Option 1: Continue developing the new top cap with lid that flips open

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Pros:
- Loading beans is faster and easier (Flip the lid open and pour beans vs having to twist and remove the top cap to pour beans)
- Top cap will still be removable to clean inside the hopper


Cons:
- More time is required to refine the model, prototype and test
  • Create and test a locking mechanism for the lid that has the right feel when it closes
  • Design an indent on the face of the top cap to make opening the lid easy
  • Test the strength of the hinges for the lid while under pressure from a users palm when grinding
- There will be a visible line in the top cap where the lid opens


Time: Estimated to begin tooling in 4 weeks, pushing back the shipping date
Option 2: Use original method of twisting the top cap to remove but reverse the direction to unlock/lock the top cap

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We want to note that this solution will be used in both options, but Option 1 explores adding a hinge lid so that you don't have to remove the whole cap (reverse twist) every time to load the beans.

The gear box in the top cap creates a counter clockwise rotational force which we can use to our advantage by reversing the direction you twist to lock the top. We have designed the cap so that the counter clockwise rotational force coming from the gearbox will keep the top cap locked on, while not continuing to tighten the top cap so it becomes too hard to remove.


Pros:
- Fast development time, we have already prototyped and tested this design
- Keeps the smooth top and face on the top cap (no indent/cut for lid opening)


Cons:
- Unconventional motion. Twist left to lock, right to unlock. 
- Slower process to load beans


Time: Estimated to begin tooling in 1 week.

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* 1. Which direction should we go?

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* 2. Any other thoughts/comments about this problem?

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