RU2602058C2 - System, method and capsule for beverage preparation - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: food industry.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to a system, a method and a capsule for preparation of specified quantity of beverage from an extractable product. System contains a replaceable capsule, which includes an annular wall, a bottom and a cover. Wall, the bottom and the cover comprise an inner space containing the product being extracted. Receiver comprises impaling means for punching alternative capsule inlet area to create at least one inlet hole to feed fluid medium to the product being extracted. Inlet area of the capsule contains an inlet filter to supply the fluid medium through it to the product being extracted.

EFFECT: filter holes are made as longitudinal slits that provides the increase of pressure in the area of extraction ensuring the reduction of probability of fraction transmission into the beverage.

45 cl, 13 dwg

Description

The invention relates to a system for preparing a given amount of a drink suitable for consumption from an extractable product. The system comprises a replaceable capsule and a device containing a receiver for holding the replaceable capsule, and a device for supplying fluid, such as water, under pressure into the replaceable capsule, the replaceable capsule comprising an annular wall, a lower part covering the annular wall at the first end, and a lid, a closing annular wall at a second end opposite the lower part, wherein the wall, lower part and lid enclose an interior space containing an extractable product, in which the lower part contains an inlet and the system is arranged to bring the fluid dispensing device in fluid interaction with the inlet region for supplying fluid to the product to be extracted for beverage preparation, and in which the lid contains an outlet region and the system comprises an outlet that, when used, is in communication with fluid with an outlet area for draining the finished beverage from the capsule and supplying the beverage to a container, such as a cup.

Such systems are essentially known. A special class of these known systems is used to prepare a beverage by using a hermetically sealed capsule containing an extractable product. During the preparation of the beverage, the inlet region of such a hermetically sealed capsule is punctured, therefore providing at least one inlet for supplying pressurized fluid to the product to be extracted into the interior of the capsule through the inlet. Providing fluid under pressure in the inner space causes an increase in pressure in the inner space of the capsule. This, in turn, causes the exit region of the capsule to be pressed against the lancing means for the lid located in the receiver. When the exit region is pressed against the lid piercing means with sufficient force, the exit region is torn on the lid piercing means, making at least one exit opening through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule.

However, it has been found that in the aforementioned known systems, preferred fluid paths may occur in the product being extracted in the capsule, for example, from at least one inlet to at least one outlet, which can lead to an undesirable strength of the finished product drink and / or changes in the strength of the finished drink, from one capsule to another.

The purpose of the invention is to improve the aforementioned system and, more specifically, at least reduce the aforementioned problem.

In addition, in accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a system in which the receiver comprises piercing means for the lower part for piercing the inlet region of an alternative capsule, for example a hermetically sealed capsule of a known system, to produce at least one fluid inlet medium to the extracted product through the specified at least one inlet, and in which the inlet region of the capsule of the system in accordance with the invention contains an inlet filter for supplying fluid to the product to be extracted through it, the inlet filter of which, when used, is located at a distance from the piercing means for the lower part so that the system capsule is not punctured by piercing means for the lower part and the lower part remains intact.

Thus, it is possible to supply fluid to the extractable product in the capsule without piercing the capsule. Thus, the inlet filter forms an optionally uniform inlet region through which fluid can be supplied to the capsule. This provides the advantage that it is possible for a beverage to enter the capsule through a larger area than when the inlets in the known systems are punctured, thereby reducing the risk of preferred fluid paths in the product being extracted in the capsule and improving the reproducibility of the beverage strength .

Additionally, it was found that providing an inlet filter reduces the risk of crowding out the remaining product being extracted from the capsule when the capsule is removed from the device.

Preferably, the replaceable capsule contains a quantity of extractable product and is thus suitable and intended for preparing one serving of a drink, preferably one cup of a drink, for example from 30 to 200 ml of a prepared beverage. Thus, the replaceable capsule is a single serving cartridge. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 4-8 g, preferably about 7 g of extractable product, for example, roasted and ground coffee.

Preferably, the replaceable capsule is discarded after one use.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a system in which the receiver comprises lid piercing means for piercing the outlet region of an alternative capsule, for example a hermetically sealed capsule of a known system, when the outlet region is sufficiently pressed against the lancing means of the lid under the influence of fluid pressure and / or a drink in a capsule for making at least one outlet through which the drink can be drained from an alternative capsule, and into the second outlet region of the capsule of the system in accordance with the invention contains an outlet filter through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule of the system in accordance with the invention, while the piercing means for the lid and the outlet filter are adapted to each other so that the capsule of the system is not punctured during use by lancing means for the lid and the lid remains intact.

Thus, the outlet filter forms an optionally uniform outlet region through which the beverage can exit the capsule. This provides the advantage that it is possible for the beverage to exit the capsule through a larger area than when the outlet openings are formed by piercing the lid, thereby reducing the risk of preferred fluid paths in the extractable product in the capsule and improving the reproducibility of the beverage strength. . Additionally, the capsule, which is not pierced by piercing means for the lid and remains intact, provides the advantage that the predetermined size and distribution of the pore and / or output channel of the output filter defining the output openings of the output filter remains intact, thus the size and distribution the outlet is independent of the case, as when the outlet is formed by piercing.

Moreover, it has been found that providing an output filter reduces the risk of crowding out the remaining product being extracted from the capsule when the capsule is removed from the device.

Moreover, if the extracted product is roasted and ground coffee, providing an outlet filter provides the advantage that the outlet filter can filter the oils from the beverage, i.e. from coffee, before serving coffee in a container, such as a cup. It may be preferable to remove oils from coffee that adversely affect the taste and / or quality of the coffee. It is especially preferable to filter out cafetol (coffee diterpene) from coffee, since it has been found that cafestol raises blood cholesterol. Thus, providing an output filter can improve coffee quality relative to consumer health.

Preferably, the outlet filter is adapted to the piercing means for the cap so that the capsule of the system is not pierced by the piercing means for the cap when used and the cap remains intact. Therefore, only the output filter parameters should be selected.

Preferably, the output filter has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forms a sufficiently low flow resistance so that the capsule of the system is not pierced by the lid piercing means during use and the lid remains intact. It was found that the output filter having a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forming a sufficiently low flow resistance does not break on the lancing means for the lid.

In accordance with a third aspect of the invention, a capsule may be provided with both an inlet filter and an outlet filter, as described above. Therefore, when using the capsule, it is not pierced either by means of piercing means for the lower part, or by means of piercing means for the lid, thus the capsule remains completely intact. This provides the advantage that the risk of preferred fluid paths in the product being extracted in the capsule and the reproducibility of the beverage strength are further increased.

Preferably, the inlet filter is made of a porous sheet material, for example filter paper, a foil, for example a polymer foil made with a plurality of inlets, or a plurality of inlets provided at the bottom of the capsule of the system. Therefore, an input filter can be provided in a simple manner.

In an embodiment, the plurality of inlets are distributed substantially over the entire surface of the foil or lower portion, respectively. This provides the advantage that the fluid can be supplied substantially over the entire cross section of the interior. Therefore, the extracted product is wetted very evenly.

In a further embodiment, the plurality of inlets comprises side inlets located on an annular wall. This provides the advantage that the extracted product, at least in part, is also wetted from the side. This provides the advantage that the fluid can be supplied to the product to be extracted in a very uniform and controlled manner.

Preferably, the outlet filter is made of a porous sheet material, for example filter paper, or a foil, for example a polymer foil made with a plurality of inlets, or a plurality of inlets provided in the lid. Therefore, an input filter can be provided in a simple manner. Also, the parameters of the output filter can be easily selected to provide an output filter having a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forming a sufficiently low flow resistance.

