System and method for roasting coffee beans

Abstract

To provide a roasting system for coffee beans.SOLUTION: A system for heating an object comprises: an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation; a first stage; a second stage; and a third stage. The object is placed in the first stage, and the object is heated by being hit with the electromagnetic radiation in the first stage. Then, the object is transported to the second stage in which a cooling liquid flows. After being hit with the electromagnetic radiation, the object is moved through the second stage to be cooled. Air and any particulate matter generated by the electromagnetic radiation hitting the object in the first stage are transported to the third stage. In the third stage, a portion of the particulate matter is incinerated using the electromagnetic radiation. The air in the third stage is discharged from the third stage via a filter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 851,458, filed May 22, 2019, entitled "SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR ROASTING COFFEE BEANS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Technical Field The present disclosure relates generally to coffee bean roasting systems. More specifically, aspects of the present disclosure relate to systems for roasting coffee beans using electromagnetic radiation. [Background technology]

[0003] background Properly roasting and curing coffee beans can be a long and difficult process. Various parameters must be controlled throughout the process to ensure the coffee beans are roasted and cured correctly. Current systems for roasting and curing coffee beans often have difficulty accurately roasting and curing the beans and monitoring the process.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for improved systems for more correctly and accurately roasting and curing coffee beans. Summary of the Invention

[0005] overview In accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a system for heating an object includes an electromagnetic radiation source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation, a first stage including a target area, wherein at least a first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation is directed toward the first stage, and the first stage is configured to direct the object and the first portion of the electromagnetic radiation toward the target area, such that at least a portion of the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation strikes the object, thereby heating the object and generating particulate matter, and a second stage through which a cooling fluid flows, such that the object moves through the second stage after being struck by the emitted electromagnetic radiation. a second stage configured to move an electromagnetic radiation source to cool the object; and a third stage fluidly coupled to the first stage, wherein air and generated particulate matter flow from the first stage to the third stage and at least a second portion of the emitted radiation is directed toward the third stage such that at least a portion of the second portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation strikes the particulate matter, thereby incinerating at least a portion of the particulate matter, the third stage including a filter, and the third stage configured to direct third stage air through the filter and out a vent.

[0006] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a method of brewing coffee beans includes placing one or more coffee beans into a roasting chamber, the roasting chamber including a rotatable housing having a plurality of inwardly extending fins configured to carry the coffee beans as the rotatable housing rotates; irradiating (i) the coffee beans, (ii) the interior of the rotatable housing, or (iii) both (i) or (ii) with one or more electromagnetic radiation sources while the housing rotates; after irradiation, moving the coffee beans to a cooling vessel; and moving the coffee beans through the cooling vessel for a period of time to cool the coffee beans.

[0007] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, coffee beans are prepared by a process including placing one or more coffee beans into a roasting chamber having a rotatable housing including a plurality of inwardly extending fins configured to carry the coffee beans as the rotatable housing rotates; irradiating, while the housing rotates, with one or more electromagnetic radiation sources: (i) the coffee beans; (ii) the interior of the rotatable housing; or (iii) both (i) or (ii); after irradiation, moving the coffee beans to a cooling vessel; and moving the coffee beans through the cooling vessel for a period of time to cool the coffee beans.

[0008] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, a coffee beverage or coffee product is brewed by a process including placing one or more coffee beans into a roasting chamber, the roasting chamber including a rotatable housing having a plurality of inwardly extending fins configured to carry the coffee beans as the housing rotates; irradiating (i) the coffee beans, (ii) the interior of the rotatable housing, or (iii) both (i) or (ii) with one or more electromagnetic radiation sources while the housing rotates; after irradiation, moving the coffee beans to a cooling vessel; moving the coffee beans through the cooling vessel for a period of time to cool the coffee beans; and brewing a coffee beverage or coffee product using the coffee beans.

