US 8695486

Here's a concise summary of US patent 8695486:

US Patent 8695486: Plunger-filter beverage-making machine with a closable pouring opening

• Title: Plunger-filter beverage-making machine with a closable pouring opening
• Assignee: Pi Design AG
• Inventor: Jørgen Bodum
• Filing Date: 2009-05-08
• Issue Date: 2014-04-15
• Abstract: The invention discloses a plunger-filter beverage-making machine with a lid which can be closed by a valve. The beverage-making machine has a vessel (2), a lid (3) and a filter piston (4) which can be vertically displaced in the vessel and has a piston rod (41). The lid (3) contains a pouring opening (37) which can be closed by means of an elongate lever (33) which extends transverse to the piston rod. To this end, the lever is mounted on the lid such that it can pivot about a horizontal axis. The lever has, in the region of its front end, a closure body (36) in order to close the pouring opening and, in the region of its rear end, an operating region (331) in order to pivot the lever by virtue of pressure exerted by a finger of a user.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

• Claim 1: This claim describes a beverage-maker, like a French Press. It includes a cylindrical vessel and a filter piston with a rod and a plunger-filter. The lid has two openings: one for the piston rod (a "through opening") and a separate "pouring opening." A spout is located on the lid or vessel. Crucially, an elongated lever is attached to the lid, above the top wall, and pivots horizontally. This lever has a "closure body" at its front to seal the pouring opening and an "actuating surface" at its rear. A user can press this actuating surface to pivot the lever, moving the closure body from a closed position to an open position, allowing liquid to be poured through the spout.
• Claim 5: This claim is similar to Claim 1 but adds a specific feature regarding the piston rod and the lever. In this claim, the elongated lever itself has a "through opening" through which the piston rod extends. This means the piston rod passes through a hole in the lever, rather than the lever being led around the side of the piston rod, as mentioned as an alternative in the patent's description.
• Claim 14: This claim also describes a beverage-maker with a vessel and a lid that has a pouring opening and a spout. It features an elongated lever attached to the lid, pivoting about a horizontal axis. The lever has a closure body at its front to close the pouring opening and an actuating surface at its rear to open it by user pressure. A key distinction in this claim is the explicit statement that the "horizontal axis being arranged between the closure body and the actuating surface of the elongated lever," defining the pivot point's location relative to the other lever components.

Litigation Information:

While a direct search of CAFC 2026 dockets for the specific patent number 8695486 did not return immediate results, the "Legal status" section of the Google Patents page for US8695486B2 indicates that the patent family has been involved in litigation [cite: US8695486B2]. Specifically, there is a "US case filed in Illinois Northern District Court" and a "PTAB case IPR2025-01178 filed (Settlement)" [cite: US8695486B2]. The PTAB case was filed for Inter Partes Review, with Starbucks Corporation and Pacific Marketing International LLC named as opponents, and has been marked as a settlement [cite: US8695486B2]. No information regarding the current status or specific details of the Illinois Northern District Court case within 2026 dockets was found through this search.

Here is a list of known litigation involving US patent 8695486 as of April 26, 2026:

1. PTAB Inter Partes Review (IPR) Proceeding

   • Plaintiff(s): STARBUCKS CORPORATION, ANDPACIFIC MARKETING INTERNATIONAL LLC [cite: Current patent text]
   • Defendant(s): Pi Design AG [cite: Current patent text]
   • Jurisdiction: Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) [cite: Current patent text]
   • Case Number: IPR2025-01178 [cite: Current patent text]
   • Filing Date: 2025-08-05 [cite: Current patent text]
   • Outcome or Current Status: Settlement [cite: Current patent text, 2]

2. US District Court Case

   • Plaintiff(s): Not specified in available search results.
   • Defendant(s): Not specified in available search results.
   • Jurisdiction: Illinois Northern District Court [cite: Current patent text]
   • Case Number: 1:24-cv-05319 [cite: Current patent text]
   • Filing Date: Not specified in available search results.
   • Outcome or Current Status: The current status is not specified in the available search results. The Google Patents information indicates that a US case was filed in this jurisdiction under this case number. [cite: Current patent text]

Proceedings overview

There is one AIA trial proceeding on file for US patent 8695486. The proceeding was an Inter Partes Review (IPR) which terminated due to settlement. For a defendant, this indicates that while the patent owner faced a challenge, the claims were not invalidated by the PTAB, and the specific validity arguments raised in the IPR were not fully adjudicated. The patent claims remain legally intact based on this IPR outcome.

IPR2025-01178 — Starbucks Corporation et al. v. Pi Design AG

• Type: Inter Partes Review
• Filed: 2025-06-23
• Status: Terminated-Settled. This IPR was filed and subsequently settled between the parties.
• Judge panel: Information regarding the specific judge panel is not publicly available in the provided patent information or readily discoverable through general search queries.
• Petition grounds: Specific details on the claims challenged, prior art references cited, and statutory bases (§ 102 / § 103 / § 112) for the petition are not publicly detailed in the provided patent information.
• Institution decision: Given the "Terminated-Settled" status, it is unlikely a formal institution decision on the merits was issued. The parties typically settle before or shortly after institution. Further details are not publicly available.
• Final Written Decision (if issued): No Final Written Decision was issued as the proceeding was terminated due to settlement.
• Settlement / termination: The proceeding was terminated due to settlement. The precise terms of the settlement are typically confidential between the parties. The effective date of the IPR filing, 2025-06-23, is noted as leading to a settlement.
• Appeal: There was no Federal Circuit appeal as the case settled and did not proceed to a Final Written Decision on the merits.
• Defensive value: This IPR did not result in any claims of US8695486 being invalidated. While the fact of a settlement suggests some consideration exchanged between the parties, the patent's claims remain presumptively valid. A defendant facing assertion of this patent would need to conduct their own analysis for potential IPR grounds, as the prior art arguments in this settled IPR were not adjudicated.

Strategic summary

Currently, all claims of US8695486 remain SUSTAINED as no claims were invalidated by the PTAB. The single IPR filed, IPR2025-01178, was terminated due to settlement between the petitioner, Starbucks Corporation et al., and the patent owner, Pi Design AG. This means that the PTAB did not issue a Final Written Decision on the patentability of the challenged claims.

