Portafilter and grounds weighing platform system and methods of use

#Field of the Invention

#This technology relates generally to weighing systems for espresso or other coffee grounds. More specifically, the preferred embodiments relate to systems for connection to, or use with, a bean grinding machine, that conveniently support an espresso portafilter hands-free, and that also very accurately weigh the portafilter containing espresso coffee grounds.

#Related Art

#FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an example coffee grinder, and one, but not the only, embodiment of a portafilter platform device wherein the platform device is adapted to be switched to move into and out of a load-cell protected position. This view shows the device with an empty portafilter in place, without the user holding the portafilter. Also seen in this view is the cross section line showing the general location of the cross-sections of FIGS. 8-11, wherein the portafilter handle is raised in FIGS. 8 and 9 because the user (not shown) is holding the handle, and wherein the portafilter handle is resting in FIGS. 10 and 11 because the user has set the handle back on the handle-rest.

#FIG. 2 is a right view of the coffee grinder and device of FIG. 1, the portafilter handle raised to place the device in the load-cell-protected mode, and therefore allowing tapping (arrow) upon the device during dispensing, or between multiple dispensings, of the coffee grounds into the portafilter basket.

#FIG. 3 is an expanded detail view from the circled area of FIG. 2, showing that during this load-cell-protected process, the fork-plate is lowered to an extent that it rests against the adjacent stationary arm.

#Definitions and Abbreviations:

#A “barista” is a person who prepares espresso coffee, as well as derivative beverages such as a macchiato, cappuccino, or latte.

#An “espresso coffee grinder” (“grinder”) converts roasted coffee beans into ground coffee, which may be used for preparing coffee, espresso, or derivative beverages. The resulting ground coffee goes into the basket of a “portafilter” for preparation of espresso and derivative beverages. Portafilters are known in the art of conventional espresso preparation.