WO2002081327A2 - Closed capsule for preparing drinks - Google Patents

Closed capsule for preparing drinks Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2002081327A2
WO2002081327A2 PCT/EP2002/003601 EP0203601W WO02081327A2 WO 2002081327 A2 WO2002081327 A2 WO 2002081327A2 EP 0203601 W EP0203601 W EP 0203601W WO 02081327 A2 WO02081327 A2 WO 02081327A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
capsule
membrane
capsule according
opening
cover
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2002/003601
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2002081327A3 (en
Inventor
Ennio Bardin
Petr Masek
Original Assignee
Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
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Application filed by Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. filed Critical Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A.
Priority to AU2002256725A priority Critical patent/AU2002256725A1/en
Publication of WO2002081327A2 publication Critical patent/WO2002081327A2/en
Publication of WO2002081327A3 publication Critical patent/WO2002081327A3/en

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Classifications

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

Definitions

  • Closed capsule for the preparation of beverages comprising a food substance dispersible in water.
  • the invention relates to a capsule intended for use in the preparation of a hot drink by the introduction of water comprising a water-dispersible food substance such as soluble coffee or the like.
  • the invention relates more particularly to a capsule with improved opening and conservation.
  • capsules are generally not properly designed to prepare drinks from soluble substances. They are intended for certain types of espresso type machines specially designed to receive them and allow them to be opened.
  • US Patent 5,472,719 relates to one of these methods. It is a preparation method using capsules comprising a bottom capable of undergoing a deformation of a certain amplitude without tearing until reaching one or more perforating elements of a collector. The opening of the bottom of the capsule does not take place at the time of placement in the collector but only after sufficient deformation of the bottom of the capsule and in contact with these perforating elements in response to an internal increase in pressure in the capsule. The opening is adjusted so as to intervene when a sufficient extraction pressure of the order of 10-12 bars has been reached. It is not necessary to reach such pressures for soluble materials.
  • a single longer central perforating element can therefore be arranged so as to release the substance after sufficient deformation of the bottom.
  • the piercing elements tend to cause irregular tearing of the bottom of the capsule. This results in an irregularity in the definition of the flow space and therefore a modification of the shear forces which generates the formation of the foam.
  • Patent EP 0 524 464 B1 relates to a flexible extraction cartridge comprising an integrated stiffening element.
  • the cartridge can be a closed cartridge, the top of which is pierced by a needle for the introduction of water and the bottom of which opens under the effect of the pressure in the extraction device.
  • the cartridge can comprise three parts including a flexible membrane, a flexible body in frustoconical shape and an additional stiffening shirt which largely covers the flexible body.
  • Such a configuration has the same drawbacks as capsules of the same type, the opening of which is based on tearing under the effect of internal pressure.
  • Such a capsule is moreover complex to manufacture, uses unnecessary extra thicknesses of materials and requires the parts to be connected by welding and / or bonding techniques which can cause problems in the choice of materials.
  • the capsule is therefore emptied of its content by flow by means of a drain element with forced introduction.
  • a criticism commonly formulated according to this principle of mixing 'in situ' lies in the poor dispersion or dissolution and the low production of foam, in particular, when it is a coffee-based drink.
  • the capsules using this mixing principle is known from patent EP 0 125 215 Bl.
  • the liquid mixture thus formed is emptied by breaking a central pre-incised area formed in the bottom of the capsule by means of a forced insertion drain element such as a piston.
  • a forced insertion drain element such as a piston.
  • the piston crosses the pre-incised area to form an opening.
  • the beverage flows into the limited space created between the surface of the drain element and the circumference of the complementary opening and / or through a flow channel formed in the drain element itself communicating with the inside the capsule.
  • One problem is that the complete breaking of the pre-incised area can lead to the release of small pieces of plastic which mix with the drink.
  • the capsule must be completely covered with an overwrap comprising moisture and oxygen barrier films forming a sealed plastic vacuum bag.
  • an overwrap comprising moisture and oxygen barrier films forming a sealed plastic vacuum bag.
  • Such an overpack makes the capsule bulky and inconvenient to use.
  • the overwrap conforms to the shape of the capsule and is therefore often difficult to remove.
  • Overwrapping also generates an additional step in the production chain, increases the material cost and, consequently, increases the overall cost of the capsule.
  • the present invention relates to an improvement of a capsule, in particular, suitable for emptying by forced introduction of a emptying element.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide a simple, effective and inexpensive solution to these problems.
  • the invention thus relates to a capsule comprising a portion of water-dispersible food substance for the preparation of a drink by mixing with a quantity of water inside the capsule and draining the mixture outside by means of a device comprising a forced drain element inside the capsule, the capsule comprises a first surface adapted to be traversed by a flow of water entering the capsule and a second surface adapted to release the mixture formed at the inside the capsule.
  • the capsule comprises a body formed from a first material, which is provided with a bottom in which is inscribed the second surface for emptying the mixture and the side walls.
  • the drain bottom comprises at least one opening with the predefined shape and dimensions intended to adapt to the shape and dimensions of at least one drain element with forced insertion and the opening in the bottom is closed in a moisture-tight manner by a shutter membrane covering the opening, which can be torn off made of softer material and lower breaking strength compared to the material of the body.
  • a configuration of this type provides a satisfactory solution to all of the problems posed in the context of an 'in situ' mixture of dispersible material for the production of drinks and, in particular, for emptying by means of '' a forced entry element. More specifically, the formation of pieces of capsule material is avoided since the closure function of the opening is treated by a tearable and not breakable material, the nature of which is more appropriate with respect to the material constituting the body of the capsule.
  • the body it may be made of a material which is preferably more rigid, therefore capable of supporting the introduction of the draining element and capable of supporting the internal pressure during the production of the mixture.
  • the drain opening being predefined in its shape and dimensions, it can be properly released during the introduction of the drain element of the device. There is thus a greater regularity of the passage surface formed at the interface between the opening and the drain element; which allows better control of the flow of the mixture and better quality foam formation and greater regularity.
  • the flow is more regular and reproducible from one capsule to another.
  • the dissolution is better controlled in the capsule and the release of dry or not fully dissolved matter or lumps is avoided.
  • the closure membrane is of size less than or equal to the size of the drain bottom so as to limit the use of the material for the membrane and thus achieve a more economical tight closure.
  • the membrane comprises a flexible polymer and / or metallic sheet which is thinner than the body thickness of the capsule.
  • the sheet must be tearable under the effect of the introduction of the drain element.
  • the tear-off can be a function of the design of the drain element itself; it may have a more or less cutting or piercing shape as required. However, the tear-off will be assessed relative to the non-tearability or the low tearability of the body itself.
  • the term "tearable” is therefore understood in its broad sense as encompassing any form of rupture of the cut, tear, puncture, puncture, etc. type, with the exception of those which can apparently reveal discrete pieces of material.
  • the flexible membrane comprises a sheet comprising a layer of aluminum or aluminum alloy.
  • this sheet is a laminate comprising an additional layer of polymer support. The purpose of such a layer is to prevent the release of aluminum particles in the mixture.
  • Such a laminate has the property of tearing cleanly and also that of being a barrier to humidity and, preferably, to air, thus making the opening completely sealed.
  • the membrane comprises a thickness which allows a clean tear, clearing the opening of the body enough to create a passage surface suitable for the creation of foam and the flow of the liquid and while having a sufficient barrier effect. . In this, the thickness is between 0.1 and 5 tenths of a millimeter, preferably 1 and 3 tenths of a mm.
  • the opening of the body preferably forms a relatively compact circular, elliptical, square or regular or irregular polygonal section.
  • the opening has a section smaller than the surface of the drain bottom and preferably central with respect thereto. If necessary, the opening can be divided into several separate discrete holes corresponding to the arrangement of drain elements separate from the device.
  • the structure of the capsule can be variable.
  • the capsule body has the form of a cup comprising a bottom for emptying the mixture through the opening after tearing of the membrane.
  • the cup extends by substantially rigid side walls adapted to maintain the available volume of the capsule without bending.
  • the first surface suitable for the introduction of water is formed by a cover which is attached in a substantially sealed manner to the edges of the cup.
  • the cup is of sufficient size to receive the desired dose of substance; for example of the order of 1 to 25 grams of substance.
  • the cup is closed on open by a lid.
  • the second so-called "emptying" surface of the capsule has a bottom from which extends the opening of predefined dimensions and shape, more particularly adapted to the forced passage of the element for emptying the prepared mixture.
  • the opening can take different forms depending on the shape of the drain element.
  • the size of the opening is not critical as such. It can vary from 10 to 300 mm 2 .
  • the opening and the draining element are of substantially complementary shape; the emptying element being of substantially identical or slightly smaller size so as to create a passage surface for a controlled flow of the foam and then of the liquid mixture and also so as to avoid any significant mechanical interaction which may lead to abrasion of body parts of matter.
  • the principle is that the emptying takes place between the surface of the element introduced into the opening and the opening itself or, alternatively, in conduits or channels formed in the element itself.
  • the flexibility of the sealing membrane means that the emptying element can push back and clear the membrane sufficiently towards the interior of the enclosure by sufficiently clearing the opening. The formation of a restricted passage is decisive to obtain a good quality foam in the drink.
  • Such a passage has the effect of creating shear forces in the liquid flow to form more foam. Foam creation is also affected by speed of passage and internal pressure factors. It has been determined that a total passage area of between 5 and 15 mm 2 , preferably 8-10 mm 2 for a pressure of the order of 2-3 bars is necessary to create a quality foam for making coffee, cappuccinno, latte, chocolate or similar drinks.
