RU2772697C2 - Coffee machine unit with coffee bean container, dosing device and grinding device - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: household appliances.

SUBSTANCE: present invention relates to a unit of a coffee machine, in particular a coffee machine for brewing coffee or a coffee mill for making espresso, as well as to a container module of such a unit. The coffee machine unit contains a container for storing coffee beans, a portioning device for dosing coffee beans for one portion size and a grinding device for grinding dosed coffee beans. The container for coffee beans and the portioning device are made in a common container module. The unit contains a module holder, using which the container module can be attached during use and removed after use, wherein the specified container module contains user-selectable settings of a portion size and degree of grinding, while the portion size setting acts on the portioning device, and the degree of grinding setting – on the grinding device.

EFFECT: easy-to-manufacture, economical and easy-to-maintain module for information exchange between the coffee container and the coffee making device is provided; the device allows an optimal preparation of brewed coffee in a simple way without degrading the coffee aroma by previous preparations and without requiring time-consuming rearrangements of the coffee machine from the user.

33 cl, 45 dwg

Description

The field of technology to which the invention belongs

The present invention relates to a block of a coffee apparatus, in particular a coffee brewing machine or an espresso grinder, as well as to a container module of such a block.

State of the art

Coffee is a drink that brings pleasure and requires proper preparation. In order for the coffee to develop its aroma optimally, coffee beans, for example, should always be ground just before the coffee is brewed. However, this, unfortunately, is not enough to ensure the full enjoyment of coffee.

With each grinding, a significant amount of ground coffee remains in the grinder, in the powder feed channel and in the dispenser. This causes the freshly ground coffee to mix with the old ground coffee. For this reason, most machine manufacturers recommend pouring out 2-3 coffees if the machine has not been used for some time. Otherwise, the coffee may have a stale taste because some of the old ground coffee is used for brewing.

In addition, the aroma of the subsequent brewed coffee is impaired by these residues, in particular when changing the coffee variety, since mixtures of varieties are formed in the machine when changing the coffee variety.

At the same time, existing coffee machines also have the disadvantage that not a precisely set amount of ground coffee is used to prepare a drink, but an indefinite mass of a mixture of old and new ground coffee, which enters the brewing unit.

In addition, the correct degree of grinding is very important for the optimal development of all aromatic substances. As a rule, in automatic coffee machines, ground coffee is prepared from beans intended for espresso and, for example, coffee with milk or even lungo with the same fineness of grinding. Meanwhile, it is extremely important that the corresponding dark or light roast beans have the proper degree of grinding.

Several systems are known that provide coffee preparation from coffee beans to a brewed beverage in a coffee cup. These systems partly deal with the above problems, however, without offering an economical and universal solution.

The systems disclosed in WO 2011/102720 A1 are relatively complex and costly, and therefore too expensive for home use.

EP 1700549 proposes the use of at least two bean containers, each provided with a separate grinder. However, such machines are too expensive for home use. In addition, it does not eliminate the problem of hanging residue and flavor loss.

WO 2013/078437 proposes cleaning machines between individual brewing processes. This solution is also too expensive for home use and also too time consuming for commercial use.

In addition, various dispensing devices for coffee beans are known. Thus, US 2584781 and FR 2755431 disclose rotatably mounted dosing chambers for coffee, tea, sugar, cocoa powder or flour. DE 93 08 402 U discloses a container for ground coffee with an integrated rotatably mounted dosing chamber. This container must then be held over the filter in order to pour the pre-metered mass of ground coffee onto the filter. After that, hot water is poured into the filter and, thus, several servings of coffee are brewed together. FR 2565088 shows a dispenser in the form of a chamber installed between the coffee bean container and the grinder. Said dispenser rotates around a horizontal axis to load a predetermined mass of grains into the grinder.

Disclosure of the essence of the invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a device which allows, in a simple way, to optimally prepare the brewed coffee without compromising the coffee aroma by previous preparations and without requiring the user to make time-consuming adjustments to the coffee machine.

This problem is solved with the help of a block of a coffee machine, in particular, a coffee machine, with the signs of paragraph 1 and paragraph 31, as well as a container module with the signs of paragraph 29 of the claims.

According to the invention, a coffee machine unit, in particular a coffee machine for preparing brewed coffee or an espresso coffee grinder, comprises a coffee bean container for storing coffee beans, a portioning device for dosing coffee beans for preparing brewed coffee, and a grinding device for grinding dosed coffee beans. . The coffee bean container and the portioning device are installed in a common container module. The block contains a module holder with which the container module can be attached during use and removed after use. The container module contains user-selectable settings for the size of the portion and the degree of grinding, while the setting of the size of the portion acts on the portioning device, and the setting of the degree of grinding - on the grinding device.

The coffee machine in this text refers to a coffee machine with a grinder and a brewer, as well as a coffee grinder, which is located separately from the brewer and grinds coffee beans, however, can feed them to the brewer for immediate or immediate further use. These coffee grinders are commonly referred to as espresso grinders and, depending on the variant, they can also provide ground coffee for lungo and two-shot coffee in one grinding cycle. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, only the coffee machine is referred to in the text, while also referring to the coffee mills and similar coffee preparation devices described above.

The term "brewed coffee" in this text usually refers to one or two cups of coffee, since the respective coffee machines are designed for this type of simultaneous preparation. However, the term also includes the preparation of more coffee, such as a small pot that is filled with coffee during one dosing and grinding cycle.

Since the settings for the grinding degree and dosage, which depend on the type of coffee bean as well as the taste of the consumer, can be made directly in the container module, they are rigidly linked to the loaded type of coffee bean. Since these settings are taken into account when the container module is connected to the rest of the coffee machine and carried out without further user action, they do not need to be set again on the machine each time a given type of coffee is used. In this way, management is simplified and the susceptibility to failure is minimized. Since the portioning device is located in the same module as the bean container, the aromas that are stored in the portioning device do not adversely affect the next use, since the same type of coffee is used again, or when changing the type of coffee, the container module containing the portioning device is also replaced.

It is recommended that the grinder be designed or used in such a way that it is completely emptied after each grinding without any ground coffee remaining in the grinder. Solutions to implement this recommendation have long been known.

Thus, the unit according to the invention always provides freshly ground coffee without deteriorating aroma. In this case, a simple change of grain type is possible. The remaining grains, thanks to the hermetic or almost hermetic closure of the container module, can be stored without loss of aroma. The coffee machine settings can be changed depending on the coffee beans and the user's preferences, and the settings set for one type of coffee do not need to be set again the next time the machine is used, even if another type of coffee was brewed in between. Since the container module does not require the use of electronic components, its manufacture can be relatively economical. In other embodiments, particularly for catering or higher priced machines, the container module preferably also contains electronic components.

In simple embodiments, all settings are made manually, and the setting effect on the portioning device and on the grinding device occurs by mechanical means. In other embodiments, parts of these devices are electronically controlled.

Depending on the embodiment, after making the settings for the portioning device and the grinding device, the machine starts up, i.e. the process of grinding and brewing. In other embodiments, a brewing program can be set on the machine, such as brewing temperature and/or grinding and/or brewing duration depending on the type of coffee or the individual desires of the user. In the following embodiments, the implementation of the container module contains appropriate instructions for the user or control of the coffee machine. If the control unit of the coffee machine is to automatically implement these additional inputs, it is preferable that a reader be provided in the module holder or in another suitable place in the coffee machine to recognize this data about the coffee variety or the settings to be changed and transfer it to the control unit.

The settings for the portion size and/or the degree of grinding can preferably be made manually. Depending on the embodiment, one or both of these adjustments may be made before the container module is connected to the module holder. Due to this, the required settings are made already when filling the container, and during further use, the whole process already takes place with the settings pre-set in the required way. In addition, such filled containers can already be used with the recommended pre-settings. It is not necessary to renew the setting every time it is used, but at the same time the setting can of course be changed every time it is used. In other embodiments, one or both of the settings may alternatively or additionally be changed also after the container module has been connected to the module holder. This allows you to try out different configuration options without the need to remove the container module in between.

In preferred embodiments, anti-rotation protection is provided to prevent premature emptying of the portioning device. The anti-rotation protection is preferably deactivated when the container module is almost or completely attached to or placed on the coffee machine.

The module holder preferably forms a connection between the portioning device and the grinding device, with the module holder and the grinding device located on the body or in the body of the coffee machine. Thanks to this, the block is compact, and coffee machines with such a block can be used for private use.

In one embodiment, the portion size and grind settings are mechanical. The setting effect of the settings on the portioning device and on the grinding device is preferably also carried out mechanically. It is a simple, reliable and economical solution, especially for machines intended for private use.

In other embodiments, the settings of the portioning device and/or the grinding device are performed using electronic devices.

In one embodiment, the setting of the grinding device is controlled by a sensor that is installed in the module holder, said sensor being connected to the control unit for data transmission.

In one embodiment, the container module includes a writable memory for communicating with the reader and writer of the module holder, wherein the memory can store data for at least the current grind setting of the grinder.