For example, in an embodiment, the output filter may be made of a sheet of filter paper. Filter paper provides an inexpensive output filter. Moreover, filter paper parameters, such as density, thickness and / or polyethylene content, can be easily selected to provide an output filter having a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forming a sufficiently low flow resistance. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the output filter may be made of a polymer film made with many outlet openings. The parameters of the polymer foil, for example density, thickness, number of outlet openings, size and / or shape of the outlet openings, can be easily selected to provide an outlet filter having a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forming a sufficiently low flow resistance.

In an embodiment, the piercing means for the cap may have a blunt piercing surface. In such an embodiment, the alternative capsule can nevertheless be punctured by blunt piercing means, wherein the capsule of the system in accordance with the invention has an output filter having a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forming a sufficiently low flow resistance so as not to puncture or burst.

It is possible that the piercing means for the lid contains at least one protrusion to which the lid is adjacent when used. At least one protrusion may be at least 10%, possibly at least 25% of the portion of the surface of the receiver, which when used coincides with part of the surface area of the lid, overlapping the second, open end. In use, the cap may be supported by at least one protrusion of at least 10%, preferably at least 25% of a portion of the surface area of the cap, overlapping a second, open end. The alternative capsule lid may be punctured by such piercing means, although the parameters of the output filter of the capsule system of the invention can be easily selected so that the output filter has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forms a sufficiently low flow resistance so as not to pierce or torn.

It is possible that the piercing means for the lid and / or at least one protrusion contains edges, while the edges are not sharp. The edges may have a radius of at least 50 μm, preferably at least 100 μm. The alternative capsule lid may be punctured by such piercing means, although the parameters of the output filter of the capsule system of the invention can be easily selected so that the output filter has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forms a sufficiently low flow resistance so as not to pierce or torn.

In an embodiment, the plurality of outlet openings are distributed substantially over the entire surface of the lid. This provides the advantage that the beverage can be drained from the capsule substantially across the entire cross section of the interior. Consequently, the beverage can flow out of the interior very evenly.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the entire interior is occupied by the extractable product. This provides the advantage that the product to be extracted cannot move in the interior when the fluid flows into the capsule, so that preferred paths cannot be formed.

Preferably, the lower portion is integral with the annular wall. This provides the advantage that the capsule can simply be formed, in a general sense, from a cup-shaped structure forming an annular wall and a lower part and, for example, a leaf-shaped lid. The cover may be attached to the annular wall, for example, by gluing, welding, folding or the like.

In an embodiment, the capsule comprises an inner rim extending at the first end, with the lower portion attached to the rim extending inside. Therefore, it is possible to attach, for example, a leaf-shaped lower part containing an inlet filter to the rim. Thus, a simple capsule design can be obtained. It is also possible for the capsule to contain a rim extending internally at a second end, with the lid attached to the rim extending inside.

In an embodiment, the capsule comprises an outer rim extending at the second end, the lid being attached to the outer rim extending. Therefore, it is possible to attach, for example, a leaf-shaped cover containing an outlet filter to the rim. Thus, a simple capsule design can be obtained. It is also possible for the capsule to comprise an outer rim extending at the first end, while the lower one is attached to the rim extending externally.

In a specific embodiment, the capsule further comprises a seal of the lower part, at least partially detachably connected to the lower part, for sealing the inlet filter before use. Therefore, the passage of air into the interior through the inlet filter prior to use of the capsule can be prevented by extending the shelf life of the product inside the capsule.

In a specific embodiment, the capsule further comprises a cap seal, at least partially removably connected to the cap, to seal the outlet filter prior to use. Therefore, the passage of air into the interior through the outlet filter prior to use of the capsule can be prevented by extending the shelf life of the product inside the capsule.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the cap seal is positioned to partially detach from the cap under the influence of fluid pressure in the interior while remaining attached to the cap in at least one place. Therefore, sealing the lid does not require removal of the capsule from the capsule by the user. When the fluid enters the interior, the pressure will increase until the seal partially detaches from the lid and the beverage can flow out of the outlet filter. A detachable joint may, for example, be formed as a peelable seal. Since the cap seal is permanently attached to the cap in at least one place, the cap seal will not completely detach from the capsule. This has the advantage that the lid seal will automatically detach from the device when opening the capsule in use.

In general, the annular wall may be made of flexible, optionally porous, sheet material or foil, for example filter paper, preferably inseparably with the bottom. Therefore, a very simple and additionally environmentally friendly capsule can be provided.

Alternatively, the annular wall may substantially be rigid. This provides the advantage that the capsule is not prone to deformation prior to use, so that the capsule can easily fit into the receiver. Preferably, the capsule contains stiffeners inseparable from the annular wall and / or bottom to increase the stiffness of the capsule.

In general, the annular wall may be of any shape, for example, cylindrical, hemispherical, truncated cone, or polygonal, for example hexagonal or octagonal.

Preferably, the extractable product contains roasted and ground coffee. Thus, the capsule is suitable for preparing a predetermined amount of coffee by supplying a predetermined amount of hot water under pressure into the capsule.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the extractable product is firmly packed in a tablet. This provides the advantage that the risk of the appearance of preferred flow paths in the tablet of the densely laid extractable product is reduced. It should be understood that when using a tightly packed tablet, the lower part can be excluded from the capsule, since the risk of crowding out the extracted product is significantly reduced.

Preferably, the tablet comprises at least one channel extending from the side of the tablet facing the inlet area in the direction of the lid. Thus, the channel provides an infusion agent to wet the tablets in an even manner.

It is also possible that the extractable product fits tightly into a plurality of tablets, preferably with mutually different packaging densities. For example, it is possible that the extractable product is provided as one stack of tablets having mutually different degrees of compression. For example, it is possible for the compression ratio to increase per tablet in the direction from the bottom to the lid. Thus, the force to completely wet the tablet will also increase in the direction from the bottom to the lid, ensuring that each one upstream of the tablet is properly wetted, while wetting more downstream of the tablet, thus providing a very uniform wetting of the entire volume of extractable product.

The invention also relates to a method for preparing a beverage and a capsule for preparing a beverage.

The invention will now be further explained by means of, non-limiting, examples referring to the drawings.

In FIG. 1a-1c show a prior art system for preparing a beverage.

Figure 2 shows a first embodiment of a system in accordance with the invention.

In FIG. 3a-3d show embodiments of capsules in accordance with the invention.

In FIG. 4a-4c show examples of further embodiments of a capsule 2 in accordance with the invention.

In FIG. 5a and 5b show examples of still further embodiments of a capsule in accordance with the invention.

In FIG. 1a-1c show a prior art system 101 for preparing a predetermined quantity of beverage suitable for consumption using an extractable product. The system 101 comprises a replaceable capsule 102 and a device 104. The device 104 comprises a receiver 106 for holding the replaceable capsule 102. In FIG. 1a-1c, a gap is shown between the capsule 102 and the receiver 106 for clarity. It should be understood that when used, the capsule 102 may be in contact with the receiver 106. Typically, the receiver 106 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the capsule 102. The device 104 further comprises a device 108 for filling fluid to supply a certain amount of fluid, such as water, under pressure, for example, 9 bar per replaceable capsule 102.

In the system 101 shown in FIG. 1a-1c, the replaceable capsule 102 comprises an annular wall 110, a lower portion 112 covering the annular wall 110 at the first end 114, and a lid 116 covering the annular wall 110 at the second end 118 opposite the lower part 112. The annular wall 110, the lower part 112 and a lid 116 encloses an interior 120 containing an extractable product.