  • the capsule body includes the capsule portion which defines the interior capacity to receive the substance to be mixed.
  • the capsule is preferably made of formable material.
  • formable material is meant a material which has the capacity to assume a defined self-supporting form.
  • the material can be formed by different techniques such as by injection, injection-molding, hot compression, rotational molding, blowing, extrusion or any combination.
  • the body must be resistant to the internal pressure created. Such a pressure can generally vary from 1 to 5, bars, more precisely from 1.5 to 2.5 bars.
  • a formable capsule is by nature semi-rigid or rigid so that it can be easily placed in a pressure chamber of a beverage preparation machine and resist plastic deformation inside it. A machine of this type is, for example, described in patent EP 0 125 215, the content of which is incorporated into the present application by reference. The capsule can thus borrow different geometries and dimensions depending on the capacity of the chamber to receive the capsule.
  • the body is formed from a material selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, polyester, polyvinylidene chloride, EVOH and combinations of one or more of these plastics.
  • the most suitable material seems to be polypropylene for its nutritional properties and the absence of chemical salting out.
  • the body can have a thickness of between 0.5 and 3 mm, preferably 1 and 1.5 mm. Such a thickness proves necessary to ensure a certain shape, pressure resistance and a sufficient barrier function to oxygen and humidity.
  • the body may be provided with a cover provided with predefined channeling means allowing the passage of water within the enclosure of the capsule.
  • These channeling means can be holes oriented in an orientation favoring the creation of turbulence inside the capsule allowing the passage of hot water.
  • the external surface of the cover is provided with a peelable sealing means covering said channeling means.
  • the sealing means of the surface of the cover may preferably be a membrane sealed or glued, peelably, on the edges of the cover.
  • the cover can thus advantageously be connected to the body by forced mechanical connection such as by embedding. It is not necessary to provide a perfectly sealed connection since the sealing is perfectly achieved by the membrane which covers the connection between the cover and the body.
  • the sealing means is a membrane which is sealed or peeled off peelably on the upper edges of the body when the cover is recessed in a housing of the body.
  • the sealing means of the cover is a membrane comprising at least one moisture barrier layer so as to prevent the introduction of moisture through the channeling means.
  • the membrane must also include at least one bonding layer having a peelability relative to the surface to which it is applied; the cover or the body.
  • the sealing means can also consist of several discreet peelable self-adhesive pieces placed at the location of the channeling means on the cover.
  • the membrane can advantageously be of identical nature to that closing the opening of the cup, with the difference that it must be able to be removed by peeling before introduction of the capsule into the device.
  • the cup is covered by a flexible cover consisting of a first internal membrane pre-perforated with holes suitable for the introduction of water inside the capsule and a second external sealing membrane covering the first internal membrane which is peelable with respect to the first internal membrane.
  • the cover is sealed by the external membrane, at least to humidity, which avoids providing an overpack around the capsule.
  • the membrane can be conveniently removed by pulling on it and thus uncovering the pre-perforated inner membrane.
  • the cover consists of a hermetic membrane, comprising a moisture barrier film, perforable and directly sealed on the edges of the cup.
  • the cover is made of a material flexible sealed on the edges of the body and suitable for being pierced by needles or other equivalent elements of the preparation device. In this case, any overwrapping is also avoided because the perforable membrane acts as a barrier against moisture.
  • the dispersible substance in the capsule can be of a variety. It can be soluble or quasi-soluble powders of coffee, cocoa, tea, dairy product, ferments, soup, fruit or plants or any combination possible.
  • Fig. 1 is a schematic sectional representation of a capsule also showing the drain element of the device
  • Fig. 2 is a schematic sectional representation of a capsule of the invention also showing the drain element
  • Fig. 3 is a representation from below of the capsule of FIG. 2;
  • Fig. 4 is a schematic sectional representation of a capsule of the invention according to another embodiment
  • a capsule is visible in FIG. 1 through the reference 10. It has a body part 11 formed by a cup proper 12. The body 11 is closed by a cover 13 covering the cup 12. The two elements 12, 13 meet on peripheral edges 14 which can be connected by any suitable mechanical means or by chemical adhesion or sealing or plastic.
  • the cup contains a predetermined dose of soluble substance such as freeze-dried or atomized coffee powder or a mixture of coffee powder and milk.
  • the cover has holes 16, for example two holes, for the passage of hot water under pressure when filling the internal cavity as defined by the cover and the cup.
  • the body 11 forms a substantially rigid or semi-rigid element capable of taking place in a sealed preparation chamber whose shape is suitable for receiving said body.
  • the cup On its lower surface or bottom, the cup comprises an opening means 17, such as a non-sealed precut patch, partially attached to the rest of the bottom of the cup.
  • the patch has precut lines.
  • the opening is widened at the level of the precut lines by an element of the piston type 20, at least part of which is introduced into the enclosure of the capsule.
  • the emptying is done by flow of the soluble mixture along the surface of the element and possibly through channels formed in the piston itself (not shown).
  • a flexible overwrap 18, 19 completely covers the external surface of the capsule. It must be provided to ensure the conservation of the capsule.
  • This overwrap may include a preformed cup cover pocket 18, a cover cover sheet 19 which are assembled by sealing at a joint plane 20 located around the edges 14 of the body.
  • the overpack is generally a polymeric moisture and oxygen barrier material, multi-layer of the PS / EVOH / PE type or the like.
  • the overwrap is generally placed by a "shinpack" machine, creating a vacuum between the capsule and the overpack. A vacuum is created and the sheet 19 is sealed on the pocket 18.
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 A first embodiment of the invention is visible in FIGS. 2 and 3.
  • the identical references in FIG. 1 denote identical or equivalent parts.
  • the cup comprises a bottom 110 and sides 111.
  • the sides 111 terminate on the side of the surface of water introduction via a lip-shaped edge 112.
  • the cup thus forms a self-supporting reservoir for receiving the dispersible food substance.
  • the cup On the side of the drain bottom 110, the cup is provided with an opening 21 with the predefined shape and dimensions.
  • the opening is in the bottom plane.
  • the opening has a regular internal edge 210, with closed section, defining precisely the section of the opening.
  • the opening is thus adapted to the passage of a drain element 20 of the device.
  • suitable shape is meant more particularly that the opening and the draining element are of substantially complementary shapes and. of close dimensions so as to create a restricted controlled passage between the surface of the emptying element and the periphery of the opening.
  • the opening has a preferably circular shape whose diameter is between 5 and 15 mm.
  • the opening is closed by a tearable membrane 22 entirely covering the opening in a sealed manner.
  • the membrane is of sufficient size to overflow around the periphery of the opening and to be attached to the external edges 220 situated on the external surface of the drain bottom by any connection means suitable such as sealing or adhesion by means of an adhesive.
  • the membrane can also be injected by over-injection on the body.
  • the membrane can be placed either on the outer edges 220 or on the inner edges 221.
  • the membrane is designed to be of breaking strength less than the resistance of the body, in particular of the bottom portion of the dome.
  • the membrane is made of tearing material but does not constitute discrete pieces separable from the part attached to the body. It is thus also preferred to choose a means of connection of the membrane which is of rupture strength greater than the resistance of the membrane itself, so as to avoid the membrane from detaching entirely from the body and risking being entrained in the flow of the liquid.
  • the body 11 is covered by a cover 13 made of rigid or semi-rigid plastic.
  • the cover forms the water introduction surface.
  • the cover includes holes 130 for the controlled passage of water.
  • the number, the arrangement of the holes, their section and their orientation are predefined in the cover to ensure optimal conditions for mixing inside the capsule.
  • the number of holes is preferably between 2 and 6, preferably 2 and 4, and are oriented in an inclined manner through the cover so as to create a swirling effect of the fluid inside the cover and promote dissolution of the substance.
  • a peelable sealing membrane 23 covering the cover 13 and sealed on the body.
  • the cover is preferably of section smaller than the spacing of the edges 112 of the body so as to leave an apparent sealing edge area 113 of the body.
  • the cover can advantageously be assembled with the body by forced mechanical embedding, leaving visible the sealing area 113.
  • the cover has a thinned edge 131 extending inwards by a thicker base portion 132.
  • the edge 112 of the body comprises a peripheral clearance 114 for accommodating the thinned edge 131 of the cover so that the external surface of the cover is positioned substantially flush with the sealing edge 113 of the body or at least set back inward relative to it.
  • the membrane 23 is provided on the outer side of the cover 13 and sealed on the body.
  • the cover can thus preferably be attached to the body around the periphery of the sealing zone 113; the connection being thus protected from the external environment by the covering of the membrane 23.
  • the cover can thus be engaged by forced embedding inside the body so as to form a rapid and economical connection requiring no equipment special bonding or sealing.
  • the forced connection can be established either between the thinned portion 131 and the housing 114 or between the base portion 132 and the interior of the sides 11 of the body.
  • one can also provide a bonding or a fusible joint between the cover and the body, if necessary.
  • the sealing membrane of the cover 23 is made of a moisture-proof material such as aluminum or plastic, whether or not lined with a plastic film of the EVOH type or the like.
  • Fig. 2 also shows a drain element 20 of the beveled configuration preparation device allowing a cleaner tear.
  • the introduction of the drain element is done forcibly before or during the introduction of water into the capsule.
  • the emptying element can be fixed in the preparation enclosure and the perforation of the membrane 22 takes place during the manual positioning of the capsule in the enclosure.
  • the draining element can be mobile and move to perforate the membrane 22 after the capsule has been placed in the preparation enclosure.
  • the invention can avoid an expensive and non-biodegradable barrier overwrap completely covering the capsule.
