Container for preparing beverages in a beverage making device

Abstract

A container (1) intended for use in a beverage making device, comprising: a bottom wall (101); a side wall (102) extending around a longitudinal axis (A); an annular flange (103), wherein the outer surface of the side wall (102) comprises a first portion (1021) proximal to the flange (103) and a second portion (1022) distal to the flange (103); a lip seal (104) protruding from a rear surface (103B) of the annular flange (103) and extending around the longitudinal axis (A) such that the annular flange (103), the lip seal (104) and the side wall (102) define an annular groove (106); and a plurality of protrusions (105) arranged around the longitudinal axis (A) and protruding from the first portion (1021) of the outer surface of the side wall (102).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a container intended for preparing a beverage in a beverage-making device. The invention also relates to a method for producing a container, a mould for producing a container and a method for producing a beverage.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of producing beverages by brewing. For example, it is known in this field to use a container containing a brewing material such as coffee. Such a container comprises a cup or body and a lid and is designed to be placed in a specific beverage making machine, in which hot water or steam is supplied to the container in order to prepare the beverage.

[0003] More particularly, the present disclosure relates to the field of producing beverages in Nespresso-like machines.Containers suitable for brewing beverages in Nespresso-like machines (also called Nespresso-compatible machines) are typically provided with an annular flange from which one or more lip seals extend. Background Art

[0004] Examples of Nespresso compatible lids are described, for example, in patent documents WO2014067507A2, US2015208852A1 and WO2016193842.

[0005] Other documents describing Nepspresso-compatible containers include EP3683157A1, WO2019001995, WO2018026274, and WO2014026700. In particular, EP3683157A1 describes a solution in which multiple elements protrude from the side surface of the container. These elements have a profile that increases from the bottom of the container toward the area that receives the lid. Furthermore, the ratio between the axial height and circumferential extent of these elements is very limited, making them very bulky.

[0006] In use, the container is inserted into a specific compartment of a beverage making machine having a knife for piercing the container and having a pressure bell element configured to create an airtight seal on the annular flange of the container while brewing the beverage according to methods known in the art for these machines.

[0007] Prior art containers require improvements in container alignment in beverage making machines. When a container is inserted into a machine, it must be aligned—that is, concentrically positioned—with respect to the machine's pressure bell. In prior art containers, alignment or centering is performed with the aid of one or more lip seals; however, since lip seals are designed and shaped to perform a sealing function, they are often unsuitable for precise alignment or centering. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The object of the present disclosure is to provide a container for preparing a beverage in a beverage making device, a method for making a container, a mould for making a container and a method for making a beverage which overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] The above objects are achieved entirely by a container, a method for manufacturing a container, a mould and a method for making a beverage as characterized in the appended claims.

[0010] The present disclosure relates to a container for preparing a beverage in a beverage making device. The container is preferably a Nespresso compatible container.

[0011] The container comprises a body (or cup) which is preferably made of a thermoplastic material (eg, a polymer material, a composite material or a biocompatible material).

[0012] The body includes a bottom wall. The body includes a sidewall. The sidewall extends about the longitudinal axis between a first annular edge and a second annular edge. The first annular edge is connected to the bottom wall; thus, the sidewall extends between the bottom wall and the second annular edge. The sidewall has an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis and an outer surface opposite the inner surface.

[0013] The body further includes an annular flange connected to the second annular edge of the side wall. The annular flange extends away from the longitudinal axis from the second annular edge of the side wall. The annular flange has a rear surface facing the side wall and a front surface opposite the rear surface.

[0014] The outer surface of the side wall includes a first portion proximal to the flange and a second portion distal to the flange. The first portion and the second portion are inclined at different angles relative to the longitudinal axis. The outer surface of the side wall may further include a third portion distal to the flange; more specifically, the second portion is interposed between the first portion and the third portion; the second portion extends around the longitudinal axis between a first annular edge connected to the first portion and a second annular edge connected to the second portion. Thus, the first annular edge of the side wall is defined in the third portion (i.e., it is an edge of the third portion), and the second annular edge of the side wall is defined in the first portion (i.e., it is an edge of the first portion). The third portion is inclined at a different angle relative to the longitudinal axis than the first portion and / or the second portion.