System 101 of FIG. 1a-1c comprises piercing means 122 for the lower part for piercing capsule 102. In FIG. 1a shows piercing means 122 for the lower part in the retracted position. In FIG. 1b shows piercing means 122 for the lower part in the extended position to form an inlet 124 in the lower part 112 for supplying fluid to the extracted product through the inlet 124. FIG. 1a-1c, the piercing means 122 comprise a conduit 126 through which fluid can be supplied to an extractable product contained in the interior 120. The system 101 in FIG. 1a-1c further comprises lid piercing means 128 implemented here in the form of protrusions for piercing the lid 116 of the capsule 102.

The system 101 shown in FIG. 1a-1c is operated as described below for preparing a cup of coffee, wherein the product to be extracted is roasted and ground coffee.

The capsule 102 is placed in the receiver 106 (see Fig. 1A). The piercing means for the lower part are actuated to pierce the lower part 112 of the capsule 102 (see Fig. 1b) to make the inlet 124. The fluid, here is pressurized hot water, is supplied to the product to be extracted into the inner space 120 through the inlet 124. Water will moisten the coffee grounds and extract the necessary substances to form a coffee beverage.

During the supply of pressurized water to the interior 120, the pressure inside the capsule 102 will increase. The increase in pressure will cause the lid 116 to deform and press against the lancing means 128 for the lid. Once the pressure reaches a certain level, the tensile strength of the cap 116 will be exceeded and the cap will burst on the piercing means 128 for the cap, making the outlet openings 130 (see Fig. 1C). The finished coffee is drained from the capsule 102 through the outlet openings 130 and outlets 132 of the receiver 106 and can be dispensed into a container, such as a cup (not shown).

During the preparation of the beverage in the system 101 shown in FIG. 1a-1c, preferred flow paths may occur in the product being extracted in the interior 120 of capsule 102. These preferred paths may extend from inlet 124 to outlet 130. One such possible preferred path is indicated by the PP line in FIG. 1s

In FIG. 2 shows an example of a first embodiment of a system 1 in accordance with the invention for preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product. The system 1 comprises a replaceable capsule 2 and a device 104. The device 104 comprises a receiver 106 for holding the replaceable capsule 2. In this example, the receiver 106 has a shape corresponding to that of the capsule 2. In FIG. 2, a gap is shown between the capsule 2 and the receiver 106 for clarity. It should be understood that when using the capsule 2 may be in contact with the receiver 106. The device 104 further comprises a device 108 for filling fluid to supply a certain amount of fluid, such as water, under pressure, in a removable capsule 2.

In the system 1 shown in FIG. 2, the replaceable capsule 2 comprises an annular wall 10, a lower part 12 covering the annular wall 10 at the first end 14, and a cover 16 covering the annular wall 10 at the second end 18 opposite the lower part 12. The annular wall 10, the lower part 12 and the lid 16 enclose an interior space 20 containing an extractable product. In this example, the replacement capsule 2 contains a quantity of extractable product suitable for preparing one serving of a drink, preferably one cup of a drink, for example from 30 to 200 ml of a finished drink. The replaceable capsule is thus a single serving cartridge.

According to a first aspect of the invention, system 1 of FIG. 2 comprises piercing means 122 for the lower part for piercing the capsule 102 of the prior art, as shown in FIG. 1a-1c. In FIG. 2 shows piercing means for the lower part in an extended position for making an inlet 124 in the lower part 112 of the capsule 102 of the prior art. According to the invention, the capsule 2 comprises an inlet filter 34, which is located at a distance from the piercing means 12 for the bottom so that the capsule 2 is not pierced by the piercing means 122 for the bottom and the bottom 12 remains intact when the piercing means for the bottom are brought to the extended position.

In FIG. 2, the piercing means 122 comprises a channel 126 through which fluid is supplied to the interior of the receiver 106. The fluid, here is hot water, under pressure, for example, greater than 6 bar, will flow through the inlet filter 34 into the interior 20 of the capsule 2 to extract the necessary substances from the product being extracted, in this example about 7 g of roasted and ground coffee, to make one cup of the drink, here it is coffee.

Thus, more generally, in the example of FIG. 2, the lower part 12 comprises an inlet region formed by the inlet filter 34, and the system 1 is arranged to drive the fluid dispenser 108 in fluid communication with the inlet region for supplying the fluid to the extractable beverage product.

In the example of FIG. 2, the annular wall 10 is substantially rigid. The annular wall may, for example, contain plastic materials and may be formed by, for example, injection molding, injection molding, high-temperature molding, or the like. In the example of FIG. 2, the lower part 12 is integral with the annular wall. In this example, the inlet filter 34 is formed by a plurality of inlet openings 24 in the lower part 12. In this example, the plurality of inlet openings 24 are distributed substantially throughout the entire lower part 12. Thus, fluid is supplied to the product to be extracted through the plurality of inlet openings 24. which leads to wetting of the extracted product over substantially the entire cross section of capsule 2. Therefore, a very uniform flow of fluid to the extracted product is achieved. Thus, the risk of preferred paths through which fluid flows in the product being extracted is significantly reduced.

According to a second aspect of the invention, which may be implemented in addition to or separately from the first aspect described above, system 1 of FIG. 2 comprises lid piercing means 128 for piercing the lid 116 of the capsule 102 of the prior art when the lid 116 is sufficiently pressed against the lid piercing means 128 under the influence of fluid and / or beverage in the capsule 102 to perform at least one outlet 130 through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule 102 of the prior art. In accordance with the invention, the capsule 2 contains an outlet filter 36 through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule 2. The outlet filter 36 is arranged so that, having a sufficiently high tensile strength, it is not pierced by piercing means 128 for the cap under pressure inside the capsule 2 Alternatively or additionally, the output filter 36 sets a sufficiently low flow resistance for the beverage exiting the capsule 2, such that the output filter 36 is not pressed against the piercing means 128 for cr shki with sufficient force to pierce through the piercing means 128 for the lid and the lid stays intact. Therefore, the output filter 36 adapts to the lid piercing means 128 so that the capsule 2 is not pierced by the lid piercing means 128 when used and the lid 16 remains intact. More generally, this is used so that the outlet filter 36 and the lancing means 128 for the lid are adapted to each other so that the capsule 2 is not pierced by the lancing means 128 for the lid and the lid 16 remains intact.

In the example of FIG. 2, an output filter 36 forming the exit region of the capsule 2 through which the beverage, here is coffee, can merge from the capsule, made of a porous sheet material, for example filter paper. In this example, the entire cover 16 is formed as an output filter 36. In the example of FIG. 2, capsule 2 comprises an outer rim 38 extending at the second end 18, with the lid 16 attached to the outer rim 38 extending by gluing, welding, or the like. Therefore, in this example, the output filter 36, i.e. a porous sheet material attached to an outer rim 38.

In this example, the output filter 36 forms a substantially continuous fluid-permeable sheet material, overlapping substantially the entire second, open end 18 of the capsule 2. Thus, the fluid can be drained from the capsule 2 through a large area. Therefore, a very uniform discharge of the beverage from the extractable product is achieved. Thus, the risk of preferred paths through which fluid flows in the product being extracted is significantly reduced.

In general, the output filter parameters of the capsule 2 of system 1 in accordance with the invention can be selected so that the output filter does not burst or burst, for example, has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forms a sufficiently low flow resistance so as not to pierce or burst. It should be understood that the lid and / or outlet filter may be deformed on the lancing means for the lid, although it will not break or tear. When the output filter 36, for example, is made of filter paper, filter paper parameters, such as density, thickness and / or polyethylene content, can be easily selected to provide an output filter having a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forming a sufficiently low flow resistance. Alternatively, when the output filter 36, for example, is made of a polymer film made with many outlet openings, the parameters of the polymer foil, for example density, thickness, number of outlet openings, size and / or shape of the outlet openings, can be easily selected to provide a third a wall having a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forming a sufficiently low flow resistance.

