U.S. patent number 5,868,062 [Application Number 08/817,503] was granted by the patent office on 1999-02-09 for coffee making apparatus for making coffee using heated and unheated water.
Invention is credited to Kazuo Enomoto.
United States Patent |
5,868,062 |
Enomoto |
February 9, 1999 |
Coffee making apparatus for making coffee using heated and unheated
water
Abstract
Coffee liquid extracting apparatus comprises an extractor
vessel, a combined-use decanter that retains water for extraction,
receives extracted coffee liquid and is usable for pouring coffee
liquid into cups. A circulation path and a circulation pump
transport the liquid from the combined-use decanter and pour the
liquid into the extractor vessel. A circulating water heater heats
water circulated by the circulation pump. A controller controls
operation in response to a tap temperature operation switch to
operate the circulation pump to circulate the water for a fixed
time (T.sub.1) with the circulating water heater on for a fixed
time (T.sub.0) limited to an early operation period, thereby
pouring high temperature water for a fixed time (T.sub.0) limited
to the early operation period and subsequently pouring unheated
water.
Inventors: |
Enomoto; Kazuo (Higashinada-ku,
Kobe-shi, Hyogo 658, JP) |
Family
ID: |
26363721 |
Appl.
No.: |
08/817,503 |
Filed: |
April 10, 1997 |
PCT
Filed: |
March 15, 1996 |
PCT No.: |
PCT/JP96/00715 |
371
Date: |
April 10, 1997 |
102(e)
Date: |
April 10, 1997 |
PCT
Pub. No.: |
WO97/07722 |
PCT
Pub. Date: |
March 06, 1997 |
Foreign Application Priority Data
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Aug 28, 1995 [JP] |
|
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7-243797 |
Jan 19, 1996 [JP] |
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8-025998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
99/282; 99/286;
99/308; 99/289R |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47J
31/002 (20130101); A47J 31/053 (20130101); A47J
31/0573 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A47J
31/053 (20060101); A47J 31/04 (20060101); A47J
31/057 (20060101); A47J 31/00 (20060101); A47J
031/00 () |
Field of
Search: |
;99/307,306,304,286,308,300,289R,282,283 ;426/433 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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173124 |
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Dec 1981 |
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JP |
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225015 |
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Dec 1984 |
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JP |
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78678 |
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Mar 1994 |
|
JP |
|
Primary Examiner: Alexander; Reginald L.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Jordan and Hamburg
Claims
I claim:
1. A coffee making apparatus comprising:
a chassis;
an extractor vessel for accepting ground coffee and permitting
water to pass through said ground coffee and out of said extractor
vessel, said extractor vessel being disposed in said chassis;
a decanter, removably disposed in said chassis, for accepting water
passed through said extractor vessel and storing water to be passed
through said extractor vessel;
a pump and conduit assembly communicating with a lower volume of
said decanter and having an outlet to said extractor vessel for
transporting water stored in said decanter into said extractor
vessel;
a circulating water heater, in said pump and conduit assembly, for
heating water transported by said pump and conduit assembly;
and
a controller for controlling said pump and conduit assembly and
said circulating water heater to circulate said water from said
decanter to said extractor vessel with said circulating water
heater operating to heat said water during a duration of a first
time period and to circulate said water from said decanter to said
extractor vessel with said circulating water heater not operating
during a duration of a second time period following said first time
period.
2. A coffee making apparatus comprising:
a chassis;
an extractor vessel for accepting around coffee and permitting
water to pass through said ground coffee and out of said extractor
vessel, said extractor vessel being disposed in said chassis;
a decanter, removably disposed in said chassis, for accepting water
passed through said extractor vessel and storing water to be passed
through said extractor vessel;
a pump and conduit assembly communicating with a lower volume of
said decanter and having an outlet to said extractor vessel for
transporting water stored in said decanter into said extractor
vessel;
a circulating water heater, in said pump and conduit assembly, for
heating water transported by said pump and conduit assembly;
selection means for permitting an operator to select an ice coffee
mode and a hot coffee mode: and a controller, responsive to said
selection means, for controlling said pump and conduit assembly and
said circulating water heater wherein:
in response to said operator selecting said ice coffee mode, said
controller controls said pump and conduit assembly and said
circulating water heater to circulate said water from said decanter
to said extractor vessel with said circulating water heater
operating to heat said water during a duration of a first time
period and to circulate said water from said decanter to said
extractor vessel with said circulating water heater not operating
during a duration of a second time period following said first time
period; and
in response to said operator selecting said hot coffee mode, said
controller controls said pump and conduit assembly and said
circulating water heater to circulate said water from said decanter
to said extractor vessel with said circulating water heater
operating to heat said water during a duration of a third time
period.
3. The coffee making apparatus according to claim 2 further
comprising:
a second selection means permitting said operator to select a heat
maintaining mode; and
said controller being responsive to said second selection means and
operating said pump and conduit assemble and said circulating water
heater in response to said operator selecting said heat maintaining
mode as follows:
(a) operating said pump and conduit assembly and said circulating
water heater to circulate said water from said decanter to said
extractor vessel with said circulating water heater operating to
heat said water during a duration of a third time period;
(b) ceasing operation of said pump and conduit assembly and said
circulating water heater during a duration of a fourth time period
following said third time period; and
(c) repeating operations (a) and (b) following elapse of said
fourth time period.
4. The coffee making apparatus, as defined in any one of claims 1
to 3, wherein said decanter has a valve which opens when said
decanter is disposed in said chassis to permit said pump and
conduit assembly to transport water from said decanter and closes
when said decanter is removed from said chassis to prevent water
from escaping from said decanter.
5. A coffee making apparatus comprising:
a chassis;
an extractor vessel for accepting ground coffee and permitting
water to pass through said ground coffee and out of said extractor
vessel, said extractor vessel being disposed in said chassis;
a tank, disposed in said chassis, for accepting water passed
through said extractor vessel and storing water to be passed
through said extractor vessel;
a serving conduit and valve assembly connected to said tank for
dispensing said water passed through said extractor vessel from
said tank;
a pump and conduit assembly communicating with a lower volume of
said tank and having an outlet to said extractor vessel for
transporting water stored in said tank into said extractor
vessel;
a circulating water heater, in said pump and conduit assembly, for
heating water transported by said pump and conduit assembly;
and
a controller for controlling said pump and conduit assembly and
said circulating water heater to circulate said water from said
tank to said extractor vessel with said circulating water heater
operating to heat said water during a duration of a first time
period corresponding to a heated water operation mode and to
circulate said water from said tank to said extractor vessel with
said circulating water heater not operating during a duration of a
second time period, following said first time period, corresponding
to an unheated water operation mode.
6. The coffee making apparatus according to claim 5 wherein said
controller operates said pump and conduit assembly and said
circulating water heater to cease operation for a duration of a
third time period, corresponding to a standby mode, occurring after
said first time period and before said second time period between
said heated water operation mode and said unheated water operation
mode.
7. The coffee making apparatus according to claim 5 or claim 6
further comprising:
a water introducing pipe for introducing water from an outside
source into said tank;
a water input valve in said water introducing pipe and controlled
by said controller;
a water quantity sensor attached to said water introducing pipe for
sensing a quantity of water passing through said water introducing
pipe; and
said controller operating in a water feed mode controlling said
water input valve of said water introducing pipe to introduce water
into said tank until said water quantity sensor detects that a
predetermined water quantity is introduced into said tank.
8. The coffee apparatus as defined in claim 7 wherein said
controller includes means for:
operating first in said water feed mode to introduce water into
said tank:
operating in said heated water mode for said duration of said first
time period following completion of said water feed mode;
operating in said standby mode for said duration of said third time
period following completion of said water feed mode; and
operating in said unheated water mode for said duration of said
second time period following completion of said standby mode.
9. The coffee making apparatus as defined in claim 8 further
comprising means for setting each of said first time period, said
second time period and said third time period.
10. The coffee making apparatus as defined in claim 9 wherein said
first time period corresponds to a time required for said pump and
conduit assembly to transport a first quantity of water and said
second time period corresponds to a time required for said pump and
conduit assembly to transport a second quantity of water.
11. A coffee making extracting apparatus comprising:
a chassis;
a roasting and milling means, disposed in said chassis, for milling
and roasting coffee beans including a coffee bean roasting device,
a pulverizing device for receiving and pulverizing roasted coffee
beans from said roasting device into pulverized coffee beans, and a
pulverized coffee bean outlet for receiving said pulverized coffee
beans from said pulverizing device;
a first coffee making means, disposed in said chassis, for making
coffee by passing heated water and then unheated water through
pulverized coffee beans;
a second coffee making means, disposed in said chassis, for making
coffee by passing heated water through pulverized coffee beans;
and
said roasting and milling means being interposed between said first
coffee making means and said second coffee making means.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a coffee liquid extracting
apparatus.
There are two methods for obtaining ice coffee. One method is to
first extract hot coffee liquid using high temperature water and
then to cool the extracted coffee liquid. Another method is to
extract coffee liquid by the use of ambient temperature water, such
as unheated, or ordinary tap temperature water, from the beginning,
and then to cool the extracted coffee liquid to a low
temperature.
However, in the above former method, wherein coffee liquid is
extracted by the use of high temperature water, cooling to a low
temperature requires a large amount of cooling and thus consumes a
lot of ice in order to change the coffee liquid extracted by high
temperature water into ice coffee. In actual practice, such a large
amount of cooling requires ice making machinery.
As opposed to and as compared with the former method, the latter
tap temperature water method can reduce an extracted quantity of
such components as astringency, caffeine, sundry taste and the like
that deteriorate the taste of coffee liquid. Further, the latter
method includes the merit of decreasing oil content which causes
oxidation of coffee liquid. However, the problem of the latter
method is that a long time for extraction is required. For
instance, in existing methods, about one night, namely at least 5
to 8 hours, is required to extract coffee liquid by the use of tap
temperature water.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In order to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art, the present
invention provides a coffee liquid extracting apparatus that
effects tap temperature water extraction of coffee liquid in a
short time with little content of oil, astringency, caffeine, and
sundry taste, and with little oxidation tendency, while providing a
good taste and a favorable amber color.
