How to Roast Coffee Beans

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for roasting coffee beans in a roasting system 10, the system comprising a roaster 2 and a smoke treatment unit 3 for treating smoke produced by the roaster, the smoke treatment unit 3 comprising filter devices 221, 222, 223 for filtering particulate matter or VOCs, the filter devices being capable of retaining a predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs, and wherein for each roasting operation carried out in the roaster, the method comprises obtaining a quantity of beans and a roast level to be applied to the beans, determining the amount of VOCs retained in the filter device, determining the total amount of the particular substance or VOC retained in the filter device during all roasting operations carried out since the last cleaning operation of the filter device, and estimating the number of roasting operations that can still be carried out before the total amount is equal to the predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filter device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for roasting coffee beans in a safe environment. [Background technology]

[0002] Roasting coffee beans is a well-known process. The main steps consist of heating the beans to a desired roast level and then cooling or quenching the heated beans to stop the roast. During heating, smoke is released. This smoke contains not only safe and desirable components, particularly regular roasted coffee aroma, all together, but also undesirable and less safe volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as pyridine, 2-furanmethanol, caffeine, furfural, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde, as well as particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10).

[0003] When roasting is carried out at a manufacturing site that produces significant quantities of roasted beans, all conditions are generally provided to capture unsafe components.

[0004] However, in recent years, there has been a trend toward using small roasters to perform small-batch roasting in stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and homes, where customers can enjoy coffee brewed from freshly roasted beans. Roasters not only offer the benefits of freshness and on-site, but also deliver a pleasant roasted coffee aroma into the store or coffee shop.

[0005] However, as mentioned above, harmful substances are also emitted. If the roaster is used in a closed environment such as a shop, coffee shop or restaurant, depending on the size of the room and the ventilation of the room, the emission of some substances can be harmful. For people who work in the room for several hours, smelling the smoke from the roaster can lead to health problems.

[0006] Consequently, in such environments, it is recommended to reduce the smoke emissions from the roaster to avoid health problems for the people present inside the store. Existing solutions consist of destroying the pollutants, such as with afterburners or catalytic afterburners that allow thermal oxidation of the pollutants, or of retaining them inside devices such as mechanical filters (metal sieves or paper filters), activated carbon filters, electrostatic precipitators, or a combination thereof.

[0007] The activated carbon filter will trap VOCs until it reaches a certain maximum amount. Once this amount is reached, the filter will no longer hold the VOCs and the activated carbon filter must be replaced with a new one. This replacement represents an expense and replacement for the operator, who must order and store new activated carbon filters.

[0008] Electrostatic precipitators capture some PM. Advantages of electrostatic precipitators are that they are low cost to use and do not generate noise or heat during use. Because electrostatic precipitators capture contaminants that remain attached to the electrostatic precipitator's charged cells, the device must be cleaned periodically. The cleaning operation consists of removing the electrostatic precipitator cells from the filter device and then washing them with water and optionally detergent. The cells then need to be dried before being reinstalled in the filter unit.

[0009] Other filters are used to capture the largest particulate matter, such as high-mesh or metal filters (e.g., ultra-fine steel wool media filters) and high-efficiency particulate accumulator (HEPA) filters. These filters are also the primary device for filtering smoke emitted by the roaster, retain the largest particles, and clog quickly, so they need to be cleaned more frequently than electrostatic precipitators.

[0010] Finally, the upstream parts of the ducts that lead the smoke from the roaster to the filtering unit, and the different filtering devices of the smoke treatment unit, also require cleaning, as oily deposits adhere to their inner walls.

[0011] With the recent trend towards using small roasters in shops, restaurants and coffee shops, roasting operations are frequently carried out during business hours and the need to clean the smoke filter device may arise urgently during opening hours, where the length of cleaning is incompatible with the high usage rate of the roaster and filter device.

[0012] The cleaning warning can be set based on the maximum number of hours the roaster has been operated or the maximum amount of roasted coffee beans. However, this warning is not entirely accurate and may force the operator to clean the filter unit even when it is not yet necessary, which has the disadvantage of cleaning too frequently or replacing some disposable filtering elements, such as activated carbon, that are still effective, increasing the operating costs of the roaster. Alternatively, the warning may force the operator to delay cleaning the filter, resulting in insufficient filtering efficiency during the final roasting operation and not ensuring a safe environment for people around the roaster.

[0013] The object of the present invention is to address the above-mentioned existing problems.

[0014] In particular, it is an object of the present invention to address the problem of informing an operator exactly when a filtering unit needs to be cleaned.

[0015] It would be advantageous to provide a method that allows roast operators to proactively notify cleaning timings so that they can schedule cleaning times while avoiding unnecessary cleaning operations that are performed too early or too late. Summary of the Invention

[0016] In a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of roasting coffee beans in a roasting system, the system comprising: A roasting device, a smoke treatment unit configured to treat smoke produced by the roasting apparatus, the smoke treatment unit comprising at least one filtering device configured to filter particulate matter or VOCs, the filtering device being capable of retaining a predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs; In each roasting operation carried out in the roasting apparatus, the method comprises: obtaining, directly or indirectly, the amount of beans to be roasted during the roasting operation and the roast level to be applied to the beans during the roasting operation; determining the amount of specific substances or VOCs retained in the filtering device during the roasting operation based on the obtained amount of roasted beans and the obtained roast level; determining the total amount of PM or VOC retained in the filtering device during all roasting operations performed since the last cleaning operation of the filtering device; and estimating the number of roasting operations that can still be performed before the total amount equals a predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device.

[0017] The method relates to roasting coffee beans by a system comprising two devices: first, a roasting device that heats and roasts the beans; and second, a smoke treatment unit configured to treat smoke generated within the first roasting device during roasting of the coffee beans.

[0018] The two devices may be subparts of one single main system, or the two devices may be considered as separate modules that work together during the roasting process.

[0019] Any type of roaster can be used, in which the coffee beans are heated and preferably mixed to homogenize the heating throughout the beans.

[0020] The heat source may be a burner (meaning combustion) supplied with natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or even wood, or may be an electrical resistor, ceramic heater, halogen source, infrared source, or microwave source.

[0021] Preferably, the heating source is electrically powered, so that the only air pollutants produced during roasting are those resulting from the heating of the coffee beans themselves, and not from the combustion of gases, as would occur if the heating source were a gas burner using natural gas, propane, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or even wood.

[0022] Mixing of the beans during the roasting operation can be obtained using a fluidized bed of hot air or mechanically using stirring blades or a rotating drum.

[0023] Preferably, the roasting apparatus is a hot air fluidized bed chamber in which heated air is forced through a screen or perforated plate below the coffee beans with sufficient force to lift the beans, transferring heat to the beans as they tumble and circulate within the fluidized bed.

[0024] Alternatively, the roasting apparatus may be a drum chamber in which the coffee beans tumble around in a heated environment. The drum chamber may consist of a drum that rotates along a horizontal axis, or the drum chamber may be equipped with agitator blades to tumble the coffee beans around in a heated environment.

