NL2020063B1

NL2020063B1 - Capsule for preparing a beverage, comprising a valve element and a labyrinth

Info

Publication number: NL2020063B1
Application number: NL2020063A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Alexander Held Micha
Original assignee: Euro Caps Holding B V
Priority date: 2017-12-12
Filing date: 2017-12-12
Publication date: 2019-06-21

Abstract

The present invention relates to a capsule (1) for preparing a beverage (2), comprising: — a containing body (3), — a turbulence assembly (20) defining a labyrinth (26) of outflow channels (28), the labyrinth configured to create turbulence in the liquid which flows through the outflow channels, the turbulence assembly comprising: o a cover element (22) which engages the base and covers at least a part the of the base, and 0 one or more projections (24) which project from an inner side of the base, wherein the outflow channels (28) provide fluid communication between the internal volume and the outlet channel, wherein the labyrinth of outflow channels comprises: o a plurality of merge locations (30), and o a plurality of branch locations (31), wherein the outflow channels extend over a radial distance, wherein the labyrinth defines a radially inwardly directed outflow, and — a valve element (12).

Description

Title: Capsule for preparing a beverage, comprising a valve element and a labyrinth

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a capsule for preparing a beverage, such as milk, comprising a containing body comprising a base having an outlet opening, a circumferential wall defining an internal volume adapted to contain a substance to be infused or solubilized when water is injected through the inlet opening for forming the beverage, and an inlet opening opposite the base, the inlet opening being adapted to be closed by an inlet opening cover. The present invention further relates to a method of manufacturing such a capsule.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Such capsules are of course known in the art and can be used to prepare tea, coffee, chocolate, milk and the like, in an appropriate beverage preparation device. A problem with the known capsules is that they are notorious for beverage residues remaining inside the internal volume, wherein the beverage residues often drip out of the capsule when the capsule is taken out of the beverage preparation device. This applies in particular to milk capsules.

For one type of capsule, a liquid volume of about 230ml liquid may be entered into the capsule. A volume of 200ml may leave the capsule and a volume of 30 ml may stay behind. The insertion needle which penetrates the capsule also more or less closes off the inner volume of the capsule. The remaining liquid will stay in the capsule because the capsule is more or less closed off and also because a slight under pressure is created in the device itself at the end of the cycle. This under pressure then also exists in the capsule because the capsule is in fluid communication with the device via the insertion needle.

As soon as the capsule is removed, the insertion needle is also removed. This removes the cause of the under pressure and opens the hole which was previously created and filled by the insertion needle. This allows air to enter the capsule and allows the remaining liquid to drip from the capsule. This may create a messy situation. The volume of dripping liquid may be as much as 30ml,. Obviously, the volumes may vary from one type of capsule to another.

The dripping is in particular an issue with milk, instant coffee or other types of beverages based on a soluble substance, because unlike ground coffee, in such a beverage no residue remains behind which can hold the liquid inside the capsule.

Another problem associated with such capsules is that the mixing of the substance with the water is not always sufficient for a high quality beverage. In particular, chunky portions of undissolved substance may remain in the beverage, which results in a less satisfying consumer experience.

Furthermore, because such capsules are single use product, it is important to keep the costs low. It was found that the combination of these requirements is generally quite difficult to achieve with a low number of parts and with a simple manufacturing process. US20160318702 discloses a capsule comprising a valve and a mixing device. The capsule is quite complex and is quite difficult to manufacture. Moreover, it was found that the mixing and the prevention of drip is not very effective. This is related to the relative position of the valve and the mixing unit. The valve 43 is positioned upstream of the mixing unit. This has the result that downstream of the valve, the pressure and the velocity of the liquid is quite low. As a result, insufficient mixing occurs. Moreover, because the liquid and the substance which flow through the valve are not well mixed yet, chunks of substance may block the valve and prevent it from closing after the pressure has dropped.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide a capsule, wherein dripping of beverage residues out of the capsule after the beverage preparation cycle is complete, and in particular when the capsule is taken out of the beverage preparation device, is prevented, and in which the mixing of the substance with the water is carried out better.

It is an object of the invention to achieve these objects with a capsule having only a few parts and which can be made with a simple manufacturing process.