[0015] Preferably, the first portion is frustoconical in shape. Preferably, the second portion is also frustoconical in shape, and is inclined at a greater angle relative to the longitudinal axis than the first portion. The first portion and / or the second portion is inclined away from the longitudinal axis in the direction from the bottom wall to the annular flange. Preferably, the third portion is cylindrical in shape. The fact that the third portion is cylindrical is a useful anti-stacking feature because it makes it easier to separate the main body of one container from the main body of another container when the main body of one container and the main body of another container are stacked inside each other.

[0016] The side wall has an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis and an outer surface opposite the inner surface.Preferably, the first portion, the second portion (and, if provided, the third portion) have the same thickness.

[0017] The body (i.e., the annular flange) includes a lip seal. The lip seal protrudes from the rear surface of the annular flange. The annular lip seal extends around the longitudinal seal. The annular lip seal is spaced apart from the sidewall (specifically, the first portion thereof). Thus, the annular flange, lip seal, and sidewall define an annular groove.

[0018] The body further includes a plurality of protrusions arranged about the longitudinal axis and projecting from a first portion of the outer surface of the sidewall. Thus, the protrusions are located on the outer surface of the sidewall at a location proximate to (or adjacent to) the annular flange. More specifically, the centering protrusions project from a region of the first portion that is proximate to (or adjacent to) the flange. The plurality of centering protrusions creates a localized thickening of the sidewall. The centering protrusions facilitate centering of the container when it is inserted into a pressure bell of a beverage making machine.

[0019] In one embodiment, the protrusion comprises a lower joining surface that is in direct contact with the annular flange. In other words, the protrusion is not spaced apart from the annular flange, but rests on the annular flange itself.

[0020] It should be noted that a centering protrusion of the plurality of centering protrusions is preferably at least partially positioned within the annular groove. Preferably, a centering protrusion of the plurality of centering protrusions is connected to the rear surface of the annular flange. More specifically, each centering protrusion extends from a first end connected to the sidewall and the rear surface of the annular flange to a second end connected to the sidewall and spaced apart from the annular flange. The second end is spaced apart from the connecting edge that connects the first portion of the annular flange to the second portion; thus, the protrusion does not extend across the entire first portion, but only over an area of ​​the first portion adjacent to the annular flange.

[0021] A centering protrusion among the plurality of centering protrusions is spaced apart from the lip seal. More specifically, a first end portion of each centering protrusion is spaced apart from the lip seal. Therefore, the extension of each centering protrusion in a plane parallel to the annular flange is smaller than the distance between the centering protrusion and the lip seal in the same plane parallel to the annular flange. In other words, the radial extension of each centering protrusion is smaller than the radial width of the annular groove.

[0022] Preferably, each of the plurality of centering protrusions extends in a plane perpendicular to the annular flange greater than the extension of the lip seal in the same plane perpendicular to the annular flange. Thus, a first end of each centering protrusion is positioned inside the annular groove, while a second end is positioned outside the annular groove.

[0023] Preferably, the centering projections of the plurality of centering projections extend along a respective axis contained in a plane passing through the longitudinal axis. Thus, the projections define a rib. The plane extends radially from the longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the angle of inclination of the aforementioned axis relative to the longitudinal axis is equal to the angle of inclination of the first portion of the side wall relative to the longitudinal axis. In this embodiment, the axis has a component parallel to the longitudinal axis and a component radial to the longitudinal axis; the component parallel to the longitudinal axis is greater than the radial component. In another embodiment, the axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis. The fact that the projections extend along an axis contained in a plane passing through the longitudinal axis or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis facilitates disassembly, since during disassembly, one container is pulled out of the other by movement along the longitudinal axis and therefore along the axis of the projection.

[0024] In one embodiment, the protrusion has a triangular cross-section along a radial plane.

[0025] In one example, one or more protrusions may include a protrusion provided at the first end, i.e., a protrusion adjacent to the annular flange. The protrusion has a formation direction along a radial direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the container. In this way, the annular flange of the container rests on the protrusion of the container arranged below, thereby preventing the two containers from getting stuck together. Therefore, in this example, when observed in a cross-section along a plane including the longitudinal axis, the protrusion has an "L" shape, wherein the "L" shape includes a longer stretch section oriented in the longitudinal direction or substantially in the longitudinal direction (the longer stretch section is formed in the orientation direction of the side surface of the container body that may or may not have a tapered shape), and a shorter stretch section formed in a radial direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (because it rests on the annular flange).

