Beverage extraction system

Abstract

The invention relates to a system comprising a capsule and an extraction device of a beverage preparation machine, in which-the capsule comprises a capsule body forming a chamber and a delivery wall, and-the extraction device comprises an upstream capsule encapsulation part and a downstream capsule encapsulation part, the invention relates to a capsule extractor comprising a downstream part which can be moved relative to one another between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting a capsule and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber for encapsulating the capsule during extraction, the downstream part comprising an extraction plate with engagement means in the form of a pyramidal element for opening a delivery wall of the capsule, wherein the delivery wall of the capsule is made of a biodegradable material and comprises, in a layered manner, at least a carrier layer adapted to be opened under an elevated pressure of a fluid injected into the capsule and an adhesive layer provided on a side of the carrier layer oriented towards the chamber for joining the delivery wall and the capsule body, and wherein the pyramidal element of the downstream part and the delivery wall of the capsule are designed such that-in a first step, the delivery wall interacts with the pyramidal element and presents an imprint of the pyramidal element on the surface of the delivery wall facing the pyramidal element without visible piercing of the delivery wall; -in a second step, the permeable opening appears in the structure of the delivery wall through a cavity in the structure of one or more of the layers of the delivery wall when the fluid injected into the capsule is in contact with the surface of the delivery wall facing the chamber of the capsule; and-during a third step, the formed beverage is discharged from the capsule and contacts the extraction plate. Preferably, the capsule of the system of the invention is compostable and is made of a cellulose-based material, preferably a molded cellulose-based material. The invention also relates to the use of a capsule in the system of the invention.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of preparing beverages using a system comprising a single-cup container containing beverage ingredients and a machine having an extraction chamber into which the container can be inserted and into which extraction is performed. Background Art

[0002] Systems for preparing beverages include beverage preparation machines and capsules. Capsules comprise a single serving of beverage, such as ground coffee or tea, forming a precursor material. The beverage preparation machine is arranged to typically perform the beverage preparation process on the capsules by exposing pressurized, heated water to the precursor material. As part of this preparation process, the capsules are guided through the machine via a series of complex interactions—loading, processing, and discharging—through various mechanisms of the machine and primarily the flange portion of the capsule. This processing of the capsules results in at least partial extraction of the precursor material from the capsules as the beverage.

[0003] Single-cup containers for this type of automated beverage preparation encompass a variety of container forms, which can be relatively soft or flexible (such as capsules or pouches) and made of any material that is recyclable or non-recyclable, biodegradable or non-biodegradable, such as aluminum, plastic, or filter paper.

[0004] Compared to conventional beverage preparation machines (e.g., compared to manually operated moka pots / toaster espresso machines), this configuration of beverage preparation machines is becoming increasingly popular due to its enhanced user convenience. In this context, Nespresso... ® The system has become very popular.

[0005] Such a system (called Nespresso) ® The original system and related capsules are disclosed in one or more of EP0512468A1, EP0512470A1, EP1646305A1 or EP1165398A1. Details of the construction, manufacture and / or (beverage) extraction of such aluminum capsules and / or closure components are also disclosed in these references.

[0006] Specifically, EP0512468A1 discloses a capsule, preferably an aluminum capsule, for use in such systems. The capsule is designed to be inserted into an extraction device, in which it can be punctured and fluid injected. Then, under the pressure of the fluid entering the capsule, the capsule opens against a support portion of a device including protruding elements.

[0007] Additionally, EP0512470A1 discloses a method for extracting a capsule under pressure from a fluid passing through a coffee bed contained within the capsule; the capsule includes a membrane that is held under pressure and is torn upon contact with a protruding element of an engagement member of the device to allow the liquid extract to flow into the cup.

[0008] More specifically, during the extraction process, water is supplied to the capsule through the open bottom wall, which increases the pressure inside the capsule, and the capsule holder of the beverage machine, including the opening member, is designed to open the cap by relative engagement with the cap under the pressure increase of the injected liquid in the capsule body chamber and the expansion of the cap against the piercing arrangement structure of the opening member.

[0009] Because the capsules undergo complex movement within the machine and are exposed to pressurized, heated water, rigid materials such as aluminum or plastic must be used. To date, only aluminum-based capsules with high reliability have been achieved. In fact, other materials have been found to easily adhere to the machine or cause other material-related errors. It is desirable to achieve capsules with fewer material limitations.

[0010] In order to propose an alternative to aluminum capsules, it is currently proposed to use capsules made of biodegradable and / or compostable materials, particularly those made primarily of cellulose (such as molded cellulose pulp or paper).

[0011] These new materials present specific challenges during capsule handling in beverage preparation and extraction devices. In particular, opening the capsules and optimizing the extraction of roasted and ground coffee can be a challenge.

[0012] Therefore, despite the efforts already made in the development of such compostable capsules, further improvements are still needed, and the purpose of this invention is to address the aforementioned existing problems. Summary of the Invention

[0013] As used herein, the terms "machine" or "apparatus" may refer to an electrically operated device or machine that can prepare beverages and / or food from precursor materials or ingredients, or prepare precursor materials from pre-precursor materials that can subsequently be prepared into beverages and / or food. The machine can perform the preparation through one or more of the following processes: dilution; heating; pressurization; cooling; mixing; agitation; dissolving; soaking; macerating; extraction; conditioning; brewing; grinding; and other similar processes. The dimensions of the machine may be set for use on a workbench; for example, the length, width, and height of the machine may be less than 70 cm. As used herein, the term "preparation" with respect to beverages and / or food may refer to the preparation of at least a portion of a beverage and / or food (e.g., the beverage is entirely or partially prepared by the machine, or additional fluids, including milk and / or water, may be manually added to the beverage by the end user before consumption). As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the beverage extraction device is as described in, for example, one or more of EP0512468A1, EP0512470A1, EP1654966A1 or EP2142054A1, and as discussed above regarding Nespresso. ® Original Line Extraction Machine.

[0014] Nespresso ® The Original Line system is further disclosed in detail, for example, in WO2005 / 004683A1, EP1816935A1 or EP2098144A1, in combination with its brewing unit, puncture element, brewing chamber (capsule holder) and capsule opening element and process.

[0015] As used herein, the terms “container,” “capsule,” or “canister” can refer to any configuration that contains precursor material (e.g., as a single, pre-quantified portion). A container may have a maximum capacity such that it can hold only a single portion of precursor material. A container may be single-use, for example, physically modified after a preparation process that may include one or more of the following: perforation to supply a fluid, such as a liquid like water, to the precursor material; perforation to supply a beverage / food from the container; or opening by a user to extract the precursor material. A container may be configured to operate with a container handling unit of a machine; for example, the container may include flanges for aligning and guiding the container through said unit or arranged on said unit. A container may include a rupture portion arranged to rupture upon exposure to a specific pressure to deliver a beverage / food. A container may have a membrane for closing the container. A container may have various forms, including one or more of the following: truncated conical; cylindrical; disc-shaped; hemispherical; and other similar forms. The container can be formed from various materials, such as metal or plastic or combinations thereof with wood pulp. Preferably, the container is a compostable capsule, preferably made of cellulose, and preferably formed as a cellulose or wood pulp molded capsule. The material can be selected such that it is: food-safe; and can withstand the pressure and / or temperature of the preparation process. The container can be defined as a capsule, wherein the capsule can have an internal volume of 20 ml to 100 ml. The capsule includes coffee capsules, for example, Nespresso. ® Capsules (including Classic / Original Line, Professional or other capsules).

[0016] As used herein, the term "system" or "beverage or food preparation system" may refer to any combination of two or more of the following: beverage or food preparation machinery; containers; server systems; and peripheral devices.

[0017] As used herein, the term "beverage" can refer to any substance that can be processed into a form suitable for drinking, which may be iced or hot. A beverage can be one or more of the following: solid; liquid; gel; paste. A beverage may include one or a combination of the following: tea; coffee; hot chocolate; milk; liqueur; vitamin composition; herbal tea / infusion; brewed water / flavored water; and other substances. As used herein, the term "food" can refer to any substance that can be processed into a nutritious substance for consumption, which may be iced or hot. Food can be one or more of the following: solid; liquid; gel; paste. Food may include yogurt; mousse; parfait; soup; ice cream; sorbet; custard; smoothie; and other substances. It should be understood that there is some overlap between the definitions of beverage and food; for example, a beverage can also be a food, and therefore the machine described for preparing a beverage or food does not preclude the preparation of both. Preferably, the beverage is coffee, including roasted and ground coffee.

[0018] As used herein, the term "injection pressure" can be defined as the maximum pressure measured at the injection point in the capsule during extraction, expressed in bar.

[0019] As used herein, the terms "precursor material" or "ingredient" can refer to any material that can be processed to form part or all of a beverage or food. Precursor materials can be one or more of the following: powder; crystal; liquid; gel; solid; and others. Examples of beverages that form precursor materials include: ground coffee; milk powder; tea leaves; cocoa powder; vitamin compositions; herbs, such as those used to form herbal / infused teas; flavorings; and other similar materials. Examples of foods that form precursor materials include dried vegetables or broths as anhydrous soup powders; powdered milk; flour-based powders, including custard; powdered yogurt or ice cream; and other similar materials. Precursor material can also refer to any pre-precursor material that can be processed into a precursor material as defined above, i.e., any precursor material that can be subsequently processed into a beverage and / or food. In examples, pre-precursor materials include coffee beans that can be ground and / or heated (e.g., roasted) into precursor materials. Preferably, in the disclosed extraction process, the precursor material is roasted and ground coffee.

