WO2025188653A1

WO2025188653A1 - Integrated single-side access beverage pod with optimized fluid dynamics for portable brewing and blending systems

Info

Publication number: WO2025188653A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/018191
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rakesh GUDURU; Peter N. CHRISTOS; JR. Jerome R. PEARRING
Original assignee: Blended Biohealth Ip Inc
Current assignee: Blended Biohealth Ip Inc
Priority date: 2024-03-04
Filing date: 2025-03-03
Publication date: 2025-09-12
Anticipated expiration: 2026-09-04
Also published as: WO2025188653A8; WO2025188653A9

Abstract

A beverage cartridge can include a cup portion having a flat upper rim with a circular periphery, side walls and a bottom. The side walls can extend downwardly from the upper rim. The side walls can have a circular arc side wall portion that is connected to a flat side wall portion forming a cup cavity therein. A fluid exit channel side wall portion can be connected to and centered along the flat side wall portion. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can extend outwardly from the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion to the upper rim. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can define a fluid exit channel that is positioned outwardly relative to the flat side wall portion and in fluid communication with the cup cavity.

Description

Integrated Single-Side Access Beverage Pod With Optimized Fluid Dynamics For Portable Brewing And Blending Systems

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/562,802, filed on March 8, 2024. This application also is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Design Application No. 29/930,974, filed on March 4, 2024. The entire teachings of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Disposable cartridges or pods for beverages such as coffee, typically consist of a sealed circular container holding coffee grounds, which is punctured with needles for introducing water and extracting the brewed coffee. Such a cartridge or pod design is typically limited for the purpose of making coffee or similar beverages.

SUMMARY

[0003] The present disclosure can provide a beverage cartridge or pod that can be used for making a variety of different hot and cold beverages, in addition to coffee. The beverage cartridge can include a cup portion having a flat upper rim with a circular periphery, side walls and a bottom. The side walls can extend downwardly from the upper rim. The side walls can have a circular arc side wall portion that is connected to a flat side wall portion forming a cup cavity therein. A fluid exit channel side wall portion can be connected to and centered along the flat side wall portion. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can extend outwardly from the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion to the upper rim. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can define a fluid exit channel that is positioned outwardly relative to the flat side wall portion and in fluid communication with the cup cavity.

[0004] In particular embodiments, the circular arc side wall portion can extend for an arc length of about 230 - 260°. A filter element can be fitted into the cup cavity. Beverage ingredients can be contained within the filter element. A seal member can be sealed to the upper rim over the filter element. The seal member is capable of being punctured by a fluid entry needle for extending into the cup cavity and being punctured by a fluid exit needle for extending into the fluid exit channel. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can form an alignment protrusion for aligning the cartridge in a receptacle for a beverage device. In some embodiments, the flat side wall portion can separate the cup cavity from the fluid exit channel along a majority of a height of the flat side wall portion. An opening through the flat side wall portion at the bottom of the cup portion can allow fluid communication between the cup cavity and the fluid exit channel. The opening can be positioned at 14 or less the height of the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion. Beverage ingredients can be positioned within the cup cavity. In some embodiments, the beverage ingredients can be within a filter element. In some embodiments, the fluid exit channel can extend through a rim passage in the upper rim. Portions of the upper rim surrounding the rim passage can form a rim passage sealing surface therearound. A seal member can be sealed to the upper rim over the cup cavity and around the rim passage. The seal member is capable of being punctured by a fluid entry needle for extending into the cup cavity and being punctured by a fluid exit needle for extending through the rim passage into the fluid exit channel.

[0005] The present disclosure can also provide a beverage cartridge including a cup portion having a flat upper rim with a circular periphery, side walls and a bottom. The side walls can extend downwardly from the upper rim. The side walls can have a circular arc side wall portion that is connected to a flat side wall portion forming a cup cavity therein. A fluid exit channel side wall portion can be connected to and centered along the flat side wall portion. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can extend outwardly from the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion to the upper rim. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can define a fluid exit channel that is positioned outwardly relative to the flat side wall portion. The flat side wall portion can separate the cup cavity from the fluid exit channel along a majority of a height of the flat side wall portion. An opening through the flat side wall portion positioned at 14 or less the height of the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion can allow fluid communication between the cup cavity and the fluid exit channel.

[0006] The present disclosure can also provide a method of forming a beverage cartridge including forming a cup portion having a flat upper rim with a circular periphery, side walls and a bottom. The side walls can extend downwardly from the upper rim. The side walls can have a circular arc side wall portion that is connected to a flat side wall portion forming a cup cavity therein. A fluid exit channel side wall portion can be connected to and centered along the flat side wall portion. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can extend outwardly from the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion to the upper rim. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can define a fluid exit channel that is positioned outwardly relative to the flat side wall portion and in fluid communication with the cup cavity.

[0007] In particular embodiments, the circular arc side wall portion can extend for an arc length of about 230 - 260°. A filter element can be inserted into the cup cavity. The filter element can be filled with beverage ingredients. A seal member can be sealed to the upper rim over the filter element. The seal member is capable of being punctured by a fluid entry needle for extending into the cup cavity and being punctured by a fluid exit needle for extending into the fluid exit channel. The fluid exit channel side wall portion can form an alignment protrusion for aligning the cartridge in a receptacle for a beverage device. In some embodiments, the cup cavity can be separated from the fluid exit channel with the flat side wall portion along a majority of a height of the flat side wall portion. An opening through the flat side wall portion at the bottom of the cup portion can allow fluid communication between the cup cavity and the fluid exit channel. The opening can be positioned at 14 or less the height of the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion. The cup cavity can be filled with beverage ingredients. In some embodiments, the beverage ingredients can be filled within a filter element. In some embodiments, the fluid exit channel can extend through a rim passage in the upper rim. Portions of the upper rim can surround the rim passage forming a rim passage sealing surface therearound. A seal member can be sealed to the upper rim over the cup cavity and around the rim passage. The seal member is capable of being punctured by a fluid entry needle for extending into the cup cavity and being punctured by a fluid exit needle for extending through the rim passage into the fluid exit channel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The foregoing will be apparent from the following more particular description of example embodiments, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating embodiments.

