implementation, a water tank engaging port (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes) is mounted on the housing <NUM> and connected in liquid communication with a water pump inlet <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>) of the water pump <NUM>. The water tank <NUM> comprises a bottom port (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes) configured for saleably and removably engaging the water tank engaging port on the housing <NUM>. The removable water tank <NUM> also comprises a reclosable top opening for allowing a user to fill the water tank <NUM> with water. Thus, the water contained in the water tank <NUM> is made available to the beverage dispensing system <NUM> via the water pump <NUM>. Alternatively, the water tank <NUM> is directly connected to a municipal water network.

The water pump <NUM> is mounted inside the housing <NUM>. The water pump <NUM> comprises the previously mentioned water pump inlet <NUM> in liquid communication with the water source <NUM> via the previously mentioned water tank engaging port. The water pump <NUM> also comprises a water pump outlet <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>) in liquid communication with a mixing unit water inlet <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>) of the mixing unit <NUM>. This configuration is used when the beverage dispensing system <NUM> does not comprise the water filter <NUM>.

Optionally, the beverage dispensing system <NUM> further comprises the water filter <NUM> in serial liquid communication between the water pump <NUM> and the mixing unit <NUM> (more specifically in serial liquid communication between the previously mentioned water pump outlet <NUM> of the water pump <NUM> and the previously mentioned mixing unit water inlet <NUM> of the mixing unit <NUM>).

In an exemplary implementation, the water filter <NUM> is a user selectively removable water filter, and the beverage dispensing system <NUM> comprises a removable filter mounting arrangement for removably receiving the water filter <NUM>. The filter mounting arrangement is generally located along a rear portion of the housing <NUM>. Thus, after a predetermined usage or volume of filtered water, the user may conveniently proceed with replacing the removable water filter <NUM> with a new one. The spent removable water filter may be appropriately recycled or disposed of according to the manufacturer instructions.

The ingredient container <NUM> is a removable, single-use or refillable ingredient container. The ingredient container <NUM> comprises a casing <NUM> (represented in <FIG>) having a sufficient capacity for storing ingredient liquid for one serving or for multi-servings of the custom beverage served by the beverage dispensing system <NUM>. The ingredient container <NUM> (in particular the casing <NUM>) can be made of a recyclable material or material(s).

In an exemplary implementation, the casing <NUM> comprises a container outlet port <NUM> (represented in <FIG>) through which the liquid stored inside the casing <NUM> is extracted. A detailed description of the ingredient container <NUM> will be provided later in the description.

The beverage dispensing system <NUM> further comprises a container engaging inlet port (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes). The container engaging inlet port is generally mounted along an upper portion of the housing <NUM>. The container engaging inlet port is adapted for removably engaging the ingredient container <NUM>. The respective design of a container engaging inlet port and corresponding ingredient container <NUM> allowing removable engagement of the ingredient container <NUM> into the container engaging inlet port is well known in the art of beverage dispensing systems.

In an exemplary implementation, the container engaging inlet port defines a container port engaging cavity (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes) extending at least slightly inwardly relative to the upper portion of the housing <NUM>. The container port engaging cavity is suitably sized and configured for removably engaging therein in a snug-fit relation the container outlet port <NUM> of a suitable ingredient container <NUM> containing an ingredient liquid. The container engaging inlet port further defines an inlet port guide opening (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes) extending coaxially centrally and inwardly relative to an innermost surface portion of a container port engaging cavity.

The liquid extraction tube <NUM> comprises a substantially elongated tubular member defining a liquid extraction inlet <NUM> (represented in <FIG>), a liquid extraction outlet <NUM> (represented in <FIG>), and a liquid extraction passageway extending there between (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes). In an exemplary implementation, the liquid extraction tube <NUM> is a plunger.

The liquid extraction tube <NUM> is slidably mounted inside the housing <NUM>, so as to be slidably movable between a retracted position and an extended position. In the retracted position, the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> is retracted within the container engaging inlet port. For example, in the previously mentioned implementation of the container engaging inlet port, the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> is retracted within the previously mentioned inlet port guide opening of the container engaging inlet port. In the extended position, an end portion of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>, including the liquid extraction tube <NUM>, protrudes from the container engaging inlet port.