[0020] As used herein, the term "fluid" (as opposed to fluid supplied by a fluid conditioning system) may include one or more of the following: liquids, such as water; milk; others.

[0021] As used herein, the term "compostable material" can be understood as any material that can be broken down into environmentally harmless products by biological processes (such as those of microorganisms, e.g., bacteria, fungi, or algae). This process can be carried out in an environment with or without oxygen (aerobic). This can be understood, for example, to mean that composting can be carried out without any residue. In particular, at the end of the composting process, there are no material residues that could cause environmental problems, or any non-biodegradable components. International standards (e.g., EU 13432 or US ASTM D6400) specify the technical requirements and procedures for determining the compostability of materials.

[0022] As used herein, the term "wood pulp-based" can refer to a material or part of a material forming a container, which is one or more of the following: porous; fibrous; cellulose; formed of cellulose material; formed of natural cellulose material; formed of reconstituted or regenerated cellulose material; nonwoven; consisting entirely of wood pulp or a composition of wood pulp, and formed by wet processing. The thickness of the wood-based material can be from 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm, or about 0.5 mm. The wood-type material can be from 200 gsm to 400 gsm.

[0023] As used herein, the term "nonwoven" can refer to nonwoven or knitted woven fabrics. Nonwoven materials can be made of fibers bonded together. As used herein, the term "porous" can refer to a material constructed with pores to allow water (or other liquids) to pass through. As used herein, the term "fibrous" can refer to a material composed of fibers that may be present in one or more material compositions. As used herein, the term "cellulose" or "cellulose material" can refer to conventional wood and / or non-wood materials, such as Manila hemp, sisal, jute, bleached and unbleached softwood and hardwood species. Cellulose materials can include regenerated or reconstituted cellulose. As used herein, the term "natural cellulose material" can refer to conventional wood materials that are not regenerated. As used herein, the term "reconstituted or regenerated cellulose material" can refer to natural cellulose materials that have undergone treatment (including reconstituted or regenerated), examples of which include rayon and lyocell fibers. As used herein, the term "wood pulp" can refer to lignocellulosic cellulose fibrous materials, which can be prepared by mechanically or chemically separating cellulose fibers from one or more of wood, fiber crops, paper, or rags. As used herein, the term "wet forming" can refer to the process of forming from an aqueous solution of fibers. The aqueous solution of fibers can be heated and pressed in a mold to shape the material and remove water from it.

[0024] The capsules used in the system of this invention have the same properties as Nespresso. ®The capsule shares the same design as the Original Line capsule and is made entirely of compostable material (capsule body and delivery wall), preferably of cellulose-based material, and more preferably of pulp-molded cellulose-based material. The capsule is in the form of a truncated conical cup and has, for example, a diameter of 2-5 cm and an axial length of 2-4 cm.

[0025] In variant embodiments not shown: the capsule may have other cross-sectional shapes, including square, other polygonal, or elliptical; the closure member may be rigid or other non-membrane in form; a flange may be connected to the upper surface of the closure member, for example, by curling; sidewalls may be arranged alternatively, including having an inverted tapered shape or aligned with the depth direction, or being curved; the base may be arranged alternatively, including being flat or curved; the flange portion may be connected to the storage portion rather than being integrally formed; the closure member may be arranged as the storage portion, for example, which includes a chamber; and the flange portion may be omitted, for example, the closure member may be directly connected to the storage portion.

[0026] A system is provided comprising a beverage preparation machine and a capsule containing beverage ingredients, preferably roasted and ground coffee as described in claim 1.

[0027] Specifically, the system includes a beverage preparation machine and capsules containing beverage ingredients, preferably roasted and ground coffee.

[0028] The capsules include

[0029] - A capsule body with a three-dimensional shape, the capsule body including sidewalls defining a chamber for containing beverage ingredients, and edge portions defining openings in the sidewalls.

[0030] - An injection wall, used to inject fluid into a chamber to prepare a beverage as the fluid interacts with beverage ingredients, and

[0031] - A delivery wall, connected to the capsule body to close the chamber, the delivery wall being made of a biodegradable material and comprising, in a layered manner, at least:

[0032] ○ Carrier layer, which is adapted to open under the increased pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule, and

[0033] An adhesive layer, disposed on the chamber-oriented side of the carrier layer, is used to preferably join or bond the delivery wall to the edge portion of the capsule body by sealing, more preferably by heat sealing.

[0034] and

[0035] The beverage preparation machine includes an extraction device for extracting beverages from capsules, and the extraction device includes:

[0036] - An upstream capsule encapsulation component and a downstream capsule encapsulation component, which are movable relative to each other between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting capsules and a closed position for forming an encapsulated capsule during extraction.

[0037] -This upstream component carries:

[0038] ○ Upstream puncture arrangement structure, which is used to open the injection wall of the capsule, and

[0039] ○ Fluid injector,

[0040] - The downstream component includes an extraction plate that engages with the capsule, the extraction plate comprising a pyramidal element facing the delivery wall of the capsule during use.

[0041] and

[0042] During beverage preparation, the extraction device is configured as follows:

[0043] - In the first step, a capsule is encapsulated between the upstream component encapsulation component and the downstream component encapsulation component, and then...

[0044] - In the second step, fluid is introduced into the capsule using a fluid injector.

[0045] In the proposed invention, the downstream component of the capsule and the pyramidal element of the delivery wall are designed such that...

[0046] - In the first step, the delivery wall interacts with the pyramidal element, and the surface of the delivery wall facing the pyramidal element bears the imprint of the pyramidal element without any visible piercing of the delivery wall.

[0047] - In the second step, when the fluid injected into the capsule comes into contact with the surface of the delivery wall facing the capsule, a permeable opening appears in the structure of the delivery wall through a cavity in one or more layers of the delivery wall, and

[0048] - During the third step, the resulting beverage is expelled from the capsule and comes into contact with the extraction plate.

[0049] More specifically, the proposed system includes a beverage preparation machine and a capsule containing beverage ingredients, preferably roasted and ground coffee. However, other ingredients may be considered, such as or ultimately tea leaves, instant coffee, instant tea, chocolate, cocoa, milk powder, or dehydrated soup. In a preferred embodiment, the beverage ingredient is roasted and ground coffee.

[0050] The extraction device is configured to extract beverage ingredients contained in a capsule by supplying an extraction liquid, such as water, into the capsule. The device includes an upstream capsule encapsulation component and a downstream capsule encapsulation component, which are movable relative to each other between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting such a capsule and a closed position for forming an encapsulated capsule during beverage ingredient extraction.

[0051] Typically, the capsule is inserted into the device from above under the influence of gravity. The ejection or removal of the capsule when the encapsulation is reopened can also be driven by gravity.

[0052] The upstream and downstream capsule encapsulation components are movable relative to each other between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting the capsule and a closed position for forming the encapsulated capsule during extraction. In one embodiment, the upstream and downstream capsule encapsulation components are also translatable relative to each other along a longitudinal axis.

[0053] The upstream component includes an upstream puncture arrangement in the form of one or more puncturers (e.g., needles or blades) for puncturing the injection wall of the inserted capsule and at least one liquid injector for supplying liquid through the punctured injection wall of the capsule.

[0054] The upstream puncture arrangement may include puncturers in the form of blades. These blades are designed and positioned to puncture the injection wall of the capsule body when the upstream and downstream capsule encapsulation components are in the closed position. Fluid injectors, such as sprayers located on the upstream component of the holder, may introduce extraction fluid through the pre-punctured opening. The extraction fluid is preferably water.

[0055] In an alternative embodiment, the upstream puncture arrangement may include at least one hollow needle configured to puncture the injection wall of the capsule body, and the hollow needle may include an internal axial channel for guiding extractive fluid within the chamber of the capsule.

[0056] A downstream component or dispensing component defines a downstream extraction plate having an arrangement of engaging members for opening the delivery wall of the capsule when the extractant fluid is introduced into the capsule. Typically, the extraction plate is designed to open the delivery wall by relative engagement with the delivery wall under the pressure increase of the injected fluid in the capsule chamber and the expansion of the delivery wall against the piercing arrangement. The extraction plate comprises a plate, preferably rigid, and includes engaging elements (such as multiple protrusions) and recessed elements (such as nails), which may have a conical or pyramidal shape on their surfaces facing the second wall. In the present case, the engaging elements of the extraction plate include pyramidal elements. Furthermore, the plate includes perforations for draining beverage dispensed from the delivery wall into a tube or nozzle for collecting and dispensing the beverage into a drinking cup.

[0057] Typically, the shapes of the upstream component and the encapsulation component of the extraction device are defined according to the shape of the capsule configured to be extracted therefrom.

[0058] The capsule presented herein is made of compostable material. It comprises a capsule body in the shape of a three-dimensional truncated cone, the capsule body having sidewalls defining a chamber for containing beverage ingredients, and an edge portion defining an opening in the sidewalls.

[0059] The capsule body is closed on one side by an injection wall for injecting fluid into the chamber to prepare the beverage as the fluid interacts with the beverage ingredients, and on the other side by a delivery wall.

