WO2025172375A1

WO2025172375A1 - Preparation of a brewed coffee beverage

Info

Publication number: WO2025172375A1
Application number: PCT/EP2025/053751
Authority: WO
Inventors: Joan Adam BERKELJON
Original assignee: Purepresso BV
Current assignee: Purepresso BV
Priority date: 2024-02-16
Filing date: 2025-02-12
Publication date: 2025-08-21
Anticipated expiration: 2026-08-16

Abstract

Method of preparing a single (portion) brewed coffee beverage from a compressed, ground green or partially roasted coffee bean product, via roasting, grinding and brewing, and a corresponding system for making a single (portion) brewed coffee beverage from a compressed green or partially roasted coffee bean product; and a method for making a granulated green coffee bean product via compressing green coffee bean fragments, and resulting compressed green coffee bean product, and such product in a packaging; and an apparatus for roasting and grinding, such as suitable for roasting and grinding an unroasted or partially roasted coffee bean product.

Description

PREPARATION OF A BREWED COFFEE BEVERAGE

A first aspect of the present invention relates to the field of preparation of a brewed coffee beverage, e.g. an espresso, a lungo, a cappuccino, etc.

In the art, it is commonly known to provide a packaging filled with non-ground roasted coffee beans to a user. The user then fills a volume thereof into a storage holder which is connected to a grinding unit of a coffee preparation apparatus. When a user desires to have a brewed coffee beverage, the grinding unit is put into action to grind a portion of the roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product. This portion of ground roasted coffee product is then automatically and directly introduced into a brewing unit of the apparatus. The brewing unit is then operated so as to obtain a single brewed coffee beverage that is dispensed into a receptable, e.g. a coffee cup. The used ground roasted coffee product is then discharged from the brewing unit to allow for another preparation cycle of the apparatus.

Alternative methods for preparation of a brewed coffee beverage are disclosed in, for example, LIS2016/0150908, and EP3716825. These documents generally disclose methods for preparation of a brewed coffee beverage, which comprise:

- providing a packaging filled with one or more portions of a preconditioned, non-roasted or partially roasted green coffee bean product,

- arranging a portion of the preconditioned, non-roasted or partially roasted green coffee bean product in a roasting unit,

- operating the roasting unit so as to roast the portion of the green coffee bean product to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product,

- introducing the portion of a roasted coffee bean product in a grinding unit,

- operating the grinding unit so as to grind the portion of a roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product,

- introducing the portion of ground roasted coffee product into a brewing unit,

- operating the brewing unit so as to obtain a brewed coffee beverage.

Contrary to the more common approach, the actual preparation cycle starts with introducing a portion of the preconditioned, non-roasted or partially roasted green coffee bean product into the roasting unit. So, generally, instead of starting with fully roasted coffee beans, the actual preparation cycle starts with preconditioned, yet non-roasted or just partially roasted coffee beans. In order to facilitate the roasting step, in particular to allow for a shorter duration of the roasting step, the documents LIS2016/0150908 and EP3716825 disclose the option to subject the green coffee beans to a pre-grinding, e.g. coarse pre-grinding, before it is filled into the packaging. This is done primarily to increase the surface area of the product to facilitate the roasting in the roasting unit. As discussed in these documents, it is desirable that when the user wants to prepare the coffee beverage, the roasting step can be performed in a matter of minutes, e.g. less than 5 minutes, e.g. just a few minutes. A lengthy roasting time would, for example, cause undue waiting time if multiple coffee beverages are to be prepared. Also, a short roasting time, even when performed at usual roasting temperatures and conditions, may also be of benefit for the optimal coffee aroma(s), flavour(s) to be experienced by the consumer.

The present invention aims to provide one or more improvements over the prior art disclosures, e.g. in view of one or more of:

- stable performance of the roasting process and resulting quality of the coffee beverage,

- optimal coffee aroma(s), flavour(s) to be experienced by the consumer,

- an enhanced preparation experience for the user/consumer,

- enhanced control and/or stability/reproducibility of the coffee beverage preparation by the user/consumer,

- a quick overall process for preparation of a brewed coffee beverage by the user/consumer,

- enhanced versatility of the apparatus, e.g. of the roasting unit.

The first aspect of the invention provides a method according to claim 1. In this method the preconditioned, non-roasted or partly roasted green coffee bean product is composed of granulated green coffee beans having a final size, which have been produced by initially making green coffee beans into fragments smaller than the final size of the granulated green coffee bean, and then forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compression.

The inventive approach to form the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compression of fragments offers a number of potentially advantageous effects and possibilities as will be discussed herein compared to the coarse pre-grinding as suggested in the mentioned prior art documents.

One potential effect/benefit of the inventive approach may be to have enhanced control of the shape and/or size of the granulated green coffee beans compared to a pre-grinding. The latter will in practice result in a relatively wide variation of shapes and sizes of the coarse ground green coffee which may impair the stable and/or uniform performance of the roasting process and resulting quality of the coffee beverage. For example, pre-grinding may result in rather fine or spiky green coffee bean particles that could become burned in the roasting unit, which may be detrimental to the taste, etc.

For example, the shape and/or size may be optimized in view of the roasting, for example, the shape can be spherical or otherwise.

Another potential effect/benefit of the inventive approach may be to have enhanced escape of gasses from the product during roasting. When roasting coffee beans, gasses such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and/or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are created and escape from the product. Due to the preconditioning as described herein, the escape of such gasses from the product may be enhanced. This enhanced escape of gasses may be of benefit for the roasting process, e.g. allow for a desirable short duration. Possibly, as the granulated green coffee bean is made by compressing smaller fragments into the granulate green coffee bean product, a porosity in the product is created which allows for an easier escape of gasses. It may also benefit the creation of aromas during the roasting process when the granulated green coffee bean product has been made by compressing smaller fragments into a bean, e.g. a spherical granulated bean.

Another potential effect/benefit of the inventive approach may be that the fragments to be compressed into the granulated green coffee beans may have a wide variation of shapes and dimensions, e.g. including fine fragments amongst larger fragments. This may allow to use all fragments in the production process, which is beneficial in view of optimal use of costly beans. As preferred, the process may avoid the need to sieve or sort fragments prior to the compression.

Another potential effect/benefit of the inventive approach is that an optimal combination of the roasting unit and the granulate green coffee bean product can be defined, e.g. in view of the heat input/transfer during roasting, the behaviour of the granulate green coffee bean product during roasting, etc.

In embodiments, fragmentation of green coffee beans involves grinding the green coffee beans, e.g. using a blade grinder or a burr grinder, or other approaches, including cutting, crushing, etc. Fragmentation may optionally involve crushing the green coffee beans into a sort of crushed mass which is then processed by a process including compression into the granulated green coffee beans. In embodiments, fragmentation of green coffee beans is done immediately before the compression, e.g. the machinery involved in the fragmentation being directly connected, e.g. integrated with, the machinery involved in the compression step.

In embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans are non-roasted.

In embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans are partly roasted, so that a final roasting step is to be performed at a later stage, e.g. in the roasting unit and/or apparatus as described herein.

In embodiments, green coffee beans are first partly roasted and then fragmented, with the fragments being used to form the granulated green coffee beans. In other embodiments, non-roasted coffee beans are fragmented and formed into granulated green coffee beans, with those granulated green coffee beans then being subjected to a partly roasting prior to packaging the granulated green coffee beans. in embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans have a size of between 2 and 5 millimeters, e.g. between 2 and 4 millimeters, e.g. about 3 millimeters.

In embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans have a substantially spherical shape. This may be beneficial in view of uniformity of roasting, behaviour of the granulated green coffee beans during roasting, e.g. in view of the use of a hot air stream for roasting, and/or handling of the granulated green coffee beans.

In embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans have a spherical shape with a diameter of between 2 and 5 millimeter, e.g. between 2 and 4 millimeter, e.g. about 3 millimeter.

In the context of the present invention non-spherical shapes are also envisaged, e.g. disc shaped granulated green coffee beans, rod shaped granulated green coffee beans, e.g. with circular or other cross-section.

In the context of the present invention a donut shape of the granulated green coffee beans is also envisaged, e.g. the inner opening therein further enhancing heat transfer, etc, during roasting. For example, the annulus of the donut has a cross-section with a diameter of between 2 and 4 millimeter, e.g. about 3 millimeter. In the context of the present invention, for example, a star shape or cross-shape of the granulated green coffee beans is also envisaged.

In the context of the present invention, it is also envisaged that a variety of shapes and/or sizes of the granulated green coffee beans is contained within a package.

In embodiments, the package contains only uniformly shaped and sized granulated green coffee beans.

For example, the green coffee bean fragments are compressed using:

- a pellet mill, and/or

- a tablet press, and/or

- a rotary molding press,

- an extruder.

For example, an elongated extrusion of fragmented green coffee beans is cut or otherwise formed into disc shaped or rod shaped granulated green coffee beans. For example, a multitude of extrusions emerges from a die head, e.g. a stationary or rotary die head, and these extrusions are then cut or otherwise formed into the granulated green coffee beans.