The actuator <NUM> is mounted inside the housing <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> comprises an actuator drive member <NUM> (represented in <FIG>). The actuator drive member <NUM> is connected to the liquid extraction tube <NUM>, and is adapted for moving the liquid extraction tube <NUM> between its retracted position and its extended position.

The actuator <NUM>, in cooperation with the liquid extraction tube <NUM> and the container engaging inlet port, are suitably sized and configured such that, when the ingredient container <NUM> is engaged in the container engaging inlet port and the liquid extraction tube <NUM> is in the retracted position, the liquid extraction tube <NUM> does not contact the ingredient container <NUM>. For example, if the ingredient container <NUM> comprises the container outlet port <NUM>, the liquid extraction tube <NUM> does not contact the container outlet port <NUM>. When the liquid extraction tube <NUM> is in the extended position, the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> longitudinally engages through the ingredient container <NUM>, so as to be in liquid communication with the interior of the ingredient container <NUM>. For example, if the ingredient container <NUM> comprises the container outlet port <NUM>, the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> longitudinally engages through the container outlet port <NUM>.

The ingredient pump <NUM> is mounted inside the housing <NUM>. The ingredient pump <NUM> comprises an ingredient pump inlet <NUM> (represented in <FIG> and <FIG>) in liquid communication with the liquid extraction outlet <NUM> of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>. The ingredient pump <NUM> also comprises an ingredient pump outlet <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>) in liquid communication with a mixing unit ingredient inlet <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>) of the mixing unit <NUM>.

In an exemplary implementation, the ingredient pump <NUM> is a peristaltic pump. Peristaltic pumps are well known in the art, particularly in medical contexts. Peristaltic pumps generally comprise a flexible and resilient liquid conduit in liquid communication between the ingredient pump inlet <NUM> and ingredient pump outlet <NUM>. Peristaltic pumps further comprise a rotating actuator applying a cyclical pressure in a direction along a portion of the flexible conduit, so as to force a liquid flow in the ingredient liquid present in the conduit.

Similarly to medical contexts, the peristaltic pump is used in the context of the present beverage dispensing system <NUM> for its capability to controllably deliver a relatively small an precise flow of ingredient liquid, as well as for its ease of cleaning (since there is no turbine, piston or moving parts in contact with the pumped liquid).

The mixing unit <NUM> is mounted inside the housing <NUM>. The mixing unit <NUM> comprises an internal mixing unit chamber <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>), the mixing unit water inlet <NUM>, the mixing unit ingredient inlet <NUM>. The mixing unit <NUM> further comprises the mixing unit outlet <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>) connected to the mixing unit <NUM> and extending forwardly from a front surface portion of the housing <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate an exemplary implementation of the mixing unit outlet <NUM> consisting of a faucet.

Each one of the mixing unit water inlet <NUM>, mixing unit ingredient inlet <NUM> and mixing unit outlet <NUM>, is in liquid communication with the interior of the mixing unit chamber <NUM>. The mixing unit outlet <NUM> comprises an output opening that is suitably adapted for pouring the content of the mixing unit chamber <NUM> into an underlying user cup or bottle.

The controller <NUM> is mounted inside the housing <NUM>. The controller <NUM> is suitably operatively connected and adapted for operatively controlling the water pump <NUM>, the ingredient pump <NUM>, and the actuator <NUM>. <FIG> provides a schematic representation of the interactions of the controller <NUM> with other components (e.g. the water pump <NUM>, the ingredient pump <NUM> and the actuator <NUM>) of the beverage dispensing system <NUM>.

In an exemplary implementation, the controller <NUM> consists of any suitable electronic microcontroller. The controller <NUM> comprises at least some of the following components (not represented in <FIG> for simplification purposes): one or more processor, memory, interface inputs and outputs (I/O), and communication capabilities that are generally found in known beverage dispensing systems. Examples of communication capabilities comprise a wireless communication interface (e.g. Bluetooth®, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, Near Field Communication (NFC), etc.), a wired communication interface (e.g. Ethernet, etc.), or a combination thereof.

