EP3227205A1 - A beverage preparation machine and a capsule suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines - Google Patents

A beverage preparation machine and a capsule suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines

Info

Publication number
EP3227205A1
EP3227205A1 EP15820666.4A EP15820666A EP3227205A1 EP 3227205 A1 EP3227205 A1 EP 3227205A1 EP 15820666 A EP15820666 A EP 15820666A EP 3227205 A1 EP3227205 A1 EP 3227205A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
capsule
skirt
receptacle
opening
cover
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP15820666.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3227205B1 (en
Inventor
Emre AYAROGLU
Nihat Gunduz
Omer Burak Coban
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Arcelik AS
Original Assignee
Arcelik AS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Arcelik AS filed Critical Arcelik AS
Publication of EP3227205A1 publication Critical patent/EP3227205A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3227205B1 publication Critical patent/EP3227205B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

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
    • 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
    • B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
    • B65D77/22—Details
    • B65D77/30—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during filling or closing of containers
    • B65D77/40—Rigid cutting or tearing devices

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a beverage preparation machine and a capsule suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines and wherein the beverage raw material is stored.
  • beverage preparation machines the use of the single use capsule wherein the beverage raw material is stored is known.
  • the raw material stored in the capsule has to be delivered to the brewing chamber or the cup.
  • beverage preparation machines are known, providing that some portion of the folio covering the capsule is torn/cut and as the folio opens like a lid, the beverage raw material in the capsule is poured or emptied by turning the capsule upside down.
  • One of the problems encountered in the capsules suitable to be used in this type of machines is that the beverage raw material cannot be discharged completely from the capsule.
  • the powder beverage raw material such as Turkish coffee having thin particles remains inside the capsule or on the folio due to reasons like the folio not opening entirely or folding.
  • the aim of the present invention is the realization of a capsule suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines, providing that the beverage raw material therein is enabled to be poured properly and a beverage preparation machine wherein the said capsule is used.
  • the capsule realized in order to attain the aim of the present invention and explicated in the claims, comprises a skirt, at least some portion of which is seated on the side surface of the receptacle wherein the beverage raw material is stored such that almost no gap remains therebetween, the skirt surrounding the side surface, whereto the cover covering the orifice of the receptacle is attached, and further an opening that is arranged on the beverage preparation machine between the side surface of the receptacle and the skirt, wherein the opening apparatus that provides the opening of the cover by cutting is inserted.
  • the capsule of the present invention is placed in the beverage preparation machine such that the receptacle orifice faces downward.
  • the opening that remains between the skirt and the side surface of the receptacle is aligned with the opening apparatus of the beverage preparation machine and the opening apparatus enables the cover to be partially cut along the orifice of the receptacle.
  • the opening apparatus cuts the cover and enters the opening between the skirt and the side surface of the receptacle.
  • the opening apparatus enters the opening and gathers the uncut portion of the cover into the opening.
  • the beverage raw material inside the receptacle enables the cover to open like a lid around the uncut side of the cover with the effect of the weight.
  • the level of the upper side of the side surface that surrounds the orifice of the receptacle is higher than the upper side of the skirt.
  • the skirt partially surrounds the side surface of the receptacle.
  • the skirt longitudinally surrounds the side surface of the receptacle.
  • the opening apparatus providing the opening of the capsule confines the cover in the opening.
  • the skirt is produced as a single piece together with the receptacle.
  • the skirt is produced separately from the receptacle and joined to the side surface of the receptacle by plastic welding method.
  • the molds used in the production of the receptacle are used and the skirt is joined to the receptacle afterwards.
  • the lower sides of the skirt are connected to the upper sides of a housing wherein the receptacle is seated.
  • the lower sides of the skirt are connected to the housing surrounding the receptacle and the skirt is enabled to be supported more securely.
  • the capsule furthermore comprises at least one recess and protrusion disposed oppositely on the receptacle and the housing, such that the housing is prevented from dislodging from the receptacle by being inserted into one another when the receptacle is seated into the housing.
  • the receptacle is seated into the housing tightly.
  • the capsule comprises a protector that is connected to the side surface of the receptacle with a weak connection, that is folded on the connected side and that partially covers the opening.
  • a protector that is connected to the side surface of the receptacle with a weak connection, that is folded on the connected side and that partially covers the opening.
  • a frame is disposed at the end of the skirt, whereon the cover is fixed by methods like adhesion etc. and that extends to the side surface of the receptacle almost in vertical direction.
  • the cover which is preferably in folio form, is attached on the frame.
  • the frame also helps the receptacle not to be crushed and bent when force is exerted on the capsule by the beverage preparation machine.
  • the receptacle is placed into a casing that surrounds the skirt and enables the beverage raw material inside the receptacle to be kept fresh for a longer period of time.
  • the casing is produced from plastic material that is preferably thermally formed in an airtight manner.
  • an opening apparatus is provided that can enter the gap of the above mentioned capsule and enabling some portion of the cover to be cut/torn away.
  • the required cutters are not required to be inside the capsule in order to open the preferably folio form cover and the design of the capsule becomes simpler.
  • the capsule production costs are decreased and capsules with smaller volumes can be produced since cutting element inside the receptacle is not required.
  • the beverage raw material is not spilled on the opening apparatus since the opening apparatus providing the opening of the capsule opens the cover without entering the receptacle but the opening. Consequently, the beverage preparation machine stays clean in the process of emptying the capsule and usage facility is provided for the user.
  • Figure 1 - is the perspective view of a capsule.
  • Figure 2 - is the perspective view of a capsule when the cover is open.
  • Figure 2 - is the schematic view of the receptacle and the skirt related to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 - is the schematic view of the receptacle and the skirt related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 - is the schematic view of the capsule related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 5 - is the perspective view of the receptacle, the skirt and the protector related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 6 - is the schematic view of the receptacle, the skirt and the protector related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 7 - is the schematic view of the receptacle, the skirt and the housing related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 8 - is the perspective view of the receptacle, the skirt and the housing related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 9 - is the perspective view of the receptacle, the skirt and the housing related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 10 - is the perspective view of the receptacle, the skirt and the housing related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 11 - is the exploded view of the capsule related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 12 - is the exploded view of the capsule related to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 13 - is the schematic view of the opening apparatus and the capsule when the capsule is seated on the opening apparatus relating to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • the capsule (1) is suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines and comprises a receptacle (2) that has an orifice (3) enabling loading/unloading of the beverage raw material therein and at least one side surface (4) that surrounds the orifice (3).