In preferred embodiments, the portioning device, after connecting the container module to the module holder, can be driven by an external drive relative to the container module so that the portioning device prepares a selected portion and feeds it to the grinding device. This solution minimizes the susceptibility to failures and simplifies maintenance of the coffee machine. The user only has to attach the container module to the machine and turn on the machine.

The portioning device preferably comprises a dosing chamber, wherein the receiving volume of the dosing chamber can be changed to adjust the portion size. Such a dosing chamber is a simple and economical means for processing the required mass of coffee beans. It allows you to exclude the use of sensors or other energy-consuming measuring instruments in the container module. Therefore, the container module can be made relatively simple and economical. In particular, in the absence of electronic components, it can be made fully washable.

In one preferred embodiment, the portioning device comprises a first rotary disk and a second rotary disk, which can be spaced apart, and which are jointly mounted for rotation relative to the coffee bean container and relative to the bottom of the portioning device. The dosing chamber is located between the first and second rotary disks, wherein the dosing chamber, depending on the rotational position of the first and second rotary disks, is open with respect to one of the two components, namely the coffee bean container and the grinding device, and closed with respect to the other of these components. .

In one preferred embodiment, the portioning device comprises a first chamber part and a second chamber part which are axially movable relative to each other. The dosing chamber is formed between the first and second chamber parts. The dosing chamber, depending on the rotational position of at least one of the two chamber parts, is open with respect to one of the two components, namely the coffee bean container and the grinding device, and closed with respect to the other of these components.

These versions of the dosing chamber can also be used in other coffee machines, i.e. not associated with the container module according to the present invention. Therefore, they are also claimed as a separate invention.

To adjust the portion size, an adjusting ring is preferably provided which is rotatably mounted on the circumference of the coffee bean container. Depending on the embodiment, the bean container or portioning device rotates with the adjusting ring in relation to the rest of the module housing during adjustment. However, in a preferred embodiment, the coffee bean container, and preferably also the rest of the container module body, does not rotate with this adjusting ring.

In preferred embodiments, the grinding device comprises two grinding discs, at least one of which is movable according to the grinding degree setting during or after the container module is connected to the module holder.

In preferred embodiments, the container module comprises a grind adjuster, which, when the container module is connected to the module holder, can form a mechanical functional connection with the grinding device, as a result of which the distance between the grinding disks of the grinding device changes.

Preferably, the non-rotating stationary grinding disc is mounted to move, while the rotating running disc does not move during adjustment. In other embodiments, this construction is reversed, ie. the fixed grinding disc does not move during adjustment, and the running disc is accordingly mounted to move.

Preferably, the fineness adjustment device on the container module is preferably brought into operative connection with the rotary adjustment disk of the module holder, said adjustment disk being in functional connection with the rotary union nut of the grinding device, and due to the rotation of the union nut, the first grinding disk can move relative to the second one. grinding disk, which leads to a change in the distance between them. Preferably, one grinding disc is non-rotating and stationary, and the second is a rotating running grinding disc.

Such a construction, comprising a fixed grinding disc movably mounted and a walking disc axially mounted without movement, in particular if they are arranged horizontally or almost horizontally, can also be used in other coffee machines, i.e. not associated with the container module according to the present invention. Therefore, it is also claimed as a separate invention.

The container module preferably comprises a grinding degree adjusting means which is mounted on the underside or circumference of the container module. The circumferential arrangement has the advantage that access to the adjusting means is easier and the container does not need to be tilted or even turned upside down to change the setting. In one preferred embodiment, this adjusting means is an adjusting ring which is rotatably mounted on the circumference of the coffee bean container. Preferably, this adjusting ring for adjusting the grinding degree is rotatably mounted also in relation to the coffee bean container and preferably also in relation to the rest of the outer casing of the container module. The term "rotatable" throughout the text should also mean the possibility of rotation through an angle of less than 360°, in cases where it is technically reasonable.

In preferred embodiments, the grind setting in the mounted container module can also be changed manually. The setting of the grinding degree in the mounted container module can advantageously be changed both in the direction of a finer grinding degree and in the direction of a coarser grinding degree.

In preferred embodiments, the coffee bean container has a releasable connection to the portioning device, wherein the portioning device, together with a grinding degree adjuster for adjusting the grinding degree, form a sub-module which is configured to be connected to the module holder. This detachable connection simplifies the cleaning of the container module and, in addition, allows the use of disposable coffee bean containers, which can be disposed of after being completely emptied.

The grinding device preferably comprises a drive rotor which drives the grinding disc, i.e. a rotor shaft or axis of rotation, which is located almost or exactly horizontal and connected to the electric motor. Thus, a horizontal grinding device is preferably used. It is compact and to a greater extent guarantees that the grinding device can be completely emptied after each grinding.

In preferred embodiments, the milling device comprises a grain inlet that is curved in shape. This facilitates the complete and gentle emptying of the dosing chamber and ensures optimum supply of coffee beans to the grinder. The drive rotor preferably enters the grain inlet. This design ensures that all coffee beans pass through the grinder and are therefore ground. The grinding device, and in particular its outlet for ground coffee, is designed in such a way as to prevent the formation of ground coffee residues and to ensure that the entire metered mass of ground coffee beans enters the brewing unit.

The container module according to the invention comprises a container for storing coffee beans and a portioning device for dosing coffee beans for preparing coffee, while the container module also contains a connecting means for releasably connecting with the holder of the coffee machine module and, in addition, the container module has the ability to adjust the portion size and degree grind of the user's choice. The portion size setting affects the portioning device, while the grinding degree setting affects the grinding device. In this case, several such container modules can be used for one coffee machine, separately connected to the module holder. Depending on the version of the coffee machine, it can also contain several module holders with corresponding grinding devices or with one grinding device common to all module holders. The grinding degree regulator, which acts mechanically on the grinding device, is preferably also part of the container module.

Separate container modules allow you to store different types of coffee with already configured parameters for brewing coffee and apply these parameters when connected to the coffee machine without further user intervention. Thus, a communication module between the coffee container and the coffee machine is easy to manufacture, economical and easy to maintain.

Depending on the field of application, said block contains a grinding device, or a traditional grinding device is used, the interface of which for adjusting the grinding discs must be adapted to the block according to the invention. Therefore, a unit is also claimed, of which the grinding device is not a part.

Other embodiments are presented in the dependent claims.

Brief description of the drawings

The following is a description of the preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, which serve only for explanation and are not restrictive. The drawings show:

FIG. 1 is a first exploded view of a first embodiment of an apparatus according to the invention with a container module and part of a coffee machine;

FIG. 2 is a second exploded view of the device of FIG. one;

FIG. 3 is a view of the container module before attachment to the part of the coffee machine shown in FIG. one;

FIG. 4 - container module with FIG. 1 in the assembled state in the position of maximum dosing;

FIG. 5 - container module with FIG. 1 assembled in the minimum dosing position;

FIG. 6 is a longitudinal section of the container module of FIG. four;

FIG. 7 is a longitudinal section of the container module of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a top view of the container module of FIG. 1 without cover;

FIG. 9 is a first axonometric view of the grinding device setting unit;

FIG. 10 is a second perspective view of the setting unit of the grinding device of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the container module of FIG. 1 in the setting position of the grinding device for maximum grinding;

FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the container module of FIG. 1 in the position of setting the grinding device to the minimum grinding;

FIG. 13 is a first exploded view of the mill of the apparatus of FIG. one;

FIG. 14 is a second exploded view of a portion of the mill of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a longitudinal section of a part of the mill from FIG. 13;

FIG. 16a is a perspective view of the device before attaching the container module to the part of the coffee machine of FIG. one;

FIG. 16b is a rear longitudinal sectional view of FIG. 16a;

FIG. 17a is a perspective view of the device after assembly of the container module and part of the coffee machine of FIG. 16a;

FIG. 17b is a rear longitudinal sectional view of FIG. 17a;

FIG. 18a is a perspective view of the device in the rotated end position of the container module on the part of the coffee machine of FIG. 16a;

FIG. 18b is a rear longitudinal sectional view of FIG. 18a;

FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the container module according to the second embodiment of the invention in the position of setting the grinding device to the maximum grinding;

FIG. 20 is a bottom view of the container module of FIG. 19 in the position of setting the grinding device to the minimum grinding;

FIG. 21 is a first perspective view of an embodiment of the grinder setting unit of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the container module of FIG. 19;

FIG. 23 is a schematic representation of a block according to the invention;

FIG. 24 is a side view of a container module according to a third embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 25 is a longitudinal section of the container module of FIG. 24 connected to the grinding device;

FIG. 26 is a longitudinal section of the container module of FIG. 24 at the maximum size of the dosing chamber;

FIG. 27 is a longitudinal section of the container module of FIG. 24 at the minimum size of the dosing chamber;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of part of the portioning device of the container module of FIG. 24;

FIG. 29 is a longitudinal section of a part of the portioning device of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of part of the portioning device and the grinding degree setting means according to the third embodiment;

FIG. 31 is a bottom perspective view of the container module of FIG. 24;

FIG. 32 is a bottom view of the container module of FIG. 24;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a part of the grinding degree setting means according to the third embodiment;

FIG. 34 is a side view of a portion of the means of FIG. 33,

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a container module according to a fourth embodiment of the invention in an inverted position;