The user control interface <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>, but not represented in <FIG> and <FIG> for simplification purposes) is mounted on the housing <NUM> and is in operative communication with the controller <NUM>. The user control interface <NUM> comprises at least one of a button and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), a touch actuated user interface located on the housing <NUM>, a voice actuated user interface mounted inside the housing <NUM>, a remote user interface accessible through a mobile application or equivalent executed on a remote computing device <NUM> and communicating with the controller <NUM> through a wired or wireless communication link, or a combination thereof. The user control interface <NUM> may also comprise a display (e.g. a basic screen, a touch screen allowing interactions with the user, etc.) for displaying information related to the operations of the beverage dispensing system <NUM>.

In an exemplary implementation, the user control interface <NUM> (comprising buttons and LEDs) is partly accessible along a front surface portion of the housing <NUM> and the mixing unit outlet (e.g. faucet) <NUM>.

The user control interface <NUM> and the controller <NUM> are suitably adapted and configured for at least enabling the user to select a custom beverage, and actuate a start command, either simultaneously or consecutively with the selection of the custom beverage, so as to efficiently mix and deliver the desired custom beverage through the mixing unit outlet (e.g. faucet) <NUM>.

Additional information is usually selectable by the user through the user control interface <NUM> such as, but not limited to, a desired volume of beverage, a desired intensity of flavor, selecting to be simply served water, etc..

Functionalities of the user control interface <NUM> may be accomplished (at least partially) through any suitable remote communication arrangements and software applications in cooperative operational relation with the controller <NUM> and/or user control interface <NUM>. For this purpose, a remote computing device <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>) interfaces with the controller <NUM> and/or user control interface <NUM> via the communication interface of the controller <NUM>. Examples of remote computing devices <NUM> comprise a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, a table top computer, etc..

Following is an exemplary sequence of operations of the beverage dispensing system <NUM> managed via the user control interface <NUM> and the controller <NUM>. When the beverage dispensing system <NUM> is powered on, provided with water in the water tank <NUM>, and a user selected ingredient container <NUM> is engaged in the container engaging inlet port on the housing <NUM>, a user may position a cup or bottle under the mixing unit outlet (e.g. faucet) <NUM>, select a custom beverage through the user control interface <NUM>, and actuate a start command of the beverage dispensing system <NUM> (the selection and actuation are performed either consecutively or simultaneously).

Following the start command, the controller <NUM> automatically calculates a suitable time and speed of operation of the water pump <NUM>, and suitable time and speed of operation of the ingredient pump <NUM>, according to the custom beverage selected by the user. The controller <NUM> also automatically calculates suitable operating parameters of the actuator <NUM> (e.g. direction of movement, suitable time and speed of operation for each movement, etc.). Once the calculations are completed, the controller <NUM> applies corresponding commands to both pumps <NUM> and <NUM>, as well as to the actuator <NUM>, so as to efficiently mix and deliver the desired custom beverage through the mixing unit outlet (e.g. faucet) <NUM>.

Thus, a user may advantageously select to be served a differently flavored custom beverage as desired, by simply engaging in the container engaging inlet port of the beverage dispensing system <NUM> a removable ingredient container <NUM> corresponding to the desired flavor. Alternatively, the user may simply select to be served plain water of the water tank <NUM> (in which case the ingredient pump <NUM> is not activated by the controller <NUM>).

Optionally, the beverage dispensing system <NUM> further comprises liquid flow measuring means capable of providing a liquid flow measure of the ingredient liquid entering the mixing unit <NUM> through the mixing unit ingredient inlet <NUM>.

In a first exemplary implementation, the liquid flow measuring means consists of a time based liquid measuring algorithm executed by the controller <NUM>, based on the operating time of the ingredient pump <NUM> and a predetermined viscosity value of the ingredient liquid in the ingredient container <NUM>.

