阅读说明：本技术 带有手柄保持器组件的咖啡研磨设备 (Coffee grinding apparatus with handle holder assembly ) 是由 瑞安·埃布斯坦 丹尼尔·F·加利亚 爱德华·黑尼 尼拉·洛希斯·帕鲁丘里 诺尔玛·理查兹 于 2021-05-12 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种咖啡研磨设备,包括可移除的保持器组件,所述保持器组件具有彼此间隔开的第一臂与第二臂,以在所述第一臂与所述第二臂之间限定开放的接收区域。所述臂各自包括分别以第一距离和第二距离向内延伸到所述开放的接收区域中的上翼片和下翼片。所述上翼片和所述下翼片的所述第一距离和所述第二距离被构造成维持和支撑各种大小的手柄组件,用于使用所述咖啡研磨设备填充咖啡粉。与所述咖啡研磨设备一起使用的另一个保持器组件可以包括相对的邻接表面,用于接合各种大小的手柄组件的杯体部分的内表面和外表面。每个公开的保持器组件被构造成在使用中附接到所述咖啡研磨设备的基座部分,并且在不使用时可以储存在所述咖啡研磨设备的支撑底座中。(A coffee grinding apparatus includes a removable holder assembly having first and second arms spaced apart from one another to define an open receiving area therebetween. The arms each include upper and lower tabs extending inwardly into the open receiving area by first and second distances, respectively. The first and second distances of the upper and lower wings are configured to maintain and support various sizes of handle assemblies for filling coffee grounds with the coffee grinding apparatus. Another holder assembly for use with the coffee grinding apparatus may include opposing abutment surfaces for engaging the inner and outer surfaces of cup portions of various sized handle assemblies. Each disclosed holder assembly is configured to be attached to a base portion of the coffee grinding apparatus in use and may be stored in a support base of the coffee grinding apparatus when not in use.)

1. A coffee grinding apparatus comprising:

a support base;

a base portion extending upwardly from the support base;

a motor housing supported by the base portion above the support chassis to define a receiving area between the motor housing and the support chassis;

a retainer assembly configured to be removably received in the receiving area, wherein the retainer assembly comprises:

a first mounting hub having an upwardly extending hub body and having an annular inner surface;

a retainer member having an upper collar portion and a lower mounting portion surrounding a bore, wherein the lower mounting portion of the retainer member is rotatably coupled to the first mounting hub at the annular inner surface of the first mounting hub, and further wherein the retainer member is vertically adjustable relative to the first mounting hub;

a second mounting hub spaced apart from the first mounting hub and having an upwardly extending hub body and having an annular inner surface; and

a support member having a base portion disposed over a mounting post, wherein the mounting post of the support member is rotatably coupled to the second mounting hub at the annular inner surface of the second mounting hub, and further wherein the support member is vertically adjustable relative to the second mounting hub.

2. The coffee grinding apparatus of claim 1, wherein the annular inner surface of the first mounting hub includes a threaded portion.

3. The coffee grinding apparatus of claim 2, wherein the lower mounting portion of the holder member includes a threaded portion that is complementary to the threaded portion of the first mounting hub.

4. A coffee grinding apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said annular inner surface of said second mounting hub includes a threaded portion.

5. A coffee grinding apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the mounting post of the support member includes a threaded portion that is complementary to the threaded portion of the second mounting hub.

6. A coffee grinding apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said holder member is threadedly engaged with said first mounting hub at the respective threaded portions such that rotational movement of said holder member in a first direction lowers said upper collar portion, and further wherein rotational movement of said holder member in a second direction opposite said first direction raises said upper collar portion.

7. A coffee grinding apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the support members are threadedly engaged with the second mounting hub at the respective threaded portions such that rotational movement of the support members in a first direction lowers the base portion, and further wherein rotational movement of the support members in a second direction opposite the first direction raises the base portion.

8. A coffee grinding apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the base portion comprises an upper surface having an inwardly disposed notch.

9. A retainer assembly, comprising:

a first mounting hub and a second mounting hub, wherein the second mounting hub is spaced apart from the first mounting hub;

a retainer member operably coupled with the first mounting hub, wherein the retainer member includes a collar portion surrounding an open aperture and a mounting portion at least partially received in a hollow interior portion of the first mounting hub; and

a support member having a base portion disposed over a mounting post, wherein the mounting post of the support member is at least partially received in the hollow interior portion of the second mounting hub.

10. The retainer assembly of claim 9, wherein the retainer member is vertically adjustable relative to the first mounting hub, and further wherein the support member is vertically adjustable relative to the second mounting hub.

11. The retainer assembly of claim 10, wherein the first and second mounting hubs include annular inner surfaces, and further wherein the mounting portion and the mounting post include annular outer surfaces.

12. The retainer assembly of claim 11, wherein the annular inner surface of the second mounting hub and the annular outer surface of the mounting post of the support member include complementary threaded portions that are threadedly engaged with one another.

13. The retainer assembly of claim 11, wherein the annular inner surface of the first mounting hub and the annular outer surface of the mounting portion of the retainer member include complementary threaded portions that are threadedly engaged with one another.

14. The retainer assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the collar portion includes an inclined inner surface surrounding the open bore.

15. The retainer assembly of claim 14, wherein the base portion includes a notch disposed on an upper surface thereof.

16. A retainer assembly, comprising:

a base plate having a first mounting hub and a second mounting hub spaced apart from each other;

a retainer member threadably engaged with the first mounting hub and having a collar portion and a mounting portion, wherein the retainer member is vertically adjustable relative to the first mounting hub; and

a support member threadably engaged with the first mounting hub and having a base portion disposed over a mounting post, wherein the support member is vertically adjustable relative to the second mounting hub.

17. The retainer assembly of claim 16, wherein the collar portion of the retainer member surrounds a hollow interior portion, and further wherein the collar portion includes an inner surface disposed at an angle such that the inner surface of the collar portion tapers inwardly toward the hollow interior portion from an upper portion of the inner surface to a lower portion of the inner surface.

18. The retainer assembly of claim 16, wherein the second mounting hub includes a hollow interior portion in which the mounting post of the support member is at least partially received.

19. The holder assembly of claim 16, wherein the base portion of the support member includes an upper surface on which a notch is disposed.

20. The holder assembly of any of claims 16-19, wherein the first and second mounting hubs extend upwardly from the base plate.

Technical Field

The present concept relates generally to coffee grinding apparatuses and, more particularly, to a coffee grinding apparatus having a holder assembly configured to maintain various sized handle assemblies for receiving grounds from the coffee grinding apparatus.

Disclosure of Invention

One aspect of the present concept includes a coffee grinding apparatus having a support base with a storage cavity and a removable lid assembly for selectively closing an opening to the storage cavity, wherein the removable lid assembly includes a support surface located over the opening to the storage cavity. The base portion extends upwardly from the support base and includes a first surface disposed adjacent to the support surface of the cover assembly. The first surface of the base portion also includes an access opening aperture leading to the inwardly extending receiving hub. The motor housing is supported on and extends outwardly from the base portion. A portion of the motor housing is disposed above and spaced apart from the support surface of the cover assembly to define a receiving area therebetween. The retainer assembly includes a rod and first and second arms spaced apart from each other and extending outwardly from the rod to define a receiving area therebetween. An upper tab and a lower tab are disposed on the first arm and extend inwardly into a receiving area between the first arm and the second arm. An upper tab and a lower tab are disposed on the second arm and extend inwardly into a receiving area between the first arm and the second arm. The upper and lower tabs of the second arm are configured in an opposing manner with respect to the upper and lower tabs of the first arm. The upper tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the upper tab of the second arm by a first distance, and the lower tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the lower tab of the second arm by a second distance different from the first distance.

Another aspect of the present concept includes a retainer assembly having an outwardly extending rod. The first and second arms are spaced apart from each other and extend outwardly from the front portion of the lever to define an open receiving area therebetween. The first and second arms each include opposing upper and lower flaps that are vertically spaced apart from one another and extend inwardly into the open receiving area. The upper tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the upper tab of the second arm by a first distance. The lower tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the lower tab of the second arm by a second distance greater than the first distance.

Another aspect of the present concept includes a holder assembly for a coffee grinding apparatus, wherein the holder assembly includes a rod having a front portion and a rear portion, and a first arm extends outwardly from the front portion of the rod. The first arm includes a sidewall having an inner surface with a first tab and a second tab spaced vertically from each other and extending inwardly from an outer surface of the sidewall of the first arm. The second arm extends outwardly from the front portion of the lever and includes a sidewall having an inner surface with a first tab and a second tab spaced vertically from each other and extending inwardly from an outer surface of the sidewall of the second arm. The first and second tabs of the second arm are configured in an opposing manner relative to the first and second tabs of the first arm to define a receiving area between the second arm and the first arm. The first and second tabs of the first arm and the first and second tabs of the second arm extend into the receiving area.

Another aspect of the present concept includes a coffee grinding apparatus having a support base with a storage cavity. The base portion extends upwardly from the support base and includes a first surface having an access aperture to the receiving hub. The holder assembly includes a rod having a front portion and a rear portion and a head portion disposed on the front portion of the rod. The head portion includes a sidewall having an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the sidewall is curved outwardly to define a first arm and a second arm spaced apart from each other, the first arm and the second arm further defining a receiving area therebetween. The sidewall of the head portion includes a first abutment surface disposed on a lower portion of the sidewall. The holder assembly also includes a bracket having a first portion extending inwardly toward the receiving area and a second portion extending downwardly from the first portion. The second portion of the bracket includes a second abutment surface disposed above the first abutment surface.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a holder assembly for a coffee grinding apparatus having a stem with a front portion and a rear portion and a head portion disposed on the front portion of the stem. The head portion includes a sidewall having an upper portion and a lower portion. The sidewall is outwardly curved and includes a first abutment surface disposed on a lower portion of the sidewall and facing the first direction. The bracket includes a first portion extending outwardly from an upper portion of the sidewall and a second portion extending downwardly from the first portion. The second portion of the bracket includes a second abutment surface disposed above the first abutment surface. The second abutment surface faces a second direction opposite to the first direction of the first abutment surface.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a holder assembly for a coffee grinding apparatus having a rod with a front portion and a rear portion and a cradle having a first portion extending outwardly from the front portion of the rod and a second portion extending downwardly from the first portion. The second portion of the bracket includes an abutment surface facing inwardly. The head portion is operatively coupled to the stem and includes an upstanding sidewall having an outwardly facing abutment surface disposed thereon.

These and other features, advantages and objects of the device will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by studying the following specification, claims and appended drawings.

Drawings

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a coffee grinding apparatus according to one embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a side view of the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a partial front perspective view of a middle portion of the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 1.

Fig. 4 is a partial front perspective view of the support base of the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 1.

Fig. 5A is a top perspective view of the retainer assembly.

Fig. 5B is a bottom perspective view of the holder assembly of fig. 5A.

Fig. 6 is a top perspective view of a retainer assembly according to another embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a partial top perspective view of the handle assembly.

Fig. 8 is a partial top plan view of the handle assembly of fig. 7 received in the holder assembly of fig. 5A.

Fig. 9 is a partial front perspective view of the handle assembly and holder assembly of fig. 8 received in the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 1.