[0025] The roasting apparatus includes an outlet through which smoke generated during the roasting operation can be vented.

[0026] Generally, the smoke treatment unit of the system comprises a smoke inlet configured to cooperate with a smoke outlet of the roasting apparatus and to collect smoke through the smoke inlet.

[0027] The smoke treatment unit of the system includes at least one smoke filtering device that treats the smoke to reduce or eliminate harmful pollutants that the smoke contains.

[0028] The smoke treatment unit may comprise at least one filtering device configured to filter particulate matter or PM, volatile organic compounds or VOCs, and / or hydrocarbons.

[0029] Preferably, the smoke treatment unit comprises at least one filtering device from the list of high-efficiency particulate accumulator filters, metal filters, electrostatic precipitators, activated carbon filters, paper filters, cotton filters, cloth filters, etc. Optionally, the smoke treatment unit may comprise additional filtering devices such as wet scrubbers, catalytic converters, and afterburners.

[0030] The filter configured to capture VOCs is preferably an activated carbon filter or a charcoal filter.

[0031] Filters configured to capture large particulate matter having a size greater than 2.5 μm, typically between 2.5 μm and 10 μm, are preferably:

[0032] High Efficiency Particulate Air Accumulator (HEPA) filter, capable of filtering white plume smoke and small particles.

[0033] Metal filters, such as ultra-fine steel wool media filters or metal mesh, can remove chaff fines and capture particles larger than 10 μm.

[0034] An electrostatic precipitator can be used to capture particles having a size between 1.0 and 10 μm.

[0035] Preferably, the smoke treatment unit may comprise several filters, each with a different capacity to retain particular pollutants.

[0036] Preferably, the smoke filtering sub-unit comprises at least one filter for removing particulate matter and then an activated carbon filter in sequence, depending on the direction of smoke flow inside the smoke treatment unit, this sequence preventing the activated carbon filter from being blocked by particulate matter.

[0037] Preferably, if an electrostatic precipitator is implemented, it is physically located upstream of the activated carbon filter.

[0038] The smoke is propelled within the smoke treatment unit and different filters by a smoke driver configured to direct the smoke through the smoke treatment unit from an inlet to an outlet of the smoke treatment unit where the smoke and contaminants are trapped so that the treated stream can be safely released into the room atmosphere.

[0039] The smoke driver is typically a fan that propels the smoke to the outlet.

[0040] Preferably, the fan is located adjacent the outlet of the smoke treatment unit so that it is not contaminated by untreated smoke and its maintenance is easier.

[0041] According to one preferred embodiment, the smoke filtering subunit comprises at least the following in series: Metal mesh, then Electrostatic precipitator, then Activated carbon filters according to the smoke flow movement inside the smoke treatment unit.

[0042] Preferably, in this embodiment, the activated carbon filter is physically located above the electrostatic precipitator, so that the smoke is directed upwards through the successive devices.

[0043] Generally, a filtering device can hold a predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs before it loses effectiveness and requires cleaning or replacement.

[0044] The filtering device is a passive treatment unit that retains contaminants within the device. This is the case for mechanical filters (metal sieves or paper filters), activated carbon filters, or electrostatic precipitators. As a result, with each roasting operation, particulate matter or VOC deposits accumulate within the filtering device to a level where the filtering device becomes less efficient, or even where no particulate matter or VOCs are retained at all. When this level is reached, the filtering device must be cleaned or replaced.

[0045] Some filtering devices can be easily cleaned before reuse: the metal filters and metal plates of the ESP can be removed from the smoke treatment unit, washed, and then reintroduced into the smoke treatment unit.

[0046] Some other filtering devices must be replaced with new ones, such as paper filters, HEPA and activated carbon or charcoal filters.

[0047] In the roasting method of the present invention, for each roasting operation performed in the roasting apparatus, the method includes the steps of directly or indirectly obtaining a quantity of beans and a desired roast level for the beans during the roasting operation, and determining an amount of specific substances or VOCs retained in the filtering device during the roasting operation based on the quantity of beans to be roasted during the roasting operation and based on the roast level applied to the beans during the roasting operation.

[0048] Since the amount of beans and the roast level of the beans directly affect the amount of specific substances and VOCs produced during the roasting operation, determining the amount of specific substances and VOCs based on a standard provides a reliable determination of the amount of PM and VOCs retained in the filtering device during the corresponding roasting operation.

[0049] Additionally, for each roasting operation carried out in the roasting apparatus, the method includes determining the total amount of PM or VOC retained in the filtering device during all roasting operations carried out since the last cleaning operation of the filtering device. In fact, since the amounts of PM and VOC retained in the filtering device are reliably determined for each roasting operation, these amounts can be added consecutively to reliably determine the total amount retained in the filtering device up to the last roasting operation.

[0050] Finally, for each roasting operation carried out in the roasting apparatus, the method includes a step of estimating the number of roasting operations that can still be carried out before the total amount equals a predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device, i.e. before the filtering device loses efficiency and requires cleaning or replacement.

[0051] The step of determining the amount of PM or VOC retained by the filtering device during one particular roasting operation and the final step of estimating the number of roasting operations that can still be performed both result from knowledge of: A specific, predetermined amount of PM or VOCs produced by a specific amount of beans roasted to a specific level; and A predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be held by a filtering device before the filtering device loses efficiency and requires cleaning or replacement.

[0052] The specific amounts of these PM or VOCs produced by a specific amount of beans roasted to a specific level are usually predetermined by experimental measurements during roasting operations at different roast levels (light, medium, dark) for the same predetermined amount of beans. In fact, it has been observed that roasting at a dark roast level releases more emissions than roasting at a light roast level. With respect to the amount of beans, the amount of emissions is proportional to the amount of roasted beans.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the amount of PM or VOCs retained in the filtering device during the roasting operation may also be determined based on the type of bean.

[0054] Coffee bean types can be associated with certain characteristics such as: The origin of the beans and / or the plant variety of the beans (Arabica, Robusta, ...), or a specific existing mixture or blend of different beans, which can be defined by the selection of different specific beans and / or by the ratio of these different specific beans. Level of bean pre-roasting. The coffee beans to be roasted can be green beans or partially pre-roasted beans, i.e. beans obtained by heating green coffee beans and stopping the heating process before the end of the first crack. These partially pre-roasted beans can be pre-roasted at different levels that directly affect the subsequent final roasting that takes place in the roasting equipment. Bean moisture, Bean size.

[0055] The bean type may specifically refer to the properties of the bean, such as origin, botanical variety, blend, and level of pre-roasting.

