Actuatable modular grinder system, components for modular grinder system, fidget device for use with modular grinder system, and fidget device

Abstract

Disclosed is a pocketable, non-round, non-cylindrical modular grinder system and a method of manufacturing and assembling the modular grinder system. The modular grinder system includes two or more sections couplable together. The modular grinder system includes a shearing mechanism and a gear assembly couplable to the shearing mechanism. The modular grinder system further includes one or more magnets. Also disclosed is a modular grinder system having fidget capabilities. A gyroscopic toy for use with the modular grinder system is also disclosed.

Description

ACTUATABLE MODULAR GRINDER SYSTEM, COMPONENTS FOR MODULAR GRINDER SYSTEM, FIDGET DEVICE FOR USE WITH MODULAR GRINDER SYSTEM, AND FIDGET DEVICECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 538,435 filed September 14, 2023, entitled “ACTUATABLE MODULAR GRINDER & FIDGET DEVICE” the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] This disclosure relates to grinders. An example grinder is an herb grinder.

[0003] This disclosure relates to a modular grinder system. This disclosure also relates to an insert for the modular grinder system. This disclosure further relates to a method of assembling and manufacturing the modular grinder system having the insert.

[0004] This disclosure relates to fidget devices. This disclosure also relates to a modular grinder system having the fidget device.BACKGROUND

[0005] Various hand-actuated herb grinders are available on the market today. These grinders are typically formed of a cylindrical shape made up of two or more components. Within the interior of the grinder is often a plurality of grinding teeth or a grinding surface, and a cavity for retention and grinding of the herb placed therein. Traditional grinders require the user to rotate one segment of the grinder against the other to perform the grinding action. These grinders typically require use of at least one hand plus a means to hold the opposite rotatable portion of the grinder - which could be another hand or some other surface or structure that constrains movement of the opposite rotatable portion. Unfortunately, due to the shape or manufacturing inconsistencies, these grinders can be unwieldy and difficult or unpleasant to actuate.Additionally, current grinders are often manufactured by a process of machining, which results in waste of raw material, leading to increased manufacturing cost.

[0006] Available grinders are generally large and often a cylinder, making it cumbersome to fit into a user’s pocket. Also, traditional grinders screw together, which adds complexity to the design and requires additional steps in manufacturing as well as assembly and disassembly by the user. Such grinders also have little to no storage capacity for unground material, and do not provide for easy placement of material such as herb within the grinder. Herb material also often tends to stick to current grinder materials, making the grinder difficult to clean. This can also cause the grinder to seize.

[0007] Although most grinders possess rotatable segments, these grinders do not provide support as a fidget or self-regulation tool.

[0008] Accordingly, a need exists for a grinder which addresses these problems.SUMMARY

[0009] A family of pocketable and or non-cylindrical grinders and biomass processors are provided. One or more fidget devices or toys are also disclosed.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, a modular grinder system operable with one hand is described herein, the modular grinder system includes a minimum of two sections. The modular grinder system can include a first section and a second section couplable to the first section. The first section is configured to move relative to the second section. The first and second sections can be coupled to form an internal cavity, which may be keyed. One or more inserts can be disposed in the cavity. In at least one embodiment, the modular grinder system includes a cross section having a nonagon shape. The first and second respective grinder sections can form a nonround, non-cylindrical housing.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the disclosure provides for a modular grinder system having a shearing mechanism provided in the cavity. The shearing mechanismcan have a plurality of teeth positioned such that a tooth and an adjacent tooth of the plurality of teeth shear material as they pass along one another.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the disclosure provides for a modular grinder system having a gear assembly. The gear assembly can be coupled to a shearing mechanism to actuate the shearing mechanism. The gear assembly can additionally be configured to move the first section of the grinder system relative to the second section of the grinder system. In at least one example embodiment, the gear assembly includes one or more cycloidal gears which may cog with a fixed ring gear. The gear assembly can include an eccentrically driven drive element to actuate the gear assembly.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the disclosure provides a modular grinder system comprising a tactile alignment mechanism to align like edges of the non-round housing. The tactile alignment mechanism can include a magnet. The magnet can be a programmable magnet or polymagnet. The tactile alignment mechanism can provide tactile feedback to a user.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the disclosure provides a modular grinder system configured for fidgetability.

[0015] In another embodiment, the disclosure provides a gyroscopic toy for use with the modular grinder system.

[0016] These and other features, advantages, and embodiments of apparatus and methods according to this invention are described in, or are apparent from, the following detailed descriptions of various examples of embodiments.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Various examples of embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods according to this invention will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures.

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one or more examples of a modular, non-cylindrical grinder as described herein from a forward-facing orientation.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the modular, non-cylindrical grinder of FIG. 1 from a rear-facing orientation.

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one or more examples of a gyroid variant of the modular grinder.

[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one or more examples of a short variant of the modular grinder, showing two pressed upper components for no grinding operations.

[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an inner cycloidal gear for use in the grinding operation in one or more examples of embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates two perspective views of a top insert for use in grinding operations in one or more examples of embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of a top insert for the gyroid variant of the modular grinder of FIG. 3 for use in providing eccentric grinding operations.

[0025] FIG. 8 illustrates the perspective view of a bottom insert for use with the modular grinder in one or more examples of embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a gyroscopic insert for use with the modular grinder in one or more examples of embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 10 illustrates three plane views of the modular, non-cylindrical grinder of FIG. 1 from a forward facing orientation.

[0028] FIG. 11 illustrates three plane views of the gyroid variant of the modular grinder of FIG. 3.

[0029] FIG. 12 illustrates three plane views of the short variant of the modular grinder of FIG. 4.

[0030] FIG. 13 illustrates two plane views of the inner cycloidal gear of the grinding operation of FIG. 5.

[0031] FIG. 14 illustrates four plane views of the grinding operation inserts of FIG. 6.

[0032] FIG. 15 illustrates three plane views of the gyroscopic insert of the modular grinder of FIG. 9.

[0033] FIG. 16 illustrates an exploded view of the grinder of FIG. 1 from a forward facing orientation.

[0034] FIG. 17 illustrates an exploded view of the grinder of FIG. 1 from a rear facing orientation.

[0035] FIG. 18 illustrates an exploded view of the gyroid variant of the modular grinder of FIG. 3.