It is another object of the invention to provide an alternative to the prior art.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In order to achieve at least one object, a capsule for preparing a beverage is provided, the capsule comprising: - a containing body comprising: o a base having an outlet channel at the end of which an outlet opening is located, o a circumferential wall, and o an inlet opening opposite the base, the inlet opening being adapted to be closed by an inlet opening cover, wherein the containing body defines an internal volume adapted to contain a substance to be infused or solubilized when liquid, in particular water, is injected through the inlet opening for forming the beverage, - a turbulence assembly defining a labyrinth of outflow channels, the labyrinth configured to create turbulence in the liquid which flows through the outflow channels in order to mix the substance with the water, the turbulence assembly being positioned at the base, the turbulence assembly comprising: o a cover element which engages the base and covers at least a part of the base, and o one or more projections which project from an inner side of the base, wherein the outflow channels provide fluid communication between the internal volume and the outlet channel, wherein the labyrinth of outflow channels comprises: o a plurality of merge locations where two or more outflow channels merge into a single outflow channel, and o a plurality of branch locations where a single outflow channel branches into a plurality of outflow channels, and wherein the outflow channels extend over a radial distance, wherein the labyrinth defines a radially inwardly directed outflow, - a valve element being positioned downstream from the turbulence assembly in the outlet channel, arranged for opening when the internal volume is being pressurized, in particular due to water being injected into the internal volume, allowing the beverage to flow through the outlet opening, and for closing when the internal volume is no longer being pressurized, preventing the beverage from flowing through the outlet opening.

It was recognized in the present invention that it is quite difficult to combine reduction preventing of dripping with good mixing, because capsules are quite small and the /ailable space for both a valve element and a mixing element is quite small. Also the relative jsitions of the mixing assembly and the valve element are important.

It was recognized in the present invention that the valve element may be blocked in the open state by chunks of undissolved substance. As a result, the valve element would not close off the capsule very well after the pressure drops, because it would remain open due to the chunks of undissolved substance.

The turbulence assembly significantly reduces this risk, because the water is mixed with the substance in a labyrinth of outflow channels comprising many turns, merge points and branch points.

Furthermore, because the mixing occurs upstream of the valve element, the velocity of the liquid will be higher and better mixing will take place than if the mixing would occur downstream of the valve element.

Due to the valve element according to the invention closing when the internal volume is no longer being pressurized, i.e. when the beverage preparation cycle is basically completed, the capsule no longer leaks or drips from the outlet opening. At the same time, the valve element is configured for opening when the internal volume is being pressurized, in particular due to water being injected into the internal volume. Therein, the valve element allows the beverage to flow through the valve element and the outlet opening in an unhindered manner, offering the “best of both worlds”: unhindered beverage outflow when this is desired, but no beverage outflow when this is not desired.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the labyrinth of outflow channels may comprise: - an annular outer zone comprising a plurality of branch locations and a plurality of merge locations, - annular intermediate zone comprising a plurality of branch locations and a plurality of merge locations, and - an annular inner zone comprising a plurality of branch locations and a plurality of merge locations and - radially oriented outflow channels which extend between the annular outer zone and the annular intermediate zone, and radially oriented outflow channels which extend between the annular intermediate zone and the annular inner zone.

In an embodiment of the capsule, a plurality of merge locations may define respective merge T-junctions, each merge T-junction comprising two incoming outflow channels and one outgoing outflow channel, where the two incoming outflow channels meet head-on and wherein the outgoing outflow channel is directed at an angle of 70-110 degrees relative to the incoming outflow channels, and a plurality of branch locations may define respective branch T-junctions, each branch T-junction comprising one incoming outflow channel and two outgoing outflow channels, wherein the two outgoing outflow channels are oriented at an angle of 70-110 degrees relative to the incoming outflow channel.

It was found that this configuration allows effective mixing.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the cover element may comprise: - a plurality of radially extending members which are provided along the circumference of the turbulence assembly and which extend radially outwardly and which engage the base of the containing body, - a plurality of slits distributed along the circumference of the turbulence assembly and positioned between the radially extending members, wherein the slits define entrances into the labyrinth of outflow channels, wherein the slits extend over a radial distance, and in particular extend in a radial direction.

This embodiment creates entrances into the labyrinth which are located near the base and in a sufficiently wide region to create an effective labyrinth. The radially extending members may act as leaf springs, further enhancing the positioning of the cover element on the base.

The slits should therefore not be too wide, e.g. enclosing an angle of 1 - 2° at maximum or having a maximum width of approximately 0.1 - 0.3 mm.

An embodiment relates to an aforementioned capsule, wherein the number of radial members is 8-16, preferably 10-14, more preferably 12, to provide a good balance between the “spring properties” on the one hand and filtering/flow rate performance on the other hand.