[0009] [The present invention 1001] 1. A system for heating an object, comprising: an electromagnetic radiation source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation; a first stage including a target area, at least a first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation being directed toward the first stage, the first stage being configured to direct the object and the first portion of the electromagnetic radiation toward the target area such that at least a portion of the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation impinges on the object, thereby heating the object and generating particulate matter; a second stage through which a cooling fluid flows, the second stage being configured to cool the object after the object is struck by the emitted electromagnetic radiation and move through the second stage; a third stage fluidly coupled to the first stage, wherein air and the generated particulate matter flow from the first stage to the third stage, and wherein at least a second portion of the emitted radiation is directed toward the third stage such that at least a portion of the second portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation strikes the particulate matter, thereby incinerating at least a portion of the particulate matter, the third stage including a filter, and the third stage configured to direct the air from the third stage through the filter and exit through an air vent; The system comprising: [The present invention 1002] 10. The system of claim 10, wherein the object is one or more coffee beans, and the electromagnetic radiation impinging on the one or more coffee beans in the first stage is configured to roast the one or more coffee beans. [The present invention 1003] The system of the present invention 1001, wherein the first stage is a roasting chamber having a rotating housing including a plurality of inwardly extending fins distributed circumferentially around the inner surface of the rotating housing, each of the plurality of fins extending inward from a respective point on the inner surface of the housing. [The present invention 1004] 1003. The system of claim 10, wherein each of said plurality of inwardly extending fins is angled relative to a radial axis connecting a center point of said housing to said respective point on said inner surface of said housing. [The present invention 1005] The system of claim 1004, wherein each of the plurality of inwardly extending fins is configured to hold the object for a period of time when the housing rotates. [The present invention 1006] The system of claim 1005, wherein gravity moves the object from a first fin of the plurality of inwardly extending fins to a second fin of the plurality of inwardly extending fins as the housing rotates. [The present invention 1007] The system of claim 1003, wherein the object moves circumferentially around a portion of the inner circumference of the housing. [The present invention 1008] The system of the present invention 1003, wherein the target area is a portion of the inner circumference of the housing, such that each of the plurality of inwardly extending fins is positioned at regular intervals within the target area when the housing rotates. [The present invention 1009] The system of the present invention 1008, wherein the object is moved from each of the plurality of inwardly extending fins to the next one of the plurality of inwardly extending fins as the housing rotates, so that the object is substantially always positioned within the target area of ​​the housing. [The present invention 1010] The system of the present invention 1008, wherein the first stage includes one or more optical components configured to direct the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation toward the target area, such that at least a portion of the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation strikes the object when the object is placed in the target area. [The present invention 1011] The system of claim 1008, wherein the target area covers at least 25% of the inner circumference of the rotating housing. [The present invention 1012] The system of the present invention 1003, wherein the first stage further includes an axially extending optical arm positioned along the rotational axis of the rotating housing, the optical arm configured to direct the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation onto at least a portion of the plurality of inwardly extending fins distributed circumferentially along the inner surface of the housing. [The present invention 1013] The system of claim 1012, wherein the optical arm is configured to direct the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation around a portion of the inner circumference of the rotating housing. [The present invention 1014] The system of the present invention 1003, wherein the optical arm includes one or more optical components configured to direct the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation toward the target area. [The present invention 1015] The one or more optical components include: (i) two reflective galvanometers, (ii) four reflective galvanometers, (iii) two mirrors and two diverging lenses, (iv) two mirrors and one diverging lens, (v) one galvanometer mirror and one scanning lens, or (vi) any suitable combination of mirrors, lenses, or reflective galvanometers. The system of the present invention 1013 includes: [The present invention 1016] The first stage comprises: a plurality of sensors configured to monitor the object and detect when the object is being heated; The system of the present invention 1001 includes: [The present invention 1017] The system of the present invention 1001, wherein the second stage is a screw conveyor including a rotating helical blade positioned within a housing, the rotating helical blade configured to move the object in a spiral path from an entrance of the housing to an exit of the housing. [The present invention 1018] The system of claim 1017, wherein the screw conveyor includes a flow path through which the cooling liquid flows, and the flow of the cooling liquid through the flow path is configured to cool the objects as the screw conveyor moves the objects through the housing. [The present invention 1019] The system of claim 1018, wherein the flow path is formed by one or more pipes or tubes positioned within the housing. [The present invention 1020] The system of the present invention 1017, wherein the flow path is a spiral flow path that approximately matches the spiral path of the object. [The present invention 1021] The system of the present invention 1018, wherein the cooling liquid is a refrigerant. [The present invention 1022] the third stage includes a substantially airtight housing; the second portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation propagates within the housing and is reflected by at least a portion of the interior of the housing so as to be confined within the housing. The system of the present invention 1001. [The present invention 1023] air and generated particulate matter from the first stage are transported into the interior of the housing; the second portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation propagating within the housing and contacting the particulate matter, thereby incinerating at least a portion of the particulate matter. The system of the present invention 1022. [The present invention 1024] 1024. The system of claim 1023, wherein the third stage is configured to exhaust the air within the housing to the outside of the housing through a filter after the incineration of the at least a portion of the particulate matter. [The present invention 1025] The system of the present invention 1003, wherein the particulate matter includes at least smoke or coffee bean chaff. [The present invention 1026] (i) receiving a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the electromagnetic radiation source; (ii) generating electrical power in response to receiving said portion of said emitted electromagnetic radiation. The system of the present invention 1001 further comprises a solar power generation unit configured as follows. [The present invention 1027] The system of the present invention 1026, wherein the solar power generation unit includes a diverging lens, a semiconductor film, and a pair of electrical contacts electrically connected to the semiconductor film, and the diverging lens is configured to direct the received portion of the electromagnetic radiation toward the semiconductor film so that a voltage is formed between the pair of electrical contacts. [The present invention 1028] The system of claim 1001, further comprising a cooling system fluidly coupled to said second stage, said cooling system configured to provide said cooling fluid flowing through said second stage. [The present invention 1029] The system of claim 1028, wherein the cooling system is an absorption chiller. [The present invention 1030] 1. A method for preparing coffee beans, comprising: placing one or more coffee beans into a roasting chamber, the roasting chamber including a rotatable housing having a plurality of inwardly extending fins configured to carry the coffee beans as the rotatable housing rotates; using one or more electromagnetic radiation sources to irradiate (i) the coffee beans, (ii) the interior of the rotating housing, or (iii) both (i) or (ii) while the housing is rotating; transferring the coffee beans to a cooling container after said irradiation; moving the coffee beans through the cooling vessel for a period of time to cool the coffee beans; The method comprising: [The present invention 1031] Coffee beans prepared by the method of the present invention 1030. [The present invention 1032] A coffee drink or coffee product using one or more coffee beans prepared by the method of the present invention 1030. [The present invention 1033] A coffee drink or coffee product according to claim 1032, which is brewed coffee. [The present invention 1034] placing one or more coffee beans into a roasting chamber having a rotatable housing including a plurality of inwardly extending fins configured to carry the coffee beans as the rotatable housing rotates; using one or more electromagnetic radiation sources to irradiate (i) the coffee beans, (ii) the interior of the rotating housing, or (iii) both (i) or (ii) while the housing is rotating; transferring the coffee beans to a cooling container after said irradiation; moving the coffee beans through the cooling vessel for a period of time to cool the coffee beans; Coffee beans prepared by a process that includes: [This invention 1035] placing one or more coffee beans into a roasting chamber, the roasting chamber including a rotatable housing having a plurality of inwardly extending fins configured to carry the coffee beans as the rotatable housing rotates; using one or more electromagnetic radiation sources to irradiate (i) the coffee beans, (ii) the interior of the rotating housing, or (iii) both (i) or (ii) while the housing is rotating; transferring the coffee beans to a cooling container after said irradiation; moving the coffee beans through the cooling vessel for a period of time to cool the coffee beans; preparing a coffee beverage or coffee product using the coffee beans; Coffee beverages or coffee products prepared by a process including: The above summary is not intended to represent each embodiment or every aspect of the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from the detailed description and figures set forth below.