FIG. 36a is a perspective view of part of the grinding degree adjusting elements according to the fourth embodiment of FIG. 35 in contact with the gripping element;

FIG. 36b is a perspective view of part of the elements of FIG. 36a before contact with the gripping element;

FIG. 37a is a perspective view of the elements of FIG. 36a together with the module holder in contact with the gripping element;

FIG. 37b is a perspective view of the elements of FIG. 36b together with the module holder before making contact with the gripping element;

FIG. 38a is a top view of the elements with the module holder of FIG. 37a in contact with the gripping element;

FIG. 38b is a plan view of the elements with the module holder of FIG. 37b before contact with the gripping element;

FIG. 38c is a plan view of the elements of FIG. 36b before contact with the gripping element;

FIG. 39a is a longitudinal section along the line B-B of FIG. 38a;

FIG. 39b is a longitudinal section along line A-A of FIG. 38b;

FIG. 39c is a longitudinal section along line A-A of FIG. 38 s;

FIG. 40a is a longitudinal section through the container module of FIG. 35 with disposable or reusable bean container with minimum dosing chamber size;

FIG. 40b is a longitudinal section through the container module of FIG. 35 with disposable or reusable bean container at maximum dosing chamber size;

FIG. 41a is a perspective view of the lower rotary disk 21 and the lower part of the housing, as well as the anti-rotation protection in the active position;

FIG. 41b is a perspective view of the lower rotary disk 21 and the lower part of the housing, as well as the anti-rotation protection in the inactive position;

FIG. 42a is a plan view of the elements of FIG. 41a;

FIG. 42b is a plan view of the elements of FIG. 41b;

FIG. 43a is a longitudinal section along the line A-A from FIG. 42a;

FIG. 43b is a longitudinal section along line A-A of FIG. 42b;

FIG. 44a is a fragment from FIG. 43a on an enlarged scale;

FIG. 44b is a fragment from FIG. 43b on a larger scale and

FIG. 45 is an exploded view of part of the portioning device.

Implementation of the invention

First, the principle of the invention is described with reference to the schematic view in FIG. 23. Preferred embodiments of the block according to the invention are then described with reference to FIG. 1-22 and 24-40.

FIG. 23, the block of the coffee machine for grinding and brewing coffee according to the invention is indicated by the symbol E. The block E contains a container 1 for coffee beans and a dispenser mounted on it, here called a portioning device 2. These two components form a common container module 1, 2. The rest of the block contains a holder 3 modules, a grinder 4 and a first motor 5 for driving the grinder 4. Depending on the embodiment, another drive 60, preferably with a separate second motor, can be provided to drive the portioning device 2, as well as a control device 9 to control the unit and transmit signals to the rest of the coffee machine RK, in particular to the not shown brewing unit.

Container module 1, 2 can be installed on the rest of the block with the possibility of removal. This is shown by the symbolic line A of the connector. The symbolic connector line B shows that the rest of the unit, although a component of the coffee machine and preferably integrated in its housing, is preferably made as a self-contained unit which, with suitable connection points, can be used in known coffee machines. The container module can preferably be tightly closed and is suitable for storing grains that are not yet ground.

The container module 1, 2, preferably the bean container 1, comprises an adjusting device 12 for adjusting the dosing. It can preferably be manually actuated and acts mechanically on the portioning device 2. However, other solutions are also possible, for example using electronic or electromechanical devices.

Furthermore, the container module 1, 2, preferably the portioning device 2, comprises a grinding degree regulator 23 which acts on a grinding degree change means 42 installed inside the grinding device. These two components may also be electronic or mechanical devices. Preferably they function as purely mechanical devices.

In some embodiments, on the container module 1, 2, here on the portioning device 2, an identification marking 24 is provided. The module holder 3 contains a corresponding reader 33. A barcode and an appropriate scanner may be used. The reader 33 is preferably connected to the unit control electronics 9, which also controls the motor 5 of the grinding device and, if present, the electric drive 60 of the portioning device 2. As an alternative to or in addition to the marking 24, the container module 1, 2 has a memory device with the ability to record data. , for example, RFID tags, which contain information about at least the degree of grinding.

The container module 1, 2 is preferably provided with basic information about the degree of grinding and portioning, which allows you to set such settings of the portioning device 2 and the grinding device 4, so that already at the first use of the container module 1, 2, coffee of acceptable quality is obtained. Depending on the implementation, this basic information can be changed by the user in advance or only after the first use.

Adjustment of the portioning device 2 leads to the correct mass of coffee beans. This preferably only occurs when the container module 1, 2 is mounted on the module holder 3 and the coffee machine is switched on. After that, the drive 60 drives the pre-configured portioning device 2.

By connecting the container module 1, 2 to the rest of the coffee machine, other information I can also be read, which is transmitted to the control device 9 .

In addition, when the container module 1,2 is connected to the rest of the coffee machine, the required grinding degree, which has been set in the container module 1,2, is transmitted to the grinding device 4 and adjusts it accordingly. In this case, the selection of the degree of grinding and the adjustment of the grinding device 4 are preferably carried out also by purely mechanical means. However, it is also possible to use electronic or electromechanical means.

After grinding, the ground coffee M enters the rest of the coffee machine RK for further processing. The container module can be used for the next coffee preparation or can be removed for later storage. In this case, the second container module 1, 2 with a different type of coffee beans can be connected to the coffee machine, and then coffee of a different type can be prepared without any difficulty and without admixture of the taste of the previous type of coffee.

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a specific example of a block or apparatus according to the first embodiment of the invention.

The coffee bean container 1, intended for storing coffee beans for several portions of a beverage, comprises a hollow cylindrical cup 10 which can be closed almost hermetically at the top with a lid 11. The partially open bottom of the cup 10 borders on the portioning device 2 described below, which preferably closes the cup almost hermetically. 10 from the bottom side. Depending on the embodiment, it can be hermetically sealed with a lid or a suitably designed closure. Thus, the unit formed by the coffee bean container 1 and the portioning device 2 is suitable for storing coffee beans.

A gripping element 110 is located on the lid 11 in order to make it easier to lift and close the lid 11. The adjusting device 12 is preferably an adjusting wheel, here called an adjusting ring 12. The adjusting ring 12 is put on the cup 10 and abuts against the circular shoulder 102 of the cup 10 The cup 10 has a bottom 101 which is closed except for the outlet, here referred to as the cup outlet 103 . This cup outlet 103 is preferably circular in shape. The bottom 101 is preferably at least partially made in the form of a plane inclined towards the outlet 103 of the glass, so that all coffee beans located in the interior 100 of the glass 10 are directed to the outlet 103 of the glass without the use of an active transport means. The inner space 100, the bottom 101, as well as the outlet 103 of the glass are clearly shown, for example, in FIG. 6, 7, and also 16a-18b. A flexible, preferably soft, deflector plate 13 is located at the edge of cup outlet 103 at bottom 101. In FIG. 1 shows it as a component not yet installed. Behind the deflector plate 13 there is enough free space so that the pinched coffee beans can escape and not jam or even collapse.

Underneath the bean container 1 is a dispenser, referred to here as a portioning device 2. This allows a precisely dosed mass of unground coffee beans to be supplied to the downstream grinding device 4. Said dosage mass preferably corresponds to one beverage serving, i.e. the mass of beans required to brew ground coffee for one coffee cup. In this case, the portioning device 2 can be configured in such a way as to change the portion size depending on the type of coffee and/or the taste of the coffee consumer.

The portioning device 2 in this embodiment is provided with a dosing chamber, the size of which can be adjusted by a rotary movement. Portioning device 2 contains the upper rotary disk 20 with a closed annular side surface. The upper rotary disk 20 contains a closed upper flat surface, except for the first circular sector, which is made in the form of a through hole. This first circular sector forms the upper part 200 of the chamber.

In addition, the portioning device 2 comprises a bottom rotary disk 21 with a bottom flat surface which is also closed except for the second circular sector. The second circular sector of the lower rotary disk 21 forms the lower part 210 of the camera. The lower rotary disk 21 forms a mount for the upper rotary disk 20. To do this, the upper rotary disk 20 in the region of the first circular sector contains a receiving groove 201 so that it can be put on the lower rotary disk 21. The lower rotary disk 21 contains spring holders 211 directed upwards, made in the form of bushings and preferably provided with springs, which abut against the downwardly directed inner side of the upper rotary disk 20. The upper rotary disk 20 preferably contains appropriate fixing fasteners for the ends of the springs and / or appropriate guide means 202, such as pins or bushings, for directional connection with holders 211 springs. Such a guide means 202, which simultaneously serves as a spring attachment, can be seen in FIG. 6 and 7.

Thus, the upper and lower rotary disks 20, 21 are connected to each other without the possibility of rotation, but with the possibility of changing the distance between them in a guided manner. This direction is carried out by means of spring holders 211 and guide means 202. The restoring force is provided by the springs installed in them. FIG. 2 shows two rotary disks 20, 21 in an assembled state. Meanwhile, in FIG. 2 also shows the adjusting ring 12 mounted on the cup 10 in a position ready for use.

