Coffee bean grinder

Abstract

The application discloses a coffee bean grinder, which comprises a shell, a hopper, a grinding mechanism and a controller. The hopper is arranged in the shell, and a lower part of the hopper is provided with a bean outlet. The hopper is provided with a heating element and a temperature and humidity sensor, and the temperature and humidity sensor is used for detecting the temperature and humidity of the environment in the hopper. The grinding mechanism is arranged in the shell and is used for grinding coffee beans falling from the bean outlet. The controller is electrically connected to the heating element and the temperature and humidity sensor, and is used for controlling the working of the heating element according to the detection result of the temperature and humidity sensor. Thus, compared with the coffee bean grinder in the related art, the coffee bean grinder of the application can realize closed-loop control by integrating the heating element and the temperature and humidity sensor in the hopper and combining the controller, can monitor the temperature condition and humidity state of the coffee beans in real time, and dynamically adjusts the working state of the heating element according to the actual detection result, thereby helping to reduce the risk of insufficient drying or excessive drying of the coffee beans.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of household appliance technology, and in particular to a coffee bean grinder. Background Technology

[0002] A coffee grinder is a crucial piece of equipment for making coffee beverages. Its function is to grind whole coffee beans into powder of a specific coarseness to meet the needs of different brewing methods (such as drip brewing, espresso, and pour-over). Coffee beans easily absorb moisture from the environment during storage, especially in humid environments, leading to increased moisture content. High-humidity coffee beans tend to produce more fine powder during grinding, affecting the uniformity of the grind, which in turn leads to uneven extraction, flavor imbalance, and a reduced taste and quality of the coffee.

[0003] However, in related technologies, coffee bean grinders generally have drying functions, but they are mostly timed or manually controlled, and cannot be intelligently adjusted according to the actual moisture content of the coffee beans, resulting in problems such as insufficient drying or over-drying. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a coffee bean grinder that can solve at least one of the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] This application provides a coffee bean grinder, including:

[0006] shell;

[0007] The hopper is located inside the outer shell. The lower part of the hopper has a bean outlet. The hopper is equipped with a heating element and a temperature and humidity sensor. The temperature and humidity sensor is used to detect the temperature and humidity of the environment inside the hopper.

[0008] A grinding mechanism, housed within a casing, is used to grind coffee beans falling from the bean outlet; and

[0009] The controller is electrically connected to the heating element and the temperature and humidity sensor, and is used to control the operation of the heating element based on the detection results of the temperature and humidity sensor.

[0010] In some implementations, the hopper includes:

[0011] A funnel, housed within a casing, with a bean outlet at its lower part; a heating element is disposed around the periphery of the funnel; and

[0012] The cover is detachably mounted on top of the funnel, and the temperature and humidity sensor is located on the side of the cover facing the funnel.

[0013] In some embodiments, the grinding mechanism is provided with a grinding chamber that is connected to the bean outlet;

[0014] The coffee bean grinder also includes a heat dissipation mechanism, which dissipates heat from the grinding chamber through heat conduction between the heat dissipation mechanism and the outer wall of the grinding chamber.

[0015] In some embodiments, the grinding mechanism includes:

[0016] A first grinding structure is connected to a hopper and has a receiving space extending through both opposite sides of the first grinding structure; and

[0017] The second grinding structure is rotatably disposed within the receiving space, and the second grinding structure cooperates with the first grinding structure to form a grinding cavity.

[0018] In some embodiments, the coffee bean grinder further includes:

[0019] The mounting bracket is housed within the outer casing. The mounting bracket includes a material guide channel with a powder inlet and a powder outlet at each end. The powder inlet is located above the powder outlet and connects to the grinding chamber.

[0020] A particle detection device is mounted on a bracket and near the powder outlet. The particle detection device is electrically connected to the controller and is used to detect the size of the coffee powder at the powder outlet.

[0021] In some embodiments, the particle detection device includes an infrared emitter and an infrared receiver, which are respectively disposed on opposite sides of a mounting bracket. The infrared emitter and the infrared receiver work together to detect the size of coffee powder at the powder outlet.

[0022] In some embodiments, the coffee grinder also includes a weighing mechanism located below the powder outlet and used to weigh the coffee powder.

[0023] In some implementations, the weighing mechanism includes:

[0024] A weighing detection funnel, which is located inside the outer casing and below the powder outlet; and

[0025] A weight sensor is installed in the weighing detection funnel and is electrically connected to the controller.

[0026] In some embodiments, the coffee bean grinder also includes a stirring mechanism rotatably connected to the hopper.

