Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a field of dispensing units and more particularly to a beverage dispensing system and a method thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Automatic beverage dispensing systems have evolved to meet growing consumer demand for convenient, hygienic, and efficient delivery of ready-to-drink beverages such as tea, coffee, and other flavoured drinks. Traditional vending machines are generally designed to dispense beverages from pre-packed containers or by brewing the drink on demand, often lacking precise temperature control or flavour customization capabilities. Many such systems suffer from inefficiencies in maintaining consistent temperature levels. Also, a major reason of taste deterioration of the beverage is oxidation which the traditional dispensers fail to address. oxidation of stored beverages, leading to compromised taste and user satisfaction.
[0003] To improve beverage quality and user experience, various techniques have been adopted, including insulation of storage units, integration of heating elements, and use of basic sensors for monitoring parameters like temperature and fill levels. However, these implementations often lack advanced features such as modular flavour storage, remote monitoring, or real-time dispensing control based on user selection. Furthermore, temperature retention is generally limited to surface heating or external wrapping, which fails to uniformly maintain desired thermal conditions across stored liquids, especially when multiple flavours or portions are involved.
[0004] Moreover, beverage dispensing systems commonly require manual checks to determine volume remaining or the operational status of various internal components, resulting in inefficiencies, delayed refills, and potential machine downtime. The inability to dynamically adjust dispensation based on real-time sensor feedback has also been a limiting factor in ensuring consistent output and preventing overflows during dispensing operations. As beverage consumption preferences become more diverse and technology-driven, the need for intelligent, modular, and thermally controlled dispensing systems has become increasingly prominent.
[0005] Hence, there is a need for an improved beverage dispensing system and a method thereof to address the aforementioned issue(s).
OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The primary objective of the invention is to provide a beverage dispensing system capable of maintaining a plurality of beverages at a predetermined temperature using a thermally controlled storage container.
[0007] Another objective of the invention is the ensure the taste and flavour deterioration doesn’t happen due to the contact of oxygen in the air. This is achieved by combination of having beverage stored in a collapsible foil pouch and dispensed via peristaltic pump. Which doesn’t allow the air to comeback in and hence the empty spaces get collapsed. This environment of no ambient air and hence no oxygen in it will ensure to retain the taste and flavour of the beverage for longer period by preventing oxidation.
[0008] Another objective of the invention is to utilize a plurality of sensors, including a temperature sensor, float sensor, and ultrasonic sensor, to detect parameters associated with beverage volume, liquid temperature, and cup fill levels, allowing for accurate dispensing and proactive maintenance.
[0009] Another objective of the invention is to allow a user to interact with the system via a control unit comprising a user interface to select the desired number of cups, thereby enabling customizable beverage dispensing.
[0010] Yet another objective of the invention is to enable the replacement of the storage container upon exhaustion of the beverage, thereby ensuring uninterrupted beverage availability and easy system maintenance.
[0011] Another objective of the invention is to allow transmission of sensor data to an administrator and to support electronic payments via the user interface for efficient operation and monitoring.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0012] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a beverage dispensing system is disclosed. The system includes a storage container to hold a liquid wherein the storage container comprises a thermally insulated container (104). The system includes a plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches submerged in the liquid of the storage container wherein each of the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches is adapted to store a beverage of a specific flavour. The system includes a heating unit positioned beneath the storage container wherein the heating unit is adapted to generate heat at a controlled temperature to maintain the liquid at a predetermined temperature thereby ensuring that the plurality of beverages remains at the said predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is 82°C. The system includes a plurality of sensors adapted to detect one or more parameters associated with the storage container, the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches, and the plurality of beverages. The system includes a control unit comprising a user interface configured to allow a user to select a number of cups of the plurality of beverages to be dispensed.