[0056] The specific amounts of these PM or VOCs produced by a specific amount of beans roasted to a specific level, and optionally the specific type of beans, are usually predetermined for roasting in the specific roaster to which the method is applied. Indeed, it has been observed that in roasters with a drum, the drum retains some particles, while in roasters with a fluidized bed chamber, more particles are present in the smoke at the chamber outlet. As a result, for the same amount of beans roasted to the same level, a roaster with a drum emits less PM than a roaster with a fluidized bed chamber.

[0057] Since the specific amount of PM or VOCs produced by a specific amount of beans roasted to a specific level is predetermined, this specific amount of PM or VOCs can be used to accurately determine the amount produced and retained in the filtering device during a particular roasting operation.

[0058] This determination can be performed according to different modes. the filtering device may be configured to retain 100% of the emitted PM and / or VOCs that it is configured to filter; or The filtering device may be assessed to retain only a certain percentage, e.g., 98%, of the emitted PM and / or VOCs that it is configured to filter, and this percentage applied to the amount emitted is taken into account for determining the amount retained.

[0059] This determination can be defined by experimentation or by reference to the technical specifications of the filtering device.

[0060] In each successive roasting operation, the determined amount is added to the total amount of PM or VOC retained in the filtering device since the last cleaning operation to provide the correct total amount.

[0061] Finally, the number of roasting operations that can still be performed before cleaning can be estimated.

[0062] Typically, this estimate is based on: Knowledge of the predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device; and A particular type of roasting operation defined by a particular amount of beans roasted during the roasting operation and a particular roast level applied to the beans during the roasting operation.

[0063] With respect to a predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device, this amount can be determined by prior experimentation with the filtering device.

[0064] For example, during experiments, it was observed that for electrostatic precipitators, breakdowns occurred more frequently as the level of PM trapped in the cells increased, indicating the need for cleaning. These breakdowns are undesirable for the equipment. Experiments and analysis of breakdown occurrences allow the determination of the maximum level of trapped PM that still does not cause breakdown.

[0065] For activated carbon filters, a strong odor was generated once the device was no longer able to capture VOCs. Experimentation and analysis of the appearance of this odor compared to the level of VOCs introduced into the filter can determine the maximum amount before this odor appears.

[0066] Optionally, these maximum amounts may be defined according to the specifications of the filtering device provided by the manufacturer of said filtering device.

[0067] This estimate provides the number of roast runs that can still be performed if all future roast runs are performed under the specific roast conditions, i.e., the specific amount of beans and the specific roast level, that implement the characteristics of this specific roast run.

[0068] The specific type of roasting operation can be pre-defined according to different scenarios of use of the roasting device, such as: In a conservative scenario, it is assumed that further roasting operations will be performed at the highest level (dark roast). Based on this principle, when further operations are effectively performed, the method allows a new determination of the number of roasting operations in each operation and a more accurate determination of the number of roasting operations. If only roasting operations at light roast levels are actually performed, the determined number of operations will be higher than the estimated one. In an optimistic scenario, it is assumed that further roasting operations will be performed at the lowest level (light roast). Based on this principle, when further operations are effectively performed, the method allows a new determination of the number of roasting operations in each operation and a more accurate determination of the number of roasting operations. If only roasting operations at the dark roast level are actually performed, the determined number of operations may be lower than the estimated one. In another scenario, it can be envisaged that further roasting operations will alternate between roasting at the lowest level (light roast) and roasting at the darkest level (dark roast). In another scenario, the further roasting operation may be a mix of different roasting rigours, for example 50% of roasting operations at dark roast level, 30% at medium roast level and 20% at light roast level. This mix of different roasting rigours may correspond to the operator's scheduled daily operation and is programmed into the roasting equipment.

[0069] In these scenarios, the particular amount of beans for a particular roasting operation may correspond to a recommended optimum amount of beans to be roasted in the particular roasting equipment in which the method is performed.

[0070] Alternatively, the specific type of roasting operation can be defined, preferentially through machine learning or through statistics, from previous roasting operations performed in the roaster. This definition can be based on a certain number of previous roasting operations performed up until the last operation, or on operations performed since a certain period of time. The average amount of beans and roast level used during these previous operations can be used to define the specific roasting operation on which the estimation is based.

[0071] The device in which the method is implemented may be configured to allow an operator to select the type of scenario.

[0072] As more operations are performed, this method provides an accurate assessment of the need to clean the filtering device, prevents cleaning too early or too late, and allows the operator to program cleaning operations taking into account scheduled roasting operations.

[0073] The number of roasting operations can be presented in different ways.

[0074] In one aspect, this number can provide the number of times a typical roasting operation can still be performed. This typical roasting operation is predetermined. For example, this typical roasting operation corresponds to a light roast of a certain amount of beans. Based on this definition of the typical roasting operation, the operator can understand that the number of roasts determined may be less than the determined number if a new roasting operation is performed at a higher level or on a larger amount of beans per operation.

[0075] This typical roasting operation may be predetermined according to the operator's habits and set to the usual roast level and amount used by the operator.

[0076] In another aspect, the number of roasting operations can provide an amount of coffee that can still be roasted according to a typical roasting operation as described above.

[0077] In one embodiment, the roasting apparatus may be configured to allow input of the amount of beans to be roasted during the roasting operation and / or the roast level to be applied to the beans during the roasting operation.

[0078] The input can be performed in different ways.

[0079] The amount of coffee beans introduced into the chamber can be obtained from: From a user, in which case the device may comprise a user interface that allows the user to input the amount of each type of bean to be introduced into the chamber, which amount may also be input through an interface of a mobile device configured to communicate with the control system of the device; or From the user's selection of a specific roasting recipe, which determines the amount of beans, or From a measuring device connected to the control system of the roasting machine, in which case the bean quantity measurements can be automatically provided to the control system of the machine.

[0080] In these cases the amount is obtained directly.

[0081] In one particular embodiment, the roasting machine can be configured to always roast the same predetermined amount of coffee beans, in which case this predetermined amount of beans can be stored in the memory of the control system or can be set in instructions of a computer program executed by the control system, in which case the amount is obtained indirectly.

[0082] Bean type C n can be obtained in a variety of ways: From a user, in which case the user interface of the device may display a list of bean varieties and prompt the user to select the variety to be introduced into the chamber, or the list may be displayed through the interface of a mobile device configured to communicate with the control system of the device; or From a code, for example a code provided on the bean packaging, in which case the device may be equipped with a code reader and the control system may be configured to prompt the operator to scan a code (for example provided on the bean packaging) of the beans that they introduce into the chamber.

[0083] Preferably, the roasting device comprises a user interface configured to allow an operator to directly or indirectly provide the amount and / or level of roast.

[0084] In this embodiment, obtaining the amount and level of beans, and optionally the type of beans, provides access to a predetermined amount of PM or VOCs retained in the filtering device for the obtained amount and obtained level.

[0085] The predetermined amounts of PM or VOCs may be stored in a database or memory accessible to the control system of the system.