[0009] FIG. 1 is an exploded side sectional view of an embodiment of a beverage cartridge in the present disclosure for insertion into a beverage container.

[0010] FIG. 2 is side sectional view of a beverage container after insertion of a beverage cartridge therein.

[0011] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a beverage cartridge. [0012] FIG. 4 is a side sectional view of an embodiment of a beverage cartridge pierced by fluid entry and fluid exit needles.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a side sectional view of another embodiment of a beverage cartridge pierced by fluid entry and fluid exit needles.

[0014] FIG. 6-13 are front perspective, rear perspective, top, bottom, front, rear, right side and left side views, respectfully, of an embodiment of a beverage cartridge.

[0015] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a beverage cartridge.

[0016] FIG. 15 is a side sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 14 pierced by fluid entry and fluid exit needles.

[0017] FIG. 16 is a side sectional view of another embodiment of a beverage cartridge pierced by fluid entry and fluid exit needles.

[0018] FIGs. 17 and 18 are schematic drawings of an embodiment of a beverage cartridge in the present disclosure, and an example cartridge having a completely circular cup portion, respectfully, showing the difference in size of the cup cavities.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] A description of example embodiments follows.

[0020] Referring to FIGs. 1 and 2, the present disclosure can provide a multiple or single use beverage pod, cartridge, system or structure 1 for use in a portable beverage blending, mixing and/or brewing container, apparatus, bottle, system or device 50 having a puncture system and fluid dynamics, and the capability to accommodate a variety of solid grounds, beverage materials, ingredients and liquid concentrates 58. The utility of the pod system 1 can extend beyond brewing traditional coffee and tea, to include blending or mixing hot and cold beverages, and can include beverages, energy drinks, flavored concentrates or mixes and other innovative concoctions. The pod structure 1 can include an empty space around a filter or filter member or element 4 and a specialized fluid directing or exit channel 9 that can support a wide array of beverage forms. The beverage pods 1 can allow for the infusion of liquid, fluid or water and extraction of beverage liquid 62 through a single-side puncture mechanism, facilitating the preparation of a wide variety of hot and cold beverages in a portable beverage container 50, without dealing with leakages.

[0021] The pod’s 1 interior can be contoured for optimal fluid dynamics, ensuring that the beverage can be almost completely consumed with minimal tilting of the beverage container 50. This can be achieved through a specialized fluid directing or exit channel 9 that efficiently guides the beverage liquid 62 allowing for near complete extraction of the beverage 62. The pod’s 1 structure can include a filter 4 membrane that traps beverage ingredient 58 material such as coffee grounds, while allowing the brewed beverage liquid 62 to pass, and an empty space surrounding the filter 4 to facilitate the smooth flow of beverage liquid 62.

[0022] The pod 1 can accommodate a diverse array of beverage materials, ingredients or consumables 58, from solid coffee grounds to liquid concentrates, and can be suitable for a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, energy drinks, and flavored concentrates.

[0023] The present disclosure can provide embodiments of a single-use disposable beverage pod 1 designed for integration with a portable beverage container 50. The beverage container 50 can have an upper fluid, liquid or water reservoir 52 for containing fluid, liquid or water 60. A fluid or liquid entry channel needle 21 can extend from the fluid reservoir 52 downwardly into a lower socket chamber 56 along an upright axis B parallel and to one side of central axis C. A fluid or liquid exit channel needle 22 can extend downwardly into socket chamber 56 along upright axis A parallel to central axis C on an opposite side to axis B. The pod 1 can be placed or inserted into a bottom receptacle 54, which is then moved upwardly into socket chamber 56 and locked in place, with needles 21 and 22 piercing the seal member 2 of pod 1, whereby fluid 60 enters the pod 1 through fluid entry needle 21 and beverage liquid 62 exits pod 1 through fluid exit needle 22. The fluid exit needle 22 can be connected to an adjustable rotatable dilution valve 29 for diluting beverage liquid 62 with fluid, liquid or water 60 within fluid reservoir 52. The dilution valve 29 can be rotated about axis A with a drinking straw 30 that is rotatably connected to the dilution valve 29 about axis A, for opening and closing a dilution port 100 (FIG. 4) and controlling the amount of dilution before drinking the final beverage 62a.

[0024] Referring to FIGs. 1-4, the pod or cartridge 1 can have a top heat self-seal, seal or seal member 2, for securing beverage ingredients 58 within the pod 1 by adhering to the pod shell 7b when heat is applied. The seal 2 can maintain the integrity of the pod 1 during the brewing, blending or mixing process and ensuring no leakage occurs. Some of the following description describes coffee grounds as the beverage ingredients 58 used in brewing coffee for ease of understanding.

[0025] The filter 4 can be a permeable membrane that allows the passage of the mixed, blended or brewed beverage liquid 62 while retaining the beverage ingredients 58 such as coffee grounds. It can be shaped and fitted within the pod or cup portion 7 to prevent bypass of ground particulates or beverage ingredients 58.