FIG. 10 is a partial top perspective view of another handle assembly.

Fig. 11 is a partial top plan view of the handle assembly of fig. 10 received in the holder assembly of fig. 5A.

Fig. 12 is a partial front perspective view of the handle assembly and holder assembly of fig. 11 received in the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 1.

FIG. 13 is a partial top perspective view of another handle assembly.

Fig. 14 is a partial top plan view of the handle assembly of fig. 13 received in the holder assembly of fig. 5A.

Fig. 15 is a partial front perspective view of the handle assembly and holder assembly of fig. 14 received in the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 1.

Fig. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support base of fig. 4, taken along line XVI, showing the holder assembly loaded within the storage cavity of the support base.

Fig. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support base of fig. 4, taken along line XVI, showing the retainer assembly received in the receiving hub of the base portion.

Fig. 18 is a partial front perspective view of the support base of the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 1, with the cover assembly shown in phantom.

Fig. 19 is a partial front perspective view of the support base of the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 18 with the cover assembly removed to reveal the storage cavity with the holder assembly loaded therein.

Fig. 20 is a partial front perspective view of the support base of the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 19, showing the holder assembly removed from the storage cavity.

Fig. 21 is a front top perspective view of a retainer assembly according to another embodiment.

Fig. 22 is a partial top perspective view of the handle assembly received in the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 1 and the holder assembly of fig. 21.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the handle assembly and retainer assembly of FIG. 22 engaged with one another.

Fig. 24 is a front top perspective view of a retainer assembly according to another embodiment.

Fig. 25 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support base of fig. 4, taken along line XVI, showing the holder assembly of fig. 24 received in the storage cavity of the support base.

Fig. 26A is a partial cross-sectional view of the receiving hub.

Fig. 26B is a partial front perspective view of the receiving hub of fig. 26A.

Fig. 27 is a partial rear perspective view of a retainer assembly according to another embodiment.

Fig. 28 is a partial cross-sectional view of the retainer assembly of fig. 27 received in the receiving hub of fig. 26A and 26B.

Fig. 29A is a cross-sectional view of the handle assembly and the holder assembly of fig. 21 engaged with each other.

Fig. 29B is a cross-sectional view of the handle assembly and the holder assembly of fig. 21 engaged with each other.

Fig. 30 is a top perspective view of a retainer assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present concept.

Fig. 31 is a bottom perspective view of the retainer assembly of fig. 30.

Fig. 32 is an exploded top perspective view of the retainer assembly of fig. 30.

Fig. 33 is a top plan view of the retainer assembly of fig. 30.

Fig. 34 is a cross-sectional view of the retainer assembly of fig. 33 taken along line XXXIV.

Fig. 35 is a top perspective view of the holder assembly of fig. 30 with the handle assembly of fig. 10 exploded therefrom.

Fig. 36 is a top perspective view of the holder assembly of fig. 35 supporting the handle assembly of fig. 35.

Fig. 37 is a top perspective view of the holder assembly and handle assembly of fig. 35 received in a receiving area of the coffee grinding apparatus of fig. 1.

Fig. 38 is a top perspective view of the holder assembly of fig. 37 supporting the handle assembly of fig. 13 within a receiving area of a coffee grinding apparatus.

Detailed Description

For purposes of description, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof herein shall be with respect to the device as oriented in fig. 1. It is to be understood, however, that the apparatus may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

Referring now to fig. 1-2, a coffee grinding apparatus 10 has a body portion 12 comprising: a support base 14; a base portion 16 extending upwardly from the support base 14; and a motor housing 18 supported by the base portion 16 and extending over the support base 14 to define a receiving area 20 therebetween. Specifically, the receiving area 20 is defined by the support surface 15 of the support base 14, the first surface 17 of the base portion 16, and the bottom surface 19 of the motor housing 18. It is contemplated that the motor housing 18 houses a motor, and it is further contemplated that the motor powers a grinder assembly that may also be housed within the motor housing 18. It is contemplated that the grinder assembly is a burr grinder having a burr grinding element configured to be powered by a motor to grind coffee beans. It is also contemplated that the coffee grinding apparatus 10 includes a power cord for plugging into a household electrical outlet to power the coffee grinding apparatus 10.

As further shown in FIG. 1, the coffee grinding apparatus 10 includes a lower container or collection tank 22 having a container body that generally defines a cavity 23 for collecting ground coffee that is expelled by the grinder assembly during the grinding process via an outlet 21 (FIG. 2) provided on the bottom surface 19 of the motor housing 18. The collection tank 22 is configured to be received in the receiving area 20 in a lateral direction. As described above, the receiving area 20 is defined between the motor housing 18 (specifically, the bottom surface 19 thereof having the outlet 21), the first surface 17 of the base portion 16, and the support surface 15 of the support base 14 on which the collection canister 22 is removably supported and received.

As further shown in FIG. 1, the coffee grinding apparatus 10 also includes a hopper 24 disposed on an upper portion of the motor housing 18. The hopper 24 includes a container body portion 26 defining a cavity 25 configured to receive coffee beans for grinding by the coffee grinding apparatus 10. The hopper 24 also comprises a lid 28 for closing its cavity 25.

As further shown in fig. 1, the body portion 12 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 also includes a user interface 30 disposed on a front portion of the motor housing 18, which may include a display screen 32 and various buttons, knobs, and other selection devices, as further described below.

Referring to fig. 3, the user interface 30 includes an upper rotation member 34 disposed on an upper portion of the motor housing 18 and having an outwardly extending handle 36 configured to be engaged by a user to rotate the upper rotation member 34. In use, the upper rotating member 34 is configured to select a grind setting that may be guided by indicia 38 provided on the motor housing 18 for selection of a grind setting by a user. It is contemplated that rotation of the upper rotating member 34 will provide various settings between burr grinding elements housed in the motor housing 18 to provide ground coffee suitable for various brewing techniques, such as french press, siphon, pour, espresso, and other similar settings. As further shown in fig. 3, the lower rotating member 40 is disposed on a lower portion of the motor housing 18 and includes a textured band 42 configured to be engaged by a user to rotate the lower rotating member 40. In use, the lower rotating member 40 is configured to select a volume of ground coffee for storage in the collection tank 22. The selection of the volume of ground coffee may be guided by indicia provided on the motor housing 18. It is contemplated that rotation of the lower rotating member 40 will provide various operating times of the grinder assembly to provide a specific volume of ground coffee suitable for use in various brewing techniques, such as french press, siphon, pour, espresso, and other similar settings.

With further reference to fig. 3, button 44 may be used to select a preset grinding program and button 46 may be used as a start/stop button for the grinding sequence. The user interface 30 also includes a knob 48 that can be used to fine tune the amount of coffee grinds dispensed during the grinding process. Thus, the user can use the lower rotating member 40 as a macro-adjustment of the amount of ground coffee to be dispensed during grinding. Further, the user may personalize the amount of ground coffee dispensed during the grinding process by slightly adjusting the ground coffee amount setting using knob 48. The selected settings or all of the settings selected by the user may be displayed on the display screen 32 of the user interface 30.

Referring now to fig. 4, the coffee grinding apparatus 10 is shown with the collection tank 22 removed from the receiving area 20. With the collection tank 22 removed from the receiving area 20, the support surface 15 of the support base 14 is shown. Furthermore, with the collection canister 22 removed from the receiving area 20, the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 is also exposed. The support surface 15 is a substantially horizontal portion of a cover assembly 50 that is removably received on the support base 14 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. The cover assembly 50 comprises a rounded front portion in the form of a rear edge 52 and a front wall 54, wherein the support surface 15 is arranged between the rear edge and the rounded front portion. In use, when the collection canister 22 is received laterally in the receiving area 20, the trailing edge 52 provides an abutment surface to abut the collection canister 22. When the collection tank 22 is fully received in the receiving area 20 (having abutted the rear edge 52 of the cover assembly 50), the collection tank 22 is considered to be properly positioned for receiving ground coffee from the coffee grinding apparatus 10. As described above, the cover assembly 50 is a removable member that selectively provides access to a storage cavity 160 (fig. 16) disposed within the support base 14, as described further below. As shown on the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10, the access hole 60 opens into a receiving hub 62 that extends inwardly from the first surface 17 to an interior portion 162 (fig. 16) of the base portion 16. In the embodiment shown in fig. 4, the access aperture 60 and receiving hub 62 are configured in a rectangular configuration, but may include any other configuration suitable for engaging a retainer assembly, as described further below.

Referring now to FIG. 5A, a retainer assembly 70 is shown according to one embodiment of the present concept. The holder assembly 70 includes a rod 72 having an upper surface 73, a front portion 78, and a rear portion 74 disposed at a distal end 75 thereof. It is contemplated that the rear portion 74 of the stem 72 of the holder assembly 70 is removably received in the receiving hub 62 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5A, the rear portion 74 of the rod 72 includes a first recess 76 disposed therein that extends inwardly from the upper surface 73 of the rod 72. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5A, the first recess 76 is disposed adjacent the distal end 75 of the rod 72 and includes a rectangular upper opening 76A with a curved bottom wall 76B. It is contemplated that the first recess 76 receives a protruding detent feature located within the receiving hub 62 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10, as further described below with reference to fig. 16 and 17. At the front portion 78 of the rod 72, a second groove 80 is shown extending inwardly from the upper surface 73 of the rod 72. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5A, the second groove 80 is disposed adjacent the front portion 78 of the stem 72 and includes an annular upper opening 80A with a circular bottom wall 80B. In use, the second recess 80 is configured to receive a reciprocating detent feature disposed within a storage cavity 160 (fig. 16) of the support base 14, as described further below. The front portion 78 of the rod 72 is spaced from the rear portion 74 by a stepped configuration defining an abutment portion 79 between the front and rear portions. In use, when the rear portion 74 of the rod 72 is inserted into the receiving hub 62 of the base portion 16, the abutment portion 79 is configured to abut the first surface 17 of the base portion 16.

As further shown in fig. 5A, the holder assembly 70 also includes a first arm 82 and a second arm 84 extending outwardly from the front portion 78 of the rod 72. The first and second arms 82, 84 are interconnected to each other and to the rod 72 by a central portion 86 of the holder assembly 70. As shown in fig. 5A, the central portion 86 of the retainer assembly 70 includes a slot 88. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5A, the slot 88 includes a generally rectangular opening 90. The first arm 82 and the second arm 84 are generally mirror images of each other such that similar reference numbers may be used to describe features provided on the first arm 82 and the second arm 84. As shown in fig. 5A, the first and second arms 82, 84 each include a substantially upright sidewall 92 extending in an outwardly curved manner from the central portion 86 to a distal end 94 of the holder assembly 70. The upstanding side wall 92 includes a lower flange 93. With respect to the first arm 82, an upper tab 96 and a lower tab 98 extend inwardly from the outer surface 92A of the upstanding sidewall 92 at an upper portion 96A and a lower portion 98A of the upstanding sidewall 92. Similarly, with respect to the second arm 84, an upper tab 100 and a lower tab 102 extend inwardly from the outer surface 92A of the upstanding sidewall 92 at the upper portion 96A and the lower portion 98A of the upstanding sidewall 92. Specifically, as shown in fig. 5A, the upper and lower tabs 96, 98 of the first arm 82 and the upper and lower tabs 100, 102 of the second arm 84 extend inwardly toward a central receiving area 104 defined between the first and second arms 82, 84. Thus, the upper and lower tabs 96, 98 of the first arm 82 and the upper and lower tabs 100, 102 of the second arm 84 also extend inwardly toward each other. The upper and lower tabs 96, 98 of the first arm 82 and the upper and lower tabs 100, 102 of the second arm 84 are vertically spaced apart from one another and are configured to hold handle assemblies of various sizes during the grinding process. The upper and lower tabs 96, 98 of the first arm 82 include curved innermost edges 96B, 98B configured to generally engage the sidewall of the handle head, as described further below. Similarly, the upper and lower tabs 100, 102 of the second arm 84 also include curved innermost edges 100B, 102B configured to generally engage the sidewalls of the handle head, as described further below.

