EP3487788B2 - Capsule for preparing a beverage - Google Patents
Capsule for preparing a beverage Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3487788B2 EP3487788B2 EP17734698.8A EP17734698A EP3487788B2 EP 3487788 B2 EP3487788 B2 EP 3487788B2 EP 17734698 A EP17734698 A EP 17734698A EP 3487788 B2 EP3487788 B2 EP 3487788B2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- capsule
- slit valve
- beverage
- connecting piece
- outflow
- 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.)
- Active
Links
- 239000002775 capsule Substances 0.000 title claims description 150
- 235000013361 beverage Nutrition 0.000 title claims description 66
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 claims description 38
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 25
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000013353 coffee beverage Nutrition 0.000 description 16
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 8
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 8
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 7
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 7
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 7
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 description 7
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000010008 shearing Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000032683 aging Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000015116 cappuccino Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012065 filter cake Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000001914 filtration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005187 foaming Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011888 foil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000020307 latte macchiato Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000008267 milk Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000004080 milk Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 235000013336 milk Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000003647 oxidation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007254 oxidation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
- B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
- B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
- B65D85/8052—Details of the outlet
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
- B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
- B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
- B65D85/8049—Details of the inlet
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
- B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
- B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
- B65D85/8061—Filters
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a capsule for the preparation of a beverage according to claim 1.
- the EP 1 908 706 A2 a capsule in the interior of which an insert is arranged which, together with the bottom of the capsule body, fulfills a valve function, so that after the liquid pressure has been removed, no beverage can escape from the capsule.
- a labyrinth structure downstream of the valve calms the flow of the beverage and mixes the beverage that has been prepared.
- a capsule for the preparation of a drink is to be made available, which can be produced easily and inexpensively.
- dripping of the capsule after the end of the preparation process should be suppressed or completely prevented as far as possible.
- foaming of the beverage and, when preparing coffee, a crema should be made possible by generating shear forces.
- a capsule according to the invention for the preparation of a drink comprises a preferably rotationally symmetrical capsule body which completely or partially delimits a substance chamber for receiving at least one substance, a preferably centrally arranged outlet nozzle with an outlet opening and a cover for closing the substance chamber.
- a liquid can be introduced into the substance chamber and drained through the outlet opening.
- a slit valve Arranged between the substance chamber and the outlet nozzle is a slit valve that opens further under increasing liquid pressure in the substance chamber in such a way that the slit valve opens directly into the outlet nozzle and in particular generates a jet of beverages. Under atmospheric pressure, the slit valve is not necessarily tightly closed, at least not airtight.
- valve which in particular only opens fully when the liquid pressure increases, can prevent the beverage from escaping prematurely, which in particular allows a coffee substance to be pre-brewed.
- the capsule will not only allow the drink to be dispensed drop by drop, but will also, due to its design, allow the beverage to be dispensed continuously.
- the design of the valve as a slit valve means that an increased shearing effect is achieved in the beverage while the cross-sectional area remains the same. In this way, an improved crema is produced, particularly when making coffee.
- the fact that the slit valve opens directly into the spout makes dispensing the drink easier. If the outlet nozzle is designed cylindrically and in particular has straight inner walls, the dripping time after the end of the preparation can be reduced.
- the slit valve can be part of a boundary wall of the outlet connection on the inlet side. This means that the entire length of the spout can be used to calm the jet of beverages. The drink will flow out of the capsule accordingly calmly and can be collected in a cup.
- the slit valve can be designed as a predetermined breaking point and can be closed tightly, in particular fluid-tight, preferably aroma-tight, before the minimum liquid pressure is applied for the first time.
- a tight, in particular aroma-tight construction of the slit valve means that no additional membrane has to close the outlet opening and a loss of aroma from the beverage substance can nevertheless be prevented. If the lid and the capsule body are designed accordingly, the quality of the prepared drink can be guaranteed even after the capsule has been stored for a long period of time.
- the slit valve can be arranged in such a way that the jet of beverage pours out transversely to an outflow direction of the outflow connection piece.
- the outlet direction extends from the slit valve to the outlet opening and is generally approximately parallel to a longitudinal axis of the outlet connector and/or approximately parallel to an axis of symmetry of the preferably rotationally symmetrical capsule body.
- a jet of beverage, which pours out into the outlet nozzle transversely to the outlet direction, will collide with a side wall of the outlet nozzle, so that on the one hand its flow speed is reduced and on the other hand a thorough mixing of the beverage with air is promoted.
- An air inlet opening connected to an air supply duct is arranged in the outlet nozzle in such a way that the jet of beverage can be guided past the air inlet opening.
- Such a construction is, for example, in EP 1 440 910 A1 disclosed.
- the air inlet opening can be arranged and/or designed in such a way that, when the capsule is used as intended, no beverage can enter the air inlet opening under the effect of gravity. Accordingly, a machine for preparing the beverage is prevented from being unintentionally contaminated by a beverage escaping through the air inlet opening and the air inlet channel of the capsule.
- this air inlet opening is dimensioned so small that due to the viscosity of the beverage being prepared, it cannot get through the air inlet opening at all.
- the air inlet opening can be arranged to the side or in the direction of gravity above the beverage jet formed by the nozzle.
- This opening which is arranged on the side or above the jet of beverage, prevents the beverage from escaping under the effect of gravity, even with a larger air inlet opening.
- the machine used to prepare the drink must also be taken into account accordingly, since this machine determines the orientation of the capsule when it is used as intended.
- the valve and air inlet port may be configured such that when the valve is open, a venturi nozzle is formed.
- a venturi nozzle By designing the valve as a Venturi nozzle, the air entrained or the air introduced into the beverage can be precisely determined.
- the term Venturi nozzle is understood to mean any arrangement whose entrainment of air is based on the Venturi effect or Bernoulli's law. It is also conceivable for the capsule to have only one Venturi nozzle and for the valve to be dispensed with. This venturi nozzle can be arranged instead of the slit valve and inject the beverage directly into the outlet nozzle.
- the air supply channel or partial areas thereof can be formed by interaction of the capsule body with a plug attached to the capsule body.
- Such a two-part design of the capsule enables additional degrees of freedom and, in particular, simplifies cost-effective production of the capsule.
- the plug can be attached to the capsule body from the outside.
- This construction allows further degrees of freedom in the construction of the capsule.
- the prior art shows, for example, that an additional part is inserted into the capsule body, which includes the outlet nozzle.
- a construction is advantageous in which an additional part is attached to the capsule body on the side opposite the lid. Accordingly, the tolerance chain on the cover side is not affected.
- a filter can be arranged in front of the slit valve.
- a filter ensures that no undissolved beverage substance particles are flushed onto and/or into the valve and clog it. A correct function of the valve is thus guaranteed.
- the capsule is designed to be oxygen-tight, penetration of oxygen into the capsule during storage of a substance contained therein is essentially avoided. As a result, aging of the substance, for example coffee powder, can be avoided due to oxidation.
- An oxygen-tight capsule is usually also aroma-tight.
- Oxygen or aroma tightness is required in order to achieve a minimum shelf life of 12 months, preferably 18 months, particularly in the case of coffee.
- an oxygen- and/or aroma-tight capsule is understood to mean a capsule in which coffee powder can be stored at room temperature in atmospheric air for a period of at least 12 months, preferably 18 months, without the coffee powder changing , which impairs the quality of a coffee beverage made from it.
- the film material used for this purpose can have an OTR (oxygen transmission rate) of less than 5, preferably less than 2.
- the OTR indicates the amount of oxygen per unit area and time that diffuses through a foil, in the unit: cm3/m2/day/0.21 bar.
- the finished oxygen- and/or aroma-tight capsule body, or the entire capsule (including stopper and/or insert and lid), can have an OTR (oxygen transmission rate) of less than 5, preferably less than 2. This applies regardless of the manufacturing process used.