In an embodiment, the method for forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compressing the fragments further comprises adding a binder material enhancing binding of the fragments. The binder material has a function to bind or enhance binding of the fragments that make up the granulated green coffee bean. As discussed herein, the binder material may also have one or more additional functionalities, e.g. enhancing flavour.

In embodiments, the binder material comprises or is composed of one or more natural edible components, e.g. including or composed of an alginate.

In an embodiment, the method for forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compressing the fragments further comprises coating of the granulated green coffee beans, e.g. forming a casing about the compressed fragments. In embodiments, the coating is made of a binder material enhancing binding of the fragments. In embodiments, the coating may form a skin which enhances the roasting of the product, e.g. affecting the transfer of heat into the product during roasting and/or enhancing physical stability of the product during roasting. The coating may also serve one or more additional functionalities, e.g. enhancing flavour. In an embodiment, the binder material is admixed with the fragments prior and/or during compression of the fragments with the binder material.

In an embodiments, the binder material forms a matrix in which the fragments are held together.

In embodiments, the binder material comprises (very) finely ground green coffee beans material, e.g. as pasty binder material, e.g. with admixed with an oil and/or fat, e.g. oil and/or fat from another source than coffee beans.

In embodiments, the binder material comprises an oily or fatty binder material, e.g. a vegetable oil.

In embodiments, the binder material comprises oil and/or fat components obtained from coffee beans.

In embodiments, the binder material comprises oil and/or fat components obtained from nuts.

In embodiments, the binder material comprises an alginate, a gum, a cellulose (modified or natural), a pectin or pectinaceous binder, etc.

In embodiments, the granules having binder and/or coating material are subjected to a curing step to cure the binder and/or coating and/or to stabilize an additive when present, e.g. causing evaporation of moisture or the like from the binder and/or coating and/or additive, e.g. a solvent based additive, e.g. water soluble additive. For example, the curing step comprising heating the granules.

In embodiments, the roasting step causes the binder and/or coating material to, at least in part, be removed from the granules, e.g. evaporated or otherwise. In another embodiment, the binder and/or coating material remains essentially intact.

In an embodiment, the method for forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compressing the fragments further comprises adding an additive, e.g. one or more of a flavouring agent, a preservative, a foaming agent, an anti-foaming agent (e.g. surfactant), a foam stabilizer, a colouring agent and/or mixtures thereof. For example, the additive is part of a coating of the granulated green coffee beans and/or of a binder material. In an embodiment, the method for forming the granulated green coffee beans comprises a treatment reducing the moisture content of the green coffee bean product, e.g. a vacuum freeze drying or a heating process lowering moisture content, e.g. prior to fragmenting the green coffee beans.

In an embodiment, other edible material is admixed with the fragments of green coffee beans prior or during compression. For example, nut(s) (e.g. fragmented nut), fruit(s), herb(s), spices, cacao, etc.

In an embodiment, after the roasting of the portion, the portion of roasted coffee bean product method is directly introduced in the grinding unit and the portion of ground roasted coffee product is then directly introduced into the brewing unit.

The brewing unit may be configured to brew the coffee beverage based on extraction. Different extraction processes are known in the art, e.g. hot water being dripped through a bed of ground roasted coffee or forcefully pressed through a bed of ground roasted coffee (e.g. by water pressurized via a pump or through a centrifugal brewing process).

The brewing unit may, in embodiments, be configured to perform a non-extraction based brewing process. For example, non-roasted coffee is mixed with a beverage liquid, e.g. water, and/or milk, etc. A combination of extraction and non-extraction is also envisaged.

In an embodiment, two distinct brewing units are provided, e.g. in one apparatus, each embodied for performing an associated brewing process.

In an embodiment, the roasting unit, grinding unit, and brewing unit are part of a single beverage preparation apparatus. Preferably, the apparatus is configured and operated for automatic transfer of the portion of a roasted coffee bean product into the grinding unit and for automatic transfer of the portion of ground roasted coffee product to the brewing unit.

The first aspect of the invention also relates to a method according to claim 15 for production of a granulated green coffee bean product composed of granulated green coffee beans. Herein green coffee beans are initially made into fragments smaller than a final size of the granulated green coffee beans and then the granulated green coffee beans are formed by a process including compressing the fragments. In embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans have a size of between 2 and 5 millimeters, e.g. between 2 and 4 millimeters, e.g. about 3 millimeters, e.g. spherical.

In embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans have a substantially spherical shape.

In embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans have a spherical shape with a diameter of between 2 and 4 millimeter, e.g. about 3 millimeter.

In embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans comprises at least 70% by volume of green coffee bean fragments, e.g. at least 80%, e.g. at least 90%. Possibly, the granulated green coffee beans substantially consist of green coffee bean fragments, e.g. devoid of any binder and/or coating as discussed herein.

In embodiments, the fragments are compressed using:

- a pellet mill, and/or

- a tablet press, and/or

- a rotary molding press, and/or

- an extruder.

In embodiments, the fragments are compressed at a controlled temperature, e.g. at an elevated temperature, e.g. in view of enhanced binding of the fragments.

In embodiments, forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compressing the fragments further comprises adding a binder material enhancing binding of the fragments.

In embodiments, the binder material is admixed with the fragments prior and/or during compression of the fragments.

In embodiments, forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compressing the fragments further comprises coating of the granulated green coffee beans, e.g. forming a casing about the fragments, e.g. the binder material forming the coating, e.g. casing.

In embodiments, the binder material comprises one or more of:

- finely ground green coffee beans material, e.g. as a pasty binder material, e.g. with admixed oil and/or fat, - an oily or fatty binder material, e.g. a vegetable oil,

- oil and/or fat components obtained from coffee beans,

- an aromatic substance, e.g. a non-coffee aromatic substance, e.g. obtained from nuts,

- oil and/or fat components obtained from nuts,

- an alginate, a gum, a cellulose (modified or natural), a pectin or pectinaceous binder.

In embodiments, the production of the granulated green coffee bean product comprises a treatment reducing the moisture content of the green coffee bean product, e.g. a vacuum freeze drying or a heating process lowering the moisture content, e.g. prior to fragmenting the green coffee beans.

In embodiments, the production of the granulated green coffee bean product is devoid of a roasting step so that a non-roasted granulated green coffee bean product is produced.

In embodiments, the production of the granulated green coffee bean product includes a roasting step performed such that a partially roasted granulated green coffee bean product is produced.

The first aspect of the invention also relates to a granulated green coffee bean product made according to the method as discussed herein.

The first aspect of the invention also relates a packaging filled with one or more portions of a preconditioned, non-roasted or partly roasted green coffee bean product, e.g. for use in a method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 14, wherein the preconditioned, nonroasted or partly roasted green coffee bean product is a granulated green coffee bean product produced using the method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 26.

For example, the packaging contains just a single portion for preparation of a brewed coffee beverage.

In embodiments, the packaging further contains an additive in addition to the granulated green coffee bean product, e.g. one or more of a flavouring agent, a preservative, a foaming agent, an anti-foaming agent (e.g. surfactant), a foam stabilizer, a colouring agent and/or mixtures thereof.

The first aspect of the invention also relates to a system according to claim 31 for preparation of a brewed coffee beverage. In embodiments, the roasting unit, grinding unit, and brewing unit are part of a single beverage preparation apparatus. For example, the apparatus is configured and operated for automatic transfer of the portion of a roasted coffee bean product into the grinding unit and for automatic transfer of the portion of ground roasted coffee product to the brewing unit.

In embodiments, the system comprises two brewing units each configured to perform a brewing step different from the other brewing unit, e.g. wherein the grinding unit is selectively connectable to a selected one of the brewing units.

In embodiments, wherein the system comprises an additional beverage preparation unit configured to dispense and/or prepare a beverage different from a beverage prepared using the roasting unit, grinding unit, and brewing unit, e.g. configured to dispense a warm or cold non-coffee beverage, e.g. a carbonated beverage. For example, the additional beverage preparation unit is combined with the beverage preparation apparatus having the roasting unit, grinding unit, and brewing unit, e.g. in a single housing.

The first aspect of the invention also relates to a coffee beverage preparation apparatus for use in a method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 14, comprising:

- a roasting unit configured to arrange a portion of a preconditioned, non-roasted or partly roasted green coffee bean product in a roasting unit and operable so as to roast the portion of the green coffee bean product to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product,

- a grinding unit configured for, preferably directly, introducing the portion of a roasted coffee bean product in the grinding unit and operable so as to grind the portion of a roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product,

- a brewing unit configured for, preferably directly, introducing the portion of ground roasted coffee product into the brewing unit and operable so as to obtain a single brewed coffee beverage and for discharging the used ground roasted coffee product from the brewing unit.

