Beverage preparation system

US11412884B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Kerry Group Services International Ltd · IE

Inventors

• John Michael Herbert · Norwood, US
• Bryan R. Hotaling · Harvard, US
• John A. MacNeill · Acton, US
• Scott A. Leclerc · Ashby, US
• Matthew Naples · Acton, US
• Patrick J. Devine · Townsend, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 1, 2019
• Grant date: Aug 16, 2022
• Expiry date: May 25, 2040

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B67D2210/00097
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A method of operating a beverage preparation machine that permits automated preparation of a variety of beverages. A plurality of stations add ingredients to a beverage container and process the contents directly in the container in some embodiments. Parallel preparation of more than one beverage may be performed in some embodiments. A robotic arm moves the beverage container to the stations. The robotic arm may include a weight sensor as part of controlling the addition of ingredients.