WO2023072997A1 - Capsule for the preparation of a beverage - Google Patents

Capsule for the preparation of a beverage Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023072997A1
WO2023072997A1 PCT/EP2022/079895 EP2022079895W WO2023072997A1 WO 2023072997 A1 WO2023072997 A1 WO 2023072997A1 EP 2022079895 W EP2022079895 W EP 2022079895W WO 2023072997 A1 WO2023072997 A1 WO 2023072997A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cup
shaped body
capsule
protruding part
lateral wall
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2022/079895
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Daniel Abegglen
Nicola GALAFFU
Michael Karlheinz HAUSMANN
Original Assignee
Société des Produits Nestlé 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
Application filed by Société des Produits Nestlé S.A. filed Critical Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.
Priority to AU2022374942A priority Critical patent/AU2022374942A1/en
Priority to CA3234579A priority patent/CA3234579A1/en
Publication of WO2023072997A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023072997A1/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
    • B65D85/8064—Sealing means for the interface with the processing machine

Definitions

  • the present invention concerns a capsule for the preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device.
  • the capsule comprises a cup-shaped body made of cellulose pulp.
  • Containers or capsules made of cellulose pulp are known in the field of beverage preparation devices. Materials made of cellulose pulp are also known which are capable of maintaining the qualities of the beverage substance in the capsule, at least for a certain period of time. Single-use capsules for preparing a beverage in a beverage production device are also known.
  • Known cellulose pulp made capsules are used in beverage preparation devices and comprise a member enclosing the capsule during the beverage preparation process and the injection of water in the capsule for the preparation of the beverage.
  • the present invention aims at an improving of the leak-tightness features of the known cellulose pulp made capsule forthe preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device.
  • the invention as claimed in claim 1 is a capsule for the preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device.
  • the capsule comprises a cup-shaped body and a cover for closing the cup-shaped body, wherein the cup-shaped body comprises an annular flange for the cover to seal thereon.
  • At least the cup-shaped body is made of cellulose pulp and comprises a bottom wall, a tubular lateral wall and the annular flange.
  • the cup-shaped body further comprises a connecting wall connecting the lateral wall and the annular flange.
  • the connecting wall comprises at least a part protruding outward with respect to the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body.
  • this protruding part cooperates with an edge of a capsule enclosing member of the beverage preparation device for improving leak tightness during the preparation of the beverage.
  • the density of the protruding part is less than the maximum density of the lateral wall and the thickness of this protruding part is greater than the maximum thickness of the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body, so as to increase the deformability of the protruding part and also improve the leak tightness during the preparation of the beverage.
  • the difference between the maximum density of the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body and the density of the protruding part of the connecting wall is a value comprised between 0,1% and 20%. Even more preferably, the difference between the maximum density of the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body and the density of the protruding part of the connecting wall is a value comprised between 0,1% and 10%.
  • the protruding part of the connecting wall has a rounded shape and, preferably, the external profile of the protruding part is an arc of a circle.
  • the connecting wall comprises at least one inner surface facing the cavity of the cup-shaped body.
  • This inner surface seen in longitudinal section, is inclined in a direction forming an angle with the direction of inclination of the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body.
  • the angle is comprised between 100° and 150° and preferably is about 135°.
  • the protruding part of the connecting wall has a shape chosen from one of following shapes, or has a shape which is a combination of one or more of following shapes:
  • the protruding part of the connecting wall has a rounded shape and internally the protruding part of the connecting wall has a flat shape inclined with respect of a longitudinal axis of the of the cup-shaped body;
  • the protruding part of the connecting wall has a rounded shape
  • the protruding part of the connecting wall has a flat shape inclined with respect of a longitudinal axis of the of the cup-shaped body;
  • the protruding part of the connecting wall has a stepped shape.
  • the cup-shaped body is made of cellulose pulp comprising cellulose fibres in a percentage ranging from 80% to 100% by weight, and comprises at least an oxygen barrier liner attached at the inner and/or outer surface of said cup shaped body made of cellulose pulp.
  • the capsule of the invention is a single use coffee capsule.
  • cellulose pulp refers to a pulp comprising cellulose fibres in a percentage ranging from 80% to 100% by weight.
  • cellulose fibres refers to fibres having a wood and/or a wood free origin.
  • the fibres are: hard wood cellulose fibres, soft wood cellulose fibres, wheat fibres, corn fibres, bagasse fibres, bamboo fibres, hemp fibres, cotton fibres, other similar vegetable or plant fibres, or a combination thereof.
  • At least one oxygen barrier liner made of one, preferably several layers.
  • the oxygen barrier liner is made of a known mono or multilayer polymeric liner, comprising for example a polymer of fossil or non-fossil origin or a BioSource polymer, and is attached to the inner surface of the cellulose pulp cup shaped body of the capsule.
  • a preferred multilayer barrier liner comprises a core layer having oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties, surrounded by a sealing layer for sealing said barrier liner to the cellulose pulp material, and preferably a second external sealing layerfor sealing a closing cover, in orderto close the capsule after it has been filled with an ingredient.
  • the oxygen barrier liner comprises one or more of following layers:
  • an outermost polymeric layer comprising a biodegradable polymer selected within the list of: polybutylene succinate (PBSA / bioPBS), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), starch, cellulose derivates, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA), or a combination thereof,
  • PBSA / bioPBS polybutylene succinate
  • PBAT polybutylene adipate terephthalate
  • starch starch
  • cellulose derivates polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA), or a combination thereof
  • first tie layer comprising a biodegradable modified or functionalized polyolefin
  • barrier layer comprising a polymer selected within the list of: butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or a combination thereof,
  • a second tie layer comprising a biodegradable modified or functionalized polyolefin
  • an innermost polymeric layer comprising a biodegradable polymer selected within the list of: polybutylene succinate (PBSA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), starch, cellulose derivates, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA) or a combination thereof.
  • PBSA polybutylene succinate
  • PBAT polybutylene adipate terephthalate
  • PHA polyhydroxyalcanoates
  • the cover is made in a known material, preferably it is a polymeric film membrane.
  • the cover may be flat, i.e., non- formed in a three-dimensional shape.
  • the cover is sealed onto a sealing layer of the cup shaped body opening, in order to close it after filling with an ingredient.
  • the cup shaped body of the capsule is preferably obtained by moulding in a mould a dry or wet, preferably wet, cellulose pulp.
  • the "barrier liner" mentioned above is laminated on the inside and/or outside surface of said body.
