PORTAFILTER AND GROUNDS WEIGHING PLATFORM SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE

摘要

A device with weighing capability (or “scale feature”) and also anvil capability (or “tapping feature”) allows accurate and precise filling of an espresso portafilter with coffee grounds for use in beverage preparation. Some versions switch between a protected mode for anvil use, and a weighing mode for accurate weighing of the portafilter and its grounds, by pivoting the entire load cell into and out of a protected location wherein tapping/shocks do not flex/strain the load cell free end. In other versions, one or more stop(s)/limit(s) are near the load cell free end or associated elements, and the free end/elements move during said tapping/shocks but only to the stop(s)/limit(s), corresponding to a safe amount of strain for the load cell. Also, this way, weighing the portafilter and its contents may continue between taps without switching to a separate protected mode.

主权项

1. A portafilter support and weighing device, for use with a portafilter having a basket and a handle, and with coffee bean grinder having a grounds outlet, the device comprising a base for placement at or near the grinder, a portafilter support system upending from the base, and a load cell in the base;
wherein the portafilter support system is adapted to hold the portafilter in a generally horizontal position with the basket underneath the grounds outlet of the grinder, the support system is mechanically connected to a free end of the load cell so that the portafilter and any portafilter contents weigh down at least a portion of the support system to strain the load cell for weighing said portafilter and any contents; the device further comprising a protection system for preventing excessive movement of the free end of the load cell when the support system is impacted by tapping of the portafilter or other shock.