EP3303182A1

EP3303182A1 - Capsule and extraction method

Info

Publication number: EP3303182A1
Application number: EP16727283.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Nick SCHAUDE
Original assignee: Swiss Coffee Co AG
Current assignee: Swiss Coffee Co AG
Priority date: 2015-05-27
Filing date: 2016-05-27
Publication date: 2018-04-11
Also published as: CN107922105A; CH711126A1; WO2016187724A8; US20180148250A1; CN107922105B; WO2016187724A1; US11021318B2

Abstract

The invention relates to a capsule for use in an extraction machine, comprising a base (41), a side wall (31) and a cover (21), which together form a chamber (13) for an extraction material. The capsule (11) comprises a deformable region (33, 47) designed for outward plastic deformation in the conditions prevalent during the extraction process, and for sealing interaction with a capsule receiver of said extraction machine. The invention also relates to an extraction method in which such a capsule is used.

Description

Capsule and extraction method

Technical area

The invention relates to capsules for receiving an extraction material,

in particular coffee or tea, for use in an extraction machine, in particular a coffee machine or a tea machine, and a

Extraction process.

State of the art

The production of beverages by extraction (e.g., from coffee beans) is a well-known technique. For some years it has been for the sake of

Convenience, improved quality and controllability of the

Extraction results proven, the extraction material in single portions

pack and use these portion packs directly in an extraction machine. Over time, so many are

Extraction mechanisms have been developed and described as well as various design variants of portion packs.

Generally, such coffee maker sachets are in the form of capsules having a bottom, a sidewall, a (mostly

flange-like) edge and a lid. The bottom, side wall and lid of some capsules to obtain the extraction material quality from a

air-impermeable material such as aluminum. Other capsules are instead housed in an airtight secondary package. For extraction, the capsule is inserted into a capsule holder of the extraction machine. Then, the capsule is optionally on one side (the entry area, i.e., either the bottom or the lid) with an injection member for

Extraction fluid opened. Subsequently, the extraction fluid is passed under pressure into the capsule. By the contact of the extraction fluid with the

Extraction material forms an extract, which finally on the opposite Side of the capsule (the exit area, ie either the lid or the bottom) emerges.

With some capsules it is provided that the extract exits through the lid. The lid is then e.g. pressed by the pressure of the extraction fluid against a plate of the extraction machine, which has elevated areas and channels between these elevated areas. The lid ruptures, wherein the described structure of the plate dictates the break points on the lid. The channels are provided with openings which pierce the plate and through which the extract can flow (see, for example, DE 69217113 T2). For other capsules, the extract passes through the soil, e.g. via flow openings, and passes to an outlet of the capsule receptacle. It is also known to pierce the side of the capsule through which the extract exits, ie usually the bottom or the lid, by means of an opening and / or outflow member (also referred to below as "spike") either act only as an opening member, whereby the extract can flow from the opening formed by the dome in the capsule past the mandrel to the outlet of the capsule receptacle, but the spike can also be hollow, whereby the extract can then flow out through the mandrel from the capsule receptacle, ie the mandrel forms the outlet itself (see US2Q05150391 AI or EP2284102A1).

The invention described in this document can also optionally be design variants of the types of capsules described above.

By a search conducted by a Patent Office, the following further, classified as relevant publications were determined: DE102008014758 AI, WO2014 / 029803A1, WO2013 / 144838A1, WO2014 / 184652A1 and

WO2004 / 087529A1.

The capsule disclosed in DE102008014758A1 has a flexible

A plastic film extending over the radially outwardly extending flange and the rolled edge in which the flange terminates extends. The plastic film is in the area of the rolled edge when inserting the capsule in the

Extraction machine through the closure mechanism of the capsule holder mechanically deformed (squeezed) and produces the desired seal between the extraction machine and the capsule.

In the case of the capsule taught by WO2013 / 144838 A1, too, a flexible layer is mechanically squeezed on the flange of the capsule when closing the capsule receptacle and acts as a seal.

Quite similar is the concept disclosed in WO2014 / 184652 Al. There, too, a mechanical deformation of the flange takes place for the purpose of sealing.

WO2014 / 029803 Al also describes a capsule with mechanically deformable parts when closing the capsule receptacle, this does not serve the seal. Instead, the extraction engine recognizes the on

Deformation necessary pressure, the process parameters necessary for the preparation of the extract. Again, the deformation of the capsule at the beginning of the extraction process must already be completed. Object of the invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a capsule, in particular a coffee capsule or tea capsule, which is designed for use in an extraction machine and / or for carrying out an extraction process for producing an extract, in particular coffee or tea. Advantageous embodiments of the capsule allow to use the capsule in various extraction machines. In addition, the capsules can be particularly environmentally friendly, especially compostable.

Further advantages and objects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description.

Presentation of the invention

The above object is achieved by a capsule according to claim 1.

Disclosed is inter alia a capsule for use in a

Extraction machine, with a bottom, a side wall and a lid, which together form a chamber for an extraction material. It is advantageous if the capsule has a deformed area which is adapted to be present when using the capsule in the extraction machine and / or during the conditions prevailing during use in the extraction machine and / or during the execution of the extraction process Conditions (especially outward) plastically

deform and sealingly cooperate with a capsule holder of the extraction machine. In addition, an extraction method using a capsule described in this document is disclosed, comprising the steps of: a) inserting a capsule filled with an extraction material into a capsule receptacle of a capsule

Extraction machine; b) introducing an extraction fluid, in particular water, into the capsule; c) flowing through the capsule, wherein by the contact of the

Extraction fluid is formed with the extraction material an extract; d) exit of the extract from the capsule. It is advantageous if the deformable region is plastically v formed outwardly towards the capsule receptacle and cooperates sealingly with the capsule receptacle. Features will be described below, and these are (individually) considered to be preferred features, even if not explicitly designated as such. The features are separate (as part of any capsule or any extraction method) and - if they do not exclude - disclosed in any combination. This includes the possibility of simultaneous realization of all described features.