  • the barrier to oxygen for both the cover and the cup shaped body is selected to provide a sufficient shelf life depending on the nature of the beverage ingredients.
  • the shelf life expected may be of 12 months.
  • the cup shaped body, its oxygen barrier liner and/or the cover are made of home compostable materials.
  • the capsules according to the invention are normally meant to be recycled in recycling processes that are organized at official recycling facilities according to national regulations (for instance in paper recycling streams, or in general garbage recycling or treatment streams).
  • national regulations for instance in paper recycling streams, or in general garbage recycling or treatment streams.
  • said capsules are designed with materials that are naturally ready to be degraded by bacteria and in conditions of temperature and humidity that are naturally present in nature. In this way, it is ensured that such capsules will not stay in nature and will naturally disappear within a short period of time (a few weeks in principle) within the conditions defined by home compostability standards.
  • home compostability is now well defined on a national level and mainly based on international standard EN 13432; therefore, they do not require to be further defined in-depth in the present specification.
  • Materials or products compliant with these standards can be recognized by a conformity mark stating their home compostability.
  • Some examples of home compostability certifications at a national level include, but are not limited to, the following.
  • the certifier TUV AUSTRIA BELGIUM offers such a home compostability certification scheme
  • DIN CERTCO offers a certification for home compostability according to the Australian standard AS 5810. Italy has a national standard for composting at ambient temperature, UNI 11183:2006.
  • the French Standard "NF T 51-800 Plastics - Specifications for plastics suitable for home composting” was introduced. This standard is covered in the DIN CERTCO scheme.
  • the preparation of the beverage is obtained by mixing of the fluid substance with an ingredient contained in the capsule.
  • the ingredients are chosen within the list of roast and ground coffee, compacted or not, soluble powder coffee or leaf tea.
  • Dairy ingredients e.g., milk or creamer
  • dairy ingredients could also be provided, as well as chocolate, fruit juices, soups, vegetable juices, bouillons, smoothies, purees, coulis, creams, chicory, barley, culinary aid, soup ingredient, infant formula or a combination thereof, in powdered soluble form, liquid concentrated form having various viscosities or in gel form.
  • the beverage ingredients are roast and ground coffee.
  • the capsule of the invention may typically interact with a beverage and/or food preparation device, such as by being fed with a diluent (e.g., hot, cold or ambient water) in the container; such diluent mixes, or interacts otherwise, with the beverage ingredients.
  • a diluent e.g., hot, cold or ambient water
  • mixing of the diluent with the beverage ingredient(s) it should be intended that all the ingredients contained in the capsule are in a form which is compatible with a generic mixing operation (dissolution, extraction or infusion) with the diluent to obtain the beverage product.
  • the cavity delimited by the capsule body and the cover of the capsule is essentially oxygen-free and the empty space is saturated with an inert gas such as nitrogen, carbon oxide and combinations thereof.
  • the capsule has an internal pressure of gas above atmospheric pressure, due to the gas contained in the coffee and emanating in the cavity after sealing, such as carbon oxide and dioxide.
  • the beverage preparation device preferably comprises a capsule holder for receiving and tightly enclosing the capsule, a pressurized liquid supply system for supplying this liquid inside the capsule.
  • Devices of this type are for example those usually used for the extraction of traditional Nespresso® capsules.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of a capsule according to the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the capsule of figure 1;
  • Figure 3 is a schematic enlarged view of the portion of figure 2 indicated by arrow W;
  • Figure 4 is a schematic and partial longitudinal sectional view of the capsule of figure 1 when it is enclosed in a capsule enclosing member of a beverage preparation device;
  • Figure 4A is a schematic enlarged view of the portion of figure 4 indicated by arrow Wl;
  • Figures 5, 6 and 7 are views similar to figure 3, showing three further embodiments of the capsule. Detailed description of the invention
  • FIGS 1, 2 and 3 a first embodiment of a capsule according to the invention, for the preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device, is shown.
  • This capsule comprises a cup-shaped body 1 and a cover 2 for closing the cup-shaped body 1.
  • the cup-shaped body 1 comprises an annular flange 3 for the cover 2 to seal thereon.
  • the cup-shaped body 1 is made of cellulose pulp and comprise at least a bottom wall 4, a tubular lateral wall 5 and the annular flange 3.
  • the lateral wall 5 and the annular flange 3 are connected by a connecting wall 6 (see figure 3) of the cup-shaped body 1.
  • the connecting wall 6 comprises at least a part 7 (figure 3) protruding outward with respect to the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1.
  • This outwardly protruding part 7 can be defined as being convex.
  • the protruding part 7, as part of the connecting wall 6, is integral with both the lateral wall 5 and said annular flange 3 of the capsule.
  • the protruding part is made of cellulose pulp.
  • This outwardly protruding part 7 can be defined as being convex.
  • this protruding part 7 cooperates with an edge 8 of a capsule enclosing member 9 of a beverage preparation device 10 (partially shown in figure 4) for improving leak tightness between said enclosing member 9 and the cupshaped body 1 during the preparation of the beverage.
  • the density of the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 is less than the maximum density of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1. Additionally, said protruding part 7 has also a greater thickness T1 than the maximum thickness T2 of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1.
  • the difference between the maximum density DI of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1 and the density D2 of the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 is a value comprised between 0,1% of DI and 20% of DI, that is:
  • the difference between the maximum density DI of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1 and the density D2 of the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 is a value comprised between 0,1% of DI and 10% of DI, that is:
  • the term “density” refers to the "volumetric mass density” of a material, which is the mass per volume unit of this material.
  • the reduced density of the cellulose pulp of the protruding part 7 leads to a reduced stiffness and hardness of this part 7 with respect to the stiffness and hardness of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1 having a greater density.
  • the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 has a rounded shape in longitudinal section (see figure 3) and more preferably the external profile of said protruding part 7 is an arc of a circle. Even more preferably, the circular arc is an arc of a circle having a diameter of 0,53 mm+/-30%.
  • the shape and the dimensions the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 allow a better and more gradual interaction between the edge 8 of the movable enclosing member 9 of the beverage preparation device 10, as well as a better sealing.
  • the shape, the dimensions and the density of the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 guarantee tightness during the beverage preparation. Tightness is achieved through local compaction and/or deformation of the cellulose pulp of the protruding part 7 (as shown in figure 4A), due to the lower density and greater thickness of this protruding part 7 with respect to the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1.
