Systems and methods for roasting coffee beans
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coffee bean roasting systems face challenges in precisely roasting and curing coffee beans, with difficulties in monitoring and controlling the roasting process effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing electromagnetic radiation sources, a roasting chamber with a rotating housing and inwardly-extending fins, and a cooling vessel, along with a cooling fluid system, to control the roasting and cooling process, incorporating sensors for monitoring and a third stage for incinerating particulate matter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional roasting systems are used, then the roasting process can be completed, but precise control and monitoring of the roasting process is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional thermal conduction-based roasting systems with an electromagnetic radiation-based heating system. The electromagnetic radiation source directly heats the coffee beans through radiation, eliminating the need for complex mechanical thermal control systems while achieving precise temperature control and monitoring during the roasting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates sensors that continuously monitor the roasting process parameters such as temperature, humidity, and bean color. This feedback is used by the control system to adjust the electromagnetic radiation intensity and other process parameters in real-time, enabling precise control and monitoring of the roasting process.
2Productivity
If rapid cooling is implemented, then flavor retention is enhanced, but the cooling system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a fluid (air or gas) flow system to achieve rapid cooling of the roasted coffee beans. The cooling fluid is circulated through the roasting chamber, directly contacting the beans and rapidly removing heat. This pneumatic/hydraulic approach achieves fast cooling without requiring complex mechanical cooling equipment.
3Manufacturing precision
If electromagnetic radiation is used for roasting, then precise temperature control is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs sensors and control systems that continuously monitor temperature and adjust the electromagnetic radiation parameters (intensity, wavelength, duration) in real-time. This dynamic parameter adjustment ensures precise temperature control while optimizing energy consumption by applying radiation only when and where needed during the roasting process.
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 system achieves precise roasting and curing of coffee beans, with rapid cooling and efficient incineration of particulate matter, enhancing flavor retention and process control.
Implementation Method 1
The electromagnetic radiation source is configured to emit electromagnetic radiation... at least some of the first portion of the electromagnetic radiation strikes the object to thereby heat the object
Implementation Method 2
The cooling vessel is configured to receive the object from the roasting chamber and transport the object through the cooling vessel such that the object cools down
Implementation Method 3
at least a second portion of the electromagnetic radiation is directed to the third stage such that at least some of the second portion of the electromagnetic radiation strikes the particulate matter to thereby incinerate at least some of the particulate matter
Data Source
AI summary
A system for heating an object includes an electromagnetic radiation source emitting electromagnetic radiation, a first stage, a second stage, and a third stage. The object is placed into the first stage where it is struck by electromagnetic radiation to thereby heat the object. The object is then transported to the second stage which has a cooling fluid flowing therein. The object moves through the second stage to cool down subsequent to being struck by the electromagnetic radiation. Air and any particulate matter produced by the electromagnetic radiation striking the object in the first stage is transported to the third stage. In the third stage, electromagnetic radiation is used to incinerate some of the particulate matter. The air in the third stage is vented out of the third stage through a filter.