FLAVOR DEVELOPMENT

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] Beverages, such as vodka, tequila, rum, bourbon, scotch, brandy, beers, ales, wines, juices, teas, coffees, and the like are generally produced through fermentation, extraction, and/or distillation processes. Once produced, in order to improve the taste and smoothness of the beverage, many products are aged. For instance, bourbons and scotches are typically aged at least three years prior to being sold for consumption. Rums, tequilas wines, and brandies are aged for varying amounts from two to ten years or even more.

[0002] In the past, beverages, such as bourbon and scotch, for example, have been aged in oak barrels or casks over long periods of time. The beverages are aged in the wooden containers in order to remove unwanted components and to impart certain colors, flavors and fragrances to enhance the smoothness and taste of the beverage. During the aging process, the distillates can react with components in the wood, such as lignins, tannins, and carbohydrates. Distillation and aging techniques have changed little over the last several hundred years.

[0003] Unfortunately, the costs of such conventional processes are enormous, often accounting for half to two-thirds or even more of the cost of the spirit to consumers. For instance, to ensure product quality, oak barrels should be stored in warehouses under carefully controlled temperature and humidity conditions for very long periods of time. The barrels are not only very expensive to manufacture but also take up a significant amount of space. Further, much of the beverage can be lost during aging due to evaporation through the pores of the barrels.

[0004] In addition, natural barrel aging also presents limitations to the chemical reactions which are believed to improve spirit flavor and quality. For instance, oxidation and esterification reactions which are believed to assure spirit smoothness and flavor tend to be inefficient and unable to proceed to completeness at the temperatures which are preferred for limiting loss of product due to evaporation. Thus a balance must be struck with aging processes between increased temperature in order to promote desired chemical reactions and lower temperature desired to limit product evaporation.

[0005] Moreover, consumers of beverages value beverages with enhanced flavor as a result of aging and/or processing with organic materials such as fruits, woods, nuts, herbs, etc. To develop the flavoring of beverages, large quantities of organic material are often simply mixed with the beverage during processing, resulting in inefficient use of the organic materials.

[0006] Certain processes for rapidly maturing beverages have been developed that involve subjecting the beverages to ultrasonic energy. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,063,867 to Tyler, TII et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 10,604,730 to Bailey et al., which are incorporated herein by reference as to all relevant matters, are directed to processes for maturing beverages including subjecting the beverages to a disclosed amount of ultrasonic energy. However, a need still exists for a device capable of efficiently subjecting the beverage to flavor enhancers using ultrasonic energy in addition to an ultrasonic energy aging process. Accordingly, a device for ultrasonic extraction and finishing of beverages to enhance flavor development by subjecting the beverage to ultrasonic energy would be beneficial.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

[0008] In one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a device is provided for enhancing the flavor of a beverage, the device comprising: an external enclosure defining a first interior volume for holding a liquid, an internal enclosure defining a second interior volume for holding the beverage, wherein the internal enclosure is positioned within the first interior volume of the external enclosure, and wherein the liquid is placed between the external enclosure and the internal enclosure, a basket defining an exterior surface, an interior surface, and a third interior volume, wherein the basket comprises a plurality of apertures extending from the exterior surface to the interior surface, the third interior volume configured to hold flavor enhancing materials, and wherein the basket is positioned within the second interior volume of the interior enclosure such that beverage flows through the plurality of apertures, an ultrasonic energy device extending through the first interior volume and surrounded by the liquid held between the external enclosure and the internal enclosure, wherein the ultrasonic energy device is configured to subject the liquid within the first interior volume of the external enclosure to ultrasonic energy, the ultrasonic energy sufficient to subject the beverage within the second interior volume of the internal enclosure to the ultrasonic energy, wherein the exterior enclosure includes a first inlet for receiving a pressurized flow of the liquid and a first outlet positioned above the first inlet for removing the liquid, and wherein the interior enclosure includes a second inlet for receiving a pressurized flow of the beverage and a second outlet positioned above the second inlet for removing the beverage.