Regarding the estoppel landscape, since the IPR was settled, the statutory estoppel provisions of § 315(e)(2) generally would apply to the petitioner (Starbucks Corporation et al.) and their privies, barring them from raising any ground that was raised or reasonably could have been raised in the IPR. However, for other potential defendants, the prior art grounds remain available for future challenges, as these grounds were not adjudicated by the PTAB. Without public details of the petition grounds, it's impossible to list the specific prior-art grounds that could have been raised in IPR2025-01178.

The pattern signals indicate that the patent owner, Pi Design AG, has engaged in litigation, as evidenced by this IPR proceeding and other litigation mentions in the Google Patents data, including a US case filed in Illinois Northern District Court and Darts-ip litigation data. The settlement of the IPR suggests a strategic resolution rather than an aggressive pursuit of PTAB adjudication to a final decision.

Recommended next steps

• Since IPR2025-01178 was terminated by settlement and did not result in any claim invalidations, there is no Final Written Decision to link to for claim cancellation. The status is "Terminated-Settled."
• There are no active proceedings currently pending with trial-stage milestones.
• A defendant currently facing assertion of this patent should conduct a thorough prior art search and develop their own validity arguments, as the claims of US8695486 have not been tested to a Final Written Decision at the PTAB.

Inventors

• Jørgen Bodum (Employer: Pi Design AG at the time of filing)

Original assignee

Pi Design AG. They are an operating company known for designing and manufacturing household articles, particularly coffee and tea makers (e.g., Bodum French presses). Their current status is operating.

Assignment timeline

• 2010-09-27 (executed) / recorded 2010-12-13 — Reel 025475/0433
  • Conveyance: Assignment
  • Assignor: Bodum, Jorgen
  • Assignee: PI-DESIGN AG
  • Correspondent: Not specified in the provided text.
  • Context: Internal reorg (assignment from individual inventor to the company).

Timeline diagram

timeline
    title Ownership of US 8695486
    2009 : Filed by Pi Design AG
    2010 : Assigned to PI-DESIGN AG
    2014 : Issued

NPE / troll-pattern signals

1. Shell-entity transfer — not present. The initial assignment is from the inventor to an operating company, Pi-Design AG.
2. Known asserter in the chain — not present. Pi-Design AG is an operating company, not a known NPE.
3. Repeat correspondent across the chain — unclear. The correspondent information for the 2010 assignment is not detailed enough in the provided text to determine recurrence or association with known NPEs.
4. Cascading transfers — not present. Only one assignment is recorded, from the inventor to the assignee.
5. Pre-litigation transfer — unclear. While the patent has litigation associated with it, the assignment record does not indicate a transfer within 6 months of any identified litigation filing.
6. Bankruptcy fire-sale — not present. There is no indication of bankruptcy in the assignment record or other provided information.
7. Privateering — not present. No evidence of an operating company transferring to an NPE for assertion against competitors.
8. Defensive aggregator (anti-NPE) — not present. The current assignee is an operating company, not a defensive aggregator.

Verdict

Insufficient data. The only recorded assignment is from the inventor to the operating company, PI-DESIGN AG (reel 025475/0433, recorded 2010-12-13). There are no further recorded assignments that would provide signals for NPE activity.

USPTO Assignment Center search page: https://assignmentcenter.uspto.gov/

The following analysis identifies the most relevant prior art for US Patent 8695486B2, focusing on references explicitly discussed within the patent's description as crucial background. The information for each reference is extracted from the provided patent text, ensuring literal interpretation of identifiers.

US Patent 8695486B2, titled "Plunger-filter beverage-making machine with a closable pouring opening," describes a beverage maker with an upwardly open vessel, a filter piston, and a lid. A key feature is a pouring opening in the lid, disposed between the piston rod and a spout, which is closable by an elongated lever that pivots about a horizontal axis. The lever has a closure body at its front end and an actuating region at its rear end.

The patent specifically discusses three prior art references in detail, highlighting their limitations that the present invention aims to overcome. These are considered the most relevant for an anticipation analysis under 35 U.S.C. § 102.

Most Relevant Prior Art for US8695486B2

1. U.S. Pat. No. 6,295,920 (Barden)

• Full Citation: US6295920B1 - Insulating press-type coffee maker and accessories - Elliot Barden.
• Publication/Filing Date: Publication Date: 2001-10-02; Priority Date: 1999-03-15.
• Brief Description: This patent discloses a plunger-filter beverage maker where the spout is covered with a pivotable flap. The flap is designed to pivot upward during pouring due to the pressure of the escaping coffee, thereby freeing the spout.
• Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102):
  • US6295920B1 generally anticipates a plunger-filter beverage maker with a lid and a mechanism for closing the pouring spout to provide spray protection.
  • However, US8695486B2 explicitly states that the flap mechanism of US6295920B1 is "unsatisfactory... since the flap, during the pouring, is necessarily wetted by the coffee and the flow of the coffee thereupon changes, so that there is a danger of coffee dripping down from the spout during pouring, or subsequently." This distinguishes the claimed invention.
  • US6295920B1 does not disclose an "elongated lever, extending transversely to the piston rod, attached to the lid above the top wall pivotably about a horizontal axis, the elongated lever having a closure body in a region of its front end for closing the pouring opening, and the elongated lever having an actuating surface in a region of its rear end" as specified in claim 1 of US8695486B2. The flap is passively opened by beverage pressure, not actively actuated by a user's finger on a lever. Therefore, it does not anticipate the specific lever-actuated closure mechanism of claims 1, 5, or 14.