The capsule is designed for use in an extraction machine and / or for carrying out an extrusion process to produce an extract, in particular for use in a coffee machine or

Tea maker. The capsule is preferably a portion capsule and / or a disposable capsule for single use.

Preferably, the capsule is a coffee capsule or a tea capsule and / or the extraction material is coffee or tea, in particular ground coffee or tea leaves.

The sidewall and / or the bottom and / or the deformable region may be made (preferably in one piece and / or by injection molding or deep drawing) from a material (hereinafter "the material") which is adapted when using the capsule in the extraction machine and / or in the conditions prevailing during the execution of the extraction process and / or during the extraction

plastically and / or permanently deforming conditions prevailing conditions, in particular to deform outwardly and cooperate sealingly with a capsule on na hme the extraction machine. The described part of the capsule is conveniently positioned so that the sealing

Interaction with the capsule receptacle is achieved. Preferably, the part extends substantially annularly and / or without interruption about the longitudinal axis of the capsule.

The capsule holder is the part of an extraction machine which is designed to receive the capsule for carrying out the method. The preparation of the extract takes place expediently, while the capsule is received in the capsule receptacle. The capsule receptacle may form a cavity for the capsule and / or in places with the capsule therein

absorbed capsule and / or have an outlet for the extract.

This adaptability of the capsule to the shape of the capsule holder enables the capsule to be used in different extraction machines. In particular, the amount of extraction fluid passing outside and / or laterally past the capsule and / or reaching the exit region can be reduced by the described sealing interaction (For example, at least 30, 60 or 90 percent compared to a capsule that has no described deformability).

In particular, the material described above may be one

Act plastic.

The plastic advantageously has a glass transition temperature and / or a heat distortion temperature ("HDT" or "heat deflection

preferably according to DIN EN ISO 75, in particular DIN EN ISO 75-1, -2, and / or -3, more preferably HDT B (eg 0.45 MPa)) and / or a softening temperature and / or a melting temperature of at least 40 or 45 degrees Celsius and / or at most 105, 98, 90 or 70 degrees C. The deformation temperature mentioned below may also assume this value.

The plastic is preferably a plastic with a content of PLA ("polylactic acid" or polymic acid) of at least 5, 10 or 15 and / or at most 95, 90 or 85 percent by weight, in particular 40 to 70 or 50 to 60 percent by weight , more preferably 45 to 60 weight percent (based on the total weight of the plastic or material).

Alternatively or additionally, the plastic may include a proportion of PBAT

("Polybutyrate adipate terephthalate"), in particular bio-based PBAT, and / or PBS (polybutylene succinate), in particular biobased PBS, and / or PBSA (polybutylene succinate adipate), in particular biobased PBSA, and / or lignin (preferably obtained from plants, in particular wood) and / or PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates) and / or PHB (polyhydroxybutyrate), in particular bio-based PHB, and / or PPC (polypropylene carbonate) and / or PEF

(Polyethylene furanoate), in particular bio-based PEF, of at least 5, 10 or 15 and / or at most 95, 90, 85, 60, 40 or 20 percent by weight (information on the proportion refers to the proportion of the respective polymer, percentages by weight relate to the total weight of the plastic or material). By mixing PLA with PBS can be, for example, the

Temperature at which the plastic softens and deforms during the process, adapt. The addition of fillers such as calcium carbonate and / or talc (preferably in a proportion of (each or together) less than 30, 20 or 10 percent by weight based on the total weight of the plastic or material) may also be advantageous. For example, this can increase the rigidity and / or toughness of the material.

The plastic is particularly preferably a plastic containing PLA and / or PHB and / or PEF, wherein the plastic additionally contains PHA and / or PBAT and / or PBS. For the preferred levels of PLA, PHB, PEF, PHA, PBAT and PBS reference is made to the above information for PLA, PHB, PEF, PHA, PBAT and PBS. The sum of the proportions of PLA, PHB and PEF (if present) together with PHA, PBAT and PBS (if present) may advantageously be at least 80, 90 or 95 percent of the plastic.

The plastic may, for example, have a density (preferably according to ISO 1183) of at least 1000, 1100, 1200 or 1300 kg / m * and / or at most 1900, 1700 or 1600 kg / m ³ . Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the plastic has a modulus of elasticity (in particular at room temperature and / or according to ISO 527-2) of at least 2500, 3000 or 3300 and / or at most 3900, 4200 or 4700 MPa.

It is particularly preferred if the plastic is biodegradable and / or compostable. The plastic preferably meets the requirements of the standard DIN EN 13432 (or EN 13432) and / or the standard ASTM D6400 and / or the standard Australian standard AS4736 and / or Japanese standard GreenPla and / or the standard home composting and / or the standard

Chinese standard GB / T.

The side wall and / or the bottom and / or the deformable region may be formed by the pressure acting from outside within the capsule (of eg at least 1, 5, 8 or 10 bar and / or at most 30, 25 or 22 bar ) of the extraction fluid passed through the capsule and / or only (or only) after reaching a certain temperature (also known as

In the manner described in this document, an equal pressure without the described temperature preferably does not result in the manner described in this document plastic deformation. Preferably, the described material and / or the described part of the capsule is flowable before or during its plastic deformation. It is advantageous if the capsule does not tear at the plastically deforming points and / or no additional openings are formed in the capsule as a result of the plastic deformation.