[0009] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a system for ultrasonic extraction and finishing of beverages in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the exemplary system of FIG. 1.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a front view of the exemplary system of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a side view of the exemplary system of FIG. 1.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the exemplary system of FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a side view of an extraction device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a side view of a finishing device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a top, simplified schematic view of an ultrasonic energy device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a side, simplified schematic view of the exemplary ultrasonic energy device of FIG. 8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Reference will now be made in detail to present embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The detailed description uses numerical and letter designations to refer to features in the drawings. Like or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to like or similar parts of the invention. As used herein, the terms "first", "second", and "third" may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the relative direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, "upstream" refers to the direction from which the fluid flows, and "downstream" refers to the direction to which the fluid flows.

[0021] Referring now to the drawings, wherein identical numerals indicate the same elements throughout the figures, FIGs. 1-5 depict a system 2 for ultrasonic extraction and finishing of beverages to enhance flavor development. As used herein, the term "beverages" refers generally to any beverage, such as vodka, tequila, rum, whiskey, bourbon, scotch, brandy, wine, juice, tea, coffee, etc.

[0022] The system 2 generally includes an extraction device 4, a finishing device 6, and an ancillary reservoir 22. The ancillary reservoir 22 may contain a volume of beverage to be imparted with flavor (i.e. “enhanced”) and/or matured by the extraction device 4. In some embodiments, the ancillary reservoir 22 may capture and hold a volume of beverage that has previously been enhanced the extraction device 4. In yet additional embodiments, the ancillary reservoir 22 may capture and hold a volume of beverage that has previously been finished by the finishing device 6. For the embodiment depicted, the ancillary reservoir 22 is positioned adjacent to the finishing device 6, which is adjacent to extraction device 4 such that the beverage may be gravity fed and or pumped from the ancillary reservoir 22 to the extraction device 4, and to thereafter to the finishing device 6. Ancillary reservoir 22 ensures laminar flow of the beverage to the extraction device 4.

[0023] The ancillary reservoir 22 and finishing device 6 may each comprise approximately the same size tanks, and further each may be formed of any suitable material. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, one or both of the ancillary reservoir 22 or finishing device 6 may be formed of a suitable plastic or metal material. [0024] Extraction device 4 comprises an extraction reservoir 10 in generally a rectangular cuboid shape defining an interior volume configured to hold beverage and flavor enhancing materials simultaneously. Extraction reservoir 10 may be formed of any suitable material, for example stainless steel, plastic, other metals, or the like. Additional details of the structure of extraction device will be provided herein, however it should be noted that extraction device 4 comprises a lid 12, sized appropriately to enclose the interior volume of extraction reservoir 10 to prevent splashing, contamination from elements, temperature changes or the like. Extraction device 4 also comprises an inlet and an outlet, to move beverages to and from extraction device 4. Extraction device 4 is structured to be fixed to system 2 using mounting surface 14 to prevent the unwanted movement during use of system 2.