An embodiment relates to an aforementioned capsule, wherein the radial members are evenly spaced-apart to provide consistent and predictable performance.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the valve element may comprise a flange which extends laterally outwardly from a main axis of the capsule and which is connected to an inner side of the base, wherein the cover element comprises a cover base extending substantially parallel to the flange and positioned at a distance from the flange, and wherein the labyrinth of outflow channels is at least partially defined between the flange and the cover base by multiple columns which extend between the flange and the cover base.

The columns may be mutually spaced-apart with respect to each other, for instance over a mutual distance of 0.1 - 0.3 mm. The length of the columns preferably is at most approximately 0.5 mm. Thus, an optimal degree of turbulence can be realized, whereas at the same time the protrusions are not too small/low to make production cumbersome and/or expensive.

This configuration allows a simple and effective construction of at least a part of the labyrinth and allows for a suitable transition from the labyrinth into the outlet opening.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the columns may extend downward from the cover element and engage the flange, and in particular extend substantially parallel to a main axis of the capsule. The cover element can be made separately from the containing body of the capsule. In this way the containing body and the valve element can be held relatively simple. The cover element can also be kept relatively simple and the overall assembly of the capsule is easy. The capsule can be assembled by positioning the valve element at the outlet opening and by positioning the cover element over the base.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the containing body may comprise one or more projections which project over an axial distance from an inner side of the base, wherein the one more projections define a number of outflow channels, wherein the cover element comprises at least one annular recess which faces the base of the containing body and which is positioned over said projections, wherein when viewed in an axial direction of the capsule said annular recess extends around the flange, the column base and the columns, and wherein the radially extending members and the slits defined between them are arranged circumferentially around the annular recess. The projections create a part of the labyrinth and further improve the mixing of the substance with the water.

The cover element may comprise a central part, and wherein the projections have an inwardly oriented surface which engage an outwardly oriented surface of the central part.

The annular recess may comprise: - a first, inner zone which is occupied by the projections, and - a second annular outer zone extending around the projections, wherein the second annular zone remains unoccupied and forms an annular chamber upstream of the projections.

The cover element and the projections may form a coupling, in particular a click-fit coupling which secures the cover element in place, wherein to this end the inwardly oriented surface of the projections has an inward bulge, and wherein the outwardly oriented surface of the central part has a concave shape. This allows a very easy production method, because the cover element can simple by click-fitted onto the containing body (after the valve element has been placed). The projections therefore have a dual function: 1) form part of the labyrinth, and 2) form a part of a coupling, in particular a click-fit coupling, with which the cover element is connected to the containing body and secured in place.

Other types of couplings than a click-fit coupling may also be used, i.e. a bayonet coupling, thread, or a coupling with adhesive. However, a click fit coupling provides an advantage that the rotational orientation of the cover element is not important, i.e. the cover element can be connected to the containing body in any orientation about the main axis.

Alternatively, the valve element may be introduced from the bottom side.

In an embodiment of the capsule, a plurality of slits may be oriented towards the one or more projections, forcing the flow of water which travels through the slits to make a turn at the projections, and wherein the columns which are arranged between the flange and the column base comprise a group of outer columns which are arranged in a circular arrangement, wherein a first series of radially oriented outflow channels are defined by the projections, and wherein a plurality of said first series of radially oriented outflow channels is directed at the outer columns, forcing the flow of water which flows through said radially oriented outflow channels in the direction of said outer columns to make a turn at said outer columns, and wherein the plurality of columns between the flange and the column base comprise a group of inner columns which are arranged in a circular arrangement within the group of outer columns, wherein a second series of radially oriented outflow channels are defined between the outer columns, and wherein a plurality of said radially oriented outflow channels of the second series is directed at the inner columns, forcing the flow of water which flows through said second series of radially oriented outflow channels in the direction of said inner columns to make a turn at said inner columns.

This configuration further improves the mixing.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the number of slits may be different from the number of outflow channels of the first series, and wherein the number of outflow channels of the first series is different from the number of outflow channels of the second series.

The different numbers of the different elements make it possible to position the cover element in any rotational orientation relative to the containing body, because the labyrinth works in any relative orientation. This makes the production easier, because the cover element does not need to be positioned in a specific rotational orientation relative to the containing body.