[0026] In one example, all of the protrusions have protrusions. However, in another example, the plurality of protrusions includes a first subset and a second subset, wherein the first subset of protrusions is provided with protrusions, and the second subset of protrusions has no protrusions or is provided with protrusions that are smaller than the protrusions of the first subset of protrusions. The protrusions of the first subset can be arranged in an alternating manner around the longitudinal axis relative to corresponding protrusions belonging to the second subset (such that each protrusion of the first subset is arranged between two protrusions of the second subset, and vice versa).

[0027] In one example, the radial thickness of each protrusion has a variable thickness along the longitudinal axis. In particular, in a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the protrusion increases in a direction proceeding from the bottom of the container toward the annular flange. Thus, the maximum thickness of each protrusion is at the first end in contact with the annular flange.

[0028] Advantageously, the length of the protrusions along the longitudinal axis of the container is equal to at least three times its circumferential thickness.Preferably, the ratio between the length along the longitudinal axis of the container and the circumferential thickness of each protrusion is between 4 and 8.

[0029] It should be noted that in other embodiments, the protrusions may have a different shape; for example, they may extend along an axis which also has a tangential component to the longitudinal axis, or they may be in the form of small embossments or in the shape of hemispheres.

[0030] Preferably, the centering protrusions of the plurality of centering protrusions are angularly equidistantly spaced about the longitudinal axis.

[0031] Preferably, the plurality of centering protrusions comprises at least three centering protrusions (or at least five, at least seven, at least nine, at least twelve or at least fifteen).

[0032] In one embodiment, the body includes an additional lip seal. The additional lip seal surrounds the lip seal. The additional lip seal is spaced apart from the lip seal. Thus, the lip seal, the annular flange (specifically, its rear wall) and the additional lip seal define an additional groove. The additional groove surrounds the groove.

[0033] It should be noted that the container, at least in its final configuration, ready for placement in a beverage making machine, also includes a lid. The lid is attached to the annular flange; more specifically, to the front face of the annular flange. The lid, together with the body, defines or encloses an interior space within the container. The container also includes a substance for making a beverage. The substance for making a beverage is located within the interior space.

[0034] When the container is inserted into the beverage making machine, the machine supplies hot water into the interior space containing the substance, and the beverage is brewed. The machine then removes the beverage from the collection space. More specifically, the machine forms a first hole in the lid and a second hole in the bottom wall. The machine supplies hot water into the collection space through the first hole, and the beverage is removed through the second hole.

[0035] In one embodiment, the substance for making the beverage comprises coffee powder.In another embodiment, the substance for making the beverage comprises chamomile or tea.

[0036] The present disclosure also provides a method for manufacturing a container intended for use in a beverage-making device. The method includes the step of forming a container body. A container, more specifically a container body, is manufactured according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. In the forming step, a bottom wall, a side wall, and an annular flange of the container body are formed. The side wall extends around the longitudinal axis between a first annular edge and a second annular edge, the first annular edge being connected to the bottom wall; the side wall has an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis and an outer surface opposite to the inner surface. The annular flange extends away from the longitudinal axis from the second annular edge of the side wall. The outer surface of the side wall includes a first portion close to the flange and a second and third portions away from the flange; the second portion is interposed between the first portion and the third portion.

[0037] Preferably, during the step of forming the body, a lip seal is produced that projects from the rear surface of the annular flange and extends around the longitudinal axis to define an annular groove together with the annular flange and the sidewall. In one embodiment, during the step of forming the body, an additional lip seal is produced surrounding the lip seal. In other embodiments, the lip seal (and, if provided, the additional lip seal) may be applied to the rear surface of the flange after the body has been formed.

[0038] During the step of forming the container body, a plurality of centering protrusions are also formed, arranged about the longitudinal axis and protruding from a first portion of the outer surface of the sidewall. Thus, the centering protrusions are formed in an area of ​​the outer surface of the sidewall adjacent to the annular flange. The plurality of centering protrusions creates a localized thickening of the sidewall.

