ES2282804T3 - CARTRIDGE FOR THE PREPARATION OF DRINKS. - Google Patents

Abstract

A cartridge (1) containing one or more beverage ingredients (200) and being formed from substantially air- and water-impermeable materials, the cartridge comprising a compartment (134) containing the one or more beverage ingredients, the compartment comprising a plurality of inlet apertures (36) for the introduction of an aqueous medium into the compartment and a plurality of outlet apertures (85) for a beverage produced from the one or more beverage ingredients, wherein at least a proportion of the inlet apertures are out of alignment with the outlet apertures such that at least a proportion of the aqueous medium entering the compartment through the inlet apertures is forced to circulate within the compartment before exiting the compartment through the outlet apertures, characterised in that the inlet apertures (36) are arranged around the periphery of the compartment. <IMAGE>

Description

Cartridge for the preparation of drinks.

The present invention relates to a cartridge for the preparation of beverages and, in particular, cartridges seals that are formed from substantially materials impervious to air and water and containing one or more Ingredients for the preparation of drinks.

It has been previously proposed to seal ingredients of preparation of beverages in individual waterproof packages to air. For example, cartridges or capsules containing coffee are known compacted ground for use in some preparation machines coffee that are generally called "espresso" machines. In the coffee production with these brewing machines, the cartridge of coffee is placed in a brewing chamber and water is passed heat through the cartridge at relatively high pressures, therefore extracting the aromatic constituents of coffee ground to produce coffee drink. Typically, such machines operate at a pressure greater than 6 x 10 5 Pa. preparation of the type described have so far been relatively faces since machine components, such as pumps of water and watertight joints, must be able to withstand high pressures

WO01 / 58786 describes a cartridge for beverage preparation that operates at a pressure generally in the range from 0.7 to 2.0 x 10 5 Pa. However, the cartridge is Designed for use in a beverage preparation machine for commercial or industrial market and is relatively expensive. For the therefore, a cartridge is still needed for the preparation of drinks where the cartridges and the beverage preparation machine are suitable, in particular, for the domestic market in terms of cost, performance and reliability.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a cartridge containing one or more beverage ingredients  and formed of materials substantially impermeable to air and water, including the cartridge a compartment containing the one or more drink ingredients, including the compartment a plurality of input holes for the introduction of a medium aqueous in the compartment and a plurality of exit holes for a beverage produced from one or more ingredients of drink, where at least a proportion of the input holes are out of alignment with the exit holes so that at minus a proportion of the aqueous medium that enters the compartment through the entrance holes have to circulate inside the compartment before leaving compartment through the exit holes, characterized because the entrance holes are arranged around the periphery of the compartment.

By the term "cartridge" in the sense in used here means any package, deposit, bag or receptacle containing one or more beverage ingredients from the described way. The cartridge can be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible.

The cartridge of the present invention contains one or more beverage ingredients suitable for the formation of a beverage product The beverage product may be, for example, one of coffee, tea, chocolate or a milk-based drink including milk. The beverage ingredients may be powdered, ground, to leaf or liquid base. The drink ingredients can be insoluble or soluble. Examples include roasted coffee and ground, tea leaves, cocoa powder solids and soup, drinks to liquid milk base, with carbonated drinks and fruit juices concentrated.

Advantageously, the cartridge of the present invention includes entry holes and exit holes of the that at least a proportion is out of alignment. This ensures that the aqueous medium that enters the compartment containing the Drink ingredients, can not pass directly from the holes of entrance to the exit holes. Instead, the aqueous medium is retained to circulate in the compartment before leaving for The exit holes. This increases the degree of mixing of the medium aqueous and beverage ingredients since substantially all the parts of the beverage ingredients in the compartment they find the flow path of aqueous medium.

Preferably the entrance holes can be equally spaced around the periphery of the compartment. Preferably, the outlet holes are located towards a center of the compartment relative to the entrance holes. The exit holes may be equally spaced around the center of the compartment. The spacing of the holes of input and output provides more uniform flow characteristics inside the compartment that performs a more consistent mix of Drink ingredients and aqueous medium.

Preferably, the cartridge includes 3 to 10 entrance holes. In one embodiment 4 holes are provided input

Preferably, the cartridge includes 3 to 10 exit holes. In one embodiment, 5 holes are provided. output

Preferably, unequal numbers are arranged of entry holes and exit holes.

Preferably, the number of holes of Inlet and outlet holes is given by the formula:

X_ {o} = X_ {i} + C

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where

X_ {i} = the number of input holes

X_ {o} = the number of exit holes

C = the set of integers not including 0 or nX_ {i}

n = any integer.

Advantageously, the number of input holes and outlet holes are chosen according to the above formula. This is especially advantageous where the cartridge is disk-shaped and holes are equally spaced around the disk since then it is not necessary to align the cartridge components thoroughly containing the entry holes and exit holes during the mounting. Whatever the mutual orientation of the components, at least a proportion of the input holes and Exit holes will be out of alignment. For example, with four entry holes and five exit holes, all being Equispaced, it is impossible to align more than one entry hole with an exit hole whatever the alignment of the components containing the entry and exit holes. Is all Place a much faster and simpler assembly procedure. Alternatively, the cartridge may contain the same number of entry and exit holes, but their spacing can be provide to ensure that at least a proportion of the entries and outputs are not aligned.

Typically, the input holes are arranged in an outer element of the cartridge and the holes of Outlets are arranged in an inner element of the cartridge. Preferably, the inner element includes a discharge peak It communicates with the exit holes.

In a preferred embodiment, the cartridge has disk shape Preferably, the flow of aqueous medium through of the entrance holes to the compartment is directed radially inward towards a center of the cartridge.

The cartridge finds particular application with Drink ingredients in the form of viscous liquids or gels. In one application, cartridge 1 contains a chocolate ingredient liquid with a viscosity between 1700 and 3900 mPa at temperature ambient and between 5000 and 10000 mPa at 0 ° C and refractive solids of 67 Brix ± 3. In another application, cartridge 1 contains coffee liquid with a viscosity of between 70 and 2000 mPa in ambient and between 80 and 5000 mPa at 0 ° C where coffee has a level of solids totals between 40 and 70%.