  • the capsule (1) of the present invention is suitable to be used in the beverage preparation machine having an opening apparatus (A), and comprises a skirt (5) that surrounds the side surface (4) all around so that at least some portion thereof is seated on the side surface (4) almost without any gaps, a cover (6) attached on the skirt (5) so as to cover the orifice (3), and an opening (7) that remains between the side surface (4) and the skirt (5) and that enables the cover (6) to separate from the receptacle (2) by being seated on at least some portion of the opening apparatus (A).
  • the skirt (5) is preferably seated on the side surface (4) from its lower side almost without any gaps and widens towards its upper side such that the opening (7) is formed between the side surface (4) and the skirt (5), thereby surrounding the side surface (4) that surrounds the orifice (3).
  • the side surface (4) and the skirt (5) form a double walled structure.
  • the cover (6) provides the closing of the receptacle (2) by being attached on the skirt (5) ( Figure 1 and Figure 2).
  • the capsule (1) is preferably placed into the beverage preparation machine such that the opening (7) faces downward and the opening apparatus (A) is aligned with the opening (7).
  • the opening apparatus (A) and the capsule (1) are moved close to each other and the opening apparatus (A) enters the opening (7) by cutting/tearing some portion of the cover (6).
  • the skirt (5) and the side surface (4) help the opening apparatus (A) to cut the cover (6) effectively by supporting the cover (6) from both sides. Due to the capsule (1) standing upside down, the beverage raw material, with its weight being on the cover (6), enables the cover (6) to open like a lid by folding over the uncut portion of the cover (6) by the gravity effect.
  • the opening apparatus (A) is not required to enter the receptacle (2).
  • the cover (6) is cut such that the side surface (4) surrounding the orifice (3) remains inside and thus the beverage raw material is not spilled on the opening apparatus (A).
  • the side surface (4) supports the cover (6), thereby prevents the cover (6) from folding over itself and almost all the beverage raw material inside the receptacle (2) is enabled to be poured.
  • the opening apparatus (A) providing the cutting/tearing of the cover (6) is not required to be on the capsule (1) and improvement in capsule (1) costs is provided.
  • the upper side of the skirt (5) is lower than level of the orifice (3).
  • the upper side of the skirt (5) is at a lower level than the level of the side surface (4) sides that surround the orifice (3) in the vertical plane.
  • the cover (6) attached to the skirt (5) are stretched by the sides of the side surface (4) and the beverage raw material is prevented from spilling into the opening (7) during the movement of the capsule (1) such as carrying ( Figure 4).
  • the skirt (5) surrounds at least some portion of the side surface (4) in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the skirt (5) surrounds the side surface (4) so as to form a gap that enables the cover (6) to be cut and thus cost advantage is provided (Figure 3).
  • the skirt (5) longitudinally surrounds the side surface (4).
  • the skirt (5) is connected to the receptacle (2) preferably from the base and is prevented from breaking and bending when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine and the actuation mechanism applies force on the capsule (1) from above ( Figure 2).
  • the skirt (5) is connected to the side surface (4).
  • the receptacle (2) and the skirt (5) produced separately are connected to each other by vibration welding or similar connection methods.
  • the skirt (5) and the side surface (4) are produced in an integrated manner.
  • the number of parts used is decreased by producing the receptacle (2) and the skirt (5) together and quality perception of the consumer is improved.
  • the capsule (1) comprises a housing (13) wherein the receptacle (2) is seated and the upper side of which is connected to the skirt (5).
  • the receptacle (2) is seated into the housing (13) and the skirt (5) is connected to the housing (13) from its lower side.
  • the housing (13) tightly supports the skirt (5) from the lower side.
  • the housing (13) and the skirt (5) are produced as a single piece and grasp the base of the receptacle (2), enabling the opening apparatus (A) to open the capsule (1) without problems by increasing the strength of the skirt (5) ( Figure 7, Figure 11).
  • the receptacle (2) is seated into the housing (13) snap fittingly.
  • the housing (13) tightly surrounding the receptacle (2) increases the strength of the skirt (5) and the receptacle (2) is prevented from bending/folding when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine and opened by the opening apparatus (A).
  • the capsule (1) comprises a recess (8) that is arranged on the receptacle (2) or the housing (13) and a protrusion (9) that is disposed on the receptacle (2) or the housing (13) correspondingly and that is seated into the recess (8) by aligning with the recess (8) when the receptacle (2) is seated into the housing (13), the recess (8) and the protrusion (9) preventing the housing (13) and the receptacle (2) from being separated ( Figure 9, Figure 10).
  • the capsule (1) comprises a protector (10) that extends from the side surface (4) outwards almost in a direction perpendicular to the side surface (4) so as to remain under the cover (6) and that prevents the beverage raw material from entering the opening (7).
  • the protector (10) prevents the beverage raw material in the receptacle (2) from entering the opening (7) by partially closing the opening (7).
  • the protector (10) is preferably connected to the side surface (4) in an easily foldable manner. While the capsule (1) is carried, the beverage raw material is prevented from entering the opening (7) from the sides of the receptacle (2) by the protector (10).
  • the protector (10) is folded towards the interior of the opening (7) thanks to the foldable connection when the opening apparatus (A) contacts the protector (10) in order to enter the opening (7) ( Figure 5).
  • the protector (10) is in the form of a plate having an intermittent configuration with the separate portions being spaced apart and surrounds the side surface (4).
  • the protector (10) easily folds into the opening (7).
  • the capsule (1) comprises a frame (11) that is disposed on the upper side of the skirt (5), that extends in a direction almost perpendicular to the skirt (5) and whereon the cover (6) is attached.
  • the frame (11) also carries the weight of the capsule (1) when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine.
  • the frame (11) enables the cover (6) to be airtightly adhered on the receptacle (2) and at the same time prevents the receptacle (2) from being crushed/bent when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine ( Figure 8).
  • the capsule (1) comprises a casing (12) wherein the receptacle (2) is seated so as to surround the receptacle (2) and the skirt (5), and that enables the beverage raw material to stay fresh for a longer period of time.
  • the receptacle (2) and the skirt (5) are preferably produced by plastic injection method due to their configuration. Plastic that is produced by injection method is not entirely airtight and in this case the beverage raw material in the receptacle (2) cannot keep its freshness.
  • the casing (12) that is produced by plastic thermoforming method and has better airtightness in comparison to the receptacle (2), the beverage raw material is enabled to stay fresh for a longer period of time ( Figure 6, Figure 12).
  • the skirt (5) extends parallel to the side surface (4).
  • the skirt (5) extends in an inclined manner with respect to the side surface (4).
  • the strength of the skirt (5) is increased, thus the skirt (5) is enabled to resist the force exerted by the beverage preparation machine when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine.
  • the beverage preparation machine of the present invention is suitable for using the above described capsule (1).
  • the beverage preparation machine preferably comprises an opening apparatus (A) that provides the emptying of the beverage raw material in the capsule (1).
  • the opening apparatus (A) enters the opening (7) by cutting the cover (6).
  • the beverage preparation machine is preferably a Turkish coffee machine that can make Vietnamese coffee wherein the capsules (1) containing Vietnamese coffee are used.
  • the beverage raw material contained therein can easily be poured into the brewing chamber in the beverage preparation machine or into a cup without requiring cutting elements with complex structures for opening the cover (6) thereon.
  • the skirt (5) and the sides of the receptacle (2) support the cover (6) from inside the capsule (1) and help in opening of the cover (6) unproblematically.

