EP2782848B1 - Capsule for the pressurized extraction of a beverage, including a fluid inlet wall provided so as to be ruptured by a pressurized fluid - Google Patents

Capsule for the pressurized extraction of a beverage, including a fluid inlet wall provided so as to be ruptured by a pressurized fluid Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2782848B1
EP2782848B1 EP11801769.8A EP11801769A EP2782848B1 EP 2782848 B1 EP2782848 B1 EP 2782848B1 EP 11801769 A EP11801769 A EP 11801769A EP 2782848 B1 EP2782848 B1 EP 2782848B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
capsule
dome
wall
weakness
inlet wall
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EP11801769.8A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2782848A1 (en
Inventor
Alain Frydman
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Individual
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Individual
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
    • B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
    • B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
    • B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
    • B65D85/8049—Details of the inlet
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
    • B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
    • B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
    • B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
    • B65D85/8052—Details of the outlet

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a capsule for extracting a pressurized beverage, of the type comprising an axially extending side wall, a fluid inlet wall closing a first axial end of the side wall, and a wall fluid outlet closing a second axial end of the side wall, the side walls, inlet and outlet delimiting between them a receiving chamber of a substance for the preparation of a beverage, the inlet wall being provided for breaking under the effect of a fluid under pressure and comprising a concavity dome turned towards the inside of the capsule.
  • capsules are known for the extraction of a drink under pressure. These capsules are intended to be inserted in beverage preparation machines, in which an extraction fluid, usually water, is injected into the capsule to extract the substance they contain. The extraction fluid enters the capsule through the inlet wall, and exits, mixed with the substance, through the outlet wall.
  • an extraction fluid usually water
  • a major problem for manufacturers of this type of capsule is to keep the substance safe from air and moisture.
  • some capsules are marketed in a packaging providing the function of barrier to air and moisture. Once removed from their packaging, these capsules are ready to be used in beverage preparation machines. Other capsules are waterproof to protect the substance they contain. To allow the extraction of these capsules, some beverage preparation machines are equipped with means for drilling the inlet wall and the outlet wall of these capsule types.
  • the sealed capsules are more satisfactory than the packaged capsules because they limit the volume of waste and the manipulations of the user.
  • the piercing means can injure the user.
  • EP-A-2 210 827 discloses a contemplated solution, wherein the capsule comprises a capsule body forming the side wall and a peripheral region of the wall inlet, and an attached membrane, forming a central region of the inlet wall.
  • the membrane is provided to partially disengage from the body of the capsule under the effect of a fluid under pressure.
  • the capsule is sealed during its introduction into the beverage preparation machine, and opens under the sole effect of the injected fluid pressure.
  • the capsule disclosed in this document is not entirely satisfactory. Indeed, the pressure of separation of the membrane proves to be difficult to control. In addition, the capsule is of complex manufacture.
  • An object of the invention is therefore to provide a capsule having an airtight and moisture-tight inlet wall adapted to rupture under the effect of a fluid under pressure and whose breaking pressure is easily controllable. Other objectives are to minimize the cost of the capsule and to optimize the extraction of the substance contained in the capsule.
  • the invention relates to a capsule of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the dome comprises a plurality of lines of weakness converging towards a point of convergence.
  • the capsule 2 illustrated on the Figure 1 is suitable to allow the extraction of a drink under pressure.
  • the capsule 2 is able to contain a food substance to extract under pressure.
  • the capsule 2 comprises a side wall 6 extending along a longitudinal axis XX, an inlet wall 8 closing a first rear axial end of the side wall 6, and an outlet wall 10 closing a second axial end of the wall lateral 6.
  • the capsule 2 further comprises an annular flange 12 surrounding the front end of the side wall 6 and extending radially outwardly from the side wall 6.
  • the side wall 6, the inlet wall 8 and the outlet wall 10 together define a chamber 14 for receiving a food substance for extracting a beverage, for example coffee.
  • a food substance for extracting a beverage for example coffee.
  • the substance present in the capsule 2 is not shown in the drawings for the sake of clarity.
  • the inlet wall 8 is adapted to allow the entry of a pressurized extraction liquid, preferably water, and the outlet wall 10 is adapted to allow the extraction of the extraction liquid after passage through the outlet. through the substance contained in the capsule 2.
  • the inlet wall 8 is integral and is integral with the side wall 6.
  • the side walls 6 and inlet 8 define a body 4 made in one piece in the form of a cup.
  • the side wall 6 and the inlet wall 8 are for example molded by plastic injection.
  • the side wall 6 is substantially frustoconical of revolution about the longitudinal axis X-X.
  • the side wall 6 flares from its rear end to its front end.
  • the side wall 6 is rigid. It has an inner face 15A facing the chamber 14, and an outer face 15B defining a portion of the outer surface of the capsule 2.
  • the inlet wall 8 is airtight and watertight and is designed to rupture under the effect of a fluid under pressure outside the capsule 2.
  • the inlet wall 8 comprises a central dome 16 shaped spherical cap.
  • the dome 16 is concavity oriented towards the inside of the capsule 2.
  • the dome extends transversely to the axis X-X.
  • the dome 16 is deformable towards the inside of the capsule 2 under the effect of the pressurized fluid outside the capsule 2. It is set back towards the inside of the capsule 2 with respect to the rear end of the capsule 2.
  • the inlet wall 8 comprises an annular peripheral region 18 surrounding the dome 16.
  • the peripheral region 18 delimits the rear end of the capsule 8. It comprises an annular peripheral portion 20 and an axial portion 22.
  • the peripheral portion 20 surrounds the axial portion 22.
  • the axial portion 22 is tubular and extends axially along the axis XX while returning towards the inside of the capsule 2 from an inner edge of the peripheral portion 20.
  • the axial portion 22 is frustoconical converging towards the inside of the capsule 2.
  • the dome 16 is attached to the axial end of the axial portion 22 located towards the inside of the capsule 2, oriented towards the outlet wall 10.
  • the axial portion 22 and the dome 16 delimit in the inlet wall 8 an open recess 24 open towards the rear and whose bottom is formed by the dome 16 and the lateral surface by the axial portion 22.
  • the input wall 8 comprises a zone of weakness 26 at the periphery of the dome 16.
  • the zone of least resistance 26 connects the periphery of the dome 16 to the peripheral region 18, more precisely to the axial portion 22.
  • the zone of least resistance 26 is tubular and extends axially along the X-X axis.
  • the zone of least resistance 26 is in the form of a strip whose thickness, taken radially at the axis XX, is smaller than that of the axial portion 22.
  • the thickness of the zone of least resistance 26 is also less than the average thickness of the dome 16.
  • the zone of least resistance 26 extends axially the axial portion 22 and is connected to the periphery of the dome 16.
  • the dome 16 also includes a plurality of lines of weakness 30. These lines of weakness are at least three in number. As visible on the Figure 1 each of these lines of weakness 30 is formed by a zone of lesser thickness of the dome 16.
  • This convergence point 32 is substantially at the center of the dome 16, that is to say that it is located in a disk centered on the center of the dome 16 and of radius equal to 20%, preferably equal to 10%, of the distance separating the center of the dome 16 from the periphery of the dome 16.
  • Each line of weakness 30 is rectilinear and extends from the periphery of the dome 16 to the point of convergence 32.
  • the lines of weakness 30 delimit between them dome sectors 34.
  • Each dome sector 34 has a thickness greater than that of the lines of weakness 30.
  • a material bridge 36 located at the point of convergence 32, joins the dome sectors 34 each other. This material bridge 36 has a strength greater than that of the lines of weakness 30. It has a thickness greater than that of the dome sectors 34.
  • the material bridge 36 is typically the injection point of the plastic material during manufacture of the body 4.
  • the lines of weakness 30 are regularly distributed over the dome 16, that is to say they delimit dome sectors 34 of substantially the same dimensions.
  • the lines of weakness 30 are four in number and form a cross substantially centered on the dome 16.
  • the rupture pressure of the lines of weakness 30 can be easily controlled by adjusting their number and the thickness of the dome sectors 34.
  • the openings formed in the inlet wall 8 by the rupture of the lines of weakness 30 remain narrow, which prevents a part of the substance contained in the capsule does not release these openings, which would require cleaning of the beverage preparation machine after each use.
  • the dome 16 transmits a part of the axial force to the zone of weakness 26, which is stressed in axial tension as illustrated by the arrows F1 on the Figure 1 . Since the dome 16 tends to collapse axially by expanding radially at its periphery, it also biases the zone of weakness 26 radially outwards as illustrated by the arrows F2 on the Figure 1 . The zone of least resistance 26 is thus axially biased in its direction of extension and in shear in its direction of lesser thickness. As a result, the zone of least resistance 26 easily breaks under controlled pressure.