  • This difference in density creates a sort of "rubber effect" and/or an increased mechanical flexibility of the protruding part 7, which is excellent for providing tightness: when the movable enclosing member 9 of the beverage preparation device 10 is closed around the capsule (as shown in figures 4 and 4A) and the edge 8 of this movable enclosing member 9 presses onto the protruding part 7, said protruding part 7 is capable of flexing and deforming due to its lower density with respect to the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1.
  • the lower density of the protruding part 7 could also have another favourable technical effect.
  • the lower density of the protruding part 7 allows this protruding part 7 to "absorb" some water and swell, hence increasing its non-compressed volume, and thereby also increasing the surface of contact between said protruding part 7 and the inner surface of the edge 8 of the enclosing member 9, thereby further improving leak tightness.
  • the cup-shaped body 1 is preferably revolutionary symmetrical.
  • the tubular wall 5 has a frustoconical shape, with a circular cross section and with an increasing diameter towards the annular flange 3.
  • the lateral tubular wall 5 when seen in a longitudinal section, is inclined with respect to a longitudinal axis A of the cup-shaped body 1, in a first inclination direction Ml (shown in figure 3).
  • the bottom wall 4 preferably comprises a first inclined wall 4A and a second wall 4B, so as to delimit a shallow concave volume.
  • the first inclined wall 4A preferably has a frustoconical shape, with a circular cross section and with an increasing diameter towards the lateral wall 5.
  • the second wall 4B is preferably flat (as shown in figure 2) or convex (from the point of view of the cavity 1A, i.e., protruding internally towards the cavity 1A).
  • the connecting wall 6 preferably comprises an inner surface 6B facing the cavity 1A of the cup-shaped body 1.
  • This inner surface 6B seen in longitudinal section, and when it is not compressed/deformed is inclined in a direction M2 (figure 3) forming an angle G with the inclination direction Ml of the lateral wall 5.
  • the angle G is preferably comprised between 100° and 150° and more preferably is about 135°.
  • the inclination of the connecting wall 6 facilitates the deformation of said connecting wall 6 when it is engaged by the edge 8 of the enclosure member 9 and ultimately favours the seal.
  • the annular flange 3 comprises a preferably flat wall 3A.
  • the beverage preparation device 10 comprises the movable enclosing member 9 and a support plate 11 for supporting the cover 2 of the capsule.
  • This support plate 11 tears off the cover 2 and allows the beverage to flow out of the capsule when the liquid injected into the capsule creates a predetermined pressure in the capsule.
  • the enclosing member 9 is movable from an initial position (not shown), which allows the introduction of the capsule in the beverage preparation device, and a brewing position (shown in figure 4 and figure 4A), wherein the enclosing member 9 and the support plate 11 tightly enclose the capsule.
  • pressurized liquid is injected into the capsule through openings formed by one or more pointed elements 12 of the beverage preparation device 10.
  • pointed elements 12 are designed for piercing the bottom wall 4 of the cup-shaped body 1.
  • the cup-shaped body 1 is made of cellulose pulp comprising cellulose fibres in a percentage ranging from 80% to 100% by weight.
  • cellulose fibres refers to fibres having a wood and/or a wood free origin.
  • the fibres are: hard wood cellulose fibres, soft wood cellulose fibres, wheat fibres, corn fibres, bagasse fibres, bamboo fibres, hemp fibres, cotton fibres, other similar vegetable or plant fibres, or a combination thereof.
  • the cup shaped body of the capsule is preferably obtained by moulding in a mould a dry or wet, preferably wet, cellulose pulp.
  • the cup-shaped body 1 may be shaped from a sheet made of cellulose pulp, by deforming it into a mould to confer to the sheet the desired cup shape, as usual for the skilled person.
  • the cup shaped body made of cellulose pulp comprises at least one oxygen barrier liner 14 (figure 3) made of at least one, preferably several layers.
  • the oxygen barrier liner 14 (figure 3) is attached in a known manner to the inner surface of the cellulose pulp cup shaped body.
  • the oxygen barrier liner 14 is laminated on the inside and/or outside surface of said body.
  • the oxygen barrier liner 14 is made of at least a home compostable polymer, so that it is possible to throw the capsule or at least the cupshaped body in the household compostable waste.
  • the multilayer oxygen barrier liner comprises a core layer having oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties, surrounded by a sealing layer for sealing said barrier liner to the cellulose pulp material.
  • a preferred multilayer barrier liner comprises a core layer having oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties, surrounded by sealing layers for sealing said barrier liner onto the cellulose pulp.
  • the barrier liner 14 is provided at all the inner surfaces of the cup-shaped body 1, such as to delimit at least the entire cavity lA for housing the beverage substance.
  • the oxygen barrier liner 14 is made of a known mono or multilayer polymeric liner, comprising for example a polymer of fossil or non-fossil origin or a BioSource polymer, and is attached to the inner surface of the cellulose pulp cup shaped body of the capsule.
  • the oxygen barrier liner comprises one or more of following layers:
  • an outermost polymeric layer comprising a biodegradable polymer selected within the list of: polybutylene succinate (PBSA / bioPBS), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), starch, cellulose derivates, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA), or a combination thereof,
  • PBSA / bioPBS polybutylene succinate
  • PBAT polybutylene adipate terephthalate
  • starch starch
  • cellulose derivates polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA), or a combination thereof
  • first tie layer comprising a biodegradable modified or functionalized polyolefin
  • barrier layer comprising a polymer selected within the list of: butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or a combination thereof
  • a second tie layer comprising a biodegradable modified or functionalized polyolefin
  • an innermost polymeric layer comprising a biodegradable polymer selected within the list of: polybutylene succinate (PBSA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), starch, cellulose derivates, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA) or a combination thereof.
  • PBSA polybutylene succinate
  • PBAT polybutylene adipate terephthalate
  • PHA polyhydroxyalcanoates
  • the first and outermost polymeric layer has a thickness comprised between 10 and 50 pm, and said layer has an elongation at break comprised between 10% and 800%, a melt flow rate (MFR) comprised between 2 and 4 when measured at 150°C during 10 minutes with a pressure of 2.16 kg, and said layer has a melting point temperature comprised below 80°C.
  • MFR melt flow rate
  • the first tie layer has melting point temperature comprised between 180°C and 230°C and a thickness comprised between 1 and 12 pm.
  • the barrier layer has a melting point temperature comprised between 180°C and 230°C and a thickness comprised between 1 and 15 pm.
  • the second tie layer has a melting point temperature comprised between 180°C and 230°C and a thickness comprised between 1 and 10 pm.