- FIG 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a capsule 1 with a capsule body 2 and a plug 9 lifted from the capsule body 2 and to be connected thereto.
- the capsule 1 is aligned as it is to be used as intended.
- a cover 8 located on the underside of the capsule 1.
- the capsule body 2 has a receptacle on the visible upper side in a central area, into which the plug 9 can be inserted.
- the plug 9 is firmly connected to the capsule body 2, for example glued in, welded in or snapped in.
- the capsule body 2 has through openings 16 which allow a beverage formed in the capsule 1 to pass through to the stopper 9 .
- the stopper 9 has a filter 15 on its lower side in the illustration shown, which is formed by a multiplicity of slits.
- the actual filter function only comes into effect when the plug 9 is inserted in the capsule body 2, the drink is in a space between the capsule body 2 and the plug 9 and is passed through the slots of the filter 15.
- FIG 2 is a cross-section through the assembled capsule 1 of FIG figure 1 pictured.
- the capsule body 2 can again be seen, in which the plug 9 is inserted from above in the illustration shown.
- the plug 9 tightly seals the capsule body 2 on the upper side, which is at the top in the illustration shown and when used as intended.
- the capsule body 2 forms a substance chamber 3 in which a substance 4 for preparing the drink is present.
- the capsule 1 or the capsule body 2 is closed by a cover 8 on the underside. This cover 8 not only closes the substance chamber 3 but also an air supply channel 7 and an outlet connection 5 with its outlet opening 6 .
- the air supply channel 7 is arranged coaxially around the outlet connection 5 .
- the outlet nozzle 5 is closed off by a boundary wall 12 on the side opposite the outlet opening 6 .
- the slots in the additional part 9, which form the filter 15, can also be seen.
- FIG. 3a to 3c is in each case a perspective view of a cut-open capsule according to FIG figure 1 shown wherein the capsule is in accordance with the invention.
- the cut runs transversely to the cut from the figure 2 .
- the function of the capsule is explained on the basis of these figures.
- the capsule body 2 and the additional part 9 can be seen.
- the capsule body 2 forms a substance chamber 3, which receives the substance required for the production of the beverage.
- the outlet nozzle 5 with its outlet opening 6 is arranged in a central region of the capsule body 2 .
- the air supply duct 7 is provided coaxially around this outlet nozzle 5 .
- the cover 8 is not shown (see figure 2 ), which closes the capsule 1.
- the capsule 1 When used as intended, the capsule 1 is pierced from below, ie through the lid, so that a liquid is injected into the capsule or into the substance chamber 3 .
- the drink After a short time, the drink will fill the entire substance chamber 3 and pass through the passage openings 16 into an intermediate space 17 between the capsule body 2 and the stopper 9 .
- the drink will flow down there and through the filter 15 (see Figure 3b ) get into a collection space 13 above the outlet nozzle 5.
- the collection space 13 is separated from the outlet nozzle 5 by a boundary wall 12 .
- This boundary wall 12 is formed by two wall sections 20, 21 which are offset from one another. A slit valve 14 is formed between these two wall sections 20, 21.
- the slit valve 14 opens under the pressure of the beverage and allows a jet of liquid to flow out into the outlet nozzle 5. This slit valve 14 also applies shearing forces to the beverage in order to produce a crema when preparing coffee or to condition any air bubbles contained in the beverage .
- the beverage After the beverage has passed from the substance chamber 3 through the passage openings 16 into an intermediate space 17 between the stopper 9 and the capsule body 2, the beverage is forced downwards due to the internal pressure.
- the drink has to pass the filter 15 formed by the slits of the plug 9 in cooperation with the capsule body 2.
- the drink is filtered.
- a filter cake When using, for example, coffee powder as a beverage substance, a filter cake will form in the intermediate space from substance particles that have been swept along, which promotes filtration.
- the filtered beverage enters a collecting chamber 13 above the outlet nozzle 5. This collecting chamber is separated from the outlet nozzle 5 and the outlet opening 6 by a boundary wall 12 and a slit valve 14 arranged therein.
- the slit valve 14 only opens when there is a minimum internal pressure of 0.5 bar inside the capsule.
- the slit valve 14 will open, ie the slit of the slit valve 14 is pressed open by the pressure and a jet of beverage is formed.
- this internal pressure depends on the capsule system and can be adjusted during the production of the capsule.
- This jet of beverage is injected into the outlet nozzle 5, the beverage can reach the outlet opening 6 unhindered.
- the beverage is loaded with shearing forces. Air contained in the drink is thus formed into fine air bubbles, which are carried along in the drink stream.
- a crema is thus produced which, for example, appears as a fine foam trains in a cup on the prepared coffee.
- the slit valve 14 extends over the entire diameter of the outlet nozzle 5. Accordingly, the slit extends over the entire boundary wall 12.
- the slit is formed by two offset wall sections 20, 21, with one wall section 21 comprising a partition wall 19 of the air supply duct 7.
- the other partition wall 20 is designed to be comparatively thin, so that it can deform under the applied liquid pressure in order to enlarge the slit of the slit valve 14 accordingly.
- the partition wall 20 preferably has a thickness of between 0.2 mm and 0.3 mm, so that it can be correspondingly easily deformed by an applied internal liquid pressure. Of course, this thickness can be adjusted depending on the material used and the internal pressure required.
- the slit valve 14 is designed in such a way that the resulting jet of beverage is directed past an air inlet opening 11, i.e. it is injected transversely to an outlet direction 10 from the boundary wall 12 to the outlet opening 6 into the outlet connection piece 5 and hits the side wall of the outlet connection piece 5.
- This air inlet opening 11 is connected to the air supply duct 7 which is arranged coaxially around the outlet nozzle 5 .
- the beverage jet entrains air due to the suction effect and mixes with this air.
- An air-foamed drink is formed, which leaves the capsule through the outlet opening 6 .
- additional foam formation is often desirable, for example to produce a cappuccino or a latte macchiato.
- a fine foam in the form of a crema is also desirable when preparing coffee.
- the liquid is introduced into the substance chamber 3 (see Figure 3a ) is suppressed, the internal pressure in the capsule will drop and if the pressure falls below 0.2 bar, the slit valve 14 will close again. It can therefore no longer get a drink in the outlet nozzle 5, a dripping will be over after a short time.
- Said pressure is in turn dependent on the capsule system and can be adjusted during manufacture of the capsule.
- figure 4 shows a perspective view from above of a central area of the capsule body 2 from FIG figure 1 the capsule being in accordance with the invention. This central area is designed as a depression in the capsule body, as shown in FIG figure 1 can be seen.
- Ribs 18 are arranged in a circle in the bottom area of this recess, which serve to support the plug 9 to be inserted (see figure 1 ) serve. Also visible in the floor area are two partial areas with two wall sections 20, 21, which together form a boundary wall 12 to the outlet nozzle 5 (see Fig Figures 3a to 3c ) form.
- a first partial area with the wall section 20 represents the collection space 13 which collects the prepared beverage before it passes through the slit valve 14 .
- the second partial area with wall section 21 is separated from the ribs 18 and from the collection space 13 by a partition wall 19 . This partition wall 19 is tightly connected to the plug 9.
- the area separated in this way has access to the air supply duct 7 and three air inlet openings 11 which open into the outlet nozzle.
- This separated partial area makes it possible for air to be entrained by the beverage jet in the outlet nozzle.
- the arrangement of the air inlet openings 11 prevents the beverage from getting out of the outlet nozzle 5 into the air inlet openings 11 and the air inlet channel 7 under the effect of gravity.
- the drink collects after passing through the through openings 16 and the filter 15 (both see Figures 3a and 3b ) in the collection chamber 13.
- the slit valve 14 is closed in its rest position, the slit can only be seen as a hairline crack. Accordingly, there is still no opening, but the plastic has already been severed at the location of the slit valve 14 by the hairline crack.