[0013] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for operating a beverage dispensing system is disclosed. The method includes storing a plurality of beverages of a specific flavour in a plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches submerged in a liquid within a storage container, wherein the storage container comprises a thermally insulated container (104). The method includes heating, by a heating unit disposed beneath the storage container, the liquid to a predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is 82°C. The method includes maintaining, by the heating unit, the plurality of beverages at the predetermined temperature by submerging the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches in the heated liquid. The method includes detecting, by a plurality of sensors, one or more parameters associated with the storage container, the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches, and the plurality of beverages. The method includes receiving, by a user interface, a selection from a user indicative of a number of cups of a plurality of beverages to be dispensed. The method includes dispensing, based on the selection received from the user, the number of cups of the plurality of beverages.
[0014] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will follow by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the appended figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which:
[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of the beverage dispensing system and an exemplary network architecture, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method for operating a beverage dispensing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0018] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0020] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such a process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or subsystems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, sub-systems, elements, structures, components, additional devices, additional sub-systems, additional elements, additional structures or additional components. Appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.
[0022] In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0023] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a beverage dispensing system is provided. The system includes a storage container to hold a liquid wherein the storage container comprises a thermally insulated container. The system includes a plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches submerged in the liquid of the storage container wherein each of the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches is adapted to store a beverage of a specific flavour. The system includes a heating unit positioned beneath the storage container wherein the heating unit is adapted to generate heat at a controlled temperature to maintain the liquid at a predetermined temperature thereby ensuring that the plurality of beverages remains at the said predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is 82°C. The system includes a plurality of sensors adapted to detect one or more parameters associated with the storage container, the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches, and the plurality of beverages. The system includes a control unit comprising a user interface configured to allow a user to select a number of cups of the plurality of beverages to be dispensed.
[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of the beverage dispensing system and an exemplary network architecture, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1, a user device operated by an administrator (126) may be communicatively coupled to a beverage dispensing system (100). Examples of the user device includes, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, desktop computer, portable digital assistant (PDA), smart phone, tablet, ultra-book, netbook, laptop, multi-processor system, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronic system, or any other communication device that a user may use. Further, the administrator is a person interacting with the beverage dispensing system (100). It will be appreciated that the beverage dispensing system (100) may be accessed on the user device as a web application accessed through a browser, through a software application on the administrator device, or, particularly for smartphones, through a mobile application installed on the user device. It will be appreciated that, within the context of the disclosure herein, web application refers to a utility implemented on a networked computing system accessible by user device over the Internet (e.g. through browsers) wherein the bulk of the processing takes place at the networked computing system, mobile applications refer to applications installed on smartphones that may communicate with a networked computing system, and a “software” application refers generally to applications other than web browsers installed on other types of administrative device that may communicate with a networked computing system over the communication network.
[0025] The communication network (128) may be a single communication network or a combination of multiple communication networks and may use a variety of different communication protocols. The communication network (128) may be a wireless network, a wired network, or a combination thereof. Examples of such individual personalized networks include, but are not limited to, Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) network, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) network, Personal Communications Service (PCS) network, Time Division Multiple Access TDMA) network, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) network, Next Generation Network (NON), Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). Depending on the technology, the communication network (128) may include various network entities, such as gateways and routers, however, such details have been omitted for the sake of brevity of the present description.
[0026] In one embodiment, the beverage dispensing system (100) includes a storage container (102) that is specifically adapted to hold a liquid. The liquid such as hot water, which acts as a thermal buffer for maintaining a desired temperature within the storage container (102). An example of the liquid includes, but is not limited to, a potable water, a distilled water, or other food-grade heat-conducting liquid. The storage container (102) incorporates a thermally insulated container (104), which plays a critical role in preserving the thermal condition of the liquid over extended durations. The thermally insulated container ensures that the heat energy of the liquid is retained efficiently, minimizing temperature fluctuations due to ambient environmental conditions and thereby conserving power and maintaining the beverage quality.
[0027] The thermally insulated container (104) may be structurally configured using multiple layers of food-safe materials. Typically, the inner layer is composed of a food-grade, corrosion-resistant material such as stainless steel or BPA-free polymer that is safe for continuous contact with hot liquids. The outer shell may be constructed using rigid materials such as anodized aluminium or high-impact ABS plastic, offering mechanical strength and protection. Sandwiched between these inner and outer layers is an insulating medium that could include polyurethane foam, vacuum-sealed chambers, fiberglass, or aerogel-based linings, selected for their superior heat retention characteristics.