  • the dome 16 is a snap action and may rotate under the effect of the pressure of a fluid on the inlet wall 8.
  • the dome 16 turns sharply so that its concavity reverse under the effect of pressurized fluid as shown in dashed lines on the Figure 1 .
  • pressurized fluid When a pressurized fluid is fed to the inlet wall 8, the fluid exerts a force on the dome 16.
  • the dome 16 withstands a specific pressure of the fluid and can turn around suddenly so that its concavity reverse.
  • the lines of weakness 30 and the zone of least resistance 26 undergo significant stresses that cause the lines of weakness 30 and / or the zone of weakness 26 to break. water of preparation of the drink in the capsule.
  • the reversal pressure of the dome 16 can be calibrated easily which allows to control accurately the water inlet pressure and therefore the quality of extraction of the substance contained in the capsule 2.
  • the reentrant axial portion 22 stiffens the peripheral region 18 of the inlet wall 8, which makes it possible to concentrate the stresses in the dome 16 and the zone of least resistance 26.
  • the outlet wall 10 is attached to the body 4.
  • the outlet wall 10 and the inner surface 15A of the side wall 6 comprise complementary snap-on reliefs for snapping the outlet wall 10 into the front end of the wall. the side wall 6.
  • the outlet wall 10 is of disc shape.
  • the outlet wall 10 comprises a peripheral frame 50 and a filter 52 extending across the frame 50 and including orifices 54 for the passage of water.
  • the detent reliefs comprise an annular fixing rib 56 and a complementary annular fixing groove 58, provided one on the side wall 6 and the other on the frame 30.
  • the fastening rib 56 is designed to engage with each other. in the fixing groove 58.
  • the fixing rib 56 is formed on the edge 60 of the frame and the fixing groove 58 is formed in the inner surface 15A of the side wall 6.
  • the frame 50 is self-supporting so as to retain its shape and ensure the latching of the outlet wall 10 in the side wall 6.
  • the frame 50 projects forwardly with respect to the front end of the body 4 and in particular by 12. Thus, the frame 50 can bear against a support of an extraction device.
  • the frame 50 is thicker than the filter 52.
  • the filter 52 is thus set back towards the interior of the capsule 2 relative to an outer face 50A before the frame 50 turned towards the outside of the capsule 2. This prevents the filter 52 tears against reliefs of a support of an extraction device adapted to receive the capsule 2.
  • the orifices 54 are sufficiently small to retain the substance, sufficiently numerous to allow the prepared beverage to pass, and preferably distributed over the surface of the filter 52 to ensure proper extraction of the substance. They are made by molding, or drilled in the filter 52, for example by laser. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the orifices 54 form a spiral pattern on the filter 52.
  • the frame 50 and the filter 52 are made of material. They are for example made of plastic injection molded.
  • the frame 50 is attached to the filter 52, for example being overmolded on the filter 52.
  • the filter 52 is formed for example of a filter, a pierced film or a fabric, and is made of plastic material, of natural, synthetic or metallic fibers or of metal.
  • the filter 52 is for example a perforated aluminum film.
  • the frame 50 is for example of plastic material injected under pressure.
  • a plastic material forming the frame 50 is for example different from a plastic material forming the filter 52.
  • the frame 50 is made of a plastic material for obtaining a rigid self-supporting frame.
  • the outlet wall 10 comprises reinforcing cross members extending transversely across the frame 50.
  • the reinforcing crosspieces are integral with the frame 50.
  • Reinforcement crosspieces are provided on the outer face of the filter 52. towards the outside of the capsule 2 and / or the inner face of the filter 52 turned towards the inside of the capsule 2.
  • these reinforcing crosspieces form a cross.
  • the outlet wall 10 can be obtained easily and at low cost. Its orifices 54 calibrated to control the outlet pressure of the drink.
  • the capsule 2 is manufactured easily by filling the body 4 with the substance and then fixing the outlet wall 10 mechanically on the body 4 by simply clipping the outlet wall 10 into the side wall 8. This fixing operation is simple, reliable and easily industrialized on a large scale. Clipping can compact the substance.
  • the flange 12 is attached to the side wall 6.
  • the flange 12 surrounds the open front end of the side wall 6 of the body 4.
  • the flange 12 extends radially outwardly from the outer surface 15B of the wall 6. It does not support a seal member or deformable sealing relief.
  • the outer surface 15B of the side wall 6 defines, near the front end, an annular clearance 64 in which the inner edge 66 of the flange 12 is engaged.
  • the flange 12 is connected to the side wall 6 without extend into the chamber 18 and without being in contact with the substance contained in the capsule 2.
  • the side wall 6 and the inlet wall 8 are made of a first plastic material that is airtight and watertight.
  • the first plastic material is chosen to be inert with respect to the substance contained in the capsule 2.
  • the first material may be translucent or colored in the mass.
  • the first plastic material is a plastic or plastic alloy that does not interfere with food products and is a barrier to air and water performance.
  • the flange 12 is made of a second plastic material, different from the first plastic material.
  • the second plastic material is preferably chosen to be a low cost material.
  • the second plastic material is for example a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or polyurethane (PU) which are inexpensive materials.
  • the first and second plastic materials are compatible materials, i.e. materials adapted to polymerize with each other.
  • compatible materials i.e. materials adapted to polymerize with each other.
  • the flange 12 is overmolded on the front end of the side wall 6.
  • the body 4 and the flange 12 are formed by coinjection of the first and second plastic materials.
  • the second material can be colored in the mass.
  • the capsule 2 comprises a sealing membrane 70 covering the outlet wall 10 to seal the capsule 2 at the front end of the side wall 6.
  • the membrane 70 is fixed on the flange 12 without being fixed to the wall
  • an inert gas is trapped between the membrane 70 and the outlet wall 10.
  • the membrane 70 is peelable so that it can be removed before use by a user.
  • the membrane 70 comprises a tongue 72 projecting radially outwardly of the capsule from the outer edge of the annular flange 12. This tongue 72 allows easy grasping of the tongue 70 for the purpose of peeling it.
  • the membrane 70 is provided to tear under the effect of a fluid under pressure.
  • it includes, for example, lines of weakness.
  • the capsule 2 is represented on the Figure 3 inserted into a beverage extraction device 100.
  • This extraction device 100 comprises a housing 102 of receiving the capsule 2 and a conduit 104 for supplying pressurized water opening inside the housing 102.
  • the housing 102 has a shape complementary to that of the capsule 2.
  • the conduit 104 opens into the housing 102 in the vicinity of the inlet wall 8 of the capsule 2.
  • the housing 102 has a support 106 against which the front end of the capsule 2 is supported.
  • the support 106 comprises at least one orifice 108 for discharging the beverage.
  • the membrane 70 is removed and the capsule 2 is inserted into the housing 102.
  • Water is brought under pressure into the housing 102.
  • the pressurized water exerts pressure on the dome 16.
  • constraints accumulate in the dome 16 at lines of weakness 30, which break.
  • the dome 16 biases the zone of least resistance 26 axially in tension and radially in shear.
  • the zone of least resistance 26 also breaks under the effect of this solicitation.
  • the water passes through the substance contained in the capsule, then exits through the outlet wall 10 through the filter 52,
  • the dome 16 can turn around when the return pressure of the dome 16 is reached and the inlet wall 8 breaks.
  • the frame 50 of the outlet wall 10 is supported on the support 106 and is not dislodged from the side wall 6 under the effect of the pressure of the water.
  • the filter 52 is recessed towards the interior of the capsule 2 with respect to the frame 50 and does not tear on the support 106.
  • the invention applies to capsules for the extraction of coffee under pressure and to capsules for the extraction of other pressurized beverages, such as tea, chocolate, etc.
  • the invention concerns generally a capsule for extracting a drink under pressure.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Making Beverages (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne une capsule pour l'extraction d'une boisson sous pression, du type comprenant une paroi latérale s'étendant suivant un axe, une paroi d'entrée de fluide fermant une première extrémité axiale de la paroi latérale, et une paroi de sortie de fluide fermant une deuxième extrémité axiale de la paroi latérale, les parois latérales, d'entrée et de sortie délimitant entre elles une chambre de réception d'une substance pour la préparation d'une boisson, la paroi d'entrée étant prévue pour se rompre sous l'effet d'un fluide sous pression et comprenant un dôme à concavité tournée vers l'intérieur de la capsule.The present invention relates to a capsule for extracting a pressurized beverage, of the type comprising an axially extending side wall, a fluid inlet wall closing a first axial end of the side wall, and a wall fluid outlet closing a second axial end of the side wall, the side walls, inlet and outlet delimiting between them a receiving chamber of a substance for the preparation of a beverage, the inlet wall being provided for breaking under the effect of a fluid under pressure and comprising a concavity dome turned towards the inside of the capsule.