Preferably, the thickness and / or the wall thickness of the capsule in the region of the bottom and / or the side wall and / or the deformable region is at least 0.1, 0.2 or 0.3 millimeters and / or at most 3, 2, 1.5, 1, 0.8 or 0.7 millimeters. It may be provided that the thickness and / or the wall thickness at the location of the deformable region (for example by at least 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 percent) is less than in the adjoining regions of the side wall and / or the bottom and / or. or as the average thickness or wall thickness of the capsule. A smaller thickness leads to a faster one

Heating by the extraction fluid and thus to a lighter

Deformation.

The capsule has an entrance area where the extraction fluid enters the capsule and an exit area where the extract exits the capsule. Conveniently, the lid forms the inlet area and the bottom forms the outlet area, or vice versa.

The chamber may be designed to be from the entry area to

Outflow area to be traversed by the extraction fluid and / or the extract. The extraction fluid comes into contact with the extraction material in the chamber, wherein the extract is formed.

The deformable region may be arranged between the inlet region (and / or the lid) and the outlet region (and / or the bottom). It is expedient if the deformable region surrounds the capsule and / or the chamber and / or the side wall and / or the longitudinal axis of the capsule (preferably substantially annularly and / or without interruption). It is particularly useful if the deformable area as part of the side wall and / or of the floor and / or is formed integrally with the side wall and / or the floor.

The deformable area may be located closer to the entrance area (and / or closer to the lid) than to the exit area (and / or bottom). If the capsule and / or the side wall has a web or flange running along the filling opening and / or along the lid, to which the lid is advantageously fastened, then the deformable region may be e.g. be arranged adjacent to this web or flange.

The deformable region may extend from an inner side of the capsule adjacent the chamber to an outer side of the capsule.

In particular, the deformable region may have an extent in the direction from the inside to the outside of the capsule of at least 0.3 millimeters, preferably at least 0.5 millimeters and / or at most 2 or 1

Millimeters.

According to a variant, the capsule filled with an extraction material may be designed to oppose less resistance to the movement of the extraction fluid from the inlet region in the direction of the deformable region than from the inlet region in the direction of the outlet region.

Preferably, the capsule filled with an extraction material is designed so that the extraction fluid reaches the deformable region during the implementation of the method described in this document before it reaches the outlet region.

It can e.g. be provided that between the inside of the lid and the extraction material consists of a cavity, wherein the distance of the

Extracted from the inside of the lid, e.g. at least 0.1, 0.3 or 0.5 millimeters.

The side wall may substantially have the shape of a rotational body and / or be substantially prismatic, in particular cylindrical, and particularly preferably substantially circular cylindrical. Of the Rotational body is expediently hollow, in particular, the side wall is a hollow cylinder.

As described, the bottom, the side wall and the lid together form a chamber for an extraction material. Before attaching the lid, the side wall and the bottom suitably form a cavity for receiving the extraction material, wherein the extraction material by a the ground

preferably in relation to the cavity opposite filling opening can be placed in the cavity. After attaching the lid, which closes the filling opening, the bottom, the side wall and the lid advantageously form a closed chamber for the extraction material. The extraction material may advantageously be a powdered or liquid beverage substrate.

It can be provided that the side wall along the filling opening and / or where it is connected to the lid, has a web (for example in the form of a flange) and / or thickened. The extent of the web in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the capsule may be at least 0.3, 0.5 or 1 millimeter, for example.

According to a variant, the deformable region can run along the web and / or between the web and the bottom of the capsule, wherein the deformable region advantageously joins directly to the web.

The bridge increases the stability of the capsule and allows a stable

Connection of the lid with the side wall, so that even with deformation of the deformable area, the capsule in the region of the lid does not break. The lid may be made substantially of cellulose or contain cellulose (eg in an amount of at least 20, 30 or 50 weight percent and / or at most 95, 85 or 80 weight percent). The cover preferably contains synthetic fibers (for example in a proportion of at least 5, 10 or 20 percent by weight and / or at most 60, 40 or 30 percent by weight.) The data on weight relate in each case to the total weight of fibers in the cover or the total weight of the cover a variant form the Fibers the contact surface of the lid for connection to the side wall. In this and other cases, it is useful when referring to the ones mentioned

Plastic fibers around PLA fibers, PBAT fibers, PBS fibers, PBSA fibers, lignin fibers (preferably derived from plants, in particular wood), PHA fibers (polyhydroxyalkanoates), PHB fibers (polyhydroxybutyrate), PEF

(Polyethylenfuranoat) fibers and / or PPC fibers (polypropylene carbonate) acts, as this facilitates the connection of the lid with the side wall. The fibers mentioned may advantageously be bio-based fibers (in the case of PLA fibers, for example biobased PLA fibers). Alternatively, the lid can also be made of cellophane, cellulose hydrate or cellophane. The connection of the lid to the sidewall may e.g. by means of welding, in particular heating element welding or hot sealing or ultrasonic welding or high-frequency welding or laser welding. The fibers may form a filter and / or be in the form of a nonwoven.

According to one embodiment variant, the lid or a cap that can be connected to the capsule can have a diameter or radius that is at least 2, 3, 4, 6 or 10 millimeters larger than the side wall (and / or the above-mentioned bar) and / or the lid or the attachment can protrude over the sidewall (and / or the bridge) by the described distance. This allows the use of the capsule in certain extraction machines.

