WO2021186195A1

WO2021186195A1 - A portafilter cleaning head, device and unit and unit comprising same

Info

Publication number: WO2021186195A1
Application number: PCT/GB2021/050693
Authority: WO
Inventors: Arkadiusz BIALY
Original assignee: Bialy Arkadiusz
Priority date: 2020-03-20
Filing date: 2021-03-19
Publication date: 2021-09-23
Also published as: GB202004082D0; GB2593219A

Abstract

A portafilter cleaning head for rotation about an axis comprising a supporting centre, and a plurality of cleaning arms extending from said supporting centre or said axis, angularly spaced apart about said axis, wherein each of said cleaning arms comprises an outer edge having at least a first edge extending in a radial direction relative to said axis and a second edge extending in an axial direction relative to said axis, the outer edge configured to receive one or more surfaces of a portafilter cavity.

Description

A PORTAFILTER CLEANING HEAD, DEVICE AND UNIT AND UNIT

COMPRISING SAME

Fi el d of Invent! on :

The present invention relates to cleaning devices, in particular cleaning devices for cleaning portafilters used in coffee machines.

Background:

A portafilter is a component of a coffee machine, such as an espresso maker, in which ground espresso beans or coffee grounds are held prior to and during the brewing process. The espresso flavour is extracted from the coffee grounds as hot water runs through the portafilter, which includes a filter such as a coffee basket before being dispensed into a coffee cup, positioned below the portafilter.

The coffee residue is cleaned from the portafilter in preparation for its next use through the use of buckets or knock-boxes. In order to remove the coffee residue, the portafilter is repeatedly impacted against a bucket to release the coffee residue which often includes a coffee puck which forms in the coffee basket.

In addition to the sudden and loud banging noises and the potential of damage caused to the portafilter and/or the knock-box, there are further problems with this method, including problems associated to the health and safety of the user. Firstly, due to repetitively impacting the portafilter against the knock-box every time to clean the portafilter, a user is at risk of developing a wrist injury. This is particularly the case for baristas working in coffee shops or similar, making tens if not hundreds of coffees per day. These users may be susceptible to developing repetitive strain injuries. Secondly, coffee residue that is leftover in the portafilter cavity, even after using the knock-box, is usually cleaned using a cloth which carries an additional risk of contamination.

In the instance that coffee residue is not completely cleaned, the residual coffee may adversely affect the flavour in subsequent use of the portafilter. Further, damage caused to the portafilter as a result of repeatedly hitting a knock-box can result in the development of a poor seal. In subsequent use, the portafilter installed in the coffee machine may not provide an adequate seal, for example, between the coffee basket and the coffee machine gasket, such that hot water can may dangerously overflow from the broken seal rather than filtering through the portafilter to produce the coffee. It is therefore a requirement to provide an improved portafilter cleaning unit to solve the abovementioned problems.

EP3158901B1 discloses a rotating coffee machine assembly with cleaning elements having sheet-shaped bodies for cleaning portafilters that is manually actuated. EP2732742A1 discloses a rotary cleaning head with displaceable brushes that are displaced by the strength and force exerted by a user.

Summary of Invention:

The present invention seeks to provide a portafilter cleaning solution that solves the aforementioned problems, by implementing a portafilter cleaning head which may form part of a portafilter cleaning device which may form part of a portafilter cleaning unit, or at least provides users with a suitable alternative.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a portafilter cleaning head for rotation about an axis L comprising a supporting centre, and a plurality of cleaning elements or cleaning arms. The cleaning arms extend from said supporting centre or said axis L. The cleaning arms are angularly spaced apart about said axis L. Each of said cleaning arms comprises an outer face or an outer edge having at least a first edge extending in a radial direction relative to said axis L and a second edge extending in an axial direction relative to said axis L. The outer edge is configured to receive one or more surfaces of a portafilter cavity. The cleaning arms may be mounted on top of the supporting centre relative to axis L.

In the present invention there is provided a cleaning head for rotation about an axis L comprising a supporting centre, and a plurality of cleaning elements or cleaning arms. The cleaning arms extend from said supporting centre or said axis L. The cleaning arms are angularly spaced apart about said axis L. Each of said cleaning arms comprises an outer face or an outer edge having at least a first edge extending in a radial direction relative to said axis L and a second edge extending in an axial direction relative to said axis L. The outer edge is configured to receive one or more surfaces of a cavity. The cleaning arms may be mounted on top of the supporting centre relative to axis L.

The cleaning arms may be made from any material capable of cleaning the portafilter cavity including from the group consisting of plastics or hard plastics or thermoplastics or thermosetting elastomers. The cleaning arms may be made from plastic materials such as TPU or TPE or TPV or SEBS or PEI. The cleaning arms may be made from resiliently deformable materials. The cleaning arms may be made from silicone or natural rubber or synthetic rubber materials.

Preferably, the axis L about which the cleaning head is configured to rotate is generally vertical. Optionally, the angle between the axis L and the vertical is preferably less than 20 degrees, more preferably less than 10 degrees.

The first edge extending in a radial direction relative to axis L or the second edge extending in an axial direction relative to axis L may be configured to engage with coffee residue within the portafilter cavity or the inner surface of the portafilter cavity.

The outer edge may include an edge profile configured to engage with the inner surface of the portafilter cavity including, for example, the annular shoulder or the curved portion.

The outer edge of the one or more cleaning arms may include a third edge configured to receive and/or engage with the rim edge of the portafilter cavity. The third edge provides for the cleaning of coffee residue on the rim edge thereby enabling the cleaning head to clean more than just the inner surface of the portafilter cavity. The third edge may be configured to engage with the rim edge and/or part at least of the outer surface. The third edge may extend around the rim edge to engage with the outer surface of the portafilter in use.

In use, the rotation of the cleaning head may engage the cleaning arms. The cleaning arms may work against coffee residue within the portafilter cavity or on the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity.

The outer edges of the plurality of cleaning arms may be configured to provide a corresponding profile of the portafilter cavity. The third edge may provide a limit stop to realise a second contact position limiting further penetration of the cleaning head in the portafilter cavity relative to axis L.

The third edge may provide a support to a part at least of the rim edge such that a downward pressure relative to axis L may be applied onto the cleaning head to activate a pressure- activated switch. The height of the activated switch may be adjusted to enable the sensivity of the pressure sensitive switch to be regulated.

The engagement between the outer edge and the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity including but not limited to the first edge or the second edge or the third edge or the edge profile may be used to activate the pressure-activated switch.

The outer edge may include a leading-edge extending along a part at least of the outer edge. The leading-edge may have a pointed tip or sharp edge or a blade-like edge. The leading- edge may have a triangular cross-section. The leading-edge may provide a fine contact point extending along a part at least the outer edge. The leading-edge may enable the easier penetration of coffee residue within the portafilter cavity. The leading-edge may pave the way for the cleaning arm as the cleaning head rotates through the coffee residue in an energy- efficient manner.

The outer edge may include a fourth edge extending in a radial direction relative to said axis L. The fourth edge may be spaced apart from the first edge by the second edge. The cleaning arm may include an angular offset a between the first edge and the fourth edge to provide a curvature or twisting in the cleaning arm.

The fourth edge may extend in a radial direction relative to said axis L and may be spaced apart from the first edge along axis L to form an angle a between said first edge and fourth edge relative to axis L. Preferably, the angle a is at least 10 degrees, or at least 20 degrees or at least 30 degrees. The twisting may provide an energy-efficient scooping-motion enabling the stress distribution in dislodging or displacing the coffee residue to be distributed over a greater surface area of the cleaning arm.

The first edge may extend in a radial direction relative to axis L that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L. The second edge may extend in an axial direction relative to axis L that is substantially parallel to axis L. The plurality of cleaning arms wherein each of the cleaning arms is twisted may be configured to form a helical or spiral-like arrangement. The plurality of cleaning arms may be configured in the form of an axial fan arrangement. The axial fan arrangement further promotes the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L.

The cleaning arms may be arranged in the form of an axial fan to cause axial flow through said cleaning head in a downward axial direction relative to axis L.

The cleaning head may include one cleaning arm. The cleaning head may include two cleaning arms. Preferably, the cleaning head includes three cleaning arms. A cleaning head having three cleaning arms may provide the minimum number of cleaning arms to ensure stability of the portafilter in use. The cleaning head may include four or more cleaning arms.

The cleaning arms may be equally spaced apart about axis L. The cleaning arms may be angularly spaced about axis L wherein the angles formed between the cleaning arms about axis L may be unequal. The cleaning arms may be spaced around the axis L in a symmetrical or an asymmetrical arrangement.

The cleaning head may provide the spacing S. The spacing S may extend between the one or more cleaning arms and the axis L. The spacing S may extend between two cleaning arms and the supporting centre. The spacing S may extend between two cleaning arms and the axis L. The total spacing in the cleaning head may provide for the downward axial flow of coffee residue relative to axis.

