DE202008018400U1 - System and capsule for preparing a drink - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for preparing a predetermined amount of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product, comprising: - a replaceable capsule and - a device comprising a container for holding the replaceable capsule and a liquid dispensing device for supplying a quantity of a liquid, such as for example Water, under pressure on the exchangeable capsule, - wherein the exchangeable capsule comprises a peripheral wall, a bottom which closes the peripheral wall at a first end and a cover which closes the peripheral wall at a second end opposite the bottom, the wall , the bottom and the lid enclose the interior containing the extractable product. The floor comprises an entrance area and the system is arranged to bring the liquid dispenser into liquid communication with the entrance area in order to deliver the liquid to the extractable product in order to prepare the beverage, the lid comprising an exit area and the system an outlet that is in use in fluid communication with the exit area to discharge the prepared beverage from the capsule and deliver the beverage to a container, such as a cup, the container comprising a bottom puncture intended to do so is to pierce the entrance area of an alternative capsule to create at least one entrance opening to deliver the liquid through the at least one entrance opening to the extractable product, and - wherein the entrance area of the capsule of the system comprises an entrance filter to pass through this entrance filter r deliver the liquid to the extractable product with the input filter in use spaced from the bottom piercing means so that the capsule of the system is not pierced by the bottom piercing means and the bottom remains intact.

Description

The invention relates to a system for preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product comprising a replaceable capsule and a device comprising a container for holding the replaceable capsule and a liquid dispensing device for delivering a quantity of a liquid, such as water, under pressure to the replaceable capsule, the replaceable capsule comprising a circumferential wall, a bottom terminating the circumferential wall at a first end, and a lid closing off the circumferential wall at a second end opposite the bottom the wall, floor and lid include an interior containing the extractable product, the floor comprising an entrance area, and the system is arranged to bring the liquid dispensing apparatus into fluid communication with the entry area to receive the liquid to provide to the extractable product to prepare the beverage, and wherein the lid comprises an exit area and the system comprises an outlet which in use is in fluid communication with the exit area to drain the prepared beverage from the capsule and the beverage to a container, such as a cup to deliver.

Such systems are known per se. One particular class of these known systems is used to prepare the beverage using a hermetically sealed capsule containing the extractable product. During beverage preparation, the entrance area of such a hermetically sealed capsule is pierced, thereby providing at least one entrance opening for supplying the liquid under pressure to the extractable product in the interior of the capsule through the entrance opening. Supplying the liquid under pressure to the interior causes the pressure in the interior of the capsule to rise. As a result, in turn, the exit region of the capsule against lid puncture means, which is present in the container, pressed. When the exit region is pressed against cover puncturing means with sufficient force, the exit region ruptures at the lid puncture means, thereby providing at least one exit opening through which the beverage may leak from the capsule.

However, it has been found that in the known systems mentioned above preferred ways of liquid flow in the extractable product within the capsule may occur, for example from the at least one inlet opening to the at least one outlet opening leading to undesirable potency of the prepared beverage / or variations in the strength of the prepared beverage from one capsule to another.

It is an object of the invention to improve the above-mentioned system, and more particularly to at least partially solve the above problem.

For this purpose, according to a first aspect of the invention, a system is provided in which the container comprises bottom piercing means for piercing the entry area of an alternative capsule, e.g. A hermetically sealed capsule of the known system is intended to provide at least one inlet opening for delivering the liquid to the extractable product through the at least one inlet opening, and wherein the inlet area of the capsule of the system according to the present invention comprises an inlet filter thereby delivering the liquid to the extractable product, wherein the input filter is disposed in use at a distance from the bottom piercing means such that the capsule of the system is not pierced by the bottom piercing means and the soil remains intact.

It is therefore possible to deliver the liquid into the extractable product within the capsule without puncturing the capsule. In this way, the input filter forms an optionally uniform input region through which the liquid can be delivered to the capsule. This has the advantage that it is possible for the beverage to enter the capsule over a larger area than if the inlet openings are pierced in the known systems, thereby reducing the risk of preferential fluid paths occurring in the extractable product in the capsule. is reduced and the reproducibility of the beverage strength is improved.

It has also been found that the provision of the input filter reduces the risk of the extractable product leaking further out of the capsule when the capsule is removed from the device.

Preferably, the replaceable capsule comprises a quantity of extractable product and is thus suitable for preparing a single portion of the beverage, preferably a single cup of the beverage, e.g. From 30-200 ml of the prepared drink. The replaceable capsule is therefore a single-serving package. In one embodiment, the capsule comprises 4-8 g, preferably about 7 g of extractable product, e.g. B. roasted and ground coffee.

Preferably, the disposable capsule is disposable after single use.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a system in which the container comprises lid puncture means intended to puncture the exit area of an alternative capsule, such as a hermetically sealed capsule of the known system, when the exit area is under the influence of the pressure of the liquid and / or the beverage in the capsule presses sufficiently against the lid puncture means to provide at least one exit opening through which the beverage may leak from the alternative capsule, and wherein the exit area of the capsule of the system according to the present invention comprises an exit filter through which the beverage may leak from the capsule of the system of the invention, wherein the lid puncture means and the exit filter are adapted to one another such that the capsule of the system is not pierced in use by the lid puncture means and the lid remains intact.

In this way, the output filter forms an optionally uniform output region through which the beverage can leave the capsule. This has the advantage that it is possible for the beverage to leave the capsule over a larger area than if exit openings are formed by puncturing the lid, thus reducing the risk of having premature fluid paths in the extractable product in the capsule occur and the reproducibility of the beverage strength is improved. Furthermore, the fact that the capsule is not pierced by the lid puncture means and remains intact, the advantage that a predetermined pore and / or outlet hole size and distribution of the output filter, are defined by the output openings of the output filter remain intact, so that the Size and distribution of exit openings is not left to chance, as if the exit openings are formed by piercing.

Moreover, it has been found that providing the output filter reduces the risk that the extractable product will continue to leak from the capsule when the capsule is removed from the device.

Furthermore, when the extractable product is roast and ground coffee, the advantage of providing the output filter is that the output filter removes oils from the beverage, e.g. From the coffee, before the coffee is delivered to the container, such as the cup. This can be advantageous to remove oils from the coffee that affect the taste and / or quality of the coffee. It is particularly advantageous to filter out Cafestol from the coffee, since cafestol raises the level of cholesterol in the blood according to current knowledge. Therefore, providing the output filter can improve the quality of the coffee in terms of the health of the consumer.