[0026] A heat seal area 5 can contain beverage ingredients 58 such as coffee grounds (or tea leaves) within a filter pocket or cup cavity 10, thereby preventing migration into a fluid directing or exit channel 9. This can ensure that the resulting mixed, blended or brewed beverage liquid 62 is devoid of particulate matter.

[0027] A filter overhang 11 can cooperate with the heat seal area 5, where the bottom side 6a of the filter overhang 11 can seal to an inner side wall 7a of the outer shell 7b of the pod or cup portion 7, ensuring the filter 4 remains fixed and does not shift or deform when punctured by the fluid or liquid exit channel needle 22 as shown in FIG. 4. Double-sided glue or adhesive tape 3 can be applied to the top surface 6b of the filter overhang 11, which can secure beverage ingredients 58 such as coffee grounds in place, and prevent entry into the overhang region 11, as well as provide additional structural stability to the overhang 11 region, enabling a clean pierce by the fluid exit channel needle 22. The component 3 can serve a dual purpose, securing the filter overhang 11 to the top heat seal-seal 2, and reinforcing the filter’s 4 structural integrity. Such stability can ensure that when the fluid exit needle 22 pierces the filter overhang 11 of the filter 4 to enter the fluid directing or exit channel 9. The entry of the mixed, blended or brewed beverage liquid 62 is permitted without displacing the coffee grounds or beverage ingredients 58 in the filter pocket 10.

[0028] The outer shell 7b of the pod or cup portion 7 can form the primary structure, providing the necessary support for all internal components and ensuring the pod’s 1 compatibility with the portable beverage container 50.

[0029] The filter heat seal area 5 can adjoin the inner sidewall 8a of the pod’s 1 outer shell 7b at location 8, effectively creating an enclosed space that ensures the coffee grounds or beverage ingredients 58 remain securely in place.

[0030] The fluid directing or exit channel 9 of the pod or cup portion 7 can collect all the mixed, blended or brewed beverage liquid 62 from the filter 4, channeling it into a narrow passage that can ensure efficient liquid flow, such as when the pod or cup portion 7 is tilted in a specific direction. This design can facilitate a near-complete extraction of the beverage liquid 62, allowing consumers to enjoy almost every last drop without the need to excessively tilt their beverage container 50.

[0031] The filter pocket 10 can hold coffee grounds, beverage ingredients 58 or other consumables securely, and can be positioned within the pod or cup portion 7 in a manner that maximizes the interaction between coffee grounds or beverage ingredients 58 and the infused fluid 60 or water, ensuring a rich and robust blended flavor profile.

[0032] Embodiments of the pod or cup portion 7 can have ease of use and efficiency. The pod or cup portion 7 can accommodate a wide range of beverage ingredient 58 types from ground coffee to liquid concentrate.

[0033] FIG. 4 shows an arrangement of beverage ingredients 58 such as coffee grounds within cup portion 7, along with the positioning of the fluid or liquid entry and exit channel needles 21 and 22 respectively. The fluid or liquid entry channel needle 21 can start brewing or blending as hot water or fluid 60 is introduced into the pod 1. The top heat self-seal 2 can ensure that the pod 1 is securely closed, maintaining the integrity of the internal components. The fluid or liquid entry channel needle 21 and the fluid or liquid exit channel needle 22 are not components of the pod 1 itself, but are a part of the beverage container 50 designed to function in tandem with the pod or cartridge 1.

[0034] Coffee grounds or beverage ingredients 58 can be contained within the filter pocket 10, which is designed to allow the beverage liquid 62 to flow out while trapping the beverage ingredients 58 or coffee ground particles, facilitated by the filter membrane 28. This membrane 28 can act as a barrier to ensure that only the beverage liquid 62 extract passes through, without any particulate matter.

[0035] An empty space 24 around the filter 4 can create a buffer zone which aids in the smooth flow of the mixed, blended or brewed beverage liquid 62 into the fluid or liquid directing or exit channel 9 and can form an unobstructed pathway for the beverage liquid 62. [0036] The beverage liquid 62 with flavor extracts can exit the pod 1 through the fluid exit channel needle 22, which can be positioned in a manner to maintain the efficiency of liquid flow. The pod’s 1 outer shell 7b can provide structural support and protects the internal contents of the pod 1.

[0037] The fluid directing or exit channel 9 can guide the mixed, blended or brewed beverage liquid 62 towards the fluid exit channel needle 22 which in turn can be connected to a user control dilution valve 29 for additional dilution. This valve 29 can allow the user to customize the strength of the beverage liquid 62 by controlling the amount of additional fluid 60 or water mixed with the beverage liquid 62. The valve 29 is not a component of the pod 1 itself, but can be a part of the beverage container 50 designed to function in tandem with the pod 1. [0038] The beverage liquid 62, after optional additional dilution through the user control dilution valve 29, can reach a desired concentration final beverage 62a as preferred by the user for drinking through straw 30. This system can provide a customizable mixing, blending or brewing experience, resulting in a final beverage 62a tailored to individual taste preferences.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 5, a beverage mixing or blending pod or cartridge 40 can contain a beverage ingredient 58 such as a liquid concentrate, which through a blending process can become a user-customized drink. Hot or cold water/liquid or fluid 60 can enter the pod 40 via the fluid or liquid entry channel needle 21, blending with the pod’s 40 beverage ingredient 58 contents such as liquid concentrates, extracts or flavor mixers, which can all be enclosed within the pod outer shell 7b. This interaction can create a partially diluted blend or beverage liquid 62 that is channeled through the fluid directing or exit channel 9 and exits through the blended fluid or liquid exit channel needle 22. Users can further tailor the strength and flavor of the beverage liquid 62 by adjusting the user control dilution valve 29, adding more water, fluid or liquid 60 to obtain a final beverage 62a to suit the user’s taste. The valve 29 is not a component of the pod 40 itself, but can be a part of the beverage container 50 designed to function in tandem with the pod 40. The top heat self-seal 2 can preserve the pod’s 40 integrity by ensuring that its contents or beverage ingredients 58 are accessible exclusively through the punctures created by the fluid entry and fluid exit needles 21 and 22.