The supporting centre may include an outer surface that in part at least has a downward sloping outer surface relative to axis L. The outer surface of the supporting centre may be configured to promote the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L. The supporting centre may include a bell or a dome shape. The supporting centre may include a cavity, a bore or a receptacle. The receptacle may be configured to receive a component such as a rod or a coupler or a drive shaft or a motor shaft.

The cleaning arms may include an inner surface that confronts the outer surface of the supporting centre to form an opening between said inner surface and the supporting centre. The cleaning arms may be manufactured from reduced material. The fourth edge may be disconnected from the supporting centre to further reduce material used in the manufacture of the cleaning arms.

The outer edge of each of the cleaning arms may include a securing means for securing a cleaning element to the cleaning arms. Preferably, the outer edge may include a groove or slot extending along at least a part of the outer edge configured for releasably attaching the cleaning element to the cleaning arms. The groove or slot may be configured to provide the securing means for slidably engaging the cleaning element such that the cleaning element may be releasably attached to the cleaning arm. The groove or slot may be rectangular or T- shaped or of a dovetail arrangement or other configurations may also be used. The cleaning element may include an inner surface having a corresponding protrusion to engage with the groove or slot. The inner surface of the cleaning element may include a protrusion extending along a part at least of the inner surface for slidably engaging with said groove or slot to provide a securing means.

The groove or slot may include a T-shaped slot and the protrusion comprises a T-shaped protrusion for providing the securing means of a T-shaped arrangement.

The cleaning element may include an outer surface configured for cleaning the portafilter cavity in preparation for its next use. The outer surface of the cleaning element may include a cleaning means. The cleaning means may be an absorbent cleaning material. The cleaning means may include microfiber materials. The cleaning means may include a brush or bristles. The bristles may be fine or coarse or straight or curled or of another suitable configuration. The cleaning means may include strands or fibres of an absorbent cleaning material. The cleaning means may include strands or fibres of microfiber cleaning materials. The outer surface may provide a substrate for the cleaning means. Preferably, the width of the cleaning means may be less than the width of the cleaning element. The cleaning means may be sewn into the cleaning element or may be attached to the cleaning element by other suitable joining means, such as through the use of adhesives.

The cleaning arms may be made from any rigid material capable of supporting the cleaning element including but not limited to plastic, thermoplastic or thermosetting elastomers, such as TPU or TPE or TPV or SEBS or PEI or metals or composites other suitable materials. The cleaning arm may include a securing plate or cap for securing the cleaning element to the cleaning arm.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a portafilter cleaning device that includes the cleaning head. The cleaning device includes a motor having a first end and a second end spaced apart along said axis L, the motor electrically connected to a power supply and configured to provide a torque to said cleaning head. The second end may be mounted on or connected to a base.

The motor may be configured to provide a torque to the cleaning head such that the cleaning head rotates, in use, engaging the cleaning arms to work against coffee residue within the portafilter cavity or on the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity.

The motor may include a motor shaft that protrudes from the first end. The motor may be connected to the cleaning head via the motor shaft and the receptacle.

The motor may be connected to the cleaning head via a coupler. The coupler may include a first end and a second end spaced apart along axis L. The second end may include a receptacle configured to receive a component such as a rod or a drive shaft or a motor shaft. The coupler may be connected to the motor shaft via the receptacle in the coupler. The cleaning head may be connected to the coupler via the receptacle in the supporting centre. The motor may be connected to the cleaning head via the motor shaft and the coupler and the receptacle. The motor shaft and the receptacle may be connected via the coupler.

The coupler may include a coupler casing. The coupler casing may be connected to the coupler via the first end of the coupler. The coupler may be provided with the coupler casing. The coupler casing may be a hexagonal coupler casing.

The motor may be mounted on a compression spring. The compression spring may have a first end and a second end spaced apart along axis L. The compression spring may extend between the second end of the motor and the base.

The motor may be electrically connected to a pressure-activated switch, preferably a micro switch. The micro switch may include a lever extending between the micro-switch and the motor or the axis L. The lever may be configured to activate the micro-switch relative to an axial displacement of the motor in an axial direction relative to axis L.

The axial displacement of the motor in an axial direction relative to axis L for activating the micro-switch may act against a spring bias provided by the compression spring. The compression spring may have spring constant, the spring constant configured such that an axial force provided to the compression spring relative to axis that is at least greater than the self-weight of the portafilter cleaning device acting on the compression spring relative to axis L compresses the compression spring sufficiently to activate the pressure-activated switch or the micro-switch.

The axial force provided to activate the pressure-activate switch may be through an axial force provided by the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity contacting the outer edges of the cleaning arms. The axial force provided to activate the pressure-activated switch may be provided by at least a part of the rim edge contacting the third edge of the portafilter cavity.

The first end of the motor may include bolts or screws configured for inserts to provide distance screws. The distance screws may be adjustable. The distance screws may enable restriction of the displacement of the motor to the axial direction relative to axis L. The distance screws may enable the angle between the axis L and the vertical to be adjusted.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a portafilter cleaning unit that includes the portafilter cleaning device. The cleaning unit may include one or more of the portafilter cleaning device, preferably two or more of the portafilter cleaning device.

The cleaning unit may include a casing configured for housing the portafilter cleaning device. The casing may include a first opening and a second opening. The casing may extend about the axis L. The casing may extend about a mid-point between the one or more portafilter cleaning devices.

Preferably, the cleaning unit includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface may be sufficiently spaced apart from the cleaning device such that, in use, the inner surface is spaced apart from the portafilter cleaning device. The first opening may include a lowered front edge configured to receive a portion at least of the of the portafilter including the portafilter neck.

The casing may include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion may be mounted on or connected to the second portion via a securing mechanism. The first and second portions may include one or more inserts or one or more openings configured to receive bolts or screws to provide the securing mechanism.

The casing may include a flange configured for mounting the casing to a tabletop or counter. The flange may be included in the first portion of the casing. The first portion may be wider than the second portion.

The casing of the casing may include a recess configured for receiving a fastener. The recess may extend around the casing, in particular the outer surface.

The fastener may be a resiliently deformable material. The fastener may be an elastic polymer. The fastener may be a rubber tube or a string or an elastic band or another suitable fastener. The fastener may be configured to provide a corresponding profile to the recess such that a part of the fastener at least mates with the recess. The recess may be a semi circular receptacle in the outer surface and the fastener may have a circular cross-section.

The fastener may be configured to fasten a collector to the portafilter cleaning unit, preferably to the outer surface of the cleaning unit. The fastener may be stretched to release or replace the collector.

The fastener may include a gripper configured to enable the user to stretch the fastener for releasing or replacing the collector. The gripper may serve as a pulling mechanism to aid the user in stretching the fastener. The gripper may be secured to the fastener via a securing means. The gripper may be secured to the fastener using screws, preferably grub screws.

The outer surface of the casing may include one or more protrusions for securing the fastener to the outer surface. The protrusions may hold the fastener in the recess. The protrusions may be feedthroughs or rings.

The cleaning unit may include a supporting element extending from the inner surface of the casing. The supporting element may be configured to receive a part at least of the cleaning device, preferably the base. The cleaning device may be mounted on or connected to the supporting element via the base.

The cleaning unit may include a feedthrough extending between the inner surface of the casing and the cleaning device or the base. The feedthrough may be configured to receive one or more conductors, such as electrical wires, to enable the motor to be connected to the power supply. The conductors may extend from the cleaning device to a terminal via the feedthrough.

The portafilter cleaning unit may include two or more portafilter cleaning devices. The portafilter cleaning unit may include a first portafilter cleaning device and a second portafilter cleaning device.

The first portafilter cleaning device may include the cleaning head wherein the outer edge of the one or more cleaning arms may include the leading-edge having the pointed tip or sharp edge or a blade-like edge.

The second portafilter cleaning device may include the cleaning head wherein the outer edge of the one or more of said cleaning arms may include the groove or slot extending along a part at least of the outer edge configured for releasably attaching the cleaning element to the cleaning arms.

The first portafilter cleaning device and said second portafilter cleaning device may be housed within the casing. The portafilter cleaning unit including the first and second portafilter cleaning device may be configured to provide two stages of cleaning the portafilter, a first bulk clean using a “drill head” and a second finishing clean using a “brush head”.

The base may extend at least between a first axis LI of the first portafilter cleaning device and a second axis L2 of the second portafilter cleaning device. The feedthrough may extend between the inner surface of the casing and the base, preferably to a region of the base proximal to a mid-point between axis LI and axis L2. The feedthrough may provide a third support in addition to the supporting element of the first and second cleaning devices.