Preferably, the output filter is adapted to the lid puncture means so that in use the capsule of the system is not pierced by the lid puncture means and the lid remains intact. Therefore, only the parameters of the output filter need to be selected. Preferably, the output filter has a sufficiently high tear strength and / or provides a sufficiently low flow resistance so that the capsule of the system is not pierced in use by the lid puncture means and the lid remains intact. It has been found that the output filter, which has the sufficiently high tear strength and / or provides the sufficiently low flow resistance, does not rupture at the lid puncture means.

According to a third aspect of the invention, the capsule may be provided with both the input filter and the output filter as described above. Therefore, in use, the capsule is not pierced by either the bottom piercing means or the lid puncture means so that the capsule remains completely intact. This has the advantage that the risk is reduced that form preferred fluid paths in the extractable product in the capsule, and the reproducibility of the beverage strength is further improved.

Preferably, the input filter is formed of a porous sheet material such as filter paper, a film such as a polymer film provided with a plurality of entrance openings or a plurality of entrance openings provided in the bottom of the capsule of the system , In this way, the input filter can be realized in a simple manner.

In one embodiment, the plurality of entrance openings are distributed over substantially the entire surface of the film or the floor. This results in the advantage that the liquid can be supplied substantially to the entire cross section of the interior. In this way, the extractable product is wetted very homogeneously.

In a further embodiment, the plurality of entrance openings comprises side entrance openings arranged in the circumferential wall. This has the advantage that the extractable product is at least partially wetted from the side. This provides the advantage that the liquid can be delivered to the extractable product in a very homogeneous and controlled manner.

Preferably, the output filter is formed of a porous sheet material such as filter paper or a foil such as a polymer film provided with a plurality of entrance openings or a plurality of entrance openings provided in the lid. In this way, the input filter can be realized in a simple manner. In addition, parameters of the output filter can be easily selected, so that the output filter can be provided, which has the sufficiently high tensile strength and / or provides the sufficiently low flow resistance.

For example, in one embodiment, the output filter may be formed by a sheet of filter paper. The filter paper provides a low cost output filter. In addition, parameters of the filter paper, such as density, thickness, and / or PE content, may be readily selected to provide the output filter with a sufficiently high tear strength and / or one offers sufficiently low flow resistance. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the output filter may be formed by a polymer film provided with a plurality of exit apertures. Parameters of the polymer film, such as density, thickness, number of exit orifices, size and / or shape of exit orifices, may be readily selected to design the exit filter to have the sufficiently high tear strength and / or to provide sufficiently low flow resistance ,

In one embodiment, the lid puncture means may have a blunt puncture surface. In such an embodiment, however, the capsule of the system of the present invention may have the output filter which has the sufficiently high tear strength and / or which provides sufficiently low flow resistance not to be punctured or torn.

It is possible that the lid puncture means comprises at least one ridge against which the lid comes to rest in use. The at least one burr may constitute at least 10%, possibly at least 25%, of that portion of the surface of the container which, in use, coincides with the portion of the surface area of the lid which overlies the second, open end. In use, the lid may be supported by the at least one ridge for at least 10%, preferably at least 25%, of the portion of the surface area of the lid which overlies the second, open end. The lid of the alternative capsule may be punctured by such a puncture means, while parameters of the capsule's exit filter of the system of the present invention may be readily selected so that the exit filter has sufficiently high tear resistance and / or provides low enough flow resistance to not pierce or to be torn.

It is possible that the lid puncture means and / or the at least one ridge comprises edges, wherein the edges are not sharp. The edges may have a radius of curvature of at least 50 μm, preferably at least 100 μm. The lid of the alternative capsule may be punctured by such a puncture means, while parameters of the capsule's exit filter of the system of the present invention may be readily selected so that the exit filter has sufficiently high tear resistance and / or provides low enough flow resistance to not pierce or to be torn.

In one embodiment, the plurality of exit openings are distributed over substantially the entire surface of the lid. This results in the advantage that the beverage can be discharged over substantially the entire cross section of the interior. In this way, the drink can flow very homogeneously from the interior.

According to another aspect of the invention, the entire interior is occupied by the extractable product. This has the advantage that the extractable product can not shift within the interior, when the liquid flows through the capsule, so that no preferential paths can be formed.

Preferably, the bottom is inseparably connected to the circumferential wall. This has the advantage that the capsule can be easily formed from a generally cup-shaped structure, which forms the peripheral wall and the bottom, and a z. B. sheet-shaped, lid. The lid can z. B. by gluing, welding, folding or the like are connected to the peripheral wall.

In one embodiment, the capsule includes an inwardly extending rim at the first end, the bottom being secured to the inwardly extending rim. Therefore it is possible to use the z. B. planar sheet-shaped floor, which includes the input filter to attach to the edge. In this way, a simple construction of the capsule can be achieved. It is also possible that the capsule comprises an inwardly extending edge at the second end, the lid being secured to the inwardly extending edge.

In one embodiment, the capsule includes an outwardly extending rim at the second end, the lid being secured to the outwardly extending rim. Therefore it is possible to use the z. B. flat sheet-shaped lid, which includes the output filter to attach to the edge. In this way, a simple construction of the capsule can be achieved. It is also possible that the capsule comprises an outwardly extending edge at the first end, the bottom being attached to the outwardly extending edge.

In a specific embodiment, the capsule further comprises a bottom seal, which is at least partially removable, attached to the bottom to seal the input filter prior to use. In this way, penetration of air into the interior via the input filter prior to use of the capsule can be prevented, thereby prolonging the life of the product within the capsule.

In a particular embodiment, the capsule further includes a lid seal which is at least partially removable attached to the lid to seal the output filter prior to use. In this way, penetration of air into the interior via the exit filter prior to use of the capsule can be prevented, thereby prolonging the shelf life of the product within the capsule.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the lid seal is arranged so that it can be partially released from the lid under the effect of the liquid pressure prevailing in the interior, while remaining attached to the lid at least at one position. In this way, the lid seal does not need to be removed from the capsule by a user of the capsule. As the liquid enters the interior, pressure then builds up until the seal partially releases from the lid and the beverage can flow out through the exit filter. The detachable connection can, for. B. be designed as a peel seal. Since the lid seal is permanently attached to the lid at at least one position, the lid seal does not completely detach from the capsule. This has the advantage that the lid seal is automatically removed from the device when the used capsule is discarded.

Generally, the circumferential wall may be formed by a flexible, optionally porous sheet material or film, such as filter paper, preferably inseparably bonded to the floor. In this way, a very simple and optionally environmentally friendly capsule can be provided.

