Method and apparatus for controlling brewed beverage quality
US8623441B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jan 7, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 27, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA47J31/3614
- WIPO fieldFurniture, games
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A brewing system and method are shown for brewing a beverage, such as coffee or tea. The system includes an inline sensor or sensor array that intercepts the dispensing stream and measures the time dependent properties of the brewed liquid at a particular location as the liquid is dispensed. In a particular embodiment, the total dissolved solids is measured to produce a coffee signature, which is sent to a controller that uses the time-dependent data to perform one or more of the following: evaluate the quality of the brewed liquid, control the brewing process for subsequent brewing cycles; identify the blend or brand of brewed product; and/or determine when maintenance is needed or advisable for the brewing system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.