On connaît de nombreuses capsules pour l'extraction d'une boisson sous pression. Ces capsules sont destinées à être insérées dans des machines de préparation de boisson, dans lesquelles un fluide d'extraction, généralement de l'eau, est injecté dans la capsule pour extraire la substance qu'elles contiennent. Le fluide d'extraction pénètre dans la capsule au travers de la paroi d'entrée, et en ressort, mélangé à la substance, par la paroi de sortie.Many capsules are known for the extraction of a drink under pressure. These capsules are intended to be inserted in beverage preparation machines, in which an extraction fluid, usually water, is injected into the capsule to extract the substance they contain. The extraction fluid enters the capsule through the inlet wall, and exits, mixed with the substance, through the outlet wall.

Un problème essentiel se posant aux fabricants de ce type de capsules est de maintenir la substance à l'abri de l'air et de l'humidité. A cet effet, certaines capsules sont commercialisées dans un emballage assurant la fonction de barrière à l'air et à l'humidité. Une fois sorties de leur emballage, ces capsules sont prêtes à être utilisées dans les machines de préparation de boisson. D'autres capsules sont étanches de façon à protéger la substance qu'elles contiennent. Pour permettre l'extraction de ces capsules, certaines machines de préparation de boisson sont équipées de moyens de perçage de la paroi d'entrée et de la paroi de sortie de ces types capsules.A major problem for manufacturers of this type of capsule is to keep the substance safe from air and moisture. For this purpose, some capsules are marketed in a packaging providing the function of barrier to air and moisture. Once removed from their packaging, these capsules are ready to be used in beverage preparation machines. Other capsules are waterproof to protect the substance they contain. To allow the extraction of these capsules, some beverage preparation machines are equipped with means for drilling the inlet wall and the outlet wall of these capsule types.

Les capsules étanches sont plus satisfaisantes que les capsules emballées, car elles limitent le volume de déchet et les manipulations de l'utilisateur.The sealed capsules are more satisfactory than the packaged capsules because they limit the volume of waste and the manipulations of the user.

Toutefois, il a été remarqué qu'il était difficile de percer certaines capsules de manière répétée. En particulier, il a été observé que l'utilisation de capsules étanches en plastique occasionnait un usage prématuré des moyens de perçage, qui devaient alors être remplacés.However, it has been noticed that it is difficult to pierce some capsules repeatedly. In particular, it has been observed that the use of waterproof plastic caps causes premature use of the piercing means, which then had to be replaced.

En outre, les moyens de perçage peuvent blesser l'utilisateur.In addition, the piercing means can injure the user.

On a donc cherché à réaliser des capsules étanches pouvant s'ouvrir dans la machine de préparation de boisson sans avoir recours à des moyens de percement de la paroi d'entrée et/ou de sortie.It has therefore been sought to produce sealed capsules that can be opened in the beverage preparation machine without resorting to means for piercing the inlet and / or outlet wall.

EP-A-2 210 827 décrit une solution envisagée, dans laquelle la capsule comprend un corps de capsule formant la paroi latérale et une région périphérique de la paroi d'entrée, et une membrane rapportée, formant une région centrale de la paroi d'entrée. La membrane est prévue pour se désolidariser partiellement du corps de la capsule sous l'effet d'un fluide sous pression. Ainsi, la capsule est étanche lors de son introduction dans la machine de préparation de boisson, et s'ouvre sous le seul effet de la pression de fluide injecté. EP-A-2 210 827 discloses a contemplated solution, wherein the capsule comprises a capsule body forming the side wall and a peripheral region of the wall inlet, and an attached membrane, forming a central region of the inlet wall. The membrane is provided to partially disengage from the body of the capsule under the effect of a fluid under pressure. Thus, the capsule is sealed during its introduction into the beverage preparation machine, and opens under the sole effect of the injected fluid pressure.

Toutefois, la capsule divulguée dans ce document ne donne pas entière satisfaction. En effet, la pression de désolidarisation de la membrane s'avère être difficile à maîtriser. En outre, la capsule est de fabrication complexe.However, the capsule disclosed in this document is not entirely satisfactory. Indeed, the pressure of separation of the membrane proves to be difficult to control. In addition, the capsule is of complex manufacture.

Un but de l'invention est donc de proposer une capsule présentant une paroi d'entrée étanche à l'air et à l'humidité, adaptée pour se rompre sous l'effet d'un fluide sous pression et dont la pression de rupture soit facilement maîtrisable. D'autres objectifs sont de minimiser le coût de la capsule et d'optimiser l'extraction de la substance contenue dans la capsule.An object of the invention is therefore to provide a capsule having an airtight and moisture-tight inlet wall adapted to rupture under the effect of a fluid under pressure and whose breaking pressure is easily controllable. Other objectives are to minimize the cost of the capsule and to optimize the extraction of the substance contained in the capsule.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet une capsule du type précité, caractérisée en ce que le dôme comprend une pluralité de lignes de faiblesse convergeant vers un point de convergence.For this purpose, the invention relates to a capsule of the aforementioned type, characterized in that the dome comprises a plurality of lines of weakness converging towards a point of convergence.