2. U.S. Pat. No. 6,755,120 (Uni-Splendor Corp.)

• Full Citation: US6755120B1 - Coffeepot - Uni-Splendor Corp.
• Publication/Filing Date: Publication Date: 2004-06-29; Priority Date: 2003-08-13.
• Brief Description: This patent describes heat-insulated coffee pots where the lid contains a valve. This valve can be opened by a lever mechanism through pressure on an actuating element located above the pot's handle. These coffee pots are designed for filter coffee machines, where coffee is brewed by pouring hot water over grounds in a filter situated above the pot.
• Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102):
  • US6755120B1 anticipates a beverage maker with a lever-actuated valve in a lid for pouring.
  • However, US8695486B2 explicitly distinguishes itself by noting that this prior art is "intended for filter coffee machines" and that its "valve is arranged centrally and would not allow a central piston rod to pass through." The valve in US6755120B1 serves a dual function of inflow during brewing and outflow for pouring, which is distinct from the single pouring function of the present invention's valve.
  • Crucially, US6755120B1 is not a "plunger-filter beverage-maker" and lacks the specific interaction with a "piston rod" and a "pouring opening... disposed between the through opening [for the piston rod] and the spout" as required by claims 1 and 5 of US8695486B2. While it features a lever-actuated valve in a lid (which broadly relates to claim 14), its central placement and application in a filter coffee machine context prevent it from anticipating the specific structural and functional arrangements of claims 1, 5, or the precise lever-pivot axis relationship of claim 14 within a plunger-filter machine.

3. U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,104 (Uni-Splendor Corp.)

• Full Citation: US6997104B1 - Coffee maker - Uni-Splendor Corp.
• Publication/Filing Date: Publication Date: 2006-02-14; Priority Date: 2005-04-14.
• Brief Description: Similar to US6755120B1, this patent also describes coffee makers with a lever-actuated valve in the lid for dispensing liquid, primarily for filter coffee machines.
• Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102):
  • The analysis for US6755120B1 largely applies here, as US8695486B2 groups these two patents together as similar prior art for filter coffee machines.
  • It anticipates a beverage maker with a lid and a lever-actuated pouring mechanism.
  • However, like US6755120B1, it is not a "plunger-filter beverage-maker" and does not disclose the specific integration with a "piston rod" or the particular placement of the "pouring opening... between the through opening [for the piston rod] and the spout" as claimed in claims 1 and 5 of US8695486B2. Its centrally arranged valve mechanism for filter coffee machines prevents it from anticipating the core innovative features of US8695486B2 in the context of a plunger-filter system. Therefore, it does not anticipate claims 1, 5, or the specific lever-pivot axis relationship of claim 14 for a plunger-filter machine.

To analyze the obviousness of US patent 8695486 under 35 U.S.C. § 103, we will examine its claims in light of the prior art explicitly mentioned within the patent itself. The analysis will focus on combinations of these references and the motivation a person having ordinary skill in the art (PHOSITA) would have had to combine them.

I. The Invention of US8695486

US8695486 claims a plunger-filter beverage-making machine (commonly known as a "French Press") with a key feature: a closable pouring opening in the lid.
Claim 1, the broadest claim, describes a beverage-maker comprising:

• A vessel and a filter piston (piston rod, grip element, plunger-filter) vertically displaceable therein.
• A lid with a top wall covering the vessel, passed through by the piston rod via a first opening.
• The top wall also has a second opening, which is a pouring opening.
• A spout is configured on the lid or vessel, outside the vessel interior.
• Crucially, the pouring opening is disposed between the through opening (for the piston rod) and the spout.
• An elongated lever, extending above the top wall and transversely to the piston rod, is pivotably attached to the lid about a horizontal axis.
• This lever has a closure body at its front end for closing the pouring opening and an actuating surface at its rear end for pivoting the lever by finger pressure from a closed to an open position.

The patent highlights the problems this invention solves: ensuring spray protection during plunger operation, high operating safety without dripping, and minimizing heat losses through the lid.

II. Relevant Prior Art from US8695486

The patent itself describes and cites the following prior art:

1. General "French Press" beverage-makers: These are well-known and typically include a cylindrical vessel, a filter piston with a rod passing through a lid, and a beak-like spout on the upper rim of the vessel. The lid usually has a circumferential skirt with slit-shaped apertures for pouring.
   • Problem: Users can forget to orient these apertures away from the spout during plunging (risk of scalding) or forget to re-align them for pouring (risk of spillage). Heat loss through the open apertures is also a concern.
2. U.S. Pat. No. 6,295,920 (Barden): Discloses a plunger-filter beverage-maker where the spout is covered with a pivotable flap. This flap opens upward due to the pressure of escaping coffee during pouring.
   • Problem: This flap is "unsatisfactory" because it gets wetted by coffee, changes the flow, and creates a risk of dripping.
3. U.S. Pat. No. 6,755,120 (Uni-Splendor Corp.): Discloses a heat-insulated coffee pot (for filter coffee machines, not French Presses) whose lid contains a valve that can be opened by a lever mechanism via an actuating element.
   • Problem: The patent US8695486 distinguishes this reference by stating that its valve has a "dual function" (inflow and pouring), is "relatively complicated," and is "arranged centrally" which "would not allow a central piston rod to pass through" a plunger-filter coffee pot. This suggests it is "not transferable" directly.
4. U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,104 (Uni-Splendor Corp.): This reference is noted as similar to US6755120, also for filter coffee machines, not plunger-filter.

III. Obviousness Analysis under 35 U.S.C. § 103

A claim is obvious if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the subject matter as a whole would have been obvious at the time the invention was made to a PHOSITA. This often involves combining elements from multiple prior art references, provided there is a motivation for such a combination.

Combination: General "French Press" + U.S. Pat. No. 6,295,920 (Barden) + U.S. Pat. No. 6,755,120 (Uni-Splendor Corp.)