With soluble beverage ingredients, such as a viscous liquid or gel, the incomplete mixing of the ingredients with The aqueous medium can be a special problem. In particular, in cartridges containing such products can be created quickly channels that link the inlet to the outlet of the cartridge due to local dissolution of the ingredient. The channels then form a relatively low resistance flow path for the medium aqueous remaining that will tend to flow along the channels more well that through the non-dissolved viscous ingredient remaining in the behaviour. The cartridge of the present invention resolves in much of this problem pushing the aqueous medium so that recirculate inside the compartment, which serves not only to dissolve a greater proportion of the ingredients, but also to create turbulence inside the compartment, which improves mixing of remaining ingredient that, in turn, prevents creation or maintenance of low resistance flow paths that link the entrance holes with the exit holes.

The outer element and / or the inner element is they can be formed from polypropylene and can be formed by molding by injection. In one embodiment the outer element and / or element Inside are formed of a biodegradable polymer.

In the following description the terms "upper" and "lower" and equivalents will be used to describe the relational position of characteristics of the invention. The terms "superior" and "inferior" and equivalents should be understood as referring to the cartridge (or other components) in their normal orientation for introduction into a beverage preparation machine and subsequent dispensing as represents, for example, in figure 4. In particular, "superior" and "inferior" refer, respectively, to relative positions closer or further from a surface top 11 of the cartridge. In addition, the terms "interior" and "exterior" and equivalents will be used to describe the position Relational characteristics of the invention. The terms "interior" and "exterior" and equivalents must be understand referring to relative positions in the cartridge (or other components) that are, respectively, closer or further from a center or main axis X of cartridge 1 (or another component).

Embodiments of the present invention, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a cross-sectional drawing of an outer element of first and second embodiments of the cartridge.

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the outer element of figure 1 representing a cylindrical extension directed inwards.

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Figure 3 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the outer element of figure 1 representing a slot

Figure 4 is a top perspective view. of the outer element of figure 1.

Figure 5 is a top perspective view. of the outer element of figure 1 in an orientation inverted

Figure 6 is a top view of the outer element of figure 1.

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional drawing of an inner element of the first embodiment of the cartridge.

Figure 8 is a top perspective view. of the inner element of figure 7.

Figure 9 is a top perspective view. of the inner element of figure 7 in an orientation inverted

Figure 10 is a top view of the inner element of figure 7.

Figure 11 is a cross-sectional drawing of the first embodiment of the cartridge in a mounted condition.

Figure 12 is a cross-sectional drawing of an inner element of the second embodiment of the cartridge.

Figure 13 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the inner element of figure 12 which represents A hole.

Figure 14 is a perspective view upper of the inner element of figure 12.

Figure 15 is a perspective view upper of the inner element of figure 12 in an orientation inverted

Figure 16 is another section drawing cross section of the inner element of figure 12.

Figure 17 is a cross-sectional drawing of another detail of the inner element of figure 12 which It represents an air inlet.

Figure 18 is a cross-sectional drawing of the second embodiment of the cartridge in a mounted condition.

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional drawing of an external element of the third and fourth embodiments of the cartridge.

Figure 20 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the outer element of figure 19 which represents a cylindrical extension directed inwards.

Figure 21 is a top view of the outer element of figure 19.

Figure 22 is a perspective view upper of the outer element of figure 19.

Figure 23 is a perspective view upper of the outer element of figure 19 in an orientation inverted

Figure 24 is a cross-sectional drawing of an inner element of the third embodiment of the cartridge.

Figure 25 is a plan view from above. of the inner element of figure 24.

Figure 26 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the inner element of figure 24 which represents an upper edge turned inwards.

Figure 27 is a perspective view upper of the inner element of figure 24.

Figure 28 is a perspective view upper of the inner element of figure 24 in an orientation inverted

Figure 29 is a cross-sectional drawing of the third embodiment of the cartridge in a mounted condition.

Figure 30 is a cross-sectional drawing of an inner element of the fourth embodiment of the cartridge.

Figure 31 is a top view of the inner element of figure 30.

Figure 32 is a perspective view. upper of the inner element of figure 30.

Figure 33 is a perspective view. upper of the inner element of figure 30 in an orientation inverted

Figure 34 is a cross-sectional drawing of the fourth embodiment of the cartridge in a mounted condition.

Figure 35a is a graph of concentration in function of the operating cycle time.

Figure 35b is a graph of foamability. depending on the time of the operating cycle.

And Figure 35c is a graph of temperature in function of the operating cycle time.

As depicted in Figure 11, the cartridge 1 generally includes an outer element 2, an inner element 3 and a laminate 5. The outer element 2, the inner element 3 and the laminate 5 are mounted forming the cartridge 1 which has a inside 120 to contain one or several beverage ingredients, one input 121, an exit 122 and a beverage flow path that it links the entrance 121 with the exit 122 and that passes through the interior 120. Entry 121 and exit 122 are initially sealed by the laminate 5 and open during use by drilling or cutting the laminate 5. The beverage flow path is defined by spatial interrelationships between the outer element 2, the inner element 3 and laminate 5 as explained below. Other components may optionally be included in cartridge 1, such as a filter 4, as will be better described below.

A first version of cartridge 1 that is will describe for background purposes depicted in figures 1 to 11. The first version of cartridge 1 is intended in particular for use when dispensing filtered products such as roasted coffee and Ground or tea leaves. However, this version of cartridge 1 and the other versions described below can be used with others products such as chocolate, coffee, tea, sweeteners, soft drinks, flavorings, alcoholic beverages, flavored milk, juices Fruit, extracts, sauces and desserts.

As can be seen in Figure 5, the general shape of the cartridge 1 is generally circular or disc, the diameter of the cartridge 1 being considerably greater than its height. A main axis X passes through the center of the outer element as shown in Figure 1. Typically the general diameter of the outer element 2 is 74.5 mm ± 6 mm and
The overall height is 16 mm ± 3 mm. Typically, the volume of the cartridge 1 when mounted is 30.2 ml ± 20%.