[0039] In one embodiment, the forming step is performed by compression molding. Thus, the container body is formed from a charge of thermoplastic material. In this embodiment, the centering protrusion of the plurality of centering protrusions is made integrally with the side wall of the container body by compression molding.

[0040] In this embodiment, the forming step is performed by a mold manufactured according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure; more specifically, the forming step is performed by a mold comprising a lower unit and an upper unit that are movable relative to each other. Thus, the forming step comprises preparing a charge of thermoplastic material, positioning the charge on the lower unit of the mold, and closing the mold by moving the upper unit and the lower unit toward each other until they define a forming cavity that forms the container body from the charge. Preferably, the upper unit and the lower unit move in a vertical direction parallel to gravity. With reference to the vertical direction, the lower unit is positioned below the upper unit. The forming step may also include cooling the container body. The method also comprises the steps of opening the mold by moving the upper unit and the lower unit away from each other, and removing the formed container from the mold.

[0041] In one embodiment, the forming step is performed by injection molding. In this embodiment, the plurality of centering protrusions are integrally formed with the side wall of the container body by injection molding.

[0042] The method may further comprise the step of supplying a substance for making a beverage into the interior space within the container.The method may further comprise the step of attaching a lid to the front face of the annular flange to close the interior space.

[0043] The present disclosure also provides a mold for manufacturing a container intended for use in a beverage making device. The mold is movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the mold defines a forming cavity. The forming cavity is shaped to form a container according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. More specifically, the forming cavity includes a bottom recess, a side recess, and a flange recess. The side recess extends about a longitudinal axis between a first annular end and a second annular end, the first annular end being connected to the bottom recess. The side recess has an inner wall facing the longitudinal axis and an outer surface opposite the inner wall. The flange recess is connected to the second annular end and extends away from the longitudinal axis. The outer wall of the side recess includes a first portion proximal to the flange recess and a second portion distal to the flange recess. The side recess preferably also includes a third portion also distal to the flange; the second portion is interposed between the first and third portions. Preferably, the first and second portions are frustoconical (having different inclination angles); the third portion is cylindrical (or frustoconical) in shape.

[0044] Before the container is removed from the mold, the longitudinal axis of the mold coincides with the longitudinal axis of the container formed in the mold.

[0045] Preferably, the undercut comprises a plurality of recesses (or hollows) arranged about the longitudinal axis in a first portion of the outer wall of the undercut. Thus, the plurality of recesses is formed in an area of ​​the outer wall adjacent to the flange recess. These recesses locally widen the undercut. Preferably, the recesses extend along axes contained in respective planes passing through the longitudinal axis. Thus, the recesses define a groove.

[0046] Preferably, the mold comprises an upper unit and a lower unit that are movable relative to each other along a longitudinal axis. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the mold is parallel to gravity. In the open configuration of the mold, the upper unit and the lower unit are spaced apart, and in the open configuration of the mold, the upper unit and the lower unit are together and define a molding cavity. In both the open and closed configurations of the mold, the upper unit is positioned above the lower unit.

[0047] The present disclosure also provides a method for making a beverage, specifically coffee. The method for making a beverage comprises the steps of preparing a container manufactured according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The method for making a beverage comprises the steps of inserting the container into a compartment of a machine for making a beverage, specifically coffee. The machine is provided with a pressure bell element having an end edge that is annular in shape and provided with an annular protrusion. It should be noted that during the insertion step, a plurality of centering protrusions abut against the pressure bell element.

[0048] The method for making a beverage includes the steps of moving a pressure bell element against the rear surface of an annular flange of a container body so that an annular protrusion of the pressure bell element is press-fitted into an annular groove of the container body; more specifically, when the pressure bell element engages the annular groove, the pressure bell element causes deformation of a lip seal.

[0049] The method for making a beverage comprises the step of piercing the bottom wall of the container body.The method for making a beverage comprises the step of passing steam or hot water through the container to make the beverage.

[0050] Thus, during brewing, the rear surface of the annular flange is pressed against the upper edge of the pressure bell element so as to form a fluid seal between the body of the container and the pressure bell on the rear surface of the annular flange on the bottom side of the cup pierced by the knife to allow the fluid to be fed in.

