Grinding apparatus and method, corresponding machine and method for preparing beverages
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grinding apparatuses for coffee beans struggle to accurately measure and supply predefined doses, leading to residual beans and potential contamination, as well as the issue of varying bean sizes and shapes affecting dosing accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A grinding apparatus equipped with a hopper, a grinding device, and weighing means that support the grinding device and its contents, allowing for real-time measurement and control of the bean quantity fed to the grinding device, ensuring precise dosing without residuals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If volumetric dosing devices are used to measure coffee beans, then the dosing process is simplified, but the measurement precision deteriorates because beans of different origins have different shapes and sizes causing weight variation in the same volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces volumetric dosing devices with a weighing system that uses a load cell to directly measure the weight of coffee beans. This substitution of mechanical volumetric measurement with electronic weight measurement eliminates the problem of varying bean densities while maintaining operational simplicity through automated weight-based control.
2Ease of operation
If predefined and constant doses are supplied, then the dosing process is simplified, but the adaptability deteriorates because it is not possible to vary the quantity of beans for a single dose as desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic dosing system where the feed means can be selectively driven to supply variable quantities of beans based on real-time weight measurements from the load cell. The system allows users to adjust dose quantities while maintaining automated control, combining operational simplicity with flexible adaptability through programmable weight targets.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hopper is removed to change coffee beans, then the ability to change bean types is improved, but residual beans and coffee powder remain in the grinding device causing contamination and potential product loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a load cell to continuously monitor the weight of beans in the grinding device and provides feedback to the control system. When the weight indicates that the desired dose has been reached or when bean replacement is needed, the system can automatically stop the feed means or activate cleaning mechanisms, preventing residual beans from contaminating the next batch while maintaining hopper removability for bean type changes.
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 enables precise measurement and control of coffee bean doses, preventing residual beans and contamination, while accommodating variations in bean size and shape, ensuring consistent beverage preparation.
Implementation Method 1
weighing means which support the collection and grinding chamber and are configured to weigh the grinding device, its content and every component thereof
Implementation Method 2
a hopper provided with feed means which are able to be selectively driven to feed beans toward an exit aperture
Data Source
AI summary
Grinding apparatus including a hopper provided with feed means, the hopper being configured to contain and feed the beans, a grinding device configured to grind the beans, and weighing means for weighing the beans.