[0036] FIG. 19 illustrates an exploded view of the short variant of the modular grinder of FIG. 4.

[0037] FIG. 20 illustrates an exploded view of the gyroscopic insert of the modular grinder of FIG. 9.

[0038] FIG. 21 illustrates two plane views of a milling plate and a mill for use with the modular grinder of FIG. 1.

[0039] FIG. 22 illustrates two perspective views of grinder components.

[0040] FIG. 23 illustrates an exploded view of the grinder of FIG. 22.

[0041] It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary to the understanding of the invention or render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should beunderstood, of course, that the invention is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

[0042] Within the scope of this application, it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, and the claims and / or the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and all features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] One or more specific embodiments will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation are described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers’ specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business- related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0044] Referring to the Figures, the following components of the modular grinder are illustrated, one or more of which will be discussed in greater detail in the description below.100: Modular grinder with a minimum of two sections, at least one of which will rotate freely103: Base section of grinder102: Non-round geometry, having nine sides, three sides of three different lengths104: Parting line of the two halves, mated with magnets for cogging at approximately 120-degree intervals105: Top section of grinder106: Geometric cutout for improved grip and one hand operation on top section108: Round peg extrusions (e.g., 3) to assist with rotation of grinding components110: Magnet compatibility to hold devices upright112: Offset contour extrusion of the outer geometry with filet for fidgetability114: Modular top component that spins freely, often driving gearing and having sharp angles that match outer geometries116: Contoured bottom edges for triangular groove, allows user to spin device when turned118: Contoured extrusion as offset of triangular groove, allows for insert of ball or gem120: Raised triangle that is an offset of groove geometry122: Round peg extrusions (e.g., 3) with capability to be pressed with ball or gem124: Geometric cutout for grip and one hand operation on bottom section126: Gyroid variant of modular grinder128: Modular top component that spins freely, often driving gearing and having sharp angles that match outer geometries, having a more rounded outer geometry130: Cutout of angled midsection allowing for grip of device132: Two identical angled slices that mate at various orientations or angles for gyroid or spinning operations134: Short, condensed version of modular grinder136: Two top, modular sections pressed together with a ring bearing137: Modular gear assembly138: Cycloidal inner gear139: Drive element for modular gear assembly140: Groove for roller pins to ride tangent while under rotation, thus driving the roller pins concentrically with device142: Cutout for eccentric shaft, allowing gear to rotate eccentric to device143: Eccentric shaft144: Outer gear geometry of n teeth (n = number of teeth >0)146: Top insert of modular grinder147: Top insert plate148: Bearing post extending from top plate which rotates concentric to grinder body, driven by eccentrically rotating inner gear149: Bearing150: Dowel pin hole, concentric to device, supports gearing and insert152: Lone spike of tooth geometry154: Symmetric flats to push product through tightly toleranced teeth of lower insert156: Outer geometry of top insert, mates flush with inner geometry of top gear section158: Top insert of gyroid variant of modular grinder160: Outer geometry of insert, mates with modular component of top section162: Rear mating structure of gyroid insert164: Tooth geometry of gyroid variant, tooth pattern may be straight or curved as shown, containing, e.g., 4-5 teeth166: Bottom insert of modular grinder original variant168: Pinch filet allowing user to “pinch” product at location with ease169: Teeth170: Bottom insert tooth geometry in an approximate V-shaped pattern171 : Pinch point geometry172: Outer filet to assist with guiding product to insert center174: Circular outer geometry with two flats to mate with bottom section of grinder176: Extended lip on bottom insert to assist with removal178: Gyroscopic variant of modular grinder180: Concentric post supporting planet gears and flywheel181: Precision screw182: Planet gears surrounding concentric post, may be set of, e.g., two or three gears183: O-ring184: Bottom insert with cutout186: Sun gear driving the planet gears187: Carrier element188: Flywheel190: Ring bearing, press fit to device192: Modular magnet placement for additional cogging of top modular section 194: Bottom section of modular grinder with mating geometry for bottom inserts 196: Housing having fixed ring gears of n+1 teeth in relation to inner gear 198: Placement for ball bearing or magnet of sloped, gyroid sections 200: Sleeve bearing or guide bushing of gyroscopic variant 201: Magnet(s)202: Milling plate; Floating disc plate203: Mill perforations204: Milling surface 205: Milling cutouts 206: Threading 208: Grinder system 210: Top half grinder component 212: Lower half grinder component 214: Cache216: Grinder bottom

[0045] Referring to the Figures, a family of pocketable and or non-cylindrical therapy tools, toys, grinders and biomass processors are provided. As will be apparent from the Figures, a modular grinder system 100 is provided, wherein multiple components can be added, removed, interchanged to alter the functionality and or feel of the device. The modular grinder system 100 may also be referred to hereinafter as the grinder system, or simply, the grinder. The modular grinder system described herein may be used to grind, mill, pulverize, and or otherwise process (e.g., break down) herb, such as dry flower or leaf. An example herb can be cannabis flower; however, the grinder system can be used to process other herbs including but not limited to spices, beans, and nuts. The grinder system 100 can additionally be used as a storage device. The grinder may be used to store ground or unground herb.

[0046] The grinder 100 described herein may also be used as a fidget device, a therapy tool, or a toy. For example, the grinder system described herein can includedifferent textures, allows for various movements, and has multiple uses allowing a user to fidget in more than one way. As previously mentioned, the modular grinder system can be modified to alter the functionality or feel of the device. In one example system, the grinder can include a fidget insert. In other examples, the grinder system as a whole, provides fidgetability. In such an example construction, components such as magnets or gear systems may contribute to the overall feel of the grinder. Benefits of using the grinder system as a fidget device, self-regulation tool, or therapy tool can include improved focus, anxiety and or stress relief, sensory stimulation, and increased productivity.