[0028] An example of the storage container (102) includes, but is not limited to, a stainless-steel inner shell lined with food-grade 304 stainless steel, a middle layer comprising polyurethane foam insulation, and an external casing made from impact-resistant ABS plastic or anodized aluminium. This configuration provides excellent thermal retention, food safety compliance, and structural robustness suitable for commercial beverage dispensing applications.
[0029] In one embodiment, the beverage dispensing system (100) includes a plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) are submerged in the liquid of the storage container (102), wherein each of the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) is adapted to store a beverage of a specific flavour, thereby enabling the beverage dispensing system (100) to dispense multiple beverage variants from a single dispensing unit.
[0030] The plurality of collapsible aluminium pouches (130) are made from multi-layered aluminium foil laminates that are food-safe, heat-resistant, and capable of maintaining the chemical integrity and flavour of the stored beverage over extended periods. The collapsibility of the pouches ensures that as the beverage is dispensed, the internal volume of the pouch decreases, thereby minimizing exposure to air, preventing oxidation, and reducing waste space. Submerging the pouches in heated liquid typically water within the storage container (102) helps maintain the beverage at a uniform predetermined serving temperature without direct heating of the pouch, which could degrade taste or alter chemical composition.
[0031] An example of the collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) includes, but is not limited to, a laminated structure comprising an inner food-grade polyethylene layer for sealing and contact, a middle aluminium foil layer for thermal stability and oxygen barrier properties, and an outer polyester or nylon layer for mechanical strength. The collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) may further include a heat-sealed spout or a pierceable membrane at the top for controlled dispensing via tubing or valves connected to the dispensing mechanism.
[0032] In another embodiment, the thermally insulated storage container (102) is replaceable upon exhaustion of the plurality of beverages. This design ensures that the beverage dispensing system (100) maintains operational efficiency and hygiene by allowing used or depleted storage container (102) to be removed and substituted with fresh, pre-filled storage container (102) without requiring extensive manual cleaning or refilling procedures. The replaceability of the storage container (102) offers a modular approach, facilitating easy maintenance, rapid restocking, and seamless operation in high-demand environments such as offices, vending units, or public beverage kiosks
[0033] The storage container (102) may be equipped with coupling interfaces, quick-connect valves, or latch-based mounting mechanisms that allow secure yet user-friendly detachment and attachment. These features support a plug-and-play functionality where an individual or operator can replace the storage container (102) with minimal technical intervention.
[0034] In one embodiment, the beverage dispensing system (100) includes a heating unit (106) is positioned beneath the storage container (102) wherein the heating unit (106) is adapted to generate heat at a controlled temperature to maintain the liquid at a predetermined temperature thereby ensuring that the plurality of beverages remains at the said predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is 82°C. This setup is critical to ensure that the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) which are submerged in the liquid remain surrounded by an evenly heated environment, thereby keeping the plurality of beverages at the desired serving temperature.
[0035] The heating unit (106) may comprise an electric resistance coil, a ceramic heater, an induction plate, or any suitable thermal source capable of delivering precise and uniform heat to the base of the storage container (102). The beverage dispensing system (100) incorporates thermal regulation circuitry such as a thermostat or temperature control loop to modulate the heat output in real-time based on readings from associated temperature sensors. This helps in maintaining the liquid within the container at the predetermined temperature of approximately 82°C, which has been identified as ideal for preserving the taste, aroma, and thermal comfort of various tea-based beverages.
[0036] It must be noted that the heating mechanism is not instantaneous, but rather continuously regulates and monitors the temperature of the liquid within the storage container (102).
[0037] An example of the heating unit 106 106 includes, but is not limited to, a flat electric heating plate embedded with nichrome coils controlled by a digital thermostat module. This plate may be thermally coupled to the bottom surface of the storage container (102) using a heat-conductive but electrically insulated interface to optimize heat transfer. In some embodiments, the heating unit (106) may further include fail-safe mechanisms, such as thermal fuses, overheat protection, and automatic shutdown in case of an empty container, to enhance safety and prevent damage to internal components.