Landscapes

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

Abstract

The present invention relates to a capsule (1) that is suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines having an opening apparatus (A) and comprising a receptacle (2) that has an orifice (3) enabling loading/unloading of the beverage raw material therein and at least one side surface (4) that surrounds the orifice (3).

Description

A BEVERAGE PREPARATION MACHINE AND A CAPSULE SUITABLE TO BE USED IN BEVERAGE PREPARATION MACHINES
DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to a beverage preparation machine and a capsule suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines and wherein the beverage raw material is stored.
In beverage preparation machines, the use of the single use capsule wherein the beverage raw material is stored is known. During the preparation of the beverage, for example Turkish coffee, by mixing the raw material by water, the raw material stored in the capsule has to be delivered to the brewing chamber or the cup. In the state of the art, beverage preparation machines are known, providing that some portion of the folio covering the capsule is torn/cut and as the folio opens like a lid, the beverage raw material in the capsule is poured or emptied by turning the capsule upside down. One of the problems encountered in the capsules suitable to be used in this type of machines is that the beverage raw material cannot be discharged completely from the capsule. The powder beverage raw material such as Turkish coffee having thin particles remains inside the capsule or on the folio due to reasons like the folio not opening entirely or folding.
In the state of the art International Patent Application No. WO2011007266, a beverage preparation machine and a capsule comprising the blades that cut the folio are disclosed.
In the state of the art International Patent Application No. WO2011154866, a capsule is disclosed which is turned upside down by the arm on the beverage preparation machine pushing thereon, thus pouring the contents therein.
The aim of the present invention is the realization of a capsule suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines, providing that the beverage raw material therein is enabled to be poured properly and a beverage preparation machine wherein the said capsule is used. The capsule realized in order to attain the aim of the present invention and explicated in the claims, comprises a skirt, at least some portion of which is seated on the side surface of the receptacle wherein the beverage raw material is stored such that almost no gap remains therebetween, the skirt surrounding the side surface, whereto the cover covering the orifice of the receptacle is attached, and further an opening that is arranged on the beverage preparation machine between the side surface of the receptacle and the skirt, wherein the opening apparatus that provides the opening of the cover by cutting is inserted. The capsule of the present invention is placed in the beverage preparation machine such that the receptacle orifice faces downward. The opening that remains between the skirt and the side surface of the receptacle is aligned with the opening apparatus of the beverage preparation machine and the opening apparatus enables the cover to be partially cut along the orifice of the receptacle. The opening apparatus cuts the cover and enters the opening between the skirt and the side surface of the receptacle. The opening apparatus enters the opening and gathers the uncut portion of the cover into the opening. The beverage raw material inside the receptacle enables the cover to open like a lid around the uncut side of the cover with the effect of the weight. By means of the skirt, cutting means are not required on the capsule for opening the cover and thus user injuries are avoided when the capsule is thrown away after being used.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the level of the upper side of the side surface that surrounds the orifice of the receptacle is higher than the upper side of the skirt. By means this embodiment, when the receptacle is closed by the cover, the cover attached to the skirt is enabled to be always kept stretched by the sides of the receptacle. Thus, when the capsule is shaken or turned upside down, the beverage raw material is prevented from going through the opening.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt partially surrounds the side surface of the receptacle. By means of this embodiment, while an opening is formed that the opening apparatus may enter for cutting the cover, the volume of the capsule is kept as small as possible. In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt longitudinally surrounds the side surface of the receptacle. As the skirt longitudinally surrounds the side surface, the opening apparatus providing the opening of the capsule confines the cover in the opening. Thus, by means of the skirt longitudinally surrounding the side surface, the cover is not required to open like a lid and the cover is pulled away on the uncut portion thereof along the side surface and enters the opening.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt is produced as a single piece together with the receptacle. By means of this embodiment, cost advantage is provided by decreasing the mold cost used in the production of the capsule.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt is produced separately from the receptacle and joined to the side surface of the receptacle by plastic welding method. In this embodiment, the molds used in the production of the receptacle are used and the skirt is joined to the receptacle afterwards.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the lower sides of the skirt are connected to the upper sides of a housing wherein the receptacle is seated. In this embodiment, the lower sides of the skirt are connected to the housing surrounding the receptacle and the skirt is enabled to be supported more securely.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the capsule furthermore comprises at least one recess and protrusion disposed oppositely on the receptacle and the housing, such that the housing is prevented from dislodging from the receptacle by being inserted into one another when the receptacle is seated into the housing. Thus, the receptacle is seated into the housing tightly.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the capsule comprises a protector that is connected to the side surface of the receptacle with a weak connection, that is folded on the connected side and that partially covers the opening. By providing the covering of the opening with the protector, the beverage raw material is prevented from entering the opening. When the opening apparatus is seated into the opening, the protector is folded into the opening and enables the opening to be opened. The protector furthermore surrounds the opening surface intermittently so that the opening apparatus can enter the opening more easily.