1. Elements Taught by Prior Art:

• General "French Press" beverage-makers: Provide the core components of a plunger-filter beverage-maker: an upwardly open, substantially cylindrical vessel; a filter piston with a rod and plunger-filter; a lid that covers the vessel and is passed through by the piston rod; and a spout on the upper rim of the vessel for pouring. [cite: The present invention, French Press] This prior art also clearly establishes the problems of scalding/splashing during plunging, spillage due to misaligned apertures, and heat loss, all associated with the traditional, often open, pouring mechanisms. [cite: In order to avoid a situation in which a user, when pressing down the plunger-filter, can be scalded by spurting hot liquid, The lid generally has as spray protection a circumferential skirt, which extends inside the vessel. In the skirt (generally slit-shaped) apertures are present to enable the coffee to be poured out through the apertures by means of the spout.]
• U.S. Pat. No. 6,295,920 (Barden): Teaches a plunger-filter beverage-maker with a spout covered by a pivotable flap. [cite: U.S. Pat. No. 6,295,920 discloses a plunger-filter beverage-maker, the spout of which is covered with a pivotable flap.] This demonstrates a recognized need in plunger-filter beverage-makers for a closable pouring opening to address the problems of uncontrolled pouring and exposure.
• U.S. Pat. No. 6,755,120 (Uni-Splendor Corp.): Teaches a beverage-maker (specifically, a filter coffee pot) with a lid that includes a valve which can be opened and closed by means of a lever mechanism actuated by finger pressure. [cite: Heat-insulated coffee pots, whose lid contains a valve which can be opened by means of a lever mechanism by pressure onto an actuating element located above the handle of the pot, are known from U.S. Pat. No. 6,755,120 or U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,104.] The stated purpose of such valves is to enable controlled pouring and minimize heat losses. [cite: An object of the present invention is thus to define a plunger-filter beverage-maker in which these problems are avoided, which thus ensures spray protection as the plunger-filter is pressed down, combined with high operating safety, without the risk of subsequent dripping. A further object of the invention is to define a beverage-maker of this type in which heat losses through the lid are minimized.]

2. Motivation to Combine:

A PHOSITA, seeking to improve the safety, convenience, and thermal efficiency of a traditional "French Press" beverage-maker, would be motivated to combine elements from these references for the following reasons:

• Addressing Known Problems: The general French Press prior art clearly articulates the problems of scalding, spillage, and heat loss associated with its open pouring mechanisms. Barden (US 6,295,920) further confirms the recognized need for a closed pouring spout in a French Press, even though its flap solution is flawed due to dripping. A PHOSITA would strive for a more effective and drip-free closure.
• Seeking a Better Closure Mechanism: Faced with the deficiencies of Barden's passive, pressure-activated flap (prone to dripping), a PHOSITA would look for a more reliable, actively controlled pouring mechanism. US 6,755,120 provides a clear teaching of such a mechanism: a lever-actuated valve in a beverage maker lid, specifically for controlled pouring and to minimize heat loss. The benefits of an actively controlled, user-actuated closure, as taught by Uni-Splendor, would be evident and desirable to address the limitations of the passive flap in Barden.
• Adapting for the French Press Context: While US 8695486 argues that the valve in US 6,755,120 is "not transferable to plunger-filter coffee pots" because it is "arranged centrally and would not allow a central piston rod to pass through," this argument actually highlights the motivation for a PHOSITA to adapt the known lever-actuated valve. A PHOSITA, recognizing the advantages of US 6,755,120's active closure (controlled pouring, reduced heat loss) and the specific design constraints of a French Press (the central piston rod), would undertake the routine design modification of repositioning the pouring opening and its associated lever mechanism to an off-center location. Logically, placing the pouring opening and its closure mechanism between the central piston rod and the perimeter spout (as shown in the figures and claimed in US8695486) would be an obvious design choice to accommodate the piston rod while still providing a functional pouring path. The elongated lever extending "transversely to the piston rod" and "above the top wall" to operate the closure body would be a straightforward implementation of Uni-Splendor's lever mechanism in this adapted, off-center arrangement.

3. Application to Claim 1:

Combining these references would yield all elements of claim 1:

• The vessel, filter piston, lid, piston rod, and spout are all taught by the general "French Press" prior art.
• The lid having a first opening for the piston rod and a second pouring opening (replacing the slit apertures) is a direct modification to accommodate an active closure.
• The spout on the lid or vessel, outside the vessel interior, is from the general French Press.
• The pouring opening disposed between the through opening (piston rod) and the spout is the obvious adaptation of the lever-actuated valve from US 6,755,120 to fit the French Press's central piston rod.
• The elongated lever attached above the top wall, pivotably about a horizontal axis, with a closure body at its front end for closing the pouring opening, and an actuating surface at its rear end for pivoting the lever by finger pressure, are all directly taught by the lever-actuated valve mechanism of US 6,755,120, modified in its placement to accommodate the French Press's piston rod.

IV. Obviousness of Dependent Claims

Many dependent claims describe common engineering solutions or features explicitly stated as known in the prior art or readily obvious improvements:

• Claim 2 (spring-loaded lever) and Claims 3-4 (compression spring in a depression): Spring-loading to ensure positive closure for a lever-actuated valve is a routine design choice in mechanical closures. [cite: Preferably, the lever is spring-loaded in the direction of its first position in order to ensure that the pouring opening is closed as long as the lever is not deliberately actuated.] Securing a spring in a depression is also a basic mechanical design.
• Claim 5 (lever with a through opening for the piston rod): If the lever needs to extend over the path of the piston rod to actuate the pouring opening (given its placement between the piston rod and spout), creating a through opening for the rod is a direct and obvious design choice to avoid interference.
• Claim 6 (bearing shaft/journals clicked into jaw-shaped bearing elements): The use of a click-fit mounting for pivotable elements is a widely known and common mechanical assembly technique.
• Claim 7 (closure body of softer material): Using a softer material (e.g., silicone plastic) for a sealing element to ensure an effective seal is a fundamental and obvious principle of sealing technology. [cite: In order to ensure an effective sealing of the pouring opening, the closure body is preferably made of a material which is softer (on the Shore A scale) than the material of the rest of the elongated lever. In particular, the closure body can consist of silicone plastic.]
• Claim 8 (lid skirt with sealing element): The patent itself states that lids with circumferential skirts extending into the vessel are generally the case, and adding a circumferential sealing element to bear against the vessel's inner side is a known method to improve sealing. [cite: The lid preferably has a circumferential skirt, which extends vertically downward and extends into the vessel interior, as is already at present generally the case with the lids of commercially available plunger-filter coffee pots. In order to create an effective seal between the vessel and the lid, on the outer side of the skirt there is preferably disposed a circumferential sealing element, which bears sealingly against the inner side of the side wall of the vessel.]
• Claim 9 (retaining web around pouring opening): Configuring an upwardly protruding retaining web around a pouring opening to retain liquid running back from a spout is a common design for managing drips and spills. [cite: In order to retain in the region of the pouring opening liquid running back from the spout, in a region surrounding the pouring opening there can be configured an upwardly protruding retaining web, which, starting from the spout, extends partially around the pouring opening.]
• Claims 10-13 (two-part lid, guide sleeve for piston rod, latching connection): Constructing a lid in two parts for assembly, and providing a cylindrical guide sleeve for a piston rod with a latching connection, are well-known modular design and assembly techniques for guiding rods and securing components in consumer products.
• Claim 14: This claim is similar to Claim 1 but removes the explicit mention of a filter piston, focusing on the lid and pouring mechanism. The same combination of prior art (general beverage maker lids with spouts + US6755120/US6997104 for the lever-actuated closure) would render this claim obvious. The general motivation to provide a controlled pouring mechanism and heat retention for any beverage maker lid with a spout would lead a PHOSITA to this solution.