[0010] The present disclosure will be better understood from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a system for roasting coffee beans according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] 1B is an additional view of the system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2A and 2B are cross-sectional end and perspective views of a roasting chamber of the system of FIG. 1A, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, respectively. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1B is a top cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of an optical arm of the roasting chamber of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1B is a top cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the optical arm of the roasting chamber of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3C] FIG. 1B is a top cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the optical arm of the roasting chamber of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3D] FIG. 1B is a top cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of the optical arm of the roasting chamber of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3E] FIG. 1B is a top cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the optical arm of the roasting chamber of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3F] 1B is a top cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a laser for use with the system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 1B is a perspective cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a cooling vessel for use with the system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B]4B is a cross-sectional end view of a first embodiment of the cooling vessel of FIG. 4A according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1B is a diagram of a cooling system for use with the system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a front cross-sectional view of a generator for use with the cooling system of FIG. 5A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the generator of FIG. 5B according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] 1B is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a cooling vessel for use with the system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the cooling vessel of FIG. 6A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] FIG. 1B is a diagram of an incineration vessel for use with the system of FIG. 1A, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 7B is an additional view of the incineration vessel of FIG. 7A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1B is a diagram of a solar power generating unit for use with the system of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the present disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Detailed Description While the present disclosure is susceptible of many different forms, as shown in the drawings and described in more detail herein in exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood that the present disclosure should be considered an example of the principles of the disclosure and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the disclosure to the illustrated embodiments. Representative embodiments are shown in the drawings and described in detail herein. The present disclosure is an example or illustration of the principles of the disclosure and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the disclosure to the illustrated embodiments. To that extent, elements and limitations disclosed, for example, in the Abstract, Summary of the Invention, and Detailed Description sections, but not expressly recited in the claims, should not be incorporated into the claims, either implicitly, by inference, or otherwise, individually or collectively. For purposes of this detailed description, the singular includes the plural, and vice versa, unless otherwise indicated. The word "including" means "including without limitation." Additionally, approximation terms such as "about," "almost," "substantially," "approximately," and the like may be used herein to mean, for example, "in," "close to," or "approximately," or "within 3-5% of," "within acceptable manufacturing tolerances," or any logical combination thereof.

[0014] 1A and 1B illustrate a system 10 for roasting and cooling coffee beans. In some embodiments, the system 10 can be used to roast and cool other types of beans, such as soybeans, kidney beans, chickpeas, or generally any type of food product, such as nuts, grains, etc. The system 10 can also be used to roast and cool objects other than food products. Although the description generally refers to coffee beans herein when describing the structure and function of the system, the subject matter of the description generally refers to any type of object that can be roasted and cooled using the system. Generally, the system 10 includes three stages. In the first stage, the coffee beans are roasted. In the second stage, the coffee beans are roasted, then cooled and hardened. The third stage incinerates particulate matter generated during the first and / or second stages.

[0015] The first stage includes the roasting chamber 100, which is generally an enclosed container into which coffee beans are placed during the roasting process. A variety of different components or mechanisms can be used to roast the beans. In the illustrated embodiment, a laser is used to roast the beans. The second stage includes the cooling vessel 200, which is configured to cool and harden the beans after roasting. The temperature, pressure, and humidity within the cooling vessel 200 can be tightly controlled to control the hardening rate and optimize the cooling profile. Generally, the cooling vessel 200 is configured to cool the beans much faster than conventional systems, thereby completing the roasting of the beans more quickly and locking in the flavor after roasting. The third stage includes the incineration vessel 300. During the roasting process, various types of particulate matter, such as chaff and smoke, can be generated. Air and particulate matter from the roasting chamber 100 can be vented to the incineration vessel 300, where a significant portion (but not all) of the particulate matter can be incinerated. A laser can be used within the incineration vessel 300 to incinerate the particulate matter. After incineration, the air from the incineration vessel 300 can be vented to the atmosphere through a scrub box 308.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1A, system 10 includes a housing 12 in which a roasting chamber 100, a cooling vessel 200, and an incineration vessel 300 are disposed. Housing 12 may include an inlet 14A through which beans are inserted and an outlet 14B through which roasted and cooled beans are received. In some embodiments, system 10 is generally gravity-fed, with the beans moving from inlet 14A to outlet 14B under the influence of gravity. In these embodiments, the beans fall through inlet 14A of housing 12 into roasting chamber 100, from roasting chamber 100 into cooling vessel 200, and from cooling vessel 200 through outlet 14B of housing 12.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1B, the system 10 also includes a laser 16 that can be used with both the roasting chamber 100 and the incineration vessel 300. In some embodiments, the laser 16 is a CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser. The laser 16 can be a pulsed laser. Various optical components can be used to direct the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the laser 16 toward the roasting chamber 100 and the incineration vessel 300. One or more polarizers / attenuators 18 can be used to adjust the polarization and intensity of the emitted electromagnetic radiation as needed. A beam splitter 20 can be placed in the path of the electromagnetic radiation to generate two separate beams of electromagnetic radiation. A new first beam 17A of electromagnetic radiation propagates toward the roasting chamber 100, while a new second beam 17B of electromagnetic radiation propagates toward the incineration vessel 300. A beam expander 22 can be used to adjust the beam width of the beam 17A propagating toward the roasting chamber 100. Depending on the system design or configuration, a mirror 24 can be used to redirect the beam of electromagnetic radiation 17B propagating toward the incineration vessel 300. Collimating optics 302 can be used to collimate the second beam of electromagnetic radiation 17B. In the illustrated embodiment, the collimating optics 302 are positioned inside the incineration vessel 300. In other embodiments, the collimating optics 302 are positioned outside the incineration vessel 300. As shown in FIG. 1B, the roasting chamber can include an optical arm 104 through which the beam 17A propagates. The optical arm 104 can include optical components 106A, 106B used to direct the beam 17A from the optical arm 104 into the interior cavity of the roasting chamber 100 (where the beans are placed) for roasting. FIG. 1B also shows a scrub box 308 through which air from the incineration vessel 300 passes before being vented to the atmosphere.

[0018] During the roasting process, the coffee beans absorb energy from the electromagnetic radiation propagating inside the roasting chamber 100. This absorption can occur from direct contact between the electromagnetic radiation and the coffee beans when the electromagnetic radiation is emitted from the optical arm 104. It can also occur from contact between the electromagnetic radiation and the coffee beans when the electromagnetic radiation reflects off an interior surface of the roasting chamber 100. In some embodiments, the coffee beans also absorb thermal energy resulting from general heating of the roasting chamber 100 by the electromagnetic radiation. Various characteristics of the electromagnetic radiation can be modified as needed, including beam intensity, beam shape, beam profile, etc.

[0019] System 10 also includes a carbon dioxide (CO2) storage vessel 25. During and after roasting, the coffee beans release CO2. This CO2 release is due to molecular changes the coffee beans undergo as a result of the roasting process as they transition to their final roasted state. Because the released CO2 can be stored in CO2 storage vessel 25, the released CO2 can be used later for various purposes, such as packaging coffee or other products. The stored CO2 is an inert gas that can be used to maintain the freshness of beans or other products and can be used in place of nitrogen tanks and generation systems used for that purpose. In some embodiments, CO2 storage vessel 25 is connected to cooling vessel 200 so that the stored CO2 can be used to assist in cooling the roasted coffee beans.