[0025] Finishing device 6 comprises a finishing reservoir 16, formed in a hollow cylindrical shape defining an interior volume configured to hold beverage. Finishing device 6 may be formed of any suitable material, for example stainless steel, plastic, other metals, or the like. Adjacent to the exterior surfaces of finishing reservoir 16 are circumferential outflow bar 18 and circumferential inflow bar 19. Circumferential outflow bar 18 is a hollow metal or plastic pipe with a circular cross-section, circumferential outflow bar 18 extending around the outer surfaces of finishing reservoir 16 in a circular or spiral-like trajectory. Circumferential inflow bar 19 is a hollow metal or plastic pipe with a circular cross-section, circumferential inflow bar 19 extending around the outer surfaces of finishing reservoir 16 in a circular or spiral -like trajectory. Circumferential outflow bar 18 and circumferential inflow bar 19 each comprise a series of hollow tube projections directed towards the exterior and interior surfaces of finishing reservoir 16, these projections configured to move beverage using gravitational or pressure forces provided by pumps. These projections are also in fluid communication with the interior volume of finishing reservoir 16, such that beverages or liquids provided within finishing reservoir 16 are capable of flowing through circumferential outflow bar 18 and circumferential inflow bar 19. Circumferential outflow bar 18 is positioned above circumferential inflow bar 19, such that gravitational forces and/or vacuum forces remove the beverage from finishing reservoir 16. As such, the primary purpose of circumferential outflow bar 18 is to remove beverage and flow the beverage away from finishing reservoir 16. Conversely, circumferential inflow bar 19 relies on pumping mechanisms to move the beverage to finishing reservoir 16. As such, the primary purpose of circumferential outflow bar 18 is to add beverage to finishing reservoir 16. [0026] Frame 30 of system 2 allows for structural integrity of the system, platforms to mount various components of the system to, and the like. Frame 30 may comprise any number of structural members of various sizes, shapes, materials, or the like, capable of supporting the weight of the system. In some embodiments, frame 30 may be composed of metal extrusion beams welded to each other or affixed together with hardware such as bolts and screws. Fixedly attached to frame 30 is stairs 28, which are positioned in front of extrusion device 4 to provide a user a convenient method of reaching the height of extrusion device 4. In some embodiments, stairs 28 may be moveable, and as such not fixedly attached, but rather capable of moving on wheels, caster, etc. In this way, system 2 may require less floor space in a production environment.

[0027] Affixed to frame 30 are electrical cabinets 24, 26. In the present embodiment depicted graphically, electrical cabinets 24, 26 are positioned in front of finishing device 6 and ancillary reservoir 22, however it is contemplated that any number of positions, sizes, or configurations of electrical cabinets 24 and 26 are acceptable. In the present embodiment, electrical cabinet 24 is positioned to the left side of electrical cabinet 26, however in other embodiments the electrical cabinets 24, 26 may swap positions or be placed in entirely different locations. Electrical cabinets 24, 26 may also be configured with one or more control panels, which may comprise user interfaces, such that a graphical user interface (“GUI”) is presented along the front face of electrical cabinet 24, electrical cabinet 26, or both. Electrical cabinets 24, 26 may also comprise electronic wired or wireless network components configured to connect to the internet, intranet, or other communications network to allow for remote operation of system 2. Feedback from sensors such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, proximity sensors, position sensors, solenoid valves, or the like may be integrated with these electrical components. In this way, system 2 is fully operable remotely and capable of being monitored remotely. Additionally, the control panel may be attached or integrated into electrical cabinet 24, electrical cabinet 26, or both, and may have a plurality of mechanical controls thereon such as buttons, switches, keys, or the like. The controls may be configured to control one or more operations of the system 2.

[0028] Referring now to FIG. 2, a top plan view of the system 2 of FIG. 1 is provided. Of note in this particular view an embodiment is the inclusion of pumps 32, 34 and plumbing devices 36. Pumps 32, 34 may be any combination of fluid pump capable of moving liquid or gas, including but not limited to cavity pumps, centrifugal pumps, gear pumps, horizontal pumps, vertical pumps, AOD pumps, dosing pumps, screw pumps, or the like. Pumps 32, 34 may be configured to move beverages to, from, and between extraction device 4, finishing device 6, and/or ancillary reservoir, or any combination thereof. Likewise, plumbing devices 36 may comprise any number of combinations of pipe, tubing, valves, fittings, sensors, or the like, capable of transporting liquids such as beverages, or air for pneumatics, to, from, and between extraction device 4, finishing device 6, and/or ancillary reservoir, or any combination thereof.

[0029] It should be appreciated, that in other exemplary embodiments, the system 2 may provide for a flow of beverages to and through the extraction device 4 and finishing device 6 in any suitable manner. For example, in other embodiments, the beverage may be fed through the extraction device 4 and/or finishing device 6 using one or more pumps or other similar devices. Additionally, in such an exemplary embodiment, the pumps or other similar devices may be in operable communication with the controls of the electrical cabinets 24, 26.