[0060] In the proposed solution, the injection wall is integrated with the cup body, and the delivery wall is applied to the edge portion of the cup body to close the capsule chamber once the beverage ingredients have been filled into the capsule.

[0061] In the proposed implementation, the delivery wall of the capsule is also made of a biodegradable material and has a layered structure comprising at least a carrier layer and an adhesive layer.

[0062] The carrier layer is made of a material suitable for opening under the increased pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule.

[0063] An adhesive layer is disposed on the chamber-oriented side of the carrier layer to bond the delivery wall to the edge portion of the capsule body, thereby closing the opening of the capsule body.

[0064] Preferably, the delivery wall is sealed, and more preferably heat-sealed. However, other methods of bonding the delivery wall to the edge of the capsule body may be proposed, such as by gluing.

[0065] Then, the complete capsule is in the form of a closed container, which is in the form of a cup containing the beverage ingredients in its internal chamber, which allows for more direct recycling of the organic materials inside the capsule as well as the capsule material itself.

[0066] The term "biodegradable material" can be understood as any material that can be broken down into environmentally harmless products by biological processes (such as microorganisms, like bacteria, fungi, or algae). This process can be carried out in an environment with or without oxygen (aerobic). This can be understood, for example, to mean that composting can be carried out without any residue. Specifically, at the end of the composting process, there are no residues of materials that could cause environmental problems, or any non-biodegradable components.

[0067] International standards (e.g., EU 13432 or US ASTM D6400) specify the technical requirements and procedures for determining the compostability of materials. Biodegradability can be tested according to standards such as ISO 14855, ISO 17556, or ISO 14851. For example, to be considered "industrially compostable," one test requires that at least 90% of the material be biodegraded within 6 months under controlled conditions. Similar tests exist for achieving home compost certification.

[0068] Preferably, and as part of the above disclosure, the extraction device is configured such that when the capsule encapsulation components move relative to each other to encapsulate the capsule in the extraction chamber, at least a portion of the extraction device pushes the capsule so that the delivery wall of the capsule faces the extraction plate of the downstream encapsulation component.

[0069] Preferably, in the extraction device:

[0070] - The upstream component defines a retainer, which is designed to encapsulate the capsule body and support the upstream puncture arrangement for opening the bottom wall of the capsule, and

[0071] - The downstream component defines a capsule retainer positioned transversely to the closing direction of the extraction device, the capsule retainer including an extraction plate that interacts with the delivery wall of the capsule during beverage extraction.

[0072] Therefore, when a capsule is present in the extraction device, the capsule body is surrounded by the retainer of the upstream component, and the delivery wall extends along the downstream extraction plate, which includes the engagement element. The asymmetrical shape of the capsule has the advantage of forcing the operator to correctly position the capsule inside the extraction device, precisely positioning the delivery wall in front of the downstream extraction plate and the engagement element.

[0073] Generally, the extraction device may include an insertion section for inserting a capsule into the device. Typically, this section is positioned above an upstream capsule encapsulation component and a downstream capsule encapsulation component, such that the capsule is inserted between these two components by gravity. Depending on the shape of the capsule, the insertion section may be designed to prompt the user to position the capsule so that its delivery wall faces the engagement element of the extraction plate.

[0074] Conventionally, the beverage machine includes a liquid supply system connected to an upstream encapsulation component. This liquid supply system may include:

[0075] - Liquid supply sources, such as liquid tanks,

[0076] - A pumping component for driving liquid from the liquid supply source to the extraction device.

[0077] - Heating and / or cooling components that adjust the temperature of the liquid before it is introduced into the capsule.

[0078] The liquid used is usually water.

[0079] The beverage machine typically includes a manual or electric actuator for moving the encapsulating component of the extraction device.

[0080] Typically, the beverage machine includes a control unit configured to control the supply of liquid to the extraction device and optionally control the movement of the encapsulation component of the extraction device.

[0081] Typically, this system is configured to extract a coffee beverage from capsules containing roasted and ground coffee. In this process of preparing a coffee beverage from this system, at least the following steps occur:

[0082] - In the preparatory step, a capsule is inserted between the upstream and downstream capsule sealing components, positioned in their open positions. This operation can be performed manually by the user or automatically by the motor of the beverage machine. Typically, the capsule is received in a capsule holder that holds the capsule between the two capsule sealing components, which are held apart from each other in their open positions.

[0083] Then, in the first step, the upstream and / or downstream capsule encapsulation components move relative to each other to their closed positions to form an extraction chamber for the encapsulated capsule, ready for extraction. At this step, the outer surfaces of the capsule's injection and delivery walls contact or approach the surfaces of the upstream piercing arrangement and the extraction plate of the downstream component. Typically, the upstream piercing arrangement (such as a blade or hollow needle) pierces the capsule's injection wall, unless the upstream piercing arrangement is retractable and movable in a subsequent step.

[0084] Then, in the second step, extractable water is injected by a liquid injector through holes pierced inside the injection wall of the capsule by the upstream piercing arrangement structure. As water is injected, it fills the capsule chamber. The pressure increases until the delivery wall of the capsule opens.

[0085] As previously demonstrated, the opening of the capsule and the delivery of the extracted beverage occur in a three-step process:

[0086] - In the first step, the delivery wall interacts with the pyramidal element. The delivery wall imprints the pyramidal element on its surface facing the pyramidal element without any visible piercing of the delivery wall.

[0087] - In the second step, when the fluid injected into the capsule comes into contact with the surface of the delivery wall facing the capsule, a permeable opening appears in the structure of the delivery wall through a cavity in one or more layers of the delivery wall, and

[0088] - During the third step, the resulting beverage is expelled from the capsule and comes into contact with the extraction plate.

[0089] Surprisingly, using the proposed compostable capsule and the demonstrated compostable delivery wall, the interaction between the delivery wall and the pyramidal element (due to the pressure increase inside the capsule after fluid injection) does not cause the delivery wall to tear or rupture by directly dispensing the extracted beverage. In fact, even when the delivery wall expands due to the pressure increase and engages with the pyramidal element, exhibiting the imprint and shape of the engagement element of the extraction plate, there is no visible puncture or rupture in the delivery wall.

[0090] When the pressured fluid fills the chamber of the capsule and the pressure inside the capsule increases, the side of the delivery wall facing the chamber comes into contact with the fluid, and a permeable opening appears in the structure of the delivery wall.

[0091] The combination of the layers of the delivery wall being stretched against the pyramidal element and the formation of permeable cavities in some layers of the delivery wall allows the capsule to open gradually, and in the third step, the extracted beverage is expelled from the capsule. After the extracted beverage has been expelled through the delivery wall, its contact participates in the formation of the extraction plate of the crema.

[0092] Specifically, in the system of the present invention, the pyramidal element of the extraction plate and the delivery wall of the capsule are designed such that during the first step, after the pressure inside the capsule reaches at least 6 bar, preferably at least 8 bar, the relative engagement of the pyramidal element and the delivery wall under the pressure increase of the fluid injected into the capsule and the expansion of the delivery wall against the pyramidal element will not puncture or tear the delivery wall.

[0093] Preferably, the delivery wall of the capsule begins to open according to the process disclosed above after the pressure inside the capsule reaches at least 8 bar.

[0094] The carrier layer is made of compostable materials and / or materials having a defined, preferably closed, fibrous structure, such as at least 50% by weight of soft pulp, cellulose fibers, paper or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and copolymers, polybutylene succinate (PBS / PBS-A), biopolyester, cellulose acetate, starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), wherein at least one monomer unit is a polymer of vinyl alcohol, or a fibrous structure of a composite and / or laminate of the above materials.

[0095] Preferably, the carrier layer is made of paper-based material and has a basis weight between 20 g / m2 and 150 g / m2, and more preferably between 30 g / m2 and 100 g / m2.

[0096] The properties of the carrier layer can be adjusted as needed. For example, the tensile strength of the carrier layer can be increased by increasing the basis weight of its material.

[0097] According to the use of the capsule in a beverage preparation machine that can feed a certain amount of fluid into the capsule under pressure, the carrier layer (preferably the material of the carrier layer) is constructed such that it resists the accumulation pressure in the chamber between 1 bar and 20 bar, more preferably between 6 bar and 20 bar, and most preferably between 10 bar and 18 bar.

[0098] In addition to the above, the delivery wall may include additional layers besides the carrier layer and the adhesive layer. These additional layers may be inserted between the carrier layer and the adhesive layer as needed and according to their function.

[0099] The different layers are preferably made of different materials, which are preferably distinguished by at least one of their respective physical properties, such as tensile strength, ductility, elasticity, puncture resistance, density, porosity, and / or (if applicable) fiber structure and / or fiber orientation.

[0100] In particular and preferably, the delivery wall further includes a filter layer for filtering particles from the prepared beverage dispensed via the delivery wall, the filter layer being disposed opposite the carrier layer and the chamber.

[0101] The filter layer is made of compostable and / or nonwoven materials different from the carrier layer, such as wood pulp or sugarcane pulp, cellulose fibers, rayon fibers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and / or polylactic acid (PLA).

[0102] The filter layer has a weight between 10 g / m² and 150 g / m², preferably between 20 g / m² and 100 g / m². Having a filter layer with this weight allows for the effective filtration of any particles of the material (e.g., roasted and ground coffee) encapsulated in the capsule chamber.

