Capsule, water dispensing wall for such capsule and method for manufacturing such capsule

Abstract

The invention relates to a capsule (1) comprising a cup-shaped capsule body (2), a water dispensing wall (10) delimiting a chamber (12) for a substance, and a bottom wall (14). The cup-shaped capsule body (2) comprises a cellulose-based body layer (18) and a liner (20) comprising a liner barrier layer (22). The water distribution wall (10) and / or the bottom wall (14) comprise a wall barrier layer (32). The water dispensing wall (10) and / or the bottom wall (14) are / is connected to the cup-shaped capsule body (2) such that the liner barrier layer (22) and the corresponding wall barrier layer (32) are bonded along the periphery of the body (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a capsule for producing a beverage in a beverage production machine. The present invention also relates to a water dispensing wall for connection to a cup-shaped capsule body of the capsule to define a chamber within a cavity defined by the body for containing a substance for producing a beverage by injecting a fluid. The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing such a capsule. Background Art

[0002] EP 1784344 A2, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, discloses a capsule comprising: i) a cup-shaped capsule body; ii) a water dispensing wall which together with the body defines a cavity for containing a food substance; and iii) a bottom wall which is opened by fluid pressure to allow beverage to flow out of the capsule.

[0003] The cup-shaped capsule body comprises: i) a body layer; ii) a barrier layer which is fastened to the body layer and prevents moisture and / or gas such as oxygen from entering the cavity to preserve the food substance; and iii) a protective layer which is specifically intended to protect the barrier layer from, for example, scratches or abrasions.

[0004] The barrier layer and the protective layer can be formed into a capsule by thermoforming onto the main body layer. Thus, the protective layer can become very thin. When assembling the capsule, the water dispensing wall is sealed to the main body, for example by ultrasonic welding, which involves a certain pressure and / or heat transmitted from the edge area of ​​the water dispensing wall to the protective layer.

[0005] However, due to the pressure and / or heat, the water dispensing wall may locally produce barrier damage to the protective layer and the barrier layer, thus allowing moisture or gas to enter the capsule and degrade the quality of the food substance. Summary of the invention

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a capsule which exhibits enhanced resistance to its manufacturing process in order to ensure reliable sealing of the water dispensing wall on the cup-shaped capsule body, which does not adversely affect the gas and / or moisture barrier properties of the capsule.

[0007] According to one aspect, the invention relates to a capsule for producing a beverage in a beverage production machine by injecting a fluid under pressure into said capsule, wherein the capsule comprises:

[0008] - a cup-shaped capsule body having a cavity, a top opening and a bottom opening, the top opening and the bottom opening being located at substantially opposite sides of the cup-shaped capsule body relative to the cavity,

[0009] a water dispensing wall connected to the cup-shaped capsule body to define a chamber within the cavity, the water dispensing wall being configured to allow the passage of the fluid, the chamber being configured to contain a substance for producing a beverage,

[0010] - a top wall for closing the top opening, and

[0011] - a bottom wall for closing the bottom opening, said bottom wall being adapted to open when the pressure inside the capsule increases so as to allow the beverage produced in the chamber to flow out of the capsule,

[0012] The cup-shaped capsule body has a layered structure, and the layered structure comprises:

[0013] - a main body layer, the main body layer being molded from a cellulose-based material, and

[0014] - a lining applied to the inner face of the bulk layer,

[0015] Wherein the liner comprises a liner barrier layer configured to provide a moisture and / or gas barrier function

[0016] wherein the water distribution wall and / or the bottom wall respectively comprises a wall barrier layer, the wall barrier layer being configured to provide a moisture and / or gas barrier function, and

[0017] Wherein the water distributing wall and / or the bottom wall is connected to the cup-shaped capsule body such that the lining barrier layer and the corresponding wall barrier layer are bonded along the periphery of the body.

[0018] Thus, when the lining barrier layer and the wall barrier layer are combined, they are melted and thus form a sealing area which can properly seal out moisture and / or gas, thus ensuring a reliable seal of the water dispensing wall on the cup-shaped capsule body.

[0019] In the present disclosure, the relative terms "bottom" and "top" may relate to the orientation of the capsule when a food or beverage substance (e.g. ground coffee) is placed in the cavity and held against gravity by the bottom portion (e.g. bottom wall) of the capsule.

[0020] In various implementations, the water distribution wall may have one or more slits or holes that may be perforated or punched through the water distribution wall in order to allow fluid to pass therethrough.