[0051] The method for preparing a beverage comprises the step of piercing the lid with at least one punch forming part of the machine in order to remove the prepared beverage. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] These and other characteristics will become more apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0053] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a container body made according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure;

[0054] Figure 2 Another perspective view shows Figure 1 The container body;

[0055] Figure 3 Shown in longitudinal section Figure 1 The container body;

[0056] Figure 4 Shown in a view from below Figure 1 The container body;

[0057] Figure 5 A container of the present disclosure is shown, comprising Figure 1 The body and the lid shown, wherein the container is inserted into the compartment of a pressure element forming part of a machine for making beverages;

[0058] Figure 5A Shown is a beverage making machine forming part of and in use with Figure 1 Details of the pressure device interacting with the vessel body;

[0059] Figure 6 Shown in an open configuration for manufacturing Figure 1 A mold for the container body;

[0060] Figure 7 shows the Figure 6 mold. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Referring to the drawings, reference numeral 1 denotes a container. Container 1 includes a body 100. Body 100 includes a bottom wall 101, a sidewall 102, and an annular flange 103. Sidewall 102 extends about a longitudinal axis A between a first annular edge 102A and a second annular edge 102B. First annular edge 102A and second annular edge 102B surround longitudinal axis A. First annular edge 102A is connected to bottom wall 101. Second annular edge 102B is connected to annular flange 103. The annular flange extends from second annular edge 102B away from longitudinal axis A and perpendicular to longitudinal axis A.

[0062] The sidewall 102 has an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis A and an outer surface opposite the inner surface. The sidewall 102 or its outer surface includes a first portion 1021, a second portion 1022, and a third portion 1023. The first portion 1021 is proximal to the annular flange 103. The second portion 1022 and the third portion 1023 are distal to the annular flange 103. More specifically, the first portion 1021 is connected to the annular flange 103, and the third portion 1023 is connected to the bottom wall 101. The second portion 1022 is connected to the first portion 1021 on one side and to the third portion 1023 on the other side. Thus, the first portion 1021 extends about the longitudinal axis A between the first annular edge 102A of the sidewall and the connecting edge joining the first portion 1021 and the second portion 1022. The second portion 1022 extends about the longitudinal axis A between the connecting edge joining the first portion 1021 to the second portion and the connecting edge joining the second portion 1022 to the third portion 1023. The third portion 1023 extends about the longitudinal axis A between the connecting edge connecting the second portion 1022 to the third portion 1023 and the second annular edge 102B. The first portion 1021 has a frustoconical shape; therefore, the diameter of the connecting edge connecting the first portion 1021 to the second portion 1022 is greater than the diameter of the second annular edge 102B. The second portion 1022 also has a frustoconical shape; therefore, the diameter of the connecting edge connecting the first portion 1021 to the second portion 1022 is greater than the diameter of the connecting edge connecting the second portion 1022 to the third portion 1023. The second portion 1022 is more tapered toward the longitudinal axis than the first portion 1021. The third portion 1023 has a cylindrical shape; therefore, the connecting edge connecting the second portion 1022 to the third portion 1023 has the same diameter as the first annular edge 102A.

[0063] The annular flange 103 has a front surface (or face portion) 103A and a rear surface (or face portion) 103B opposite to the front surface 103A. The rear face portion 103B faces the side wall 102.

[0064] The main body 100 includes a lip seal 104. The lip seal 104 protrudes from the rear surface 103B of the annular flange 103. Thus, the lip seal 104 creates a localized thickening of the annular flange 103. Preferably, the lip seal 104 has a triangular shape when viewed in longitudinal section. The lip seal 104 is spaced apart from the outer surface of the sidewall 102 (specifically, the outer surface of the first portion 1021); thus, the outer surface of the sidewall 102, the rear surface 103B of the annular flange 103, and the lip seal 104 define (or define) an annular groove 106. The annular groove 106 extends around the longitudinal axis A.

[0065] The body 100 includes a plurality of protrusions 105. The protrusions 105 protrude from a first portion 1021 of the outer surface of the side wall 102. The protrusions 105 are elongated and extend parallel to (or substantially parallel to) the longitudinal axis A. The protrusions 105 are spaced equidistantly around the longitudinal axis A. The protrusions 105 extend from the second annular edge 102B (or as far as the annular flange 103) on the first portion 1021 of the side wall 102. Thus, each protrusion 105 extends from a first end in contact with the annular flange 103 to a second end. It should be noted that the second end is spaced apart from the connecting edge connecting the first portion 1021 to the second portion 1022; in fact, the protrusion 105 only occupies a portion of the first portion 1021.