In a second exemplary implementation, the liquid flow measuring means consists of a liquid flow meter (not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes) in operative communication with the controller <NUM>. The liquid flow meter measures the flow of liquid circulating from the ingredient container <NUM> towards the mixing unit <NUM>. For example, the liquid flow meter is coupled in serial liquid communication between the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> of the liquid extraction tube <NUM> and the mixing unit <NUM>. The controller <NUM> instantly actuates the ingredient pump <NUM> at a predetermined speed of operation following the start command, and calculates the remaining time and speed of operation of the ingredient pump <NUM>, based on the real time liquid flow measurements provided by the liquid flow meter. Thus, the estimated ingredient liquid volume actually delivered into the mixing unit <NUM> takes into account the current viscosity, fluidity and/or temperature of the ingredient liquid contained in the removable ingredient container <NUM>.

Optionally, consumer data, operational data, statistics and/or maintenance information are exchanged between the controller <NUM> and a customer database on a remote computing device <NUM> (e.g. a server), via the communication capabilities provided by the controller <NUM>.

Optionally, the beverage dispensing system <NUM> comprises a contactless data reader <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>, but not represented in <FIG> and <FIG> for simplification purposes) in operative communication with the controller <NUM> (or directly integrated to the controller <NUM>). The contactless data reader <NUM> allows the controller <NUM> to read data from the ingredient container <NUM> engaged in the container engaging inlet of the beverage dispensing system <NUM>. The ingredient container <NUM> comprises a component <NUM> (schematically represented in <FIG>) capable of storing the data and allowing reading of the data by the contactless data reader <NUM>. The component <NUM> will be referred to as a tag in the following.

In an exemplary implementation, the contactless data reader <NUM> comprises a barcode reader or a quick response (QR) code reader. In an exemplary configuration, the reader is mounted on the housing <NUM> and is substantially adjacent to the container engaging inlet port. A compatible bar code tag <NUM> or QR code tag <NUM> is integrated to the ingredient container <NUM>. In an exemplary configuration, the tag <NUM> is located along a plane portion of the ingredient container <NUM>. The tag <NUM> is further positioned so as to allow reading by the bar code reader or QR code reader mounted on the housing <NUM>.

In an alternative or complementary exemplary implementation, the contactless data reader <NUM> comprises a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader. A corresponding read or read/write RFID tag <NUM> is integrated to the ingredient container <NUM>.

Examples of data stored by the tag <NUM> comprise at least some of the following information related to the ingredient liquid present in the ingredient container <NUM>: type of ingredient liquid, flavor, viscosity, density, temperature, remaining level of ingredient liquid in the ingredient container <NUM>, etc. As mentioned previously, the contactless data reader <NUM> integrated to the beverage dispensing system <NUM> is capable of reading the information stored via the tag. Optionally, the tag <NUM> provides the capability of modifying the information stored by the tag <NUM>. In this case, the contactless data reader <NUM> is also capable of transferring data to the tag <NUM>, to modify at least some of the information stored by the tag <NUM>.

The information collected from or exchanged with the tag <NUM> can be used by the controller <NUM> to more accurately determine the appropriate time and speed of operation of the ingredient pump <NUM>, to simplify the choices or information needed to be entered by the user via the user control interface <NUM>, etc. Furthermore, some of the information collected from or exchanged with the tag <NUM> can be displayed on the display of the user control interface <NUM> (when the user control interface <NUM> comprises one).

Optionally, the controller <NUM> implements a machine learning algorithm (e.g. a neural network) to take decision(s) based on (at least) some of the information stored by the tag <NUM>. For example, in the case of a neural network, a predictive model of the neural network is stored in the memory of the controller <NUM>. The predictive model has been generated during a training phase, using a large amount of training data. When ready, the predictive model is transmitted to the controller <NUM> via its communication interface and stored in its memory. Using the predictive model, the neural network is capable of predicting the most effective time and / or speed of operation of the ingredient pump <NUM> based on relevant information read from the tag <NUM> (e.g. at least some of the type of ingredient, viscosity, density, temperature, remaining level of ingredient liquid, etc.).

Optionally, the data stored by the tag <NUM> comprise security information. If the required security information is not present or does not have the expected value, the controller <NUM> prevents the beverage dispensing system <NUM> from operating. The security information can be used to detect a counterfeit ingredient container <NUM>, to detect an ingredient container <NUM> that is not compatible with the currently used beverage dispensing system <NUM>, etc..