Alternatively, the circumferential wall may be substantially rigid. This results in the advantage that the capsule is not easily deformed before use, so that the capsule fits into the container without problems. Preferably, the capsule comprises stiffening ribs integrally formed with the circumferential wall and / or the bottom to increase the rigidity of the capsule.

Generally, the circumferential wall may have any shape, such as cylindrical, hemispherical, frusto-conical, or polygonal, such as hexagonal or octagonal.

Preferably, the extractable product comprises roast and ground coffee. In this way, the capsule is suitable for preparing a predetermined amount of coffee by supplying a predetermined amount of hot water under pressure to the capsule.

According to another aspect of the invention, the extractable product is compacted into a tablet. This has the advantage that the risk of preferred flow paths occurring in the tablet from the compacted extractable product is reduced. It can be seen that when using the compacted tablet, the bottom of the capsule can be omitted since the risk of leakage of the extractable product is substantially reduced.

Preferably, the tablet comprises at least one bore extending towards the lid from the side of the tablet facing the entrance area. The bore thus provides an infusion agent for wetting the tablet in a homogeneous manner.

It is also possible that the extractable product is compacted into a plurality of tablets, preferably of different packing densities. For example, it is possible for the extractable product to be provided as a single stack of tablets having different degrees of compaction from each other. For example, it is possible that the degree of compaction per tablet increases in the direction from the bottom to the lid. In this way, the burden of completely wetting a tablet in the direction from the bottom to the lid also increases, thereby ensuring that each upstream tablet is completely wetted before a downstream tablet is wetted, whereby a very homogeneous wetting of the total volume of the extractable product is achieved.

In the following, the invention is further explained by means of non-limiting examples with reference to the drawings. It shows:

the 1a - 1c a known system for preparing a beverage;

2 a first embodiment of a system according to the invention; the 3a - 3d Embodiments of capsules according to the invention;

the 4a . 4b and 4c Examples of further embodiments of a capsule 2 according to the invention; and

the 5a and 5b Examples of further embodiments of a capsule according to the invention.

The 1a - 1c show a system 101 of the prior art for preparing a predetermined amount of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product. The system 101 includes a replaceable capsule 102 and a device 104 , The device 104 includes a container 106 for holding the replaceable capsule 102 , In the 1a - 1c is between the capsule 102 and the container 106 for clarity, a gap drawn. It can be seen that in use the capsule 102 in contact with the container 106 can be present. Usually, the container has 106 one to the shape of the capsule 102 complementary form. The device 104 further comprises a liquid dispensing device 108 for supplying an amount of a liquid, such as water, under a pressure, e.g. B. 9 bar, to the replaceable capsule 102 ,

In the in the 1a - 1c shown system 101 the replaceable capsule includes a circumferential wall 110 , a floor 112 , the surrounding wall 110 at a first end 114 completes, and a lid 116 , the surrounding wall 110 at a second end 118 opposite the ground 112 concludes. The surrounding wall 110 , the floor 112 and the lid 116 close an interior 120 a containing the extractable product.

The system 101 of the 1a - 1c includes a bottom piercing means 122 , for piercing the capsule 102 thought is. 1a shows the bottom piercing means 122 in a retracted position. 1b shows the bottom piercing means 122 in an extended position to provide an entrance opening 124 in the ground 112 for supplying the liquid to the extractable product through the entrance opening 124 , In the 1a - 1c includes the puncture means 122 a hole 126 through which the liquid to the in the interior 120 contained extractable product can be delivered. The system 101 of the 1a to 1c further comprises a lid puncture means 128 , which is designed here as extensions, for piercing the lid 116 the capsule 102 are meant.

That in the 1a - 1c shown system 101 is operated to prepare a cup of coffee as follows, wherein the extractable product is roast and ground coffee.

The capsule 102 gets into the container 106 inserted (see 1a ). The bottom piercing means is activated to the ground 112 the capsule 102 to pierce (see 1b ) to an entrance opening 124 to accomplish. The liquid, here pressurized hot water, passes through the inlet opening 124 to the extractable product in the interior 120 delivered. The water then wets the coffee grounds and extracts the desired substances to form the coffee beverage.

While feeding the pressurized water into the interior 120 the pressure within the capsule increases 102 at. The pressure increase causes the lid 116 deformed and against the lid puncture means 128 is pressed. Then, when the pressure reaches a certain level, the tear strength of the lid becomes 116 exceeded and then tears the lid on the lid puncture means 128 on, causing exit openings 130 be formed (see 1c ). The prepared coffee then runs through the outlet openings 130 and outlets 132 of the container 106 from the capsule 102 and may then be supplied to a container, such as a cup (not shown).

During the preparation of the drink in the system 101 that in the 1a - 1c can be shown in the extractable product within the interior 120 the capsule 102 preferred flow paths exist. These preferred paths may differ from the entrance opening 124 to the exit openings 130 extend. One such preferred way is with the line PP in FIG 1c shown.

2 shows an example of a first embodiment of a system according to the invention 1 for preparing a predetermined amount of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product. The system 1 includes a replaceable capsule 2 and a device 104 , The device 104 includes a container 106 for holding the replaceable capsule 2 , In the present example, the container has 106 one to the shape of the capsule 2 complementary form. In 2 is between the capsule 2 and the container 106 For reasons of clarity, a gap has been drawn. It can be seen that the capsule 2 in use in contact with the container 106 can be present. The device 104 further comprises a liquid dispensing device 108 for supplying an amount of a liquid, such as water, under pressure to the replaceable capsule 2 ,

At the in 2 shown system 1 includes the replaceable capsule 2 a circumferential wall 10 , a floor 12 , the surrounding wall 10 at a first end 14 completes, and a lid 16 , the surrounding wall 10 at a second end 18 opposite the ground 12 concludes. The surrounding wall 10 , the floor 12 and the lid 16 close an interior 20 a containing the extractable product. In this example, the replaceable capsule includes 2 an amount of extractable product suitable for preparing a single portion of the beverage, preferably a single cup of the beverage, e.g. From 30-200 ml of the prepared drink. The replaceable capsule is a single-serving package in this way.

According to a first aspect of the invention, the system comprises 1 from 2 a bottom piercing means 122 for piercing in the 1a - 1c shown capsule 102 of the prior art. 2 shows the bottom piercing means in an extended position, which is for creating the inlet opening 124 in the ground 112 the capsule 102 of the prior art. According to the invention, the capsule comprises 2 an input filter 34 at a distance from the bottom piercing means 12 is arranged so that the capsule 2 from the bottom piercing means 122 not pierced and the ground 12 remains intact when the bottom piercing means is brought into the extended position.