[0103] In addition, the delivery wall includes a barrier layer for providing a preferred bidirectional barrier to moisture and / or gas, which is preferably made of a material different from the filter layer and / or carrier layer.

[0104] In the proposed delivery wall structure, a barrier layer is applied to the surface of the carrier layer facing the capsule body. The barrier layer (34) between the carrier layer and the adhesive layer is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as a biopolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), butene glycol-vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or a polymer or copolymer of monomer units in which at least one monomer unit is vinyl alcohol, as well as a composite or laminate of the above materials.

[0105] Utilizing the proposed delivery wall structure comprising a filter layer, a carrier layer, and a barrier layer made of previously proposed materials, the oxygen permeability (OTR) of the delivery wall, measured according to the ASTM D3985 / ISO 15105 method, is less than 35 cc / m² / day. This allows for an increase in capsule shelf life by reducing the oxidation of beverage ingredients filled within the capsule.

[0106] Further describing the proposed system in detail, the pyramidal element of the extraction plate is designed with a truncated pyramidal apex portion, which facilitates the delivery of the capsule wall:

[0107] - In the first step of beverage preparation, stretching is performed through a pyramidal element, preferably through the truncated pyramidal apex portion of the pyramidal element, and

[0108] - In the second step of beverage preparation, the cavity becomes permeable without any tearing effect.

[0109] Preferably, the cavity formed in the delivery wall of the capsule is located primarily near the top portion of the truncated pyramidal element. This location corresponds to the portion where the delivery wall is stretched to the maximum extent during its interaction with the pyramidal element.

[0110] Preferably, most of the permeable cavities have a size ranging from 0.0001 mm² to 0.0040 mm². These openings, visible in the adhesive layer of the delivery wall, are large enough to ensure that the extracted beverage is expelled from the capsule, allowing the beverage to be dispensed to the consumer.

[0111] The proposed delivery wall comprises a carrier layer, an adhesive layer, a filter layer, and a barrier layer.

[0112] However, it is also conceivable that the delivery wall may comprise multiple distinct layers, preferably made of different materials. This can lead to the advantageous effect that a combination of two or more constituent materials with different physical or chemical properties produces a structure with properties distinct from each of the individual components. Therefore, the interface between the capsule and the outside can be tailored to the technical requirements of the application. For example, by providing different tensile strengths to each layer, the pressure accumulated inside the capsule can be controlled and limited as needed. Thus, for example, the capsule can be designed to produce a beverage according to the specifications of its formulation. Furthermore, by providing two layers from materials with different fibrous configurations, material properties related to the interaction between the delivery wall and the prepared beverage can be tailored for individual applications, such as defining the filtering capacity of the delivery wall. Moreover, differences in the orientation of the individual layers of the delivery wall can result in different stresses within the layers, which can be considered by selecting different materials for the aforementioned configuration. For example, the material of one layer may rupture under lower pressure than the material of another layer, but the structure can be held together by the combined resistance of each material, which can support each other under pressure.

[0113] One or more of the different layers of the delivery wall, namely the carrier layer, filter layer, adhesive layer, and barrier layer, are laminated with other layers of the delivery wall. Due to the lamination of one or more of the aforementioned layers, a blank foil that is cut or stamped to form the delivery wall can be produced. Depending on the size of the blank, several delivery walls can be formed from the same blank.

[0114] Additional layers can complete the delivery wall structure, such as adhesive layers for specific bonding of carrier layers and filter layers, and / or protective layers applied between barrier layers and adhesive layers to protect the barrier layers and improve their efficiency.

[0115] The present invention also relates to the use of capsules in a beverage preparation machine according to the system of the present invention.

[0116] In the application described, the capsule comprises: a capsule body having a three-dimensional shape defining a chamber for containing beverage ingredients, an injection wall, and a delivery wall connected to the capsule body and closing the chamber, wherein the delivery wall comprises at least a carrier layer and an adhesive layer in a layered manner, the carrier layer being adapted to open under the action of increased pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule, and the adhesive layer being disposed on the side of the carrier layer facing the chamber orientation for attaching the delivery wall (30) to the capsule body.

[0117] The delivery wall of the capsule is designed such that when the upstream and downstream capsule encapsulation components of the beverage preparation machine encapsulate the capsule and fluid is injected into the capsule, the extraction plate of the downstream encapsulation component interacts with the delivery wall without visibly piercing the delivery wall, and when the chamber-facing surface of the delivery wall comes into contact with the fluid injected into the capsule, a permeable opening appears in the structure of the delivery wall, thereby discharging the beverage to the outside of the capsule.

[0118] The foregoing aspects of the invention can be combined in any suitable manner. Furthermore, various features herein can be combined with one or more of the foregoing aspects to provide combinations other than those specifically illustrated and described. Further objects and advantageous features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, detailed descriptions, and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0119] Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be further described by way of example with reference to the following accompanying drawings:

[0120] - Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a current existing coffee extraction system is shown, which enables the convenient preparation of coffee beverages by extracting capsules containing roasted and ground coffee from a beverage preparation machine.

[0121] - Figure 1B It shows Figure 1A A schematic diagram of the system, in which the beverage preparation machine is closed and capsules are being extracted within the beverage preparation machine.

[0122] - Figure 2 This demonstrates Nespresso according to existing technology. ® A graph showing the extraction curves of a series of (ristretto) aluminum capsules in the Inissia machine.

[0123] - Figure 3 It shows in Figure 1A and Figure 1B The image shows an enlarged view of the delivery wall of an aluminum capsule extracted from a beverage preparation machine, and also demonstrates the... Figure 2 Extraction curve.

[0124] - Figure 4 A schematic exploded view of the capsule used in the system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0125] - Figure 5 An enlarged schematic cross-section of a segment of the delivery wall of a capsule used in a system according to the proposed embodiment is shown.

[0126] - Figure 6AThis shows the view of the filter layer from the side before capsule extraction. Figure 5 A magnified view of the delivery wall of the capsule.

[0127] - Figure 6B This shows the view from the side of the adhesive layer before capsule extraction. Figure 5 A magnified view of the delivery wall of the capsule.

[0128] - Figure 7 The demonstration shown in Nespresso ® The graph shows the extraction curves of a series of pulp-molded compostable capsules extracted using the Inissia machine. These pulp-molded compostable capsules are similar to... Figure 4 The capsules, including Figure 5 The delivery wall.

[0129] - Figure 8 It shows in Figure 7 The extraction curve shows a magnified view of the delivery wall, viewed from the side of the filter layer, after extraction of one of the capsules.

[0130] - Figure 9 It shows in Figure 7 The curve shows a series of magnified views of the delivery wall at different proportions, taken from the side of the adhesive layer, illustrating two extraction times of one capsule within the capsule. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0131] Before describing several embodiments of the system, it should be understood that the system of the present invention, as well as the disclosed capsules and methods, are not limited to the details of the construction or process steps mentioned in the following detailed description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art, who will benefit from this disclosure, that the system of the present invention can be implemented in other embodiments and can be practiced or carried out in a variety of ways.

[0132] As used in this specification, the words “including,” “contains,” and similar terms should not be construed as having an exclusive or exhaustive meaning. In other words, these terms are intended to mean “including but not limited to.”

[0133] Any references to prior art documents in this specification should not be construed as an admission that such prior art is well-known or constitutes part of common general knowledge in the art.

[0134] This disclosure can be better understood from the following explanation:

[0135] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An exemplary Nespresso capsule for extracting the contents of a beverage (e.g., a coffee drink) is illustrated schematically. ®The extraction device 10 includes an extraction module 11 (also disclosed as an extraction chamber) for extracting coffee from a single capsule 2 at a time. The extraction module 11 includes receiving members in the form of a downstream encapsulation member (also referred to as a support base or collector 112) and an upstream encapsulation member (also referred to as an injection member 111 including a fluid injector 1111). The support base 112 and the injection member 111 define an internal volume for receiving the capsule 2 when both members are closed. An extraction plate 1120 is positioned in the support base 112, the extraction plate including an engagement member arranged to engage with the delivery wall 30 of the capsule 2 when fluid pressure is established inside the capsule, thereby further injecting water into the capsule 2 under pressure. The engagement member of the extraction plate 1120 may include protruding members, such as a series of protruding elements in the form of a pyramidal element 1122. Alternatively, a network of elongated ribs or needles may be provided on the surface of the extraction plate.

[0136] The coffee extract is filtered primarily through a very narrow gap created between the pyramidal elements 1122 and the edges of the membrane openings. The extraction plate 1120 includes a series of pores (not shown) to drain the extract and ultimately retain any solid coffee particles. The pores may be disposed through the plate in channels formed between the pyramidal elements 1122, or alternatively, through the protruding elements themselves.

[0137] The device also includes at least one fluid line 42 to which fluid can be supplied within the capsule 2 via a fluid injector 1111. The fluid injector 1111 may include one or more needles or blades forming one or more channels to allow water to enter the capsule. Fluid is supplied to the line under pressure by a pump 43. The pump may be an electromagnetic piston pump or any suitable water pumping mechanism, such as a diaphragm pump or a pressurized head system. A fluid reservoir 44 may be installed upstream of the pump 43 to enable a sufficient quantity of fluid to be supplied for delivery of fluid to extract more than one capsule. Preferably, the reservoir holds more than 750 ml of water to eliminate the inconvenience of repeatedly refilling the reservoir after several extraction cycles. A heating system 45 may be installed along the line between the fluid reservoir 44 and the extraction module 11 to heat the fluid to the desired temperature. The heater is configured to heat the water to an extraction temperature between 70°C and 100°C. It may be a heating block or an instant heating device, such as a ceramic capsule. The reservoir may also be a boiler, which can keep the fluid warm or hot. Control panels with switches often facilitate the automatic initiation of extraction cycles. Various controls, such as temperature sensors, timers, flow meters, pressure sensors, blades, probes, etc., can be added to control and monitor the extraction operation.