[0020] 2A and 2B, in some embodiments, the roasting chamber 100 is a rotating drum into which coffee beans can be placed. FIG. 2A shows an end view of the roasting chamber 100, while FIG. 2B shows a perspective view of the roasting chamber 100. The roasting chamber 100 includes a generally cylindrical housing 102 that defines an internal cavity 103. An axially extending optical arm 104 is disposed within the internal cavity 103. As described in more detail herein, the optical arm 104 includes several optical components (such as optical components 106A, 106B shown in FIG. 1B) that are used to direct electromagnetic radiation from the optical arm to a target area within the housing 102 and / or on an interior surface of the housing 102.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the roasting chamber 100 rotates counterclockwise. The roasting chamber 100 includes a plurality of fins 108 that assist in maintaining the coffee beans in a target area during rotation of the roasting chamber 100. The fins 108 are distributed circumferentially around the inner surface of the housing 102. Each of the fins 108 extends inward from a respective point on the inner surface of the housing 102 and may be angled relative to an axis perpendicular to the inner surface of the housing 102 that connects each point to the central axis of the housing 102. As the roasting chamber 100 rotates, the fins 108 hold the coffee beans 110 and carry them upward. Gravity causes the coffee beans 110 to fall off the fins 108 and transport them upward until they return to the bottom of the housing 102. Once there, the fins 108 can again carry the coffee beans 110 upward as the roasting chamber 100 rotates.

[0022] As the roasting chamber 100 rotates, the fins 108 generally maintain the coffee beans 110 within the target area where the electromagnetic radiation from the optical arm 104 is directed. The angle of the fins 108 and the rotational speed of the roasting chamber 100 control how long the fins 108 carry the coffee beans 110 upward before gravity overcomes friction and / or other forces, causing the coffee beans 110 to fall off the fins 108. Thus, the angle of the fins 108 and the rotational speed of the roasting chamber 100 are selected to ensure that the coffee beans 110 remain within the target area for a desired amount of time before falling off the fins 108. The physical structure of the roasting chamber 100 is therefore designed to precisely control the roasting process. In some embodiments, the fin angle is between about 0° and about 30° relative to normal. In some embodiments, the roasting chamber 100 rotates at a speed of between about 5 revolutions per minute (RPM) and about 30 RPM. In some embodiments, the roasting chamber 100 is configured to roast beans to a temperature of about 170° C. to about 195° C. The roasting chamber 100 itself can be pressurized.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2A, the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the optical arm 104 can be emitted as two distinct cones of electromagnetic radiation 112A, 112B. The emitted electromagnetic radiation cone 112A points downward, and the emitted electromagnetic radiation cone 112B points to the right. FIG. 1A is an end view of the roasting chamber 100 and the optical arm 104, and the two emitted beams of electromagnetic radiation 112A, 112B also extend into the page along the axial distance of the roasting chamber 100 and the optical arm 104. In some embodiments, the emitted beams of electromagnetic radiation 112A, 112B are scanned back and forth in this direction (into and out of the page). In other embodiments, the emitted beams of electromagnetic radiation 112A, 112B always occupy a constant distance along the axial length of the drum.

[0024] The first stage may include several sensors or detectors within the roasting chamber 100 to monitor and track the roasting process. These sensors and / or detectors may be configured to monitor humidity, CO2 content, acidity, ambient temperature outside the roasting chamber 100 housing 102, internal temperature within the roasting chamber 100 housing 102, or the quantity / volume / weight of coffee beans within the roasting chamber 100. The sensors and / or detectors may also be configured to monitor and record sound within the roasting chamber 100, capture standard or thermal images, or perform other suitable functions. These parameters are quantified to monitor the progress of the roast. The position and size of the electromagnetic radiation can be adjusted as needed to ensure an optimal roast. In some embodiments, the roasting chamber 100 includes one or more laser diode modules attached thereto. The laser diode modules are used to further illuminate the roasting chamber 100 and help control the internal temperature of the drum. The laser diode modules may be arranged in any desired configuration, such as an array, grid, etc.

[0025] 2A and 2B show electromagnetic radiation being emitted at approximately the 3 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions. However, the optical arm 104 can be configured to emit electromagnetic radiation anywhere within the housing 102 of the roasting chamber 100. The electromagnetic radiation can be emitted all around the circumference of the optical arm 104, at only a single location around the circumference of the optical arm 104, or along the entire longitudinal length of the optical arm 104 within the housing 102, or only at selected locations along the longitudinal length of the optical arm 104.

[0026] FIG. 3A shows a first embodiment of the optical arm 104. FIG. 3A shows a cross-section of the top of the optical arm 104 and a portion of the housing 102 of the roasting chamber 100. The optical arm 104 in this embodiment includes a beam splitter 120 and a mirror 122. The beam splitter 120 is partially reflective, such that a portion of the electromagnetic radiation incident on the beam splitter 120 combination is reflected radially outward from the optical arm 104 through a window 124A. The beam splitter 120 may be made of a naturally partially reflective material or may be made of a substantially transparent substrate optically coated with a partially transparent material. The remaining portion of the incident electromagnetic radiation is transmitted through the beam splitter 120 to the mirror 122. The mirror 122 reflects this remaining electromagnetic radiation radially outward from the optical arm 104 through a window 124B. Therefore, the electromagnetic radiation transmitted into the roasting chamber 100 is reflected towards the inner surface of the housing 102 and irradiates a wide area on the inner surface of the housing 102.

[0027] 3A, the beam of electromagnetic radiation entering optical arm 104 generally has a relatively wide beam width formed from parallel rays (e.g., the electromagnetic radiation is collimated). Beam splitter 120 and mirror 122 are positioned at an angle relative to the electromagnetic radiation; thus, the electromagnetic radiation reflecting off beam splitter 120 and mirror 122 diverges upon reflection from beam splitter 120 and mirror 122. Thus, the electromagnetic radiation forms two cones of electromagnetic radiation that are directed toward the target area. In some embodiments, one or both of beam splitter 120 and mirror 122 may be attached to a galvanometer, allowing for precise physical control of beam splitter 120 and mirror 122.