The portafilter cleaning unit 30 may include three or more portafilter cleaning device. Brief Description of Drawings

Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only and with reference to accompanying drawings having like-reference numerals, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure la is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment from various aspects of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic plan/top view of the first embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the first embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a schematic underside view of the first embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

Figures 6a and 6b are schematic cross-sectional side views of the second embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure 7 is a schematic plan or top view of the second embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure 8 is a schematic underside view of the second embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure 9 is a schematic side view of a first embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention.

Figures 10a and 10b provide schematic perspective, plan/top, side and underside views of components for embodiments of the second aspect of the present invention. Figures 11a to l ie provide schematic perspective views of a first embodiment of a third aspect of the present invention.

Figure 12 is a schematic perspective view of a component for embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention.

Figure 13 is a front view of the first embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention.

Figure 14 is a schematic rear view of the first embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention.

Figures 15a and 15b are schematic plan/top views of the first embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention.

Figure 16 is a schematic underside view of the first embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention.

Detailed Description:

The embodiments described herein relate to a portafilter cleaning device. It should be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention and the descriptions and figures herein are not limited to portafilters. The embodiments described herein may have a variety of different applications including, for example, cleaning of other devices such as devices comprising cavities.

The following description presents exemplary embodiments and, together with the drawings, serves to explain principles of the invention. The scope of the invention is not intended, however, to be limited to the precise details of the embodiments, since variations will be apparent to a skilled person and are deemed also to be covered by the description. Terms for components used herein should be given a broad interpretation that also encompasses equivalent functions and features. In some cases, several alternative terms (synonyms) for structural features have been provided but such terms are not intended to be exhaustive.

Descriptive terms should also be given the broadest possible interpretation; e.g. the term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of' such that interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner. Directional terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, “down”, “top”, “bottom”, “upper” and “lower” are used for convenience of explanation usually with reference to the illustrations and are not intended to be ultimately limiting if an equivalent function can be achieved with an alternative dimension and/or direction.

Referring now to Figures 1 to 4, a portafilter cleaning head 1 configured for rotation about an axis L includes a supporting centre 2 and a plurality of cleaning elements or cleaning arms 4. The cleaning arms 4 extend from said supporting centre 2 which provides a central hub for the cleaning arms 4. In some embodiments, the cleaning arms 4 extend from axis L. The cleaning arms 4 form an array of blades or vanes around the supporting centre 2 or the axis L forming the cleaning head 1. Optionally, the cleaning arms 4 are mounted on top of the supporting centre 2. The cleaning head 1 and cleaning arms 4 is not limited by the specific geometry described herein and other geometries may be considered without departing from the scope of this invention.

The cleaning arms 4 are made from any material capable of cleaning the portafilter cavity 41 preferably including plastics or hard plastics, thermoplastic or thermosetting elastomers, such as TPU, TPE, TPV, SEBS, PU. Optionally, the cleaning arms 4 are made from resiliently deformable materials including silicone or natural rubber or synthetic rubber materials. Preferably, the axis L about which the cleaning head 1 is configured to rotate, in use, is generally vertical. Optionally, the angle between the axis L and the vertical is preferably less than 20 degrees, more preferably less than 10 degrees.

The cleaning head 1 is configured to receive a portafilter 40, in particular a portafilter cavity 41. The cleaning head 1 is configured for cleaning the portafilter cavity 41 in preparation for its next use.

A portafilter 40 of a type known in the art includes a portafilter cavity 41 that is, in use, lowered onto the cleaning head 1. A user may position the portafilter 40 via a portafilter handle 40a. Typically, a portafilter 40 includes a portafilter neck 40b between the portafilter handle 40a and the portafilter cavity 41. The “portafilter cavity” 41 refers to a portion of the portafilter 40 used for storing coffee during the brewing process, such as a filter or coffee basket 42 in which the coffee is held. The coffee basket 42 serves an additional purpose of filtering brewed coffee through a plurality of openings 47. The brewed coffee is filtered into channels or spouts 48 of a dispenser 46 and into a cup or container. In bottomless portafilters, such as those in which the channels or spouts 48 are omitted, the brewed coffee is filtered directly into a cup or container.

The portafilter cavity 41 includes one or more surfaces requiring to be cleaned of coffee residue. The “coffee residue” refers to residual coffee including in the form of coffee granules, agglomerates of coffee granules or a coffee-based tablet or puck having brewed coffee or other constituents including water within the portafilter cavity 41 or on the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41. The cleaning head 1 is configured to clean the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 in preparation for its next use.

The one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 includes an inner surface 43, a rim edge 44, and an outer surface 45. In one embodiment, the inner surface 43 includes a base 43a, an annular shoulder or a curved portion 43b, and a sidewall 43c and the outer surface 45 is formed by an outer surface 45a of the coffee basket 42 or an outer surface 45b of the portafilter 40. In use, the portafilter cavity 41 is lowered onto the cleaning head 1 and rotation of the cleaning head 1 engages the cleaning arms 4 to work against coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 or on the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41.

In one embodiment, the cleaning arms 4 are configured to engage with coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 and/or the inner surface 43 of the portafilter cavity 41. In another embodiment, the cleaning arms 4 are configured to engage with coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 and/or the inner surface 43 and/or the rim edge 44 of the portafilter cavity 41. In a further embodiment, the cleaning arms 4 are configured to engage with coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 and/or the inner surface 43 and/or the rim edge 44 and/or the outer surface 45 of the portafilter cavity 41.

The cleaning head 1 is configured to receive the portafilter cavity 41. The cleaning arms 4 include an outer face or an outer edge 5 configured to receive the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41. In one embodiment, the outer edge 5 includes a first edge 5a that extends in a radial direction relative to axis L. The first edge 5a is configured to engage with coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 and/or the inner surface 43 of the portafilter cavity 41 including, for example, the base 43a. Optionally, the first edge 5a extends in a generally radial direction relative to axis L.

In another embodiment, the outer edge 5 includes a second edge 5b that extends in an axial direction relative to axis L. The second edge 5b is configured to engage with coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 and/or the inner surface 43 of the portafilter cavity 41 including, for example, the sidewall 43c. Optionally, the second edge 5b extends in a generally axial direction relative to axis L. The first and second edges 5a, 5b may be tapered or contoured relative to the axis L.

In a further embodiment, the outer edge 5 includes the first edge 5a and the second edge 5b configured to engage with coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 and/or the inner surface 43 of the portafilter cavity 41 including, for example, the base 43 a and the sidewall 43c. The outer edge 5 includes an edge profile 5e between the first edge 5a and second edge 5b configured to engage with the inner surface 43 of the portafilter cavity 41 including, for example, the annular shoulder or the curved portion 43b.

In a specific embodiment, the outer edge 5 includes a third edge 5c configured to receive and/or engage with the rim edge 44 of the portafilter cavity 41. The third edge 5c provides for the cleaning of coffee residue on the rim edge 44 thereby enabling the cleaning head 1 to clean more than just the inner surface 43 of the portafilter cavity 41. In some embodiments, the third edge 5c is configured to engage with the rim edge 44 and/or a part at least of the outer surface 45. In use, the third edge 5c extends around the rim edge 44 to engage with the outer surface 45 of the portafilter 40 in use. The third edge 5c forms a receptacle configured to receive a part at least of the rim edge 44. The third edge 5c provides a groove configured to receive and/or support a part at least of the rim edge 44. Optionally, the third edge 5c forms a u-shaped bend configured to receive and engage with at least a part of the rim edge 44. Advantageously, the embodiments described herein provide for the cleaning of the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 including the inner surface 43, the rim edge 44, and the outer surface 45.

In use, the rotation of the cleaning head 1 engages the cleaning arms 4 to work against coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 or on the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41.

In use, as the portafilter cavity 41 is lowered onto the cleaning head 1 a first contact position is realised as the outer edges 5 of the cleaning arms 4 enter into the portafilter cavity 41 and contact is made with any coffee residue present. With a further lowering of the cleaning head 1 facilitated by the rotation of the cleaning head 1 and through removal of coffee residue in the portafilter cavity 41 or otherwise, the cleaning head 1 penetrates further into the portafilter cavity 41 and a second contact position is realised as the outer edges 5 of the cleaning arms 4 contact the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41.

In one embodiment, the dimensions of the cleaning head 1 are such that the cleaning head 1 closely fits into the portafilter cavity 41. In another embodiment, the dimensions of the cleaning head 1 are such that the cleaning head loosely fits into the portafilter cavity 41. In specific embodiments, the outer edges 5 are dimensioned to provide a corresponding profile of the portafilter cavity 41 such that the outer edges 5 are configured to mate with the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 in the second contact position. In some embodiments, the first edge 5a is configured to mate with the base 43a, or the second edge 5b is configured to mate with the sidewall 43c, or the edge profile 5e is configured to mate with the curved portion 43b, or the third edge 5c is configured to mate with the rim edge 44 or the outer surface 45 in the second contact position.

