Bean grinding apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bean grinding apparatuses face issues with grind flow paths that allow grounds to collect and trap, inefficient motor placement, and static charge accumulation, which affects the quality and consistency of ground coffee.
Innovation Solution
A bean grinding apparatus with a vertically oriented grind flow path, a drive motor positioned close to the burr, and a grounds collector platform made of wood to reduce static charge, along with adjustable burr alignment and a mechanism to prevent operation when the cover is open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the exit spout is positioned vertically below the burrs, then grounds flow efficiently without collection areas, but the motor placement becomes mechanically complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent angles the exit spout relative to the burr axis rather than positioning it vertically below, creating a spatial arrangement that maintains efficient grounds flow while accommodating the motor in a practical location. This dimensional adjustment resolves the conflict between optimal grounds flow path and mechanically feasible motor placement.
2Power
If the motor is mounted close to the burr, then drive efficiency is improved, but the grounds flow path becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the motor mounting directly onto the burr assembly, combining the drive function with the grinding mechanism. This merging allows the motor to be positioned close to the burr for efficient power transmission while the grounds flow path is designed to naturally channel grounds away from the motor area, avoiding additional complexity.
3Reliability
If a vertical grind flow path is used, then grounds collection and trapping is minimized, but the overall device height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an angled exit spout configuration that redirects grounds flow in a diagonal path rather than purely vertical. This angular arrangement maintains the benefits of efficient grounds flow that prevents trapping and collection, while the angled geometry compacts the vertical space required, reducing overall device height.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures consistent grind quality, reduces static charge, and prevents operation when the cover is open, enhancing the overall performance and usability of the grinder.
Implementation Method 1
a grounds collector platform made of wood to reduce static charge
Implementation Method 2
a drive motor operatively coupled to the rotationally driven burr
Implementation Method 3
the exit spout extends downwardly from the body
Data Source
AI summary
A bean grinding apparatus including a body; grinding burrs mounted in the body, the burrs including a non-driven burr and a rotationally driven burr, the rotationally driven burr having a rotational axis about which it rotates; a drive motor operatively coupled to the rotationally driven burr; a grounds flow path defined within the body; and an exit spout, the exit spout having an inlet in communication with the grounds flow path and an outlet, wherein the exit spout defines a longitudinal axis and the longitudinal axis of the exit spout is angled with respect to the rotational axis of the driven burr.