[0030] Referring now to FIG. 6, a side view of extraction device 4 is provided. The external enclosure 38 of the extraction device 4 is generally a thin-walled rectangular cuboid in shape, with a rectangular cross-section extending along the horizontal direction between a first end and a second end, therebetween forming a first and second side, a top end and a bottom end, and an internal void. Additionally, the top end of exemplary external enclosure 38 defines an opening in external closure 38, the opening configured to access an internal void within the external enclosure 38. The external enclosure 38 includes a removable lid 12 at the top end enclosing the interior volume defined by the external enclosure 38. However, in other exemplary embodiments, the external enclosure 38 may have any other suitable shape and/or orientation. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, the external enclosure 38 may have a squared, rectangular, ovular, or other polygon or curved cross-sectional shape. Additionally, although the exemplary external enclosure 38 is depicted oriented along the horizontal direction, in other exemplary embodiments, the external enclosure 38 may instead be oriented in any other suitable direction. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, the external enclosure 38 may be oriented generally along a vertical direction.

[0031] Referring still to the embodiment depicted, the external enclosure 38 is formed of metal, such as stainless steel or other appropriate metal, however in some embodiments external enclosure 38 may be formed of a transparent, semi-transparent, or translucent material to allow a user to view the interior volume of the external enclosure 38. For example, the external enclosure 38 may be formed of a glass material, a transparent plastic material (such as those known by the trade names Plexiglas or Acrylite), a borosilicate glass, a quartz glass, a polycarbonate glass material, or any other suitable materials. Alternatively, however, the external enclosure 38 may be formed of a non-transparent material, such as a suitable metal material, non-transparent plastic material, or ceramic material.

[0032] The external enclosure 38 additionally defines a flow inlet 48 and flow outlet 50. Flow inlet 48 and flow outlet 50 form a closed-loop system with a heating element and a radiator and one or more pumps and/or reservoirs. In the present embodiment, a liquid such as water flows into the external enclosure 38 via the flow inlet 48 and provides temperature control to the beverage within the internal enclosure 44. This liquid may be desired to be at a predetermined temperature such as to preserve or improve inherit taste qualities or shelf-life of the beverage within internal enclosure 44. Certain beverages exhibit superior characteristics if processed or maintained above or below a certain temperature. Depending on the ambient temperature, the beverage being processed, and the temperature of the liquid, the predetermined temperature and temperature sensors may work in conjunction with the heating element and/or the radiator to provide a cooling or warming effect to the liquid. It shall be noted that flow inlet 48 is positioned beneath flow outlet 50, such that the liquid flows upwards and mixes properly with the liquid within external enclosure 38 during processing. Extraction device 4 comprises one or more temperature sensors 64 for monitoring the temperature of the beverage and/or liquid.

[0033] Within the internal void of external enclosure 38 is internal enclosure 44. Internal enclosure 44 is formed of a transparent, semi-transparent, or translucent material to allow a user to view the interior volume of internal enclosure 44. For example, the internal enclosure 44 may be formed of a glass material, a transparent plastic material (such as those known by the trade names Plexiglas or Acrylite), a borosilicate glass, a quartz glass, a polycarbonate glass material, or any other suitable materials. Alternatively, however, the external enclosure 38 may be formed of a non-transparent material, such as a suitable metal material, non-transparent plastic material, or ceramic material. The internal enclosure 44 is generally a thin-walled rectangular cuboid in shape, with a rectangular cross-section extending along the horizontal direction between a first end and a second end, therebetween forming a first and second side, a top end and a bottom end, and an internal void. Additionally, the top end of exemplary external enclosure 38 defines an opening in internal enclosure 44, the opening configured to access an internal void within the internal enclosure 44 In other exemplary embodiments, the internal enclosure 44 may have any other suitable shape and/or orientation. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, the internal enclosure 44 may have a squared, rectangular, ovular, or other polygon or curved cross-sectional shape. Internal enclosure 44 includes a removable lid at the top end enclosing the interior volume defined by the internal enclosure 44. However, the lid of internal enclosure 44 may be configured with hinges on one lateral side and latches on the opposite side, such that the lid is capable of pivoting open to reveal the internal void of internal enclosure 44.

