Coffee grinder with device for detecting filter holder or filter and method for detecting filter holder or filter

Abstract

The present application discloses a coffee grinder comprising: a machine body having a motor and a grinding part for grinding coffee beans; and a device for detecting the presence of a filter and / or a filter holder in a set position suitable for receiving ground coffee, wherein the detection device comprises a normally open switch comprising a first half-support for the filter and / or the filter holder and a second half-support for the filter and / or the filter holder, the switch being arranged to close when the filter and / or the filter holder is in electrical contact with the first half-support and in electrical contact with the second half-support.

Description

Background Art

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of espresso machines and machines for grinding coffee grains. Such a coffee grain grinder can be a standalone machine or can be integrated into a coffee beverage machine. Such a machine for grinding coffee grains is also referred to simply as a "coffee grinder," "coffee grinder," or "grinder."

[0002] More particularly, the present invention relates to a device for detecting when a filter and / or filter holder is present in a predetermined position in a coffee grinder or espresso maker. Background Art

[0004] As is well known, to prepare espresso, a specific amount of ground coffee, often called a dose, is used. This dose of ground coffee is placed in a filter, which is typically cup-shaped, open at the top, and has a micro-perforated bottom. Typically, the dose of coffee is pressed into the filter to form a puck of ground coffee. The filter is then supported by a filter holder, which is configured to removably engage the dispensing group of an espresso machine. Espresso is obtained by forcing hot water under pressure through the puck of ground coffee.

[0005] Coffee powder is obtained using a coffee grinder. In known coffee grinders, coffee grains are ground by passing them through a grinding element. Grinding elements of the flat conical or cylindrical type are known. Typically, the grinding element of a coffee grinder comprises a fixed element and a element that rotates relative to the fixed element. For example, in a coffee grinder with conical grinders, one grinder remains fixed, i.e., stationary, while the other grinder is rotated by a motor.

[0006] Downstream of the grinding member, a filter holder is arranged such that the ground coffee is collected in a filter held by the filter holder.

[0007] Supports for filter holders are known. These support members constitute a support for the filter holder when the coffee is ground and when the ground coffee is loaded into the filter.

[0008] Some coffee grinders are able to detect the presence of a filter holder when it rests on a support.

[0009] For example, coffee grinders are known, in which the detection is performed using a mechanical microswitch, an inductive sensor or a device corresponding to the weight (or mass) of the filter holder, for example a device comprising a load cell or the like.

[0010] Testing for the presence of a filter holder may be desirable or necessary for a variety of reasons.

[0011] For example, the detection of a filter holder can be used to start automatic grinding of coffee grains without pressing a start button in the coffee grinder.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, detection of the filter holder can be used to prevent inadvertent start of grinding when a key is pressed without the filter holder in place.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, detection of the filter holder can be used to automatically stop grinding once the filter holder is removed. Summary of the Invention

[0014] The applicant has carefully examined known devices for detecting filter holders in coffee grinders and the like.

[0015] According to the applicant, filter holder detection systems of the above type have the inherent limitation of using delicate components that are at high risk of breakage. In fact, the micro switches, inductive sensors or force measuring cells of the sensing system based on the weight of the filter holder are delicate components.

[0016] Furthermore, their operating conditions are critical and not optimal for at least the following reasons. The environment is contaminated by coffee grounds. Moreover, coffee grinders are often cleaned with water or detergent by personnel who pay little attention to the machine and are forced to work quickly under all circumstances. Bartenders operate at high speeds in confined spaces and often accidentally and unexpectedly collide with supports and / or sensors.

[0017] According to the applicant, the advantage of an inductive sensor is that it is contactless, but it has a somewhat reduced reading range. Furthermore, according to the applicant, the detection of a steel filter holder is worse than that of a brass filter holder. In any case, inductive sensors are sensitive to dirt and are expensive.

[0018] When the presence of the filter holder is not detected or is detected in an unreliable manner, grinding may not occur, or may not stop at the set time or start when not required. All of these situations hinder the bartender's work and therefore affect the bartender's job. Moreover, if the dose is not stopped at the desired time, or if grinding starts when it is not expected, the ground coffee will be wasted.