[0066] The protrusions 105 are surrounded by the lip seal 104. Each protrusion 105 includes a first portion (including a first end) positioned in the annular groove 106 and a second portion (including a second end) positioned outside the annular groove 106.

[0067] Centering protrusions 105 of the plurality of centering protrusions 105 are spaced apart from lip seal 104. In other words, centering protrusions 105 do not contact lip seal 104 and are not connected to lip seal 104. Therefore, the extension of each centering protrusion 105 in a plane parallel to annular flange 103 is smaller than the distance between the centering protrusion 105 and lip seal 104 in the same plane parallel to annular flange 103. The fact that centering protrusions 105 have a reduced extension means that their centering function does not hinder machine operation.

[0068] The body 100 may include an additional lip seal 107 protruding from the rear surface 103B of the annular flange 103. More specifically, the additional lip seal 107 may be positioned at the outer annular end of the annular flange 103 to create a thickened annular edge of the annular flange 103. In longitudinal section, the additional lip seal 107 (i.e., the thickened annular edge of the annular flange 103) may have a rectangular or quadrilateral shape. The additional lip seal 107 (i.e., the thickened annular edge of the annular flange 103) is spaced apart from and surrounds the lip seal 104. Thus, the additional lip seal 107 (i.e., the thickened annular edge of the annular flange 103), the rear surface 103B of the annular flange 103, and the lip seal 104 define an additional annular groove 108. Preferably, in a plane parallel to the annular flange 103 (ie perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A), the width of the additional annular groove 108 is greater than the width of the annular groove 106 .

[0069] The container 1 comprises a lid 14. The lid 14 is coupled to the front surface 103A of the annular flange 103. The lid 14 and the body 100 define an interior space inside the container 1. The interior space inside the container 1 contains a substance 4 (eg coffee grounds) for making a beverage.

[0070] When the container 1 is inserted into a beverage making machine, at least one syringe (or at least one knife) forming part of the machine pierces the bottom wall 101 and supplies hot water into the internal space inside the container 1. The beverage is prepared by brewing. The machine then pierces the lid 14 to remove the beverage.

[0071] More specifically, the bottom wall 101 includes a first region 1011 and a second region 1012. Preferably, the second region 1012 is annular and surrounds the first region 1011. The thickness of the second region 1012 is less than that of the first region 1011. The syringe (or knife) of the machine pierces the second region 1012, which has a smaller thickness.

[0072] Bottom wall 101 further includes a third region 1013 surrounding first region 1011 and second region 1012. Third region 1013 is connected to sidewall 102 along first annular edge 102A. The thickness of third region 1013 is greater than the thickness of second region 1012; for example, the thickness of third region 1013 may be equal to the thickness of first region 1011.

[0073] The first region 1011 is preferably oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A. On the other hand, the second region 1012 is inclined obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis A. The third region 1013 is also inclined obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis A. Preferably, the second region 1012 and the third region 1013 have the same inclination angle relative to the longitudinal axis A.

[0074] It should be noted that the side wall 102 has a plurality of annular ribs 1024 on its inner surface. The annular ribs 1024 extend around the longitudinal axis A in respective planes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A and protrude from the inner surface of the side wall 102. More specifically, there are a plurality of annular ribs 1024 protruding from the inner surface of the first portion 1021 and at least one annular rib 1024 protruding from the inner surface of the second portion 1022.