In 2 includes the puncture means 122 a hole 126 through which the liquid reaches the interior of the container 106 is delivered. The liquid, here hot, pressurized water with z. B. more than 6 bar, then flows through the input filter 34 in the interior 20 the capsule 2 for extracting desired substances from the extractable product, in this example about 7 g of roasted and ground coffee, to prepare in this example the single cup of the beverage, here coffee.

Generally in this way in the example of 2 the floor 12 an input area through the input filter 34 is formed, and is the system 1 arranged to the liquid dispensing device 108 in fluid communication with the entrance area to deliver the liquid to the extractable product to prepare the beverage.

In the example of 2 the peripheral wall is substantially rigid. The circumferential wall can, for. B. include a plastic material and may, for. B. by injection molding, vacuum forming, thermoforming or the like. In the example of 2 is the ground 12 inseparably connected to the surrounding wall. In this example, the input filter is 34 through a variety of entrance openings 24 in the ground 12 educated. In this example, the plurality of entrance openings 24 distributed over essentially the entire floor. In this way, the liquid gets across the multitude of inlet openings 24 delivered to the extractable product, whereby the extractable product over substantially the entire cross-section of the capsule 2 is wetted. Therefore, a very homogeneous supply of liquid to the extractable product is achieved. In this way, the risk of preferential paths over which the liquid flows through the extractable product is substantially reduced.

According to a second aspect of the invention, which may be practiced in addition to or separately from the first aspect described above, the system comprises 1 from 2 a lid puncture means 128 for piercing the lid 116 the capsule 102 The prior art is intended when the lid 116 under the influence of the pressure of the liquid and / or the beverage in the capsule 102 enough against the lid puncture means 128 is pressed to at least one exit opening 130 to create, through which the drink from the capsule 102 of the prior art can leak. According to the present invention, the capsule comprises 2 an output filter 36 through which the drink from the capsule 2 can expire. The output filter 36 is arranged so that it has a sufficiently high tear strength, so that it under the influence of the pressure within the capsule 2 from the lid puncture means 128 not pierced. Alternatively or additionally, the output filter provides 36 a sufficiently low flow resistance for the out of the capsule 2 leaking drink, leaving the output filter 36 not with sufficient force against the lid puncture means 128 is pressed to from the lid puncture means 128 to be pierced, and the lid remains intact. This is the output filter 36 so to the lid puncture means 128 adapted that capsule 2 in the use of the lid puncture means 128 not pierced and the lid 16 remains intact. Generally, the output filter 36 and the lid puncture means 128 are adapted to each other so that the capsule 2 in the use of the lid puncture means 128 not pierced and the lid 16 remains intact.

In the example of 2 is the output filter 36 , which is an exit area of the capsule 2 forms, through which the drink, here coffee, can leak from the capsule, formed from a porous sheet material, such as filter paper. In the present example, the entire lid is 16 as the output filter 36 educated. In the example of 2 includes the capsule 2 an outwardly extending edge 38 at the second end 18 , where the lid 16 z. B. by gluing, welding or the like on the outwardly extending edge 38 is attached. Therefore, in this example, the output filter becomes 36 ie, the porous sheet material, on the outwardly extending edge 38 attached.

In this example, the output filter forms 36 a substantially continuous liquid pervious sheet material, which is substantially the entire second open end 18 the capsule 2 spans. In this way, the fluid can spread over a large area of the capsule 2 leak. Therefore, a very homogeneous leakage of the beverage is achieved from the extractable product. In this way, the risk of occurrence of preferred routes through which the liquid flows through the extractable product is substantially reduced.

In general, parameters of the capsule's output filter 2 of the system according to the invention 1 be chosen so that the output filter does not crack or tear, z. B. has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or provides a sufficiently low flow resistance, so that it is not pierced or torn. It is understood that the lid and / or the output filter can deform against the lid puncture means, even if it neither tears nor ruptures. If the output filter 36 z. B. is made of filter paper, parameters of the filter paper, such as its density, thickness and / or PE content can be simply chosen so that the output filter can be provided, which has the sufficiently high tensile strength and / or the sufficiently low flow resistance offers. Alternatively, if the output filter 36 z. B. consists of a polymer film, which is provided with a plurality of outlet openings, parameters of the polymer films, such as their density, thickness, number of outlet openings, size and / or shape of outlet openings, are easily selected, so that the third wall provided can be, which has the sufficiently high tensile strength and / or provides the sufficiently low flow resistance.

In the example of 2 is the lid puncture means 128 shown as teeth with sharp points that should pierce the lid. It is understood that alternatively the lid puncture means 128 can also have blunt puncture surfaces, z. B. as with the dashed lines in 2 shown. In such an embodiment, nevertheless, the capsule 102 of the prior art by the blunt puncture means 128 be punctured, z. B. when the lid 116 consists of an aluminum foil. Parameters of the output filter of the capsule 2 The system according to the invention can be chosen so that the output filter has a sufficiently high tear strength and / or provides the sufficiently low flow resistance, so that it is neither pierced nor torn. It will be understood that with a blunt lid puncture means, the parameters of the output filter can be selected to suit this blunt puncture means. If the puncture is dull, the output filter z. B. thinner than if the puncture means is sharp, while ensuring that the output filter provides the sufficiently high tear strength and / or the low enough flow resistance, so that it is not pierced or torn.

It is possible that the lid puncture means comprises burrs against which the lid comes to rest in use. Such burrs can be caused by the blunt puncture 128 be formed as in 2 shown by the dashed lines. The burrs can z. At least 10%, possibly at least 25% of the part of the surface of the container 106 form, in use with the part of the surface area of the lid 16 coincides, that over the second, open end 18 lies. In this way, in the use of the lid 16 through the ridges over z. At least 10%, preferably at least 25%, of the portion of the surface area of the lid 16 be supported, the above the second, open end 18 lies. As already indicated, the lid can 116 the capsule 102 of the prior art are pierced by such burrs, while parameters of the output filter 36 the capsule 2 of the system according to the invention 1 can be chosen in a simple manner so that the output filter has sufficient tear resistance and / or provides the low enough flow resistance, so that it is not pierced or torn. It will be appreciated that if the lid puncture means comprises ridges, the parameters of the output filter may be selected to match the lid puncture means.