- the slit valve 14 opens by the wall section 20 of the collecting space 13 being bent downwards.
- the already existing slit of the slit valve 14 becomes correspondingly larger until an equilibrium is established between the restoring force of the wall section 20 of the collection space 13 and the force resulting from the internal pressure of the capsule.
- the wall section 20 of the collection chamber 13 returns due to its elasticity and the gap of the slit valve 14 narrows again.
- the slit valve 14 is closed. Further leakage of beverage from the capsule is prevented.
- the slit valve 14 can be completely closed before it is opened for the first time.
- a predetermined breaking point can be provided, which, however, allows opening under pressure.
- FIGS figures 5 and 6 a further embodiment of a capsule according to the invention is shown in detail. These in turn represent an enlarged perspective view obliquely from below of a central area of the capsule and a perspective view from above of the recessed central area of the capsule body, similar to FIGS figures 3b and 4 . Accordingly, only the differences are pointed out. The reference numbers are left untouched.
- the figure 7 shows a perspective view obliquely from above of a cut open capsule 1 according to the invention in a further embodiment.
- the reference symbols are again used in analogy to the preceding figures.
- a capsule body 2 is closed by a lid.
- An insert part 22 is introduced into this capsule body 2, in which the outlet connector 5 with its outlet opening 6 and the slit valve 14 are formed.
- the insert part 22 has on its side opposite the outlet connection piece 5 a surface with ribs 18 on which a filter layer is arranged.
- the filter layer is not shown.
- the insert part 22 has spokes 23 at the edge, with which it is supported on a stepped edge in the capsule body 2 .
- the capsule body 2 forms a substance chamber 3 . A liquid is injected into the capsule 1 when the beverage is being prepared.
- This liquid gets into the substance chamber 3 so that the drink can form there.
- the filter layer (not shown) consisting of a perforated film and/or a filter fleece and collects in a collection space 13 above the outlet nozzle 5.
- the collection space 13 is in turn defined by a boundary wall 12 with two wall sections 20 , 21 separated from the outlet nozzle 5.
- the two wall sections 20, 21 are offset from one another and form a slit valve 14, which opens under the applied liquid pressure.
- the jet of liquid is injected into the outlet nozzle 5 by the arrangement of the slit valve 14 transversely to an outlet direction 10 which extends approximately parallel to the side wall of the outlet nozzle 5 in the direction from the boundary wall 12 to the outlet opening 6 .
- An air inlet opening which is connected to an air supply channel that runs coaxially around the outlet nozzle 5, is realized as already described in the previous embodiments.
- FIG 8 a cross section through a further embodiment of a capsule 1 according to the invention is shown.
- This capsule 1 is formed by a capsule body 2 which is closed by a cover (not shown). On the side opposite the cover, there is an outlet nozzle 5 with an outlet opening 6 .
- An outlet direction 10 extends approximately parallel to an axis of rotational symmetry of the capsule 1 from the lid to the outlet opening 6.
- the capsule body 2 has a substance chamber 3 in which the substance for producing the beverage is arranged.
- a filter 15 is arranged between the substance chamber 3 and the outlet nozzle 5 , which prevents undissolved substance particles from escaping from the capsule 1 .
- the filter 15 is followed by a collection space 13 which collects the prepared beverage in an area above the outlet nozzle 5 .
- This collection space 13 is separated by a boundary wall 12 comprising two wall sections 20, 21 offset from one another.
- the two wall sections 20, 21 in turn form a slit valve 14, which opens under pressure in a manner similar to that already described for the other exemplary embodiments.
- An air inlet opening is also integrated in this exemplary embodiment.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Apparatus For Making Beverages (AREA)
Description
Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft eine Kapsel für die Zubereitung eines Getränks gemäss Anspruch 1.The present invention relates to a capsule for the preparation of a beverage according to
Aus dem Stand der Technik sind verschiedene Kapseln zur Getränkezubereitung, insbesondere für die Kaffeezubereitung bekannt. So zeigt beispielsweise die
In
Es hat sich gezeigt, dass die Lösungen aus dem Stand der Technik komplex herzustellen sind. Ausserdem wird durch die Labyrinthstruktur nach dem Ventil eine gross Menge von Getränk zwischengespeichert, welches nach Beenden des Zubereitungsprozesses aus der Kapsel noch nachtropft.It has been shown that the prior art solutions are complex to manufacture. In addition, due to the labyrinth structure, a large quantity of beverage is temporarily stored downstream of the valve, which continues to drip out of the capsule after the preparation process has ended.
Es ist die Aufgabe der Erfindung, die Nachteile des Standes der Technik zu überwinden. Insbesondere soll eine Kapsel für die Zubereitung eines Getränks zur Verfügung gestellt werden, welche einfach und kostengünstig hergestellt werden kann. Ausserdem soll ein Nachtropfen der Kapsel nach Beenden des Zubereitungsprozesses möglichst unterbunden oder ganz verhindert werden. Gleichzeitig soll ein Aufschäumen des Getränks und bei der Zubereitung von Kaffee eine Crema durch Erzeugen von Scherkräften ermöglicht werden.It is the object of the invention to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, a capsule for the preparation of a drink is to be made available, which can be produced easily and inexpensively. In addition, dripping of the capsule after the end of the preparation process should be suppressed or completely prevented as far as possible. At the same time, foaming of the beverage and, when preparing coffee, a crema should be made possible by generating shear forces.
Diese Aufgabe wird durch die im unabhängigen Patentanspruch 1 definierte Kapsel gelöst. Weitere Ausführungsformen ergeben sich aus den abhängigen Patentansprüchen.This object is solved by the capsule defined in
Eine erfindungsgemässe Kapsel für die Zubereitung eines Getränks umfasst einen vorzugsweise rotationssymmetrisch ausgebildeten Kapselkörper, der ganz oder teilweise eine Substanzkammer zur Aufnahme wenigstens einer Substanz begrenzt, einen vorzugsweise zentral angeordneten Auslaufstutzen mit einer Auslauföffnung sowie einen Deckel zum Verschliessen der Substanzkammer. Eine Flüssigkeit ist in die Substanzkammer einführbar und durch die Auslauföffnung abführbar. Zwischen der Substanzkammer und dem Auslaufstutzen ist ein sich unter einem ansteigenden Flüssigkeitsdruck in der Substanzkammer insbesondere weiter öffnendes Schlitzventil derart angeordnet, dass das Schlitzventil sich direkt in den Auslaufstutzen öffnet und insbesondere einen Getränkestrahl erzeugt. Unter Atmosphärendruck ist das Schlitzventil nicht zwingend dicht geschlossen, jedenfalls nicht luftdicht.A capsule according to the invention for the preparation of a drink comprises a preferably rotationally symmetrical capsule body which completely or partially delimits a substance chamber for receiving at least one substance, a preferably centrally arranged outlet nozzle with an outlet opening and a cover for closing the substance chamber. A liquid can be introduced into the substance chamber and drained through the outlet opening. Arranged between the substance chamber and the outlet nozzle is a slit valve that opens further under increasing liquid pressure in the substance chamber in such a way that the slit valve opens directly into the outlet nozzle and in particular generates a jet of beverages. Under atmospheric pressure, the slit valve is not necessarily tightly closed, at least not airtight.