[0021] In various specific implementations:

[0022] - the substance may be chosen within the list of: roast and ground coffee, soluble ingredients such as milk bases, chocolate, soups, infusions or herbal tea ingredients and nutritional soluble compositions, and more generally any liquid edible composition for human or animal consumption, and / or mixtures thereof, and / or

[0023] - the substance may be provided as a substance bed in the chamber, and / or

[0024] - A substance, preferably a layer of substance, may be retained in the chamber by the water distribution wall, preferably in a compressed manner in the chamber and preferably between the water distribution wall and the bottom wall.

[0025] In the present disclosure, the term "moisture and / or gas barrier function" is understood to refer to:

[0026] - Less than 5cm 3 / m 2 / day, preferably less than 1cm 3 / m 2 / day OTR (oxygen permeability) (at 23℃

[0027] and 50% relative humidity); and

[0028] -WVTR (water vapor transmission rate) less than 5g / m 2 / day, preferably less than 1g / m 2 / day (at 23°C and 85% relative humidity).

[0029] According to one embodiment, the liner may have a multi-layer structure comprising, in addition to the liner barrier layer:

[0030] - an outer lining layer covering the lining barrier layer at one side of the bulk layer, and / or

[0031] - an inner lining layer covering the lining barrier layer at one side of the cavity.

[0032] Thus, the liner barrier layer positioned between the inner liner layer and the outer liner layer may be protected from mechanical, thermal and / or chemical stresses.

[0033] In alternative implementations, the liner may consist solely of the liner barrier layer, and a coating may be applied over the bulk layer to enhance sealing against external moisture and / or gases.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the outer liner layer may be arranged between the bulk layer and the liner barrier layer for applying the liner to the bulk layer.

[0035] Thus, the liner may be applied to the bulk layer.

[0036] According to one embodiment, an outer tie layer may be arranged to join the liner barrier layer and the outer liner layer, and an inner tie layer may be arranged to join the liner barrier layer and the inner liner layer.

[0037] Thus, the lining barrier layer can be reliably joined or fastened to the outer lining layer on the one hand and to the inner lining layer on the other hand.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the water distribution wall and / or the bottom wall may respectively have a multi-layer structure, which in addition to the wall barrier layer comprises:

[0039] - Main floor, and / or

[0040] - at least one protective layer covering one side of the wall barrier layer and preferably another protective layer covering the opposite side of the wall barrier layer.

[0041] Thus, the wall barrier layer covered by the protective layer may be protected from mechanical, thermal and / or chemical stresses.

[0042] In an alternative implementation, the water distribution wall may consist of the wall barrier layer alone, wherein preferably, the wall barrier layer consists of or includes polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA).

[0043] According to one embodiment, the water distribution wall and / or the bottom wall may be connected to the body such that the lining layer and the at least one protective layer may be sealed to each other along said perimeter such that the lining barrier layer and the wall barrier layer are bonded along said perimeter.

[0044] In various implementations, when the water distributing wall has more than one layer, the water distributing wall can be made by coextrusion, preferably by casting or blow extrusion of its layers.

[0045] Thus, the circumferential area where the liner barrier layer and the wall barrier layer are joined together may present an enhanced seal against moisture and / or gas.

[0046] According to one embodiment, one of the protective layers may be arranged between the main layer and the wall barrier layer for connecting the wall barrier layer to the main layer.

[0047] Therefore, the wall barrier layer and the main layer can be firmly connected and protected by such a protective layer.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the wall bonding layer may be arranged to bond the wall barrier layer and one of the protective layers, and / or

[0049] The primary bonding layer may be arranged to bond the wall barrier layer and the primary layer, preferably arranged to bond the wall barrier layer and one of the protective layers.

[0050] Thus, the wall barrier layer can be reliably bonded to the main layer, preferably via the protective layer.