[0138] In this disclosure, the coffee capsule 2 has a body 20 in the form of a cup-shaped body and generally includes an infusion wall 22 and sidewalls 21 made of materials such as aluminum and / or plastic. The capsule also includes a membrane made of aluminum, also referred to as a delivery wall 30, which closes the capsule on the opposite side of the infusion wall 22.

[0139] When the extraction module 11 closes around the capsule 2 and the capsule is positioned within the module, such as Figure 1A As shown, the delivery wall 30 is positioned adjacent to or shortly away from the engagement member in the form of the pyramidal element 1122 of the extraction module 1120. The delivery wall 30 of capsule 2 does not open until a certain opening pressure is established within the capsule due to water entering the capsule. The delivery wall 30 and the engagement member are arranged so that no accidental opening occurs before extraction begins. Thus, when water enters the capsule pumped by the pump member 45, internal pressure builds up inside the capsule, causing the delivery wall 30 to deform and press against the pyramidal element 1122 of the extraction plate until it is punctured or torn. Capsule 2 begins to open at a specific opening pressure (Popening) typically of about 8 bar, but the pressure typically continues to increase due to the compaction of the coffee bed within the capsule and the pressure drop caused by the narrow opening of the membrane that tears or punctures the capsule, up to a maximum pressure (Pmax) typically between 10 and 15 bar. The pressure level then typically flattens out to the extraction pressure, also known as the equilibrium pressure (Peq), which is typically a few bar higher than the opening pressure, and then decreases when the pump is turned off. The total pressure loss is typically the sum of the pressure loss generated by the compacted coffee bed and the pressure loss generated by the combination of the small openings through the delivery wall 30 and the extraction plate 1120 of the extraction device.

[0140] Pumps have a fixed performance characteristic curve, which means that the pump delivers water at a certain flow rate while the downstream of the pump must overcome a certain pressure that depends on the characteristics of the capsule (particle size, membrane, etc.).

[0141] "Connecting element" refers to an element of the extraction plate (or capsule in a particular system) that functions to engage or press against the membrane to provide a pressure loss that delays the release of coffee from the capsule. The connecting element can take various forms that can engage with the delivery wall (membrane) to provide a pressure loss, such as a central needle or multiple needles, a plate with multiple protrusions (such as pyramidal elements and / or bumps), a filter plate, or other physical obstruction.

[0142] Figure 2Extraction pressure curves over time for a series of aluminum capsules 2 as described above are presented. It can be seen that even when following roughly similar curves, the extraction pressure curves exhibit some variability in the maximum pressure Pmax and equilibrium pressure Peq. Pmax can vary between 9 and 15 bar, and Peq at 20 seconds, similarly, can vary between 9 and 14 bar at 15 seconds. Capsule opening typically occurs between 3 and 5 seconds after water is injected into the capsule, and the opening pressure Popening ranges between 6 and 8 bar.

[0143] Figure 3 It shows that in such Figure 1A and Figure 1B The Nespresso shown ® The aluminum delivery wall 30 of the currently usable aluminum capsule 2 is extracted from the beverage preparation machine. It can be seen that the delivery wall 30 opens, and thus the capsule 2 opens, through material deformation of the delivery wall 30 and subsequent tearing of the pyramidal element 1122 of the extraction plate 1120 against the extraction chamber 11. The opening is visible to the naked eye and allows for a clear understanding of how the capsule works and how the coffee is extracted.

[0144] Figure 4 A schematic exploded view of a capsule made of a biodegradable, preferably compostable, material is shown, which will be used in the claimed system. Figure 5 A schematic cross-section shows a possible structure of the delivery wall of the capsule used in the system of the proposed invention.

[0145] Already combined Figure 1A The components of capsule 2 shown in the publicly available information will have the same reference numerals.

[0146] Figure 1A Capsule 2 and Figure 4 The main difference between capsules 2 and 3 is that... Figure 4 Capsule 2 is made of biodegradable, preferably compostable, material.

[0147] Figure 4 The compostable capsule 2 may have a composite structure and / or may be made of a composite material, which is preferably composed entirely of biodegradable and / or compostable materials.

[0148] Capsule 2 includes a capsule body 20 having a three-dimensional shape with sidewalls 21. The capsule body 20 can have any shape or form; for example, the capsule body can be in the form of a cup-shaped body. For example, the capsule body 20 can be adapted to insert the capsule 2 into a (known) beverage production machine (e.g., in conjunction with...). Figure 1A and Figure 1B The publicly available Nespresso ®The capsule body 20 is in the form of an extraction chamber (or module) 11 of a beverage production machine. The capsule body 20 may have a truncated, cup-shaped, or bowl-shaped form. The capsule body 20 may have a circular cross-section. Therefore, for example, it can absorb pressure-related forces applied to the capsule body 20.

[0149] The capsule body 20 includes a sidewall 21. The sidewall 210 defines a chamber 25 inside the capsule 2. The sidewall 21 may be configured such that it surrounds a continuous space inside the capsule body 20.

[0150] Chamber 25 is arranged to receive and store substance 50 for preparing beverages. Substance 50 can be any type of article (solid, liquid, at least partially soluble, and / or permeable) having a specific or defined chemical composition. Examples of substance 50 can be roasted and ground coffee, instant coffee, tea leaves, syrup concentrates, fruit extract concentrates, chocolate products, dehydrated edible substances, and / or combinations thereof. Therefore, examples of beverages that can be prepared can be coffee-based or chocolate-based beverages, or other similar types of food. However, the above examples of substance 500 and beverages are not to be considered an exhaustive list. Instead, various other examples are contemplated.

[0151] The capsule body 20 may have an opening 23 leading to the chamber 25. The opening 23 may be on at least one of the opposite ends of the capsule body 20. For example, substance 50 may be filled into the interior of the capsule 2 through the opening 23. Preferably, the edge portion 211 of the sidewall 210 may define the opening 23. The edge portion 211 may be in the form of a flange and extend from the sidewall 21, preferably away from the chamber 25. In operation, the capsule 2 may be placed on the edge portion 211 inside the capsule holder of a beverage production machine.

[0152] The sidewall 21 may be configured such that it forms a continuous covering surface of the capsule body 20. For example, the sidewall 21 may have an inner surface facing the chamber 25 and an outer surface facing away from the chamber 25.

[0153] A protective layer 26 (also referred to as a liner) may be provided on the capsule body 20 and / or sidewall 21, which serves to provide a preferably bidirectional barrier for the substance 50 to prevent the passage of moisture and / or oxygen. In FIG. 1, the protective layer 26 is exemplarily shown as a liner provided on the inner surface of the sidewall 21, which may extend to and over the edge portion 211. The protective layer 26 may additionally or alternatively be provided on the outer surface of the sidewall 21. Additionally or alternatively, the protective layer may be provided as a coating having similar barrier properties. The protective layer 26 may be made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as biopolymers or families of bioplastics, such as PHB and copolymers, PBS, PBS-A, PLA, PBAT, cellulose acetate, starch, PVOH, and may include any polymer or copolymer in which at least one monomer unit is vinyl alcohol (e.g., BVOH, butene glycol vinyl alcohol), and any composites or laminates of the aforementioned materials. Preferably, the protective layer 26 may be made of food-safe materials (FCS, FCM).

[0154] For example, the capsule body 20 may be made of (laminated) (wet / dry) molded pulp fibers. Preferably, the capsule body 20 may be made of biodegradable and / or compostable materials. The capsule body 20 may be made of food-safe materials (FCS, FCM). The capsule body 20 may include a layered and / or laminated structure. For example, the capsule body 20 may be relatively rigid or stiff, so as not to collapse during operation in a beverage production machine or during storage. Layered and / or laminated designs may provide additional rigidity and / or stiffness to the capsule body 20 compared to other designs. The molded pulp fibers may be composite materials having additional substrates (such as biodegradable resins) laminated on the capsule body 20. For example, the laminated structure of the capsule body 20 may be formed by providing a protective layer 26 thereon. However, it is also contemplated that, for example, in addition to the protective layer 26, the capsule body 20 may include, for example, additional laminated films or layers.

[0155] Alternatively, the capsule body 20 may be made of a paper-based material or a paper-based material having a laminate, specifically shaped as a defining chamber 25.

[0156] Capsule 2 includes an injection wall 22 for injecting fluid into chamber 25 to prepare a beverage as the fluid interacts with substance 50. This is in Figure 4 The example is illustrated below.

