Coffee Bean Dosing Container for Fast Grinder Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coffee grinding systems are inefficient, particularly when grinding small quantities, requiring time-consuming measurement and cleaning, and are cumbersome for handling different types of coffee beans, limiting the variety of coffee options available to customers.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a container with a built-in directing component and a grinding apparatus that allows for controlled dosing and efficient grinding of coffee beans, minimizing user input and maintenance, with features like a movable tongue to collect excess grounds and a modular design for easy switching between coffee bean types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional measuring process is used to measure coffee beans, then the amount of coffee beans can be measured, but the process takes 30 seconds or more and results in inconsistencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measuring function from the grinding machine by providing a separate container with pre-measured coffee beans. The container holds a predetermined amount of beans and dispenses them directly into the grinding chamber, eliminating the need for manual measurement with scales and timers.
Solution Approach 2:
The container is pre-filled with a predetermined amount of coffee beans before use. This preliminary preparation of the measured quantity eliminates the need for measurement during the brewing process, allowing users to simply pour the pre-measured beans into the grinder.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the grinding machine is cleaned between different coffee bean types, then residue from previous beans is removed, but the cleaning process is inefficient and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the coffee storage into separate containers, each dedicated to a specific coffee bean type. This prevents cross-contamination between different coffee types, eliminating the need for cleaning the grinding machine when switching between varieties. Users simply replace the container with the next coffee type.
Solution Approach 2:
The container can be designed as a disposable or single-use component that is discarded after emptying, eliminating any cleaning requirement. Alternatively, it can be easily replaced rather than cleaned, making coffee type switching as simple as swapping containers.
3Productivity
If whole or partially ground beans remain in the grinding machine, then the machine is ready for use, but residue covers internal components and requires cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the coffee bean storage and dispensing function into a separate removable container. This container can be completely emptied and replaced, ensuring no residue remains in the grinding chamber from previous uses. The separation prevents residue accumulation in the machine's internal components.
4Manufacturing precision
If a built-in directing component is added to the container, then the material can be guided toward the opening for controlled dosing, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs a funnel-shaped opening with curved surfaces that naturally guide coffee beans toward the dispensing aperture. This geometric design uses gravity and the funnel's slope to direct the flow of beans without requiring complex mechanical directing components, maintaining simplicity while achieving consistent dosing.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus is disclosed for containing a material, such as coffee beans, that may be used with a grinding apparatus. The apparatus may have a directing component to guide a controlled dose of material toward the grinding apparatus. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a container with a base portion that engages a grinding apparatus. The container, when engaged with the grinding apparatus, can direct coffee beans toward the grinding apparatus and has a door that releases a controlled dose of beans. A grinding apparatus is also disclosed that may have a movable tongue to cause excess grounds caught on interior components of the grinding apparatus to exit the grinding apparatus. The apparatus, systems, and methods reduce labor associated with grinding the material and allow a user, such as a barista, to more efficiently prepare brewed beverages, such as single-cup portions of coffee.