  • the user can simply delaminate the membrane 23 before use and place the capsule in the preparation chamber of a machine suitable for this use.
  • the sealing membrane 23 can also be connected by a peelable adhesive bead 50 directly to the cover 13.
  • the cover 13 and the cup 12 are attached together by means of connection strong enough to resist peeling of the membrane.
  • the cover is secured in place to the body by means of waterproof adhesive connection 51 and resistant to tearing such as a waterproof adhesive joint or any equivalent means.
  • Fig. 4 shows another embodiment in which the cover of the capsule body is replaced by a single air-impermeable membrane 50.
  • the membrane can be pierced by means of piercing means such as needles or points of the device to allow the introduction of a determined quantity of water inside the capsule.

Abstract

The invention relates to a capsule for preparing a drink, said capsule having improved opening properties and a longer preservation period. The invention comprises a portion of foodstuff that is mixed with a quantity of water in order to prepare the drink. The inventive capsule comprises a body (11) that defines a housing which receives the substance. Said capsule is characterised in that the body comprises an opening (21) that is adapted for the introduction of an element for emptying the capsule and in that the opening is sealed by means of a supple membrane (22) which can be torn off and which has less tensile strength than the material of the body.

Description

Capsule fermée pour la préparation de boissons comprenant une substance alimentaire dispersable dans l'eau.Closed capsule for the preparation of beverages comprising a food substance dispersible in water.
L'invention concerne une capsule prévue pour servir à la préparation d'une boisson chaude par introduction d'eau comprenant une substance alimentaire dispersable dans l'eau telle que du café soluble ou similaire. L'invention se rapporte plus particulièrement à une capsule à ouverture et conservation améliorée.The invention relates to a capsule intended for use in the preparation of a hot drink by the introduction of water comprising a water-dispersible food substance such as soluble coffee or the like. The invention relates more particularly to a capsule with improved opening and conservation.
Il est connu de préparer des boissons à partir de capsules jetables contenant une quantité prédosée d'une substance alimentaire. Il existe des systèmes utilisant la pression d'eau pour extraire une substance par percolation et extraction des arômes d'une substance non- entièrement- soluble. C'est le cas notamment des capsules contenant de la poudre de café torréfié-moulu. Il est nécessaire d'appliquer des pressions importantes de l'ordre de 10 bars et plus pour extraire correctement l'extrait de café. Dans ce cas, la capsule a pour rôle de servir de dispositif de percolation où l'extraction est réalisé par une montée en pression et en température à l'intérieur de la chambre de pression que constitue la capsule. En général, la pression a pour effet d'ouvrir le fond de la capsule lorsque la pression atteint la tension de rupture du matériau qui se déchire alors par endroit au contact de moyens en relief appropriés. Les machines d'extraction et les capsules contenant ces substances à extraire restent relativement onéreuses . Ces capsules ne sont généralement pas correctement conçues pour préparer des boissons à partir de substances solubles . Elle sont destinées à certains types de machines du type expresso spécialement aménagées pour les recevoir et permettre leur ouverture. Le brevet US 5,472,719 se rapporte à une de ces méthodes. Il s'agit d'une méthode de préparation utilisant des capsules comprenant un fond susceptible de subir une déformation d'une certaine amplitude sans déchirement jusqu'à atteindre un ou plusieurs éléments perforants d'un collecteur. L'ouverture du fond de la capsule n'a pas lieu au moment de la mise en place dans le collecteur mais seulement après déformation suffisant du fond de la capsule et au contact de ces éléments perforants en réponse à une augmentation interne de pression dans la capsule. L'ouverture est réglée de façon à intervenir lorsqu'une pression d'extraction suffisante de l'ordre de 10-12 bars a été atteinte. Il n'est pas nécessaire d'atteindre, de telles pressions pour 'des matériaux solubles. Un seul élément perforant central plus long peut donc être aménagé de manière à libére-r la substance après déformation suffisante du fond. L' éléments perforants a tendance à provoquer un déchirement irrégulier du fond de la capsule. Il en résulte une irrégularité dans la définition de l'espace découlement et donc une modification des forces de cisaillement qui génère la formation de la mousse. De plus, il y a un risque de détachement et d'entraînement dans l'écoulement de petits morceaux de matière solide d'emballage dans la préparation. Ce risque est accru pour certains matériaux plastiques d'emballages.It is known to prepare drinks from disposable capsules containing a predosed amount of a food substance. There are systems using water pressure to extract a substance by percolation and extraction of the aromas from a non-fully soluble substance. This is particularly the case for capsules containing ground roast coffee powder. It is necessary to apply significant pressures of the order of 10 bars and more to correctly extract the coffee extract. In this case, the role of the capsule is to serve as a percolation device where the extraction is carried out by a rise in pressure and in temperature inside the pressure chamber that constitutes the capsule. In general, the pressure has the effect of opening the bottom of the capsule when the pressure reaches the breaking tension of the material which then tears in place in contact with suitable relief means. Extraction machines and capsules containing these substances to be extracted remain relatively expensive. These capsules are generally not properly designed to prepare drinks from soluble substances. They are intended for certain types of espresso type machines specially designed to receive them and allow them to be opened. US Patent 5,472,719 relates to one of these methods. It is a preparation method using capsules comprising a bottom capable of undergoing a deformation of a certain amplitude without tearing until reaching one or more perforating elements of a collector. The opening of the bottom of the capsule does not take place at the time of placement in the collector but only after sufficient deformation of the bottom of the capsule and in contact with these perforating elements in response to an internal increase in pressure in the capsule. The opening is adjusted so as to intervene when a sufficient extraction pressure of the order of 10-12 bars has been reached. It is not necessary to reach such pressures for soluble materials. A single longer central perforating element can therefore be arranged so as to release the substance after sufficient deformation of the bottom. The piercing elements tend to cause irregular tearing of the bottom of the capsule. This results in an irregularity in the definition of the flow space and therefore a modification of the shear forces which generates the formation of the foam. In addition, there is a risk of detachment and entrainment in the flow of small pieces of solid packaging material in the preparation. This risk is increased for certain plastic packaging materials.
Le brevet EP 0 524 464 Bl se rapporte à une cartouche d'extraction souple comprenant un élément rigidifiant intégré. La cartouche peut être une cartouche fermée dont le dessus est percé par une aiguille pour l'introduction de l'eau et dont le fond s'ouvre sous l'effet de la pression dans le dispositif d'extraction. La cartouche peut comprendre trois pièces dont une membrane souple, un corps souple en forme tronconique et une chemise additionnelle rigidifiante qui recouvre en grande partie le corps souple. Une telle configuration possède les mêmes inconvénients que les capsules du même type dont l'ouverture est basée sur la déchirement sous l'effet de la pression interne. Une telle capsule est par ailleurs complexe à fabriquer, utilise des surépaisseurs inutiles de matières et nécessite de relier les pièces par des techniques de soudage et/ou collage qui peuvent poser des problèmes dans le choix des matériaux.Patent EP 0 524 464 B1 relates to a flexible extraction cartridge comprising an integrated stiffening element. The cartridge can be a closed cartridge, the top of which is pierced by a needle for the introduction of water and the bottom of which opens under the effect of the pressure in the extraction device. The cartridge can comprise three parts including a flexible membrane, a flexible body in frustoconical shape and an additional stiffening shirt which largely covers the flexible body. Such a configuration has the same drawbacks as capsules of the same type, the opening of which is based on tearing under the effect of internal pressure. Such a capsule is moreover complex to manufacture, uses unnecessary extra thicknesses of materials and requires the parts to be connected by welding and / or bonding techniques which can cause problems in the choice of materials.
Il existe des systèmes plus adaptés à la préparation à partir de substances contenues dans la capsule qui se dispersent au contact de l'eau et forment un mélange liquide. Les substances • alimentaires sont, par exemple, du café soluble mélangé ou non à de la poudre de lait ou autres substances du même genre. Dans ce cas, la capsule doit servir de bol de mélange à la préparation. On introduit une quantité d'eau sous relativement faible pression dans la capsule afin de créer des mouvements turbulents qui favorisent la dispersion de la substance alimentaire. La dissolution doit se faire rapidement et sans former ni grumeaux, ni résidus solides. En général, la pression est insuffisante pour déformer la capsule suffisamment et provoquer son ouverture sauf à prévoir la capsule particulièrement souple. Une capsule trop souple peut cependant poser des problèmes de tenue dans le dispositif, s'écraser ou se déformer dans le collecteur. De préférence, la capsule est donc vidée de son contenu par écoulement au moyen d'un élément de vidange à introduction forcée. Un reproche communément formulé selon ce principe de mélange 'in situ' réside dans la mauvaise dispersion ou dissolution et la faible production de mousse, en particulier, lorsqu'il s'agit d'une boisson à base de café.There are systems more suited to the preparation from substances contained in the capsule which disperse on contact with water and form a liquid mixture. Food substances are, for example, soluble coffee, whether or not mixed with milk powder or other similar substances. In this case, the capsule should serve as a mixing bowl for the preparation. A quantity of water is introduced under relatively low pressure into the capsule in order to create turbulent movements which promote the dispersion of the food substance. Dissolution must be done quickly and without forming lumps or solid residues. In general, the pressure is insufficient to deform the capsule sufficiently and cause it to open unless the particularly flexible capsule is provided. An overly flexible capsule can, however, pose problems of resistance in the device, crush or deform in the collector. Preferably, the capsule is therefore emptied of its content by flow by means of a drain element with forced introduction. A criticism commonly formulated according to this principle of mixing 'in situ' lies in the poor dispersion or dissolution and the low production of foam, in particular, when it is a coffee-based drink.