[0086] In another embodiment, the smoke treatment unit may comprise a particulate matter sensor or a VOC sensor located downstream of the roasting apparatus; and For each roasting operation carried out in the roasting apparatus, the amount of beans roasted during the roasting operation and the roast level applied to the beans during the roasting operation are derived from the amount of particulate matter or VOCs measured by a sensor downstream of the filtering device.

[0087] In this particular embodiment, the method does not have to rely solely on inputs of the amount and level of roasted beans used and applied in the roasting operation, as this information can be entirely inferred or confirmed from measurements of PM or VOCs downstream of the roaster.

[0088] A particulate matter sensor and / or VOC sensor can be placed at the outlet of the roaster or at the inlet of the smoke treatment unit. Since the specific amount of PM or VOC produced by a specific amount of beans roasted to a specific level is predetermined, measurement of the PM or VOC emitted directly by the roaster provides or confirms the amount and level of roasted beans.

[0089] Preferably, the particulate matter sensor and / or the VOC sensor are located downstream of one filtering device.

[0090] This inference is based on the known filtering capability of the filtering device. Because filtering devices typically do not completely retain PM or VOCs, the PM or VOC value measured downstream of the filtering device is proportional to the PM or VOC value processed by the filtering device. Therefore, it is possible to determine the amount and roast level of beans being roasted based on the measured PM or VOCs. Generally, the correspondence between the PM or VOC value measured downstream of a specific filtering device and the amount and roast level of roasted beans is determined by experiment.

[0091] This embodiment offers different advantages. If the control system of the roasting unit does not communicate with the control system of the smoke treatment unit, the information about weight and roast level may not be obtained by the control system of the smoke treatment unit. If the operator makes a mistake when providing the amount, roast level, or type of beans, the sensor allows for the determination of the discrepancy with the information entered by the operator. The sensor value can then be taken into account in determining the actual amount of PM or VOCs, and the determined overall amount of PM or VOCs remains accurate. If there is a technical problem with the roasting equipment or filtering device, causing abnormally high emissions that do not correspond to normal roasting operation, a warning can be displayed. If a smoke treatment unit comprises two or more filtering devices and two or more sensors, each dedicated to one filtering device, the consistency of the measurements at the different sensors can be controlled and information about the source of potential problems can be provided. When the operator defines their own recipe (expert mode or bean type is unknown) and the level of released ingredients is unknown. To avoid any missing information and to be able to accurately identify each roasting operation carried out, the weight and roast level are obtained from two sources (from input at the roasting machine and from measurements at the sensors).

[0092] Preferably, the smoke treatment unit may comprise: an electrostatic precipitator and a particulate matter sensor located downstream of the electrostatic precipitator; and / or An activated carbon filter and a sensor for VOCs placed immediately downstream of the activated carbon filter.

[0093] Any type of sensor can be used.

[0094] The sensor for VOCs can be a resistive sensor that provides a signal that decreases as the level of VOCs increases, for example the gas sensor BME680 commercialized by Bosch.

[0095] In one particular embodiment, for each roasting operation carried out in the roasting apparatus, the amount of beans to be roasted during the roasting operation and the roast level to be applied to the beans during the roasting operation are simultaneously obtained from: from the amount of particulate matter or VOCs measured by sensors downstream of the roasting equipment, and From inputting the amount of beans to be roasted during the roasting operation and / or the roast level to be applied to the beans during the roasting operation.

[0096] This embodiment offers the advantage that even if the sensors are malfunctioning, it always allows obtaining the bean quantity and roast level for each roasting operation, so the estimation remains accurate.

[0097] Preferably, the smoke treatment unit may comprise several filtering devices and the method may be applied to each filtering device of the smoke treatment unit.

[0098] Because each filtering device retains different types of PM or VOCs and roasting operations release different amounts of PM and VOCs, the number of roasting operations that can still be performed on one filtering device may differ from the number of operations on other filtering devices.

[0099] Preferably, the roasting apparatus may be provided with a display unit, and the method includes the step of displaying the determined number of roasting operations that can still be performed before the total amount equals the maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device.

[0100] If the smoke treatment unit comprises several filtering devices, the specific number of operations that can still be performed for each filtering device is displayed.

[0101] In one embodiment, the method may include suggesting a quantity of beans and a roast level to be applied to the beans for a future roasting operation.

[0102] Based on the estimated number of roasting operations based at least on a particular type of roasting operation, the type of roasting operation being defined by a particular amount of beans roasted during the roasting operation and a particular roast level applied to the beans during the roasting operation, the estimated number can be increased if the operator roasts the beans under conditions that emit less PM and / or VOCs than the conditions defined by the particular type of roasting operation.

[0103] Preferably, the smoke treatment unit comprises a cleanable smoke collection device configured to collect smoke from an outlet of the roasting apparatus; For each roasting operation carried out in the roasting apparatus, the method comprises: determining an amount of residue trapped in the smoke collecting device during the roasting operation based on the obtained amount of roasted beans and the obtained roast level; determining the total amount of residue trapped in the smoke collection device during all roasting operations performed since the last cleaning operation of the smoke collection device; and estimating the number of roasting operations that can still be performed before the total amount equals the maximum amount of residue that can be deposited in the smoke collection device.

[0104] The amount of residue that will be trapped in the smoke collection device during a roasting operation for a particular amount of beans roasted to a particular level is predetermined by prior experimentation.

[0105] In a second aspect, there is provided a system for roasting coffee beans, the system comprising: A roasting device, a smoke treatment unit configured to treat smoke produced by the roasting apparatus, the smoke treatment unit comprising at least one filtering device configured to filter particulate matter or VOCs, the filtering device being capable of filtering a maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs before being cleaned; a control system operable to control the roasting process in accordance with the method as described above; Equipped with.

[0106] In a third aspect, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, processor or control unit, cause the computer, processor or control unit to carry out a method of roasting as described above.

[0107] In one embodiment, the computer program can be executed by a processing unit of the roaster and a processing unit of the smoke processing unit, both processing units communicating with each other, in particular the processing unit of the roaster can communicate the roast level and the amount of roasted beans, and the processing unit of the smoke processing unit can communicate the total amount of specific substances or VOCs retained in the filtering device during all roasting operations performed since the last cleaning operation of the filtering device.

[0108] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a computer readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, processor or control unit, cause the computer, processor or control unit to perform a roasting method as described above.

[0109] The above-described aspects of the invention may be combined in any suitable combination. Moreover, various features herein may be combined with one or more of the above-described aspects to provide combinations other than those specifically shown and described. Further objects and advantageous features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, detailed description, and accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0110] Specific embodiments of the invention will now be described further, by way of example, with reference to the following drawings, in which: [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram of a system according to the present invention showing the path of smoke through the system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the control system of the system according to FIG. 1; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram of the system's user interface and the types of information that can be displayed thereon. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0111] Roasting system Figure 1 shows an exemplary diagram of a system of a roaster 1 and a smoke treatment unit 2. Functionally, the roaster is operable to roast coffee beans and the smoke treatment unit is operable to treat smoke generated during roasting by the roaster.