In the example of 2 The ridges include edges that are not sharp. In this example, a radius of curvature of the edges is about 50 μm, although other radii are conceivable, such as 100, 200 or 500 μm. The capsule 102 The prior art can still by the blunt puncture means 128 be punctured, z. B. when the lid 116 Made of aluminum foil. It will be appreciated that if the lid puncture means does not include sharp edges, the parameters of the output filter may be selected to match the lid puncture means. Parameters of the output filter of the capsule 2 The system according to the invention may be chosen such that the output filter has the sufficiently high tear strength and / or provides the sufficiently low flow resistance so as not to be punctured or torn.

It is also possible that the ridges of the lid puncture means 128 have a convex top against which the lid 16 comes to the plant. Therefore, when the lid is pressed against the ridges in use, the surface area over which the lid is supported by the ridges is increased, thereby reducing the local pressure exerted by the ridges on the lid. In this way, it is possible to easily provide that the lid in use will not rupture and / or rupture and remain intact.

The 3a to 3d show embodiments of capsules 2 according to the present invention.

In 3a is the ground 12 with the surrounding wall 10 as in 2 inseparably connected. The input filter 34 is due to the large number of entrance openings 24 in the ground 12 educated. The output filter 36 is through a foil 40 , z. B. a flexible polymer film, formed with a plurality of outlet openings 30 is provided.

In 3b is the output filter 36 through the flexible porous web material, such as filter paper, as in 2 , educated. In 3b is also the output filter 34 formed by a flexible porous web material, such as filter paper. In this example, the input filter is on an inwardly extending edge 42 attached. In this example, the input filter is 34 on the inside of the inwardly extending edge 42 attached. This maximizes the internal volume of the capsule 12 because the edge thickness in the interior 20 the capsule 2 not available.

In 3c is the output filter 36 by the flexible porous web material, such as filter paper, as in US Pat 2 and 3b educated. In 3c is also the output filter 34 formed of a flexible porous web material, such as filter paper. In this example, the input filter is 34 on the outside of the inwardly extending edge 42 attached. This reduces the risk of pressurized fluid entering the inlet filter 34 from the inwardly extending edge 42 interrupted. It is possible that the input filter 34 protrudes beyond a peripheral edge of the floor. This is the way to attach the input filter 34 on the ground 12 and the surrounding wall 10 existing surface area larger, resulting in a stronger connection.

In 3d is the output filter 36 from a slide 40 , z. B. a flexible polymer film, formed with a plurality of outlet openings 30 is provided, as well as in 3a , In 3d is also the input filter 34 through a foil 44 formed with the variety of entrance openings 24 is provided.

In all embodiments of the 3a to 3d the output filter is formed by a flexible sheet-like material. In particular, in all embodiments of the 3a to 3d the lid is formed exclusively by the flexible sheet-like material. It has been found that generally no support structure, such as a substantially rigid grid, for. Downstream of the starting film is needed to support the starting film to prevent the starting film from cracking and / or tearing.

In all embodiments of the 3b to 3d the input filter is formed by a flexible sheet-like material. In particular, in all embodiments of the 3b to 3d the entrance area formed solely by the flexible sheet-like material. It has been found that generally no support structure, such as a substantially rigid grid, for example, downstream from the entrance foil, is needed to support the entrance foil to prevent the entrance foil from tearing and / or tearing.

In all embodiments of the 3a to 3d the output filter forms the outermost boundary of the capsule in its axial direction.

It can be seen that the capsule 2 may comprise any input filter according to one of the embodiments shown in combination with any output filter according to one of the embodiments shown. Although not shown here, it is possible for the lid to include a substantially rigid wall which is integral with the exit openings 30 is provided.

Generally, the exit openings 30 , or pores of the porous sheet material, so measured that a dimension of the opening 30 or the pores is sufficiently small to contain the extractable product, such as ground coffee, within the capsule 2 withhold. In addition, in general, the entrance openings 24 or pores of the porous sheet material, so measured that a dimension of the opening 24 or pores is small enough to extract the extractable product, such as ground coffee, within the capsule 2 withhold.

Generally, the entrance openings 24 preferably over substantially the entire surface of the bottom or the film 44 at least substantially the entire surface of the through the inwardly extending edge 42 defined opening, distributed. Optional are the entrance openings 24 also in the surrounding wall 10 , z. B. in the part of the circumferential wall 10 near the first end 14 , available. This results in a homogeneous supply of the liquid to the extractable product within the capsule 2 allowed.

In general, the outlet openings 30 preferably over substantially the entire surface of the lid or foil 40 at least substantially the entire surface of the outwardly extending edge 38 defined opening available. This allows for a homogeneous drainage of the beverage from the extractable product within the capsule 2 ,

In the examples of 2 . 3a - 3d have the entrance openings 24 and exit openings 30 a circular cross-section. The openings 24 . 30 with circular cross-section are easy to manufacture. Optionally, the entrance openings 24 to the interior 20 too rejuvenated (close). This has the advantage that the inlet openings act as nozzles, which cause a jet of liquid in the interior 20 arrives.

It can be seen that the entrance openings 24 and / or exit openings 30 also have alternative forms. The openings 24 . 30 For example, they can take the form of elongated slots. Preferably, the small dimension of the slots is sufficiently small to contain the extractable product within the capsule 2 withhold.

In a particular embodiment, the slots may have a shape that defines a tongue in the plane of the floor. The slots may be substantially U-shaped, such as semicircular, horseshoe-shaped, rectangular or V-shaped. This has the advantage that the tongue can be deflected out of the plane of the bottom by the opening defined by the tongue under the effect of the flow of the liquid. In this way, a larger volume of the liquid flow can be achieved. When the bottom is made of a resilient material, the tongue may spring back into the plane of the bottom after the liquid flow stops, thereby preventing leakage of the extractable product (before and after the beverage is cooked). It can be seen that the slots defining a tongue can be mounted mutatis mutandis.

4a shows an example of another embodiment of a capsule 2 according to the present invention. 4a shows a modification of in 3a shown capsule. It can be seen that this modification in any capsule 2 which was mentioned above, can be attached. In the example of 4a includes the capsule 2 also a bottom seal 46 , The bottom seal 46 closes the entrance openings 24 (or the porous web material) before use. The bottom seal 46 is at least partially removable on the ground 12 attached. In the present example, the bottom seal comprises 46 a lip 48 To easily remove the bottom seal 46 by a user of the capsule 2 to enable. In 4a includes the capsule 2 also a lid seal 50 , The lid seal 50 closes the outlet openings 30 (or the porous web material) before use. The lid seal 50 is at least partially removable on the lid 16 attached. In this example, the lid seal comprises 50 a lip 52 To simply remove the lid seal 50 by a user of the capsule 2 to enable. The bottom seal 46 and the lid seal 50 extend the shelf life of the product inside the capsule by preventing air from passing through the openings 24 . 30 or the porous sheet material penetrates into the capsule.