[0047] According to one or more examples, the non-cylindrical or non-round geometry 102 makes the grinder 100 operable with one hand. Compared to traditional grinders, the non-cylindrical geometry 102 provides additional leverage points making it easier to hold and easier to actuate. The geometry may further act as a tactile alignment mechanism. Uniquely, the non-round geometry 102 has a crosssection having an irregular nonagon shape, namely, a trisected nonagon. That is, any horizontal cross-section of the geometry will be composed of nine sides forming three unequal sets of three equal sides, arranged such that each side will be equal to the sides oriented 120 degrees away from it around the centroid of the profile, but not equal to the side adjacent. The nine side faces of the grinder are faceted nonparallel. When viewed from the top, two sets of faces point inward toward the grinder and the third set points outward away from the grinder. This geometry allows for three unique “correct” and or indexed positions or orientations. For example, when starting from the default closed position, the grinder top may be rotated 120 degrees in either direction in relation to the grinder base and the equal faces will align. In addition to providing aid as a one-handed actuatable grinder, the geometry also functions as a fidget promoting sensory stimulation.

[0048] FIGS. 1-4 ,10-12, and 16-19 show one or more examples of modular grinder systems. At its most basic, the modular grinder system 100 may have two sections couplable together. However, the grinder may have any number of sections greater than two without departing from the overall scope of the present invention.

[0049] Figures 1 and 2 show a first construction of the modular grinder system 100. Generally, the grinder system includes a base 103 with one or more engaging surfaces (116, 118, 120, 122, and 124) and geometry 102 for engaging the user’s palm and or fingers. The grinder includes a top or cover 105. Like the base, the grinder cover 105 includes an engaging surface(s) (106, 108, 110, 112, and 114) and geometry 102 for engaging the user’s palm and or fingers, particularly the user’s thumb(s).

[0050] In the illustration, the geometry 102 includes a nonagon shape formed of regular and irregular geometric shaped side panels (engaging surfaces). In the example, one or more geometric cutouts 106 are provided to grip and actuate the top 105 of the grinder 100. Cutouts 106 can be inset within the periphery of the modular top component 114. In the example, cutouts 106 are integral to the modular top component 114. Three trapezoid shaped cutouts are shown; however, other regular or non-regular geometric shapes or combinations are possible. The cutouts 106 can additionally include surface texturization or roughening to enhance the feel of the cutout. One or more round peg extrusions 108 are also provided on the modular top component 114. While three are shown, any number of pegs 108 may be used. Both the cutouts 106 and pegs 108 may be spaced apart at 120-degree intervals, such as shown in FIG. 1. A magnet 110 is disposed centrally in the modular top component 114. The magnet may be used to hold the grinder system 100 upright. Surrounding the magnet 110, an offset contour extrusion 112 of the outer geometry extends from an upper surface of the modular top component 114. Extrusion 112 can include a filet design. Extrusion 112 can additionally or alternatively include surface texturization.

[0051] Contoured bottom edges 116 of the base 103 allow the user to spin the device with one hand when braced against the top of the grinder. In the example illustration, a bottom surface of the base 103 includes contoured extrusion 118 extending therefrom. A shape of extrusion 118 can match the geometry of the grinder similar to extrusion 112. In FIG. 2, contoured extrusion 118 includes an offset triangular groove, matching the geometry of centrally disposed raised triangle 120. Raised triangle 120 may be offset within contoured extrusion 118. Round peg extrusions (e.g., 3) 122 provided along a periphery of extrusion 118. Integralgeometric cutouts 124 are disposed along a periphery of the base 103. When held in one hand, elements 116, 118, 120, 122, and 124 of the base 103 can serve as reference points for the user, helping the user find a comfortable grip or feel. In other constructions, a magnet 110 may be provided in place of the raised triangle 120, thus allowing a user to actuate the grinder 100 with one hand while bracing the grinder against a magnetic surface.

[0052] Both the base 103 and the cover 105 may be made up of multiple modular components. For example, in the construction shown, modular top component 114 can rotate independently from the outer wall of non-round segments 115. Additionally, pegs 108, 122 may be added or removed. In some examples, a user may swap magnet 110 for a geometrically shaped gem, such as the raised triangle 120. Other configurations are possible without departing from the overall scope of the invention.

[0053] Parting line 104 marks the meeting point between the two halves. In one or more examples, the modular grinder system includes a low-friction interface or friction reducing element coupling the sections (e.g., halves) of the grinder. On either side of parting line 104, an outer wall of non-round segments 115 and 117 is formed. The non-round segments 115, 117 act as additional engagement points with which a user can engage, actuate, open, or close the grinder. Together, the engaging surfaces and non-round segments can additionally serve as points of sensory stimulation. For example, a user may find it easier and or more pleasant to hold and or fidget the grinder in one orientation versus another. When coupled together, the base and top are short compared to a width of the grinder, aiding with pocketability. For example, the grinder 100 can have an aspect ratio of approximately 2.95:1 (width to height).

[0054] Externally, engaging surfaces 116, 118, 120, 122, and 124 and outer wall of non-round segments 117 form the base 103. Similarly, engaging surfaces 106, 108, 110, 112, and 114 and outer wall of non-round segments 115 form the top 105. Internally, the base 103 and top 105 house an inner keyed recess or cavity 194. The inner keyed recess receives one or more inserts such as grinder components or fidget devices, discussed in greater detail below, and can hold them rotationally fixed to the base, the top, or both.

[0055] Figures 3 and 11 illustrate a second example modular grinder system 100, particularly a gyroid variant 126. Unlike the grinder system of FIG. 1, which base 103 and top 105 actuate in separate planes parallel to one another, the gyroid variant 126 uniquely functions such that base 103 and top 105 actuate in separate planes nonparallel to one another. Separate from its capability as a grinder, the gyroid variant 126 may additionally function as a fidget or therapy device, providing a unique feel and actuation due to the irregular or angled planes of base 103 and top 105.

[0056] The grinder system 100 of FIG. 3 can be similar to the example in Figures 1 and 2. A modular top component 128 may spin freely relative to a pair of angled midsections 132, which are coupled together. Each midsection 132 can include cutouts 130 for the user to grip during actuation. In the construction shown, the outer periphery of midsections 132 is substantially round or cylindrical. The modular top component 128 can be formed having non-round geometry. In the example, an outer periphery of the modular top component 128 includes nine angled side faces 129. The angled side faces 129 can include cutouts 106 like the construction shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. A contour extrusion 112 extending from an outer surface of the modular top component 128 may match the nine-sided geometry of the side faces 129. Round peg extrusions 108 (e.g., 3) can be inserted into an outer surface of the modular top component 128. A magnet 110 can additionally be coupled to the modular top component 128.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 11 , the modular components of the base 103 may match the modular components of the top 105. In other words, the base and top components can be identical. When coupled together, the angled nature of midsections 132 contribute to the unique actuation motion of the gyroid variant. Like the construction in FIG. 1, internally, the base 103 and top 105 house an inner keyed recess 194. The inner keyed recess 194 may receive one or more inserts such as grinder components and can hold them rotationally fixed to the base, the top, or both.