  • the innermost polymeric layer has a thickness comprised between 10 and 50 pm, and said innermost layer has an elongation at break comprised between 10% and 1000%, a melt flow rate (MFR) comprised between 4 and 10 when measured at 190°C during 10 minutes with a pressure of 2.16 kg, and said layer has a melting point temperature comprised between 110°C and 180°C.
  • MFR melt flow rate
  • the cup shaped body 1 and its oxygen barrier liner 14 are made of home compostable materials (for example in one or more of the materials listed above) so, that it is possible to throw this body it in the household compostable waste.
  • the cover 2 is made in a known material, preferably it is a polymeric film membrane.
  • the cover 2 may be flat, i.e., non-formed in a three-dimensional shape.
  • the cover 2 preferably comprises an oxygen barrier layer.
  • the cover 2 is made of at least a home compostable polymer so that it is possible to throw it and more preferably also the cup shaped body in the household compostable waste.
  • the cover 2 preferably comprises a sealing layer oriented towards the cavity 1A of the cup-shaped body 1.
  • the cover 2 may take a convex form, i.e., protruding externally with respect to the cavity 1A, (as shown in figure 2) if the capsule has an internal pressure of gas above atmospheric pressure.
  • the cover is sealed onto a sealing layer of the cup shaped body opening, in order to close it after filling with an ingredient.
  • the barrier to oxygen for both the cover and the cup shaped body is selected to provide a sufficient shelf life depending on the nature of the beverage ingredients.
  • the shelf life expected may be of 12 months.
  • FIGS 5-7 respectively show a second, a third and a fourth embodiment of the invention, in which the capsules have the same technical features discussed with reference to the first embodiment but have a different connecting wall 106, 206 and 306.
  • the connecting wall 106 is rounded both externally and internally (if seen in longitudinal section) and the protruding part 107 is also rounded.
  • the external profile of the protruding part 107 is an arc of a circle.
  • the circular arc is an arc of a circle having a diameter of 0,53 mm+/- 30%.
  • the connecting wall 206 and the protruding part 207 have the form of a slope and, when viewed in longitudinal section, are inclined in a direction M3 forming an angle G1 with the inclination direction Ml of the lateral wall 5.
  • the angle G1 is preferably comprised between 100° and 150° and more preferably is about 135°.
  • the connecting wall 306 has the form of a step and the protruding part 307 comprises a first wall portion 315, which is substantially parallel to the annular flange 3, and a second wall portion 320 which, seen in longitudinal section, is inclined in a direction M4, which forms an angle with the inclination direction Ml of the lateral wall 5: said angle is preferably comprised between 100° and 150° and, more preferably, is about 135°.
  • the density of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307 of the second, third, and fourth embodiments can be the same as that of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1, or can be less than the maximum density of this lateral wall 5.
  • the maximum thickness T3, T4, T5 of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307 can be equal to the maximum thickness T2 of the lateral wall 5, or it can be greater.
  • the shape and the dimensions of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307 of the connecting walls 106, 206 and 306 allow a better and more gradual interaction between the edge 8 of the movable enclosing member 9 and a better sealing.
  • the shape, the dimensions and the density of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307 guarantee tightness during the beverage preparation. Tightness is achieved through local compaction and/or deformation of the cellulose pulp of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307.
  • the complete capsule is biodegradable, most preferably compostable.
  • the connecting wall may have a shape that is the combination of the shapes of two or more of the connecting walls of the previously discussed embodiments.

Abstract

A capsule for the preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device is disclosed. The capsule comprises a cup-shaped body and a cover for closing the cup-shaped body. The cup-shaped body comprises an annular flange for the cover to seal thereon. At least the cup-shaped body is made of cellulose pulp and comprises: a bottom wall, a tubular lateral wall and the annular flange. The lateral tubular wall is inclined with respect to a longitudinal axis of the cup-shaped body in a first direction. The cup-shaped body further comprises a connecting wall connecting the lateral wall and the annular flange. The connecting wall comprises at least a part protruding outward with respect to the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body. This protruding part cooperates with an edge of a capsule enclosing member of the beverage preparation device for improving leak tightness during the preparation of the beverage.

Description

CAPSULE FOR THE PREPARATION OF A BEVERAGE
Field of the invention
The present invention concerns a capsule for the preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device. The capsule comprises a cup-shaped body made of cellulose pulp.
Background of the invention
Containers or capsules made of cellulose pulp are known in the field of beverage preparation devices. Materials made of cellulose pulp are also known which are capable of maintaining the qualities of the beverage substance in the capsule, at least for a certain period of time. Single-use capsules for preparing a beverage in a beverage production device are also known.
These single-use capsules made of cellulose pulp provide a potential reduced environmental impact compared to capsules made of other materials.
Known cellulose pulp made capsules are used in beverage preparation devices and comprise a member enclosing the capsule during the beverage preparation process and the injection of water in the capsule for the preparation of the beverage.
It is essential that the engagement between the capsule and the enclosing member is tight to prevent water injected into the capsule from flowing outside of the capsule body.
In the event that the sealing engagement between the capsule and the enclosing member is not good, the water flows outside the capsule without encountering a sufficient resistance to the flow, the pressure necessary to cause tearing of capsule cover will not be built up inside the capsule or, alternatively, the low pressure will cause an incomplete tearing of the cover and therefore a poor extraction of the beverage substance contained in the capsule. In such a scenario water will be drained from the beverage production device without having interacted or completely interacted with the beverage substance under sufficient pressure conditions.
The present invention aims at an improving of the leak-tightness features of the known cellulose pulp made capsule forthe preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device.
Summary of the invention
The invention as claimed in claim 1 is a capsule for the preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device. The capsule comprises a cup-shaped body and a cover for closing the cup-shaped body, wherein the cup-shaped body comprises an annular flange for the cover to seal thereon. At least the cup-shaped body is made of cellulose pulp and comprises a bottom wall, a tubular lateral wall and the annular flange. The cup-shaped body further comprises a connecting wall connecting the lateral wall and the annular flange. According to the invention, the connecting wall comprises at least a part protruding outward with respect to the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body. Advantageously, this protruding part cooperates with an edge of a capsule enclosing member of the beverage preparation device for improving leak tightness during the preparation of the beverage.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the density of the protruding part is less than the maximum density of the lateral wall and the thickness of this protruding part is greater than the maximum thickness of the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body, so as to increase the deformability of the protruding part and also improve the leak tightness during the preparation of the beverage.