Also, the present invention provides a coffee liquid extracting
apparatus that favorably performs tap temperature water extraction
of coffee liquid, and at the same time, can selectively perform
high temperature water extraction of coffee liquid.
To achieve the above objects, the coffee liquid extracting
apparatus of the present invention comprises an extractor for
dripping coffee liquid from ground coffee; a combined-use decanter
disconnectably disposed under the extractor for storing liquid,
such as water for extraction use, and receiving the coffee liquid
dripping from the extractor; a circulation path and a circulation
pump for drawing out the liquid inside the decanter from its
bottom, transporting it to an upper part of the extractor, and
pouring it into the extractor; a circulating water heater installed
in the circulation path; and a controller for controlling the
circulating water heater and the circulation pump; wherein the
controller, in response to actuation of a tap temperature water
extraction switch, drives the circulation pump to circulate coffee
liquid for a fixed time (T.sub.1), and at the same time, by turning
on the circulating water heater for a fixed time (T.sub.0), limited
to an early operation period, drives highly heated water into the
extractor for the fixed time (T.sub.0), and then, drives unheated
water into the extractor. The above embodiment addresses the first
feature of the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present
invention.
The coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present invention
includes a second feature providing a coffee liquid extracting
apparatus that comprises an extractor for dripping coffee liquid; a
combined-use decanter, disconnectably disposed under the extractor,
for storing water for extraction use and receiving the coffee
liquid dripping from the extractor; a circulation path and a
circulation pump for drawing out the liquid inside the decanter
from a bottom thereof, transporting the liquid to an upper part of
the extractor, and pouring it into the extractor; a circulating
water heater installed in the circulation path; a controller for
effecting a tap temperature water extraction operation for making
ice coffee and a high temperature water extraction operation for
making hot coffee wherein the controller, when instructed to effect
the tap temperature water extraction operation for ice coffee,
drives the circulation pump to circulate coffee liquid for a fixed
time (T.sub.1), and at the same time, turns on the circulating
water heater for a fixed time (T.sub.0) limited to an early
operation portion of the fixed time (T.sub.1), thus driving highly
heated water into the extractor, and then driving unheated water
into the extractor. Furthermore, in response to an instruction for
effecting a high temperature water extraction operation for making
hot coffee, the controller drives the circulation pump to circulate
coffee liquid for a fixed time (T.sub.2), with the circulating
water heater turned on, to drive highly heated water into the
extractor.
In addition to the above second feature, an embodiment of the
coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present invention
includes a the third feature wherein the coffee liquid extracting
apparatus is provided with a controller for controlling a heat
maintaining operation. The controller, when instructed to effect
the heat maintaining operation, drives a circulation pump for a
fixed time (T.sub.3) at regular intervals (T.sub.4) with a
circulating water heater turned on.
In addition to any of the above-mentioned first to third features,
an embodiment of the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the
present invention includes a fourth feature wherein the coffee
liquid extracting apparatus is provided with a combined-use
decanter whose bottom part is equipped with an outlet portion
having a valve body such that when the combined-use decanter is
mounted in place, the outlet portion is connected to a circulation
path and, at the same time, the valve body opens the outlet
portion, and when the combined-use decanter is moved out of place,
the valve body closes the outlet portion.
Further, an embodiment of the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of
the present invention includes a fifth feature wherein the coffee
liquid extracting apparatus is provided with a tap temperature
extraction unit that comprises: an extractor for extracting coffee
liquid from roasted and ground coffee bean powder added thereto, a
combined-use tank situated below the extractor for holding water
for use in the extraction process and, at the same time, receiving
extracted coffee liquid dripping from the extractor, a coffee
dispensing port connected to the combined-use tank for dispensing
coffee liquid from the combined-use tank, a circulation path and a
circulation pump for transporting the liquid in the combined-use
tank to an upper part of the extractor and for pouring the liquid
into the extractor, a circulating water heater installed in the
circulation path, and a controller; wherein, the controller has a
high temperature water operation mode and an unheated water
operation mode, the former mode being characterized by both the
circulation pump and the circulating water heater being turned on
for a fixed time (T.sub.11), limited to an early portion of an
operation period, in order that high temperature water may be
poured into the extractor, the latter mode being characterized by
that, for a fixed time (T.sub.13) after the first fixed time
(T.sub.11), only the circulation pump is turned on in order that
unheated water be poured into the extractor.
Further, in addition to the fifth feature, an embodiment of the
coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present invention
includes a sixth feature wherein the coffee liquid extracting
apparatus is provided with a controller having a standby mode
characterized by both a circulation pump and a circulating water
heater being stopped for a fixed time (T.sub.12) between the high
temperature water operation mode and the unheated water operation
mode.
Further, in addition to the fifth or sixth feature, an embodiment
of the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present invention
provides a seventh feature wherein the coffee liquid extracting
apparatus is provided with a water-introducing pipe for introducing
city water into a combined-use tank, an open-shut-valve and a water
quantity sensor in the introducing pipe, and a controller; wherein,
the controller has a water-feeding mode that is characterized by
the valve on the pipe being opened to introduce city water of a
predetermined water quantity into the tank, in advance of a
beginning of an extraction operation, until the water quantity
sensor detects a predetermined water quantity.
Further, in addition to the seventh feature, the coffee liquid
extracting apparatus of the present invention includes an eighth
feature wherein the controller of the coffee liquid extracting
apparatus, in response to a operation switch being turned on, first
implements a water-feeding mode of operation; secondly, when the
water-feeding mode is finished, implements a high temperature water
operation mode automatically; thirdly, when the high temperature
water operation mode is finished, implements a standby mode
automatically; and fourthly, when the standby mode is finished,
implements an unheated water operation mode automatically.
Further, in addition to the eighth feature, the coffee liquid
extracting apparatus of the present invention includes a ninth
feature wherein the duration time (T.sub.11) of the high
temperature water operation mode, the duration time (T.sub.13) of
the unheated water operation mode, and a duration time (T.sub.12)
of the standby mode are respectively adjustable.
Further, in addition to the ninth feature, the coffee liquid
extracting apparatus of the present invention includes a tenth
feature wherein the duration time (T.sub.11) of the high
temperature water operation mode and the duration time (T.sub.13)
of the unheated water operation mode are respectively, instead of
being predetermined by time, predetermined by a time required for a
fixed quantity of high temperature water to be poured and a time
required for a fixed quantity of unheated water to be poured.
Further, the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present
invention includes an eleventh feature wherein the coffee liquid
extracting apparatus is provided with a roasting and milling
portion at a middle position of the apparatus with the roasting and
milling portion disposed between a tap temperature extraction unit
on one side, and a high temperature extraction unit that extracts
coffee liquid using high temperature water, which retains and
supplies that liquid, on the other side. The roasting and milling
portion is provided with a coffee bean roasting device, a
pulverizing device that receives roasted coffee bean from the
roasting device and pulverizes the roasted coffee bean, and a
coffee powder dispensing port that receives pulverized coffee bean
from the pulverizing device.
In the invention having the first feature, filter paper is set into
the extractor, roasted and milled coffee bean powder is put into
the extractor, and a fixed quantity of water for extraction use is
put into the combined-use decanter. With the combined-use decanter
being set into a predetermined position in the apparatus, coffee
liquid extraction arrangements are made. When an extraction
operation switch is actuated, the controller starts operating and
turns on the circulation pump and the circulating water heater.
Water in the combined-use decanter circulates through the
circulation path into the extractor. During a fixed time (T.sub.0),
limited to an early portion of an operation period, the circulating
water heater is turned on, so that in such a period, the water from
the combined-use decanter is heated to a high temperature by the
circulating water heater and is poured into the extractor. The
coffee bean powder in the extractor is expanded adequately
throughout by the high temperature water. Thus extraction
arrangements are settled. When pouring of the high temperature
water during the early period is finished, in turn, unheated water,
that is, water from the combined-use decanter is circulated without
the circulating water heater being turned on and poured into the
extractor. The coffee bean powder is now adequately expanded and
wet due to the use of the high temperature water during the early
period, and thus extraction arrangements are ready. Thus, by
pouring only tap temperature, or unheated water, from the
combined-use decanter, adequate extraction is attained. Extracted
coffee liquid from the extractor drips into the combined-use
decanter. For a fixed time (T.sub.1), while the circulation pump is
turned on, the liquid within the combined-use decanter repeatedly
circulates through the extractor several times, and as a result, in
such a short time as about 10 to 20 minutes, extraction is
adequately processed and finishes.
In accordance with the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the
present invention having the first feature, the coffee liquid
extracting apparatus is provided with the extractor, the
combined-use decanter, the circulation path and the circulation
pump, the circulating water heater, and the controller for
controlling the heater and pump. The controller is configured to
respond to the operation of the tap temperature water extraction
operation switch so as to first drive the circulation pump to
circulate the liquid for a fixed time (T.sub.1); second, turn on
the circulating water heater to circulate the highly heated water
into the extractor for a fixed time (T.sub.0) as limited to the
early operation period; and third, circulate unheated water into
the extractor. Owing to the above constitution of the controller at
first, by means of high temperature water, the coffee bean powder
gets expanded to meet adequately the condition for extraction, and
then, extraction is effected using tap temperature water.
Accordingly, essentially, the extraction by the use of tap
temperature water becomes feasible, and at the same time, the
extraction can be completed within a short time. Due to the use of
tap temperature water, coffee liquid having little astringency and
caffeine and sundry taste, good taste, little oil content and
oxidation tendency, favorable amber color, good flavor, and
ice-coffee itself can be produced within a short time. Further, in
practice, heavy duty cooling equipment becomes unnecessary, and
thus, ice coffee can be produced using minimal electric power and
at low cost.
Further, according to the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the
present invention having the first feature, the extraction is
carried out by circulating and heating the water for extraction use
so that the liquid once extracted becomes circulated again into the
extractor. Accordingly, the extraction time as a whole is
shortened.
