Liquid flow control and beverage preparation apparatuses

摘要

Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are shown. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.

主权项

1. An apparatus for guiding liquid through an enhanced beverage preparation process using a flow control system, the apparatus comprising:
a. a liquid flow path having an inlet adapted for fluid communication with a source of liquid and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with a receiving point; b. the flow control system positionable between the inlet and outlet of the liquid flow path and configurable between:
i. a flow-through mode adapted to produce the enhanced beverage by passing liquid through the liquid flow path; andii. a parallel flow mode adapted to produce the enhanced beverage by simultaneously passing liquid through the liquid flow path and an enhancement flow path and combining at a mixing point; c. a removably insertable enhancement cartridge comprising an inlet and an outlet and a flow-through configuration or a parallel flow configuration between the inlet and outlet, wherein the inlet and outlet comprise a seal openable by passing liquid through the liquid flow path.