[0040] Embodiments of pods or cartridges in the present disclosure can include at least some of the following features.

[0041] 1. A fluid directing channel designed to facilitate a single-use disposable beverage pod for use with a portable brewing and blending system, comprising: [0042] a. A top heat self-seal that ensures the integrity of the pod’s contents during the brewing process;

[0043] b. A structural configuration that permits the inflow and outflow of liquid from only one side of the pod, thereby enabling directed fluid dynamics for optimized brewing.

[0044] 2. The beverage pod can contain a fluid directing channel designed to facilitate near-complete extraction of the beverage. [0045] 3. The fluid directing channel can be located on the side of the pod that aligns with the natural tilt of the portable brewing and blending system during sipping to enable consumption of the beverage down to the last sip remaining in the pod.

[0046] 4. The beverage pod can have a filter pocket designed to contain grounds for coffee, tea, and similar substances, and can be positioned exterior to the fluid directing channel to facilitate the extraction process during brewing.

[0047] 5. The filter pocket can be engineered to align with and accommodate the liquid entry channel needle of the portable brewing system, allowing for precise penetration and immersion into the coffee grounds, tea leaves, or other similar brewing substances contained within. This can ensure initiation of an optimal brewing process through direct contact while simultaneously preserving the structural integrity of both the overhang area and the filter pocket membrane.

[0048] 6. The filter overhang area can be penetrated by the liquid exit channel needle of the portable brewing system. This allows for entry of the liquid exit channel needle into the fluid directing channel, ensuring a controlled flow of the brewed beverage into the liquid exit channel. This can preserve the integrity of the filter pocket membrane to prevent the escape of brewing substances and maintain the purity of the beverage.

[0049] 7 The filter overhang area can have a securing mechanism such as heat-sealing or adhesive bonding to the outer pod shell, to maintain its position and integrity when engaged by the needle of the portable brewing system during the piercing process.

[0050] 8. The filter overhang area can have a securing mechanism such as heat-sealing or adhesive bonding to the top seal, to maintain its position and integrity when engaged by the needle of the portable brewing system during the piercing process.

[0051] 9. The beverage pod can lack a filter, and facilitate the blending of concentrates within the pod by allowing a diluting agent to enter through the liquid entry channel needle, and the exit of the blending beverage occurs through the liquid exit channel needle. [0052] The present disclosure can provide a single-use disposable beverage pod designed for a portable brewing and blending system. The beverage pod can have a top heat self-seal that can maintain the contents’ integrity during the brewing process. The structural configuration can permit the inflow and outflow of liquid from a single side, optimizing fluid dynamics and ensuring near-complete extraction of the beverage contents. A fluid directing channel can be positioned to align with the portable system’s natural tilt during sipping, enabling consumption almost down to the last drop. The pod can include a filter pocket for holding coffee grounds, tea leaves, or similar substances, which can align with the system’s liquid entry channel needle, promoting optimal brewing through direct contact and maintain structural integrity. Furthermore, the filter pocket’s overhang area can allow penetration by the liquid exit channel needle, ensuring a controlled flow of the brewed beverage and preserving the purity by preventing the escape of brewing substances. The filter overhang area can include a securing mechanism, such a heat-sealing or adhesive bonding to maintain position and integrity during the piercing process. Additionally, the pod can be utilized for blending concentrates by omitting a filter, thereby allowing a diluting agent to mix directly within the pod for an integrated blend.

[0053] Further details of embodiments of the present disclosure follow. Referring to FIGs. 1-4 and 6-13, the pod or cup portion 7 can be made of suitable materials such as plastic or aluminum, for example, by pressing or molding. The cup portion 7 can have a flat upper rim 64, side walls 66 and a flat bottom 68. The upper rim 64 can be round, circular or generally annular in shape, and can have a radius R1 from a central axis Cp that is the vertical or upright central axis of the pod or cartridge 1. The side walls 66 can integrally extend downwardly from the upper rim 64 inwardly offset from the outer perimeter of the upper rim 64. The side walls 66 can have a circular arc side wall portion 66a that is connected to a flat side wall portion 66b, forming a cup cavity 78 therein, that has a round or circular shape which is flat on one side. The circular arc side wall portion 66a can have an arc length angle 9 of about 230 - 260°, for example 250°, and at the junction with upper rim 64, can have a radius R2 from central axis Cp, that is smaller than radius R1 (see FIGs. 9, 10 and 12). As a result, circular arc side wall portion 66a can be concentric with upper rim 64 and offset radially inward from the perimeter of the upper rim 64. The circular arc side wall portion 66a and the flat side wall portion 66b can be tapered, angling inwardly moving downwardly for example between about 2-5 °, which can help in the manufacturing process. A fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c can be integrally connected to or extend radially outwardly from the flat side wall portion 66b. The fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c can be centered relative to or along the flat side wall portion 66b, in alignment relative to central axis Cp (see FIGs. 9 and 11). The fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c can extend from the bottom 68 of the cup portion 7 to the upper rim 64, and can be generally channel shaped, with two flat sides 65b extending from an outward face 65a on opposite sides, forming the fluid exit channel 9 therebetween outwardly relative to the flat side wall portion 66b and in fluid communication with the cup cavity 78. The outward face 65a can have a slight curve as seen in FIG. 9, and the sides 65b and face 65a can have a slight taper inwardly moving downwardly. The face 65a can have the same taper as the circular arc side wall portion 66a, and the two flat sides 65b can have a taper of about 2°.