In the example of FIG. 2, piercing means 128 for a cap are shown having sharp toothed ends for piercing the cap. It should be understood that, as an alternative, the piercing means 128 for the lid may have blunt piercing surfaces, for example, as indicated by dotted lines in FIG. 2. In such an embodiment, the capsule 102 of the prior art can nevertheless be pierced by blunt piercing means 128, for example, when the lid 116 consists of a sheet of aluminum foil. The output filter parameters of the capsule 2 of the system in accordance with the invention can be selected so that the output filter has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forms a sufficiently low flow resistance so as not to pierce or burst. It should be understood that when the piercing means for the lid are dull, the parameters of the outlet filter can be selected so as to fit these dull piercing means. When the piercing means are blunt, the outlet filter may, for example, be thinner than when the piercing means for the cap are sharp, while ensuring that the outlet filter has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forms a sufficiently low flow resistance so as not to pierce or torn.

It is possible that the piercing means for the lid comprises protrusions to which the lid is adjacent during use. Such protrusions can be formed by blunt piercing means 128, as shown by dashed lines in FIG. 2. The protrusions may, for example, be at least 10%, possibly at least 25% of the portion of the surface of the receiver 106, which when used coincides with part of the surface area of the cover 16, overlapping the second, open end 18. Therefore, in use, cap 16 may be supported by protrusions of, for example, at least 10%, preferably at least 25% of a portion of the surface area of cap 16, overlapping the second, open end 18. As already indicated, cap 116 of capsule 102 of the foregoing prior art can be pierced after by means of such protrusions despite the fact that the parameters of the output filter 36 of the capsule 2 of the system 1 in accordance with the invention can be easily selected so that the output filter has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forms a sufficiently low flow resistance so as not to pierce or burst. It should be understood that when the piercing means for the lid contains protrusions, the parameters of the output filter can be selected so as to fit such piercing means for the lid.

In the example of FIG. The 2 tabs contain edges that are not sharp. In this example, the radius of curvature of the edges is approximately 50 μm, although other radii are possible, for example, 100, 200 or 500 μm. The capsule 102 of the prior art can nevertheless be pierced by blunt piercing means 128, for example, when the lid 116 consists of a sheet of aluminum foil. It should be understood that when the piercing means for the lid contain non-sharp edges, the parameters of the outlet filter can be selected so as to fit such piercing means for the lid. The output filter parameters of the capsule 2 of the system in accordance with the invention can be selected so that the output filter has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forms a sufficiently low flow resistance so as not to pierce or burst.

It is also possible that the protrusions of the cap piercing means 128 have a convex apex to which the cap 16 abuts. Therefore, when the cap is pressed against the protrusions in use, the surface area on which the cap is supported by the protrusions increases, thereby reducing the local pressure exerted on the lid protrusions. Thus, it is possible to ensure in a simple manner that the lid is not torn and / or burst when used, but remains intact.

In FIG. 3a-3d show embodiments of capsules 2 in accordance with the invention.

In FIG. 3a, the lower part 12 is integral with the annular wall 10, as in FIG. 2. The inlet filter 34 is formed by a plurality of inlets 24 in the lower part 12. The outlet filter 36 is made of a foil 40, for example a flexible polymer foil made with a plurality of outlet openings 30.

In FIG. 3b, the output filter 36 is made of flexible porous sheet material, for example filter paper, as in FIG. 2. In FIG. 3b, the inlet filter 34 is also made of flexible porous sheet material, for example filter paper. In this example, the inlet filter is attached to the inside-extending rim 42. In this example, the inlet filter 34 is attached to the inside of the ongoing inside rim 42. This maximizes the internal volume of the capsule 2, since the thickness of the rim is not located in the inner space 20 of the capsule 2.

In FIG. 3c, the output filter 36 is made of flexible porous sheet material, for example filter paper, as in FIG. 2 and 3b. In FIG. 3c, the inlet filter 34 is also made of flexible porous sheet material, for example filter paper. In this example, the inlet filter 34 is attached to the outside of the inside of the rim 42. Consequently, the risk of fluid under pressure tearing the inlet filter 34 from the inside of the rim 42 is reduced. It is possible for the inlet filter 34 to protrude from the annular edge of the lower portion. Therefore, a large surface area is available for attaching the inlet filter 34 to the bottom 12 and the annular wall 10, resulting in a stronger connection.

In FIG. The 3d output filter 36 is made of foil 40, for example a flexible polymer foil made with a plurality of outlet openings 30, as in FIG. 3a. In FIG. 3d input filter 34 is also made of foil 44 made with many inlets 24.

In all embodiments of FIG. 3a-3d output filter is made of flexible sheet material. More specifically, in all embodiments of FIG. 3a-3d, only the lid is made of flexible sheet material. It has been found that in general, to maintain the output foil to prevent tearing and / or tearing of the output foil, a supporting structure, such as a substantially rigid mesh, for example, further downstream of the output foil, is not required.

In all embodiments of FIG. 3b-3d inlet filter is made of flexible sheet material. More specifically, in all embodiments of FIG. 3b-3d, only the input region is made of flexible sheet material. It has been found that, in general, a supporting structure, such as a substantially rigid mesh, for example, further downstream of the input foil, is not required to maintain the input foil to prevent breakage and / or destruction of the input foil.

In all embodiments of FIG. 3a-3d, the output filter defines the outer boundary of the capsule in its axial direction.

It should be understood that the capsule 2 may contain any input filter in accordance with any one of the shown embodiments, in combination with any output filter, in accordance with any one of the shown embodiments. Although not shown, it is possible for the lid to comprise a substantially rigid wall formed with outlet openings 30.

In general, the outlet openings 30 or pores of the porous sheet material are dimensioned so that the size of the opening 30 or pores is small enough to hold an extractable product, such as ground coffee, inside the capsule 2. Also in general, the inlet openings 24 or the pores of the porous the sheet material is dimensioned so that the size of the hole 24 or pore is small enough to hold the extractable product, such as ground coffee, inside the capsule 2.

In general, the inlet openings 24 are preferably distributed substantially over the entire surface of the bottom or foil 44, at least substantially the entire surface of the hole defined by the rim 42 extending inside. Additionally, the inlets 24 are also located on the annular wall 10, for example in the area of the annular wall 10, near the first end 14. This makes it possible to uniformly supply fluid to the extractable product inside the capsule 2.

In general, the outlet openings 30 are preferably distributed over substantially the entire surface of the lid or foil 40, at least substantially the entire surface of the opening defined by the rim 38 extending externally. This allows the beverage to be uniformly drained from the extractable product inside the capsule 2.

In the examples of FIG. 2, 3a-3d, the inlets 24 and the outlets 30 have a circular cross section. Holes 24, 30 with a circular cross section are easy to manufacture. Additionally, the cross section of the inlet openings 24 is reduced (flattened) towards the interior of 20. This provides the advantage that the inlets work as nozzles to cause a jet of fluid to enter the interior of 20.

It should be understood that the inlets 24 and / or outlets 30 may also have alternative shapes. The holes 24, 30 may, for example, be in the form of elongated slots. Preferably, the small size of the slits is small enough to hold the extractable product inside the capsule 2.

In a particular embodiment, the slots may have a shape that forms a tongue in the plane of the bottom. In this case, the slots may have a substantially U-shape, for example a semicircular, horseshoe-shaped, rectangular or V-shaped. This has the advantage that the tongue can be bent from the plane of the lower part under the influence of the fluid flow through the hole defined by the tongue. In this way, a greater volume of fluid flow can be achieved. If the lower part is made of elastic material, the tongue will bend back to the plane of the lower part as soon as the flow of fluid stops, thus preventing spilling of the extracted product after and possibly before the preparation of the drink. It should be understood that the slots that define the tongue can be applied to the lid, making the necessary changes.