[0028] Figure 3B shows a further embodiment of optical arm 104. In this embodiment, optical arm 104, similar to Figure 3A, includes beam splitter 130 and mirror 132. However, the embodiment of Figure 3B further includes two diverging lenses 134A, 134B, so that the electromagnetic radiation entering optical arm 104 has a relatively narrow beam width compared to the embodiment of Figure 3A, but is again generally formed from parallel rays. A portion of the narrow beam of electromagnetic radiation reflects radially outward from beam splitter 130 to diverging lens 134A, while the remaining narrow beam of electromagnetic radiation propagates to mirror 132, which then reflects the narrow beam radially outward to diverging lens 134B. Diverging lenses 134A, 134B cause the two narrow beams of parallel rays of electromagnetic radiation to diverge as they exit through windows 136A, 136B, resulting in two identical cones of electromagnetic radiation propagating toward a target area on the interior surface of housing 102, thereby illuminating a wide area on the interior surface of housing 102.

[0029] FIG. 3C shows another embodiment of the optical arm 104. In this embodiment, the optical arm includes a diverging lens 140, a beam splitter 142, and a mirror 144. Electromagnetic radiation entering the optical arm 104 has a relatively narrow beam formed from parallel rays, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3B. The electromagnetic radiation is refracted through the diverging lens 140 and spreads as it propagates toward the beam splitter 142. Thus, the electromagnetic radiation propagating toward the beam splitter 142 and mirror 144 is formed from diverging rays rather than from nearly parallel rays. A portion of this electromagnetic radiation reflects radially outward from the beam splitter 142 and propagates through window 146A toward the inner surface of the housing 102. The remaining electromagnetic radiation is transmitted through the beam splitter 142 and reflects radially outward from the mirror 144. The electromagnetic radiation then propagates through window 146B toward the inner surface of the housing 102. Thus, a single diverging lens 140 causes two cones of electromagnetic radiation to be emitted from the optical arm 104, thereby illuminating a wide area on the interior surface of the housing 102.

[0030] 3D shows yet another embodiment of optical arm 104. In this embodiment, optical arm 104 includes a single mirror 150 and a single diverging lens 152. Electromagnetic radiation entering optical arm 104 has a broad beam shape formed from nearly parallel rays as it enters optical arm 104. The broad beam of electromagnetic radiation reflects radially outward off mirror 150 and propagates through diverging lens 152 and window 154. Diverging lens 152 causes the electromagnetic radiation to diverge as it passes through window 154 and propagates toward the interior surface of housing 102, thereby irradiating a broad area on the interior surface of housing 102.

[0031] FIG. 3E shows yet another embodiment of the optical arm 104. In this embodiment, the optical arm 104 includes a mirror 160, a pair of anamorphic prisms 162A and 162B, and a lens 164. Electromagnetic radiation entering the optical arm 104 is formed from approximately parallel beams. The mirror 160 reflects the electromagnetic radiation radially outward toward the anamorphic prisms 162A and 162B. The anamorphic prisms 162A and 162B expand the beam width of the electromagnetic radiation. However, the electromagnetic radiation emerging from the prisms 162A and 162B is again formed from approximately parallel beams propagating in the same direction. The electromagnetic radiation then passes through the lens 164. The lens 164 is a plano-convex lens having one spherical surface and one flat surface. Lens 164 focuses the electromagnetic radiation to a focal point within optical arm 104, and therefore causes the electromagnetic radiation to diverge as it propagates beyond the focal point, through window 166, and toward the inner surface of housing 102, thereby irradiating a wide area on the inner surface of housing 102.

[0032] As shown in Figures 3A-3E, the optical arm 104 may include several different instruments and / or sensors 114A-114E for measuring various different properties of the roasting chamber 100. These instruments and / or sensors 114A-114E may include thermal imaging devices, high-speed cameras, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, spectrophotometers, audio sensors, etc. Although five different instruments and / or sensors 114A-114E are shown in each of Figures 3A-3E, the optical arm 104 may include any number (including zero) of the instruments and / or sensors detailed in this disclosure, or any other additional instruments and / or sensors that may be required.

[0033] Figure 3F shows yet another embodiment for forming a desired beam shape. Figure 3F shows a laser 16 formed from a cavity 28 bounded by two reflective end pieces 30A, 30B. End piece 30B is only partially reflective, allowing electromagnetic radiation to escape through end piece 30B. Laser 16 also includes a convex lens 32 coupled to end piece 30B, thereby diverging the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the laser to a desired size. This resulting cone of electromagnetic radiation can be directed as desired toward a target area on the interior surface of the roasting chamber housing 102. Various configurations of the laser and convex lens can be selected as needed to produce a cone of electromagnetic radiation with a desired beam width.

[0034] While specific embodiments are illustrated herein, generally, any combination of optical components can be used to create the desired beam shape for roasting coffee beans. These optical components can include lenses, mirrors, laser galvanometers, etc. Various embodiments of the first stage can emit a single cone of electromagnetic radiation or multiple cones toward a target area. These cones of electromagnetic radiation can generally be configured to be emitted in any direction toward any portion of the interior of the rotating drum of the first stage. Furthermore, if desired, any optical component can be mounted to a galvanometer, allowing precise control of the movement of the optical component.

[0035] In some embodiments, the roasting chamber may have a dual configuration utilizing two side-by-side rotating drums, each of which may have a portion removed so that they are flush with one another along their extension and allow coffee beans to move from one drum to the other. The drums may have internal wipers to move the coffee beans.

[0036] FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of a cross section of a first embodiment of a cooling vessel 200. FIG. 4B shows an end view of the cross section of FIG. 4A. As shown, the cooling vessel 200 is formed from a housing 202 defining an interior cavity 206. The housing 202 includes an inlet 204A and an outlet 204B. Roasted beans from the roasting chamber 100 enter the housing 202 via the inlet 204A. Cooled beans exit the cooling vessel via the outlet 204B. In some embodiments, the housing 202 includes a controllable door that can selectively open and close one or both of the inlet 204A or the outlet 204B. A plurality of fins 208 are defined on the interior surface of the housing 202. The fins 208 extend radially inward from the interior surface of the housing 202. The cooling vessel 200 is configured to rotate, and the fins 208 are configured to transport beans around the interior of the cooling vessel 200, similar to the roasting chamber 100.

[0037] A window 212A is defined in a side of the housing 202. Although window 212A is shown on only one side of the housing 202, the housing 202 may have additional alternative windows defined in any position or location within the housing 202. The window allows air to flow into the housing 202 and assist in cooling the roasted beans. The warmed air can then exit through a central air outlet pipe 212B.