As particularly shown in fig. 5A, the innermost edge 96B of the upper tab 96 of the first arm 82 is spaced apart from the innermost edge 100B of the upper tab 100 of the second arm 84 by a distance D1. As further shown in fig. 5A, the innermost edge 98B of the lower tab 98 of the first arm 82 is spaced apart from the innermost edge 102B of the lower tab 102 of the second arm 84 by a distance D2. It is contemplated that the distance D2 between the innermost edge 98B of the lower tab 98 of the first arm 82 and the innermost edge 102B of the lower tab 102 of the second arm 84 is greater than the distance D1 between the innermost edge 96B of the upper tab 96 of the first arm 82 and the innermost edge 100B of the upper tab 100 of the second arm 84. The varying distance D1 of the innermost edge 96B of the first arm 82 from the innermost edge 100B of the second arm 84 and the varying distance D2 of the innermost edge 98B of the first arm from the innermost edge 102B of the second arm provides a holder assembly 70 that can accommodate handle assemblies having heads of different sizes. It is contemplated that the curved nature of the innermost edge 98B of the lower tab 98 of the first arm 82 and the innermost edge 102B of the lower tab 102 of the second arm 84 will provide a diameter of about 58mm therebetween (as shown by reference numeral D1). It is contemplated that the curved nature of the innermost edge 96B of the upper tab 96 of the first arm 82 and the innermost edge 100B of the upper tab 100 of the second arm 84 will provide a diameter of about 54mm therebetween (as shown by reference numeral D1). As such, it is contemplated that distance D2 is greater than distance D1 such that upper tab 96 of first arm 82 and upper tab 100 of second arm 84 extend further inward into receiving area 104 than lower tab 98 of first arm 82 and lower tab 102 of second arm 84. The approximate measurements of distances D1, D2 mentioned above are merely exemplary, and longer/shorter distances are also contemplated for use with the present concept to accommodate various handle assemblies.

Referring now to fig. 5B, the retainer assembly 70 is shown from a bottom view. As shown in fig. 5B, the slot 88 of the central portion 86 of the retainer assembly 70 includes a bottom surface 110 having a plurality of fins 112 extending downwardly therefrom. The fins 112 interconnect the bottom surface 110 of the slot 88 with the outer surface 92A of the sidewall 92. Between the fins 112 and the lower flange 93 of the side wall 92, spacers 114 are provided, which are configured to be located on the holder assembly 70. As described further below, the spacer 114 is configured to receive an engagement feature of the handle assembly. As further shown in fig. 5B, a third groove 77 is located on the underside of the rear portion 74 of the rod 72, adjacent to the first groove 76.

Referring now to fig. 6, another embodiment of a retainer assembly 70A is shown having several features in common with the retainer assembly 70 described above. The retainer assembly 70A may include similar reference numbers as the common features of the retainer assembly 70. In the embodiment shown in fig. 6, the retainer assembly 70A includes a rod 72A having a body portion 120 with a first clip member 122 and a second clip member 124 disposed on opposite sides thereof. The first clip member 122 includes an engaging portion 122A and a barb 122B disposed on opposite ends of a body portion 126. Similarly, the second clip member 124 includes an engagement portion 124A and a barb 124B disposed on opposite ends of the body portion 128. In use, it is contemplated that the first and second clip members 122, 124 have flexible elastomeric portions 126, 128, respectively, such that the first and second clip members 122, 124 may clip the retainer assembly 70A into position on the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. As such, it is contemplated that the receiving hub 62 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 may include a recess on a sidewall thereof that is configured to receive the barbs 122B and 124B on opposite sides of the receiving hub 62. A user may engage the engagement portions 122A, 124A to bend the body portion 126 of the first clip member 122 and the body portion 128 of the second clip member 124 inwardly to release the barbs 122B and 124B from the interengaging features provided in the receiving hub 62.

Referring now to fig. 7, the handle assembly 130 is shown having a cup portion 132 and a grip portion 134. It is contemplated that the cup portion 132 is a metal member having a compartment 136 defined by a bottom wall 138 having an upwardly extending sidewall 140 having inner and outer surfaces 140A, 140B, and an upper rim 142. In the embodiment shown in fig. 7, the sidewall 140 of the cup portion 132 includes a diameter having a distance D3. The engagement features 144A, 144B, 144C are shown in the form of a male bayonet feature extending outwardly from the upper rim 142 and configured to couple the handle assembly 130 to a headpiece of a conventional espresso making machine. By varying the engagement features 144A, 144B, 144C, different types and sizes of headings may be accommodated to suit any particular espresso machine. The compartment 136 is configured to receive ground coffee from the coffee grinding apparatus 10 for use in a coffee making process. An outlet 146 is shown on the bottom wall 138 of the compartment 136 and generally leads to a spout 148 for dispensing brewed coffee into the container.

Referring now to fig. 8, the handle assembly 130 is shown with its cup portion 132 received in the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70. In the embodiment shown in fig. 8, the outwardly extending engagement features 144B, 144C are located on the upper surface 96C of the upper tab 96 of the first arm 82 and the upper surface 100C of the upper tab 100 of the second arm 84, respectively. The engagement feature 144A is shown in phantom to indicate that the engagement feature 144A is received within the slot 88 provided at the central portion 86 of the holder assembly 70. In this manner, the cup portion 132 is fully received within the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70, which is defined between the curved inner edge 96B of the upper tab 96 of the holder assembly 70 and the curved inner edge 100B of the upper tab 100 of the holder assembly. Thus, the circumference of the compartment 136 of the handle assembly 130 (having a diameter indicated at reference number D3) is sized to fit within the distance D1 provided between the curved inner edge 96B of the upper tab 96 of the holder assembly 70 and the curved inner edge 100B of the upper tab 100 of the holder assembly.

Referring now to fig. 9, the holder assembly 70 is shown coupled to the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In particular, the rear portion 74 of the stem 72 of the holder assembly 70 is shown inserted into the receiving hub 62 provided on the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In this manner, the holder assembly 70 extends outwardly from the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 to position the first and second arms 82, 84 and the receiving area 104 disposed therebetween into the receiving area 20 defined between the support base 14 and the motor housing 18 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. As further shown in fig. 9, the handle assembly 130 is shown with its cup portion 132 received in the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70 in the manner described above with reference to fig. 8. It is thus envisaged that the compartment 136 of the handle assembly 130 is located below the outlet 21 (fig. 2) of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 to receive ground coffee along the path indicated by arrow 150 when the holder assembly 70 is fully received in the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 and when the handle assembly 130 is fully received in the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70.

Referring now to fig. 10, another embodiment of a handle assembly 130A is shown having similar features as described above with reference to handle assembly 130. As such, like reference numbers will be used to identify common features between the handle assembly 130A and the handle assembly 130. As shown in fig. 10, the handle assembly 130A includes a grip portion 134 and a cup portion 132 having a compartment 136 with a side wall 140 and an upper rim 142. In the embodiment shown in fig. 10, the sidewall 140 of the cup portion 132 includes a diameter having a distance D4. The engagement features 144A, 144B, 144C are shown in the form of male bayonet features extending outwardly from the upper edge 142. It is contemplated that the distance D4 associated with compartment 136 of handle assembly 130A is longer than the distance D3 associated with compartment 136 of handle assembly 130. While a larger compartment 136 is associated with the handle assembly 130A than the handle assembly 130, the same holder assembly 70 may be used to support both handle assemblies 130, 130A during the coffee grinding process, as described further below.

Referring now to fig. 11, the handle assembly 130A is shown with the cup portion 132 thereof received in the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70. In the embodiment shown in fig. 11, the outwardly extending engagement features 144B, 144C are located on the upper surface 98C of the lower tab 98 of the first arm 82 and the upper surface 102C of the lower tab 102 of the second arm 84, respectively. The engagement feature 144A is shown in phantom to indicate that the engagement feature 144A is received within the spacer 114 (fig. 5B) disposed below the slot 88 of the central portion 86 of the holder assembly 70. As received in the spacer 114, the fins 112 (fig. 5B) of the retainer assembly 70 cooperate to effectively maintain the engagement feature 144A such that the cup portion 132 remains in the receiving area against the weight of the handle portion 134. In this manner, the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130A is fully received within the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70, which is defined between the curved inner edge 98B of the lower tab 98 of the holder assembly 70 and the curved inner edge 102B of the lower tab 102 of the holder assembly. Thus, the circumference (having a diameter indicated by reference number D4) of the compartment 136 of the handle assembly 130A is sized to fit within the distance D2 provided between the curved inner edge 98B of the lower tab 98 of the holder assembly 70 and the curved inner edge 102B of the lower tab 102 of the holder assembly.

Referring now to fig. 12, the holder assembly 70 is shown coupled to the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In particular, the rear portion 74 of the stem 72 of the holder assembly 70 is shown inserted into the receiving hub 62 provided on the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In this manner, the holder assembly 70 extends outwardly from the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 to position the first and second arms 82, 84 and the receiving area 104 disposed therebetween into the receiving area 20 defined between the support base 14 and the motor housing 18 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. As further shown in fig. 12, the handle assembly 130A is shown with its cup portion 132 received in the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70 in the manner described above with reference to fig. 11. It is therefore envisaged that the compartment 136 of the handle assembly 130A is located below the outlet 21 (fig. 2) of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 to receive ground coffee along the path indicated by arrow 150 when the holder assembly 70 is fully received within the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 and when the handle assembly 130A is fully received in the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70.

Note that the holder assembly 70 shown in fig. 12 is the same holder assembly as shown in fig. 9. In fig. 12, the handle assembly 130A is positioned within the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70 along the lower tabs 98, 102 of the holder assembly 70, with the distance between the curved inner edge 98B of the lower tab 98 and the curved inner edge 102B of the lower tab 102 indicated by reference number D2 (fig. 5B). In fig. 9, the handle assembly 130 is positioned within the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70 along the upper tabs 96, 100 of the holder assembly 70, with the distance between the curved inner edge 96B of the upper tab 96 and the curved inner edge 100B of the upper tab 100 indicated by reference number D1 (fig. 5A). It is contemplated that the handle assembly 130 shown in fig. 7-9 has a cup portion 132 with a diameter D3 of approximately 54 mm. It is contemplated that the handle assembly 130A shown in fig. 10-12 has a cup portion 132 with a diameter D4 of approximately 58 mm. Thus, the same holder assembly 70 is configured to accommodate various sizes of handle assemblies 130, 130A. Because the holder assembly 70 is capable of accommodating various sized handle assemblies, such as the handle assemblies 130, 130A, the coffee grinding apparatus 10 of the present concept is capable of providing various doses of coffee grinds that are specifically tailored for the handle assembly with which the coffee grinding apparatus 10 is used.

