Advanced Flash Brewed Coffee Concentrate Method
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
Cold brew coffee has gained popularity for its unique flavor profile, but traditional preparation methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive. The original patent, 'Method of producing a flash brewed coffee concentrate', introduced a method for producing flash brewed coffee concentrate. However, it has limitations in terms of flavor profile, shelf-life, and customization options. The present invention addresses these limitations by introducing an enhanced system and method for producing flash brewed coffee concentrate with improved flavor profile, shelf-life, and customizable flavor options.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The present invention introduces several novel features, including the use of a temperature control system to optimize flavor extraction, a heat exchanger for rapid cooling, and a sterile mixing environment to improve shelf-life. The invention also includes a quality control module to ensure consistency in the produced flash brewed coffee concentrate. The customization options for flavor profile and the integration of quality control and automated cleaning and sanitation features are also non-obvious and novel compared to the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include different brewing module configurations, such as using different brewing vessels or temperature control systems. The chilling module could also be implemented using different cooling methods, such as using a cold plate or a cryogenic fluid. The mixing module could be configured to combine the cooled coffee with different types of concentrated coffee extracts or other ingredients to create unique flavor profiles. The quality control module could also be integrated with other sensors and monitoring systems to ensure consistency in the produced flash brewed coffee concentrate.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present invention has significant commercial potential in the coffee industry, particularly in the cold brew coffee segment. The invention's ability to produce flash brewed coffee concentrate with enhanced flavor profile, improved shelf-life, and customizable flavor options makes it an attractive solution for coffee manufacturers, cafes, and restaurants. The invention could also be used in other industries, such as food service and beverage production, where high-quality coffee concentrates are required.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A23 | A23F5/267 |
| A | A23 | A23F5/04 |
| A | A23 | A23F5/08 |
| A | A23 | A23F5/243 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Coffee brewing technology, specifically flash brewing and concentrate production techniques, involving thermal processing, extraction methods, and beverage formulation
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with expertise in food engineering, beverage processing, and thermal extraction techniques, typically holding a degree in food science, chemical engineering, or related field, with practical experience in coffee production and processing technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's disclosed variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core flash brewing methodology, utilizing known engineering techniques to incrementally improve coffee concentrate production through temperature control, cooling methods, and process optimization strategies that are inherent to beverage manufacturing practices.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,856,964 |
|---|---|
| Title | Method of producing a flash brewed coffee concentrate |
| Assignee(s) | S&D Coffee, Inc. |