In another embodiment of the present invention, a frame is disposed at the end of the skirt, whereon the cover is fixed by methods like adhesion etc. and that extends to the side surface of the receptacle almost in vertical direction. The cover, which is preferably in folio form, is attached on the frame. The frame also helps the receptacle not to be crushed and bent when force is exerted on the capsule by the beverage preparation machine.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the receptacle is placed into a casing that surrounds the skirt and enables the beverage raw material inside the receptacle to be kept fresh for a longer period of time. The casing is produced from plastic material that is preferably thermally formed in an airtight manner.
In the beverage preparation machine of the present invention, an opening apparatus is provided that can enter the gap of the above mentioned capsule and enabling some portion of the cover to be cut/torn away.
By means of the skirt of the present invention, the required cutters are not required to be inside the capsule in order to open the preferably folio form cover and the design of the capsule becomes simpler. Thus, the capsule production costs are decreased and capsules with smaller volumes can be produced since cutting element inside the receptacle is not required. Moreover, the beverage raw material is not spilled on the opening apparatus since the opening apparatus providing the opening of the capsule opens the cover without entering the receptacle but the opening. Consequently, the beverage preparation machine stays clean in the process of emptying the capsule and usage facility is provided for the user.
The capsule realized in order to attain the aim of the present invention is illustrated in the attached figures, where:
Figure 1 - is the perspective view of a capsule.
Figure 2 - is the perspective view of a capsule when the cover is open. Figure 2 - is the schematic view of the receptacle and the skirt related to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 - is the schematic view of the receptacle and the skirt related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 - is the schematic view of the capsule related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 - is the perspective view of the receptacle, the skirt and the protector related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 - is the schematic view of the receptacle, the skirt and the protector related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 - is the schematic view of the receptacle, the skirt and the housing related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 - is the perspective view of the receptacle, the skirt and the housing related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 - is the perspective view of the receptacle, the skirt and the housing related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 - is the perspective view of the receptacle, the skirt and the housing related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 11 - is the exploded view of the capsule related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 - is the exploded view of the capsule related to another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 13 - is the schematic view of the opening apparatus and the capsule when the capsule is seated on the opening apparatus relating to another embodiment of the present invention.
The elements illustrated in the figures are numbered as follows: 1. Capsule 2. Receptacle
3. Orifice
4. Side surface
5. Skirt
6. Cover
7. Opening
8. Recess
9. Protrusion
10. Protector
11. Frame
12. Casing
13. Housing
A. Opening apparatus
The capsule (1) is suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines and comprises a receptacle (2) that has an orifice (3) enabling loading/unloading of the beverage raw material therein and at least one side surface (4) that surrounds the orifice (3).
The capsule (1) of the present invention is suitable to be used in the beverage preparation machine having an opening apparatus (A), and comprises a skirt (5) that surrounds the side surface (4) all around so that at least some portion thereof is seated on the side surface (4) almost without any gaps, a cover (6) attached on the skirt (5) so as to cover the orifice (3), and an opening (7) that remains between the side surface (4) and the skirt (5) and that enables the cover (6) to separate from the receptacle (2) by being seated on at least some portion of the opening apparatus (A). The skirt (5) is preferably seated on the side surface (4) from its lower side almost without any gaps and widens towards its upper side such that the opening (7) is formed between the side surface (4) and the skirt (5), thereby surrounding the side surface (4) that surrounds the orifice (3). Thus, when the receptacle (2) is viewed from above, the side surface (4) and the skirt (5) form a double walled structure. The cover (6) provides the closing of the receptacle (2) by being attached on the skirt (5) (Figure 1 and Figure 2).
The capsule (1) is preferably placed into the beverage preparation machine such that the opening (7) faces downward and the opening apparatus (A) is aligned with the opening (7). By means of an actuation mechanism (not shown) of the beverage preparation machine, the opening apparatus (A) and the capsule (1) are moved close to each other and the opening apparatus (A) enters the opening (7) by cutting/tearing some portion of the cover (6). In this case, the skirt (5) and the side surface (4) help the opening apparatus (A) to cut the cover (6) effectively by supporting the cover (6) from both sides. Due to the capsule (1) standing upside down, the beverage raw material, with its weight being on the cover (6), enables the cover (6) to open like a lid by folding over the uncut portion of the cover (6) by the gravity effect. Thus, almost all the beverage raw material in the receptacle (2) is enabled to be poured into the brewing chamber or the cup. By means of the skirt (5) and the opening (7) of the present invention, the opening apparatus (A) is not required to enter the receptacle (2). As the opening apparatus (A) enters the opening (7), the cover (6) is cut such that the side surface (4) surrounding the orifice (3) remains inside and thus the beverage raw material is not spilled on the opening apparatus (A). When the cover (6) is partially cut along the opening (7), the side surface (4) supports the cover (6), thereby prevents the cover (6) from folding over itself and almost all the beverage raw material inside the receptacle (2) is enabled to be poured. Furthermore, by means of the skirt (5), the opening apparatus (A) providing the cutting/tearing of the cover (6) is not required to be on the capsule (1) and improvement in capsule (1) costs is provided.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the upper side of the skirt (5) is lower than level of the orifice (3). In other words, preferably the upper side of the skirt (5) is at a lower level than the level of the side surface (4) sides that surround the orifice (3) in the vertical plane. Thus, the cover (6) attached to the skirt (5) are stretched by the sides of the side surface (4) and the beverage raw material is prevented from spilling into the opening (7) during the movement of the capsule (1) such as carrying (Figure 4). In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt (5) surrounds at least some portion of the side surface (4) in the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the skirt (5) surrounds the side surface (4) so as to form a gap that enables the cover (6) to be cut and thus cost advantage is provided (Figure 3).