Two rotary disks 20, 21 are located on the bottom 22 of the portioning device 2, which is clearly shown in FIG. 1. The bottom in this embodiment also has a round shape. It contains a lower support ring with radially projecting retainers 220, as well as an upper threaded ring, which has a smaller diameter than the support ring. The bottom threaded ring 22 has an external thread 221. The bottom support ring 22 is closed at the bottom except for the chamber outlet 224. The bottom 22 is open at the top and comprises an upwardly facing base surface which, with the exception of the chamber outlet, forms a plane 228. This plane 228 defines the lower end of the dosing chamber, i. her bottom. The two rotary disks 20, 21 are installed with the possibility of joint rotation relative to the bottom 22 of the portioning device, while depending on their position, a connection is formed between the two parts 200, 210 of the chamber and the outlet 103 of the glass or the outlet 224 of the chamber.

FIG. 1, it can also be seen that on the outwardly facing underside of the bottom 22 of the portioning device 2, a grinder 23 is located. It contains a rotary ring 230 with a lever 232 radially spaced from it in the same plane. The lever 232 has a window 236 in which the movable plate 233 can move radially. The movable plate 233 has a tooth 235 on one end side, and it is installed on the opposite end side on the pressure spring 234 (see FIG. 10). On the underside of the swivel ring 230 there is a mounting disk 237 which contains through, circumferentially distributed mounting holes 238, in this case three holes, and a central first through hole 239 for the drive shaft.

The elements specified here, i.e. the coffee bean container 1 as well as the portioning device 2, which contains the grinding degree adjuster 23, together form a container module 1, 2. This container module 1, 2 can be attached to a module holder 3, also shown in FIG. one.

The module holder 3 comprises a receiving body 30 which is in the form of a circular cylinder and forms a bowl open at the top. The peripheral side surface of the module holder 3 includes a bayonet lock 300. At the bottom of the module holder there is a central hole in which an annular adjustment disk 31 is located. 9. In FIG. 9 teeth are not shown. However, the engagement of the bevel gear drive is clearly shown in FIG. 21. In FIG. 9 and 10 and in FIG. 1 you can also see the upwardly directed gripping element 310, which is located on the adjusting disk 31. In the free center of the adjusting disk 31 is a mounting disk 32, which contains a second central through hole 320 for the drive axle and through holes 321 coaxial with the mounting holes 238 of the mounting disk. 237 (see FIG. 1). The bottom of the module holder 3, with the exception of these holes and the eccentrically located grain through hole 311, is preferably closed (see FIG. 3).

The module holder 3 preferably has an integral connection with the grinder 4. The module holder 3 and the grinder 4 are preferably components of the coffee machine. The coffee machine can be fully automatic. It can be designed for professional use, such as in a cafe or restaurant, or for private home use. However, the coffee machine may also be a semi-automatic or electric machine with a relatively simple design for home use.

The car is not shown in full. Parts not shown are conventional known components of such a coffee machine. The drawing shows only the base plate 7 of the body of such a coffee machine. The base plate 7 may form the surface of the coffee machine or may be recessed into the body of the machine. The module holder 3 is attached to this base plate 7 by means of appropriate screws or other known fixing means. The grinding device 4 is also fixed on the base plate 7. This is clearly shown in FIG. 1. In other embodiments, some parts of the module holder 3 are located above the base plate, and other parts are below it, i.e. inside the coffee machine. In particular, the adjusting disk 31, also called the feed disk of the grinding device 4, can be located inside the housing.

The grinding device 4 is described in more detail later in the text. As can be seen in FIG. 1, it comprises an inlet 41 for grains, as well as means for adjusting the grinding device, in this case in the form of a union nut 42. In this union nut 42 are located the following, vertically oriented grinding discs 430, 440. The grinding device 4 is connected to the first engine, i.e. with motor 5 grinding device. It is preferably an electric motor.

In addition, in FIG. 1, a drive axle 6 can be seen which extends upwardly through the base plate 7 and, when assembled, passes through a second through hole 320 for the drive axle of the module holder 3. In the mounted container module 1, 2, it passes through the first through hole 239 for the drive axle, as well as through the third through hole 222 for the drive axle into the bottom 22 of the portioning device 2 and is fixed without the possibility of rotation in the first fastening 212 of the drive axle of the lower rotary disk 21 ( see FIGS 6, 16b and 17b). The drive axle mount 212 is preferably in the form of a dog clutch.

FIG. 3 clearly shows how the container module 1, 2 can be placed on the module holder 3 and thus connected to the grinder 4 of the coffee machine.

FIG. Figure 4-8 shows how dosing is adjusted. By manually turning the adjusting ring 12 along the threads 221 of the bottom 22 of the portioning device 2, the distance from the upper rotary disk 20 to the lower rotary disk 21 can be selected. - above the rotary ring 12, a scale or other marking is applied. They are not shown in the drawing.

In the position of the rotary ring 12 shown in FIG. 4 and 6, the dosing chamber has a maximum volume. As clearly shown in FIG. 6, the upper chamber part 200 and the lower chamber part 210 are located one above the other and barely fit into one another.

FIG. 5 and 7, the swivel ring 12 is rotated downwards, moving the sleeve 10 with it as well. This does not cause the sleeve 10 to rotate, since it is mounted without the possibility of rotation relative to the bottom 22. In addition, the swivel ring 12 rests on the shoulder 102 and is installed with the possibility of rotation relative to him. When this cup 10 presses the upper rotary disk 20 down to the lower rotary disk 21. The upper part 200 of the chamber is inserted into the lower part 210 of the chamber. As a result, the entire dosing chamber is reduced and minimized, as illustrated in FIG. 7. Thus, the movement of the adjusting ring 12 only changes the axial position of the two rotary disks 20, 21 relative to each other. The swivel discs 20, 21, however, do not turn in this case. The rotary ring 12 and thus the selected dosing setting can be fixed in its position by known means, for example by means of a spring and a ball or a spherical clamp.

In this embodiment, by changing the size of the dosing chamber 200, 210, it is possible to achieve dosing in the range of 5 to 20 g of grains, preferably 7 to 15 g of grains. By choosing other sizes or other shapes of the chamber parts, other dosing ranges can also be obtained.

FIG. 8 shows a top view of the container module 1, 2 without cover 11. The upper rotary disk 20 is clearly visible with a circular segment which forms the upper part 200 of the chamber.

The setting and therefore the selection of the portion size of the coffee beans is preferably carried out manually by turning the adjusting ring 12. This leads to a change in the size of the dosing chamber.

Dosing, i.e. measuring the required weight of beans for the subsequent grinding and subsequent preparation of coffee, in a simple embodiment, is also carried out manually, while the chamber 200, 210 is first rotated to the filling position to fill the beans from the cup 10, and then to the emptying position, i. to the open position through the grain inlet 41 of the grinding device 4.

However, it is preferable that this dosing is carried out automatically when the coffee machine is switched on, in order to ensure that a portion of coffee is brewed. To this end, the portioning device 2 is preferably electrically driven. To this end, the drive axle 6 is preferably connected to a second motor or drive 60, which is shown in FIG. 23. This second motor is preferably mounted inside the body of the coffee machine and is driven by the machine's electronic control. If coffee is to be brewed, this drive shaft 6 is activated first. Since it is connected to the lower rotary disk 21 without being able to rotate, it rotates together with the lower and upper rotary disks 21, 20, and also together with the dosing chamber 200, 210. First the chamber 200, 210 is set to a position where it is open with respect to the interior space 100 of the cup 10 so that the coffee beans roll down the slope 101 into the chamber 200, 210 until it is full. In this case, dosing is carried out due to the predetermined size of the chamber 200, 210. This does not require the presence of any sensors or other means of measurement. The upper and lower rotary discs 20, 21 then turn together with their filled chamber 200, 210 until the chamber 200, 210, which is open from below, is positioned above the chamber outlet 224 into the bottom 22 of the portioning device 2. In this case, the coffee beans are poured out of the chambers 200, 210 and through the bean inlet 41 enter the grinding device 4. Before or only at this time or shortly thereafter, the grinding device 4 is actuated by the electronic control device of the coffee machine.

Further with reference to FIG. 13-15 the milling device 4 is described. 13 mounting holes 400 for attaching to the flange 43 of the fixed grinding disc. On the opposite side of the preferably solid component, an anti-bearing 40 is provided to secure and support the drive rotor 441. The opposite end of the drive rotor 441 is connected to the drive shaft of the grinding motor 5 by means of a coupling nut 50.

In the flange 43 of the fixed grinding disk, a fixed grinding disk 430 is installed without the possibility of rotation. radially protruding tabs 431 that engage in the first bayonet slot 420 of the union nut 42. at an angle to the drive rotor 441. Therefore, when the union nut 42 is turned, the flange 43 of the fixed grinding disc moves axially together with the fixed grinding disc 430, however, they do not rotate. Since the grain inlet 41 is also fixedly connected to the fixed flange ring 43, they also move together in the axial direction. Said rotation of the union nut 42 occurs as described above with reference to FIG. 9 and 10, when putting on and fixing the container module 1, 2 on the module holder, because as a result of this, the adjusting disk 31 turns to a predetermined position and actuates the union nut 42.