Les capsules utilisant ce principe de mélange est connu du brevet EP 0 125 215 Bl. Dans les capsules appliquant ce principe, la vidange du mélange liquide ainsi formé se fait par cassure d'une zone préincisée centrale ménagée dans le fond de la capsule au moyen d'un élément de vidange à introduction forcée tel qu'un piston. Lors de la mise en place de la capsule dans la chemise du dispositif de préparation, le piston traverse la zone préincisée pour former une ouverture. La boisson s'écoule dans l'espace restreint crée entre la surface de l'élément de vidange et la circonférence de l'ouverture complémentaire et/ou par un canal d'écoulement réalisé dans l'élément de vidange lui-même communiquant avec l'intérieur de la capsule. Un problème vient de ce que la cassure complète de la zone préincisée peut engendrer la libération de petits morceaux de matière plastique qui se mélangent à la boisson.The capsules using this mixing principle is known from patent EP 0 125 215 Bl. In the capsules applying this principle, the liquid mixture thus formed is emptied by breaking a central pre-incised area formed in the bottom of the capsule by means of a forced insertion drain element such as a piston. When the capsule is placed in the jacket of the preparation device, the piston crosses the pre-incised area to form an opening. The beverage flows into the limited space created between the surface of the drain element and the circumference of the complementary opening and / or through a flow channel formed in the drain element itself communicating with the inside the capsule. One problem is that the complete breaking of the pre-incised area can lead to the release of small pieces of plastic which mix with the drink.
Un autre problème vient de ce que l'effet de cassure peut provoquer une irrégularité de l'ouverture donc de la surface de passage alouée pour l'écoulement du mélange. Or, une telle irrégularité peut provoquer la libération avant dissolution complète de grumeaux ou encore affecter la qualité et la reproductibilité de la mousse.Another problem comes from the fact that the breaking effect can cause an irregularity in the opening, therefore in the passage surface allocated for the flow of the mixture. However, such an irregularity can cause the release before complete dissolution of lumps or even affect the quality and reproducibility of the foam.
Un autre problème vient de ce que la présence de la prédécoupe peut laisser se vider la capsule d'une partie de son contenu, en particulier, lorsqu'il s'agit de poudre à faible granulo étrie . La durée de conservation de la capsule peut être affectée toujours en raison de la présence de la prédécoupe qui rend le contenu sensible à l'humidité extérieure. Or les produits solubles utilisés peuvent être généralement hygroscopiques . Pour régler ces problèmes, la capsule doit être entièrement recouverte d'un suremballage comprenant des films barrières à l'humidité et à l'oxygène formant une poche scellée plastique sous vide. Un tel suremballage rend la capsule encombrante et peu pratique à utiliser. Le suremballage épouse la forme de la capsule et est donc souvent difficile à ôter.Another problem stems from the fact that the presence of the precut can allow the capsule to empty part of its content, in particular when it is a powder with a small granulo etrie. The shelf life of the capsule can still be affected due to the presence of the precut which makes the contents sensitive to external moisture. Now the soluble products used can generally be hygroscopic. To solve these problems, the capsule must be completely covered with an overwrap comprising moisture and oxygen barrier films forming a sealed plastic vacuum bag. Such an overpack makes the capsule bulky and inconvenient to use. The overwrap conforms to the shape of the capsule and is therefore often difficult to remove.
Le suremballage engendre aussi une étape supplémentaire dans la chaîne de fabrication, augmente le coût matière et, en conséquence, augmente le coût global de la capsule.Overwrapping also generates an additional step in the production chain, increases the material cost and, consequently, increases the overall cost of the capsule.
La présente invention se rapporte à une amélioration d'une capsule, en particulier, adaptée à la vidange par introduction forcée d'un élément de vidange. Le but de la présente invention est d'apporter une solution simple, efficace et peu coûteuse à ces problèmes .The present invention relates to an improvement of a capsule, in particular, suitable for emptying by forced introduction of a emptying element. The object of the present invention is to provide a simple, effective and inexpensive solution to these problems.
L'invention concerne ainsi une capsule comprenant une portion de substance alimentaire dispersable à l'eau pour la préparation d'une boisson par mélange avec une quantité d'eau à l'intérieur de la capsule et vidange du mélange à l'extérieur au moyen d'un dispositif comprenant un élément de vidange forcé à l'intérieur de la capsule, la capsule comprend une première surface adaptée pour être traversée par un flux d'eau entrant dans la capsule et une seconde surface adaptée pour libérer le mélange formé à l'intérieur de la capsule. La capsule comprend un corps formé d'un premier matériau, lequel est muni d'un fond dans lequel s'inscrit la seconde surface pour la vidange du mélange et des paroi latérales. Selon l'invention, le fond de vidange comprend au moins une ouverture à la forme et aux dimensions prédéfinies destinée à s'adapter à la forme et aux dimensions d' au moins un élément de vidange à introduction forcée et l'ouverture dans le fond est obturée de manière étanche à l'humidité par une membrane d'obturation recouvrant l'ouverture, déchirable en matériau plus souple et de plus faible résistance à la rupture par rapport au matériau du corps .The invention thus relates to a capsule comprising a portion of water-dispersible food substance for the preparation of a drink by mixing with a quantity of water inside the capsule and draining the mixture outside by means of a device comprising a forced drain element inside the capsule, the capsule comprises a first surface adapted to be traversed by a flow of water entering the capsule and a second surface adapted to release the mixture formed at the inside the capsule. The capsule comprises a body formed from a first material, which is provided with a bottom in which is inscribed the second surface for emptying the mixture and the side walls. According to the invention, the drain bottom comprises at least one opening with the predefined shape and dimensions intended to adapt to the shape and dimensions of at least one drain element with forced insertion and the opening in the bottom is closed in a moisture-tight manner by a shutter membrane covering the opening, which can be torn off made of softer material and lower breaking strength compared to the material of the body.
On a constaté qu'une configuration de ce type apportait une solution satisfaisante à l'ensemble des problèmes posés dans le contexte d'un mélange 'in situ' de matière dispersable pour la production de boissons et, en particulier, à vidange au moyen d'un élément à introduction forcée. Plus spécifiquement, on évite la formation de morceaux de matière de capsule dans la mesure où la fonction d'obturation de l'ouverture est traitée par un matériau déchirable et non pas cassable dont la nature est plus approprié par rapport au matériau constituant le corps de la capsule. Le corps quant à lui peut être dans un matériau de préférence plus rigide, donc apte à supporter l'introduction de l'élément de vidange et apte à supporter la pression interne lors de la réalisation du mélange.It has been found that a configuration of this type provides a satisfactory solution to all of the problems posed in the context of an 'in situ' mixture of dispersible material for the production of drinks and, in particular, for emptying by means of '' a forced entry element. More specifically, the formation of pieces of capsule material is avoided since the closure function of the opening is treated by a tearable and not breakable material, the nature of which is more appropriate with respect to the material constituting the body of the capsule. As for the body, it may be made of a material which is preferably more rigid, therefore capable of supporting the introduction of the draining element and capable of supporting the internal pressure during the production of the mixture.
L'ouverture de vidange étant prédéfinie dans sa forme et ses dimensions, elle peut être proprement dégagée lors de l'introduction de l'élément de vidange du dispositif. On constate ainsi une plus grande régularité de la surface de passage formée au niveau de l'interface entre l'ouverture et l'élément de vidange; ce qui permet un meilleur contrôle de 1 ' écoulement du mélange et une formation de mousse de meilleure qualité et de plus grande régularité. En particulier, du fait à la fois de la correspondance de forme et dimensionnelle entre l'ouverture et l'élément de vidange, et de la nature déchirable de la membrane d'obturation, on constate un meilleur contrôle de l'écoulement du mélange. En particulier, l'écoulement est plus régulier et reproductible d'une capsule à l'autre. D'autre part, la dissolution est mieux contrôlée dans la capsule et on évite la libération de matière sèche ou non entièrement dissoute ou de grumeaux.The drain opening being predefined in its shape and dimensions, it can be properly released during the introduction of the drain element of the device. There is thus a greater regularity of the passage surface formed at the interface between the opening and the drain element; which allows better control of the flow of the mixture and better quality foam formation and greater regularity. In particular, due to both the shape and dimension correspondence between the opening and the drain element, and the nature tear off the sealing membrane, there is better control of the flow of the mixture. In particular, the flow is more regular and reproducible from one capsule to another. On the other hand, the dissolution is better controlled in the capsule and the release of dry or not fully dissolved matter or lumps is avoided.
De manière préférentielle, la membrane d'obturation est de taille inférieure ou égale à la taille du fond de vidange de façon à limiter l'utilisation du matériau pour la membrane et réaliser ainsi une fermeture étanche plus économique. La membrane comprend une feuille polymère et/ou métallique flexible de plus faible épaisseur que l'épaisseur de corps de la capsule. La feuille doit être déchirable sous l'effet de l'introduction de l'élément de vidange. La déchirabilité peut être 'fonction de la conception de l'élément de vidange lui-même; celui-ci pouvant présenter une forme plus ou moins coupante ou perçante selon les besoins. Cependant, la déchirabilité s'appréciera relativement à la non-déchirabilité ou la faible déchirabilité du corps lui-même. Le terme "déchirable" s'entend donc dans son sens large comme englobant toute forme de rupture du type coupure, déchirure, crevaison, percement, etc., à l'exception de celles pouvant faire apparaître de manière apparente des morceaux discrets de matière.Preferably, the closure membrane is of size less than or equal to the size of the drain bottom so as to limit the use of the material for the membrane and thus achieve a more economical tight closure. The membrane comprises a flexible polymer and / or metallic sheet which is thinner than the body thickness of the capsule. The sheet must be tearable under the effect of the introduction of the drain element. The tear-off can be a function of the design of the drain element itself; it may have a more or less cutting or piercing shape as required. However, the tear-off will be assessed relative to the non-tearability or the low tearability of the body itself. The term "tearable" is therefore understood in its broad sense as encompassing any form of rupture of the cut, tear, puncture, puncture, etc. type, with the exception of those which can apparently reveal discrete pieces of material.