Conclusion:

Based on the explicit prior art discussed within US8695486 itself, the combination of a general "French Press" beverage-maker, US 6,295,920 (Barden), and US 6,755,120 (Uni-Splendor Corp.) would render Claim 1, and consequently its dependent claims, obvious under 35 U.S.C. § 103. A PHOSITA, motivated to address the known safety, spillage, and heat loss problems of French Presses, and seeking an improved, actively controlled pouring mechanism beyond a passive flap, would have been led to incorporate the lever-actuated valve concept from US 6,755,120. The adaptation of this mechanism to an off-center position in a French Press lid, specifically between the piston rod and the spout, to accommodate the central piston rod, would be a straightforward design choice rather than an inventive step.

US Patent 8695486, titled "Plunger-filter beverage-making machine with a closable pouring opening," was granted on April 15, 2014, from application number US12/997,202, filed on May 8, 2009. The patent is currently active.

Here are the details regarding its term and related applications:

• Patent Term Adjustments (PTA) / Patent Term Extensions (PTE): The patent has an "Adjusted expiration" date of May 23, 2030. For this type of patent (a beverage-making machine), any extension beyond the standard 20-year term from the filing date is almost certainly due to Patent Term Adjustment (PTA), which compensates for administrative delays by the USPTO during prosecution (35 U.S.C. § 154(b)). Patent Term Extensions (PTE) are typically reserved for patents claiming products subject to regulatory review by agencies like the FDA, such as human drugs or medical devices, which is not applicable here. The original 20-year term from the filing date (May 8, 2009) would have been May 8, 2029. The adjusted expiration date of May 23, 2030, indicates a PTA of approximately one year and 15 days.
• Continuation and Divisional Applications: The provided patent information lists US20110088561A1 as an "Other version," which is the publication of the application that matured into US8695486B2. There are no explicit continuation or divisional applications listed as separate family applications in the immediate family for US8695486B2.
• Related Family Members: The patent family for US8695486 (Family ID=39929392) includes the application US12/997,202. Other applications claiming priority from the same priority date (June 10, 2008) include CH0874/08 and PCT/CH2009/000152. The international (PCT) application WO2009149568A2 is also listed as claiming priority. The patent has been granted in multiple countries, indicating a broader patent family across different jurisdictions (e.g., EP2285255B1, JP5442006B2, CN102056520B, CA2726469C).
• Projected Expiration Date: The projected expiration date for US Patent 8695486 is May 23, 2030.

Defensive Disclosure: US Patent 8695486 - Derivative Variations

This document presents a defensive disclosure for US Patent 8695486, "Plunger-filter beverage-making machine with a closable pouring opening." The objective is to establish prior art for various derivative improvements, rendering them obvious or non-novel for future patent applications. This analysis focuses on extrapolating beyond the core claims (primarily claims 1 and 14) and illustrative embodiments of the patent by exploring alternative materials, operational parameters, cross-domain applications, integration with emerging technologies, and inverse/failure modes.

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Derivative 1: Lever-Actuated Pouring Opening with Electro-Magnetic Actuation

Axis: Material & Component Substitution

Enabling Description:
This derivative replaces the mechanical lever (33) and compression spring (34) of US8695486 with an electro-magnetic actuation system for controlling the pouring opening (37). A miniature linear solenoid or voice coil actuator is integrated into the lid bottom part (32) beneath the position of the original lever's actuating region (331). The solenoid plunger is mechanically linked to the closure body (36) or an intermediate linkage connected to it. Upon activation, an electrical current energizes the solenoid, generating a magnetic force that pulls the plunger, lifting the closure body (36) from the pouring opening (37). A passive return spring (e.g., a simple coil spring or elastic polymer) or a bistable solenoid design ensures the closure body returns to its closed position upon deactivation. The actuating surface (331) is replaced by a low-profile capacitive touch sensor or a momentary push-button switch integrated into the lid top part (31) or lid bottom part (32), electrically connected to the solenoid's driver circuit (e.g., a microcontroller and H-bridge driver). Power is supplied by a small, rechargeable lithium-ion battery housed within the lid assembly, or via inductive charging. The closure body (36) itself can be fabricated from a ferromagnetic material or incorporate a small magnet to enhance interaction with an external magnetic field, allowing non-contact magnetic opening/closing, or a resilient, non-ferromagnetic polymer (e.g., EPDM rubber) for sealing against the pouring opening.

flowchart TD
    A[User Input: Touch Sensor / Button] --> B(Microcontroller)
    B --> C{Solenoid Driver Circuit}
    C --> D[Linear Solenoid Actuator]
    D -- Mechanical Linkage --> E[Closure Body (36)]
    E -- Lifts / Lowers --> F[Pouring Opening (37)]
    F --> G[Vessel Interior (23) to Spout (328)]
    H[Battery / Inductive Charging] --> B
    H --> C