[0034] Located along the bottom side of both internal enclosure 44 and external enclosure 38 are two openings, sufficiently shaped and sized to allow inlet 45 and outlet 46 to pass through the bottom side of external enclosure 38 into the bottom side of internal enclosure 44. It shall be noted that outlet 46 possesses and extended tube internal to internal enclosure 44 such that the effective height of which outlet 46 removes the beverage within internal enclosure 44 is higher than the effective height of inlet 45. In this way, beverage is supplied to extraction device 4, and thereby internal enclosure 44 and the beverage must travel upwards towards outlet 46 in order for the beverage to be removed from internal enclosure 44. In doing so, the beverage becomes sufficiently mixed with other beverage within internal enclosure 44 and the beverage has proper dwell time with the contents of basket 40: the flavor enhancing materials.

[0035] One or more ultrasonic devices are held within the liquid contents of external enclosure 38 such that the liquid is agitated. This ultrasonic array provides agitation at a frequency between 30kHz and 50 kHz, preferably 40kHz, and with a power between lOw per liter to 20w per liter, preferably 15w per liter. As the liquid is agitated within external enclosure 38, the beverage contents within internal enclosure 44 are likewise agitated, since the movement provided by the ultrasonics is capable of transmitting movement of the surfaces of internal enclosure 44 simultaneously. In some embodiments, the ultrasonic array is provided directly to the beverage contents of internal enclosure 44. In either case, interior enclosure 44 isolates and protects the beverage from any incidental degradation of the material of external enclosure 38 as a result of exposure to these ultrasonic waveforms.

[0036] Within the interval void of internal enclosure 44 is basket 40. Basket 40 is comprised of the same material as internal enclosure 44, but may also be comprised of any number of suitable materials, such as plastic and metal. Basket 40 of the extraction device 4 is generally a thin-walled rectangular cuboid in shape, with a rectangular cross-section extending along the horizontal direction between a first end and a second end, therebetween forming a first and second side, a top end and a bottom end, and an internal void. Additionally, the top end of exemplary basket 40 defines an opening in basket, the opening configured to access an internal void within the basket 40. In other exemplary embodiments, the basket 40 may have any other suitable shape and/or orientation. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, basket 40 may have a squared, rectangular, ovular, or other polygon or curved cross-sectional shape.

[0037] The sides, ends, and bottom of basket 40 comprise a plurality of apertures 42. Apertures 42 may be any number of shapes such as circular, square, triangular, etc. Within the internal void of basket 40, extraction device 4 may be filled with flavor enhancing materials, including but not limited to: wood, herbs, dried fruits, vegetables, seeds, flowers, or the like. By subjecting the flavor enhancing materials and surrounding beverage to the ultrasonic waveforms, the flavor of the beverage is enhanced at a rate which is more efficient than traditional methods. Apertures 42 allow the beverage within internal enclosure 44 to flow through basket 40 and contact the flavor enhancing materials prior to being removed from the extraction device 4 by outlet 46. [0038] Inlet 45 may be in fluid communication with the ancillary reservoir 22 via an inlet conduit. Similarly, the outlet 46 is in fluid communication with the finishing reservoir 16 via an outlet conduit, thereby moving beverage from the extraction device 4 to finishing device 6. In some embodiments, ancillary reservoir 22 may be used as temporary beverage storing container prior to the beverage reaching finishing reservoir 16. In yet additional embodiments, a separate holding tank outside of system 2 is utilized to hold the beverage received from outlet 46 prior to the beverage being pumped or flowed to finishing reservoir 16.