In the invention having the second feature, preparation for coffee
liquid extraction is accomplished when: filter paper is set in the
extractor; necessary cups of roasted and ground coffee bean powder
are put into the extractor; a fixed quantity of water (for
extraction-use) corresponding to the necessary cups of coffee bean
powder is put into the combined-use decanter; and the decanter is
set at the predetermined position of the apparatus. When the
instruction for tap temperature water extraction operation is
given, the controller turns on the circulation pump and the
circulating water heater. Thereby, the water in the combined-use
decanter circulates toward the extractor through the circulation
path. Because, for such a fixed time (T.sub.0) of the early
operation period, the circulating water heater is turned on, during
that time the water from the combined-use decanter is heated to a
high temperature by the circulating water heater and is poured into
the extractor. By means of this high temperature water, the coffee
bean powder in the extractor is adequately expanded throughout the
powder for the process of extraction. When the fixed time (T.sub.0)
of the early operation period has passed, the circulating water
heater is turned off and unheated water circulates and is poured
into the extractor. The coffee bean powder has already been
adequately expanded and moistened, and is ready for the extraction
process due to the use of the high temperature water during the
early operation period. Thus, even by pouring tap temperature
water, adequate extraction can be carried out and the extracted
coffee liquid from the extractor drips into the combined-use
decanter. For a fixed time (T.sub.1), while the circulation pump is
turned on, the liquid in the combined-use decanter is repeatedly
circulated through the extractor, Thereby effecting repeated
extractions, and after the fixed time (T.sub.1) is expired, the
extraction ends.
On the other hand, when the instruction of high temperature water
extraction operation is given, the controller turns on the
circulation pump and the circulating water heater for a fixed time
(T.sub.2). Thereby, highly heated water circulates for the fixed
time (T.sub.2), during which it is poured into the extractor. Thus
the extraction is carried out.
According to the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present
invention having the second feature, the operational control by the
controller, when the instruction for tap temperature water
extraction operation for ice coffee use is given, proceeds with the
controller driving the circulation pump to circulate the liquid for
a fixed time (T.sub.1) at the same time with the circulating water
heater turned on for a fixed time (T.sub.0) during the early
operation period to circulate highly heated water into the
extractor, and then circulating unheated water into the extractor
with the circulating water heater turned off following expiration
of the fixed time (T.sub.0). On the other hand, when the
instruction for high temperature water extraction operation for hot
coffee use is given, the controller drives the circulation pump to
circulate the liquid for a fixed time (T.sub.2), and at the same
turns on the circulating water heater to circulate highly heated
water into the extractor.
Based on the above construction, tap temperature water extraction
operation for ice coffee use and high temperature water extraction
operation for hot coffee use can be performed by one apparatus. The
tap temperature water extraction operation, wherein the circulating
water heater is turned on for the fixed time (T.sub.0) of the early
operation period, prepares the coffee bean powder for extracting by
operating on the powder to place it into an adequately expanded and
wet condition, thereby permitting tap temperature water extraction
to be done effectively and efficiently in a short time. Due to the
tap temperature water extraction operation, coffee liquid with
little astringency, caffeine, sundry taste and oil content, and
with good taste and flavor is obtained, and further, cooling to ice
coffee temperature can be effected in a short time.
In the invention having the first and second features, the fixed
time (T.sub.1) of the tap temperature water extraction operation is
a total time of the tap temperature water extraction operation, and
is about 10 to 20 minutes, for example. However, the fixed time
(T.sub.1) may be changed in response to the scale of the apparatus
or extracted coffee bean powder quantity. It is possible to first
decide beforehand by experiment the suitable fixed time (T.sub.1)
in correspondence to the scale of the apparatus, or to decide the
fixed time (T.sub.1) in correspondence to a coffee bean powder
quantity to be used, and second, to enable changing of the fixed
time (T.sub.1). It should be noted here that the fixed time
(T.sub.1) is much shorter than the long time of about a half day or
a day required by the prior art.
Further, a limited fixed time (T.sub.0) during the early portion of
the tap temperature water extraction operation is the time in which
high temperature water is poured during the early operation period,
corresponding to the required minimum time needed for coffee bean
powder in the extractor to expand and be moistened by the high
temperature water. The limited fixed time (T.sub.0) during the
early operation period, can be, for instance, in a range of about
10 to 20 seconds up to about a few minutes. Naturally, the time
(T.sub.0) can be decided beforehand by experiment in correspondence
to the scale of the apparatus or the heating capability of the
circulating water heater, or, can be incrementally or continuously
changed in accordance with the coffee bean powder quantity to be
used. Further, the heating at the fixed time (T.sub.0) can be done,
for instance, by pouring of highly heated water at a temperature of
95.degree. C. or by pouring of highly heated water having a
temperature of at least more than about 80.degree. C., so that the
expanding and wetting of the coffee bean powder is effectively
done.
Further, aforementioned fixed time (T.sub.2) of the high
temperature water extraction operation is the total time of the
high temperature water extraction and can be decided to be, for
instance, 5 to 6 minutes or up to 10 to 20 minutes However, a
shorter time than that for the tap temperature water extraction
operation will do. The fixed time (T.sub.2) of the high temperature
water extraction operation can also be determined beforehand by
experiment in accordance with the scale of the apparatus or the
heating capability of the circulating water heater, or can be
changed incrementally or continuously in accordance with the coffee
bean powder quantity to be used.
Heating of the water for the high temperature water extraction
operation may be, for instance, to about 95.degree. C., however,
highly heated water exceeding about 80.degree. C. can perform
extraction favorably and effectively.
In the coffee liquid extraction apparatus of the present invention
having the third feature, when the instruction for the heat
maintaining operation is given, the controller drives the
circulation pump for a fixed time (T.sub.3) at a fixed interval
(T.sub.4), and during the time (T.sub.3), the controller turns on
the heater. Thereby, the coffee liquid stored within the
combined-use decanter is circulated through the circulation path
for the fixed time (T.sub.3) at the fixed interval (T.sub.4) and,
thus, the liquid is reheated by the circulating water heater and is
kept at a suitable temperature. For the heat maintaining operation,
the spent coffee bean powder and filter paper remaining in the
extractor is removed in advance. In this heat maintaining
operation, the fixed time (T.sub.4) for heating to be stopped,
namely the interval time (T.sub.4) can be decided to be, for
instance, 1 to 10 minutes or so and the fixed time (T.sub.3),
necessary for circulation, can be decided to be the time the coffee
liquid in combined-use decanter requires for more than one
circulation or so, namely it can be decided to be, for instance, 1
to 5 minutes. However, either of the time (T.sub.3) or the time
(T.sub.4) is free of limitation, and several predetermined times
can be selected.
A heating power level of the circulating water heater during the
heat maintaining operation can be lower than during the high
temperature water extraction operation. The heat maintaining
operation is for maintaining the coffee liquid at some reasonable
hot temperature. For instance, circulating water should be heated
to reach about 70.degree. C. to 85.degree. C.
According to the coffee liquid extracting apparatus having the
third feature, the apparatus can, in addition to the effect of the
second feature, perform heat maintenance of the coffee liquid
obtained by the high temperature water extraction in addition to
performing tap temperature water extraction and high temperature
water extraction. Or there is an application wherein the apparatus
can offer hot coffee liquid by heating coffee liquid obtained by
tap temperature extract into hot coffee liquid in response to the
needs.
In the coffee liquid extracting apparatus having the fourth
feature, when the combined-use decanter is mounted in place, the
outlet portion of the combined-use decanter communicates with the
circulation path (S.sub.0) side. And in such a state, the
circulation for extraction operation or heat maintaining operation
is enabled. On the other hand, when the decanter (30) is out of the
mounted state for pouring coffee liquid into coffee cups or the
like, the valve body of the outlet portion of the decanter closes
up the outlet portion, thereby preventing the liquid from leaking
out of the bottom of the decanter.
According to the coffee liquid extracting apparatus having the
fourth feature, in addition to the effect by any of the first to
third features, the outlet portion equipped with the valve body is
provided at the bottom of the combined-use decanter. By mounting
the decanter in place, the outlet portion communicates with the
circulation path side, and at the same time, the valve body opens
the outlet portion. By removing the decanter out of the mounted
state, the valve body closes the outlet portion. Accordingly, the
combined-use decanter serves three purposes, the first being a
water reserving container, the second being a container for
receiving extracted coffee liquid, and the third being a coffee
server from which to pour coffee liquid into coffee cups and the
like. Further, the apparatus can carry out, without difficulty, an
efficient tap temperature water extraction or high temperature
water extraction keeping the water circulating. Or, it can perform
the heat maintaining operation keeping the water circulating.
According to the fifth feature, when the extraction operation is
commenced at the tap temperature extraction unit, by means of the
controller, the operation mode is set to the high temperature water
operation mode, so that the circulation pump is turned on, and at
the same time, the circulating water heater is turned on. Thereby,
the water in the combined-use tank circulates toward the extractor,
passing through the circulation path, and the high temperature
water is poured into the extractor that is, beforehand, equipped
with filter paper and a predetermined quantity of already roasted
coffee bean powder and is set in place. High temperature water is
poured into the extractor only during a limited fixed time
(T.sub.11) of an early operation period after which the high
temperature water operation finishes. By using a suitable quantity
of high temperature water, the coffee bean powder in the extractor
is steamed, adequately expanded throughout, and is prepared for
extraction.
When the high temperature water operation mode of the early
operation period is finished, in turn, or after a later described
steaming waiting time (T.sub.12), the operation mode is set to the
unheated water pouring mode by means of the controller, with only
the circulation pump being on. Thereby, unheated water is poured
into the extractor, circulating from the combined-use tank. Coffee
bean powder is already in an adequately expanded and wet condition
due to the pouring of high temperature water during the high
temperature water operation mode and is in a suitable condition to
be extracted so that, in the succeeding unheated water pouring
mode, pouring only unheated water can implement adequate and speedy
extraction.
The extracted coffee liquid from the extractor drips into the
combined-use tank. In the unheated water operation mode, the total
quantity of the water of the combined-use tank is made to circulate
toward the extractor once or plural times, and the extraction by
the same water in the combined-use tank is made to repeat once or
plural times before the extraction finishes.
The tap temperature water extraction coffee liquid that is dripped
into the combined-use tank and retained there, is then poured into
cups and the like by opening the coffee liquid dispensing port that
is connected to the combined-use tank, and is further cooled with
ice and the like for ice coffee usage.
According to the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present
invention having the fifth feature, at first, coffee bean powder is
expanded and moistened to place it into a condition adequately
suitable for extraction by the use of high temperature water, and
then, extraction by the use of tap temperature water is effected.