In a practical embodiment, when the user desires to prepare the coffee beverage, the actual preparation cycle may start with introducing (by the user, e.g. using a single portion packaging, or through operation of a part of the apparatus), a portion of the preconditioned, non-roasted or partly roasted green coffee bean product into the roasting unit. So, generally, instead of starting with fully roasted coffee beans, the actual preparation cycle starts with preconditioned, yet non-roasted or just partly roasted product. In embodiments, the actual preparation cycle starts upon a user providing a command to a coffee beverage preparation apparatus including the roasting unit, grinding unit, and brewing unit. In embodiments, the user or the apparatus introduces the portion of granulated green coffee bean product into the roasting unit at the start of the preparation cycle.

In a practically preferred embodiment, the granulated green coffee beans in conjunction with the roasting step performed in the roasting unit are embodied such that the step of roasting the portion of the green coffee bean product to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product is performed in at most 2 minutes, preferably at most 1 minute. So, in these embodiments, the overall approach is to have a very short roasting time of the single portion that is required to prepare a coffee beverage. A lengthy roasting time would, for example, cause undue waiting time if multiple coffee beverages are to be prepared for several consumers. Also, a short roasting time, even when performed at usual roasting temperatures and conditions as is preferred, may also be of benefit for the optimal coffee aroma(s), flavour(s) to be experienced by the consumer.

Roasting may be performed using heated air, but other approaches, e.g. as described in US2016/0150908, are envisaged as well. Roasting by the application of microwaves, e.g. as discussed in WO2021191910 is also envisaged.

In an embodiment, the granulated green coffee product has been subject to a preconditioning treatment reducing the moisture content of the green coffee bean product, e.g. a vacuum freeze drying or a heating process lowering moisture content. By reducing the moisture content of the green coffee bean product, the roasting step can be effected quicker/more effectively, as less water needs to be evaporated before the green coffee bean starts to show roasting effects.

In embodiments, the packaging shields the granulated green coffee product against the ingress of moisture and/or air.

For example, the packaging is devoid of a one-way degassing valve as commonly used on packaging for roasted coffee bean product, which roasted coffee continues to release carbon dioxide well after roasting. This is possible, in particular, when the granulated green coffee product is non-roasted.

For example, the packaging is a vacuum packaging. For example, the packaging contains just one portion of preconditioned green coffee product for preparation of a single coffee beverage.

For example, the packaging is configured to be opened by the coffee beverage preparation apparatus, e.g. in case of a single portion packaging, for introducing the preconditioned green coffee product into the roasting chamber, preferably in absence of any intermediate storage within the apparatus.

In embodiments, when preparing the beverage, the portion is roasted by roasting heat applied by subjecting the granulating green coffee beans to a heated air stream. This allows for the quick roasting process of the portion, e.g. within the mentioned short time periods.

In an embodiment, the apparatus is configured to use some of the heat provided in the course of roasting also for one or more other functions, e.g. for heating water involved in the brewing process, pre-heating of the cup or glass in which the beverage is discharge, heating the grinder unit, heating the brewing unit.

In an embodiment, the granulated green coffee beans, which may be called granules or pearls, are substantially spherical. So, the production process then leads to a round shape of the granules.

For example, the grinder unit grinds the roasted coffee bean product to a size of about 1 - 1.5 millimetre in diameter or (much) smaller, e.g. depending on the type of brewing to be performed. Possibly, the grinder unit grinds the roasted coffee bean product to a size less than 1 millimetre. Grinding may also benefit from the granulated green coffee beans having been made by compressing smaller fragments into the granulate green coffee bean product, e.g. the roasted product breaking up more easily in the grinding unit.

In a practical embodiment, the roasting unit, grinding unit, and brewing unit are part of a single apparatus. As discussed herein, other arrangements are envisaged as well.

For example, the apparatus is configured for automatic transfer of the portion of a roasted coffee bean product into the grinding unit and for automatic transfer of the portion of ground roasted coffee product to the brewing unit.

For example, the portion of ground roasted coffee product is still so hot when being transferred into the brewing unit that the contact with hot water in the brewing unit cools the ground roasted coffee product and stops the roasting process. As will be discussed herein, in embodiments, a forced cooling of the roasted product is carried out at the end of the roasting process, e.g. using a mist of water.

For example, the grinder unit is heated so as to allow for a continued effect of the heat applied to the green coffee bean product in the roasting unit. In another embodiment, the grinder is cooled in order to extract heat from the coffee product. In embodiments, the grinder unit is provided with a heat exchange device to control the temperature during grinding.

Whilst the production of non-roasted granulated green coffee bean product is preferred, it is also envisaged that a partially roasted granulated green coffee bean product is provided in the packaging. Herein partially roasted means that the final or complete roasting takes place in the roasting unit as described herein. For example, the partially roasting is formed by (partially) drying the coffee bean product. For example, the preconditioning involves drying the product, e.g. for some minutes, e.g. with a temperature in the end of drying stage of typically 160 °C.

In practical embodiments, the roasting unit comprises a roasting chamber wherein a portion of green coffee bean product is introduced prior to the roasting step. In embodiments, the roasting chamber is at least in part transparent so as to allow the user to see the roasting being performed. For example, the roasting chamber is at least in part or entirely of glass.

In embodiments, the roasting chamber is at least in part transparent and is mounted in the housing of the apparatus so as to be visible by the user. For example, the housing has an aperture through the housing and open at opposite sides of the housing in which the roasting chamber is arranged. For example, the aperture is circular, e.g. in combination with a rotating support for the chamber as is discussed herein.

In embodiments the roasting chamber is tubular, e.g. of glass. As preferred, the tubular roasting chamber has an inlet and an outlet at opposed axial ends thereof.

In embodiments, the roasting unit comprises a circulation duct configured to circulate heated air through the roasting chamber in order to perform the roasting step. For example, the duct is configured to connect to the roasting chamber at opposed ends of the chamber, e.g. of the tubular chamber. In embodiments, the tubular roasting chamber through which heated air is circulated has a non-uniform cross-section over the length thereof, e.g. in view of creating an air flow pattern, e.g. locally, which enhances the roasting process, e.g. to keep the portion more or less suspended at a particular location in the roasting chamber. For example, a section of the tubular roasting chamber has an expanded, e.g. bulbous, shape, e.g. having larger diameter than the adjoining inlet and outlet sections, e.g. to induce a flow pattern which keeps the portion suspended at said expanded section. For example, the roasting chamber is transparent at said expanded section, e.g. of glass, e.g. arranged in the apparatus so as to allow the user to visually witness the roasting process.

In embodiments, a blower is provided to advance the heated air used for the roasting process, e.g. through the chamber, e.g. advance the heated air in circulation through the circulation duct. For example, the blower includes a drive motor and an air fan, e.g. which fan is arranged in the duct. For example, the drive motor has a rotary output shaft which protrudes into the duct, wherein the fan is mounted on the shaft.

In embodiments, the roasting unit is associated with a filtering device to remove or reduced VOC’s and/or dust and/or smoke which may develop during roasting. For example, the filtering device include a carbon based filter and/or a paper filter.

In practical embodiments, the roasting unit comprises a heater device which is configured to provide a controlled heating of the heated air which is used in the roasting process. For example, the heater device is arranged to heat the air whilst passing through the duct. For example, the heater device is an electric heater.

For example, one or more temperature sensors are provided, e.g. combined with the heater device, to measure the temperature of the air used for roasting, e.g. linked to the heater device to control operation thereof.

In embodiments, heat for roasting is provided on other ways, e.g. with other type of air heater. In embodiments, roasting is done by other heating techniques, e.g. based on laser.

In preferred embodiments, the grinding unit is configured for directly introducing the portion of a roasted coffee bean product from the roasting unit in the grinding unit and operable so as to grind the portion of a roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product. For example, the grinding unit comprises body with a stationary outer grinding member and a rotary inner grinding member arranged to rotate within the outer grinding member. The grinding unit body has an inlet for the roasted coffee product that is to be grinded, e.g. such that said product flows by gravity in the grinder between the members. The grinding unit has an outlet for ground roasted coffee product.

In preferred embodiments, the roasted coffee product is deposited directly from the roasting chamber into the inlet of the grinding unit, e.g. via an inlet duct of the grinding unit that is configured to connect to the roasting chamber, e.g. in an unloading position thereof.

The brewing unit is, in embodiments, configured for directly introducing the portion of ground roasted coffee product from the grinding unit into the brewing unit and is operable so as to obtain a single brewed coffee beverage and for discharging the used ground roasted coffee product from the brewing unit.

In practical embodiments, the brewing unit has a brewing chamber. The brewing unit has an inlet for ground roasted coffee product which is configured to connect directly to the outlet of the grinding unit.

For example, a water heater device, e.g. an electric flow-through heater device, is provided to heat water to a brewing temperature. The heated water is introduced into the brewing chamber in order to brew the coffee beverage.

In embodiments, the brewing unit comprises a piston type brewing unit. For example, a piston forms a movable wall of the chamber and an associated piston drive is configured to move the piston into a first position to allow the chamber to receive the heated water and the freshly ground coffee product, to remain in the first position for a time sufficient for the beverage to brew, and to move to a second position to dispense the beverage by forcing the beverage out of the chamber via dispensing outlet.

For example, the brewing unit comprises a filter to retain the ground coffee product when the beverage is dispensed.