[0039] Referring now also to FIG. 7, a side view of finishing device 6 is provided. The cylindrical enclosure 52 of the finishing device 6 extends generally cylindrical in shape along an axial direction between a first end and a second end. Specifically, the exemplary finishing device 6 depicted is vertically oriented. Accordingly, for the embodiment depicted, the first end may be considered a top end and the second end may be considered a bottom end. Additionally, the exemplary cylindrical enclosure 52 defines a substantially cylindrical shaped body between the first and second ends, and includes an integrally formed substantially flat cap at the bottom end. By contrast, the cylindrical enclosure 52 includes a removable lid at the top end enclosing and interior volume defined by the cylindrical enclosure 52. However, in other exemplary embodiments, the cylindrical enclosure 52 may have any other suitable shape and/or orientation. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, the cylindrical enclosure 52 may have a squared, rectangular, ovular, or other polygon or curved cross-sectional shape. Additionally, although the exemplary cylindrical enclosure 52 is depicted oriented along the vertical direction, in other exemplary embodiments, the cylindrical enclosure 52 may instead be oriented in any other suitable direction. For example, in other exemplary embodiments, the cylindrical enclosure 52 may be oriented generally along a horizontal direction, such that the axial direction of the cylindrical enclosure 52 extends substantially parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0040] Located proximate the bottom end of cylindrical enclosure 52 are two ultrasonic devices 58, configured to be inserted into appropriately sized apertures along the bottom end of cylindrical enclosure 52 and reach the beverage within the internal void of finishing device 6. Such ultrasonic devices subject the beverage to additional ultrasonic waveforms which aid in the maturing of the beverage and add to the enhanced flavor profile of the beverage.

[0041] Four cylindrical tubes comprising a plastic composition such as polycarbonate or similar materials are positioned within cylindrical enclosure 52 of finishing device 6. The cylindrical tubes are thin walled and circular in cross-section such that each cylindrical tube comprises in inner surface, and outer surface, and a void within the space defined by the inner surface of the cylindrical tubes. Two of the cylindrical tubes are sized with diameters larger than the remaining two cylindrical tubes, such that the cylindrical tubes with smaller diameters may be placed within the inner diameter of the larger tubes. As such, a void is formed between the inner cylindrical tube and the outer cylindrical tube, for each pair of tubes. The inner cylindrical tube may be defined by apertures extending from the outer surface to the inner surface of the cylindrical tube, allowing liquid held to pass freely between the two concentric voids. Further disclosure of these apparatuses will be presented herein at FIGs. 8 and 9.

[0042] Ultrasonic devices 58 are typically probe-style ultrasonic devices and placed within the inner cylindrical tubes. Ultrasonic devices each receive power to output an ultrasonic waveform frequency between 20kHz and 30kHz, preferable 25 kHz, and power between 1000W and 3000W, preferable 2000W. The void(s) within the inner surfaces of the outer cylindrical tubes and/or inner cylindrical tubes are fdled with a liquid, including but not limited to water, such that the liquid receives the ultrasonic waveform and subsequently transfers the energy provided by the ultrasonic devices 58 to the beverage, which still maintaining separation between the beverage and the liquid. [0043] This liquid may be desired to be at a predetermined temperature such as to preserve or improve inherit taste qualities or shelf-life of the beverage within cylindrical enclosure 52. Certain beverages exhibit superior characteristics if processed or maintained above or below a certain temperature. Depending on the ambient temperature, the beverage being processed, and the temperature of the liquid, the predetermined temperature and temperature sensors may work in conjunction with the heating element and/or the radiator to provide a cooling or warming effect to the liquid. Finishing device 6 comprises one or more temperature sensors 64 sufficient to monitor the temperature of the beverage and/or liquid, and as such temperature sensors 64 may be mounted through apertures in cylindrical enclosure 52.

[0044] As previously noted in FIGs. 1-5, circumferential outflow bar 18 and circumferential inflow bar 19 are located proximate the outer circumference of cylindrical enclosure 52. Circumferential outflow bar 18 comprises an outlet 54 for fluid communication with storage tanks once the beverage has finished processing. The matured beverage from the finishing device 6 may be gravity fed to an outfeed storage tank. Circumferential inflow bar 19 comprises an inlet 56, which is in fluid communication with ancillary enclosure 22, and/or extraction device 4, and/or other storage tanks. Pump 62 may also provide additional fluid motion required to move beverage into cylindrical enclosure 52, and as such pump 62 is in fluid communication with circumferential inflow bar 19 and or conduit therein.

