Enhanced Exchangeable Cartridge System for Beverage Portion Dispensers

Publication ID: 24-11857104_0001_PTD
Published: November 07, 2025
Category:Direct Improvements & Enhancements

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Enhanced Exchangeable Cartridge System for Beverage Portion Dispensers,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857104_0001_PTD, Published November 07, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857104_0001_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,104.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

An advanced exchangeable cartridge system for beverage portion dispensers, offering improved storage, dispensing, and refilling capabilities, with enhanced protection from ambient air, moisture, and UV light.

Background and Problem Solved

The original exchangeable cartridge for beverage portion dispensers had limitations in terms of storage capacity, protection from environmental factors, and refilling efficiency. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing compartmentalized storage, adjustable compartment sizes, and advanced sensing capabilities, ensuring a more efficient, convenient, and high-quality beverage preparation experience.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The enhanced exchangeable cartridge system comprises an elongated hollowed storage member divided into multiple compartments to store different types of beverage items. The storage member is designed with adjustable compartment sizes to accommodate various sizes of beverage items. A sensor is integrated into the system to detect the type and quantity of beverage items stored in the cartridge. The cartridge is designed for easy refilling, with a process that ensures protection from ambient air and moisture. The system also includes a method for preparing beverages using the exchangeable cartridge, involving loading, dispensing, and refilling the cartridge with a plurality of beverage items.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce novel features such as compartmentalized storage, adjustable compartment sizes, and advanced sensing capabilities, which provide a significant improvement over the original patent. The inventive step lies in the combination of these features, which enables a more efficient, convenient, and high-quality beverage preparation experience.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include varying the number and size of compartments, using different types of sensors, or integrating additional features such as automated beverage preparation or real-time inventory tracking. Variations of the system could be designed for specific industries, such as coffee or tea, or for use in different types of beverage dispensers.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The enhanced exchangeable cartridge system has significant commercial potential in the beverage industry, particularly in the coffee and tea markets. The system's improved storage, dispensing, and refilling capabilities make it an attractive solution for businesses and consumers seeking a high-quality beverage preparation experience. The system's advanced sensing capabilities and potential for automation also make it suitable for use in commercial settings, such as cafes or restaurants.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A47 A47J31/407
B B65 B65D85/804
A A47 A47J31/4403

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,104
TitleExchangeable cartridge for beverage portion dispenser
Assignee(s)SOCIÉTÉ DES PRODUITS NESTLÉ S.A.