The thickness of the lid or attachment and / or its extension in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the capsule can be (for the whole or at least in the above-described projecting region) at most 1, 0.5, or 0.1 millimeter, for example.

The region projecting beyond the side wall or the web can thus be formed as part of the cover or as a separate attachment. The essay is with the

Capsule (preferably detachable) connectable (eg placed on the capsule or attachable). The attachment may, for example, be substantially annular or have portions disposed on a ring and projecting beyond the side wall or web in the manner described. The article may, for example, from a material described above for the lid, in particular Cellulose, be made of plastic or steel. It is advantageous if the attachment is reusable and / or biodegradable and / or compostable. The essay can with advantage in the

Comply with the standard mentioned in connection with the plastic (see page 6 above). It can be connected to the capsule before inserting the capsule into the capsule receptacle and be removed from the capsule after the procedure has been carried out.

The bottom may be connected at its outer edge to the side wall and / or integral with the side wall e.g. be made by injection molding or deep drawing.

The bottom may have a bottom plate, wherein the bottom and / or the bottom plate preferably has flow openings. A preferred number of flow ports is at least 3, 9 or 27 and / or at most 500, 300 or 200. The flow ports extend through the bottom and / or the bottom plate. A preferred size of the

Flow openings are at least 0.1 or 0.2 square millimeters and / or at most 2 or 1 square millimeter.

The bottom and / or the bottom plate may form the exit area through which the extract leaves the capsule. The lid may form the entry area through which the extraction fluid, especially water, enters the capsule. In principle, however, the capsule can also be flowed through in the opposite direction. Therefore, when mentioning the word "entrance area", the term "exit area" is alternatively also disclosed and vice versa. According to a variant, the bottom plate may have a thickness of at least 0.1, 0.2 or 0.3 millimeters and / or at most 2, 1.5, 1, 0.8 or 0.7 millimeters.

On the outside and / or on the inside of the bottom, a support structure rising above the bottom plate can be arranged.

The support structure may have one or more webs. The support structure may advantageously (for example at least 1, 2 or 3 and / or at most 15, 10 or 8) between the center of the bottom and the edge of the floor extending webs (hereinafter also referred to as "radial webs") and / or extending along the edge of the floor and / or substantially annular and / or self-contained web (im Also referred to as "ring land" hereinafter).

Preferably, the radial webs are connected to each other in the region of the center of the soil.

The distance between adjacent radial webs may decrease from the edge of the ground towards the center of the ground.

Adjacent radial webs may each meet at an angle, e.g. is less than or equal to 120, 90, 80 or 60 degrees.

It can be provided that the radial webs and / or the annular web and / or the support structure at the location of their maximum height at least 1, 1.5, 2 or 3 millimeters and / or at most 7, 5 or 4 millimeters on the

Raise floor plate.

The ring land may, according to a variant, rise at least as far above the base plate as the radial webs.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the annular web has no gaps and / or over its length a substantially constant height.

The radial webs may each have a gap, wherein the gaps are preferably on a ring around the center of the soil. These gaps can serve to receive a support ring of the extraction machine. This can reduce the material consumption for the capsule.

In the middle of the floor and / or within a radius of 7, 6, 5, 4 or 3 millimeters around the center of the floor, a recess may be arranged and / or the height of the support structure there at least in one

Subarea less than 80, 70 or 60 percent of the maximum height of the

Support structure amount.

Alternatively or additionally, the radial webs (in particular in the region of the recess) may be designed sloping in the direction of the center of the bottom at an angle to the bottom plate. According to one embodiment, within a radius of at least 2, 3 or 4 millimeters around the center of the floor no passages can be arranged in the bottom plate and / or the bottom or the bottom plate can be closed there.

General is also any method, in particular a

Extraction method disclosed using the capsule disclosed in this document. Such a method can with a

Extraction machine are performed, which has a capsule holder. The method may advantageously comprise the following steps: a) inserting a capsule filled with an extraction material into a capsule receptacle of the

Extraction fluid is formed with the extraction material an extract; d) exit of the extract from the capsule.

The introduction of the extraction fluid takes place in the manner described above

Entry area of the capsule instead of and the outlet takes place in the above-described exit region of the capsule.

The deformable region is plastically deformed, in particular outward toward the capsule receptacle, and preferably acts sealingly together with the capsule receptacle. In particular, the distance of the deformable region from the capsule receptacle is reduced by the deformation. Alternatively or additionally, the contact area between the capsule and the capsule receptacle increases as a result of the deformation (for example by at least 2, 5, 10 or 20 percent). Preferably, prior to exiting the extract from the capsule, the deformable region is heated by contact with the extraction fluid, e.g. to at least 40, 45 or 50 and / or at most 120, 110 or 100 degrees Celsius. Alternatively or additionally, the deformable region deforms plastically in the manner described in this document only after the described

Warming. Alternatively or additionally, the deformable region

(preferably only or only) when reaching a temperature of at least 40, 45 or 50 and / or at most 105, 90 or 70 degrees Celsius are plastically deformed in the manner described in this document. The deformation temperature mentioned above may correspond to these temperature values. When the deformation temperature is reached, the deformable region softens, can then be deformed in the manner described and hardened or solidified after falling below the deformation temperature (in particular the minimum values) in the deformed state.

After cooling the deformable region under the

Deforming temperature (especially below the minimum values), the deformable region remains deformed.

The deformable region expediently deforms under the conditions described in this document without tearing.