Optionally, the cleaning head 1 is custom-made based on the dimensions of the portafilter cavity 41, in particular the coffee basket 42. The portafilter cavity 41 or the coffee basket 42 is laser scanned to obtain dimensions whereinafter the cleaning head 1 is manufactured to match or fit the portafilter cavity 41 or the coffee basket 42.

The outer edges 5 of the cleaning arms 4 are thus configured to mate with the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 in the second contact position. In a specific embodiment, the third edge 5c provides a limit stop to realise the second contact position and limit further penetration of the cleaning head 1 in the portafilter cavity 41.

The third edge 5c may provide a support to a part at least of the rim edge 44 such that a downward pressure relative to the axis L may be applied onto the cleaning head 1 to activate a pressure-activated switch, as will be discussed hereinafter. In other embodiments, engagement between the outer edge 5 and the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 is used to activate a pressure-activated switch, including the first edge 5a or the second edge 5b or the third edge 5c or the edge profile 5e.

In use, after the first contact position is realised, the cleaning arms 4 can be thought to provide a drilling-like motion against coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41, breaking the coffee residue apart. In some embodiments, the outer edge 5 includes flat surfaces. In other embodiments, the outer edge 5 includes a leading-edge having a pointed tip or a sharp edge or a blade-like edge. The leading-edge points in an axial direction relative to the axis L. Optionally, the leading-edge may point in a direction that is angularly offset from the axis L. Optionally, the leading-edge may have a triangular cross-section. The leading-edge provides a fine contact point extending along the outer edge 5 to penetrate the coffee residue more easily within the portafilter cavity 41 paving the way for the cleaning arm 4 as the cleaning head 1 rotates through the coffee residue in an energy-efficient manner.

In use, the rotation of the cleaning arms 4 against the coffee residue as the cleaning head 1 penetrates towards the one of more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 can be thought to provide a drilling and/or sweeping-like motion. The rotation of the cleaning arms 4 works to dislodge or displace the coffee residue in the portafilter cavity 41 as the cleaning head 1 penetrates towards the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41. In the second contact position and with the outer edge 5 in contact with the one or more surfaces of the portafilter, the cleaning head 1 can be thought to provide a wiping-like or scraping motion.

The outer edge 5 includes a fourth edge 5d extending in a radial direction relative to said axis L. The fourth edge 5d is spaced apart from the first edge 5a by the second edge 5b. An angular offset between the first and fourth edges 5a, 5d in each cleaning arm 4 corresponds to a twisting of the respective cleaning arm 4. The angular offset about axis L formed between the first and fourth edges 5a, 5d is given by an angle a. In one embodiment, the first edge 5a and the fourth edge 5d are aligned, such that the second edge 5b is substantially parallel to the axis L. The first edge 5a extends in a radial direction relative to axis L that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L and the second edge 5b extends in an axial direction relative to axis L that is substantially parallel to axis L. In other embodiments, the angle a is at least 5 degrees, or at least 10 degrees or at least 20 degrees to provide twisting in the cleaning arms 4 such that the second edge 5b extends in an axial direction relative to axis L with a degree of curvature.

The curvature of the cleaning arm 4 enables the stress distribution in dislodging or displacing or releasing the coffee residue to be distributed over a greater surface area of the cleaning arm 4. This can be thought to provide an energy-efficient scooping-like motion against the coffee residue, in use, as the cleaning head 1 rotates, penetrating towards the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41. In the second contact position, the cleaning arms 4 can be thought to provide a wiping-like scraping motion against coffee residue on the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41.

In embodiments where the cleaning arm 4 includes a sharp leading-edge and is twisted, the durability of the cleaning head 1 is further enhanced as the cleaning arms 4 are capable of gliding through coffee residue promoting its release. In one embodiment, the cleaning arm 4 is twisted around the axis L in a helical or spiral-like arrangement. In specific embodiments, the plurality of cleaning arms 4 are configured in the form of an axial fan arrangement. The axial fan arrangement includes twisting of each of the cleaning arms 4 to further promote the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L. The downward axial flow of coffee residue travels through spacings between the cleaning arms 4 in the cleaning head 1.

The total spacing in the cleaning head for the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L depends on the number of cleaning arms 4 in the cleaning head as well as their dimensions, including the thickness of the cleaning arm 4. The total number of cleaning arms 4 governs the total surface area of the cleaning head 1 that works against the coffee residue, however, an excessive number of cleaning arms reduces the total spacing in the cleaning head for the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L. In some embodiments, the thickness of the cleaning arm 4 is uniform. In other embodiments the thickness of the cleaning arm 4 is non-uniform, particularly where the outer edge 5 includes a leading-edge having a pointed tip or a sharp edge or a blade-like edge.

In one embodiment, the cleaning head 1 includes one cleaning arm 4. In another embodiment, the cleaning head 1 includes two cleaning arms 4. In a specific embodiment, the cleaning head 1 includes three cleaning arms 4 which provides the minimum number of cleaning arms 4 to ensure the stability of the portafilter 40. This is particularly the case in embodiments of the cleaning head 1 where the cleaning arm 4 includes the third edge 5c configured to receive and/or support a part at least of the rim edge 44 of the portafilter cavity 41. In further embodiments, the cleaning head 1 includes four or more cleaning arms 4.

The cleaning arms 4 are angularly spaced about axis L. In some embodiments, the angles formed between the cleaning arms 4 about axis L are unequal. The cleaning arms 4 are positioned about axis L in a symmetrical or an asymmetrical arrangement. In specific embodiments, the cleaning arms 4 are equally spaced apart about axis L, for example, in a specific embodiment where the cleaning head 1 includes three cleaning arms 4, the spacing formed about axis L between a first and second cleaning arm is about 120 degrees with some variation in embodiments having twisted cleaning arms 4.

The spacing between a first and a second cleaning arm 4 includes angular, radial and axial components. The cleaning head 1 provides for a spacing S extending between a first and a second cleaning arm 4 for the flow of coffee residue. The spacing S extends between the two cleaning arms 4 and the supporting centre 2, as shown, or the axis L. The total spacing in the cleaning head 1 for the flow of coffee residue is thus given by a summation of the one or more spacings S in the cleaning head 1 between each of the plurality of cleaning arms 4.

The supporting centre 2 includes an outer surface 2a that in part at least has a downward sloping outer surface relative to axis L configured to further promote the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L. In one embodiment, the supporting centre 2 includes a bell-type or a dome-type arrangement, however, in other embodiments other geometries of supporting centres 2 may also be used. In another embodiment, the supporting centre 2 includes a slope relative to axis L extending between the plurality of cleaning arms 4. Optionally, the supporting centre 2 includes grooves or protrusions configured to releasably attach one or more of the cleaning arms 4 to the supporting centre 2. Optionally, the cleaning arms 4 include protrusions or grooves configured to releasably attach one or more of the cleaning arms 4 to the supporting centre.

Optionally, the arms 4 extend toward the centre of the cleaning head 1 at a height of approximately 10mm from the top of the cleaning head 1. This is shown in Figure la from numerous perspectives.

As before, the rotation of the cleaning arms 4 (shown in Figure la) against the coffee residue as the cleaning head 1 penetrates towards the one of more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 can be thought to provide a drilling and/or sweeping-like motion. The rotation of the cleaning arms 4 works to dislodge or displace the coffee residue in the portafilter cavity 41 as the cleaning head 1 penetrates towards the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41. In the second contact position and with the outer edge 5 in contact with the one or more surfaces of the portafilter, the cleaning head 1 can be thought to provide a wiping-like or scraping motion.

The supporting centre 2 includes a cavity, a bore or a receptacle 2b configured to receive a component such as a rod or a coupler or a drive shaft or a motor shaft. In one embodiment, the receptacle 2b is of a hexagonal cross-section, however, in other embodiments other geometries of receptacles may also be used. Optionally, the supporting centre 2 includes a protrusion configured to be received by a component such as a rod or a coupler or a drive shaft or a motor shaft. In one embodiment, the protrusion is of a hexagonal cross-section, however, in other embodiments other geometries of receptacles may also be used. Optionally, a connection between the supporting centre 2 and the component such as a rod or a coupler or a drive shaft or a motor shaft enables the cleaning head 1 to be easily replaced.

Referring now to Figures 5 to 8, each of the cleaning arms 4 includes an inner surface 6 that confronts the outer surface 2a of the supporting centre 2 to form an opening 7 between said inner surface 6 and said supporting centre 2. Optionally, the opening 7 may be omitted from the supporting centre 2. This may be due to the length of the bristles of the brush as the length of the bristles may render the opening unnecessary. The openings 7 provide additional spacing for the flow of the coffee residue in the cleaning head 1 during use, although they may be omitted. The cleaning arms 4 are thus manufactured from reduced material relative to cleaning arms 4 of other embodiments. In one embodiment, the cleaning arm 4 is attached to the supporting centre 2 at a region of the cleaning arm 4 proximal to the third edge 5c to form the opening 7. The fourth edge 5d thus extends from the supporting centre. In other embodiments, the fourth edge 5d is disconnected from the supporting centre 2 thereby further reducing the materials used in the manufacture of the cleaning head 1. Optionally, embodiments including the openings 7 may be used for a portafilter cavity 41 requiring a secondary clean or where the amount of coffee residue in the portafilter 40 and hence the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L is limited or where the second contact position is more easily realised.