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt (5) longitudinally surrounds the side surface (4). In this embodiment, the skirt (5) is connected to the receptacle (2) preferably from the base and is prevented from breaking and bending when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine and the actuation mechanism applies force on the capsule (1) from above (Figure 2).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt (5) is connected to the side surface (4). For example, the receptacle (2) and the skirt (5) produced separately are connected to each other by vibration welding or similar connection methods.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt (5) and the side surface (4) are produced in an integrated manner. By means of this embodiment, the number of parts used is decreased by producing the receptacle (2) and the skirt (5) together and quality perception of the consumer is improved.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the capsule (1) comprises a housing (13) wherein the receptacle (2) is seated and the upper side of which is connected to the skirt (5). The receptacle (2) is seated into the housing (13) and the skirt (5) is connected to the housing (13) from its lower side. When the opening apparatus (A) enters the opening (7) by cutting the cover (6), the housing (13) tightly supports the skirt (5) from the lower side. The housing (13) and the skirt (5) are produced as a single piece and grasp the base of the receptacle (2), enabling the opening apparatus (A) to open the capsule (1) without problems by increasing the strength of the skirt (5) (Figure 7, Figure 11).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the receptacle (2) is seated into the housing (13) snap fittingly. In this embodiment, the housing (13) tightly surrounding the receptacle (2) increases the strength of the skirt (5) and the receptacle (2) is prevented from bending/folding when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine and opened by the opening apparatus (A).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the capsule (1) comprises a recess (8) that is arranged on the receptacle (2) or the housing (13) and a protrusion (9) that is disposed on the receptacle (2) or the housing (13) correspondingly and that is seated into the recess (8) by aligning with the recess (8) when the receptacle (2) is seated into the housing (13), the recess (8) and the protrusion (9) preventing the housing (13) and the receptacle (2) from being separated (Figure 9, Figure 10).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the capsule (1) comprises a protector (10) that extends from the side surface (4) outwards almost in a direction perpendicular to the side surface (4) so as to remain under the cover (6) and that prevents the beverage raw material from entering the opening (7). In other words, the protector (10) prevents the beverage raw material in the receptacle (2) from entering the opening (7) by partially closing the opening (7). The protector (10) is preferably connected to the side surface (4) in an easily foldable manner. While the capsule (1) is carried, the beverage raw material is prevented from entering the opening (7) from the sides of the receptacle (2) by the protector (10). When the capsule (1) is to be placed into the beverage preparation machine and opened, the protector (10) is folded towards the interior of the opening (7) thanks to the foldable connection when the opening apparatus (A) contacts the protector (10) in order to enter the opening (7) (Figure 5).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the protector (10) is in the form of a plate having an intermittent configuration with the separate portions being spaced apart and surrounds the side surface (4). Thus, when the opening apparatus (A) enters the opening (7), the protector (10) easily folds into the opening (7).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the capsule (1) comprises a frame (11) that is disposed on the upper side of the skirt (5), that extends in a direction almost perpendicular to the skirt (5) and whereon the cover (6) is attached. The frame (11) also carries the weight of the capsule (1) when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine. The frame (11) enables the cover (6) to be airtightly adhered on the receptacle (2) and at the same time prevents the receptacle (2) from being crushed/bent when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine (Figure 8).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the capsule (1) comprises a casing (12) wherein the receptacle (2) is seated so as to surround the receptacle (2) and the skirt (5), and that enables the beverage raw material to stay fresh for a longer period of time. The receptacle (2) and the skirt (5) are preferably produced by plastic injection method due to their configuration. Plastic that is produced by injection method is not entirely airtight and in this case the beverage raw material in the receptacle (2) cannot keep its freshness. By means of the casing (12) that is produced by plastic thermoforming method and has better airtightness in comparison to the receptacle (2), the beverage raw material is enabled to stay fresh for a longer period of time (Figure 6, Figure 12).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt (5) extends parallel to the side surface (4). By means of this embodiment, when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine, even if it is not aligned completely, the opening apparatus (A) of the beverage preparation machine easily enters the opening (7).
In another embodiment of the present invention, the skirt (5) extends in an inclined manner with respect to the side surface (4). By means of this embodiment, the strength of the skirt (5) is increased, thus the skirt (5) is enabled to resist the force exerted by the beverage preparation machine when the capsule (1) is placed into the beverage preparation machine.
The beverage preparation machine of the present invention is suitable for using the above described capsule (1). The beverage preparation machine preferably comprises an opening apparatus (A) that provides the emptying of the beverage raw material in the capsule (1). The opening apparatus (A) enters the opening (7) by cutting the cover (6). The beverage preparation machine is preferably a Turkish coffee machine that can make Turkish coffee wherein the capsules (1) containing Turkish coffee are used.
In the capsule (1) of the present invention, by means of the skirt (5), the beverage raw material contained therein can easily be poured into the brewing chamber in the beverage preparation machine or into a cup without requiring cutting elements with complex structures for opening the cover (6) thereon. When the cover (6) is cut partially along the opening (7), the skirt (5) and the sides of the receptacle (2) support the cover (6) from inside the capsule (1) and help in opening of the cover (6) unproblematically.