It can be provided that the deformable area in the

described deformation by a distance of at least: 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2 or 3 millimeters and / or at most: 7, 5 or 4 millimeters of the capsule receptacle approaches and / or to a distance of less than 0.2, 0.1 or 0.05 millimeters approximates the capsule receptacle.

It is particularly preferred if the deformable region deforms outwardly in the described deformation by a distance of at least 0.5, 1, 2 or 3 millimeters towards the capsule receptacle.

Terms in this document should preferably be understood as one of ordinary skill in the art would understand. If several interpretations are possible in the respective context, then preferably each interpretation is disclosed individually. In particular, in the event of ambiguity, the preferred definitions given in this document may alternatively or additionally be used.

The term "bio-based" is preferably to be understood as meaning that the corresponding material designated as "bio-based" is produced predominantly from renewable raw materials, in particular from plants. In particular, the proportion of renewable raw materials is more than 50

Weight.

When of an extent (e.g., a length, a width, a height, a depth, a thickness, a wall thickness, a distance, a distance, a

Diameter, a radius, a cross section, a size) is mentioned, then in addition in each case the minimum and / or the maximum and / or the

average extent revealed.

The longitudinal axis of the capsule preferably extends from the lid (in particular through the center of the lid and / or the filling opening) to the bottom

(especially through the center of the ground).

In this document, when using the particular article (eg, "that") as well as when using the indefinite article (eg, "a") in conjunction with an object, unless stated otherwise, the object without specifying whether it is the same object of the same name, which is mentioned elsewhere, must be disclosed. Regardless, it should be disclosed that each mention of an object of the same name is the same object. This applies to all objects mentioned in the singular.

If an object is mentioned in this document, this does not exclude that

Presence of additional objects of the same kind. In other words, when mentioning an object, respectively "at least one" such object and "one or more" such objects are disclosed. One, two, three or more or even all of the additional objects may optionally have the same features as the one object. This is especially true for objects such as the radial webs or the

Durchilussöffnungen.

If an indication of a standard is not unambiguous, then the latest version of the standard and / or the valid version of the standard at the time of the registration is meant to be the name most similar to the given name. Brief description of the drawings

It shows in a schematic, not to scale representation:

Figure 1 shows a capsule in a perspective view from below.

Fig. 2 is a bottom view of the capsule of Fig.l;

Fig. 3 is a plan view of the capsule from Fig.l with lid;

Fig. 4 is a plan view of the capsule from Fig.l without a lid;

Fig. 5 is a front view of the capsule of Fig.l;

Fig. 6 is a side view of the capsule of Fig.l;

Fig. 7 is a front view of the capsule of Fig.l after the implementation of

Method with deformations in the region of the filling opening;

Fig. 8 is a side view of the capsule from Fig.l after the implementation of

Method with deformations in the region of the annular web; 9 is a perspective view of the capsule from Fig.l from below to the

Implementation of the method with deformations in the field of

Base plate and the bottom center; and

10 is a perspective view of the capsule from Fig.l from below to the

Implementation of the method with deformations in the field of

Base plate and the bottom center.

Embodiment of the invention

The invention will be explained by way of example with reference to the drawings.

In Figs. 1-10, the same capsule 11 is for use in a

Extraction machine shown. Figs. 1-6 show the capsule 11 in front of the

Use, Fig.7-10 after use. In Figure 4, the capsule for visualization of the chamber 13 is shown for the extraction material without cover, while it is shown in Figs.l -3, 5 and 6 with cover 21.

The capsule 11 has a bottom 41, an adjoining thereto

Side wall 31 and a lid 21, which a filling opening 39 verscMiesst. The bottom 41 and the side wall 31 can be made in one piece and / or from the same material (eg by injection molding or deep-drawing), wherein the material is expediently a plastic. If this

Plastic having the properties necessary for the function of the deformable portions 33a, 33b, 47a, 47b, 47c described below, it is possible, the deformable portions 33a, 33b, 47a, 47b, 47c in one piece and / or of the same material as the Floor 41 and / or the side wall 31st

train, which is manufacturing technology favorable.

The bottom 41, the lid 21 and the bottom 41 and the lid 21 connecting side wall 31 form a chamber 13 in the interior of the capsule 11 for receiving an extraction material, the extraction material conveniently before attaching the lid 21 via the filling opening 39 into the chamber 13th is given. Particularly preferred is the not shown

Extraction material around coffee in ground form. The chamber 13 may e.g. have a capacity of at least 1, 2 or 3 and / or at most 40, 30 or 20 cubic centimeters. It has proved to be advantageous for the reasons described below, the chamber 13 is not complete with

To fill the extraction material so that an average distance of e.g. at least 0.5, 1, 1.5 or 2 millimeters between lid 21 and extraction material remains. However, this is not mandatory.

In the case of the capsule 11 filled with the extraction material, the material to be extracted may be in direct contact with the inside of the side wall 31 and / or the inside of the lid 21 and / or the inside of the bottom 41. But it can also be provided that between extraction good and bottom 41 a filter

(Preferably in the form of a nonwoven), for example, a paper filter is arranged. This is particularly useful if the provided in the bottom 41 (eg at least 3, 9 or 27 and / or at most 500, 300 or 200) flow-through openings 45 for the exit of the extract have a larger average diameter than the grains of the extraction material. In a preferred variant, the cover 21 has a filter (preferably in the form of a fleece), for example a paper filter. For example, the said inside of the lid 21 or the filling opening 39 covering part of the lid may be formed substantially by such a filter.