[0112] Roasting equipment The roasting apparatus 1 is operable to receive and roast coffee beans in the roasting chamber 12.

[0113] Preferably, the roasting apparatus 1 comprises a roasting chamber 12 into which a hot air current is introduced to agitate and heat the beans. The hot air current is usually generated by an air flow driver and a heater. These devices are located below the roasting chamber and introduce a flow of hot air through the bottom of the chamber. In the illustrated illustration, the bottom of the chamber is configured to allow air to pass through, and in particular may be a perforated plate on which the beans are placed and through which air can flow upwards.

[0114] The airflow driver is operable to generate an airflow upward toward the bottom of the container. The generated airflow is configured to heat, agitate, and lift the beans, resulting in uniform heating of the beans. Specifically, the airflow driver may be a fan powered by a motor. An air inlet may be provided in the base of the housing to supply air to the interior of the housing, and the airflow driver blows this air toward the chamber 12.

[0115] The heater is operable to heat the airflow generated by the airflow driver. Preferably, the heater is an electrical resistor positioned between the fan and the perforated plate so that the airflow is heated before entering the chamber 12 to heat and lift the beans.

[0116] The heater and / or fan are operable to apply a roast profile to the beans, the roast profile being defined as a curve of temperature against time.

[0117] Preferably, the roasting machine is equipped with a user interface 13 that allows: Input of information about the roast, specifically the amount of beans introduced into the roasting chamber and the desired roast level, and output of information about the roasting operation (conditions, temperature, time); Preferably, it concerns the output of information regarding the smoke treatment unit 2, in particular the output of information regarding the cleaning of the different filtering devices.

[0118] Roasting the beans produces smoke that is directed into the top opening 121 of the roasting chamber by an air flow generated by an air flow driver, as shown by arrow S1 in FIG.

[0119] Generally, the chaff collector is in flow communication with the top opening 121 of the chamber and catches the chaff that gradually separates from the beans during roasting and is blown into the chaff collector due to its light density.

[0120] The remaining smoke is discharged through a smoke outlet 11 at the top of the roaster.

[0121] Smoke Treatment Unit The smoke treatment unit 2 is operable to receive and treat the smoke S1 emitted at the smoke outlet 11 of the roasting apparatus.

[0122] Firstly, the smoke processing unit 2 comprises a smoke collection device 21 adapted to collect smoke. This smoke collection device 21 or collection device forms an internal void space or duct that guides the smoke (dotted lines S1, S2, S3) from the outlet 11 of the roasting apparatus towards the filtering device of the smoke filtering sub-unit 22.

[0123] During the roasting operation, large particles and oily deposits are retained on the inner walls of the smoke collection device 21. They are retained by temperature differences (condensation on the walls), adhesion, and the geometry of the conduit (large particles are too heavy to follow the smoke flow or stick to the greasy walls).

[0124] As a result, the smoke collection device 21 must be cleaned frequently to avoid unwanted odors, fire hazards, and the generation of more smoke.

[0125] This cleaning of the smoke collection device 21 is quick and recommended, as the smoke inlet can be quickly removed, washed with hot water and detergent, and replaced in the smoke treatment unit. If cleaning is not performed, the smoke collection device may become blocked after a while, which can disrupt the functioning of the roaster and the smoke treatment unit (due to pressure loss).

[0126] The smoke filtering subunit 22 comprises an activated carbon filter 221 adapted to remove VOCs from smoke.

[0127] Additionally, in the specifically illustrated embodiment, the smoke filtering subunit 22 includes a filter for particulate matter as follows: A device 223 adapted to filter large particulate matter such as PM10, for example a metal mesh and associated diffuser, typically a metal grid placed in front of (ie, upstream of) the mesh. A device 222 (e.g., an electrostatic precipitator) adapted to filter small particulate matter PM1, PM2.5, and PM10. Preferably, the device for removing particulate matter is located upstream of the activated carbon filter. This upstream location ensures that particulate matter does not contaminate the activated carbon filter.

[0128] The electrostatic precipitator is physically located below the activated carbon filter to prevent particles from falling from the electrostatic precipitator onto the activated carbon filter when the electrostatic precipitator is switched off.

[0129] When the maximum amount of VOCs retained by the activated carbon filter 221 is reached, the activated carbon filter is removed and replaced with a new one (typically a porous bag that holds the active material and is placed in a box that allows smoke to pass through the bag). Given the cost of such filters, it is important to ensure that the maximum amount of VOCs retained has been reached before replacing the filter.

[0130] The procedure is the same for HEPA filters.

[0131] In the case of the electrostatic precipitator 222, the cleaning operation consists of removing the electrostatic precipitator cells from the filter device and washing the cells with water and optionally detergent, for example in a dishwasher. Cleaning then takes some time. With the recent trend of using small roasters in shops, restaurants, and coffee shops, roasting operations may be frequently performed during opening hours, and the need to clean the smoke filter device may arise urgently during opening hours. In that case, the length of the cleaning is incompatible with the high usage rate of the roaster and the filter device. It is preferable to anticipate the cleaning operation.

[0132] The procedure is the same for the metal mesh and associated diffuser.

[0133] The smoke filtering subunit 22 is connected to the input of the collection device. Mouth The smoke filtering subunit 22 comprises a smoke driver 23, typically a fan, for drawing the contaminated smoke through the smoke filtering subunit 22 where it is treated and into an outlet 25 of the smoke filtering subunit 22 where it is safely discharged into the surrounding atmosphere.

[0134] Control system for roaster and smoke treatment unit system Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the control system 3 will be considered here. Control Systems 3is operable to control the components of the system to roast the coffee beans and additionally to monitor the fouling of the smoke treatment unit following the roasting operation.

[0135] Various integrations of the roasting device and the smoke filtering unit can be implemented. If the smoke processing unit is part of a roaster, the processing unit of the roaster is typically the master and the processing unit of the filter is the slave. If the roasting device and the smoke processing unit form two different devices, each having its own processing unit, these processing units may be configured to communicate in order to perform the method.

[0136] FIG. 2 shows the control system of the roasting apparatus of FIG.

[0137] The control system 3, typically at the second level of the roasting apparatus, comprises a user interface 13, a processing unit 30, a power supply 33, a memory unit 31, optionally a database 34, optionally sensors 26, 27, optionally a communication interface 32 for remote connection, optionally a code reader 35, and optionally a measuring device 36.

[0138] User interface 13 includes hardware that allows a user to interface with processing unit 30 via user interface signals.

[0139] More specifically, a user interface receives commands from a user, and the user interface signals forward the commands as inputs to the processing unit 30. The commands may include, for example, instructions for carrying out the roasting process and / or instructions for the roasting equipment. 1 and / or instructions for adjusting the operating parameters of the roasting device. 1 The instruction may be to power on or off the device.