Durch die Verwendung eines Ventils, welches sich erst unter ansteigendem Flüssigkeitsdruck insbesondere ganz öffnet, kann ein frühzeitiges Austreten des Getränkes verhindert werden, was insbesondere ein Vorbrühen einer Kaffeesubstanz erlaubt. Entsprechend wird die Kapsel nicht nur eine tropfenweise Ausgabe des Getränkes zulassen, sondern konstruktionsbedingt eine kontinuierliche Getränkeabgabe ermöglichen. Mit der Ausgestaltung des Ventils als Schlitzventil wird erreicht, dass bei gleichbleibender Querschnittsfläche eine erhöhte Scherwirkung im Getränk erzielt wird. Somit wird insbesondere bei der Herstellung von Kaffee eine verbesserte Crema erzeugt. Dadurch, dass sich das Schlitzventil direkt in den Auslaufstutzen öffnet, wird die Abgabe des Getränkes vereinfacht. Wenn der Auslaufstutzen zylindrisch ausgestalten und insbesondere gerade Innenwände aufweist, kann die Nachtropfzeit nach Beendigung des Zubereitens verringert werden.The use of a valve, which in particular only opens fully when the liquid pressure increases, can prevent the beverage from escaping prematurely, which in particular allows a coffee substance to be pre-brewed. Correspondingly, the capsule will not only allow the drink to be dispensed drop by drop, but will also, due to its design, allow the beverage to be dispensed continuously. The design of the valve as a slit valve means that an increased shearing effect is achieved in the beverage while the cross-sectional area remains the same. In this way, an improved crema is produced, particularly when making coffee. The fact that the slit valve opens directly into the spout makes dispensing the drink easier. If the outlet nozzle is designed cylindrically and in particular has straight inner walls, the dripping time after the end of the preparation can be reduced.
Das Schlitzventil kann ein Teil einer eingangsseitigen Begrenzungswand des Auslaufstutzens sein. Somit kann die gesamte Länge des Auslaufstutzens zur Beruhigung des Getränkestrahls benutz werden. Das Getränk wird entsprechend ruhig aus der Kapsel ausströmen und kann in einer Tasse gesammelt werden.The slit valve can be part of a boundary wall of the outlet connection on the inlet side. This means that the entire length of the spout can be used to calm the jet of beverages. The drink will flow out of the capsule accordingly calmly and can be collected in a cup.
Das Schlitzventil kann sich über den gesamten Durchmesser des Auslaufstutzens erstrecken. Ein solches Schlitzventil eröffnet weitere Freiheitsgrade bezüglich der Konstruktion. So kann beispielsweise das Schlitzventil eine bewegliches oder ein sich auslenkendes Wandelement umfassen, welches nicht nur durch den Schlitz des Schlitzventils vom Auslaufstutzen getrennt ist, sondern durch weitere konstruktive Massnahmen das Auslenken vereinfacht wird. Beispielsweise können weitere Schwächungszonen im Randbereich der Begrenzungswand vorgesehen sein.The slit valve can extend over the entire diameter of the outlet nozzle. Such a slit valve opens up further degrees of freedom in terms of construction. For example, the slit valve can comprise a movable or a deflecting wall element, which is not only separated from the outlet connection by the slit of the slit valve, but also the deflection is simplified by further design measures. For example, further weakened zones can be provided in the edge area of the boundary wall.
Laut der Erfindung ist das Schlitzventil durch gegeneinander versetzte Wandabschnitte gebildet. Durch solche Wandabschnitte, welche beispielsweise je die Hälfte der Begrenzungswand bildenden, welche versetzt angeordnet sind, ist eine spritzgusstechnische Realisierung einfach möglich. So kann ein Schlitz ausgebildet werden, welcher beliebig dünn sein kann. Es ist sogar möglich, ein geschlossenes Ventil mit einer Sollbruchstelle einfach herzustellen. Ebenso ist es bei der spritzgusstechnischen Herstellung mit einer Zwangsentformung möglich, dass das Ventil zwingend von Anfang an geöffnet ist.According to the invention, the slit valve is formed by wall sections offset from one another. Such wall sections, which, for example, each form half of the boundary wall and are arranged in an offset manner, make it easy to implement by injection molding. In this way, a slit can be formed which can be arbitrarily thin. It is even possible to easily produce a closed valve with a predetermined breaking point. It is also possible in the case of injection molding production with forced demoulding that the valve must be open from the start.
Das Schlitzventil kann derart ausgestaltet sein, dass es sich erst bei Erreichen eines minimalen Flüssigkeitsdruckes öffnet. Beispielsweise könnte ein solcher minimaler Flüssigkeitsinnendruck für eine Kapsel zum System "Tassimo®" grösser 0.5 bar, vorzugsweise grösser 1.0 bar, besonders bevorzugt 1.5 bar betragen. Bei einem anderen Kapselsystem, beispielsweise für das System "Dolce Gusto®", kann dieser minimale Innendruck bei 3 bis 4 bar liegen. Ein solches Ventil stellt beispielsweise sicher, dass erst ein Getränk aus der Kapsel austreten kann, wenn dieses unter einem für die Scherwirkung im Ventil benötigten Druck steht. Entsprechend kann die Qualität des zubereiteten Getränks, insbesondere der Crema bei einer Kaffeezubereitung immer gleich gehalten werden.The slit valve can be designed in such a way that it only opens when a minimum liquid pressure is reached. For example, such a minimum internal liquid pressure for a capsule for the “ Tassimo® ” system could be greater than 0.5 bar, preferably greater than 1.0 bar, particularly preferably 1.5 bar. In another capsule system, for example for the "Dolce Gusto® " system, this minimum internal pressure can be 3 to 4 bar. Such a valve ensures, for example, that a beverage can only emerge from the capsule when it is under the pressure required for the shearing effect in the valve. Accordingly, the quality of the beverage prepared, in particular the crema, can always be kept the same when preparing coffee.
Das Schlitzventil kann selbstschliessend ausgestaltet sein, derart, dass es sich bei fehlendem Flüssigkeitsdruck oder bei Reduktion des Flüssigkeitsdruckes unter einen vorbestimmten Druck selbsttätig verschliesst. Beispielsweise ist es denkbar, dass bei Unterschreiten eines Druckes von 0.2 bar sich das Ventil nach und nach schliesst. So kann der Druck beispielsweise unabhängig vom Kapsel- oder Maschinensystem kontinuierlich reduziert werden, bevor ein komplettes Verschliessen erfolgt. Ein sich selbst verschliessendes Ventil bewirkt, dass nach Beendigung des Zubereitungsverfahrens die Kapsel nicht mehr nachtropft.The slit valve can be designed to be self-closing in such a way that it closes automatically when there is no liquid pressure or when the liquid pressure is reduced below a predetermined pressure. For example, it is conceivable that the valve gradually closes when the pressure falls below 0.2 bar. For example, the pressure can be continuously reduced independently of the capsule or machine system before it is completely sealed. A self-closing valve ensures that the capsule no longer drips after the preparation process is complete.
Das Schlitzventil kann als Sollbruchstelle ausgestaltet sein und vor einem erstmaligen Anliegen des minimalen Flüssigkeitsdruckes dicht, insbesondere fluiddicht, bevorzugt aromadicht verschlossen sein. Eine solche dichte, insbesondere aromadichte Konstruktion des Schlitzventils erlaubt es, dass keine zusätzliche Membran die Auslauföffnung verschliessen muss und trotzdem ein Aromaverlust der Getränkesubstanz verhindert werden kann. Wenn auch der Deckel und der Kapselkörper entsprechend ausgestaltet sind, kann die Qualität des zubereiteten Getränks auch nach einer längeren Lagerung der Kapsel gewährleistet werden.The slit valve can be designed as a predetermined breaking point and can be closed tightly, in particular fluid-tight, preferably aroma-tight, before the minimum liquid pressure is applied for the first time. Such a tight, in particular aroma-tight construction of the slit valve means that no additional membrane has to close the outlet opening and a loss of aroma from the beverage substance can nevertheless be prevented. If the lid and the capsule body are designed accordingly, the quality of the prepared drink can be guaranteed even after the capsule has been stored for a long period of time.