Optionally, the outer edge 5 of each of the cleaning arms 4 includes a securing means for securing a cleaning element 10 to the cleaning arms 4. Preferably, the outer edge 5 includes a groove or a slot 9 extending along at least a part of the outer edge 5 configured for releasably attaching the cleaning element 10 to the cleaning arms 4. The groove or slot 9 is configured to provide the securing means for slidably engaging the cleaning element 10 such that the cleaning element 10 may be releasably attached to the cleaning arm 4. In some embodiments, the groove or slot 9 is rectangular or T-shaped or of a dovetail arrangement, however, other configurations may also be used. The cleaning element 10 includes an inner surface 10a that has a corresponding protrusion 11. In one embodiment, the cleaning element 10 is a strip, preferably a plastic strip. Thus, the groove or slot 9 is configured for receiving the corresponding rectangular or T-shaped or dovetail protrusion in the cleaning element 10. The groove or slot 9 is dimensioned to provide a corresponding profile of the cleaning element 10 or the protrusion 11 such that the groove or slot 9 is configured to mate with the cleaning element 10 or the protrusion 11. In other embodiments, other suitable geometries are used. Optionally, the outer edge 5 includes a protrusion extending along at least a part of the outer edge 5 configured for releasably attaching the cleaning element 10 and the cleaning element includes a corresponding groove or slot. Optionally, the groove or slot 9 in the outer edge 5 of each of the cleaning arms 4 is configured to receive and reversibly attach a leading- edge having a pointed tip or a sharp edge or a blade-like edge. The cleaning element 10 includes an outer surface 10b configured for cleaning the portafilter cavity 41 in preparation for its next use. The outer surface 10b includes a cleaning means 12 which in one embodiment is an absorbent cleaning material including microfiber cleaning materials. In another embodiment, the cleaning means 12 includes a brush or bristles. Optionally, the bristles are fine or coarse or straight or curled or of another suitable configuration. In a specific embodiment, the cleaning means 12 includes strands or fibres of absorbent cleaning materials such as microfiber cleaning materials. Thus, the outer edge 5 of the cleaning arms configured to receive the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 includes the outer surface 10b and the cleaning means 12. Optionally, the outer surface 10b of the cleaning element 10 provides a substrate for cleaning means 12. Preferably, the width of the cleaning means 12 is less than the width of the cleaning element 10. Preferably, the cleaning means 12 is sewn into the cleaning element 10 or it is attached to the cleaning element 10 by other suitable joining means, such as through the use of adhesives. Optionally, the cleaning means 12 is reversibly attached to the cleaning element 10. In one embodiment, the cleaning means 12 is removably or reversibly attached to at least a part of the cleaning element 10 using hook-and4oop strips.

The cleaning arms 4 are made from any rigid material capable of supporting cleaning element 10 including plastics, thermoplastic or thermosetting elastomers, such as TPU, TPE, TPV, SEBS, PU, etc.

In use, the rotation of the cleaning arms 4 against the coffee residue as the cleaning head 1 penetrates towards the one of more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 can be thought to provide a brushing or a polishing or a wiping-type motion. The rotation of the cleaning arms 4 works to finalise cleaning of coffee residue in the portafilter cavity 41.

The securing means for securing the cleaning element 10 to the cleaning arms 4 provides for slidably engaging the cleaning element 10 to the cleaning arm 4; hence, the cleaning element 10 may be releasably attached to the cleaning arm 4. Since in some embodiments, the outer edges 5 includes the cleaning means 12 which may be an absorbent cleaning material, then the releasable attachment of the cleaning element 10 to the cleaning arm 4 enables the cleaning element 10 to be completely replaced easily. Advantageously, a cleaning element 10 that is worn through use or otherwise, therefore, may be easily replaced. To further secure the cleaning element 10 to the cleaning arm 4, a securing plate or cap 9a is optionally provided. The cap 9a includes an opening 9b configured to align with an insert 9c in the cleaning arm 4 enabling the cap 9a to be secured to the cleaning arm 4 via a bolt or screw. The cap 9a when secured to the cleaning arm 4 is configured to cover a part at least of the groove or slot 9 to prevent or block the cleaning element 10 sliding out of the cleaning arm 4. Optionally, the opening 9b and the insert 9c are configured to receive a bolt or screw. Optionally, the opening 9b and the insert 9c are threaded.

Referring now to Figures 9 to 10, a portafilter cleaning device 20 includes the cleaning head 1 as discussed hereinbefore. The cleaning device 20 includes the cleaning head 1 mounted on or connected to a motor 22. The motor 22 is electrically connected to a power supply. Optionally, the motor 22 is a 12V motor providing for a cleaning device 20 that rotates at approximately 400rpm while operating at low noise so as to reduce disturbances during use of the portafilter cleaning device 20 in use. In other embodiments, however, other motors may also be used. The motor 22 is configured to provide a torque to the cleaning head 1 which rotates, in use, engaging the cleaning arms 4 to work against coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 or on the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41. Thus, the direction of rotation of the cleaning head 1 is the same as the direction of rotation of the motor 22 since the motor 22 provides the torque to the cleaning head 1. However, alternative forms may utilise a gearbox where the relative rotations are reversed.

The motor 22 includes a first end 22a and a second end 22b spaced apart along axis L. The motor 22 includes a motor shaft 23 that protrudes from the first end 22a. Optionally, the first end 22a of the motor 22 includes a first insert 22c and a second insert 22d each configured to receive a bolt or screw 22e,22f. Optionally, the inserts 22c, 22d are threaded.

In one embodiment, the portafilter cleaning device 20 includes the cleaning head 1 connected to the motor shaft 23 via the receptacle 2b in the supporting centre 2. The receptacle 2b is dimensioned to provide a corresponding profile of the motor shaft 23 such that the receptacle 2b is configured to mate with the motor shaft 23.

Optionally, a coupler 26 is connected to the motor 22 via the motor shaft 23. The coupler 26 includes a first end 26a and a second end 26b spaced apart along axis L. The second end 26b includes a receptacle 26c configured to receive a component such as a rod or a drive shaft or a motor shaft. The coupler 26 is connected to the motor shaft 23 via the receptacle 26c in the coupler 26. The receptacle 26c is dimensioned to provide a corresponding profile of the motor shaft 23 such that the receptacle 2b is configured to mate with the motor shaft 23.

In embodiments of the portafilter cleaning device 20 that include the coupler 26, the cleaning head 1 is connected to the coupler 26 via the receptacle 2b in the supporting centre 2. The receptacle 2b is dimensioned to provide a corresponding profile of the first end 26a of the coupler 26 such that the receptacle 2b is configured to mate with the first end 26a of the coupler 26. In a specific embodiment, the coupler 26 is a standard hexagon coupler as shown, however, other geometries of couplers may also be used. Optionally, the coupler 26 includes a first insert 26d configured to receive a bolt or screw to secure the coupler 26 to the motor shaft 23. Optionally, the first end 26a of the coupler 26 includes a second insert 26e configured to receive a bolt or screw for further connections as will be discussed hereinafter. Optionally, the inserts 26d,26e are threaded.

Optionally, the coupler 26 includes a coupler casing 27. The coupler casing 27 is connected to the coupler 26 via the first end 26a. The coupler casing 27 includes a first end 27a and a second end 27b spaced apart along axis L. The second end 27b includes a receptacle 27c configured to receive the first end 26a of the coupler 26. The coupler casing 27 is connected to the coupler 26 via the receptacle 27c in the coupler casing 27. The receptacle 27c is dimensioned to provide a corresponding profile of the first end 26a of the coupler 26 such that the receptacle 27c is configured to mate with the first end 26a of the coupler 26. In a specific embodiment, the coupler casing 27 is a hexagonal coupler casing 27, however, other geometries of coupler casings 27 may also be used. Optionally, first end 27a of the coupler casing 27 includes an insert 27d configured to receive a bolt or screw to secure the coupler casing 27 to the coupler 26. Optionally, the insert 27d is threaded.

In embodiments of the portafilter cleaning device 20 that include the coupler casing 27, the cleaning head 1 is connected to the first end 27a of the coupler casing 27 via the receptacle 2b in the supporting centre 2. The receptacle 2b is dimensioned to provide a corresponding cross-section or profile of the first end 27a of the coupler casing 27 such that the receptacle 2b is configured to mate with the first end 27a of the coupler casing 27.