[0051] In various specific implementations:

[0052] - the lining may have a maximum thickness ranging from 30 to 140 micrometers (μm), and / or

[0053] - the water distribution wall and / or the bottom wall may have a maximum thickness ranging from 10 to 150 microns, preferably from 50 to 80 microns, and / or

[0054] - the lining barrier layer and / or the wall barrier layer may each have a maximum thickness ranging from 1 to 10 microns, preferably from 4 to 8 microns, and / or

[0055] - the outer lining layer and / or the inner lining layer (if present) may each have a maximum thickness ranging from 10 to 30 microns, preferably from 15 to 20 microns, and / or

[0056] - the protective layer (if present) may have a maximum thickness ranging from 10 to 30 microns, preferably from 15 to 20 microns, and / or

[0057] - the main layer may have a maximum thickness ranging from 10 to 50 microns, preferably from 20 to 30 microns, and / or

[0058] - preferably, the inner tie layer and the outer tie layer (if present) may each have a maximum thickness of about 5 microns, or a maximum thickness of about 4 microns, or a thickness between 1 and 4 microns, and / or

[0059] - Preferably, the wall and the primary joining layer (if present) may each have a maximum thickness of about 5 microns, or a maximum thickness of about 4 microns, or a thickness between 1 and 4 microns.

[0060] Such thicknesses may allow the various layers to be thermally, mechanically, and / or chemically resistant while achieving relatively short composting durations under domestic conditions.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the chamber may be defined between the bottom wall and the water distribution wall.

[0062] Thus, the chamber can be relatively large, the fluid can be easily brought into the chamber, and the produced beverage can be easily dispensed from the chamber.

[0063] In various implementations, the liner can be applied to the body layer by thermoforming.

[0064] Thereby, the lining can be securely fastened to the main body layer.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the water distribution wall may include a perforated wall section configured to interrupt the jet of injected fluid to reduce the velocity of the fluid injected into the cavity, the perforated wall section preferably being configured to distribute the fluid at a reduced velocity above the chamber and preferably across the chamber.

[0066] Therefore, the fluid can be smoothly distributed throughout the chamber, thereby improving the quality of the beverage.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the capsule may further include a rim portion, which is arranged to be located at the top opening so as to protrude laterally away from the top opening, and the rim portion is preferably integral with the cup-shaped capsule body, wherein the liner extends over the rim portion in a circumferentially closed manner, and preferably, the top wall can be sealed to the rim portion so as to close the top opening.

[0068] Therefore, the cavity can be reliably closed by the top wall.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the cup-shaped capsule body may include a stepped portion facing the top opening, and the bottom wall may be connected to the stepped portion, preferably along the periphery of the cup-shaped capsule body.

[0070] The stepped portion may thus allow for fastening of the bottom wall.

[0071] According to one embodiment, a head space may be defined within the cavity between the water distribution wall and the top opening, and / or

[0072] wherein a dispensing space may be defined within the cup-shaped capsule body at a side of the cavity opposite to the bottom wall, the dispensing space accommodating an opening device,

[0073] The opening means and the bottom wall are arranged relative to each other such that engagement between the bottom wall and the opening means is performed under the effect of increased pressure inside the capsule or chamber to open the bottom wall allowing the beverage produced in the chamber to flow out of the capsule.

[0074] Thus, the head space and the dispensing may allow a beverage production machine to produce beverages more easily and reliably.

[0075] In various specific implementations:

[0076] - the water distributing wall may be made of a home compostable material composition, and / or

[0077] - the capsule may be made from a home compostable material composition, and / or

[0078] - the cellulose based material may be or include a moulded pulp material, and / or

[0079] - the primary layer may be made of home compostable material, and / or

[0080] - the lining barrier layer and the wall barrier layer may be made of the same material, and / or made of home compostable material, and / or

[0081] - the inner lining layer, the outer lining layer and / or preferably the protective layer (if present) may be made of the same material, and / or of a home compostable material, and / or

[0082] - Preferably, the outer joining layer, the inner joining layer, the wall joining layer and / or the main joining layer (if present) are made of the same material, and / or of a home compostable material.

[0083] The term "compostable" can be understood to mean that the material can be basically decomposed into organic matter in a few weeks or months when being composted. This can be completed in industrial composting sites and / or household composters. Specific conditions related to wind, sunlight, drainage and other factors may exist in these sites. At the end of the composting process, once the material is completely decomposed, nutrients can be supplied to the land. International standards (such as, EU 13432 or US ASTM D6400) provide a legal framework for the technical requirements and procedures for determining the compostability of materials. For example, in order to be considered as "industrial compostable", a test in the compostability test requires that at least 90% of the materials being discussed are biodegraded under controlled conditions within 6 months. Similar tests are also present in household compostable certification. In addition, according to the standards mentioned, compostable plastic materials must have the following characteristics to be considered as compostable at the same time: the material must be biodegradable and decomposable, i.e. broken and invisible in the final composting, and it must not have a negative impact on the composting process and quality.