In an alternative implementation, the tag <NUM> is comprised in a cap (which will be detailed later in the description) for the ingredient container <NUM>.

Although not represented in the Figures for simplification purposes, an electrical power source powers the components of the beverage dispensing system <NUM> which need power to operate (the water pump <NUM>, the ingredient pump <NUM>, the controller <NUM>, the user control interface <NUM>, etc.).

The electrical power source may be any suitable electrical power source such as, for example, a <NUM> Volts Alternative Current (AC) outlet providing electrical power to the components of the system <NUM> through a conventional control switch and extension cord arrangement, a rechargeable battery mounted inside the housing <NUM>, or a combination thereof.

Furthermore, suitable tubing, molded liquid networks, or a combination thereof, may provide the liquid communications between the various components of the beverage dispensing system <NUM> as described above.

The beverage dispensing system <NUM> is further adapted to being cleaned and purged after each serving of a beverage. The cleaning and purging avoid the risks of having ingredient liquid remaining in the beverage dispensing system <NUM> (more specifically, remaining in other components than the ingredient container <NUM>) between two servings of a beverage. The cleaning and purging also prevents microbiological development in the beverage dispensing system <NUM>. For this purpose, all components of the beverage dispensing system <NUM> which have been in contact with the ingredient liquid are either rinsed with water (e.g. the ingredient pump <NUM>), or diluted with water (e.g. all components in liquid communication between the mixing unit <NUM> and the mixing unit outlet <NUM>, including the mixing unit <NUM> and the mixing unit outlet <NUM>).

To allow cleaning of the ingredient pump <NUM>, a motor of the ingredient pump <NUM> is adapted to rotate in two opposite directions. When operating the motor in one direction, a suction effect towards the ingredient container <NUM> is generated, to prepare the beverage. When operating the motor in the other direction, a suction effect towards the mixing unit <NUM> filled with water is generated, to clean the ingredient pump <NUM>. The suction of water in the ingredient pump <NUM> allows to rinse with water the ingredient pump <NUM>, in particular the ingredient pump inlet <NUM> in contact with the ingredient liquid. In an exemplary implementation, alternating a direction of rotation of the motor of the ingredient pump <NUM> can be used to circulate water in the ingredient pump <NUM>, then evacuate the water from the ingredient pump <NUM>.

Optionally, a container <NUM> containing a cleaning product can be used to clean the beverage dispensing system <NUM>.

Reference is now made concurrently to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, which illustrate an exemplary implementation of the ingredient container <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> are front views of the ingredient container <NUM>, also representing the liquid extraction tube <NUM> respectively in the retracted an extended positions. <FIG> is a bottom view of the ingredient container <NUM>.

As mentioned previously, the ingredient container <NUM> comprises the casing <NUM> for storing the ingredient liquid. The casing <NUM> defines an aperture <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) through which the ingredient liquid is extracted from the casing <NUM>.

In the exemplary implementation illustrated in <FIG>, the ingredient container <NUM> also comprises the previously mentioned container outlet port <NUM>. The aperture <NUM> is defined on the container outlet port <NUM> (e.g. on a bottom surface of the container outlet port <NUM>).

The ingredient container <NUM> comprises a resealable membrane <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) covering the aperture <NUM>. The resealable membrane <NUM> is adapted for receiving the liquid extraction tube <NUM> therethrough for on-demand liquid extraction from the casing <NUM> (in the extended position illustrated in <FIG>). More specifically, at least a portion of the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> of the liquid extraction tube <NUM> is received through the resealable membrane <NUM>. The resealable membrane <NUM> is generally made of silicon, but may be made of another material (or combination of materials).

The resealable membrane <NUM> automatically reseals the aperture <NUM> upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube <NUM> (in the retracted position illustrated in <FIG>). More specifically, the resealable membrane <NUM> automatically reseals the aperture <NUM> upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>.

The ingredient container <NUM> also comprises an air permeable membrane <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) for balancing a pressure in the casing <NUM> upon extracting ingredient liquid by the liquid extraction tube <NUM>. The air permeable membrane <NUM> is made of any material (or combination of materials) having the property of being permeable to air.

In an exemplary design of the ingredient container <NUM>, the casing <NUM>, the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are provided as a capsule.