In a specific embodiment (not shown), the lip is 48 the bottom seal 46 with the lip 52 the lid seal 50 connected. In this way, the bottom seal 46 and the lid seal 50 be formed integrally. In this way it can be prevented that a user inadvertently forgets to remove either the bottom seal or the lid seal.

The 4b and 4c show an example of a plan view of another embodiment of the capsule 2 seen from the side of the lid 16 , In the 4b and 4c the capsule includes the lid seal 50 , The lid seal 50 is with a removable seal 54 on the lid 16 attached. In this example, the removable seal forms a circumferential seal adjacent a peripheral edge of the lid 16 , The removable seal 54 is arranged so that it under the effect of fluid pressure in the interior 20 from the lid 16 can be solved. The releasable seal can z. B. be a peel seal of a predetermined peel strength. In this way, it is not necessary for the user to seal the lid 50 from the capsule 2 removed as the seal is automatically opened during the preparation of the beverage.

In the 4b and 4c is the lid seal 50 furthermore with a permanent connection 56 on the lid 16 attached. The permanent connection can z. B. be a glued or welded connection. In 4b the permanent connection is located near the center of the lid. In 4c is the permanent connection 56 arranged near the peripheral edge of the lid. This has the advantage that the releasable seal can be released under the effect of pressure to allow the beverage to drain from the capsule while the lid seal 50 at least at one position on the lid 16 remains attached. In this way, the lid must seal 50 can not be discarded separately, whereby the handling is improved, and can not be lost.

It can be seen that the lid seal 50 instead of or in addition to attachment to the lid also at the near the second end 18 arranged edge and / or the circumferential wall 14 can be attached.

It also shows that the capsule 2 similarly as an alternative or in addition to the bottom seal 46 may be provided, for. B. on the inside of the floor 12 arranged, from the ground 12 under the action of pressure on the capsule 2 arranged to dissolve liquid supplied and optionally with at least one permanent connection between the floor and the bottom seal 46 Mistake. It can be seen that the bottom seal 46 instead of or in addition to attachment to the ground 12 also at the near the first end 14 arranged edge and / or on the circumferential wall 14 can be attached.

It can also be seen that the lid seal 50 and / or the bottom seal 46 can also be used together with alternative capsules, wherein the lid is not the outermost boundary of the capsule in the axial direction, z. B. may be a capsule having an axially extending edge which extends beyond the lid.

Preferably, the circumferential wall is substantially rigid. Therefore, the capsule will not tend to deform during transport and / or handling, so that the capsule 2 always in the container 106 will fit. In addition, the peripheral wall is preferably resilient, so that any possible deformation of the circumferential first wall is reversed after the force causing the deformation is removed. To the rigidity of the capsule 2 can increase the capsule 2 Have stiffening ribs, which are connected to the circumferential wall 10 are formed. The stiffening ribs may be different from the first end 14 to the second end 18 extend. Alternatively or additionally, the stiffening ribs may extend in a circumferential direction. When the ground 12 integral with the surrounding wall 10 is formed, the stiffening ribs can also be integral with the ground 12 be educated.

Nevertheless, it is possible that the circumferential wall of a flexible, z. B. porous, web material or a corresponding film is formed, which is preferably inseparably connected to the ground. In this way, substantially the entire capsule may be made from the flexible web material, thereby reducing the amount of material needed to provide the capsule. Optionally, the outwardly extending edge may be substantially rigid to enhance the operability of the capsule.

In the examples, the circumferential wall is substantially frusto-conical. It can be seen that the capsule according to the invention is not limited to this form. The circumferential wall can, for. For example, be cylindrical, hemispherical or polygonal, for example, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.

In another aspect of the invention, this is in the interior 20 intended extractable product compacted. 5a shows an example in which the extracted product in a plurality of, in the present example four, tablets 58 . 60 . 62 . 64 is compacted. In 5a the tablets are inside the interior 20 piled up. In 5a each tablet extends 58 . 60 . 62 . 64 essentially over the entire cross-section of the capsule 2 , In this example, a density, ie, a degree of compaction, of the tablets differs for each of the tablets. The density of the tablets 58 . 60 . 62 . 64 gets in the direction of the ground 12 to the lid 16 greater. This has the advantage that the liquid wets a lower density tablet more easily than a higher density tablet, so that each upstream tablet becomes sufficiently wetted while the water wets a subsequent downstream tablet. In this way a highly homogeneous wetting of the extractable product is achieved. Although four stacked tablets are shown in the example, it will be understood that any number of tablets could be used.

5b shows an example of a capsule 2 containing a single tablet 66 a compacted extractable product. In the example of 5b includes the tablet 66 drilling 68 extending from the side of the tablet 66 going to the ground 12 pointing towards the lid 16 in the tablet 66 extend into it. The length of the holes 68 is shorter than the thickness of the tablet 66 in the direction along the hole 68 , This is how the holes form 68 no short cuts for the fluid through the tablet 66 but form an access to the core of the tablet for the liquid 66 , These holes allow a predetermined penetration of the tablet with the liquid. In this way, a preferred wetting of the compacted extractable product can be achieved.

In the examples of 5a and 5b are the input filter 34 and the output filter 36 the capsule essentially as in 3c shown. It can be seen that the tablet 66 or the several tablets 58 . 60 . 62 . 64 in combination with any capsule 2 can be used, which is mentioned above. In addition, it can be seen that when compacting the extractable product into the tablet (s), the soil 12 Strictly speaking, the capsule is not needed as the extractable product will be unlikely to leak from the capsule before use.

It can be seen that the capsule mentioned above 12 could also be used in an alternative apparatus for preparing the beverage, for example in a device which is not provided with the bottom piercing means and / or not with the lid puncture means.

In the foregoing specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

For example, it is possible that the capsule 2 is included in an airtight packaging prior to use to extend shelf life.

In addition, it is possible for the bottom to include a recessed area to receive the bottom piercing means without piercing the bottom to increase the capsule volume.

In the examples given above, the output filter forms the lid. It is also possible that the output filter forms part of the lid. For example, the lid may be partially porous and / or partially perforated.

In the examples given above, the input filter forms the bottom. It is also possible that the input filter forms part of the bottom. For example, the floor may be partially porous and / or partially perforated.

However, other modifications, variations and alternatives are possible. The description, drawings and examples are therefore to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive.