Das Schlitzventil kann derart angeordnet sein, dass sich der Getränkestrahl quer zu einer Auslaufrichtung des Auslaufstutzens ergiesst. Die Auslaufrichtung erstreckt sich vom Schlitzventil zur Auslauföffnung und ist im Allgemeinen in etwa parallel zu einer Längsachse des Auslaufstutzens und/oder in etwa parallel zu einer Symmetrieachse des vorzugsweise rotationssymmetrisch ausgebildeten Kapselkörpers. Ein Getränkestrahl, welcher sich quer zur Auslaufrichtung in den Auslaufstutze ergiesst, wird an eine Seitenwand des Auslaufstutzens prallen, so dass einerseits seine Strömungsgeschwindigkeit reduziert wird und andererseits eine Durchmischung des Getränks mit Luft begünstigt wird.The slit valve can be arranged in such a way that the jet of beverage pours out transversely to an outflow direction of the outflow connection piece. The outlet direction extends from the slit valve to the outlet opening and is generally approximately parallel to a longitudinal axis of the outlet connector and/or approximately parallel to an axis of symmetry of the preferably rotationally symmetrical capsule body. A jet of beverage, which pours out into the outlet nozzle transversely to the outlet direction, will collide with a side wall of the outlet nozzle, so that on the one hand its flow speed is reduced and on the other hand a thorough mixing of the beverage with air is promoted.
Im Auslaufstutzen ist eine mit einem Luftzuführungskanal verbundene Lufteinlassöffnung derart angeordnet, dass der Getränkestrahl an der Lufteinlassöffnung vorbeileitbar ist. Eine solche Konstruktion wird beispielsweise in der
Die Lufteinlassöffnung kann derart angeordnet und/oder ausgestaltet sein, das bei bestimmungsgemässem Gebrauch der Kapsel unter Schwerkraftwirkung kein Getränk in die Lufteinlassöffnung eintreten kann. Entsprechend wird verhindert, dass eine Maschine zum Zubereiten des Getränks ungewollt durch ein durch die Lufteinlassöffnung und den Lufteinlasskanal der Kapsel austretendes Getränk kontaminiert wird. Beispielsweise ist diese Lufteinlassöffnung derart klein dimensioniert, dass aufgrund der Viskosität des zubereiteten Getränks dieses gar nicht durch die Lufteinlassöffnung gelangen kann.The air inlet opening can be arranged and/or designed in such a way that, when the capsule is used as intended, no beverage can enter the air inlet opening under the effect of gravity. Accordingly, a machine for preparing the beverage is prevented from being unintentionally contaminated by a beverage escaping through the air inlet opening and the air inlet channel of the capsule. For example, this air inlet opening is dimensioned so small that due to the viscosity of the beverage being prepared, it cannot get through the air inlet opening at all.
Die Lufteinlassöffnung kann bei bestimmungsgemässem Gebrauch der Kapsel seitlich oder in Schwerkraftrichtung oberhalb des durch die Düse gebildeten Getränkestrahls angeordnet sein. Durch diese seitliche oder oberhalb des Getränkestrahls angeordnete Öffnung wird ein Austreten des Getränks unter Schwerkraftwirkung auch bei einer grösseren Lufteinlassöffnung verhindert. Entsprechend muss jedoch auch die Maschine zum Zubereiten des Getränks in Betracht gezogen werden, da diese Maschine die Ausrichtung der Kapsel beim bestimmungsgemässen Gebrauch bestimmt.When the capsule is used as intended, the air inlet opening can be arranged to the side or in the direction of gravity above the beverage jet formed by the nozzle. This opening, which is arranged on the side or above the jet of beverage, prevents the beverage from escaping under the effect of gravity, even with a larger air inlet opening. However, the machine used to prepare the drink must also be taken into account accordingly, since this machine determines the orientation of the capsule when it is used as intended.
Der Auslaufstutzen kann zwei, drei oder mehrere Lufteinlassöffnungen aufweisen. Es hat sich gezeigt, dass durch eine Mehrzahl von Lufteinlassöffnungen mehr Luft in das Getränk eingebracht werden kann. Entsprechend kann je nach Getränk mehr oder weniger aufgeschäumt werden.The outlet nozzle can have two, three or more air inlet openings. It has been shown that more air can be introduced into the beverage through a plurality of air inlet openings. Accordingly, depending on the drink, more or less froth can be used.
Das Ventil und die Lufteinlassöffnung können derart ausgebildet sein, dass, wenn das Ventil geöffnet ist, eine Venturi-Düse ausgebildet wird. Durch die Ausbildung des Ventils als Venturi-Düse kann die mitgerissene Luft beziehungsweise die in das Getränk eingebrachte Luft genau bestimmt werden. Unter dem Begriff der Venturi-Düse wird jede Anordnung verstanden, deren Mitreissen von Luft auf dem Venturi-Effekt bzw. dem Gesetz von Bernoulli beruht. Ebenfalls ist es denkbar, dass die Kapsel lediglich eine Venturi-Düse aufweist und auf das Ventil verzichtet wird. Diese Venturi-Düse kann anstelle des Schlitzventils angeordnet sein und das Getränk direkt in den Auslaufstutzen einspritzen.The valve and air inlet port may be configured such that when the valve is open, a venturi nozzle is formed. By designing the valve as a Venturi nozzle, the air entrained or the air introduced into the beverage can be precisely determined. The term Venturi nozzle is understood to mean any arrangement whose entrainment of air is based on the Venturi effect or Bernoulli's law. It is also conceivable for the capsule to have only one Venturi nozzle and for the valve to be dispensed with. This venturi nozzle can be arranged instead of the slit valve and inject the beverage directly into the outlet nozzle.
Der Luftzuführungskanal oder Teilbereiche davon können durch eine Zusammenwirkung des Kapselkörpers mit einem an dem Kapselkörper angebrachten Stopfen gebildet sein. Eine solche zweiteilige Konstruktion der Kapsel ermöglicht zusätzliche Freiheitsgrade und vereinfacht insbesondere eine kostengünstige Produktion der Kapsel.The air supply channel or partial areas thereof can be formed by interaction of the capsule body with a plug attached to the capsule body. Such a two-part design of the capsule enables additional degrees of freedom and, in particular, simplifies cost-effective production of the capsule.
Der Stopfen kann von aussen an den Kapselkörper angebracht sein. Diese Konstruktion erlaubt weitere Freiheitsgrade in der Konstruktion der Kapsel. Im Stand der Technik ist beispielsweise gezeigt, dass ein zusätzliches Teil in den Kapselkörper eingesetzt wird, welches den Auslaufstutzen beinhaltet. Bei einer Konstruktion, bei welcher der Auslaufstutzen durch denselben Deckel wie auch der Kapselkörper verschlossen wird, ist eine Konstruktion vorteilhaft, bei der ein zusätzliches Teil auf der dem Deckel gegenüberliegende Seite an den Kapselkörper angebracht ist. Entsprechend wird die Toleranzkette auf der Seite des Deckels nicht beeinflusst.The plug can be attached to the capsule body from the outside. This construction allows further degrees of freedom in the construction of the capsule. The prior art shows, for example, that an additional part is inserted into the capsule body, which includes the outlet nozzle. In a construction in which the discharge nozzle is closed by the same lid as the capsule body, a construction is advantageous in which an additional part is attached to the capsule body on the side opposite the lid. Accordingly, the tolerance chain on the cover side is not affected.
Der Kapselkörper und der Auslaufstutzen können einstückig ausgebildet sein. Durch ein einstückiges Ausbilden von Kapselkörper und Auslaufstutzen können Toleranzen sehr einfach eingehalten werden, welche beispielsweise zum Verschliessen der Kapsel durch den Deckel benötigt werden. Entsprechend kann die Kapsel kostengünstig hergestellt werden. Es ist jedoch auch denkbar, dass der Auslaufstutzen ein separates Bauteil ist, welches mit dem Kapselkörper zusammen wirkt und an den Kapselkörper angebracht ist.The capsule body and the outlet nozzle can be designed in one piece. By forming the capsule body and outlet nozzle in one piece, tolerances can be maintained very easily for example, are required to close the capsule with the lid. Accordingly, the capsule can be manufactured at low cost. However, it is also conceivable that the outlet nozzle is a separate component which interacts with the capsule body and is attached to the capsule body.