[0058] A compressed or short variant 134 of the modular grinder system 100 is shown in Figures 4 and 12. Generally, the short variant 134 of the grinder system may be a condensed version of the grinder system shown in Figures 1 and 2. Morespecifically, two modular top sections 136 may be pressed together to form the short variant 134. The top modular sections 136 may resemble the modular top component 114. Top sections 136 may spin freely relative to one another using a ring bearing 190 provided internally within the modular top section 136. The ring bearing or thin section bearing 190 can be used to couple components of the modular grinder system.

[0059] The short variant 134 of the modular grinder system can include an engaging surface(s) (106, 108, 110, 112, and 114) and non-round geometry 102 for engaging the user’s palm and or fingers. Like the example in FIGS. 1 and 2, the geometry 102 of the short variant 134 includes a nonagon shape formed of regular and irregular geometric shaped side panels (engaging surfaces). As shown in FIGS. 4 and 12, one or more geometric cutouts 106 are provided to grip and actuate both the base 103 and the top 105 of the grinder 100. Integrally formed cutouts 106 can be inset within the periphery of modular top sections 136. In the example, three trapezoid shaped cutouts are shown formed in both the base 103 and top 105 of the modular top sections 136. Like the previous constructions, the cutouts 106 can additionally include surface texturization or roughening to enhance the feel of the cutout. One or more round peg extrusions 108 are also provided on the modular top sections 136. While three are shown, any number of pegs 108 may be used. Both the cutouts 106 and pegs 108 may be spaced apart at 120-degree intervals, such as shown in FIG. 12. A magnet 110 may be disposed centrally in each of the modular top sections 136.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 5-9, 13-15, and 20, one or more inserts are shown. The inserts may be used with the example modular grinder systems 100 described above. Example inserts may include, but are not limited to, grinder components, gear assemblies, storage components, fidget devices and or fidget components, etc. In construction, the insert may comprise one or more stationary paddles for mixing material. In a further example, the insert may be a planetary gearbox driven gyroscopic toy, such as illustrated in FIGS. 9, 15, and 20. Thus, the modular grinder system 100 can serve multiple applications separately or together.

[0061] Figures 5-8 and 14 show example grinder components that may be inserted or installed for use with the grinder system of Figures 1-4.

[0062] Referring first to FIGS. 8 and 14, one example of a grinder component is a portion of a grinding chamber 166 (e.g., an herb grinding chamber). The grinding chamber 166 may have geometry which is compatible with the inner keyed recess 194 so as to mate with the recess. The grinding chamber 166 may snapped in or press-fit into the base 103 of the modular grinder system 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. An outer geometry 174 of the grinding chamber 166 is substantially circular including two flattened surfaces configured to mate with the inner keyed recess 194. A top edge 176 of the chamber 166 includes a lip to easily release chamber from the base 103 of the modular grinder system 100. As shown in the illustration, the inner lower portion of the grinding chamber 166 may include one or more grinding teeth 169 extending from a surface of the grinding chamber, such as but not limited to, the bottom surface. Each tooth of the plurality of teeth 169 is pyramidal in shape, but one of skill in the art will appreciate that numerous tooth geometries or alternative geometries may be used for grinding material. For example, cylindrical shaped teeth may be used. Alternatively, blades or blade-style teeth can also be used. The plurality of teeth 169 may be arranged in a substantially V-shaped orientation. When used in combination with the upper tooth insert shown in FIG. 6, the V-shaped orientation serves to both grind material (e.g., as a shearing mechanism) and provide open space for ground and unground material to be stored or grabbed (e.g., pinched) by the user. For example, the construction shown in FIG. 8 includes a “pinch” filet 168, allowing the user to easily grab ground material after operating the grinder. The pinch filet 168 is shaped such that a user may pinch (the material) at a pinch point 171. In the illustration, the pinch filet 168 is contoured to receive a user’s fingers (e.g., an index finger and a thumb). The pinch point 171 includes a portion of raised geometry surrounded on either side by a partially pocketed and or concave shaped ramp. At least a portion of the pinch filet may be provided along a bore of the grinding chamber 166. The pinch filet may also be provided along the bottom surface of the chamber 166. A guiding filet 172 may also be provided between the bore and the bottom surface of the grinding chamber 166. The guiding filet 172 is configured to assist in guiding material towards the teeth 169 of the grinding chamber 166. In the example, guiding filet 172 includes a curved slope to urge material towards the teeth 169. Other shapes are possible, for example, the guiding filet can also be a substantially straight slope.

[0063] Referring now to FIGS. 6, 7 and 14, two additional grinding component inserts are shown. The example grinding components can be inserted within the top 105 of the modular grinder system 100. In the construction shown in FIG. 6, the top portion 146 of the grinder chamber includes a top plate 147 which may ride on the walls of the insert or interface with a bearing or other friction reducing element. An outer geometry 156 of the top plate 147 mates flush with the inner geometry of a portion of the gear assembly, which will be discussed later. This allows the top portion 146 to function smoothy when actuating and grinding material. The top plate 147 may be rotatable or fixed. Extending from the top plate 147 into the grinding chamber 166 are one or more protrusions. In the illustrated example, the protrusions, e.g., the symmetric flat paddles 154, facilitate movement of material contained within the grinding chamber as well as shear material across various surfaces or between tightly toleranced geometries, e.g., between compatible upper and lower grinding inserts. These protrusions may also include one or more teeth 152. When passed along one another, teeth of the upper and lower inserts may shear material. Opposite the protrusions on the top plate 147 are one or more bearings, which may be provided on bearing posts 148, as a means for engaging a gear mechanism used for rotation of a segment of the grinder relative to another segment of the grinder. In one example construction, an alignment pin may also be provided approximately centered in the plate in a dowel pin hole 150. The alignment pin aligns the top rotational component of the fidget device, the eccentrically driven inner gear, and the top plate insert for a more structural design.