[0027] In some embodiments, the coffee bean grinder also includes a drive motor disposed within a housing. The drive motor has an output shaft connected to the grinding mechanism and the stirring mechanism to drive the stirring mechanism to rotate and to drive the grinding mechanism to grind the coffee beans.

[0028] The coffee bean grinder provided in this application includes a housing, a hopper, a grinding mechanism, and a controller. The hopper is located inside the housing, with a bean outlet at its lower part. The hopper is equipped with a heating element and a temperature and humidity sensor, which detects the temperature and humidity of the environment inside the hopper. The grinding mechanism is located inside the housing and grinds the coffee beans falling from the outlet. The controller is electrically connected to the heating element and the temperature and humidity sensor, and controls the operation of the heating element based on the sensor's detection results. Thus, compared to coffee bean grinders in related technologies, this application's coffee bean grinder integrates a heating element and a temperature and humidity sensor inside the hopper, and combines this with a controller to achieve closed-loop control. This allows for real-time monitoring of the coffee bean's temperature and humidity, and dynamic adjustment of the heating element's operation based on actual detection results, thereby helping to reduce the risk of insufficient or excessive drying of the coffee beans. Furthermore, because the temperature and humidity sensor continuously collects temperature and humidity information from the coffee beans inside the hopper, the controller determines whether to activate the heating element for dehumidification based on preset temperature and humidity threshold ranges, ensuring that the coffee beans are always within a suitable moisture content range for grinding. Properly dried coffee beans have a more stable texture, which reduces the production of fine powder when they enter the grinding mechanism, improves the uniformity of the ground particles, and is beneficial to the release of flavors during the subsequent coffee extraction process, significantly improving the taste and quality of the final beverage. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a coffee bean grinder provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a medium-sized coffee bean grinder.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the hopper and heating element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0033] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the grinding mechanism, heat dissipation mechanism, and mounting bracket.

[0034] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the mounting bracket.

[0035] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the mounting bracket from another perspective.

[0036] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0037] 10. Coffee bean grinder; 100. Outer shell; 200. Feed hopper; 201. Bean outlet; 202. Heating element; 203. Temperature and humidity sensor; 210. Funnel; 220. Cover; 300. Grinding mechanism; 301. Grinding chamber; 310. First grinding structure; 320. Second grinding structure; 400. Heat dissipation mechanism; 500. Mounting bracket; 501. Feed channel; 502. Powder inlet; 503. Powder outlet; 600. Particle detection device; 610. Infrared transmitter; 620. Infrared receiver; 700. Weighing mechanism; 710. Weighing detection funnel; 720. Weight sensor; 800. Stirring mechanism; 900. Drive motor; 910. Output shaft.

[0038] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Where the following description relates to the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0041] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0042] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0043] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 This application discloses a coffee bean grinder 10, which includes a housing 100, a hopper 200, a grinding mechanism 300, and a controller (not shown). The hopper 200 is disposed inside the housing 100, and a bean outlet 201 is provided at the lower part of the hopper 200. The hopper 200 is equipped with a heating element 202 and a temperature and humidity sensor 203, which is used to detect the temperature and humidity of the environment inside the hopper 200. The grinding mechanism 300 is disposed inside the housing 100 and is used to grind the coffee beans falling from the bean outlet 201. The controller is electrically connected to the heating element 202 and the temperature and humidity sensor 203, and is used to control the operation of the heating element 202 according to the detection results of the temperature and humidity sensor 203.

[0044] Thus, compared to coffee bean grinders in related technologies, the coffee bean grinder 10 of this application integrates a heating element 202 and a temperature and humidity sensor 203 inside the hopper 200, and combines them with a controller to achieve closed-loop control. This enables real-time monitoring of the temperature and humidity of the coffee beans, and dynamic adjustment of the working state of the heating element 202 based on the actual detection results. This helps to reduce the risk of insufficient or excessive drying of coffee beans.

[0045] Furthermore, since the temperature and humidity sensor 203 continuously collects temperature and humidity information of the coffee beans in the hopper 200, the controller determines whether to activate the heating element 202 for dehumidification based on preset temperature and humidity threshold ranges, thereby ensuring that the coffee beans are always within the appropriate moisture content range for grinding. Properly dried coffee beans have a more stable texture, reducing the generation of fine powder and improving the uniformity of the ground particles after entering the grinding mechanism 300. This is beneficial for flavor release during subsequent coffee extraction, significantly improving the taste and quality of the final beverage.