[0019] The applicant has therefore set itself the goal of providing a reliable and robust system for detecting the presence of a filter or filter holder in a coffee grinder. The device of the present invention can also be used in machines other than coffee grinders. For example, it can be used in a machine for weighing coffee doses (contained in a filter) or in a machine for pressing ground coffee. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "machine" or "coffee machine" (or similar expressions) will also be understood to mean an espresso machine, a coffee weighing machine, or a coffee pressing machine.

[0020] According to the applicant, the above-mentioned object can be achieved by providing a normally open switch, which comprises a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact, wherein the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are arranged to support a filter and / or a filter holder so that the switch is closed by electrical contact between the contacts and the filter and / or filter holder.

[0021] According to a first aspect, there is provided a coffee grinder comprising:

[0022] a machine body having a motor and a grinding member for grinding coffee grains; and means for detecting the presence of a filter and / or a filter holder in a predetermined position suitable for receiving ground coffee,

[0023] wherein the detection device comprises a normally open switch comprising a first half-support for the filter and / or the filter holder and a second half-support for the filter and / or the filter holder, and

[0024] The switch is arranged to close when the filter and / or the filter holder is in electrical contact with the first and second support halves.

[0025] According to an embodiment, when the switch is open, at least one function of the coffee grinder will be disabled.

[0026] According to an embodiment, when the switch is open, the motor will not be powered.

[0027] According to an embodiment, the first half-support and the second half-support are separated by a slot and comprise a bend for the body of the filter holder.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the first half-bearing and the second half-bearing define a bearing plane.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the first half-support and the second half-support are arranged to engage the filter holder at fins protruding from the body of the filter holder.

[0030] According to an embodiment, the first half-support and the second half-support are connected to the plate by respective cables.

[0031] According to an embodiment, the machine further comprises a further handle support for supporting a handle of the filter holder.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the machine further comprises a hook cooperating with the half-support in order to retain the filter and / or the filter holder in a predetermined position.

[0033] According to an embodiment, the hook is substantially inverted L-shaped.

[0034] According to an embodiment, the hook is at least partially of an electrically conductive material.

[0035] According to another aspect, the present invention provides a method for detecting the presence of a filter and / or filter holder when the filter and / or filter holder is in a set position in a coffee grinder or in an espresso machine or in a machine for weighing a dose of coffee or in a machine for pressing a dose of coffee into the filter holder, the method comprising: providing a filter or filter holder detection device, the filter or filter holder detection device comprising a normally open switch, the normally open switch comprising a first half support for the filter or filter holder and a second half support for the filter or filter holder, and the switch being closed by creating electrical contact between the filter and / or filter holder, the first support and the second support.

[0036] According to an embodiment, when the switch is open, at least one function of the coffee grinder will be disabled.

[0037] According to an embodiment, when the switch is open, the motor will not be powered.

[0038] According to an embodiment, a time threshold is provided between the time when the circuit is closed by the filter and / or the filter holder and the time when the function of the coffee grinder is disabled. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] The following is a detailed description of the present invention by way of non-limiting examples, which is to be read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a coffee grinder having a filter holder detection device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 2 is similar to Figure 1 , which also shows the electrical connections;

[0042] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 an enlarged view of a portion of the machine;

[0043] Figure 4is an electrical diagram of a device for testing filter holders;

[0044] Figure 5.1 Schematic representation of the filter holder before contacting the two supports of the filter holder detection device;

[0045] Figure 5.2 Schematic representation of a filter holder in contact with two supports;

[0046] Figure 6A is a partial schematic diagram of a coffee grinder having a filter and / or filter holder detection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A side view of the machine;

[0048] Figure 7 Shows a filter holder with a cantilevered support Figure 6A machines;

[0049] Figure 8A There is a filter on the support Figure 6A an axonometric drawing of the machine; and

[0050] Figure 8B There is a filter on the support Figure 6A Front view of the machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] exist Figure 1 In FIG4 , purely by way of example, a coffee grinder 1 is shown having a device 10 for detecting the presence of a filter holder 20 in the correct position.

[0052] The coffee grinder 1 comprises a machine body 2 which encloses the main components, including the motor and the grinding components (not shown). A hopper 5 for containing coffee beans to be ground is mounted on the upper part.

