10 patents in this list
Updated: February 06, 2024
This page provides an overview of patented solutions for verification systems tailored to coffee pods. These systems encompass diverse methods aimed at ensuring authenticity, quality control, and consumer safety within the coffee pod industry. By leveraging technological advancements, these patents contribute to enhancing product integrity, bolstering consumer trust, and streamlining quality assurance processes in the production and distribution of coffee pods.
SOCIETE DES PRODUITS NESTLE S.A., 2023
Beverage machine that can automatically identify the type of beverage capsule inserted to optimize brewing parameters. The machine has a capsule recognition module that uses an optical sensor and light source to measure properties of the capsule surface. It compares the measured values to reference values for known capsule types to determine the capsule type.
SOCIETE DES PRODUITS NESTLE S.A., 2023
Beverage preparation machine using capsules that can automatically recognize the capsule type inserted in order to adapt the beverage preparation. The machines have a module (e.g. a color sensor) that senses a property of the capsule like its color, material or resistivity. It compares the sensed value to reference values for known capsule types to determine the capsule type. If no single match is found, it selects at least two reference values to increase certainty.
Societe des Produits Nestle S.A., 2022
A capsule for preparing a beverage that can be identified by a machine to adjust parameters for extraction. The capsule contains a code on its surface that can be read when the capsule is rotated in a beverage extraction device. The code provides information to the machine about the beverage inside. By rotating the capsule during extraction, the machine can identify the code and adjust parameters like flow rate, pressure, and temperature for optimal extraction. This enables customization of the extraction process for different capsule contents.
TELECOM ITALIA S.p.A., 2022
A system and method for recognizing coffee capsules in a coffee machine without requiring special features on the capsules that increase cost. The method involves using a vibration sensor in the coffee machine to detect vibrations of components like the pump or capsule holder during brewing. The vibrations are caused by the changing mass of the capsule as it absorbs water. Analysis of the vibration data allows recognition of capsule types without physical features.
Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co., LTD., 2022
Coffee capsule machine that can recognize the identification code on a coffee capsule, then automatically extract the coffee according to the code. The machine has a camera positioned to view the capsule's code when it is in the extraction chamber. The camera captures an image of the code, which is decoded by the control circuit. The code identifies the coffee type and the circuit sets the extraction parameters accordingly, like water volume and temperature. The circuit controls the heating and extraction units to deliver the customized extraction for the identified coffee capsule.
Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co., LTD., 2022
A drawer-type capsule coffee machine that can automatically extract and brew coffee from capsules without any manual operation. The machine has an identification assembly to read patterns on the capsule. When the extraction assembly is exposed, the identification assembly reads the pattern and sends a signal to drive the extraction assembly to slide in. A cutter assembly above aligns with the capsule to puncture it. The extraction assembly then slides back out to brew the coffee.
LUIGI LAVAZZA S.p.A, 2020
Capsules for making beverages like coffee using machines like Nespresso that have improved features for compatibility, identification and extraction. The capsules have projections and recesses arranged in a rectilinear pattern along a plane parallel to the flange. The bottom of the capsule has a cross-section that transitions from circular to at least approximately quadrangular shape. This allows improved compatibility and identification with machines using toothed gears, while still allowing extraction of the beverage.
Seva Coffee Corporation, 2019
A coffee machine that allows consumers to roast, grind, and brew their own coffee from green beans in a single device. The machine has a roasting system, grinding system, and brewing system all in one unit. The machine accepts sealed pods containing green coffee beans. It rapidly roasts the beans, then grinds and brews the roasted beans to make a cup of coffee. This allows consumers to control the roast level and freshness of their coffee, and also prevents counterfeiting by verifying the origin of the green beans.
Nestec S.A., 2018
Capsule for preparing a beverage such as coffee containing a 2D barcode for machine reading. The barcode provides information on parameters like water pressure, temperature, volume, brewing time, etc, for optimized beverage preparation. This allows customization for different capsules.
Eugster/Frismag AG, 2015
A coffee machine that prevents use of incompatible capsules by using a rotating lock mechanism in the capsule insertion chute. The lock has teeth driven by a toothed ring on compatible capsules. If an incompatible capsule is inserted, it won't engage the teeth and will fall into the waste chute instead of the brewing chamber.
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