In an embodiment of the capsule, a plurality of outflow channels may merge into a single outlet channel just upstream of the valve, the single outlet channel being oriented parallel to the main axis of the capsule, wherein the labyrinth of outflow channels extends essentially radially and at right angles to a main axis of the capsule, and wherein a transition from the outflow channels to the single outlet channel comprises a turn from a radial direction to an axial direction of the capsule. This configuration allows the labyrinth to be flat and to extend near the base of the containing body.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the plurality of outflow channels may extend substantially parallel to the base wall.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the turbulence assembly may comprise at least 8, and in particular 12 entrances.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the valve element may be of a slit-valve type and comprises in particular a cross-slit valve. This is an effective valve for this purpose.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the substance to be infused or solubilized may comprise milk powder and the beverage is milk.

In an embodiment of the capsule, the capsule may comprise the substance to be infused or solubilized and an inlet opening cover for closing the inlet opening.

Preferably, the valve element is made of a material resistant to degradation, corrosion and relatively high pressures and/or temperatures.

The valve element may be configured in such a way, that it also boasts a filter function (i.e. filtering out any spent substance, such that the spent substance does not end up in the beverage flowing through the outlet opening). Alternatively, the valve element can be part of a filter element.

Preferably, the valve element can be “tuned” to open at a certain predetermined overpressure p0, for instance an overpressure p0 in the range of 0,1 - 2 bar, more preferably 0,2 - 0,4 bar. The overpressure is the pressure above atmospheric pressure. The pressure p0 may also be referred to as the threshold overpressure. When the overpressure inside the internal volume exceeds p0, the valve element opens. The valve may close when the overpressure lies below p0. Different values for the overpressure than the values mentioned above are possible.

An embodiment relates to an aforementioned capsule, wherein the valve element is resilient or elastically deformable. The threshold overpressure p0 can be influenced relatively easily by such a resilient element, in particular by changing the geometry thereof. Furthermore, such a resilient valve element can more easily be inserted into the capsule during production of the capsule.

An embodiment relates to an aforementioned capsule, wherein the resilient valve element is made of silicone. In practice, such a silicone valve element provides a very good seal, hardly has any influence on the taste of the beverage being produced, and is capable of withstanding relatively high temperatures and pressures. At the same time, such a silicone valve element itself is easy to produce and such a silicone valve element is easy to put into place during production of the capsule.

An embodiment relates to an aforementioned capsule, wherein the central member comprises a labyrinth portion extending into the outlet opening for mixing the beverage flowing through the outlet opening to obtain a beverage with proper consistency.

An embodiment relates to an aforementioned capsule, wherein the circular sealing element and the outlet opening cover are integrally formed to facilitate production thereof and to increase the reliability of the seal.

An embodiment relates to an aforementioned capsule, wherein the radial members substantially cover the whole base, improving the filter function of the valve element and reliably fixing the valve element into place.

An embodiment thus relates to an aforementioned capsule, wherein the valve element is embodied as a filter element or is comprised by a filter element. As stated before, the valve element is preferably configured in such a way, that it also boasts a filter function (i.e. filtering out any spent substance, such that the spent substance does not end up in the beverage flowing through the outlet opening). Alternatively, the valve element can be part of a filter element.

An embodiment relates to an aforementioned capsule, wherein the substance to be infused or solubilized comprises milk powder and the beverage is milk. Milk dripping in particular is seen as problematic with the present capsules, creating hard-to-remove stains.

An embodiment relates to an aforementioned capsule, comprising the substance to be infused or solubilized, an inlet opening cover for closing the inlet opening and an outlet opening cover for closing the outlet opening.

The present invention further relates to a method of manufacturing a capsule according to any of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following steps: - providing the containing body, - positioning the valve element in the single outlet channel, - positioning the cover element on the base.

In an embodiment of the method the flange engages the inner side of the base.

In an embodiment of the method the cover element is click-fitted on the projections.

These and other aspects of the invention will be more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference symbols designate like parts.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be explained hereafter with reference to exemplary embodiments of a capsule according to the invention and with reference to the drawings. Therein:

Figure 1 shows an isometric view on a capsule according to the invention shown in cross-section.

Fig. 2 shows an isometric view on a capsule according to the invention, seen on the bottom side.

Fig. 3 shows a partial cross-sectional view of a capsule according to the invention.

Fig. 4 shows a detailed partial cross-sectional view of a capsule according to the invention.

Fig. 5 shows an isometric cross-sectional view of a containing body of the capsule according to the invention.

Fig. 6 shows an isometric view of a containing body of the capsule according to the invention.