[0046] Furthermore, the coffee grinder 10 only activates its heating function when humidity exceeds the standard, avoiding energy waste from continuous heating and improving its energy efficiency. The heating process is targeted and timely, preventing aroma loss from prolonged heating and extending the shelf life of the coffee beans. The coffee grinder 10 organically combines temperature and humidity sensing, intelligent judgment, and heat regulation, achieving refined management of the coffee bean storage environment and enhancing its automation level and user experience.

[0047] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the outer casing 100 constitutes the external support structure of the coffee bean grinder 10, providing mechanical protection and an aesthetically pleasing appearance, while the internal space is used to install various functional components. The hopper 200 is fixedly disposed inside the outer casing 100 and is used to store coffee beans to be ground. The top of the hopper 200 has a feed inlet, and the bottom forms a bean outlet 201. The coffee beans fall one by one from the bean outlet 201 to the grinding mechanism 300 under the action of gravity.

[0048] Heating elements 202 are integrated into the side walls or bottom of the hopper 200. The heating elements 202 adopt an electric heating film, PTC heating element, or resistance wire structure, and can gently heat the internal space of the hopper 200 after being powered on. The temperature rise range of the heating elements 202 can be designed according to the actual situation.

[0049] The temperature and humidity sensor 203 is positioned near the coffee bean storage area, capable of directly or non-contactly detecting the relative humidity of the coffee beans or the ambient air humidity, as well as the relative temperature of the coffee beans or the ambient air temperature. The temperature and humidity sensor 203 collects humidity and temperature data inside the hopper 200 in real time and transmits the signals to the controller. The temperature and humidity sensor 203 possesses high sensitivity and long-term stability, accurately reflecting the moisture content of the coffee beans under different environmental temperature and humidity conditions.

[0050] The temperature and humidity sensor 203 can be an integrated temperature and humidity sensor, which integrates temperature and humidity sensing elements in one package. It can simultaneously measure the ambient temperature and relative humidity inside the silo 200 and output the corresponding electrical signal.

[0051] The grinding mechanism 300 is located below the hopper 200 and is connected to the bean outlet 201. It receives coffee beans falling from the bean outlet 201 and performs the grinding operation. The grinding mechanism 300 is driven by a motor and includes a fixed grinding disc and a rotating grinding disc. The grinding fineness is controlled by adjusting the gap between the two grinding discs to meet the particle size requirements of different brewing methods.

[0052] In some embodiments, the grinding mechanism 300 is driven by a built-in motor, which drives the rotating grinding disc to rotate at high speed through a transmission structure, while the fixed grinding disc remains stationary. Coffee beans enter the grinding chamber 301 between the two grinding discs through the bean outlet 201, and are uniformly ground into powder under the combined action of centrifugal force and friction, and discharged from the powder outlet 503. By adjusting the gap between the fixed grinding disc and the rotating grinding disc, the coarseness of the coffee powder can be controlled, achieving multiple levels of adjustment from fine powder (such as espresso powder) to coarse powder (such as French press or cold brew powder). The electric mode is suitable for large-volume, high-frequency grinding operations, and has the advantages of high grinding efficiency, good particle size uniformity, and convenient operation.

[0053] In some embodiments, the grinding mechanism 300 is equipped with an exposed hand crank, which is connected to the rotating grinding disc via gears or a direct connection. The user manually drives the grinding disc to rotate around its central axis by turning the hand crank, thus mechanically grinding the coffee beans. In manual mode, the disc gap is also adjustable, allowing the user to precisely control the grind size according to brewing method and personal taste preferences. This mode does not rely on an external power source and is suitable for outdoor use, power outage emergencies, or users seeking a traditional grinding experience. It also helps to reduce temperature rise during the grinding process, minimizing damage to the coffee's aroma.

[0054] The controller is an embedded microprocessor unit integrated inside the housing 100, and is electrically connected to the temperature and humidity sensor 203 and the heating element 202. The controller has built-in preset temperature and humidity threshold ranges as criteria for determining whether heating dehumidification needs to be activated. When the actual humidity and actual temperature values ​​fed back by the temperature and humidity sensor 203 exceed the upper threshold, the controller outputs a control signal to activate the heating element 202; when the humidity and temperature drop below the lower threshold, the controller cuts off the power to the heating element 202 and stops heating.

[0055] During use, after the user puts coffee beans into the hopper 200, the coffee bean grinder 10 continuously monitors the internal temperature and humidity. If the environment is humid and the coffee beans absorb moisture, the temperature and humidity sensor 203 detects the change in time, and the controller immediately activates the heating element 202 to heat at low power, slowly removing excess moisture. Once the coffee beans have returned to the ideal dryness, the heating automatically stops, and the coffee beans remain in the optimal grinding state.