<FIG> illustrate a first configuration where the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> form a single membrane. For example, the aperture <NUM> and the single membrane respectively form a disc having the same center, the single membrane covering the aperture <NUM>. The resealable membrane <NUM> forms a disc located at the center of the single membrane. The air permeable membrane <NUM> forms a taurus located at a periphery of the single membrane, and is concentric to the resealable membrane <NUM>.

<FIG> also illustrate a second configuration where the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are independent from one another, but are concentric. For example, the aperture <NUM> forms a disc. The resealable membrane <NUM> forms a disc located at the center of the aperture <NUM>. The air permeable membrane <NUM> forms a taurus located at a periphery of the aperture <NUM>, and is concentric to the resealable membrane <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a configuration where the aperture <NUM> is covered by both the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM>. Alternatively, the casing <NUM> defines a second aperture (independent of the aperture <NUM>) which is covered by the air permeable membrane <NUM> (as will be illustrated later in the description).

<FIG> illustrate a configuration where the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are located outside the casing <NUM> (more specifically outside the container outlet port <NUM>). Alternatively, the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are located inside the casing <NUM> (more specifically inside the container outlet port <NUM>). This configuration is not represented in the Figures.

The content of the ingredient container <NUM> being generally a viscous liquid, the design of the resealable membrane <NUM> is adapted to prevent any leak to occur when the ingredient pump <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>) is stopped and, substantially concurrently, the liquid extraction tube <NUM> is moved back to its retracted position, thus saleably closing the resealable membrane <NUM>. Hence, an ingredient container <NUM> still having some ingredient liquid therein may be removed from the beverage dispensing system <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>) in wait of future usage(s) thereof until it is emptied. The removed ingredient container <NUM> is not subject to leaking of the remaining ingredient liquid therein.

In an exemplary implementation, the resealable membrane defines a cross-slit valve structure, or equivalent, suitably configured for allowing the liquid extraction tube <NUM> to be selectively inserted and retracted through the membrane <NUM>, without provoking any loss of ingredient liquid from the ingredient container <NUM>, even when the ingredient container <NUM> still comprises liquid after retraction of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>. The cross-slit valve structure has an overall diameter that is at least slightly greater than the diameter of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>. Thus, when the liquid extraction tube <NUM> is moved to its extended position into the cross-slit valve structure, the latter is at least slightly spread open. In turn, this spreading of the cross-slit valve structure in the membrane <NUM> inherently creates a plurality of relatively small triangular vent openings in an equidistantly spaced apart relationship around the liquid extraction tube <NUM>. These relatively small triangular vent openings allow ambient air to enter the otherwise airtight ingredient container <NUM> when its content is actively vacuumed into the liquid extraction tube <NUM> introduced therein. With this particular implementation, the small triangular vent openings may be sufficient for balancing the pressure in the ingredient container <NUM> upon extracting liquid by the liquid extraction tube <NUM>, in which case the air permeable membrane <NUM> is not used.

In another exemplary implementation, the liquid extraction tube <NUM> includes a vent conduit (not represented in the Figures) extending proximally parallelly relative to substantially the whole longitudinal length of the liquid extraction passageway of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>, so as to prevent a vacuum build-up into the ingredient container <NUM>, particularly when the ingredient in the ingredient container <NUM> is a syrup-like viscous liquid. The vent conduit allows ambient air to be vacuumed into the ingredient container <NUM> as its viscous liquid is extracted through the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>. As is well known in the art of olive spouts, such a vent conduit may be implemented by a tubular member extending along an inner longitudinal surface of the liquid extraction passageway of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>, by a vent passageway integrally formed into and along a sidewall of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>, or along an outer longitudinal surface portion thereof. In an embodiment of the vent conduit, likewise well known in the art of olive spouts, an elongated end portion thereof extends longitudinally parallelly, and at least slightly distally further away, relative to the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>, such that once the vent conduit and the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> are cooperatively inserted through the cross-slit of the ingredient container <NUM>, the air vacuumed through the vent tube and into the ingredient container <NUM> is not simultaneously sucked into the adjacent liquid extraction inlet <NUM> of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>. With this particular implementation, the vent conduit may be sufficient for balancing the pressure in the ingredient container <NUM> upon extracting liquid by the liquid extraction inlet <NUM>, in which case the air permeable membrane <NUM> is not used.