[0038] Housing 202 further includes two sets of cooling pipes 214A-214D configured to carry a refrigerant / cooling liquid within housing 202 to aid in cooling the roasted beans. Cooling pipes 214A-214D can form a serpentine pattern within housing 202. Generally, cooling liquid can enter through pipe 214A, travel along pipes 214A, 214B, 214C, and 214D, and then exit housing 202 through pipe 214D. While two sets of cooling pipes 214A-214D are shown, cooling vessel 200 can have any number of cooling pipes for carrying cooling liquid. Furthermore, any configuration of cooling pipes can be used. Thus, while FIGS. 4A and 4B show a repeating serpentine pattern, other patterns can also be used. For example, the cooling pipes can extend in a coiled pattern that continuously loops around the circumference of housing 202. After the coffee beans have cooled and hardened, they exit cooling vessel 200 and may be stored for further processing. The passage of the coffee beans through cooling vessel 200 results in the coffee beans cooling and hardening at a predicted sugar content.

[0039] FIG. 5A illustrates an exemplary cooling system 500 that can be used with cooling vessel 200. Cooling system 500 of FIG. 5A is generally known as an absorption refrigerator or chiller. Generally, a mixture of liquid water and liquid ammonia (e.g., a mixture of HO and NH) is placed within the interior cavity of generator 512. This mixture can be heated by electromagnetic radiation from laser 16. Beam splitter 502 and mirrors 504 and 506 can be used to direct the electromagnetic radiation from laser 16 to generator 512 as needed. As the electromagnetic radiation heats the mixture within generator 512, the liquid mixture vaporizes into a gas mixture that passes through gas analyzer 514 and rectifier 516. Gas analyzer 514 can analyze the amount of water in the vaporized mixture, and rectifier 516 can assist in separating the water from the ammonia in the gas mixture. The vaporized water is then sent back to generator 512.

[0040] The ammonia gas is then sent to condenser 518 where it cools and begins to condense back into a liquid state. Fan 531A assists in removing heat from condenser 518 and returning the heat to generator 512. The liquid ammonia then passes through receiver 520, heat exchanger 522, and expansion device 524. These components also assist in removing heat from the ammonia and ensure that the ammonia exiting expansion device 524 contains as much liquid as possible, e.g., assist in converting as much ammonia gas as possible to liquid ammonia.

[0041] The liquid ammonia then enters cooling vessel 200 (e.g., via cooling pipe 214A), where it helps cool the roasted beans by removing heat from them. The heated liquid ammonia exits the cooling vessel (e.g., via cooling pipe 214D) and returns to heat exchanger 522. Fan 531B in heat exchanger 522 helps transfer heat from (i) the cooled liquid ammonia not yet in cooling vessel 200 to (ii) the heated liquid ammonia exiting cooling vessel 200. The heated liquid ammonia then travels to absorber 526, which contains the liquid water returned from rectifier 516, which passes through heat exchanger 528 and check valve 532. The liquid ammonia from heat exchanger 522 mixes with the liquid water in absorber 526. Pump 530 pumps the water / ammonia mixture from absorber 526 through heat exchanger 528. Fan 531C of heat exchanger 528 helps transfer heat from the water / ammonia mixture traveling to generator 512 to the water returning from generator 512. Heat exchanger 528 therefore helps ensure that the water / ammonia mixture in generator 512 is cooled, and thus has the ability to be heated by laser 16.

[0042] 5A, a portion of the electromagnetic radiation from laser 16 passes through beam splitter 502 and toward mirror 504. However, another portion of the electromagnetic radiation from laser 16 is reflected by beam splitter 502 toward a solar-power generating unit 534 formed from a diverging lens 508A and a cobalt-doped zinc oxide film. Diverging lens 508A diverges the electromagnetic radiation so that it impinges on as large a portion of the surface of cobalt-doped zinc oxide film 508B as possible. The electromagnetic radiation that impinges on film 508B causes an electric current to flow, which can then be used to power some or all of the other components of the system, shown as 510.

[0043] 5B and 5C show generator 512. As shown, generator 512 includes housing 513, which includes triangular mirror 544, reflective baffles 546A-546C, and reflective baffles 547A-547C. Housing 513 contains a water / ammonia mixture. Housing 513 also includes window 542 (which may be a zinc-selenium window) through which electromagnetic radiation from laser 16 passes. Triangular mirror 544 reflects the electromagnetic radiation to the left and right within housing 513. Electromagnetic radiation reflected to the left can be continuously reflected by reflective baffles 546A-546C and mirror 544. Electromagnetic radiation reflected to the right can be continuously reflected by reflective baffles 547A-547C and mirror 544. Thus, electromagnetic radiation heats the water / ammonia mixture by propagating through housing 513 and reflecting off mirror 544, reflective baffles 546A-546C, and reflective baffles 547A-547C. Generator 512 also includes outlets 540A and 540B, which allow the various fluids described in connection with FIG. 5A to enter and exit generator 512.

[0044] 6A and 6B show another embodiment of cooling vessel 200. Here, cooling vessel 200 is a screw conveyor formed from a helical screw blade 604 positioned within a housing 602. After the coffee beans have finished roasting, they move into cooling vessel 200. The helical screw blade 604 of the screw conveyor moves the roasted coffee beans through the housing 602 of cooling vessel 200. In some embodiments, the helical screw blade 604 functions as an agitator for the coffee beans. The speed and direction of the helical screw blade 604 can be controlled and modified as needed. In some embodiments, the coffee beans generally pass from the inlet to the outlet of housing 602; for example, the coffee beans make one "trip" through cooling vessel 200. In other embodiments, the coffee beans make multiple "trips" through cooling vessel 200.

[0045] Cooling vessel 200 also includes some type of flow path through which cooling liquid is piped. The cooling liquid is used to cool and harden the roasted coffee beans. In some embodiments, the cooling liquid is a refrigerant. In other embodiments, other types of cooling liquid may be used. For example, the cooling liquid may be ammonia from cooling system 500 of FIG. 5A. The flow path may be pipes, tubing, moldings, or any general structure capable of transporting cooling liquid. As shown, pump 608 may be used to deliver cooling liquid to housing 602 and also to central tube 612. In some embodiments, the cooling liquid within housing 602 follows the helical path of the coffee beans as they are moved by helical screw blade 604. Cooling vessel 200 may also include an HVAC control system 610 that may be used to control the flow of cooling liquid through the flow path. Other mechanisms may also be used to control the flow of cooling liquid.