More preferably, according to this preferred embodiment of the invention, the difference between the maximum density of the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body and the density of the protruding part of the connecting wall is a value comprised between 0,1% and 20%. Even more preferably, the difference between the maximum density of the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body and the density of the protruding part of the connecting wall is a value comprised between 0,1% and 10%.
In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the protruding part of the connecting wall has a rounded shape and, preferably, the external profile of the protruding part is an arc of a circle.
According to another preferred embodiment, the connecting wall comprises at least one inner surface facing the cavity of the cup-shaped body. This inner surface, seen in longitudinal section, is inclined in a direction forming an angle with the direction of inclination of the lateral wall of the cup-shaped body. The angle is comprised between 100° and 150° and preferably is about 135°.
According to a still preferred aspect of the invention, the protruding part of the connecting wall has a shape chosen from one of following shapes, or has a shape which is a combination of one or more of following shapes:
- externally the protruding part of the connecting wall has a rounded shape and internally the protruding part of the connecting wall has a flat shape inclined with respect of a longitudinal axis of the of the cup-shaped body; and/or
- externally and internally the protruding part of the connecting wall has a rounded shape; and/or
- externally and internally the protruding part of the connecting wall has a flat shape inclined with respect of a longitudinal axis of the of the cup-shaped body; and/or
- externally and internally the protruding part of the connecting wall has a stepped shape.
Preferably, the cup-shaped body is made of cellulose pulp comprising cellulose fibres in a percentage ranging from 80% to 100% by weight, and comprises at least an oxygen barrier liner attached at the inner and/or outer surface of said cup shaped body made of cellulose pulp.
Preferably but not exclusively, the capsule of the invention is a single use coffee capsule.
According to the invention, the use of a capsule as described before in a beverage preparation device is also disclosed.
In the context of the invention, the term "cellulose pulp" refers to a pulp comprising cellulose fibres in a percentage ranging from 80% to 100% by weight.
The term "cellulose fibres" refers to fibres having a wood and/or a wood free origin. The fibres, by way of non-limiting examples, are: hard wood cellulose fibres, soft wood cellulose fibres, wheat fibres, corn fibres, bagasse fibres, bamboo fibres, hemp fibres, cotton fibres, other similar vegetable or plant fibres, or a combination thereof.
Onto the cup shaped body made of cellulose pulp is attached at least one oxygen barrier liner made of one, preferably several layers.
The oxygen barrier liner is made of a known mono or multilayer polymeric liner, comprising for example a polymer of fossil or non-fossil origin or a BioSource polymer, and is attached to the inner surface of the cellulose pulp cup shaped body of the capsule.
A preferred multilayer barrier liner comprises a core layer having oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties, surrounded by a sealing layer for sealing said barrier liner to the cellulose pulp material, and preferably a second external sealing layerfor sealing a closing cover, in orderto close the capsule after it has been filled with an ingredient.
The oxygen barrier liner, by way of non-limiting examples, comprises one or more of following layers:
- an outermost polymeric layer comprising a biodegradable polymer selected within the list of: polybutylene succinate (PBSA / bioPBS), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), starch, cellulose derivates, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA), or a combination thereof,
- a first tie layer comprising a biodegradable modified or functionalized polyolefin,
- a barrier layer comprising a polymer selected within the list of: butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or a combination thereof,
- a second tie layer comprising a biodegradable modified or functionalized polyolefin,
- an innermost polymeric layer comprising a biodegradable polymer selected within the list of: polybutylene succinate (PBSA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), starch, cellulose derivates, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA) or a combination thereof. The cover is made in a known material, preferably it is a polymeric film membrane.
The cover may be flat, i.e., non- formed in a three-dimensional shape.
The cover is sealed onto a sealing layer of the cup shaped body opening, in order to close it after filling with an ingredient.
The cup shaped body of the capsule is preferably obtained by moulding in a mould a dry or wet, preferably wet, cellulose pulp.
Preferably, after the cup shaped body of the capsule is moulded, the "barrier liner" mentioned above is laminated on the inside and/or outside surface of said body.
Preferably, the barrier to oxygen for both the cover and the cup shaped body is selected to provide a sufficient shelf life depending on the nature of the beverage ingredients. For coffee, for example, the shelf life expected may be of 12 months.
Preferably, the cup shaped body, its oxygen barrier liner and/or the cover are made of home compostable materials. The capsules according to the invention are normally meant to be recycled in recycling processes that are organized at official recycling facilities according to national regulations (for instance in paper recycling streams, or in general garbage recycling or treatment streams). However, in case the capsule is placed in nature, in a household compostable waste or in a landfill, said capsules are designed with materials that are naturally ready to be degraded by bacteria and in conditions of temperature and humidity that are naturally present in nature. In this way, it is ensured that such capsules will not stay in nature and will naturally disappear within a short period of time (a few weeks in principle) within the conditions defined by home compostability standards.
More precisely, home compostability is now well defined on a national level and mainly based on international standard EN 13432; therefore, they do not require to be further defined in-depth in the present specification. Materials or products compliant with these standards can be recognized by a conformity mark stating their home compostability. Some examples of home compostability certifications at a national level include, but are not limited to, the following. The certifier TUV AUSTRIA BELGIUM offers such a home compostability certification scheme, and DIN CERTCO offers a certification for home compostability according to the Australian standard AS 5810. Italy has a national standard for composting at ambient temperature, UNI 11183:2006. In November 2015, the French Standard "NF T 51-800 Plastics - Specifications for plastics suitable for home composting" was introduced. This standard is covered in the DIN CERTCO scheme.
The preparation of the beverage is obtained by mixing of the fluid substance with an ingredient contained in the capsule. Preferably, the ingredients are chosen within the list of roast and ground coffee, compacted or not, soluble powder coffee or leaf tea. Dairy ingredients (e.g., milk or creamer) could also be provided, as well as chocolate, fruit juices, soups, vegetable juices, bouillons, smoothies, purees, coulis, creams, chicory, barley, culinary aid, soup ingredient, infant formula or a combination thereof, in powdered soluble form, liquid concentrated form having various viscosities or in gel form.
Most preferably, the beverage ingredients are roast and ground coffee.