In FIG. 4a shows an example of a further embodiment of a capsule 2 in accordance with the invention. In FIG. 4a shows a modification of the capsule shown in FIG. 3a. It should be understood that this modification can be applied to any of the aforementioned capsules 2. In the example of FIG. 4a, capsule 2 further comprises a lower portion seal 46. The bottom seal 46 seals the inlets 24 (or porous sheet material) prior to use. The lower portion seal 46 is at least partially removably connected to the lower portion 12. In this example, the lower portion seal 46 includes a protrusion 48 to allow easy removal of the lower portion seal 46 by the user of the capsule 2. FIG. 4a, capsule 2 further comprises a cap seal 50. Cover seal 50 seals outlet openings 30 (or porous sheet material) prior to use. The cap seal 50 is at least partially detachably connected to the cap 16. In this example, the cap seal 50 includes a protrusion 52 to allow easy removal of the cap seal 50 by the user of the capsule 2. The bottom seal 46 and the cap seal 50 extend the shelf life of the product inside the capsule by preventing air from entering the capsule through openings 24, 30 or porous sheet material.

In a specific embodiment (not shown), the protrusion 46 of the bottom seal is connected to the protrusion 52 of the seal 50 of the cover. Thus, the lower portion seal 46 and the cap seal 50 can be integrally formed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent that the user accidentally forgets to remove one of: the seals of the lower part and the seals of the cover.

In FIG. 4b and 4c show an example of a top view of a further embodiment of the capsule 2 when viewed from the side of the lid 16. FIG. 4b and 4c, the capsule comprises a cap seal 50. The seal 50 of the cover is attached to the cover 16 by means of a detachable seal 54. In this example, the detachable seal forms a circular seal located adjacent to the annular edge of the cover 16. The detachable seal 54 is disposed so as to detach from the cover 16 under the influence of fluid pressure in the interior 20. The split seal may, for example, be a tear-off seal with a predetermined release force. Therefore, it is not required that the user remove the lid seal 50 from the capsule 2, since the seal opens automatically when preparing the beverage.

In FIG. 4b and 4c, the cap seal 50 is further attached to the cap 16 by an integral connection 56. The integral connection may, for example, be an adhesive or weld connection. In FIG. 4b, an integral connection is located near the center of the lid. In FIG. 4c, an integral connection 56 is located adjacent to the annular edge of the lid. This provides the advantage that the releasable seal can be detached under pressure to allow the beverage to drain from the capsule, while the cap seal 50 remains attached to the cap 16 in at least one place. Therefore, the cap seal 50 does not require separate removal, improving usability, and cannot be lost.

It should be understood that, in exchange for or in addition to being attached to the cap, the cap seal 50 can also be attached to the rim adjacent to the second end 18 and / or to the annular wall 14.

It should be understood that the capsule 2 can be likewise alternatively or additionally provided with a seal 46 of the lower part, for example, located on the inner side of the lower part 12, arranged so as to disconnect from the lower part 12 under the action of the fluid pressure supplied to capsule 2, and further provided with at least one integral connection between the lower part and the seal 46 of the lower part. It should be understood that, in addition to or in addition to being attached to the lower part 12, the seal 46 of the lower part can also be attached to the rim located near the first end 14 and / or to the annular wall 14.

It should also be understood that the cap seal 50 and / or the bottom seal 46 can also be used in conjunction with alternative capsules in which the cap does not form the outer border of the capsule in its axial direction, for example, a capsule having an axially extending rim extending above covers.

Preferably, the annular wall is substantially rigid. Therefore, the capsule will not be prone to deformation upon delivery and / or handling, so capsule 2 will always adapt in the receiver 106. In addition, the annular wall is preferably resilient, so that any possible deformation of the annular first wall will be corrected as soon as the force causing the deformation is removed. To improve the rigidity of the capsule 2, the capsule 2 may comprise stiffeners inseparable from the annular wall 10. The stiffeners can extend from the first end 14 towards the second end 18. Alternatively or additionally, the stiffeners can extend in the circumferential direction. When the lower part 12 is integral with the annular wall 10, the ribs can also be integral with the lower part 12.

However, it is possible that the annular wall is made of flexible, for example, porous, sheet material or foil, preferably inseparably with the bottom. Therefore, essentially the entire capsule can be made of flexible sheet material, reducing the amount of material required to provide the capsule. Additionally, the rim extending from the outside can be substantially rigid to improve the handling of the capsule.

In the examples, the annular wall essentially has the shape of a truncated cone. It should be understood that the capsule in accordance with the invention is not limited to this form. The annular wall may be, for example, cylindrical, hemispherical or polygonal, for example hexagonal, octagonal, etc.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the extractable product in the interior 20 is tightly packed. In FIG. 5a shows an example in which the extractable product is tightly packed into a plurality, in this example four, tablets 58, 60, 62, 64. In FIG. 5a, the tablets are arranged one above the other in the interior space 20. In FIG. 5a, each tablet 58, 60, 62, 64 overlaps substantially the entire cross section of capsule 2. In this example, the density, i.e. the compression ratio of the tablets is different for each of the tablets. The density of the tablets 58, 60, 62, 64 increases in the direction from the bottom 12 to the cover 16. This provides the advantage that the fluid will make it easier to wet a tablet with a lower density than a tablet with a higher density, thus each upstream tablet is properly wetted, while water wetts the next downstream tablet. Thus, a highly uniform wetting of the extracted product is achieved. Although the example shows four tablets placed one above the other, it should be understood that any number of tablets may be used.

In FIG. 5b shows an example of a capsule 2 containing one tablet 66 of a densely packed extractable product. In the example of FIG. 5b, the tablet 66 contains channels 68 extending in the tablet 66 from the side of the tablet 66 facing the bottom 12 towards the cover 16. The length of the channels 68 is shorter than the thickness of the tablet 66 in the direction along the channel 68. Thus, the channels 68 do not form the shortest passages for the fluid through the tablet 66, but allow fluid to pass into the center of the tablet 66. These channels allow a predetermined penetration of the fluid into the tablet. In this way, a preferred wetting of the densely laid extractable product can be obtained.

In the examples of FIG. 5a and 5b, the inlet filter 34 and the capsule outlet filter 36 are essentially as shown in FIG. 3s It should be understood that tablet 66 or a plurality of tablets 58, 60, 62, 64 can be used in conjunction with any of the above capsules 2. It should also be understood that if the extractable product is firmly packed in the tablet (s), the lower part 12 of the capsule is not strictly necessary since the product being extracted is probably not displaced from the capsule before use.

It should be understood that the aforementioned capsules 2 can also be used in an alternative device for preparing a beverage, for example in a device not provided with piercing means for the lower part and / or not provided with piercing means for the lid.

In the foregoing description, the invention has been described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes can be made here without departing from the broader idea and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

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

It is also possible that the lower part contains a recessed area for accommodating the piercing means for the lower part, without piercing the lower part, in order to increase the volume of the capsule.

In the above examples, the output filter forms a cover. It is also possible for the output filter to form part of the cap. The cover may, for example, be partially porous and / or partially perforated.

In the above examples, the inlet filter forms a lower part. It is also possible for the inlet filter to form a portion of the bottom. The lower part may, for example, be partially porous and / or partially perforated.

However, other modifications, changes, and alternatives are also possible. Descriptions, drawings and examples, respectively, are to be considered in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

In the claims, any reference to the drawings should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word “comprising” does not exclude the presence of other features or steps in addition to those provided in the claims. The singular means “at least one” and does not exclude the plural. The presentation of specific features in various claims does not preclude the possibility of an advantageous combination of these features.