The outer element 2 generally includes a bowl-shaped bell 10 having a curved annular wall 13, a closed top 11 and an open bottom 12. The diameter of the outer element 2 is smaller in the upper part 11 in comparison with the diameter at the bottom 12, which results from a flare of the annular wall 13 when it passes from the part upper closed 11 to the open bottom 12. The annular wall 13 and the closed bottom 11 together define a receptacle that It has an interior 34.

A hollow cylindrical extension is planned directed in 18 at the top closed 11 centered on the main X axis. As shown more clearly in the figure 2, cylindrical extension 18 includes a stepped profile that It has first, second and third portions 19, 20 and 21. The first Portion 19 is straight circular cylindrical. The second portion 20 is Frustoconically and is tapered inward. Third portion 21 is another straight circular cylinder and closes on one side bottom 31. The diameter of the first, second and second portions third 19, 20 and 21 decreases incrementally so that the diameter of the cylindrical extension 18 decreases as the upper part 11 to the closed lower face 31 of the extension cylindrical 18. A generally horizontal projection 32 is formed in the cylindrical extension 18 at the junction between the second portions and third 20 and 21.

A protrusion has been formed that extends towards outside 33 on the outer element 2 towards the bottom 12. The protrusion extending outward 33 forms a coaxial secondary wall 15 with the annular wall 13 to define an annular track that forms a manifold 16 between the secondary wall 15 and the annular wall 13. The collector 16 passes around the circumference of the element exterior 2. A series of grooves 17 are provided on the wall cancel 13 at level with manifold 16 to provide communication of gas and liquid between manifold 16 and inside 34 of the element exterior 2. As shown in Figure 3, the slots 17 they include vertical slits in the annular wall 13. It has provided between 20 and 40 slots. In the embodiment shown, has planned thirty-seven grooves 17 equally spaced around the circumference of the manifold 16. The slots 17 they are preferably between 1.4 and 1.8 mm in length. Typically The length of each slot is 1.6 mm, which represents 10% of the overall height of the outer element 2. The width of each slot It is between 0.25 and 0.35 mm. Typically, the width of each slot It is 0.3mm. The width of the grooves 17 is narrow enough to prevent drink ingredients from passing through manifold 16 during storage or during use.

An input chamber 26 has been formed in the outer element 2 on the periphery of the outer element 2. It has provided a cylindrical wall 27, as depicted very clearly in figure 5, which defines the input chamber 26 inside, and divides the inlet chamber 26, inside 34 of the outer element 2. The cylindrical wall 27 has a closed upper face 28 that is formed in a plane perpendicular to the main X axis and a lower end open 29 coplanar with bottom 12 of the outer element 2. The input chamber 26 communicates with manifold 16 through two slots 30 as shown in figure 1. Alternatively, it you can use between one and four slots to communicate between the manifold 16 and the inlet chamber 26.

A lower end of the protrusion that extends out 33 is provided with a flange that extends towards outside 35 and extending perpendicular to the main axis X. Typically the flange 35 has a width between 2 and 4 mm. A flange portion 35 is enlarged to form a handle 24 with which can hold the outer element 2. The handle 24 is provided with an upturned flange 25 to improve the grab

The outer element 2 is formed as a single integral piece of high density polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyester, or a laminate of two or more of these materials. A suitable polypropylene is the range of polymers that It can be purchased from DSM UK Limited (Redditch, UK). He outer element can be opaque, transparent or translucent. He Manufacturing process can be injection molding.

The inner element 3 represented in the Figures 7 to 10 includes an annular frame 41 and a cylindrical funnel extending down 40. A main X axis passes through the center of the inner element 3 as shown in the figure 7.

As depicted well in Figure 8, the ring frame 41 includes an outer flange 51 and an inner hub  52 joined by ten radial radii equiespaciados 53. The cube interior 52 is integral and extends from the cylindrical funnel 40. Filtration holes 55 have formed in the annular frame 41 between the radial radii 53. A filter 4 is arranged in the annular frame 41 so as to cover the filtration holes 55. The filter is preferably made of a material with a high wet strength, for example a nonwoven fiber material Of polyester. Other materials that can be used include a water impermeable cellulosic material, such as a material cellulosic including paper woven fibers. The woven fibers of paper can be mixed with polypropylene fibers, chloride polyvinyl and / or polyethylene. The incorporation of these materials plastics to the cellulosic material makes the cellulosic material heat sealable. Filter 4 can also be treated or coated with a material that is activated by heat and / or pressure so that it can seal the annular frame 41 in this way.

As represented in the section profile cross section of figure 7, the inner hub 52 is located in a position lower than the outer flange 51, resulting in the ring frame 41 has a lower inclined profile.

The upper surface of each radius 53 is provided with a vertical sheet 54 that divides an empty space on top of the annular frame 41 in a plurality of steps 57. Each step 57 it is bounded on both sides by a sheet 54 and on one side bottom through filter 4. Steps 57 extend from the flange exterior 51 down, and open, to cylindrical funnel 40 in holes 56 defined by the inner ends of the sheets 54

The cylindrical funnel 40 includes an outer tube 42 surrounding an inner discharge peak 43. The outer tube 42 forms the outside of the cylindrical funnel 40. The discharge peak 43 is attached to the outer tube 42 at an upper end of the peak of discharge 43 by means of an annular flange 47. The discharge peak 43 includes at an upper end an entrance 45 that communicates with holes 56 of steps 57 and at one lower end an outlet 44 through which the prepared beverage is discharged into a glass or Another receptacle The discharge peak 43 includes a portion Frustoconic 48 at an upper end and a cylindrical portion 58 at a lower end. The cylindrical portion 58 may have a slight taper so that it narrows toward the exit 44. Frustoconic portion 48 helps to channel the drink of steps 57 towards exit 44 without inducing turbulence in the drink. An upper surface of the frustoconic portion 48 is provided with four support sheets 49 equally spaced around the circumference of the cylindrical funnel 40. The support sheets 49 define 50 channels in between. The upper edges of the leaves of support 49 are level with each other and perpendicular to the axis main X.

The inner element 3 can be formed as a single integral piece of polypropylene or similar material as described above and by injection molding thereof way that the outer element 2.