[0140] Processing Unit 30 Also, as part of the roasting process,13 may output feedback to indicate, for example, that a roasting process has been initiated, or that parameters associated with the process have been selected, or that parameters have evolved during the process, or may generate an alarm.

[0141] Specifically, the user interface can be used to: A manual input is provided to provide the amount of coffee beans to be introduced into the chamber. In an alternative embodiment, only a predetermined amount of one bean can be roasted and this input is not necessary. The amount can be preset and therefore obtained indirectly. Optionally, to provide the type of coffee beans introduced into the chamber by the user by selecting an identifying type in a list of pre-selected coffee beans or by manual input, such as by inputting a digital reference number for the coffee read from the coffee bean packaging or user manual. To provide the desired roast level of these beans by manual input, such as selecting from a list of levels like light roast, medium roast, dark roast.

[0142] Processing Unit 30 may also be configured to control the smoke processing unit, for example to indicate that smoke processing is effective or to generate an alarm. 2 User interface feedback related to smoke processing 13 You can also output to

[0143] Specifically, the user interface can be used to display: The state of contamination of the smoke treatment unit, the number of roasting operations that can still be carried out before cleaning the filtering device of the smoke treatment unit; Alerts for unexpectedly high levels of emissions, Cleaning instructions, Reset the counter.

[0144] The user interface hardware may include any suitable device(s), for example, the hardware may include one or more of a joystick button, a button such as a knob or push button, a joystick, an LED, a graphic or text LCD, a graphic screen with touch-sensitive buttons and / or screen edge buttons. 13 can be formed as one unit or as multiple separate units.

[0145] Portions of the user interface may also be on a mobile app if the device is equipped with a communications interface 32, as described below, in which case at least some of the inputs and outputs may be transmitted to the mobile device through the communications interface 32.

[0146] The sensors 26, 27 are operable to provide input signals to the processing unit 30 for monitoring the process of filtering emissions produced during roasting of beans. The input signals may be analog or digital signals. The sensors 26, 27 typically comprise at least one PM sensor and / or VOC sensor.

[0147] The code reader 35 reads the code on, for example, a coffee bean package and 12 The roaster is provided and operable to automatically provide an input that is an identification of the type of coffee beans introduced into the roaster and, optionally, to automatically provide operating conditions for roasting a particular quantity of that coffee beans.

[0148] Measuring Device 36 may be provided to measure the amount of beans introduced into the chamber, and in the step of providing the amount of coffee beans to the control system, this amount of coffee beans may be automatically measured by the measuring device and provided to the control system of the apparatus.

[0149] In another embodiment, a level sensor (not shown) can be provided to measure the level of the beans introduced into the chamber, and in the step of providing the amount of coffee beans to the control system, this amount of coffee beans can be automatically measured by the level sensor and provided to the control system of the apparatus.

[0150] In another embodiment, where the roasting apparatus is configured to roast only a predetermined amount of one bean, that predetermined amount of beans can be stored in a package that can be completely emptied into the roasting chamber. This amount can be part of the data stored in the memory 31 of the processing unit, as will be described below.

[0151] Processing unit 30 generally comprises memory and input / output system components, typically configured as an integrated circuit such as a microprocessor or microcontroller. 30 may comprise other suitable integrated circuits, such as, for example, programmable logic devices such as ASICs, PALs, CPLDs, FPGAs, etc., analog integrated circuits such as PSoCs, systems-on-chips (SoCs), controllers, etc. With respect to such devices, the aforementioned program code may be considered to be, or may additionally include, programmed logic, where appropriate. Processing unit 30 may also comprise one or more of the aforementioned integrated circuits. An example of the latter is several integrated circuits arranged to communicate with each other in a modular manner, e.g., a roasting device. 1 a slave integrated circuit for controlling the smoke processing unit 2 in communication with the master integrated circuit for controlling the roasting device; 1 The slave integrated circuit controls the user interface 13 by communicating with the master integrated circuit for controlling the user interface 13 .

[0152] Control System 3 the roasting device and / or another device and / or system, such as a server system or mobile device, 1The communication interface 32 may comprise a communication interface for data communication with a device. The communication interface 32 may be used to provide and / or receive information about the coffee bean roasting process, such as roasting process information, bean type, bean quantity, etc. The communication interface 32 may comprise first and second communication interfaces for simultaneous data communication with multiple devices or communication via various media.

[0153] The communication interface 32 can be configured for wired or wireless media, or a combination thereof, such as a wired connection like RS-232, USB, I2C, Ethernet as defined by IEEE 802.3, or a wireless connection like a wireless LAN (e.g., IEEE 802.11) or near field communication (NFC), or a cellular system like GPRS or GSM. The communication interface 32 interfaces with the processing unit 30 via communication interface signals. Typically, the communication interface comprises a separate processing unit (as in the example described above) for controlling communication hardware (e.g., an antenna) to interface with the master processing unit 30. However, less complex configurations, such as a simple wired connection for direct serial communication with the processing unit 30, can be used.

[0154] The power supply 33 is operable to provide electrical energy to the controlled components and the processing unit 30. The power supply 33 may comprise various means such as a battery or a unit for receiving and regulating the mains power supply. The power supply 33 may be operably linked to part of the user interface 13 for powering the roasting apparatus 1 and / or the smoke processing unit 2 on or off.

[0155] The processing unit 30 generally comprises a memory unit 31 for storing instructions as program code and, optionally, data. To this end, the memory unit typically comprises a non-volatile memory, such as, for example, an EPROM, EEPROM, or Flash, for storing program code as instructions and operating parameters, and a volatile memory (RAM) for temporarily storing data. The memory unit may comprise a separate and / or integrated memory (e.g., on a semiconductor die). For programmable logic devices, the instructions may be stored as programmed logic.

[0156] The instructions stored in the memory unit 31 can be idealized as including a program for determining the level of soiling of the smoke treatment unit of the system, specifically the number of roasting operations that can still be performed before a cleaning operation is required.

[0157] During a roasting operation, the control system 3 can operate as follows: Obtaining, directly or indirectly, the amount of beans to be roasted during the roasting operation and the roast level to be applied to the beans during the roasting operation; determining the amount of specific substances or VOCs retained in the filtering device of the smoke treatment unit during the roasting operation based on the amount of beans roasted and the roast level obtained; Determine the total amount of PM or VOC retained in the filtering device during all roasting operations performed since the last cleaning operation of the filtering device; Determine the number of roasting operations that can still be performed before the total amount equals the maximum amount of particulate matter or VOC that can be retained by the filtering device.

[0158] These operational steps can be performed separately for each of the different filtering device portions of the smoke treatment unit to determine the level of soiling of each of these filtering devices. For example, for smoke treatment unit 2 shown in Figure 1, these steps can be repeated separately for each of the following devices: Metal filters and diffusers 223, and an electrostatic precipitator 222; and Activated carbon filter 221.

[0159] Additionally and similarly, these operational steps can be performed to determine the level of fouling of the smoke collection device 21 .