De préférence, la membrane souple comprend une feuille comprenant une couche d'aluminium ou en alliage d'aluminium. De manière préférentielle, cette feuille est un laminé comprenant une couche additionnelle de support en polymère. Une telle couche a pour but de prévenir le dégagement de particules d'aluminium dans le mélange. Un tel laminé a la propriété de se déchirer proprement et aussi celle d'être barrière à l'humidité et, de préférence, à l'air rendant ainsi l'ouverture totalement étanche. Toujours selon un aspect préféré, la membrane comprend une épaisseur qui permet une déchirure propre, dégageant l'ouverture du corps suffisamment pour créer une surface de passage appropriée à la création de mousse et l'écoulement du liquide et tout en présentant un effet barrière suffisant. En cela, l'épaisseur est comprise entre 0.1 et 5 dixième de millimètres, de préférence, 1 et 3 dixièmes de mm.Preferably, the flexible membrane comprises a sheet comprising a layer of aluminum or aluminum alloy. Preferably, this sheet is a laminate comprising an additional layer of polymer support. The purpose of such a layer is to prevent the release of aluminum particles in the mixture. Such a laminate has the property of tearing cleanly and also that of being a barrier to humidity and, preferably, to air, thus making the opening completely sealed. Still according to a preferred aspect, the membrane comprises a thickness which allows a clean tear, clearing the opening of the body enough to create a passage surface suitable for the creation of foam and the flow of the liquid and while having a sufficient barrier effect. . In this, the thickness is between 0.1 and 5 tenths of a millimeter, preferably 1 and 3 tenths of a mm.
L'ouverture du corps forme, de préférence, une section relativement compacte circulaire, elliptique, carrée ou polygonale régulière ou irrégulière. L'ouverture a une section inférieure à la surface du fond de vidange et de préférence centrale par rapport à celle-ci. Si besoin, l'ouverture peut être divisée en plusieurs trous discrets séparés correspondant à la disposition d'éléments de vidanges séparés du dispositif.The opening of the body preferably forms a relatively compact circular, elliptical, square or regular or irregular polygonal section. The opening has a section smaller than the surface of the drain bottom and preferably central with respect thereto. If necessary, the opening can be divided into several separate discrete holes corresponding to the arrangement of drain elements separate from the device.
La structure de la capsule peut être variable. Dans une configuration préférée, le corps de la capsule a la forme d'une coupelle comprenant un fond pour la vidange du mélange au travers de l'ouverture après déchirement de la membrane. La coupelle s'étend par des parois latérales sensiblement rigides adaptés à maintenir le volume disponible de la capsule sans fléchir.The structure of the capsule can be variable. In a preferred configuration, the capsule body has the form of a cup comprising a bottom for emptying the mixture through the opening after tearing of the membrane. The cup extends by substantially rigid side walls adapted to maintain the available volume of the capsule without bending.
La première surface adaptée à l'introduction d'eau est formée par un couvercle qui se rattache de manière sensiblement étanche sur les bords de la coupelle. La coupelle est de taille suffisante pour recevoir la dose de substance désirée ; par exemple de l'ordre de 1 à 25 grammes de substance. La coupelle est fermée sur ouvert par un couvercle. La seconde surface dite de "vidange" de la capsule possède un fond d'où s'étend l'ouverture aux dimensions et à la forme prédéfinies, plus particulièrement adaptée au passage forcé de l'élément de vidange du mélange préparé. L'ouverture peut prendre différentes formes en fonction de la forme de l'élément de vidange. La taille de l'ouverture n'est pas critique en tant que tel. Elle peut varier de 10 à 300 mm2. Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, l'ouverture et l'élément de vidange sont de forme sensiblement complémentaire; l'élément de vidange étant de taille sensiblement identique ou légèrement inférieure de façon à créer une surface de passage pour réalisé un écoulement contrôlé de la mousse puis du mélange liquide et aussi de façon à éviter toute interaction mécanique importante pouvant conduire à l'abrasion de parties de matière du corps. Le principe est que la vidange se fait entre la surface de l'élément introduit dans l'ouverture et l'ouverture elle-même ou, alternativement, dans des conduits ou canaux ménagés dans l'élément lui-même. La souplesse de la membrane d'obturation fait que l'élément de vidange peut repousser et dégager la membrane suffisamment vers l'intérieur de l'enceinte en dégageant suffisamment l'ouverture. La formation d'un passage restreint est déterminante pout obtenir une mousse de bonne qualité dans la boisson. Un tel passage a pour effet de créer des forces de cisaillement dans l'écoulement liquide pour former davantage de mousse. La création de mousse est aussi affectée par des facteurs de vitesse de passage et de pression interne. On a déterminé qu'une surface totale de passage comprise entre 5 et 15 mm2, de préférence 8-10 mm2 pour une pression de l'ordre de 2-3 bars est nécessaire pour créer une mousse de qualité pour la confection de café, cappuccinno, latte, chocolat ou boissons du même type.The first surface suitable for the introduction of water is formed by a cover which is attached in a substantially sealed manner to the edges of the cup. The cup is of sufficient size to receive the desired dose of substance; for example of the order of 1 to 25 grams of substance. The cup is closed on open by a lid. The second so-called "emptying" surface of the capsule has a bottom from which extends the opening of predefined dimensions and shape, more particularly adapted to the forced passage of the element for emptying the prepared mixture. The opening can take different forms depending on the shape of the drain element. The size of the opening is not critical as such. It can vary from 10 to 300 mm 2 . According to a characteristic of the invention, the opening and the draining element are of substantially complementary shape; the emptying element being of substantially identical or slightly smaller size so as to create a passage surface for a controlled flow of the foam and then of the liquid mixture and also so as to avoid any significant mechanical interaction which may lead to abrasion of body parts of matter. The principle is that the emptying takes place between the surface of the element introduced into the opening and the opening itself or, alternatively, in conduits or channels formed in the element itself. The flexibility of the sealing membrane means that the emptying element can push back and clear the membrane sufficiently towards the interior of the enclosure by sufficiently clearing the opening. The formation of a restricted passage is decisive to obtain a good quality foam in the drink. Such a passage has the effect of creating shear forces in the liquid flow to form more foam. Foam creation is also affected by speed of passage and internal pressure factors. It has been determined that a total passage area of between 5 and 15 mm 2 , preferably 8-10 mm 2 for a pressure of the order of 2-3 bars is necessary to create a quality foam for making coffee, cappuccinno, latte, chocolate or similar drinks.
Le corps de la capsule comprend la partie de capsule qui définit la capacité intérieure pour recevoir la substance à mélanger. La capsule est de préférence réalisée en matériau formable . Par matériau "formable", on entend un matériau qui a la capacité de prendre une forme autoporteuse définie. Le matériau peut être formé par différentes techniques comme par injection, injection- moulage, compression à chaud, roto-moulage, soufflage, extrusion ou toutes combinaisons. Le corps doit être résistant à la pression interne créée. Une telle pression peut en général varier de 1 à 5, bars, plus précisément de 1.5 à 2.5 bars. Une capsule formable est par nature semi- rigide ou rigide de façon à pouvoir être mise en place facilement dans une chambre de pression d'une machine de préparation de boisson et à résister à la déformation plastique à l'intérieur de celle-ci. Une machine de ce type est, par exemple, décrite dans le brevet EP 0 125 215 dont le contenu est intégré dans la présente demande par référence. La capsule peut ainsi emprunter différentes géométries et dimensions en fonction de la capacité de la chambre à recevoir la capsule.The capsule body includes the capsule portion which defines the interior capacity to receive the substance to be mixed. The capsule is preferably made of formable material. By "formable" material is meant a material which has the capacity to assume a defined self-supporting form. The material can be formed by different techniques such as by injection, injection-molding, hot compression, rotational molding, blowing, extrusion or any combination. The body must be resistant to the internal pressure created. Such a pressure can generally vary from 1 to 5, bars, more precisely from 1.5 to 2.5 bars. A formable capsule is by nature semi-rigid or rigid so that it can be easily placed in a pressure chamber of a beverage preparation machine and resist plastic deformation inside it. A machine of this type is, for example, described in patent EP 0 125 215, the content of which is incorporated into the present application by reference. The capsule can thus borrow different geometries and dimensions depending on the capacity of the chamber to receive the capsule.
A titre de mode préférentiel, le corps est formé dans un matériau sélectionné parmi le groupe consistant en polypropylène, polyéthylène, polyamide, polyester, polychlorure de vinylidène, EVOH et combinaisons d'un ou plusieurs de ces matières plastiques . Le matériau le plus approprié semble être le polypropylène pour ses propriétés alimentaires et l'absence de relargage chimique. Le corps peut avoir une épaisseur comprise entre 0.5 et 3 mm, de préférence 1 et 1.5 mm. Une telle épaisseur s'avère nécessaire pour assurer une certaine tenue en forme, une résistance à la pression et une fonction barrière suffisante à l'oxygène et l'humidité.As a preferred mode, the body is formed from a material selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, polyester, polyvinylidene chloride, EVOH and combinations of one or more of these plastics. The most suitable material seems to be polypropylene for its nutritional properties and the absence of chemical salting out. The body can have a thickness of between 0.5 and 3 mm, preferably 1 and 1.5 mm. Such a thickness proves necessary to ensure a certain shape, pressure resistance and a sufficient barrier function to oxygen and humidity.