Referring now to fig. 13, another embodiment of a handle assembly 130B is shown having similar features as described above with reference to handle assemblies 130 and 130A. As such, like reference numbers will be used to identify common features between the handle assembly 130B and the handle assemblies 130, 130A. As shown in fig. 13, the handle assembly 130B includes a grip portion 134 and a cup portion 132 having a compartment 136 with a side wall 140 and an upper rim 142. In the embodiment shown in fig. 13, the sidewall 140 of the cup portion 132 includes a diameter having a distance D5. The engagement features 144A and 144B are shown in the form of male bayonet features or tabs extending outwardly from the upper edge 142. Thus, the handle assembly 130B includes only two engagement features 144A, 144B, as compared to the three engagement features (144A-144C) provided on the handle assemblies 130, 130A. It is contemplated that distance D5 associated with compartment 136 of handle assembly 130B is longer than distance D3 associated with compartment 136 of handle assembly 130, and it is also contemplated that distance D4 associated with compartment 136 of handle assembly 130A is substantially the same. Although a larger compartment 136 is associated with the handle assembly 130B than the handle assembly 130, as described above, the same holder assembly 70 may be used to support the handle assemblies 130, 130B during the coffee grinding process.

Referring now to fig. 14, the handle assembly 130B is shown with its cup portion 132 received in the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70. In the embodiment shown in fig. 14, as the handle portion 134 is rotated slightly, the outwardly extending engagement features 144B, 144A are located on the upper surface 98C of the lower tab 98 of the first arm 82 and the upper surface 102C of the lower tab 102 of the second arm 84, respectively. In this manner, the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130B is fully received within the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70, which is defined between the curved inner edge 98B of the lower tab 98 of the holder assembly 70 and the curved inner edge 102B of the lower tab 102 of the holder assembly. Thus, the circumference (having a diameter indicated by reference number D5) of the compartment 136 of the handle assembly 130B is sized to fit within the distance D2 provided between the curved inner edge 98B of the lower tab 98 of the holder assembly 70 and the curved inner edge 102B of the lower tab 102 of the holder assembly.

Referring now to fig. 15, the holder assembly 70 is shown coupled to the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In particular, the rear portion 74 of the stem 72 of the holder assembly 70 is shown inserted into the receiving hub 62 provided on the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. As further shown in fig. 15, the handle assembly 130B is shown with its cup portion 132 received in the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70 in the manner described above with reference to fig. 14. It is thus envisaged that the compartment 136 of the handle assembly 130B is located below the outlet 21 (fig. 2) of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 to receive ground coffee along the path indicated by arrow 150 when the holder assembly 70 is fully received in the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 and when the handle assembly 130B is fully received in the receiving area 104 of the holder assembly 70.

Referring now to fig. 16, a cross-sectional view of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 is shown, revealing the storage cavity 160 of the support base 14. As described above, the storage cavity 160 is an internal cavity that is selectively accessed by the removable cap assembly 50. In the embodiment shown in fig. 16, the holder assembly 70 is shown stored within the storage cavity 160. It is contemplated that the holder assembly 70 may be stored within the storage cavity 160 of the support base 14 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 when not in use. As further shown in FIG. 16, upper wall 88A of slot 88 is aligned with upper surface 52A of rear edge 52 of cover assembly 50. As such, when the holder assembly 70 is stored within the storage cavity 160, the slot 88 of the holder assembly 70 is located between the rear edge 52 of the cover assembly 50 and the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10.

As further shown in fig. 16, the storage cavity 160 extends below the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In an interior portion 162 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10, a first locking pin feature 164 is provided. First latch feature 164 includes a latch member 166 having a distal end 167 and a stem portion 169. The stem 169 of the latch member 166 is coupled to a biasing member 168, shown in the form of a coil spring in FIG. 16. A biasing member 168 biases the latch member 166 downwardly in the direction indicated by arrow 170. Under pressure, the latch member 166 is configured to move upwardly against the downward pressure of the biasing member 168 to retract into the interior portion 162 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. Thus, the latch member 166 is a retractable latch member. As shown in fig. 16, the distal end 167 of the detent member 166 is received within a second recess 80 provided on the upper surface 73 of the rod 72 of the holder assembly 70. In this manner, the first detent feature 164 is configured to provide tactile feedback to the user to indicate when the holder assembly 70 is properly stored within the storage cavity 160 of the support base 14. Once properly stored in the storage cavity 160 of the support base 14, the holder assembly 70 is positively captured and does not move around within the storage cavity 160 as the coffee grinding apparatus 10 moves.

As further shown in fig. 16, the second detent feature 174 is disposed within the interior portion 162 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. The second locking pin feature 174 includes a locking pin member 176 having a distal end 177 and a stem 179. The stem 179 of the locking pin member 176 is coupled to a biasing member 178, which is shown in the form of a coil spring in FIG. 16. The biasing member 178 biases the latch member 176 downward in the direction indicated by arrow 172. Under pressure, the latch member 176 is configured to move upward against the downward pressure of the biasing member 178 to retract into the interior portion 162 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. Thus, the latch member 176 is a retractable latch member. As further shown in fig. 16, the second detent feature 174 is located within the receiving hub 62, which extends inwardly from the first surface 17 of the base portion 16. The receiving hub 62 includes a top wall 62A, a bottom wall 62B, and a rear wall 62C. The distal end 177 of the latch member 176 extends through the top wall 62A into the receiving hub 62. A protruding engagement feature 63 extends upwardly from the bottom wall 62B of the receiving hub 62. As mentioned above, the receiving hub 62 is for receiving the rear portion 74 of the retainer assembly 70, as further described below. As such, the first locking pin feature 164 and the second locking pin feature 174 are retractable locking pin features of the coffee grinding apparatus 10.

Referring now to fig. 17, the holder assembly 70 has been removed from the storage cavity 160 of the support base 14 and has been positioned in the receiving area 20 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. Specifically, the rear portion 74 of the rod 72 of the retainer assembly 70 has been received within the receiving hub 62 of the base portion 16. When fully received in the receiving hub 62, the rear portion 74 of the rod 72 of the retainer assembly 70 is configured such that its first recess 76 engages the distal end 177 of the second detent feature 174. Further, the upwardly projecting engagement feature 63 of the receiving hub 62 is received in a third groove 77 (fig. 5B) provided at the underside of the second portion of the rod 72 of the holder assembly 70. Furthermore, when the holder assembly 70 is fully received in the receiving area 20, an abutment portion 79 between the front portion 78 and the rear portion 74 of the rod 72 of the holder assembly 70 abuts the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. As further shown in fig. 17, with the holder assembly 70 removed from the storage cavity 160, the storage cavity 160 is shown with a front portion 160A disposed below the receiving area 20 and a rear slot portion 160B located below the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In use, and as shown in fig. 16, when the holder assembly 70 is fully received in the storage cavity 160, the arms 82, 84 of the holder assembly 70 are located within the front portion 160A of the storage cavity 160. Further, as also shown in fig. 16, when the holder assembly 70 is fully received in the storage cavity 160, the rod 72 of the holder assembly 70 is located within the rear slot portion 160B of the storage cavity 160.

Referring now to fig. 18, the cover assembly 50 is shown in phantom to reveal the retainer assembly 70 loaded in the storage cavity 160 of the support base 14. As shown in fig. 18, the front wall 54 of the cover assembly 50 includes a first tab 180 and a second tab 182 disposed on an inner surface of the front wall 54. Referring now to fig. 19, the cover assembly 50 has been removed to reveal the retainer assembly 70 loaded in the storage cavity 160 of the support base 14. The support base 14 includes a bottom wall 184 in first and second side walls 186, 188 that extend upwardly from the bottom wall 184. The front portion 160A of the storage cavity 160 is generally defined by the bottom wall 184 in the first and second side walls 186, 188. As shown in fig. 19, the first and second side walls 186, 188 include vertically disposed slots 190, 192, respectively, that are configured to receive the first and second tabs 180, 182 of the cover assembly 50 when the cover assembly 50 is positioned over the opening 189 of the storage cavity 160. In fig. 19, the holder assembly 70 is fully loaded within the storage cavity 160 such that the first and second arms 82, 84 of the holder assembly 70 are located within the front portion 160A of the storage cavity 160. It is contemplated that the rod 72 of the retainer assembly 70 is located within the slot portion 160B (fig. 16, 17, and 20) of the storage cavity 160 when the retainer assembly 70 is fully received within the storage cavity 160.

Referring now to fig. 20, the retainer assembly 70 is shown removed from the storage cavity 160 and the rod 72 of the retainer assembly 70 is shown removed from the slot portion 160B of the storage cavity 160. With the removable cover assembly 50, the storage cavity 160 can be easily opened and closed, and provides a convenient place to store and house the holder assembly 70 when not in use.

As described above, and with reference to FIG. 18, the coffee grinding apparatus 10 of the present concept includes a support base 14 having a storage cavity 160 and a removable lid assembly 50 for selectively closing an opening 189 of the storage cavity 160. The removable cover assembly 50 includes a support surface 15 positioned over an opening 189 to the storage cavity 160. The base portion 16 extends upwardly from the support base 14 and includes a first surface 17 disposed adjacent to the support surface 15 of the cover assembly 50. Referring to fig. 17, the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 also includes an access aperture 60 leading to an inwardly extending receiving hub 62. A motor housing 18 is supported on and extends outwardly from the base portion 16. A portion of the motor housing 18 is disposed above and spaced from the support surface 15 of the cover assembly 50 to define a receiving area 20 therebetween. Referring to fig. 5A, 5B, the retainer assembly 70 includes a rod 72 and first and second arms 82, 84 spaced apart from each other and extending outwardly from the rod 72 to define a receiving area 104 therebetween. The upper and lower tabs 96, 98 are disposed on the first arm 82 and extend inwardly into a receiving area 104 between the first and second arms 82, 84. An upper tab 100 and a lower tab 102 are disposed on the second arm 84 and extend inwardly into a receiving area 104 between the first arm 82 and the second arm 84. The upper and lower tabs 100, 102 of the second arm 84 are configured in an opposing manner with respect to the upper and lower tabs 96, 98 of the first arm 82. The upper tab 96 of the first arm 82 is spaced apart from the upper tab 100 of the second arm 84 by a first distance D1, and the lower tab 98 of the first arm 82 is spaced apart from the lower tab 102 of the second arm 84 by a second distance D2 that is different than the first distance D1.

With further reference to fig. 5A, 5B, the retainer assembly 70 includes an outwardly extending rod 72. The first and second arms 82, 84 are spaced apart from one another and extend outwardly from the front portion 78 of the rod 72 to define an open receiving area 104 between the first and second arms 82, 84. The first and second arms 82, 84 each include opposing upper and lower tabs 96, 98 and 100, 102, respectively, that are vertically spaced apart from one another and extend inwardly into an open receiving area 104. The upper tab 96 of the first arm 82 is spaced apart from the upper tab 100 of the second arm 84 by a first distance D1. The lower tab 98 of the first arm 82 is spaced apart from the lower tab 102 of the second arm 84 by a second distance D2 that is greater than the first distance D1.