[0046] In some embodiments, the cooling vessel 200 has a cylindrical shape. Other shapes can also be used. As shown, the cooling vessel 200 can include several temperature sensors 606, such as thermistors. These temperature sensors 606 are used to monitor the temperature within the cooling vessel 200 to ensure proper cooling and curing of the roasted coffee beans. In some embodiments, the cooling vessel 200 can maintain a temperature substantially lower than the temperature to which the beans are cooled. The cooling vessel 200 can also include several humidity sensors or other types of sensors. The curing rate can be controlled, in part, by monitoring the resulting gases to ensure that the coffee beans are not over- or under-cured. The resulting gases can be sent to a gas analyzer 614 to monitor the cooling / curing process. After the coffee beans have finished cooling and curing, they can exit the cooling vessel 200 and be stored for further processing. The coffee beans' passage through the cooling vessel 200 results in the coffee beans being cooled and cured to a predicted sugar content. Generally, any of the embodiments of cooling vessel 200 shown in Figures 4A, 4B, 6A, and 6B can be combined.

[0047] FIG. 7A shows one embodiment of an incineration vessel 300. The incineration vessel 300 is formed from a housing 304 that receives air from the roasting chamber 100 via a connection 301. A beam of electromagnetic radiation 17B from a laser 16 can be directed into the housing 304 via a mirror 24. The electromagnetic radiation can pass through collimating optics 302, which include a beam expander 302A and a collimator 302B. The collimated electromagnetic radiation then enters the housing 304, which can be formed from a reflective material, such that the electromagnetic radiation within the housing 304 reflects back and forth within the housing 304, essentially trapping the beam of electromagnetic radiation within the housing 304. For example, the housing 304 can include reflective end pieces 306A, 306B that reflect the electromagnetic radiation within the housing 304. In some embodiments, some or all of the interior of the housing 304 is made of polished copper.

[0048] Inside the housing 304, the electromagnetic radiation comes into contact with particulate matter piped from the roasting chamber 100. The electromagnetic radiation incinerates this particulate matter. The air within the housing 304 can then be exhausted through a scrub box 308, which may contain filtering components 310A-310D. These filtering components 310A-310D may include an ionizer, a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter, or other components. The filtering components 310A-310D filter the air after incineration. The air is then exhausted from the scrub box 308, for example, using a fan 312.

[0049] FIG. 7B shows another embodiment of an incineration vessel 300 including a beam expander 302A, a collimator 302B, and a reflective end piece 306B. In this embodiment, the reflective end piece 306B is triangular, which helps ensure that electromagnetic radiation reflecting within the housing 304 propagates throughout as much of the housing's internal volume as possible. The incineration vessel 300 may also include a cooling inlet 358A and a cooling outlet 358B that can be used to convey cooling fluid in and out of the housing 304 to keep the incineration vessel 300 cool during use and to remove air and particulate matter pumped from the roasting chamber 100 to the incineration vessel 300. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the incineration vessel 300 can be coupled to a cooling system, such as the cooling system 500 shown in FIG. 5A. In general, any of the aspects of the incineration vessel 300 shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B can be combined.

[0050] FIG. 8 illustrates a solar-power-generating unit 534. As shown, the power-generating unit 534 includes a beam expander 508A and a semiconductor film 508D. In some embodiments, the semiconductor film is a cobalt-doped zinc oxide film. The beam expander 508A expands the beam of electromagnetic radiation 501B so that as much of the surface area of ​​the semiconductor film 508D as possible is impinged by the beam of electromagnetic radiation 501B. The semiconductor film 508D can be electrically connected to a pair of electrical contacts or wires such that a voltage 509 is formed between the pair of electrical contacts. Generally, the solar-power-generating unit 534 can be used to power one or more components of any of the system 10.

[0051] System 10 is shown herein as including a cylindrical roasting chamber 100 and a cylindrical cooling vessel 200. Beans move between roasting chamber 100 and cooling vessel 200 by gravity. However, in other embodiments, system 10 may utilize a linear or near-linear conveyor belt that transports beans from inlet 14A to outlet 14B. In these embodiments, the conveyor belt may extend through roasting chamber 100 and cooling vessel 200, carrying the beans through roasting chamber 100 and cooling vessel 200. Other types of transport mechanisms may also be used, as may other configurations or shapes of the system or various components of the system.

[0052] The system may have one or more processing devices and one or more user input devices. The processing devices may control various aspects of the system, such as the optics used to shape and direct the laser beam, the rotation of the drum, etc. The user input devices may allow a user to manually adjust various parameters.

[0053] In some embodiments, coffee beans brewed using the disclosed systems and methods undergo specific molecular changes when roasted and cooled / cured as described herein. Therefore, brewing coffee beans (or other beans or objects) using the disclosed systems and methods can produce unique coffee beans that are different from coffee beans brewed using other systems and methods. These coffee beans may have unique taste and / or odor profiles due, at least in part, to the molecular changes affected by the disclosed systems and methods. Furthermore, coffee beverages or coffee products (such as brewed coffee) made from coffee beans brewed using the disclosed systems and methods may similarly have unique taste and / or odor profiles.

[0054] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, to the extent the terms "including," "includes," "having," "has," "with," or variations of these terms are used in either the detailed description and / or the claims, such terms are intended to be as inclusive as the term "comprising."

[0055] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning associated with the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless so defined herein.

[0056] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that these embodiments are presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Many modifications to the disclosed embodiments can be made in accordance with the disclosure herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments. Rather, the scope of the present invention should be defined in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

[0057] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to one or more particular embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications may be made to those embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Each of these embodiments and obvious variations thereof is contemplated as being within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. It is also contemplated that additional embodiments according to aspects of the present disclosure may combine any number of features from any of the embodiments described herein.