Alternatively, the inner element 3 and / or the outer element 2 can be made of a biodegradable polymer. Examples of suitable materials include degradable polyethylene. (for example, SPITEK supplied by Symphony Environmental, Borehamwood, United Kingdom), biodegradable polyester amide (by example, BAK 1095 supplied by Symphony Environmental), acids polylactics (PLA supplied by Cargil, Minnesota, USA), starch-based polymers, cellulose derivatives and polypeptides

Laminate 5 is formed from two layers, a first layer of aluminum and a second layer of polypropylene molten. The aluminum layer is between 0.02 and 0.07 mm thick. The molten polypropylene layer is between 0.025 and 0.065 mm of thickness. In one embodiment the aluminum layer is 0.06 mm and the layer Polypropylene is 0.025mm thick. This laminate is especially advantageous because it has a high resistance to ripple during assembly. As a result, the laminate 5 is You can pre-cut to the correct size and shape and then transfer to the assembly station on the production line without experiencing distortion. Consequently, laminate 5 is especially suitable for welding. Other laminated materials can be used including PET / aluminum / PP laminates, PE / EVOH / PP, PET / metallized / PP and aluminum / PP. Laminated material can be used in roll instead of die cut material.

Cartridge 1 can be closed with a lid rigid or semi-rigid instead of a flexible laminate.

The assembly of the cartridge 1 involves the steps following:

to)

  he inner element 3 is introduced into outer element 2;

b)

  he filter 4 is cut into shape and placed on the inner element 3 of so that it is received on cylindrical funnel 40 and rests on the annular frame 41;

C)

  he inner element 3, outer element 2 and filter 4 are joined by ultrasonic welding;

d)

  he cartridge 1 is filled with one or several beverage ingredients;

and)

  he laminate 5 is fixed to the outer element 2.

These steps will be explained in greater detail to continuation.

The outer element 2 is oriented with the open bottom 12 directed upwards. The inner element 3 is then enter the outer element 2 receiving the flange exterior 51 as a loose fit on an axial extension 14 in the upper part 11 of the cartridge 1. The cylindrical extension 18 of the outer element 2 is received at the same time in the portion upper of the cylindrical funnel 40 of the inner element 3. The third portion 21 of the cylindrical extension 18 seats within the cylindrical funnel 40 with the bottom face closed 31 of the cylindrical extension 18 resting on the support sheets 49 of the inner element 3. The filter 4 is then placed on the inner element 3 such that the filter material contacts  the annular flange 51. A process of ultrasonic welding to join filter 4 to inner element 3 and at the same time, and in the same process step, the element inner 3 to the outer element 2. The inner element 3 and the filter 4 is welded around the outer flange 51. The element inner 3 and outer element 2 are joined by means of lines of welding around the outer flange 51 and also the edges upper leaves 54.

As shown more clearly in Figure 11, the outer element 2 and the inner element 3 when joined define an empty space 130 inside 120 below the flange ring 41 and out of the cylindrical funnel 40 forming a chamber of filtration. Filtration chamber 130 and steps 57 above the ring frame 41 are separated by filter paper 4.

Filtration chamber 130 contains the only or the various ingredients of 200 drink. The only one or several Drink ingredients are packaged in the filtration chamber 130. For a filtered type beverage the ingredients are typically roasted and ground coffee or tea leaves. The packing density of the beverage ingredients in the filtration chamber 130 can be vary as desired. Typically, for a coffee product Filtered the filtration chamber contains between 5.0 and 10.2 grams of roasted and ground coffee in a filter bed of typically 5 at 14 mm thick. Optionally, the interior 120 may contain one or several bodies, such as spheres, that can move freely inside 120 to facilitate mixing by inducing turbulence and breaking down the deposits of beverage ingredients during the unloading of the drink.

The laminate 5 is then fixed to the element exterior 2 forming a weld 126 around the periphery of the laminate 5 to bond laminate 5 to the bottom surface of the flange extending outward 35. Welding 126 is extends to seal the laminate 5 against the bottom edge of the cylindrical wall 27 of the inlet chamber 26. In addition, it is formed a weld 125 between the laminate 5 and the bottom edge of the tube outside 42 of the cylindrical funnel 40. Laminate 5 forms the wall bottom of the filtration chamber 130 and also seals the chamber input 26 and cylindrical funnel 40. However, there is a small interval 123 before dispensing between laminate 5 and the lower edge of the discharge peak 43. Several can be used welding methods, such as heat and ultrasonic welding, depending on the characteristics of the laminate material 5.

Advantageously, the inner element 3 is extends between the outer element 2 and the laminate 5. The element interior 3 is formed from a material of relative stiffness, such like polypropylene. As such, the inner element 3 forms a load bearing element that acts to maintain the laminate 5 and the outer element 2 separated when the cartridge 1 is compressed. It is preferred that the cartridge 1 be subjected to a compressive load of between 130 and 280N during use. The compression force acts to prevent the cartridge from failing under internal pressurization and also serves to compress the inner element 3 and outer element 2 jointly. This guarantees that the interior dimensions of the steps and holes in cartridge 1 are fixed and unable to change during pressurization of the cartridge 1.

To use cartridge 1, first you introduced into a beverage preparation machine and entry 121 and the outlet 122 is opened by perforating elements of the machine preparation of drinks that pierce and fold the laminate again 5. An aqueous medium, typically water, under pressure enters the cartridge 1 through input 121 to input chamber 26 to one pressure between 0.1-2.0 bar (10-200 KPa). From there the water is directed through slots 30 and giving the return to manifold 16 and filter chamber 130 of the cartridge 1 through the plurality of grooves 17. Water is pushed radially inward through the filtration chamber 130 and It mixes with the beverage ingredients 200 contained in it. He water is pushed at the same time up through the Drink ingredients The drink formed by the passage of water to through the drink ingredients it passes through filter 4 and the filtration holes 55 to steps 57 above the annular frame 41. The sealing of the filter 4 on the spokes 53 and the welding the flange 51 with the outer element 2 ensures that there are no short circuits and that all the drink has to go through the filter 4.