As shown in FIG. 13 and 14, the fixed grinding disc 430 is followed by the rotating grinding disc 440, which is fixed in the flange 44 of the grinding disc without being able to rotate. The drive disk flange 44 is rigidly connected to the drive rotor 441 or even, as shown in the drawing, is integral with the drive rotor 441.

The flange 44 of the running disk is mounted for rotation in the housing 45 of the grinding device. It contains a downward through hole 450, as well as radially outward protruding tabs 451. The tabs 451 fit into the second groove 421 of the union nut 42, so the grinding device body 45 is fixed in the union nut 42 with the possibility of rotation relative to it. The second slot 421 extends in a plane perpendicular to the drive rotor 441 so that the running disc flange 44 and the running grinding disc 440 fixed therein do not move in the axial direction during rotation.

The grinder body 45 of the grinder 4 is stationary and is indirectly or directly connected to the base plate 7 by means of fixing holes 452. The grinder body 45 includes a downward opening 450 for discharging ground coffee, extending to an unshown brewing unit of the coffee machine.

Between the anti-bearing 40 and the drive plate flange 44, a feed spring 47 is preferably arranged, preferably in the form of a coil spring. The feed spring 47, in particular in the form of a coil spring, serves to move the coffee beans inside the grinder 4. Alternatively or additionally, the drive rotor 441 can be provided with a feed screw to move the coffee beans inside the grinder 4.

Note that the drive rotor 441, and preferably also the feed spring 47, extends up to the curved inlet port 410, as illustrated in FIG. 15. In this way, the coffee beans are optimally transported already at the entrance to the grinder 4. The feed spring 47 is connected to the drive rotor 441, preferably without the possibility of rotation, for example by means of hooks on the feed spring 47, or otherwise mechanically attached.

The grinding device 4 can be set to the desired degree of grinding by means of the grinding degree regulator 23, also called the grinding device regulator. This is explained further with reference to FIG. 9-12.

FIG. 11 and 12 show a bottom view of the container module 1, 2. The chamber outlet 224 is clearly shown, which is located acentrically in the region of the outer circumference. The bottom is made closed except for the already mentioned first through hole 239 of the drive axle. For technological reasons, it is equipped with transverse and longitudinal ribs. Other versions of the lower side of the bottom are also possible. Also illustrated is the lever 232 which, compared to FIG. 9 and 10 are shown from the other side. Through the window 236 on this side, one can also see the movable plate 233 located in the recess.

On this underside, there is a locking device which includes the above-mentioned movable plate 233 and the toothed rim portion 225. The tooth 235 of the movable plate 233 can engage with this toothed portion 225 of the rim. To do this, the movable plate 233 is manually moved back to the longitudinal central axis of the device, overcoming the force of the pressure spring 234, so that the tooth 235 is disengaged. Then the movable plate 233, together with the rotary ring 230, rotates about the central longitudinal axis and is released by the user, while the tooth 235 in the desired position again engages with the gear portion 225 of the rim. In the assembled device, different rotational positions of the tooth 235 lead to different positions of the grinding disks 430, 440 of the grinding device 4, as explained later in the text. In order to recognize the respective settings of the grinding discs, it is preferable to provide appropriate markings along the toothed portion 225 of the rim, which are not shown in the drawings.

At one end, in this case the upper end, of the toothed portion 225 of the rim, there is a gripping slot 226 for receiving the gripping element 310 of the adjusting disc 31 of the module holder 3.

The actuation of the movable plate 233, and thus the adjustment along the toothed portion 225 of the rim, occurs when the user, through the window 236, touches the movable plate 233 with a finger, lightly presses it, and moves it back to the longitudinal central axis. When the desired rotational position of the tooth 235 is established, the user removes the finger and releases the movable plate 233 again, whereby the tooth 235 can engage in the desired position.

FIG. 11 shows the position in which the grinding discs 430, 440, after attaching the container module, are at the maximum distance from each other, and in which, accordingly, coarse ground coffee is obtained. FIG. 12 shows the position in which the grinding discs 430, 440, after attaching the container module, are at a minimum distance from each other, and in which, accordingly, finely ground coffee is obtained. Due to the many teeth of the gear portion 225 of the rim, it is possible to obtain many intermediate positions and thus provide a very fine gradation of the degree of grinding. The distance between the grinding discs 430, 440 can preferably be varied from 100 µm to 800 µm, preferably from about 250 µm to about 600 µm, and more preferably from about 200 µm to about 600 µm.

FIG. 9 and 10 it can be seen how the different rotational positions of the tooth 235 affect the grinding device 4. When the container module 1, 2 is placed on the module holder 3, it is secured preferably by means of the bayonet lock 300 of the module holder 3 and the respective retainers 220 of the portioning device 2. B As a result, the grind adjuster 23 is placed on the adjusting disc 31. To establish the connection with the bayonet closure, the container module 1, 2 is rotated within the module holder 3, preferably by 90°, as can be seen in FIG. 17a and 18a. When the container module 1, 2 is rotated, the rotary ring 230 with its lever 232 also rotates. When the lever 232 reaches the stop in the gripping element 310, the adjusting disk 31 will also begin to rotate to the rotary position, which is set by the settings of the lever 232.

The first bevel gear 312 of the adjusting disc 31 also rotates and runs along the second bevel gear 422 of the union nut 42. Due to this rotation, in particular due to the bevel gearing, the union nut 42 is rotated.

The consequence of turning the union nut 42 is to move the flange 43 of the stationary grinding disk together with the stationary grinding disk 430 in the axial direction towards the running grinding disk 440. The distance between the flange 43 of the fixed grinding disk and the flange 44 of the running disk is reduced. This distance is designated as the first distance 80 and shown in FIG. 16b, 17b and 18b. This also reduces the second distance 81 between the fixed grinding disc 430 and the running grinding disc 440.

Because the drive rotor 441 is axially movable in the counter bearing 40, the drive rotor 441 does not move.

The more the way that the lever 232 can move the gripping element 310, the more rotation the cap nut 42 can make, and the further the flange 43 of the stationary grinding disk can move towards the flange 44 of the running disk. In this case, the smaller the distance between the two grinding discs 430 and 440, the finer the set grinding degree. In the setting shown in FIG. 11, the path of the gripping element is relatively short, and in the setting according to FIG. 12 - relatively long.

In this embodiment, due to the very compact design, movement of the grain inlet 41 is provided together with the flange 43 of the fixed grinding disk. In other embodiments, such movement may be excluded. In the event that the grain inlet 41 moves in the axial direction, it is preferred that it be large enough so that in all positions of movement the size of the chamber outlet 224 matches the size of the inlet.

When the container module is removed, the grinding discs 430, 440 are preferably moved to the basic setting position. In this basic setting position, the grinding discs 430, 440 are at their maximum distance from each other. The basic setting of the grinding discs 430, 440 can be achieved, for example, by means of a return spring, when the container module 1, 2 is removed, and the union nut 42 is released from the adjustment disk 31. The basic setting can also be achieved using a return motor or other means. The next time the container module is attached, the grinding discs 430, 440 can be set again at the required distance from each other.

After the end of the grinding process, the drive spindle and with it the grinder preferably continue to operate for a certain period of time in order to remove all the ground coffee from the grinder 4. This operation can be carried out without changing or with a change in the rotation speed.

FIG. 16a-18b show the different positions of the individual components and their elements before mounting the container module 1, 2 (FIGS. 16a, 16b), shortly after mounting in the not yet rotated position (FIGS. 17a and 17b) and after rotating the container module 1, 2, when the grinding discs 430 and 440 are at the required distance from each other, and also after actuating the drive axle 6, when the chamber 200, 210 of the portioning device 2 is already above the grain inlet 41 of the grinding device 4 (FIGS. 18a and 18b) .

After the end of the brewing process, the container module 1, 2 can again simply be removed, closed and stored, for example in a refrigerator, until the next use. Dosing and grinding settings can be kept unchanged or changed as needed. Then a second or third container module, which is of the same design but filled with different coffee beans and/or has a different dosing and/or grind setting, can be connected to the module holder and the different coffee can be immediately brewed without any further adjustments. on the part of the user with a suitable dosage and a suitable degree of grinding and without the deterioration of the aroma from the previous preparation of the coffee.

FIG. 19-22 show a second embodiment of the invention. This embodiment is essentially the same as the first embodiment. However, the grind setting is made on the side of the container module 1, 2. As can be seen in FIG. 21, there is also a bevel gear with a first bevel gear 312 and a second bevel gear 422. Also provided is a swivel ring 230 and a lever 232 protruding from it. to the outer circumference of the container module 1, 2. This is clearly shown in FIG. 19 and 22. On the corner member 233' is a curved toothed rack 235' which can engage with the toothed portion 225 of the rim. Thus, it replaces the tooth 235 of the first embodiment. This also determines the movement of the adjusting disc 31 in this case and thus sets the degree of grinding. The adjusting disc 31 in this embodiment includes two diametrically opposed gripping elements 310, 310'. However, in this case, it is also possible to use only one gripping element, or in the first embodiment, two gripping elements can also be provided. As clearly shown in FIG. 22, it is possible to adjust the degree of grinding and determine the setting of the grinding device by pressing the tab 233' of the corner piece 233' from the outside radially inward and moving the lever 232 with the rotary ring 230 of the corner piece 233' to a certain angle. Preferably, next to the tab 233', on the circumference of the container module 1, 2, there is a marking or a scale.