[0053] In the lower part there is an area 3 for the filter holder 20. During the grinding process, the filter holder 20 must be in the correct position so that the ground coffee collects in the filter 23.

[0054] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the device 10 for detecting a filter holder includes a normally open switch that is closed by an electrical connection between the filter holder 20 and two conductive contacts 12A, 12B. According to the present invention, the two conductive contacts 12A, 12B are arranged to support the filter holder 20. Preferably, the two conductive contacts 12A, 12B support the filter holder 20 at a body 22 of the filter holder 20, which is at least partially made of a metal material, such as steel, aluminum, brass, or alloys thereof.

[0055] according to Figure 1-3 In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , two conductive contacts 12A, 12B are provided to support the body 22 of the filter holder.

[0056] According to an alternative embodiment, two electrically conductive contacts 12A, 12B are provided to support the body 22 of the filter holder at fins 221 for locking the filter holder on the dispensing assembly of the espresso machine.

[0057] refer to Figure 1-3 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the filter holder detection device 10 includes a support 12, which includes two half-supports 12A and 12B. Each half-support 12A and 12B is at least partially made of a conductive material and is electrically insulated from the other half-support. Figure 1-3 As can be seen in FIG, for example, the two half-supports 12A, 12B are separated by an empty space 18 and form a support plane with a substantially semicircular front curvature 18. Of course, the supports 12A, 12B could be shaped differently without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0058] Each half-support 12A, 12B is electrically connected to a control unit C, for example, via electrical wires 14A, 14B.

[0059] Without the filter holder, the corresponding circuit is disconnected, which disables at least one function of the coffee grinder 1. For example, it disables the power supply of the motor M, which grinds the coffee grains by acting on one or more grinding elements. Thus, without the filter holder in place, the motor M is not powered and cannot operate.

[0060] When the filter holder 20 is in the correct position, its body 22, at least partially made of metal, closes the circuit and enables functions that would otherwise be disabled. This allows, for example, the motor M to be operated by pressing the start button, or even without pressing any button. In the latter case, the motor M is designed to start immediately upon contact between the (metal) body of the filter holder and the two half-supports.

[0061] Figure 4The closing of the switch I circuit by the body 22 of the filter holder 20 is schematically represented. Figure 4 Also shown are a control unit C and a motor M driving one or more grinding elements.

[0062] Of course, the half supports 12A, 12B of the device of the present invention can have Figure 1-3 For example, each half support 12A, 12B may have a cylindrical bar shape, such as Figure 4 、 5.1 and as shown in 5.2.

[0063] More specifically, Figure 5.1 The filter holder 20 is shown schematically before contact with the two half-supports 12A, 12B. Figure 5.2 The filter holder 20 is schematically shown in contact with the two half-supports 12A, 12B.

[0064] In addition to the support of the body 22 of the filter holder 20, a further support 19 may be provided to support the filter holder 20 in correspondence with at least one further point. Figure 1-3 As shown in the figure, the further support may be a Y-shaped handle support 21 for receiving a handle 21 of a filter holder 20. In an embodiment, the height of the further support 19 is adjustable to accommodate handles of different shapes and / or diameters. The height adjustment may be by a screw system.

[0065] According to an embodiment, a time threshold is provided between the time when the circuit is closed by the filter holder and the time when the motor of the coffee grinder, for example, is started and possibly stopped. This is to avoid a situation where a bartender accidentally lifts the filter holder from the support and then immediately places the filter holder back on the support.

[0066] exist Figure 6A 、 6B , 7, 8A and 8B show another embodiment of the present invention. According to this embodiment, each half-retainer 12A and 12B includes a retaining hook 15A and 15B for retaining the filter holder 20 and / or the filter 23. When the filter 23 is accommodated in the body 22 of the filter holder 20, the filter 23 can be retained by the hooks 15A and 15B, or alternatively, the filter 23 can be directly retained ( Figure 8A and 8B ).

[0067] Each of the hooks 15A and 15B is shaped like an inverted L, for example, and the two hooks face each other so as to form a kind of bridge interrupted in the center.

[0068] According to an embodiment, the half-supports 12A and 12B have an angled profile. Each hook 15A and 15B is integral with the half-support or fixed to the half-support. The fixing can be done, for example, by welding, screws or other known systems.