The coupler casing 27 is configured to shield components of the portafilter cleaning device 20 including the motor 22 or the inserts 22c, 22d or the motor shaft 23 or the coupler 26 from infiltration of coffee residue that may otherwise interfere with the mechanical operation of the portafilter cleaning device 20. Optionally, the coupler casing 27 includes in part at least has a downward sloping outer surface relative to axis L configured to further promote the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L. The coupler casing 27 is configured to further provide easy removal or replacement of the cleaning head 1 as may be necessary.

In some embodiments of the portafilter cleaning device 20, the second end 22b of the motor 22 is mounted on or connected to a base 25. The base 25 is configured to provide rigidity or support to the portafilter cleaning device 20 mounted on or connected to the base 25. Optionally, the portafilter cleaning device 20 includes a switch electrically connected to the power supply and to the motor 22. Optionally, the switch is manually activated.

In a specific embodiment, the motor 22 is mounted on or connected to a compression spring 29. The compression spring 29 has a first end 29a and a second end 29b spaced apart along the axis L. In one embodiment, the compression spring 29 extends between the second end 22b of the motor 22 and the base 25 in a direction relative to axis L. The compression spring 29 is mounted on or connected to the base 25. Optionally, a support plate 25a is positioned between the second end 29b and the base 25. Optionally, the portafilter cleaning device 20 includes a plurality of compression springs extending between the second end 22b of the motor 22 and the base 25.

In use, the portafilter cleaning device 20 includes a compression spring 29 with an initial length Lo. The initial length Lo is a resting state, with tension capable of supporting the weight of the portafilter cleaning device 20. The initial length Zomay be a result of the self-weight of the portafilter cleaning device 20 acting on the compression spring 29. As the portafilter 40 is lowered onto the cleaning head 1, for example, lowering the portafilter cavity 41 to the second contact position, the additional load or force applied as a result of the weight of the portafilter 40 and any additional force applied by the user causes the compression spring 29 to be compressed to a compressed length Lc, wherein the compressed length Lc is less than the initial length Lo. The compression spring 29 is configured to support the self-weight of the portafilter cleaning device 20 that acts on the compression spring 29. The compression spring 29 is configured to resist or provide a spring bias against the additional force applied as a result of the weight of the portafilter 40 and any additional force applied by the user. As the portafilter 40 is lifted or retracted away from the cleaning head 1, the compression spring 29 is only acted on by the self-weight of the portafilter cleaning device 20 including any coffee residue retained on the cleaning head 1. Thus, the compression spring 29 extends back to the initial length Lo i.e. the compression spring 29 pushes the motor 22 in an upward axial direction relative to axis L. The compression of the spring 29 is determined by Hooke’s Law wherein the spring compression length Lo-Lc is given by the total force acting on the spring divided by the spring stiffness or spring constant.

In some embodiments, the initial length Lo of the compression spring 29 corresponds to a relative first motor position of the motor 22 and the compressed length Lc corresponds to a relative second motor position of the motor 22 relative to the axis L. In one example, the portafilter cleaning device 20 weighed about 0.25kg and was used to clean a portafilter having a weight of about 0.40kg providing a net force of 6.38N on the compression spring and any additional force applied by the user was considered to be negligible. Compression springs 29 having spring constants of between about 3.19 N/mm and 0.64 N/mm provided compression lengths of about 2mm to about 10mm. Optionally, the properties of the compression spring 29 or the plurality of compression springs 29 including the spring dimensions and spring constant are configured to control the displacement of the motor 22 along axis L and thereby the actuation of a pressure-controlled switch. The compression spring 29 is selected, therefore, in consideration of several factors including the total force acting on the compression spring 29 in use to provide a compression length and corresponding motor position along axis L configured to provide at least two states of the pressure-controlled switch 28 including an “on” position and an “off’ position. Thus, the compression spring 29 is configured to keep the motor 22 slightly above a micro-switch 28 such that a downward axial pressure in use or otherwise that compresses the compression spring 29 through displacement of the motor activates the rotation of the cleaning head 1. Optionally, the second end 22b of the motor 22 is spaced apart from the lever arm 28a by a distance of between about 1 mm to 3 mm, preferably 2 mm. This allows the motor 22 to move up and down relative to axis L and in response to applied pressure or spring response thereby activating or deactivating the micro-switch 28.

The pressure-activated switch is electrically connected to the power supply and to the motor 22. In one embodiment, the pressure-activated switch includes a micro-switch 28. The micro-switch 28 includes a lever arm 28a including a first end 28b and a second end 28c extending between the micro-switch 28 and the motor 22 or a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis L. In a specific embodiment, the lever arm 28a extends between the micro-switch 28 and the second end 22b of the motor 22. Optionally, the first end 28b of the lever arm 28a is connected to the micro-switch 28 and the second end 28c extends to a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis L such that the axial displacement of the motor 22 in use relative to axis L contacts the lever arm 28a to activate the micro-switch 28. The lever arm 28a may be configured to intersect a plane in which the motor is displaced via a downward axial pressure applied to the cleaning head 1 relative to axis L to compress the compression spring 29. Preferably, contact between the lever arm 28a to activate the micro switch 28 is thus made between the second end 22b of the motor 22 and the second end 28c of the lever arm 28a. Optionally, the second end 28c of the lever arm 28a is connected to the motor 22 and the first end 28b extends to a plane proximal to the micro-switch 28a such that the axial displacement of the motor 22 in use relative to axis L displaces the first end 28b of the lever arm 28a to activate the micro-switch 28. Optionally, the micro-switch 28 includes a holder 28d. Optionally, the holder 28d is removable and is configured to enable assembly of the micro-switch 28 before installation. Optionally, as illustrated in Figure l ie, the holder 28d contains a plurality of self-locking nuts 110 which means that when a corresponding bolt is screwed into the holder 28d the sensitivity of the switch 28 can be adjusted. This is because when the bolt is screwed anticlockwise the holder will move downwards relative to the switch 28 and when the bolt is screwed clockwise the holder will move upwards relative to the switch 28. The adjustment in position of the holder 28d relative to the switch means the switch 28 becomes more sensitive as it is easier to trigger by the axial displacement of the motor 22 due to the elevated position of the lever arm 28a.

In use, as the portafilter cavity 41 is lowered onto the cleaning head 1. The first contact position is realised as the outer edges 5 of the cleaning arms 4 enter into the portafilter cavity 41 and contact is made with any coffee residue present. This provides sufficient axial force relative to axis L to activate the micro-switch 28 to the “on” position through axial displacement of the motor relative to axis L against the spring bias of the compression spring 29. The spring 29 may be held in place by a tube/base which retains the spring in place at the bottom of respective motor 22. With a further lowering of the cleaning head 1 facilitated by the rotation of the cleaning head 1 and through removal of coffee residue in the portafilter cavity 41 or otherwise, the cleaning head 1 penetrates further into the portafilter cavity 41 and the second contact position is realised as the outer edges 5 of the cleaning arms 4 contact the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41. During this stage, the micro-switch 28 continues to be activated as sufficient axial force is provided relative to axis L to activate the micro-switch 28 to the “on” position. As the portafilter 40 retracted away from the cleaning head 1 and axial force is reduced such that the spring bias displaces the motor 22 deactivating the micro-switch 28 to the “off’ position.

The sensitivity of the pressure-activated switch is dependent on the compression spring 29 since it provides a compression length and corresponding motor position along axis L configured to provide at least two states of the pressure-controlled switch 28 including the “on” position and the “off’ position.

Preferably, the spring constant is configured such that an axial force provided to the compression spring 29 relative to axis L that is at least greater than the self-weight of the portafilter cleaning device 20 acting on the compression spring 29 relative to axis L compresses the compression spring 29 sufficiently to activate the pressure-activated switch. Thus, the present invention advantageously provides for the rotary cleaning head 1 to be activated under a pressure provided by the self-weight of the portafilter 40.

Preferably, the spring constant is configured to provide sufficient resistance or spring bias against at least the self-weight of the portafilter cleaning device 20 acting on the compression spring 29 relative to axis L such that the pressure-activated switch is deactivated until an additional axial force relative to axis L is applied to the compression spring 29. Preferably, the sensitivity of the pressure-activated switch is configured such that the additional axial force is provided by the weight of the portafilter 40 in order to alleviate the requirement of any additional axial force being provided by the user to activate the pressure-activated switch.

In some embodiments, the axial force provided to activate the pressure-activated switch is provided, in use, through an axial force provided by the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 contacting the outer edges 5 of the cleaning arms 4. In a specific embodiment, the axial force provided to activate the pressure-activated switch is provided by at least a part of the rim edge 44 contacting the third edge 5c of the portafilter cavity 41 as described hereinbefore.

Optionally, the bolts or screws 22e,22f configured to be inserted in the first and second inserts 22c, 22d in the first end 22a of the motor 22 are distance screws. The distance screws are configured to restrict the displacement of the motor 22 to the axial direction relative to axis L. Preferably, the distance screws are configured to minimise the displacement of the motor 22 in the radial direction relative to axis L. Optionally, the distance screws may be tightened or loosened to control the extent of restriction of the displacement of the motor 22.