The drink then flows down along of the radial passages 57 formed between the sheets 54 and by the holes 56 and cylindrical funnel 40. The drink passes along the channels 50 between the support sheets 47 and down the peak of discharge 43 at exit 44 where the beverage is discharged to a receptacle such as a cup.

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Preferably, the preparation machine Drinks includes an air purge device, where the air tablet is pushed through cartridge 1 at the end of the cycle of dispensing to expel the remaining beverage to the receptacle.

A second version of cartridge 1 will be described. now for background purposes with reference to figures 12 to 18. The second version of cartridge 1 is specially designed for use when dispensing espresso products such as coffee roasted and ground where it is desirable to produce a drink that has a top layer of tiny bubbles called cream. Many of the characteristics of the second version of cartridge 1 are the same as those of the first version and similar numbers have been used to refer to analogous features. In the description Next the differences between the first versions will be explained and second. The common features that work the same way will not be explained in detail.

The outer element 2 is the same construction than in the first version of cartridge 1 and how it represented in figures 1 to 6.

The annular frame 41 of the inner element 3 is The same as in the first version. In addition, a filter 4 is arranged in the annular frame 41 to cover the holes of filtration 55. The outer tube 42 of the cylindrical funnel 40 also It is as before. However, there are several differences in the construction of the inner element 2 of the second version in Comparison with the first version. As depicted in the figure 16, the discharge peak 43 is provided with a partition 65 that rises partly by the discharge peak 43 of the exit 44. The partition 65 It helps prevent the drink from spreading and / or splashing when exit discharge peak 43. Profile of discharge peak 43 It is also different and includes a stepped profile with a leg curved distinct 66 near an upper end of the tube 43.

A flange 67 is planned, rising from the annular flange 47 joining the outer tube 42 to the peak of discharge 43. Flange 67 surrounds inlet 45 to the discharge peak 43 and defines an annular channel 69 between the flange 67 and the portion upper of the outer tube 42. The flange 67 is provided with a ledge inward 68. At a point around the circumference of the flange 67 is provided a hole 70 in the form of a groove extending from an upper edge of the flange 67 to a point marginally below the level of boss 68 as it shows very clearly in figures 12 and 13. The slot has a 0.64 mm width.

In the ring tab 47 a air inlet 71 aligned circumferentially with hole 70 as depicted in figures 16 and 17. The air inlet 71 includes a hole that passes through tab 47 so that provide communication between a point above tab 47 and the empty space under flange 47 between outer tube 42 and the discharge peak 43. Preferably, and as depicted, the air inlet 71 includes a top frustoconic portion 73 and a lower cylindrical portion 72. The air inlet 71 is formed typically by a mold tool such as a pin. He tapered profile of the air inlet 71 allows to remove the Mold tool more easily from the molded component. The outer tube wall 42 near air inlet 71 se set to form a gutter 75 that leads from the entrance of air 71 to the inlet 45 of the discharge peak 43. How to depicted in figure 17, between the air inlet 71 and the gutter 75 forms an inclined projection 74 to ensure that the stream of drink coming out of slot 70 does not fall immediately on the upper surface of the flange 47 in the vicinity immediate air intake 71.

The assembly procedure of the second Cartridge version 1 is similar to the first version assembly. However, there are some differences. As depicted in the Figure 18, the third portion 21 of the cylindrical extension 18 is seated inside the support flange 67 instead of against the blades of support. The projection 32 of the cylindrical extension 18 between the second portion 20 and third portion 21 rest on the edge upper of the support flange 67 of the inner element 3. Thus it forms an interface zone 124 between the inner element 3 and the outer element 2 including between cylindrical extension 18 and the support flange 67 a front seal that extends around almost the entire circumference of cartridge 1. No However, the seal between the cylindrical extension 18 and the support flange 67 is not fluid tight since the slot 70 in support flange 67 extends through the support flange 67 and down to a point marginally below of boss 68. Accordingly, the interface setting between the cylindrical extension 18 and support flange 67 transforms the slot 70 in a hole 128, as shown very clearly in the Figure 18, providing gas and liquid communication between the annular channel 69 and discharge peak 43. The hole is typically 0.64 mm wide by 0.69 mm long.

The operation of the second version of the cartridge 1 to dispense a drink is similar to the operation of the first version but with some differences. The drink on the steps Radials 57 flows down along steps 57 formed between sheets 54 and through holes 56 and to the annular channel 69 of the cylindrical funnel 40. From the annular channel 69 the drink is pushed through hole 128 by the back pressure of beverage that is collected in the filtration chamber 130 and steps 57. The drink is thus pushed through the hole 128 like a jet and to an expansion chamber formed by the upper end of the peak discharge 43. As shown in Figure 18, the jet of drink passes directly over the air inlet 71. When the drink enters the discharge peak 43, the jet pressure of Drink falls. As a result, air is incorporated into the flow of drink in the form of a multitude of small air bubbles when the air is sucked through the air inlet 71. The jet of drink coming out of hole 128 is channeled down to the exit 44 where the beverage is discharged to a receptacle such as a glass where air bubbles form the desired cream. Thus, the hole 128 and air inlet 71 together form an eductor that acts to drag air into the drink. The flow of drink to eductor should be kept as soft as possible to reduce Pressure losses Advantageously, the eductor's walls they should be concave to reduce losses due to friction by "wall effect". The dimensional tolerance of hole 128 is small. Preferably the hole size is fixed more or minus 0.02 mm2. You can arrange threads, fibrils or other surface irregularities inside or outside the eductor to increase the effective cross-sectional area that has been found that increases the degree of air drag.

A third version of cartridge 1 is represented in figures 19 to 29. The third version of cartridge 1 is specially designed for use when dispensing soluble products that They may be in powder, liquid, syrup, gel or a similar form. He soluble product is dissolved by, or forms a suspension in, a aqueous medium such as water when the aqueous medium is passed, during use, through the cartridge 1. Examples of drinks include chocolate, coffee, milk, tea, soup or other rehydratable products or soluble-aqueous. Many of the features of the third version of cartridge 1 are the same as in previous versions and similar numbers have been used to make reference to analogous characteristics. In the following description the differences between the third and third versions will be explained previous. The characteristics will not be explained in detail commons that work the same way.