Referring now to FIG. 21, a retainer assembly 70A is shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present concept. The retainer assembly 70A includes a plurality of shared features, as found on the retainer assembly 70 shown in fig. 5A and 5B and described above. Features common between the retainer assemblies 70, 70A will be identified using the same reference numbers. In particular, the stem 72 of the holder assembly 70A comprises a rear portion 74, which is conceivably removably received in the receiving hub 62 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In the embodiment shown in fig. 21, the rear portion 74 of the rod 72 of the retainer assembly 70A includes a first groove 76 disposed therein that extends inwardly from the upper surface 73 of the rod 72. As mentioned above, it is contemplated that the first recess 76 receives the second detent feature 174 located within the receiving hub 62 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10, as further described below with reference to fig. 28. The front portion 78 of the rod 72 is spaced from the rear portion 74 by a stepped configuration defining an abutment portion 79 between the front and rear portions. In use, when the rear portion 74 of the rod 72 is inserted into the receiving hub 62 of the base portion 16, the abutment portion 79 is configured to abut the first surface 17 of the base portion 16. At the front portion 78 of the stem 72, a second groove 80 is shown extending inwardly from the upper surface 73 of the stem 72 and configured to receive a reciprocating detent feature 164 disposed within a storage cavity 160 (fig. 25) of the support base 14, as further described below.

As further shown in fig. 21, the retainer assembly 70A also includes a head portion 200 defined by a first arm 202 and a second arm 204 that extend outwardly from the front portion 78 of the rod 72 at a central portion 205 of the head portion 200. First arm 202 and second arm 204 are interconnected with each other and with rod 72 of holder assembly 70A. The first arm 202 and the second arm 204 are generally mirror images of each other and define a receiving area 208 therebetween. As shown in fig. 21, the head portion 200 of the retainer assembly 70A includes an upstanding sidewall 206 that at least partially defines a first arm 202 and a second arm 204. The upstanding side wall 206 is positioned in an outwardly curved manner. Upright sidewall 206 includes a first flap 210 disposed at lower portion 206B of sidewall 206 and a second flap 212 disposed at upper portion 206C of sidewall 206. The first tab 210 and the second tab 212 are vertically offset from each other and extend inwardly from the outer surface 206A of the upstanding sidewall 206 toward the receiving area 208 at the lower portion 206B and the upper portion 296C of the upstanding sidewall 206, respectively. The first and second tabs 210, 212 define an insertion portion 211 therebetween as being vertically spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, first and second tabs 210, 212 of first and second arms 202, 204 of head portion 200 extend inwardly toward a central receiving area 208 defined between first and second arms 202, 204. As shown in fig. 21, the first and second tabs 210, 212 of the head portion 200 are vertically spaced from one another and are configured to help support various sizes of handle assemblies on the holder assembly 70A during the abrading process, as described further below.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 21, a plurality of cushioning members 214 are shown disposed on outer surface 210A of first flap 210. Cushioning members 214 extend outwardly from outer surface 210A of first flap 210 such that cushioning members 214 extend inwardly into receiving area 208. It is contemplated that cushioning members 214 are flexible resilient members, such as deformable foam members or rubber bumpers, that help hold the handle assembly in place in holder assembly 70A. Cushioning member 214 may be adhered to outer surface 210A of first flap 210 or may be received in a pocket 215 (fig. 23) provided along first flap 210. The cushioning member 214 may include a non-slip surface to help hold the handle assembly in place. First flap 210 defines an outwardly curved and outwardly facing first abutment surface 216 of head portion and a cushioning member 214 disposed thereon along an outer surface 210A of head portion 200. In this manner, the head portion 200 of the retainer assembly 70A includes an outwardly facing first abutment surface 216 along the lower portion 206B of the sidewall 206 having an outwardly facing cushioning member 214.

As further shown in fig. 21, the head portion 200 of the holder assembly 70A also includes a bracket 220 that extends outwardly from the front portion 78 of the rod 72 and inwardly into or toward the receiving area 208. In the embodiment shown in fig. 21, the bracket 220 is located above the first flap 210 and includes a first portion 222 that extends inwardly into the receiving area 208. Specifically, in the embodiment of fig. 21, the first portion 222 of the bracket 220 extends inwardly from the upper portion 206C of the sidewall 206 into the receiving area at the second wing 212. The second portion 224 of the bracket 220 extends downward from the first portion 222 into the receiving area 208. The second portion 224 of the bracket 220 includes a second abutment surface 225. The second abutment surface 225 of fig. 21 is also curved outwardly like the first abutment surface 216, but inwardly facing, as opposed to the outwardly facing and outwardly curved first abutment surface 216 of the first vane 210. Accordingly, the first and second abutment surfaces 216, 225 face in opposite directions and cooperate with one another to hold various sizes of handle assemblies in place during the abrading process, as described further below. The second abutment surface 225 may include any number of cushioning members, similar to the cushioning members 214 of the first tab 210, to positively engage the handle assembly, as further described below with reference to fig. 23. Thus, the first abutment surface 216 and the second abutment surface 225 are opposing surfaces, with the first abutment surface 216 being vertically offset and horizontally inset relative to the second abutment surface 225. Specifically, the second abutment surface 225 is located above the first abutment surface 216 and is also located outside with respect to the second abutment surface 225.

Referring now to fig. 22, a holder assembly 70A is shown coupled to the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In particular, the rear portion 74 of the stem 72 of the holder assembly 70A is shown inserted into the receiving hub 62 provided on the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. In this manner, the holder assembly 70 extends outwardly from the first surface 17 of the base portion 16 to position the head portion 200 and its receiving area 208 into the receiving area 20 defined between the support base 14 and the motor housing 18 (fig. 15) of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. As further shown in fig. 22, the handle assembly 130 is shown with its cup portion 132 received in the receiving area 208 of the holder assembly 70A. Accordingly, it is contemplated that the compartment 136 of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130 is located below the outlet 21 (fig. 2) of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 to receive ground coffee during the coffee grinding process. Retainer assembly 70A is shown with detent member 176 received in first recess 76 of rod 72. The abutment portion 79 of the holder assembly 70A is shown abutting the first surface 17 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 to help support the weight of the holder assembly 70A and thus further support the handle assembly 130. The second abutment surface 225 of the holder assembly 70A is shown abutting the inner surface 140A of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130. Similarly, the first abutment surface 216 of the holder assembly 70A is shown abutting the outer surface 140B of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130. In this manner, the first abutment surface 216 cooperates with the second abutment surface 225 to hold the handle assembly 130 in place against the downward force of the handle assembly, indicated by arrow F1.

Referring now to fig. 23, the handle assembly 130 is shown supported by the holder assembly 70A. The second flap 212 of the head portion 200 of the holder assembly 70A is shown as having a lower surface 212A that can abut a top surface of the engagement feature 144A that extends outwardly from the sidewall 140 of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130. In the embodiment shown in fig. 23, the cushioning member 214 of the first flap 210 of the head portion 200 of the holder assembly 70A is shown disposed in a nest 215 extending inwardly from the outer surface 210A of the first flap 210. The bracket 220 also includes a cushioning member 231 disposed in a channel 230 that extends inwardly from the outer surface 224A of the second portion 224 of the bracket 220. In this manner, the cushioning member 231 of the bracket 220, together with the outer surface 224A of the second portion 224 of the bracket 220, defines a second, inwardly-facing abutment surface 225 of the retainer assembly 70A.

As particularly shown in fig. 23, the embodiment of the handle assembly 130 shown therein includes an insert 240 having an inner surface 240A. The insert 240 is received within the compartment 136 of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130. Various inserts may be used to correspond to various volumes of ground coffee that are expected to be received by the handle assembly 130 during the grinding process. With the insert 240 received in the compartment 136 of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130, the second abutment surface 225 of the cradle 220 of the holder assembly 70A engages the inner surface 240A of the insert 240. With the insert 240 not in place, it is contemplated that the second abutment surface 225 of the cradle 220 of the holder assembly 70A will engage the inner surface 140A of the sidewall 140 of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130, much like the arrangement described below with reference to fig. 29A and 29B. This engagement between the inner surface 240A and the second abutment surface 225 opposes the outward force indicated by arrow F2, which is the resultant of the downward force F1 provided by the weight of the handle assembly 130. The inward force shown by arrow F3 is also the resultant of the downward force F1 provided by the weight of the handle assembly 130. The inward force indicated by arrow F3 pulls the outer surface 140B of the sidewall 140 of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130 into engagement with the first abutment surface 216 of the first flap 210 of the head portion 200 of the holder assembly 70A. In this manner, the opposing forces indicated by arrows F2 and F3 are opposed by the engagement of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130 with the first and second abutment surfaces 216 and 225 of the head portion 200 of the holder assembly 70A. The cushioning members 214 and 231 are disposed on the respective first and second abutment surfaces 216 and 225, with the metallic cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130 (and/or the insert 240 thereof) being positively captured between the first and second abutment surfaces 216 and 225 to maintain the handle assembly 130 in position on the head portion 200 of the holder assembly 70A. It is also contemplated that the engagement between the top surface of engagement feature 144A and the lower surface 212A of second wing 212 may also resist the outward force indicated by arrow F2 of handle assembly 130.

Referring now to fig. 24, another embodiment of a retainer assembly 70B is shown. The retainer assembly 70B includes a plurality of shared features, as found on the retainer assembly 70 shown in fig. 5A and 5B and on the retainer assembly 70A shown in fig. 21. Features common between the retainer assemblies 70, 70A and 70B will be identified using the same reference numbers. In the embodiment shown in fig. 24, the retainer assembly 70B includes a rod 72B that is envisioned to be constructed of a metallic material. It is contemplated that the retainer assemblies 70 and 70A described above are constructed of a unitary polymer injection molded material that forms a unitary member. It is contemplated that the holder assembly 70B is a two-part member having a metal rod 72B to provide a rigid engagement with the coffee grinding apparatus 10 with its rear portion 74 and the first and second recesses 76, 80. The holder assembly 70B also includes a head portion 200B. The cradle 220 of the head portion 200B is constructed of the metallic material of the stem 72B and includes an upturned base portion 221 from which a first portion 222 of the cradle 220 extends inwardly into the receiving area 208. The second portion 224 of the bracket 220 extends downwardly from the first portion 222 to define a second abutment surface 225 within the facing pair of head portions 200B. The head portion 200B of the holder assembly 70B also includes a front portion 201 that includes a downwardly extending sidewall 206 and a first flap 210 that extends inwardly from an outer surface 206A of the sidewall 206 into a receiving area 208 at a lower portion 206B of the sidewall 206. The side walls 206 of the front portion 201 of the head portion 200B define a first arm 202 and a second arm 204 of the head portion 200B, with a receiving area 208 disposed therebetween. Cushioning member 214 is shown disposed on outer surface 210A of first flap 210 to define a first abutment surface 216 of head portion 200B. The first and second abutment surfaces 216, 225 are configured to cooperate to positively capture the cup portion of the handle assembly against opposing forces in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the handle assembly 130 shown engaged with the holder assembly 70A against opposing forces F2, F3.