[0038] In one embodiment, the beverage dispensing system (100) includes a plurality of sensors are adapted to detect one or more parameters associated with the storage container (102), the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130), and the plurality of beverages. The plurality of sensors are strategically placed within or around the beverage dispensing system (100) to provide real-time monitoring and operational control, thereby enhancing accuracy, reliability, and automation of the dispensing process.
[0039] In another embodiment, the plurality of sensors comprises a temperature sensor (114), a float sensor (116), and an ultrasonic sensor (118).
[0040] The temperature sensor (114) is strategically affixed to or embedded within the storage container (102) to measure the temperature of the liquid medium in which the collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) are submerged. By continuously tracking the thermal profile of the storage container (102) and indirectly the plurality of beverages within the plurality of collapsible pouches (130), the sensor ensures that the beverage dispensing system (100) maintains the liquid at the desired predetermined temperature (e.g., 82°C), crucial for preserving beverage quality and consistency.
[0041] The float sensor (116) affixed to the storage container (102), wherein the float sensor (116) is adapted to measure the liquid level within the storage container (102). The float sensor (116) is a level-detection component that utilizes the buoyancy of a float element to determine the vertical position of the liquid surface. The float sensor (116) provides real-time feedback regarding the presence, absence, or volume of liquid retained in the storage container (102), thereby enabling the beverage dispensing system (100) to manage heating efficiency, issue low-liquid warnings, or initiate maintenance protocols when the liquid falls below a defined threshold.
[0042] An example of the float sensor (116) includes, but is not limited to, a magnetic float-type liquid level sensor integrated onto a vertical rod mounted inside a stainless-steel storage container, where the float rises and falls with the liquid level and activates magnetic reed switches at predefined intervals. This configuration ensures reliable and tamper-resistant detection of the liquid level, suitable for use in environments with heated liquids and variable refill cycles.
[0043] The ultrasonic sensor (118) is positioned above a cup holder (120), wherein the ultrasonic sensor (118) is adapted to detect the presence or absence of a cup (122) placed within the cup holder (120). The ultrasonic sensor (118) operates by emitting high-frequency sound waves toward the cup holder (120) area and measuring the time it takes for the reflected wave to return. Based on the reflection timing, the ultrasonic sensor (118) determines whether the cup (120) is present and if it is properly aligned for accurate beverage dispensation.
[0044] An example of the ultrasonic sensor (118) includes, but is not limited to, a compact ultrasonic rangefinder module with a detection range of 2–30 cm, mounted directly above the cup holder (120). An example of the cup holder (120) includes, but is not limited to, a thermally resistant plastic or stainless-steel recessed tray designed to accommodate standard-sized disposable or reusable beverage cups. An example of the cup (122) includes, but is not limited to, a 250 ml paper cup or a BPA-free insulated reusable container commonly used for hot beverages.
[0045] An example of the temperature sensor (114) includes, but is not limited to, a digital thermocouple probe or RTD (resistance temperature detector) calibrated for food-grade applications. An example of the float sensor (116) includes, but is not limited to, a reed switch-based magnetic float assembly integrated within a sleeve inside the pouch or mounted externally using a mechanical linkage. An example of the ultrasonic sensor (118) includes, but is not limited to, a non-contact piezoelectric transducer operating at high frequency, capable of measuring liquid surface levels with millimetre-level accuracy.
[0046] In one embodiment, the beverage dispensing system (100) includes a control unit (108), wherein the control unit (108) includes a user interface (110) configured to allow a user (112) to select a number of cups of the plurality of beverages to be dispensed.
[0047] The user interface (110) may be implemented as an interactive touch screen, button panel, or any form of human-machine interface designed to facilitate seamless communication between the user and the system. The user interface (110) is adapted to display available beverage options, indicate flavour availability, allow selection of cup quantity, and show system status or error messages. The user (112) can interact with the user interface (110) to select a desired number of cups, which the control unit processes to initiate the appropriate dispensing sequence from the corresponding plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130).