[0064] FIG. 7 shows a second example grinding component to be used in conjunction with the grinder system 100 of FIG. 3. Functionally, the top insert 158 for the gyroid variant may mimic insert 146. The outer geometry 160 of the top insert 158 may be shaped and sized to mate with the inner geometry of the top 105 of the gyroid variant. A plurality of teeth 164 (e.g., 4 or 5) can extend from a first surface of the top insert 158. The rear mating geometry 162 can be shaped and sized to match a receiving geometry of an interior surface of the modular top component 128.

[0065] The teeth or other described cutting or dividing surfaces may be either monolithic and formed into or from the same parent material as the component(s) towhich they are attached. Alternatively, the surfaces can comprise of different materials advantageously suited to the task including, for example, ceramic or other hard materials.

[0066] While a tooth system is shown and described in conjunction with FIGS. 6- 8, in another example construction, material may instead be ground using a perforated component (e.g., a screen or plate) having sharp edges around each respective perforation. The perforated component can be a milling plate, such as the example shown in FIG. 21. The milling plate 202 may, in various examples, include various sized and shaped holes, apertures, or perforations 203. In an example application, a milling plate with larger holes can be swapped for one having smaller holes to control the size of the mill grounds. Additionally, use of the milling plate can ensure a consistent ground material size. Grinder systems including the milling plate 202 can additionally include a milling surface or mill 204 configured to pulverize material against the perforated milling plate. A plurality of cutouts can extend into a surface of the mill 204. A specific shape and pattern of cutouts is shown in the illustration; however, other configurations (e.g., shape and size of the cutouts) are possible. The cutouts 205 in the milling surface 204 are configured to urge and distribute material through the perforations 203 in an even manner. The perforated component can be a piece of metal with photo etched or laser cut holes of nearly any shape or design.

[0067] Referring now to Figures 5, 13, 16, and 17, a modular gear assembly or gear mechanism is shown. The modular gear assembly 137 comprises one or more components which may be swapped or interchanged. The modular gear assembly 137 may include, for example, pulleys and or wheels (with or without) tires having mating rotating components engaged with and or without teeth for any combination of gear reduction or speed increasing purpose. In the example shown in Figures 16 and 17, the modular gear assembly 137 includes a gear mechanism or gearbox positioned above the top plate 147. The gear assembly 137 may generally include three elements: a housing, a gear, and a drive element. The housing 196 of the gear assembly can be formed, for example, internally within a section of the top 105 of the modular grinder system 100, other configurations or positions are possible. For example, the gear assembly could instead be housed in a section of the base 103. In the illustratedconstruction, housing 196 may include a fixed ring gear comprising teeth having n+1 teeth in relation to the teeth of inner gear 138, where n is the number of teeth on the inner gear, hi some examples, the housing 196 may include apertures 192 to receive magnets 201 or a magnetic indexing ring, which will be described later. A portion of the housing 196 can be shaped or sized to mate or couple to a thin section bearing 190 or other friction reducing element. The thin section bearing can be used to couple sections of the modular grinder together.

[0068] An example substantially flat gear 138 is shown in FIGS. 5 and 13. The inner gear 138 is of a cycloidal design wherein the gear may have one fewer gear teeth 144 than the outer gear ring of housing 196, resulting in a gear reduction of r = (P-L) / L where P represents the number of teeth on the housing and L represents that of the inner gear. For example, the gearing mechanism shown in FIG. 17 is 8:1. With reference again to FIG. 5, gear 138 can include grooves or apertures 140 configured to allow bearing posts 148 and bearings 149 to ride tangent while being rotated or driven by the drive element. A central aperture or hole 142, relative to the gear 138, is provided and configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to receive an eccentric shaft 143 of the drive element 139.

[0069] Generally, the drive element 139 includes, in first part, a portion of the top plate insert, specifically protrusions (e.g., bearing posts 148 having bearings 149) that rotate tangent to the grooves 140 of the inner gear, driving the top plate 147 in the opposite direction. The drive element additionally includes an eccentric driving shaft 143. The eccentric shaft can be formed integrally with modular top component 114. Alternatively, the shaft may be a separately couplable component. Actuation of the modular top component 114 drives eccentric shaft 143, which in turn causes inner cycloidal gear 138 to rotate within an interior region of the housing 196. With help from grooves 140 and bearings 149, the bearing posts, and thus the top plate 147 itself, rotates, which may in turn translate to grinding action within chamber 166. While specific examples are discussed, one of skill in the art will appreciate that alternative, fewer, or additional components may be used for the gear assembly.

[0070] The modular gear assembly 137 can have varying gear ratios, providing high speed and low torque or low speed and high torque configurations. The cycloidal gear 138 as shown in the Figures resembles that of a planetary gear with a single stage. The modular gear assembly can, in various examples, include additional stages of gearing to substantially increase the gear reduction provided by operation of the device. In another example, the modular gear assembly can include a clutch mechanism. The clutch mechanism can include a clutch coupled with the gear assembly and operable with the user’s hand. In a further example, the gear assembly can include a switch configured to engage the gears. The switch may also be used to cycle between stages of gears. Unlike other gearing systems for industrial applications, the modular gear assembly 137 remains compact in size, allowing for pocketability of the grinder system 100.

[0071] Utilization of the modular gear assembly 137 also allows the user to operate the device with only one hand by rotation of the top modular section 114 rather than the entirety of the top components. The user may operate the device with as little as one finger pending a support for the stability of the grinder. Additional features and protrusions may be added to assist with the ergonomics of grinder operation all throughout the modular components, these protrusions add a fidget factor when not being used to operate the device as shown in the Figures.

[0072] The gear reduction provided by the modular gear assembly 137 allows the user to operate the grinder system with less effort or force. This enables not only one- handed operation, but the specific design and engineering of the dividing geometry (e.g., the shape of the teeth, clearances between the teeth, manufacturing tolerances, the floating plate which moves out of the way in shared space after whole material has been ground or divided etc.) also allows for fidgeting without causing increased refinement of the material to be ground. In these instances, the modular grinder system 100 serves as a fidget or toy device to occupy the mind or relieve stress. To assist rotation of the top modular section, additional contours, pockets, flats, edges, textures, radii, and protrusions have been added that dually serve as ergonomic feel points to engender satisfactory feelings of touch as well as to provide tactile indication of various component locations.