[0045] More specifically, a continuous flow of beverage to be matured or finished in the finishing device 6 may flow from the inlet 56 of circumferential inflow bar 19, through the cylindrical enclosure 52, and to the outlet 54 of circumferential outflow bar 18. The amount of exposure of ultrasonic energy from the ultrasonic energy devices 58 to the beverage to be matured by the finishing device 6 may thus be controlled by regulating a flowrate of the beverage through the cylindrical enclosure 52 of finishing device 6. Accordingly, a portion of the pump 62 may extend through the various frame members of the frame 30 to the electrical cabinets 24, 26. The controls of the electrical cabinets 24, 26 configured to control a flow rate of the beverage through the finishing device 6 by regulating a flow through the inlet 56.

[0046] Located proximate the outer surface of cylindrical enclosure 52 is a plurality of supports 60, said supports 60 extending in a downward direction and mechanically coupled to the outer surface of cylindrical enclosure 52. At the bottom of supports 60 are flanges 20, configured to provide stability to finishing device 6, such that flanges 20 have a flat surface for attachment to frame 30. Tn some embodiments, flanges 20 may comprise apertures or other mechanical attachment points for fasteners such as bolts, lag bolts, screws, or other hardware.

[0047] Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, schematic, cross-sectional views are provided of an ultrasonic energy device 58 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 8 provides a top, schematic, cross-sectional view of the exemplary ultrasonic energy device 58 along an axial direction A, and FIG. 9 provides a side, schematic, cross-sectional view of the exemplary ultrasonic energy device 58 along a radial direction R.

[0048] In at least certain exemplary embodiments, the ultrasonic energy device 58 includes one or more speakers 66 for producing ultrasonic energy. Specifically, for the embodiment depicted, the ultrasonic energy device 58 includes a plurality of speakers 66 for producing ultrasonic energy. The ultrasonic energy device 58 is configured to subject the beverage within the interior volume of the cylindrical enclosure 52 and/ or external enclosure 38 to the ultrasonic energy produced by the plurality of speakers 66. In certain exemplary embodiments, the plurality of speakers 66 may include one or more arrays 68 of speakers 66 (FIG. 9), each array 68 including a plurality of speakers 66 spaced along the axial direction A. For the embodiment depicted, the ultrasonic energy device 58 includes four arrays 68 of axially oriented speakers 66, each array 68 spaced along the circumferential direction C. With such a configuration, the ultrasonic energy device 58 may be capable of providing ultrasonic energy in a range of directions (indicated by arrows 70) up to about three hundred sixty (360) degrees along the circumferential direction C relative to an axial centerline 72 of the ultrasonic energy device 58. For example, the ultrasonic energy device 58 may be positioned to subject the beverage within the interior volume of the cylindrical enclosure 52 and/ or external enclosure 38 to ultrasonic energy from a first side 74 in a first direction and from a second and opposite side 76 in a second and opposite direction.

[0049] Notably, for the embodiment depicted, each of the speakers 66 may be configured as unidirectional speakers providing ultrasonic energy in a relatively small (e.g., approximately 90 degrees) range of directions. It should be appreciated, however, that in other exemplary embodiments, one or more of the speakers 66 may be configured as omnidirectional speakers providing ultrasonic energy in a relatively large range of directions (e.g., 180 degrees, 270 degrees, 360 degrees). With such a configuration, the ultrasonic energy device may simply include a single omnidirectional speaker for providing the ultrasonic energy in the desired range of directions. Additionally, in still other embodiments, the plurality of speakers 66 may alternatively be arranged in any other suitable configuration. For example, instead of axially extending arrays 68 of speakers 66, the ultrasonic energy device 58 may include one or more spiraled or helical shape arrays of speakers.