In comparison with the outer element 2 of the earlier versions, the hollow cylindrical extension directed towards inside 18 of the outer element 2 of the third version has a larger general diameter as shown in figure 20. In in particular, the diameter of the first portion 19 is typically of between 16 and 18 mm compared to 13.2 mm for the element exterior 2 of the previous versions. In addition, the first portion 19 is provided with a convex outer surface 19a, or bulge, as shown very clearly in figure 20, whose Function will be described below. However, the diameter of the third portions 21 of the cartridges 1 is the same, which gives place where the area of the projection 32 is larger in this third cartridge version 1. Typically the volume of cartridge 1 when It is mounted is 32.5 ml ± 20%.

The number and placement of the slots in the lower end of the annular wall 13 is also different. They have provided between 3 and 5 slots. In the embodiment represented in the Figure 23, four grooves 36 are provided spaced around the circumference of the manifold 16. The slots 36 are slightly wider than in previous cartridge versions 1 which are between 0.35 and 0.45 mm, preferably 0.4 mm of width.

In other aspects the outer elements 2 of Cartridges 1 are the same.

The construction of the cylindrical funnel 40 of inner element 3 is the same as in the first version of the cartridge 1 with an outer tube 42, discharge peak 45, ring tab 47 and support sheets 49. The only difference is that discharge peak 45 is configured with a frustoconic section upper 92 and a lower cylindrical section 93.

In contrast to previous versions and as depicted in figures 24 to 28, the annular frame 41 is replaced by a skirt portion 80 surrounding the funnel cylindrical 40 and is attached to it by means of eight stringers radial 87 that join cylindrical funnel 40 at or near the ring flange 47. A cylindrical extension 81 of the portion of skirt 80 extends up the beams 87 to Define a camera 90 with an open top face. A flange upper 91 of cylindrical extension 81 has a turned profile inwards as shown in figure 26. An annular wall 82 of the skirt portion 80 extends down the stringers 87 to define an annular channel 86 between the portion of skirt 80 and outer tube 42.

The annular wall 82 includes at one end lower an outer flange 83 that is perpendicular to the axis main X. A flange 84 hangs down from a surface bottom of tab 83 and contains five holes 85 that are circumferentially equally spaced around flange 84. Thus, the flange 84 is provided with a crenellated lower profile.

Holes 89 are arranged between stringers 87 allowing communication between chamber 90 and the ring channel 86.

The assembly procedure of the third cartridge version 1 is similar to the first version assembly But with certain differences. The outer element 2 and element interior 3 are snapped together as shown in figure 29 and retained by means of a fitting arrangement by jump rather than soldiers together. By joining the two elements, the cylindrical extension directed inwards 18 is received within the outer cylindrical extension 81 of the skirt portion 80. The inner element 3 is retained in the outer element 2 by surface friction interlocking outer convex 19a of the first portion 19 of the extension cylindrical 18 with the edge turned inward 91 of the extension outer cylindrical 81. With the inner element 3 located in the outer element 2 is defined a mixing chamber 134 located outside the skirt portion 80. The mixing chamber 134 contains 200 drink ingredients before dispensing. It should indicate that the four inputs 36 and the five holes 85 are circumferentially stripped one with respect to another. The position radial of the two parts in relation to each other does not have to determine or fix during assembly since the use of four inputs 36 and five holes 85 ensures that it takes place misalignment between the entrances and holes whatever the relative rotational position of the components. It can be foreseen Other numbers of input and output holes according to the formula:

X_ {o} = X_ {i} + C

where

X_ {i} = the number of input holes

X_ {o} = the number of exit holes

C = the set of positive or negative integers not including 0 or nX_ {i}

n = any integer.

Alternatively, it can be arranged number of inlet and outlet holes not equally spaced around of the cartridge to ensure that the inputs and outputs are not aligned.

The only or various beverage ingredients are packed in the mixing chamber 134 of the cartridge. The density of beverage ingredients packaging in the mixing chamber 134 can be varied as desired.

The laminate 5 is then fixed to the element exterior 2 and interior element 3 in the same manner described Previously in previous versions.

During use, water enters the chamber mixer 134 through all four slots 36 in the same way than in previous versions of the cartridge. Water is pushed radially inward through the mixing chamber and it Mix with the beverage ingredients it contains. The product is dissolve or mix in water and form the drink in the chamber mixer 134 and then is moved through holes 85 to annular channel 86 due to the back pressure of the drink and water in the mixing chamber 134. The circumferential staggering of the four input slots 36 and the five holes 85 ensures that water jets cannot pass radially directly from the input slots 36 to holes 85 without first circulating inside of the mixing chamber 134. In this way, it is increased considerably the degree and consistency of the solution or product mix. The drink is pushed up into the canal ring 86, through holes 89 between stringers 87 and a chamber 90. The beverage passes from chamber 90 through the entries 45 between the support sheets 49 to the discharge peak 43 and towards exit 44 where the beverage is discharged to such a receptacle Like a drink The cartridge finds special application with Drink ingredients in the form of viscous liquids or gels. In one application the cartridge 1 contains a chocolate ingredient liquid with a viscosity between 1700 and 3900 mPa at temperature ambient and between 5000 and 10000 mPa at 0 ° C and refractive solids of 67 Brix ± 3. In another application, cartridge 1 contains coffee liquid with a viscosity between 70 and 2000 mPa at temperature ambient and between 80 and 5000 mPa at 0 ° C where the coffee has a level total solids between 40 and 70%. The liquid coffee ingredient may contain between 0.1 and 2.0% by weight of sodium bicarbonate, preferably between 0.5 and 1.0% by weight. Sodium bicarbonate serves to maintain the pH level of coffee at or below 4.8, allowing storage duration of full cartridges of coffee up to 12 months.

A fourth version of cartridge 1 is represented in figures 30 to 34. The fourth version of cartridge 1 is specially designed for use when dispensing liquid products such as concentrated liquid milk. Many features of the fourth version of cartridge 1 are the same as in previous versions and similar numbers have been used to make reference to analogous characteristics. In the following description the differences between the fourth and fourth versions will be explained previous. The common characteristics will not be explained in detail They work the same way.