[0073] Another example insert for use with the above-described systems is a gyroscopic toy. Figures 9, 15, and 20 show a planetary gearbox driven gyroscopic toy 178 configured for use with the modular grinder system 100. The gyroscopic toy may instead be referred to herein as a gyroscopic toy, a gyro toy, or a gyro. The example gyroscopic toy 178 includes a concentric post 180 configured to support a series of planetary gears 182, a sun gear 186, and a flywheel 188. The gyroscopic toy additionally includes a carrier element 187 configured to mate with and be driven by eccentric shaft 143. Best shown in FIG. 20, precision screws 181 may be used to couple each respective planetary gear 182 to the carrier element 187. The planetary gears 182 may rotate about the precision screws 181 via a sleeve bearing 200. Each of the planetary gears 182 can include an O-ring 183. The sun gear 186 may be shaped to mesh or mate with respective O-rings 183 of the planetary gears. The O-rings can assist in transferring rotational energy between the sun gear 186 and each of the planetary gears 182, which in turn may be transferred to the concentric post 180 and flywheel 188.

[0074] The gyro toy 178 additionally includes a lower housing element, such as the ring shaped insert 184 shown in the Figures. An outer geometry 174 of the ringshaped insert 184 includes a substantially circular shaped surface including at least two flat surfaces which are shaped and sized to mate with the inner keyed cavity 194 ofbase 103. The inner bore of the insert 184 is configured to house the flywheel 188, the sun gear 186, the planetary gears 182, and at least a portion of or all of the carrier 187, thus keeping the gyro compact.

[0075] By consistently actuating the gyro toy for a period of time, a user can build momentum (e.g., high speed spinning) of the flywheel which can yield a unique gyroscopic effect. For example, as the flywheel 188 spins, the gyroscopic inertia of the gyro toy resists any external forces that would cause it to change its orientation, such as when a user rotates the gyro toy in hand.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 16-19 example grinder systems 100 are shown in an exploded view. The modular grinder components may be held together by press fit and or magnet(s) 201. Consequently, no fasteners are used or needed, making thegrinder easy to assemble and disassemble, and allowing for the interchangeability of the various modular components. In the illustrated examples, a series of three magnets 201 are installed in each the top and bottom halves of the grinder. These magnets are positioned 120 degrees apart and oriented such that they will hold the grinder together in its default closed state or indexed position (where each of the sides on one half of the grinder are aligned collinear equal length sides on the other half of the grinder). Additionally, these magnets 201 create a tactile and satisfying magnetic cogging effect when the two halves are rotated in opposing directions. Further, the cogging effect from magnets 201 can act as a tactile alignment mechanism (e.g., orienting the grinder system to an indexed position). As can be seen in the Figures, multiple locations may be provided for receipt of one or more magnets 201. For instance, a plurality of holes or receptors 192 may be provided spaced around an outer ring. The magnet(s) 201 may be press-fit or held fast into any or all of these locations. These locations (e.g., 192) allow the user to install, modify, and reconfigure the magnets and magnetic cogging effect. To this end, various magnets, positions, polarities of magnets may be used to generate attraction and repulsion and form the magnetic cogging effect.

[0077] In one example construction, a bearing may be provided in the center of the grinder section, and a positionable carrier may be attached to the bearing. The carrier may be couplable to a magnet indexing ring, allowing the swapping of parts of the magnet. The magnet 201 can, in various examples, be a programmable magnet (e.g., polymagnet) and or indexing magnet. Programmed magnets can be programmed, or coded, by varying the polarity and or field strengths of each source of the arrays of magnetic sources that make up each structure. For instance, in one construction, a first grinder component may have an indexing magnetic attachment feature, which may be a multipole magnet or a polymagnet. A second grinder component or mating component may have a second / mating magnetic attachment feature. This second magnetic attachment feature may be any number or type of magnet. In a further example, the second magnet may be a multipole magnet. These multipole magnets have multiple polarities arranged at predetermined locations in a pattern (i.e., are programmed) forming a magnetic lock and key system between thefirst and second multipole magnets, in other words between grinder sections. The multipole magnets can orient the two grinder components relative to each other at predictable and programmed intervals (i.e., indexed positions), or alternatively may be used to create the cogging effect discussed above. While specific examples are described, one will appreciate that various alternatives may also be acceptable for the intended purposes.

[0078] The grinder systems 100 disclosed herein may be constructed of a variety of durable materials. For example, the grinder components may be ceramic, machined aluminum, plastic, metal injection molded, and the like, as well as combinations of the foregoing. In one example, the components are constructed of a durable, easy to clean, and / or non-stick material.

[0079] The grinder components may be constructed by a variety of means, including, but not limited to 3d printing, mold, machining, metal injection molding (MIM), laser cutting, electrical discharge machining (EDM cutting), photoetching (and subsequent lamination), ceramic injection molding, and or combinations of the foregoing.

[0080] In one example, one or more grinder components may be coated with a PVD coating, providing engineering benefits (decreased friction coefficient, increased hardness / durability) and aesthetic benefits (color / texture), among others.

[0081] Assembly of an example modular grinder system comprises of a drop-in bottom insert (e.g., chamber 166), mated with the two flats of the bottom section geometry (e.g., inner keyed recess) 194. The inner keyed recess 194 is configured to hold bottom inserts without the use of a fastener. The top section 105 consists of a press on, rotating top portion (e.g., modular top component 114), pressed directly onto the ring bearing 190. Furthermore, the gear assembly components may be press fit onto a smaller ring bearing 190 within the top insert placed into the corresponding cutouts of the inner gear. Bearings 190 provide a low-friction interface between sections of the modular grinder system. However, other low-friction solutions are possible. In one example, such as in the short variant of the grinder 100, two toprotational components can be pressed and coupled onto or with a ring or thin section bearing 190.

[0082] The two halves can be assembled using magnetic attraction. The interior of the device is accessible when the two halves are detached by twisting to disengage or reduce the magnetic coupling force holding the halves together, then pulling the magnets 201 far enough apart so as to not attract each other. Material is then loaded onto a floor or bottom surface of the lower insert (e.g., chamber 166) in any orientation. Once loaded, the top section 105 may be replaced, thus covering the material. The grinder system 100 is then operated by rotating the top section against a statically held bottom section or otherwise rotating in the opposing direction. Furthermore, one-handed rotation of the component mounted to the ring bearing will cause only the top insert (e.g., plate 147) to rotate and shear the material.