As a result, good coffee liquid can be obtained by making the best
use of the advantage of tap temperature water extraction. Namely,
the coffee liquid of little astringency, caffeine, sundry taste,
and oxidation tendency, with favorable flavor, and with amber color
is obtained. And also, as compared with the case wherein extraction
is done only by tap temperature water from the beginning to the
end, extraction time is exceptionally shortened. Naturally, it is
possible to make tasty ice coffee from tap temperature water
extraction coffee liquid very simply and speedily.
Further, in actual use, heavy duty cooling equipment becomes
unnecessary, and ice coffee is obtained using less electric power
and at low cost.
Further, according to coffee liquid extracting apparatus having the
fifth feature, as the extraction is carried out with water being
circulated, once extracted liquid is made to circulate again toward
the extractor, so that, the extraction time as a whole is
adequately shortened.
For the fifth feature, high temperature water is heated to, for
instance, about 95.degree. C. However, by pouring high temperature
water higher than about 80.degree. C., the extraction preparation
by steaming, expanding and moistening of coffee bean powder is done
effectively.
The fixed time (T.sub.11) needed to perform the high temperature
water operation mode (namely, high temperature water operation mode
continuing time) is a comparatively short time of, for instance,
about 10 seconds to few minutes. However, the time (T.sub.11) is
not necessarily limited to a particular value. In short, it is the
time necessary for such a quantity of high temperature water to be
poured that enables the coffee bean powder in the extractor to be
adequately steamed and expanded. This time is suitably decided by
experiment beforehand. Or each of other several kinds of suitable
times may be decided by experiment beforehand, and may be selected
from among these times. Such times may correspond to the coffee
bean powder quantity to be extracted, the roasted condition, the
high temperature water circulation rate, and the temperature of the
high temperature water. Further, it is optionally also possible for
the user to freely change the time setting in accordance with such
kinds of circumstances as the roasted coffee bean powder quantity
to be extracted and roasted condition. In this case, several means
may be used for setting the time (T.sub.11) including such means as
enabling the setting to be performed freely, for instance, enabling
setting the time (T.sub.11) in a range of 10 seconds to 20 minutes
with an adjustment interval of 10 seconds.
For the fifth feature, the fixed time (T.sub.13) for performing the
unheated water operation mode, that is, the unheated water
operation mode continuing time is decided to be, for instance,
about a few minutes to several tens of minutes, however, this
continuing time (T.sub.13) is not necessarily limited to some
particular value. In short, it is the time needed for coffee liquid
to be adequately extracted, and is decided suitably by experiment
beforehand. Or each of other several kinds of suitable times
(necessary for extraction) may be decided by experiment beforehand,
and may be selected from among such times. Such times correspond to
circumstances involving the roasted coffee bean powder quantity to
be extracted, the roasted condition, and the rate of unheated water
poured by the circulation pump. Further it is optionally also
possible for the user to change the time setting freely, for
instance, throughout a range from a few minutes to several hours in
accordance with such kinds of circumstances as the roasted coffee
bean powder quantity to be extracted and the roasted condition.
Nevertheless, the time (T.sub.13) of the unheated water operation
mode in the present invention is a far shorter time than the time
of a half day or a day as in the prior art.
According to the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present
invention having the sixth feature, in addition to the effect of
the fifth feature, when the high temperature water operation mode
is finished, the operation mode is set to the standby mode by means
of the controller. By being provided with such a standby mode, the
unheated water operation mode is preempted by the standby mode time
such that, the temperature of coffee bean powder is not lowered,
and the coffee bean powder is adequately steamed, expanded and
moistened by already poured high temperature water. Thus, the
coffee bean powder is in the condition suitable for extraction.
Accordingly, in the succeeding unheated water operation mode,
pouring of tap temperature water only is required to effect
extraction adequately and speedily.
In the sixth feature, the fixed time (T.sub.12) for performing the
standby mode, as the continuing time (T.sub.12) of the standby
mode, is decided to be about 10 seconds to few minutes for example.
In short, the fixed time (T.sub.12) is the time necessary for the
coffee bean powder in the extractor to be adequately steamed,
expanded, and to reach a state facilitating extraction due to high
temperature water. This time (T.sub.12) is decided by experiment to
be a suitable time, as in the case of the high temperature water
operation mode or unheated water operation mode. Further, as the
time (T.sub.12) may be chosen to be a suitable time in accordance
with existing conditions including coffee bean powder quantity,
roasted condition, and a rate of high temperature water circulation
by the circulation pump. The time (T.sub.12) is determined in
advance and then is selected as occasion may demand. Alternatively,
the user may change the time setting freely in accordance with
conditions including the quantity of coffee bean powder and roasted
condition thereof.
According to the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present
invention having the seventh feature, by providing a water-feeding
operation mode configuration for the controller, the need for the
user to manually put water into the combined-use tank and to set
the tank is removed. When the operation switch is turned on, at
first, the mode of operation is set to the water-feeding operation
mode. In accordance control signals from the controller, the value
of the water-introducing pipe is opened, and the water from the
city water system enters the combined-use tank through the pipe by
city water system pressure. The quantity of the water entering the
tank is detected by the water quantity sensor. When the set water
quantity is supplied, the valve is closed by the controller, and
the water-feeding finishes. The water quantity supplied to the tank
is set beforehand in accordance with the quantity of the coffee
bean powder used in the extraction process.
In accordance with the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the
present invention having the eighth feature, after installing
filter paper and the like in the extractor, putting roasted coffee
bean powder into the same extractor and setting the extractor on
the apparatus, the operation switch is then turned on and a set
quantity of water is fed to the combined-use tank. Following
completion of the introduction of the set quantity of water, the
circulation pump and the circulating water heater are turned on and
high temperature water is poured into the extractor for a fixed
time (T.sub.11) during an early operation period. After completion
of pouring high temperature water into the extractor, the standby
mode is entered during which the steaming of the coffee bean powder
takes place. When the standby mode is finished, in turn, only the
circulation pump is turned on and unheated water from the
combined-use tank circulates and is poured into the extractor to
effect tap temperature water extraction. When the extraction time
(T.sub.13) for the unheated water is finished, the above series of
operations comes to the end. The above eighth feature enables
automation of a series of operations from feeding water to
extraction to make the overall process for making coffee
convenient.
Further, according to the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the
present invention having the ninth feature, the continuing time
(T.sub.11) of the high temperature water operation mode, the
continuing time (T.sub.13) of the unheated water operation mode,
and the continuing time (T.sub.12) of the standby mode are made
respectively to be adjusted and set suitably in accordance with
such various conditions as the kind of coffee bean, pulverized
degree of coffee bean powder, quantity of coffee bean powder to be
extracted, thickness and taste of extracted coffee liquid,
temperature of unheated water and high temperature water, and
pouring flow quantity to the extractor. Thus, favorable tap
temperature water extracted coffee liquid is obtained.
In accordance with the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the
present invention having the tenth feature, the continuing time
(T.sub.11) of the high temperature water operation mode and the
continuing time (T.sub.13) of the unheated water operation mode are
not respectively set by merely times, but are optionally
respectively set by a time required for actually pouring a set
quantity of high temperature water and a time required for actually
pouring a set quantity of unheated water so that the extraction
operation conforming to actual requirements is realized. Namely, in
order that the coffee bean powder may be steamed, expanded and made
to be in the most suitable condition for extraction, the most
suitable quantity of high temperature water in correspondence to
coffee bean powder quantity is needed. The above apparatus having
the tenth feature enables the most suitable quantity of high
temperature water to be used in the high temperature water
operation mode at the time when pouring is finished so that
over-pouring of high temperature water is avoided, and the most
suitable steamed condition of coffee bean powder for extraction is
obtained. In contrast, the case of mere time setting brings about
either too much or too little a quantity being poured. As to the
unheated water operation mode, also, it enables accurate extraction
for the continuing time of the unheated water operation mode to be
set according to the actual quantity of unheated water used in the
extraction of the coffee liquid from coffee bean powder.
According to the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present
invention having the eleventh feature, the roasting and milling
portion that is installed in the middle part of the apparatus
permits raw coffee bean to be roasted and milled and also
pulverized, and as a result, roasted and milled coffee bean powder
is obtained. The coffee bean powder is used in the tap temperature
extraction unit next to the roasting and milling portion or the
high temperature extraction unit next to the roasting and milling
portion, according to whether ice-coffee or hot-coffee is to be
prepared. Thus, the tap temperature water extraction coffee liquid
for for either ice coffee or hot coffee is obtained very
conveniently, easily, simply, and speedily. Naturally, adequately
cooled ice coffee is obtained easily and promptly by adding ice and
the like to the tap temperature water extraction coffee liquid
produced by tap temperature extraction unit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a coffee
liquid extracting apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a vertical sectional and diagrammatic structural view of
the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control system of each portion
of the apparatus of FIG. 1 controlled by a controller.
FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating an operational control
structure of the controller of the apparatus of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating another operational control
structure of the controller of the apparatus of FIG. 1.
FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic vertical sectional view of a second
embodiment of a coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present
invention.
FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a relation between a controller and
each portion of the apparatus of FIG. 6.
FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing an operational control example of
the apparatus of FIG. 6 executed by the controller.
FIG. 9(A) shows a plan view of another embodiment of a coffee
liquid extracting apparatus provided with the tap temperature water
extraction apparatus shown in FIG. 6 together with a high
temperature extraction unit and a roasting and milling portion.
FIG. 9(B) shows a front view of the apparatus of FIG. 9(A).
FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic vertical sectional view of the high
temperature extraction unit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, an example of an embodiment of a coffee
liquid extracting apparatus of the present invention has a case 10,
an extractor 20 removably installed therein using a quick
disconnect arrangement, and a combined-use decanter 30 removably
mounted on a base 40. The extractor 20 is installed in the case 10
using a flange 21a, at a circumference of an upper opening 21 of
the extractor 20, engaging a hook-shaped projection 14.
An external surface of the case 10 has a tap temperature water
extraction operation switch 11, a high temperature water extraction
operation switch 12, and a heat maintaining operation switch 13
disposed thereon.