FIG. 24-33 show another preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention. The settings and their transfer to the portioning device and the grinding device in this embodiment are also carried out purely mechanically. However, it is also possible to set only the portioning device or the grinding device mechanically, or to transfer one setting mechanically and to carry out the other setting or its transfer by electronic means, in particular by data transfer. This device is made essentially the same as described above, therefore, the above disclosure of the invention also applies to this embodiment, unless there are differences explained below or shown in the drawings.

The container module according to FIG. 24 comprises a coffee bean container 1 with a cup 10 for loading not yet ground coffee beans, as well as a lid 11 which preferably seals the cup 10 tightly. The lid 11 comprises in this embodiment a radially protruding pressure member 111. grinding are located on the surface or inside the middle part 14 of the body, which is preferably rigidly connected to the glass 10. They are preferably connected by means of a screw connection. The middle part 14 of the body preferably has a smaller outer diameter than the cup 10. It is surrounded by lower and upper adjusting rings 12, 25. The lower part 15 of the body is rigidly connected to the middle part 14 of the body from below. They are preferably connected by means of a screw connection. Depending on the embodiment, this connection may be detachable and recoverable or not detachable without destruction.

The container module 1, 2 has the shape of a substantially circular cylinder with a preferably constant outer diameter over its entire height. Only the cover 11, depending on the embodiment, has a different outer diameter.

With the help of the upper adjusting ring 12, you can select the size of the portion for grinding, and with the help of the lower adjusting ring 25, the degree of grinding. The position of the upper adjusting ring 12 is preferably not changed in height, while the lower adjusting ring 25, depending on the embodiment, should preferably be raised or lowered before it can be rotated. At least one flat spring 27 which is installed between the lower and upper adjusting rings 25, 12 ensures that the lower adjusting ring 25 returns to the lower position when not in use. The flat spring 27 is preferably sandwiched between the lower adjusting ring 25 and the radially protruding edge of the lower housing part 15 . This can be seen in FIG. 26.

The container module 1, 2 can also be attached to the holder 3 of the coffee machine module. This is shown in FIG. 25. The latches 220 in this embodiment point radially inward, as illustrated in FIG. 31 and 32. The grinding device 4 and the grinding device motor 5 are shown in FIG. 25 and more are not described in detail. However, in this embodiment, the inlet 410 extends outward from the longitudinal central axis of the container module, and the grinding device 4 is accordingly located not near this longitudinal central axis L, but on the periphery of the container module 1, 2. Accordingly, the grinding device motor 5 is located on opposite side. The mechanical connection 31, 42 of the grinding device regulator with the grinding device 4 is also made on the periphery of the container module. This design facilitates adaptation to existing coffee machines.

Portioning device 2 in this embodiment, also by means of a drive axle 6 is connected to a drive, for example, to an electric motor, as shown in FIG. 25. In FIG. 26 and 27 show the respective first and third drive axle mounts 212, 222. In this embodiment, the size of the dosing chamber 200, 210 is also selected using the top adjusting ring 12, if the required size was not set during the previous use of the container module. If the container module 1, 2 is installed on the coffee machine and the coffee machine is turned on, the drive 60 rotates the filled dosing chamber 200, 210 to the outlet 224 of the chamber and releases the portion of beans to be ground through the inlet 410 into the grinding device 4.

The dosing chamber 200, 210 is also formed by the upper and lower rotary disks 20, 21, which are mounted to move relative to each other in the axial direction. Above the upper rotary disc 20 is an upper metering portion 26, which is also axially movable relative to the lower rotary disc 21. The upper metering portion 26 and the upper rotary disc 20 together form the upper part of the chamber, while the lower rotary disc 21 forms the bottom of the camera. Depending on the design of the upper dosing part 26, although it is axially movable together with the lower rotary disk 20, it does not form part of the volume of the upper dosing chamber 200. Depending on the design of the dosing part 26, it is not part of the upper part of the chamber, however, it is mounted with the possibility of axial movement in order to move the upper rotary disk 21 in the axial direction.

The lower portion of the middle body part 14 preferably forms the bottom of the portioning device and thus an upwardly facing flat surface 228 which, depending on the rotational position of the dosing chamber, closes this chamber from below. The chamber outlet 224 extends downwardly through the middle housing portion 14 and the lower housing portion 15 . In other embodiments, the implementation of the bottom of the portioning device is formed by the lower part 15 of the housing or other component.

In order to change the size of the dosing chamber 200, 210, the adjusting ring 12 can be rotated relative to the cup 10. The upper dosing portion 26 preferably forms the lower end of the cup 10, i. the movable bottom 262 of the cup 10. The movable bottom 262 preferably also has a deflector plate 13. The upper dispensing portion 26 is preferably located in the middle portion 14 of the body.

The upper dispensing portion 26 has on its circumference protruding sections 260 with an external thread (FIG. 30), which engage with the internal thread 121 of the adjusting ring 12 (FIG. 26). These sections 260 with external threads pass through the window 140 in the middle part 14 of the body. When the upper adjusting ring 12 is rotated along this window 140, the upper metering portion 26 moves down or up, the upper rotary disk 20 also moves down or up, and the distance to the lower rotary disk 21, as well as the size of the metering chamber 200, 210, changes.

In addition, on the circumference of the dispensing part 26 there are notches or recesses 261. They form a free space for screw clamps that connect the cup 10 with the middle part 14 of the body. By rotating the upper and lower chamber parts 20, 21 by means of the drive 6 during operation, it is possible to empty the filled dosing chamber 200, 210 into the grinding device 4. In this case, the upper dosing part 26 is preferably not rotated.

In order that once the selected dosage cannot be accidentally changed when the container module is removed from the coffee machine, fixing of the adjusting ring 12 is preferably provided. . 28. Recesses 120 may be distributed around the entire circumference or may be located in only one area, as shown in the drawing. On the lower end side of the cup 10 there is at least one spring-loaded ball 16, which, when the adjusting ring 12 is turned, rises and in the rest position under the action of the spring falls into one of the recesses 120, while the adjusting ring 12 is fixed in the rotary position. This can be seen in FIG. 28 and 26, with ball 16 being represented by reference number only. It is preferable to provide several such balls 16.

The advantage of this embodiment is that the glass 10 or portioning device 2 does not have to be rotated when adjusting the quantity to be dispensed. To select the mass of coffee beans to be ground, only the adjusting ring 12 is rotated. In this case, the return springs and hence the spring holders 211 can be omitted. In this way, factory assembly is simplified and manufacturing and material costs are minimized. It is also preferable that the top adjusting ring 12 can be aligned with the side surface of the cup 10.

The new setting of the grinding degree is also carried out by means of a rotary ring, namely, by means of the lower adjustment ring 25. The transfer of this setting to the grinding device, as in the previous embodiments, is preferably carried out purely mechanically via the adjustment disk 31 to the second bevel gear 422 of the union nut 42 and thus to the grinding device 4 (see FIG. 25). The adjusting disc 31 also includes a gripping element 310 to which the lever 232 of the swivel ring 230 rests. The swivel ring 230 is illustrated in FIG. 31-34.

In this embodiment, the adjusting disc 31 is located inside the base plate 7 of the coffee machine body. While the base plate 7 contains a through hole 70 for the gripping element 310.

In contrast to the above embodiments, the grind adjuster in this case comprises a transmission mechanism that is located between the lower adjusting ring 25 and the rotary ring 230. ring gear 251. Concentric with this outer ring gear, but with an axis offset relative to it, another outer ring gear 252 with a smaller outer diameter is rigidly connected. It rotates around the inner ring gear 253 of the slewing ring 230, turning the slewing ring 230 in accordance with the rotation of the lower adjusting ring 25 and thus determines the position of the lever 232 of the slewing ring 230. This determines the possible path of the gripping element 310 and therefore the setting of the grinding device. 4. The inner ring gear 253 is preferably located on a part of the circle axially protruding from the base surface of the swivel ring 230. Here, the swivel ring 230 is also preferably formed as part of a circle.

In order to exclude the possibility of accidentally changing the selected setting of the degree of grinding when removing the container module 1, 2 from the coffee machine and during the subsequent storage of the container module 1, 2, the lower part 15 of the body on the upper end side contains a gear ring, which engages with the corresponding a counterpart provided on the lower end surface of the lower adjusting ring 25. This is shown in FIG. 30. Thus, the lower swivel ring 25 must be lifted to turn it. At least one flat spring 27 ensures its subsequent return.

The lower adjusting ring 25 preferably includes a ratchet 255 that partially or completely occupies the inner circumference and which, when the adjusting ring 25 is turned, provides the user with a tactile and/or acoustic signal, so that the user is sure that he is adjusting the degree of grinding.

This embodiment provides a simple and classic appearance and visual appeal due to the presence of two adjusting rings 12, 25 with coaxial side surfaces. The use of two adjusting rings 12, 25 with easy access from the outside ensures reliable and simple control of the container module 1, 2.