Claims

1. 1. A system for heating an object, comprising: an electromagnetic radiation source including a laser and configured to emit electromagnetic radiation; a first stage including a target area, at least a first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation being directed toward the first stage, the first stage being configured to direct the object and the first portion of the electromagnetic radiation toward the target area such that at least a portion of the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation strikes the object, thereby heating the object and generating particulate matter; a second stage through which a cooling fluid flows, the object being cooled as it moves through the second stage after being struck by the emitted electromagnetic radiation; a third stage fluidly coupled to the first stage, wherein air and the generated particulate matter flow from the first stage to the third stage, and wherein at least a second portion of the emitted radiation is directed toward the third stage such that at least a portion of the second portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation strikes the particulate matter, thereby incinerating at least a portion of the particulate matter, the third stage including a filter, and the third stage configured to direct the air from the third stage through the filter and exit through an air vent; Equipped with The system includes a system housing in which the first stage, the second stage, and the third stage are disposed, the system housing including an inlet through which the object is inserted and an outlet that receives the heated and cooled object. The system.

2. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the object is one or more coffee beans, and the emitted electromagnetic radiation is divided into the first portion and the second portion, the first portion of the electromagnetic radiation impinging on the one or more coffee beans in the first stage configured to roast the one or more coffee beans, and the second portion of the electromagnetic radiation impinging on the particulate matter in the third stage configured to incinerate at least a portion of the particulate matter.

3. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first stage is a roasting chamber having a rotating housing including a plurality of inwardly extending fins distributed circumferentially around an inner surface of the rotating housing, each of the plurality of fins extending inwardly from a respective point on the inner surface of the housing.

4. The system of claim 3 , wherein each of the plurality of inwardly extending fins is angled relative to a radial axis connecting a center point of the housing to the respective point on the inner surface of the housing.

5. The system of claim 4 , wherein each of the plurality of inwardly extending fins is configured to hold the object for a period of time when the housing rotates.

6. 6. The system of claim 5, wherein gravity causes the object to move from a first fin of the plurality of inwardly extending fins to a second fin of the plurality of inwardly extending fins as the housing rotates.

7. The system of claim 3 , wherein the object moves circumferentially around a portion of the inner circumference of the housing.

8. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the target area is a portion of the inner circumference of the housing such that each of the plurality of inwardly extending fins is spaced apart within the target area as the housing rotates.

9. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the object is moved from each of the plurality of inwardly extending fins to a next one of the plurality of inwardly extending fins as the housing rotates, such that the object is always positioned substantially within the target area of ​​the housing.

10. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the first stage includes one or more optical components configured to direct the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation toward the target area such that at least a portion of the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation strikes the object when the object is positioned in the target area.

11. The system of claim 8 , wherein the target area spans at least 25% of the inner circumference of the rotating housing.

12. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the first stage further includes an axially extending optical arm positioned along an axis of rotation of the rotating housing, the optical arm configured to direct the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation toward at least some of the plurality of inwardly extending fins distributed circumferentially along the inner surface of the housing.

13. The system of claim 12 , wherein the optical arm is configured to direct the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation around a portion of the inner circumference of the rotating housing.

14. The system of claim 3 , wherein the optical arm includes one or more optical components configured to direct the first portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation toward the target area.

15. The one or more optical components include: (i) two reflective galvanometers; (ii) four reflective galvanometers; (iii) two mirrors and two diverging lenses; (iv) two mirrors and one diverging lens; (v) one galvanometer mirror and one scanning lens; or (vi) any suitable combination of mirrors, lenses, or reflective galvanometers. The system of claim 13 , comprising:

16. The first stage comprises: a plurality of sensors configured to monitor the object and detect when the object is being heated; The system of claim 1 , comprising:

17. the second stage is configured to rotate and includes a cooling vessel configured to cool and harden the object after roasting in the first stage; the cooling vessel is formed from a cooling vessel housing defining an interior cavity; and a plurality of fins defined on an inner surface of the cooling receptacle housing, the plurality of fins extending radially inward from the inner surface of the cooling receptacle housing; The system of claim 3 .

18. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the second stage is a screw conveyor including a rotating helical blade positioned within a housing, the rotating helical blade configured to move the object in a spiral path from an inlet of the housing to an outlet of the housing, the screw conveyor including a flow path through which the cooling liquid flows, the flow of the cooling liquid through the flow path configured to cool the object as the screw conveyor moves the object through the housing.

19. 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the flow path is formed by one or more pipes or tubes positioned within the housing.

20. 20. The system of claim 17, wherein the flow path is a helical flow path that generally matches the helical path of the object.

21. The system of claim 18 , wherein the cooling fluid is a refrigerant.

22. the third stage includes a substantially airtight housing; the second portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation propagates within the housing and is reflected by at least a portion of the interior of the housing so as to be confined within the housing. The system of claim 1 .

23. air and generated particulate matter from the first stage are transported into the interior of the housing; the second portion of the emitted electromagnetic radiation propagating within the housing and contacting the particulate matter, thereby incinerating at least a portion of the particulate matter.

23. The system of claim 22.

24. 24. The system of claim 23, wherein the third stage is configured to exhaust the air within the housing out of the housing through a filter after the incineration of the at least a portion of the particulate matter.

25. The system of claim 3 , wherein the particulate matter includes at least smoke or coffee bean chaff.

26. (i) receiving a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the electromagnetic radiation source; (ii) generating electrical power in response to receiving said portion of said emitted electromagnetic radiation. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a solar power generating unit configured to:

27. 27. The system of claim 26, wherein the solar power generation unit includes a diverging lens, a semiconductor film, and a pair of electrical contacts electrically connected to the semiconductor film, the diverging lens configured to direct a received portion of the electromagnetic radiation toward the semiconductor film such that a voltage is formed between the pair of electrical contacts.

28. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a cooling system fluidly coupled to the second stage, the cooling system configured to provide the cooling fluid flowing through the second stage.

29. 30. The system of claim 28, wherein the cooling system is an absorption chiller.

30. 10. A method of brewing coffee beans using the system of claim 1, comprising: placing one or more coffee beans into the first stage roasting chamber, the roasting chamber including a rotating housing having a plurality of inwardly extending fins configured to carry the coffee beans as the rotating housing rotates; using the electromagnetic radiation source to irradiate (i) the coffee beans, (ii) the interior of the rotating housing, or (iii) both (i) or (ii) while the housing is rotating; transferring the coffee beans to a cooling container of the second stage after said irradiation; moving the coffee beans through the cooling vessel for a period of time as the cooling vessel rotates to cool the coffee beans; Including, the roasting chamber and the cooling vessel are contained within the system housing, the system housing including the inlet through which the coffee beans are inserted and the outlet through which the brewed coffee beans are received, and each of the roasting chamber and the cooling vessel has its own housing within the system housing; The method.

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