Within the case 10 a circulation path 50 includes pipes 51 and 52,
a circulation pump 60, a circulating water heater 70, and a water
pourer 80 installed along with a controller 90 and other items
described below.
FIG. 2 is a vertical sectional and diagrammatic structural view of
the coffee liquid extracting apparatus. As FIG. 2 shows, the
extractor 20 is a vessel for dripping coffee liquid whose inside is
covered by filter paper and which is charged with roasted and
milled coffee bean powder. The extractor 20 is removably mounted to
the case 10 with the flange 21a. In this example, in the extractor
20, a side circumferential portion 22 and a bottom portion 23, with
the exception of the upper opening 21, are constructed of a metal
netting with coarse meshes. Naturally, instead of such a coarse
meshed metal netting, a coarse meshed punched metal stamping or a
coarse meshed plastic cage or other coarse meshed materials can be
used. Thereby, the area contacting the filter paper is made small,
and the liquid passing through the filter paper drips smoothly into
the combined-use decanter 30 without being hindered by the
extractor 20. A handle 24 is provided. The extractor 20 is not
limited to the illustrated construction, and any one of existing
various known extractors may optionally be used in its place.
Namely, if any extractor is constructed such that it is lineable
with filter paper, can contain coffee bean powder, can extract
coffee liquid by receiving warm water, and can drop extracted
liquid from the bottom, such an extractor is able to fulfill its
outlined role.
The combined-use decanter 30 is a container for receiving the
coffee liquid dripping from the extractor 20 and for storing water
used in the extraction of the coffee liquid which is removably
mounted under the extractor 20 and on the base 40 fixed to the case
10 in a manner permitting quick disconnection from and connection
to the coffee liquid extraction apparatus.
The combined-use decanter 30 is also a coffee server and is
provided with a handle 31 on its outside and a grounding portion 32
on its bottom surface.
At the bottom of the combined-use decanter 30, an outlet portion 33
is provided. The outlet portion 33 is insertable into an insert
receiver 41 of the base 40 which forms a water tight seal. The
outlet portion 33 is equipped with a valve body 34 which, with the
exception of when the outlet portion 33 is inserted into the insert
receiver 41, is made to close an outlet 33a of the outlet portion
33 by a bias spring or a weight of the valve body.
The base 40 is a stand on which to mount the combined-use decanter
30 provided with the insert receiver 41. The insert receiver 41 is
equipped with a push-up projection 42 that opens the outlet 33a by
pushing up the valve body 34 when the outlet portion 33 of the
decanter 30 is inserted, and further, the insert receiver 41 is
provided with a penetration hole 43 to connect with a pipe 51 of
the circulation path 50.
It should be noted here that the construction of the outlet portion
33, the outlet 33a, the insert receiver 41 of the base 40, the
push-up projection 42, the penetration hole 43, and the pipe 51 of
the circulation path 50 is not limited to the construction
illustrated in this example. In short, any construction will do so
long as the outlet portion 33 of the bottom of the decanter 30
becomes connected with the pipe 51 of the circulation path 50 when
the combined-use decanter 30 is mounted and the valve body 34
closes the outlet portion 33 of the decanter 30 when the
combined-use decanter 30 is removed from the mounted state such as
when pouring coffee liquid into coffee cups and the like.
The circulation path 50 is the passage by which the liquid inside
the combined-use decanter 30 is circulated and poured into the
extractor 20 through the pourer 80. The circulation path 50 has the
pipe 51 that is connected with the penetration hole 43 of the
insert receiver 41 of the base 40, and has the pipe 52 that is
extended from the discharge side of the circulation pump 60 to the
pourer 80.
The circulation pump 60 is installed in the circulation path 50 to
pump the liquid inside the decanter 30 through the circulation path
50 and into the extractor 20 after passing through the pourer
80.
The circulating water heater 70 is installed downstream from the
circulation pump 60 and heats the water circulating through the
circulation path 50 to change the water instantaneously into a high
temperature state.
The pourer 80 disperses the liquid sent through the circulation
path 50 uniformly into the extractor 20. The shape of the pourer 80
is not especially restricted.
Further, in the above, the pipe 52 of the circulation path 50 may
optionally incorporate a water flow sensor 53 for detecting the
existence or non-existence of water flow in the pipe 52. The sensor
53 is used to control turn on of the circulating water heater 70
such that it is only turned on when there is water flow, thereby
maintaining safe operation. Also, a temperature sensor 54 may
optionally be installed to detect the temperature of the
circulating water passing through the pipe 52 of the circulation
path 50.
Referring to FIG. 3, a block diagram shows a control system of each
portion of the apparatus, the function of the controller 90 is
explained hereunder. The controller 90 has a microcomputer
built-in. The microcomputer has prescribed software for each of the
tap temperature water extraction operation, high temperature water
extraction operation, and heat maintaining operation. The
controller 90 accepts switch signals from the tap temperature water
extraction operation switch 11, high temperature water extraction
operation switch 12, or heat maintaining operation switch 13, and
sensor signals from the water flow sensor 53, temperature sensor
54, or similar sensors. In accordance with the program for the
given kind of operation, the controller 90 then outputs prescribed
control instructions to the circulation pump 60, the circulating
water heater 70, or other components.
Referring to FIG. 4, a desirable example of the coffee liquid
extraction operation by the controller 90 is shown in a control
flowchart omitting functions initiated by the high temperature
water extraction operation switch 12 or the heat maintaining
operation switch 13 (as shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3), namely the
flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is a control flowchart of a coffee liquid
extraction operation of the apparatus that has only the tap
temperature water extraction operation switch 11 and can perform
only the tap temperature water extraction operation.
Following the flowchart of FIG. 4, filter paper is now set in the
extractor 20 and roasted and milled coffee bean powder is put into
the extractor 20. A fixed quantity of water is put into the
combined-use decanter 30 based on the amount of coffee bean powder
used, and the decanter 30 is mounted on the base 40. The outlet
portion 33 of the decanter 30 and the insert receiver 41 of the
base 40 are inserted into each other when the combined-use decanter
30 is mounted. The water inside the decanter 30 can then flow into
the circulation path 50.
After the above arrangements are settled as such, if the tap
temperature water extraction operation switch 11 is put on, the
controller 90 turns on the circulation pump 60 and the circulating
water heater 70 in step S1 in FIG. 4. Thereby, the water within
combined-use decanter 30 passes through the circulation path 50 and
is heated instantaneously into high temperature water by the
circulating water heater 70, and is then poured into the extractor
20 through the pourer 80.
Alternatively, the circulating water heater 70 may be turned on
when the water flow sensor 53 detects that water flow exists inside
the circulation path 50.
The controller 90 monitors the predetermined heater-on-time
(T.sub.0), which is stored in memory, of the circulating water
heater 70 in step see S2. When the heater-on-time (T.sub.0) has
passed, the heater 70 is turned off in step S3.
The heater-on-time (T.sub.0) is, for instance, a fixed time limited
to an early operation period beginning with a point of time when
the tap temperature water extraction operation switch 11 is turned
on. Also, the time (T.sub.0) is alternatively a fixed time
beginning with a point of time when the water flow sensor (or the
like) detects water flow within circulation path 50. The fixed time
(T.sub.0) limited to the early operation period can be, for
instance, about 10 seconds to few minutes depending on pouring
water speed or similar factors. However, it can also be acquired
beforehand by experiment, as the time necessary for pouring the
quantity of high temperature water which is, for instance, at a
temperature of 80.degree. C. or greater, that is necessary and
sufficient for coffee bean powder inside the extractor 20 to be
expanded and moistened by absorption. Naturally, the time (T.sub.0)
differs by such conditions as the size of the extractor 20 or the
quantity of coffee bean powder. For instance, in a household coffee
liquid extracting apparatus, the time (T.sub.0) is decided as the
necessary and sufficient time for about 100 to 130 cc of the high
temperature water to be poured in the early operation period.
By pouring high temperature water early in the extraction period,
coffee bean powder becomes adequately expanded and moistened for
easing extraction of the coffee liquid.
In the step S3, after the circulating water heater 70 is turned
off, unheated water is successively poured, dripped by the
extractor 20, and the liquid, once dripped into and contained in
the combined-use decanter 30, is made again to be circulated and
poured into the extractor 20. The quantity of the heated high
temperature water is small as compared with the whole water
quantity so that the water inside the combined-use decanter 30
never reaches a high temperature due to the high temperature water
poured during the early period. During the period excepting the
early operation period, substantially tap temperature water is
circulated and poured. The controller 90 monitors the on-time
(T.sub.1) of the circulation pump 60 in step S4. When the on-time
(T.sub.1) has passed, the controller 90 turns of the circulation
pump 60 in step S5, and finishes the operation for extraction.
The on-time (T.sub.1) of the circulation pump 60 is a favorable
value decided beforehand by experiment. For instance, it can be in
the range of 10 to 20 minutes as is necessary for the water inside
the combined-use decanter 30 to circulate 2 or 3 rounds or more.
Alternatively, a more suitable time is decided directly by
experiment.
Referring to FIG. 5, another favorable example of the coffee liquid
extraction operation executed by the controller 90 is shown in a
control flowchart of an apparatus provided with the high
temperature water extraction operating switch 12 and heat
maintaining operation switch 13 together with the tap temperature
water extraction switch 11 as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3. The
apparatus can thus perform the tap temperature water extraction
operation, the high temperature water extraction operation, and the
heat maintaining operation.
Following FIG. 5, filter paper is set in the extractor 20, roasted
and milled coffee bean powder is put into the extractor 20, and a
fixed quantity of water is put into the combined-use decanter 30
based on the amount of coffee bean powder in the extractor 20. The
decanter 30 is mounted on the base 40 whereby the outlet portion 33
of the decanter 30 and the insert receiver 41 of the base 40 are
inserted into each other and the water inside the decanter 30 can
then flow out through the circulation path 50.
In the above state, with the arrangements being ready, when the tap
temperature water extraction operation switch 11 is turned on in
step S0 in FIG. 5 at the YES determination, the control is the same
as in the case of aforementioned tap temperature water extraction
operation performed by the controller 90 as described above.