Referring now to fig. 25, a cross-sectional view of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 is shown, revealing the storage cavity 160 of the support base 14. As described above, the storage cavity 160 is an internal cavity that is selectively accessed via the removable cap assembly 50. In the embodiment shown in fig. 25, the retainer assembly 70B is shown stored within the storage cavity 160. It is contemplated that the holder assembly 70B may be stored within the storage cavity 160 of the support base 14 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 when not in use. In the interior portion 162 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10, the first detent feature 164 is positioned such that the distal end 167 of the detent member 166 is received within the second recess 80 provided on the upper surface 73 of the stem 72B of the holder assembly 70B.

Referring now to fig. 26A, a cross-sectional view of the coffee grinding apparatus 10 is shown with the second detent feature 174 shown within the interior portion 162 of the base portion 16 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. The locking pin member 176 of the second locking pin feature 174 is shown having a distal end 177 retractably positioned within the receiving hub 62 of the base portion 16. The receiving hub 62 includes a first sidewall 62D having a first rail member 63D extending outwardly therefrom. Thus, the first rail member 63D extends from the first side wall 62D into the receiving hub 62. Referring to fig. 26B, the receiving hub 62 further includes a second sidewall 62E having a second rail member 63E extending outwardly therefrom. Thus, the second rail member 63E extends from the second side wall 62E into the receiving hub 62 to provide a rail member opposite the first rail member 63D.

Referring now to fig. 27, another embodiment of a retainer assembly 70B is shown having dual embedded portions 232, 234 disposed on opposite sides of the rear portion 74 of the rod 72B. When the rear portion 74 of the rod 72B of the holder assembly 70B is received in the receiving hub 62 of the coffee grinding apparatus, the first rail member 63D and the second rail member 63E will be received in the respective insertion portions 232, 234 of the rear portion 74 of the rod 72B of the holder assembly 70B. Thus, the receiving hub 62 includes a retractable latching feature 174, and may include inwardly extending first and second rail members 63D, 63E and an upwardly projecting engagement feature 63 (fig. 16, 17) to help secure the rear portion 74 of the rod 72B of the retainer assembly 70B within the receiving hub 62. In the embodiment shown in fig. 27, the distal end 75 of the holder assembly 70B includes a magnetic member 236 disposed thereon. As used herein, the term "magnetic member" is used to describe a magnetic material that will have an associated counterpart to its magnetic attraction. Accordingly, the magnetic member 236 may include a metal material, such as a metal plate, or may also include a magnet that generates a magnetic field. It is further contemplated that magnet member 236 may be an exposed member that physically contacts its associated counterpart, or may be an embedded magnetic member that is concealed by holder assembly 70B. The magnetic force in the magnetic coupling system of the present concept may also be formed between a set of magnetic members and a magnetically attractive material (e.g., iron, nickel, cobalt, and other similar metallic materials). It is further contemplated that the magnetic members 236 may be permanent magnets referred to as "permanent" because they generate their own magnetic field that is continuously resistant to effects that may demagnetize them.

Referring now to fig. 28, the holder assembly 70B is shown with its rear portion 74 received within the receiving hub 62 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. As shown in fig. 28, the detent member 176 of the second detent feature 174 is shown with its distal end 177 received in the first recess 76 of the rod 72B of the holder assembly 70B. In the rear wall 62C of the receiving hub 62, another magnetic member 238 is provided. It is contemplated that the magnetic member 238 is a reciprocating magnetic member of the magnetic member 236 positioned on the rod 72B of the holder assembly 70B. Thus, it is contemplated that both magnetic members 236, 238 are capable of generating opposing magnetic fields that attract each other. Further, it is surmised that the magnetic members 236, 238 may comprise a magnetic field generating material and a magnetic attraction material. In the embodiment shown in fig. 28, the magnetic member 236 of the retainer assembly 70B is shown in contact with the magnetic member 238 of the receiving hub 62. In this manner, the magnetic members 238 of the receiving hub 62 magnetically couple to the magnetic members 236 of the holder assembly 70B to further secure the holder assembly 70B within the receiving hub 62. This magnetic coupling also provides tactile feedback to the user that the holder assembly 70B is fully received within the receiving hub 62 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10.

Referring now to fig. 29A and 29B, the handle assembly is shown received in the holder assembly 70A previously described with reference to fig. 21. The holder assembly 70A of fig. 29A and 29B differs from the holder assembly 70A (fig. 21) described above in that the holder assembly 70A of fig. 29A and 29B does not include the second tab 212 provided on the head portion 200 of the holder assembly 70A. As particularly shown in fig. 29A, the handle assembly 130C includes a cup portion 132 having a compartment 136 with a first volume. The first volume of the handle assembly 130C is generally determined by the contour of the sidewall 140 of the cup portion 132. As shown in fig. 29A, the second abutment surface 225 of the cradle 220 of the holder assembly 70A engages the inner surface 140A of the sidewall 140 of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130. This engagement between the inner surface 140A of the holder assembly 70A and the second abutment surface 225 opposes the outward force indicated by arrow F2, which, as noted above, is the resultant of the downward force F1 provided by the weight of the handle assembly 130C. The inward force indicated by arrow F3 (which is also the resultant of the downward force F1 provided by the weight of the handle assembly 130C) pulls the outer surface 140B of the side wall 140 of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130C into engagement with the first abutment surface 216 of the first flap 210 of the head portion 200 of the holder assembly 70A. In this manner, the opposing forces indicated by arrows F2 and F3 are opposed by the engagement of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130C with the first and second abutment surfaces 216 and 225 of the holder assembly 70A. Thus, the outwardly facing first abutment surface 216 of the head portion 200 faces a first direction opposite to that indicated by arrow F3. Similarly, the second inwardly facing abutment surface 225 of the bracket 220 faces a second direction opposite to the direction indicated by the arrow F2. Thus, a first direction of the outwardly facing first abutment surface 216 of the head portion 200 is opposite a second direction of the inwardly facing second abutment surface 225 of the bracket 220.

A similar arrangement is shown in fig. 29B, where the handle assembly 130D is engaged with the holder assembly 70A and includes a cup portion 132 having a compartment 136 with a second volume. The second volume of the handle assembly 130D is greater than the first volume of the handle assembly 130C shown in fig. 29A as shown in fig. 29B. The second volume of the compartment 136 of the handle assembly 130D is also generally determined by the contour of the sidewall 140 of the cup portion 132. The opposing forces indicated by arrows F2 and F3 are opposed by the engagement of the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130D with the first and second abutment surfaces 216 and 225 of the holder assembly 70A. Accordingly, the holder assembly 70A of the present concept is configured to support and engage handle assemblies (e.g., handle assemblies 130C, 130D, and other similar assemblies) having cup portions and corresponding compartments of various sizes such that different amounts of ground coffee may be provided to fill the available volume of the handle assembly engaged with the holder assembly 70A.

Referring now to fig. 30 and 31, another embodiment of a holder assembly 250 is shown for use with the coffee grinding apparatus 10 (fig. 1 and 2). In particular, the holder assembly 250 is configured to be removably received in the receiving area 20 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10, as best shown in fig. 37 and 38. As shown in fig. 30 and 31, retainer assembly 250 includes a first mounting hub 252 and a second mounting hub 254. The first mounting hub 252 includes an upwardly extending hub body 256 and has an annular outer surface 258 and an annular inner surface 260 such that the hub body 256 generally defines an upwardly extending cylinder having a hollow interior portion 261. The annular inner surface 260 of the first mounting hub 252 includes a threaded portion 262. In fig. 30 and 31, the retainer member 270 is operatively coupled to the first mounting hub 252. The retainer member 270 includes an upper collar portion 272 surrounding the open aperture 330 and a hollow interior portion 271. The hollow interior portion 261 of the first mounting hub 252 aligns with the hollow interior portion 271 of the retainer member 270 to define a combined hollow interior portion 331, as best shown in fig. 31. The upper collar portion 272 of the retainer member 270 is disposed above a lower mounting portion 274 that is rotatably coupled to the first mounting hub 252 at the annular inner surface 260 of the first mounting hub 252. As shown, the lower mounting portion 274 of the retainer member 270 includes a threaded portion 263 that is complementary to the threaded portion 262 of the first mounting hub 252. In this manner, the retainer member 270 is vertically adjustable relative to the first mounting hub 252 when threadably coupled to the first mounting hub 252 at the respective threaded portions 262, 263.

As further shown in fig. 30 and 31, second mounting hub 254 is spaced apart from first mounting hub 252 and includes an upwardly extending hub body 276 and has an annular outer surface 278 and an annular inner surface 280. Thus, much like first mounting hub 252, hub 276 of second mounting hub 254 generally defines an upwardly extending cylindrical body. As particularly shown in fig. 31, an annular inner surface 280 of second mounting hub 254 includes a threaded portion 282. As further shown in fig. 30 and 31, support member 290 is operatively coupled to second mounting hub 254. The support member 290 includes a base portion 292 disposed over a mounting post 294. The base portion 292 of the support member 290 includes an upper surface 296 having an inwardly disposed recess 298. Mounting post 294 of support member 290 is rotatably coupled to second mounting hub 254 at annular inner surface 280 of second mounting hub 254. As further shown in fig. 30 and 31, mounting post 294 of support member 290 includes an annular outer surface 300 having a threaded portion 283 that is complementary to threaded portion 282 of annular inner surface 280 of second mounting hub 254. In this manner, the support member 290 is vertically adjustable relative to the second mounting hub 254 when threadedly coupled to the second mounting hub 254 at the respective threaded portions 282, 283.

With further reference to fig. 30 and 31, the holder assembly 250 includes a base plate 302 from which a first mounting hub 252 and a second mounting hub 254 extend upwardly. Specifically, the first mounting hub 252 and the second mounting hub 254 are spaced apart from each other by a fixed distance defined by the wings 306 of the base plate 302 that interconnect the first mounting hub 252 and the second mounting hub 254. It is contemplated that the base plate 302 and the first and second mounting hubs 252, 254 can be integrally formed to define a unitary or one-piece construction. In the embodiment shown in fig. 31, the base plate 302 includes a plurality of rib-like portions 304 that may be etched into a bottom surface 308 of the base plate 302.

Referring now to fig. 32, the retainer assembly 250 is shown in an exploded view. In the exploded view of fig. 32, the support member 290 is shown as having a base portion 292 with a mounting boss 310 extending downwardly from a lower surface 297 of the base portion 292. The mounting boss 310 is configured to be received within an interior portion 314 of the threaded connector 312 to define the mounting post 294 of the support member 290. Accordingly, the annular outer surface 300 and the threaded portion 283 of the mounting post 294 are defined by the threaded connector 312 positioned on the mounting boss 310 of the base portion 292. As described above, mounting post 294 of support member 290 is configured to be received in and threadably engage threaded portion 282 of annular inner surface 280 of second mounting hub 254, which surrounds hollow interior portion 281 of second mounting hub 254.

