Espresso/cappuccino apparatus and method
First Claim
1. In a coffee making machine, steam emission apparatus for dispensing steam in the preparation of milk added coffee drinks, comprising:
- a steam generating tank holding a quantity of water whose height is variable between a low water level and a high water level;
means for dispensing steam from said tank;
means for detecting said high water level;
means for detecting said low water level;
heating means for heating the water in said tank to reach a desired operating steam temperature; and
control means for introducing water into the tank when the temperature has reached the desired operating water temperature but water is below the high water level but not introducing water if said temperature has not reached the desired operating water temperature, thence raising the water level in controlled quantities in stepped sequence after the temperature has reached said desired operating water temperature.
3 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
Several unique features for an improved espresso/cappuccino maker are disclosed. A method and apparatus for replenishing the steam tank for a cappuccino steam dispenser in which the cold replenishing water can only be added in stepped sequences, and only after the water in the tank has reached its desired operating temperature. The dispensing unit for holding the coffee filter is maintained in a constantly heated condition by direct thermal conductivity from the metal surface of the hot water tank which is nested and in direct contact with the metal of the dispensing assembly. The temperature probe for the steam wand is housed internally of the steam wand with only a tip protruding for ease of cleaning. Also, the entire steam wand assembly and solenoid control valve are pivotally mounted as a unit to eliminate the need for internal slip joints in the steam lines. A portafilter has an integral screen for holding a single, a double, or a double-double portion of ground coffee.
115 Citations
6 Claims
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1. In a coffee making machine, steam emission apparatus for dispensing steam in the preparation of milk added coffee drinks, comprising:
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a steam generating tank holding a quantity of water whose height is variable between a low water level and a high water level; means for dispensing steam from said tank; means for detecting said high water level; means for detecting said low water level; heating means for heating the water in said tank to reach a desired operating steam temperature; and control means for introducing water into the tank when the temperature has reached the desired operating water temperature but water is below the high water level but not introducing water if said temperature has not reached the desired operating water temperature, thence raising the water level in controlled quantities in stepped sequence after the temperature has reached said desired operating water temperature. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
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Specification