[0160] For each roasting operation, the first step may be common to all filtering devices, which is to obtain the quantity, level and optionally type of beans.

[0161] In one first embodiment, the amount of beans to be roasted and the roast level to be applied to the beans during the roasting operation may be provided by an operator through the roaster's user interface 13. In practice, this information (amount, level, and optionally type of beans) is typically entered into the roaster's user interface when the operator defines the roasting operation. This information allows the implementation of roasting parameters specifically adapted to the beans, ensuring an optimal roast.

[0162] The amount of coffee beans can also be provided automatically from a measuring device 36 or a level sensor.

[0163] In certain embodiments, the amount may be predetermined and stored in memory 31 or may be taken into account in the program instructions.

[0164] The bean type can also be provided automatically from the code reader 35 as described above.

[0165] The following steps may then be performed for each of the filtering devices included in the smoke processing unit.

[0166] Based on the information (amount, level, and optionally type) obtained in the first common step, the processing unit 30 is operable to determine the amount of a particular substance or VOC that will be retained in one particular filtering device during the roasting operation.

[0167] The amount retained is determined from the following: Knowledge of the specific amounts of PM and / or VOCs produced by a specific amount of beans roasted to a specific level, optionally by a specific amount of a type of bean roasted to a specific level. These specific amounts are predetermined by experimentation as described above. These amounts are generally specific to the type of roasting equipment. If a blend of different types of beans is used, for purposes of determining the amounts, the entire blend is considered to be made of beans that produce the highest levels of emissions. The hypothesis that a particular filtering device will retain 100% of the PM or VOCs that it is designed to retain, or knowledge of the efficiency with which a particular filtering device will retain a certain percentage of the PM or VOCs (e.g., 98%), where this percentage is predetermined by experiment or corresponds to a specification provided by the filtering device manufacturer.

[0168] For the smoke collection device 21, the amount of residue trapped therein during the roasting operation is also determined experimentally based on the amount of beans roasted and the roast level obtained.

[0169] For example, two durability tests can be run, either exclusively roasting at a light roast level or exclusively roasting at a dark roast level, until cleaning is required. In both cases, the same specific amount of beans is used. The need for cleaning can be controlled by various controls. Dismantle the smoke collection device and visually control fouling, and / or Measure the pressure drop, and / or Visually observe any backflow at the roast chamber outlet. These tests provide the number of roast runs that can be run at dark or light roast levels before cleaning is required.

[0170] The number of runs for a medium roast level can be extrapolated from these two numbers.

[0171] These quantities may be stored in the memory 31 of the processing unit 30. Alternatively, these data may be stored on a remote server to which the processing unit 30 may be provided access via the communication interface 32, directly or indirectly through a mobile device that establishes a connection between the remote server and the processing unit.

[0172] The control system 3 may comprise a database 34 for storing information about coffee beans, in particular about the operating conditions for roasting particular coffee beans as described herein. The database 34 may be stored locally in the memory 31 of the control system of the roaster, or remotely in a server accessible through the communication interface 32, or in the control system 31 of the smoke filtering unit.

[0173] In an alternative embodiment, the control system may provide these predetermined amounts during the code reading operation, where the information is encoded within the code and decoded by the control system, or the code provides a reference that allows the information from the control system's memory 31 to be retrieved remotely in memory 31 or on a server.

[0174] Generally, the method includes the step of accessing, for each smoke treatment unit, the performance of said smoke treatment unit in reducing the level of each pollutant.

[0175] These capabilities may be stored in the memory of the device on which the method is performed or on a remote server accessible by said device. These capabilities may form an accessible database.

[0176] Based on the amount retained during this roasting operation, the processing unit 30 is operable to determine the total amount of PM or VOC retained in the filtering device during all roasting operations performed since the last cleaning operation of the filtering device. The newly determined total retention amount is simply added to all of the previously determined retention amounts since the last cleaning operation.

[0177] Finally, the processing unit 30 is operable to determine the number of roasting operations that can still be performed before the new overall retention amount equals a predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device.

[0178] The number of roasting operations that can still be performed can be estimated in terms of the number of iterations of one specific, predetermined type of roasting operation (default operation). This specific roasting operation is predetermined in terms of bean amount, roast level, and optionally bean type. Therefore, the amount of VOCs and / or PM per such predetermined roasting operation can be predetermined. Knowing the total amount of PM or VOCs retained in the filtering device, the number of roasting operations of the same specific, predetermined type that can still be performed can be calculated by the difference from the predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device.

[0179] This particular predetermined type of roasting operation can correspond to a preferred roasting operation performed using the roasting equipment, such as the most frequently operated roasting operation, or it can correspond to average parameters of roasting operations performed using the roasting equipment over a particular period of time. It can also correspond to a roasting operation configured to produce the lowest possible levels of PM and VOCs (such as roasting an average quantity at a light roast level), or a roasting operation configured to produce the highest possible levels of PM and VOCs (such as roasting an average quantity at a dark roast level). The operator may be able to select this particular predetermined type of roasting operation during a system configuration step, or the configuration can be pre-set at the manufacturing plant.

[0180] Alternatively, it may be presented by providing the amount of coffee that can still be roasted according to a typical roasting operation.

[0181] Optionally, the estimation of the number of roasting operations still available can be balanced by applying a margin or error factor to avoid the risk of underestimating and cleaning or replacing filtering devices too late. This factor may be the same for all filtering devices, or one specific factor may be applied to each specific filtering device.

[0182] For example, in a roasting method using a roasting device equipped with an electrostatic precipitator, the following can be determined in advance. The maximum amount of particulate matter PM2.5 that can be held before a cleaning operation is required is A grams (g) PM2.5. The amount of particulate matter PM2.5 emitted during roasting of 250g of coffee beans can be a1g, a2g, and a3g for light, medium, or dark roast levels, respectively.

[0183] When a roasting operation is performed, the amount of beans and roast level are defined, and the amount of particulate matter PM2.5 emitted during the roasting operation can be calculated. For example, for 500g of beans roasted at a medium roast level, the amount of PM2.5 is 2 x a2g.

[0184] At the end of the operation, 2a2g of this PM2.5 is retained in the electrostatic precipitator.

[0185] For each roasting run, the calculated amounts are added together to determine the total amount of PM2.5 retained in the electrostatic precipitator.

[0186] The number of roasting operations that can still be performed before the electrostatic precipitator requires a cleaning operation can be estimated from the difference between the total amount of PM2.5 retained and the maximum amount of PM2.5.

[0187] If a roasting operation defined by default is the roasting of 250 g of coffee beans to a light roast level, the corresponding amount of a1 g of PM2.5 emitted during such an operation can be used to estimate the number of such roasts that are still possible. This estimated number can be displayed as such or converted into the number of kg of coffee beans that will be roasted during these estimated operations.