[0048] In another embodiment, the control unit (108) is configured to transmit the one or more parameters to the administrator (126). The one or more parameters may include, but are not limited to, the temperature of the liquid within the storage container (102), the remaining volume of each beverage flavour in the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130), the dispensed volume, and any operational status or fault indicators detected within the beverage dispensing system (100).
[0049] In another embodiment, the control unit (108) is configured to allow the user (112) to make payment corresponding to the dispensing of the plurality of beverages via the user interface (110). The user interface (110) is adapted to display selectable options for the number of cups, beverage flavours, and associated pricing. Upon finalizing the selection, the beverage dispensing system (100) prompts the user (112) to proceed with payment, which may be executed through digital payment methods such as UPI (Unified Payments Interface), QR code scanning, RFID or NFC-based card readers, among others.
[0050] An example of the payment interface includes, but is not limited to, a touchscreen displays integrated with a software application capable of generating a dynamic UPI QR code for the total payable amount, which the user (112) can scan using a smartphone application. In another embodiment, the user interface (110) may include a card reader for credit/debit card payments, employee IDs or support mobile wallets for contactless transactions.
[0051] The control unit (108) is configured to manage and coordinate the entire process, by communicating to the user interface (110), based on input signals received from the user device. At its core, the control unit (108) acts as the brain of the dispensing system (100), employing a predefined logic to execute and synchronize processes. This logic governs the communication and control of essential components including the temperature sensor (114), the float sensor (116), the ultrasonic sensor (118) and the heating unit (106).
[0052] The control unit (108) interfaces with these components through advanced communication protocols, facilitating real-time data exchange and command execution. It receives signals from the user device. Based on the feedback received from the user device, the control unit (108) makes informed decisions regarding the dispensing of the liquid.
[0053] Overall, the control unit (108) within the dispensing system (100) exemplifies advanced automation and integration, orchestrating the synchronized operation of the plurality of components to achieve the objectives.
[0054] In another embodiment, the beverage dispensing system (100) includes a peristaltic pump (124), wherein the dispensation of the plurality of beverages is controlled via the peristaltic pump. The peristaltic pump (124) operates by sequentially compressing and releasing a flexible tubing through a rotor mechanism, thus driving the beverage fluid forward in a controlled manner. The flow rate and volume dispensed are directly governed by the pump’s rotation speed and its operating time.
[0055] The peristaltic pump (124) is configured to operate for a pre-defined opening time to dispense a set volume of the beverage. For example, the peristaltic pump (124) may be calibrated such that an opening time of 4 seconds results in the dispensation of 100 ml of beverage. This timing-based mechanism allows precise and repeatable control over the volume dispensed for each selection made by the user (112) through the user interface (110).
[0056] It may be noted that the foregoing system is an exemplary system and may be implemented as computer executable instructions in any computing or processing environment, including in digital electronic circuitry or in computer hardware, firmware, device driver, or software. As such, the system is not limited to any specific hardware or software configuration.
[0057] Consider a non-limiting example wherein a user “Y” approaches the beverage dispensing system (100) installed in a corporate cafeteria and desires two cups of a specific flavoured tea. The user (112) interacts with the user interface (102), selects “Masala Tea” and specifies “2 cups.” The user (112) then completes the transaction by scanning a QR code through the user interface (110) for UPI-based digital payment or scanning the RFID based registered employee ID. The ultrasonic sensor (118) is activated and positioned above the cup (122) holder to detect the cup (122). The control unit receives this input and checks the availability of the selected beverage using data received from the float sensor (116) integrated within the corresponding plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130). Simultaneously, the temperature sensor (114), affixed to the inner wall of the storage container (102), confirms that the liquid surrounding the foil pouch is maintained at the predetermined temperature of 82°C, thereby ensuring the brewed tea remains hot and ready for dispensing. If the current temperature falls below the set threshold of 82°C, the beverage dispensing system (100) halts the dispensing operation and displays a message on the user interface (110) instructing the user (112) to wait until the optimal temperature is reached. Upon verification, the control unit (108) initiates the dispensing process. The beverage dispensing system (100) then accurately dispenses two cups of the selected tea via the peristaltic pump (124) for volume precision. Post-dispensing, the system logs beverage type, quantity dispensed, temperature, and time of operation for administrative records.