Referring now to Figures 11 to 16, a portafilter cleaning unit 30 includes the portafilter cleaning device 20 as discussed hereinbefore. The cleaning unit 30 includes a casing 32 configured for housing the portafilter cleaning device 20. In one embodiment, the casing 32 extends about the axis L and includes a first opening 32a and second opening 32b. In the illustrated embodiment, the first opening 32a is opposite the second opening 32b creating a through-hole through the casing 32. The casing 32 may extend about a mid-point between a first portafilter cleaning device 20a and a second portafilter cleaning device 20b as part of a cleaning unit 30 including two cleaning devices as will be discussed hereinafter. Optionally, the distance screws 22e, 22f may be positioned on the bridge between casing 32 and a housing for the motor 22. Optionally, the casing 32 may comprise a central column 100 with a button 106 at the top connected to a switch for switching on and off the power from the power supply 102 which may be connected to the casing 32 at a position adjacent the column 100 using a female receiving socket 104. This is illustrated in Figure l id.

The casing 32 includes a front 31a and a rear 3 lb, an inner surface 32d and an outer surface 32e. The inner surface 32d is spaced apart from the portafilter cleaning device 20 housed within the cleaning unit 30. Preferably, the inner surface 32d is sufficiently spaced apart from the portafilter cleaning device 20 such that, in use, the inner surface 32d is spaced apart from the portafilter 40. Preferably, the inner surface 32d is sufficiently spaced apart from the portafilter cleaning device 20 such that the portafilter cavity 41 may be lowered onto or retracted away from the cleaning head 1 by the user easily without the portafilter 40 being impeded by the casing 32. Optionally, the outer surface 32e is concave proximal to the rim of the first opening 32a.

Optionally, the first opening 32a includes a lowered front edge 33 on the front 31a of the casing 32. Optionally, the lowered front edge 33 is configured to receive a portion at least of the portafilter 40 including the portafilter neck 40b such that the portafilter may be rested or tilted on the lowered front edge 33 in use. The lowered front edge 33 is configured to enable a portion at least of the cleaning head 1 to protrude in a direction relative to axis L above the lowered front edge 33. The lowered front edge 33 is configured to provide accessibility for the user in navigating the portafilter 40 towards the cleaning device 20 and lowering the portafilter cavity 41 onto the cleaning head 1.

In one embodiment, the casing 32 is formed in a single portion. In another embodiment, the casing 32 includes a first portion 34 and a second portion 35. The first portion 34 is mounted on or connected to the second portion 35 via a securing mechanism. Preferably, the first and second portions 34,35 include one or more inserts or one or more openings configured to receive bolts or screws to provide the securing mechanism. Optionally, the inserts or openings are threaded. The first and second portions 34,35 may include one or more slots or one or more protrusions for providing the securing mechanism for securing the first portion 34 to the second portion 35.

Preferably, the casing 32 includes a flange 34a configured for mounting the casing 32 to a tabletop or counter. In one embodiment, the flange 32e is included in the first portion 34 of the casing 32. The casing 32 may be mounted into a tabletop or counter such that the first portion 34 protrudes from the surface of the tabletop or the counter while the flange 34a rests on the counter. The second portion is concealed beneath a tabletop or a counter. Preferably, the first portion 34 is wider than the second portion 35. Optionally, the flange 32e is included in the second portion 32d of the casing 32. Preferably, the flange 32e is proximal to the securing mechanism for mounting or connecting the first portion 34 to the second portion 35.

The outer surface 32e of the casing 32 preferably includes a recess 36 configured for receiving a fastener 37. In one embodiment, the recess 36 extends around the casing 32, in particular the outer surface 32e of the casing 32. Optionally, the fastener 37 is a resiliently deformable member. In one embodiment, the fastener is an elastic polymer. In other embodiments, the fastener 37 is a rubber tube or a string or an elastic band, however, other fasteners may also be used. In specific embodiments, the fastener 37 is dimensioned to provide a corresponding profile to the recess 36 such that a part of the fastener 37 at least is configured to mate with recess 36.

In one embodiment, the recess 36 forms a semi-circular receptacle in the outer surface 32e and the fastener 37 has a circular cross-section. In use, the fastener 37 is used to secure a collector to the outer surface 32e of the casing 32. At least a part of the collector is secured to the casing 32 via the fastener 37. Optionally, the fastener 37 engages with the recess 36 and a part of the collector is entrapped therebetween. The fastener 37 may be dimensioned to fit into the recess 36 securely in an unstressed state. Optionally, the length of the fastener 37 is less than the length of the recess 36 around the outer surface 32e of the casing 32. The fastener 37 may be stretched to release the collector. In one embodiment, the fastener 37 includes a gripper 37a configured to enable the user to stretch the fastener 37 for releasing or replacing the collector. Optionally, the gripper 37a is used as a pulling mechanism to aid the user in pulling the fastener 37.

The gripper 37a may be secured to the fastener 37 through suitable securing means. The gripper 37 may be secured to the fastener 37 using screws, in particular grub screws. Optionally, the gripper 37a includes two grub screws such that a first end of the fastener 37 and a second end of the fastener22 37 may be secured within the gripper 37. In one embodiment, the gripper 37a is a feedthrough configured to receive a portion of the fastener 37. The gripper 37a includes a tubular portion 37b having an inner diameter that is configured to receive the fastener 37 having an outer diameter, the inner diameter of the tubular portion being greater than the outer diameter of the fastener 37. The gripper 37a may include a gripping portion 37c configured to enable the user to grip the gripper 37a while applying a force to stretch the fastener 37. The recess 36 may include a dedicated portion 37d configured to receive the gripper 37. Preferably, the dedicated portion 37d for the gripper 37a is located at the front 3 la of the casing.

The recess 36 is included in the second portion 35 of the casing 32 particularly in eembodiments where the second portion is configured to be concealed beneath a tabletop or a counter. Optionally, the recess 36 is formed in the outer surface 32e on the front 3 la of the casing. In one embodiment, the recess 36 is proximal to the second opening 32b. In use, the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L travels through the second opening 32b and into the collector. Optionally, the collector is a collection bin or flexible bag.

The outer surface 32e of the casing 32 preferably includes a one or more protrusions for securing the fastener 37 to the outer surface 32e. The protrusions are configured to hold the fastener 37 in the recess 36. The protrusions are aligned with the recess 36 extending in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the outer surface 32e. In one embodiment, the protrusions are feedthroughs or rings 37e. The rings 37e have an inner diameter that is configured to receive the fastener 37 having an outer diameter, the inner diameter of the rings being greater than the outer diameter of the fastener 37. Preferably, the protrusions for securing the fastener 37 to the outer surface 32e or the rings 37e are located at the rear 3 lb of the casing. The rings 37e are configured to prevent the loss of the fastener 37. Alternatively, the rings 37e may be separable relative to the remainder of the casing 32 in that it can be detached and re-attached.

The cleaning unit 30 includes a supporting element 38a extending from the inner surface 32d of the casing 32 configured to receive the cleaning device 20. The cleaning device 20 is mounted or connected to the supporting element 38a and thereby supported within the casing 32. Optionally, the cleaning device 20 is mounted or connected to the supporting element 38a via the base 25. The base 25 or the supporting element 38a may include inserts or openings configured to receive bolts or screws for securing the cleaning device 20 to the supporting element 38a. The inserts or openings may be positioned at the front and/or rear of the casing 32. There may be at least two inserts or openings at the front and back of the casing 32

Optionally, the cleaning unit 30 includes a web, spoke or feedthrough 38b extending between the inner surface 32d of the casing 32 and the cleaning device 20 or the base 25. The feedthrough 38b is configured to receive one or more conductors, such as electrical wires, to enable the motor 22 to be connected to the power supply. Optionally, the conductors extend from the cleaning device 20 to a terminal 38c via the feedthrough 38b. The terminal 38c may be located at the rear 3 lb of the casing 32. In one embodiment, the terminal 38c is substantially flush with the outer surface 32e of the casing 32. The base 25 may be connected to the supporting element 38a and/or the feedthrough 38b via screws or bolts 38c. Optionally, the terminal 38c is a 5.5mm x 2.1mm DC female socket, however, other suitable electrical connectors or sockets may also be used.

