Coffee Grinder Ring Nut Drive for Flexible Gap Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional grinding devices for automatic coffee machines have a rigid structure that limits their adaptability and optimal space utilization, restricting the implementation of specific functionalities and efficient coffee bean grinding adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A grinding device with a support body, coaxially arranged lower and upper grinders, an adjustable ring nut with a toothed wheel arc and pinion, and sensors for controlling operation, allowing for flexible adaptation and optimized space use by transforming rotational movement into axial translation and enabling precise grinding adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed support structure with integrated toothed gear is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability and space optimization are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The toothed gear is segmented into a separate toothed wheel arc component that can be independently positioned and fixed to the support structure at different locations, allowing flexible adaptation without redesigning the entire support system
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure transitions from a fixed rigid design to a dynamically adjustable configuration where the toothed wheel arc can be repositioned along the support body to optimize space for different functional requirements
2Ease of manufacture
If the toothed wheel arc is integrated into the ring nut, then manufacturing is simplified, but space optimization and functional versatility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The toothed wheel arc is separated from the ring nut into an independent component, allowing the ring nut to focus on its primary adjustment function while the toothed wheel arc provides gear engagement and positioning capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The toothed wheel arc acts as an intermediary component between the ring nut and the support structure, enabling flexible mechanical engagement and positioning without requiring direct integration into the ring nut
3Area of stationary object
If a rigid support structure is used, then structural stability is maintained, but space optimization and functional implementation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The toothed wheel arc can be positioned at different locations along the support structure, adding a positional dimension to the design that enables optimized space utilization without compromising structural integrity
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
The solution enhances the grinding device's adaptability and functionality by optimizing space use, allowing for versatile adjustments and precise control of grinding parameters, ensuring optimal coffee bean processing.
Implementation Method 1
an adjustment ring nut (6) for adjusting the width of the gap, having means for transforming a rotation of the ring nut about the axis into a translation of at least one of the grinders in the direction of the axis
Implementation Method 2
a gear for driving the ring nut in rotation; wherein the gear comprises a toothed wheel arc engaging a pinion
Data Source
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AI summary
Grinding device (1) for an automatic coffee machine, comprising: - a support body (2); - a lower grinder (3) and an up per grinder (4) arranged coaxially with respect to an axis (X) and delimiting a gap where the grinding is performed; - a motor (21) for driving at least one of said grinders (3,4) in rotation about said axis (X); - an adjustment ring nut (6) for adjusting the width of said gap having means for transforming a rotation thereof about said axis (X) into a translation of at least one of said grinders in the direction of said axis (X); and - a gear for driving said ring nut (6) in rotation; characterized in that said gear comprises a toothed wheel arc (7) engaging a pinion (8), and in that means are provided for fixing said toothed wheel arc (7) in an adjustable position on said ring nut (6).