The capsule of the invention may typically interact with a beverage and/or food preparation device, such as by being fed with a diluent (e.g., hot, cold or ambient water) in the container; such diluent mixes, or interacts otherwise, with the beverage ingredients. With the expression "mixing of the diluent with the beverage ingredient(s)" it should be intended that all the ingredients contained in the capsule are in a form which is compatible with a generic mixing operation (dissolution, extraction or infusion) with the diluent to obtain the beverage product. Preferably, the cavity delimited by the capsule body and the cover of the capsule is essentially oxygen-free and the empty space is saturated with an inert gas such as nitrogen, carbon oxide and combinations thereof. Preferably, the capsule has an internal pressure of gas above atmospheric pressure, due to the gas contained in the coffee and emanating in the cavity after sealing, such as carbon oxide and dioxide.
The beverage preparation device preferably comprises a capsule holder for receiving and tightly enclosing the capsule, a pressurized liquid supply system for supplying this liquid inside the capsule. Devices of this type are for example those usually used for the extraction of traditional Nespresso® capsules.
Brief description of the drawings
Additional features and advantages of the present invention are described in, and will be apparent from, the description of the presently preferred embodiments which are set out below with reference to the drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of a capsule according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the capsule of figure 1;
Figure 3 is a schematic enlarged view of the portion of figure 2 indicated by arrow W;
Figure 4 is a schematic and partial longitudinal sectional view of the capsule of figure 1 when it is enclosed in a capsule enclosing member of a beverage preparation device;
Figure 4A is a schematic enlarged view of the portion of figure 4 indicated by arrow Wl;
Figures 5, 6 and 7 are views similar to figure 3, showing three further embodiments of the capsule. Detailed description of the invention
In figures 1, 2 and 3 a first embodiment of a capsule according to the invention, for the preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device, is shown. This capsule comprises a cup-shaped body 1 and a cover 2 for closing the cup-shaped body 1.
The cup-shaped body 1 comprises an annular flange 3 for the cover 2 to seal thereon. The cup-shaped body 1 is made of cellulose pulp and comprise at least a bottom wall 4, a tubular lateral wall 5 and the annular flange 3. The lateral wall 5 and the annular flange 3 are connected by a connecting wall 6 (see figure 3) of the cup-shaped body 1.
According to the invention, the connecting wall 6 comprises at least a part 7 (figure 3) protruding outward with respect to the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1. This outwardly protruding part 7 can be defined as being convex. The protruding part 7, as part of the connecting wall 6, is integral with both the lateral wall 5 and said annular flange 3 of the capsule. Hence, the protruding part is made of cellulose pulp. This outwardly protruding part 7 can be defined as being convex. In use, this protruding part 7 cooperates with an edge 8 of a capsule enclosing member 9 of a beverage preparation device 10 (partially shown in figure 4) for improving leak tightness between said enclosing member 9 and the cupshaped body 1 during the preparation of the beverage.
According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the density of the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 is less than the maximum density of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1. Additionally, said protruding part 7 has also a greater thickness T1 than the maximum thickness T2 of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1.
Preferably, the difference between the maximum density DI of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1 and the density D2 of the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 is a value comprised between 0,1% of DI and 20% of DI, that is:
0,1% DI < (DI - D2) < 20% DI more preferably, the difference between the maximum density DI of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1 and the density D2 of the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 is a value comprised between 0,1% of DI and 10% of DI, that is:
0,1% DI < (DI - D2) < 10% DI.
In the context of the invention, the term "density" refers to the "volumetric mass density" of a material, which is the mass per volume unit of this material. The reduced density of the cellulose pulp of the protruding part 7 leads to a reduced stiffness and hardness of this part 7 with respect to the stiffness and hardness of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1 having a greater density.
Preferably, the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 has a rounded shape in longitudinal section (see figure 3) and more preferably the external profile of said protruding part 7 is an arc of a circle. Even more preferably, the circular arc is an arc of a circle having a diameter of 0,53 mm+/-30%.
The shape and the dimensions the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 allow a better and more gradual interaction between the edge 8 of the movable enclosing member 9 of the beverage preparation device 10, as well as a better sealing.
The shape, the dimensions and the density of the protruding part 7 of the connecting wall 6 guarantee tightness during the beverage preparation. Tightness is achieved through local compaction and/or deformation of the cellulose pulp of the protruding part 7 (as shown in figure 4A), due to the lower density and greater thickness of this protruding part 7 with respect to the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1. This difference in density creates a sort of "rubber effect" and/or an increased mechanical flexibility of the protruding part 7, which is excellent for providing tightness: when the movable enclosing member 9 of the beverage preparation device 10 is closed around the capsule (as shown in figures 4 and 4A) and the edge 8 of this movable enclosing member 9 presses onto the protruding part 7, said protruding part 7 is capable of flexing and deforming due to its lower density with respect to the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1. In addition, the lower density of the protruding part 7 could also have another favourable technical effect. When water is injected in the capsule, the lower density of the protruding part 7 allows this protruding part 7 to "absorb" some water and swell, hence increasing its non-compressed volume, and thereby also increasing the surface of contact between said protruding part 7 and the inner surface of the edge 8 of the enclosing member 9, thereby further improving leak tightness.
The cup-shaped body 1 is preferably revolutionary symmetrical. Preferably, the tubular wall 5 has a frustoconical shape, with a circular cross section and with an increasing diameter towards the annular flange 3.
Preferably, the lateral tubular wall 5, when seen in a longitudinal section, is inclined with respect to a longitudinal axis A of the cup-shaped body 1, in a first inclination direction Ml (shown in figure 3).
The bottom wall 4 preferably comprises a first inclined wall 4A and a second wall 4B, so as to delimit a shallow concave volume. The first inclined wall 4A preferably has a frustoconical shape, with a circular cross section and with an increasing diameter towards the lateral wall 5. The second wall 4B is preferably flat (as shown in figure 2) or convex (from the point of view of the cavity 1A, i.e., protruding internally towards the cavity 1A).
The connecting wall 6 preferably comprises an inner surface 6B facing the cavity 1A of the cup-shaped body 1. This inner surface 6B, seen in longitudinal section, and when it is not compressed/deformed is inclined in a direction M2 (figure 3) forming an angle G with the inclination direction Ml of the lateral wall 5. The angle G is preferably comprised between 100° and 150° and more preferably is about 135°. The inclination of the connecting wall 6 facilitates the deformation of said connecting wall 6 when it is engaged by the edge 8 of the enclosure member 9 and ultimately favours the seal. The annular flange 3 comprises a preferably flat wall 3A.
The beverage preparation device 10, partially disclosed in figure 4, comprises the movable enclosing member 9 and a support plate 11 for supporting the cover 2 of the capsule. This support plate 11 tears off the cover 2 and allows the beverage to flow out of the capsule when the liquid injected into the capsule creates a predetermined pressure in the capsule.