---

Derivative 2: Sintered Metal Plunger-Filter with Ultrasonic Self-Cleaning

Axis: Material & Component Substitution

Enabling Description:
This derivative modifies the plunger-filter (43) of US8695486. The fine wire mesh (432) is replaced with a cylindrical or frustoconical filter element composed of a porous, sintered metal (e.g., food-grade stainless steel or titanium alloy) with a controlled pore size (e.g., 5-50 microns). This sintered metal filter provides enhanced rigidity, durability, and a consistent filtration surface. Integrated within the plunger-filter assembly, either circumferentially around the sintered filter or embedded within the fixing plate (434), are one or more piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers. These transducers are electrically connected to a miniature ultrasonic generator circuit, powered by a small, sealed battery or through inductive power transfer from the piston rod (41) assembly. After plunging and beverage dispensing, upon a user-initiated command (e.g., pressing the grip element (42) twice rapidly or a dedicated button on the piston rod), the ultrasonic transducers are activated. High-frequency vibrations (e.g., 20-100 kHz) are transmitted through the sintered metal, dislodging trapped coffee grounds or tea leaves from the pores, facilitating self-cleaning when rinsed or submerged in water. The perforated plate (431) may be omitted or simplified, as the sintered metal provides structural integrity.

classDiagram
    class PlungerFilter {
        +PistonRod 41
        +ActuatingKnob 42
        +SinteredMetalFilter
        +UltrasonicTransducers
        +UltrasonicGeneratorCircuit
        +PowerSource
    }
    class SinteredMetalFilter {
        +PoreSize: 5-50µm
        +Material: StainlessSteel/Titanium
    }
    class UltrasonicTransducers {
        +Frequency: 20-100kHz
        +Material: Piezoelectric
    }
    PlungerFilter --> SinteredMetalFilter
    PlungerFilter --> UltrasonicTransducers
    UltrasonicTransducers --o UltrasonicGeneratorCircuit

---

Derivative 3: Industrial-Scale Batch Beverage Infuser with Lever-Actuated Dispensing

Axis: Operational Parameter Expansion (Scale)

Enabling Description:
This derivative scales up the beverage-maker design to an industrial or commercial batch infuser with a capacity ranging from 50 to 200 liters, or more. The "vessel" (2) becomes a large, insulated brewing tank, constructed from food-grade stainless steel. The "filter piston" (4) is a heavy-duty, pneumatically or hydraulically actuated filter press, comprising a large-diameter piston rod (41) connected to an oversized plunger-filter (43) capable of withstanding significant downward force. The plunger-filter consists of a robust perforated plate and multiple layers of industrial-grade stainless steel mesh or a finely woven filter cloth (e.g., polyester or polypropylene) supported by a rigid frame. The "lid" (3) is a substantial, removable or hinged cover for the brewing tank, also made of stainless steel. It features an enlarged "pouring opening" (37) and a corresponding "spout" (328) for high-volume liquid discharge. The "elongated lever" (33) and "closure body" (36) are scaled proportionally. The lever mechanism is constructed from high-strength alloys (e.g., stainless steel, anodized aluminum) and is actuated by a robust pneumatic cylinder or an electric linear actuator, controlled by a programmable logic controller (PLC). The "actuating surface" (331) becomes a large industrial push-button or a touch-panel interface. Safety interlocks (e.g., pressure sensors, level sensors) are integrated to prevent accidental opening during brewing cycles or when the vessel is under pressure.

flowchart TD
    A[Industrial Brewing Tank (50-200L+)] --> B[Lid Assembly (Industrial Grade)]
    B --> C[Pouring Opening (Large Diameter)]
    B --> D[Industrial Spout]
    B --> E[Actuator-Controlled Lever Mechanism]
    E -- Actuation Signal --> F(PLC / Control System)
    F -- User Input --> G[HMI / Push-button Interface]
    H[Pneumatic/Hydraulic Cylinder] --> I[Heavy-Duty Plunger-Filter]
    I --> A
    E -- Opens/Closes --> C
    C -- Liquid Flow --> D

---

Derivative 4: Low-Temperature, High-Pressure Cold Brew Extraction System

Axis: Operational Parameter Expansion (Temperature & Pressure)

Enabling Description:
This derivative adapts the plunger-filter beverage maker for specialized cold brew extraction under low temperatures and elevated pressures. The "vessel" (2) is constructed from a reinforced, pressure-rated material, such as borosilicate glass with a metal exoskeleton, or a thick-walled stainless steel cylinder, capable of withstanding internal pressures up to 5 bar. It is designed with integrated cooling coils or a double-wall vacuum jacket for maintaining refrigerated temperatures (0-10°C). The "lid" (3) is a pressure-sealing component, incorporating a pressure relief valve and a pressure gauge. The "piston rod" (41) and "plunger-filter" (43) are designed for pressure applications, with the plunger-filter featuring a multi-stage filtration stack (e.g., coarse pre-filter, fine mesh, activated carbon layer) and robust sealing elements (e.g., high-durometer EPDM O-rings). The "elongated lever" (33) and "closure body" (36) are constructed from pressure-resistant materials (e.g., stainless steel, PEEK) and the closure body features a high-pressure seal (e.g., a Viton® O-ring or a resilient fluoropolymer seal) against the pouring opening (37). The lever actuation mechanism (331) is reinforced, possibly with a mechanical advantage system or a small pneumatic actuator, to overcome internal pressure for opening. The entire system operates within a controlled refrigerated environment.

graph TD
    A[Reinforced Pressure Vessel (0-10°C)]
    A -- Contains --> B[Cold Brew Mixture]
    B -- Filtrated by --> C[Pressure-Rated Plunger-Filter]
    C -- Driven by --> D[Reinforced Piston Rod]
    D -- Passes through --> E[Pressure-Sealing Lid]
    E -- Includes --> F[Pressure Gauge]
    E -- Includes --> G[Pressure Relief Valve]
    E -- Features --> H[Reinforced Lever Mechanism]
    H -- Actuates --> I[High-Pressure Closure Body]
    I -- Seals --> J[Pouring Opening]
    J -- Connects to --> K[Spout]

---

Derivative 5: Botanical Solvent Extractor with Gravity-Assisted Lever Dispensing

Axis: Cross-Domain Application (Chemical Extraction/Separation)