[0056] Please see Figure 2In some embodiments, the hopper 200 includes a funnel 210 and a cover 220. The funnel 210 is disposed inside the outer casing 100 and is fixedly installed inside the outer casing 100. The funnel 210 has an overall conical or arc-shaped structure that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, which facilitates the smooth sliding of coffee beans under the action of gravity. The bottom of the funnel 210 is provided with a bean outlet 201, which is aligned with the feed channel of the grinding mechanism 300 to ensure that coffee beans enter the grinding area as needed and one by one, avoiding blockage or uneven grinding caused by continuous bean feeding.

[0057] Heating element 202 is disposed around the periphery of funnel 210, and is arranged in a ring along the outer or inner wall of funnel 210 to form a uniform heat field distribution. When the heating element 202 is energized, it generates mild heat, which heats the internal space of funnel 210 through heat conduction and heat convection.

[0058] The lid 220 is detachably mounted on top of the funnel 210 and detachably installed at the top opening of the funnel 210, allowing for the sealing and opening of the hopper 200. The lid 220 is made of food-grade plastic or stainless steel, possessing excellent sealing performance, preventing external moisture, dust, and light from entering the hopper 200, thus extending the shelf life of the coffee beans. A sealing ring or threaded connection structure is provided between the lid 220 and the funnel 210 to ensure a secure assembly and good airtightness.

[0059] A temperature and humidity sensor 203 is positioned on the side of the cover 220 facing the funnel 210. The sensor is fixed to the side of the cover 220 facing the inside of the funnel 210, located at the center or off-center of the lower surface of the cover 220, ensuring its sensitive area faces the coffee bean stacking area inside the funnel 210. The sensor 203 continuously monitors the relative humidity and temperature of the air inside the hopper 200, indirectly reflecting the moisture content of the coffee beans. Since hot air tends to rise, water vapor easily accumulates in the upper part of the hopper 200; therefore, placing the sensor 203 at the bottom of the cover 220 improves the sensitivity and representativeness of the detection. The humidity and temperature signals output by the sensor are transmitted to the controller via wires or a wireless module as feedback for heating control.

[0060] In addition, the detachable design of the cover 220 facilitates the user's addition of coffee beans, cleaning of the inside of the hopper 200, and replacement or maintenance of the temperature and humidity sensor 203. When removing the cover 220, the temperature and humidity sensor 203 can be removed along with the cover 220, preventing it from being damaged by moisture during cleaning.

[0061] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 4In some embodiments, the grinding mechanism 300 is provided with a grinding chamber 301, which is connected to the bean outlet 201. The grinding chamber 301 is an enclosed space that houses the grinding disc assembly and performs the core functions of crushing and grinding coffee beans. The grinding chamber 301 is directly connected to the bean outlet 201 of the hopper 200 through a feeding channel, allowing coffee beans to continuously and stably enter the grinding area under the force of gravity or the push of the feeding device. The grinding chamber 301 contains a fixed grinding disc and a rotating grinding disc. The rotating grinding disc is driven by a motor to rotate at high speed, forming a shearing and extruding action with the fixed grinding disc, gradually pulverizing the whole beans into coffee powder of the required particle size. During the grinding process, mechanical friction and high-speed motion cause a large amount of heat to accumulate, easily raising the temperature of the grinding chamber 301.

[0062] High temperatures accelerate the dissipation of volatile aromatic compounds from coffee beans, and may also cause localized charring or oil precipitation, affecting the flavor purity and extraction uniformity of the coffee powder. To address this issue, the coffee grinder 10 is equipped with an independent heat dissipation mechanism 400 to promptly remove the heat generated by the grinding chamber 301, maintaining the equipment within a safe temperature range. The heat dissipation mechanism 400 establishes a heat conduction path with the outer wall of the grinding chamber 301, achieving efficient heat transfer through physical contact.

[0063] The coffee bean grinder 10 also includes a heat dissipation mechanism 400, which dissipates heat from the grinding chamber 301 through heat conduction between itself and the outer wall of the grinding chamber 301. The heat dissipation mechanism 400 combines a metal thermally conductive structure with passive or active heat dissipation components. The metal thermally conductive structure is made of aluminum or aluminum alloy and covers the outer periphery of the grinding chamber 301, utilizing the high thermal conductivity of aluminum to quickly absorb and diffuse heat. Multiple heat dissipation fins are provided on the surface of the thermally conductive structure to increase the heat exchange area with the surrounding air. In some embodiments, the heat dissipation fins are arranged radially or longitudinally in parallel to optimize airflow channels and improve natural convection heat dissipation efficiency.