[0084] Preferably, the home compostable material composition may be selected from the list of polybutylene succinate (PBS), polybutylene adipate (PBA), starch, polycaprolactone (PCL), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polylactic acid (PLA), blends and copolymers thereof, but is preferably made of cellulose and derivatives, chitin and derivatives, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) and / or polyglycolic acid (PGA), and / or blends and / or copolymers of these polymers and mixtures thereof.

[0085] Therefore, such materials can be composted by the user themselves at home without requiring any specific composting conditions.

[0086] Another object of the present invention is to provide a water distributing wall for enhancing the reliability of sealing between the water distributing wall and a cup-shaped capsule body when manufacturing the capsule.

[0087] Therefore, another aspect of the invention relates to a water dispensing wall for connection to a cup-shaped capsule body of a capsule to define a chamber within a cavity positioned in the cup-shaped capsule body for containing a substance for producing a beverage by injecting a fluid,

[0088] wherein the water distribution wall comprises a perforated wall section configured to interrupt the jet of injected fluid to reduce the velocity of the fluid injected into the cavity and to distribute the fluid over and preferably across the chamber at a reduced velocity,

[0089] The water distribution wall has a single-layer or multi-layer structure, the single-layer or multi-layer structure includes at least one wall barrier layer, and the wall barrier layer is configured to provide a moisture and / or gas barrier function.

[0090] Such a water dispensing wall thus ensures a reliable seal of the water dispensing wall on the cup-shaped capsule body, while not adversely affecting the gas and / or moisture barrier properties of the capsule.

[0091] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a capsule according to the aspects described in detail above.

[0092] Therefore, another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a capsule according to any one of the above embodiments and implementations, the method comprising:

[0093] - providing a cup-shaped capsule body, a top wall, a bottom wall and a water distribution wall,

[0094] - connecting the bottom wall to the cup-shaped capsule body, preferably by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing, to close the bottom opening,

[0095] - placing a substance for producing a beverage in the cavity,

[0096] - connecting the water dispensing wall to the cup-shaped capsule body, preferably by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing, so as to define together with the cup-shaped capsule body and the bottom wall a chamber for containing the substance,

[0097] as well as

[0098] - preferably, the top wall is connected to the body, preferably by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing,

[0099] To close the top opening,

[0100] Wherein the water distribution wall and / or the bottom wall are connected to the main body such that the liner barrier layer and the wall barrier layer are bonded along the periphery of the main body.

[0101] Such a method thus enables the manufacture of capsules that ensure reliable sealing of the water dispensing wall on the cup-shaped capsule body without adversely affecting the gas and / or moisture barrier properties of the capsule. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0102] Further features, details and advantages of the invention are described below, in particular with respect to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0103] Figure 1 A schematic partially cutaway perspective view of a capsule according to the invention is shown in cross section through a cup-shaped capsule body and a bottom wall;

[0104] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 An enlarged view of detail II in FIG.

[0105] Figure 3 Shown for Figure 1 to Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of various layers of a liner of a cup-shaped capsule body of a capsule of the type shown in a semi-loose state for exemplary purposes only;

[0106] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 to Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of the various layers of the water dispensing wall of a capsule of FIG. 1 in a semi-loose state which is merely illustrative;

[0107] Figure 5 Shown along Figure 1 A schematic cross section of plane V in FIG.

[0108] Figure 6 The method for manufacturing the Figure 1 Flow chart of the method of the capsule. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0109] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A capsule 1 for producing a beverage in a beverage production machine, not shown, is shown. The beverage production machine may inject a fluid, such as water, under pressure into the capsule 1 and the beverage produced in the capsule 1 may flow out of the capsule into a drinking cup, not shown.

[0110] The capsule 1 comprises a cup-shaped capsule body 2 having a cavity 4, a top opening 6 and a bottom opening 8. The top opening 6 and the bottom opening 8 are located at substantially opposite sides of the cup-shaped capsule body 2 relative to the cavity 4. Figures 1 to 5 In the example of FIG. 5 , the cup-shaped capsule body 2 may substantially have a truncated conical shape, such as a truncated conical shape generated based on a circle.

[0111] The capsule 1 further comprises a water distribution wall 10 connected to the cup-shaped capsule body 2 to define or include a chamber 12 within the cavity 8. The water distribution wall 10 is configured to allow fluid to pass through. The chamber 12 is configured to accommodate a substance, not shown, for producing the beverage. The substance may be, for example, roasted and ground coffee. The substance may be provided as a substance layer in the chamber 12.