Optionally, the base 25 or the supporting element 38a or the feedthrough 38b include in part at least has a downward sloping outer surface relative to axis L configured to further promote the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L. The outer surfaces of the base 25 or the supporting element 38a or the feedthrough 38b are configured such that coffee residue released from the portafilter cavity 41 in use or otherwise travelling in an axial direction relative to axis L towards the second opening 32b is dissuaded from settling on the surfaces of the base 25 or the supporting element 38a or the feedthrough 38b. Preferably, the supporting element 38a or the feedthrough 38b are beams, configured to provide the necessary support to the portafilter cleaning device 20 while minimising the surface area that may inhibit the downward axial flow of the coffee residue, relative to axis L, through the second opening 32b to the collector. Optionally, the base 25 and/or the supporting element 38a and/or the feedthrough 38b form a single unit that may be releasably attached to the second opening 32b in assembling the portafilter cleaning unit 30.

In one embodiment, the portafilter cleaning unit 30 includes two or more portafilter cleaning devices 20. In one embodiment, the portafilter cleaning unit 30 includes a first portafilter cleaning device 20a and a second portafilter cleaning device 20b.

The first portafilter cleaning device 20a includes the cleaning head 1 of Figures 1 to 4 wherein the cleaning arms 4 include the outer edge 5 having the first edge 5a and the second edge 5b. Optionally, the outer edge 5 includes the third edge 5c. Preferably, the outer edge 5 includes the leading-edge having a pointed tip or a sharp edge or a blade-like edge. Optionally, the outer edge 5 includes the fourth edge 5d that provides an angular offset, wherein the angle a is at least 10 degrees, or at least 20 degrees or at least 30 degrees to provide twisting in the cleaning arms 4. Thus, the first portafilter cleaning device 20a is configured to provide the drilling-like motion and/or sweeping-like motion and/or scooping- like motion and/or the wiping-like or scraping motion against the coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 or on the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 in use as described hereinbefore. The second portafilter cleaning device 20b includes the cleaning head 1 of Figures 5 to 8 wherein the cleaning arms 4 include the outer edge 5 having the first edge 5a and second edge 5b. Optionally, the outer edge 5 includes the third edge 5c. Preferably, the outer edge 5 includes the groove or slot 9 extending along at least a part of the outer edge 5 configured for releasably attaching the cleaning element 10 to the cleaning arms 4. The cleaning element 10 includes the outer surface 10b having the cleaning means 12. Optionally, the cleaning arm 4 includes the inner surface 6 that confronts the outer surface 2a of the supporting centre 2 to form the opening 7. Thus, the second portafilter cleaning device 20b is configured to provide the brushing or polishing or wiping-type motions against the coffee residue within the portafilter cavity 41 or on the one or more surfaces of the portafilter cavity 41 in use as described hereinbefore.

The portafilter cleaning unit 30 including the first portafilter cleaning device 20a and the second portafilter cleaning device 20b is configured to provide two stages of cleaning a portafilter 40. Preferably, the first portafilter cleaning device 20a is configured to provide a bulk clean or a “drill head” and the second portafilter cleaning device 20b is configured to provide a finishing clean or a “brush head”. In a specific embodiment, each of the first and second portafilter cleaning devices 20a, 20b include three cleaning arms 4 which provides the minimum number of cleaning arms 4 to ensure the stability of the portafilter 40 in use and also ensures the total spacing in each cleaning head 1 is sufficient for the downward axial flow of the coffee residue relative to axis L.

In embodiments of the portafilter cleaning unit 30 including the first portafilter cleaning device 20a and the second portafilter cleaning device 20b, the base 25 extends at least between the first axis LI and the second axis L2. Preferably, the feedthrough 38b extends between the inner surface 32d of the casing 32 and the base 25, in particular proximal to the mid-point between the first and second portafilter cleaning devices 20a, 20b. The feedthrough 38b provides a third support in addition to the supporting elements 38a of the first and second cleaning devices 20a, 20b. In other embodiments, the portafilter cleaning unit 30 includes three or more portafilter cleaning devices, in particular for use in busy coffee shops to enable the preparation and cleaning of multiple portafilters to increase time-efficiency and customer service. The description presents exemplary embodiments and, together with the drawings, serves to explain principles of the invention. The scope of the invention, however, is not intended to be limited to the precise details of the embodiments, since variations will be apparent to a skilled person and are deemed also to be covered by the description. Terms for components used herein should be given a broad interpretation that also encompasses equivalent functions and features. In some cases several alternative terms (synonyms) for structural features have been provided but such terms are not intended to be exhaustive.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A portafilter cleaning head for rotation about an axis comprising:

• a supporting centre, and

• a plurality of cleaning arms extending from said supporting centre or said axis, angularly spaced apart about said axis, wherein each of said cleaning arms comprises an outer edge having at least a first edge extending in a radial direction relative to said axis and a second edge extending in an axial direction relative to said axis, the outer edge configured to receive one or more surfaces of a portafilter cavity.

2. The portafilter cleaning head according to claim 1, wherein the outer edge of the cleaning arms comprises a fourth edge extending in a radial direction relative to said axis and spaced apart from the first edge along the axis to form an angle between said first edge and fourth edge relative to said axis.

3. The portafilter cleaning head according to claim 2, wherein said angle between said first edge and fourth edge relative to said axis is at least 10 degrees, or at least 20 degrees, or at least 30 degrees.

4. The portafilter cleaning head according to claim any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the outer edge of the cleaning arms comprises a third edge configured to receive and/or engage with at least part of the rim edge of the portafilter cavity.

5. The portafilter cleaning head according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the outer edge of the cleaning arms comprises a leading-edge extending along part at least of said outer edge, the leading-edge having a pointed, sharp or a blade-like edge.

6. The portafilter cleaning head according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said cleaning arms are arranged in the form of an axial fan to cause axial flow through said cleaning head in a downward axial direction relative to said axis.

7. The portafilter cleaning head according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the each of said cleaning arms comprise an inner surface that confronts said supporting centre to form an opening between said inner surface and said supporting centre.

8. The portafilter cleaning head according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the outer edge comprises a groove or slot extending along a part at least of the outer edge configured for releasably attaching a cleaning element to the cleaning arms, the cleaning element having an inner surface and an outer surface.

9. The portafilter cleaning head according to claim 8, wherein the inner surface of the cleaning element comprises a protrusion extending along a part at least of the inner surface for slidably engaging with said groove or slot to provide a securing means.

10. The portafilter cleaning head according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the groove or slot comprises a T-shaped slot and the protrusion comprises a T-shaped protrusion for providing the securing means of a T-shaped arrangement.

11. The portafilter cleaning head according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the outer surface of the cleaning element comprises a cleaning means.

12. The portafilter cleaning head according to claim 11, wherein said cleaning means comprises an absorbent cleaning material.

13. The portafilter cleaning head according to any claim 11 or claim 12, wherein said cleaning means comprises bristles, such as a brush.

14. The portafilter cleaning head according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein said cleaning means comprises strands or fibres of an absorbent cleaning material.

15. The portafilter cleaning head according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the supporting centre comprises an outer surface that in part at least has a downward sloping outer surface relative to said axis.

16. The portafilter cleaning head according to claim 15, wherein the supporting centre comprises a bell or a dome shape.

17. The portafilter cleaning head according to claim 16, wherein the supporting centre comprises a cavity or receptacle.

18. A portafilter cleaning device comprising the cleaning head according to any one of claims 1 to 16, comprising a motor having a first end and a second end spaced apart along said axis, the motor electrically connected to a power supply and configured to provide a torque to said cleaning head.

19. A portafilter cleaning device according to claim 18, wherein the motor is activated by a switch activated by the axial displacement of said motor.

20. A portafilter cleaning device according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the motor comprises a motor shaft that protrudes from the first end, the motor connected to the cleaning head via the motor shaft and the receptacle.

21. A portafilter cleaning device according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the motor shaft and the receptacle may be connected via a coupler.

22. A portafilter cleaning device according to claim 21, wherein the coupler is provided with a coupler casing to shield components of the portafilter cleaning device from infiltration of coffee residue.

23. A portafilter cleaning device according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the motor is electrically connected to a micro-switch, the micro switch comprising a lever extending between the micro-switch and the motor or said axis.

24. A portafilter cleaning device according to claim 23, wherein the lever is configured to activate the micro-switch relative to an axial displacement of the motor in an axial direction relative to said axis.

25. A portafilter cleaning device according to any one of claims 18 to 24, wherein the axial displacement of the motor in an axial direction relative to said axis for activating the micro-switch acts against a spring bias provided by the compression spring.

26. A portafilter cleaning unit comprising the portafilter cleaning device according to any one of claims 18 to 25, comprising a first portafilter cleaning device and a second portafilter cleaning device.

27. The portafilter cleaning unit according to claim 26, wherein the outer edge of one or more of said cleaning arms comprises the leading-edge having a pointed tip or sharp edge or blade-like edge.

28. The portafilter cleaning unit according to claim 26 or claim 27, wherein the outer edge of one or more of said cleaning arms comprises the groove or slot extending along a part at least of the outer edge configured for releasably attaching the cleaning element to the cleaning arms.

29. The portafilter cleaning unit according to any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein said first portafilter cleaning device and said second portafilter cleaning device are housed within a casing.