Dans des modes de réalisation préférés de l'invention, la capsule présente également l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes, prises isolément ou suivant toute(s) combinaison(s) techniquement possible(s) :

  • le point de convergence est placé sensiblement au centre du dôme ;
  • chaque ligne de faiblesse s'étend depuis la périphérie du dôme jusqu'au point de convergence ;
  • chaque ligne de faiblesse est rectiligne ;
  • les lignes de faiblesse délimitent entre elles des secteurs du dôme, le dôme comprend un pont de matière de jonction des secteurs les uns aux autres, ledit pont de matière ayant une résistance supérieure à celle des lignes de faiblesse, ledit pont de matière étant localisé au point de convergence des lignes de faiblesse ;
  • les lignes de faiblesse sont régulièrement réparties sur le dôme ;
  • les lignes de faiblesse sont au nombre de quatre et forment une croix sensiblement centrée sur le dôme ;
  • le dôme est prévu pour se retourner brusquement sous l'effet d'une fluide sous pression ;
  • le dôme est disposé axialement en retrait vers l'intérieur de la capsule par rapport à une portion périphérique de la paroi d'entrée ;
  • la paroi d'entrée comprend une portion axiale s'étendant suivant l'axe en rentrant vers l'intérieur de la capsule, la périphérie du dôme étant reliée à une extrémité axiale de la portion axiale située vers l'intérieur de la capsule par une zone de moindre résistance ;
  • la paroi d'entrée est monobloc ;
  • la paroi d'entrée est venue de matière avec la paroi latérale ;
  • les lignes de faiblesse sont constituées par des zones de moindre épaisseur du dôme.
In preferred embodiments of the invention, the capsule also has one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in any technically possible combination (s):
  • the point of convergence is placed substantially in the center of the dome;
  • each line of weakness extends from the periphery of the dome to the point of convergence;
  • each line of weakness is rectilinear;
  • the lines of weakness delimit between them sectors of the dome, the dome comprises a bridge of material joining the sectors to each other, said bridge of material having a resistance greater than that of the lines of weakness, said material bridge being located at point of convergence of lines of weakness;
  • the lines of weakness are regularly distributed over the dome;
  • the lines of weakness are four in number and form a cross substantially centered on the dome;
  • the dome is designed to turn abruptly under the effect of a fluid under pressure;
  • the dome is arranged axially recessed towards the inside of the capsule with respect to a peripheral portion of the inlet wall;
  • the inlet wall comprises an axial portion extending along the axis while returning towards the inside of the capsule, the periphery of the dome being connected to an axial end of the axial portion located towards the inside of the capsule by a zone of least resistance;
  • the entrance wall is monobloc;
  • the inlet wall is integral with the side wall;
  • the lines of weakness are constituted by areas of lesser thickness of the dome.

D'autre caractéristiques et avantages apparaîtront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en se référant aux dessins annexés, sur lesquels :

  • la Figure 1 est une vue latérale en coupe d'une capsule selon l'invention,
  • la Figure 2 est une vue de dessus de la capsule de la Figure 1, et
  • la Figure 3 est une vue latérale en coupe de la capsule de la Figure 1 insérée dans une machine de préparation de boisson.
Other characteristics and advantages will appear on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example and with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • the Figure 1 is a sectional side view of a capsule according to the invention,
  • the Figure 2 is a top view of the capsule of the Figure 1 , and
  • the Figure 3 is a sectional side view of the capsule of the Figure 1 inserted into a beverage preparation machine.

La capsule 2 illustrée sur la Figure 1 est propre à permettre l'extraction d'une boisson sous pression. La capsule 2 est propre à contenir une substance alimentaire à extraire sous pressions.The capsule 2 illustrated on the Figure 1 is suitable to allow the extraction of a drink under pressure. The capsule 2 is able to contain a food substance to extract under pressure.

La capsule 2 comprend une paroi latérale 6 s'étendant suivant un axe longitudinal X-X, une paroi d'entrée 8 fermant une première extrémité axiale arrière de la paroi latérale 6, et une paroi de sortie 10 fermant une deuxième extrémité axiale avant de la paroi latérale 6.The capsule 2 comprises a side wall 6 extending along a longitudinal axis XX, an inlet wall 8 closing a first rear axial end of the side wall 6, and an outlet wall 10 closing a second axial end of the wall lateral 6.

La capsule 2 comprend en outre un rebord 12 annulaire entourant l'extrémité avant de la paroi latérale 6 et s'étendant radialement vers l'extérieur à partir de la paroi latérale 6.The capsule 2 further comprises an annular flange 12 surrounding the front end of the side wall 6 and extending radially outwardly from the side wall 6.

La paroi latérale 6, la paroi d'entrée 8 et la paroi de sortie 10 délimitent ensemble une chambre 14 de réception d'une substance alimentaire pour l'extraction d'une boisson, par exemple du café. La substance présente dans la capsule 2 n'est pas représentée sur les dessins pour des raisons de clarté.The side wall 6, the inlet wall 8 and the outlet wall 10 together define a chamber 14 for receiving a food substance for extracting a beverage, for example coffee. The substance present in the capsule 2 is not shown in the drawings for the sake of clarity.

La paroi d'entrée 8 est propre à permettre l'entrée d'un liquide d'extraction sous pression, de préférence de l'eau, et la paroi de sortie 10 est propre à permettre la sortie du liquide d'extraction après passage au travers de la substance contenue dans la capsule 2.The inlet wall 8 is adapted to allow the entry of a pressurized extraction liquid, preferably water, and the outlet wall 10 is adapted to allow the extraction of the extraction liquid after passage through the outlet. through the substance contained in the capsule 2.

La paroi d'entrée 8 est monobloc et est venue de matière avec la paroi latérale 6. Les parois latérale 6 et d'entrée 8 définissent un corps 4 réalisé d'un seul tenant en forme de coupelle. La paroi latérale 6 et la paroi d'entrée 8 sont par exemple moulées par injection de matière plastique.The inlet wall 8 is integral and is integral with the side wall 6. The side walls 6 and inlet 8 define a body 4 made in one piece in the form of a cup. The side wall 6 and the inlet wall 8 are for example molded by plastic injection.

La paroi latérale 6 est sensiblement tronconique de révolution autour de l'axe longitudinal X-X. La paroi latérale 6 s'évase de son extrémité arrière vers son extrémité avant. La paroi latérale 6 est rigide. Elle présente une face intérieure 15A orientée vers la chambre 14, et une face extérieure 15B définissant une partie de la surface extérieure de la capsule 2.The side wall 6 is substantially frustoconical of revolution about the longitudinal axis X-X. The side wall 6 flares from its rear end to its front end. The side wall 6 is rigid. It has an inner face 15A facing the chamber 14, and an outer face 15B defining a portion of the outer surface of the capsule 2.

La paroi d'entrée 8 est étanche à l'air et à l'eau et est prévue pour se rompre sous l'effet d'un fluide sous pression à l'extérieur de la capsule 2.The inlet wall 8 is airtight and watertight and is designed to rupture under the effect of a fluid under pressure outside the capsule 2.

La paroi d'entrée 8 comprend un dôme 16 central en forme de calotte sphérique. Le dôme 16 est à concavité orientée vers l'intérieur de la capsule 2. Le dôme s'étend transversalement à l'axe X-X. Le dôme 16 est déformable vers l'intérieur de la capsule 2 sous l'effet du fluide sous pression à l'extérieur de la capsule 2. Il est disposé en retrait vers l'intérieur de la capsule 2 par rapport à l'extrémité arrière de la capsule 2.The inlet wall 8 comprises a central dome 16 shaped spherical cap. The dome 16 is concavity oriented towards the inside of the capsule 2. The dome extends transversely to the axis X-X. The dome 16 is deformable towards the inside of the capsule 2 under the effect of the pressurized fluid outside the capsule 2. It is set back towards the inside of the capsule 2 with respect to the rear end of the capsule 2.

La paroi d'entrée 8 comprend une région périphérique 18 annulaire entourant le dôme 16. La région périphérique 18 délimite l'extrémité arrière de la capsule 8. Elle comprend une portion périphérique 20 annulaire et une portion axiale 22. La portion périphérique 20 entoure la portion axiale 22. La portion axiale 22 est tubulaire et s'étend axialement suivant l'axe X-X en rentrant vers l'intérieur de la capsule 2 à partir d'un bord interne de la portion périphérique 20. La portion axiale 22 est tronconique convergeant vers l'intérieur de la capsule 2. Le dôme 16 est fixé à l'extrémité axiale de la portion axiale 22 située vers l'intérieur de la capsule 2, orientée vers la paroi de sortie 10.The inlet wall 8 comprises an annular peripheral region 18 surrounding the dome 16. The peripheral region 18 delimits the rear end of the capsule 8. It comprises an annular peripheral portion 20 and an axial portion 22. The peripheral portion 20 surrounds the axial portion 22. The axial portion 22 is tubular and extends axially along the axis XX while returning towards the inside of the capsule 2 from an inner edge of the peripheral portion 20. The axial portion 22 is frustoconical converging towards the inside of the capsule 2. The dome 16 is attached to the axial end of the axial portion 22 located towards the inside of the capsule 2, oriented towards the outlet wall 10.