As usual for the skilled person, the enclosing member 9 is movable from an initial position (not shown), which allows the introduction of the capsule in the beverage preparation device, and a brewing position (shown in figure 4 and figure 4A), wherein the enclosing member 9 and the support plate 11 tightly enclose the capsule. In this position pressurized liquid is injected into the capsule through openings formed by one or more pointed elements 12 of the beverage preparation device 10. These pointed elements 12 are designed for piercing the bottom wall 4 of the cup-shaped body 1. The operation of the beverage preparation device 10, as well as the technical features of its various components, are well known to the skilled person and therefore will not be described in detail.
As discussed before, the cup-shaped body 1 is made of cellulose pulp comprising cellulose fibres in a percentage ranging from 80% to 100% by weight.
The term "cellulose fibres" refers to fibres having a wood and/or a wood free origin. The fibres, by way of non-limiting examples, are: hard wood cellulose fibres, soft wood cellulose fibres, wheat fibres, corn fibres, bagasse fibres, bamboo fibres, hemp fibres, cotton fibres, other similar vegetable or plant fibres, or a combination thereof.
The cup shaped body of the capsule is preferably obtained by moulding in a mould a dry or wet, preferably wet, cellulose pulp.
Alternatively, the cup-shaped body 1 may be shaped from a sheet made of cellulose pulp, by deforming it into a mould to confer to the sheet the desired cup shape, as usual for the skilled person. The cup shaped body made of cellulose pulp comprises at least one oxygen barrier liner 14 (figure 3) made of at least one, preferably several layers.
Preferably, after the cup shaped body of the capsule is moulded the oxygen barrier liner 14 (figure 3) is attached in a known manner to the inner surface of the cellulose pulp cup shaped body. For example, the oxygen barrier liner 14 is laminated on the inside and/or outside surface of said body.
Preferably the oxygen barrier liner 14 is made of at least a home compostable polymer, so that it is possible to throw the capsule or at least the cupshaped body in the household compostable waste.
Preferably the multilayer oxygen barrier liner comprises a core layer having oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties, surrounded by a sealing layer for sealing said barrier liner to the cellulose pulp material.
A preferred multilayer barrier liner comprises a core layer having oxygen and/or moisture barrier properties, surrounded by sealing layers for sealing said barrier liner onto the cellulose pulp.
Preferably the barrier liner 14 is provided at all the inner surfaces of the cup-shaped body 1, such as to delimit at least the entire cavity lA for housing the beverage substance.
The oxygen barrier liner 14 is made of a known mono or multilayer polymeric liner, comprising for example a polymer of fossil or non-fossil origin or a BioSource polymer, and is attached to the inner surface of the cellulose pulp cup shaped body of the capsule.
The oxygen barrier liner, by way of non-limiting examples, comprises one or more of following layers:
- an outermost polymeric layer comprising a biodegradable polymer selected within the list of: polybutylene succinate (PBSA / bioPBS), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), starch, cellulose derivates, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA), or a combination thereof,
- a first tie layer comprising a biodegradable modified or functionalized polyolefin, - a barrier layer comprising a polymer selected within the list of: butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or a combination thereof,
- a second tie layer comprising a biodegradable modified or functionalized polyolefin,
- an innermost polymeric layer comprising a biodegradable polymer selected within the list of: polybutylene succinate (PBSA), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT), starch, cellulose derivates, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalcanoates (PHA) or a combination thereof.
Preferably, the first and outermost polymeric layer has a thickness comprised between 10 and 50 pm, and said layer has an elongation at break comprised between 10% and 800%, a melt flow rate (MFR) comprised between 2 and 4 when measured at 150°C during 10 minutes with a pressure of 2.16 kg, and said layer has a melting point temperature comprised below 80°C.
Preferably, the first tie layer has melting point temperature comprised between 180°C and 230°C and a thickness comprised between 1 and 12 pm.
Preferably, the barrier layer has a melting point temperature comprised between 180°C and 230°C and a thickness comprised between 1 and 15 pm.
Preferably the second tie layer has a melting point temperature comprised between 180°C and 230°C and a thickness comprised between 1 and 10 pm.
Preferably, the innermost polymeric layer has a thickness comprised between 10 and 50 pm, and said innermost layer has an elongation at break comprised between 10% and 1000%, a melt flow rate (MFR) comprised between 4 and 10 when measured at 190°C during 10 minutes with a pressure of 2.16 kg, and said layer has a melting point temperature comprised between 110°C and 180°C. Preferably, the cup shaped body 1 and its oxygen barrier liner 14 are made of home compostable materials (for example in one or more of the materials listed above) so, that it is possible to throw this body it in the household compostable waste.
The cover 2 is made in a known material, preferably it is a polymeric film membrane.
The cover 2 may be flat, i.e., non-formed in a three-dimensional shape.
The cover 2 preferably comprises an oxygen barrier layer.
Preferably, also the cover 2 is made of at least a home compostable polymer so that it is possible to throw it and more preferably also the cup shaped body in the household compostable waste.
The cover 2 preferably comprises a sealing layer oriented towards the cavity 1A of the cup-shaped body 1.
As usual, the cover 2 may take a convex form, i.e., protruding externally with respect to the cavity 1A, (as shown in figure 2) if the capsule has an internal pressure of gas above atmospheric pressure.
The cover is sealed onto a sealing layer of the cup shaped body opening, in order to close it after filling with an ingredient.
Preferably, the barrier to oxygen for both the cover and the cup shaped body is selected to provide a sufficient shelf life depending on the nature of the beverage ingredients. For coffee, for example, the shelf life expected may be of 12 months.
Figures 5-7 respectively show a second, a third and a fourth embodiment of the invention, in which the capsules have the same technical features discussed with reference to the first embodiment but have a different connecting wall 106, 206 and 306.
In figure 5 the connecting wall 106 is rounded both externally and internally (if seen in longitudinal section) and the protruding part 107 is also rounded. Preferably, the external profile of the protruding part 107 is an arc of a circle. Preferably the circular arc is an arc of a circle having a diameter of 0,53 mm+/- 30%.
In figure 6 the connecting wall 206 and the protruding part 207 have the form of a slope and, when viewed in longitudinal section, are inclined in a direction M3 forming an angle G1 with the inclination direction Ml of the lateral wall 5. The angle G1 is preferably comprised between 100° and 150° and more preferably is about 135°.