[0054] The fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c can form an elongated alignment protrusion or key member extending outwardly from the flat side wall portion 66b for aligning the cartridge 1 in the proper orientation within the interior 54a of the bottom receptacle 54 of beverage container 50 (FIG. 1). The interior 54a can have a slot 54b with slot walls into which the fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c can be received for orientation. The bottom receptacle 54 can have locking features or protrusions 54c on opposite sides of the bottom receptacle 54 that engage with and lock within complementary locking features or recesses 56a on the opposite sides of the socket chamber 56 of beverage container 50 for locking therein. The slot 54b can be aligned in a selected orientation relative to the locking protrusions 54c so that the pod or cartridge 1 can be oriented within the bottom receptacle 54 in only one orientation. In addition, the bottom receptacle 54 can also have an external elongated alignment protrusion or key member 55 for engaging a mating elongated slot 57 within the socket chamber 56 for allowing engagement of the bottom receptacle 54 in the socket chamber 56 in only one orientation. As a result, when the bottom receptacle 54 is inserted upwardly into the socket chamber 56 of beverage container 50 along central axis C in the direction of the arrows in FIG. 1, the cartridge 1 can be in the proper orientation for the fluid entry needle 21 to puncture the seal member 2 and extend into the cup cavity 78 along axis B, and for the fluid exit needle 22 to simultaneously puncture the seal member 2 and extend into the fluid exit channel 9 along axis A on the opposite side of central axis C.

[0055] The seal member 2 and the flat upper rim 70 of the filter or filter member or element 4 can have the same diameter and radius R1 from central axis Cp as the cup portion 7, for bonding or sealing to the flat upper rim 64 of the cup portion 7 by heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing and/or adhesive sealing (FIG. 3). The filter member 4 can have a filter pocket 10 that is shaped to fit into the cup cavity 78 of the cup portion 7 in a complementary manner. The filter member 4 can have filter side walls 80 extending downwardly from the upper rim 70, and a flat bottom 82. The filter side walls 80 can have a circular arc side wall portion 80a that is connected to a flat side wall portion 80b, and with the bottom 82, forming the filter pocket 10 therein. The circular arc side wall portion 80a can have the same arc angle length 9 as the circular arc side wall portion 66a of cup portion 7. The portions 80a and 80b of the side walls 80 can be tapered, angling inwardly moving downwardly.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 4, the pod or cartridge 1 can be positioned within beverage container 50 so that the central axis Cp of the pod or cartridge 1 is aligned with the central axis C of the beverage container 50. Beverage materials, consumables or ingredients 58, such as grounds, leaves, particulates, precipitates, concentrates, crystals or powders, etc., can be positioned in the filter pocket 10 for brewing, mixing or blending with fluid or liquid 60 such as water introduced from fluid entry needle 21 to form a brewed, mixed or blended beverage liquid or fluid 62. The beverage liquid 62 exits the filter member 4, for example downwardly and/or laterally into the fluid exit channel 9 of the cartridge 1. Suction on the straw 30 of the beverage container 50 can draw beverage liquid 62 from the fluid exit channel 9 of the cartridge 1 through fluid exit needle 22. The beverage liquid 62 exits the cartridge 1 entering dilution valve 29, where dilution of the beverage liquid 62 with liquid or fluid 60 entering dilution valve 29 through dilution port 100 can be controlled by adjusting dilution valve 29 with rotation of drinking straw 30 to result in the final beverage 62a that is consumed by the user.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 5, pod or cartridge 40 differs from cartridge 1 in that cartridge 40 can contain beverage ingredients 58 in the cup cavity 78 of the cup portion 7 without using a filter member 4. The beverage ingredients 58 can include liquid concentrates, crystals, precipitates, powders, extracts or flavor mixers. Some embodiments can include large leaves or plant matter.