For ease of reference, it is determined that the longitudinal axis of the capsule 11 from the lid 21 (in particular through the center of the lid 21 and / or the filling opening 39) to the bottom (in particular through the center 63 of the bottom 41). The filling opening 39 and / or the lid 21 are opposite the bottom 41 with respect to the chamber 13. Conveniently, the side wall 31 is substantially prismatic, in particular circular cylindrical, formed.

The side wall 31 may have a web 35 extending along the filling opening 39 and surrounding the capsule 11. The web 35 increases the stability of the capsule 11 and increases the intended for connection to the cover 21 contact surface of the side wall 31. The extension of the web 35 in the direction of the longitudinal axis (ie in the direction of the lid 21 to the bottom) and / or transversely to the longitudinal axis (in particular radially, ie in the direction away from the longitudinal axis) can, for example be at least 0.5, 1 or 1.5 and / or at most 5, 4 or 3.5 millimeters, said expansion with advantage over the circumference of the capsule 11 is substantially constant. The web 35 may have a plurality of extending in the direction of the bottom 41 to the cover 21 recesses 37, which are preferably arranged at a constant distance from each other and along the entire length of the web 35.

The cover 21 may according to the embodiment shown variant have a (eg, by at least 2, 3, 4, 6 or 10 millimeters) larger outer diameter than the side wall 31 in the region of the web 35 and / or the lid may (away from the longitudinal axis ) extend beyond the bridge 35 (eg at least 1, 2, 3 or 5 millimeters). This allows the use of the capsule in certain extraction machines. In the region which extends beyond the web and / or on average, the extent of the cover 21 in the direction of the longitudinal axis is preferably less than 2, 1, 0.5 or 0.3 millimeters. But the same effect can also be achieved by an attachable to the capsule essay, for example, in addition to a closing the filling opening Cover is attachable to the capsule and extends in the manner described above the web out or has a corresponding outer diameter.

In addition to the web 35, which is connected to the cover 21, the capsule 11 on the bottom 41 webs 53,57,59, which form a support structure 51. The bottom 41 has a bottom plate 43 with through-flow openings 45 for the passage of the extract, whereby the webs 53, 57 rise above this bottom plate 43. The extent of the webs 53,57 in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the capsule 11 is referred to herein as the height of the webs. The support structure 51 has radial webs 53 and / or an annular web 57. The radial ribs 53 (e.g., at least 2, 3, or 4, and / or at most 15, 10, or 8) are designated as extending radially outwardly of the longitudinal axis toward the edge 65 of the bottom 41. The annular web 57 is referred to as such, because it surrounds the longitudinal axis substantially annular (preferably without interruption). If both radial webs 53 and an annular web 57 are provided, the annular web 57 surrounds the radial webs 53. The annular web 57 runs along the edge 65 of the bottom 41 and / or at a distance from the edge 65 of the bottom 41 and / or at a distance from the outside of the side wall 31 of eg at least 0.5, 1 or 1.5 and / or at most 8, 7, 6 or 4 millimeters. It is advantageous if the annular web 57 has, on two opposite sides with respect to the longitudinal axis, regions 59 which are substantially parallel to one another and are e.g. at least 0.5, 1 or 1.5 inches long. Thus, the annular web 57 may additionally form a guide which facilitates the correct insertion of the capsule 11 in an extraction machine. A preferred height of the radial webs 53 and / or the annular web 57 is at least 0.5, 1 or 1.5 and / or at most 7, 6, 5, 4 or 3.5 millimeters.

In a region around the longitudinal axis and / or in the middle of the bottom 41, a recess 55 is provided. The area is preferably within a circle with a radius of at least 0.5, 1 or 1.5 and / or at most 5, 4 or 3.5 millimeters. In said region, the average height or height of the radial webs 53 (eg, at least 10, 20, 30, or 50 percent) is less than the maximum or average height of the radial webs 53 (Total), if in the said area at all radial webs 53 are provided. Because of the increased stability, however, it is advantageous if the radial webs 53 are connected in the said region, wherein they can be designed in the direction of the center of the bottom 41 to the bottom plate 43 sloping down (in particular obliquely sloping). A preferred minimum height of the radial webs 53 in said region of the recess 55 may be at least 10, 20 or 30 percent of the average height of the radial webs 53 (in total). The recess 55 leaves space in the center of the bottom 41 for receiving an injection, opening and / or outflow member ("mandrel") of an extraction machine, the functions of which are described in the introduction may have a substantially constant and / or equal height to at least 50, 60 or 80 percent of their length The described recess 55 forms an exception, wherein between the radial webs 53 and the annular web 57 or in the radial webs 53 further recesses 61 may be provided These recesses 61 are expediently on a ring around the

Longitudinal axis of the capsule 11 is arranged, since they serve to receive a support ring of the extraction machine.

It is envisaged that the water is passed through the lid 21 into the capsule 11 and the extract leaves the capsule 11 through the bottom 41, i. the lid 21 forms the inlet region 23 for the water and the bottom 41 forms the outlet region 49 for the extract. In principle, however, this can also be the other way round.