With further reference to fig. 32, the base portion 292 of the support member 290 includes an upper surface 296 defined by a first angled portion 316 and a second angled portion 318 with a generally planar portion 320 disposed therebetween. The first angled portion 316 and the second angled portion 318 are angled inwardly toward each other at opposite angles to define the notch 298 therebetween with the generally planar portion 320. It is contemplated that multiple embodiments of the notches may be provided along the upper surface 296 of the base portion 292, such as, for example, a continuously curved notch, a V-shaped notch, or a U-shaped notch. In use, the recess 298 defines a ledge for receiving and retaining a handle of the handle assembly during a coffee grinding process, as described further below.

With further reference to fig. 32, the retainer member 270 is shown as having a collar portion 272 surrounding the open aperture 330 and a hollow interior portion 271. The collar portion 272 is disposed above the mounting portion 274 and includes an annular inner surface 332 disposed at an inward angle. Thus, the annular inner surface 332 of the collar portion 272 is an angled inner surface that tapers inwardly toward the hollow interior portion 271 from the upper portion 334 of the annular inner surface 332 to the lower portion 336 of the annular inner surface 332. In this manner, collar portion 272 defines a receiving ledge for a cup portion of the handle assembly, wherein the cup portion of the handle assembly can abut, e.g., support annular inner surface 332 of collar portion 272 thereon, as further described below.

With further reference to fig. 32, the mounting portion 274 of the retainer member 270 includes a threaded portion 263 that is complementary to the threaded portion 262 of the first mounting hub 252. In this manner, the retainer assembly 270 may be threadably engaged with the first mounting hub 252 at the respective threaded portions 262, 263. Accordingly, rotational movement of the retainer member 270 in the first direction R1 threadably engages the retainer member 270 with the first mounting hub 252 such that the retainer member 270 and the first mounting hub 252 are coupled to one another, as shown in fig. 30 and 31. Once the threads are engaged and coupled to each other, further rotation of the retainer member 270 in the first direction R1 lowers the upper collar portion 272 relative to the first mounting hub 252. Conversely, rotational movement of the retainer member 270 in a second direction R2 opposite the first direction R1 raises the upper collar portion 272 relative to the first mounting hub 252. In this manner, the retainer member 270 is vertically adjustable when coupled to the first mounting hub 252 by threaded engagement therebetween. Further rotational movement of the retainer member 270 in the second direction R2 releases the retainer member 270 from engagement with the first mounting hub 252. In this manner, retainer member 270 is releasably coupled to first mounting hub 252. It is also contemplated that retainer member 270 and first mounting hub 252 may be counter-threaded, so long as rotational movement in the first and second directions allows for vertical adjustment of retainer member 270 relative to first mounting hub 252.

Referring now to fig. 33, the holder assembly 250 is shown from a top perspective view, wherein the first rotational direction R1 and the second rotational direction R2 of the holder member 270 are shown in opposite directions for vertical adjustment of the holder member 270 relative to the first mounting hub 252. Similarly, the view of the holder assembly 250 provided in fig. 33 shows the support member 290 operably coupled to the second mounting hub 254 for rotational movement in opposite directions R3, R4 to make vertical adjustments to the holder assembly.

Referring now to fig. 34, the bearing member 290 is shown in threaded engagement with the second mounting hub 254 at the respective threaded portions 282, 283. Specifically, the annular outer surface 300 of mounting post 294 includes a threaded portion 283 that is a complementary or counter-threaded portion to the threaded portion 282 of the annular inner surface 280 of the second mounting hub 254. Accordingly, as support member 290 and second mounting hub 254 become more threadedly engaged, rotational movement of support member 290 in first direction R3 lowers base portion 292 relative to second mounting hub 254. Conversely, rotational movement of the support member 290 in a second direction R4 opposite the first direction R3 raises the base portion 292 of the support member 290. It is contemplated that continued rotation of support member 290 in second direction R4 decouples support member 290 from second mounting hub 254. In this manner, support member 290 and second mounting hub 254 are removably coupled to one another. Annular inner surface 280 of second mounting hub 254 defines parameters of a hollow interior portion 281 of second mounting hub 254 in which mounting post 294 of support member 290 is at least partially threadedly received.

Similarly, in the cross-sectional view of fig. 34, the lower mounting portion 274 of the retainer member 270 is rotatably coupled to the first mounting hub 252 at the annular inner surface 260 of the first mounting hub 252. As shown, the lower mounting portion 274 of the retainer member 270 includes a threaded portion 263 that is complementary to the threaded portion 262 of the first mounting hub 252. In this manner, the retainer member 270 is vertically adjustable relative to the first mounting hub 252 when threadably coupled to the first mounting hub 252 at the respective threaded portions 262, 263. The collar portion 272 of the retainer member 270 surrounds the hollow interior portion 271 of the retainer member 270. The annular inner surface 260 of the first mounting hub 252 defines parameters of a hollow interior portion 261 of the first mounting hub 252, wherein the mounting portion 274 of the retaining member 270 is at least partially received in threaded engagement. In this manner, when retainer member 270 is threadably engaged with first mounting hub 252 to define combined hollow interior portion 331, hollow interior portion 271 of retainer member 270 is aligned with hollow interior portion 261 of first mounting hub 252. As further shown in fig. 34, only portions of annular inner surface 260 of first mounting hub 252 and annular inner surface 280 of second mounting hub 254 include threaded portions 262, 282, respectively. It is contemplated that threaded portions 262, 282 of respective first and second mounting hubs 252, 254 may cover the entire annular inner surfaces 260, 280, respectively.

As further shown in fig. 34, the annular inner surface 332 of the collar portion 272 is shown disposed at an inward angle from an upper portion 334 of the annular inner surface 332 to a lower portion 336 of the annular inner surface 332.

Referring now to fig. 35, the handle assembly 130A as described above is shown disposed above the holder assembly 250. The handle assembly 130A is configured to be vertically received on the holder assembly 250 in the direction indicated by arrow 400, with the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130A being configured to be received within the collar portion 272 of the holder member 270, as shown in fig. 36. It is contemplated that the cup portion 132 abuts the annular inner surface 332 of the collar portion 272 of the retainer member 270 such that the cup portion 132 is cradled within the ledge defined by the collar portion 272 and its annular inner surface 332. The collar portion 272 is configured to support handle assemblies having cup portions of various sizes, with the sloped or angled annular inner surface 332 of the collar portion 272. In this manner, the angled annular inner surface 332 of the collar portion 272 serves as a centering feature for the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130A as received thereon. As described above, the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130A includes a diameter D4 of approximately 58 mm.

As further shown in fig. 35, the grip portion 134 of the handle assembly 130A is shown disposed above the support member 290 of the holder assembly 250. When the handle assembly 130A is loaded vertically on the holder assembly 250 in the direction indicated by arrow 400, the grip portion 134 of the handle assembly 130A is configured to be received on the base portion 292 of the support member 290 at the underside 135 thereof. Referring to fig. 36, the grip portion 134 of the handle assembly 130A is shown bracketed within the recess 298 of the base portion 292 of the support member 290. The configuration of the recess 298 with the angled portions 316, 318 acts as a centering feature for the grip portion 134 of the handle assembly 130A as received on the holder assembly 250.

Referring now to fig. 37, the holder assembly 250 is shown supporting the handle assembly 130A in the receiving area 20 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. The base plate 302 of the holder assembly 250 is supported on the support surface 15 of the support base 14 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. The position of the holder assembly 250 on the support base 14 in fig. 37 aligns the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130A to receive ground coffee along a path as indicated by arrow 150.

Referring now to fig. 38, the holder assembly 250 is again shown supporting the handle assembly 130B in the receiving area 20 of the coffee grinding apparatus 10. With respect to the handle assembly 130A shown in fig. 37, the handle assembly 130B includes a grip portion 134 that is disposed at a higher position of the cup portion 132 than the handle assembly 130A. Thus, when compared to the position of support member 290 shown in fig. 37, it is contemplated that support member 290 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow R4 to raise support member 290 and its base portion 292. By adjusting the position of the bearing member 290, the holder assembly 250 can support the handle assembly 130B and in a substantially horizontal manner. As described above, the cup portion 132 of the handle assembly 130B includes a diameter D5 (fig. 13), which may be different than the diameter D4 of the handle assembly 130A. The different diameters of the cup portions of the handle assembly are adequately supported by the angled inner annular surface 332 of the retainer member 270, which acts as a centering feature to support the cup portions of the handle assembly. As such, the holder assembly 250 of the present concept provides adjustability at the holder member 270 and the support member 290 for accommodating handle assemblies of various configurations.

While threaded engagement between the components provides vertical adjustability of the component parts of the holder assembly 250, it is contemplated that other adjustment means may be used to vertically adjust the holder member 270 and the bearing member 290, such as a ratchet system, ball and catch design, and threaded designs having widely spaced threads that move the holder member 270 and the bearing member 290 faster than a tight threaded engagement.

One aspect of the present concept includes a coffee grinding apparatus having a support base with a storage cavity and a removable lid assembly for selectively closing an opening to the storage cavity, wherein the removable lid assembly includes a support surface located over the opening to the storage cavity. The base portion extends upwardly from the support base and includes a first surface disposed adjacent to the support surface of the cover assembly. The first surface of the base portion also includes an access opening aperture leading to the inwardly extending receiving hub. The motor housing is supported on and extends outwardly from the base portion. A portion of the motor housing is disposed above and spaced apart from the support surface of the cover assembly to define a receiving area therebetween. The retainer assembly includes a rod and first and second arms spaced apart from each other and extending outwardly from the rod to define a receiving area therebetween. An upper tab and a lower tab are disposed on the first arm and extend inwardly into a receiving area between the first arm and the second arm. An upper tab and a lower tab are disposed on the second arm and extend inwardly into a receiving area between the first arm and the second arm. The upper and lower tabs of the second arm are configured in an opposing manner with respect to the upper and lower tabs of the first arm. The upper tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the upper tab of the second arm by a first distance, and the lower tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the lower tab of the second arm by a second distance different from the first distance.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper and lower tabs disposed on the first arm are vertically spaced apart from each other.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the upper and lower tabs disposed on the second arm are vertically spaced apart from each other.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rod of the retainer assembly is removably received in the receiving hub of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a holder assembly is removably received in the storage cavity of the support base.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a receiving area disposed between the first and second arms of the holder assembly is positioned above the support base when the stem of the holder assembly is received in the receiving hub of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a locking pin feature is disposed within the base portion and includes a retractable locking pin member, wherein a distal end of the retractable locking pin member extends into the receiving hub and retracts from the receiving hub toward the interior portion of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the rod of the retainer assembly includes a groove disposed on an upper surface thereof, and further wherein when the rod of the retainer assembly is received in the receiving hub, a distal end of the retractable detent member of the detent feature is received in the groove of the retainer assembly.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a locking pin feature is disposed within the base portion and includes a retractable locking pin member, wherein a distal end of the retractable locking pin member extends into the storage cavity of the support base and retracts from the storage cavity of the support base toward the interior portion of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the stem of the retainer assembly includes a recess disposed on an upper surface thereof, and further wherein a distal end of the retractable detent member of the detent feature is received in the recess of the retainer assembly when the retainer assembly is received in the storage cavity of the support base.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rod of the retainer assembly includes a first groove and a second groove spaced apart from each other.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the first detent feature is disposed within the base portion and includes a retractable detent member, wherein a distal end of the retractable detent member extends into the storage cavity of the support base and retracts from the storage cavity of the support base toward the interior portion of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a second locking pin feature is disposed above the first locking pin feature within the base portion, wherein the second locking pin feature includes a retractable locking pin member having a distal end that extends into the receiving hub and retracts from the receiving hub toward the interior portion of the base portion.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, the distal end of the retractable detent member of the first detent feature is received in the second recess of the retainer assembly when the retainer assembly is received in the storage cavity of the support base, and further wherein the distal end of the retractable detent member of the second detent feature is received in the first recess of the retainer assembly when the stem of the retainer assembly is received in the receiving hub.