The outer element 2 is the same as in the third version of cartridge 1 and as depicted in the figures 19 to 23.

The cylindrical funnel 40 of the inner element 3 It is similar to the one represented in the second version of cartridge 1 But with some differences. As depicted in Figure 30, the discharge peak 43 is configured with a frustoconic section upper 106 and a lower cylindrical section 107. They are provided three axial nerves 105 on the inner surface of the peak of discharge 43 to direct the dispensed beverage down towards the Exit 44 and prevent the discharged beverage from turning inside the spout. In consequently, the ribs 105 act as baffles. Like in the second version of cartridge 1, an air inlet has been arranged 71 through the ring flange 47. However, the channel 75 below the air inlet 71 is more elongated than in the second version.

A skirt portion 80 is provided similar to that represented in the third version of cartridge 1 described above. Between 5 and 12 holes 85 are planned in flange 84. Typically ten holes are provided instead of five arranged in the third version of cartridge 1.

An annular cup 100 is planned to be extends from and is integral with tab 83 of the portion of skirt 80. The annular cup 100 includes a flared body 101 with an open upper mouth 104 that is directed upwards. Four feed holes 103 shown in Figures 30 and 31 are located in body 101 at or near the lower end of the cup 100 where it joins the skirt portion 80. Preferably, the feed holes are equally spaced. around the circumference of cup 100.

Laminate 5 is of the type described above in the previous embodiments.

The operation of the fourth version of the cartridge It is similar to the third version. Water enters the cartridge 1 and mixing chamber 134 in the same manner as before. There he water mixes and dilutes the liquid product that is then ejected under bowl 100 and through holes 85 towards output 44 as described above. The proportion of liquid product initially contained within the annular bowl 100 as depicted in figure 34, is not subject to dilution immediate by the water entering the mixing chamber 134. More well, the diluted liquid product in the bottom of the chamber mixing 134 will tend to exit through holes 85 rather to be ejected upwards and to the annular bowl 100 through the upper mouth 104. Accordingly, the liquid product in the annular bowl 100 will remain relatively concentrated during initial stages of the operating cycle compared to the product at the bottom of the mixing chamber 134. The liquid product in the ring bowl 100 drips through the holes of feed 103 by gravity to the product stream leaving mixing chamber 134 through holes 85 and below the bowl 100. Ring bowl 100 acts to level the concentration  of the diluted liquid product entering the cylindrical funnel 40 maintaining a proportion of the concentrated liquid product and constantly releasing it to the liquid flow path during the entire operating cycle as illustrated in figure 35a where the milk concentration measured as a percentage of solids totals present are represented during an operating cycle of approximately 15 seconds The line to illustrates the profile of concentration with bowl 100 while line b illustrates a cartridge without bowl 100. As you can see, the profile of concentration with cup 100 is more uniform during the cycle operational and there is no major immediate drop in concentration as takes place without bowl 100. The initial concentration of milk it is typically 30-35% SS and at the end of the cycle 10% H.H. This results in a dilution ratio of about 3 to 1, although dilution ratios between 1 to 1 and 6 to 1 are possible with the present invention. For other drink ingredients liquids, concentrations may vary. For example, for liquid chocolate the initial concentration is approximately 67% SS and at the end of the cycle 12-15% SS. This gives rise at a dilution ratio (ratio of aqueous medium to ingredient of beverage in the dispensed beverage) of about 5 to 1, although dilution ratios between 2 to 1 and 10 to 1 are possible with the present invention For liquid coffee, the initial concentration is between 40-67% and the concentration at the end of the dispensing is 1-2% SS. This results in a dilution ratio between 20 to 1 and 70 to 1, although ratios of dilution between 10 to 1 and 100 to 1 are possible with the present invention.

From the annular channel 86 the drink is pushed to pressure through hole 128 due to the back pressure of the beverage which is collected in filtration chamber 134 and chamber 90. The drink is pushed like this through hole 128 like a jet and to an expansion chamber formed by the upper end of the peak of discharge 43. As shown in Figure 34, the jet of drink goes directly through the air inlet 71. When the drink enters the discharge peak 43, the jet pressure of Drink decreases. As a result, air is drawn into the stream of drink in the form of multiple small air bubbles when the air is sucked through the air inlet 71. The jet of drink coming out of hole 128 is channeled down to the exit 44 where the beverage is discharged to a receptacle such as a cup where air bubbles form the foamy appearance wanted.

Advantageously, the inner element 3, the outer element 2, laminate 5 and filter 4 can be easily sterilize because the components are separable and do not include tortuous steps or indentations individually narrow. Rather, only after joining the components, after sterilization, it is when the steps are formed necessary. This is especially important where the ingredient of Drink is a dairy product such as liquid milk concentrated.

The fourth embodiment of the beverage cartridge is especially advantageous for dispensing a liquid dairy product concentrate such as liquid milk. They were previously provided Powdered milk products in the form of sachets to add to a previously prepared drink. However, for one type of drink Cappuccino you have to foam the milk. This was previously achieved. passing steam through a liquid milk product. Without However, for this you have to have a steam supply that increases the cost and complexity of the machine used to Dispense the drink. The use of steam also increases the risk of Injury during cartridge operation. Therefore, the The present invention provides a beverage cartridge having a liquid product based on concentrated milk. It has been found that, by concentrating the dairy product, it can produce greater amount of foam for a specific volume of milk compared with fresh milk or UHT. This reduces the required size of the milk cartridge Fresh semi-skimmed milk contains approximately 1.6% fat and 10% total solids. The Concentrated liquid milk preparations of the present invention they contain between 3 and 10% fat and 25 to 40% total solids. In A typical example, the preparation contains 4% fat and 30% of total solids Concentrated milk preparations are suitable for foaming using a low pressure preparation machine as will be described later. In particular, the foaming of the milk is achieved at pressures below 2 bar, preferably at approximately 1.5 bar using the cartridge of the fourth embodiment described above

