Grinding device for automatic coffee machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional grinding devices in automatic coffee machines have a rigid structure that limits their adaptability and optimal space usage, hindering the implementation of specific functionalities and efficient coffee bean grinding.
Innovation Solution
A grinding device with a support body, coaxially arranged lower and upper grinders, a motor-driven adjustment ring nut, and a toothed wheel arc engaging a pinion, allowing for adjustable gap width and translation of the upper grinder, along with sensors for controlling rotation speed and position, enabling flexible adaptation and optimized space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed support structure with integrated toothed gear is used for the ring nut, then structural rigidity is maintained, but adaptability and space optimization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The toothed wheel arc is separated from the ring nut, allowing independent positioning and adjustment. The toothed wheel arc can be fixed at different positions on the ring nut perimeter using fixing means, enabling flexible adaptation of the adjustment mechanism without compromising structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a fixed integrated structure to a dynamically adjustable configuration. The toothed wheel arc can be repositioned along the ring nut perimeter according to different functional requirements, making the structure adaptable while maintaining rigidity where needed
2Adaptability or versatility
If the toothed wheel arc is fixed in one position on the ring nut, then structural simplicity is maintained, but space optimization and functional versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The toothed wheel arc is made as a separate component from the ring nut, allowing it to be manufactured independently and then positioned at different locations on the ring nut perimeter using fixing means, thereby increasing functional versatility without significantly complicating manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The ring nut structure is designed to accommodate the toothed wheel arc at multiple positions around its perimeter. This universal design allows the same ring nut to serve multiple functions by simply repositioning the toothed wheel arc, enhancing versatility while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional fixed adjustment mechanisms are used, then structural stability is maintained, but precise adjustment of grinding parameters is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The toothed wheel arc is pre-positioned on the ring nut at specific intervals or positions before final assembly. This preliminary positioning allows for precise adjustment of the grinding parameters by selecting different engagement positions of the pinion with the toothed wheel arc, achieving manufacturing precision without overly complex adjustment mechanisms
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 usage, allowing for precise adjustment of grinding parameters and ensuring proper operation through sensor-controlled mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
an adjustment ring nut (6) for adjusting the width of said gap having means for transforming a rotation thereof about said axis into a translation of at least one of said grinders in the direction of said axis
Implementation Method 2
a gear for driving said ring nut in rotation; characterized in that said gear comprises a toothed wheel arc (7) engaging a pinion (8)
Implementation Method 3
a motor (21) for driving at least one of said grinders in rotation about said axis
Implementation Method 4
the support body has a cam which is tilted with respect to said axis and said adjustment ring nut comprises a feeler of said cam for its movement along said axis
Data Source
AI summary
Grinding device (1) for an automatic coffee machine, comprising: a support body (2); a lower grinder (3) and an upper 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; where said gear comprises a toothed wheel arc (7) engaging a pinion (8), and a mechanism for fixing said toothed wheel arc (7) in an adjustable position on said ring nut (6).