The original international application contained the following claims, which are included here for completeness:

1. A system for preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product comprising:

replaceable capsule, and

a device containing a receiver for holding the replaceable capsule, and a device for filling a fluid to supply a certain amount of fluid, for example water, under pressure into the replaceable capsule,

in which the replaceable capsule comprises an annular wall, a lower part covering the annular wall at the first end, and a lid covering the annular wall at the second end opposite the lower part, wherein the wall, lower part and lid enclose the interior space containing the product to be extracted,

in which the lower part contains the inlet region, and the system is arranged to bring the device for filling the fluid into fluid interaction with the inlet region for supplying fluid to the extracted product for the preparation of the drink,

in which the lid contains an outlet region and the system contains an outlet, which, when used, is in fluid communication with the outlet region for draining the finished beverage from the capsule and feeding the beverage into a container, for example, a cup,

in which the receiver contains piercing means for the lower part, designed to pierce the inlet region of the alternative capsule to make at least one inlet for supplying fluid to the extracted product through the specified at least one inlet, and

wherein the inlet region of the system capsule contains an inlet filter for supplying fluid to the product to be extracted, through which the inlet filter, when used, is spaced apart from the piercing means for the bottom so that the capsule of the system is not pierced by piercing means for the bottom, and the lower part remains intact.

2. The system according to claim 1, in which the receiver contains piercing means for the lid, designed to pierce the outlet region of the alternative capsule, when the outlet region is sufficiently pressed against the piercing means for the lid under the action of the pressure of the fluid and / or drink in the capsule to perform, at least one outlet through which the beverage may be drained from an alternative capsule, and

wherein the exit region of the system capsule comprises an exit filter through which the beverage can be drained from the system capsule, wherein the lid piercing means and the exit filter are adapted to each other so that the system capsule, when used, is not pierced by the lid piercing means and the lid remains intact.

3. A system for preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product comprising:

replaceable capsule, and

a device containing a receiver for holding the replaceable capsule, and a device for filling a fluid to supply a certain amount of fluid, for example water, under pressure into the replaceable capsule,

in which the replaceable capsule comprises an annular wall, a lower part covering the annular wall at the first end, and a lid covering the annular wall at the second end opposite the lower part, wherein the wall, lower part and lid enclose the interior space containing the product to be extracted,

in which the lower part contains the inlet region, and the system is arranged to bring the device for filling the fluid into fluid interaction with the inlet region for supplying fluid to the extracted product for the preparation of the drink,

in which the lid contains an outlet region and the system contains an outlet, which, when used, is in fluid communication with the outlet region for draining the finished beverage from the capsule and feeding the beverage into a container, for example, a cup,

wherein the receiver comprises lid piercing means for piercing the exit region of the alternative capsule when the exit region is sufficiently pressed against the lid piercing means under the influence of fluid and / or beverage pressure in the capsule to make at least one outlet which drink can be merged from an alternative capsule, and

wherein the exit region of the system capsule comprises an outlet filter through which the beverage can be drained from the system capsule, wherein the lid piercing means and the exit filter are adapted to each other so that the system capsule, when used, is not pierced by the lid piercing means and the lid remains intact.

4. The system according to claim 3, in which the receiver contains piercing means for the lower part, designed to pierce the inlet region of the alternative capsule to make at least one inlet for supplying fluid to the extracted product through the specified at least one inlet, and

wherein the inlet region of the system capsule contains an inlet filter for supplying fluid to the product to be extracted, through which the inlet filter, when used, is spaced apart from the piercing means for the bottom so that the system capsule is not pierced by piercing means for the bottom and bottom part remains intact.

5. The system according to any one of paragraphs. 1, 2 or 4, in which the input filter is made of:

flexible porous sheet material, for example, filter paper,

flexible foil, for example, a polymer foil made with many inlets, or

multiple inlets provided at the bottom of the capsule system.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the plurality of inlets are distributed substantially over the entire surface of the foil or lower portion, respectively.

7. The system of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the plurality of inlets comprises lateral inlets located on the annular wall.

8. The system according to any one of paragraphs. 5-7, in which the inlets have a circular cross section.

9. The system of claim 8, in which the cross section of the inlet is reduced towards the inner space.

10. The system according to any one of paragraphs. 5-7, in which the inlets are slots.

11. The system according to any one of paragraphs. 5-10, in which the inlets are arranged to open under pressure.

12. The system, at least according to claim 2 or claim 3, in which the output filter is adapted to the piercing means for the lid so that the capsule of the system, when used, is not pierced by the piercing means for the lid and the lid remains intact.

13. The system according to item 12, in which the output filter has a sufficiently high tensile strength and / or forms a sufficiently low flow resistance so that the capsule of the system, when used, is not punctured by means of piercing means for the cap and the cap remains intact.

14. The system of claims 2, 3, 4 or 5-13, since they are dependent on claim 2 or claim 3, in which the output filter defines the outer boundary of the capsule in its axial direction.

15. The system of claims 2, 3, 4 or 5-14, since they are dependent on claim 2 or claim 3, in which the output filter is made of:

flexible porous sheet material, for example, filter paper, or

flexible foil, for example, a polymer foil made with many inlets, or

multiple outlet openings provided in the cover.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the plurality of outlet openings are distributed substantially over the entire surface of the lid.

17. The system, at least according to claim 2 or claim 3, in which the piercing means for the cover have a blunt piercing surface.

18. The system, at least according to claim 2 or claim 3, in which the piercing means for the lid contain at least one protrusion to which the lid, when used, is adjacent.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the at least one protrusion is at least 10%, preferably at least 25% of the portion of the surface of the receiver, which, when used, coincides with part of the surface area of the lid overlapping the second, open end.

20. The system of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein, in use, the lid is supported by at least one protrusion of at least 10%, preferably at least 25% of a portion of the surface area of the lid, blocking the second, open end.

21. The system according to any one of p-20, in which the piercing means for the cover and / or at least one protrusion contains edges, while the edges are not sharp.

22. The system according to item 21, in which the edges have a radius of curvature of at least 50 microns, preferably at least 100 microns.

23. The system according to any one of paragraphs.18-22, in which at least one protrusion has a convex vertex.

24. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 23, in which the entire internal space is occupied by the extracted product.

25. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 24, in which the lower part is integral with the annular wall.

26. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 25, in which the capsule contains a rim extending inside the rim at the first end, the lower part being attached to the rim extending inside.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the inlet filter is attached to an ongoing rim inside.

28. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 27, in which the capsule contains an outer rim extending at the second end, and the lid is attached to the outer rim extending outside.

29. The system of claim 28, wherein the output filter is attached to a rim extending externally.

30. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 29, in which the lower part and / or cover extends to the annular wall.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein the inlet filter and / or outlet filter extends to the annular wall.

32. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the fluid dispensing device is arranged to supply fluid to the replaceable capsule at a pressure of about 4-20 bar, preferably 9-15 bar.

33. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 32, in which the capsule further comprises a seal of the lower part, at least partially detachably connected to the lower part, for sealing the inlet filter before use.

34. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the capsule further comprises a cap seal, at least partially removably connected to the cap, to seal the outlet filter prior to use.

35. The system according to clause 34, in which the seal of the cover is located in order to partially disconnect from the cover under the action of fluid pressure in the inner space, while remaining attached to the cover in at least one place.

36. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 35, in which the annular wall is made of sheet material or foil, preferably inseparably with the lower part.

37. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 35, in which the annular wall is essentially rigid.

38. The system according to clause 37, in which the capsule contains stiffeners inseparable with an annular wall and / or lower part.

39. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 38, in which the annular wall is cylindrical, hemispherical, truncated cone or polygonal, for example, hexagonal or octagonal.

40. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 39, in which the extracted product contains roasted and ground coffee.

41. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 40, in which the extracted product is tightly packed in a tablet.

42. The system according to paragraph 41, in which the tablet contains at least one channel extending from the side of the tablet facing the input region in the direction of the lid.

43. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 42, in which the extracted product is tightly packed in many tablets, preferably with a mutually different packaging density.

44. A method of preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product comprising:

providing a removable capsule comprising an annular wall, a lower part covering the annular wall at the first end, and a lid covering the annular wall at the second end opposite the lower part, wherein the wall, lower part and lid enclose an interior space containing the extractable product,

providing a device comprising a receiver for holding the interchangeable capsule, a fluid dispensing device for supplying a certain amount of fluid, for example water, under pressure into the interchangeable capsule, and an outlet that, when used, is in fluid communication with the draining capsule the finished beverage from the capsule and the beverage is dispensed into a container, for example, a cup, while the receiver contains piercing means for the lower part, designed to pierce the lower part of the alternative capsule for at least one inlet for supplying fluid to the extracted product through the specified at least one inlet, and

supplying fluid to the product to be extracted to prepare a beverage,

in which the lower part of the system capsule contains an inlet filter for supplying fluid to the extracted product through it, the inlet filter of which, when used, is located at a distance from the piercing means for the lower part so that the capsule of the system is not pierced by piercing means for the lower part and the lower part remains intact.

45. The method according to item 44, in which the receiver contains piercing means for the lid, designed to pierce the lid of the alternative capsule, when the lid is sufficiently pressed against the piercing means for the lid under the action of fluid pressure and / or drink in the capsule to perform at least one outlet through which the beverage can be drained from an alternative capsule, and

wherein the capsule lid of the system contains an outlet filter through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule of the system, wherein the lancing means for the lid and the outlet filter are adapted to each other so that the system capsule, when used, is not pierced by the lancing means for the lid and the lid remains intact.

46. A method of preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product comprising:

providing a removable capsule comprising an annular wall, a lower part covering the annular wall at the first end, and a lid covering the annular wall at the second end opposite the lower part, wherein the wall, lower part and lid enclose an interior space containing the extractable product,

providing a device comprising a receiver for holding the interchangeable capsule, a fluid dispensing device for supplying a certain amount of fluid, for example water, under pressure into the interchangeable capsule, and an outlet that, when used, is in fluid communication with the draining capsule the finished beverage from the capsule and the beverage is dispensed into a container, such as a cup, wherein the receiver includes lid piercing means for piercing the lid when the lid is sufficiently pressed against the lid causing means for the lid under the effect of fluid pressure and / or beverage in the capsule for performing at least one outlet opening through which the beverage can be discharged from the alternative capsule, and

supplying fluid to the product to be extracted to prepare a beverage,

wherein the capsule lid of the system contains an outlet filter through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule of the system, wherein the lancing means for the lid and the outlet filter are adapted to each other so that the system capsule, when used, is not pierced by the lancing means for the lid and the lid remains intact.

47. The method according to item 46, in which the receiver contains a piercing means for the lower part, designed to pierce the lower part of the alternative capsule to make at least one inlet for supplying fluid to the extracted product through the specified at least one inlet, and

in which the lower part of the capsule of the system contains an inlet filter for supplying fluid to the extracted product through which the inlet filter, when used, is located at a distance from the piercing means for the lower part so that the capsule of the system is not pierced by piercing means for the lower part and the lower part remains intact.

48. The method according to any one of claims 44-47, using the system according to any one of claims 1 to 43.

49. The capsule of the system according to any one of claims 1 to 43.

50. A capsule for preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product containing:

an annular wall, a lower part covering the annular wall at the first end, and a lid covering the annular wall at the second end, opposite the lower part, wherein the wall, lower part and lid enclose the interior space containing the extractable product,

in which the lower part contains an inlet area located for supplying through it a fluid under pressure to the extracted product for the preparation of the drink,

in which the lid contains an outlet area for draining through it the finished drink from the capsule, and

in which the inlet region of the capsule contains an inlet filter for supplying fluid to the extracted product through it.

51. The capsule of claim 50, wherein the exit region comprises an exit filter through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule.

52. A capsule for preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product containing:

an annular wall, a lower part covering the annular wall at the first end, and a lid covering the annular wall at the second end, opposite the lower part, wherein the wall, lower part and lid enclose the interior space containing the extractable product,

in which the lower part contains an inlet area located for supplying through it a fluid under pressure to the extracted product for the preparation of the drink,

in which the lid contains an outlet area for draining through it the finished drink from the capsule, and

in which the outlet region of the capsule contains an outlet filter through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule.

53. The capsule according to paragraph 52, in which the inlet region of the capsule contains an inlet filter for supplying fluid through it to the extracted product.

54. Capsule according to any one of paragraphs. 50, 51 or 53, in which the input filter is made of:

flexible porous sheet material, for example, filter paper,

flexible foil, for example, a polymer foil made with many inlets, or

a plurality of inlets provided at the bottom of the capsule.

55. The capsule of claim 54, wherein the plurality of inlets are distributed substantially over the entire surface of the foil or lower portion, respectively.

56. The capsule according to claim 54 or claim 55, wherein the plurality of inlets comprises lateral inlets located on the annular wall.

57. The capsule according to any one of paragraphs.54-56, in which the inlets have a circular cross section.

58. The capsule according to clause 57, in which the cross section of the inlet is reduced towards the inner space.

59. The capsule according to any one of paragraphs.54-58, in which the inlets are slots.

60. The capsule according to any one of p. 54-59, in which the inlet is located in order to open under pressure.

61. The capsule according to any one of paragraphs. 51, 52 or 53-60, because they are dependent on p. 51 or p. 52, in which the output filter defines the outer boundary of the capsule in its axial direction.

62. Capsule according to any one of paragraphs. 51, 52 or 53-61, since they are dependent on p. 51 or p. 52, in which the output filter is made of:

flexible porous sheet material, for example, filter paper, or

flexible foil, for example, a polymer foil made with many inlets, or

multiple inlets provided in the cover.

63. The capsule of claim 62, wherein the plurality of outlet openings are distributed substantially over the entire surface of the lid.

64. The capsule according to any one of paragraphs.50-63, in which the entire internal space is occupied by the extracted product.

65. The capsule according to any one of pp 50-64, in which the lower part is inseparable from the annular wall.

66. The capsule according to any one of p.50-65, wherein the capsule contains a rim extending inside the rim at the first end, the lower part being attached to the rim extending inside.

67. The capsule of claim 66, wherein the inlet filter is attached to a rim extending inside.

68. The capsule according to any one of claims 50-67, wherein the capsule comprises an outer rim extending at the second end, the lid being attached to an outer rim extending outside.

69. The capsule of claim 68, wherein the output filter is attached to a rim extending externally.

70. The capsule according to any one of pp 50-69, in which the lower part and / or cover extends to the annular first wall.

71. The capsule of claim 70, wherein the inlet filter and / or outlet filter extends to the annular first wall.

72. The capsule according to any one of p.50-71, wherein the capsule further comprises a seal of the lower part, at least partially removably connected to the lower part, to seal the inlet filter before use.

73. The capsule according to any one of pp 50-72, wherein the capsule further comprises a cap seal, at least partially removably connected to the cap, to seal the outlet filter before use.

74. The capsule of claim 73, wherein the cap seal is disposed to partially detach from the cap under the influence of fluid pressure in the interior, while remaining attached to the cap in at least one place.

75. The capsule according to any one of pp 50-74, in which the annular wall is made of sheet material or foil, preferably inseparably with the lower part.