Vor dem Schlitzventil kann ein Filter angeordnet sein. Ein Filter stellt sicher, dass keine ungelösten Getränkesubstanzpartikel an und/oder in das Ventil gespült werden und dieses verstopfen. Eine korrekte Funktion des Ventils wird somit gewährleistet.A filter can be arranged in front of the slit valve. A filter ensures that no undissolved beverage substance particles are flushed onto and/or into the valve and clog it. A correct function of the valve is thus guaranteed.
Der Auslaufstutzen mit seiner Auslauföffnung kann vom Deckel verschlossen sein. Ein gleichzeitiges Verschliessen der Kapsel und der Auslauföffnung erhöht die Hygiene der Kapsel. Bei deren Lagerung können keine fremden Substanzen in den Auslaufstutzen gelangen, welche ein zubereitetes Getränk oder die Maschine zum Zubereiten des Getränks kontaminieren könnten.The outlet nozzle with its outlet opening can be closed by the cover. Closing the capsule and the outlet opening at the same time increases the hygiene of the capsule. When they are stored, no foreign substances can get into the spout, which could contaminate a prepared drink or the machine for preparing the drink.
Der Deckel kann jedoch auch im Bereich der Auslauföffnung eine Aussparung aufweisen. Dies ist insbesondere bei einer aromadichten Ausgestaltung des Schlitzventils sinnvoll. Ebenfalls können bei einer zweiteiligen Konstruktion von Kapselkörper und Auslaufstutzen Toleranzprobleme vermieden werden, wenn der Deckel nicht den Kapselkörper und den Auslaufstutzen verschliessen muss.However, the cover can also have a recess in the area of the outlet opening. This is particularly useful in the case of an aroma-tight configuration of the slit valve. Likewise, with a two-part construction of the capsule body and the outlet nozzle, tolerance problems can be avoided if the lid does not have to close the capsule body and the outlet nozzle.
Der Kapselkörper und gegebenenfalls auch der Auslaufstutzen und/oder der Stopfen und/oder das Einsatzteil können durch ein Spritzguss- oder Tiefziehverfahren gefertigt sein. Die Anwendung eines Spritzgussverfahrens gewährt eine grosse Flexibilität in Bezug auf die Ausgestaltung der Form des Kapselkörpers und/oder des Auslaufstutzens und/oder des Stopfens und/oder des Einsatzteils. Diese ist zwar bei einem Tiefziehverfahren eingeschränkt, jedoch ist es damit möglich, besonders sauerstoff- und/oder aromadichte Kapseln herzustellen. Allerdings ist Sauerstoff- und/oder Aromadichtigkeit nicht auf durch ein Tiefziehverfahren hergestellte Kapseln beschränkt.The capsule body and optionally also the outlet nozzle and/or the stopper and/or the insert can be manufactured by an injection molding or deep-drawing process. The use of an injection molding process allows great flexibility with regard to the configuration of the shape of the capsule body and/or the outlet connection piece and/or the stopper and/or the insert part. Although this is limited in a deep-drawing process, it is possible to produce particularly oxygen- and/or aroma-tight capsules. However, oxygen and/or aroma tightness is not limited to capsules produced by a deep-drawing process.
Ist die Kapsel sauerstoffdicht ausgebildet, wird ein Eindringen von Sauerstoff in die Kapsel während der Lagerung einer darin enthaltenen Substanz im Wesentlichen vermieden. Dadurch kann ein Altern der Substanz, beispielsweise von Kaffeepulver, durch Oxidation vermieden werden. Eine sauerstoffdichte Kapsel ist in der Regel auch aromadicht. Entsprechend wird ein Austreten von in der Substanz enthaltenen Aromastoffen während der Lagerung derselben innerhalb der Kapsel im Wesentlichen verhindert. Sauerstoff- beziehungsweise Aromadichtigkeit ist erforderlich, um insbesondere bei Kaffee eine Mindesthaltbarkeit von 12 Monaten, vorzugsweise 18 Monaten, zu erreichen. Entsprechend wird im vorliegenden Zusammenhang unter einer sauerstoff- und/oder aromadichten Kapsel eine Kapsel verstanden, in welcher Kaffeepulver für eine Dauer von mindestens 12 Monaten, vorzugsweise 18 Monaten, bei Raumtemperatur an Atmosphärenluft aufbewahrbar ist, ohne dass es zu einer Veränderung des Kaffeepulvers kommen würde, welche die Qualität eines daraus hergestellten Kaffeegetränkes beeinträchtigt.If the capsule is designed to be oxygen-tight, penetration of oxygen into the capsule during storage of a substance contained therein is essentially avoided. As a result, aging of the substance, for example coffee powder, can be avoided due to oxidation. An oxygen-tight capsule is usually also aroma-tight. Correspondingly, leakage of flavoring substances contained in the substance during storage of the same within the capsule is essentially prevented. Oxygen or aroma tightness is required in order to achieve a minimum shelf life of 12 months, preferably 18 months, particularly in the case of coffee. Accordingly, in the present context, an oxygen- and/or aroma-tight capsule is understood to mean a capsule in which coffee powder can be stored at room temperature in atmospheric air for a period of at least 12 months, preferably 18 months, without the coffee powder changing , which impairs the quality of a coffee beverage made from it.
Wird eine sauerstoff- und/oder aromadichte Kapsel mit einem Tiefziehverfahren hergestellt, so kann das dazu verwendete Folienmaterial eine OTR (Oxygen Transmission Rate) von weniger als 5, vorzugsweise weniger als 2 haben. Die OTR gibt an, welche Menge an Sauerstoff pro Flächen- und Zeiteinheit durch eine Folie diffundiert, in der Einheit: cm3/m2/Tag/0,21 bar. Allerdings kann auch der fertige sauerstoff- und/oder aromadichte Kapselkörper, bzw. die gesamte Kapsel (inklusive Stopfen und/oder Einsatzteil und Deckel), eine OTR (Oxygen Transmission Rate) von weniger als 5, vorzugsweise weniger als 2, haben. Dies gilt losgelöst vom angewendeten Herstellungsverfahren.If an oxygen and/or aroma-tight capsule is produced using a deep-drawing process, the film material used for this purpose can have an OTR (oxygen transmission rate) of less than 5, preferably less than 2. The OTR indicates the amount of oxygen per unit area and time that diffuses through a foil, in the unit: cm3/m2/day/0.21 bar. However, the finished oxygen- and/or aroma-tight capsule body, or the entire capsule (including stopper and/or insert and lid), can have an OTR (oxygen transmission rate) of less than 5, preferably less than 2. This applies regardless of the manufacturing process used.