[0157] An injection wall 22 may be disposed on the end of the capsule body 20 opposite to the opening 23. The injection wall 22 may be integrally disposed with or separately from the capsule body 20. Therefore, the capsule body 20 and the injection wall 22 may be constructed as separate pieces or integrally formed as one piece. The injection wall 22 may form the tapered end portion of the capsule body 20. The injection wall 22 may be configured to be perforated by the blade of a coffee-making machine, such that the blade provides an opening for fluid injection. Preferably, the fluid may be a liquid or a liquid / gas mixture, such as water or milk. Like the capsule body 20, the injection wall 22 may also include the aforementioned protective layer 26. It is also contemplated that the injection wall 22 may include (small) openings through which the blade of the coffee-making machine can enter and pierce the protective layer 26. Similar to the capsule body 20, the injection wall 22 may include a layered and / or laminated structure and may be made of (laminated) molded pulp fibers and / or food-safe materials (FCS, FCM).

[0158] The capsule body 20 and the injection wall 22 can be configured such that the chamber 25 is preferably closed (sealed) from at least three sides, as shown in FIG6. The capsule body 20 and the injection wall 22 can be configured such that the injected fluid is uniformly dispersed in the chamber 25 along the sidewall 21.

[0159] exist Figure 4 Within the disclosure, capsule 2 includes a delivery wall 30 connected to capsule body 20 to close chamber 25.

[0160] Delivery wall 30 is arranged in a layered manner, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As exemplarily shown in the figure. There is no limit to the number of (different) layers that the delivery wall 30 may have.

[0161] The delivery wall 30 is flat. The term "flat" should be understood to mean that the delivery wall 30 extends substantially in a plane. In other words, the delivery wall 30 extends in a plane, but it can deform in a convex or concave plane depending on the relative pressure between the inside and outside of the capsule. Specifically, it is possible that the ingredients contained therein (e.g., roasted and ground coffee) will generate gases, such as carbon dioxide, during the capsule's storage period. In this case, overpressure can be created inside the capsule, causing the initially flat delivery wall to bulge outwards. It is also possible that atmospheric pressure changes around the capsule, for example, if the capsule is formed, filled, and sealed in a factory near sea level, and then transported at a higher altitude where atmospheric pressure is lower. In such a case, the initially flat delivery wall will deflect inwards into a concave shape.

[0162] like Figure 4 As shown, the delivery wall includes

[0163] • Carrier layer 32, which is adapted to open under the increased pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule, and

[0164] • An adhesive layer 33 is disposed on the side of the carrier layer 32 facing the chamber 25 for bonding the delivery wall 30 to the edge portion 211 of the capsule body 20.

[0165] Both carrier layer 32 and adhesive layer 33 are made of biodegradable materials, and are currently made of different materials.

[0166] The carrier layer 32 is made of a biodegradable material. Preferably, the carrier layer 32 may also be made of compostable materials and / or food-safe materials (FCS, FCM). Additionally or alternatively, the material of the carrier layer 320 may have a defined fibrous structure, such as a closed fibrous structure. For example, the material of the carrier layer 320 may have a fibrous structure in which at least 50% by weight corresponds to softwood pulp. Further examples of the material of the carrier layer 320 may be one or any combination of cellulose fibers, paper, biopolyesters, PHA, PHB and copolymers, PBS, PBS-A, PVOH and / or polymers in which at least one monomer unit is a vinyl alcohol.

[0167] In the present case, the carrier layer 32 may be paper or supercalendered paper, which has closed pores that allow pressure to be maintained inside the capsule during extraction.

[0168] The carrier layer 32 is adapted to open under increased pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule 2 during extraction in a beverage preparation machine. The carrier layer 32 may be a thin film, membrane, or sheet having a defined thickness and preferably a substantially planar surface.

[0169] The carrier layer 32 may be configured to be resilient to cumulative pressure in chamber 25, preferably between 1 bar and 20 bar, more preferably between 10 bar and 20 bar, and most preferably between 12 bar and 18 bar. Specifically, the material of the carrier layer 32 may be configured to be resilient to cumulative pressure within such a pressure range in chamber 25. The thickness and density of the material may affect the stiffness, i.e., the bending resistance, of the carrier layer 32. The carrier layer 32 may have a material thickness of 10 micrometers to 150 micrometers, preferably 30 micrometers to 70 micrometers. Alternatively or additionally, the carrier layer 32 may have a weight between 20 g / m² and 150 g / m², preferably between 40 g / m² and 100 g / m². Preferably, the carrier layer 32 may be attached to the capsule body 20 (edge ​​portion 211) by heat sealing or adhesive bonding.

[0170] As mentioned, the delivery wall 30 also includes an adhesive layer 33 for adhering the delivery wall 30 to the capsule body 20. As mentioned, as a one-piece element, the delivery wall 30 can be attached to the edge portion 211 of the capsule body 200 to close the chamber 25, thereby forming a closed capsule 2. This can be accomplished, for example, by heat sealing or adhesive bonding.

[0171] Therefore, in the proposed embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive layer 33 may be disposed between the carrier layer 32 of the delivery wall 30 and the capsule body 20, and the capsule body 200 and the delivery wall 300 may be attached (joined) to each other using the adhesive layer.

[0172] More precisely and as Figure 4 As shown, the adhesive layer 33 is disposed on the carrier layer 32.

[0173] Adhesive layer 33 may include one or more adhesive layers 33a, 33b... (e.g.) Figure 5 (as shown), and can be integrated into the delivery wall 300, especially if integrated into a laminated structure.

[0174] The total thickness of the adhesive layer 33, applied in one or more layers 33a, 30b, is between 1 micrometer and 30 micrometers, preferably between 10 micrometers and 15 micrometers. In the proposed embodiment, the thickness is about 10 micrometers to 13 micrometers.

[0175] The material forming the adhesive layer can be a biodegradable (and preferably compostable) material, such as plant-based starch or acrylic adhesive. In this embodiment, the adhesive layer 330 is a polymer made of acrylic adhesive.

[0176] From the above description, the adhesive layer 33 is therefore made of a different material than the carrier layer 32.

[0177] The material of the adhesive layer is preferably hydrophobic.

[0178] In addition, the selected material is non-water-soluble to avoid any interaction with or degradation by the moisture content of the beverage substance 50, which may be, for example, roasted and ground coffee.

[0179] As previously mentioned, the material is applied in one or more layers. The total amount of adhesive material applied to the periphery of the carrier layer ranges from 0.5 gsm to 20 gsm. This ensures that sufficient adhesive material is applied to the carrier layer 32 to effectively and tightly seal the delivery wall 30 to the edge portion 211 of the capsule body 20.

[0180] One or more adhesive layers can be applied as a coating, such as a water-based coating.

[0181] In addition to the carrier layer 32 and adhesive layer 33 already disclosed, the delivery wall 30 may also include any one of the filter layer 31, barrier layer 34, adhesive layer 36 and protective layer 35.

[0182] Figure 5 A second embodiment of the capsule delivery wall of the capsule of FIG6, which can be used in the system according to the invention, is shown in schematic cross-section.

[0183] Figure 5 The delivery wall 33 includes a filter layer 31, an adhesive layer 36, a carrier layer 32, a barrier layer 34, a protective layer 35, and an adhesive layer 33.

[0184] The main features of carrier layer 32 and adhesive layer 33 have been combined Figure 4 It was described, and when integrated into Figure 5 The same features and properties can be exhibited when the delivery wall 30 is in place.

[0185] Combination Figure 5 The filter layer 31 is positioned opposite the carrier layer 32 to the chamber 25. This specific order and orientation of the carrier and filter layers relative to the capsule body leads to numerous improvements. For example, a more consistent and reproducible pressure distribution can be observed during beverage preparation. Furthermore, this configuration results in better crema formation and extraction in the beverage, and a lower concentration of particulate matter and residues of substances such as roasted and ground coffee. The specific location of the filter also allows for a softer opening and prevents back-side cracking.

[0186] As can be seen from the above, the carrier layer can face the room, or it can be set closer to the room than the filter layer. For example, the expression "facing" can be understood as pointing to the corresponding reference object, rather than being directly set to the corresponding reference object.

[0187] The filter layer 31 is made of compostable and / or nonwoven materials, such as wood pulp or sugarcane pulp, cellulose fibers, rayon fibers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and / or polylactic acid (PLA).

[0188] The filter layer 31 has a total weight between 10 g / m2 and 150 g / m2, preferably between 20 g / m2 and 100 g / m2, which ensures effective filtration of any particles of the material (e.g., roasted and ground coffee) encapsulated in the capsule chamber.

[0189] Therefore, the properties of a filter layer can be defined by limiting the areal density of its material, i.e., the mass per unit area. For example, the tensile strength of a filter layer can be improved by increasing the basis weight of its material and / or by using a (non-woven) material comprising fibers of a defined length and / or with defined fiber bonds. Furthermore, by appropriately setting the material properties of the filter layer, the filtration capacity and / or porosity of the filter layer can be modified, for example, by reducing it to a smaller particle size. Thus, a filter layer can be customized for specific requirements.

[0190] The barrier layer 34 integrated in the proposed delivery wall structure is applied to the surface of the carrier layer facing the capsule body.

[0191] The barrier layer 34 is preferably made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as a biopolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), butene glycol-vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or any vinyl alcohol copolymer in which at least one of the monomer units is vinyl alcohol, as well as composites or laminates of the above materials.

[0192] Preferably, the barrier layer is made of a different material than the filter layer and / or the carrier layer. This allows for the benefit of the different material properties of both the filter layer and the carrier layer.