Namely, the controller 90 turns on the circulation pump 60 and the
circulating water heater 70 whereby the water inside the
combined-use decanter 30 passes through the circulation path 50 and
is instantaneously heated to a high temperature and is poured into
the extractor 20 through the pourer 80. It is alternatively
provided that the circulating water heater 70 is turned on when the
water flow sensor, or similar device, detects water flowing within
the circulation path 50. Further, if the capability of the
circulating water heater 70 is exchanged (from one value to another
value), the heater 70 should be allowed to be turned on with the
heating capability being exchanged to the tap temperature water
extraction usage level.
The controller 90 monitors the predetermined fixed time T.sub.0 in
step S2 of FIG. 5 and when T.sub.0 has passed (YES in S2 in FIG.
5), the controller 90 turns of the circulating water heater 70
electrically in step S3. The fixed time T.sub.0 during which the
circulating water heater 70 is turned on is, for instance, the
fixed time of the early period of operation beginning with the
point in time when the tap temperature water extraction operation
switch 11 is put on. Further, the time T.sub.0 may alternatively
begin with the point in time when the water flow sensor detects the
water flow within the circulation path 50. The time T.sub.0 is
acquired beforehand by experiment, as the time necessary for
pouring the quantity of high temperature water that is necessary
and sufficient for coffee bean powder inside the extractor 20 to be
expanded and moistened by absorption. Naturally, the time T.sub.0
varies in accordance with such conditions as the scale of the
apparatus, the size of the extractor 20, the quantity of coffee
bean powder, and the circulation speed. For instance, the time
T.sub.0 may range from about 10 seconds to a few minutes.
By pouring high temperature water during a early period of the
extraction process, coffee bean powder becomes sufficiently
expanded, moistened, and is thereby placed into a state
facilitating extraction of coffee liquid.
After the circulating water heater 70 is turned off, unheated water
is successively poured. The liquid that is dripped by the extractor
20 into the combined-use decanter 30 is recirculated and poured
again into the extractor 20. Due to the recirculation through the
extractor 20, the whole time necessary for extraction is
shortened.
The quantity of the heated high temperature water is small compared
with the whole water quantity used, so that the water within the
combined-use decanter 30 does not become heated to a high
temperature by the high temperature water poured during the early
period of operation. During the remainder of the operation, after
the early operation period, substantially tap temperature water is
poured.
Further, the controller 90 monitors the fixed time T.sub.1 in step
S4 and when the time T.sub.1 has passed (YES in S4), the controller
90 turns off the circulation pump 60 in step S5 and finishes the
operation for tap temperature water extraction.
The fixed time T.sub.1 is determined by experiment beforehand, and
is, for instance, the time in which the water inside the
combined-use decanter 30 circulates 2 or 3 times. For instance, a
time of about 10 to 20 minutes or more is determined by experiment
beforehand in accordance with such conditions as the scale of the
apparatus, the size of the extractor, and the circulation speed.
Or, the time T.sub.1 may alternatively be selected from a plurality
of predetermined times that have been decided beforehand in
response to the quantity of the coffee bean powder to be extracted
and the like.
If the tap temperature water extraction operation switch 11 is set
off, NO in step S0, and the high temperature water extraction
operation switch 12 is set on, YES in step S11, the controller 90
turns on the circulation pump 60 and the circulating water heater
70 at step S12. Thereby, the water inside the combined-use decanter
30 passes through the circulation path 50, is instantaneously
heated by the circulating water heater 70 to a high temperature,
and is poured into the extractor 20 through the pourer 80. As same
as in the case of the tap temperature water extraction operation,
it alternatively may be provided that the circulating water heater
70 is turned on when the water flow sensor, or similar device,
detects water flow within the circulation path 50. Or, in the case
wherein the capability of the circulating water heater 70 is
exchangeable; it should be allowed that the heater 70 is turned on
with the heating capability being exchanged into the high
temperature water extraction operation usage level.
The controller 90 monitors the fixed time T.sub.2 in step S13 until
the time T.sub.2 has passed, and during this period enables the
continued extraction by high temperature water. An optional feature
of the present invention includes that, while the high temperature
water extraction is in progress, the temperature sensor 54
installed in the downstream of the circulating water heater 70 in
the circulation path 50 detects the water temperature, and the
output of the heater 70 is controlled in order that the detected
temperature is maintained at a favorable value for high temperature
water extraction operation. As the above favorable temperature
value, in view of extraction efficiency, such a high value as about
95.degree. C. will be appropriate, however 80.degree. C. or over
will do as well.
The time for the high temperature water extraction operation,
namely the fixed time T.sub.2 is decided to be, for instance, about
5 or 6 minutes to 10 minutes or a little over, which is less than
the case of the tap temperature water extraction operation. This
time T.sub.2 can also be decided by experiment beforehand in
response to the scale of the apparatus and the heating capability
of the circulating water heater. Or, the time T.sub.2 may
optionally be varied in steps or continuously in response to the
quantity of coffee bean powder used.
When the fixed time T.sub.2 has passed, initiating flow through the
YES branch in step S13, the controller 90 turns off the circulation
pump 60 and the circulating water heater 70 in step S14, and
finishes the high temperature water extraction operation.
In accordance with the configuration of the controller 90, it is
possible to perform not only the tap temperature water extraction
operation and the high temperature water extraction operation, but
also the heat maintaining operation. In this case, when the heat
maintaining operation switch 13 is switch on resulting in a YES
determination in step S21, the controller 90 turns on the
circulation pump 60 and the circulating water heater 70 for the
fixed time T.sub.3 per elapse of the fixed time T.sub.4. Namely,
when the heat maintaining operation switch 13 is switched on, the
controller 90 turns on the circulation pump 60 at first, and
secondly, turns on the circulating water heater 70 at step S22.
Thereby, the coffee liquid in the combined-use decanter 30 passes
through the circulation path 50, is instantaneously heated by the
circulating water heater 70, and circulates into the combined-use
decanter 30. Optionally, it may be provided that the circulating
water heater 70 is turned on when the water flow sensor (or the
like) detects water flow within the circulation path 50. Or, in the
case wherein the capability of the circulating water heater 70 is
exchangeable, it should be allowed that the heater 70 is turned on
with the heating capability being exchanged into the heat
maintaining operation usage level.
The controller 90 monitors the on-time T.sub.3 of circulating
liquid heating to determine when the time T.sub.3 has passed,
heating the coffee liquid during said time. Optionally, the
temperature sensor 54 that is installed downstream of the
circulating water heater 70 detects the temperature of heated
coffee liquid, and the output of the heater 70 is controlled in
order that the detected temperature is a favorable value for heat
maintaining operation. For instance, a constant temperature of
70.degree. C. to 85.degree. C. may be set.
When on-time T.sub.3 of circulating liquid heating has passed,
resulting in a YES determination in step S23, the controller 90
turns off the circulation pump 60 and the circulating water heater
70 in step S24. Thus, the standby period, namely the off-time
T.sub.4, is entered in step S25. When the off-time T.sub.4 has
passed, producing a YES determination in step S25, the control
returns to the step S22 again, and the circulating liquid heating
begins. Thus, until the heat maintaining switch is turned off, or
until such a fixed time, determined appropriate for circumstances
wherein the unit is inadvertently left on, has passed, intermittent
heating is performed.
In the above, the on-time T.sub.3 and the off-time T.sub.4 are
optionally set respectively to about 1 minute to 10 minutes, for
instance. However, considering the scale of the apparatus and
heating capability the time may be arrived at by experiment
beforehand.
Further, the heat maintaining operation is optionally programmed
such that: at first, at every fixed time, the temperature sensor
detects temperature with the coffee liquid in the combined-use
decanter 30 being circulating; secondly, in the case when that
temperature becomes lower than the fixed heat maintaining
temperature, circulating liquid heating should be carried out until
the fixed heat maintaining temperature is reached.
Further, even if the coffee liquid is extracted using the tap
temperature water extraction operation, in response to the needs,
that liquid may be made hot coffee by turning on the high
temperature water extraction operation switch or the heat
maintaining operation. However, in this case, the extractor 20
having spent coffee powder should be removed.
In the apparatus as shown in FIG. 2, only the components to perform
extraction, namely, only the extractor 20 and the combined-use
decanter 30 are installed in the case 10. However, such components
can be installed in the case 10 together with the roaster (i.e.
roasting device) for roasting coffee raw bean and the pulverizer
(i.e. pulverizing device) for pulverizing roasted bean.
Further, the coffee bean powder to be used in tap temperature water
extraction that has already been roasted should preferably be such
one as is adequately pulverized. And also, powder that is freshly
milled, namely the powder that has never absorbed water is
preferable. Further, the powder is preferably adequately cooled and
pulverized by the pulverizer immediately after having been roasted
by the roaster.
Referring to FIG. 6 to FIG. 8, another example of a preferable
coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present invention is
explained hereunder.
As shown in FIG. 6, an extractor 120 is removably mounted in a
quick-disconnect manner on the upper surface of a ceiling portion
111 of a case 110. Inside the case 110, a combined-use tank 130, a
water-introducing pipe 140, a circulation path 150, an overflow
pipe 160, a controller 190 and others are installed. On a front
portion 112 of the case 110, a coffee liquid dispensing port 170 is
provided.
The extractor 120 is for dripping coffee liquid, as described
above, and has filters or other filtering means disposed therein.
The coffee bean powder that is roasted and milled is put into the
extractor 120. The extractor 120 is provided with a lid 121 and a
handle 122 for carrying-use is provided. At a center of the lid
121, an opening 121a is provided through which the liquid is
poured.
Preparations for extraction include removing the extractor 120 out
of the case 110, removing the lid 121, attaching filter paper 123
or the like, putting the coffee bean powder in, and mounting the
extractor 120 again in the case 110.
Naturally, the extractor 120 can optionally have a filtering means
provided in itself. Further, the extractor can be a plastic or a
metallic product.
The combined-use tank 130 is not only a vessel for receiving the
coffee liquid that is dripped from the extractor 120 but also a
tank for retaining a fixed quantity of water for extraction use.