[0058] Referring to FIGs. 14 and 15, in another embodiment, beverage pod or cartridge 90 differs from pod or cartridge 1 in that the cup portion 97 can have a tapered flat side wall portion 66b with a flat central separator or baffle wall portion 67 extending outwardly relative to flat side wall portion 66b that is aligned with central axis Cp and can extend vertically downwardly and between the two flat sides 65b of the fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c opposite to the outward face 65a. The central baffle wall portion 67 can terminate before reaching the bottom 68 of the cup portion 97 to form an enclosed fluid exit channel 9 with a passage or opening 76 at the bottom of the central baffle wall portion 67 and near the bottom 68 of cup portion 97 between the cup cavity 78 and the fluid exit channel 9 for fluid communication therebetween. Since the outward face 65a of the fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c is tapered angling inwardly moving downwardly and the central baffle wall portion 67 is vertical (not tapered), the bottom of the fluid exit channel 9 starts out narrow at the bottom 68, and increases in size moving upwardly. The opening 76 can extend upwardly about % or less the height of the flat side wall portion 66b from the bottom 68 of the cup portion 97, and in some embodiments, the opening 76 can extend upwardly a distance of about 1/8 the height of the flat side wall portion 66b from the bottom 68. The opening 76 can be generally rectangular in shape, but can have other suitable shapes as well. The flat upper rim 64 can have a flat circular arc portion 82 extending over and connected to the fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c. The fluid exit channel 9 extends through a rim passage or port 9a, that extends through the flat circular arc portion 82, allowing discharge of beverage liquid 62 through the flat upper rim 64. The flat surfaces of the flat circular arc portion 82 surrounding the rim passage 9a can form a rim passage sealing surface therearound with the seal member 2 when sealed over the flat upper rim 64. The cup cavity 78 can be bounded or enclosed by the circular arc side wall portion 66a, the flat side wall portion 66b and bottom 68. A shoulder 72 with a side wall 73 can be positioned between the side wall portions 66a/66b and the flat upper rim 64, connecting the sidewall portions 66a/66b to the flat upper rim 64. The shoulder 72 can have a lower circular arc shoulder portion 72a at the top of the circular arc side wall portion 66a, with an upwardly extending circular arc side wall portion 73a being radially outward relative to the circular arc side wall portion 66a and connected to the flat upper rim 64. The shoulder 72 can also have a linear shoulder portion 72b at the top of the flat side wall portion 66b, with an upwardly extending linear sidewall portion 73b being outward relative to the flat side wall portion 66b and connected to the flat upper rim 64. [0059] Filter or filter member or element 94 can differ from filter 4 in that the circular arc shaped filter overhang 11 can be omitted. Instead, the filter 94 can have an outwardly extending flat upper rim or flange 70, having a circular arc rim or flange portion 70a and a linear rim or flange portion 70a, for engaging, fitting in and/or sealing to the shoulder 72 of the cup portion 97 to respective shoulder portions 72a/72b. This can mount the filter 94 inset or below the flat upper rim 64. As a result, the seal member 2 can be sealed directly to the flat upper rim 64 and the flat circular arc portion 82, such as by heat sealing, ultrasonic sealing and adhesives. The filter 94 can have a side walls 96 extending downwardly from the flange 70 inwardly offset from the outer perimeter of the flange 70, and have a flat bottom 98. The side walls 96 can have a circular arc side wall portion 96a that is connected to a flat side wall portion 96b, and with the bottom 98, form the filter pocket 10 therein. Beverage materials, consumables or ingredients 58 can be contained within the filter pocket 10. The circular arc side wall portion 96a of the filter 94 can have an arc length angle 0 and inward taper that matches the arc length angle of the circular arc side wall portion 66a and taper of the cup portion 97. The circular arc side wall portion 96a of the filter 94 can fit closely with the circular arc side wall portion 66a of the cup portion 97. The bottom 98 of the filter 94 can be positioned above the bottom 68 of the cup portion 97 to form a lower lateral passage or gap 99 therebetween. The flat side wall portion 96b of the filter 94 can be tapered inwardly fitting closely with the flat side wall portion 66b of the cup portion 97, while at the same time forming an upright or vertical space, gap or passage 74 between the flat side wall portion 96b of the filter 94 and the central baffle wall portion 67 which is spaced apart from the flat side wall portion 96b of the filter 94. Passage 99 under the filter 4 connects to passage 74. The passage 74 can increase in size moving downwardly and is the widest where the passage 74 meets passage 76, allowing for increased flow rate into passage 76. The passages 99 and 74 can allow brewed, mixed or blended beverage liquid or fluid 62 exiting the filter 94 to flow both laterally and downwardly to the passage or opening 76 at the bottom of the central baffle wall portion 67, for entry into the fluid exit channel 9 for exiting the cartridge 90, as shown by the arrows. The opening 76 can extend into the fluid exit channel 9 laterally or at the side, and the increase in width of the fluid exit channel 9 moving in the upward direction can promote or increase further turbulent mixing of the beverage liquid 62 as the beverage liquid 62 moves upwardly as shown by the arrows. Having the opening 76 at the bottom 68 of the cup cavity 78 of the cup portion 97 allows further time and distance upwardly within fluid exit channel 9 for mixing.