[0064] In scenarios requiring enhanced heat dissipation, the heat dissipation mechanism 400 integrates a small DC fan. The fan is mounted near the heatsink fins or at the ventilation holes in the housing 100. Upon power-up, it generates directional airflow, forcibly removing heat from the fin surface. The fan's operating mode can be automatically started and stopped by the controller based on grinding time or estimated temperature rise, avoiding energy waste from continuous operation. Furthermore, ventilation slots or louvered openings are provided in the housing 100 corresponding to the heat dissipation areas, forming air intake and exhaust channels to promote internal air circulation.

[0065] Please see Figure 4In some embodiments, the grinding mechanism 300 includes a first grinding structure 310 and a second grinding structure 320. The first grinding structure 310 is connected to the hopper 200 and has a receiving space extending through both opposite sides of the first grinding structure 310. The second grinding structure 320 is rotatably disposed within the receiving space, and the second grinding structure 320 cooperates with the first grinding structure 310 to form a grinding chamber 301, which is connected to the bean outlet 201.

[0066] The first grinding structure 310 can be generally arranged in a ring shape, with an internal receiving space extending through its opposite sides, forming an assembly cavity for embedding the second grinding structure 320. The inner wall shape of the receiving space matches the outer contour of the second grinding structure 320, ensuring that the second grinding structure 320 remains stably positioned during rotation and avoiding radial runout or axial displacement.

[0067] The first grinding structure 310 is made of high-strength metal material, preferably stainless steel or hard aluminum alloy, possessing good wear resistance, rigidity, and thermal stability. One side or circumferentially of the first grinding structure 310 is provided with a connecting flange or threaded structure, which is fixed to the support frame of the outer casing 100 by fasteners. The other side connects to the powder outlet channel of the grinding chamber 301, guiding the ground coffee powder to be discharged smoothly. The inner wall surface of the first grinding structure 310 is machined with grinding teeth, which are distributed in concentric circles, radially, or polygonally, participating in the shearing and crushing process of the coffee beans.

[0068] The second grinding structure 320 is rotatably disposed within the receiving space of the first grinding structure 310, and is rotated and supported by bearings or bushings. The second grinding structure 320 is driven by a motor, and the motor output shaft 910 is connected to the rotating shaft of the second grinding structure 320 via a coupling or gear transmission mechanism, driving it to rotate at high speed around its central axis. The outer surface of the second grinding structure 320 is provided with grinding teeth that mate with the first grinding structure 310, forming an annular grinding gap between the two sets of grinding teeth. This gap constitutes the actual working grinding chamber 301. After coffee beans enter the grinding chamber 301 from the bean outlet 201, they are gradually ground into powder from the inside out under the action of centrifugal force and friction.

[0069] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6In some embodiments, the coffee bean grinder 10 further includes a mounting bracket 500 and a particle detection device 600. The mounting bracket 500 is disposed within the housing 100 and includes a material guide channel 501. The material guide channel 501 has a powder inlet 502 and a powder outlet 503 at both ends. The powder inlet 502 is located above the powder outlet 503 and communicates with the grinding chamber 301. The mounting bracket 500 serves as a key functional carrier downstream of the grinding mechanism 300, undertaking the functions of guiding materials, providing support, and integrating the detection element. The material guide channel 501 is located inside the mounting bracket 500, extending vertically or inclined through the body of the mounting bracket 500. The upper end of the material guide channel 501 has a powder inlet 502, and the lower end has a powder outlet 503. The powder inlet 502 is located above the powder outlet 503, forming a powder conveying path that relies on gravity for descent. The powder inlet 502 is connected to the discharge end of the grinding chamber 301, ensuring that the ground coffee powder is discharged directly into the guide channel 501 after being discharged from the grinding chamber 301, thus avoiding scattering or retention.

[0070] The inner wall surface of the feed channel 501 is smooth and made of food-grade stainless steel or non-toxic engineering plastic, reducing the adhesion and residue of coffee powder during transmission. The cross-sectional shape of the feed channel 501 is circular, elliptical, or polygonal, and its size design balances flow efficiency and structural compactness. The mounting bracket 500 is fixed inside the housing 100 by screws, clips, or welding, ensuring stable positioning and the ability to withstand long-term vibration and powder impact, thus guaranteeing the continuity and reliability of the feed process.