Foaming of concentrated milk It is especially advantageous for drinks such as cappuccinos and milkshakes milk. Preferably the passage of milk through the hole 128 and by air inlet 71 and optional use of bowl 100 allows foaming levels greater than 40%, preferably greater than 70% for milk. For chocolate liquid, foam formation levels above 70% are possible. For liquid coffee, foam levels Over 70% are possible. Foamability level is measured as the ratio of the volume of the foam produced to the volume of Liquid beverage ingredient dispensed. For example, where dispenses 138.3 ml of drink, of which 58.3 ml are foam, the Foamability is measured as [58.3 / (138.3-58.3)] * 100 = 72.9%. The foamability of milk (and other ingredients liquids) is improved by the provision of bowl 100 as You can see in Figure 35b. The foamability of the dispensed milk with bowl 100 present (line a) it is greater than milk dispensed without the bowl present (line b). This is because the Milk foamability is positively correlated with the milk concentration and, as depicted in figure 35a, Bowl 100 maintains a higher concentration of milk a Most of the operating cycle. It is also known that the Milk foamability is positively correlated with the aqueous medium temperature as depicted in Figure 35c. Thus, bowl 100 is advantageous because there is more milk left in the cartridge until near the end of the operating cycle when the medium Aqueous is hotter. This again improves foamability.

The cartridge of the fourth embodiment is also advantageous when dispensing liquid coffee products.

Cartridge embodiments have been found of beverage of the present invention advantageously provide a better consistency of the dispensed beverage compared to prior art cartridges. Reference is made to Table 1 next that shows the results of mixing yields for twenty samples of cartridges A and B containing roasted coffee and ground. Cartridge A is a beverage cartridge according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Cartridge B is a cartridge of prior art beverage as described in the document WO01 / 58786 of the applicant. The refractive index of the drink prepared is measured in Brix units and converted to a percentage of soluble solids (% SS) using standard tables and formulas. In the following examples:

% SS = 0.7774 * (Brix value) + 0.0569.

% yield = (% SS * Volume of mixture (g)) / (100 * Coffee weight (g))

TABLE 1 Cartridge A

one

Cartridge B

2

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Performing a statistical analysis of t-test in the previous data gives the following results:

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TABLE 2 T-test: Two samples assuming variances equals

3

The analysis shows that the consistency of percentage yield, which is equal to the concentration of mixture, for cartridges it is considerably better (at a level of 95% confidence) than prior art cartridges, with a standard deviation of 0.88% compared to 2.24%. This means that the drinks dispensed with the cartridges of the present invention have a more repeatable concentration and uniform. This is what consumers prefer that they want your drinks always have the same flavor and do not want changes arbitrary concentration of the mixture.

The materials of the cartridges described previously they can be provided with a barrier coating to improve its resistance to the entry of oxygen and / or humidity and / or other pollutants The barrier coating can also improve the resistance to the escape of the ingredients of drink of the interior of the cartridges and / or reduce the degree of substance leaching removable cartridge materials that could affect adversely to drink ingredients. Barrier coating It may be of a material selected from the PET group, polyamide, EVOH, PVDC or a metallized material. The barrier coating is it can be applied through several mechanisms including, but without limitation, vapor deposition, vacuum deposition, coating with plasma, coextrusion, mold labeling and molding bi / multi-stage.

Claims (23)

1. A cartridge (1) containing one or more beverage ingredients (200) and formed of materials substantially impermeable to air and water, the cartridge including a compartment (134) containing the one or more beverage ingredients, including the compartment a plurality of inlet holes (36) for the introduction of an aqueous medium into the compartment and a plurality of outlet holes (85) for a beverage produced from the one or more beverage ingredients, where at least a proportion of the holes of Inlets are out of alignment with the exit holes so that at least a proportion of the aqueous medium entering the compartment through the inlet holes has to circulate inside the compartment before exiting the compartment through the exit holes , characterized in that the inlet holes (36) are arranged around the periphery of the compartment. 2. A cartridge (1) according to claim 1 where the entrance holes (36) are equally spaced around from the periphery of the compartment. 3. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim where the outlet holes (85) are located towards a center of the compartment in relation to the entrance holes. 4. A cartridge (1) according to claim 3 where the exit holes (85) are equally spaced around from the center of the compartment. 5. One cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim including 3 to 10 input holes (36). 6. A cartridge (1) according to claim 5 including 4 entry holes (36). 7. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim including 3 to 10 exit holes (85). 8. A cartridge (1) according to claim 7 including 5 exit holes (85). 9. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim including uneven numbers of holes inlet (36) and outlet holes (85). 10. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim wherein the number of input holes (36) and outlet holes (85) is given by the formula: X_ {o} = X_ {i} + C where X_ {i} = the number of input holes X_ {o} = the number of exit holes C = the set of integers not including 0 or nX_ {i} n = any integer. 11. A cartridge (1) according to any of the claims 1 to 8 including the same number of holes of inlet (36) and outlet holes (85). 12. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim where the inlet holes (36) are arranged in an outer element (2) of the cartridge and the holes output (85) are arranged in an inner element (3) of the cartridge. 13. A cartridge (1) according to claim 12 where the inner element (3) includes a discharge peak (43) that communicates with the exit holes (85). 14. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim wherein the cartridge is in the form of disk. 15. A cartridge (1) according to claim 14 where the flow of aqueous medium through the entry holes (36) to the compartment (134) is directed radially inwards towards a center of the cartridge. 16. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more beverage ingredients (200) are soluble in the aqueous medium. 17. A cartridge (1) according to claim 16 where the one or more beverage ingredients (200) are an ingredient of liquid chocolate or coffee. 18. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more beverage ingredients (200) is a concentrated liquid or gel. 19. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim wherein the liquid beverage ingredient (200) has a viscosity between 70 and 3900 mPa at temperature ambient. 20. A cartridge (1) according to claim 19 where the liquid beverage ingredient (200) has a viscosity between 1700 and 3900 mPa at room temperature. 21. A cartridge (1) according to claim 12 where the outer element (2) and / or inner element (3) are formed of polypropylene. 22. A cartridge (1) according to claim 21 where the outer element (2) and / or inner element (3) are formed by injection molding. 23. A cartridge (1) according to any preceding claim wherein the outer element (2) and / or the Inner element (3) are formed from a biodegradable polymer.