[0058] FIG. 2 is a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method for operating a beverage dispensing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method (200) includes storing a plurality of beverages of a specific flavour in a plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches submerged in a liquid within a storage container, wherein the storage container comprises a thermally insulated container at step 205.
[0059] The method (200) includes heating, by a heating unit disposed beneath the storage container, the liquid to a predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is 82°C at step 210. This ensures the liquid surrounding the collapsible aluminium foil pouches is gradually brought to a predetermined temperature, which, in the present embodiment, is precisely maintained at 82°C. This specific temperature is selected to optimize beverage quality, preserve flavour integrity, and ensure microbiological safety during storage and dispensing.
[0060] The heating unit may comprise any suitable thermal source capable of providing regulated and sustained heating, such as electric resistive coils, induction plates, or ceramic heating elements. An example of a heating unit includes, but is not limited to, a flat resistive heating plate embedded in an insulated metal base, controlled by a thermostat or temperature control circuit, which ensures consistent heat output and precise temperature management. The integration of a temperature feedback mechanism allows for real-time adjustment of heating intensity based on readings from an associated temperature sensor.
[0061] The method (200) includes maintaining, by the heating unit, the plurality of beverages at the predetermined temperature by submerging the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches in the heated liquid at step 215. The heating unit, positioned beneath the storage container, ensures that the surrounding liquid remains consistently at the predetermined temperature. This liquid serves as a thermal medium, allowing indirect heat transfer to the beverage contents inside each aluminium foil pouch, thereby avoiding direct exposure to the heating source and ensuring uniform thermal distribution.
[0062] The method (200) detecting, by a plurality of sensors, one or more parameters associated with the storage container, the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches, and the plurality of beverages at step 220. This detection is executed in real-time and enables the beverage dispensing system to operate intelligently by continuously monitoring key operational variables that ensure consistent quality and efficient functionality.
[0063] The method (200) includes receiving, by a user interface, a selection from a user indicative of a number of cups of a plurality of beverages to be dispensed at step 225. The user interface may be implemented as a digital touch screen, a set of physical buttons, or a mobile application interface integrated with the beverage dispensing system. This input mechanism allows the user to interact directly with the system and select the desired quantity and type of beverage with ease and clarity.
[0064] The method (200) includes allowing, by the user interface, the user to make payment corresponding to the dispensing of the plurality of beverages at step 230.
[0065] The method (200) includes dispensing, based on the selection received from the user, the number of cups of the plurality of beverages at step 235. Once the number of cups and corresponding beverage flavour are selected, the control unit actuates a dispensing mechanism that precisely releases the beverage from the appropriate collapsible aluminium foil pouch into a receptacle, such as a cup placed on a designated holder beneath the dispensing outlet. The system ensures accurate volume control by referencing sensor feedback, such as that from the ultrasonic sensor, to prevent overfill and ensure uniform cup servings.
[0066] Various embodiments of the beverage dispensing system (100) as described above provide numerous advantages. The inclusion of a storage container (102) comprising a thermally insulation layer (104) ensures thermal efficiency and hygiene, maintaining the integrity of the beverages. The system's design enables a plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) to be submerged in the liquid, allowing uniform heat distribution and ensuring that each beverage of a specific flavour remains at an optimal predetermined temperature of 82°C, facilitated by the heating unit (106). Furthermore, the incorporation of a plurality of sensors, including a temperature sensor (114), a float sensor (116), and an ultrasonic sensor (118), allows for real-time monitoring of various operational parameters such as temperature stability, beverage volume availability, and precise fill level during dispensing, thereby minimizing wastage and improving efficiency. The control unit (108) includes a user interface (110) provides an intuitive platform for users (140) to make custom beverage selections, manage payments, and access information seamlessly. The beverage dispensing system (100) further supports replaceability of the storage container (102) enhancing operational flexibility. Additionally, capabilities such as parameter transmission to an administrator (126) enable proactive maintenance and system management.