La portion axiale 22 et le dôme 16 délimitent dans la paroi d'entrée 8 un évidement 24 extérieur ouvert vers l'arrière et dont le fond est formé par le dôme 16 et la surface latérale par la portion axiale 22.The axial portion 22 and the dome 16 delimit in the inlet wall 8 an open recess 24 open towards the rear and whose bottom is formed by the dome 16 and the lateral surface by the axial portion 22.

La paroi d'entrée 8 comprend une zone de moindre résistance 26 à la périphérie du dôme 16. La zone de moindre résistance 26 relie la périphérie du dôme 16 à la région périphérique 18, plus précisément à la portion axiale 22.The input wall 8 comprises a zone of weakness 26 at the periphery of the dome 16. The zone of least resistance 26 connects the periphery of the dome 16 to the peripheral region 18, more precisely to the axial portion 22.

La zone de moindre résistance 26 est tubulaire et s'étend axialement suivant l'axe X-X. La zone de moindre résistance 26 se présente sous la forme d'une bande dont l'épaisseur, prise radialement à l'axe X-X, est inférieure à celle de la portion axiale 22. L'épaisseur de la zone de moindre résistance 26 est également inférieure à l'épaisseur moyenne du dôme 16. La zone de moindre résistance 26 prolonge axialement la portion axiale 22 et se raccorde à la périphérie du dôme 16.The zone of least resistance 26 is tubular and extends axially along the X-X axis. The zone of least resistance 26 is in the form of a strip whose thickness, taken radially at the axis XX, is smaller than that of the axial portion 22. The thickness of the zone of least resistance 26 is also less than the average thickness of the dome 16. The zone of least resistance 26 extends axially the axial portion 22 and is connected to the periphery of the dome 16.

Le dôme 16 comprend également une pluralité de lignes de faiblesse 30. Ces lignes de faiblesse sont au moins au nombre de trois. Comme visible sur la Figure 1, chacune de ces lignes de faiblesse 30 est formée par une zone de moindre épaisseur du dôme 16.The dome 16 also includes a plurality of lines of weakness 30. These lines of weakness are at least three in number. As visible on the Figure 1 each of these lines of weakness 30 is formed by a zone of lesser thickness of the dome 16.

En référence à la Figure 2, les lignes de faiblesse 30 convergent vers un point de convergence 32. Ce point de convergence 32 est sensiblement au centre du dôme 16, c'est-à-dire qu'il est localisé dans un disque centré sur le centre du dôme 16 et de rayon égal à 20%, de préférence égal à 10%, de la distance séparant le centre du dôme 16 de la périphérie du dôme 16.With reference to the Figure 2 the lines of weakness 30 converge towards a point of convergence 32. This convergence point 32 is substantially at the center of the dome 16, that is to say that it is located in a disk centered on the center of the dome 16 and of radius equal to 20%, preferably equal to 10%, of the distance separating the center of the dome 16 from the periphery of the dome 16.

Chaque ligne de faiblesse 30 est rectiligne et s'étend de la périphérie du dôme 16 jusqu'au point de convergence 32.Each line of weakness 30 is rectilinear and extends from the periphery of the dome 16 to the point of convergence 32.

Les lignes de faiblesse 30 délimitent entre elles des secteurs de dôme 34. Chaque secteur de dôme 34 a une épaisseur supérieure à celle des lignes de faiblesse 30. Un pont de matière 36, localisé au point de convergence 32, joint les secteurs de dôme 34 les uns aux autres. Ce pont de matière 36 a une résistance supérieure à celle des lignes de faiblesse 30. Il a une épaisseur supérieure à celle des secteurs de dôme 34. Le pont de matière 36 constitue typiquement le point d'injection de la matière plastique lors de la fabrication du corps 4.The lines of weakness 30 delimit between them dome sectors 34. Each dome sector 34 has a thickness greater than that of the lines of weakness 30. A material bridge 36, located at the point of convergence 32, joins the dome sectors 34 each other. This material bridge 36 has a strength greater than that of the lines of weakness 30. It has a thickness greater than that of the dome sectors 34. The material bridge 36 is typically the injection point of the plastic material during manufacture of the body 4.

Les lignes de faiblesse 30 sont régulièrement réparties sur le dôme 16, c'est-à-dire qu'elles délimitent des secteurs de dôme 34 de sensiblement mêmes dimensions. De préférence, comme représenté, les lignes de faiblesse 30 sont au nombre de quatre et forment une croix sensiblement centrée sur le dôme 16.The lines of weakness 30 are regularly distributed over the dome 16, that is to say they delimit dome sectors 34 of substantially the same dimensions. Preferably, as shown, the lines of weakness 30 are four in number and form a cross substantially centered on the dome 16.

Lorsqu'un fluide sous pression est amené sur la paroi d'entrée 8, le fluide exerce un effort axial sur le dôme 16. Le dôme 16 tend à s'écraser axialement et les contraintes internes au dôme 16 sont concentrées sur les lignes de faiblesse 30. Celles-ci rompent sous l'effet de ces contraintes et le fluide sous pression peut alors pénétrer dans la capsule 2 et arroser la substance de manière optimale.When a fluid under pressure is fed to the inlet wall 8, the fluid exerts an axial force on the dome 16. The dome 16 tends to collapse axially and the internal stresses in the dome 16 are concentrated on the lines of weakness 30. These break under the effect of these constraints and the pressurized fluid can then enter the capsule 2 and water the substance optimally.

La pression de rupture des lignes de faiblesse 30 peut être facilement contrôlée en adaptant leur nombre et l'épaisseur des secteurs de dôme 34.The rupture pressure of the lines of weakness 30 can be easily controlled by adjusting their number and the thickness of the dome sectors 34.

Grâce au pont de matière 36, les ouvertures formées dans la paroi d'entrée 8 par la rupture des lignes de faiblesse 30 restent étroites, ce qui évite qu'une partie de la substance contenue dans la capsule ne sorte pas ces ouvertures, ce qui nécessiterait un nettoyage de la machine de préparation de boisson après chaque utilisation.Thanks to the material bridge 36, the openings formed in the inlet wall 8 by the rupture of the lines of weakness 30 remain narrow, which prevents a part of the substance contained in the capsule does not release these openings, which would require cleaning of the beverage preparation machine after each use.

Dans le même temps, le dôme 16 transmet une partie de l'effort axial à la zone de moindre résistance 26, qui est sollicitée en tension axialement comme illustré par les flèches F1 sur la Figure 1. Le dôme 16 tendant à s'écraser axialement en se dilatant radialement à sa périphérie, il sollicite également la zone de moindre résistance 26 radialement vers l'extérieur comme illustré par les flèches F2 sur la Figure 1. La zone de moindre résistance 26 est sollicitée donc axialement dans sa direction d'extension et en cisaillement dans sa direction de moindre épaisseur. Il en résulte que la zone de moindre résistance 26 rompt facilement sous une pression contrôlée.At the same time, the dome 16 transmits a part of the axial force to the zone of weakness 26, which is stressed in axial tension as illustrated by the arrows F1 on the Figure 1 . Since the dome 16 tends to collapse axially by expanding radially at its periphery, it also biases the zone of weakness 26 radially outwards as illustrated by the arrows F2 on the Figure 1 . The zone of least resistance 26 is thus axially biased in its direction of extension and in shear in its direction of lesser thickness. As a result, the zone of least resistance 26 easily breaks under controlled pressure.

Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, le dôme 16 est à action brusque et peut se retourner sous l'effet de la pression d'un fluide sur la paroi d'entrée 8. Le dôme 16 se retourne brusquement de façon que sa concavité s'inverse sous l'effet du fluide sous pression comme illustré en pointillés sur la Figure 1. Lorsqu'un fluide sous pression est amené sur la paroi d'entrée 8, le fluide exerce un effort sur le dôme 16. Le dôme 16 résiste jusqu'à une pression déterminée du fluide et peut se retourner brusquement de sorte que sa concavité s'inverse. En cas de retournement, les lignes de faiblesse 30 et la zone de moindre résistance 26 subissent des contraintes importantes qui provoquent la rupture des lignes de faiblesse 30 et/ou de la zone de moindre résistance 26. Les ruptures provoquées sont suffisantes pour laisser entrer l'eau de préparation de la boisson dans la capsule. La pression de retournement du dôme 16 peut être calibrée facilement ce qui permet de contrôler avec précision la pression d'entrée de l'eau et par conséquent la qualité d'extraction de la substance contenue dans la capsule 2.In a preferred embodiment, the dome 16 is a snap action and may rotate under the effect of the pressure of a fluid on the inlet wall 8. The dome 16 turns sharply so that its concavity reverse under the effect of pressurized fluid as shown in dashed lines on the Figure 1 . When a pressurized fluid is fed to the inlet wall 8, the fluid exerts a force on the dome 16. The dome 16 withstands a specific pressure of the fluid and can turn around suddenly so that its concavity reverse. In the event of a turnaround, the lines of weakness 30 and the zone of least resistance 26 undergo significant stresses that cause the lines of weakness 30 and / or the zone of weakness 26 to break. water of preparation of the drink in the capsule. The reversal pressure of the dome 16 can be calibrated easily which allows to control accurately the water inlet pressure and therefore the quality of extraction of the substance contained in the capsule 2.

La portion axiale 22 rentrante rigidifie la région périphérique 18 de la paroi d'entrée 8 ce qui permet de concentrer les contraintes dans le dôme 16 et la zone de moindre résistance 26.The reentrant axial portion 22 stiffens the peripheral region 18 of the inlet wall 8, which makes it possible to concentrate the stresses in the dome 16 and the zone of least resistance 26.

Comme illustré sur la Figure 1, la paroi de sortie 10 est rapportée sur le corps 4. La paroi de sortie 10 et la surface interne 15A de la paroi latérale 6 comprennent des reliefs complémentaires d'encliquetage permettant d'encliqueter la paroi de sortie 10 dans l'extrémité avant de la paroi latérale 6.As illustrated on the Figure 1 , the outlet wall 10 is attached to the body 4. The outlet wall 10 and the inner surface 15A of the side wall 6 comprise complementary snap-on reliefs for snapping the outlet wall 10 into the front end of the wall. the side wall 6.

La paroi de sortie 10 est de forme discoïdale. La paroi de sortie 10 comprend un cadre 50 périphérique et un filtre 52 s'étendant en travers du cadre 50 et comprenant des orifices 54 pour le passage de l'eau.The outlet wall 10 is of disc shape. The outlet wall 10 comprises a peripheral frame 50 and a filter 52 extending across the frame 50 and including orifices 54 for the passage of water.

Les reliefs d'encliquetage comprennent une nervure de fixation 56 annulaire et une gorge de fixation 58 annulaire complémentaires, prévue l'une sur la paroi latérale 6 et l'autre sur le cadre 30. La nervure de fixation 56 est prévue pour s'encliqueter dans la gorge de fixation 58. La nervure de fixation 56 est ménagée sur la tranche 60 du cadre et la gorge de fixation 58 est ménagée dans la surface interne 15A de la paroi latérale 6.The detent reliefs comprise an annular fixing rib 56 and a complementary annular fixing groove 58, provided one on the side wall 6 and the other on the frame 30. The fastening rib 56 is designed to engage with each other. in the fixing groove 58. The fixing rib 56 is formed on the edge 60 of the frame and the fixing groove 58 is formed in the inner surface 15A of the side wall 6.

Le cadre 50 est autoportant de façon à conserver sa forme et assurer l'encliquetage de la paroi de sortie 10 dans la paroi latérale 6. Le cadre 50 fait saillie vers l'avant par rapport à l'extrémité avant du corps 4 et notamment par rapport au rebord 12. Ainsi, le cadre 50 peut venir en appui contre un support d'un dispositif d'extraction.The frame 50 is self-supporting so as to retain its shape and ensure the latching of the outlet wall 10 in the side wall 6. The frame 50 projects forwardly with respect to the front end of the body 4 and in particular by 12. Thus, the frame 50 can bear against a support of an extraction device.

Le cadre 50 est plus épais que le filtre 52. Le filtre 52 est ainsi disposé en retrait vers l'intérieur de la capsule 2 par rapport à une face externe 50A avant du cadre 50 tournée vers l'extérieur de la capsule 2. Ceci évite que le filtre 52 se déchire contre des reliefs d'un support d'un dispositif d'extraction propre à recevoir la capsule 2.The frame 50 is thicker than the filter 52. The filter 52 is thus set back towards the interior of the capsule 2 relative to an outer face 50A before the frame 50 turned towards the outside of the capsule 2. This prevents the filter 52 tears against reliefs of a support of an extraction device adapted to receive the capsule 2.

Les orifices 54 sont suffisamment petits pour retenir la substance, suffisamment nombreux pour laisser passer la boisson préparée, et de préférence répartis sur la surface du filtre 52 pour assurer une extraction correcte de la substance. Ils sont réalisés par moulage, ou percés dans le filtre 52, par exemple par laser. Dans un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, les orifices 54 forment un motif en spirale sur le filtre 52.The orifices 54 are sufficiently small to retain the substance, sufficiently numerous to allow the prepared beverage to pass, and preferably distributed over the surface of the filter 52 to ensure proper extraction of the substance. They are made by molding, or drilled in the filter 52, for example by laser. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the orifices 54 form a spiral pattern on the filter 52.

Comme représenté sur la Figure 1, le cadre 50 et le filtre 52 sont venus de matière. Ils sont par exemple réalisés en matière plastique moulée par injection.As shown on the Figure 1 , the frame 50 and the filter 52 are made of material. They are for example made of plastic injection molded.

En variante, le cadre 50 est rapporté sur le filtre 52, en étant par exemple surmoulé sur le filtre 52. Le filtre 52 est formé par exemple d'un filtre, d'un film percé ou d'un tissu, et est réalisé en matière plastique, en fibres naturelles, synthétiques ou métallique ou en métal. Le filtre 52 est par exemple un film en aluminium percé. Le cadre 50 est par exemple en matière plastique injectée sous pression. Une matière plastique formant le cadre 50 est par exemple différente d'une matière plastique formant le filtre 52. Le cadre 50 est réalisé dans une matière plastique permettant l'obtention d'un cadre rigide autoportant.Alternatively, the frame 50 is attached to the filter 52, for example being overmolded on the filter 52. The filter 52 is formed for example of a filter, a pierced film or a fabric, and is made of plastic material, of natural, synthetic or metallic fibers or of metal. The filter 52 is for example a perforated aluminum film. The frame 50 is for example of plastic material injected under pressure. A plastic material forming the frame 50 is for example different from a plastic material forming the filter 52. The frame 50 is made of a plastic material for obtaining a rigid self-supporting frame.