Reference is now made concurrently to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, which illustrate another exemplary implementation of the ingredient container <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> are front views of the ingredient container <NUM>, also representing the liquid extraction tube <NUM> respectively in the retracted an extended positions. <FIG> is a bottom view of the ingredient container <NUM>.

The ingredient container <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> is similar to the one illustrated in <FIG>, except for the casing <NUM> defining a second aperture <NUM>. The air permeable membrane <NUM> covers the secondary aperture <NUM>.

In the exemplary implementation illustrated in <FIG>, the ingredient container <NUM> comprises the container outlet port <NUM>. The second aperture <NUM> is defined on the container outlet port <NUM> (e.g. on a bottom surface of the container outlet port <NUM>).

<FIG> illustrate a configuration where the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are independent from one another, and are not concentric. For example, the aperture <NUM> and the second aperture <NUM> form respective discs. The aperture <NUM> is located at a center of a bottom surface of the container outlet port <NUM>. The second aperture <NUM> is located at a periphery of the bottom surface of the container outlet port <NUM>. The resealable membrane <NUM> forms a disc covering the aperture <NUM>. The air permeable membrane <NUM> forms a disc covering the second aperture <NUM>.

Reference is now made concurrently to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, which illustrate still another exemplary implementation of the ingredient container <NUM>. <FIG> is a front view and <FIG> is a bottom view of the ingredient container <NUM>, also representing a cap <NUM> currently not affixed to the ingredient container <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> are front views of the ingredient container <NUM> and cap <NUM> currently affixed to the ingredient container <NUM>, also representing the liquid extraction tube <NUM> respectively in the retracted an extended positions.

The ingredient container <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> is similar to the one illustrated in <FIG>, except for the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> being provided as the cap <NUM> for closing the aperture <NUM> of the casing <NUM> of the ingredient container <NUM>.

The cap <NUM> comprises a body <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) adapted to be affixed to the ingredient container <NUM>. In the exemplary implementation illustrated in <FIG>, the ingredient container <NUM> also comprises the previously mentioned container outlet port <NUM>. The body <NUM> is adapted to be affixed to container outlet port <NUM> of the ingredient container <NUM>. For instance, the body <NUM> comprises an inner threading adapted for affixing at least a portion of the container outlet port <NUM> inside the body <NUM> (as illustrated in <FIG>). Alternatively, the body <NUM> comprises an outer threading adapted for affixing at least a portion of the body <NUM> inside the container outlet port <NUM>.

The body <NUM> defines a complementary aperture <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>). The complementary aperture <NUM> is adapted to cover the aperture <NUM> of the ingredient container <NUM> when the body <NUM> of the cap <NUM> is affixed to the ingredient container <NUM>. The ingredient liquid is extracted from the casing <NUM> through the aperture <NUM> of the ingredient container <NUM> and the complementary aperture <NUM> of the cap <NUM>.

The cap <NUM> comprises the resealable membrane <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) covering the complementary aperture <NUM> of the cap <NUM>. The resealable membrane <NUM> is adapted for receiving the liquid extraction tube <NUM> therethrough for on-demand liquid extraction from the casing <NUM> (in the extended position illustrated in <FIG>). More specifically, at least a portion of the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> of the liquid extraction tube <NUM> is received through the resealable membrane <NUM>.

The resealable membrane <NUM> automatically reseals the complementary aperture <NUM> of the cap <NUM> upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube <NUM> (in the retracted position illustrated in <FIG>). More specifically, the resealable membrane <NUM> automatically reseals the complementary aperture <NUM> of the cap <NUM> upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction inlet <NUM> of the liquid extraction tube <NUM>.

The cap <NUM> also comprises the air permeable membrane <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) for balancing a pressure in the casing <NUM> upon extracting ingredient liquid by the liquid extraction tube <NUM>.