The combined-use tank 130 is arranged fixedly inside the case 110
and is situated under the extractor 120. The upper end part of the
combined-use tank 130 is open at the ceiling portion 111 of the
case 110 whereat a lid 131 is put on. The lid 131 also serves as a
mounting base for the extractor 120. The coffee liquid that is
extracted by the extractor 120 mounted on the lid 131 passes
through a drip hole 124 and passes through a hole 131a disposed at
the center of the lid 131 and is then received by the combined-use
tank 130 and is preserved. The tank 130 contains the same amount of
water as that of the coffee liquid to be acquired. As a result, the
total amount of the water becomes coffee liquid.
The water-introducing pipe 140 directly feeds water from the city
water system to the combined-use tank 130. One end of the pipe 140
is installed projecting into the tank 130 through the bottom 132 of
the tank 130 and the other end of the pipe 140 is connected to city
water pipe at the part of the pipe 140 projecting from a back
portion 113 of the case 110.
Along the water-introducing pipe 140 inside the case 110, a prime
stopcock 141, a pressure reducer 142, an electromagnetic valve 143,
and a water quantity sensor 144 are provided from the upstream
side.
The pressure reducer 142 feeds water into the tank 130 after
reducing city water pressure properly.
The electromagnetic valve 143 is controlled by the controller 190
to open at the commencement of a water-feeding mode for feeding
water to the tank 130, and is closed when a prescribed water
quantity is introduced into the combined-use tank 130.
The water quantity sensor 144 detects the quantity of the water fed
to the combined-use tank 130 through the water-introducing pipe 140
and transmits it to the controller 190. When the water quantity
detected by the sensor 144 reaches the prescribed value, the
controller 190 issues an instruction closing the valve 143.
The circulation path 150 is for circulating the liquid from inside
the combined-use tank 130 and pouring the liquid into the extractor
120, and has one end connected to the bottom 132 of the tank 130
and another end for a pouring opening 151.
The liquid sent through the circulation path 150 is sprinkled and
poured into the extractor 120 through the opening 151 at the top of
a projecting pipe 157 that extends from the ceiling portion 111 of
the case 110.
Along the circulation path 150 inside the case 110, a circulation
pump 152, a water flow sensor 153, a circulating water heater 154,
and a temperature sensor 155 are installed from the upstream
side.
The circulation pump 152 is controlled by the controller 190. Also
its discharge quantity is changeable in steps so that the quantity
to be poured into the extractor 120 per unit time is
adjustable.
The water flow sensor 153 detects the water flow inside the
circulation path 150 and transmits the water flow information to
the controller 190. Even if the controller 190 turns on the
circulating water heater 154, only when the water flow sensor 153
detects water flow does the controller 190 actually turn on the
circulating water heater 154. Further, the controller 190 may
optionally be configured to stop the operation of the circulation
pump 152 when the water flow sensor 153 does not detect water flow
after a prescribed time.
The circulating water heater 154 is an instantaneous type heater,
and is turned on and off by the controller 190.
The temperature sensor 155 detects the temperature of the water or
the warm water poured into the extractor 120 and transmits the
detected information to the controller 190. Optionally, it is
provided that the heating operation of the circulating water heater
154 is changed in accordance with the temperature detected by the
temperature sensor 155. Naturally in this case, the heat generation
by the circulating water heater 154 should be able to be
changed.
A discharge pipe 156 branches from the circulation path 150, and
extends outside the case 110. By turning a stopcock 156a of the
discharge pipe 156, the liquid within combined-use tank 130 is
discharged.
An overflow pipe 160 provides a safety function for situations
wherein the water fed to the combined-use tank 130 becomes
unstoppable from one cause or another. The water can flow and be
discharged into the pipe 160, before it overflows the combined-use
tank 130.
A coffee liquid dispensing port 170 is a port for dispensing the
coffee liquid from the tank 130. By operating a stopcock 171,
coffee liquid is poured into the cups and the like of users through
a pouring pipe 172. The pouring pipe 172 is connected with a level
indicating pipe 173 to indicate the water level within the
combined-use tank 130.
The controller 190 has a microcomputer built-in and performs
operational control of the apparatus. Referring to FIG. 7, the
relationship between the controller 190 and each portion of the
apparatus is explained hereunder. Signals from such sensors as a
water quantity sensor 144 of the water-introducing pipe 140, a
water flow sensor 153 of the circulation path 150, and a
temperature sensor 155 of the circulation path 150, are inputted to
the controller 190. Also, the signal from an operation panel
portion 180 arranged on a part of the front portion 112 of the case
110 is inputted. Further, the controller 190 sends an
on-and-off-signal to the circulation pump 152, an electric power
switchover signal to an electric power switchover portion 152a of
the circulation pump 152, an open-and-shut signal to an
electromagnetic valve 143 of the water-introducing pipe 140, and an
on-and-off-signal to the circulating water heater 154 of the
circulation path 150.
On the operation panel 180, an operation switch 181, a water feed
quantity setting portion 182, a high temperature water operation
mode time T.sub.11 setting portion 183, a standby mode time
T.sub.12 setting portion 184, an unheated water operation mode time
T.sub.13 setting portion 185, a circulation pump capability
exchange setting portion 186, setting matter exchange switch 187,
and an indicating portion 188 are provided. Also, a pouring
temperature setting portion and the like can be provided.
The operation switch 181 is a switch for beginning the
operation.
The water feed quantity setting portion 182 is an operation portion
that sets the a water quantity to be supplied to the combined-use
tank 130, namely in accordance with how many cups of coffee-liquid
should be extracted. By inputting the quantity of cups desired, the
portion 182 is able to set the corresponding water quantity. For
instance, in the case wherein 10 cups of coffee liquid are
required, the number 10 is inputted and the corresponding water
quantity thereby is set. Naturally, the feed water quantity can be
increased or decreased a little by providing an ancillary setting
portion for setting coffee strength, or the like. And naturally,
the water quantity setting portion 182 may optionally set the water
quantity itself.
The high temperature water operation mode time setting portion 183
is an operation portion for setting the continuing time T.sub.11 of
the high temperature water operation mode.
The standby mode time setting portion 184 is an operation portion
for setting the standby time T.sub.12 to move to the unheated water
operation mode after the completion of the high temperature water
operation mode. In the case wherein the standby time T.sub.12 is
set zero, promptly after the completion of the high temperature
water operation mode, the unheated water operation mode is
entered.
The unheated water operation mode time setting portion 185 is an
operation portion for setting the time T.sub.13 of the unheated
water operation mode to be performed successively after the
completion of the high temperature water operation mode and the
standby time mode.
The circulation pump capability exchange setting portion 186 is an
operation portion for exchanging the discharge capability of the
circulation pump 152 for one of the 3 grades of strong, medium and
low.
The setting matter exchange switch 187 is a switch for exchanging
each setting portion 182, 183, 184, 185 or 186 whose setting is
operated each time when the switch 187 is pushed.
The indicating portion 188 indicates the value that is set, or
other indication.
In accordance with the information from each of the sensors 144,
153, and 155 and the instruction signals and setting signals from
the operation panel portion 180, the controller 190 operates in
accordance with a control program to control the circulation pump
152, the electromagnetic valve 143 and the circulating water heater
154.
The control program of the controller 190 consists of such modes as
a water-feeding mode for executing the water-feeding operation and
successive 3 modes for carrying out an extraction operation namely,
a high temperature water operation mode and successive standby mode
and further a successive unheated water operation mode.
The water-feeding mode is the mode that automatically feeds the set
water quantity from the city water system into the combined-use
tank 130 through the water-introducing pipe 140. In the
water-feeding mode, the controller 190 opens the electromagnetic
valve 143, and, when the water quantity sensor 144 detects the set
water quantity, the controller 190 shuts the valve 143.
The high temperature water operation mode is the mode that heats
the water in the combined-use tank 130 and pours that water into
the extractor 120. In this mode, the controller 190 not only drives
the circulation pump 152 but also turns on the circulating water
heater 154. Further, the controller 190 pours high temperature
water into the extractor 120 for the set time of the high
temperature water operation mode time T.sub.11. When the high
temperature water operation mode time T.sub.11 has passed, the
circulation pump 152 and the circulating water heater 154 are
turned off.
The standby mode is the mode that does not pour any high
temperature water or unheated water into the extractor 120, leaving
it as is, after the ending of the high temperature water operation
mode. While in the standby mode, the coffee bean powder within the
extractor 120 becomes sufficiently steamed and expanded, and turns
into the state suitable for coffee liquid extraction.
The unheated water operation mode is the mode for pouring the water
in the combined-use tank 130 into the extractor 120 without heating
that water. When the standby mode is finished, the controller 190
drives only the circulation pump 152 for only the prescribed time
T.sub.13. The liquid within the extractor 120 circulates at least
one round, and the whole liquid becomes coffee liquid.
Referring to FIG. 8, a control example of the controller 190 is
explained hereunder.
To begin, the filter paper 123 is set into the extractor 120,
roasted and milled coffee bean powder in the quantity to be
extracted and suitable to number of cups desired is put into the
extractor 120, and the extractor 120 is set in the case 110. Next,
using the operation panel portion 180, the water quantity, the high
temperature water operation mode time T.sub.13, the standby mode
time T.sub.12 and the non-heated-water pouring time T.sub.13 are
set. After the above preparations are settled, when the operation
switch 181 is turned on, at first, the water feeding operation of
the water-feeding mode is started by the controller 190. The
controller 190 not only opens the electromagnetic valve 143 of the
water-introducing pipe 140 (see S101 in FIG. 8) but also monitors
the water quantity information coming from the water quantity
sensor 144 as indicated in step S102 in FIG. 8. Upon reaching the
point in time when the water quantity sensor 144 detects that the
set water-quantity has been fed resulting in the determination YES
in step S102, the controller 190 shuts the electromagnetic valve
143 in step S103. The water-feeding mode performing the
water-feeding operation is thus finished.
When the controller 190 finishes the water-feeding mode, next, it
starts the extraction-operation, and enters the high temperature
water operation mode. In this mode the controller 190 first turns
on the circulation pump 152 and also the circulating water heater
154 in step S104. The water in the combined-use tank 130 circulates
through the circulation path 150 and is heated along the way
instantaneously by the circulating water heater 154 into high
temperature water having a temperature of 90.degree. C., for
example. The heated water is poured into the extractor 120 during
the high temperature water operation mode time T.sub.11 which, for
instance, is about 10 seconds or more. Also, it may be optionally
provided that the circulating water heater 154 is turned on at the
time when the water flow sensor 153 detects water flow within the
circulation path 150.
