Coffee Research Lab
Independent Studies on Extraction Science & Brewing Consistency
The Vihi Coffee Research Lab operates independently to explore the physics, chemistry, and geometry behind manual brewing. Led by a Royal College of Art PhD graduate, our team combines industrial design expertise with rigorous scientific methodology to solve real brewing consistency problems.
Unlike marketing-driven “research,” our studies are data-first. We publish our methodologies, share raw data when possible, and welcome peer review from the coffee community.
Research Focus Areas
Filter Geometry
How paper structure affects flow dynamics and extraction uniformity
Extraction Science
TDS, EY%, and flavor compound analysis across brewing variables
Brewer Comparison
Side-by-side testing of flat-bottom vs cone drippers
Consistency Metrics
Identifying and controlling variables for repeatable results
Latest Research Articles
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Choosing Your Origami Dripper: Ceramic vs Plastic vs S – Material and Size Guide
Introduction The Origami dripper, renowned for its distinctive ribbed conical geometry inspired by traditional Japanese paper folding, has become a…
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3 Common Origami Dripper Mistakes (And How to Fix Them Immediately)
Introduction The Origami dripper, with its distinctive 20-rib, conical geometry derived from the principles of Japanese paper folding, has emerged…
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Origami Dripper vs V60: Which Cone Brewer Wins for Clarity and Body?
Introduction The pursuit of clarity and body in filter coffee has driven significant innovation in brewer geometry, with cone-shaped drippers…
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The Complete Guide to Origami Dripper Brewing: From Japanese Design to Perfect Extraction
The Complete Guide to Origami Dripper Brewing: Phase 1 Introduction The pursuit of the perfect cup of coffee has driven…
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Origami Dripper Equipment Pairing: The Perfect Kettle, Scale, and Grinder Setup
Introduction The pursuit of precision in pour-over coffee brewing has elevated single-serving equipment from mere kitchen tools to critical variables…
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The Origami Dripper Agitation Playbook: Stirring, Swirling, and Pulse Pouring for Clarity
Introduction The pursuit of clarity in brewed coffee represents a central objective within the third-wave coffee movement, where the nuanced…
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Origami Dripper vs V60: Which Wins for High-Acidity Light Roasts?
Introduction The pursuit of clarity, brightness, and pronounced acidity in light-roasted specialty coffee has driven significant innovation in pour-over cone…
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The Complete Guide to Origami Dripper Brewing: From Geometry to Perfect Extraction
Introduction The pursuit of optimal coffee extraction has driven the evolution of brewing methodologies from simple immersion to complex percolation…
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The Origami Dripper Agitation Guide: Stirring, Swirling, and Pulse Pouring Techniques
Introduction The quest for repeatable, high-extraction, and uniform coffee brewing has driven significant innovation in pour-over methodology. Among the myriad…
Research Methodology
Every experiment in our lab follows rigorous protocols to ensure reproducibility and accuracy:
- Controlled Variables: Temperature, grind size, and water chemistry are standardized using laboratory-grade equipment
- Measurement Tools: VST Coffee Refractometer for TDS, precision scales (0.01g), and FLIR thermal imaging
- Statistical Rigor: Minimum n=12 samples per condition, with outlier detection and confidence intervals
- Blind Protocols: Taste evaluations use double-blind methodology to eliminate bias
- Open Data: Raw data and methodologies available for peer review upon request