[0069] For example, Figure 6A As shown in FIG, according to an embodiment, each hook 15A and 15B includes a thinner lower leg 16A, 16B that engages with a hole in the half-supports 12A and 12B. The half-supports and hooks 15A and 15B are locked together by a screw having a head that can be rotated using two fingers. This allows the two hooks to be easily assembled and disassembled.

[0070] The half-supports 12A and 12B and the hook are at least partially made of electrically conductive material. The circuit described with respect to the first embodiment is closed when the following conditions exist:

[0071] (a) a filter holder and filter made of metal or other conductive material; or

[0072] (b) a non-conductive filter holder and a filter made of metal or any other conductive material; or

[0073] (c) Filters made of metal or other conductive materials.

[0074] In other words, the circuit is closed via the filter holder and / or the filter.

[0075] This embodiment has several advantages. First, a filter holder made of a non-metallic material can be used, since electrical contact is ensured by the filter. Second, a filter holder can be omitted altogether. Third, the filter holder and / or filter are prevented from tipping over. Fourth, since the filter holder and / or filter do not rest against other support points, they can be weighed more easily.

Claims

1. A coffee grinder (1), comprising: A machine body (2), the machine body having a motor and a grinding component for grinding coffee beans; and a detection device (10) for detecting the presence of a filter (23) and / or a filter holder (20) in a set position suitable for receiving ground coffee, wherein the detection device (10) comprises a normally open switch (I), the switch comprising a first half support (12A) for the filter (23) and / or the filter holder (20) and a second half support (12B) for the filter and / or the filter holder (20), and The switch (I) is arranged to close when the filter and / or the filter holder (20) is in electrical contact with the first half-support (12A) and in electrical contact with the second half-support (12B).

2. The coffee grinder (1) according to claim 1, wherein: When the switch (I) is open, at least one function of the coffee grinder is disabled.

3. The coffee grinder (1) according to claim 2, wherein: When the switch (I) is open, the motor is not powered.

4. The coffee grinder (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first half-support (12A) and the second half-support (12B) are separated by a slot (18) and include a bend (16) for the body (22) of the filter holder (20).

5. The coffee grinder (1) according to claim 4, wherein: The first half-support (12A) and the second half-support (12B) define a support plane.

6. The coffee grinder (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first half-support (12A) and the second half-support (12B) are arranged to engage the filter holder (20) corresponding to fins (221) protruding from the body (22) of the filter holder (20).

7. The coffee grinder (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first half-support (12A) and the second half-support (12B) are connected to the plate (C) by respective cables (14A, 14B).

8. The coffee grinder (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: Another handle support (19) is used to support the handle (21) of the filter holder (20).

9. The coffee grinder (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: Hooks (15A, 15B) cooperating with the first half-support (12A) and the second half-support (12B) to hold the filter (23) and / or the filter holder (20) in a predetermined position.

10. The coffee grinder of claim 9, wherein: The hooks (15A, 15B) are inverted L-shaped.

11. The coffee grinder of claim 9, wherein: The hooks (15A, 15B) are at least partially made of a conductive material.

12. A detection method for detecting the presence of a filter (23) or a filter holder (20) when the filter or the filter holder is in a set position in a coffee grinder or in a machine for preparing espresso coffee or in a machine for weighing a dose of coffee or in a machine for pressing a dose of ground coffee into the filter holder, the detection method comprising: A detection device (10) for detecting a filter (23) or a filter holder (20) is provided, the detection device comprising a normally open switch (I), the switch comprising a first half-support (12A) for the filter (23) and / or the filter holder (20) and a second half-support (12B) for the filter (23) and / or the filter holder (20); and the switch (I) is closed by making electrical contact with the first half-support (12A) and with the second half-support (12B) on the filter (23) and / or the filter holder (20).

13. The detection method according to claim 12, wherein: When the switch (I) is open, at least one function of the coffee grinder is disabled.

14. The detection method according to claim 13, wherein: When the switch (I) is open, the motor is not powered.

15. The detection method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein: A time threshold is provided between the time when the circuit is closed by the filter and / or the filter holder and the time when the function of the coffee grinder is disabled.

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