[0188] Figure 3 shows the user interface 13 of the roasting machine which displays for each of the three filtering devices 221, 222, 223 and for the smoke collection device 21 the number of roasting operations in kilograms of coffee beans that can still be performed before cleaning or replacement of the device is required.

[0189] From the display, it appears that different amounts of coffee beans can be determined for different filtering devices. This is due to their capacity to retain emissions and the fact that some filtering devices require more frequent cleaning due to different amounts of different types of emissions (VOC, PM, oils, etc.) emitted during different roasting operations.

[0190] According to the information displayed on the user interface 13, 1 kg of coffee beans can still be roasted before cleaning the metal mesh and diffuser 223. Before cleaning the electrostatic precipitator 222, 1 kg of coffee beans can still be roasted. 50 kg of coffee beans can still be roasted before the activated carbon bag 221 needs to be replaced. A cleaning warning has already appeared for the smoke collection device 21, and 15 kg of beans have been roasted since the device required cleaning.

[0191] One advantage of the method is that it accurately estimates the need for cleaning different components of a smoke filtering unit.

[0192] Another advantage of the method is that it estimates the need to clean each of the different components of the smoke filtering unit and alerts the operator to the need to clean only one component without the need to clean the other components.

[0193] While the invention has been described with reference to the above-described exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that the invention as claimed is in no way limited to these exemplary embodiments.

[0194] Variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, where known equivalents exist for specific features, such equivalents are incorporated as if specifically referred to herein.

[0195] As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," and similar terms should not be construed in an exclusive or exhaustive sense. In other words, they are intended to mean "including, but not limited to." [Explanation of symbols]

[0196] 1. Roasting equipment 11 Smoke outlet 12 Roasting Chamber 121 Upper exit 13 User Interface 2 Smoke Processing Unit 21 Smoke collection device 22 Smoke filtering subunit 221 Activated carbon filter 222 Electrostatic Precipitator 223 PM filter 23 Smoke Driver 25 Exit 26 PM sensor 27 VOC sensor 3. Control System 30 processing units 31 Memory Unit 32 Communication Interface 33 Power supply 34 Databases 35 Code reader 36 Measuring Devices 100 systems

Claims

1. A method of roasting coffee beans in a roasting system (100), said system comprising: A roasting device (1), a smoke treatment unit (2) configured to treat smoke produced by the roasting apparatus, the smoke treatment unit (2) comprising at least one filtering device (221, 222, 223) configured to filter particulate matter or VOCs, the filtering device being capable of retaining a predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs; In each roasting operation carried out in the roasting apparatus, the method further comprises: directly or indirectly obtaining the amount of beans to be roasted during said roasting operation and the roast level to be applied to said beans during said roasting operation; determining the amount of particulate matter or VOCs retained in the filtering device (221, 222, 223) during the roasting operation based on the amount of beans to be roasted and the roast level obtained; determining the total amount of particulate matter or VOCs retained in the filtering device (221, 222, 223) during all the roasting operations performed since the last cleaning operation of the filtering device; estimating the number of roasting operations that can still be performed before the total amount equals the predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device; A method comprising:

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the smoke treatment unit (2) comprises at least one filtering device from the list of: a high-efficiency particulate accumulator filter (223), a metal filter (223), an electrostatic precipitator (222), an activated carbon filter (221).

3. The method comprises: obtaining the type of beans to be roasted during said roasting operation; determining the amount of specific substances or VOCs in the filtering device (221, 222, 223) during the roasting operation based on the amount of the type of beans to be roasted obtained and the roast level of the type of beans obtained; 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, comprising:

4. The number of roasting operations that can still be performed is the predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device; and a particular type of roasting operation, the particular type being defined by a particular amount of beans to be roasted during said roasting operation and a particular roast level applied to said beans during said roasting operation; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the estimated value is based on:

5. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the specific type of roasting operation is defined from past roasting operations carried out in the roasting equipment, preferentially through machine learning or through statistics.

6. 6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the roasting apparatus (1) is configured to allow input of the amount of beans to be roasted during the roasting operation and / or the roast level to be applied to the beans during the roasting operation.

7. the smoke treatment unit (2) comprises a particulate matter sensor (26) or a VOC sensor (27) located downstream of the roasting device; and for each roasting operation carried out in the roasting apparatus, the amount of beans to be roasted during the roasting operation and the roast level applied to the beans during the roasting operation are derived from the amount of particulate matter or VOCs measured by the sensors (26, 27). The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The smoke treatment unit (2) an electrostatic precipitator (222) and a sensor (26) for measuring PM, the PM sensor being disposed downstream of the electrostatic precipitator; and / or an activated carbon filter (221) and a sensor (27) for VOCs, said VOC sensor being located immediately downstream of said activated carbon filter; The method of claim 7, comprising:

9. For each roasting operation performed in the roasting apparatus, the amount of beans roasted during the roasting operation and the roast level applied to the beans during the roasting operation are: from the amount of particulate matter or VOCs measured by the sensors (26, 27) downstream of the roasting device; and from the input of the amount of beans to be roasted during the roasting operation and / or the roast level to be applied to the beans during the roasting operation; The method of claim 7 when dependent on claim 6, wherein the method is obtained.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the smoke treatment unit (2) comprises several filtering devices (221, 222, 223), and the method is applied to each filtering device of the smoke treatment unit.

11. 11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the roasting apparatus is provided with a display unit (13), the method comprising the step of displaying the estimated number of roasting operations that can still be performed before the total amount is equal to the predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs that can be retained by the filtering device.

12. the smoke processing unit (2) comprises a cleanable smoke collection device (21) configured to collect smoke from the outlet (11) of the roasting apparatus; In each roasting operation carried out in the roasting device, determining the amount of residue trapped in the smoke collecting device (21) during the roasting operation based on the amount of beans to be roasted and the roast level obtained; determining the total amount of residue trapped in the smoke collection device (21) during all the roasting operations carried out since the last cleaning operation of the smoke collection device; estimating the number of roasting operations that can still be performed before the total amount equals a predetermined maximum amount of residue that can accumulate in the smoke collecting device; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising:

13. A system (100) for roasting coffee beans in a room, comprising: A roasting device (1), a smoke treatment unit (2) configured to treat smoke produced by the roasting apparatus, the smoke treatment unit (2) comprising at least one filtering device (221, 222, 223) configured to filter particulate matter or VOCs, the filtering device being capable of filtering a predetermined maximum amount of particulate matter or VOCs before being cleaned; a control system (3) operable to control the roasting process according to the roasting method of any one of claims 1 to 12; A system (100) comprising:

14. 13. A computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, processor or control unit (30), cause the computer, processor or control unit (30) to perform the roasting method of any one of claims 1 to 12.

15. 15. The computer program of claim 14, wherein the computer program is executed by a processing unit of the roasting apparatus and a processing unit of the smoke processing unit, both processing units communicating with each other.

16. A computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, processor, or control unit, cause the computer, processor, or control unit (30) to perform the roasting method of any one of claims 1 to 12.

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