Fig. 7 shows a labyrinth of outflow channels of the capsule according to the invention. Fig. 8 shows an assembly of the cover element and the valve element.

Fig. 9A shows the cover element.

Fig. 9B shows a detail of the cover element Fig. 10 and 11 show the valve element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figures 1-10 will be discussed in conjunction. A capsule 1 for preparing a beverage 2, comprises a containing body 3 comprising a base 4 having an outlet opening 5. The containing body comprises a circumferential wall 6 and an inlet opening 7 opposite the base. The inlet opening is adapted to be closed by an inlet opening cover 8 which may be a foil.

The containing body defines an internal volume 9 adapted to contain a substance 10 such as ground coffee, chocolate powder, milk powder, et cetera, to be infused or solubilized when water 11, in particular hot water, is injected through the inlet opening for forming the beverage, to be infused or solubilized. The containing body 3 can be provided with a further, inner containing body if desired (not shown).

The capsule comprises a valve element 12 comprising a valve 62 being positioned at the outlet opening 5, the valve element being arranged for opening (I) when the internal volume is being pressurized, in particular due to water being injected into the internal volume, allowing the beverage to flow through the outlet opening, and for closing (II) when the internal volume is no longer being pressurized, preventing the beverage from flowing through the outlet opening.

With reference in particular to figures 10 and 11, the valve element 12 comprises a flange 44 which extends laterally outwardly from a main axis 45 of the capsule and which is connected to an inner side 25 of the base 4. The valve element has a hat shape and comprises a cylindrical wall which interconnects the flange with the valve 62.

The valve element 12 is arranged for opening (I) when the internal volume 9 is being pressurized, in particular due to water 11 being injected into the internal volume 9, e.g. with one or more needles, allowing the beverage 2 to flow towards and through the outlet opening 5, and for closing (II) when the internal volume 9 is no longer being pressurized, preventing the beverage 2 from flowing through the outlet opening 5 and thus preventing dripping of beverage residues. The valve element 12 as shown is resilient or elastically deformable. Thereto, the resilient valve element 12 is preferably made of silicone.

The capsule comprises a turbulence assembly 20 configured to create turbulence in the outflow channels in order to improve the mixing of the substance with the water. The turbulence assembly is positioned at the base 4 and upstream of the valve element 12.

The turbulence assembly 20 comprises: o a cover element 22 which covers at least a part the of the base, and o one or more projections 24 which project from an inner side 25 of the base.

With reference to figure 7, the turbulence assembly defines a labyrinth 26 of outflow channels 28 which provide fluid communication between the internal volume and the outlet opening 5, wherein the turbulence assembly 20 is configured to create turbulence in the outflow channels in order to improve the mixing of the substance with the water, wherein to this end the labyrinth of outflow channels comprises: o a plurality of merge locations 30 where two or more outflow channels merge into a single outflow channel, and o a plurality of branch locations 31 where a single outflow channel branches into a plurality of outflow channels, and wherein the outflow channels extend over a radial distance, wherein the labyrinth defines a radially inwardly directed outflow.

The labyrinth 26 of outflow channels comprises: - an annular outer zone 34 comprising a plurality of branch locations 30 and a plurality of merge locations 31, - annular intermediate zone 35 comprising a plurality of branch locations 30 and a plurality of merge locations 31, and - an annular inner zone 36 comprising a plurality of branch locations 30 and a plurality of merge locations 31 and - radially oriented outflow channels 28 which extend between the annular outer zone and the annular intermediate zone, and radially oriented outflow channels 28 which extend between the annular intermediate zone and the annular inner zone.

The plurality of outflow channels 28 extend substantially parallel to the base wall. A number of the plurality of merge locations 30 define respective merge T-junctions, each merge T-junction comprising two incoming outflow channels and one outgoing outflow channel, where the two incoming outflow channels meet head-on and wherein an outgoing outflow channel is directed at an angle of 70-110 degrees relative to the incoming outflow channels A plurality of branch locations 31 define respective branch T-junctions, each branch T-junction comprising one incoming outflow channel and two outgoing outflow channels, wherein the two outgoing outflow channels are oriented at an angle of 70-110 degrees relative to the incoming outflow channel.

With particular reference to figures 8, 9A and 9B, the cover element 22 comprises: - a plurality of radially extending members 40 which are provided along the circumference of the turbulence assembly and which extend radially outwardly and which engage the base of the containing body, - a plurality of slits 42 distributed along the circumference of the turbulence assembly and positioned between the radially extending members, wherein the slits define entrances into the labyrinth of outflow channels, wherein the slits extend over a radial distance, and in particular extend in a radial direction.