En option, la paroi de sortie 10 comprend des traverses de renfort s'étendant transversalement en travers du cadre 50. Les traverses de renfort sont venues de matière avec le cadre 50. Des traverses de renfort sont prévues sur la face externe du filtre 52 tournée vers l'extérieur de la capsule 2 et/ou la face interne du filtre 52 tournée vers l'intérieur de la capsule 2. De préférence, ces traverses de renfort forment une croix.Optionally, the outlet wall 10 comprises reinforcing cross members extending transversely across the frame 50. The reinforcing crosspieces are integral with the frame 50. Reinforcement crosspieces are provided on the outer face of the filter 52. towards the outside of the capsule 2 and / or the inner face of the filter 52 turned towards the inside of the capsule 2. Preferably, these reinforcing crosspieces form a cross.

La paroi de sortie 10 peut être obtenue facilement et à faible coût. Ses orifices 54 calibrés permettent de contrôler la pression de sortie de la boisson. La capsule 2 est fabriquée facilement en remplissant le corps 4 avec la substance puis en fixant la paroi de sortie 10 mécaniquement sur le corps 4 par simple clipsage de la paroi de sortie 10 dans la paroi latérale 8. Cette opération de fixation est simple, fiable et facilement industrialisable à grande échelle. Le clipsage permet de compacter la substance.The outlet wall 10 can be obtained easily and at low cost. Its orifices 54 calibrated to control the outlet pressure of the drink. The capsule 2 is manufactured easily by filling the body 4 with the substance and then fixing the outlet wall 10 mechanically on the body 4 by simply clipping the outlet wall 10 into the side wall 8. This fixing operation is simple, reliable and easily industrialized on a large scale. Clipping can compact the substance.

Le rebord 12 est rapporté sur la paroi latérale 6. Le rebord 12 entoure l'extrémité avant ouverte de la paroi latérale 6 du corps 4. Le rebord 12 s'étend radialement vers l'extérieur à partir de la surface externe 15B de la paroi latérale 6. Il ne supporte pas d'élément d'étanchéité rapporté ou de relief d'étanchéité déformable.The flange 12 is attached to the side wall 6. The flange 12 surrounds the open front end of the side wall 6 of the body 4. The flange 12 extends radially outwardly from the outer surface 15B of the wall 6. It does not support a seal member or deformable sealing relief.

Comme visible sur la Figure 1, la surface externe 15B de la paroi latérale 6 définit, à proximité de l'extrémité avant, un dégagement annulaire 64 dans lequel la bordure interne 66 du rebord 12 est engagée. Le rebord 12 est lié à la paroi latérale 6 sans s'étendre dans la chambre 18 et sans être en contact avec la substance contenue dans la capsule 2.As visible on the Figure 1 , the outer surface 15B of the side wall 6 defines, near the front end, an annular clearance 64 in which the inner edge 66 of the flange 12 is engaged. The flange 12 is connected to the side wall 6 without extend into the chamber 18 and without being in contact with the substance contained in the capsule 2.

De préférence, la paroi latérale 6 et la paroi d'entrée 8 sont réalisées en un premier matériau plastique étanche à l'air et à l'eau. Le premier matériau plastique est choisi pour être inerte vis-à-vis de la substance contenue dans la capsule 2. Le premier matériau peut être translucide ou coloré dans la masse. De préférence, le premier matériau plastique est un plastique ou un alliage de plastiques qui n'interfère pas avec les produits alimentaires et constitue une barrière à l'air et à l'eau performante.Preferably, the side wall 6 and the inlet wall 8 are made of a first plastic material that is airtight and watertight. The first plastic material is chosen to be inert with respect to the substance contained in the capsule 2. The first material may be translucent or colored in the mass. Preferably, the first plastic material is a plastic or plastic alloy that does not interfere with food products and is a barrier to air and water performance.

De préférence, le rebord 12 est constitué d'un deuxième matériau plastique, différent du premier matériau plastique. Le deuxième matériau plastique est préférentiellement choisi pour être un matériau de faible coût. Le deuxième matériau plastique est par exemple un élastomère thermoplastique (TPE) ou du polyuréthane (PU) qui sont des matériaux peu couteux.Preferably, the flange 12 is made of a second plastic material, different from the first plastic material. The second plastic material is preferably chosen to be a low cost material. The second plastic material is for example a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or polyurethane (PU) which are inexpensive materials.

De préférence, les premier et deuxième matériaux plastiques sont des matériaux compatibles, c'est-à-dire des matériaux adaptés pour polymériser l'un avec l'autre. Ainsi, il est possible de produire des capsules 2 à coût réduit. Ces capsules étant destinées à être produites en très grandes séries, cela permet de réaliser des économies importantes.Preferably, the first and second plastic materials are compatible materials, i.e. materials adapted to polymerize with each other. Thus, it is possible to produce capsules 2 at reduced cost. These capsules being intended to be produced in very large series, this allows significant savings.

De préférence, le rebord 12 est surmoulé sur l'extrémité avant de la paroi latérale 6. En variante, le corps 4 et le rebord 12 sont formés par coinjection des premier et deuxième matériaux plastiques.Preferably, the flange 12 is overmolded on the front end of the side wall 6. Alternatively, the body 4 and the flange 12 are formed by coinjection of the first and second plastic materials.

Le deuxième matériau peut être coloré dans la masse. Ainsi, il est possible de colorer différemment les rebords 10 de capsules 2 contenant différentes substances, de façon à distinguer aisément une capsule 2 contenant une première substance d'une autre capsule 2 contenant une deuxième substance, différente de la première.The second material can be colored in the mass. Thus, it is possible to color differently the rims 10 of capsules 2 containing different substances, so as to easily distinguish a capsule 2 containing a first substance from another capsule 2 containing a second substance, different from the first.

La capsule 2 comprend une membrane 70 d'étanchéité recouvrant la paroi de sortie 10 pour fermer de manière étanche la capsule 2 à l'extrémité avant de la paroi latérale 6. La membrane 70 est fixée sur le rebord 12 sans être fixée sur la paroi de sortie 10. De préférence, un gaz inerte est piégé entre la membrane 70 et la paroi de sortie 10.The capsule 2 comprises a sealing membrane 70 covering the outlet wall 10 to seal the capsule 2 at the front end of the side wall 6. The membrane 70 is fixed on the flange 12 without being fixed to the wall Preferably, an inert gas is trapped between the membrane 70 and the outlet wall 10.

La membrane 70 est pelable de façon à pouvoir être retirée avant usage par un utilisateur. A cet effet, la membrane 70 comprend une languette 72 faisant saillie radialement vers l'extérieur de la capsule depuis le bord extérieur du rebord annulaire 12. Cette languette 72 permet une saisie facilitée de la languette 70 en vue de son pelage.The membrane 70 is peelable so that it can be removed before use by a user. For this purpose, the membrane 70 comprises a tongue 72 projecting radially outwardly of the capsule from the outer edge of the annular flange 12. This tongue 72 allows easy grasping of the tongue 70 for the purpose of peeling it.

En variante, la membrane 70 est prévue pour se déchirer sous l'effet d'un fluide sous pression. Dans ce cas, elle comprend par exemple des lignes de faiblesse.Alternatively, the membrane 70 is provided to tear under the effect of a fluid under pressure. In this case, it includes, for example, lines of weakness.

La capsule 2 est représentée sur la Figure 3 insérée dans un dispositif 100 d'extraction de boisson. Ce dispositif 100 d'extraction comprend un logement 102 de réception de la capsule 2 et un conduit 104 d'amenée d'eau sous pression débouchant à l'intérieur du logement 102. Le logement 102 présente une forme complémentaire de celle de la capsule 2. Le conduit 104 débouche dans le logement 102 à proximité de la paroi d'entrée 8 de la capsule 2. Le logement 102 présente un support 106 contre lequel l'extrémité avant de la capsule 2 est en appui. Le support 106 comprend au moins un orifice 108 d'évacuation de la boisson.The capsule 2 is represented on the Figure 3 inserted into a beverage extraction device 100. This extraction device 100 comprises a housing 102 of receiving the capsule 2 and a conduit 104 for supplying pressurized water opening inside the housing 102. The housing 102 has a shape complementary to that of the capsule 2. The conduit 104 opens into the housing 102 in the vicinity of the inlet wall 8 of the capsule 2. The housing 102 has a support 106 against which the front end of the capsule 2 is supported. The support 106 comprises at least one orifice 108 for discharging the beverage.