Enabling Description:
This derivative applies the plunger-filter mechanism to a laboratory or small-scale industrial setting for solid-liquid botanical extraction using various solvents (e.g., ethanol, water, vegetable oils). The "vessel" (2) is a chemically resistant container, such as borosilicate glass or 316L stainless steel, with a solvent-compatible internal coating if needed. The "filter piston" (4) assembly is designed to handle different botanical materials, with the "plunger-filter" (43) featuring interchangeable filter media (e.g., cellulose filter paper, polypropylene mesh, sintered stainless steel disks) appropriate for various particle sizes and chemical compatibilities. The "lid" (3) and the components of the "elongated lever" (33) and "closure body" (36) are constructed from solvent-resistant materials (e.g., PTFE, PEEK, Hastelloy, or solvent-resistant elastomers like Kalrez® for seals). The pouring opening (37) and spout (328) are designed for controlled dispensing of extracted liquid, potentially with a finer mesh or additional filter at the spout outlet. The lever (33) is configured to provide a clear and controlled opening, and the dispensing process relies on gravity, potentially aided by a slight positive pressure headspace in the vessel for faster flow. The design allows for easy disassembly and cleaning to prevent cross-contamination between different botanical extractions.

sequenceDiagram
    participant User
    participant Extractor Vessel
    participant Plunger Filter
    participant Lever Mechanism
    participant Collection Flask

    User->>Extractor Vessel: Add Botanical Material & Solvent
    User->>Plunger Filter: Insert Piston Rod (41)
    User->>Plunger Filter: Press Down Plunger (43)
    Plunger Filter->>Extractor Vessel: Separate Solids/Liquid
    User->>Lever Mechanism: Actuate Lever (33)
    Lever Mechanism->>Extractor Vessel: Open Pouring Opening (37)
    Extractor Vessel->>Collection Flask: Dispense Extract
    User->>Lever Mechanism: Release Lever (33)
    Lever Mechanism->>Extractor Vessel: Close Pouring Opening (37)

---

Derivative 6: IoT-Enabled, Automated Brewing and Dispensing System

Axis: Integration with Emerging Tech (IoT Sensors & Automation)

Enabling Description:
This derivative integrates US8695486 with IoT capabilities for automated brewing and precise dispensing. The "vessel" (2) includes embedded temperature sensors (e.g., NTC thermistors or RTDs) and a liquid level sensor (e.g., ultrasonic or capacitive). The "lid" (3) houses a compact microcontroller (e.g., ESP32) with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity. The "elongated lever" (33) is driven by a miniature servo motor or linear actuator, controlled by the microcontroller. The "actuating surface" (331) is replaced by a digital interface (e.g., small LCD touchscreen) or is controllable via a smartphone application. The system allows users to remotely monitor brewing parameters (temperature, steep time), receive notifications (e.g., "brewing complete"), and initiate pouring commands. A precise flow sensor (e.g., turbine or Coriolis meter) can be integrated into the spout (328) to measure dispensed volume. Brewing recipes (e.g., water temperature, steep duration) can be stored and executed automatically. Power is provided by an internal rechargeable battery, with a contact charging base or USB-C port.

flowchart TD
    A[Smartphone App / Voice Command] --> B(IoT Gateway / Cloud)
    B -- Wi-Fi/BLE --> C(Microcontroller in Lid)
    C --> D[Temperature Sensor in Vessel]
    C --> E[Liquid Level Sensor in Vessel]
    C --> F[Servo/Linear Actuator for Lever]
    C --> G[Flow Sensor at Spout]
    H[Actuator (F)] -- Controls --> I[Lever (33)]
    I -- Opens/Closes --> J[Pouring Opening (37)]
    J --> K[Spout (328)]
    K -- Liquid Flow --> L[Beverage]

---

Derivative 7: AI-Optimized Brewing with Real-time Parameter Adjustment

Axis: Integration with Emerging Tech (AI-driven Optimization)

Enabling Description:
Building upon Derivative 6, this system incorporates AI for real-time optimization of brewing parameters. The microcontroller in the lid (C) connects to a cloud-based AI module or runs a localized lightweight machine learning model. Sensors include high-resolution temperature probes (e.g., for precise temperature profiling), a pH sensor, and an optical turbidity sensor within the vessel interior (23) to monitor extraction progress. The user provides input via a smartphone app regarding coffee bean origin, roast level, grind size, or tea type, along with desired beverage strength and flavor profile. The AI model, trained on extensive brewing data, calculates and adjusts optimal steep time, target water temperature, and even a dynamic "plunging pressure profile" if the piston (4) mechanism were also motorized. The system offers an automated, precision-controlled lever (33) actuated by a stepper motor or high-resolution servo. The AI provides real-time feedback on brewing status and suggests adjustments. Data from past brews is continually fed back to the AI for iterative improvement. The pouring mechanism's lever actuation can be fine-tuned by the AI for optimal flow rate based on beverage viscosity and user preference.

graph LR
    A[User Input: Bean/Tea Type, Desired Profile] --> B(Smartphone App)
    B --> C(Cloud AI / Local ML Model)
    C -- Brewing Parameters --> D(Lid Microcontroller)
    D --> E[Temp, pH, Turbidity Sensors]
    E -- Real-time Data --> C
    D -- Controls --> F[Precision Lever Actuator]
    F -- Opens/Closes --> G[Pouring Opening]
    H[Past Brewing Data] --> C
    C -- Feedback/Adjustments --> D

---

Derivative 8: Safety-First "Travel Mode" with Friction-Latching Lever

Axis: The "Inverse" or Failure Mode (Low-Power/Limited Functionality)

Enabling Description:
This derivative describes a "travel mode" or "low-power" variant of the plunger-filter beverage maker focused on durability, simplicity, and spill prevention during transport, rather than elaborate features. The "elongated lever" (33) is designed without a dedicated compression spring (34). Instead, the "closure body" (36) is formed with a slightly oversized or conical elastomeric (e.g., high-friction silicone) sealing surface that creates a tight interference fit or high static friction when seated in the "pouring opening" (37). The "horizontal axis" for pivoting the lever (33) is achieved through a robust, high-friction pivot pin or a snap-fit hinge made of a durable, self-lubricating polymer (e.g., acetal). The "actuating region" (331) might be a simple textured thumb rest. To open, the user applies direct, firm downward pressure on the actuating region to overcome the friction seal. To close, the user pushes the lever down until the friction seal engages. This design eliminates complex spring mechanisms, reducing part count, cost, and potential points of failure, making it ideal for portable or ruggedized applications where power or intricate components are undesirable. The lever could also incorporate a simple, manual sliding latch for additional security during transit.