76. The capsule according to any one of pp 50-74, in which the annular wall is essentially rigid.

77. The capsule according to claim 76, wherein the capsule contains stiffeners inseparable with an annular wall and / or lower part.

78. The capsule according to any one of pp 50-77, in which the annular wall is cylindrical, hemispherical, truncated cone or polygonal, for example, hexagonal or octagonal.

79. The capsule according to any one of pp 50-78, in which the extracted product contains roasted and ground coffee.

80. The capsule according to any one of pp 50-79, in which the extracted product is tightly packed in a tablet.

81. The capsule of claim 80, wherein the tablet comprises at least one channel extending from the side of the tablet facing the input region toward the lid.

82. The capsule according to any one of p.50-81, in which the extracted product is tightly packed in many tablets, preferably with a mutually different packaging density.

83. The use of a capsule system according to any one of claims 1 to 43 for preparing a beverage using the device according to any one of claims 1 to 43.

84. The use of the capsule of the system according to claim 3 and claim 40, in the preparation of coffee, at least for the partial removal of the content of cafestol from coffee through the use of an output filter.

85. The use of the capsule according to paragraph 52 and paragraph 79, in the preparation of coffee, at least for the partial removal of the content of cafestol from coffee through the use of an output filter.

Claims (45)

1. Capsule for preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product containing:
an annular wall, a lower part covering the annular wall at the first end, and a lid covering the annular wall at the second end, opposite the lower part, the wall, lower part and lid covering the inner space containing the extractable product,
wherein the lower part contains an inlet area located for supplying through it a fluid under pressure to the product to be extracted for the preparation of the beverage,
wherein the lid contains an outlet area for draining through it the finished drink from the capsule, and
wherein the inlet region of the capsule comprises an inlet filter provided with a plurality of inlet openings for supplying fluid to the extracted product through it, said inlet openings being elongated slots. 2. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the outlet region comprises an outlet filter through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule. 3. A capsule for preparing a predetermined quantity of a drink suitable for consumption using an extractable product containing:
an annular wall, a lower part covering the annular wall at the first end, and a lid covering the annular wall at the second end, opposite the lower part, the wall, lower part and lid covering the inner space containing the extractable product,
wherein the lower part contains an inlet area located for supplying through it a fluid under pressure to the product to be extracted for the preparation of the beverage,
wherein the lid contains an outlet area for draining through it the finished drink from the capsule, and
wherein the outlet region of the capsule comprises an outlet filter provided with a plurality of outlet openings through which the beverage can be drained from the capsule, said inlet openings being elongated slots. 4. The capsule according to claim 3, in which the inlet region of the capsule contains an inlet filter for supplying fluid through it to the product to be extracted. 5. The capsule according to claim 1, in which the inlet filter is formed:
a flexible foil, for example a polymer foil provided with said plurality of inlets, or
said plurality of inlets provided on the bottom of the capsule. 6. The capsule according to claim 4, in which the input filter is formed:
flexible porous sheet material, such as filter paper,
a flexible foil, for example a polymer foil made with many inlets, or
a plurality of inlets provided on the bottom of the capsule. 7. The capsule according to any one of paragraphs. 1-6, in which a plurality of inlets are distributed substantially over the entire surface of the foil or lower portion, respectively. 8. The capsule according to any one of paragraphs. 1-6, wherein the plurality of inlets comprises lateral inlets located on the annular wall. 9. The capsule of claim 6, wherein the inlets have a circular cross section. 10. The capsule according to claim 9, in which the cross section of the inlet openings decreases toward the interior. 11. The capsule of claim 6, wherein said inlet openings are slots. 12. The capsule according to any one of paragraphs. 1-6, in which the inlets are arranged to open under pressure. 13. The capsule according to claim 2 or 3, in which the output filter defines the outer boundary of the capsule in its axial direction. 14. The capsule according to claim 2, in which the output filter is formed:
flexible porous sheet material, such as filter paper,
flexible foil, for example a polymer foil made with many outlet openings, or
a plurality of outlet openings provided in the lid. 15. The capsule according to claim 3, in which the output filter is formed:
a flexible foil, such as a polymer foil provided with said plurality of outlet openings, or
said plurality of outlet openings provided in the lid. 16. The capsule of claim 14 or 15, wherein the plurality of outlet openings are distributed substantially over the entire surface of the lid. 17. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, in which the entire internal space is occupied by the extracted product. 18. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, in which the lower part is inseparable from the annular wall. 19. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the capsule contains an inner rim extending at the first end, the lower part being attached to an inner rim extending inside, or in which the lower part is attached to an outer rim extending at the second end, the lower part being attached to the rim going on outside. 20. The capsule of claim 19, wherein the inlet filter is attached to a rim extending inside. 21. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the capsule comprises an outer rim extending at the second end, the lid being attached to an outer rim extending outside. 22. The capsule according to claim 21, in which the output filter is attached to the rim extending from the outside. 23. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, in which the lower part and / or cover extends to the annular first wall. 24. The capsule of claim 23, wherein the inlet filter and / or outlet filter extends to the annular first wall. 25. The capsule according to claim 1 or 4, wherein the capsule further comprises a bottom seal, at least partially removably connected to the bottom, to seal the inlet filter before use. 26. The capsule according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the capsule further comprises a cap seal, at least partially removably connected to the cap, to seal the outlet filter before use. 27. The capsule of claim 26, wherein the cap seal is disposed to partially detach from the cap under the influence of fluid pressure in the interior, while remaining attached to the cap in at least one place. 28. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, in which the annular wall is made of sheet material or foil, preferably inseparable from the bottom. 29. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, in which the annular wall is essentially rigid. 30. The capsule according to claim 29, in which the capsule contains stiffeners inseparable with an annular wall and / or lower part. 31. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, in which the annular wall is cylindrical, hemispherical, truncated cone or polygonal, for example hexagonal or octagonal. 32. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, in which the extracted product contains roasted and ground coffee. 33. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, in which the extracted product is tightly packed in a tablet. 34. The capsule according to p. 33, in which the tablet contains at least one channel extending from the side of the tablet facing the input region in the direction of the lid. 35. The capsule according to claim 1 or 3, in which the extracted product is tightly packed in many tablets, preferably with a mutually different packaging density. 36. The capsule according to claim 1 or 11, in which these slots have such a shape that they form a tongue in the plane of the lower part. 37. The capsule of claim 36, wherein said slots are substantially U-shaped, such as a semicircular, horseshoe-shaped, rectangular, or V-shaped. 38. The capsule of claim 36, wherein said tongue is configured to bend from a plane of the lower portion under the influence of a fluid flow through an opening defined by the tongue. 39. The capsule of claim 36, wherein the lower portion is made of resilient material so that the tongue will bend back into the plane of the lower portion as soon as the fluid flow stops, thereby preventing spilling of the extractable product after and possibly before the preparation of the beverage . 40. The capsule according to claim 14, in which the outlet openings are slots in the lid. 41. The capsule according to claim 3 or 40, in which these slots are shaped so that they form a tongue in the plane of the lid. 42. The capsule of claim 41, wherein said slots are substantially U-shaped, such as a semicircular, horseshoe-shaped, rectangular, or V-shaped. 43. The capsule of claim 41, wherein said tongue is configured to bend from a plane of the lower portion under the influence of a fluid flow through an opening defined by the tongue. 44. The capsule of claim 41, wherein the lid is made of resilient material so that the tongue will bend back into the plane of the lid as soon as the fluid flow stops, thereby preventing spillage of the extractable product before and after preparation of the beverage. 45. The use of capsules according to paragraphs. 3 and 32 in the preparation of coffee for at least partially removing the content of cafestol from coffee by using an output filter.

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