For example, the brewing unit comprises a ground coffee product discharge assembly configured to discharge the ground coffee product after the beverage has been dispensed. For example, the brewing chamber has an outlet for the used ground coffee product, e.g. arranged above a container wherein the used ground coffee product is collected. In embodiments, cold water is stored in a tank, e.g. a removable tank which can be filled with water under a tap. The tank is connected or connectable to the water heater device.

In embodiments, the apparatus comprises a cup holder on which a cup can be placed under the outlet to receive the brewed coffee product.

In embodiments, the apparatus comprises a storage compartment which is configured for storage of green coffee bean product, e.g. for storage of multiple portions thereof allowing to brew multiple beverages without the need for refilling of the storage compartment.

In embodiments, the apparatus comprises a conveyance device configured to convey green coffee bean product from the storage compartment to the roasting chamber. For example, the device comprises a motor driven auger.

In embodiments, the apparatus comprises, e.g. in combination with the storage compartment, a portion introduction inlet assembly configured to introduce a portion of green coffee bean product into the roasting chamber. For example, the portion is packaged in a portion packaging, and the assembly is configured to receive therein the packaging and to dispense the product from the packaging into the roasting chamber. For example, the assembly is arranged in the housing such that the product drops the assembly, e.g. out of the packaging, under gravity into the roasting chamber. This avoids the need for a conveyance device between the assembly and the chamber. As will be appreciated, one can also fill a portion of the product into the assembly, e.g. from a single portion packaging in which the product was supplied to the user, e.g. by tearing open a packaging or otherwise.

In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises one or more user operable buttons or other user operable command members to control operation of the apparatus. As will be appreciated control of the apparatus may, in embodiments, also be done remotely, e.g. wireless, e.g. using a mobile device, e.g. a smartphone, e.g. a smartphone running an app configured to control the apparatus. In an embodiment, the apparatus is associated with an app to control the apparatus from a mobile device.

For example, the apparatus is configured to allow the user to set and/or adjust one or more operational parameters associated with one or more, e.g. all, of the roasting unit, grinding unit, and/or brewing unit. For example, the apparatus is configured to allow the user to set and/or adjust parameters related to the roasting process, e.g. temperature, a temperature profile over the duration of the roasting process, the air flow, and/or the duration of the roasting process. The apparatus may be configured to allow the user to stop the roasting process, e.g. based on the user witnessing the roasting as the chamber is (partly) transparent.

For example, the roasting unit is configured to provide a range, e.g. wide range, of roasting intensities, and allow the user to select, e.g. from a mobile device, a roasting process with the desired intensity, e.g. a stepless variation of intensity, e.g. between a light roasting and a dark roasting of the portion. In an embodiment, the apparatus may even allow the user to select an operation wherein no roasting is performed, e.g. the roasting unit being operated just to perform a heating of the portion of green coffee bean product without a noticeable roasting effect.

In an embodiment, the packaging is provided with readable instructions, e.g. by a reader of the apparatus and/or by a mobile device, providing settings for one or more units of the apparatus, e.g. default setting which can be changed by the user in view of personal desires.

In an embodiment, the system is configured to store personal settings for one or more units of the apparatus, e.g. on the apparatus, on a remote server, and/or on a mobile device. In embodiments, the system is configured to store personal settings associated with a time of day, or day, e.g. allowing to store one preparation recipe for a morning coffee and another preparation recipe for an evening coffee based on the same green coffee bean product, e.g. the degree of roasting being different.

In embodiments, the apparatus is configured to provide a cooling of the roasted coffee product at the end of the roasting process. The cooling, preferably, aims to lower the temperature of the coffee product to such an extent that the roasting process, e.g. the exothermic process, within the coffee product ends. For example, the temperature of the coffee product is brought down below 174 Celsius, e.g. below 160 Celsius. This is the temperature range commonly regarded as the lower limit for the browning or Maillard phase in a regular coffee roasting process wherein the beans shift from yellow to a yellow-tan colour.

When applying the forced cooling to terminate the roasting process, there is generally no need to reduce the temperature much, e.g. not below 100 Celsius, e.g. not when the product is then advanced directly to the grinding unit and then onwards to the brewing unit. Too much cooling would only require substantial effort for the cooling.

In embodiments, the apparatus is configured to pass cold air onto the roasted coffee product at the end of the roasting process, e.g. air taken from the environment.

In embodiments, the apparatus is configured to cause a cooling of the roasted coffee product at the end of the roasting process by means of water, e.g. water taken from a water tank of the apparatus. For example, a mist of water is sprayed into an airstream passing the roasted coffee product, e.g. into air circulating through the air circulation duct as described herein. The mist of water serves to cool the coffee product and may also cool the airstream, e.g. when the airstream was heated for the use thereof in the roasting process. For example, a water atomizer is arranged to introduce a mist of water into an airflow passing the roasted product, e.g. the atomizer being arranged in the air circulation duct as described herein.

In embodiments, cooling of the roasted coffee product may also be done by a cooling unit arranged intermediate the roasting unit and the grinding unit.

It is envisaged that a forced cooling of the roasted coffee product directly at the end of the roasting process may be advantageous in particular when the coffee product is the preconditioned coffee product as described herein. Due to the preconditioning, possibly, the roasting time may be short, e.g. much shorter than in a regular coffee roasting process with complete green coffee beans.

It is noted that the use of water, e.g. a mist of water, as coolant for the coffee product, possibly also the air initially used for effecting the roasting, may have the benefit of enhancing the grinding process and/or the brewing process. For example, contacting the roasted product with some moisture may increase or otherwise benefit the contact with water in the brewing process. Also moisture may counter the occurrence of static electricity during grinding.

In embodiments, the apparatus is configured to move the roasting chamber into multiple distinct positions, including:

- a loading position wherein a portion of product is loaded into the chamber,

- a roasting position wherein the portion of product is roasted,

- an unloading position wherein the roasted product is unloaded from the chamber. In embodiments, the roasting chamber is rotatable within the housing, e.g. about an axis, e.g. a horizontal axis. For example, as preferred, one rotary position of the roasting chamber corresponds to the loading position, another rotary position corresponds to the roasting position, e.g. wherein the roasting chamber is vertical, e.g. wherein a tubular roasting chamber is vertical, and yet another rotary position corresponds to the unloading position.

For example, the roasting chamber is mounted in a support ring to rotate with the ring about an axis through the center of the ring, e.g. a horizontal axis.

For example, the roasting chamber has opposite ends, e.g. the roasting chamber being tubular, which ends are mounted to a support ring which is rotatably mounted in the housing of the apparatus. For example, in one rotary roasting position of the support ring with the chamber therein, the chamber connects to a supply of heated air for roasting, e.g. to a circulation duct, so that heated air can be passed through the chamber to roast the product.

For example, a mesh or the like may be arranged at the junction of an air circulation duct and an air inlet port of the roasting chamber so that the product stays in the chamber during roasting.

For example, a mesh may be or the like may be arranged at the junction of an air duct and an air outlet port of the chamber so that the product stays in the chamber during roasting.

For example, the roasting chamber is mounted in a support ring to rotate with the ring 160 about an axis through the center of the ring, e.g. a horizontal axis, and the housing of the apparatus has a viewing opening, e.g. at opposite sides of the housing, allowing the user to see the roasting chamber, e.g., to witness the roasting process as the chamber may have one or more windows, e.g. be transparent, e.g. with a glass tube.

In embodiments, the viewing opening(s) is/are circular, preferably corresponds to the diameter of the ring. The viewing opening may be entirely open, but may also be covered by a transparent window when desired.

In embodiments, the roasting chamber is vertical oriented in the roasting position thereof, and inclined in the unloading position thereof, e.g. the inlet of the grinding unit being located adjacent the air duct junction for introduction of heated air into the chamber. In embodiments, the roasting chamber is vertical oriented in the roasting position thereof, and inclined or horizontal in the loading position thereof. For example, the chamber may be oriented horizontally to load product therein, e.g. using a conveyance device to convey product into the chamber.

For example, there is a first loading position of the chamber for loading product from a storage compartment and a distinct second loading position for loading product from the assembly. For example, the first loading position is horizontal or substantially horizontal and the second loading position is more vertical, e.g. inclined, e.g. nearly vertical.

The present invention also relates to an apparatus as discussed herein without the brewing unit being present in the apparatus, so an apparatus including the roasting unit and the grinding unit as discussed herein. This apparatus can be used to prepare roasted and ground coffee product. This is then introduced by the user into a distinct brewing device for preparation of the coffee beverage.

A second aspect of the invention relates to the preparation of a coffee beverage, wherein instead of the granulated coffee bean product prepared according to the first aspect of the invention, the preconditioned, non-roasted or lightly roasted green coffee bean product is composed of fragmented green coffee beans, e.g. coarse ground green coffee beans, without granules being formed by a process including compression as in the first aspect. In particular, the second aspect of the invention envisages that the system, apparatus, and/or unit(s) described with reference to the first aspect of the invention is/are also applicable to the handling of preconditioned, non-roasted or lightly roasted green coffee bean product composed of fragmented green coffee beans, e.g. coarse ground green coffee beans. For example, the second aspect relates to a system according to claim 31 wherein instead of the packaging being filled with granulated green coffee bean product, the package is filled with filled with one or more portions of non-roasted or partly roasted fragmented green coffee beans, e.g. coarse ground green coffee beans.