[0112] The capsule 1 further comprises a top wall for closing the top opening 8 and a bottom wall 14 for closing the bottom opening 8. Figures 1 to 5 In the embodiment of the present invention, the chamber 12 may be defined between the bottom wall 14 and the water distribution wall 6. Preferably, the substance or substance layer may be preferably held in the chamber 12 between the water distribution wall 10 and the bottom wall 14 in a compressed manner.

[0113] The bottom wall 14 is adapted to open when the pressure inside the capsule 1, in particular inside the chamber 12, increases. For example, for roasted and ground coffee, the opening pressure may be in the range of 1 to 15 bar (relative pressure), and is typically in the range of 4 to 15 bar, and for soluble ingredients, the opening pressure is lower (1 to 2 bar). Once opened, the bottom wall 14 may allow the beverage produced in the chamber 12 to flow out of the capsule 1 through the bottom opening 8.

[0114] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 As depicted, the cup-shaped capsule body 2 has a layered structure including i) a body layer 18 and a liner 20. The body layer 18 can provide rigidity to the body 2. The liner 20 can separate the cavity 4 from the body layer 18. The liner 20 is applied on the inner face of the body layer 18, for example, without any intermediate layer therebetween. However, in other embodiments, the liner can be applied on the inner face of the body layer via at least one intermediate layer. The liner 20 can be applied on the inner face of the body layer 18, for example, by thermoforming.

[0115] With reference to, for example, a cavity forming the interior of a capsule, an "inner" portion is typically disposed further inward than an "outer" portion. However, an "inner" portion or layer is not necessarily the innermost portion or layer of a capsule, and an "outer" portion or layer is not necessarily the outermost portion or layer of a capsule. Likewise, a bottom or top portion is not necessarily the bottommost portion or topmost portion of a capsule, respectively.

[0116] The body layer 18 is molded from a cellulose-based material, which may be or include a molded pulp material selected from the following list: mechanical pulp, recycled pulp, bagasse pulp, annual plant pulp, virgin cellulose pulp, refined cellulose pulp and / or mixtures thereof.

[0117] The capsule 1 may be made of a home compostable material composition including, for example, polybutylene succinate (PBS) and / or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA).

[0118] ·like Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the liner 20 includes a liner barrier layer 22 configured to provide a moisture and / or gas (e.g., oxygen) barrier function. The liner 20 may have a multi-layer structure, which includes, in addition to the liner barrier layer 22, an outer liner 26 covering the liner barrier layer 22 at one side of the main body layer 18, and

[0119] An inner lining layer 24 covering the lining barrier layer 22 at one side of the cavity 4 .

[0120] The outer liner layer 26 may be disposed between the bulk layer 18 and the liner barrier layer 22 for applying the liner 20 to the bulk layer 18 .

[0121] The liner 20 may further include an inner bonding layer 23 and an outer bonding layer 25. The inner bonding layer 23 may be arranged to bond the liner barrier layer 22 and the inner lining layer 24. The outer bonding layer 25 may be arranged to bond the liner barrier layer 22 and the outer lining layer 26. The outer bonding layers 23 and 25 may be formed of adhesive tape or adhesive films.

[0122] The liner 20 may thus have a symmetrical layer structure. The liner 20 may have a maximum thickness of about 80 microns. The liner barrier layer 22 may have a maximum thickness of about 8 microns. The body bonding layers 23, 25 may each have a maximum thickness of about 4 microns.

[0123] The water distribution wall 10 includes a wall barrier layer 32, which is configured to provide a moisture and / or gas barrier function. The water distribution wall 10 may have a multi-layer structure, which in addition to the wall barrier layer 32 also includes:

[0124] a primary layer 30 which provides rigidity to the water distribution wall 10, and

[0125] Two protective layers 31 and 34, which cover the two sides of the wall barrier layer 32 respectively,

[0126] That is, one side and the opposite side.

[0127] One of the protective layers (here, 31) may be arranged between the main layer 30 and the wall barrier layer 32 for connecting the wall barrier layer 32 to the main layer 30. The other of the protective layers (here, 34) may be uncovered.

[0128] The water distribution wall 10 may further include a wall joining layer 33 and a primary joining layer 37. The wall joining layer 33 may be arranged to join the wall barrier layer 32 and the protective layer 34. The primary joining layer 37 may be arranged to join the wall barrier layer 32 and the primary layer 30, preferably arranged to join the wall barrier layer 32 and the protective layer 31.