[0083] Another example grinder system 208 is shown in FIGS. 22 and 23. The grinder comprises one or more components, which when assembled (e.g., screwed or pressed) together can have a substantially cylindrical shape. Actuation and assembly of the grinder is simplified using a thin section bearing 190. The thin section bearing 190 can be press-fit into a top or cover 210 of the grinder 100. Top 210 can include a plurality of teeth extending from a lower surface of the top. When assembled for use, the inner bore of the thin section bearing 190 receives an outer peripheral edge of the lower half 212 of the grinding chamber. The incorporation of thin section bearings 190 not only separates the one or more of the components and reduces friction between them, but also serves a magnetic function (e.g., holding components together) which further streamlines the design and reduces parts needed to function. Also, the use of the large inside diameter thin section bearing 190 provides better stability in both radial and axial directions.

[0084] The thin section bearing(s) 190 also allow material to pass through the bore of the bearing promoting a more streamlined design and function compared to using a more traditional smaller bearing. Incorporating the larger diameter thin section bearing as opposed to a design using a center post and smaller diameter bearing also spreads the load across a larger surface area and number of balls, rollers, or whateverfriction reducing mechanism is used. This design also advantageously allows the removal of the center post, pin or any other non-grinding related component or geometry from grinding area providing more options for various designs. The bearing need not have balls or rollers and may instead be an assembly of suitable materials of the proper size, shape and material with or without lubricant to provide adequate friction reduction as well as stability of the rotating part relative to the components) it may be coupled to. In at least one example, the large opening, thin section bearing may include two ceramic rings with a geometry such as to keep one ring in radial and axial alignment with the other.

[0085] By using the ring bearing(s) 190, the feel of operating the grinder and or therapy device is also much improved. Additionally, the force needed to operate, or fidget is reduced with a proper bearing between rotating components.

[0086] Incorporating the rotary seal already present in the bearing 190 additionally enables the separable components of the device to more easily seal in an odor-tight fashion compared to traditional grinders which rely on bushings and more clearance between the moving parts to enable rotation without binding or seizing.

[0087] Components of the grinder 208 illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23 can additionally be coupled via threading 206. For example, the grinder cache 214 and bottom component 216 include, and can be coupled to components including, threading 206. Threading 206 can be configured such that a quarter turn (90-degree rotation) between threaded components may both separate and couple the threaded components. Compared to traditional grinders which utilize small and or compact threading. The larger threading 206 of grinder 100 advantageously allows users to effortlessly assemble or disassemble mated components.

[0088] Referring again to modular grinder systems of FIG. 1-4, the reduction of size volumetrically from other commercially available dry material grinders comes from the utilization of a top and bottom modular section rather than several threaded or magnetic sections that are attached in line with one another. The required volume of the device is further reduced relative to other products currently produced as thespace and or interior volume intended for the placement of the unground material may also serve as the storage for the ground material.

[0089] This multi-use volumetric space is accomplished through one or more of the following methods.

[0090] Incorporation of engineered spaces for ground material to accumulate, reduction in total number of teeth, movable cutting surfaces or geometries to engage with the unground material which then move out of the way to free up volume such as a disc or floating plate with apertures or other means of dividing material or flaps that may be hinged to apply more grinding pressure selectively when rotated in on direction relative to the opposite. An example disc 202 is shown in FIG. 21.

[0091] The disc or floating plate 202 may be actuated via a non-round geometry to connect and transfer torque from the rotation of one or more of the external components.

[0092] The floating plate 202 may be produced by photoetching and or stamping and or laser cutting with or without subsequent sharpening to produce the dividing surfaces which may be incorporated into a single disc design. The floating plate may also have a design incorporated or added to it for a compliant and or indexing geometry to hold the floating plate in a rotationally fixed position relative to a rotating component to facilitate division of the material as well as but not limited to applying dividing pressure via a spring of any sort including magnetic attraction or repulsion. This described action further enables the floating plate to be in whatever position within the dual-purpose grind and or storage space as is required.

[0093] It is also contemplated to use one or more commonly available low-cost blades such as those used for hobby knives and or shaving razors as the replaceable dividing element.

[0094] In one example, the blade is held in place in the floating plate with the sharp edge on the side of the floating plate in contact with the inside of the grinder when in storage mode.

[0095] The non-round geometries may be around the periphery and or near the center of the plate. The plate only needs to be of a shape conducive to accomplishing satisfactory division of the material. Round geometry may be used but is not required.

[0096] This floating plate may also be actuated in the axial direction via springs of any sort and or through magnetic repulsion or attraction facilitating the transition of the interior volume of the grinder from grind mode for unground material to storage mode for the now ground material.

[0097] Preparing the floating plate version may consist of alignment of the exterior geometry to a predefined position, then separating a component to open the chamber for insertion of the unground material. Closing the chamber then actuating the grinder to process the material. It may also be desirable to have a reset button to press to return the floating disc from the storage condition back to the ready to grind position.

[0098] As discussed throughout, these grinder systems and their variations may also serve a function as a physical therapy and or dexterity improving device due to the nature of the offset or eccentric construction as well as the magnetic detents. Various other geometries may also apply, but using the device in the hand either against a solid surface, or against the opposing hand, or with fingers against the palm of the hand, the device can provide a means of resistive force or other mechanisms to force the person to actuate his or her fingers individually and in various different sequences.

[0099] The modular grinder system 100 comprises a low-profile. A more pocketable device can be stored in pockets, bags, purses, or by other similar means without damage to the device, surrounding items, or the dry herb contained within. The non-round outer geometry allows the device to be thinner while still capable of grinding a sufficient amount of material. Optionally, a storage area may be provided within the grinder.

[0100] Mass customization of personal items has become a major buying factor for many consumers. The overall magnetic design and various modular componentsallow the user to fine tune their experience or easily adjust, configure or assemble various parts or components of the device for a new one. Other customization options may include device materials, coatings and colors, differing gear reduction ratios, evolved ergonomic considerations, and / or an adaptation of the modular components depicted in the Figures.

[0101] Many commercially available dry material grinders will have teeth machined out of aluminum stock to shred apart the material, allowing it to drop below to a secondary holding stage. Manufacturing methods are a major limitation of these designs; however, the modular grinding device does not have these same drawbacks, allowing various designs to be implemented.