A third aspect of the invention relates to the preparation of a roasted food product, which can be a green coffee bean product but can, additionally or alternatively, also be a non-coffee food product. In particular, the third aspect of the invention envisages that the system, apparatus, and/or unit(s) described with reference to the first aspect of the invention is/are also applicable to the handling of non-coffee food products. For example, the system, apparatus, and/or unit(s) described may be applied for handling nuts, fruits, herbs, cereals, cacao, etc. Possibly, one and the same system, apparatus, and/or unit(s) is configured to be used both for coffee and non-coffee food products. This versatility is, e.g., advantageous in view of footprint of the apparatus.

A fourth aspect of the invention, which can be combined with any of the other aspects of the invention, in particular also the first and/or second aspect, envisages that the brewing of coffee is not only based on the use of ground roasted coffee but also on unroasted green coffee bean material being present during the brewing, preferably fine green coffee bean fragments. So, e.g. when extraction is performed in the brewing unit, this also involves nonroasted green coffee, which may add to the taste, smell, etc, of the coffee. For example, only a small amount of unroasted green coffee is present, e.g. less than 10% of the total of coffee product used for preparation of the beverage.

In an embodiment of the fourth aspect, fragmented green coffee beans, e.g. coarse ground green coffee beans, are sieved so that a desired size fraction is obtained for roasting, e.g. for product of the granulated coffee bean product as discussed herein. For example, the fraction to be roasted includes sizes between 1 and 3 millimeter. During sieving or the like (e.g. using a cyclone) a fine fraction of green coffee bean fragments may be collected, which is not to be roasted. One option is to discard this fine fraction. In the context of the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is envisaged to introduce the fine fraction of fragmented green coffee bean product into a brewing unit, so non-roasted, in addition of roasted coffee product. For example, the apparatus contains a dedicated storage and/or entry port for such fine fraction of green coffee bean product, connected (e.g. via a valve) to the brewing unit.

In an embodiment of the fourth aspect, green coffee beans are finely ground into a fine fraction, and the fine fraction is introduced into a brewing unit, so non-roasted, in addition of roasted coffee product. In an embodiment, the apparatus is configured to grind unroasted green coffee bean product into a fine fraction and then introduce it into a brewing unit, and the grind roasted coffee bean product which is then also introduced into the brewing unit.

The fourth aspect of the invention relates to a method for preparation of a coffee beverage, wherein both roasted and ground coffee bean product is fed to a brewing unit as well as a fine fraction of non-roasted green coffee bean product. For example, the fine fraction has been obtained by sieving or otherwise sorting fragments of green coffee beans. For example, the fine fraction has a maximum size of 1 millimeter, e.g. less than 0.5 millimeter, or less.

A fifth aspect of the invention relates to the preparation of a beverage based on non-roasted green coffee, so wherein non-roasted green coffee (e.g. grinded) is mixed with a liquid, e.g. milk, water, etc, and/or wherein preparation involves a combination of extraction and mixing. As discussed herein, optionally, the roasting unit may be set to not perform the roasting step so that the product is not roasted and then introduced into the grinder, when present. For example, a brewing unit is configured to mix the liquid with the non-roasted green coffee product.

The present invention also relates to an apparatus as discussed herein without the grinding unit and brewing unit being present in the apparatus, so an apparatus primarily including the roasting unit, e.g. in combination with the storage compartment and/or the assembly for introduction of a portion as discussed herein. This apparatus effectively forms a roasting apparatus and can be used to prepare roasted coffee and/or other roasted food product. This may then be introduced into a grinder unit when desired, or used without grinding. For example, the roasting unit is combined with a brewing device for preparation of the beverage, in absence of grinding. As discussed, such a roasting apparatus may be used in the context of coffee, but may also be used for other food products that are to be roasted, e.g. nuts, cacao, fruit, herbs, cereals, etc.

The present invention also relates to an apparatus as discussed herein without the brewing unit being present in the apparatus, so an apparatus including the roasting unit and the grinding unit. For example, this combined roasting and grinding apparatus further comprises a roasted product direct discharge configured for discharge of roasted food product directly from the roasting unit and bypassing the grinding unit in case no grinding is desired. As discussed, such an apparatus may be used in the context of coffee, but may also be used for other food products that are to be roasted and/or grinded, e.g. nuts, cacao, fruit, herbs, cereals, etc.

A sixth aspect of the present invention relates to a food product preparation apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

- a roasting unit configured to arrange a portion of a food product in the roasting unit and operable so as to roast the portion of the food product to obtain a portion of a roasted food product,

- optionally, a grinding unit, and/or

- optionally a brewing unit. In an embodiment, the roasting unit has the transparent roasting chamber, so as to allow the user to see the roasting being performed. For example, the roasting chamber is at least in part or entirely of glass.

In embodiments, the roasting unit comprises a circulation duct configured to circulate heated air through the roasting chamber in order to perform the roasting step. For example, the duct is configured to connect to the roasting chamber at opposed ends of the chamber, e.g. of the tubular chamber.

In embodiments, the tubular roasting chamber through which heated air is circulated has a non-uniform cross-section over the length thereof, e.g. in view of creating an air flow pattern, e.g. locally, which enhances the roasting process, e.g. to keep the portion more or less suspended at a particular location in the roasting chamber. For example, a section of the tubular roasting chamber has an expanded, e.g. bulbous, shape, e.g. having larger diameter than the adjoining inlet and outlet sections, e.g. to induce a flow pattern which keeps the portion suspended at said expanded section. For example, the roasting chamber is transparent at said expanded section, e.g. of glass, e.g. arranged in the apparatus so as to allow the user to visually witness the roasting process.

In embodiments, the roasting unit is associated with a filtering device to remove or reduced VOC’s and/or dust and/or smoke which may develop during roasting. For example, the filtering device include a carbon based filter and/or a paper filter. In practical embodiments, the roasting unit comprises a heater device which is configured to provide a controlled heating of the heated air which is used in the roasting process. For example, the heater device is arranged to heat the air whilst passing through the duct. For example, the heater device is an electric heater.

- a loading position wherein a portion of product is loaded into the chamber,

- a roasting position wherein the portion of product is roasted,

- an unloading position wherein the roasted product is unloaded from the chamber.

In embodiments, the roasting chamber is rotatable within the housing, e.g. about an axis, e.g. a horizontal axis. For example, as preferred, one rotary position of the roasting chamber corresponds to the loading position, another rotary position corresponds to the roasting position, e.g. wherein the roasting chamber is vertical, e.g. wherein a tubular roasting chamber is vertical, and yet another rotary position corresponds to the unloading position.

For example, a mesh or the like may be arranged at the junction of an air circulation duct and an air inlet port of the roasting chamber so that the product stays in the chamber during roasting. In preferred embodiments, the grinding unit is configured for directly introducing the portion of a roasted coffee bean product from the roasting unit in the grinding unit and operable so as to grind the portion of a roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product.

For example, the grinding unit comprises body with a stationary outer grinding member and a rotary inner grinding member arranged to rotate within the outer grinding member. The grinding unit body has an inlet for the roasted coffee product that is to be grinded, e.g. such that said product flows by gravity in the grinder between the members. The grinding unit has an outlet for ground roasted coffee product.

As discussed the apparatus according to the sixth aspect of the invention may be provided with a grinding unit and/or a brewing unit, e.g. as discussed herein. For example, the brewing unit may be configured to prepare a non-coffee beverage, e.g. a fruit based beverage, e.g. a smoothie like beverage including a roasted and/or ground food product, e.g. as a topping.

In an embodiment the apparatus according to the sixth aspect of the invention may be configured to dispense the roasted and/or ground food product as a topping, e.g. on ice cream, soup, etc.

In an embodiment the apparatus according to the sixth aspect of the invention may be configured to dispense the roasted and/or ground food product to a mixing unit in order to be mixed with an edible liquid, e.g. milk, water, soup, etc.

The present invention also relates to a method wherein use is made of a system, apparatus, and/or unit(s) as described herein.

The apparatus is, in preferred embodiments, a domestic appliance. In other embodiments, for example, the apparatus is configured for professional use, e.g. at a bar, cafe, restaurant. For example, the apparatus may include one roasting unit, one grinding unit, and one or multiple brewing units, e.g. multiple brewing units connected via a controllable manifold to the one grinding unit.

The invention will now be discussed with reference to the drawings. In the drawings:

- fig. 1 schematically shows that a green coffee beans is granulated into spherical granulated coffee beans,

- fig. 2 shows an example of a coffee beverage preparation apparatus for use in a coffee beverage preparation method,

- fig. 3 shows a cross-section of the apparatus of figure 2 with the roasting chamber in roasting position,

- fig. 4 shows a cross-section of the apparatus of figure 2 with the roasting chamber in a first loading position,

- fig. 5 shows a cross-section of the apparatus of figure 2 with the roasting chamber in an unloading position,

- fig. 6 shows a cross-section of the apparatus of figure 2 with the roasting chamber in a second loading position.