Le corps peut être muni d'un couvercle muni de moyens de canalisation prédéfinis permettant le passage d'eau dans l'enceinte de la capsule. Ces moyens de canalisation peuvent être des trous orientés selon une orientation privilégiant la création de turbulences à l'intérieur de la capsule permettant le passage de l'eau chaude. Dans ce cas, de préférence, la surface externe du couvercle est munie d'un moyen d'etanchéite pelable recouvrant lesdits moyens de canalisation. Ainsi, il n'est plus nécessaire de prévoir un emballage car la capsule est rendue imperméable d'une part, par la membrane recouvrant l'ouverture d'écoulement et d'autre part, ce moyen d'etanchéite pelable recouvrant les moyens de canalisation d'arrivée d'eau.The body may be provided with a cover provided with predefined channeling means allowing the passage of water within the enclosure of the capsule. These channeling means can be holes oriented in an orientation favoring the creation of turbulence inside the capsule allowing the passage of hot water. In this case, preferably, the external surface of the cover is provided with a peelable sealing means covering said channeling means. Thus, it is no longer necessary to provide a packaging because the capsule is made waterproof on the one hand, by the membrane covering the flow opening and on the other hand, this peelable sealing means covering the channeling means water inlet.
Le moyen d'etanchéite de la surface du couvercle peut être, de manière préférentielle, une membrane scellée ou collée, de manière pelable, sur les bords du couvercle. Le couvercle peut ainsi avantageusement être relié au corps par liaison mécanique forcée tel que par encastrement. Il n'est pas nécessaire de prévoir une liaison parfaitement étanche puisque l'étanchéité est parfaitement réalisée par la membrane qui recouvre la liaison entre le couvercle et le corps.The sealing means of the surface of the cover may preferably be a membrane sealed or glued, peelably, on the edges of the cover. The cover can thus advantageously be connected to the body by forced mechanical connection such as by embedding. It is not necessary to provide a perfectly sealed connection since the sealing is perfectly achieved by the membrane which covers the connection between the cover and the body.
Alternativement, le moyen d'etanchéite est une membrane scellée ou collée de manière pelable sur les bords supérieurs du corps lorsque le couvercle est encastré dans un logement du corps. Dans ce cas, il est nécessaire de rendre la liaison entre le corps et le couvercle étanche par un collage barrière l'humidité. Le moyen d'etanchéite du couvercle est une membrane comprenant au moins une couche barrière à l'humidité de façon à prévenir l'introduction d'humidité au travers des moyens de canalisation. La membrane doit aussi comprendre au moins une couche de collage ayant une aptitude au pelage par rapport à la surface sur laquelle est appliquée; le couvercle ou le corps. Le moyen d'etanchéite peut aussi être constitué de plusieurs pièces autocollantes discrètes pelables placées à l'endroit des moyens de canalisation sur le couvercle. La membrane peut être avantageusement de nature identique à celle obturant l'ouverture de la coupelle à la différence qu'elle doit pouvoir être retirée par pelage avant introduction de la capsule dans le dispositif.Alternatively, the sealing means is a membrane which is sealed or peeled off peelably on the upper edges of the body when the cover is recessed in a housing of the body. In this case, it is necessary to seal the connection between the body and the cover by a moisture barrier bonding. The sealing means of the cover is a membrane comprising at least one moisture barrier layer so as to prevent the introduction of moisture through the channeling means. The membrane must also include at least one bonding layer having a peelability relative to the surface to which it is applied; the cover or the body. The sealing means can also consist of several discreet peelable self-adhesive pieces placed at the location of the channeling means on the cover. The membrane can advantageously be of identical nature to that closing the opening of the cup, with the difference that it must be able to be removed by peeling before introduction of the capsule into the device.
Dand un autre mode préférentiel, la coupelle est recouverte par un couvercle souple constitué d'une première membrane interne préperforée de trous adaptés pour l'introduction de l'eau à l'intérieur de la capsule et une seconde membrane externe d'etanchéite recouvrant la première membrane interne qui est pelable par rapport à la première membrane interne. Dans une telle configuration, le couvercle est rendu étanche par la membrane externe, au moins à l'humidité, ce qui évite de prévoir un suremballage autour de la capsule. La membrane peut être retirée de manière pratique en tirant sur celle-ci et en découvrant ainsi la membrane interne préperforée. Une telle configuration est plus économique que celle prévoyant un couvercle rigide encastrable.In another preferred embodiment, the cup is covered by a flexible cover consisting of a first internal membrane pre-perforated with holes suitable for the introduction of water inside the capsule and a second external sealing membrane covering the first internal membrane which is peelable with respect to the first internal membrane. In such a configuration, the cover is sealed by the external membrane, at least to humidity, which avoids providing an overpack around the capsule. The membrane can be conveniently removed by pulling on it and thus uncovering the pre-perforated inner membrane. Such a configuration is more economical than that providing a rigid insertable cover.
Dans un autre mode de réalisation préférentiel, le couvercle est constitué d'une membrane hermétique, comprenant un film barrière à l'humidité, perforable et directement scellée sur les bords de la coupelle. Autrement dit, le couvercle est formé d'un matériau flexible scellé sur les bords du corps et apte à être percé par des aiguilles ou autres éléments équivalents du dispositif de préparation. Dans ce cas, tout suremballage est aussi évité car la membrane perforable joue le rôle d'élément barrière contre l'humidité.In another preferred embodiment, the cover consists of a hermetic membrane, comprising a moisture barrier film, perforable and directly sealed on the edges of the cup. In other words, the cover is made of a material flexible sealed on the edges of the body and suitable for being pierced by needles or other equivalent elements of the preparation device. In this case, any overwrapping is also avoided because the perforable membrane acts as a barrier against moisture.
La substance dispersable contenue dans la capsule peut être de nature variée. Il peut s'agir de poudres solubles ou quasi-solubles de café, cacao, thé, produit laitier, ferments, potage, fruits ou plantes ou toutes combinaisons envisageables.The dispersible substance in the capsule can be of a variety. It can be soluble or quasi-soluble powders of coffee, cocoa, tea, dairy product, ferments, soup, fruit or plants or any combination possible.
La suite de la description est faite en référence aux dessins dans lesquels :The following description is made with reference to the drawings in which:
Fig. 1 est une représentation schématique en coupe d'une capsule montrant aussi l'élément de vidange du dispositif ;Fig. 1 is a schematic sectional representation of a capsule also showing the drain element of the device;
Fig. 2 est une représentation schématique en coupe d'une capsule de l'invention montrant aussi l'élément de vidange ;Fig. 2 is a schematic sectional representation of a capsule of the invention also showing the drain element;
Fig. 3 est une représentation de dessous de la capsule de la Fig. 2 ;Fig. 3 is a representation from below of the capsule of FIG. 2;
Fig. 4 est une représentation schématique en coupe d'une capsule de l'invention selon un autre mode de réalisationFig. 4 is a schematic sectional representation of a capsule of the invention according to another embodiment
Une capsule est visible sur la Fig. 1 au travers de la référence 10. Elle présente une partie de corps 11 formé d'une coupelle proprement dite 12. Le corps 11 est fermé par un couvercle 13 recouvrant la coupelle 12. Les deux éléments 12, 13 se rejoignent sur des bords périphériques 14 qui peuvent être connectés par tout moyen approprié du type mécanique ou par adhésion ou scellage chimique ou plastique. La coupelle renferme une dose prédéterminée 15 de substance soluble telle que de la poudre de café lyophilisé ou atomisé ou encore un mélange de poudre de café et de lait. Le couvercle possède des trous 16, par exemple, deux trous, pour le passage de l'eau chaude sous pression lors du remplissage de la cavité interne telle que définie par le couvercle et la coupelle. Le corps 11 forme un élément sensiblement rigide ou semi-rigide capable de prendre place dans une chambre de préparation étanche dont la forme est appropriée à recevoir ledit corps. Sur sa surface inférieur ou fond, la coupelle comprend un moyen d'ouverture 17, tel qu'une pastille non-étanche prédécoupée, rattachée en partie au reste du fond de la coupelle. La pastille possède des lignes prédécoupées. Lors du cycle de préparation, l'ouverture est élargie au niveau des lignes de prédécoupe par un élément du type piston 20 dont une partie au moins' est introduite dans l'enceinte de la capsule. La vidange se fait par écoulement du mélange soluble le long de la surface de l'élément et éventuellement au travers de canaux ménagés dans le piston lui-même (non représentés) . Comme le montre la figure, un suremballage souple 18, 19 recouvre entièrement la surface externe de la capsule. Il doit être prévu pour assurer la conservation de la capsule. Ce suremballage peut comprendre une poche préformée de couverture de coupelle 18, une feuille de couverture de couvercle 19 qui s'assemblent par scellage au niveau d'un plan de joint 20 situé aux abords des bords 14 du corps. Le suremballage est en général un matériau polymère barrière à l'humidité et l'oxygène, multi-couche du type PS/EVOH/PE ou similaire. Le suremballage est en général posé par une machine "shinpack" en faisant le vide entre la capsule et le suremballage. Le vide est réalisé et la feuille 19 est scellée sur la poche 18.A capsule is visible in FIG. 1 through the reference 10. It has a body part 11 formed by a cup proper 12. The body 11 is closed by a cover 13 covering the cup 12. The two elements 12, 13 meet on peripheral edges 14 which can be connected by any suitable mechanical means or by chemical adhesion or sealing or plastic. The cup contains a predetermined dose of soluble substance such as freeze-dried or atomized coffee powder or a mixture of coffee powder and milk. The cover has holes 16, for example two holes, for the passage of hot water under pressure when filling the internal cavity as defined by the cover and the cup. The body 11 forms a substantially rigid or semi-rigid element capable of taking place in a sealed preparation chamber whose shape is suitable for receiving said body. On its lower surface or bottom, the cup comprises an opening means 17, such as a non-sealed precut patch, partially attached to the rest of the bottom of the cup. The patch has precut lines. During the preparation cycle, the opening is widened at the level of the precut lines by an element of the piston type 20, at least part of which is introduced into the enclosure of the capsule. The emptying is done by flow of the soluble mixture along the surface of the element and possibly through channels formed in the piston itself (not shown). As shown in the figure, a flexible overwrap 18, 19 completely covers the external surface of the capsule. It must be provided to ensure the conservation of the capsule. This overwrap may include a preformed cup cover pocket 18, a cover cover sheet 19 which are assembled by sealing at a joint plane 20 located around the edges 14 of the body. The overpack is generally a polymeric moisture and oxygen barrier material, multi-layer of the PS / EVOH / PE type or the like. The overwrap is generally placed by a "shinpack" machine, creating a vacuum between the capsule and the overpack. A vacuum is created and the sheet 19 is sealed on the pocket 18.