Claims

1 - A capsule (1) suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines having an opening apparatus (A) and comprising a receptacle
(2) that has an orifice (3) enabling loading/unloading of the beverage raw material therein and at least one side surface (4) that surrounds the orifice
(3), characterized by a skirt (5) that surrounds the side surface (4) all around so that at least some portion thereof is seated on the side surface
(4) almost without any gaps, a cover (6) attached on the skirt (5) so as to cover the orifice (3), and an opening (7) that remains between the side surface (4) and the skirt
(5) and that enables the cover (6) to separate from the receptacle (2) by being seated on at least some portion of the opening apparatus (A).
2 - A capsule (1) as in Claim 1, characterized by the skirt (5), the upper side of which is lower than the level of the orifice (3).
3 - A capsule (1) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by the skirt (5) that surrounds at least some portion of the side surface (4).
4 - A capsule (1) as in Claim 1, characterized by the skirt (5) that longitudinally surrounds the side surface (4).
5 - A capsule (1) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by the skirt (5) that is attached to the side surface (4).
6 - A capsule (1) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by the skirt (5) that is produced in an integrated manner with the side surface (4).
7 - A capsule (1) as in any one of the Claims 1 to 4, characterized by a housing (13) wherein the receptacle (2) is seated, and the upper side of which is connected to the skirt (5).
8 - A capsule (1) as in Claim 7, characterized by the receptacle (2) which is snap- fittingly seated into the housing (13).
9 - A capsule (1) as in Claim 7, characterized by a recess (8) that is arranged on the receptacle (2) or the housing (13) and a protrusion (9) that is disposed on the receptacle (2) or the housing (13) correspondingly and that is seated into the recess (8) by aligning with the recess (8) when the receptacle (2) is seated into the housing (13), the recess (8) and the protrusion (9) preventing the housing (13) and the receptacle (2) from being separated.
10 - A capsule (1) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by a protector (10) that extends from the side surface (4) outwards almost in a direction perpendicular to the side surface (4) so as to remain under the cover (6) and that prevents the beverage raw material from entering the opening (7).
11 - A capsule (1) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by a frame (11) that is disposed on the upper side of the skirt (5), that extends in a direction almost perpendicular to the skirt (5) and whereon the cover (6) is attached.
12 - A capsule (1) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by a casing (12) wherein the receptacle (2) is seated so as to surround the receptacle (2) and the skirt (5), and that enables the beverage raw material to stay fresh for a longer period of time.
13 - A capsule (1) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by the skirt (5) that extends parallel to the side surface (4).
14 - A capsule (1) as in any one of the Claims 1 to 12, characterized by the skirt (5) that extends in an inclined manner with respect to the side surface (4).
15 - A beverage preparation machine that is suitable for using a capsule (1) as in any one of the above claims characterized by an opening apparatus (A) which enters the opening (7) by cutting the cover (6).
EP15820666.4A 2014-12-03 2015-11-18 Capsule for the preparation of beverages Active EP3227205B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
TR201414602 2014-12-03
PCT/TR2015/050185 WO2016089326A1 (en) 2014-12-03 2015-11-18 A beverage preparation machine and a capsule suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3227205A1 true EP3227205A1 (en) 2017-10-11
EP3227205B1 EP3227205B1 (en) 2019-03-06