[0050] The speakers 66 may include any suitable speaker technology for generating ultrasonic energy. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, one or more of the plurality of speakers 66 may include any suitable dynamic loudspeaker technology, such as a push-pull speaker technology. Additionally, the speakers 66 may be configured to provide a wide range of ultrasonic energy of the cylindrical enclosure 52 and/ or external enclosure 38, as previously described herein. Of course, in other embodiments, the plurality of speakers 66 may provide ultrasonic energy at any other suitable power level or at any other suitable frequency.

[0051] As may be seen in FIGs. 8 and 9, the ultrasonic energy device 58 includes an outer enclosure 78 and an inner housing 80. The plurality of speakers 66 of the ultrasonic energy device 58 are positioned within the outer enclosure 78 and inner housing 80. More particularly, the plurality of speakers 66 of the ultrasonic energy device 58 are positioned within the inner housing 80. For example, the plurality of speakers 66 and inner housing 80 may be a prefabricated unit positioned within the ultrasonic energy device 58. The ultrasonic energy device 58 additionally includes a liquid surrounding the plurality of speakers 66 within the outer enclosure 78. Specifically, the liquid is positioned in an annular void 82 defined between the outer enclosure 78 and inner housing 80 of the ultrasonic energy device 58. The liquid may be any suitable liquid for transferring the ultrasonic energy. For example, the liquid may be water, a water mixture having one or more additives, a distilled liquid, or any other suitable liquid. Notably, the inclusion of an intermediate liquid within the annular void 82 surrounding the inner housing 80 may prevent a contamination of the beverage within the cylindrical enclosure 52 and/ or external enclosure 38. For example, wherein the inner housing 80 and speaker 66 are configured as a prefabricated unit, the inner housing 80 may be formed up material that may degrade when exposed to the beverage and the ultrasonic energy produced. The degradation of the inner housing 80 may contaminate the liquid to which it is exposed. Accordingly, inclusion of an intermediate liquid within the annular void 82, separated by the outer enclosure 78, may prevent any such contamination from reaching any beverage being distilled within the of the cylindrical enclosure 52 and/ or external enclosure 38. [0052] The ultrasonic energy device 58, or more particularly, the plurality of speakers 66 of the ultrasonic energy device 58 may be in electrical communication with a power source. For example, in at least certain exemplary embodiments, such as the embodiment depicted, the plurality speakers 66 may be in wired communication with a power source. The power source may be a central power source for powering each of the plurality of speakers 66. Moreover, the power source may be contained within the ultrasonic energy device 58, or alternatively, the power source may be external to the ultrasonic energy device 58. For example, the power source may be a building utility line connected to the ultrasonic energy device 58 and the plurality of speakers 66 therein through one or more electrical lines. The one or more electrical lines may be attached to the ultrasonic energy device 58 and suspended from various support bars of the frame of the energy device 58. Alternatively, one or more of the plurality of speakers 66 may include an individual power source, such as a battery or battery pack, for powering such speakers 66.

[0053] The ultrasonic energy device 58 may be operably connected to a plurality of controls of the extraction device 4 and/or finishing device 6 of which the ultrasonic energy device 58 is included. For example, the plurality of controls may be configured as the controls on the electrical cabinets 24, 26 described above with reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 through 5. The controls may allow a user to change a frequency and/or power level of the ultrasonic energy device 58 as desired.

[0054] A finishing device and/or extraction device in accordance with exemplary aspects of the present disclosure may allow for efficiently subjecting a beverage to ultrasonic energy to mature, finish, or extract flavor from flavor enhancing materials to such beverage. More particularly, by positioning an ultrasonic energy device capable of generating ultrasonic energy and a wide range of directions within a container at a location such that an exposure of the ultrasonic energy device to the beverage within the container is maximized, the beverage may be more efficiently subjected to the ultrasonic energy as desired.

[0055] Moreover, it should be appreciated, that although the exemplary system 2 described herein is used to finish, mature, and enhance the flavor of a beverage, in other exemplary embodiments, the exemplary system, including the extraction device 4 and finishing device 6, may not be configured to finish, mature, and enhance the flavor a beverage, and instead may be used to process other liquids, e.g., biofuels, vinegar or other food products, perfumes, etc. [0056] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.