En fonctionnement, la membrane 70 est retirée et la capsule 2 est insérée dans le logement 102. De l'eau est amenée sous pression dans le logement 102. L'eau sous pression exerce une pression sur le dôme 16. Sous l'effet de cette pression, des contraintes s'accumulent dans le dôme 16 au niveau de lignes de faiblesse 30, qui se rompent. Le dôme 16 sollicite dans le même temps la zone de moindre résistance 26 axialement en traction et radialement en cisaillement. La zone de moindre résistance 26 se rompt également sous l'effet de cette sollicitation. L'eau traverse la substance contenue dans la capsule, puis ressort par la paroi de sortie 10 au travers du filtre 52,In operation, the membrane 70 is removed and the capsule 2 is inserted into the housing 102. Water is brought under pressure into the housing 102. The pressurized water exerts pressure on the dome 16. Under the effect of this pressure, constraints accumulate in the dome 16 at lines of weakness 30, which break. At the same time, the dome 16 biases the zone of least resistance 26 axially in tension and radially in shear. The zone of least resistance 26 also breaks under the effect of this solicitation. The water passes through the substance contained in the capsule, then exits through the outlet wall 10 through the filter 52,

Dans le cas d'un dôme à action brusque, le dôme 16 peut se retourner lorsque la pression de retournement du dôme 16 est atteinte et la paroi d'entrée 8 se rompt.In the case of a sudden-action dome, the dome 16 can turn around when the return pressure of the dome 16 is reached and the inlet wall 8 breaks.

Le cadre 50 de la paroi de sortie 10 est en appui sur le support 106 est n'est pas délogé de la paroi latérale 6 sous l'effet de la pression de l'eau. Le filtre 52 est en retrait vers l'intérieur de la capsule 2 par rapport au cadre 50 et ne se déchire pas sur le support 106. Il en résulte que les conditions de sortie de la boisson qui dépendent notamment du nombre d'orifices 54 et de leur section, sont maîtrisées.The frame 50 of the outlet wall 10 is supported on the support 106 and is not dislodged from the side wall 6 under the effect of the pressure of the water. The filter 52 is recessed towards the interior of the capsule 2 with respect to the frame 50 and does not tear on the support 106. As a result, the conditions of exit of the beverage which depend in particular on the number of orifices 54 and of their section, are mastered.

L'invention s'applique aux capsules pour l'extraction de café sous pression et à des capsules pour l'extraction d'autres boissons sous pression, telle que le thé, le chocolat, etc.... Ainsi, l'invention concerne de manière générale une capsule pour l'extraction d'une boisson sous pression.The invention applies to capsules for the extraction of coffee under pressure and to capsules for the extraction of other pressurized beverages, such as tea, chocolate, etc. Thus, the invention concerns generally a capsule for extracting a drink under pressure.

Claims (13)

  1. A capsule (2) for extracting a pressurized beverage, comprising a side wall (6) extending along an axis (X), a fluid inlet wall (8) closing a first axial end of the side wall (6), and a fluid outlet wall (10) closing a second axial end of the side wall (6), the side (6), inlet (8) and outlet (10) walls defining a chamber (14) between them for receiving a substance for preparing a beverage, the inlet wall (8) being provided to break under the effect of the pressurized fluid and comprising a dome (16) with its concave side turned toward the inside of the capsule (2), characterized in that the dome (16) is in the form of a spherical cap that extends over the entire surface of the inlet wall (8) and comprises a plurality of weakness lines (30) regularly distributed on the dome and converging toward a central convergence point (32).
  2. The capsule (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the convergence point (32) is placed substantially at the center of the dome (16).
  3. The capsule (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each weakness line (30) extends from the periphery of the dome (16) to the convergence point (32).
  4. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each weakness line (30) is rectilinear.
  5. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the weakness lines (30) define, between them, sectors (34) of the dome (16), and in that the dome (16) comprises a material bridge (36) joining the sectors (34) to one another, said material bridge (36) having a strength greater than that of the weakness lines (30), said material bridge (36) being localized at the convergence point (32) of the weakness lines (30).
  6. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the weakness lines (30) are regularly distributed on the dome (16).
  7. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that there are four weakness lines (30), which form a cross substantially centered on the dome (16).
  8. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dome (16) is provided to turn over abruptly under the effect of a pressurized fluid.
  9. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dome (16) is positioned axially withdrawn toward the inside of the capsule (2) relative to a peripheral portion (18) of the inlet wall (8).
  10. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inlet wall (8) comprises an axial portion (22) extending along the axis (X) and entering toward the inside of the capsule (2), the periphery of the dome (16) being connected to an axial end of the axial portion (22) situated toward the inside of the capsule (2) by a zone of less resistance (26).
  11. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inlet wall (8) is in a single piece.
  12. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inlet wall (8) is integral with the side wall (6).
  13. The capsule (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the weakness lines (30) are made up of thinner zones of the dome (16).
EP11801769.8A 2011-11-24 2011-11-24 Capsule for the pressurized extraction of a beverage, including a fluid inlet wall provided so as to be ruptured by a pressurized fluid Active EP2782848B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/FR2011/052755 WO2013076381A1 (en) 2011-11-24 2011-11-24 Capsule for the pressurized extraction of a beverage, including a fluid inlet wall provided so as to be ruptured by a pressurized fluid

Publications (2)

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EP2782848A1 EP2782848A1 (en) 2014-10-01
EP2782848B1 true EP2782848B1 (en) 2016-07-13

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EP11801769.8A Active EP2782848B1 (en) 2011-11-24 2011-11-24 Capsule for the pressurized extraction of a beverage, including a fluid inlet wall provided so as to be ruptured by a pressurized fluid

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EP (1) EP2782848B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2013076381A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2024063662A3 (en) * 2022-09-22 2024-05-16 Weadd Lda Aluminium capsule for preparing soluble edible products

Families Citing this family (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
PT106850A (en) * 2013-03-25 2014-09-25 Galv O E Noronha Lda BREAKING SYSTEM APPLIED IN CAPSULES FOR EXPRESSED COFFEE MACHINES, TEA OR OTHER SOLUBLE, MADE IN PLASTICS, ALUMINUM OR SIMILAR MATERIALS
PT107044B (en) * 2013-07-05 2023-02-21 Novadelta Comercio E Ind De Cafes Lda PORTION PACKAGING, BEVERAGE PREPARATION SYSTEM BASED ON THE SAID PORTION PACKAGE AND PROCESS FOR OPERATING THE SAID SYSTEM
GB2545569B (en) * 2013-10-16 2018-08-29 Leslie Gort Barten Coffee capsule
FR3018270B1 (en) * 2014-03-05 2016-04-15 Brain Corp S A CAPSULE FOR PREPARING A BEVERAGE
LU92411B1 (en) * 2014-03-24 2015-09-25 Brain Corp Sa Capsule for the preparation of a drink
CH709597A2 (en) * 2014-05-06 2015-11-13 Delica Ag Capsule for drink preparation.
CH709785A2 (en) * 2014-06-17 2015-12-31 Delica Ag Capsule for drink preparation.

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
PT2210827E (en) * 2009-01-22 2012-11-21 Nestec Sa Capsule with delaminatable injection means

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2024063662A3 (en) * 2022-09-22 2024-05-16 Weadd Lda Aluminium capsule for preparing soluble edible products

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2782848A1 (en) 2014-10-01
WO2013076381A1 (en) 2013-05-30

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