[0071] A particle detection device 600 is mounted on a mounting bracket 500 and close to the coffee powder outlet 503. The particle detection device 600 is electrically connected to the controller and is used to detect the size of the coffee powder at the outlet 503. The particle detection device 600 employs optical sensing technology and includes a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The transmitting unit emits infrared or visible light into the coffee powder stream, and the receiving unit captures changes in the light signal passing through the stream. The size and density of the coffee powder particles affect the degree of light obstruction and scattering characteristics. By analyzing the frequency and amplitude of light intensity fluctuations, the system can calculate the average particle size, distribution range, and whether there are excessive fine or coarse particles.

[0072] The particle detection device 600 can also use vibration analysis, capacitance induction, or image recognition technology to detect particle size. In the image recognition embodiment, a transparent observation window and a miniature high-speed camera are set near the powder outlet 503. The camera continuously captures images of the falling powder, and the controller extracts the particle contours and performs statistical analysis using image processing algorithms. The detection results are fed back to the controller in real time in the form of digital signals, forming a closed-loop monitoring of grinding quality.

[0073] Please continue reading. Figure 2In some embodiments, the particle detection device 600 includes an infrared emitter 610 and an infrared receiver 620, which are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the mounting bracket 500. The infrared emitter 610 and the infrared receiver 620 work together to detect the size of the coffee powder in the powder outlet 503.

[0074] Infrared emitter 610 and infrared receiver 620 constitute a non-contact optical detection system for real-time monitoring of the size of coffee powder particles discharged from powder outlet 503. Infrared emitter 610 is mounted on one side of mounting bracket 500, and infrared receiver 620 is mounted on the opposite side of mounting bracket 500. The two are arranged facing each other along the cross-sectional direction of guide channel 501, so that the infrared beam can cross the path of coffee powder falling and form a stable optical path detection area.

[0075] The infrared emitter 610 uses an infrared light-emitting diode or laser diode as its light source, capable of continuously or pulsedly emitting infrared light of a specific wavelength, typically ranging from 850nm to 940nm, exhibiting good penetration and resistance to ambient light interference. The infrared receiver 620, an array of photodiodes or phototransistors, is positioned opposite the infrared emitter 610 to receive the infrared light signal passing through the coffee powder stream. When coffee powder particles pass through the infrared beam region under the influence of gravity, the particles obstruct, scatter, or attenuate the beam, causing fluctuations in the light intensity at the receiver.

[0076] The optical path between the infrared transmitter 610 and the infrared receiver 620 covers the falling trajectory of the coffee powder below the powder outlet 503, ensuring that every falling coffee powder particle passes through the detection area. The optical path height is adjustable to adapt to different powder dispensing rates and speeds. The mounting bracket 500 has mounting slots or positioning holes at corresponding positions to precisely fix the spatial relative position of the infrared transmitter 610 and the infrared receiver 620, preventing optical path misalignment due to vibration or assembly errors, which would affect detection accuracy.

[0077] The controller acquires the electrical signal output from the infrared receiver 620 in real time. This signal exhibits periodic or random intensity changes as coffee powder particles pass through. The controller's built-in signal processing module filters, amplifies, and digitizes the raw light intensity data, and analyzes the frequency, amplitude, and duration of signal fluctuations using algorithms. Larger particle sizes and longer obstruction times result in a more significant signal drop; densely packed fine powder exhibits high-frequency, small-amplitude fluctuations. Based on these characteristics, the controller can calculate key parameters such as the equivalent diameter of the particles, particle size distribution curve, and fine powder ratio.

[0078] Please see Figure 2In some embodiments, the coffee grinder also includes a weighing mechanism 700, which is located below the powder outlet 503 and used to weigh the coffee powder. The weighing mechanism 700 is positioned directly below the powder outlet 503 and is used to measure the weight of the coffee powder discharged from the feed channel 501 in real time. As a metering unit in the grinding process, the weighing mechanism 700 directly participates in the precise control of the powder output, ensuring that each grind outputs coffee powder of a preset target weight, meeting the powder quantity accuracy requirements of different brewing methods.

[0079] In some embodiments, the weighing mechanism 700 includes a weighing detection funnel 710 and a weight sensor 720. The weighing funnel 710 is disposed within the housing 100 and below the powder outlet 503. The weighing detection funnel 710 is disposed inside the housing 100, directly below the powder outlet 503, and is used to receive coffee powder discharged from the grinding mechanism 300. The weighing detection funnel 710 has an overall conical structure that is wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, with a smooth inner wall and a reasonably designed tilt angle to ensure that the coffee powder slides down quickly under gravity, avoiding powder accumulation or residue and ensuring the accuracy of the weighing results.