FIG. 35-45 show another embodiment of the invention. Its construction essentially corresponds to the third embodiment. There are also two adjusting rings 12, 25 which are rotatably mounted relative to the bean container and the middle and lower body parts 14, 15 to select the setting of the dispenser or portioning device 2 and the degree of grinding. The adjusting rings 12, 25 have a ribbed edge 122, 256 that is easy to grip, as well as markings. The fixed reference scale is applied on the intermediate section 141 of the middle part 14 of the body.

Unlike the previous embodiments, the coffee bean container 1 is open. It has an external thread 104 which engages with an internal thread of the middle portion 14 of the housing. This is clearly shown in FIG. 40. The portioning device 2 is located in the middle part 14 of the body, and the regulator 23 of the degree of grinding is located in the lower part 15 of the body. The middle and bottom parts 14, 15 of the housing are preferably permanently connected to each other. However, in other embodiments, they are connected to be detachable from each other without destruction, in particular to allow for easy cleaning. Said connection may be, for example, a plug-in connection.

The coffee bean container 1 in this embodiment has the shape of a circular cylinder. In this case, the cover is not provided. In use, the upper end of the coffee bean container 1 is closed, as can be seen in FIG. 40. When not in use, the coffee bean container 1 can be separated from the middle body part 14 and closed with a sealed lid. In this way, coffee beans that are not currently in use can be optimally stored. This also ensures easier cleaning of the middle and lower parts 14, 15 of the body. In addition, the container 1 for coffee beans can be made in the form of a disposable part. The middle and lower parts 14, 15 of the body, which together form the portioning and grinding degree adjustment module, can be used repeatedly. In other embodiments, the coffee bean container also has an opening at the top end that can be sealed with a lid.

Otherwise, the portioning device 2 is made essentially the same as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 24-30. The same parts are designated here by the same reference numbers. FIG. 45 clearly shows the upper metering portion 26, the upper rotary disc 20 and the lower rotary disc 21. In contrast to the previous embodiment, the upper metering portion 26 includes stiffeners 263. In addition, recesses are not provided because the cup 10 of the coffee bean container 1 is screwed to the middle part 14 of the body. The operation principle is the same as in the previous embodiment. It should be noted that, as in the previous embodiments, the bottom 200 of the chamber is made open, and occupying almost three quarters of the circle, the body of the lower rotary disk 21, which is open at the top, is preferably closed at the bottom. The top dispensing part 26, in addition to the bottom 262, is also open at the bottom, i. e. the side surface of the dispensing part 26 forms a ring in the rest of the area. The upper dosing part 26 closes the dosing chamber from above when the two rotary disks 20, 21 are rotated so that the dosing chamber is open from below. FIG. 40a the portioning device is shown with the minimum size of the dosing chamber, and in FIG. 40b - with the maximum size of the dosing chamber. In both drawings, there is no good camera image due to the selected section.

The portioning device 2 in this embodiment includes a rotation protection. It prevents unintentional or premature opening of the dosing chamber from below, in particular when the container module is installed on the coffee machine. The pusher 213, which prevents rotation, is located in the lower part 15 of the housing. At the lower end, it contains the first fastening 212 of the drive axle. At the upper end, a circular, radially outwardly directed flange 214 is molded. This is illustrated in FIG. 43a, 43b, 44a and 44b. The underside of the flange 214 has a ring gear as shown in FIG. 41a and 41b. This ring gear engages with the upwardly directed ring gear 151 of the lower housing portion 15 as shown in FIG. 41b. Between the pusher 213, which prevents rotation, and the lower rotary disk 21, a return spring 29 is installed.

FIG. 41a-44a show the situation in which the anti-rotation protection is active. This situation occurs when the container module is not yet installed on the coffee machine. The flange 214 is located on the lower part 15 of the body, and the teeth 215 and 151 are engaged with each other. The return spring 29 is decompressed and holds the lower rotary disk 21 in the upper position. Thus, the lower rotary disk 21 is fixed relative to the lower housing part 15 . Therefore, it cannot be rotated and the metering chamber 200 cannot be opened from below.

FIG. 41b-44b show the situation in which the anti-rotation protection is inactive. This is the case when the container module is installed on the coffee machine. In this case, the drive axle 6 (see FIGS. 17b and 25) enters the first drive axle mount 212 and lifts the anti-rotation pusher 213 against the force of the return spring 29. This lifts the flange 214 and the gear teeth 215, 151 separate from each other. friend. Polyhedral rod 216 is engaged with socket 217 for polyhedral rod. The lower rotary disk 21 is connected without the possibility of rotation with the pusher 213, which prevents rotation and, therefore, with the drive axle 6. In this case, it is disconnected from the lower part of the housing 15 and mounted for rotation relative to it. The lower part 210 of the chamber and thus the dosing chamber can be opened from below.

Another difference from the above-described embodiments is the fineness adjuster 23. There is the same or similar transmission as in the previous embodiment. Here, the rotary ring 230 is also formed as part of a circle. The inner ring gear 253 is also made protruding on part of the circle.

The rotary ring 230 in this embodiment is mounted with spring force between the adjusting disk 31 and the lower housing part 15 . The corresponding spring is indicated in FIG. 36, 37 and 39 reference number 28. The location of the spring in the container module 1, 2 in the assembled state in FIG. 40a is indicated by an arrow, while the spring 28 is not shown.

The swivel ring 230 in this embodiment is formed as part of a circle, preferably at least 180°. It contains two levers 232 that are diametrically opposed to each other. In this embodiment, they are directed downwards, as illustrated in FIG. 35, 39a-39c and 40. On the levers 232 in the radial direction are the tabs 232'protruding from the rotary ring 230. These are clearly shown in the above drawings.

The container module 1, 2 for use is also connected to the module holder 3. FIG. 37a, 37b and 39a, 39b show a respective receiving body 30. It comprises a disc for attaching to the outside or inside of the coffee machine body, as well as a bayonet closure 300. the outer circumference of the bayonet 300. On the inside, the bayonet 300 includes a rocker guide 301. Two tabs 232' of the swivel ring 230 engage this rocker guide 301. Thus, the swivel ring 230 is clamped on both sides.

The adjusting disc 31 has two upwardly directed gripping elements 310, which are also diametrically opposed to each other. They are preferably at the same distance from the longitudinal central axis L, as are the levers 232 directed downwards towards them (see FIG. 39a).

When the container module 1, 2 is screwed onto the bayonet closure 300, the rotary ring 230 is also clamped, while it is pressed upward along the rocker guide 301, and the spring 28 is compressed. If the container module is further screwed along the bayonet lock into the module holder 3, then the swivel ring 230 is either released from the rocker guide 301 or guided downwards along it. Rotary ring 230 is lowered and spring 28 is released. As a result, at least one of the two levers 232 contacts one or two gripping elements 310 and thus rotates the adjusting disk 31. In this case, the levers 232 engage or only touch the gripping element 310.

FIG. 36a, 37a, 38a and 39a show the situation that occurs when the container module is fully secured or put on. The gripping elements 310 are in contact and the adjusting disc 31 is set to the desired pivot position.

FIG. 36b, 37b, 37c, 38b, 38c, 39b, and 39c show the situation before the rotary ring 230 is screwed into the bayonet closure 300.

This design allows adjustment of the grinding device in both directions. Thus, even after the container module 1, 2 is installed on the coffee machine, the grinding degree can be changed. When the adjusting ring 25 is rotated in the required direction, the rotary ring 230 rotates with it. Regardless of the direction of rotation, at least one of the two arms 232 engages one or both of the gripping elements 310 and thus rotates the adjusting disc 31. As a result of the rotation of the adjusting disc 31, the union nut 42 in engagement with it is rotated, and thus the grinding discs move relative to each other. The coffee machine in this embodiment, after using the grinding device, automatically switches to the maximum distance between the grinding discs when the container module is removed.

Certain features of the above embodiments may also be used in other embodiments. Thus, for example, a screw-on bean container can also be used in the first three embodiments. The same applies, for example, to the grinding degree setting of the fourth embodiment. It can also be used in the first three embodiments.

In addition, certain aspects of the devices described here are claimed as separate inventions, which can also be used without other elements or without the idea of inventing a container module. Thus, for example, the various types of mechanical adjustment of the grinding device described here, in particular, but not exclusively, in combination with manual adjustment of the degree of grinding, can also be used in other coffee machines. Various embodiments of a portioning device described herein, with two chamber parts which can be spaced apart, which form a variable-sized dosing chamber, and which are preferably at least partially pivotable and moveable in an axial direction, can also be used in other portioning devices. e.g. without grinding degree setting and/or without connection to a coffee machine. In addition, individual elements of the grinding device, in particular the installation of a feed screw in a preferably curved inlet channel, can be used in other grinding devices independently of the described container module.