[0075] Preferably, the container 1 further includes a plurality of anti-stacking elements 109. The anti-stacking elements 109 are connected to the inner surfaces of the sidewalls 102 and the inner surfaces of the bottom wall 101, facing the interior space (i.e., toward the longitudinal axis A). The anti-stacking elements 109 facilitate disassembly of the plurality of bodies 100 of the corresponding plurality of containers 1 that have been stacked within one another. The anti-stacking elements 109 are arranged around the longitudinal axis A and protrude from the inner surfaces of the sidewalls 102. The anti-stacking elements 109 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis A from a first end connected to the bottom wall 101 to a second end. More specifically, the first end is connected to the third region 1013 of the bottom wall 101. The plurality of anti-stacking elements 109 include a first group 109A and a second group 109B of different sizes (more specifically, they differ in length along the sidewalls 102 (i.e., along the longitudinal axis A)). More specifically, the elements of the first group 109A are longer than the elements of the second group 109B. In practice, the elements of the second group 109B protrude only from the inner face of the third portion 1023 of the side wall, whereas the elements of the first group 109A protrude from the inner faces of both the third portion 1023 and the second portion 1022. The elements of the first group 109A alternate with the elements of the second group 109B in such a way that one or more elements of the second group 109B are present between a first element of the first group 109A and a second element of the first group 109A.

[0076] The present disclosure also relates to a mold 2. The mold 2 is shaped to form the body 100 of the container 1. The mold 2 includes an upper unit 21 and a lower unit 22 that are movable relative to each other along a longitudinal axis A (which coincides with the longitudinal axis A of the formed body 100). The upper unit 21 is located at a greater vertical height than the lower unit 22. The upper unit 21 and the lower unit 22 are movable relative to each other between a spaced position defining an open configuration of the mold 2 and a closed position defining a closed configuration of the mold 2. In the open configuration, the mold 2 is configured to receive a charge 3 of thermoplastic material. Preferably, the charge 3 is placed on the lower unit 22. In the closed configuration, the upper unit 21 and the lower unit 22 define a molding cavity 200, in which the body 100 of the container 1 is formed by compression molding starting from the charge 3.

[0077] The molding cavity 200 includes a bottom recess 201 configured to form the bottom wall 101 of the body 100 of the container 1 .

[0078] The molding cavity 200 further includes a side recess 202 connected to (i.e., in communication with) the bottom recess 201. The side recess 202 is configured to form the sidewall 102 of the main body 100 of the container 1. More specifically, the side recess 202 extends about the longitudinal axis A between a first annular end 202A and a second annular end 202B. The first annular end 202A is connected to (i.e., in communication with) the bottom recess 201. The molding cavity 200 further includes a flange recess 203 extending away from the longitudinal axis from the second annular end 202B. Therefore, the flange recess 203 is connected to (i.e., in communication with) the side recess 202 at the second annular end 202B. The side recess 203 is configured to form the annular flange 103 of the main body 100 of the container 1.

[0079] The molding cavity 200 further includes a plurality of recesses 204 disposed about the longitudinal axis A in a portion of the undercut 202 adjacent to the flange recess 203. More specifically, the recesses are hollow portions in the outer wall of the undercut 202, opposite the inner wall facing the longitudinal axis. The recesses are configured to form the protrusions 104.

[0080] The container 1 is configured to be inserted into a beverage making machine provided with a pressure bell element 301. The pressure bell element 301 includes an annular protrusion 302, which is configured to be press-fitted into the annular groove 106, thereby creating an airtight seal. Therefore, the annular protrusion 302 of the pressure bell element 301 and the rear face portion 103B of the annular flange 103 (which is provided with the groove 106 and the lip seal 104) are formed to be connected to each other by press-fitting (i.e., by deforming the lip seal 104 at least on the side wall facing the groove 106). During the movement of the pressure element 301 (before the airtight seal is formed), a special knife (not shown in the figure) cuts the bottom wall 101 of the body 100 (specifically, the second area 1012 thereof) and injects high-temperature water or steam into the substance 4, thereby starting the process of making a beverage.

Claims

1. A container intended for use in a beverage-making device for preparing a beverage, said container comprising a body comprising: bottom wall; a sidewall extending about the longitudinal axis between a first annular edge and a second annular edge, the first annular edge being connected to the bottom wall, wherein the sidewall has an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis and an outer surface opposite the inner surface; an annular flange extending from the second annular edge of the sidewall away from the longitudinal axis, the annular flange having a rear surface facing the sidewall and a front surface opposite the rear surface, wherein the outer surface of the sidewall includes a first portion proximate the flange and a second portion distal from the flange; a lip seal projecting from the rear surface of the annular flange and extending about the longitudinal axis, wherein the annular flange, the lip seal, and the sidewall define an annular groove, The body further comprises a plurality of centering protrusions arranged around the longitudinal axis and protruding from the first portion of the outer surface of the side wall, wherein a centering protrusion of the plurality of centering protrusions creates a local thickening of the side wall and is at least partially positioned in the annular groove.

2. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that A centering protrusion of the plurality of centering protrusions is connected to the rear surface of the annular flange.

3. The container according to claim 2, characterized in that A centering protrusion of the plurality of centering protrusions is spaced apart from the lip seal.

4. The container according to claim 3, characterized in that Each of the plurality of centering protrusions extends in a plane parallel to the annular flange by an amount that is smaller than a distance between the centering protrusion and the lip seal in the same plane parallel to the annular flange.

5. The container according to claim 3, characterized in that Each of the plurality of centering protrusions extends in a plane perpendicular to the annular flange by a greater amount than an extension of the lip seal in the same plane perpendicular to the annular flange.

6. Container according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, characterized in that Centering protrusions of the plurality of centering protrusions extend along respective axes contained in a plane passing through the longitudinal axis.

7. Container according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The centering protrusions of the plurality of centering protrusions are angularly equally spaced about the longitudinal axis.

8. The container of any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of centering protrusions comprises at least three centering protrusions.

9. A container according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, comprising an additional lip seal surrounding and spaced apart from the lip seal.

10. A method for manufacturing a container intended for use in a beverage preparation device, wherein the method comprises a forming step of forming the body of the container, during which the following parts are produced: bottom wall; a sidewall extending about the longitudinal axis between a first annular edge and a second annular edge, the first annular edge being connected to the bottom wall, wherein the sidewall has an inner surface facing the longitudinal axis and an outer surface opposite the inner surface; an annular flange extending from the second annular edge of the sidewall away from the longitudinal axis, the annular flange having a rear surface facing the sidewall and a front surface opposite the rear surface, wherein the outer surface of the sidewall includes a first portion proximate the flange and a second portion distal from the flange; a lip seal projecting from the rear surface of the annular flange and extending about the longitudinal axis to define an annular groove together with the annular flange and the sidewall, wherein the forming step further produces a plurality of centering protrusions arranged about the longitudinal axis and protruding from the first portion of the outer surface of the sidewall, wherein a centering protrusion of the plurality of centering protrusions creates a local thickening of the sidewall and is at least partially positioned in the annular groove.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that The forming step is performed by compression molding starting from a charge of thermoplastic material, wherein a centering protrusion of the plurality of centering protrusions is made integrally with the side wall of the body during compression molding.

12. A mould for producing a container intended for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage making device, the mould being movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in the closed configuration the mould defines a forming cavity comprising: bottom concave portion; an undercut extending about the longitudinal axis between a first annular end and a second annular end, the first annular end being connected to the bottom recess, wherein the undercut has an inner wall facing the longitudinal axis and an outer wall opposite the inner wall; a flange recess connected to the second annular end portion and extending therefrom away from the longitudinal axis, wherein the flange recess has a rear wall facing the side recess portion and a front wall opposite the rear wall, and wherein the outer wall of the side recess portion includes a first portion proximate the flange recess portion and a second portion distal thereto; a lip seal recess connected to the rear wall of the flange recess and extending about the longitudinal axis, wherein the flange recess, the lip seal recess and the undercut define an annular rib, The undercut portion includes a plurality of recesses arranged around the longitudinal axis in the first portion of the outer wall of the undercut portion, the plurality of recesses being at least partially positioned in the annular rib.

13. The mold according to claim 12, comprising an upper unit and a lower unit movable relative to each other along the longitudinal axis, wherein In the open configuration of the mold, the upper unit and the lower unit are spaced apart, and in the closed configuration of the mold, the upper unit and the lower unit are brought together and define the molding cavity.

14. A method for preparing a beverage, comprising the steps of: Preparing a container according to any one of claims 1 to 5; inserting the container into a compartment of a machine for making beverages, the machine being provided with a pressure bell element having an end edge which is annular in shape and provided with an annular protrusion; moving the pressure bell element against the rear surface of the annular flange of the container body such that the annular protrusion of the pressure bell element is press-fit into the annular groove of the container body, causing deformation of the lip seal; piercing the bottom wall of the body; Steam or hot water is passed through the container to produce the beverage.

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