Figure 1 schematically shows a green coffee bean 1 and a granulated green coffee bean product, here schematically represented by four granules 2.

Figure 1 schematically shows that the green coffee bean 1 is initially fragmented at 100, e.g. by grinding, e.g. coarse grinding, or crushing into fragments smaller than the final size of the granules 2.

The green coffee bean fragments are then processed at 200 by a process including compression to form the granulated green coffee bean product in the form of granules 2.

Possibly, a binder and/or coating material is supplied from 300 to form the granules 2.

Also it is illustrated that, as an example, the granulated green coffee beans 2 are processed so as to become substantially spherical. For example, the granulated green coffee beans 2 have a size, e.g. a mean diameter, of between 2 and 5, e.g. between 2 and 4 millimeters, e.g. about 3 millimeters.

In embodiments, the compression at 200 involves the use of:

- a pellet mill, and/or - a tablet press, and/or

- a rotary molding press, and/or

- an extruder.

For example, the compression is performed at a controlled temperature, e.g. at an elevated temperature.

It is illustrated that, in embodiments, forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compression further comprises adding a binder material from 300 enhancing binding of the fragments.

It is illustrated that, in embodiments, the binder material is admixed with the fragments prior and/or during compression.

In embodiments, forming the granulated green coffee beans 2 by a process including compression further comprises coating of the granulated green coffee beans, e.g. forming a casing about the fragments, e.g. the binder material forming the coating, e.g. casing.

For example, the binder material comprises one or more of:

- finely ground green coffee beans material, e.g. as a pasty binder material, e.g. with admixed oil and/or fat,

- an oily or fatty binder material, e.g. including a vegetable oil,

- oil and/or fat components obtained from coffee beans,

- oil and/or fat components obtained from nuts,

In embodiments, the production of the granulated green coffee bean product 2 comprises a treatment reducing the moisture content of the green coffee bean product, e.g. a vacuum freeze drying or a heating process lowering the moisture content, e.g. prior to fragmenting the green coffee beans.

In a preferred embodiment, the production of the granulated green coffee bean product 2 is devoid of a roasting step so that a non-roasted granulated green coffee bean product 2 is produced which is packaged in a packaging. Alternatively, the production of the granulated green coffee bean product 2 includes a roasting step performed such that a partially roasted granulated green coffee bean product 2 is produced. In practical embodiments, the granulated green coffee beans 2 comprises at least 70% by volume of green coffee bean fragments, e.g. at least 80%, e.g. at least 90%. Possibly, the beans 2 are fully made of fragments, absent any binder, coating, or the like.

The preconditioned, non-roasted or partly roasted green coffee bean granules 2 are packaged in a packaging and shipped to a user, e.g. to an at home consumer, a restaurant, etc. As discussed, the green coffee bean granules 2 could be packaged “per portion” or in a multi-portion packaging. For example, the packaging is a vacuum packaging.

As discussed, when a coffee beverage is to be prepared, a portion of green coffee bean granules 2 is arranged in a roasting unit, for example of an apparatus as discussed herein with reference to figures 2 - 6. This roasting unit is operated so as to roast the portion of the green coffee bean product to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product. As preferred, this step is performed in less than 2 minutes, e.g. less than 1 minute.

Then, preferably directly, the portion of a roasted coffee bean granules 2 is introduced in a grinding unit. This grinding unit grinds the portion of a roasted coffee bean granules so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product.

Then, preferably directly, the portion of ground roasted coffee product into a brewing unit. This unit can be of any type known in the art, including drip brewing unit, filter bed brewing unit, centrifugal brewing unit, etc. The brewing unit is operated so as to obtain a single brewed coffee beverage. The used ground roasted coffee product is discharged from the brewing unit to allow for a next preparation cycle.

With reference to figures 2 - 6 an example of a coffee beverage preparation apparatus 100 for use in a coffee beverage preparation method as described herein is discussed.

Generally, the apparatus 100 comprises a housing 110 wherein are arranged:

- a roasting unit 120 which is configured to arrange a portion of a preconditioned, nonroasted green coffee bean product, indicated with 40, in a roasting unit and operable so as to roast the portion of the green coffee bean product to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product,

- a grinding unit 150 configured for directly introducing the portion of a roasted coffee bean product in the grinding unit and operable so as to grind the portion of a roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product, - a brewing unit 200 configured for directly introducing the portion of ground roasted coffee product into the brewing unit and operable so as to obtain a single brewed coffee beverage and for discharging the used ground roasted coffee product from the brewing unit.

The roasting unit 120 comprises a roasting chamber 121 wherein a portion 50 of preconditioned, non-roasted green coffee bean granules 2 is introduced prior to the roasting step.

The figures show the optional feature that the roasting chamber 121 is transparent so as to allow the user to see the roasting being performed. For example, the roasting chamber 121 is at least in part or entirely of glass.

The figures show the optional feature that the roasting chamber 121 is transparent and is mounted in the housing so as to be visible by the user. So, effectively, the glass chamber 121 forms a window through which the user can see the roasting process.

The figures show the optional feature that the housing 110 has an aperture 111 through the housing and open at opposite sides of the housing in which the roasting chamber 121 is arranged. For example, the aperture 111 is circular.

The figures show the optional feature that the roasting chamber 121 is tubular, e.g. of glass. As preferred, the tubular roasting chamber 121 has an opening 122 and an opening 123 at opposed axial ends thereof.

The figures show the optional feature that the roasting unit comprises a circulation duct 124 configured to circulate heated air through the roasting chamber 121 in order to perform the roasting step. For example, the duct 124 is configured to connect to the roasting chamber 121 at opposed ends of the chamber 121, e.g. of the tubular chamber 121.

The figures show the optional feature that a blower 125 is provided to advance the heated air, e.g. through the chamber 121 , e.g. advance the heated air in circulation through the duct 124. For example, the blower 125 includes a drive motor 126 and an air fan 127, e.g. which fan 127 is arranged in the duct 124. For example, as illustrated, the drive motor 126 has a rotary output shaft which protrudes into the duct 124, wherein the fan 127 is mounted on the shaft. The figures show the feature that the roasting unit comprises a heater device 130 which is configured to provide a controlled heating of the heated air which is used in the roasting process. For example, the heater device 130 is arranged to heat the air whilst passing through the duct 124. For example, the heater device 130 is an electric heater.

For example, one or more temperature sensors are provided, e.g. combined with the heater device 130, to measure the temperature of the air used for roasting, e.g. linked to the heater device 130 to control operation thereof.

The figures show an example of a grinding unit 150 which is configured for directly introducing the portion of a roasted coffee bean product in the grinding unit and operable so as to grind the portion of a roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product.

The figures show the optional feature that the grinding unit 150 comprises body 151 with a stationary outer grinding member 152 and a rotary inner grinding member 153 arranged to rotate within the outer grinding member 152. A motor 153a drives the member 153. The grinding unit body 151 has an inlet 154 for the roasted coffee product that is to be grinded, e.g. such that said product flows by gravity in the grinder between the members 152, 153. The grinding unit 150 has an outlet 155 for ground roasted coffee product.

The figures show the optional feature that the roasted coffee product is deposited directly from the chamber 121 into the inlet 154 of the grinding unit 154, e.g. via an inlet duct 154a of the grinding unit that is configured to connect to the chamber 121.

The figures show an example of a brewing unit 200 which is configured for directly introducing the portion of ground roasted coffee product from the grinding unit 150 into the brewing unit and which is operable so as to obtain a single brewed coffee beverage and for discharging the used ground roasted coffee product from the brewing unit.

The figures show that the brewing unit 200 has a brewing chamber 201. The brewing unit has an inlet for ground roasted coffee product which is configured to connect directly to the outlet 154 of the grinding unit.

A water heater device 210 , e.g. an electric flow-through heater device, is provided to heat water to a brewing temperature. The heated water is introduced into the brewing chamber 201 in order to brew the coffee beverage. The figures show the optional feature that the brewing unit 200 comprises a piston type brewing unit. In more detail a piston 215 forms a movable wall of the chamber 201 and an associated piston drive is configured to move the piston 215 into a first position to allow the chamber 201 to receive the heated water and the freshly ground coffee product, to remain in the first position for a time sufficient for the beverage to brew, and to move to a second position to dispense the beverage by forcing the beverage out of the chamber 201 via dispensing outlet 220.

The brewing unit 200 may comprise a filter to retain the ground coffee product when the beverage is dispensed.

The brewing unit 200 may comprise a ground coffee product discharge assembly configured to discharge the ground coffee product after the beverage has been dispensed. For example, the chamber 201 has an outlet for the used ground coffee product, e.g. arranged above a container wherein the used ground coffee product is collected. For example, the container can be arranged at location 260 within the housing in a removable manner.

The figures show the optional feature that cold water is stored in a tank 230, e.g. a removable tank 230 which can be filled with water under a tap. The tank 230 is connected or connectable to the water heater device 130.