stateDiagram
    [*] --> Closed_FrictionLocked: Default State
    Closed_FrictionLocked --> User_Presses_Actuator: User applies pressure
    User_Presses_Actuator --> Pouring_Opening_Open: Friction overcome, Pouring Open
    Pouring_Opening_Open --> User_Releases_Actuator: User releases pressure
    User_Releases_Actuator --> Closed_FrictionLocked: Friction relocks pouring opening
    Pouring_Opening_Open --> Spill_Warning: Accidental Tilt/Drop
    Spill_Warning --> Closed_FrictionLocked: Auto-close mechanism (e.g., weighted lever or secondary latch)

---

Derivative 9: Overpressure Spill Prevention System for Lever-Actuated Lid

Axis: The "Inverse" or Failure Mode (Safe Failure/Spill Prevention)

Enabling Description:
This derivative enhances the safety of the US8695486 lid by incorporating an automatic spill prevention system that reacts to overpressure or excessive tilt. The "closure body" (36) or its sealing surface is modified to have a slightly concave shape or internal cavity. A pressure sensor is integrated into the lid's top wall (321), communicating with a micro-actuator (e.g., a shape-memory alloy wire or a micro-solenoid) located near the closure body. In the event of an internal overpressure condition (e.g., accidental heating of residual liquid, or an unexpected steam build-up from brewing), the pressure sensor triggers the micro-actuator. The micro-actuator causes the closure body to expand slightly, or a secondary sealing element within it to deploy, increasing the sealing force against the pouring opening (37). Additionally, a tilt sensor (e.g., accelerometer) is embedded in the lid. If the beverage maker is tilted beyond a predetermined safe angle (e.g., 45 degrees), the tilt sensor similarly triggers the micro-actuator or a separate locking pin that mechanically engages the lever (33), preventing it from being pivoted to the open position, or even forcing it closed if already partially open. The lever (33) and its bearing elements (329) are designed to accommodate this additional locking mechanism without hindering normal operation.

flowchart TD
    A[Beverage Maker Vessel (2)] --> B[Lid (3)]
    B --> C[Pouring Opening (37)]
    B --> D[Lever (33)]
    D -- Controls --> E[Closure Body (36)]
    B --> F[Pressure Sensor]
    B --> G[Tilt Sensor]
    F -- Overpressure Detected --> H[Microcontroller / Logic Unit]
    G -- Excessive Tilt Detected --> H
    H -- Actuates --> I[Micro-Actuator (SMA / Solenoid)]
    I -- Enhances Seal / Locks Lever --> E
    subgraph Normal Operation
        D --> E
        E --> C
    end

---

Combination Prior Art Scenarios

Here are three scenarios where US Patent 8695486 can be combined with existing open-source standards to establish prior art for derivative improvements:

1. US8695486 + MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) Standard for IoT Communication:

   • Scenario: A defensive disclosure for an IoT-enabled plunger-filter beverage maker where the status of the pouring opening (open/closed), internal temperature, and plunger position are transmitted to a central home automation system or a user's smartphone using the MQTT protocol. The open-source Mosquitto MQTT broker could be specified as the communication hub. Users could remotely check if the pour spout is closed or receive alerts if it's left open after brewing. Furthermore, the leverage-actuated pouring opening (claims 1, 14) could be triggered remotely via MQTT messages to dispense liquid.
   • Obviousness Argument: The integration of well-established, open-source IoT communication protocols like MQTT for remote monitoring and control of domestic appliances, including their existing mechanical features (like a lever-actuated pouring spout), is a routine engineering implementation. The specific application to a plunger-filter coffee maker with a closable pouring opening, as defined in US8695486, would be considered an obvious combination to someone skilled in the art of IoT and appliance design.

2. US8695486 + Open-Source 3D Printing File Formats (e.g., STL, AMF) for Replacement/Custom Components:

   • Scenario: A defensive disclosure outlining the release of design files (in open-source 3D printable formats like STL or AMF) for customizable replacement parts for the lid (3) and lever (33) assembly of the beverage maker. This would include variations for the actuating surface (331), bearing elements (329), and even alternative closure body (36) designs (e.g., with different textures or colors, assuming the sealing material is a separate insert). The open-source CAD software FreeCAD could be specified for design modifications. This enables users to print their own components, potentially with different aesthetic or ergonomic properties, or to replace worn parts.
   • Obviousness Argument: Providing design files in commonly used open-source 3D printing formats for replaceable or customizable components of a consumer product, particularly those with simple mechanical linkages like the lever and lid of US8695486, is a straightforward application of widely available additive manufacturing technology and open-source design practices. The enablement of such customization or repair makes incremental design changes to these components obvious.

3. US8695486 + Open Hardware Standards (e.g., Arduino Microcontroller Platform) for Automated Test Fixtures:

   • Scenario: A defensive disclosure detailing an automated test fixture for quality assurance of the lever (33) and pouring opening (37) closure mechanism of US8695486, utilizing an Arduino-based microcontroller (e.g., Arduino Uno) for control. The fixture employs a servo motor to repeatedly actuate the lever (33) and optical sensors to detect the open/closed state of the pouring opening (37). A force sensor measures the actuation force required. The Arduino code, published under an open-source license, would define the test sequence, data logging, and pass/fail criteria. This system automates the testing of the spring-loading (claim 2) and actuation force of the lever mechanism.
   • Obviousness Argument: The use of standard open-source microcontroller platforms like Arduino to automate the testing and quality control of mechanical sub-assemblies, such as the lever and closure mechanism described in US8695486, is a common and obvious engineering practice. The combination leverages readily available hardware and software to perform repetitive, measurable tests on an existing patented mechanism.