What is the primary role of a knockbox in the workflow?

The primary role of a knockbox in the workflow is to hold used coffee pucks. After brewing espresso, the used coffee puck remains in the portafilter. The knockbox provides a convenient and hygienic place to discard these used pucks by allowing baristas to "knock" the portafilter against a bar or edge, which easily releases the puck into the box. This is an essential step in the espresso preparation process, as it helps maintain cleanliness at the workstation and streamlines the workflow for producing subsequent shots of espresso. The design of knockboxes ensures they are easy to clean and can handle multiple pucks throughout the day, thus supporting a smooth and efficient workflow.