In the claims, reference numerals indicated in parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The term "comprising" does not exclude the presence of features or steps other than those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the word "a" should not be interpreted as restricting to "only one", but should be "at least one" and not exclude a majority. The mere fact that certain measures are mentioned in different claims does not mean that a combination of these measures can not be used to advantage.

Claims (80)

A system for preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product, comprising: - a replaceable capsule and - a device comprising a container for holding the replaceable capsule and a liquid dispenser for delivering a quantity of a liquid, such as Water, under pressure to the replaceable capsule, the replaceable capsule comprising a circumferential wall, a bottom wall closing off the circumferential wall at a first end, and a lid closing off the circumferential wall at a second end opposite the bottom; , the bottom and the lid include the interior containing the extractable product. Wherein the floor comprises an entrance area and the system is arranged to bring the liquid delivery device into fluid communication with the entrance area to deliver the liquid to the extractable product to prepare the beverage, the cover comprising an exit area and the system an outlet that is in use in fluid communication with the exit area to the prepared beverage from the capsule and to deliver the beverage to a container, such as a cup, the container comprising a bottom piercing means intended to pierce the entrance of an alternative capsule to provide at least one entrance opening to the mouthpiece To deliver liquid through the at least one inlet port to the extractable product; and wherein the input portion of the capsule of the system comprises an input filter to deliver the liquid to the extractable product through that input filter, the input filter being in use at a distance from the bottom piercing means is arranged so that the capsule of the system is not pierced by the bottom piercing means and the soil remains intact. A system according to claim 1, wherein the container comprises a lid puncture means intended to puncture the exit area of an alternative capsule when the exit area presses sufficiently against the lid puncture means under the influence of the pressure of the liquid and / or beverage in the capsule to provide an exit opening through which the beverage can drain from the alternative capsule, and Wherein the exit portion of the capsule of the system comprises an exit filter through which the beverage can escape from the capsule of the system, the lid puncture means and the exit filter being adapted to one another such that the capsule of the system is not pierced in use by the lid puncture means, and the lid remains intact. A system for preparing a predetermined amount of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product, comprising: - a replaceable capsule and A device comprising a container for holding the replaceable capsule and a liquid dispensing device for supplying an amount of a liquid, such as water, under pressure to the replaceable capsule, The replaceable capsule comprising a peripheral wall, a bottom terminating the peripheral wall at a first end, and a lid closing the peripheral wall at a second end opposite the bottom, the wall, the bottom and the lid enclosing the interior, containing the extractable product. Wherein the floor comprises an entrance area and the system is arranged to bring the liquid delivery device into fluid communication with the entrance area to deliver the liquid to the extractable product to prepare the beverage, Wherein the lid comprises an exit area and the system includes an outlet that is in use in fluid communication with the exit area for discharging the prepared beverage from the capsule and delivering the beverage to a container such as a cup, - wherein the container comprises a lid puncture means, which is intended for piercing the exit region of an alternative capsule, when the exit region under the influence of the pressure of the liquid and / or the beverage in the capsule presses sufficiently against the lid puncture means to provide at least one exit opening through which the beverage may leak from the alternative capsule, and Wherein the exit portion of the capsule of the system comprises an exit filter through which the beverage can escape from the capsule of the system, the lid puncture means and the exit filter being adapted to one another such that the capsule of the system is not pierced in use by the lid puncture means and the lid remains intact. The system of claim 3, wherein the container comprises bottom piercing means for piercing the entrance of an alternative capsule to provide at least one inlet opening to deliver the liquid to the extractable product through the at least one inlet port thereof; Wherein the input portion of the capsule of the system comprises an input filter to deliver the liquid to the extractable product through this input filter, the input filter being spaced from the bottom piercing means in use such that the capsule of the system is not separated from the bottom piercing means is punctured and the soil remains intact. A system according to any one of claims 1, 2 or 4, wherein the input filter is constituted by: A flexible porous web material, such as filter paper, A flexible film, such as a polymer film equipped with a plurality of entrance openings, or A plurality of inlet openings provided in the bottom of the capsule of the system. The system of claim 5, wherein the plurality of inlet openings are distributed over substantially the entire surface of the film or the floor. A system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the plurality of entrance openings comprises side entrance openings arranged in the circumferential wall. System according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the inlet openings have a circular cross-section. The system of claim 8, wherein the cross-section of the entrance openings tapers towards the interior. A system according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the entrance openings are slots. A system according to any one of claims 5 to 10, wherein the inlet openings are arranged to open under pressure. A system according to any of claims 2 or 3, wherein the output filter is adapted to the lid puncture means such that the capsule of the system is not pierced in use by the lid puncture means and the lid remains intact. The system of claim 12, wherein the output filter has a sufficiently high tear strength and / or provides a sufficiently low flow resistance such that the capsule of the system is not pierced in use by the lid puncture means and the lid remains intact. A system according to claim 2, 3, 4 or 5 to 13, when dependent on claim 2 or 3, wherein the output filter forms an outermost boundary of the capsule in its axial direction. A system according to claim 2, 3, 4 or 5 to 14 when dependent on claim 2 or 3, wherein the output filter is constituted by: A flexible porous web material, such as filter paper, A flexible film, such as a polymer film equipped with a plurality of entrance openings, or - A plurality of input openings, which are provided in the lid. The system of claim 15, wherein the plurality of exit openings are distributed over substantially the entire surface of the lid. A system according to any of claims 2 or 3, wherein the lid puncture means has a blunt puncture surface. The system according to at least claim 2 or 3, wherein the lid puncture means comprises at least one ridge against which the lid abuts in use. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least one burr forms at least 10%, preferably at least 25%, of the portion of the surface of the container which, in use, coincides with the portion of the surface area of the lid which overlies the second, open end. A system according to claim 18 or 19, wherein in use the lid is supported by the at least one ridge for at least 10%, preferably at least 25% of the portion of the surface area of the lid overlying the second open end. A system according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the lid puncture means and / or the at least one ridge comprises edges, wherein the edges are not sharp. A system according to claim 21, wherein the edges have a radius of curvature of at least 50 μm, preferably at least 100 μm. The system of any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the at least one ridge has a convex top surface. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the entire interior of the extractable product is taken. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom is integrally formed with the circumferential wall. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the capsule comprises an inwardly extending edge at the first end, the bottom being secured to the inwardly extending rim. The system of claim 26, wherein the input filter is attached to the inwardly extending edge. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the capsule comprises an outwardly extending edge at the second end, the lid being secured to the outwardly extending edge. The system of claim 28, wherein the output filter is attached to the outwardly extending edge. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom and / or the cover extend to the circumferential wall. The system of claim 30, wherein the input filter and / or the output filter extend to the circumferential wall. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid dispenser is arranged to deliver the liquid to the replaceable capsule at a pressure of about 4 to 20 bar, preferably 9 to 15 bar. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the capsule further comprises a bottom seal which is at least partially removably attached to the bottom to seal the input filter prior to use. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the capsule further comprises a lid seal which is at least partially removably attached to the lid to seal the output filter prior to use. The system of claim 34, wherein the lid seal is arranged to partially disengage from the lid under the effect of the fluid pressure prevailing in the interior while remaining attached to the lid in at least one position. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the peripheral wall of a sheet material or a film is preferably formed integrally with the bottom. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the peripheral wall is substantially rigid. A system according to claim 37, wherein the capsule comprises stiffening ribs integrally formed with the circumferential wall and / or the bottom. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the circumferential wall is cylindrical, hemispherical, frusto-conical or polygonal, such as hexagonal or octagonal. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extractable product comprises roast and ground coffee. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extractable product is compacted into a tablet. A system according to claim 41, wherein the tablet comprises at least one bore extending from the side of the tablet facing the entrance area towards the lid. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the extractable product is compacted into a plurality of tablets, preferably with mutually different packing densities. Capsule of the system according to one of claims 1 to 43. A capsule for preparing a predetermined amount of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product comprising A circumferential wall, a bottom terminating the peripheral wall at a first end, and a lid closing the peripheral wall at a second end opposite the bottom, the wall, bottom and lid including an interior containing the extractable product . The bottom comprising an inlet area arranged to deliver a liquid under pressure therethrough to an extractable product for preparing the beverage, - wherein the lid comprises an exit region for leaking the prepared beverage from the capsule therethrough, and - wherein the input portion of the capsule comprises an input filter to deliver the liquid therethrough to the extractable product. A capsule according to claim 45, wherein the exit region comprises an exit filter through which the beverage can escape from the capsule. A capsule for preparing a predetermined amount of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product comprising: A circumferential wall, a bottom terminating the peripheral wall at a first end, and a lid closing the peripheral wall at a second end opposite the bottom, the wall, bottom and lid including an interior containing the extractable product . The bottom comprising an inlet area arranged to deliver a liquid under pressure therethrough to an extractable product for preparing the beverage, - wherein the lid comprises an exit region for leaking the prepared beverage from the capsule therethrough, and - The output area comprises an output filter through which the beverage can leak from the capsule. A capsule according to claim 47, wherein the input portion of the capsule comprises an input filter to deliver the liquid therethrough to the extractable product. A capsule according to any one of claims 45, 46 or 47, wherein the input filter is constituted by: a flexible porous sheet material such as filter paper; a flexible sheet such as a polymer film provided with a plurality of entrance openings, or - A plurality of inlet openings, which are provided in the bottom of the capsule. A capsule according to claim 49, wherein the plurality of inlet openings are distributed over substantially the entire surface of the foil or the floor. A capsule according to claim 49 or 50, wherein the plurality of entrance openings comprises side entrance openings arranged in the circumferential wall. Capsule according to one of claims 49 to 51, wherein the inlet openings have a circular cross-section. A capsule according to claim 52, wherein the cross-section of the entrance openings tapers towards the interior. A capsule according to any of claims 49 to 53, wherein the entrance openings are slots. A capsule according to any one of claims 49 to 54, wherein the inlet openings are arranged to open under pressure. A capsule according to any one of claims 46, 47 or 48 to 55 when dependent on claim 46 or 47, wherein the output filter forms an outermost boundary of the capsule in its axial direction. A capsule according to any one of claims 46, 47 or 48 to 56 when dependent on claim 46 or 47, wherein the output filter is constituted by: A flexible porous web material, such as filter paper, A flexible film, such as a polymer film equipped with a plurality of entrance openings, or - A plurality of input openings, which are provided in the lid. A capsule according to claim 57, wherein the plurality of exit openings are distributed over substantially the entire surface of the lid. A capsule according to any one of claims 45 to 58, wherein the entire interior is occupied by the extractable product. Capsule according to one of claims 45 to 59, wherein the bottom is integrally formed with the circumferential wall. A capsule according to any one of claims 45 to 60, wherein the capsule comprises an inwardly extending edge at the first end, the bottom being secured to the inwardly extending rim. A capsule according to claim 61, wherein the input filter is secured to the inwardly extending edge. A capsule according to any one of claims 45 to 62, wherein the capsule comprises an outwardly extending edge at the second end, the lid being secured to the outwardly extending rim. A capsule according to claim 63, wherein the output filter is attached to the outwardly extending edge. Capsule according to one of claims 45 to 64, wherein the bottom and / or the lid extend to the circumferential first wall. A capsule according to claim 65, wherein the input filter and / or the output filter extend to the circumferential first wall. A capsule according to any one of claims 45 to 66, wherein the capsule further comprises a bottom seal which is at least partially removably attached to the bottom to seal the input filter prior to use. A capsule according to any one of claims 45 to 67, wherein the capsule further comprises a lid seal which is at least partially removably attached to the lid to seal the output filter prior to use. A capsule according to claim 68, wherein the lid seal is arranged to partially disengage from the lid under the effect of the fluid pressure prevailing in the interior while remaining attached to the lid at at least one position. Capsule according to one of claims 45 to 69, wherein the circumferential wall of a sheet material or a film is preferably formed integrally with the bottom. A capsule according to any one of claims 45 to 69, wherein the peripheral wall is substantially rigid. Capsule according to claim 71, wherein the capsule comprises stiffening ribs, which are integrally formed with the circumferential wall and / or the bottom. Capsule according to one of claims 45 to 72, wherein the circumferential wall is cylindrical, hemispherical, frusto-conical or polygonal, such as hexagonal or octagonal. A capsule according to any one of claims 45 to 73, wherein the extractable product comprises roast and ground coffee. A capsule according to any one of claims 45 to 74, wherein the extractable product is compacted into a tablet. A capsule according to claim 75, wherein the tablet comprises at least one bore extending from the side of the tablet facing the entry area towards the lid. Capsule according to one of claims 45 to 76, wherein the extractable product is compacted into a plurality of tablets, preferably with mutually different packing densities. Use of a capsule of the system according to any one of claims 1 to 43 for preparing a beverage using the device according to one of claims 1 to 43. Use of a capsule of the system according to claims 3 and 40 during the preparation of coffee to at least partially remove a coffee stear content from the coffee using the starting filter. Use of a capsule according to claims 47 and 74 during the preparation of coffee to at least partially remove the cafestol content from the coffee using the starting filter.

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