The radially extending members 40 have convex surfaces 41 which are configured to engage the base of the containing body, and are evenly spaced apart. The radial members 40 preferably substantially cover the whole base 4, i.e. they extend outwardly all the way up to the side wall of the capsule 1.

The cover element 22 comprises a cover base 46 extending substantially parallel to the flange and positioned at a distance from the flange, and wherein the labyrinth of outflow channels is at least partially defined between the flange and the cover base by multiple columns 50A, 50B, commonly designated as 50, which extend between the flange and the cover base.

As shown in figure 9B, the columns 50 can be grouped or arranged in a pattern of concentric circles or rings, such as 2 - 4 of such rings. In particular when the beverage 2 is milk, a good foam can be achieved by using such a labyrinth.

The columns 50 extend downward from the cover element 22 and engage the flange 44, and in particular extend substantially parallel to a main axis 45 of the capsule.

With reference to figures 1, 3, 4 and 5, the containing body 3 comprises one or more projections 24 which project over an axial distance from an inner side of the base. The one more projections define a number of outflow channels 28. The cover element 22 comprises at least one annular recess 52 which faces the base of the containing body and which is positioned over said projections 24. When viewed in an axial direction of the capsule, said annular recess 52 extends around the flange 44, the column base 46 and the columns 50, and the radially extending members and the slits defined between them are arranged circumferentially around the annular recess.

The cover element comprises a central part 58. The projections have an inwardly oriented surface 59 which engage an outwardly oriented surface 63 of the central part. The outwardly oriented surface 63 is annular.

It is noted that figures 1, 3 and 4 show that the radially extending members 40 of the cover element 22 extend partially within the containing body 3. In reality this is not the case. Rather, the cover element 22 is arranged with pre-tension against the containing body order to compress the radially extending members 40 somewhat to improve the sealing contact with the inner side of the containing body.

The annular recess 52 comprises: - a first, inner zone which is occupied by the projections 24, and - a second annular outer zone 61 extending around the projections, wherein the second annular zone remains unoccupied and which forms an annular chamber upstream of the projections.

The cover element and the projections form a coupling, in particular a click-fit coupling, which secures the cover element in place, wherein to this end the inwardly oriented surface 59 of the projections has an inward bulge, and wherein the outwardly oriented surface 63 of the central part has a concave shape. A plurality of slits 42 are oriented towards the one or more projections 24, forcing the flow of water which travels through the slits to make a turn at the projections.

The columns 50 which are arranged between the flange 44 and the column base 46 comprise a group 55 of outer columns 50A which are arranged in a circular arrangement, wherein a first series of radially oriented outflow channels are defined by the projections 24, and wherein a plurality of said first series of radially oriented outflow channels 28 is directed at the outer columns 50A, forcing the flow of water which flows through said radially oriented outflow channels in the direction of said outer columns to make a branch and turn at a branch point 31 at outer columns.

The plurality of columns 50 between the flange and the column base comprise a group of inner columns 50B which are arranged in a circular arrangement within the group of outer columns 50A. A second series of radially oriented outflow channels 28 is defined between the outer columns 50A, and a plurality of said radially oriented outflow channels 28 of the second series is directed at the inner columns 50B, forcing the flow of water which flows through said second series of radially oriented outflow channels 28 in the direction of said inner columns 50B to make branch and make a turn at branch locations 31 at said inner columns 50B.

The number of slits 42 is different from the number of outflow channels 28 of the first series, and wherein the number of outflow channels of the first series is different from the number of outflow channels 28 of the second series. Preferably the number of slits is 12, the number outflow channels of the first series is 8, and the number of outflow channels of the second series is 12. A plurality of outflow channels 28 merge into a single outlet channel 60 just upstream of the valve 62. The single outlet channel 60 is oriented parallel to the main axis of the capsule, wherein the labyrinth of outflow channels extends essentially radially and at right angles to a main axis 45 of the capsule. A transition from the outflow channels to the single outlet channel comprises a turn from a radial direction to an axial direction of the capsule.

The turbulence assembly 20 comprises at least 8, and in particular 12 entrances.

The valve element 12 has a valve 62 of a slit-valve type and comprises in particular a cross-slit valve 62.

In a further embodiment, the cover element 22 and the valve element 12 may be integrated into a single piece. In one embodiment, the capsule may comprise only two structural parts, apart from the seals.