[0060] In use, the cartridge 90 is inserted into the bottom receptacle 54 of the container 50, and moved upwardly into socket chamber 56 where it is locked in place (FIGs. 1 and 2). The downwardly facing fluid entry 21 and fluid exit 22 needles puncture the upper surface of the seal member 2 of the cartridge 90 (FIG. 15). The fluid entry needle 21 can extend into the cup cavity 78 and filter pocket 10, and the fluid exit needle 22 can extend through the rim passage 9a in the flat circular arc portion 82 of the flat upper rim 64 into the fluid exit channel 9. The fluid entry needle 21 in some embodiments can extend into the beverage ingredients 58. Fluid, liquid or water 60 within the fluid reservoir 52 of the beverage container 50 can enter the cup cavity 78 and filter pocket 10 of cartridge 90 downwardly by gravity through fluid entry needle 21, for saturating the beverage ingredients 58, and mixing, blending, extracting and/or brewing therein, forming beverage liquid 62. The beverage liquid 62 can exit the filter 94 through the bottom 98 and the sides 96 of the filter 90, moving laterally and downwardly through passages 99 and 74, and then laterally through opening 76 and upwardly through fluid exit channel 9 into fluid exit needle 22 as shown by the arrows. Fluid exit needle 22 can be connected to an adjustable dilution valve 29, which is also in communication with the fluid reservoir 52 of container 50 through dilution port 100. The dilution valve 29 can be connected to a drinking straw 30 which can be rotatable about axis A, for rotatably adjusting dilution valve 29. As a result, dilution fluid 60 from fluid reservoir 52 can be controllably laterally introduced into dilution valve 29 through dilution port 100 for mixing therein with beverage liquid 62 moving vertically upwardly, thereby forming final beverage 62a for drinking by the user by suction on the drinking straw 30. Flow of fluid 60 or water, beverage liquid 62 and final beverage 62a is shown by the arrows.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 16, cartridge 102 differs from cartridge 90 in that filter 94 is omitted and the beverage ingredients 58 are instead contained within the cup cavity 78 of cup portion 97, for example about 1/3 full. The beverage ingredients 58 can be or include liquid concentrates, precipitates, powders, crystals, extracts or flavor mixers. Beverage ingredients 58 can also include large leaves or plant matter pieces. In use, fluid 60 entering the cup cavity 78 through fluid entry needle 21 can mix or blend with the beverage ingredients 58, or extract flavor from the beverage ingredients 58, forming beverage liquid 62. The beverage liquid 62 flows from cup cavity 78 into the fluid exit channel 9 through opening 76, and the flow of the beverage liquid 62 through opening 76 into a widening fluid exit channel 9 creates flow turbulence and increased mixing of the beverage ingredients 58 with the fluid 60. Since the fluid exit channel 9 extends upwardly from the bottom 68 of cup portion 97, the beverage liquid 62 has the distance and time to fully mix before entry into the fluid exit needle 22, dilution valve 29 and straw 30 for consumption of the final beverage 62a by the user. In some embodiments, some of the beverage ingredients 58 might enter the bottom of the fluid exit channel 9 through the opening 76, however, the turbulent mixing created by the opening 76 into the widening fluid exit channel 9 can be sufficient to properly mix the beverage liquid 62. Although the beverage ingredients 58 are typically packed loosely within cup cavity 78, in other embodiments, the beverage ingredients 58 can be contained within a filter or mesh pouch. [0062] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 14, the cup portion 97 can have a flat upper rim 64 with a radius R1 of about 1.1 or 1 1/8 inches, with a diameter of about 2.2 or 2 % inches. The cup portion 97 can have a height H of about 1.75 or 1 % inches. The flat upper rim 64 can be about .13 or 1/8 inches wide above the circular arc side wall portion 66a, and the flat circular arc portion 82 extending over the fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c can have a radial length L of about .55 or /i inches. The rim passage 9a extending through the flat circular arc portion 82 can have width “a” of about .3 inches and a length “b” of about .49 or Vi inches. The fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c can extend outwardly from the flat side wall portion 66b about .38 or 3/8 inches, and the outward face 65a can have the same taper as the flat side wall portion 66b to be parallel thereto. The fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c can have a width that tapers outwardly increasing from about .47 inches at the bottom 68 of cup portion 97 to about .55 or 9/16 inches at the flat circular arc portion 82. As a result, the fluid exit channel 9 increases in size moving upwardly in two directions until arriving at dimensions “a” and “b” at rim passage 9a. The opening 76 can have the same width as the width of the bottom of the fluid exit channel 9, and can be about .4 inches and can be about .18 or 3/16 inches high. The circular arc side wall portion 66a can have an arc length 9 of about 240 -250 ° and can have a radius R2 (FIG. 15) below the side wall 73 of shoulder 72 of about .9 inches for a diameter of about 1.88 or 1 7/8 inches. The height of the circular arc side wall portion 66a can be about 1.6 or 1 5/8 inches and the circular arc side wall portion 66a can taper down to the bottom 68. The bottom 68 can have a radius of about .8 or 7/8 inches for a diameter of about 1.6 or 1 5/8 inches. The circular arc side wall portion 66a, the flat side wall portion 66b and the outward face 65a of the fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c can have a taper between 2 - 5°. The shoulder 72 can be about .04 inches wide, and side wall 73 can be about .12 or 1/8 inches high. The cup portion 97 can be made of polymer material, for example by molding, pressing, or other suitable methods, and can have a wall thickness of about .36 inches. In other embodiments, the cup portion 97 can be made of other suitable materials such as aluminum.

[0063] FIG. 17 shows an example of the size or volume VI of the cup cavity 78 in a cup portion 97 having a circular arc side wall portion 66a and a flat side wall portion 66b, in an embodiment of cartridge 90. This is in comparison to the size or volume V2 of the cup cavity 112 of an example of a cartridge 114 shown in FIG. 18, having a completely circular cup portion 110 while having an external fluid exit channel 9 of the same size as in cartridge 90, where both cartridges 90 and 114 have a flat upper rim 64 of the same outer diameter. In cartridge 90, by having both a circular arc side wall portion 66a and a flat side wall portion 66b, the radius R2 of the circular arc side wall portion 66a can be larger than the radius of the circular cup portion 110 of cartridge 114, providing more volume on opposite sides of the fluid exit channel 9. In some embodiments, the volume VI of the cup cavity 78 of cartridge 90 can be about 20% more than the volume V2 of the cup cavity 112 of cartridge 114, thereby providing the space to contain more beverage ingredients 58 within a cartridge having the same height and upper rim diameter. Embodiments of beverage container 50 (FIGs. 1 and 2) can have a fluid reservoir 52 that contains 16 oz of fluid 60. Typical prior art cartridges that contain coffee grounds are designed for making 12 oz of coffee. However, since cartridge 90 can have a cup cavity 78 that is about 20% larger, cartridge 90 can contain a sufficient amount of beverage ingredients 59 to make 16 oz of final beverage 62a.

[0064] The circular arc side wall portion 66a can provide the cup portion 97 with structural strength, stiffness or rigidity for withstanding the insertion of the needles 21 and 22 without deflection or crushing. In addition, the fluid exit channel side wall portion 66c extending along the flat side wall portion 66b from the bottom 68 to the upper rim 64, has a channel shape that can provide structural strength, stiffness or rigidity to the flat side wall portion 66b, and can act as a structural column for vertical forces. The central baffle wall portion 67 can further increase structural strength to the cup portion 97.