[0129] The water distribution wall 10 may have a maximum thickness of about 40 microns. The main layer 30 may have a maximum thickness of about 25 microns. The protective layers 31 and 34 may each have a maximum thickness of about 20 microns. The various bonding layers 33 and 37 may each have a maximum thickness of about 4 microns.

[0130] The water distribution wall 10 may include a perforated wall section 35 configured to interrupt the jet of injected fluid to reduce the velocity of the fluid injected into the cavity 4. Preferably, the perforated wall section 35 may be configured to distribute the fluid over and preferably across the chamber 12 at a reduced velocity.

[0131] In one embodiment (not illustrated in the drawings), the bottom wall 14 includes a wall barrier layer configured to provide a moisture and / or gas barrier function. In addition, the bottom wall 14 may have a multi-layer structure similar to or identical to the multi-layer structure of the water distribution wall 10, that is, including a wall barrier layer, a main layer, and one or two protective layers preferably covering one or both sides of the wall barrier layer.

[0132] According to the present invention, Figure 5 As illustrated, the water dispensing wall 10 is connected to the cup-shaped capsule body 2 such that the lining barrier layer 22 and the wall barrier layer 32 are joined along the periphery of the body 2. Figures 1 to 5 In the example of , the water distribution wall 10 can be connected to the body 2 so that the liner layer 24 and the protective layers 34 and 31 are sealed to each other along the perimeter so that the liner barrier layer 22 and the wall barrier layer 32 are bonded along the perimeter.

[0133] As in Figure 1 5, the perimeter may be oriented inwardly and extend along the cavity 4. For example, the perimeter may have a substantially circular or ring shape. The lining barrier layer 22 and the wall barrier layer 32 may be joined together i) by physical connection (i.e., simply pushing one against the other) and / or ii) by any material connection (i.e., welding or gluing together).

[0134] During sealing of the water distribution wall 10 to the liner 20, the inner liner layer 24 may melt and, under the action of the seal (ie, thermal and mechanical stresses), be pushed away from the sealing area 38. After the inner liner layer 24 is pushed away, the liner barrier layer 22 is uncovered.

[0135] The water distribution wall 10 together with its wall barrier layer 32 can be pushed against the uncovered liner 20. Thus, the barrier damage created by the removal of the inner liner layer 24 can be filled by the wall barrier layer 32. This recreates material continuity between the liner barrier layer 22 and the wall barrier layer 32, which makes the sealing area 38 sealed against moisture and / or gas.

[0136] Alternatively or additionally, according to the invention, in a not shown embodiment, the bottom wall 14 is connected to the cup-shaped capsule body 2 such that the lining barrier layer 22 and the wall barrier layer of the bottom wall 14 are joined along the periphery of the body 2 .

[0137] The capsule 1 may further comprise a rim portion 40, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the rim portion may be arranged at the top opening 6 so as to protrude laterally away from the top opening 6. The rim portion 40 may be integral with the cup-shaped capsule body 2. The liner 20 may extend on the rim portion 40 in a circumferentially closed manner. The top wall, not shown, may be sealed to the rim portion 40 so as to close the top opening 6.

[0138] The cup-shaped capsule body 2 may include a stepped portion 42 facing the top opening 6. The bottom wall 14 may be connected to the stepped portion 42, preferably along the periphery of the cup-shaped capsule body 2.

[0139] A head space 44 may be defined within the cavity 4 between the water dispensing wall 10 and the top opening 6. Similarly, a dispensing space 46 may be defined within the cup-shaped capsule body 2 at a side opposite to the bottom wall 14 with respect to the cavity 4.

[0140] An opening device (not shown) similar to that described in EP1784344A2 may be accommodated in the dispensing space 46. The opening device and the bottom wall 14 may be arranged relative to each other such that engagement between the bottom wall 14 and the opening device may be performed under the effect of an increased pressure inside the capsule 1 or chamber 12 to open the bottom wall 14, thereby allowing the beverage produced in the chamber 12 to flow out of the capsule 1.

[0141] Home compostable materials may constitute the capsule 1 as previously indicated. In particular, the water distribution wall 14, the main layer 30, the lining barrier layer 22, the inner lining layer 24, the outer lining layer 26, the inner bonding layer 23, the outer bonding layer 25, the wall barrier layer 32, the protective layers 31 and 34, the wall bonding layer 33 and the main bonding layer 37 may be made of home compostable materials.