The substance to be infused or solubilized may comprise milk powder and the beverage is milk.

Preferably, the substance 10 to be infused or solubilized comprises milk powder and the beverage 2 is milk.

The valve element 12 may be is embodied as a filter element, is comprised by a filter element or otherwise associated with a filter element.

When the capsule 1 is sold or is otherwise ready for being used in a beverage preparation device, the capsule 1 comprises the substance 10 to be infused or solubilized, an inlet opening cover 8 for closing the inlet opening 7 and optionally an outlet opening cover 6 for closing the outlet opening 5.

It should be clear that the description above is intended to illustrate the operation of preferred embodiments of the invention, and not to reduce the scope of protection of the invention. Starting from the above description, many embodiments will be conceivable to the skilled person within the inventive concept and scope of protection of the present invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS 1. Capsule 2. Beverage 3. Containing body 4. Base 5. Outlet opening 6. Outlet opening cover 7. Inlet opening 8. Inlet opening cover 9. Internal volume 10. Substance to be infused or solubilized 11. Water 12. Valve element 20. Turbulence assembly 22. Cover element 24. Projections 25. Inner side of base 26. Labyrinth 28. Outflow channels 30. Merge locations 31. Branch locations 34. Annular outer zone 35. Annular intermediate zone 36. Annular inner zone 40. Radial member 41. convex surfaces 42. Slit 44. Flange 45 Longitudinal axis 52. Annular recess 58. Central part 59. Inwardly oriented surface of projections 60. Outlet channel 61. Outer zone of recess 62. Valve 63. Outwardly oriented surface of central part I = open position II = closed position

Claims

A capsule (1) for preparing a beverage (2), comprising: - a container body (3) comprising: o a base (4) with an outlet channel (60) at the end of which there is an outlet opening (5), o a circumferential wall (6), and o an inlet opening (7) opposite the bottom, the inlet opening being adapted to be closed by an inlet opening seal (8), the container body defining an internal volume (9) arranged around a substance (10) for infusion with a liquid or which is dissolved when the liquid (11), in particular water, is injected through the inlet for forming the beverage, - a turbulence assembly (20) that has a labyrinth ( 26) of the outlet channels (28), wherein the labyrinth is configured to create turbulence in the fluid flowing through the outflow channels to mix the fluid with the substance, the turbulence assembly being positioned at the base (4), where it is turbulence assembly comprises: o a cover element (22) which engages the base and covers at least a part of the base, and o one or more protruding parts (2, 4) protruding from an inner side of the base, the outflow channels (28) ) establish a fluid connection between the internal volume and the outlet channel, the labyrinth of outflow channels comprising: o a plurality of junction locations (30) where two or more outflow channels meet in one outflow channel, and o a plurality of branch locations (31) where one outflow channel branches into a number of outflow channels and wherein the outflow channels extend over a radial distance, the labyrinth defining a radially inwardly directed outflow, - a valve element (12) which is arranged downstream of the turbulence assembly in the outlet channel (60) and which is arranged to open (I) when the internal volume is pressurized, in particular by injecting water into the internal vo volume through which the beverage flows through the outlet opening, and to close (II) when the internal volume is no longer under pressure, whereby the beverage flows through the outlet opening.

The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the labyrinth of outflow channels comprises: - an annular outer zone (34) comprising a plurality of junction locations (30) and a plurality of branching locations (31), - an annular intermediate zone (35) comprising a plurality of gathering locations (30) and a plurality of branching locations (31), and - an annular inner zone (36) comprising a plurality of junction locations (30) and a plurality of branch locations (31), and - radially directed outflow channels (28) extending between the annular outer zone and the annular intermediate zone and radially oriented outflow channels (28) extending between the annular intermediate zone and the annular inner zone.

The capsule according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a plurality of branch locations (30) define respective meeting T-junctions, each meeting T-junction comprising two incoming outflow channels and one outgoing outflow channel, wherein the two incoming outflow channels meet one another and wherein the outgoing outflow channel is directed at an angle of 70-110 with respect to the incoming outflow channels, and wherein a plurality of branch locations (31) define respective branch T-junctions, each branch T-junction having one incoming outflow channel and two outgoing outflow channels, the two outgoing outflow channels are oriented at an angle of 70-110 ° with respect to the incoming outflow channel.

Capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the turbulence assembly comprises: - a plurality of radially extending parts (40) which are placed around the periphery of the turbulence assembly and which extend radially outwards and which are on the base of engaging the container body, - a plurality of slots (42) distributed over the circumference of the turbulence assembly and disposed between the radially extending portions, the slots defining entrances for the labyrinth of outflow channels, the slots being over a extend radially, and in particular extend in a radial direction.

The capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the valve element (12) comprises a flange (44) extending sideways outward from a main axis (45) of the capsule and connected to an inner side of the base, the cover element comprises a cover base (46) that is substantially parallel to the flange and is spaced apart from the flange, and wherein the labyrinth of outflow channels is defined at least in part between the flange and the cover base by a plurality of columns (50A, 50B) which extend between the flange and the cover base.

Capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the columns (50) extend downwards from the cover element and engage on the flange, and in particular extend substantially parallel to a main axis (45) of the capsule.

The capsule according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the container body comprises one or more protrusions (24) protruding an axial distance between an inner side of the base, the one or more protrusions defining a number of outflow channels (28), the cover element has at least one annular recess (52) that faces the bottom of the container body and is positioned over the protrusions, said annular recess seen in the axial direction of the capsule extending around the flange, column base and columns and the radially extending parts and the gaps defined between them extend circumferentially around the annular recess.

Capsule according to the preceding claims, wherein the cover element comprises a middle part (58), and wherein the protrusions have an inwardly facing surface (59) which engages an outwardly facing surface (63) of the middle part.

The capsule according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the annular recess (52) comprises: - a first, inner zone occupied by the protrusions (24), and - a second, annular outer zone (61) that surrounds the protrusions extending, the second annular zone remaining unoccupied and forming an annular chamber upstream of the protrusions.

Capsule according to the preceding claims, wherein the cover element and the protrusions form a coupling, in particular a snap coupling, with which the cover element is fixed in place.

The capsule according to the preceding claims, wherein the inward-facing surface (59) of the protrusions forms an inward-facing protuberance, and wherein the outward-facing surface (63) of the central portion has a concave shape that fits on the protrusion .

A capsule according to any of claims 5-11, wherein a plurality of slits (42) are oriented toward the one or more protrusions (24), thereby forcing the flow of water flowing through the slits to make a bend at the protrusions and wherein the columns arranged between the flange and the column base consist of a group of outer columns (50A) arranged in a circular arrangement, a first series of radially directed outflow channels being defined by the protrusions, and wherein a plurality of the first series of radially directed outflow channels are directed to the outer columns, whereby the flow of water flowing through the radially directed outflow channels in the direction of the outer columns is forced to branch and make a bend at a branch location at the outer columns, and wherein the columns between the flange and the column base comprise a group of inner columns (50B) that are arranged in a circular arrangement within the group of outer columns, wherein a second series of radially directed outflow channels is defined between the outer columns, and wherein a plurality of these radially oriented outflow channels of the second series are directed to the inner columns, whereby the flow of water which flows through the second series of radially directed outflow channels in the direction of the inner columns is forced to make a bend and branch at a branch location at the inner columns.

A capsule according to the preceding claim, wherein the number of gaps differs from the number of outflow channels of the first series and wherein the number of outflow channels of the first series differs from the number of outflow channels (28) of the second series.

A capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of outflow channels meet in one outlet channel (60) just upstream of the valve, the single outlet channel extending parallel to the main axis of the capsule, the outflow channels of the labyrinth extending substantially radially and extending perpendicular to a main axis (45) of the capsule, and wherein a transition from the outflow channels to the single outlet channel comprises a bend from a radial direction to an axial direction of the capsule.

A capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in addition to the seals, the capsule comprises only three structural parts: - the container body, - the cover element and - the valve element.

A capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in cross-section, the cover element has the shape of an inverted W.

A capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of outflow channels extend substantially parallel to the base wall.

A capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the turbulence assembly comprises at least 8 and in particular 12 entrances.

Capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the valve element comprises a valve of the spit-shaped type, in particular a cross-cut slit valve.

A capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the substance intended for the infusion or to be dissolved comprises milk powder and the drink is milk.

A capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the substance for infusion or for dissolution and an inlet port seal for closing the inlet port.

A method for manufacturing a capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - providing the container body, - positioning the valve element in the single outlet channel, - positioning the cover element on the base.

The method of the preceding claim, wherein the flange engages the inside of the base.

A method according to claim 2 2 or 2 3, wherein the cover element is connected to the protrusions (24) and in particular is click-mounted on the protrusions.