[0102] Modular aspects with the inclusion of a magnetic construction allow the device to be effortlessly disassembled for cleaning, and modification of the device. A lack of threads likewise contributes to the improved cleanability and flexibility in design.

[0103] One or more of the disclosed embodiments, alone or in combination, may provide one or more technical effects including providing a means to operate an herb grinder using one hand. Additional technical effects include providing a modular grinder system having at least two sections and one or more interchangeable components. Additional technical effects include providing modular grinder system having fidget capabilities. The technical effects and technical problems in the specification are exemplary and are not limiting. It should be noted that the embodiments described in the specification may have other technical effects and can solve other technical problems.

[0104] As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precisecharacteristics provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims.

[0105] It should be noted that references to relative positions (e.g., “top” and “bottom,” “left” and “right,” “front” and “back,” “in” and “out”) in this description are merely used to identify various elements as are oriented in the Figures. It should be recognized that the orientation of particular components may vary greatly depending on the application in which they are used.

[0106] For the purpose of this disclosure, the term “coupled” means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or moveable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature.

[0107] The terms “fixedly,” “non-fixedly,” and “removably,” and variations thereof, may be used herein. The term “fix,” and variations thereof, refer to making firm, stable, or stationary. It should be understood, though, that fixed doesn’t necessarily mean permanent - rather, only that a significant or abnormal amount of work needs to be used to make unfixed. The term “removably,” and variations thereof, refer to readily changing the location, position, or station. Removably is meant to be the antonym of fixedly herein. Alternatively, the term “non-fixedly” can be used to be the antonym of fixedly.

[0108] The terms “a” and “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and / or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (e.g., open language). The phrase “at least one of . .. and .. ..” as used herein refers to andencompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As an example, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” includes A only, B only, C only, or any combination thereof (e.g. AB, AC, BC, or ABC).

[0109] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the system, methods, and devices as shown in the various examples of embodiments is illustrative only, and not limiting. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements and / or substantial equivalents, whether known or that are or may be presently foreseen, are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements show as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and / or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied (e.g. by variations in the number of engagement slots or size of the engagement slots or type of engagement). The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the various examples of embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present inventions. Therefore, the invention is intended to embrace all known or earlier developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements and / or substantial equivalents.

[0110] While this invention has been described in conjunction with the examples of embodiments outlined above, various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements and / or substantial equivalents, whether known or that are or may be presently foreseen, may become apparent to those having at least ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, the examples of embodiments of the invention, as set forth above,arc intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is intended to embrace all known or earlier developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements and / or substantial equivalents.

[0111] The technical effects and technical problems in the specification are exemplary and are not limiting, it should be noted that the embodiments described in the specification may have other technical effects and can solve other technical problems.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A grinder operable with one hand comprising: a first section; a second section couplable to the first section and configured to move relative to the first section, the first and second sections forming an internal cavity; a shearing mechanism provided in the cavity; and a gear assembly configured to move the first section relative to the second section.

2. The grinder of claim 1 , wherein the first section and second section form a non-round housing.

3. The grinder of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a tactile alignment mechanism to align like edges of a non-round housing of the grinder.

4. The grinder of any of claims 1-3, wherein the shearing mechanism comprises a plurality of teeth positioned such that a tooth and an adjacent tooth of the plurality of teeth pass along one another.

5. The grinder of any of claims 1-4, wherein the shearing mechanism comprises a set of pyramidal teeth.

6. The grinder of any of claims 1 -4, wherein the shearing mechanism comprises one or more blades.

7. The grinder of any of claims 1-6, wherein the gear mechanism comprises: a fixed ring gear; a cycloidal gear; and a drive element coupled with the cycloidal gear.

8. The grinder of any one of claim 1-7, further comprising a low-friction interface between first section and the second section.

9. The grinder of any one of claim 1-8, wherein the interface coupling the first section and the second section is threadless.

10. The grinder of any of claims 3-9, wherein the tactile alignment mechanism includes a magnet.

11. The grinder of any of claims 3-10, wherein the grinder provides tactile feedback to a user.

12. The grinder of claim 10 or 11, wherein the magnet includes a programmable magnet.

13. The grinder of any of claims 1-12, wherein the grinder can be configured for fidgetability.

14. The grinder of any of claims 1-13, wherein the grinder is modular such that the first section, the second section, and one or more additional sections may be added, removed, and / or interchanged.

15. The grinder of any of claims 1-14, further including a thin section bearing coupling the first section and the second section.

16. A modular grinder system comprising: a first section and a second section couplable to the first section; a keyed recess formed between the first and second sections, the recess configured to receive an insert selected from the group consisting of a shearing mechanism insert and a gyroscope insert.

17. The modular grinder system of claim 16, wherein the gyroscope insert includes a flywheel.

18. The modular grinder system of claim 16 or 17, wherein the gyroscope insert includes a feature configured to mate with the keyed recess.

19. The modular grinder system of claim 15, wherein the shearing mechanism insert includes a feature configured to mate with the keyed recess.

20. The modular grinder system of any of claims 16-19, further including a thin section bearing coupling the first section and the second section.

21. A modular grinder system actuatable with one hand comprising: a first section and a second section couplable to the first section, the first and second sections forming an internal cavity; a shearing mechanism housed in the cavity; and a gear assembly coupled to the shearing mechanism and configured to actuate the shearing mechanism.

22. The modular grinder system of claim 21, wherein the first section and second section form a non-round housing.

23. The modular grinder system of claim 21 or 22, wherein a cross section of the modular grinder system includes a nonagon shape.

24. The modular grinder system of any of claims 21-23, wherein the shearing mechanism comprises a plurality of teeth positioned such that a tooth and an adjacent tooth of the plurality of teeth shear material between another.

25. The modular grinder system of any of claims 21-24, further comprising a tactile alignment mechanism including a magnet.

26. The modular grinder system of claim 25, wherein the magnet includes a programmable magnet or polymagnet.

27. The modular grinder system of claim 25, wherein the magnet includes a series of magnets.

28. The modular grinder system of any of claims 21-27, further comprising a low- friction interface between first section and the second section.

29. The modular grinder system of any of claims 21-28, wherein the interface coupling the first section and the second section is threadless.

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