The figures show the optional feature that a cup holder 240 is provided on which a cup can be placed under the outlet 220 to receive the brewed coffee product.

The figures show the optional feature that the apparatus 100 comprises a storage compartment 300 which is configured for storage of preconditioned, non-roasted green coffee bean product, e.g. for storage of multiple portions thereof allowing to brew multiple beverages without the need for refilling of the storage compartment.

The figures show the optional feature that the apparatus 100 comprises a conveyance device 310 configured to convey preconditioned, non-roasted green coffee bean product from the storage compartment to the roasting chamber 121. For example, as shown, the device 310 comprises a motor driven auger.

The figures show the optional feature that the apparatus 100, e.g. - as shown - in combination with the storage compartment 300, comprises a portion introduction inlet assembly 320 configured to introduce a portion of preconditioned, non-roasted green coffee bean product into the roasting chamber 121. For example, the portion is packaged in a portion packaging, and the assembly 320 is configured to receive therein the packaging and to dispense the product from the packaging into the roasting chamber 121. For example, the assembly 320 is arranged in the housing such that the product drops the assembly 320, e.g. out of the packaging, under gravity into the roasting chamber 121. This avoids the need for a conveyance device between the assembly 320 and the chamber 121. As will be appreciated, one can also fill a portion of the product into the assembly, e.g. from a single portion packaging in which the product was supplied to the user, e.g. by tearing open a packaging or otherwise.

It is shown that the apparatus 100 may comprises one or more user operable buttons 115 or other user operable command members to control operation of the apparatus. As will be appreciated control of the apparatus 100 may, in embodiments, also be done remotely, e.g. wireless, e.g. using a mobile device, e.g. a smartphone, e.g. a smartphone running an app configured to control the apparatus.

For example, the apparatus 100 is configured to allow the user to set and/or adjust one or more operational parameters associated with one or more, e.g. all, of the roasting unit, grinding unit, and/or brewing unit.

For example, the apparatus 100 is configured to allow the user to set and/or adjust parameters related to the roasting process, e.g. temperature, a temperature profile over the duration of the roasting process, the air flow, and/or the duration of the roasting process. The apparatus may be configured to allow the user to stop the roasting process, e.g. based on the user witnessing the roasting as the chamber 121 is (partly) transparent.

The figures show the optional feature that the apparatus 100 is configured to move the roasting chamber 121 into multiple distinct positions, including:

- a loading position wherein a portion 50 of product is loaded into the chamber 121,

- a roasting position wherein the portion 50 of product is roasted,

- an unloading position wherein the portion 50 of the roasted product 2 is unloaded from the chamber 121.

The figures show the optional feature that the roasting chamber 121 is rotatable within the housing, e.g. (as shown) about an axis, e.g. a horizontal axis. For example, as shown and preferred, one rotary position of the roasting chamber corresponds to the loading position, another rotary position corresponds to the roasting position, e.g. wherein the roasting chamber is vertical, e.g. wherein a tubular roasting chamber is vertical, and yet another rotary position corresponds to the unloading position.

The figures show the optional feature that the chamber 121 is mounted in a support ring 160 to rotate with the ring 160 about an axis through the center of the ring 160, e.g. a horizontal axis. A drive for the support ring 160 is provided to rotate the ring relative to the housing of the apparatus 100.

The figures show the optional feature that the roasting chamber 121 has opposite ends, e.g. the chamber 121 being tubular, which ends are mounted to a support ring 160 which is rotatably mounted in the housing of the apparatus.

The figures show the optional feature that the in one rotary roasting position of the support ring with the chamber 121 therein, the chamber 121 connects to the circulation duct 124 so that heated air can be passed through the chamber to roast the product.

A mesh 128 or the like may be arranged at the junction of the duct 124 and an air inlet port of the chamber 121 so that the product stays in the chamber 121 during roasting.

A mesh 129 may be or the like may be arranged at the junction of the duct 124 and an air outlet port of the chamber 121 so that the product stays in the chamber 121 during roasting.

The figures show the optional feature that the chamber 121 is mounted in a support ring 160 to rotate with the ring 160 about an axis through the center of the ring 160, e.g. a horizontal axis, and that the housing of the apparatus has a viewing opening 111, e.g. at opposite sides of the housing, allowing the user to see the chamber 121 , e.g., to witness the roasting process.

The figures show the optional feature that the viewing opening(s) 111 is/are circular, preferably corresponds to the diameter of the ring 160. The viewing openings 111 may be entirely open, but may also be covered by a transparent window when desired.

The figures show the optional feature that the chamber 121 is vertical oriented in the roasting position thereof, and inclined in the unloading position thereof, e.g. the inlet of the grinding unit being located adjacent the air duct junction for introduction of heated air into the chamber 121. The figures show the optional feature that the chamber 121 is vertical oriented in the roasting position thereof, and inclined or horizontal in the loading position thereof. For example, as shown, the chamber 121 may be oriented horizontally to load product therein, e.g. using a conveyance device to convey product into the chamber 121.

For example, as shown, there is a first loading position of the chamber 121 for loading product from a storage compartment 300 and a distinct second loading position for loading product from the assembly 320. For example, the first loading position is horizontal or substantially horizontal and the second loading position is more vertical, e.g. inclined, e.g. nearly vertical.

As shown in figure 1 by way of example, the preconditioned green coffee bean product has been preconditioned by granulating green coffee beans 2, so that the non-roasted, preconditioned green coffee bean product is composed of granulated green coffee beans 2.

It is shown that, as preferred, the granulated green coffee beans 2 are substantially spherical. This shape facilitates handling of the beans 2 in the apparatus 100, e.g. their introduction into the chamber 121, the unloading of the roasted beans 2 from the chamber 121.

For example, the spherical granulated green coffee beans 2 have a size, e.g. a mean diameter, of between 2 and 5, e.g. between 2 and 4 millimeters, e.g. about 3 millimeters,

It will be appreciated that the apparatus 100 can be embodied with additional functionalities related to the preparation of a coffee beverage. For example, the apparatus is provided with a milk foamer device, a CO2 device for adding CO2 (e.g. in view of foaming). For example, CO2 is added to the water involved in the brewing process or at a later stage, e.g. into the cup wherein the beverage is dispensed. The same CO2 can also be used in the preparation of other beverages, e.g. carbonated water/soft drinks, etc.

As discussed, the preconditioned green coffee bean product of the portion 50 has been preconditioned so as to reduce roasting time in the roasting unit 150. Preferably, the step of roasting the portion of the green coffee bean product in the unit 150 to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product is performed in at most 2 minutes. For example, the step of roasting the portion 50 of the green coffee bean product to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product is performed in at most 1 minute. This allows for obtaining a coffee beverage based on freshly roasted and grinded coffee within an acceptable time frame. The apparatus 100 is also suited for use in a coffee beverage preparation method wherein any other form of green coffee bean product is introduced into the roasting unit 150. For example, a partially roasted coffee bean product 2 is provided to the user for use in the apparatus 100. Herein partially roasted means that the final or complete roasting takes place in the roasting unit 150. The partially roasted coffee bean product may be in the usual coffee bean form, but also in the form of granulated coffee beans 2 as described herein.

In an embodiment, the apparatus at least including a roasting unit and grinding unit further comprises a roasted product direct discharge configured for discharge of roasted food product directly from the roasting unit and bypassing the grinding unit in case no grinding is desired. As discussed, such an apparatus may be used in the context of coffee, but may also be used for other food products that are to be roasted and/or grinded, e.g. nuts, cacao, fruit, herbs, cereals, etc.

It will be appreciated that the roasting unit as shown in the drawings and discussed herein also is an example of the sixth aspect of the invention and can be used for other food products, can be used as stand-alone roasting unit, and/or combined only with a grinder unit, etc.

Claims

C L A I M S

1. Method for preparation of a brewed coffee beverage, comprising:

- arranging a portion (50) of the green coffee bean product (2) in a roasting unit,

- operating the roasting unit (120) so as to roast the portion of the green coffee bean product to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product,

- preferably directly, introducing the portion of a roasted coffee bean product in a grinding unit (150),

- operating the grinding unit (150) so as to grind the portion of a roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product,

- preferably directly, introducing the portion of ground roasted coffee product into a brewing unit (200),

- operating the brewing unit (200) so as to obtain a single brewed coffee beverage,

- discharging the used ground roasted coffee product from the brewing unit, wherein the preconditioned, non-roasted or partially roasted green coffee bean product is composed of granulated green coffee beans (2) having a final size, which have been produced by initially making green coffee beans into fragments smaller than the final size of the granulated green coffee bean, and then forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compression.

2. Method according to claim 1 , wherein the granulated green coffee beans (2) have a size of between 2 and 5 millimeters, e.g. between 2 and 4 millimeters, e.g. about 3 millimeters, e.g. spherical.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the granulated green coffee beans have a substantially spherical shape.

4. Method according to claim 1 , wherein the granulated green coffee beans have a spherical shape with a diameter of between 2 and 4 millimeter, e.g. about 3 millimeter.