As previously described in relation to <FIG>, <FIG> illustrate a first configuration where the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> form a single membrane. For example, the complementary aperture <NUM> of the cap <NUM> and the single membrane respectively form a disc having the same center, the single membrane covering the complementary aperture <NUM>. The resealable membrane <NUM> forms a disc located at the center of the single membrane. The air permeable membrane <NUM> forms a taurus located at a periphery of the single membrane, and is concentric to the resealable membrane <NUM>.

As previously described in relation to <FIG>, <FIG> also illustrate a second configuration where the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are independent from one another, but are concentric. For example, the complementary aperture <NUM> of the cap <NUM> forms a disc. The resealable membrane <NUM> forms a disc located at the center of the complementary aperture <NUM>. The air permeable membrane <NUM> forms a taurus located at a periphery of the complementary aperture <NUM>, and is concentric to the resealable membrane <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a configuration where the complementary aperture <NUM> of the cap <NUM> is covered by both the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM>. Alternatively, as previously described in relation to <FIG>, the body <NUM> of the cap <NUM> defines a second complementary aperture (independent of the complementary aperture <NUM>) which is covered by the air permeable membrane <NUM>. The configuration of the cap <NUM> with both the complementary aperture <NUM> and second complementary aperture is not represented in the Figures, but can be easily adapted by a person skilled in the art from the configuration illustrated in <FIG>. In addition to the complementary aperture <NUM> defined in the body <NUM> of the cap <NUM> covering the aperture <NUM> of the ingredient container <NUM>, the second complementary aperture defined in the body <NUM> of the cap <NUM> covers the second aperture <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) of the ingredient container <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a configuration where the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are located outside the body <NUM> of the cap <NUM>. Alternatively, the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are located inside the body <NUM> of the cap <NUM>. This configuration is not represented in the Figures.

As mentioned previously, the tag <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be integrated to the body <NUM> of the cap <NUM> instead of the casing <NUM> of the ingredient container <NUM>.

The usage of the resealable membrane <NUM> without the cap <NUM> (as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>) or in combination with the cap <NUM> (as illustrated in <FIG>) provides the following advantages: the ingredient container <NUM> can be easily cleaned, refilled and/or have its membrane <NUM> replaced with a new one. Furthermore, a user may selectively replace a first ingredient container <NUM> actively engaged in the container engaging inlet port with another ingredient container <NUM> having a different content, even though the first ingredient container <NUM> is not yet empty. Other types of removable container engaging arrangements (known in the art of beverage dispensing systems) may be used in place of the container engaging inlet port (for example, a bayonets engaging arrangement, a threaded engaging arrangement, a releasable press-and-lock engaging arrangement, etc.).

Reference is now made concurrently to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, which provide different perspective views of an exemplary ingredient container <NUM> and exemplary cap <NUM>, based on the implementation illustrated in <FIG>. The ingredient container <NUM> comprises the container outlet port <NUM>. The ingredient container <NUM> also comprises a top removable member <NUM>, which can be removed as illustrated in <FIG>, and which is otherwise secured to the ingredient container <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> are illustrative of the aforementioned exemplary configuration where the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> form a single membrane. <FIG> are also illustrative of the aforementioned exemplary configuration where the resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are independent from one another, but are concentric. The resealable membrane <NUM> and the air permeable membrane <NUM> are positioned inside the cap <NUM>, and are adapted to cover the secondary aperture <NUM> of the cap <NUM> and the aperture <NUM> of the container outlet port <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A container (<NUM>) for storing a liquid and allowing extraction of the liquid on-demand, the container (<NUM>) comprising:
a casing (<NUM>) for storing the liquid, the casing (<NUM>) defining an aperture (<NUM>);
a resealable membrane (<NUM>) covering the aperture (<NUM>) of the casing (<NUM>), the resealable membrane (<NUM>) being adapted for receiving a liquid extraction tube (<NUM>) therethrough for on-demand liquid extraction from the casing (<NUM>), the resealable membrane (<NUM>) automatically resealing the aperture (<NUM>) upon withdrawal of the liquid extraction tube (<NUM>); characterised in
an air permeable membrane (<NUM>) for balancing a pressure in the casing (<NUM>) upon extracting liquid by the liquid extraction tube (<NUM>).