Another aspect of the present concept includes a retainer assembly having an outwardly extending rod. The first and second arms are spaced apart from each other and extend outwardly from the front portion of the lever to define an open receiving area therebetween. The first and second arms each include opposing upper and lower flaps that are vertically spaced apart from one another and extend inwardly into the open receiving area. The upper tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the upper tab of the second arm by a first distance. The lower tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the lower tab of the second arm by a second distance greater than the first distance.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a slot is disposed between the first and second arms and the lever, wherein the slot includes a bottom surface.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a plurality of fins extend downwardly from a bottom surface of the slot.

Another aspect of the present concept includes a holder assembly for a coffee grinding apparatus, wherein the holder assembly includes a rod having a front portion and a rear portion, and a first arm extends outwardly from the front portion of the rod. The first arm includes a sidewall having an inner surface with a first tab and a second tab spaced vertically from each other and extending inwardly from an outer surface of the sidewall of the first arm. The second arm extends outwardly from the front portion of the lever and includes a sidewall having an inner surface with a first tab and a second tab spaced vertically from each other and extending inwardly from an outer surface of the sidewall of the second arm. The first and second tabs of the second arm are configured in an opposing manner relative to the first and second tabs of the first arm to define a receiving area between the second arm and the first arm. The first and second tabs of the first arm and the first and second tabs of the second arm extend into the receiving area.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the sidewall of the first arm is an upstanding sidewall having an upper portion and a lower portion from which the first flap and the second flap of the first arm extend inwardly, respectively, and further wherein the sidewall of the second arm is an upstanding sidewall having an upper portion and a lower portion from which the first flap and the second flap of the second arm extend inwardly, respectively.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the first tab of the second arm by a first distance, and further wherein the second tab of the first arm is spaced apart from the second tab of the second arm by a second distance different from the first distance.

Another aspect of the present concept includes a coffee grinding apparatus having a support base with a storage cavity. The base portion extends upwardly from the support base and includes a first surface having an access aperture to the receiving hub. The holder assembly includes a rod having a front portion and a rear portion and a head portion disposed on the front portion of the rod. The head portion includes a sidewall having an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the sidewall is curved outwardly to define a first arm and a second arm spaced apart from each other, the first arm and the second arm further defining a receiving area therebetween. The sidewall of the head portion includes a first abutment surface disposed on a lower portion of the sidewall. The holder assembly also includes a bracket having a first portion extending inwardly toward the receiving area and a second portion extending downwardly from the first portion. The second portion of the bracket includes a second abutment surface disposed above the first abutment surface.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first abutment surface faces outwardly and the second abutment surface faces inwardly.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, one or more cushioning members are disposed on the first abutment surface and one or more cushioning members are disposed on the second abutment surface.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rear portion of the rod of the retainer assembly is removably received in the receiving hub of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a holder assembly is removably received in the storage cavity of the support base.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a receiving area disposed between the first and second arms of the holder assembly is positioned above the support base when the rear portion of the rod of the holder assembly is received in the receiving hub of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a locking pin feature is disposed within the base portion and has a retractable locking pin member, wherein a distal end of the retractable locking pin member extends into the receiving hub and retracts from the receiving hub toward the interior portion of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the retainer assembly rod includes a recess disposed on an upper surface thereof, and further wherein when the rear portion of the retainer assembly rod is received in the receiving hub, a distal end of the retractable detent member of the detent feature is received in the recess of the retainer assembly.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a locking pin feature is disposed within the base portion and has a retractable locking pin member, wherein a distal end of the retractable locking pin member extends into the storage cavity of the support base and retracts from the storage cavity of the support base toward the interior portion of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the stem of the retainer assembly includes a recess disposed on an upper surface thereof, and further wherein a distal end of the retractable detent member of the detent feature is received in the recess of the retainer assembly when the retainer assembly is received in the storage cavity of the support base.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the rod of the retainer assembly includes a first groove and a second groove spaced apart from each other.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a first detent feature is disposed within the base portion and has a retractable detent member, wherein a distal end of the retractable detent member of the first detent feature is received in the second recess of the retainer assembly when the retainer assembly is received in the storage cavity of the support base.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a second locking pin feature is disposed within the base portion above the first locking pin feature and has a retractable locking pin member, wherein a distal end of the retractable locking pin member of the second locking pin feature is received in the first recess of the retainer assembly when the rear portion of the stem of the retainer assembly is received in the receiving hub of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the magnetic member is disposed on the stem of the holder assembly and the reciprocating magnetic member of the holder assembly is located within the receiving hub of the base portion, wherein the magnetic member is magnetically coupled with the reciprocating magnetic member when the rear portion of the stem of the holder assembly is received within the receiving hub of the base portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, at least one rail member is disposed on a sidewall of the receiving hub of the base portion and extends inwardly into the receiving hub of the base portion, and at least one keyway is disposed on the rear portion of the post, wherein the at least one rail member is received in the at least one keyway of the post when the rear portion of the post of the retainer assembly is received in the receiving hub of the base portion.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a holder assembly for a coffee grinding apparatus having a stem with a front portion and a rear portion and a head portion disposed on the front portion of the stem. The head portion includes a sidewall having an upper portion and a lower portion. The sidewall is outwardly curved and includes a first abutment surface disposed on a lower portion of the sidewall and facing the first direction. The bracket includes a first portion extending outwardly from an upper portion of the sidewall and a second portion extending downwardly from the first portion. The second portion of the bracket includes a second abutment surface disposed above the first abutment surface. The second abutment surface faces a second direction opposite to the first direction of the first abutment surface.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one cushioning member is disposed on the first abutment surface.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one cushioning member is disposed on the second abutment surface.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a holder assembly for a coffee grinding apparatus having a rod with a front portion and a rear portion and a cradle having a first portion extending outwardly from the front portion of the rod and a second portion extending downwardly from the first portion. The second portion of the bracket includes an abutment surface facing inwardly. The head portion is operatively coupled to the stem and includes an upstanding sidewall having an outwardly facing abutment surface disposed thereon.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the stem is constructed of a metallic material and the outwardly facing abutment surface of the head portion includes at least one bumper member disposed thereon.

One aspect of the present concept includes a coffee grinding apparatus having a support base. The base portion extends upwardly from the support base. The motor housing is supported by a base portion above the support base to define a receiving area between the motor housing and the support base. The retainer assembly is configured to be removably received in the receiving area. The holder assembly includes: a first mounting hub having an upwardly extending hub body and having an annular inner surface. The retainer member includes an upper collar portion and a lower mounting portion surrounding the bore, and the lower mounting portion of the retainer member is rotatably coupled to the first mounting hub at an annular inner surface of the first mounting hub. The second mounting hub is spaced apart from the first mounting hub and has an upwardly extending hub body and an annular inner surface. The support member includes a base portion disposed over the mounting post. The mounting post of the support member is rotatably coupled to the second mounting hub at an annular inner surface of the second mounting hub. The retainer member is vertically adjustable relative to the first mounting hub and the support member is vertically adjustable relative to the second mounting hub.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the annular inner surface of the first mounting hub includes a threaded portion.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the lower mounting portion of the retainer member includes a threaded portion that is complementary to the threaded portion of the first mounting hub.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the annular inner surface of the second mounting hub includes a threaded portion.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the mounting post of the support member includes a threaded portion that is complementary to the threaded portion of the second mounting hub.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the retainer member is threadedly engaged with the first mounting hub at the respective threaded portions such that rotational movement of the retainer member in a first direction lowers the upper collar portion, wherein rotational movement of the retainer member in a second direction opposite the first direction raises the upper collar portion.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the support members are threadedly engaged with the second mounting hub at the respective threaded portions such that rotational movement of the support members in a first direction lowers the base portion, wherein rotational movement of the support members in a second direction opposite the first direction raises the base portion.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base portion includes an upper surface having an inwardly disposed notch.

Another aspect of the present concept includes a retainer assembly having: a first mounting hub having an annular inner surface surrounding a hollow inner portion. The second mounting hub includes an annular inner surface surrounding a hollow inner portion. The second mounting hub is spaced apart from the first mounting hub. The retainer member is operatively coupled with the first mounting hub. The retainer member includes a collar portion surrounding an open bore and a mounting portion having an annular outer surface at least partially received in the hollow interior portion of the first mounting hub. The support member includes a base portion disposed over the mounting post. The mounting post of the support member includes an annular outer surface at least partially received in the hollow interior portion of the second mounting hub.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the support member is vertically adjustable relative to the second mounting hub.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the retainer member is vertically adjustable relative to the first mounting hub.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the annular inner surface of the second mounting hub and the annular outer surface of the mounting post of the support member include complementary threaded portions that are threadedly engaged with each other.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the annular inner surface of the first mounting hub and the annular outer surface of the mounting portion of the retainer member include complementary threaded portions that are threadedly engaged with each other.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the collar portion includes a beveled inner surface surrounding the open aperture.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base portion includes a recess disposed on an upper surface thereof.

Another aspect of the present concept includes a retainer assembly having: a base plate having a first mounting hub and a second mounting hub spaced apart from each other. The retainer member is threadedly engaged with the first mounting hub and includes a collar portion and a mounting portion. The retainer member is vertically adjustable relative to the first mounting hub. The support member is threadedly engaged with the first mounting hub and includes a base portion disposed over the mounting post. The retainer member is vertically adjustable relative to the first mounting hub and the support member is vertically adjustable relative to the second mounting hub.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, the collar portion of the retainer member surrounds the hollow interior portion, and further wherein the collar portion includes an inner surface disposed at an angle such that the inner surface of the collar portion tapers inwardly toward the hollow interior portion from an upper portion of the inner surface to a lower portion of the inner surface.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second mounting hub includes a hollow interior portion in which the mounting post of the support member is at least partially received.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the base portion of the support member includes an upper surface on which the notch is disposed.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a first mounting hub and a second mounting hub extend upwardly from the base plate.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the configuration of the devices and other components described are not limited to any particular material. Other exemplary embodiments of the devices disclosed herein may be formed from a variety of materials, unless otherwise described.

For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms, coupled, etc.) generally refers to the direct or indirect (electrical or mechanical) connection of two components. Such connections may be fixed in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with both components. Unless otherwise specified, such connections may be permanent in nature, or may be removable or releasable in nature.

It should also be noted that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the devices shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or other elements of the connectors or systems may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or components of the system may be constructed of any of a variety of materials, in any of a variety of colors, textures, and combinations that provide sufficient strength or durability. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

It should be understood that any of the described processes or steps may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present apparatus. The example structures and processes disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not to be construed as limiting.

It should also be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the above-described structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present device, and further it should be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

The above description is considered that of the illustrated embodiments only. Modifications to the device will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the device. It is understood, therefore, that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the device, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the doctrine of equivalents.