[0065] While example embodiments have been particularly shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the embodiments encompassed by the appended claims. For example, features of the different embodiments in the present disclosure can be combined together or omitted. In addition, although particular dimensions have been described, it is understood that the dimensions can vary depending upon the situation at hand. Furthermore, it is understood that certain orientations of features described are when the cartridge is in an upright position, and can vary if the cartridge in oriented differently.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A beverage cartridge comprising: a cup portion having a flat upper rim with a circular periphery, side walls and a bottom, the side walls extending downwardly from the upper rim, the side walls having a circular arc side wall portion that is connected to a flat side wall portion forming a cup cavity therein, a fluid exit channel side wall portion being connected to and centered along the flat side wall portion, the fluid exit channel side wall portion extending outwardly from the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion to the upper rim, the fluid exit channel side wall portion defining a fluid exit channel that is positioned outwardly relative to the flat side wall portion and in fluid communication with the cup cavity.

2. The cartridge of Claim 1 in which the circular arc side wall portion extends for an arc length of about 230 - 260°.

3. The cartridge of Claim 1 further comprising a filter element fitted into the cup cavity.

4. The cartridge of Claim 3 further comprising beverage ingredients contained within the filter element.

5. The cartridge of Claim 4 further comprising a seal member sealed to the upper rim over the filter element, the seal member capable of being punctured by a fluid entry needle for extending into the cup cavity, and being punctured by a fluid exit needle for extending into the fluid exit channel.

6. The cartridge of Claim 1 in which the fluid exit channel side wall portion forms an alignment protrusion for aligning the cartridge in a receptacle for a beverage device.

7. The cartridge of Claim 1 in which the flat side wall portion separates the cup cavity from the fluid exit channel along a majority of a height of the flat side wall portion, an opening through the flat side wall portion at the bottom of the cup portion allows fluid communication between the cup cavity and the fluid exit channel.

8. The cartridge of Claim 7 in which the opening is positioned at % or less the height of the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion.

9. The cartridge of Claim 8 further comprising beverage ingredients within the cup cavity.

10. The cartridge of Claim 9 in which the beverage ingredients are within a filter element.

11. The cartridge of Claim 1 in which the fluid exit channel extends through a rim passage in the upper rim, portions of the upper rim surrounding the rim passage forming a rim passage sealing surface therearound, a seal member being sealed to the upper rim over the cup cavity and around the rim passage, the seal member capable of being punctured by a fluid entry needle for extending into the cup cavity, and being punctured by a fluid exit needle for extending through the rim passage into the fluid exit channel.

12. A beverage cartridge comprising: a cup portion having a flat upper rim with a circular periphery, side walls and a bottom, the side walls extending downwardly from the upper rim, the side walls having a circular arc side wall portion that is connected to a flat side wall portion forming a cup cavity therein, a fluid exit channel side wall portion being connected to and centered along the flat side wall portion, the fluid exit channel side wall portion extending outwardly from the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion to the upper rim, the fluid exit channel side wall portion defining a fluid exit channel that is positioned outwardly relative to the flat side wall portion, the flat side wall portion separates the cup cavity from the fluid exit channel along a majority of a height of the flat side wall portion, an opening through the flat side wall portion positioned at % or less the height of the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion allows fluid communication between the cup cavity and the fluid exit channel.

13. A method of forming a beverage cartridge comprising: forming a cup portion having a flat upper rim with a circular periphery, side walls and a bottom, the side walls extending downwardly from the upper rim, the side walls having a circular arc side wall portion that is connected to a flat side wall portion forming a cup cavity therein, a fluid exit channel side wall portion being connected to and centered along the flat side wall portion, the fluid exit channel side wall portion extending outwardly from the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion to the upper rim, the fluid exit channel side wall portion defining a fluid exit channel that is positioned outwardly relative to the flat side wall portion and in fluid communication with the cup cavity.

14. The method of Claim 13 further comprising extending the circular arc side wall portion for an arc length of about 230 - 260°.

15. The method of Claim 13 further comprising inserting a filter element into the cup cavity.

16. The method of Claim 15 further comprising filling the filter element with beverage ingredients.

17. The method of Claim 16 further comprising sealing a seal member to the upper rim over the filter element, the seal member capable of being punctured by a fluid entry needle for extending into the cup cavity, and being punctured by a fluid exit needle for extending into the fluid exit channel.

18. The method of Claim 13 in which the fluid exit channel side wall portion forms an alignment protrusion for aligning the cartridge in a receptacle for a beverage device.

19. The method of Claim 13 further comprising separating the cup cavity from the fluid exit channel with the flat side wall portion along a majority of a height of the flat side wall portion, an opening through the flat side wall portion at the bottom of the cup portion allows fluid communication between the cup cavity and the fluid exit channel.

20. The method of Claim 19 further comprising positioning the opening at % or less the height of the flat side wall portion from the bottom of the cup portion.

21. The method of Claim 20 further comprising filling the cup cavity with beverage ingredients.

22. The method of Claim 21 further comprising filling the beverage ingredients within a filter element.

3. The method of Claim 13 further comprising: extending the fluid exit channel through a rim passage in the upper rim, portions of the upper rim surrounding the rim passage forming a rim passage sealing surface therearound; and sealing a seal member to the upper rim over the cup cavity and around the rim passage, the seal member capable of being punctured by a fluid entry needle for extending into the cup cavity, and being punctured by a fluid exit needle for extending through the rim passage into the fluid exit channel.