The capsule 11 has one or more deformable regions 33a, 33b, 47a, 47b, 47c, which are designed to plastically deform under the conditions prevailing during the extraction in the capsule receptacle of the extraction machine and to cooperate sealingly with the capsule receptacle. The deformation can cause the flow of water (in the direction of

Inlet region 23 to the outlet region 49) between the capsule and the

Capsule receptacle and / or outside of the capsule past obstructed or reduced. The deformable regions 33a, 33b, 47a, 47b, 47c deform in the direction of the capsule receptacle and / or adapt to the shape of the capsule Capsule receptacle, wherein the distance between the deforming portion 33 a, 33 b, 47 a, 47 b, 47 c and the capsule receptacle by the deformation

is preferably reduced. Preferably, as described above, the bottom 41 and the side wall 31 are made of a material which is one such

Deformation allows and for this purpose a glass transition temperature and / or a heat deflection temperature and / or a

Softening temperature and / or a melting temperature which is lower than the temperature of the water and / or the extract, which comes into contact during extraction with the material (especially where the deformable regions are arranged) in contact.

Several regions have been identified that are suitable as deformable regions 33a, 33b, 47a, 47b, 47c. On the one hand, these are the areas 33 a and 33 b, which are arranged on the side wall 31 or formed as part of the side wall 31 and extend substantially along the entire circumference of the capsule 11. These deformable regions 33a, 33b are preferably arranged at a distance of less than 1, 0.5 or 0.3 centimeters from the filling opening 39 and / or from the lid 21 so that they come into contact with the water as early as possible during the extraction process and deform. Further deformable regions 47a, 47b, 47c may be arranged on the bottom 41 or formed as part of the bottom 41. Especially the above

described region of the recess 55 in the center 63 of the bottom 41 and / or the bottom plate 43 and / or the annular web 57 may form deformable portions 47a, 47b, 47c. These are areas which, in a deformed state, can cooperate sealingly with parts of the capsule receptacle over which the extract flows out of the capsule receptacle. For example, the range of

Recess 55 plastically deform around a mandrel of the capsule machine around (see Fig.9 and 10). Also, the annular rib 57 can cooperate by a plastic deformation sealingly with a bottom of the capsule receptacle and thus reduce the amount of water that can pass outside of the capsule 11 to the mandrel or outlet. When ex traction process is water with a temperature of eg

passed at least 80 degrees Celsius in the inlet region 23 through the lid 21 into the capsule 11. The contact of the water with the extraction material in the chamber 13 produces an extract which leaves the capsule 11 in the outlet region 49, in particular through the flow openings 45. In this case, the water comes into contact with the deformable region 33a, whereby the latter deforms outwardly, ie plastically deforms away from the longitudinal axis of the capsule 11 (see FIG. 7), and cooperates in a sealing manner with the capsule receptacle of the extraction machine. It is useful if the filled capsule 11 is adapted to the water with respect to its movement through the chamber 13 in the direction of

It is in fact desirable that the water comes into contact with the deformable region 33a as early as possible during the extraction process, as far as possible, with respect to its movement through the chamber 13 in the direction from the inlet region 23 to the outlet region 23 For example, within less than 5, 4 or 3 seconds after the water has reached the entrance area 23. This can e.g. be achieved in that between the inside of the lid 21 and the extraction material from the inlet region 23 to the deformable region 33 a leading channel is present. For example, the capsule 11 can not be filled up to the lid with Ausktionsgut, so that there is a free space between the lid and Ausktionsgut, through which the water can flow to the side wall 31 and thus to the deformable portion 33 a down. The water can contact within the described time from within the capsule 11 and / or from outside the capsule 11 with the deformable region 33a, preferably both of which is true, because thereby a faster heating and thus deformation of the deformable region 33a can be achieved.

In Figures 7-10 capsules 11 are shown after use, ie in the partially deformed state. It should be noted that the deformation of the capsules shown differs. This is due to the fact that the

Capsule 11 can be used in various extraction machines. Because of the differently designed capsule receptacles and the different expiring extraction process (pressure, temperature, etc.) result in the capsule different deformations, the direction of deformation of the deformable portions 33a, 33b, 47a, 47b, 47c in Figures 7-10 by arrows is shown.

7 shows a capsule 11 with deformations in the region of the filling opening 39. This comprises on the one hand a deformation of the deformable region 33b, which is formed by the web 35, and on the other hand a deformation of the

deformable portion 33 a, which is arranged substantially adjacent to the web 35. Both deformable regions 33a and 33b extend in the

Substantially along the entire circumference of the capsule 11 and deform outwards, i. away from the longitudinal axis of the capsule 11. The deformable portion 33b is disposed adjacent to the lid. Since the lid 21 under the conditions described during the extraction process is not or at least less deformed than the deformable portion 33 b, the deformable portion 33 b is prevented from being deformed by the connection with the lid 21 on the side of the lid 21. On the side facing away from the cover 21 side of the deformable portion 33 b, the deformation is greater. 8 shows a capsule 11 with deformations in the region of the annular web 57. The deformable region 47c, which is formed by the annular rib 57, deforms outwards, i. away from the longitudinal axis of the capsule 11. It is assumed that the annular web 57 is clamped by the pressure acting from the cover 21 in the direction of the bottom 41 on the capsule 11 pressure between the capsule 11 and the capsule receptacle and escapes to the outside, while at the same time in shape to the shape of the Adapts capsule intake and acts as a seal.

9 and 10 show a capsule 11 on the one hand with deformations in the region of the center 63 of the bottom 41, in particular a deformation of the recess 55, and on the other hand with deformations of the bottom plate 43. The deformation of the recess 55 inwardly in the direction of the chamber 13 caused by the mandrel of the extraction machine. Before the start of the extraction process is the thorn taken in the capsule receiving capsule 11 only partially in the recess 55 and / or the recess 55 is too small to the

Completely absorb the thorn. During the extraction process, because of the softening of the deformable region 47a, the mandrel can push the bottom 41 into the chamber 13 and / or the recess 55 with respect to its

Increase expansion in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the capsule. The bottom 41 does not break. On the other hand, the bottom plate 43, which forms the deformable region 47b, deforms outwardly in the direction away from the cover 21 and partially fills the space between the radial webs 53 (eg at least 30, 50 or 70 percent).