[0080] The weighing and testing funnel 710 is made of lightweight, high-strength material, preferably food-grade ABS plastic or stainless steel, possessing good mechanical stability and antistatic properties to reduce the phenomenon of coffee powder adhering to the inner wall due to electrostatic attraction. The bottom of the funnel 210 has a powder dispensing channel or an openable / closable baffle structure to control the timing of coffee powder dispensing. During the weighing process, the baffle remains closed, ensuring the coffee powder is completely contained within the funnel 210; after weighing is complete, the controller opens the baffle, releasing a measured amount of coffee powder into the receiving container or directly into the brewing device.

[0081] The weight sensor 720 can be a strain gauge load cell, a semiconductor piezoelectric sensor, or a capacitive load cell. The weight sensor 720 is disposed in the weighing detection funnel 710 and is electrically connected to the controller. The weight sensor 720 is integrated into the support structure of the weighing detection funnel 710, directly bearing the entire weight of the funnel. The weight sensor 720 employs a high-precision strain gauge weighing module or a miniature pressure sensor, featuring high resolution, fast response, high linearity, and the ability to stably output a weight signal within a short time. The weight sensor 720 is fixed to the support frame of the housing 100 by screwing, bonding, or embedding. The weighing detection funnel 710 is connected to the weight sensor 720 via connectors or a suspension structure, forming an independent weighing unit that effectively isolates external vibrations and mechanical interference.

[0082] The weight sensor 720 establishes an electrical connection with the controller, transmitting the total weight signal of the weighing detection funnel 710 and the coffee powder inside it to the controller in real time. The controller pre-stores the reference weight of the weighing detection funnel 710 under no-load conditions, and calculates the actual powder weight by difference during the grinding process. The controller dynamically judges the target powder amount set by the user, and when the actual weight reaches the preset value, it immediately sends a stop signal to the grinding mechanism 300, cuts off the motor power, and terminates the grinding operation, achieving precise "stop grinding by amount" control.

[0083] Please see Figure 2 In some embodiments, the coffee bean grinder 10 further includes a stirring mechanism 800, which is rotatably connected to the hopper 200. The stirring mechanism 800 is used to periodically or continuously agitate the stored coffee beans. The stirring mechanism 800 effectively prevents coffee beans from accumulating, clumping, or becoming difficult to flow due to prolonged static storage in the hopper 200, ensuring that the coffee beans can fall evenly and stably from the bean outlet 201, thus improving the continuity of bean supply and the stability of the grinding operation.

[0084] The stirring mechanism 800 includes a stirring shaft and stirring blades mounted on the stirring shaft. The stirring shaft is vertically arranged along the central axis or eccentric position of the hopper 200, and is rotated and supported by upper or lower bearing structures. The stirring blades have a spiral, paddle, or arc-shaped structure and are distributed along the axial direction of the stirring shaft. Their outer edges maintain an appropriate clearance with the inner wall of the hopper 200 to avoid frictional wear. The geometry of the stirring blades is optimized for fluid dynamics, enabling them to generate sufficient thrust at low speeds to move coffee beans toward the outlet 201 while minimizing damage to the surface of the coffee beans.

[0085] In some embodiments, the coffee bean grinder 10 also includes a drive motor 900, which is disposed within the housing 100 and serves as the core power source for the entire machine, providing the power required for the operation of the grinding mechanism 300 and the stirring mechanism 800. The drive motor 900 is a DC motor, an AC motor, or a stepper motor.

[0086] The drive motor 900 has an output shaft 910, which is connected to the grinding mechanism 300 and the stirring mechanism 800 to drive the stirring mechanism 800 to rotate and drive the grinding mechanism 300 to grind coffee beans.

[0087] The output shaft 910 is connected to the rotating grinding disc of the grinding mechanism 300 and the stirring shaft of the stirring mechanism 800 via a transmission system, realizing the function of driving multiple actuators with a single power source. The transmission system includes a gear set, synchronous pulley, clutch device or planetary reduction mechanism, and each transmission element is precisely assembled on the support structure inside the housing 100 to ensure the high efficiency and reliability of power transmission.

[0088] During the grinding process, the controller starts the drive motor 900, and the output shaft 910 transmits power to the rotating grinding disc of the grinding mechanism 300 via a gear set or synchronous belt, causing it to rotate at high speed. In conjunction with the fixed grinding disc, it cuts, squeezes and crushes the coffee beans falling from the bean outlet 201.

[0089] During the mixing operation, the controller controls the drive motor 900 to operate in low-speed mode, and the output shaft 910 transmits power to the mixing shaft of the mixing mechanism 800 through another transmission path, causing the mixing blades to rotate slowly within the hopper 200. In some embodiments, the transmission system is equipped with an electromagnetic clutch or a mechanical switching mechanism to selectively engage the grinding path or the mixing path according to the working state, avoiding excessive load caused by simultaneous operation of both.