[0067] The techniques described in this disclosure may be implemented, at least in part, in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. For example, various aspects of the described techniques may be implemented within one or more processors, including one or more microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuitry, as well as any combinations of such components. A control unit including hardware may also perform one or more of the techniques of this disclosure.
[0068] Such hardware, software, and firmware may be implemented within the same device or within separate devices to support the various techniques described in this disclosure. In addition, any of the described units, modules, or components may be implemented together or separately as discrete but interoperable logic devices. Depiction of different features as modules or units is intended to highlight different functional aspects and does not necessarily imply that such modules or units must be realized by separate hardware, firmware, or software components. Rather, functionality associated with one or more modules or units may be performed by separate hardware, firmware, or software components, or integrated within common or separate hardware, firmware, or software components.
[0069] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
[0070] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.
[0071] The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, the order of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A beverage dispensing system (100), comprising:
a storage container (102) to hold a liquid wherein the storage container (102) comprises a thermally insulated container (104);
a plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) submerged in the liquid of the storage container (102) wherein each of the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) is adapted to store a beverage of a specific flavour substantially to its brim to eliminate the presence of oxygen;
a heating unit (106) positioned beneath the storage container (102) wherein the heating unit (106) is adapted to generate heat at a controlled temperature to maintain the liquid at a predetermined temperature thereby ensuring that the plurality of beverages remains at the said predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is 82°C;
a plurality of sensors adapted to detect one or more parameters associated with the storage container (102), the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130), and the plurality of beverages; and
a control unit (108) comprising a user interface (110) configured to allow a user (112) to select a number of cups of the plurality of beverages to be dispensed.

2. The beverage dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage container (102) is replaceable upon exhaustion of the plurality of beverages.

3. The beverage dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensors comprises a temperature sensor (114), a float sensor (116), and an ultrasonic sensor (118),

wherein the temperature sensor (114) is affixed to the storage container (102) to measure a temperature of the liquid and the plurality of beverages,
wherein the float sensor (116) is affixed to the storage container (102) to measure the liquid level within the storage container (102), and
wherein the ultrasonic sensor (118) is positioned above a cup holder (120) to detect a cup (122).

4. The beverage dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1,
wherein the dispensation of the plurality of beverages is controlled via a peristaltic pump (124), and
wherein the peristaltic pump (124) is configured to operate for a predefined opening time to dispense a set volume of the beverage.

5. The beverage dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, to cause the control unit (108) to:
transmit the one or more parameters to an administrator (126).

6. The beverage dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, to cause the control unit (108) to:
allow the user (112) to make payment corresponding to the dispensing of the plurality of beverages via the user interface (110).

7. The beverage dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) are constructed to collapse inward as the beverage is dispensed thereby preventing the formation of an air column within the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches (130) to prevent oxidation and preserve taste and flavour of the beverage over time.

8. A method (200) for operating a beverage dispensing system, comprising:
storing a plurality of beverages of a specific flavour in a plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches submerged in a liquid within a storage container, wherein the storage container comprises a thermally insulated container; (205)
heating, by a heating unit disposed beneath the storage container, the liquid to a predetermined temperature, wherein the predetermined temperature is 82°C; (210)
maintaining, by the heating unit, the plurality of beverages at the predetermined temperature by submerging the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches in the heated liquid; (215)
detecting, by a plurality of sensors, one or more parameters associated with the storage container, the plurality of collapsible aluminium foil pouches, and the plurality of beverages; (220)
receiving, by a user interface, a selection from a user indicative of a number of cups of a plurality of beverages to be dispensed; (225)
allowing, by the user interface, the user to make payment corresponding to the dispensing of the plurality of beverages; (230) and
dispensing, based on the selection received from the user, the number of cups of the plurality of beverages. (235)

Dated this 07th day of July 2025
Signature

Manish Kumar
Patent Agent (IN/PA-5059)
Agent for the Applicant