5. Method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 4, wherein the compression has been performed using:

- a pellet mill, and/or

- a tablet press, and/or

- a rotary molding press, and/or

- an extruder.

6. Method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 5, wherein forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compression further comprises adding a binder material enhancing binding of the fragments.

7. Method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 6, wherein forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compression further comprises coating of the granulated green coffee beans, e.g. forming a casing about the fragments, e.g. the coating being made of a binder material enhancing binding of the fragments.

8. Method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the binder material has been admixed with the fragments prior and/or during compression.

9. Method according to any one or more of claims 6 - 8, wherein the binder material comprises one or more of:

- finely ground green coffee beans material, e.g. as pasty binder material, e.g. with admixed oil and/or fat,

- an oily or fatty binder material, e.g. including a vegetable oil,

- oil and/or fat components obtained from coffee beans,

- oil and/or fat components obtained from nuts,

10. Method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 9, wherein forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compression further comprises adding an additive, e.g. one or more of a flavouring agent, a preservative, a foaming agent, an antifoaming agent (e.g. surfactant), a foam stabilizer, a colouring agent and/or mixtures thereof, e.g. the additive being part of a coating of the granulated green coffee beans and/or of a binder material.

11. Method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 10, wherein the preconditioned green coffee product (2) has been subject to a treatment reducing the moisture content of the green coffee bean product, e.g. a vacuum freeze drying or a heating process lowering moisture content, e.g. prior to fragmenting the green coffee beans.

12. Method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 11 , wherein the granulated green coffee beans comprises at least 70% by volume of green coffee bean fragments, e.g. at least 80%, e.g. at least 90%.

13. Method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 12, wherein the portion of roasted coffee bean product method is directly introduced in the grinding unit (150), and wherein the portion of ground roasted coffee product is directly introduced into the brewing unit (200).

14. Method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 13, wherein the roasting unit (120), grinding unit (15), and brewing unit (200) are part of a single beverage preparation apparatus (100), e.g. wherein the apparatus (100) is configured and operated for automatic transfer of the portion (50) of a roasted coffee bean product into the grinding unit (150) and for automatic transfer of the portion of ground roasted coffee product to the brewing unit (200).

15. Method for production of a granulated green coffee bean product composed of granulated green coffee beans, wherein green coffee beans are initially made into fragments smaller than a final size of the granulated green coffee beans and then forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compressing.

16. Method according to claim 15, wherein the granulated green coffee beans (2) have a size of between 2 and 5 millimeters, e.g. between 2 and 4 millimeters, e.g. about 3 millimeters, e.g. spherical.

17. Method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the granulated green coffee beans have a substantially spherical shape.

18. Method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 17, wherein the compression involves the use of: - a pellet mill, and/or

- a tablet press, and/or

- a rotary molding press, and/or

- an extruder.

19. Method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 18, wherein the compression is performed at a controlled temperature, e.g. at an elevated temperature.

20. Method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 19, wherein forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compression further comprises adding a binder material enhancing binding of the fragments.

21. Method according to claim 20, wherein the binder material is admixed with the fragments prior and/or during compression.

22. Method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 21, wherein forming the granulated green coffee beans by a process including compression further comprises coating of the granulated green coffee beans, e.g. forming a casing about the fragments, e.g. the binder material forming the coating, e.g. casing.

23. Method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 22, wherein the binder material comprises one or more of:

- an oily or fatty binder material, e.g. including a vegetable oil,

- oil and/or fat components obtained from coffee beans,

- oil and/or fat components obtained from nuts,

24. Method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 23, wherein the production of the granulated green coffee bean product (2) comprises a treatment reducing the moisture content of the green coffee bean product, e.g. a vacuum freeze drying or a heating process lowering the moisture content, e.g. prior to fragmenting the green coffee beans.

25. Method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 24, wherein the production of the granulated green coffee bean product (2) is devoid of a roasting step so that a non-roasted granulated green coffee bean product (2) is produced, or wherein the production of the granulated green coffee bean product (2) includes a roasting step performed such that a partially roasted granulated green coffee bean product (2) is produced.

26. Method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 25, wherein the granulated green coffee beans comprises at least 70% by volume of green coffee bean fragments, e.g. at least 80%, e.g. at least 90%.

27. A granulated green coffee bean product made according to the method of any one or more of claims 15 - 26.

28. A packaging filled with one or more portions of a preconditioned, non-roasted or partly roasted green coffee bean product (2), e.g. for use in a method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 14, wherein the preconditioned, non-roasted or partly roasted green coffee bean product (2) is a granulated green coffee bean product produced using the method according to any one or more of claims 15 - 26.

29. Packaging according to claim 28 containing just one single portion for preparation of a brewed coffee beverage.

30. Packaging according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the packaging further contains an additive in addition to the granulated green coffee bean product, e.g. one or more of a flavouring agent, a preservative, a foaming agent, an anti-foaming agent (e.g. surfactant), a foam stabilizer, a colouring agent and/or mixtures thereof.

31. A system for preparation of a brewed coffee beverage, comprising:

- a packaging filled with one or more portions of a preconditioned, non-roasted or partly roasted green coffee bean product, e.g. the packaging containing just a single portion, according to any one or more of claims 28 - 30,

- a roasting unit (120) configured to arrange a portion of the preconditioned, non-roasted green coffee bean product in a roasting unit and operable so as to roast the portion of the green coffee bean product to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product, - a grinding unit (150), configured for, preferably directly, introducing the portion of a roasted coffee bean product in the grinding unit and operable so as to grind the portion of a roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product,

- a brewing unit (200), configured for, preferably directly, introducing the portion of ground roasted coffee product into the brewing unit and operable so as to obtain a single brewed coffee beverage and for discharging the used ground roasted coffee product from the brewing unit.

32. System according to claim 31, wherein the roasting unit (120), grinding unit (150), and brewing unit (200) are part of a single beverage preparation apparatus (100), e.g. wherein the apparatus (100) is configured and operated for automatic transfer of the portion (50) of a roasted coffee bean product into the grinding unit (150) and for automatic transfer of the portion of ground roasted coffee product to the brewing unit (200).

33. System according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the system comprises two or more brewing units each configured to perform a brewing step different from the other brewing unit, e.g. wherein the grinding unit is selectively connectable to a selected one of the brewing units.

34. System according to any one or more of claims 31 - 33, wherein the system comprises an additional beverage preparation unit configured to dispense and/or prepare a beverage different from a beverage prepared using the roasting unit (120), grinding unit (150), and brewing unit (200), e.g. configured to dispense a warm or cold beverage, e.g. a carbonated beverage, e.g. wherein the additional beverage preparation unit is combined with the beverage preparation apparatus having the roasting unit (120), grinding unit (15), and brewing unit (200), e.g. in a single housing.

35. A coffee beverage preparation apparatus (100), e.g. for use in a method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 14, comprising:

- a roasting unit (120) configured to arrange a portion of a preconditioned, non-roasted or partly roasted green coffee bean product in a roasting unit and operable so as to roast the portion of the green coffee bean product to obtain a portion of a roasted coffee bean product,

- a grinding unit (150), configured for, preferably directly, introducing the portion of a roasted coffee bean product in the grinding unit and operable so as to grind the portion of a roasted coffee bean product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted coffee product, - a brewing unit (200), configured for, preferably directly, introducing the portion of ground roasted coffee product into the brewing unit and operable so as to obtain a single brewed coffee beverage and for discharging the used ground roasted coffee product from the brewing unit.

36. A food product preparation apparatus (100), e.g. for use in a method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 14, the apparatus comprising:

- a roasting unit (120) configured to arrange a portion of a food product in the roasting unit and operable so as to roast the portion of the food product to obtain a portion of a roasted food product,

- a grinding unit (150) configured for introducing the portion of a food product in the grinding unit and operable so as to grind the portion of a roasted food product so as to obtain a portion of ground roasted food product,

- optionally, a brewing unit (200) configured for introducing the portion of ground roasted food product into the brewing unit and operable so as to obtain a single brewed food beverage, wherein the apparatus further comprises a roasted product direct discharge configured for discharge of roasted food product directly from the roasting unit bypassing the grinding unit and the optional brewing unit, wherein the roasting unit is selectively connectable to said roasted product direct discharge or to the grinding unit.

37. A food product preparation apparatus (100), e.g. for use in a method according to any one or more of claims 1 - 14, the apparatus comprising:

- a roasting unit (120) configured to arrange a portion of a food product in the roasting unit and operable so as to roast the portion of the food product to obtain a portion of a roasted food product, e.g. the roasting unit comprising one or more of:

- a transparent roasting chamber,

- a circulation duct configured to circulate heated air through the roasting chamber in order to perform the roasting step,

- a movable roasting chamber having multiple distinct positions, including:

- a loading position wherein a portion of product is loaded into the chamber,

- a roasting position wherein the portion of product is roasted,

- an unloading position wherein the roasted product is unloaded from the chamber,

- the roasting chamber being mounted in a support ring to rotate with the ring about an axis through the center of the ring, e.g. a horizontal axis, and the housing of the apparatus having a viewing opening, e.g. at opposite sides of the housing.