[0090] The drive motor 900 is electrically connected to the controller, which adjusts the motor's start / stop, speed, and direction of operation according to user commands or preset programs. For example, before each grinding cycle, the controller first controls the drive motor 900 to run at low speed for a few seconds, driving the stirring mechanism 800 to complete the pre-stirring action; then it switches to high-speed mode, driving the grinding mechanism 300 to start grinding. After grinding is completed, the motor automatically stops and enters standby mode to reduce energy consumption.

[0091] The design employing a single drive motor 900 to simultaneously drive the grinding mechanism 300 and the stirring mechanism 800 reduces the number of motors inside the equipment, simplifies electrical wiring and control logic, and lowers manufacturing costs and failure rates. This integrated power solution improves space utilization and makes the overall structure more compact.

[0092] In some embodiments, the second grinding structure 320 is connected between the stirring shaft and the output shaft 910, so that the drive motor 900 can simultaneously drive the stirring mechanism 800 to rotate and the second grinding mechanism 300 to rotate, thereby simultaneously realizing the stirring function and the grinding function. When the drive motor 900 starts, power is transmitted to the second grinding structure 320 through the output shaft 910, and to the stirring mechanism 800 through the second grinding structure 320, so that the output shaft 910 can simultaneously drive the second grinding structure 320 and the stirring mechanism 800 to rotate.

[0093] In the accompanying drawings of this embodiment, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this application. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0094] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A coffee bean grinder, characterized in that, include: shell; The hopper is disposed within the outer shell, and has a bean outlet at its lower part. The hopper is equipped with a heating element and a temperature and humidity sensor, the latter used to detect the temperature and humidity of the environment inside the hopper. The hopper includes: a funnel disposed within the outer shell, with the bean outlet at its lower part; a heating element disposed around the periphery of the funnel; and a cover detachably disposed above the funnel, with the temperature and humidity sensor located on the side of the cover facing the funnel. A grinding mechanism is disposed within the housing and is used to grind coffee beans falling from the bean outlet; the grinding mechanism has a grinding chamber that is connected to the bean outlet; A heat dissipation mechanism, wherein the heat dissipation mechanism dissipates heat from the grinding chamber through heat conduction with the outer wall of the grinding chamber; and A controller is electrically connected to the heating element and the temperature and humidity sensor, and is used to control the operation of the heating element based on the detection results of the temperature and humidity sensor.

2. The coffee bean grinder according to claim 1, characterized in that, The grinding mechanism includes: A first grinding structure is connected to the hopper, and the first grinding structure has a receiving space extending through both opposite sides of the first grinding structure; and A second grinding structure is rotatably disposed within the receiving space, and the second grinding structure cooperates with the first grinding structure to form the grinding cavity.

3. The coffee bean grinder according to claim 1, characterized in that, The coffee bean grinder also includes: A mounting bracket, disposed within the housing, includes a material guiding channel with a powder inlet and a powder outlet at each end. The powder inlet is located above the powder outlet and communicates with the grinding chamber. A particle detection device is disposed on the mounting bracket and close to the powder outlet. The particle detection device is electrically connected to the controller and is used to detect the size of the coffee powder at the powder outlet.

4. The coffee bean grinder according to claim 3, characterized in that, The particle detection device includes an infrared emitter and an infrared receiver, which are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the mounting bracket. The infrared emitter and the infrared receiver work together to detect the size of the coffee powder at the powder outlet.

5. The coffee bean grinder according to claim 3, characterized in that, The coffee bean grinder also includes a weighing mechanism, which is located below the powder outlet and is used to weigh the coffee powder.

6. The coffee bean grinder according to claim 5, characterized in that, The weighing mechanism includes: A weighing and testing funnel, wherein the weighing and testing funnel is disposed inside the outer shell and located below the powder outlet; and A weight sensor is disposed in the weighing detection funnel and is electrically connected to the controller.

7. The coffee bean grinder according to claim 1, wherein the coffee bean grinder further comprises a stirring mechanism, the stirring mechanism being rotatably connected to the hopper.

8. The coffee bean grinder according to claim 7, characterized in that, The coffee bean grinder also includes a drive motor, which is disposed inside the housing. The drive motor has an output shaft, which is connected to the grinding mechanism and the stirring mechanism to drive the stirring mechanism to rotate and drive the grinding mechanism to grind the coffee beans.

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