In figure 7 the connecting wall 306 has the form of a step and the protruding part 307 comprises a first wall portion 315, which is substantially parallel to the annular flange 3, and a second wall portion 320 which, seen in longitudinal section, is inclined in a direction M4, which forms an angle with the inclination direction Ml of the lateral wall 5: said angle is preferably comprised between 100° and 150° and, more preferably, is about 135°.
The density of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307 of the second, third, and fourth embodiments can be the same as that of the lateral wall 5 of the cup-shaped body 1, or can be less than the maximum density of this lateral wall 5.
The maximum thickness T3, T4, T5 of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307 can be equal to the maximum thickness T2 of the lateral wall 5, or it can be greater.
The shape and the dimensions of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307 of the connecting walls 106, 206 and 306 allow a better and more gradual interaction between the edge 8 of the movable enclosing member 9 and a better sealing.
The shape, the dimensions and the density of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307 guarantee tightness during the beverage preparation. Tightness is achieved through local compaction and/or deformation of the cellulose pulp of the protruding parts 107, 207 and 307. As previously mentioned, the complete capsule is biodegradable, most preferably compostable.
It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments of the capsules described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention covered by the appended claims. For example, the connecting wall may have a shape that is the combination of the shapes of two or more of the connecting walls of the previously discussed embodiments.

Claims

1. A capsule for the preparation of a beverage in a beverage preparation device (10), the capsule comprising: a cup-shaped body (1), and a cover (2) for closing the cup-shaped body (1), said cup-shaped body (1) is made of cellulose pulp and comprises a bottom wall (4), a tubular lateral wall (5) and an annular flange (3) for the cover (2) to seal thereon, wherein said lateral wall (5) and said annular flange (3) are connected by a connecting wall (6; 106; 206; 306) of the cup-shaped body (1), characterized in that said connecting wall (6; 106; 206; 306) comprises at least a part (7; 107; 207; 307) protruding outward with respect to said lateral wall (5); said at least a protruding part (7; 107; 207; 307) cooperating with an edge (8) of a capsule enclosing member (9) of the beverage preparation device (10) for improving leak tightness during the preparation of the beverage.
2. The capsule according to claim 1, characterized in that the protruding part (7; 107; 207; 307) is integral with both the lateral wall (5) and said annular flange (3) of the capsule and is made of cellulose pulp.
3. The capsule according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the density of the at least a protruding part (7; 107; 207; 307) of the connecting wall (6; 106; 206; 306) is less than the maximum density of said lateral wall (5).
4. The capsule according to any claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said at least a protruding part has a greater thickness (Tl; T3; T4; T5) than the maximum thickness (T2) of said lateral wall (5).
5. The capsule according to any claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the at least a protruding part (7; 107) of the connecting wall (6; 106) has a rounded shape and, preferably, the external profile of said protruding part (7; 107) is an outwardly protruding arc of a circle.
6. The capsule according to any of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the difference between the maximum density DI of the lateral wall (5) of the cupshaped body (1) and the density D2 of the protruding part (7) of the connecting wall (6) is a value comprised between 0,1% of DI and 20% of DI, that is:
1%D1 < (DI - D2) < 20%Dl and more preferably, said difference is a value comprised between 0,1% of DI and 10% of DI, that is:
0,l%Dl < (DI - D2) < 10%Dl.
7. The capsule according to any claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the connecting wall (6, 206, 306) comprises at least one inner surface (6B) facing the cavity (1A) of the cup-shaped body (1), wherein said inner surface (6B), seen in longitudinal section, is inclined in a direction (M2, M3, M4) forming an angle (G; Gl) with the direction of inclination of the lateral wall (5) of the cup-shaped body (1), wherein said angle (G; Gl) is comprised between 100° and 150° and preferably is about 135°.
8. The capsule according to any claims 1 to 7, characterized in that at least the protruding part (7; 107) of the connecting wall (6; 106) has a shape chosen from one of following shapes, or has a shape which is a combination of one or more of following shapes:
- externally said protruding part (7; 107) has a rounded shape and internally said protruding part (7; 107) has a flat shape inclined with respect of a longitudinal axis (A) of the of the cup-shaped body (1); and/or - externally and internally said protruding part (7; 107) has a rounded shape; and/or
- externally and internally said protruding part (7; 107) has a flat shape inclined with respect of a longitudinal axis (A) of the of the cup-shaped body (1); and/or
- externally and internally said protruding part (7; 107) has a stepped shape.
9. The capsule according to any claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the cup-shaped body 1 is made of cellulose pulp comprising cellulose fibres in a percentage ranging from 80% to 100% by weight, and comprises at least an oxygen barrier liner (14) attached at the inner and/or outer surface of said cup shaped body made of cellulose pulp, wherein said oxygen barrier liner is made of at least a home compostable polymer, wherein, preferably, also the cover (2) is made in a home compostable material.
10. The capsule according to any claims 1 to 9, characterized in that said capsule is a single use coffee capsule.
11. Use of a capsule according to any claims 1 to 10 in a beverage preparation device (10).
PCT/EP2022/079895 2021-10-29 2022-10-26 Capsule for the preparation of a beverage WO2023072997A1 (en)

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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2010137962A1 (en) * 2009-06-17 2010-12-02 Sara Lee/De N.V. Capsule comprising an extractable product
US20140272018A1 (en) * 2013-03-14 2014-09-18 Starbucks Corporation Dba Starbucks Coffee Company Stretchable beverage cartridges and methods
AU2018204387B1 (en) * 2018-06-19 2018-12-13 Anthony J. Orler Cellulose-based beverage cartridge
WO2019106485A1 (en) * 2017-11-29 2019-06-06 Goglio S.P.A. A capsule for soluble or extractable products
EP3617094A1 (en) * 2018-08-29 2020-03-04 Alain Frydman Biodegradable self-opening capsule impervious to oxygen

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2010137962A1 (en) * 2009-06-17 2010-12-02 Sara Lee/De N.V. Capsule comprising an extractable product
US20140272018A1 (en) * 2013-03-14 2014-09-18 Starbucks Corporation Dba Starbucks Coffee Company Stretchable beverage cartridges and methods
WO2019106485A1 (en) * 2017-11-29 2019-06-06 Goglio S.P.A. A capsule for soluble or extractable products
AU2018204387B1 (en) * 2018-06-19 2018-12-13 Anthony J. Orler Cellulose-based beverage cartridge
EP3617094A1 (en) * 2018-08-29 2020-03-04 Alain Frydman Biodegradable self-opening capsule impervious to oxygen

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