[0193] Therefore, using the proposed delivery wall structure comprising a filter layer, a carrier layer, and a barrier layer made of previously proposed materials, the oxygen permeability (OTR) of the delivery wall (300) measured according to the ASTM D3985 / ISO 15105 method is less than 35 cc / m2 / day.

[0194] Adding the aforementioned protective layer 35 further improves the characteristics of the delivery wall. The protective layer 35 extends on the surface of the barrier layer facing the capsule chamber and serves to protect the barrier layer. This ensures that the barrier layer is fully protected.

[0195] The protective layer is applied to one or more protective layers in a total amount between 0.1 gsm (g / m2) and 5 gsm (g / m2), preferably between 2 gsm (g / m2) and 3.5 gsm (g / m2), and the maximum total thickness is 5 micrometers.

[0196] The protective layer is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as plant-based starch or acrylic adhesive polymer.

[0197] Furthermore, the protective layer is preferably non-water-soluble to prevent degradation by the moisture content of the substances encapsulated within the chamber. The protective layer is preferably made of a different material than the filter layer and / or carrier layer to ensure proper separation of the physicochemical properties of the different layers.

[0198] As mentioned, and as Figure 5As shown, the adhesive layer 36 is inserted between the carrier layer 32 and the filter layer 31 to bond them together by adhesive bonding or heat sealing. Thus, the carrier layer 32 and the filter layer 31 are at least partially bonded to each other on their opposite sides, i.e., bonded to each other on their facing sides due to the adhesive layer 36.

[0199] The adhesive layer 36 is made of one or more adhesive layers and provides an adhesive bond between the carrier layer 32 and the filter layer 31 to ensure effective adhesion of the two layers.

[0200] The adhesive layer is also biodegradable, and preferably compostable, such as plant-based starch or acrylic adhesive, and contributes to the biodegradable properties of the entire capsule.

[0201] The bonding strength of the adhesive layer 36 can vary depending on the materials of the filter layer 31 and the carrier layer 32.

[0202] As in Figure 5 As can also be seen, adhesive layer 33 does not cover the entire surface of delivery wall 30. The adhesive layer has a limited radial extension (starting from the periphery of the delivery wall) and extends only around the periphery of the carrier layer. Adhesive layer 33 extends at least radially D around the periphery of carrier layer 32.

[0203] The radial distance D must be at least equal to, and preferably slightly greater than, the radial extension of the edge portion 211 on which the delivery wall 30 is sealed. Figure 4 In the proposed embodiment, the radial distance D of the extension of the adhesive layer is between 3 mm and 12 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 10 mm, so as to provide a proper seal on the periphery of the carrier layer at the edge portion 211.

[0204] In the proposed disclosure, the adhesive layer 33 clearly covers less than 50% of the surface of the carrier layer 32.

[0205] like Figure 5 As shown, one or more adhesive layers 33 are applied only to the periphery of the carrier layer 32, surrounding its entire periphery at a radial distance D of approximately 7 mm. This radial distance D can vary between 3 mm and 12 mm; however, it is preferably limited in extension to a value slightly greater than the radial extension of the edge portion. As illustrated, there is no adhesive layer at the center of the carrier layer to facilitate easier opening of the delivery wall 30 and interaction with the opening elements of the beverage production machine to improve control over extraction parameters.

[0206] The surface of the carrier layer 32 covered by the adhesive layer 33 can be confined to the periphery of the delivery wall, wherein a radial distance D extends from the peripheral edge of the carrier layer 320 of the delivery wall 30. However, other valuable configurations can be achieved.

[0207] In the proposed embodiment, the adhesive layer is a heat-sealing layer 33, which can be sealed to the edge portion 211 by applying localized heat. The sealing of the delivery wall 30 on the edge portion of the capsule 2 is performed around the entire periphery of the delivery wall.

[0208] As mentioned, preferably, each of the filter layer, the barrier layer, and the carrier layer is made of a different biodegradable and preferably compostable material, wherein preferably, the different materials are distinguished by at least one of their respective physical properties, such as tensile strength, ductility, elasticity, puncture resistance, density, porosity, and / or, if applicable, fiber structure and / or fiber orientation.

[0209] Figure 6A and Figure 6B Both images show the layered structure described, as observed from the side of the filter layer 31 and the side of the adhesive layer 33, respectively, before extraction of capsule 2. Figure 5 A magnified view of the delivery wall of the capsule. Magnification was obtained using an optical microscope (e.g., Keyence VHX-7000). The magnification scale is shown in the accompanying figure itself.

[0210] Figure 6A The delivery wall 30 on the side of the filter layer 31 is shown. It can be seen that the surface has a granular and rough appearance. This is due to the choice of material for the filter layer, which in this case is a cellulose-based filter.

[0211] Figure 6B The delivery wall 30 on the side of the adhesive layer 33 is shown. It can be seen that the surface has a smooth and glossy appearance. This is due to the material chosen for the adhesive layer, which in this case is an acrylic adhesive.

[0212] Neither layer has any visible holes or openings at the scale shown.

[0213] Figure 7 In Nespresso ® A series of pulp-molded compostable capsules extracted from the Inissia machine (such as...) Figure 4 The capsules, including Figure 5 Extraction curves (pressure over time) of the delivery wall were obtained. It can be seen that the extraction curves have very similar shapes and narrow curve extensions, indicating reduced variability. The extraction pressure curves during beverage preparation were observed to be more consistent with and reproducible for compostable capsules.

[0214] The maximum pressure Pmax can vary between 9 bar and 14 bar; however, the most common curves show Pmax varying between 10 bar and 12 bar.

[0215] The equilibrium pressure Peq values ​​at 15 seconds for different curves are also relatively narrow, ranging between 9 bar and 12 bar.

[0216] from Figure 7 In the extraction curve, the opening of the capsule is not like... Figure 2 As can be seen from the curve, it acts as... Figure 2 The pressure drop shown in the figure occurs (see Figure 2 Popening in (the context of Popening).

[0217] The proposed compostable capsules open more gradually and follow a different process than aluminum capsules. This will be combined with... Figure 8 and Figure 9 Describe the process.

[0218] Figure 8 It shows in Figure 7 The extraction curve shows an enlarged view of the delivery wall 30 as seen from the side of the filter layer 31 after extraction of one capsule at Peq (15 seconds). (The above is reproduced in the figure.)

[0219] This magnified image of filter layer 31 was obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), specifically Hitachi FlexSEM.

[0220] As can be seen, the fibers of filter layer 31 are uniformly stretched to allow liquid to flow through. After the delivery wall interacts with the pyramidal element, the gaps that appear between the filter fibers cause the filter layer to open, allowing the coffee beverage to drain out.

[0221] Figure 9 It shows in Figure 7 The curve shows a series of magnified views of the delivery wall 30 at different scales, depicting two extraction times of one capsule from the side of the adhesive layer 33.

[0222] From the extracted curve, the first magnification obtained at Pmax is presented and shown on the left side of the figure. This magnification is a SEM magnification (×50).

[0223] This image was taken at the start of extraction (here, between 5 and 6 seconds after extraction begins); the delivery wall has deformed against the pyramidal element 1122, thus taking on the shape of the truncated apex portion of the pyramidal element of the extraction plate 1120, further leading to water injection and increased pressure inside the capsule. It can be seen that even with the deformation of the delivery wall against the pyramidal element, there is no material tearing, cracking, or failure. Micropores corresponding to the permeable openings 37 can be seen in the adhesive layer 33.

[0224] Two images, taken using an optical microscope, are shown below the extraction curve at 20 seconds from the start of extraction, corresponding to the end of extraction when the equilibrium pressure (Peq) is reached (meaning when the coffee is being expelled / has been expelled from the capsule).

[0225] The first image shows the delivery wall 30 (viewed from the adhesive layer 33 side) already presented in the shape of pyramidal elements. The pattern of pyramidal elements on the extraction plate of the beverage preparation machine is particularly visible.

[0226] The second image directly on the right is a magnified view of the selected rectangular area of ​​the previously described image. Magnification / scale is shown in each image. In this image, similar to the previously described image, the delivery wall presents a pyramidal element shape without any visible material tearing, cracking, or failure. The pyramidal element pattern of the extraction plate is particularly visible and applied to the delivery wall 30.

[0227] Figure 9 The last two remaining images (set to the right of the extraction curve) are further magnified views of a selected area of ​​the previously described images and correspond to a deformation of the delivery wall on a single pyramidal element. These two images are formed at different locations on the deformed delivery wall 30, specifically on the apical portion of the pyramidal element. As can be seen in these two images, some pores (larger than those present on the delivery wall at Pmax) corresponding to the permeable openings 37 are distributed along certain lines in the adhesive material. The permeable openings 37 are primarily located near the apical portion of the truncated pyramidal element.

[0228] The pore size ranges from 100µm² to 4000µm² (0.0001mm² to 0.0040mm²). The size of these permeable openings 37 allows coffee beverages to be expelled from the capsule.

[0229] It should be emphasized that, similar to the previously disclosed images and figures, the holes forming the permeable opening 37 are not created by tearing or breaking any material.

[0230] Therefore, unlike what happens during the opening of aluminum capsules, the opening of the delivery wall visible from the adhesive layer side in the proposed compostable capsule is not achieved by tearing, breaking, or rupturing the delivery wall, but by a permeable opening formed by the interaction of the delivery wall with the pyramidal element and with the pressurized water inside the capsule to create a porous cavity.