Un premier mode de l'invention est visible sur les Fig. 2 et 3. Les références identiques à la Fig. 1 désignent des parties identiques ou équivalentes. Ainsi, on retrouve un corps 11 formé d'une coupelle 12 recouvert par un couvercle 13. Dans le cas de l'invention, la coupelle comprend un fond 110 et des côtés 111. Les côtés 111 se terminent du côté de la surface d'introduction d'eau par un bord en forme de lèvre 112. La coupelle forme ainsi un réservoir autoporteur pour recevoir la substance alimentaire dispersable.A first embodiment of the invention is visible in FIGS. 2 and 3. The identical references in FIG. 1 denote identical or equivalent parts. Thus, there is a body 11 formed of a cup 12 covered by a cover 13. In the case of the invention, the cup comprises a bottom 110 and sides 111. The sides 111 terminate on the side of the surface of water introduction via a lip-shaped edge 112. The cup thus forms a self-supporting reservoir for receiving the dispersible food substance.
Du côté du fond de vidange 110, la coupelle est munie d'une ouverture 21 à la forme et aux dimensions prédéfinies. L'ouverture se situe dans le plan du fond. L'ouverture possède un bord interne 210 régulier, à section fermée, définissant de manière précise la section de l'ouverture. L'ouverture est ainsi adaptée au passage d'un élément de vidange 20 du dispositif. Par "forme adaptée", on entend plus particulièrement que l'ouverture et l'élément de vidange sont de formes sensiblement complémentaires et. de dimensions proches de façon à créer un passage controllé restreint entre la surface de l'élément de vidange et le pourtour de l'ouverture. L'ouverture a une forme préférentiellement circulaire dont le diamètre est compris entre 5 et 15 mm.On the side of the drain bottom 110, the cup is provided with an opening 21 with the predefined shape and dimensions. The opening is in the bottom plane. The opening has a regular internal edge 210, with closed section, defining precisely the section of the opening. The opening is thus adapted to the passage of a drain element 20 of the device. By "suitable shape" is meant more particularly that the opening and the draining element are of substantially complementary shapes and. of close dimensions so as to create a restricted controlled passage between the surface of the emptying element and the periphery of the opening. The opening has a preferably circular shape whose diameter is between 5 and 15 mm.
Selon, l'invention, l'ouverture est obturée par une membrane 22 déchirable recouvrant entièrement l'ouverture de manière étanche. La membrane est de taille suffisante pour déborder sur le pourtour de l'ouverture et se rattacher sur les bords externes 220 situé sur la surface externe du fond de vidange par tout moyen de connexion approprié tel que scellage ou adhésion au moyen d'un adhésif. La membrane peut aussi être injectée par surinjection sur le corps. La membrane peut être placée soit sur les bords externes 220 soit sur les bords interne 221. La membrane est conçue pour être de résistance à la rupture inférieure à la résistance du corps, notamment de la partie du fond de la coupole. De même, la membrane est en matériau déchirant mais ne constituant pas de morceaux discrets séparables de la partie rattachées sur le corps. II est ainsi aussi préféré de choisir un moyen de connexion de la membrane qui soit de résistance à la rupture supérieure à la résistance de la membrane elle- même, de façon à éviter à la membrane de se désolidariser entièrement du corps et risquer d'être entraîné dans le flux du liquide.According to the invention, the opening is closed by a tearable membrane 22 entirely covering the opening in a sealed manner. The membrane is of sufficient size to overflow around the periphery of the opening and to be attached to the external edges 220 situated on the external surface of the drain bottom by any connection means suitable such as sealing or adhesion by means of an adhesive. The membrane can also be injected by over-injection on the body. The membrane can be placed either on the outer edges 220 or on the inner edges 221. The membrane is designed to be of breaking strength less than the resistance of the body, in particular of the bottom portion of the dome. Likewise, the membrane is made of tearing material but does not constitute discrete pieces separable from the part attached to the body. It is thus also preferred to choose a means of connection of the membrane which is of rupture strength greater than the resistance of the membrane itself, so as to avoid the membrane from detaching entirely from the body and risking being entrained in the flow of the liquid.
Le corps 11 est recouvert par un couvercle 13 en plastique rigide ou semi-rigide. Le couvercle forme la surface d'introduction d'eau. Le couvercle comprend des trous 130 pour le passage controllé de l'eau. Le nombre, la disposition des trous, leur section et leur orientation sont prédéfinis dans le couvercle pour assurer des conditions optimales de mélange à l'intérieur de la capsule. Ainsi, le nombre de trous est de préférence compris entre 2 et 6, de préférence 2 et 4 , et sont orientés de manière inclinée au travers du couvercle de façon à créer un effet tourbillonant du fluide à l'intérieur du couvercle et favoriser la dissolution de la substance.The body 11 is covered by a cover 13 made of rigid or semi-rigid plastic. The cover forms the water introduction surface. The cover includes holes 130 for the controlled passage of water. The number, the arrangement of the holes, their section and their orientation are predefined in the cover to ensure optimal conditions for mixing inside the capsule. Thus, the number of holes is preferably between 2 and 6, preferably 2 and 4, and are oriented in an inclined manner through the cover so as to create a swirling effect of the fluid inside the cover and promote dissolution of the substance.
Du côté externe du couvercle 13 est prévu une membrane d'etanchéite pelable 23 recouvrant le couvercle 13 et scellée sur le corps. Pour cela, Le couvercle est préférentiellement de section inférieure à l'espacement des bords 112 du corps de façon à laisser apparent une zone de bord de scellage 113 du corps. Le couvercle peut avantageusement s'assembler avec le corps par encastrement mécanique forcé en laissant apparent la zone de scellage 113. Pour cela, le couvercle possède un bord aminci 131 se prolongeant vers l'intérieur par une partie de base 132 plus épaisse. Le bord 112 du corps lui comprend un dégagement périphérique 114 permettant de loger le bord aminci 131 du couvercle de façon à ce que la surface externe du couvercle se positionne sensiblement à fleur par rapport au bord de scellage 113 du corps ou tout au moins en retrait vers l'intérieur par rapport à celui-ci. La membrane 23. peut ainsi être préférentiellement rattachée sur le corps sur le pourtour de la zone de scellage 113; la liaison ét-ant ainsi protégée de 1 ' environement externe par le recouvrement de la membrane 23. Le couvercle peut ainsi être engagé par encastrement forcé à 1 ' intérieur du corps de façon à former une liaison rapide et économique ne nécessitant pas d'équipement de collage ou de scellage particulier. La liaison forcée peut s'établir aussi bien entre la portion amincie 131 et le logement 114 ou entre la portion de base 132 et l'intérieur des côtés 11 du corps. Bien entendu, on peut aussi prévoir un collage ou un joint fusif entre le couvercle et le corps, au besoin.On the outer side of the cover 13 is provided a peelable sealing membrane 23 covering the cover 13 and sealed on the body. For this, the cover is preferably of section smaller than the spacing of the edges 112 of the body so as to leave an apparent sealing edge area 113 of the body. The cover can advantageously be assembled with the body by forced mechanical embedding, leaving visible the sealing area 113. For this, the cover has a thinned edge 131 extending inwards by a thicker base portion 132. The edge 112 of the body comprises a peripheral clearance 114 for accommodating the thinned edge 131 of the cover so that the external surface of the cover is positioned substantially flush with the sealing edge 113 of the body or at least set back inward relative to it. The membrane 23. can thus preferably be attached to the body around the periphery of the sealing zone 113; the connection being thus protected from the external environment by the covering of the membrane 23. The cover can thus be engaged by forced embedding inside the body so as to form a rapid and economical connection requiring no equipment special bonding or sealing. The forced connection can be established either between the thinned portion 131 and the housing 114 or between the base portion 132 and the interior of the sides 11 of the body. Of course, one can also provide a bonding or a fusible joint between the cover and the body, if necessary.
La membrane d'etanchéite du couvercle 23 est constituée en matériau étanche à l'humidité tel qu'en aluminium ou plastique doublé ou non d'un film plastique du type EVOH ou autre .The sealing membrane of the cover 23 is made of a moisture-proof material such as aluminum or plastic, whether or not lined with a plastic film of the EVOH type or the like.