[0142] According to another aspect of the present invention, the water dispensing wall 10 may be provided as an independent component for connection to the cup-shaped capsule body 2 of the capsule 10 to define a chamber 12 within the cavity 4. The cavity 4 is positioned in the cup-shaped capsule body 2. The cavity 4 is configured to contain a substance for producing a beverage by injecting a fluid. The water dispensing wall 10 has a single-layer or multi-layer structure as described in detail above.

[0143] The water distribution wall 10 comprises a perforated wall section 35 configured to interrupt the jet of injected fluid to reduce the velocity of the fluid injected into the cavity 4 and preferably distribute the fluid over and preferably across the chamber 12 at a reduced velocity.

[0144] According to another aspect of the present invention, Figure 6 As shown, the method 101 for manufacturing the capsule 1 comprises:

[0145] - Step 102) providing a cup-shaped capsule body 2, a top wall, a bottom wall 14 and a water distribution wall 10,

[0146] - step 104) connecting the bottom wall 14 to the cup-shaped capsule body 2, preferably by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing, to close the bottom opening 8,

[0147] - step 106) placing a substance for producing a beverage, such as roasted and ground coffee, in the cavity 4,

[0148] - step 108) connecting the water dispensing wall 10 to the cup-shaped capsule body 2, preferably by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing, so as to define together with the cup-shaped capsule body 2 and the bottom wall 14 a chamber 12 for containing the substance, and

[0149] - Step 110 ) Preferably, the top wall is connected to the cup-shaped capsule body 2 , preferably by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing, to close the top opening and thus the cavity 4 .

[0150] Then, the water distributing wall 10 is connected to the cup-shaped capsule body 2 such that the lining barrier layer 22 and the wall barrier layer 32 of the water distributing wall 10 are bonded along the periphery.

[0151] Likewise, in an embodiment not shown, the bottom wall 14 is connected to the cup-shaped capsule body 2 such that the lining barrier layer 22 and the wall barrier layer of the bottom wall 14 are joined along the periphery.

[0152] The words "comprising", "including", "having" and their derivatives shall be construed as inclusive rather than exclusive. The term "and / or" used in the context of "X and / or Y" shall be construed as "X" or "Y" or "X and Y".

[0153] The present invention is not limited to the foregoing aspects and embodiments as long as it lies within the coverage of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A capsule (1) for producing a beverage in a beverage production machine by injecting a fluid under pressure into the capsule, wherein the capsule (1) comprises: a cup-shaped capsule body (2) having a cavity (4), a top opening (6) and a bottom opening (8), the top opening (6) and the bottom opening (8) being located at substantially opposite sides of the cup-shaped capsule body relative to the cavity (4), - a water distribution wall (10) connected to the cup-shaped capsule body (2) to define a chamber (12) within the cavity (4), the water dispensing wall (10) being configured to allow a fluid to pass therethrough, the chamber being configured to contain a substance for producing the beverage, - a top wall for closing the top opening (8), and - a bottom wall (14) for closing the bottom opening (8), the bottom wall (14) being adapted to open when the pressure inside the capsule (1) increases so as to allow the beverage produced in the chamber (12) to flow out of the capsule (1), wherein the cup-shaped capsule body (2) has a layered structure comprising: a main body layer (18) molded from a cellulose-based material, and a lining (20) applied to the inner surface of the main body layer (18), wherein the liner (20) comprises a liner barrier layer (22) configured to provide a moisture and / or gas barrier function, wherein the water distribution wall (10) and / or the bottom wall (14) respectively comprises a wall barrier layer (32), wherein the wall barrier layer is configured to provide a moisture and / or gas barrier function, and The water distribution wall (10) and / or the bottom wall (14) are connected to the cup-shaped capsule body (2) such that the lining barrier layer (22) and the corresponding wall barrier layer (32) are combined along the periphery of the body (2).

2. The capsule (1) according to claim 1, wherein the liner (20) has a multi-layer structure, the multi-layer structure comprising, in addition to the liner barrier layer (22): an outer lining layer (26) covering the liner barrier layer (22) at one side of the bulk layer (18), and / or An inner lining layer (24) covering the lining barrier layer (22) at one side of the cavity (4).

3. The capsule (1) according to claim 2, wherein the outer lining layer (26) is arranged to be located between the body layer (18) and the liner barrier layer (22) for applying the liner (20) to the body layer (18).