Family

ID=55071125

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP15820666.4A Active EP3227205B1 (en) 2014-12-03 2015-11-18 Capsule for the preparation of beverages

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US20170129692A1 (en)
EP (1) EP3227205B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2933319C (en)
SA (1) SA516371396B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2016089326A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11684197B2 (en) * 2018-04-20 2023-06-27 Resolute Patents, Llc Portable beverage system and assembly
US10696472B2 (en) 2018-04-30 2020-06-30 Joseph Borse Single serve beverage container

Family Cites Families (40)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US99849A (en) * 1870-02-15 Improvement in fish-joints for railway-rails
US99489A (en) * 1870-02-01 Improved stove-pipe shelf
GB1599396A (en) * 1977-05-03 1981-09-30 Lin Pac Plastic Containers Ltd Drinking cups capable of nesting
US5108768A (en) * 1988-11-25 1992-04-28 So Peter K L Cartridge for beverage making
DE20100166U1 (en) * 2001-01-05 2001-03-29 Melitta Haushaltsprodukte GmbH & Co. KG, 32427 Minden Portion pack for the production of a brewed beverage
US6658989B2 (en) * 2001-04-11 2003-12-09 Keurig, Incorporated Re-usable beverage filter cartridge
ES2269000B1 (en) * 2006-06-13 2008-03-01 Francisco Navarro Alcantara "CAPSULES CONTAINER".
ES2347286T3 (en) * 2007-04-18 2010-10-27 Illycaffe' S.P.A. RIGID FILTER FOR CAPSULES SUITABLE FOR REMOVING BEVERAGES, PARTICULARLY EXPRESSED COFFEE.
CA2689505C (en) * 2007-06-05 2015-11-24 Nestec S.A. Capsule and method for preparing a food liquid by centrifugation
EP2300335B1 (en) * 2008-04-24 2013-06-19 Tconcept Company S.P.R.L. Capsule, device, and method for preparing infused beverages
US8772685B2 (en) * 2008-12-31 2014-07-08 Dart Industries Inc. Microwave steam cooking container system
TR200905555A1 (en) 2009-07-17 2011-02-21 Hareml�K Gida Dekorasyon Ve Ek�Pmanlari T�Caret Sanay� L�M�Ted ��Rket� Turkish coffee machine.
PT2470053E (en) * 2009-08-28 2013-11-04 Nestec Sa Capsule system for the preparation of beverages by centrifugation
ES2388892T3 (en) * 2009-12-18 2012-10-19 Delica Ag Device for preparing a drink and capsule
US20120015081A1 (en) * 2010-03-31 2012-01-19 Multisorb Technologies, Inc. Oxygen and carbon dioxide absorption in a single use container
US20110243483A1 (en) * 2010-03-31 2011-10-06 Multisorb Technologies, Inc. Oxygen and carbon dioxide absorption in a single use container
EP2576393A1 (en) 2010-05-31 2013-04-10 Haremlik Gida, Dekorasyon Ve Ekipmanlari Ticaret Sanayi Limited Sirketi Capsule for pouring a powder in a device
US10071851B2 (en) * 2010-07-12 2018-09-11 Robert Bao Vu Apparatus and products for producing beverages, and methods for making and using same
US20120097602A1 (en) * 2010-10-22 2012-04-26 International Paper Company Biodegradable or compostable beverage filter cartridge
EP2645907B1 (en) * 2010-11-30 2014-06-18 Nestec S.A. Capsule for the preparation of a beverage in beverage production device
US20120171333A1 (en) * 2011-01-04 2012-07-05 Multisorb Technologies, Inc. Oxygen and carbon dioxide absorption in a single use container with an absorbent support below the filter
TR201202636U (en) * 2011-03-14 2012-10-22 Cupsystem Company B.V. System for the preparation of an Arabian beverage.
GB2489409B (en) * 2011-03-23 2013-05-15 Kraft Foods R & D Inc A capsule and a system for, and a method of, preparing a beverage
TW201318564A (en) * 2011-06-15 2013-05-16 Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Inc Beverage formation apparatus and method using vibratory energy
TW201311198A (en) * 2011-06-16 2013-03-16 Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Inc Compositions, systems and methods for portion-packaged soups and meals
ITUD20110097A1 (en) * 2011-06-23 2012-12-24 San Marco Spa "COFFEE MAKING MACHINE"
US20130045307A1 (en) * 2011-08-17 2013-02-21 Medora Safai Brew Cartridge
US20130045308A1 (en) * 2011-08-17 2013-02-21 Data Machine International Disposable biodegradable beverage package
EP2802519B1 (en) * 2012-01-12 2016-09-07 Sarong Societa' Per Azioni Capsule for beverage
EP2662314A1 (en) * 2012-05-07 2013-11-13 Nestec S.A. An ingredient capsule for beverage preparation
ITVR20130276A1 (en) * 2013-12-11 2015-06-12 Caffita System Spa CAPSULE FOR THE PREPARATION OF DRINKS
US20160176626A1 (en) * 2014-12-23 2016-06-23 Telesonic Packaging Corp. Cartridge for beverage dispenser
AU2015348852A1 (en) * 2014-11-20 2017-05-11 Unilever Plc Capsule, device and method for brewing a beverage
CN105739661B (en) * 2014-12-11 2019-01-22 鸿富锦精密工业(武汉)有限公司 Voltage conversion circuit
ITUB201543371U1 (en) * 2015-05-26 2016-11-26 Marco Verri PRODUCT TO REALIZE THROUGH INFUSION A RESPECTIVE BEVERAGE.
US10004351B2 (en) * 2016-01-22 2018-06-26 Allan Erhart Hot water dispenser adapter device
US10099489B2 (en) * 2016-04-15 2018-10-16 Gp Squared Technologies, Inc. Apparatus and method for trimming a print sheet, and registering the location of an image
US20180044084A1 (en) * 2016-08-14 2018-02-15 Anthony J. Orler Cellulose-based beverage cartridge
US20180206667A1 (en) * 2017-01-24 2018-07-26 G-Pak Technology Inc. Beverage Cartridge and Filter Support for Disposing Therein
US11278149B2 (en) * 2017-04-10 2022-03-22 Leonid Ulman Reusable brewing filter with ejection mechanism