La Fig. 2 montre aussi un élément de vidange 20 du dispositif de préparation de configuration biseautée permettant une déchirure plus propre. L'introduction de l'élément de vidange se fait de manière forcée avant ou pendant l'introduction d'eau dans la capsule. Pour cela, l'élément de vidange peut être fixe dans l'enceinte de préparation et la perforation de la membrane 22 s'effectue lors de la mise en place manuelle de la capsule dans l'enceinte. Dans une alternative possible, l'élément de vidange peut être mobile et se déplacer pour perforer la membrane 22 après la mise en place de la capsule dans l'enceinte de préparation.Fig. 2 also shows a drain element 20 of the beveled configuration preparation device allowing a cleaner tear. The introduction of the drain element is done forcibly before or during the introduction of water into the capsule. For it, the emptying element can be fixed in the preparation enclosure and the perforation of the membrane 22 takes place during the manual positioning of the capsule in the enclosure. In a possible alternative, the draining element can be mobile and move to perforate the membrane 22 after the capsule has been placed in the preparation enclosure.
L'invention peut éviter un suremballage barrière coûteux et non biodégradable recouvrant entièrement la capsule. Lors de l'utilisation, l'utilisateur peut simplement délaminer la membrane 23 avant utilisation et placer la capsule dans la chambre de préparation d'une machine adaptée à cet usage.The invention can avoid an expensive and non-biodegradable barrier overwrap completely covering the capsule. During use, the user can simply delaminate the membrane 23 before use and place the capsule in the preparation chamber of a machine suitable for this use.
Dans un autre mode possible (non illustré) , la membrane d'etanchéite 23 peut aussi se raccorder par un cordon adhésif pelable 50 directement sur le couvercle 13. Dans ce cas, le couvercle 13 et la coupelle 12 sont rattachés ensemble par un moyen de connexion suffisamment solide pour résister au retrait par pelage de la membrane. Dans ce cas, le couvercle est sécurisé en place au corps par moyen de connexion adhésif 51 étanche et résistant à l'arrachement tel qu' un joint de colle étanche ou tout moyen équivalent .In another possible embodiment (not illustrated), the sealing membrane 23 can also be connected by a peelable adhesive bead 50 directly to the cover 13. In this case, the cover 13 and the cup 12 are attached together by means of connection strong enough to resist peeling of the membrane. In this case, the cover is secured in place to the body by means of waterproof adhesive connection 51 and resistant to tearing such as a waterproof adhesive joint or any equivalent means.
La Fig. 4 montre un autre mode de réalisation dans lequel le couvercle du corps de la capsule est remplacé par une membrane unique 50 imperméable à l'air. La membrane est perçable au moyen de moyens de perçage tels que des aiguilles ou pointes du dispositif pour permettre l'introduction d'une quantité déterminée d'eau à l'intérieure de la capsule. Fig. 4 shows another embodiment in which the cover of the capsule body is replaced by a single air-impermeable membrane 50. The membrane can be pierced by means of piercing means such as needles or points of the device to allow the introduction of a determined quantity of water inside the capsule.

Claims

Revendications claims
1. Capsule comprenant une portion de substance alimentaire pour la préparation d'une boisson par mélange avec une quantité d'eau à l'intérieur de la capsule et vidange du mélange à l'extérieur au moyen d'un dispositif comprenant un élément de vidange forcé (20) à l'intérieur de la capsule, la capsule comprenant au moins un fond (110) pour la vidange du mélange caractérisé en ce que le fond (110) comprend au moins une ouverture (21), à la forme et aux dimensions prédéfinies, destinée à s'adapter à la forme et aux dimensions d' au moins un élément de vidange (20) à introduction forcée et l'ouverture dans le fond est obturée de manière étanche à l'humidité par une membrane d'obturation (22) recouvrant l'ouverture, déchirable en matériau plus souple et de plus faible résistance à la rupture par rapport au matériau du corps .1. Capsule comprising a portion of food substance for the preparation of a drink by mixing with a quantity of water inside the capsule and draining the mixture outside by means of a device comprising a draining element forced (20) inside the capsule, the capsule comprising at least one bottom (110) for emptying the mixture characterized in that the bottom (110) comprises at least one opening (21), in the shape and predefined dimensions, intended to adapt to the shape and dimensions of at least one drain element (20) with forced introduction and the opening in the bottom is closed in a moisture-tight manner by a sealing membrane (22) covering the opening, tearable in a more flexible material and of lower breaking strength compared to the material of the body.
2. Capsule selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que la membrane d'obturation (22) est rattachée sur les bords (220, 221) de l'ouverture de la paroi de sortie de vidange du corps .2. Capsule according to claim 1, characterized in that the closure membrane (22) is attached to the edges (220, 221) of the opening of the outlet wall for draining the body.
3. Capsule selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que la membrane d'obturation (22) est de taille inférieure ou égale à la taille du fond de vidange (110) .3. Capsule according to claim 1, characterized in that the closure membrane (22) is of size less than or equal to the size of the drain bottom (110).
4. Capsule selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que la membrane (22) comprend une feuille métallique déchirable sous l'effet de l'introduction de l'élément de vidange (20) .4. Capsule according to claim 1, characterized in that the membrane (22) comprises a tear-off metal sheet under the effect of the introduction of the draining element (20).
5. Capsule selon la revendication 4, caractérisée en ce que la membrane comprend une couche en aluminium ou alliage d'aluminium. 5. Capsule according to claim 4, characterized in that the membrane comprises a layer of aluminum or aluminum alloy.
6. Capsule selon la revendication 4, caractérisée en ce que la membrane a une épaisseur comprise entre 0.1 et 5 dixième de millimètre.6. Capsule according to claim 4, characterized in that the membrane has a thickness between 0.1 and 5 tenths of a millimeter.
7. Capsule selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce que ledit corps (11) est constitué d'un matériau apte à être mis en forme.7. Capsule according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said body (11) consists of a material capable of being shaped.
8. Capsule selon la revendication 7 caractérisée en ce que le corps (11) est en matériau sélectionné parmi le groupe consistant en polypropylène, polyéthylène, polyamide, polyester, polychlorure de vinylidène, EVOH et combinaisons d'une ou plusieurs de ces matières plastiques .8. Capsule according to claim 7 characterized in that the body (11) is made of a material selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, polyester, polyvinylidene chloride, EVOH and combinations of one or more of these plastics.
9. Capsule selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que le corps (11) a une épaisseur comprise entre 0.5 et 3 millimètres, préférentiellement entre 1 et 1.5 millimètres .9. Capsule according to claim 1, characterized in that the body (11) has a thickness between 0.5 and 3 millimeters, preferably between 1 and 1.5 millimeters.
10. Capsule selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que le corps (11) a la forme d'une coupelle dont le fond (110) supporte ladite ouverture (22), comprenant des parois latérales (111) se terminant par des bords (112) .10. Capsule according to claim 1, characterized in that the body (11) has the shape of a cup whose bottom (110) supports said opening (22), comprising side walls (111) ending in edges ( 112).
11. Capsule selon la revendication 10, caractérisée en ce que le corps (11) est refermé par un couvercle (13) .11. Capsule according to claim 10, characterized in that the body (11) is closed by a cover (13).
12. Capsule selon la revendication 11, caractérisée en ce que le couvercle (13) est muni de moyens de passage (130) prédéfinis permettant le passage d'eau dans l'enceinte de la capsule.12. Capsule according to claim 11, characterized in that the cover (13) is provided with predefined passage means (130) allowing the passage of water within the enclosure of the capsule.
13. Capsule selon la revendication 12, caractérisée en ce que le couvercle (13) est recouvert par un moyen d'etanchéite pelable (23) recouvrant lesdits moyens de passage (130) . 13. Capsule according to claim 12, characterized in that the cover (13) is covered by a peelable sealing means (23) covering said passage means (130).
14. Capsule selon la revendication 13, caractérisée en ce que le moyen d'etanchéite (23) est une membrane pelable est scellée sur les bords (113) corps.14. Capsule according to claim 13, characterized in that the sealing means (23) is a peelable membrane is sealed on the edges (113) body.
15. Capsule selon la revendication 11, caractérisée en ce que le couvercle est constitué d'une membrane perforable (50) et étanche directement scellée sur les bords de la coupelle. 15. Capsule according to claim 11, characterized in that the cover consists of a perforable membrane (50) and sealed directly sealed on the edges of the cup.
PCT/EP2002/003601 2001-04-03 2002-03-28 Closed capsule for preparing drinks WO2002081327A2 (en)

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EP01108406A EP1247756B1 (en) 2001-04-03 2001-04-03 Beverage preparation cartridge
EP01108406.8 2001-04-03

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US8927037B2 (en) 2011-02-08 2015-01-06 Kevin B. Kihnke Disposable cartridge for brewed beverages
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US9783361B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2017-10-10 Starbucks Corporation Stretchable beverage cartridges and methods
US10442610B2 (en) 2014-03-11 2019-10-15 Starbucks Corporation Pod-based restrictors and methods
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US9877495B2 (en) 2015-01-09 2018-01-30 Starbucks Corporation Method of making a sweetened soluble beverage product
US10820607B2 (en) 2015-01-09 2020-11-03 Starbucks Corporation Soluble beverages with enhanced flavors and aromas
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ATE283808T1 (en) 2004-12-15
ES2232538T3 (en) 2005-06-01
DE60107535D1 (en) 2005-01-05
EP1247756B1 (en) 2004-12-01

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