4. The capsule (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein an outer joining layer (25) is arranged to join the liner barrier layer (22) and the outer lining layer (26), and The inner bonding layer (23) is arranged to bond the liner barrier layer (22) and the inner liner layer (24).

5. The capsule (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the water distributing wall (10) and / or the bottom wall (14) respectively has a multi-layer structure, which in addition to the wall barrier layer (32) comprises: A main layer (30), and / or At least one protective layer (34, 31) covering one side of the wall barrier layer (32), and preferably another protective layer (31, 34) covering the opposite side of the wall barrier layer (32).

6. Capsule (1) according to claims 2 and 5, wherein the water distribution wall (10) and / or the bottom wall (14) are connected to the body (2) so that the lining layer (24) and the at least one protective layer (34, 31) are sealed to each other along the periphery, so that the lining barrier layer (22) and the wall barrier layer (32) are bonded along the periphery.

7. The capsule (1) according to any one of claims 5 and 6, wherein one of the protective layers (31) is arranged between the main layer (30) and the wall barrier layer (32) for connecting the wall barrier layer (32) to the main layer (30).

8. The capsule (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein a wall joining layer (33) is arranged to join the wall barrier layer (32) and one of the protective layers (34), and / or The main bonding layer (37) is arranged to bond the wall barrier layer (32) and the main layer (30), preferably arranged to bond the wall barrier layer (32) and one of the protective layers (31).

9. Capsule (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the chamber (12) is defined between the bottom wall (14) and the water distributing wall (10).

10. Capsule (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the water distribution wall (10) comprises a perforated wall section (35) configured to interrupt the jet of injected fluid to reduce the velocity of the fluid injected into the cavity, the perforated wall section (35) preferably being configured to distribute the fluid above the chamber (12) and preferably across the chamber (12) at a reduced velocity.

11. The capsule (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a rim portion (40) arranged at the top opening (6) so as to protrude laterally away from the top opening (6), the rim portion (40) preferably being integral with the cup-shaped capsule body (2), wherein the liner (20) extends over the rim portion (40) in a circumferentially closed manner, and Preferably, the top wall is sealed to the edge portion (40) so as to close the top opening (6).

12. The capsule (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cup-shaped capsule body (2) comprises a stepped portion (42) facing the top opening (6), and wherein the bottom wall (14) is connected to the stepped portion (42), preferably along the periphery of the cup-shaped capsule body (2).

13. Capsule (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a head space (44) is defined within the cavity (4) between the water dispensing wall (10) and the top opening (6), and / or wherein a dispensing space (46) is defined in the cup-shaped capsule body (2) at a side opposite to the bottom wall (14) relative to the cavity (4), and the dispensing space (46) accommodates an opening device, The opening means and the bottom wall (14) are arranged relative to each other so that engagement between the bottom wall (14) and the opening means is performed under the effect of the increased pressure inside the capsule (1) or chamber (12) to open the bottom wall (46) and thereby allow the beverage produced in the chamber (12) to flow out of the capsule (1).

14. A water dispensing wall (10) for connection to a cup-shaped capsule body (2) of a capsule (1) to define a chamber (12) within a cavity (4) positioned in the cup-shaped capsule body (2), the chamber (12) for containing a substance for producing a beverage by injecting a fluid, wherein the water distribution wall (10) comprises a perforated wall section (35) configured to interrupt the jet of injected fluid to reduce the velocity of the fluid injected into the cavity (4) and to distribute the fluid over and preferably across the chamber (12) at a reduced velocity, The water distribution wall (10) has a single-layer or multi-layer structure, and the single-layer or multi-layer structure includes at least one wall barrier layer (32), and the wall barrier layer (32) is configured to provide a moisture and / or gas barrier function.

15. A method (101) for manufacturing a capsule (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising: (102) providing a cup-shaped capsule body (2), a top wall, a bottom wall (14) and a water distribution wall (10), (104) connecting the bottom wall (14) to the cup-shaped capsule body (2), preferably by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing, to close the bottom opening (8), (106) placing a substance for producing a beverage in the cavity (4), (108) connecting the water dispensing wall (10) to the cup-shaped capsule body (2), preferably by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing to define, together with the cup-shaped capsule body (2) and the bottom wall (14), a chamber (12) for containing the substance, and preferably connecting the top wall to the body (2), preferably by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing, to close the top opening (6), The water distribution wall (10) and / or the bottom wall (14) are connected to the body (2) such that the lining barrier layer (22) and the wall barrier layer (32) are bonded along the periphery of the body (2).

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