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

11 capsule

13 chamber (for the extraction material)

21 lids

23 entrance area (for water)

25 protruding edge (of the lid 21)

31 side wall

33a deformable area (the side wall 31, adjacent to the web 35)

33b deformable area (the side wall 31, adjacent to the lid 21) 35 web (along the filling opening 39)

37 recesses (in bridge 35)

39 filling opening

41 soil

43 bottom plate (part of the bottom 41)

45 flow openings (in the bottom plate 43)

47a deformable area (of the floor 41, in the area of the center 63 of the floor)

47b deformable region (of the bottom 41, in the region of the bottom plate 43)

47c deformable area (of the floor 41, in the area of the edge 65 of the floor)

49 exit area (for extract)

51 support structure (of the floor 41)

53 Radial webs (parts of the support structure 51)

55 recess (in the middle of the floor 41)

57 ring web (part of the support structure 51)

59 parallel areas (of the ring land 57)

61 recesses (in the radial webs 53)

63 middle of the bottom 41 (also longitudinal axis of the capsule 11)

65 edge of the floor 41

Claims

claims

Capsule for use in an extraction machine, comprising a bottom (41), a side wall (31) and a lid (21) which together form a chamber (13) for an extractable material, the capsule (11) having a deformable region ( 33, 47) which extends from an inner side of the capsule (11) adjoining the chamber (13) to an outer side of the capsule (11) and which is designed to pass through at a temperature of at least 40 degrees Celsius plastically deforming outwardly from inside the capsule (11) to the outside pressure of an extraction fluid passed through the capsule (11) and sealingly cooperating with a capsule holder of the extraction machine,

2. capsule according to spoke 1, characterized in that the deformable region (33,47) is made of a plastic, which is a

Glass transition temperature and / or a heat deflection temperature and / or a softening temperature and / or a melting temperature between 40 and 105 degrees Celsius, preferably between 45 and 98 degrees Celsius, and more preferably between 45 and 90 degrees Celsius.

3. Capsule according to claim 1, characterized in that the side wall (31) and / or the bottom (41) is made of the plastic and forms the deformable region (33, 47), wherein the plastic is preferably a compostable plastic from predominantly renewable

Raw materials, wherein the proportion of renewable resources is preferably more than 50 weight percent.

4. Capsule according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the capsule (11) has an inlet region (23) for the entry of the extraction fluid and an outlet region (49) for the exit of an extract, wherein the deformable region (33,47) the chamber (13) between the inlet region (23) and outlet region (49) substantially annular timts.

5. capsule according to spoke 4, characterized in that

- The deformable region (33) closer to the inlet region (23) than on

Exit region (49) is arranged, and / or

- The capsule (11) is filled with an extraction material, wherein the filled capsule (11) is adapted to the movement of the extraction fluid from

Entry area (23) towards the v er malleable area (33) less

Resisting, as from the inlet region (23) in the direction of the exit region (49),

such that the extraction fluid reaches the deformable region (33) before reaching the exit region (49).

6. Capsule according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the deformable region (33,47) has an extension in the direction from the inside of the capsule (11) to the outside of the capsule (11) of at least 0.1 millimeters, preferably at least 0.3 Millimeters and more preferably at least 0.5 millimeters, with such an extension of at least 1 millimeter and in particular at least 2 millimeters is particularly preferred.

7. Capsule according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the bottom (41) in the center (63) has a recess (55).

8. Capsule according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that

- the bottom (41) has a bottom plate (43) with several flow holes (45) and on the outside, a rising above the bottom plate (43)

Having support structure (51),

- The support structure (51) a plurality between the center (63) of the bottom (41) and the edge (65) of the bottom (41) extending webs (53) and / or in the Has substantially annular along the edge (65) of the bottom (41) extending web (57),

- The support structure (51) rises at the location of its maximum height at least 2 millimeters above the bottom plate (43), and

within a radius of less than 3 millimeters, in particular less than 2 millimeters, about the midpoint (63) of the bottom (41) the height of the

Supporting structure (51) is at least in a partial area less than 80 percent, in particular less than 70 percent and particularly preferably less than 60 percent, the maximum height of the support structure (51).

9. Extraction method using a capsule (11) according to one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the steps:

- Inserting a filled with an extraction material capsule (11) in one

Capsule holder of an extraction machine,

Introducing an extraction fluid, in particular water, into the capsule (11),

- Flow through the capsule (11), wherein by the contact of the

Extraction fluid is formed with the extraction material an extract,

Exit of the extract from the capsule (11),

characterized in that the deformable region (33, 47) is plastically deformed outwardly toward the capsule receptacle and, after the deformation, cooperates sealingly with the capsule receptacle.

10. Extraction method according to claim 9, characterized in that before the exit of the extract from the capsule (11) of the deformable region (33,47) is heated by the contact with the extraction fluid and the deformable region (33,47) upon reaching a Temperature between 40 and 105 degrees Celsius, preferably between 45 and 98 degrees Celsius, and more preferably between 45 and 90 degrees Celsius, is plastically deformed outwardly towards the capsule receptacle.

11. Extraction method according to one of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that the deformable portion (33,47) at least 0.5 millimeters, preferably at least 1 millimeter, more preferably at least 1.5 millimeters or at least 2 millimeters, is plastically deformed outwardly towards the capsule receptacle ,