Instead of a purely mechanical embodiment, as mentioned above, information, for example, on the degree of grinding, can also be transmitted to the grinding device using a data transmission device. The container module can be provided with a data storage device, into which the grinding degree corresponding to the type of coffee is preferably already entered by the manufacturer. The coffee machine, for example a coffee grinder or a coffee machine, preferably comprises a reader and writer which communicates with or is part of the control of the grinder. However, the user of the device has the possibility, for example, to change the degree of grinding by appropriately entering the desired specific degree of grinding into the coffee machine, for example by means of an input module in the control unit. This new grinding degree selection is transferred via a read-write unit to the memory of the container module and stored there to be used as base data for the next actuation of the device. Thus, in this embodiment, the grinding degree is not manually adjusted in the container module, but by means of a writable memory device provided in the container module, while changing the actual degree of grinding is set in the device, and not by the user in the container module. In addition to the degree of grinding, other data can also be saved and individually changed by the user, such as the operating time of the grinder, the speed of rotation of the grinder, the water temperature during brewing or the filling volume of the cup when pouring coffee.

In yet another embodiment, the grind setting is still done manually and preferably mechanically in the container module. However, the transmission of information about the setting of the grinding degree is not carried out mechanically, but by means of a sensor, which is preferably installed inside or on the surface of the module holder 3 and which communicates with the control of the grinding device. The sensor reads the grinding degree setting selected by the user from the container module and transmits it to the control unit of the grinder, after which the grinder is adjusted accordingly.

Thus, the unit according to the invention allows for a simple and user-friendly change of coffee varieties and/or dosage and/or grinding degree without any deterioration in taste due to the previous brewing of the coffee.

Claims (33)

1. A block of a coffee machine, in particular a coffee machine for brewing coffee, containing a container (1) for storing coffee beans, a portioning device (2) for dispensing coffee beans for preparing coffee and a grinding device (4) for grinding dosed coffee beans, characterized in that that the container (1) for coffee beans and the portioning device (2) are made in a common container module, while said block contains a module holder (3) with which the container module can be attached during use and removed after use, and said container module the module contains user-selectable settings for the size of the portion and the degree of grinding, while the setting of the size of the portion acts on the portioning device (2), and the setting of the degree of grinding - on the grinding device (4). 2. The block according to claim. 1, in which the adjustment of the size of the portion and/or the adjustment of the degree of grinding is provided manually. 3. A block according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the adjustment of the portion size and/or the adjustment of the grinding degree is provided before connecting the container module to the module holder. 4. Block according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the adjustment of the portion size and/or the adjustment of the degree of grinding is provided after the container module is connected to the module holder. 5. Block according to claim 1 or 2, in which the module holder (3) forms a connection between the portioning device (2) and the grinding device (4), while the module holder (3) and the grinding device (4) are located on the housing or in body of the coffee machine. 6. The unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the container module comprises a writable memory device for exchanging data with the module holder (3) reader and writer unit, wherein the memory device is capable of storing data of at least the current degree setting grinding device (4). 7. Block according to claim 1 or 2, in which the settings for the size of the portion and the degree of grinding are provided mechanically, and at the same time, the effect of these settings on the portioning device (2) and / or on the grinding device (4) occurs mechanically. 8. The unit according to claim 7, wherein the module holder (3) comprises a sensor for determining the grinding degree setting mounted on the container module, said sensor being connected to the device control unit for data transmission. 9. Block according to claim 1 or 2, in which, after connecting the container module to the holder (3) of the module, it is possible to actuate the positioning device (2) using an external drive (60) of the container module in order to provide a portion of the selected value in the portioning device (2) and transfer it to the grinding device (4). 10. Block according to claim 1 or 2, in which the portioning device (2) contains a dosing chamber (200, 210), while to adjust the portion size, it is possible to change the receiving volume of the dosing chamber (200, 210). 11. Block according to claim 10, in which the portioning device (2) contains the first rotary disk (20) and the second rotary disk (21), and it is possible to change the distance between them, while these disks (20, 21) are jointly installed with the possibility of rotation relative to the container (1) for coffee beans and relative to the bottom (22) of the portioning device (2), while between the first and second rotary disks (20, 21) a dosing chamber (200, 210) is formed, which, depending on the rotational position of the first and second rotary disk (20, 21) is open with respect to one of the two components, namely, the container (1) for coffee beans and the grinder (4), and closed with respect to the other component of these two components. 12. The block according to claim 10, in which the portioning device (2) contains the first part (26, 20) of the chamber and the second part (21) of the chamber, which are mounted with the possibility of moving relative to each other in the axial direction, while between the first and second the chamber parts (26, 20, 21) form a dosing chamber (200, 210), which, depending on the rotational position of at least one of the two chamber parts (26, 20, 21), is open with respect to one of the two components, namely, container (1) for coffee beans and grinding device (4), and closed with respect to the other component of these two components. 13. Block according to claim 1 or 2, in which, for setting the portion size, an adjusting ring (12) is provided, which is located rotatably on the circumference of the container (1) for coffee beans. 14. Block according to claim 13, wherein the adjusting ring (12) is rotatable relative to the bean container (1). 15. Block according to claim 1 or 2, in which the grinding device (4) contains two grinding discs (430, 440), while at least one of the two grinding discs (430, 440) is movable in accordance with the setting degree of grinding during or after the container module is connected to the module holder (3). 16. Block according to claim 15, in which the container module contains a regulator (23) of the degree of grinding, made with the possibility, when connecting the container module to the holder (3) of the module, the formation of a mechanical functional connection with the grinding device (4), as a result of which it can the distance between the grinding discs (430, 440) of the grinding device (4) must be changed. 17. Block according to claim 15, which provides for the possibility of bringing the grinding degree setting on the container module into functional connection with the rotary adjusting disk (31) of the module holder (3), while the adjusting disk (31) is in functional connection with the rotary union nut (42) of the grinding device (4), while by turning the union nut (42) it is possible to move the first grinding disk (430) relative to the second grinding disk (440), so that the distance between them can be changed. 18. The unit of claim 17, wherein the first grinding disc is a non-rotating fixed grinding disc (430) and the second grinding disc is a rotating walking grinding disc (440). 19. Block according to claim 1 or 2, in which the container module contains an adjusting means (23, 25) for adjusting the degree of grinding, while said adjusting means (23, 25) is located on the underside or on the circumference of the container module. 20. A unit as claimed in claim 19, wherein said adjusting means is an adjusting ring (25) rotatably positioned on the circumference of the coffee bean container (1). 21. Block according to claim 20, wherein the adjusting ring (25) for adjusting the degree of grinding is rotatable relative to the container (1) for coffee beans. 22. Block according to claim 15, in which the possibility of changing the setting of the degree of grinding in the mounted container module is provided manually. 23. Block according to claim 19, in which the possibility of changing the setting of the degree of grinding in the mounted container module is provided manually. 24. The block according to claim 15, in which the possibility of changing the setting of the degree of grinding in the mounted container module is provided for both increasing and decreasing the degree of grinding. 25. Block according to claim 19, in which the possibility of changing the setting of the degree of grinding in the mounted container module is provided for both increasing and decreasing the degree of grinding. 26. A block according to claim 1 or 2, in which anti-rotation protection is provided, which prevents premature emptying of the portioning device (2). 27. Block according to claim. 1 or 2, in which the container (1) for coffee beans is connected with the possibility of separation with the portioning device (2), while the portioning device together with the regulator (23) of the degree of grinding to adjust the degree of grinding form a submodule, which designed for connection with the holder (3) of the module. 28. Block according to claim 1 or 2, in which the grinding device (4) contains a drive rotor (441) configured to drive the grinding disks (430, 440) and located approximately or exactly horizontally. 29. Block according to claim. 1 or 2, in which the grinding device (4) contains an inlet channel (410) for grains, having a curved shape. 30. The block according to claim 29, in which the grinding device (4) contains a drive rotor (441) configured to drive the grinding disks (430, 440) and located approximately or exactly horizontally, and the drive rotor (441) extends into inlet (410) for grains. 31. Container module, in particular the container module of the block according to claim 1 or 2, containing a container (1) for storing coffee beans and a portioning device (2) for dosing coffee beans for one serving, while said container module also contains a connecting means for a detachable connection with the holder (3) of the coffee machine module and user-selectable settings for the serving size and grinding degree, while the serving size setting acts on the portioning device (2), and the grinding degree setting - on the grinding device. 32. The container module according to claim 31, containing the grinding degree regulator (23) for adjusting the degree of grinding, while the specified grinding degree regulator (23) when connecting the container module to the module holder (3) is configured to form a mechanical functional connection with the grinding device (4), whereby the distance between the grinding discs (430, 440) of the grinding device (4) can be changed. 33. A block of a coffee machine, in particular a coffee machine for brewing coffee, containing a container (1) for storing coffee beans, a portioning device (2) for dosing coffee beans for making coffee and a grinder degree regulator (23) for mechanical functional connection with a grinding device (4) for grinding dosed coffee beans, characterized in that the container (1) for coffee beans and the portioning device (2) are made in a common container module, while said block contains a module holder (3) with which the container module, when used can be attached during use and removed after use, and the specified container module contains user-selectable settings for the size of the portion and the degree of grinding, while the setting of the size of the portion acts on the portioning device (2), and the setting of the degree of grinding using the grinding degree regulator (23) - on the grinding device (4).

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