After the beginning time of the high temperature water operation
mode, the controller 190 monitors the predetermined high
temperature water operation mode time T.sub.11 in step S105 and,
when the high temperature water operation mode time T.sub.11 is
elapsed, the YES branch of step S105, the controller 190 turns off
the circulation pump 152 and the circulating water heater 154 in
step S106. The high temperature water operation mode is then
finished.
When the high temperature water operation mode is finished, the
controller 190 starts the standby mode, and monitors the
predetermined standby mode time T.sub.12 in step S107. In the
standby mode, coffee bean powder is adequately steamed, and the
arrangements for extraction are completed.
When the standby mode time T.sub.12 is elapsed a YES determination
is made in step S107 and the controller 190 starts the unheated
water operation mode by turning on the circulation pump 152 in step
S108. The water in the combined-use tank 130 circulates and is
poured into the extractor 120 to extract coffee liquid. The
extracted coffee liquid drops into the combined-use tank 130 and is
received and retained there.
Until the unheated water operation mode time T.sub.13 is elapsed,
the coffee liquid retained within the tank 130 is recirculated and
poured into the extractor 120.
The controller 190 monitors the unheated water operation mode time
T.sub.13 that is set at step S109. When this already set unheated
water operation mode elapses, a YES determination is made at step
S109 and the controller 190 turns off the circulation pump 152 at
step S110. Thus, the unheated water operation mode, the extraction
operation, and the whole operation is finished.
The coffee liquid extracting apparatus as explained above extracts
coffee liquid by means of tap temperature water extraction, namely
the tap temperature extraction unit 100 only is constructed in the
case 110. However, such an apparatus equipped with a high
temperature extraction unit and a coffee bean roasting and milling
portion in addition to the tap temperature extraction unit may
optionally be provided.
Another example of an embodiment of a coffee liquid extracting
apparatus of the present invention is explained hereunder,
referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10.
FIG. 9 shows a coffee liquid extracting apparatus having not only a
tap temperature extraction unit 100 but also a high temperature
extraction unit 300 and a roasting and milling portion 200.
As FIG. 9 shows, the roasting and milling portion 200 is provided
in the center of the apparatus. With the roasting and milling
portion 200 therebetween, the tap temperature extraction unit 100
is installed on one side and the high temperature extraction unit
300 is installed on the other side.
The roasting and milling portion 200 is equipped with a roasting
device 220 (for roasting coffee raw bean) at an upper part of the
inside of a case 210 and with a pulverizing device 230 (for
pulverizing roasted coffee bean) under the roasting device 220.
Further, a coffee powder dispensing port 240 is provided for
receiving the coffee bean powder pulverized by the pulverizing
device 230. Raw coffee beans are put into the roasting device 220
through a roasting device lid 221 installed at a ceiling portion
211 of the center part of the apparatus. A smoke exhaust port 222
is provided for exhausting smoke from the roasting of the raw
coffee beans. The coffee powder dispensing port 240 is a secluded
chamber having as opening facing toward a front portion 212 of the
case 210 of the roasting and milling portion 200. The raw coffee
beans are roasted inside the roasting device 220 and pulverized
inside the pulverizing device 230. By taking out the extractor,
installing filter paper or other filtering device, and by putting
the extractor inside the coffee powder dispensing port 240, the
coffee bean powder that is pulverized by the pulverizing device 230
is directly dispensed into the extractor. Then, by inserting the
same extractor in the tap temperature extraction unit 100 or in the
high temperature extraction unit 300, tap temperature water
extraction or high temperature water extraction is easily
performed.
Especially in case of coffee liquid produced by tap temperature
water extraction, the coffee bean powder used is preferably
sufficiently milled and used shortly after the milling so that it
has not yet absorbed humidity. Further, it is preferable that such
powder is adequately cooled immediately after being roasted, and
then is promptly milled. In the apparatus of the above example, by
juxtaposing the roasting and milling portion 200, it is possible to
roast coffee beans just before the extraction operation, to mill it
into sufficiently minute powder, and to set it up in the
extractor.
Also, the operation of the roasting device 220 and the pulverizing
device 230 is such that the series of operations from roasting to
pulverizing is automatically carried out. However, a configuration
may optionally be provided that permits the roasting operation and
the pulverizing operation to be individually performed.
The construction of the tap temperature extraction unit 100 is
similar to that already described in FIG. 6 to FIG. 8, and is shown
in FIG. 9 with the same parts or elements being indicated with the
same symbols.
The projecting pipe 157 extends from the ceiling portion 111 of the
case 110 and is actually a pouring opening operating portion 157a
constructed such that it is not only freely rotatable but also its
projecting amount (from the ceiling portion 111 of the case 110) is
freely adjusted. Thereby, the pouring opening 151 (during non-use)
can not only be operated rotationally to move to a retired position
apart from the position of the extractor 120, but also it may be
placed in a standby state with itself being mounted on a
mount-portion 114 attached to the upper surface of the ceiling
portion 111 of the case 110.
Referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the high temperature extraction
unit 300 is explained hereunder. An extractor 320 for installation
at a ceiling portion 311 of a case 310 is constructed as the
aforementioned extractor 120 of the tap temperature extraction unit
100. The extractor 320 is mounted on the case 310 in a
quick-connect and quick-disconnect manner, and the extractor 320 is
equipped with a lid 321, a lid opening 321a, a handle 322, filter
paper 323, a drip hole 324, and the like.
Inside the case 310, there is a dedicated receptacle tank 330 that
receives the coffee liquid dropping from the extractor 320, and a
hot water storage tank 331 surrounding the dedicated receptacle
tank 330. The dedicated receptacle tank 330 is connected with an
overflow pipe 360 and a coffee liquid dispensing port 370. The
coffee liquid dispensing port 370 is equipped with an stopcock 371,
a pouring pipe 372 and a level indicator 373.
The hot water storage tank 331 is connected with a
water-introducing pipe 340 for introducing city water into the hot
water storage tank 331, a hot water pouring path 350 for pouring
the hot water inside the hot water storage tank 331 into the
extractor 320, and a hot water supplying port 332 capable of
pouring out hot water in case of necessity (see (B) in FIG. 9). A
stored-hot-water heater 333 for heating the water inside the tank
hot water storage 331 is installed inside (or outside) the hot
water storage tank 331. Further, the hot water storage tank 331 is
equipped with a water level sensor 334 and a stored-hot-water
temperature sensor 335.
The water-introducing pipe 340 is provided with the prime stopcock
141 and the pressure reducer 142 of the water-introducing pipe 140
of the aforementioned tap temperature extraction unit 100. The pipe
340 is branched from the pipe 140 downstream from the pressure
reducer 142. Downstream from the branch point, an electromagnetic
valve 343 and a water quantity sensor 344 are installed.
In the hot water pouring path 350, a pouring opening 351 for
pouring high temperature water into the extractor 320 and a
circulation pump 352 are installed. Further, from a mid-portion of
the path 350, a discharge pipe 356 is branched, and the discharge
pipe 356 is connected to a discharge stopcock 356a.
The hot water supplying port 332 is equipped with a stopcock 332a
and is connected to a hot water level indicating pipe 332b.
In addition, the projecting portion of the hot water pouring path
350, which projects from the ceiling portion 311 of the case 310
and that is actually a pouring opening operating portion 357a, is
constituted as is the pouring opening operating portion 157a in the
tap temperature extraction unit 100. Thereby, the pouring opening
351 (during non-use) can not only be operated rotationally to move
to a retired position apart from the position of the extractor 320,
but also can be in a standby state with itself being mounted on a
mount-position 314 attached to the upper surface of the ceiling
portion 311 of the case 310 (see (A) in FIG. 9).
The operation of the high temperature extraction unit 300 is
explained hereunder. At first, in advance of manipulation of the
coffee liquid extraction operation, a hot water storage operation
is carried out.
The hot water storage operation is carried out in accordance with a
process wherein, by turning on a hot water storage operation switch
(and the like), the controller of the high temperature extraction
unit 300 (that is not illustrated here) opens an electromagnetic
valve 343 of the water-introducing pipe 340 to introduce city water
into the hot water storage tank 331. The controller then turns on
the stored hot-water-heater 333 to heat and maintain the water
inside the hot water storage tank 331 at a prescribed high
temperature. After the hot water storage operation, the main
operation, namely the hot coffee liquid extraction operation is
carried out. The hot coffee liquid extraction operation is carried
out in accordance with a process wherein the extractor 320, that is
equipped with the filter paper 323 and contains coffee bean powder,
is inserted at the ceiling portion 311 of the case 310 and the
pouring opening 351 is disposed at the lid opening 321a of the
extractor 320. The extraction quantity (high temperature water
pouring quantity) is then set and an extraction operation switch is
put on. As a result, the coffee liquid extracted by the extractor
320 drops into the dedicated receptacle tank 330 and is accumulated
there. Due to the surrounding hot water storage tank 331, the
coffee liquid is kept in a heated state. By opening the stopcock
371 of the coffee liquid dispensing port 370, the user can receive
hot coffee liquid with cups and the like and enjoy drinking it.
The coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present invention is
usable as a household coffee liquid extractor or as a coffee-liquid
extractor for the use of businesses such as a teahouse, restaurant
or the like. Tap temperature water extraction of coffee liquid of
little astringency, caffeine and sundry taste, of good taste, of
little oil content and oxidation tendency, and of favorable amber
color is made possible. Further, savory ice coffee is prepared in a
short time.
Further, the coffee liquid extracting apparatus of the present
invention enables the user to select tap temperature water
extraction or high temperature water extraction. Alternatively, the
apparatus is provided with both the tap temperature extraction unit
and the high temperature water extraction unit within one unit, so
that, by using one unit of such an apparatus for household or
business purpose, hot coffee and ice coffee is freely acquired.
Further, the apparatus can be provided with a roasting and milling
portion together with a tap temperature extraction unit and a high
temperature extraction unit. So that, by the use of such an
apparatus and by using raw bean, a thorough process from roasting
to coffee liquid extraction is carried out.
* * * * *