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3227205B1 (en) 2019-03-06
WO2016089326A1 (en) 2016-06-09
SA516371396B1 (en) 2020-06-29
CA2933319A1 (en) 2016-06-09
CA2933319C (en) 2018-09-18
US20170129692A1 (en) 2017-05-11

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
AU2017204363B2 (en) Beverage capsule with sealing element
JP5877165B2 (en) Apparatus for preparing a coffee beverage, ground coffee packaging cartridge for use with such apparatus, method of preparing a beverage by such apparatus, and supplying ground coffee from such ground coffee packaging cartridge how to
JP4448125B2 (en) Beverage storage and distribution cans that can also be used for instant production of beverages by extraction and / or decoction
MX2009001061A (en) Improvements to capsules containing a substance in powder form from which a beverage, preferably espresso coffee, is to be extracted.
JP2014094783A (en) Push button flip top with attached second container
JP2015525590A (en) Method and device for extracting beverages and capsules
JP2012523259A (en) Beverage production cartridge for coffee and soluble products
RU2008115440A (en) INTEGRATED CARTRIDGE CONTAINING BEVERAGE SUBSTANCE
CN107000856A (en) Manufacture and the method for packing container
US20130256307A1 (en) Loose tea brewing lid
CA2933319C (en) A beverage preparation machine and a capsule suitable to be used in beverage preparation machines
US20100133127A1 (en) Cup including a compartment in the form of an inverted cup
JP2015085086A (en) Beverage filter cartridge and beverage extraction container using the same
WO2016089328A1 (en) A coffee machine and a capsule suitable to be used in coffee machines
KR20110074915A (en) Device for extemporaneously preparing a hot beverage from a soluble powder
KR200475771Y1 (en) Structure of instant food double spaced bowl having water hole
WO2008131263A1 (en) Lid having a flip top cover
RU2008145114A (en) DISPOSABLE COFFEE FOR PREPARING A COFFEE
JP6328371B2 (en) Drink cup lid and drink cup
JP5917237B2 (en) Cup type container
EP3138788A1 (en) Capsule for instant drinks
KR101415626B1 (en) Container for extracting beverages
CN103860020A (en) Beverage maker equipped with cartridge separator
RU118619U1 (en) CAPSULE FOR PREPARING A DRINK OR LIQUID FOOD PRODUCT IN A DEVICE FOR PREPARING A BEVERAGE
KR101388153B1 (en) Heating lunch box

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20161005

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

DAV Request for validation of the european patent (deleted)
DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20180423

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20181130

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1104231

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20190315

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602015026045

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

RAP2 Party data changed (patent owner data changed or rights of a patent transferred)

Owner name: ARCELIK ANONIM SIRKETI

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20190306

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190606

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190607

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190606

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1104231

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20190306

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190706

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602015026045

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190706

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20191209

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20191118

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20191130

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20191130

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20191130

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20191118

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20191130

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20191130

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20151118

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20190306

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20231123

Year of fee payment: 9

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Payment date: 20231108

Year of fee payment: 9

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20231121

Year of fee payment: 9