Anhand von Figuren, welche lediglich Ausführungsbeispiele darstellen, wird die Erfindung im Folgenden näher erläutert. Es zeigen:
- Figur 1:
- eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Kapsel mit Kapselkörper und abgehobenem Stopfen,
- Figur 2:
- einen Querschnitt durch die zusammengesetzte Kapsel aus
Figur 1 , - Figur 3a:
- eine perspektivische Ansicht von schräg unten auf eine aufgeschnittene Kapsel gemäss
Figur 1 , wobei der Schnitt quer zumSchnitt aus Figur 2 verläuft, wobei die Kapsel erfindungsgemäß ist, - Figur 3b:
- einen vergrösserten Ausschnitt aus der
Figur 3a , - Figur 3c:
- eine vergrösserte perspektivische Ansicht von schräg oben auf einen zentralen Bereich der aufgeschnittenen Kapsel gemäss
Figur 1 , wobei die Kapsel erfindungsgemäß ist, - Figur 4:
- eine perspektivische Ansicht auf einen zentralen Bereich des Kapselkörpers aus
Figur 1 , wobei die Kapsel erfindungsgemäß ist, - Figur 5:
- eine vergrösserte perspektivische Ansicht von schräg unten auf einen zentralen Bereich einer weiteren Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemässen Kapsel,
- Figur 6:
- eine perspektivische Ansicht von oben auf einen zentralen Bereich des Kapselkörpers gemäss der
Ausführungsform von Figur 5 , - Figur 7:
- eine perspektivische Ansicht von schräg oben auf eine aufgeschnittene erfindungsgemässe Kapsel in einer weiteren Ausführungsform, und
- Figur 8:
- einen Querschnitt durch eine weitere Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemässen Kapsel.
- Figure 1:
- a perspective view of a capsule with a capsule body and a lifted stopper,
- Figure 2:
- a cross-section through the assembled capsule
figure 1 , - Figure 3a:
- a perspective view obliquely from below of a cut open capsule according to FIG
figure 1 , where the cut is perpendicular to the cut outfigure 2 runs, wherein the capsule is according to the invention, - Figure 3b:
- an enlarged section of the
Figure 3a , - Figure 3c:
- an enlarged perspective view obliquely from above of a central area of the cut-open capsule according to FIG
figure 1 , wherein the capsule is according to the invention, - Figure 4:
- a perspective view of a central area of the capsule body
figure 1 , wherein the capsule is according to the invention, - Figure 5:
- an enlarged perspective view obliquely from below of a central area of a further embodiment of a capsule according to the invention,
- Figure 6:
- a perspective view from above of a central area of the capsule body according to the embodiment of FIG
figure 5 , - Figure 7:
- a perspective view obliquely from above of a cut open capsule according to the invention in a further embodiment, and
- Figure 8:
- a cross section through a further embodiment of a capsule according to the invention.
In der
In den
Nach Durchtritt des Getränks aus der Substanzkammer 3 durch die Durchgangsöffnungen 16 in einen Zwischenraum 17 zwischen Stopfen 9 und Kapselkörper 2, wird das Getränk aufgrund des Innendruckes nach unten gedrängt. Das Getränk muss den Filter 15, welcher aus den Schlitzen des Stopfens 9 in Zusammenwirkung mit dem Kapselkörper 2 gebildet wird, gepresst. Das Getränk wird gefiltert. Bei der Verwendung von beispielsweise Kaffeepulver als Getränkesubstanz wird sich im Zwischenraum aus mitgeschwemmten Substanzpartikeln ein Filterkuchen ausbilden, welcher die Filtration begünstigt. Das gefilterte Getränk gelangt in einen Sammelraum 13 oberhalb des Auslaufstutzens 5. Dieser Sammelraum wird durch eine Begrenzungswand 12 und einem darin angeordneten Schlitzventil 14 vom Auslaufstutzen 5 und der Auslauföffnung 6 abgetrennt. Das Schlitzventil 14 öffnet sich erst, wenn innerhalb der Kapsel ein minimaler Innendruck von 0.5 bar anliegt. Sobald der benötigte Innendruck erreicht ist, wird sich das Schlitzventil 14 öffnen, d.h. der Schlitz des Schlitzventils 14 wird durch den Druck aufgepresst und ein Getränkestrahl wird gebildet. Wie bereits vorgängig erwähnt, ist dieser Innendruck abhängig vom Kapselsystem und kann bei der Produktion der Kapsel eingestellt werden. Dieser Getränkestrahl wird in den Auslaufstutzen 5 eingespritzt, das Getränk kann ungehindert zur Auslauföffnung 6 gelangen. Durch das Schlitzventil 14 wird das Getränk mit Scherkräften belastet. Im Getränk enthaltene Luft wird so zu feinen Luftbläschen geformt, welche im Getränkestrahl mitgeführt werden. Insbesondere bei der Zubereitung von Kaffee aus Kaffeepulver wird somit eine Crema erzeugt, welche sich als feiner Schaum z.B. in einer Tasse auf dem zubereiten Kaffee ausbildet. Durch die Verwendung eines Schlitzventils 14 kann die Scherkraft gegenüber einem Lochventil bei gleichbleibendem Düsenquerschnitt noch verstärkt werden.After the beverage has passed from the
Das Schlitzventil 14 erstreckt sich über den gesamten Durchmesser des Auslaufstutzens 5. Entsprechend erstreckt sich der Schlitz über die gesamte Begrenzungswand 12. Der Schlitz wird durch zwei gegeneinander versetzte Wandabschnitte 20, 21 gebildet, wobei der eine Wandabschnitt 21 eine Trennwand 19 des Luftzuführungskanals 7 umfasst. Die andere Trennwand 20 ist vergleichsweise dünn ausgestaltet, so dass sich diese unter dem einwirkenden Flüssigkeitsdruck verformen kann um den Schlitz des Schlitzventils 14 entsprechend zu vergrössern. Vorzugsweise weist die Trennwand 20 eine Dicke zwischen 0.2 mm bis 0.3 mm auf, so dass diese entsprechend einfach durch einen anliegenden Flüssigkeitsinnendruck verformt werden kann. Selbstverständlich ist diese Dicke je nach verwendetem Material und benötigten Innendruck anpassbar.The
Das Schlitzventil 14 ist so ausgestaltet, dass der entstehende Getränkestrahl an einer Lufteinlassöffnung 11 vorbeigeleitet wird, also quer zu einer Auslaufrichtung 10 von der Begrenzungswand 12 zur Auslauföffnung 6 in den Auslaufstutzen 5 eingespritzt wird und an die Seitenwand des Auslaufstutzens 5 prallt. Diese Lufteinlassöffnung 11 ist mit dem Luftzuführungskanal 7 verbunden, welcher koaxial um den Auslaufstutzen 5 angeordnet ist. Der Getränkestrahl reisst beim Unterqueren der Lufteinlassöffnung 11 durch die Sogwirkung Luft mit und vermischt sich mit dieser Luft. Es bildet sich ein luftgeschäumtes Getränk, welche die Kapsel durch die Auslauföffnung 6 verlässt. Insbesondere bei der Zubereitung von Milch ist eine zusätzliche Schaumbildung vielfach erwünscht um beispielsweise einen Cappuccino oder einen Latte Macchiato herzustellen. Auch bei der Zubereitung von Kaffee ist ein feiner Schaum in Form einer Crema wünschenswert. Sobald die gewünschte Menge des Getränks zubereitet ist, wird das Einbringen der Flüssigkeit in die Substanzkammer 3 (siehe
Wie bereits vorgängig beschrieben, sammelt sich das Getränk nach dem Durchtritt durch die Durchgangsöffnungen 16 und das Filter 15 (beides siehe
Das Schlitzventil 14 kann vor dem erstmaligen Öffnen komplett verschlossen sein. Beispielsweise kann anstelle eines Schlitzes eine Sollbruchstelle vorgesehen sein, welche jedoch das Öffnen unter Druck ermöglicht.The
In den
Der Sammelraum 13 ist als vertiefter Kanal ausgebildet. Das Schlitzventil 14 befindet sich am Ende des Kanals angrenzend an die Trennwand 19 und ist offen. Bei erhöhtem Innendruck kann sich der Wandabschnitt 20 der Begrenzungswand 12 des Stopfens 2 durchbiegen, so dass sich die Öffnung der Düse 12 vergrössert. Es erfolgt wiederum ein Gleichgewicht zwischen Innendruck und Rückstellkraft. Ebenfalls könnte das Ventil 14 jedoch als geschlossener Schlitz ausgestaltet sein, welcher sich erst unter Druck öffnet. Im Unterschied zur ersten Ausführungsform wird der Strahl des Getränks nicht durch einen breiten Schlitz über den gesamten Durchmesser des Auslaufstutzens 5 gebildet sondern durch den Schlitz im Kanal des Sammelraumes 13. Entsprechend ist es nicht sinnvoll mehrere Lufteinlassöffnungen zum Auslaufstutzen 5 vorzusehen, es existiert in dieser Ausführungsform lediglich eine Lufteinlassöffnung 11.The
Die
In der
Claims (13)
- Capsule (1) for the preparation of a beverage, comprising a preferably rotationally symmetrically formed capsule body (2), which completely or partially delimits a substance chamber (3) for receiving at least one substance (4), a preferably centrally arranged outflow connecting piece (5), which has an outflow opening (6), and a cover (8), which serves for closing off the substance chamber (3), wherein a liquid is able to be introduced into the substance chamber (3) and is able to be removed through the outflow opening (6), wherein a slit valve (14) which opens under an increasing liquid pressure in the substance chamber (3) is arranged between the substance chamber (3) and the outflow connecting piece (5) such that the slit valve (14) opens directly into the outflow connecting piece (5) and produces a beverage jet, wherein the slit valve (14) is formed by wall sections (20, 21) which are offset with respect to one another, characterized in that an air inlet opening (11) connected to an air supply channel (7) is arranged in the outflow connecting piece (5) such that the beverage jet is able to be guided past the air inlet opening (11).