[0231] Therefore, in the system of the present invention, the pyramidal element 1122 of the extraction plate is designed to have a truncated pyramidal apex portion, and the delivery wall 30 of the capsule:

[0232] - In the first step of beverage preparation, stretching is performed by the pyramidal element 1122, preferably by the truncated pyramidal apex portion of the pyramidal element, and

[0233] - In the second step of beverage preparation, the beverage becomes permeable by forming a cavity leading to the permeable opening 37 without any tearing effect.

[0234] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the currently preferred embodiments of the capsule described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as covered by the appended claims.

[0235] In the claims, any reference marks placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word “comprising” does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps besides those listed in the claims. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms “a” or “an” are defined as one (type) or more (types). Additionally, the use of introductory phrases such as “at least one” and “one or more” in the claims should not be construed as limiting any other claim element introduced by the indefinite article “a” or “an” to including only one such element, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an”. The same applies to the use of definite articles. Unless otherwise specified, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to arbitrarily distinguish the elements described by such terms. Therefore, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate the time or other priority of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are stated in mutually different claims does not imply that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0236] Unless otherwise expressly specified as incompatible, or if the physics or other aspects of the embodiments, examples, or claims prevent such combinations, the features of the foregoing embodiments and examples, as well as the features of the following claims, can be arranged and combined in any suitable manner, especially where doing so has beneficial effects. This is not limited to any particular beneficial effect, but may arise from "post-hoc" beneficial effects. That is, the combination of features is not limited by the stated form, and in particular not by the form (e.g., numbering) of one or more examples, one or more embodiments, or one or more dependent claims. Furthermore, this also applies to the phrases "in one embodiment," "according to one embodiment," etc., which are merely stylistic forms of wording and should not be construed as limiting the following features to a single embodiment, but rather to all other instances of the same or similar wording. That is, references to "a," "an," or "some" embodiments may refer to any one or more and / or all of the disclosed embodiments or combinations thereof. Similarly, references to "the" embodiment may not be limited to the preceding embodiment.

[0237] The foregoing description of one or more specific embodiments is provided for illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the foregoing teachings, or may be obtained from practice of various specific embodiments of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A system comprising a beverage preparation machine (1) and capsules (2) containing beverage ingredients (50), preferably roasted and ground coffee. The capsule (2) mentioned therein includes - A capsule body (20) having a three-dimensional shape, the capsule body including a sidewall (21) defining a chamber (25) for receiving the beverage ingredients (50), and an edge portion (211) defining an opening (23) in the sidewall (21). - Injection wall (22), the injection wall being used to inject fluid into the chamber to prepare the beverage as the fluid interacts with the beverage ingredients (50), and - Delivery wall (30), which is connected to the capsule body (20) to close the chamber (25), the delivery wall being made of a biodegradable material and comprising at least the following in a layered manner: ○ Carrier layer (32), said carrier layer being adapted to open under increased pressure from the fluid injected into said capsule (2), and An adhesive layer (33) disposed on the side of the carrier layer (32) facing the chamber (25) is used to join, preferably seal, and preferably heat-seal the delivery wall (30) to the edge portion (211) of the capsule body (20). and The beverage preparation machine (1) includes an extraction device (11) for extracting beverage from the capsule (2), and the extraction device includes: - An upstream capsule encapsulation component (111) and a downstream capsule encapsulation component (112), the upstream capsule encapsulation component and the downstream capsule encapsulation component being movable relative to each other between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting the capsule (2) and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber (12) encapsulating the capsule (2) during extraction. -The upstream component (111) carries: ○ Upstream puncture arrangement structure (1110), said upstream puncture arrangement structure is used to open the injection wall (22) of the capsule (2), and ○ Fluid injector (111). - The downstream component (112) includes an extraction plate (1120) that engages with the capsule (2), the extraction plate (1120) including a pyramidal element (1122) facing the delivery wall (30) of the capsule in use. and During beverage preparation, the extraction device is configured as follows: - In the first step, the capsule (2) is encapsulated between the upstream component encapsulation component (111) and the downstream component encapsulation component (112), and then - In the second step, fluid is introduced into the capsule (2) via the fluid injector (1111). The pyramidal element (1122) of the downstream component (112) and the delivery wall (300) of the capsule are designed such that... - In the first step, the delivery wall (30) interacts with the pyramidal element (1122), and the delivery wall imprints the pyramidal element on its surface facing the pyramidal element without any visible puncture. - In the second step, when the fluid injected into the capsule comes into contact with the surface of the delivery wall facing the capsule, a permeable opening (37) appears in the structure of the delivery wall (30) through a cavity in the structure of one or more layers of the delivery wall (300), and - During the third step, the formed beverage is discharged from the capsule (2) and comes into contact with the extraction plate (1120).

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the pyramidal element (1122) of the extraction plate (1120) and the delivery wall (30) of the capsule are designed such that during the first step, after the pressure inside the capsule reaches at least 6 bar, preferably at least 8 bar, the pyramidal element will not puncture or tear the delivery wall during the relative engagement of the pyramidal element and the delivery wall under the pressure increase of the fluid injected into the capsule and the expansion of the delivery wall against the pyramidal element (1122).

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the delivery wall (30) of the capsule begins to open after the pressure inside the capsule reaches at least 8 bar.

4. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier layer (32) is made of a compostable material and / or a defined, preferably closed, fibrous structure, such as at least 50% by weight corresponding to soft pulp, cellulose fiber, paper or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and copolymers, polybutylene succinate (PBS / PBS-A), biopolyester, cellulose acetate, starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), wherein at least one monomer unit is a polymer of vinyl alcohol, a fibrous structure of a composite and / or laminate of the above materials.

5. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carrier layer (32) is made of paper-based material and has a basis weight between 20 g / m2 and 150 g / m2, preferably between 30 g / m2 and 100 g / m2.

6. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delivery wall (30) further comprises a filter layer (31) for filtering particles from a prepared beverage dispensed via the delivery wall (30), the filter layer (31) being disposed opposite the chamber (25) to the carrier layer (32).

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the filter layer (31) is made of a compostable and / or nonwoven material different from the carrier layer (32), such as wood pulp or sugarcane pulp, cellulose fiber, rayon fiber, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and / or polylactic acid (PLA), and / or wherein the filter layer (31) has a basis weight between 10 g / m2 and 150 g / m2, preferably between 20 g / m2 and 100 g / m2.

8. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delivery wall further comprises a barrier layer (34) for providing preferred bidirectional barrier to moisture and / or gas, the barrier layer (34) preferably being made of a material different from the filter layer (31) and / or the carrier layer (32); the barrier layer (34) being applied between the carrier layer (32) and the adhesive layer (33) on the side of the carrier layer (32) facing the chamber.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the barrier layer (34) is made of a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as a biopolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), butene glycol-vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or a polymer or copolymer of monomer units in which at least one monomer unit is vinyl alcohol, and a composite or laminate of the above materials.

10. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pyramidal element (1122) of the extraction plate (1120) is designed to have a truncated pyramidal apex portion (1123), and wherein the delivery wall (30) of the capsule: - In the first step of beverage preparation, stretching is performed through the pyramidal element, preferably through the truncated pyramidal apex portion of the pyramidal element, and - In the second step of beverage preparation, the cavity becomes permeable without any tearing effect.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the cavity formed in the delivery wall (30) of the capsule is located primarily near the top portion of the truncated pyramidal element (1123).

12. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a majority of the openings in the openings have a size ranging from 0.0001 mm² to 0.0040 mm².

13. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extraction device is configured such that when the capsule encapsulation members (111, 112) move relative to each other to encapsulate the capsule in the extraction chamber, at least a portion of the extraction device pushes the capsule such that the delivery wall of the capsule faces the extraction plate (1120) of the downstream encapsulation member (112).

14. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the extraction device: - The upstream component (111) defines a retainer (21) that is designed to enclose the capsule body (31) and carry an upstream puncture arrangement (22) for opening the bottom wall (20) of the capsule. - The downstream component (112) defines a capsule retainer positioned transversely to the closing direction of the extraction device, the capsule retainer including an extraction plate that interacts with the delivery wall of the capsule during extraction of the beverage.

15. Use of the capsule in the system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: The capsule (2) comprises: a capsule body (20) having a three-dimensional shape defining a chamber (25) for containing beverage ingredients (50), an injection wall (22), and a delivery wall (30) connected to the capsule body (20) and closing the chamber (25), wherein the delivery wall (30) comprises at least a carrier layer (32) and an adhesive layer (33) in a layered manner, the carrier layer being adapted to open under increased pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule (2), and the adhesive layer being disposed on the side of the carrier layer (32) oriented toward the chamber (25) for bonding the delivery wall (30) to the capsule body (20). The delivery wall (30) of the capsule is designed such that when the upstream capsule encapsulation member (111) and the downstream capsule encapsulation member (112) encapsulate the capsule and fluid is injected into the capsule, the extraction plate of the downstream encapsulation member interacts with the delivery wall (30) without visibly piercing the delivery wall, and when the surface of the delivery wall facing the chamber (25) comes into contact with the fluid injected into the capsule, a permeable opening (37) appears in the structure of the delivery wall to expel the beverage to the outside of the capsule.

Images