- Capsule (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the slit valve (14) is a part of an entry-side delimiting wall (12) of the outflow connecting piece (5) .
- Capsule (1) according to Claim 2, characterized in that the slit valve (14) extends over the entire diameter of the outflow connecting piece (5).
- Capsule (1) according to either of Claims 1 and 3, characterized in that the slit valve (14) is of self-closing design such that it closes automatically in the absence of liquid pressure or with a reduction of the liquid pressure below a predetermined pressure.
- Capsule (1) according to either of Claims 1 and 4, characterized in that the slit valve (14) is configured as a predetermined breaking point and, prior to the minimum liquid pressure being present for the first time, is closed off in a sealed, in particular fluid-tight, preferably aroma-tight, manner.
- Capsule (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the slit valve (14) is arranged such that the beverage jet pours into the outflow connecting piece (5) transversely with respect to the outflow direction (10) of the outflow connecting piece (5).
- Capsule (1) according to any of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the air inlet opening (11) is arranged and/or formed such that, in the case of intended use, no beverage can enter the air inlet (11) opening under the action of gravitational force.
- Capsule (1) according to any of the preceding Claims, characterized in that, in the case of intended use, the air inlet opening (11) is arranged laterally with respect to, or, in the direction of gravitational force, above, the beverage jet formed by the slit valve (14).
- Capsule (1) according to any of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the air supply channel (7) is formed at least partially by an interaction of the capsule body (2) with a plug (9) mounted on the capsule body (2).
- Capsule (1) according to Claim 9, characterized in that the plug (9) is mounted onto the capsule body (2) from the outside.
- Capsule (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the capsule body (2) and the outflow connecting piece (5) are integrally formed.
- Capsule (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the outflow connecting piece (5) is a component which is separate from the capsule body (2).
- Capsule (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that a filter (15) is arranged in front of the slit valve (14).
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP16180136.0A EP3272671A1 (en) | 2016-07-19 | 2016-07-19 | Capsule for preparing a beverage |
PCT/EP2017/065681 WO2018015109A1 (en) | 2016-07-19 | 2017-06-26 | Capsule for preparing a beverage |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3487788A1 EP3487788A1 (en) | 2019-05-29 |
EP3487788B1 EP3487788B1 (en) | 2020-07-22 |
EP3487788B2 true EP3487788B2 (en) | 2023-07-12 |
Family
ID=56497610
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP16180136.0A Withdrawn EP3272671A1 (en) | 2016-07-19 | 2016-07-19 | Capsule for preparing a beverage |
EP17734698.8A Active EP3487788B2 (en) | 2016-07-19 | 2017-06-26 | Capsule for preparing a beverage |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP16180136.0A Withdrawn EP3272671A1 (en) | 2016-07-19 | 2016-07-19 | Capsule for preparing a beverage |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (2) | EP3272671A1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2827794T5 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2018015109A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7640843B2 (en) | 2003-01-24 | 2010-01-05 | Kraft Foods R & D, Inc. | Cartridge and method for the preparation of beverages |
EP3764849A1 (en) * | 2018-03-12 | 2021-01-20 | Delica AG | Adapter for use in preparing a beverage by means of a capsule and a beverage preparation device |
Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2016014556A1 (en) † | 2014-07-21 | 2016-01-28 | Abbott Laboratories | Pod for use with a beverage dispensing device and including a valved outlet member |
Family Cites Families (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3964509A (en) | 1975-02-14 | 1976-06-22 | Da/Pro Rubber, Inc. | Check valve |
DE10122557B4 (en) | 2000-05-26 | 2008-11-27 | Wella Ag | shutter |
GB2397505B (en) | 2003-01-24 | 2006-01-04 | Kraft Foods R & D Inc | System and method for the preparation of beverages |
GB2397493B (en) * | 2003-01-24 | 2005-06-29 | Kraft Foods R & D Inc | Cartridge for the preparation of beverages |
MXPA06010862A (en) * | 2004-03-26 | 2007-03-08 | Illycaffe Spa | Integrated cartridge for extracting a beverage from a particulate substance. |
EP1767467B1 (en) * | 2005-09-21 | 2009-04-15 | ILLYCAFFE' S.p.A. | Cartridge containing a substance for extracting a beverage |
ATE404465T1 (en) | 2006-06-06 | 2008-08-15 | Nestec Sa | CAPSULE WITH REDUCED AFTER-DRIP |
ITMI20090867A1 (en) | 2009-05-18 | 2010-11-19 | Tuttoespresso Spa | CAPSULE WITH HYBRID OPENING |
GB2481068B (en) * | 2010-06-11 | 2012-06-20 | Kraft Foods R & D Inc | Cartridge for the preparation of beverages |
ITMI20101243A1 (en) | 2010-07-06 | 2012-01-07 | Capsol S P A | "DISPENSER PLUG WITH AUTOMATIC VALVE FOR CONTAINERS TO CARRY AND DELIVER LIQUID OR CREMOSE SUBSTANCES" |
IT1401828B1 (en) | 2010-09-28 | 2013-08-28 | Macchiavelli Srl | SYSTEM FOR THE PREPARATION OF A BEVERAGE FROM AN INFUSION PRODUCT CONTAINED IN AN INTERCHANGEABLE CAPSULE |
CH708662A1 (en) * | 2013-10-04 | 2015-04-15 | Delica Ag | And capsule system for preparing a liquid food. |
CH709570B1 (en) * | 2014-04-29 | 2023-07-31 | Delica Ag | Capsule with a preferably rotationally symmetrical capsule body. |
-
2016
- 2016-07-19 EP EP16180136.0A patent/EP3272671A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2017
- 2017-06-26 EP EP17734698.8A patent/EP3487788B2/en active Active
- 2017-06-26 WO PCT/EP2017/065681 patent/WO2018015109A1/en unknown
- 2017-06-26 ES ES17734698T patent/ES2827794T5/en active Active
Patent Citations (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2016014556A1 (en) † | 2014-07-21 | 2016-01-28 | Abbott Laboratories | Pod for use with a beverage dispensing device and including a valved outlet member |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP3487788B1 (en) | 2020-07-22 |
ES2827794T3 (en) | 2021-05-24 |
EP3272671A1 (en) | 2018-01-24 |
ES2827794T5 (en) | 2024-02-20 |
EP3487788A1 (en) | 2019-05-29 |
WO2018015109A1 (en) | 2018-01-25 |
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